It's December 6 - 2nd Sunday of Advent - found out today it is Hope Sunday. Hope is related to confidence - we are confidently hopeful of good things to come.
We went out this eve to see the Midtown Men, 4 long time Jersey Boys actors on their own now doing hits from the 60s. They were good, very experienced, made it all look easy, when of course it is not easy. Good time and now home.
We also had dinner at D & B's house which is always a good time. Good food makes it easy to be someplace.
This was a big afternoon, we also saw the The Nutcracker, with our friend Camille as the lead role of Clara. Now, I've seen the The Nutcracker many times, my mother was an original fan. I'd say this was one of the best I've seen. Packed house and it did not disappoint. Although when I saw the dancers outside (children) it was amazing how small they were up close. They looked all grown up on stage.
And of course church today. I was go-go-go today. Glad I got my nap in!
Have a great week!
Sunday, December 6, 2015
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Growing Up Around Guns
I heard someone talk about how someone didn't "grow up around guns" - it got me thinking on that subject.
Back when I was young in the 1970s, a gun i.e. a rifle or a shotgun was something that a young boy aimed to be able to shoot for himself at some point. A right of passage, which occurred about age 12 or so as your size began to match the size of the weapon. But I can remember as early as the 4th or 5th grade that in the hallways of school, some of the other boys talked of shooting a shotgun, starting with the .410, then a 20 gauge, then the man's gun of a 12 gauge.
BB guns were regular gifts to a young boy in elementary school. But not me. My father was never a gun guy. Legend had it he was involved in a shooting accident but that was never a real discussion topic.
My grandfather Wilton (father's side) was an avid hunter as well as my uncle Vernon (mother's side). Both of them prominently displayed their gun collections in a nice oak cabinet (locked tight).
As a teenager, Wilton would take me shooting when I visited. I learned to shoot at Camp La Junta where riflery was a required course. We shot .22 rifles from a prone position on a 25 yard range. The best shot when I was there was Charles Warlick who scored a perfect 50 - 5 10 point bullseyes. He got to go to The Hunt Store for a celebratory cheeseburger. My last year, I remember getting to shoot various guns, a .243, and .... the prized 12 gauge shotgun.
No one I knew really had a gun of their own. It was more like one of their father's gun's was designated as "theirs". I had one of Wilton's rifles designated as mine. When I went to get it as an adult, Wilton gave me the exact one - the decision was made years before.
The first time I went hunting was with Uncle Vernon and our friend Dr. Raymond Hart. I was about 17 years old. We were bird hunting (dove I guess) around Austin. I had no idea what a dove looked like. When a bird flushed, I shot it and my uncle said "Good news, that was a good shot. But you shot a sparrow."
After Susan and I got married, I was able to go hunting with Susan's dad where I learned what a dove really looked like. My friend Brent and I had many good times dove hunting as well.
The current craze of pistols, concealed carry and black guns is a long way removed from what I remember Growing Up Around Guns.
Back when I was young in the 1970s, a gun i.e. a rifle or a shotgun was something that a young boy aimed to be able to shoot for himself at some point. A right of passage, which occurred about age 12 or so as your size began to match the size of the weapon. But I can remember as early as the 4th or 5th grade that in the hallways of school, some of the other boys talked of shooting a shotgun, starting with the .410, then a 20 gauge, then the man's gun of a 12 gauge.
BB guns were regular gifts to a young boy in elementary school. But not me. My father was never a gun guy. Legend had it he was involved in a shooting accident but that was never a real discussion topic.
My grandfather Wilton (father's side) was an avid hunter as well as my uncle Vernon (mother's side). Both of them prominently displayed their gun collections in a nice oak cabinet (locked tight).
As a teenager, Wilton would take me shooting when I visited. I learned to shoot at Camp La Junta where riflery was a required course. We shot .22 rifles from a prone position on a 25 yard range. The best shot when I was there was Charles Warlick who scored a perfect 50 - 5 10 point bullseyes. He got to go to The Hunt Store for a celebratory cheeseburger. My last year, I remember getting to shoot various guns, a .243, and .... the prized 12 gauge shotgun.
No one I knew really had a gun of their own. It was more like one of their father's gun's was designated as "theirs". I had one of Wilton's rifles designated as mine. When I went to get it as an adult, Wilton gave me the exact one - the decision was made years before.
The first time I went hunting was with Uncle Vernon and our friend Dr. Raymond Hart. I was about 17 years old. We were bird hunting (dove I guess) around Austin. I had no idea what a dove looked like. When a bird flushed, I shot it and my uncle said "Good news, that was a good shot. But you shot a sparrow."
After Susan and I got married, I was able to go hunting with Susan's dad where I learned what a dove really looked like. My friend Brent and I had many good times dove hunting as well.
The current craze of pistols, concealed carry and black guns is a long way removed from what I remember Growing Up Around Guns.
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Calling My Shot
While at lunch yesterday, one of my friends Mark said, "You know, your name always comes up whenever Lance and I play golf." How's that, I asked? "We have a shot named after you." Oh really?
"Yes, whenever we are in the woods, or faced with a choice of hitting a safe shot, or a daring shot, we ask, are you going to go for it, or are you going to Turley it?"
"I think I'm going to Turley it and chip it back in the fairway instead of trying to hit the risky shot"
I didn't know what to think at my being a golf topic when I was not even playing. My own shot? Had I risen, or sunk, to the level of T.C. Chen, or Mulligan himself? What to make of this newly discovered association?
All golf wisdom much necessarily start with the great teachers of the game. I have been fortunate to know many of them in my years. In the Little Red Book, Harvey Penick speaks frequently on the subject of confidence:
Take Dead Aim - "forget about how your swing may look and concentrate instead of where you want the ball to go."
Hit a Full Approach - when in between clubs, take the lesser club and hit it harder
His pupil, Davis Love, Jr., father of Davis Love III, told me that he told his son: You should think of swinging your driver like you swing your 7 iron." He knew that even a great player felt better swinging a 7 iron.
Jack Nicklaus in Golf My Way, says that the hardest shot in golf in the first shot off the first tee. Therefore you should hit the shortest club that you have confidence that you can hit well off that first tee. The confidence will carry over in the round.
Charlie Epps, who is the instructor of Angel Cabrera, Masters and US Open Champion told me, "Hit a shorter club for your second shot on a par 5. It will increase your confidence, and likely give you a better chance for the 3rd shot.
Dr. Bob Rotella, sports psychologist to Davis Love III says in Golf Is Not a Game of Perfect, "Hit the shot you know you can hit, not the shot that Arnold Palmer would hit, nor even the shot you think you ought to be able to hit". He tells the story of Palmer's famously driving the green on number 1 at Cherry Hills. He also notes that Palmer's score on the hole the other 3 days were par, bogey, double.
His protege, Dr. David Cook in Golf's Sacred Journey, references this in his chapters on Conviction (believing that your way is the right way for you) and Shadow Casting (having control of your emotions)
Butch Harmon in The Four Cornerstones of Winning Golf says to play to your strengths -
"if you want to shot the lower score, you should not visualize a miracle shot."
So what would these great say about the "Turley" - they would agree that it is smart course management, keeping a high confidence level, and putting yourself in position for the best possible score.
That's a trait I'm happy to put my stamp on.
"Yes, whenever we are in the woods, or faced with a choice of hitting a safe shot, or a daring shot, we ask, are you going to go for it, or are you going to Turley it?"
"I think I'm going to Turley it and chip it back in the fairway instead of trying to hit the risky shot"
I didn't know what to think at my being a golf topic when I was not even playing. My own shot? Had I risen, or sunk, to the level of T.C. Chen, or Mulligan himself? What to make of this newly discovered association?
All golf wisdom much necessarily start with the great teachers of the game. I have been fortunate to know many of them in my years. In the Little Red Book, Harvey Penick speaks frequently on the subject of confidence:
Take Dead Aim - "forget about how your swing may look and concentrate instead of where you want the ball to go."
Hit a Full Approach - when in between clubs, take the lesser club and hit it harder
His pupil, Davis Love, Jr., father of Davis Love III, told me that he told his son: You should think of swinging your driver like you swing your 7 iron." He knew that even a great player felt better swinging a 7 iron.
Jack Nicklaus in Golf My Way, says that the hardest shot in golf in the first shot off the first tee. Therefore you should hit the shortest club that you have confidence that you can hit well off that first tee. The confidence will carry over in the round.
Charlie Epps, who is the instructor of Angel Cabrera, Masters and US Open Champion told me, "Hit a shorter club for your second shot on a par 5. It will increase your confidence, and likely give you a better chance for the 3rd shot.
Dr. Bob Rotella, sports psychologist to Davis Love III says in Golf Is Not a Game of Perfect, "Hit the shot you know you can hit, not the shot that Arnold Palmer would hit, nor even the shot you think you ought to be able to hit". He tells the story of Palmer's famously driving the green on number 1 at Cherry Hills. He also notes that Palmer's score on the hole the other 3 days were par, bogey, double.
His protege, Dr. David Cook in Golf's Sacred Journey, references this in his chapters on Conviction (believing that your way is the right way for you) and Shadow Casting (having control of your emotions)
Butch Harmon in The Four Cornerstones of Winning Golf says to play to your strengths -
"if you want to shot the lower score, you should not visualize a miracle shot."
So what would these great say about the "Turley" - they would agree that it is smart course management, keeping a high confidence level, and putting yourself in position for the best possible score.
That's a trait I'm happy to put my stamp on.
Monday, October 5, 2015
Since 1992
Something caught my eye lately about a lawyer that had been around for over 35 years. My years seemed less. But I thought more about it, I've been around too.
Would you believe....
When I became a lawyer in 1992, George H.W. Bush was President. Fresh off what we now call the First Gulf War (and the first President Bush), the U.S. economy was in a slump. Third party millionaire candidate Ross Perot split the vote and Bill Clinton won with less than 50% vote.
There were cell phones but they were rarely used. I think I got my first one about then but they were more making than receiving calls. Most people didn't know their number.
There was no internet to speak off. Certainly you couldn't open a browser and search for anything. Google was not a verb, having not come on the scene until 1998. But fax machines were big. Jokes were faxed around like emails are forwarded today.
I'd have to say the law has not changed as much as it should. Blame that on demographics. With the lawyers of 35 years ago still around,(baby boomers) the profession still has remnants of the past century, hourly billing, partnership tracks, paltry diversity, and unfriendly attitudes toward women in the profession. Did I mention the baby boomers are still around and not going anywhere fast?
Check back with me in another 23 years.
Would you believe....
When I became a lawyer in 1992, George H.W. Bush was President. Fresh off what we now call the First Gulf War (and the first President Bush), the U.S. economy was in a slump. Third party millionaire candidate Ross Perot split the vote and Bill Clinton won with less than 50% vote.
There were cell phones but they were rarely used. I think I got my first one about then but they were more making than receiving calls. Most people didn't know their number.
There was no internet to speak off. Certainly you couldn't open a browser and search for anything. Google was not a verb, having not come on the scene until 1998. But fax machines were big. Jokes were faxed around like emails are forwarded today.
I'd have to say the law has not changed as much as it should. Blame that on demographics. With the lawyers of 35 years ago still around,(baby boomers) the profession still has remnants of the past century, hourly billing, partnership tracks, paltry diversity, and unfriendly attitudes toward women in the profession. Did I mention the baby boomers are still around and not going anywhere fast?
Check back with me in another 23 years.
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Teaching the Class
Today just before church, we were having our choir warmup 30 minutes before the service. I had gone to Tuesday practice and worked on the songs so I was prepared and perhaps anxious. As we were getting started, I made motions like I would be the director. To my surprise, our director Stacy said "Are you going to direct today?" I thought, sure! So I directed and she sat and sang. We went through both songs, and of course, Father Jim came to check and was quite surprised to see me in charge. I carried on and thought I did OK. It was certainly a workout - got your heart beating.
Stacy took over to direct during the service. We got some nice compliments after, and I took an extra measure of pride for the credit.
It reminded me of when I taught the History 102 class in the Winter Term 1984 at Washington and Lee University. Like today, I had prepared so I must have been confident. I was actually studying in the classroom ahead of time. There was a free period for that classroom. I was sitting at the large table where there was usually a portable lecturn. While I meant to clear out before class started, a student or two came in and then Professor Lamar Cecil came in early.
"Will you be teaching the class today?" asked Prof. Cecil in his inimitable fashion. Like today, I said, Yes, I can do that. To my great surprise, he took my seat in the small desks , and announced as the rest of the 25 or so students came in "Mr. Turley will be teaching the class today." Everyone looked at him, and me, wondering, is this going to happen? But Prof. Cecil said "Please Mr. Turley, go ahead".
So I launched into the lesson. Our reading that day was for the start of the Nazi regime in 1933, with the ascension of the National Socialists. So I started with that. I recall that I remembered the day of the year. I was off to a good start!
"Actually Mr. Turley, didn't it start before then? asked Prof. Cecil. Thinking fast, I said, "Perhaps we should go to the time of the Beer Hall Putsch in the 1920s.
"Actually, Mr. Turley, perhaps we should go back further. At that point, he got up and took his place at the front. The experiment was over. He then started the lecture with Hitler's birth in Austria and early years. I never would have thought to start the lecture like that. Our lesson we read started in 1933. But that's why he was the teacher.
Father Jim asked, "Are we paying Stacy to be the director?" But we all agreed that the higher calling was teaching the next generation of teachers. Professor Cecil did a good deed then, if only for a few minutes. I'm glad it happened again today.
And now, Heeereee's Professor Cecil!
Stacy took over to direct during the service. We got some nice compliments after, and I took an extra measure of pride for the credit.
It reminded me of when I taught the History 102 class in the Winter Term 1984 at Washington and Lee University. Like today, I had prepared so I must have been confident. I was actually studying in the classroom ahead of time. There was a free period for that classroom. I was sitting at the large table where there was usually a portable lecturn. While I meant to clear out before class started, a student or two came in and then Professor Lamar Cecil came in early.
"Will you be teaching the class today?" asked Prof. Cecil in his inimitable fashion. Like today, I said, Yes, I can do that. To my great surprise, he took my seat in the small desks , and announced as the rest of the 25 or so students came in "Mr. Turley will be teaching the class today." Everyone looked at him, and me, wondering, is this going to happen? But Prof. Cecil said "Please Mr. Turley, go ahead".
So I launched into the lesson. Our reading that day was for the start of the Nazi regime in 1933, with the ascension of the National Socialists. So I started with that. I recall that I remembered the day of the year. I was off to a good start!
"Actually Mr. Turley, didn't it start before then? asked Prof. Cecil. Thinking fast, I said, "Perhaps we should go to the time of the Beer Hall Putsch in the 1920s.
"Actually, Mr. Turley, perhaps we should go back further. At that point, he got up and took his place at the front. The experiment was over. He then started the lecture with Hitler's birth in Austria and early years. I never would have thought to start the lecture like that. Our lesson we read started in 1933. But that's why he was the teacher.
Father Jim asked, "Are we paying Stacy to be the director?" But we all agreed that the higher calling was teaching the next generation of teachers. Professor Cecil did a good deed then, if only for a few minutes. I'm glad it happened again today.
And now, Heeereee's Professor Cecil!
Alumni College: Lamar Cecil's "The Lion Rampant: Americans, Frenchmen, And All Sorts of Indians" from Washington and Lee News on Vimeo.
Thursday, September 10, 2015
Convocation
I watched the Washington and Lee video of the fall convocation. If Hollywood had wanted to do a college video, they could have done no better than this one. Everything was true of course but it was something to see. If you've got 54 minutes, you can watch it.
I'm sure we have a convocation back in the 80s but I don't recall it being like this one. It was not outside, for sure. They may have done it as part of a lecture at Lee Chapel, but even then, I don't recall President John Wilson doing such a thing. Looking through the 1984 Calyx, there was an ODK Convocation, but ODK was an honor society for upperclassmen, and I don't recall any of us non-honor students attending.
I'm sure we have a convocation back in the 80s but I don't recall it being like this one. It was not outside, for sure. They may have done it as part of a lecture at Lee Chapel, but even then, I don't recall President John Wilson doing such a thing. Looking through the 1984 Calyx, there was an ODK Convocation, but ODK was an honor society for upperclassmen, and I don't recall any of us non-honor students attending.
Monday, September 7, 2015
Labor Day 2015
It's a nice summer day off from work. I have not done too much today - but I have gone for a run followed by a cooloff in the pool. Now I am working on my book. The end is in sight for that 2 year (or a lifetime) project. I gave the first 3 chapters to my friend Paul and he added how one of the characters had a pet monkey. This is fiction, after all.
Yesterday we had our Fantasy Football draft - hard to think it was 10 years ago when Mark B. suggested we get a league going. It has been a lot of fun, even after time has taken a toll on the group: we've had moves, divorces, cancer, people come and go for all reasons. But its been a good glue for a disparate group.
Saturday, Susan and I went to the outlet mall for some shopping. We went early so there were not many people there. All the summer things were on sale, so it was fun. Of course, I bought a jacket for the cool weather whenever it gets here, I'll be ready. Reminded me of the jackets I wore when I was a teenager, so I couldn't resist.
Yesterday we had our Fantasy Football draft - hard to think it was 10 years ago when Mark B. suggested we get a league going. It has been a lot of fun, even after time has taken a toll on the group: we've had moves, divorces, cancer, people come and go for all reasons. But its been a good glue for a disparate group.
Saturday, Susan and I went to the outlet mall for some shopping. We went early so there were not many people there. All the summer things were on sale, so it was fun. Of course, I bought a jacket for the cool weather whenever it gets here, I'll be ready. Reminded me of the jackets I wore when I was a teenager, so I couldn't resist.
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Breckenridge CO
We had a great time in Colorado this past week. There were 5 of us: Me, John, Kyle, Sam and Joe. We all met up at the Denver airport on Wednesday and since we had some time, we went to Boulder, CO to visit Sam's daughter, a CU student. We had sushi, admired the beer brewing, and saw her home she shared with 15 other people.
From there we went to Breckenridge, a small town with big tourism. As the guidebook put it, Breck keeps chugging forward, with visitors increasing each year.
We stayed at Beaver Run Resort which I lucked into by internet help. We got a good rate and a good hotel setup, one room and one 2 BR condo, right across the hall from each other. Perfect for 5 people.
Thursday Sam, Joe and I went mountain biking while John and Kyle went mountain jeeping.
Friday, we all climbed Quandary Peak which was much harder than expected. But we all did climb a 14er, 14,000 feet tall. 9 hours total climbing and descending for me. Super exhausting.
Saturday, we recovered. Kyle and I went to the Breckenridge Beer Festival which was right across from our hotel. Kegs of beer, great weather, walking around talking to all, it was like a college party all over again. So much fun - I'd like to go again.
Sunday, we had to come home. It was good to be back in Texas as the dry air and high altitude took a toll on me.
From there we went to Breckenridge, a small town with big tourism. As the guidebook put it, Breck keeps chugging forward, with visitors increasing each year.
We stayed at Beaver Run Resort which I lucked into by internet help. We got a good rate and a good hotel setup, one room and one 2 BR condo, right across the hall from each other. Perfect for 5 people.
Thursday Sam, Joe and I went mountain biking while John and Kyle went mountain jeeping.
Friday, we all climbed Quandary Peak which was much harder than expected. But we all did climb a 14er, 14,000 feet tall. 9 hours total climbing and descending for me. Super exhausting.
Saturday, we recovered. Kyle and I went to the Breckenridge Beer Festival which was right across from our hotel. Kegs of beer, great weather, walking around talking to all, it was like a college party all over again. So much fun - I'd like to go again.
Sunday, we had to come home. It was good to be back in Texas as the dry air and high altitude took a toll on me.
Sunday, August 16, 2015
Colorado trips - then and now
I was telling my friend George (60 years young) that I was going to Colorado on vacation. He recalled his first trip, back in the 70s.
He was at a debutante party (remember those?) in Galveston TX his hometown. Imagine him, 19 or 20 years old, Christmas vacation, in a tuxedo, feeling no pain. His friends tell him that they are going skiing but that one of the members has backed out, therefore increasing their share of the cost. Would George go? He calculated the cost, decided to go.
The next day he drove his father's Chevy Caprice to Austin to get enough things to pack and back the same day. A day later, he flew Southwest Air for $19 from Houston to Dallas where he caught up with his friends.
The 4 of them drove all night to Colorado. George had never skied before. But since he was so athletic, by the end of day 1 he was keeping up. By the end of Day 2 he was better than 2 of the 3. I'm sure they ate very cheap food and drank very cheap beer, and drove all night to get home.
Did you sleep on the couch, I asked? Why yes, I think I remember a fold-out couch.
When I went to Colorado the last time, age 17, 1982 it was, I went on a Young Life trip. We had to ride the bus from Austin all night, and when we got there, they got us up early and kept us up late, keeping the teenagers our of trouble. I got back and my sister picked me up: I was tired and dirty and strung out.
I vowed that when I went back as an adult, I was going to do it MY WAY.
I'm pleased to say that I'm going back on August 24. There will be no all night drive, but rather a direct flight with a rental car waiting. Instead of the couch, there will be a nice hotel room at a resort. Eating and drinking, whatever I want, whenever I want.
I feel like I've earned this trip over 50 years, and plan to do it right!
He was at a debutante party (remember those?) in Galveston TX his hometown. Imagine him, 19 or 20 years old, Christmas vacation, in a tuxedo, feeling no pain. His friends tell him that they are going skiing but that one of the members has backed out, therefore increasing their share of the cost. Would George go? He calculated the cost, decided to go.
The next day he drove his father's Chevy Caprice to Austin to get enough things to pack and back the same day. A day later, he flew Southwest Air for $19 from Houston to Dallas where he caught up with his friends.
The 4 of them drove all night to Colorado. George had never skied before. But since he was so athletic, by the end of day 1 he was keeping up. By the end of Day 2 he was better than 2 of the 3. I'm sure they ate very cheap food and drank very cheap beer, and drove all night to get home.
Did you sleep on the couch, I asked? Why yes, I think I remember a fold-out couch.
When I went to Colorado the last time, age 17, 1982 it was, I went on a Young Life trip. We had to ride the bus from Austin all night, and when we got there, they got us up early and kept us up late, keeping the teenagers our of trouble. I got back and my sister picked me up: I was tired and dirty and strung out.
I vowed that when I went back as an adult, I was going to do it MY WAY.
I'm pleased to say that I'm going back on August 24. There will be no all night drive, but rather a direct flight with a rental car waiting. Instead of the couch, there will be a nice hotel room at a resort. Eating and drinking, whatever I want, whenever I want.
I feel like I've earned this trip over 50 years, and plan to do it right!
Swim + Golf today
A swim and golf today. Both inside. Only one involved me.
Workout swimming done at Bannworth pool, which is a nice indoor lap pool by Sharyland H.S. We're lucky to have a state of the art pool like that. Great value for $1.50. Ladder down of 500m, 300m, 100m. It got easier as I went along. Felt good in the upper body.
Golf involves watch Jason Day and Jordan Speith at the PGA Championship. Course of Whistling Straits looks great. But since it costs $500 and it is an hour north of Milwaukee, I don't think I'll be there anytime soon.
Still have to finish my 2015 12 course resolution. Next on the list: CommonGround in Denver.
Workout swimming done at Bannworth pool, which is a nice indoor lap pool by Sharyland H.S. We're lucky to have a state of the art pool like that. Great value for $1.50. Ladder down of 500m, 300m, 100m. It got easier as I went along. Felt good in the upper body.
Golf involves watch Jason Day and Jordan Speith at the PGA Championship. Course of Whistling Straits looks great. But since it costs $500 and it is an hour north of Milwaukee, I don't think I'll be there anytime soon.
Still have to finish my 2015 12 course resolution. Next on the list: CommonGround in Denver.
Saturday, August 15, 2015
107 Cafe, Edinburg TX
One of my favorite things about bike riding is the Taqueria Route. That's an early start for a bike ride on Saturday. After you ride an hour or so, you stop for breakfast at whatever taqueria you happen to be close to.
Today's Taqueria Route featured the 107 Cafe in Edinburg, located right on Highway 107 where McAllen turns into Edinburg. It's a large place, so easy to get a table even on Saturday morning. We start with a tostada, a baked torilla, with some hot salsa. Service is rapid. Gil ordered a Valley favorite, the $1.99 breakfast with eggs, potatoes, beans and toast. I had the barcacoa. Tortilla of maiz/corn were freshly made in the back.
Barbacoa, traditionally made from beef cheeks, can be a little greasy but this was not. It's a traditional hangover food for the weekend. Served with onions, cilantro and potatoes, it was a strong breakfast. No need for much lunch thereafter.
Thursday, August 13, 2015
University of Houston
I went to the New Student send-off party last night for the University of Houston. Being in the RGV, I'm extra proud of the students that go off to U of H. They're make a good step up.
Our local alumni Alonzo is a great UH supporter and threw open his house (again) for the event. Always special to go to an event there.
I was thinking that I needed a new U of H shirt. Lo and behold my new friend Papito brought me a UH Golf shirt today. It is awesome! Can't buy that. UH Golf has a great tradition, winning several NCAA championships in golf, 16 overall. They're the historical powerhouse with many alums on the PGA tour. Proud to be a small part through a McAllen Memorial golfer.
Our local alumni Alonzo is a great UH supporter and threw open his house (again) for the event. Always special to go to an event there.
I was thinking that I needed a new U of H shirt. Lo and behold my new friend Papito brought me a UH Golf shirt today. It is awesome! Can't buy that. UH Golf has a great tradition, winning several NCAA championships in golf, 16 overall. They're the historical powerhouse with many alums on the PGA tour. Proud to be a small part through a McAllen Memorial golfer.
Sunday, August 9, 2015
Another Interesting Man
Must be something I bring when I threaten to sue someone. I've already met one interesting man that way. Now, another threatened suit, another pleasant meeting.
Dr. Jose , after we had a meeting where I desired to put some fear of getting sued into him, instead, invited me back for happy hour Friday after 5. The case resolved (as he said it should) and I did go to that happy hour.
I learned a lot. First I heard how he and his family escaped from Cuba as political refugees when he was only 6 years old. They sought sanctuary in Mexico, and had to literally outrun the Mexican police to get to the US Embassy.
When he arrived in Cape Canaveral, Florida, the teachers didn't know what to do with this Spanish speaker and put him with the mentally challenged kids. In keeping with the American Dream, he made it into the regular school and became captain of the football team, and married his high school sweetheart, the cheerleader. He and Debbie have now been married nearly 40 years.
Off he went on a football scholarship to a place on the rise, the University of Miami. At that time, the coach was Lou Saban, uncle of Nick. During that time, Jose was the suitemate of Jim Kelly, who is now in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The "U" won the first of 4 national championship thereafter under coach Howard Snellenberger, who was coach his senior year.
On to medical school, where his first son was born in Puerto Rico in dramatic fashion. (see his book about the experience The Miraculous Infant). Yes, he's an author also.
Then during his fellowship in Texas, he meets another young doctor who encourages him to come to his hometown of McAllen, TX where there were only 3 gastroenterologists. A sleepy border town then. But change was coming to the area, and 2 surgery centers were built.
Back then you had to be a proceduralist to be an investor. He and his friend were shut out of the existing investors, so they decided to do their own. With a 10 acre tract of land, they built their own surgery center in 1997.
As time went by, it combined with the surrounding 20 acre tract to be a start-up hospital which is now Doctors Hospital at Renaissance, employing 3,000 people.
Now, he trains young athletes to get Division 1 sports scholarships, continues as a full-time doctor, an author, and is part of 14 different businesses. Quite a journey for a child refugee running for his life toward the door of the US Embassy in Mexico.
I'll tell more about the other interesting man, The Skipper later. They call him Skipper for his military service in the Vietnam War where he won 2 Purple Hearts. Right now, Skipper is at his chateau in France for the summer. You can't make these people up!
Dr. Jose , after we had a meeting where I desired to put some fear of getting sued into him, instead, invited me back for happy hour Friday after 5. The case resolved (as he said it should) and I did go to that happy hour.
I learned a lot. First I heard how he and his family escaped from Cuba as political refugees when he was only 6 years old. They sought sanctuary in Mexico, and had to literally outrun the Mexican police to get to the US Embassy.
When he arrived in Cape Canaveral, Florida, the teachers didn't know what to do with this Spanish speaker and put him with the mentally challenged kids. In keeping with the American Dream, he made it into the regular school and became captain of the football team, and married his high school sweetheart, the cheerleader. He and Debbie have now been married nearly 40 years.
Off he went on a football scholarship to a place on the rise, the University of Miami. At that time, the coach was Lou Saban, uncle of Nick. During that time, Jose was the suitemate of Jim Kelly, who is now in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The "U" won the first of 4 national championship thereafter under coach Howard Snellenberger, who was coach his senior year.
On to medical school, where his first son was born in Puerto Rico in dramatic fashion. (see his book about the experience The Miraculous Infant). Yes, he's an author also.
Then during his fellowship in Texas, he meets another young doctor who encourages him to come to his hometown of McAllen, TX where there were only 3 gastroenterologists. A sleepy border town then. But change was coming to the area, and 2 surgery centers were built.
Back then you had to be a proceduralist to be an investor. He and his friend were shut out of the existing investors, so they decided to do their own. With a 10 acre tract of land, they built their own surgery center in 1997.
As time went by, it combined with the surrounding 20 acre tract to be a start-up hospital which is now Doctors Hospital at Renaissance, employing 3,000 people.
Now, he trains young athletes to get Division 1 sports scholarships, continues as a full-time doctor, an author, and is part of 14 different businesses. Quite a journey for a child refugee running for his life toward the door of the US Embassy in Mexico.
I'll tell more about the other interesting man, The Skipper later. They call him Skipper for his military service in the Vietnam War where he won 2 Purple Hearts. Right now, Skipper is at his chateau in France for the summer. You can't make these people up!
Thursday, July 23, 2015
Friday, July 10, 2015
The Best 16 Hole Course in Houston
At the Houston Country Club, a major renovation is going on. The golf course, built in 1956, is on the banks of Buffalo Bayou. Over the years,there has been some subsistence along the sides, which cuts into part of the course. As you will see, the bayou like Mother Nature, has a mind of its own. The club decided to build a retaining wall (at great expense) to hold back the bayou. The bayou had other ideas.
The wall, unfortunately, was not engineered correctly and failed. Large chucks of land and golf sloughed off into the waters. So at even greater cost of time and money the project had to redone. It's now on track for Fall 2015 completion.
As a result, holes 8 and 10 have been closed and under construction for over 2 years. When I was here last summer, number 8 looked like a "bankrupt subdivision" according to Sean. A year later, it's shaping up as hole. When complete it will be a par 4 instead of a par 5. The second shot will feature a nice long carry over part of the bayou, which should make it difficult.
When I first started playing golf in 1978 at the Houston Country Club, "Old" number 8 was a par 5, nearly C shaped to the left. Off the tee, there was originally a large tree on the left that only the biggest hitters could attempt to carry. It also crept out to the right. So the tree, very Harry Potter-ish, caught or blocked many a drive on that hole. It was a significant landmark.
On the right and short off the tee, was a gully that I sliced into more than once growing up. So between the Harry Potter tree and the gully, it was a hard driving hole which encouraged a safer shot off the tee. Since it was a par 5, it made the hole that much longer.
The second shot was nearly always a layup, as the hole bent around so much that it was a blind shot. As with most blind shots, golfers hold the blind shot with a special contempt. The game is hard enough when you can see the ball. So that was a second strike against number 8 for many.
The third shot was a fairly straightforward wedge to a large flat green. While the bayou was always on the left, it did not come too much into play. No drama, somewhat anticlimactic. Strike 3 for number 8.
Over the years,the large tree died, a victim of growing so close to the living, breathing bayou. (Foreshadowing of 2012?). At about the same time, the course was remodeled somewhat in 1988 by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, some of their early work. They took the opportunity to modify the hole. Since the tree was no more, the tee box was move slightly back making the drive able to cut the corner a bit. There a large building in the background which is a good target. As Sean put it, "Some course have mountains, we have high rise buildings".
For a big driver it was possible to get closer to the green on a second shot but not practically able to hit it. The green was reworked considerably to make it smaller and more sloped, making the wedge shot in a more precise affair. An improvement to be sure, but it still didn't fit the mold of a reachable, risk/reward par 5. Always the bridesmaid, number 8. The Lady Edith of the Houston Country Club.
Now the third iteration is on its way. Number 8 has always been somewhat controversial and that will not change. You don't know what you've got, till its gone.
Get well soon Eight- we miss you!
The wall, unfortunately, was not engineered correctly and failed. Large chucks of land and golf sloughed off into the waters. So at even greater cost of time and money the project had to redone. It's now on track for Fall 2015 completion.
As a result, holes 8 and 10 have been closed and under construction for over 2 years. When I was here last summer, number 8 looked like a "bankrupt subdivision" according to Sean. A year later, it's shaping up as hole. When complete it will be a par 4 instead of a par 5. The second shot will feature a nice long carry over part of the bayou, which should make it difficult.
When I first started playing golf in 1978 at the Houston Country Club, "Old" number 8 was a par 5, nearly C shaped to the left. Off the tee, there was originally a large tree on the left that only the biggest hitters could attempt to carry. It also crept out to the right. So the tree, very Harry Potter-ish, caught or blocked many a drive on that hole. It was a significant landmark.
On the right and short off the tee, was a gully that I sliced into more than once growing up. So between the Harry Potter tree and the gully, it was a hard driving hole which encouraged a safer shot off the tee. Since it was a par 5, it made the hole that much longer.
The second shot was nearly always a layup, as the hole bent around so much that it was a blind shot. As with most blind shots, golfers hold the blind shot with a special contempt. The game is hard enough when you can see the ball. So that was a second strike against number 8 for many.
The third shot was a fairly straightforward wedge to a large flat green. While the bayou was always on the left, it did not come too much into play. No drama, somewhat anticlimactic. Strike 3 for number 8.
Over the years,the large tree died, a victim of growing so close to the living, breathing bayou. (Foreshadowing of 2012?). At about the same time, the course was remodeled somewhat in 1988 by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, some of their early work. They took the opportunity to modify the hole. Since the tree was no more, the tee box was move slightly back making the drive able to cut the corner a bit. There a large building in the background which is a good target. As Sean put it, "Some course have mountains, we have high rise buildings".
For a big driver it was possible to get closer to the green on a second shot but not practically able to hit it. The green was reworked considerably to make it smaller and more sloped, making the wedge shot in a more precise affair. An improvement to be sure, but it still didn't fit the mold of a reachable, risk/reward par 5. Always the bridesmaid, number 8. The Lady Edith of the Houston Country Club.
Now the third iteration is on its way. Number 8 has always been somewhat controversial and that will not change. You don't know what you've got, till its gone.
Get well soon Eight- we miss you!
Back in Houston
I'm in Houston for these 4 days primarily to go to a UH Law event tonight. But I am managing to: Play 2 rounds of golf at the Houston C.C., visit my friend John, visit my parents, see the sights, meet new people, see a lot of old friends here and there.
One of my interns asked: "Do you like Houston?" I told him "I was born there, grew up there (to age 14), went to UH Law, lived there for many years (1988-2002) and met my wife and raised our daughter there". So... yeah.... I like it. Love it!
Houston as I always say is a city of great opportunity. It doesn't matter if you're from East Texas or East Pakistan, there's a place for you here.
One of my interns asked: "Do you like Houston?" I told him "I was born there, grew up there (to age 14), went to UH Law, lived there for many years (1988-2002) and met my wife and raised our daughter there". So... yeah.... I like it. Love it!
Houston as I always say is a city of great opportunity. It doesn't matter if you're from East Texas or East Pakistan, there's a place for you here.
Monday, July 6, 2015
South Padre Island - Class of 2015
Back from South Padre Island, we had the pleasure of Sarah coming with 6 of her college friends. In addition to Travis, there was Parker, J.D., Grant, Austin and Price. Very nice young men, I enjoyed being around them and they were welcoming to their host.
Looking back, I guess we used to drink like they do, but I (thankfully) don't remember it. Many 30 packs of beer, two bottles of whiskey, and enough Red Bull and Coke to keep the spark lit for the next round. The beer bong and the"Jager-bong" [legally called a high capacity drinking device, illegal in some parts of the USA] were well used. When they came back from the last night, I got the picture of naked beer bonging at night on the beach. Can't make this stuff up!
In the meantime, they stayed at the beach in the sun, got sunburned, ate whatever was provided, slept when the opportunity arose (or not), boot and rallied, and got up and did it over again until it was time to go back.
All in all, a great time had by all. It was fun just watching it! But glad that was as close as I got.
Quote of the trip from Price: "This 4th of July, I'm going to the beach, drink a lot of beer, and enjoy all of this Freedom" God Bless America!
Looking back, I guess we used to drink like they do, but I (thankfully) don't remember it. Many 30 packs of beer, two bottles of whiskey, and enough Red Bull and Coke to keep the spark lit for the next round. The beer bong and the"Jager-bong" [legally called a high capacity drinking device, illegal in some parts of the USA] were well used. When they came back from the last night, I got the picture of naked beer bonging at night on the beach. Can't make this stuff up!
In the meantime, they stayed at the beach in the sun, got sunburned, ate whatever was provided, slept when the opportunity arose (or not), boot and rallied, and got up and did it over again until it was time to go back.
All in all, a great time had by all. It was fun just watching it! But glad that was as close as I got.
Quote of the trip from Price: "This 4th of July, I'm going to the beach, drink a lot of beer, and enjoy all of this Freedom" God Bless America!
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
Milestones Falling
All sorts of milestones are tumbling in the past 30 days which makes me think if you predicted them 5 years ago, how crazy people would think it was:
1. Confederate flags coming down
2. Gay marriages begin done all across the country
3. Legal marijuana in 4 states ( OR, CO, AK, WA) + DC
4. New awareness of etiquette for transgendered persons
And so forth. I recall speaking on gay marriage 2 years ago. The response was "will never happen". Wrong
And Now Donald Trump is getting his a__ handed to him on saying that "All Mexicans are rapists". Not a good idea to mess with millions of industrious people. Much of the country is majority minority now. Open your eyes.
There's a storm brewing and the Baby Boom Generation is not going to be ready for it. In fact, they're hoping that they ride it out due to sheer numbers. But we are on an unsustainable path as to spending, tax collection, social security, budgets compared to counter forces of demographic change, technology increases, and a shrinking job market. I just hope that I can stay in front of the rolling ball.
1. Confederate flags coming down
2. Gay marriages begin done all across the country
3. Legal marijuana in 4 states ( OR, CO, AK, WA) + DC
4. New awareness of etiquette for transgendered persons
And so forth. I recall speaking on gay marriage 2 years ago. The response was "will never happen". Wrong
And Now Donald Trump is getting his a__ handed to him on saying that "All Mexicans are rapists". Not a good idea to mess with millions of industrious people. Much of the country is majority minority now. Open your eyes.
There's a storm brewing and the Baby Boom Generation is not going to be ready for it. In fact, they're hoping that they ride it out due to sheer numbers. But we are on an unsustainable path as to spending, tax collection, social security, budgets compared to counter forces of demographic change, technology increases, and a shrinking job market. I just hope that I can stay in front of the rolling ball.
Sunday, June 14, 2015
Terminator Genisys - opens July 1
Hard to believe its been over 30 years since the original Terminator. And over 20 years since T2 which was the most expensive movie to make at that time. Fun concepts still of time travel, killl before you are killed, mother/son relations.
I recall seeing the original in ciollege in Lexington VA. We used to see the discount movie on a Monday night. Who wouldv'e thought "F--- you A------! would go so far. Or that Arnold Schwarzenegger would become Governor of California?
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Jurrasic Park - 1993 memory
Back in 1993, when I was in my first year working as a lawyer, the boss''s teenaged son came into work on a Friday and announced he was the first one to see Jurassic Park on opening day. I was mildly jealous as I was deep in the mire of that job.
Fast forward to 2015, I will be the first one to see Jurassic World on Thursday at 7 p.m. Never too late to write the story!
Fast forward to 2015, I will be the first one to see Jurassic World on Thursday at 7 p.m. Never too late to write the story!
Monday, June 8, 2015
Tony Butler Golf Course in Harlingen
Today I had the pleasure to play Tony Butler golf course in Harlingen, with my spiritual advisor Father Jim. When I saw the course I recognized it as being very similar in look to Tyrrell Park in Beaumont. Both old style course, set in a park, with suitable character. Tyrrell Park was my grandfather's home course for many years and my father's growing up.
Tony Butler was the long time pro at this course. A good driving course, but not long so there were a lot of short irons in. But the greens were small and sloped and surprisingly well bunkered. I shot at 84 and Jim and I tied. So it's a push until next time.
This marks 4 of 12 new courses played this year. Off to a good start.
Tony Butler was the long time pro at this course. A good driving course, but not long so there were a lot of short irons in. But the greens were small and sloped and surprisingly well bunkered. I shot at 84 and Jim and I tied. So it's a push until next time.
This marks 4 of 12 new courses played this year. Off to a good start.
Monday, June 1, 2015
Morris Williams
I had the chance to see an old friend while in Austin - Morris Williams. He's actually a golf course, but named after a UT golf great who died early in the post WW2 world in a military training accident.
Like a reunion, at first you notice a few changes. But after a while the personality come out and you realize there has not been much change at all.
The course and grounds were remodeled after the utility purchased a parcel from the city to build a new transformer. With those funds reinvested, a new modern club house was built, the holes on the corner rerouted slightly: Holes 10, 13, 14, mainly the green complex. Other remained blissfully the same. For example on number 5, my partner asked where to hit it. I said "That convenience store is a safe target line". That didn't change at all.
Neither did the course get any easier. It's always been a long course and many of the holes play uphill, like Olympic Club. And the greens are very large with different levels now (like Augusta) so even if you are on, you've got a tough putt (and second putt).
Not many people compare this old war horse to Olympic and Augusta, but like I said, old friends have a special pull on you. Cheers to Morris.
Like a reunion, at first you notice a few changes. But after a while the personality come out and you realize there has not been much change at all.
The course and grounds were remodeled after the utility purchased a parcel from the city to build a new transformer. With those funds reinvested, a new modern club house was built, the holes on the corner rerouted slightly: Holes 10, 13, 14, mainly the green complex. Other remained blissfully the same. For example on number 5, my partner asked where to hit it. I said "That convenience store is a safe target line". That didn't change at all.
Neither did the course get any easier. It's always been a long course and many of the holes play uphill, like Olympic Club. And the greens are very large with different levels now (like Augusta) so even if you are on, you've got a tough putt (and second putt).
Not many people compare this old war horse to Olympic and Augusta, but like I said, old friends have a special pull on you. Cheers to Morris.
Thursday, May 21, 2015
Bath Remodel
The home remodel is coming along. Today, the bathtub has been framed and should be slotted in place soon. The shower has been drywalled and should be tiled next. Accent tile has been ordered and cabinets are being built. Floor tile has been ordered. So I think we are right on schedule and it is looking very nice.
Memorial Day weekend coming up and Sarah comes home for a visit. Should be a nice 3 day weekend at home.
Memorial Day weekend coming up and Sarah comes home for a visit. Should be a nice 3 day weekend at home.
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Cutting the Caffeine
Going to the doctor last week, I received some unexpected news: anxiety he said... cut back on the caffeine.
I think I would have rather been diagnosed with a rare tropical disease at that point. We had talked about caffeine before so I guess it should not have been a great surprise.
So I've been investigating caffeine again. Thanks to portions going out of control, and likely caffeine content, I'd been ingesting a fair share. A Grande Starbucks brewed coffee? 330 mg. Compare to a cup of green tea 25 mg. 12 oz Coca-Cola, 34 mg. Those cups of coffee just get larger and larger.
So far, I've think I've brought it down. No cold turkey but steps in the right direction. Today I've had 1 green tea, 1 8 0z. coffee, 10 oz. Coca-Cola. A lot better than 6 cups of coffee.
I think I would have rather been diagnosed with a rare tropical disease at that point. We had talked about caffeine before so I guess it should not have been a great surprise.
So I've been investigating caffeine again. Thanks to portions going out of control, and likely caffeine content, I'd been ingesting a fair share. A Grande Starbucks brewed coffee? 330 mg. Compare to a cup of green tea 25 mg. 12 oz Coca-Cola, 34 mg. Those cups of coffee just get larger and larger.
So far, I've think I've brought it down. No cold turkey but steps in the right direction. Today I've had 1 green tea, 1 8 0z. coffee, 10 oz. Coca-Cola. A lot better than 6 cups of coffee.
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Free Weekend
Allergies from last weekend and doctors orders have stopped the plan for the 2014 BP MS 150 bike ride. Listen to your body, they say. Feeling sick? Probably should not exert yourself for a 150 mile bike ride.
I'd been looking forward to it, but not in the condition I've been in. Resting up is already doing the trick. We even had our seminar on runner's health last night so my first test came soon.
Here's a recap of the 2013 ride
http://get-atty.blogspot.com/2013/04/same-time-next-year-ms-150.html
I'd been looking forward to it, but not in the condition I've been in. Resting up is already doing the trick. We even had our seminar on runner's health last night so my first test came soon.
Here's a recap of the 2013 ride
http://get-atty.blogspot.com/2013/04/same-time-next-year-ms-150.html
Sunday, April 12, 2015
A family Masters connection
Our family friend Davis Love, Jr. was a college classmate and fellow golf team member at UT in the 1950s with father Ed. Davis was from the little town of El Dorado, Arkansas and made it to Austin where he played for 3 years before moving on as an early adopter of the pro golf lifestyle, right about the time of the Palmer Era when things changed
Davis made it to the quarterfinals of the US Amateur which at that time allowed for an invitation to the Masters. Ed recalls that they were in college when this happened. A famous story is that on the 9th hole which is sloped very steeply back to front, Davis was short, and then hit over the green. On the 4th shot he hit and the ball rolled across the green further than where he was after the 2nd shot. As he then put it, he chipped on the green and 3 putted for an 8.
http://www.augusta.com/masters/historic/players/hbh/1955_hbh12270.shtml
Davis was on the PGA tour off and on in the 1960s and played in the Masters at least another time. Ed recalls that Davis invited him to come play a practice round but Ed couldn't get away. Truly one that got away.
http://www.augusta.com/masters/historic/players/hbh/1964_hbh12270.shtml
Davis was a fine golf instructor and gave me many lessons over the years. The most memorable was in my backyard. A week later I went and shot my best round every.
Davis died untimely in 1988 in a plane crash at the young ago of 53. That's him on the left. His son Davis Love III of course has gone on to a fine PGA tour career and won a major in 1997, the PGA Championship.
Davis made it to the quarterfinals of the US Amateur which at that time allowed for an invitation to the Masters. Ed recalls that they were in college when this happened. A famous story is that on the 9th hole which is sloped very steeply back to front, Davis was short, and then hit over the green. On the 4th shot he hit and the ball rolled across the green further than where he was after the 2nd shot. As he then put it, he chipped on the green and 3 putted for an 8.
http://www.augusta.com/masters/historic/players/hbh/1955_hbh12270.shtml
Davis was on the PGA tour off and on in the 1960s and played in the Masters at least another time. Ed recalls that Davis invited him to come play a practice round but Ed couldn't get away. Truly one that got away.
http://www.augusta.com/masters/historic/players/hbh/1964_hbh12270.shtml
Davis was a fine golf instructor and gave me many lessons over the years. The most memorable was in my backyard. A week later I went and shot my best round every.
Davis died untimely in 1988 in a plane crash at the young ago of 53. That's him on the left. His son Davis Love III of course has gone on to a fine PGA tour career and won a major in 1997, the PGA Championship.
Sunday, April 5, 2015
Dr. Paul at the Final Four
My friend Dr. Paul is a regular drinker - of Coke Zero. Which makes him somewhat irregular. The stepchild of the Coca-Coca family, Coke Zero is a diet soda which is supposed to taste more like a sweeter soda.
Coke Zero has not taken off (surprise!) So in a marketing blitz, Coke Zero was decided to be the Official Drink of the Final Four. There was a contest for patrons to go. Since there are not so many afficianados of "The Zero", Dr. Paul's chances increased. And he WON!
So he's at the Final Four now, getting the complete marketing drubbing. And as he said "I'm totally fine with that". As long as Uncle Coke is picking up the complete tab, he's #OpenToTry.
Glad to hear he and his teenage son are having a big time. They saw the soon to be famous upset of Wisconsin over Kentucky. As a transplanted Midwestern, he was very happy for that. Now if the Badgers can beat Duke on Monday, that should be a season to remember. Two 1 seeds should make for a great game.
Coke Zero has not taken off (surprise!) So in a marketing blitz, Coke Zero was decided to be the Official Drink of the Final Four. There was a contest for patrons to go. Since there are not so many afficianados of "The Zero", Dr. Paul's chances increased. And he WON!
So he's at the Final Four now, getting the complete marketing drubbing. And as he said "I'm totally fine with that". As long as Uncle Coke is picking up the complete tab, he's #OpenToTry.
Glad to hear he and his teenage son are having a big time. They saw the soon to be famous upset of Wisconsin over Kentucky. As a transplanted Midwestern, he was very happy for that. Now if the Badgers can beat Duke on Monday, that should be a season to remember. Two 1 seeds should make for a great game.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
Palm Sunday
Today we had the Passion reading of Mark's gospel. Peter, our Senior Warden was handing out parts and thought of me to read the role of Jesus. I was duly honored to accept and enjoyed reading the part out loud - it's not everyday you can say with confidence what you believe in.
My legal training paid off and I stood and said the role clearly and loudly. Great experience. Our choir did another fine job signing as well.
My legal training paid off and I stood and said the role clearly and loudly. Great experience. Our choir did another fine job signing as well.
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Golf with Tom
There are some people who are in and out and a part of your life when you may not even know it. One of those is Tom Seekatz, father of my good friend Jeff. Jeff is close to his father, as much as any 50 year old is. But Tom is someone I know but can't say I know well. So therefore, that's the answer - get to know them better.
When in Austin Tuesday, I played a round of golf with Tom. As a 78 year young person, he's the one who plays golf on Tuesday. We played with his other friends Fred and Frank, both in their 70s. It reminded me of the games with my grandfather at Tyrrell Park in Beaumont. You've got to appreciate that time. It doesn't last forever.
Tom is quite an accomplished golfer and shared some stories. I knew he had played on the UT golf team under Coach Harvey Penick in the 1950s. He also: won the Rotary International golf tournament, beat the Austin City Champ in his 70s, heads up from the forward tees, played in the equivalent of a $500 match with only $20 in his pocket - and won.
And he shot better than his age that day March 17, 2015 - 76 to his age of 78. And beat me by 7 shots - and I played good and birdied the last hole. He birdied it too. A good day.
When in Austin Tuesday, I played a round of golf with Tom. As a 78 year young person, he's the one who plays golf on Tuesday. We played with his other friends Fred and Frank, both in their 70s. It reminded me of the games with my grandfather at Tyrrell Park in Beaumont. You've got to appreciate that time. It doesn't last forever.
Tom is quite an accomplished golfer and shared some stories. I knew he had played on the UT golf team under Coach Harvey Penick in the 1950s. He also: won the Rotary International golf tournament, beat the Austin City Champ in his 70s, heads up from the forward tees, played in the equivalent of a $500 match with only $20 in his pocket - and won.
And he shot better than his age that day March 17, 2015 - 76 to his age of 78. And beat me by 7 shots - and I played good and birdied the last hole. He birdied it too. A good day.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Ed's 80th birthday party
My father Ed celebrated his 80th birthday party. In town were both his children, all 4 grandchildren (all girls), his sister Sue (age 82) and her daughter Janci, my cousin.
Also Susan and Steve, and both of their mothers, JoAnn and Sharon.
A good time had by all. He said the best gifts to give were good genes. His father lived to age 89 and was even a smoker so longevity may be on our side.
Sunday, February 8, 2015
The Interview
This bumbling, buddy movie would be an unlikely cause of an international incident and a Fortune 500 computer hack. But, WHAAAAT?? This just happened!
James Franco and Seth Rogen play Dave Skylark and his TV producer, Aaron Rapoport. They have mastered the TV schlock but, in a version of meeting someone from high school, they seek to improve their lot by a serious interview. Turns out, Kim Jong-Un of North Korea is a big fan. They seek to interview him on TV, thereby making them legit journalists. But when the CIA gets to them, they find themselves unwitttingly (and I stress the lack of wits) to be assassins.
It's hard to see this as the cause of an international incident. It's more like Get Smart meets The Hangover, complete with a tiger. I suppose they could have changed North Korea to Fredonia and called it a complete work of fiction. But no one accused this bunch of thinking too much. James Franco plays up his Franco-ish gay-friendly persona. He can both honeydick as well as honeypot. Seth Rogen plays the "straight" man.
The film takes a darker turn as the business of killing gets to be the end goal. Suffice it to say, North Korea wouldn't like the ending. The theater chains to put their foot down, and refused to show this so you can instead see it on Netflix like I did. They'd be the ones who had to clean up the mess of a Charlie Hebdo incident. Better safe than sorry.
* * * of 4
James Franco and Seth Rogen play Dave Skylark and his TV producer, Aaron Rapoport. They have mastered the TV schlock but, in a version of meeting someone from high school, they seek to improve their lot by a serious interview. Turns out, Kim Jong-Un of North Korea is a big fan. They seek to interview him on TV, thereby making them legit journalists. But when the CIA gets to them, they find themselves unwitttingly (and I stress the lack of wits) to be assassins.
It's hard to see this as the cause of an international incident. It's more like Get Smart meets The Hangover, complete with a tiger. I suppose they could have changed North Korea to Fredonia and called it a complete work of fiction. But no one accused this bunch of thinking too much. James Franco plays up his Franco-ish gay-friendly persona. He can both honeydick as well as honeypot. Seth Rogen plays the "straight" man.
The film takes a darker turn as the business of killing gets to be the end goal. Suffice it to say, North Korea wouldn't like the ending. The theater chains to put their foot down, and refused to show this so you can instead see it on Netflix like I did. They'd be the ones who had to clean up the mess of a Charlie Hebdo incident. Better safe than sorry.
* * * of 4
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Professor J.D. Futch
In the Hall of Fame of Washington and Lee professors, I believe that Professor J.D. Futch would be in the inaugural class. Over 250 years, I am sure there are others who would qualify. But for a student from the 1960s onward, Professor Futch would be a first ballot selection, without question.
Dr. Futch, as he was more respectfully called by nearly all, was originally from Baltimore and had attended Johns Hopkins University. But as a long-time W&L professor he was certainly a son of the South. His full name: Jefferson Davis Futch III. The History Department faculty referred to him occasionally as "Jeff" or "Dave" but no student ever called him by a first name.
Dr. Futch was rightly renown for various reasons: he required that all male students wear a tie to his class. As a member of the Class of 1987, this meant everyone. He had a spare set of ties if you needed one, but this being Washington and Lee, ties were in good supply. Until the 1970s all students were required to wear coat and tie in town, and Dr. Futch, being a product of that time, simply carried the rule through the years.
Students wanted to be in his class and wear the "Futch Tie" because primarily of his encyclopedic knowledge, delivered in an imitable fashion of dry humor, sexual innuendo, and witty banter that never left a student with the last word. He was also known as a (relatively) easy grader. Easy perhaps if you were a History major on the Honor Roll, but generally good for a middle of the road grade by simply attending lectures. In hindsight, there was not much easy about it.
Students from every major took one of his classes. His specialties were European History included special spring term courses The Papacy Since the Schism [affectionately called Popes for Dopes] and Venetian History. The Middle Ages and the proclivities of that time were great material for him. He also taught class on Germany from 1870 to World War II, another ripe time in history.
In his office, lined with books top to bottom, was a bust of Otto Bismark. A voracious reader, he would often been seen in the campus bookstore, in his signature tweed jacket and round horn-rim glasses. He lectured in obligatory conservative fashion, but when I saw him buying the Village Voice one day, he said "You've got to keep up with what the Enemy is saying".
During senior year, a group of us were invited to his house. We were so excited of the prospect that we were checking the time before, determined to be there right on time so as not to miss a minute. Looking at the watch sweep to 8:00 pm. we rang the doorbell. When he answered, he exclaimed "You're like Big Ben!"
Dr. Futch is perhaps 90 now, and I understand not in good health. He'll be forever young to generations of W&L students. When you see students wearing ties on a regular basis at Washington and Lee University (and you will), think of that Hall of Famer who kept several good traditions alive: outstanding professors, faculty/student rapport, and the classic Futch Tie. Wear it with pride.
Dr. Futch, as he was more respectfully called by nearly all, was originally from Baltimore and had attended Johns Hopkins University. But as a long-time W&L professor he was certainly a son of the South. His full name: Jefferson Davis Futch III. The History Department faculty referred to him occasionally as "Jeff" or "Dave" but no student ever called him by a first name.
Dr. Futch was rightly renown for various reasons: he required that all male students wear a tie to his class. As a member of the Class of 1987, this meant everyone. He had a spare set of ties if you needed one, but this being Washington and Lee, ties were in good supply. Until the 1970s all students were required to wear coat and tie in town, and Dr. Futch, being a product of that time, simply carried the rule through the years.
Students wanted to be in his class and wear the "Futch Tie" because primarily of his encyclopedic knowledge, delivered in an imitable fashion of dry humor, sexual innuendo, and witty banter that never left a student with the last word. He was also known as a (relatively) easy grader. Easy perhaps if you were a History major on the Honor Roll, but generally good for a middle of the road grade by simply attending lectures. In hindsight, there was not much easy about it.
Students from every major took one of his classes. His specialties were European History included special spring term courses The Papacy Since the Schism [affectionately called Popes for Dopes] and Venetian History. The Middle Ages and the proclivities of that time were great material for him. He also taught class on Germany from 1870 to World War II, another ripe time in history.
In his office, lined with books top to bottom, was a bust of Otto Bismark. A voracious reader, he would often been seen in the campus bookstore, in his signature tweed jacket and round horn-rim glasses. He lectured in obligatory conservative fashion, but when I saw him buying the Village Voice one day, he said "You've got to keep up with what the Enemy is saying".
During senior year, a group of us were invited to his house. We were so excited of the prospect that we were checking the time before, determined to be there right on time so as not to miss a minute. Looking at the watch sweep to 8:00 pm. we rang the doorbell. When he answered, he exclaimed "You're like Big Ben!"
Dr. Futch is perhaps 90 now, and I understand not in good health. He'll be forever young to generations of W&L students. When you see students wearing ties on a regular basis at Washington and Lee University (and you will), think of that Hall of Famer who kept several good traditions alive: outstanding professors, faculty/student rapport, and the classic Futch Tie. Wear it with pride.
Monday, February 2, 2015
Utah Ski Trip 2015
There have been many times in my life that I couldn't have imagined how the future would really turn out. Usually, I realize that there really is a grand plan for all of us and we really do see through the glass darkly.
With the untimely and tragic death of my good friend Paul in October, we lost not only a light of the world, but also someone who we had gone on many ski trips with. Paul was both an avid and accomplished skier. We wanted to press on with the trip that was planned even back in October. I had the good fortune of having his brother Kyle as my sidekick in this group of 6.
Kyle is his own man and I can tell you a lot more about him now. He's easygoing, he's friendly to all, he's practical and knowledgeable. He's an actual Boy Scout Leader! Who wouldn't want to travel with someone like that?
But he's also Paul's brother, and many things he said, things he liked, memories he had, reminded me so much of Paul that it was like Paul was still there. That gave me so much pleasure during the trip it's hard to describe even now. And to think that before October I had not met nor even had plans to meet Kyle. It was really a beautiful continuity, like seeing a sunrise after a dark night.
Oh, and the skiing? Great as always.
But I might be getting a bit older. After 2 nights, I had to take a break for the day. Kyle took the day off from skiing too and we really enjoyed hanging out and going to the Sundance Film Festival. Thursday and Saturday we did ski at Brighton and conditions were very good. Sat. Afternoon, all 6 of us skiied together until 4 p.m. and it was a great afternoon.
With the untimely and tragic death of my good friend Paul in October, we lost not only a light of the world, but also someone who we had gone on many ski trips with. Paul was both an avid and accomplished skier. We wanted to press on with the trip that was planned even back in October. I had the good fortune of having his brother Kyle as my sidekick in this group of 6.
Kyle is his own man and I can tell you a lot more about him now. He's easygoing, he's friendly to all, he's practical and knowledgeable. He's an actual Boy Scout Leader! Who wouldn't want to travel with someone like that?
But he's also Paul's brother, and many things he said, things he liked, memories he had, reminded me so much of Paul that it was like Paul was still there. That gave me so much pleasure during the trip it's hard to describe even now. And to think that before October I had not met nor even had plans to meet Kyle. It was really a beautiful continuity, like seeing a sunrise after a dark night.
Oh, and the skiing? Great as always.
But I might be getting a bit older. After 2 nights, I had to take a break for the day. Kyle took the day off from skiing too and we really enjoyed hanging out and going to the Sundance Film Festival. Thursday and Saturday we did ski at Brighton and conditions were very good. Sat. Afternoon, all 6 of us skiied together until 4 p.m. and it was a great afternoon.
Friday, January 23, 2015
Raiders of the Lost Ark
Remember this famous scene? After seeking the Ark of the Covenant throughout death, destruction and face melts, this is where it ends up. Buried in history - kind of like some of the law cases I have done.
 |
| Final scene |
Was Darrell Royal Wrong?
Back in the heyday of running the football, Darrell Royal famously said "When you throw the ball, 3 things can happen and 2 of them are bad." But that was nearly 50 years ago. Now the game revolves around throwing.
Here are the good things that happen
Catch the ball for a completion (he would agree)
- also -
1. Stop the clock
2. Avoid a sack
3. Dump off the ball in the flat - spread things out
4. Wait for a hole to open in the middle, then run
5. Defensive Pass Interference
6. Holding
7. Challenge
8. Interception - like a long punt
9. Roughing the passer
10. Illegal contact after 5 yards
No wonder that the quarterbacks are getting $20 million a year. The game is tailor-made for then.
2/02/2015 * after 2015 Super Bowl
But sometimes, passing can go wrong
Here are the good things that happen
Catch the ball for a completion (he would agree)
- also -
1. Stop the clock
2. Avoid a sack
3. Dump off the ball in the flat - spread things out
4. Wait for a hole to open in the middle, then run
5. Defensive Pass Interference
6. Holding
7. Challenge
8. Interception - like a long punt
9. Roughing the passer
10. Illegal contact after 5 yards
No wonder that the quarterbacks are getting $20 million a year. The game is tailor-made for then.
2/02/2015 * after 2015 Super Bowl
But sometimes, passing can go wrong
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