I hate to ask, but I was just asked to attend Bill’s Celebration Of Life. I don’t have the funds, and it looks like a round-trip airfare and two nights in a hotel. If you can, please do hit the tip jar in the upper right, and anything not used for this goes to my seminary tuition and books. If I can’t go, I can either refund or put it towards seminary tuition and books. Thanks.
Matt, Dolly, & Bill
The last couple of days have been a heck of a ride. In some ways, I guess things started with the passing of Shelley Fabares, who was a small part of my childhood many moons ago. Then things got real.
Monday brought the news that Matt (Matthew) Bair had passed. If you don’t live in Indy, you probably don’t know the name. Matt had been in radio, one way or another, for years. For the last eight years, he’s been the voice of the best traffic coverage in the city. So much so that I’ve actually recommended people I knew were coming in or through from out of town follow him on X and tune in to WIBC for his coverage.
Years back, I drove a lot and began sending or calling in tips and updates to him. First time I did, he checked to be sure I was doing so safely, as while he appreciated, he also told me he didn’t want to end up having to report about me being in an accident. After that, sent in tips and did a brief bit of chatting. Then the lightning hit and for a while there I wasn’t able to do a lot, which led to listening to WIBC talk radio most of the day. Not saying he made listening to the various shows bear-able; but, it did make me appreciate his delivery, humor, and honest concern all the more. Add in the fact that he would do all he could to help good charities, and that he talked honestly about his own struggles with addiction and encouraged others fighting that fight, and you had something truly special.
There were two period after the lightning strike where I didn’t drive much, and as a result I wasn’t sending in tips. One day, while being driven to a doctor’s appointment, we hit a major traffic snarl and I sent it in. He responded immediately and he got the issue out online and on the air asap. He closed out with me with what would be a throw-away line for many, but was true and sincere from him: “Glad to have you back Wolf!” That was a boost I needed more than I realized at the time. Then again, that was Matt. He truly did make a difference in people’s lives. Godspeed Matt.
For all that I was born and raised in Macon, Georgia, I’ve made no secret that the best part of my childhood was spent in the mountains of NE Georgia. I had “adopted” grandparents and family there, the Bakers. Their small, technically three-room, home was typical of the area and I seem to recall that for years neither had traveled more than about twenty miles from the place of their birth. Their son was as an older brother to me, and they had far more impact on me that they realized.
I still remember watching, in black-and-white, Porter Wagoner on the TV when I was small. And I remember when this beautiful young lady named Dolly Parton joined his show — and the consternation when she left for Hollywood. I still see her in my mind as she looked then, probably always will. There is a lot I could say about her, her music, and the persona she adopted for the world. What I will say is this: for all that mountain people don’t talk, word got around fairly early that she looked after her own. Everyone talks about the big things, for she did huge things; but, she did a lot of small things that didn’t get talked about and she, and those she helped, wanted it that way. She would have recognized my adopted grandparents and their family right away, and been right at home sitting on the porch with them.
For all that her death has brought together all types and all places, I’ve seen a few posts questioning and worse. Allow me a moment to clap back: She had her Faith, and she truly lived it. She loved pretty much everyone, unconditionally. She gave of her time, her talent, and her resources and did so both openly and quietly. She didn’t preach and pontificate — she lived her faith and her obligations from the scriptures every day. She didn’t talk, she walked. She set an example from which we all can profit. Godspeed Dolly.
Yesterday evening I got an e-mail telling me my friend Bill had passed. Bill was one of those people who hit your life and make it brighter without even trying. He moved into the apartment next to mine the first time I was working for NASA, and quickly went from being a neighbor to one heck of a good friend. And a source of amusement, bemusement, and thought.
Bill was Chinese Canadian, who had a focus on American pop culture that was part appreciative, part satirical, and part amusement. I never did figure out if he was serious about some aspects, but he often made one think even as you were laughing at his take and antics. Every year he was my neighbor, he made a “pilgrimage” to Graceland in Memphis. He’d drive over the day after Thanksgiving, visit Graceland and Elvis’s grave, do some other touristy stuff, spend the night, and drive back the next day.
He had a sharp, sharp mind and could engage knowledgeably and intelligently on a wide variety of subjects. When we were neighbors, he was a welcome part of our Thanksgiving. My parents, who came over every year for the holiday, loved him, and he impressed and amused my Dad with his takes on football. We stayed in touch after we both moved away, and I was delighted when we both ended up in Vegas years later. I was there on business, and he was visiting with his new wife, Laara, and I was so glad to meet the person who completed him. The online “cards” he created and sent each year at Thanksgiving and Christmas helped make the holidays for me. Thanksgiving won’t be the same this year my friend. Godspeed Bill.
God’s mercy on their souls, and his mercy and comfort to all those they leave behind. Shine your light down upon those left behind, and guide them on thy path for them, now and in the days ahead.
Where Were We?
Whew. The last few weeks have been, er, interesting. I’m hoping that more normal posting can resume, at least for now. The Indy area has had floods, historic levels of flooding even, which has me thinking even more about preparedness. There have been other things going on as well, including some thankfully minor health issues.
Also, next week starts the first week of classes at seminary, and — of course — one professor kicked things off a bit early. I’m actually glad he did as I needed to get some books ordered and have added some reference books to the Amazon wish list. Anyone wanting to help with tuition or books, feel free to hit the tip jar!
More soon, possibly even this afternoon. Who knows. Things are quite busy at church this week as we approach the Dormition of the Theotokos. Our priest is on a sabbatical, so some of us are pitching in to take care of things, which in my case also includes helping with the production of the Vigil texts (Vespers, Matins) as well as helping with the candles, lamps, and getting the sanctuary ready for all the different services. That is going to jump a bit as our Deacon is going to be on vacation and I’ve agreed to help cover some of his non-Deacon duties. Perhaps more on this soon.
Meantime, there is more to come. Please stand by…
Please check out my Summer Bleg.
Getting hit by lightning is not fun! It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. If you would like to help me with seminary courses, pilgrimages, and more, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. Thank you.
More Is Coming
It’s just been an interesting time. Ended up in the ER with a foot problem this weekend. Good news is, it was not an infection but something else. Had to spend time elevated and iced, joy.
Today and tomorrow morning are mostly being spent at Church. Old calendar, tomorrow is the Feast of the Transfiguration so today we have Vespers and other things going on, and tomorrow morning a full service. Let me get through that, and I will hopefully start getting things caught up here. Also, seminary starts soon which will be adding to the fun.
For the record, I’m doing okay overall. It’s been interesting on several fronts, from health to weather. Indy has suffered the worst flooding in decades, and I’m thankful I live where I do. Lots to talk about in terms of preparedness, health, and life.
Be good, there is more to come. Remember, preparedness pays! Keep your family and friends close, and your things where you can find them in the dark.
Please check out my Summer Bleg.
Getting hit by lightning is not fun! It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. If you would like to help me with seminary courses, pilgrimages, and more, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. Thank you.
Apologies
Sorry to be absent, as it was not intended. Last week, I drove down to Georgia to visit relatives and friends. I had intended to post as I went, but the plans for the trip went out the window early — with some good things resulting from what would otherwise be a disappointment. More on that soon.
Since then, I’ve been a bit under the weather. To the point I don’t remember much after getting home from church on Sunday and Monday being a very weird day. On the mend I think, though I’ve had the wind knocked out of my sails a bit.
More soon, as I’m not dead yet. There is more to come.
Please check out my Summer Bleg.
Getting hit by lightning is not fun! It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. If you would like to help me with seminary courses, pilgrimages, and more, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. Thank you.
One More Artwork
Well, I thought I had sold the last of my collection. However, a friend who had bought a painting several years ago returned it to me as a gift. Sadly, it arrived damaged so I have to take it to a framer here soon for repair. Once that is done, will decide the best way to go with it.
For all that part of me is sad that my art collection is (essentially) gone, I do find it a good thing that most of it has gone where it can be viewed and enjoyed. Art, good art, is meant to be viewed and enjoyed. For all that I enjoyed my bronzes and paintings, it is better for them to be out in good homes where more people can appreciate and enjoy them.
More soon. Posting may be spotty for a bit as there is a lot going on behind the scenes, but will do my best to share and entertain.
Please check out my Summer Bleg.
Getting hit by lightning is not fun! It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. If you would like to help me with seminary courses, pilgrimages, and more, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. Thank you.
Thursday Thought
There is a lot going on in the world, and a LOT going on here at home. From the revelation that people conspired to kill thousands for profit and power to the normalization of the abuse and bullying by adults of children simply over a difference of opinion (the children hold an opinion seen as major heresey by those who worship a perverse social religion). There is much I could say, but instead I will simply share a modified prayer that I feel is appropriate for the situation.
The original prayer was created during the heyday of communism and socialism (two parts of the same evil coin) for a particular country. It also, I believe, got adapted for other countries in similar situations. I created this version several years ago, and thought I would share it:
O Lord Jesus Christ Our God, forgive our iniquities. Through the intercessions of Thy most pure Mother, save the suffering people of Earth from the yoke of the godless authority. Amen.
As we see what I hope is a last desperate effort to gain power and control by an evil ideology, I share this prayer for us all. Meantime, be prepared. Keep your family and friends close, and your things where you can find them in the dark. More soon.
Please check out my Summer Bleg.
Getting hit by lightning is not fun! It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. If you would like to help me with seminary courses, pilgrimages, and more, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. Thank you.
Wednesday Update
Sorry nothing got up yesterday, but there was a reason. A lot had to do with schedule. I had breakfast with a priest I know who also teaches music. In fact, he was a choir director for a while. The breakfast was great, and what was planned to be a discussion of Byzantine chanting and if he could help myself, and possibly some others, start to learn it turned into a freewheeling and wide-ranging discussion on a variety of topics.
Short version is that he can indeed help us, and is going to forward me some material to help us get started. Meantime, he’s going to come up with a cost for some in person single or group lessons would cost.
After we wrapped up, there was just enough time to take care of a few things around the house, then I headed down to the church to set up for the small compline service we did in lieu of full vespers. It’s been a while since I’ve helped do one, so it was a learning experience. That said, it went well and my Deacon and I split the different parts between us. He also provided a history of the compline and how it can be modified for specific circumstances as well as being used as part of a household prayer routine as we went.
More soon.
Please check out my Summer Bleg.
Getting hit by lightning is not fun! It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. If you would like to help me with seminary courses, pilgrimages, and more, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. Thank you.
Preparedness Pays: Flooding
Well, last night proved that preparedness always pays. Sometimes in multiple ways.
The house where I rent my room is an older home, a duplex my landlord bought from a relative. The design was very popular in the late 1930s/1940s: drives ran down both sides of the house and there were steep drops down to garages in the basement. There is no real back yard on ours, only paved surface. Which means, given terrain and the steep drop, that water tends to flood down the slope and towards the garages.
There is a trench at the bottom connected to the sewer drain that is supposed to handle things; but, even after replacing the sewer line out to the property line it is easily overwhelmed. So, my landlord put an emergency sump pump in it that activates when the water gets to a certain depth. The pipe actually runs up our drive and to a point where the water runs away from the house and to the street (and the storm drains).
A couple of lines of severe storms rolled through last night, with the first being the worst. I was in my room and heard some commotion out in the other part of the basement so got up to see what was going on.
Turns out, someone (and we all know who) had unplugged the sump pump for some reason and forgot to plug it back in. That had been fixed by the time I joined the housemate and landlord, but water was coming in under the garage door and was flooding that end of the basement. I quickly got on the rubber muck boots I had bought a few weeks ago for another project, and quickly joined in on the bailing effort.
Thankfully, between the rain finally letting up a small bit and the sump pump getting going, we limited how much got in and how far it got. Between buckets and a floor squeegee, we got pretty much all the water out. By this morning it was mostly dry in that area.
Four different areas of preparedness came into play last night: proactive checking by the landlord and/or housemate; sump pump in the trench (when plugged in); buckets, bins, and floor squeegee, etc.; and, waterproof (and electrically resistant) boots. The response was a defense in layers with backups. Six years ago, the water actually came back up the sewer lines and that was fun! I actually have sand bags to drop over the big floor drain just in case that ever starts to happen again. Having the light pair of rubber boots I could get into quickly got me into the fray quickly and kept me dry. Or at least my feet.
So remember: make your plans and have multiple layers in place so that if one doesn’t go as planned, you have means to limit the damage. Might be time for me to suggest an emergency generator the landlord again so we can keep the sump pump running, and the refrigerators/freezers going, if the power goes out.
Be prepared. Keep your family and friends close, and your things where you can find them in the dark.
Please check out my Summer Bleg.
Getting hit by lightning is not fun! It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. If you would like to help me with seminary courses, pilgrimages, and more, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. Thank you.
DCA Crash Follow-Up
Long-time readers know that I’ve been following the DCA crash since it happened, and have shared reports from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) when they came out. It caused some readers to get upset that I refused to place blame at the start, and said to let the process play out. Especially as there was plenty of blame to go around.
Six months ago, the NTSB issued a report with 75 findings and 50 safety recommendations. Turns out there was indeed plenty of blame to go around, a lot of it system failures that put the pilots into a situation where they had no chance.
Today, the Chair of the NTSB issued a statement regarding the lack of progress in those 50 mandatory recommendations being implemented. Partisan bickering in Congress has stalled some critical items, and rather than deal with that the Senate is going to go on yet another vacation.
There are some important and long-needed changes to systems underway, and frankly the Senate needs to sit down, work things out, and pass the necessary legislation. My thoughts on them not doing so are less than kind, to the point of being unprintable. We need to get things fixed to help ensure nothing like this happens again.
Please check out my Summer Bleg.
Getting hit by lightning is not fun! It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. If you would like to help me with seminary courses, pilgrimages, and more, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. Thank you.