Here's a fun link to sum up your 2005.
Hugs from afar.
Christopher
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Thursday, December 29 2005 @ 1:00a; Here's a Fun Link
Thursday, December 29 2005 @ 12:30a; Up Late Night
Hola! It's been sometime since my last post but we've been busy. Sick really. But, better now! So, Christmas past has been better, but I'm just happy to be up and around! I wish the sun were out. We've had really bad rain here the last couple of weeks, but hopefully it will subsided some and not wash us out! The Corps of Engineers has promised we'll be fine, but after those poor folks in New Orleans.. who knows if you can believe or not!
We spent the evening tonight with our good friends Kelly and Anthony. That was so nice, since we haven't seen them (or I haven't) in sometime. I was feeling guilty about it.. I mean, I'm only across the river. But, more importantly - let me know how your Christmas Holiday was.
Ciao for now
Friday, December 09, 2005
Friday, December 9, 2005 @ 12:35a - Remembering Now
Alright..
My friend Matthew's memorial service is this weekend. His family are Soldiers for Christ in the Salvation Army. I forgot what a homophobic organization they are, but slowly but surely, I'm being reminded.
We're putting together a photo-montage of his life. We have oodles of pictures of Matthew but they have made us take out the drag pictures. No cross dressing photos allowed. (Hello. That's a good chunk girl!)
Then they won't allow us to have his partner's poem at the service (male to male poetry?).
We're abiding by all this to respect his family of course. The last thing we'd want to do is turn his memorial into a protest but I am reminded of what we can do as individuals.
The photo above is a 3-Dollar Bill (as in: queer as). I used to print these out several Christmas' ago and drop them into the kettle in front of the department store when I passed those seasonal bell ringers. I thought it was a vocal, and non-confrontational way to remind them that there are donors out there who are unable to contribute to some of the good work they do because of their homophobia.
Of course, now that Ms. Kroc (of McDonald's fame) has provided them with the largest donation in U.S. history, they probably don't even wince at my folded three dollar bill. But, if ALL of us did this, across the U.S. EVERY Christmas, eventually over time, maybe they'd do the math of how many real dollars they're missing out on. Even die hard Christian's do math in dollars and cents don't they?
http://www.cultureandfamily.org/articledisplay.asp?id=336&department=CFI&categoryid=cfreport
I, for one, will be resuming this practice, I hope you might too. Be well. I love you.
http://www.glaad.org/eye/stories.php
My friend Matthew's memorial service is this weekend. His family are Soldiers for Christ in the Salvation Army. I forgot what a homophobic organization they are, but slowly but surely, I'm being reminded.
We're putting together a photo-montage of his life. We have oodles of pictures of Matthew but they have made us take out the drag pictures. No cross dressing photos allowed. (Hello. That's a good chunk girl!)
Then they won't allow us to have his partner's poem at the service (male to male poetry?).
We're abiding by all this to respect his family of course. The last thing we'd want to do is turn his memorial into a protest but I am reminded of what we can do as individuals.
The photo above is a 3-Dollar Bill (as in: queer as). I used to print these out several Christmas' ago and drop them into the kettle in front of the department store when I passed those seasonal bell ringers. I thought it was a vocal, and non-confrontational way to remind them that there are donors out there who are unable to contribute to some of the good work they do because of their homophobia.
Of course, now that Ms. Kroc (of McDonald's fame) has provided them with the largest donation in U.S. history, they probably don't even wince at my folded three dollar bill. But, if ALL of us did this, across the U.S. EVERY Christmas, eventually over time, maybe they'd do the math of how many real dollars they're missing out on. Even die hard Christian's do math in dollars and cents don't they?
http://www.cultureandfamily.org/articledisplay.asp?id=336&department=CFI&categoryid=cfreport
I, for one, will be resuming this practice, I hope you might too. Be well. I love you.
http://www.glaad.org/eye/stories.php
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Tuesday, December 6, 2005 @ 9:30a - To San Diego and Back
We were...
in San Diego at our cousin's home of Carlos and Karen. I wasn't feeling well and we almost came home early. But Karen and Carlos were very gracious and set me up with comfy pillows, ginger tea and home made soup!
But, then we received a flurry of calls from Northern California letting us know that our good friend Matthew D. had passed away in an accident in his home. We were horror struck and immediately packed and came home to be with our friends in the fellowship.
Matthew was 28, just getting ready to graduate from college, putting the finishing touches on his home remodel, had been working full time and partnered to a wonderful man Bobby T.
He stole the show in our video production at our conference (rcru.com). He was one of those folks that ALWAYS said 'yes' to every call for assistance. He made everything fun fun fun and we'll miss him so.
Today, December 6 he would have celebrated 5 years of sobriety. We love you Matthew.
in San Diego at our cousin's home of Carlos and Karen. I wasn't feeling well and we almost came home early. But Karen and Carlos were very gracious and set me up with comfy pillows, ginger tea and home made soup!
But, then we received a flurry of calls from Northern California letting us know that our good friend Matthew D. had passed away in an accident in his home. We were horror struck and immediately packed and came home to be with our friends in the fellowship.
Matthew was 28, just getting ready to graduate from college, putting the finishing touches on his home remodel, had been working full time and partnered to a wonderful man Bobby T.
He stole the show in our video production at our conference (rcru.com). He was one of those folks that ALWAYS said 'yes' to every call for assistance. He made everything fun fun fun and we'll miss him so.
Today, December 6 he would have celebrated 5 years of sobriety. We love you Matthew.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
December 1, 2005, Thursday @ 9:00am: Rainy Day in California
Not all..
days are sunny in bright in California. Contrary to what you might have heard. It's blustery today and Rob and I are heading the car towards San Diego this morning. We leave momentarily.
The photo above is of Foster who unfortunately, passed away yesterday. He had cancer and had been limping around for a couple of weeks. My sister and family are distraught because he's been such a big part of the family. We'll be going to chop down our christmas tree next week and it won't be the same without the sound of my neices and nephews laughing as they run through the trees with Foster barking right behind them.
I hope the weather in San Diego is nicer than here! It's likely to be. I hope you all are well. And my next report will be from Southern California.
days are sunny in bright in California. Contrary to what you might have heard. It's blustery today and Rob and I are heading the car towards San Diego this morning. We leave momentarily.
The photo above is of Foster who unfortunately, passed away yesterday. He had cancer and had been limping around for a couple of weeks. My sister and family are distraught because he's been such a big part of the family. We'll be going to chop down our christmas tree next week and it won't be the same without the sound of my neices and nephews laughing as they run through the trees with Foster barking right behind them.
I hope the weather in San Diego is nicer than here! It's likely to be. I hope you all are well. And my next report will be from Southern California.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
November 30, 2005 @ 12:32am - Back Home (for now)
Back from Houston...
After the most wonderful time I've returned back to California for a brief stay in my own bed before heading to San Diego. I'm in Northern CA so, San Diego is like a 10 hour drive.
Here's a recap of one of the best conferences I've attended:
Wednesday:
I arrived at the airport early and made my way over to the terminal ‘I thought’ David C was arriving at. After asking each other on the phone over and over again ‘where are you? Where are you?’ .. come to find out we’re in two different terminals. (Houston Airport is Texas big). Our FABULOUS host Miss Cisca (Cisco but I prefer to call him Cisca which is much better than his roommates nickname for him "B.G.") wisked us away to our overnight accommodations and then we went to Barnaby’s. It’s the café we went to last time I was in Houston and is a terrifically fun and delicious eatery with a touch of camp atmosphere. We met several nice folks including Brandon, who I hadn’t realized played Eddie Haskel in last year’s musical production at the Houston Conference. Great fun, what a cutie.
Thursday:
In the morning we ate. Well. Actually. I ate. The Empress, David C. doesn’t do much of that. Food in the morning turns her stomach so coffee is all she can manage but I didn’t let that stop me. Of course.
Miss Cisca picked us up and took us to the Lamda Center. Great fun. I saw David D. who was SO gracious last year and treated me to a lovely dinner and showed me what Tex Mex really was. We saw others too from last year and it's so nice to make those connections and then be able to hang on to them! Our Thursday night speaker at the Round Up was Michael from Dallas. What a great speaker. He was better than when I heard him in Miami. And, easy on the eyes too. :)
The musical was not to be believed. They always do such a great job at the Round Up in Houston. They have Texas-Sized talent there, that's for sure!~
Friday:
I spent the morning watching Empress gulp her third coffee for breakfast. I almost felt guilty for eating food. Almost. We heard Jim from Minneapolis and spent some additional time getting to know the crew from MN. Also Cece from Atlanta spoke and she did fabulous - as I knew she would. I spoke with her in Seattle and just love her.
Saturday:
Empress was a little nervous and I convinced her she was going to do just fine. Went to the workshops. I also made it to every candlelight meeting. Love those late night meetings. In Sacramento, you can usually find me at the all nighters..
We had a nice luncheon and heard a woman from Eucless TX. I think I spelled it correctly. I've not been there. Hanging out with Millard and David from last year was great fun. They are the nicest folks!
Empress spoke and did the most phenomenal job. After he stepped down and sat down, before the count-down. We both just cried and cried. I think we both had the realization that life has changed. We know that sobriety ebbs and flows. People move on, new life experiences are undertaken. But it's clear he's not likely to return to Sacramento and the truth is, who knows if even I'll be there. I've been searching for a new place in life and as I spoke in many of the meetings there, I don't know where I'm going. It was just one of those moments where we realize we've been best friends but it's not likely we'll ever have those days of serving on committees and running around North Hall terrorizing newcomers and oldtimers alike.
Sunday:
The Round Up wound down. We said goodbye to good friends some we only just met. We went to Barnaby's (of course) to say farewell to the MN gals. We went to the cast party and David said adieu as he departed to North Carolina. I'm not sure when we'll cross paths again. He's talking about going to Miami but the next stop I'll probably make is the Austin Round Up.
I went to the meeting and heard Betty D chair. I was tired and so enjoyed my plum tea and chatty conversation with Cisca and Charity after a lovely dinner. I was so ready to come home. It seems like it's been more than two months since I've spent time with my husband Rob. Maybe because it HAS been more than two months. We'll be taking a much needed time-together and drive to San Diego. I'll report more later! Be well.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
November 16, 2005 Wednesday @ 6:00pm: Coming Home
Well. I just received the news I'm done here. It came as a surprise but not really. I've been telling you it's been slowing down... so it was inevitable. I'm sorry that I'm the first of my team to head home, but the good news is I get to be with all of you! I was hoping I'd stay longer, but maybe next time - if there is one.
I have had the MOST amazing experiences. Unbelievable and cannot be duplicated. I hope that some of you reading have gotten a little understanding of the impact of the event on the lives of so many. It's not even relatable through the medium of the internet. My hope is that you've caught a glimpse of how awful this has been. How thousands and thousands have been displaced. I don't know how all of these folks will eventually recover. My hope is that they will, my faith in God tells me that many will serve as an example to me and others how to overcome what today seem insurmountable.
I've just been honored to meet some of those folks.
I have had the MOST amazing experiences. Unbelievable and cannot be duplicated. I hope that some of you reading have gotten a little understanding of the impact of the event on the lives of so many. It's not even relatable through the medium of the internet. My hope is that you've caught a glimpse of how awful this has been. How thousands and thousands have been displaced. I don't know how all of these folks will eventually recover. My hope is that they will, my faith in God tells me that many will serve as an example to me and others how to overcome what today seem insurmountable.
I've just been honored to meet some of those folks.
Monday, November 14, 2005
November 14, 2005 Monday @ Noon: Chicken and Shrimp
It's Monday and everyone here is eatin up a storm. Some nice folks brought in some Boudan (pronounced Boo Dah) I think. The ladies just laughed and lauged because I said "Bow Dan" and my co worker said thanks for the "Bee Day". Neither of which is correct.
It's a sausage of pork and rice in a casing and it's very garlicky and very delicious. The ladies were very nice and have been through a tough time because their parents tombs have been washed away and so they are distraught that their family plot is not there any longer.
The picture above is a truck, one of many vehicles, left on the side of the road. This one at least had a humurous sign which said "no warranty".
I hope you are all well. I spoke with many folks from Sacramento this week who indicated that the RCRU conference went well. And, my Mother's surgery went well too. She's resting at home and that makes me happy.. that she's better!
It's a sausage of pork and rice in a casing and it's very garlicky and very delicious. The ladies were very nice and have been through a tough time because their parents tombs have been washed away and so they are distraught that their family plot is not there any longer.
The picture above is a truck, one of many vehicles, left on the side of the road. This one at least had a humurous sign which said "no warranty".
I hope you are all well. I spoke with many folks from Sacramento this week who indicated that the RCRU conference went well. And, my Mother's surgery went well too. She's resting at home and that makes me happy.. that she's better!
Thursday, November 10, 2005
November 10, 2005 Thursday @ 4:00pm: Another Day in the Center
I'm hanging in the center between clients. It's slower this afternoon but it was a busy morning. I had a client who spoke of her house as though it were gone since she kept referring to the cement slab that once was her house. When I made reference later to her house being destroyed, she and her husband spoke at once.. 'oh it's not destroyed'.
Confused, I looked at them and said 'I thought you had indicated that it was gone?'. 'Oh. It's gone'. They said.
Still confused, I just looked at them and then they explained it was still intact .. just FIVE MILES AWAY! Amazing. It was still intact with the pictures still on the wall, the pots and pans still on the stove! It's sitting in a marsh/swamp and some folks went inside and found the mounted deer head with a plaque inscription with the family name on it and came to tell them that these peoples' house was in their marsh.
Wow.
Then I had another woman who had the perfect before and after snapshot of her house. Sitting there, recently remodled. And the next week. Completely gone and replaced by water and a broken tree. Sad.
I am doing alright. I'm going to Houston tomorrow night to spend some time fellowshipping and missing Sacramento as the River City Round Up begins. I hope you're all well. I'll see you all soon! Hugs.
Confused, I looked at them and said 'I thought you had indicated that it was gone?'. 'Oh. It's gone'. They said.
Still confused, I just looked at them and then they explained it was still intact .. just FIVE MILES AWAY! Amazing. It was still intact with the pictures still on the wall, the pots and pans still on the stove! It's sitting in a marsh/swamp and some folks went inside and found the mounted deer head with a plaque inscription with the family name on it and came to tell them that these peoples' house was in their marsh.
Wow.
Then I had another woman who had the perfect before and after snapshot of her house. Sitting there, recently remodled. And the next week. Completely gone and replaced by water and a broken tree. Sad.
I am doing alright. I'm going to Houston tomorrow night to spend some time fellowshipping and missing Sacramento as the River City Round Up begins. I hope you're all well. I'll see you all soon! Hugs.
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
November 9, 2005 Wednesday @ 12:20pm: Yummy in the Tummy
MMmm MMmm Mmmph.
I had a very good lunch today. I was having a difficult day the other day when I was working with a client.. and I let out a sigh. Miss Lillian asked me if I was ok, and I said I was thanks. She said "Oh. Don't lie to Miss Lillian. I can tell. You need a big bowl of coon-ass food. You have any lately?" I confessed I hadn't. She said. "I'll bring you some".
That was the day before yesterday, and I had forgotten about it. But she came by today with enough chicken gumbo with okra and potato salad to feed the whole center! It was so tasty too. God Bless Miss Lillian! I feel better :)
The picture above is a gator hanging out on the banks of the canal here in Cameron Parish Louisiana. If you look close you can see the smaller one in the water. He scampered back into the canal when this picture was taken. A local told us to be careful. (Duh-Hello! This was snapped with the zoom lens! We're yankees sure, but NOT dumb enough to walk right up on em). He said the big one just hangs out and the smaller ones run because the smaller gaters think you're looking at them as food. The bigger ones don't run. They hang out to see if you'll come any closer because they're looking at YOU as food.
Thanks for the advice!
I had a very good lunch today. I was having a difficult day the other day when I was working with a client.. and I let out a sigh. Miss Lillian asked me if I was ok, and I said I was thanks. She said "Oh. Don't lie to Miss Lillian. I can tell. You need a big bowl of coon-ass food. You have any lately?" I confessed I hadn't. She said. "I'll bring you some".
That was the day before yesterday, and I had forgotten about it. But she came by today with enough chicken gumbo with okra and potato salad to feed the whole center! It was so tasty too. God Bless Miss Lillian! I feel better :)
The picture above is a gator hanging out on the banks of the canal here in Cameron Parish Louisiana. If you look close you can see the smaller one in the water. He scampered back into the canal when this picture was taken. A local told us to be careful. (Duh-Hello! This was snapped with the zoom lens! We're yankees sure, but NOT dumb enough to walk right up on em). He said the big one just hangs out and the smaller ones run because the smaller gaters think you're looking at them as food. The bigger ones don't run. They hang out to see if you'll come any closer because they're looking at YOU as food.
Thanks for the advice!
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
November 8, 2005 Tuesday @ 6:30pm: In the Evening
Hi folks. I'm in the Center in the evening and it is dark. It was another slower day. I even logged onto Yahoo Instant Messenger and said hello to some friends. I also got to speak with my good friend Winnie today.
The picture above is of the track, at the highschool in Cameron Parish. I tongue in cheek labeled it as having new hurdles.. but it's sad that someone is going to have to pay to restore this for the students.
All is going well here. I hung out last night and did laundry and played cards with Heather. It was nice of her stay up til midnight, even though we were both so tired! We don't get off work til 7pm and it's a half hour drive to Lake Charles so.. by the time we get dinner it's usually like 8:30 or 9 and i'm so tired I go to bed right after.. I'm getting so fat!! (fatter).
I love and miss you all. I can't wait to see you and I'm quite disappointed that I won't see my friends at the River City Round Up. Be well!
The picture above is of the track, at the highschool in Cameron Parish. I tongue in cheek labeled it as having new hurdles.. but it's sad that someone is going to have to pay to restore this for the students.
All is going well here. I hung out last night and did laundry and played cards with Heather. It was nice of her stay up til midnight, even though we were both so tired! We don't get off work til 7pm and it's a half hour drive to Lake Charles so.. by the time we get dinner it's usually like 8:30 or 9 and i'm so tired I go to bed right after.. I'm getting so fat!! (fatter).
I love and miss you all. I can't wait to see you and I'm quite disappointed that I won't see my friends at the River City Round Up. Be well!
Monday, November 07, 2005
November 7, Monday @ 6:30pm In Grand Lake
Hello. I'm in Grand Lake today, in Cameron Parish. They call them Parish's down here rather than counties. And the photo above is a picture of the Cameron High School Auditorium. It's very creepy in there! The day I was there it was very quiet but there was a breeze that was blowing all the wires and hanging fixtures around that clank against each other. Very spooky.
I've had several folks today who have it bad. One lady who is just the nicest person! And she broke my heart when she told me she hopes she gets housing assistance soon. She and her two children are living in a horse trailer. Her son is autistic and she had to ask for a second application because he's on a kick where he tears everything up into perfectly shaped squares and did it with her application!
She felt bad, but it wasn't her fault.
I'm doing well. It's a rough day -- I made a couple of mistakes and my current boss doesn't let even the smallest one slide. It's one of those days where I ask if it's worth being here.. but .. of course it is! Crossed Ts and dotted I's are not that big a deal. I can get over that!
Be well, we'll see you all soon.
I've had several folks today who have it bad. One lady who is just the nicest person! And she broke my heart when she told me she hopes she gets housing assistance soon. She and her two children are living in a horse trailer. Her son is autistic and she had to ask for a second application because he's on a kick where he tears everything up into perfectly shaped squares and did it with her application!
She felt bad, but it wasn't her fault.
I'm doing well. It's a rough day -- I made a couple of mistakes and my current boss doesn't let even the smallest one slide. It's one of those days where I ask if it's worth being here.. but .. of course it is! Crossed Ts and dotted I's are not that big a deal. I can get over that!
Be well, we'll see you all soon.
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Sunday, November 6, 2005 @ 3:40pm In the Center
I'm hanging in the Center today. It's somewhat slow, although it was busier this morning. I had some really challenging folks. One poor couple lost most of their belongings but the worst part is that much of what remains is on an island. They used to have a ferry that would shuttle them back and forth but the ferry was destroyed in the hurricane and the community is not replacing it, which, without a bridge makes their property near worthless. They were very very angry.. we had to time-out several times!
The above picture is one of many scenes in the Parish. There piles of things everywhere including lots of booze bottles. Teams of searchers come through and pile things up to document the homes chemical and debris content. It smells sometimes and there are LOTS of flys and mosquitos too.
I'm in the country now, far away from the city of New Orleans. Some have asked if I've seen any Crocodiles. Oh sure, they're right on the side of the road (let's hope I don't get a flat tire!)
All is well. I went to New Orleans last weekend to deliver a donation of literature from Sacramento's North Hall group and also, from St. Louis's Lamda Center. The folks in New Orleans at the Lamda Center thank you for your generous gift! As I may have told you on the phone, there are a higher number than usual new comers to the AA program so your donation came at the right time!
I'm going to Houston next weekend to spend time with friends in the fellowship and hang out for a night. It's the weekend of the River City Round Up and I'm so disappointed that I won't be able to attend, at least I'll have the diversion of attending Houston dinner function.
I hope you are all well. I just put some new photos up on my flickr site. If you click on the picture above, it should link you there and you can see some of them. Be well and we'll catch you soon!
The above picture is one of many scenes in the Parish. There piles of things everywhere including lots of booze bottles. Teams of searchers come through and pile things up to document the homes chemical and debris content. It smells sometimes and there are LOTS of flys and mosquitos too.
I'm in the country now, far away from the city of New Orleans. Some have asked if I've seen any Crocodiles. Oh sure, they're right on the side of the road (let's hope I don't get a flat tire!)
All is well. I went to New Orleans last weekend to deliver a donation of literature from Sacramento's North Hall group and also, from St. Louis's Lamda Center. The folks in New Orleans at the Lamda Center thank you for your generous gift! As I may have told you on the phone, there are a higher number than usual new comers to the AA program so your donation came at the right time!
I'm going to Houston next weekend to spend time with friends in the fellowship and hang out for a night. It's the weekend of the River City Round Up and I'm so disappointed that I won't be able to attend, at least I'll have the diversion of attending Houston dinner function.
I hope you are all well. I just put some new photos up on my flickr site. If you click on the picture above, it should link you there and you can see some of them. Be well and we'll catch you soon!
Friday, November 04, 2005
Friday, November 4, 2005 @ 12:30 In Grand Lake
I'm here in Grand Lake Louisiana and the damage here is from Hurricane Rita and not Katrina. So, the damage has been very very different. A lot more wind and tornado type damage than just flooding.
So people have arrived and said that their belongings have been blown all over. One man today was just happy his new recliner fell into the house of someone down the road who recognized it as his. Another woman this morning said she always wanted a riding lawn mower. She now has one that landed in her yard, keys and all and it started right up. She hopes one of her neighbors comes forward and claims it though.
The damage is widespread and it's hard to imagine the community managing to come together, but it's nice to see everyone here is very neighborly and community oriented.
Here's a picture of one of the neighborhoods in Louisiana. I wrote in an earlier blog that I had driven 100 miles and saw nothing but this. Imagine that! It's incredible.
I'm doing well. I'm severly disappointed of course that I won't be able to attend the River City Round Up in Sacramento. Everyone worked so hard on it all year long, it would have been nice to see that it would have all come together. I'm sure everyone will have the best time! I hope they do.
Take care and we'll catch up with y'all soon.
So people have arrived and said that their belongings have been blown all over. One man today was just happy his new recliner fell into the house of someone down the road who recognized it as his. Another woman this morning said she always wanted a riding lawn mower. She now has one that landed in her yard, keys and all and it started right up. She hopes one of her neighbors comes forward and claims it though.
The damage is widespread and it's hard to imagine the community managing to come together, but it's nice to see everyone here is very neighborly and community oriented.
Here's a picture of one of the neighborhoods in Louisiana. I wrote in an earlier blog that I had driven 100 miles and saw nothing but this. Imagine that! It's incredible.
I'm doing well. I'm severly disappointed of course that I won't be able to attend the River City Round Up in Sacramento. Everyone worked so hard on it all year long, it would have been nice to see that it would have all come together. I'm sure everyone will have the best time! I hope they do.
Take care and we'll catch up with y'all soon.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Thursday November 3, 2005 @ 2:40 pm In the Bayou
I'm in Grand Lake Louisiana! Don't ask me where it is, I don't know where I am! But. Most Louisianans don't know where it is either. Right now though, I am meeting new and different people.
I'm closer to the Gulf and to Texas and the people here are not the same as in New Orleans. So I'll report more when I have time. The devastation here though is terrible. I drove for over 100 miles on Sunday and there was only ONE house that I could see that survived. It's really tragic.
Talk to you all later. I'm staying in Sulphur Louisiana outside of Lake Charles. Be well.
I'm closer to the Gulf and to Texas and the people here are not the same as in New Orleans. So I'll report more when I have time. The devastation here though is terrible. I drove for over 100 miles on Sunday and there was only ONE house that I could see that survived. It's really tragic.
Talk to you all later. I'm staying in Sulphur Louisiana outside of Lake Charles. Be well.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Thursday, Oct 27 @ 10pm On the Road Again
I'm leaving New Orleans. Yikes! I loved my stay here but the job is mobile, therefore, so am I!
I'm headed out tomorrow afternoon to a new location called Grand Lake Louisiana. Ever heard of it? Me neither. But, don't feel bad. Nearly all of the locals I'ved talked to here haven't EITHER!.. is that scary or what?
I'm sure I'll be fine and will find some semblance of civilization. While the folks I've helped here were hit by Katrina, the folks there in Grand Lake were hit by Rita. I guess it's near Beaumont Texas and was hit pretty hard.
The picture above was in Louisiana and was only ONE of MANY bizarre images you come across. My time here in New Orleans has been awe inspiring. I can't even convey to you the degree of damage everywhere you go, but particularly in the Ninth Ward, East New Orleans, and Lakeview. It's tremendously sad and awful.
But, I'm sure I'll find new adventures ahead with new people who will be as equally inspiring with their stories. I'm going to be staying in a tent again, at least for a short bit, so maybe my next update will be in a while. But, I'm still reachable by phone! 916-284-6490. Call me and leave a msg. If I can't pick it up immediately, I'll pick it up when I can.
I love and miss you all. And, I'm sure we'll see eachother again, real soon!
I'm headed out tomorrow afternoon to a new location called Grand Lake Louisiana. Ever heard of it? Me neither. But, don't feel bad. Nearly all of the locals I'ved talked to here haven't EITHER!.. is that scary or what?
I'm sure I'll be fine and will find some semblance of civilization. While the folks I've helped here were hit by Katrina, the folks there in Grand Lake were hit by Rita. I guess it's near Beaumont Texas and was hit pretty hard.
The picture above was in Louisiana and was only ONE of MANY bizarre images you come across. My time here in New Orleans has been awe inspiring. I can't even convey to you the degree of damage everywhere you go, but particularly in the Ninth Ward, East New Orleans, and Lakeview. It's tremendously sad and awful.
But, I'm sure I'll find new adventures ahead with new people who will be as equally inspiring with their stories. I'm going to be staying in a tent again, at least for a short bit, so maybe my next update will be in a while. But, I'm still reachable by phone! 916-284-6490. Call me and leave a msg. If I can't pick it up immediately, I'll pick it up when I can.
I love and miss you all. And, I'm sure we'll see eachother again, real soon!
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Sunday, October 23 @ 4pm A Day Off
Hello. I'm going to give you the address of where you can reach me currently. I had a couple of requests for the address:
Christopher Solis, U.S. SBA
C/O Hampton Inn and Suites
1201 Convention Center Boulevard
New Orleans, LA 70130
I'm enjoying some time to do my laundry and such. I haven't really done much today except catch up on phone calls and stuff. The picture above is of a highway outside of New Orleans, headed south towards the Gulf. It's a large ship in the road. One that was washed in and stayed. There's quite a few of these around, including one lady that came into the Center as a shrimper. She is still living in hers, even though it's in someone elses front yard, and upside down.
All has been well. We're keeping a brisk pace at the Center.
It has not slowed down at all! I'm surprised actually. I went to a meeting last night and what a great move that was. I hadn't realized how emotionally exhaused I've been so it gave me a chance to cry, get over some of myself, and move forward. Isn't it great that meetings do that for us sometimes?
I met some great folks this weekend. A nice couple who had a church that was for youth in the poorest part of New Orleans. They'd worked for many years to build their church and we had to pause multiple times as we went through their list of things destroyed because they hadn't really taken the time to think of the little things. They cried about their Organ and musical instruments and all the books and bibles. It was sad and I hope the very best for them.
Some of you mentioned you'd like to send pamphlets and literature for the AA meetings here. I'd be happy to be your Sacramento Ambassador and take those to the Lamda Center where I'm currently going to meetings or to the Central Office, such as it is here in New Orleans. They have some books, but no literature/brochures at all. So, if you'd like to send those, do so soon since I have no clear departure date.
I hope to see you all soon and hope you are all doing well. I'm sure I'll be home before we all know it and I'll see you then!
Christopher Solis, U.S. SBA
C/O Hampton Inn and Suites
1201 Convention Center Boulevard
New Orleans, LA 70130
I'm enjoying some time to do my laundry and such. I haven't really done much today except catch up on phone calls and stuff. The picture above is of a highway outside of New Orleans, headed south towards the Gulf. It's a large ship in the road. One that was washed in and stayed. There's quite a few of these around, including one lady that came into the Center as a shrimper. She is still living in hers, even though it's in someone elses front yard, and upside down.
All has been well. We're keeping a brisk pace at the Center.
It has not slowed down at all! I'm surprised actually. I went to a meeting last night and what a great move that was. I hadn't realized how emotionally exhaused I've been so it gave me a chance to cry, get over some of myself, and move forward. Isn't it great that meetings do that for us sometimes?
I met some great folks this weekend. A nice couple who had a church that was for youth in the poorest part of New Orleans. They'd worked for many years to build their church and we had to pause multiple times as we went through their list of things destroyed because they hadn't really taken the time to think of the little things. They cried about their Organ and musical instruments and all the books and bibles. It was sad and I hope the very best for them.
Some of you mentioned you'd like to send pamphlets and literature for the AA meetings here. I'd be happy to be your Sacramento Ambassador and take those to the Lamda Center where I'm currently going to meetings or to the Central Office, such as it is here in New Orleans. They have some books, but no literature/brochures at all. So, if you'd like to send those, do so soon since I have no clear departure date.
I hope to see you all soon and hope you are all doing well. I'm sure I'll be home before we all know it and I'll see you then!
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Wednesday, October 19, 2005 @ 7am
Hey, this picture is a bigger deal than you might think. Up til now, these shelves were always bare, so it's nice to see supplies are regular enough now.
There was a woman named Sarah I met with yesterday who was distraught. She just returned from Texas after her sister encouraged her to come home. Her sister didn't tell her that their parents and brother died in the attic of their home when they were trapped during the flood. It was one of the hardest folks situations I've encountered down here, but everyone in the Center seemed very supportive and when I left her there were two agencies working on getting her a place to live. She gave me a big hug when we departed and I felt better, I hope she did too. Everything in the Center has not slowed down. It's amazing to me that even after all the people we've seen (between 200 and 300 a day) each morning brings a longer line around the building and there's barely even enough time for a lunch break some days.
Our loan application deadline was October 28th but has been extended now til January 11th. I don't know if that means I'll be here that long, but at least hopefully folks will come in less stressed about getting the deadline met.
I hope you're all doing well! I love and miss each of you.
There was a woman named Sarah I met with yesterday who was distraught. She just returned from Texas after her sister encouraged her to come home. Her sister didn't tell her that their parents and brother died in the attic of their home when they were trapped during the flood. It was one of the hardest folks situations I've encountered down here, but everyone in the Center seemed very supportive and when I left her there were two agencies working on getting her a place to live. She gave me a big hug when we departed and I felt better, I hope she did too. Everything in the Center has not slowed down. It's amazing to me that even after all the people we've seen (between 200 and 300 a day) each morning brings a longer line around the building and there's barely even enough time for a lunch break some days.
Our loan application deadline was October 28th but has been extended now til January 11th. I don't know if that means I'll be here that long, but at least hopefully folks will come in less stressed about getting the deadline met.
I hope you're all doing well! I love and miss each of you.
Monday, October 17, 2005
Monday, October 17, 2005 3am
This car is right next to wear I work, so I pass it everyday. They just moved the billboard off with a crane, so now just the crushed car sits.
I messed up my sleep by taking a nap that went too long, but now I'm up writing. I met some folks today. Including a sad couple who came in. The woman was crying because FEMA won't give her a trailer to live in or any financial assistance. Most of the folks here have received about 4,300 in aid (cash) and then some are on lists to receive trailers, etc.
I guess you have to have 'evacuated' to receive the money. Because she didnt' evacuate they said she couldn't have assistance. The reason she didn't leave was because her husband (he was with her in a wheel chair) was being amputated the day of the hurricane because of his diabetes. She remained with him for the procedure and because the hospital was locked down right after that by the National Guard.. they had to stay in the room, with rationed food and people trying to break in for like 2+ weeks! But, I guess because she didn't 'flee' she doesn't get assistance.
I'm not sure why some folks seem to get assistance while others are left without. It doesn't seem fair. But, I may write the congressman of New Orleans myself on this one. I hope she gets some help.
I'm doing alright. I had a day off yesterday, that was great. I did nothing, but I was pretty tired. So, I was giving myself a hard time for not doing tons of things but it was nice to do nothing!
I hope you are all well. I'm doing ok too! See you all soon.
I messed up my sleep by taking a nap that went too long, but now I'm up writing. I met some folks today. Including a sad couple who came in. The woman was crying because FEMA won't give her a trailer to live in or any financial assistance. Most of the folks here have received about 4,300 in aid (cash) and then some are on lists to receive trailers, etc.
I guess you have to have 'evacuated' to receive the money. Because she didnt' evacuate they said she couldn't have assistance. The reason she didn't leave was because her husband (he was with her in a wheel chair) was being amputated the day of the hurricane because of his diabetes. She remained with him for the procedure and because the hospital was locked down right after that by the National Guard.. they had to stay in the room, with rationed food and people trying to break in for like 2+ weeks! But, I guess because she didn't 'flee' she doesn't get assistance.
I'm not sure why some folks seem to get assistance while others are left without. It doesn't seem fair. But, I may write the congressman of New Orleans myself on this one. I hope she gets some help.
I'm doing alright. I had a day off yesterday, that was great. I did nothing, but I was pretty tired. So, I was giving myself a hard time for not doing tons of things but it was nice to do nothing!
I hope you are all well. I'm doing ok too! See you all soon.
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Wednesday, October 12, 2005 @ 10pm
Today was busy! But, not as much as yesterday. Before I begin, above is just a random photo of my new friend Heather's parallel parking. I couldn't believe how much space she leaves between cars, so I documented here so she could see how much it really was.
I met, as usual, many interesting people today. There was a woman who had had a stroke who I worked with to put together her application. It took her a very long time to remember the smallest details. I tried to be patient, since she reminded me so much of Mom and she just kept apologizing over and over since she couldn't remember anything.
In the end, I felt so bad, because she'd been sleeping in her car. She's 60 and has had a stroke, and that just seemed so awful! She told me when she was growing up, and the hurricanes were coming her Mom taught her to prepare for a hurricane by going around the house to all the dressers and pull all the bottom drawers, in case the water got that high.
She said she had lived in the house since 1954 and had marked the dresser with each level of the various hurricanes over the years, Juan, Camille, all of them. This was the first one that ever covered the whole dresser. The poor thing has all her furniture in the front yard. I asked her if she was drying it out, if it was salvagable. She said no. And, I asked her why she was keeping it. She said in case the adjuster wants to see it. I assured her if she took pictures of the damage she could move on with the cleaning.. but her insurance adjuster said he might be able to get to her after Thanksgiving and she's determined to keep every stitch, in case he wants to see anything.
We saw more people yesterday than any day before. I honestly thought, it would slow down, but it seems like folks just keep coming. I hope everyone gets help soon. I'd rather come home early from lack of work, than see all these crowds every day.
I'm doing well. Eating too much. I hope you all are well!
I met, as usual, many interesting people today. There was a woman who had had a stroke who I worked with to put together her application. It took her a very long time to remember the smallest details. I tried to be patient, since she reminded me so much of Mom and she just kept apologizing over and over since she couldn't remember anything.
In the end, I felt so bad, because she'd been sleeping in her car. She's 60 and has had a stroke, and that just seemed so awful! She told me when she was growing up, and the hurricanes were coming her Mom taught her to prepare for a hurricane by going around the house to all the dressers and pull all the bottom drawers, in case the water got that high.
She said she had lived in the house since 1954 and had marked the dresser with each level of the various hurricanes over the years, Juan, Camille, all of them. This was the first one that ever covered the whole dresser. The poor thing has all her furniture in the front yard. I asked her if she was drying it out, if it was salvagable. She said no. And, I asked her why she was keeping it. She said in case the adjuster wants to see it. I assured her if she took pictures of the damage she could move on with the cleaning.. but her insurance adjuster said he might be able to get to her after Thanksgiving and she's determined to keep every stitch, in case he wants to see anything.
We saw more people yesterday than any day before. I honestly thought, it would slow down, but it seems like folks just keep coming. I hope everyone gets help soon. I'd rather come home early from lack of work, than see all these crowds every day.
I'm doing well. Eating too much. I hope you all are well!
Monday, October 10, 2005
Monday, October 10, 2005
Good morning! I was able to attend an AA meeting last night, so that was great. Unfortunately the topic was primarily the damage and so while it wasn't very uplifting it was understandable that people were anxious to have a place to talk about what people have been through.
We are eating too well. And the lines for the folks seeking aid doesn't seem to slow down. Every morning there's folks lined up around the building waiting to see FEMA and us at SBA as well as the Red Cross, Food Stamps folks and get Unemployment.
I hope you all are well. I undertand my neice Serena (I'm her favorite Tio) is about to lose a tooth! Her first. I wish sometimes I were home for the small things.
Take care!
We are eating too well. And the lines for the folks seeking aid doesn't seem to slow down. Every morning there's folks lined up around the building waiting to see FEMA and us at SBA as well as the Red Cross, Food Stamps folks and get Unemployment.
I hope you all are well. I undertand my neice Serena (I'm her favorite Tio) is about to lose a tooth! Her first. I wish sometimes I were home for the small things.
Take care!
Sunday, October 09, 2005
Sunday, October 9, 2005
Signs like these are all over. This one, the patrons were nice enough to leave their well wishes to their favorite dining establishment...
A woman named Mildred came in today. She didn't qualify for a loan because she only makes $600 a month. She sat quietly as I explained this to her. Her smile never left her face. (I never take such news without at least a scowl). When I wrapped up explaining that I was referring her to FEMA for a grant, because of her low income.. she broke a smile just long enough to inquire if they'd please give her enough money to pay for tree removal. Her large tree, that had been big, even when she was a little girl had fallen on her neighbors home and that's what she was most worried about. She liked her life-long neighbor and felt bad that her tree had crushed their house. She didn't know what to do. Her son usually dealt with such things, but he had stayed through the hurricane to guard against looters and died in the flood.
I'm doing well. I have no complaints, I hope all of you are well too! I miss you.
A woman named Mildred came in today. She didn't qualify for a loan because she only makes $600 a month. She sat quietly as I explained this to her. Her smile never left her face. (I never take such news without at least a scowl). When I wrapped up explaining that I was referring her to FEMA for a grant, because of her low income.. she broke a smile just long enough to inquire if they'd please give her enough money to pay for tree removal. Her large tree, that had been big, even when she was a little girl had fallen on her neighbors home and that's what she was most worried about. She liked her life-long neighbor and felt bad that her tree had crushed their house. She didn't know what to do. Her son usually dealt with such things, but he had stayed through the hurricane to guard against looters and died in the flood.
I'm doing well. I have no complaints, I hope all of you are well too! I miss you.
Thursday, October 06, 2005
Today... Thursday, Oct 6 2005 8:30pm
I had..
a great day today. I met alot of people and they are amazing. Today I met a gentleman who had a linens business and cried when he told me the story of how all his linens are moldy. His roof caved in and asked me if I could come over today and help him tarp his roof. He's by himself since his family is still in Houston and unfortunately I had a line of folks waiting to see me, I wished I could have helped Kevin, but I referred him to a team of New York Firefighters that were nearby and promised they'd help him get some help.
I also met a really great Greek lady who was very thankful that I spoke very slowly and highlighted the areas for her on all her forms. Her husband is sick and he's the one who manages her finances and she was terrified to come in because she doesn't understand their family business. She's going to try and come back with him when he's better.
I also met a man who's tragic story was that he had almost finished his dream home on the gulf. It was going to be his retirement home and he'd saved to pay cash for it, so that it was going to be a mortgage free retirement. Unfortunately because he hadn't moved into it yet, it's considered a second home and there's no relief offered for him. He cried too. Has construction insurance but only up to $100k but his home was much more than that.. It's a shame.
Hope you are all well. This picture of a random vehicle are like many on the streets. Just sitting, windows busted out and tires flat.
a great day today. I met alot of people and they are amazing. Today I met a gentleman who had a linens business and cried when he told me the story of how all his linens are moldy. His roof caved in and asked me if I could come over today and help him tarp his roof. He's by himself since his family is still in Houston and unfortunately I had a line of folks waiting to see me, I wished I could have helped Kevin, but I referred him to a team of New York Firefighters that were nearby and promised they'd help him get some help.
I also met a really great Greek lady who was very thankful that I spoke very slowly and highlighted the areas for her on all her forms. Her husband is sick and he's the one who manages her finances and she was terrified to come in because she doesn't understand their family business. She's going to try and come back with him when he's better.
I also met a man who's tragic story was that he had almost finished his dream home on the gulf. It was going to be his retirement home and he'd saved to pay cash for it, so that it was going to be a mortgage free retirement. Unfortunately because he hadn't moved into it yet, it's considered a second home and there's no relief offered for him. He cried too. Has construction insurance but only up to $100k but his home was much more than that.. It's a shame.
Hope you are all well. This picture of a random vehicle are like many on the streets. Just sitting, windows busted out and tires flat.
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
Here's Where I Work...Wed, Oct 5th, 2005 10pm
Ok, so we got in trouble for taking pictures in the center.. but do you see any patrons? We're just trying to show our friends and family back home where we work!
Here's Wake-Me-Before-Work-Manny and Nice-Parking-Job-Heather. We're just hanging in the last few minutes of work, literally the ONLY slow time to pause for.. pictures.
I hope you are all well. I am!
Here's Wake-Me-Before-Work-Manny and Nice-Parking-Job-Heather. We're just hanging in the last few minutes of work, literally the ONLY slow time to pause for.. pictures.
I hope you are all well. I am!
On the Way to Work.. Wed, Oct 5 2005, 7am
I work in Gretna, right across the Mississippi river from New Orelans. It's morning right now and I wanted to show you one of the buildings I pass in the morning. The curtains are kind of soggy because it's been raining but some morning's they are blowing in the breeze, like they're waving to me as I drive by. There's lots of debris everywhere! So you really have to be careful because there's no road crews or anything to clean up, so the freeway has lots of junk on it. The first week I was here, I got used to driving up on the sidewalk to go around fallen trees and abandoned cars and fallen building bricks that were blocking the way.
I'm enjoying the work and met a nice lady yesterday who had a tailoring business. She makes custom wedding dresses and tuxedos and she's been at the same location for 26 years. She showed me pictures of her fallen ceiling and it was sad to see all the dresses in varying stages of completion. She broke down when she said she made sure she called all the brides she had as customers to let them know to make other arrangements for their dresses. Of course, they all understood. Many of them have fled the city and aren't even here to get their dresses, but still she seemed heartbroken as making these dresses is her life. Even while we were talking she pointed around the room to the different women in the FEMA line to tell me... "I made her dress, and her dress.. and her dress".
I hope she left with a little more hope. She seemed like a great candidate for aid and I tried to convince her so. She seemed better when she left.
I'm enjoying the work and met a nice lady yesterday who had a tailoring business. She makes custom wedding dresses and tuxedos and she's been at the same location for 26 years. She showed me pictures of her fallen ceiling and it was sad to see all the dresses in varying stages of completion. She broke down when she said she made sure she called all the brides she had as customers to let them know to make other arrangements for their dresses. Of course, they all understood. Many of them have fled the city and aren't even here to get their dresses, but still she seemed heartbroken as making these dresses is her life. Even while we were talking she pointed around the room to the different women in the FEMA line to tell me... "I made her dress, and her dress.. and her dress".
I hope she left with a little more hope. She seemed like a great candidate for aid and I tried to convince her so. She seemed better when she left.
Saturday, October 01, 2005
Just Mixing with Traffic on the Way to Work...
Here's a shot of the other cars I drive next to on the way to work. Today is Saturday, October 1, 2005 and I drove across the Mississippi to Gretna where I'm working at the Disaster Center there. I met some really interesting folks today! Including this lovely 82 year old woman who showed me pictures of where she was pinned for two days! She was so sweet, I listened to her tell her stories about her spoiled food and how she had to chip away at the plaster that dried around her phone so she could call for help. Amazing woman! I hope you all are doing well. I'm missing you all but doing much better today myself.
Friday, September 30, 2005
Bed Sweet Bed. Hey. I Told You Things Change!
Ok, so my SECOND night already, and I'm headed for luxury. A really - really nice suite in New Orleans. It was far too far to drive to work every day so they found me accomdations much closer to work and LOOK! A BED!.. uh. But. There's a catch. There's still no water, so we're talking Evian sink showers, but I'LL TAKE IT!
The poor clerk looked at me when I arrived like I was crazy. I apparently was and have since vowed to try and remember where the hell I am! I guess the step up from the Gym made me think I was Weezy Jefferson or something. I remember now who and where I am. Still, I'm very sorry I made him go through a drill, I'm sure he had gone through enough.
"Uh..No sir. There's no valet. I'm the only one working tonight (we're talking a big hotel. One person.) Uh, no sir - even 'if' we had employees, which we don't, they wouldn't be able to get to work because of the curfew. So. We are a staff of 8 who have stayed and we rotate shifts. We don't change the rooms. If you want fresh linens there's a closet on the second floor help yourself. There's no cable, don't bother with the TV remote. There's no hot breakfast - don't ask. There 'is' dinner however since the city has no restaurants and there's no place to eat. So, dinner will be brought to you tomorrow, complimentary by our hotel sales and booking staff. The cooks are gone. There's no newspaper in the morning, no mail service - no you can't receive packages here. And, the smell? That's the garbage. The city has no garbage trucks. And no - you may not park in the hotel garage. It's been commandeered by the police department it's now an official city police parking garage. Where do 'you' park?? Um. Wherever the hell you want! Who's gonna ticket you? Who's gonna tow you!? Did you see all the abandoned cars in the street? on the sidewalks? windows busted out and car doors wide open? "???" Do you think they really care that your freakin-governmental-rental-Camry is in a red zone?"
Uh. Oops. I am in another dimension. My bad. Sorry.
Driving into New Orleans, Thrusday Sept 29th 11pm
Driving into New Orleans was an eerie experience. Once you get past the National Guard checkpoint - remember the city is closed and there's a curfew in effect (I have my Government badget - thank God that gets me through these things) it's odd to be driving in a major city with no traffic, no people, no lights for the most part and feeling by yourself. Odd!
My New Friends and Co-Workers. Some of them.
I-Need-A-Cigarette-Fred, Wake-Me-Up-Tomorrow Manny, Me, Crazy-Driver-Tony and Disasterman-Jerry. See! Even my friends out on the road get nicknames!
Superdome. Missing Some of the Roof.
Driving by on Thursday, September 29, 2005 on my way to my first assignment in Gretna at the Disaster Relief Center. This was just one of many amazing images of how much devastation there was.
My first nights stay.. in the Presidential Suite/Gym
Home Sweet Gym? Ok. So the accomdations are not what they said they would be. They were worse. In fact, after the first night I vowed, as did many of my co workers, that we'd sleep in the car. This place was FREEZING. And, the cots side by side with mixed genders, snorers (sorry folks) and bugs was enough - for just one night. But HEY. We're here to help others right? So to do that, I'll need a good night sleep. Thank God I got a Camry and not a Corolla! I'll need the space of that backseat.
Change of Plan.. Thurs Sept 29, 2005 11pm
Uh huh. Ok, so the first thing I've learned about this job already is don't even make a plan. Or think a plan has been made. I arrived at Gretna the first morning and was immediately reassigned to another center at Belle Chasse. That's ok, because I was told this one was really busy.. and I wanted to be helpful.
It's one thing to walk into a situation and know what you think you know. Remember I told some of you about my experiences in Mastering Life's Energies was that I don't 'know' as much as I think I'd like to think I know. (Maybe you follow my line of thinking or maybe you don't - I'll understand). So thinking I know that I'm going to be dealing with difficult stories and peoples lives and the devastation is on one hand, and then on the other is the confrontation of humanity. Face to face.
I'm really not trying to be dramatic. I'm just shocked at my own inability to comprehend the scope of what I take in from the media and images and believe to be true. I wasn't prepared for how challenging this was to be, but then again I wasn't really informed. You can't prepare yourself for a situation like this from bombardment of images and rolling screen scrolls from CNN. And all my surfing on MSNBC didn't even come close the reality of seeing, just folks in line - on a humid September day. Fanning themselves. Drinking water. Some chatting, some crying - a few even looking a little lost. It was much harder than I anticipated.
First Assignement... Wednesday, Sept 28, 2005
Get to Baton Rouge....
This may sound like a simple assignment but.. remember, there are several of us, and unfortunately people in mass, treading into unknowns are not always happy cooperative people. We had our first falling out before we really even got started. Folks late for departure, heading the wrong direction. We ended up inside Arkansas by about 20+minutes. Someone thank goodness had the wherewithall to mention to our self-appointed leader that the Gulf of Mexico is "south" and clearly the directions on the highway signs we're all reading.. north.
But eventually we managed to get to the Operations Center in Baton Rouge in what was estimated to take 7 hours in just 10.5 hours. We met our operations manager and then were given our assignments. I would be in Gretna, which is just East of New Orleans. East of New Orleans? Aren't we in Baton Rouge? And isn't that some distance away? Don't worry. Get in the rental Camry and get to your sleeping quarters in Carville Louisiana. Just another 50 miles. Blech.
On the Road.. Tues Sept 27 2005 11:40am
Here I am..
Tuesday, 11:40am Texas Time Houston... Hanging out in Houston on a three hour lay-over waiting for a puddle jumper size plane to go to Texarkana, Arkansas. It's seems strange to fly into there, but I guess it's the only place where rental cars were available. From there it will be a six hour drive to Baton Rouge. It may take a little while longer because we're caravanning (8 of us in separate cars) and we have smokers in our group who said, max two hours before a stop is necessary. In our group we have Jerry, Brad, Manny, Michael, Myself, Jo Jo and another guy I can't remember his name. I just ate some tex-mex and I'll propose a game of cards since we have some time to kill, or maybe I'll go over to the glamourous airport media store and get a book.
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Waiting for the Ground to Open Up
It hasn't happened yet...
Since Massachusettes has legalized Gay marriage over a year ago - nothing's happened. Well. Not exactly nothing. Over 6100 couples have said their nuptuals, their I do's, their til death-do-us-parts and beyond that - nothing.
And I've been waiting. For something.
There's been no ground rumbling, indicating a iminent gaping hole in the earth to open up and swallow the state whole. And, I've been searching the national weather channel to see if there's any evidence that severe lightening strikes will smite the state to smithereens. Nope. Not even a hurricane, earthquake, or tornado.
I guess that could mean that the doomsayers might have mis-called this one. I don't know that straight couples have left thier matrimonial partnership enmass because the meaning of their original commitments no longer exist. I don't know that the meaning of marriage is any less than it was over a year ago. Perhaps these are questions for long term study.
Or, maybe - some Americans have been bamboozled into the many and sometimes outrageous arguments of anti-love proponents who have convinced us of some the afforementioned horrors.
Now today the Massachusettes state legislature has passed, by a wide margin, to not move forward on the constitutional amendment that would bar marriage in favor of civil unions. Still, Mitt-President-Wannabe-Declare-War-On-His-Own-State-Residents Romney is pushing for an amendment that goes a step further to prevent civil unions or marriage.
Governor. Get a life. Get a clue. Get a realistic ambition. You're not going to be President. You're not even likely to sway your state towards hate. Perhaps you should just call it a day, call it a career, and move on. Buh-Bye.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Dismantle And Rebuild Simultaneously
The Department of Homeland Security...
appears to care little about domestic wellbeing. At least in light of the response to Hurricane Katrina. FEMA, under the Department of Homeland Security, has seen its effectiveness reduced to the shameful, inadequate agency which displayed little preparedness or response.
In the press briefing released by the Secretary of Homeland Security, Michael Chertoff, referred to "Louisiana as a city largely underwater." Therein lies a peek into the importance this region plays to the current administration and our legislators. While Chertoff and others have created the behemoth of a bureacracy devoted to terrorism, focus on agencies such as FEMA have become neglected. Instead of listening incessantly for chatter on the airwaves of faceless threats perhaps they should have listened to the chatter of Americas Army Corps of Engineers that warned of the consequences of inadequate preparation and funding for the New Orelans' levees. Shouldn't that kind of chatter incite as much interest? Perhaps the Corps should have conveyed to them that it was rising from an orange condition to a red condition, since that would appear is the only language these folks seem to speak.
On Sunday's meet the Press Tim Russert pressed Secretary Chertoff on the issue of lack of preparedness. The Secretary insisted the reason that there were no beds, or water or anything at the Convention Center was because it was not to be set up as an evacuation center. City officials and FEMA were encouraging folks to go to the Superdome instead. He explained that folks just showed up at the Convention Center, and that's why they were ill prepared. Thank goodness Tim Russert had the chutzpah to indicate to the Secretary that there wasn't any water at the Superdome either!
In the weeks and months, and perhaps years that will follow this devastating event it is guaranteed that the spin-masters will be out to limit the damage of the inadequacies displayed in these days so not to tarnish their images and legacies. But, I call on President Bush to FINALLY do 'something' to hold his administration accountable. Secretary Chertoff or FEMA Director Michael Brown (http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/12572391.htm) should be fired. Some of them don't even know the difference between the STATE of LOUISIANA and the CITY of NEW ORLEANS. These are the people we entrust with the lives of millions of people?
We already learned however in the wake of the largest intellegence failure of history in our continuing search for WMDs, no one paid for that incompetence either. The CIA the Justice Department the State Department all continue with no one ever being called on the carpet for their perfomance - or lack thereof. Perhaps - the President is avoiding presidence. If he doesn't show that folks should lose their jobs for being inadequate to the task, people will not start to wonder if he falls into that same category as well?
Regardless. Rebuild the Gulf Coast. Dismantle Homeland Security or at least limit this wing of government to the FBI and CIA and let agencies whose mission is humanitarian (FEMA etc.) operate seperately. Their missions are too incompatible to operate as one. Particularly when folks at the helm seem to care little about what they do or how they operate.
Monday, August 29, 2005
Can I have My God with Meatballs Please?...
Science is a theory...
That's the way it was taught to me in high school. That theories are made to be proven and disproven. We disected frogs in biology. The point of that exercise was to prove the theory that frogs had guts. Check. And internal organs. Check. And features which were similiar between reptiles and humans. Check. And that formalgahyde was really gross-smelling. Well. That wasn't necessarily something we set out to prove, but it was proven for me on that warm spring day when I came in from smelling flowers to smelling.. uh - formalgahyde.
Now, we could have just as easily set out to disprove these theories. Unfortunately we may have had a failed experiement because in the end we would have seen that there were internal organs (and that formalgahyde is really gross-smelling). But nevertheless it was a theory to be proven or disproven. What is science really but a collection of theories that were at once proven by someone who set out to find the 'truth'?
But now we have various states, like Kansas, and more recently South Carolina who want to mandate that we teach alternate theories of evolution. All for it I am. (eww. That sounded very Yoda-ish. Is that a word? Yoda-ish? I digress).
http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/8/262005f.asp Why wouldn't we support this new and forward thinking proposal on broadening education? After all who is not for broadening education?
Unfortuately I've yet to meet the scientist who has found a valid methodoligy for proving or disproving the 'theory' of evolution. Therefore it must remain a disproven theory. Let's put our best minds on this and let them have at it. After all, the interesting part of science (if there is an interesting part, I admittedly got a D in that Biology class) is that it is a challenge to FIRST find a theory to prove or disprove and THEN find a method to do so.
The problem with all that is - does this really need to be legislated? Sure there's a perception that there's only 'one' side being taught.. but this is a side that has a signficant amount of attempts at proving and disproving. The Adam and Eve pictures we studied in bible school didn't even have paleolithic man skeleton-look-alike-people in it. And, in the images of Adam and Eve in their fig leaf garments, there were no dinosaurs in the background only lions and sheep (as if lion and sheep could stand that close together without one of them becoming suddenly hungry.. there's an experiment to prove or disprove).
So while I'm an advocate for expanding education, I would caution those who would push to include religious elements into our state funded education programs. After all would they push as hard if we were legislating Muhammed's version of evolution? Or what about alternate theories? Should we legislate the introduction of those too? Or better yet, what if a Spaghetti-Monster entity created the Universe - as some (I hope tongue-in-cheek) proclaim?
Surely we could check that one out? Would that be in the science room? or the lunch room?
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Wow -- What Ever Happened To...
Alrighty then...
Just when you thought you'd committed all of those 'commandments' to memory, along comes the head of your religious organization to say that there's really 9. Or, is it that there's 10, but one with an astrisk? Or is that there's 9 'Commandments' and 1 If-It's-Convenients?
I get this all confused. And you can see why... I've been under some serious mis-impressions of Christianity and what it's teachings are. I mis interpreted the teachings of Christ and the notion of love, tolerance, patience and understanding of others. Silly me.
If President Bush, wants to wage a war on "Extremists", he seek no further than the boundaries of Maine, North Dakota, Florida or Hawaii. They are right here in our midst. Or perhaps he meant in recent statements that "Extremism" as euphemism for "Non-Christian". Because certainly you can't call the Reverend Robertsons latest rallys non-extreme.
But, then again.. I did have that problem of the afforementioned mis-intepretation. Duh.
Thursday, August 11, 2005
And.. The Winner Is...
Does it get...
more beautiful than this? My friend Kevin settled on a Buick over a Pontiac. While I still have the softest spots in my heart for 60's Bonnevilles and LeMans' - I agree with him, this one epitomizes the genre of 60's convertibles. Can't you just see the prom queen waving on the back? And, no! That wouldn't be Rick, Kevin's partner. It's a lovely car and we had the best time in Reno but he found this, and made it home before we even rendezvous'd. So, can't wait to see it in person and maybe even.. spin it around the block!
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
How many more of those will they make?
On the look out... for a 1960s convertible is both fun and challenging. We'll be searching high and low in Reno this weekend at Hot August Nights.
If you haven't been, then just know we're talking about the largest or second largest car gathering in the nation. (Woodward Dream Cruise in Detroit Michigan being the other).
So the adventure begins. Kicking tires, prodding under hoods, peaking under the carpet in the trunk for signs of the dreaded.. rust. And all of it, worth it. After all - they aren't going to make any more 1966 Bonneville convertibles right? Unfortunately, the price range is a big one. Anywhere from a few thousand dollars for a car in need of admission into the ICU and up. The biggest I've seen so far is $45k for showroom condition. We're hoping to find something in between. Maybe in the $30k range that's already restored and maybe only needs the most minor of tweaks. Such as the one pictured here, that has incorrect wheels. So wish us luck in our quest for the perfect 60s Pontiac convertible. I'll let you know how it goes. My commission if I find it is I get a drive in a dream car.
Friday, July 22, 2005
Lifestyles: Rich, Famous, Gay, Black, Jewish - You Name It
What...
do you think of when you hear that word? Lifestyles?
Does it conjur up images of that homage-to-80's-overindulgence with Robin Leach screaming at you from the tele from the veranda of some celebrity in an exotic location?
http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=lifestyle
The Dictionary defines the word as: A way of life or style of living that reflects the attitudes and values of a person or group.
Somewhat vague, this definition can be applied to a number of ways of life. People who boat have a lifestyle. Joggers are a lifestyle. Homelessness is a lifestyle. Spousal Abusers are a lifestyle. The list goes on, but you get the idea.
When did "Gay" become a "Lifestyle"? At precisely the moment that some refused to confer any semblance of humanity on people they do not agree with nor condone.
The lack of clarity of meaning when using this word to describe others is yet another tactic in an ongoing effort of some to prevent the recognition of what is a very human trait.
Don't think so? Let's examine the criteria for the term. What constitutes the "Gay Lifestyle"? If people go to Gay bars or where Gay people congregate does that constitute it? By that virtue then can it be surmised that a person who frequents establishments where African Americans are present be determined to be living the "Black Lifestyle"? Or, if a person of Jewish faith sleeps or engages in relations of someone of the Catholic Religion, are they said to be living the "Catholic Lifestyle"?
This notion of "Lifestyle" perpetuates the idea that being Gay or more to the point, acting Gay is a choice someone makes as casually as "I think I'll work out today at the gym". It reduces the significance of a class of people and lumps them with other Lifestylers. The vernacular and verbage we use when addressing others is very telling in the way we hold our views. Until such time it becomes so commonly accepted that we don't even think about why we use a particular phrase or terminology. The next time someone refers to someone as a "Lifestyle" it might be good to challenge them to define it for you. I asked someone the other day and they were at a loss to explain why they ascribe that term on others. They may continue to do so - they may not. But maybe they'll think next time they use vague, blanket, dehumanizing terms to describe others.
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
For those who suffer from Catholicism
http://www.renewamerica.us/columns/abbott/050624
would seem weird to describe people of faith that way wouldn't it? Yet for some, this seems a perfectly reasonable way of describing others. Claiming others suffer from some variance of your own way is a great strategy to undermine their humanity. The cherry on this concoction of superiority is the quick addition of 'not.. that there's anything wrong with that... or not that I'm phobic or bigotted'.
Any statement that begins with disclaimer like that, or a variance thereof, almost certainly will have something phobic or biggoted following. In this particular article we have an educated young man who appears to have a problem with a drag show on campus. I too am outraged at this. No one should be bound, hearded like cattle and forced to attend a function against their will. It's in humane, it's not fair, it's not.. what? Oh. It's not the case. Oh, it appears he wasn't forced to participate. My bad.
Part of an education - a good education be it at a Catholic University or otherwise heathenistic institution is learning to coexist in a world much larger than just the Vatican. We can claim others don't exist, but that doesn't make it so. So, what's the next best thing? Dehumanize them with claims that they 'suffer' from some malady which makes them different, weird, abnormal or "heretical". (sort of conjurs up images of drag queens with their heads spinning 360 degrees doesn't it?)
Judging an entire category of people based on the actions of some is unjust. By any law. Be it man-made or otherwise. Imagine considering Catholicism the religion which promotes, avows and encourages pedophilia because there are some.. ok many, Priests who have engaged in this behavior.
And, starting off a statement of saying that (all) Catholics are pedophiles by disavowing my hatred of catholics by saying "not that I'm Catholiphobic or anything... but" doesn't detract that the statement that all Catholics are pedophiles is my underlying agenda. Trying to convince you of my way of thinking from a point of view of rightiousness begins with calling out what I see, disavowing that I have other motives, oh and making you less than a child of God born under the same Creator helps too.
Lord Jesus, protect me from your followers...
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Can Christianity be Cured by the Power of Homosexuality?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8234503/
Silly...
headline isn't it? Yet groups like Focus on the Family and other radical institutions continue to march forward in their efforts to de-homo America. Does anyone else think it ironic that one of the professed fears we hear from groups like this that an alleged homosexual agenda includes aims of converting straight America - yet here they are, outright in their attempt to convert folks to their way of thinking and worshipping?
To understand how they can even think of such things.. like homosexual agenda, and fairy tales of conversion (pardon the pun) one only need to look at how they preach to their own followers and targets for aleration. The language and methodologies that groups like this use is the very source of the paranoia which drives them to such notions.
The right for religious freedom is a precious one. Yet personal freedom from persecution, even in the name of religion must supercede the right of one to mandate, legislate, or otherwise codify a particular religious/moral conviction on others. Now. I've utilized the slash between religious and moral intentionally. Not because they are one in the same. Contrarily, many times they are not. But, rather because many of the religionists themselves cannot extracate themselves from the notion that this higher moral calling serves as a holy justification for all sorts of jihad.
Jihad? Interesting word choice, but would you feel more comfortable if I used terminology like Christian Crusade?
Declaring war or struggle on persons different from you is a an old fasioned Christian pasttime since the beginning of Christianity itself. To be fair, this is not how all Christians feel, nor is it particularly clear in any of the Christian writings that this is somehow a consecrated duty. Love thy Neighbor - unless he is not similar to you.
For all the talk of some religionist that terms like 'diversity' and such are dirty words, I think a far more obscene connotation should be applied to words like 'conversion'. I'd rather put my energies into accepting that maybe, just maybe - God has a plan far bigger and broader than my comprehension - and maybe just maybe he's created each and every one of us with individual contributions to be made utilizing unique and different talents.
In the meantime, I just hope reparative-therapy groups don't hurt anyone with potentially misguided notions of emotionally bludgeoning people into thinking that God has made them imperfect.
Friday, June 17, 2005
The Campaign Against Massachusettes
http://www.bostonphoenix.com/boston/news_features/editorial/documents/04509217.asp
The Campaign...
against Massachusettes is being conducted by the most unlikely of adversaries - the very Governor of the State.
Mitt Romney has made clear his aspirations for a Presidential run and in doing so he has drawn a line in the sand with the State on one side, and he on the other.
No where else in America is a political figurehead so divisive in taking extreme stances on issues (not even California) most of the general poplulation falls in the middle or other side of. His views on stem cell research stand to drive money away from prominent research insitutions in the state and a biotechnology industry. His insistence on pushing for an amendment to do away with Gay marriage, even though there's already a proposed amendment initiative illustrates his own marriage to the religious right.
It would appear that nothing short of annialation of the civil rights and recognition of many of his own constituents doesn't compliment a strategy of marching to the white house on the shoulders of the radical right.
Mr. Governor, you had such a promising career. You gained national prominence with an outstanding Olympics you spearheaded. You seemed the posterboy for a political career on the rise. Since it's not likely that you'll realize you've thrown your hate into the wrong ring, perhaps the citizens of the Great State of Massachusettes will see your loyalities lay elsewhere before you pack up your presidential-seeking bags and leave them holding the bag.
Friday, June 10, 2005
Turning Your Back on Democracy
http://www.sacbee.com/24hour/politics/story/2470736p-10802232c.html
No...
matter how incensed one becomes at whichever point of view the otherside is portraying, one should remain composed. No where is this more important than the very halls where the largest decisions are debated and ultimately resolved.
Now, I'll be the first admit my hot-headedness. I've even been accused of turning on my heel and showing my hiney as I make my exit. But, then again, I've never been in a position of being elected and paid to be a representative. Representation by it's very nature requires presence in order to be effective.
I'm thinking the people of Wisconsin deserve representation that is present. Present, is good. Come on folks - I know that the 'other' side always seems wrong. Always seems pushy. Always seems uncivilized. This is true for whichever side you're on and which ever side you point to as being the 'other' side - but as a flight attendent might say "We ask that you please remain seated". After all, how can you tackle a problem, if you're not even there?
Pluralism (Diversity in Religious-Speak)
http://www.str.org/free/commentaries/apologetics/comparisons/pluralis.htm
While...
some maybe believe that for every right there must be a 'wrong', it's possible that God is infinite enough to allow for more than one view. While I, by my very human nature, am limited in the scope of my beliefs - I'd like to think God has a bigger view, a bigger expanse of experience and infinite more wisdom than I could ever hope to possess.
This notion that God is Bigger than I, gives me hope and creates a space that provides the freedom from having to dominate you with my views. Notice I did not say persuade. Because, while courteous debate with others about the subject of God would always be welcome - nice discourse is rarely possible with those holding a evangelical or extremist view (I'll refrain from using 'radical' because that has a different connotation).
Part of the claim of hypocracy that some may hold against some religions is the finger pointing that they do against other religions saying "see how radical they are? They don't even allow that we should be allowed to believe what we believe" all the while claiming to hold 'the' true form of belief.
What would be the point of holding a belief, if you didn't think it was the 'true' belief? Well, quite frankly there'd be little point. However it's what you do with your belief or how you empower those around you in form of being a living example is what others (and arguably) God will ultimately judge you for.
How much effort am I going to place on proselytizing you to my way of thinking? I'd like to think the balance would be in favor of the time that I spend helping fellow man, being an example for others, providing light where there is dark, and giving comfort to those who are down. I'm not talking about a personal campaign for sainthood. I'm talking about a world in which each of us works to lift each other up 'despite' our difference. True tolerance isn't the stifling of my genuine opinion of you. It's an effort on my part to recognize that you are different because of your experiences, your family, your faith, your culture, your hopes, your idiosyncracies, etc. These are the very things that make you who you are. These are the very things which only you have distilled to become the unique concoction you are. It is these that God would have you carry forward to assist others with because there is only one you. No one can take your place or can give what you can give. It makes you irreplaceable, incomparable and precious.
Tree-hugging idealism? Probably. But, the very notion is probably bigger than either of us, and therein lies God.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Giving Back - A Worthy Endeavor
http://clementis-operarius.com/
Giving...
back to the community you live in is more than a warm and fuzzy concept. It's actually one of the ways we can actively participate in the improvement of where we live. How often do we complain of things the way they 'are' without offering any solution or even suggestion of how they can 'be'?
The concept of Service to the community is not new. It's not even unique. What it is however, is effective. I try and find different ways of being involved and feeling a part of and have found several organizations I regularly volunteer my time.
http://www.designateddrivers.net/
http://rcru.com/
The thing that's great about doing this isn't that I'm a shoe-in for sainthood. It's not likely that I'll win any community awards or recognition. I'm not even sure I'm making a karma-investment set to pay off at later date. But, what my experience is - is that it feels good.
I once complained to a friend about having low self-esteem. He replied, we gain self-esteem when we do esteemable things. That made sense to me. I spent much of my life taking without any regard that there has to be a balance of people who are willing to give in order for me to continue to receive. At some point, regardless of circumstances or conditions, each of us will be called to help where we can. I hope if and when the situation presents itself, you find yourself saying "yes".
Christopher...
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Welcome to My Page
Well, now you can see me. Send me you! I hope you are all doing well. Everything here in Sacramento, is just great.
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