My Life with Christ

My life with Christ ---

The days that followed have been awesome, indescribable, nearly unbelievable and a ‘giant blur’. The biggest reason I have not written about it is that I have been searching for an approach, however, I failed to come up with one that was simple and easy. Plus, I was fearful that if I waited any longer I would forget the majority of it. With the encouragement of friends and family, I have decided to just ‘DO IT”. It will be self evident that I have not graduated from journalism school. Thank you in advance for your indulgence.

During that meeting with financial and legal people, I was also invited to get a divorce. This has been a very difficult subject to write about without expressions of disappointment. I do not wish to elaborate but after 30 years and 4 months of married life I found it ‘the straw that broke the camel’s back’. I dare not write what went through my mind. Let it suffice to say the experience of being both bankrupt and single was a bit much and in retrospect if I had not had the Lord to reach out to, I am not sure what chain of activity would have taken place. I do not wish to be critical of my wife, at this writing, as each of us are given choices to make in our lives. It is much easier to understand and accept now than I did then. Without elaborating, I want to share that the love my 3 daughters extended for me did not diminish through it all.

As I caught my breath, so to speak, I had an opportunity to see, first hand, how scriptures have come to life for me. Even though I had been a church going individual most all of my life, I very seldom read the bible, never memorized scriptures, and unfortunately did not know much about God prior to this time. I certainly never had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ like I have now. Having an opportunity to focus on the options available, it became clear to me that Jesus was nearly all I had. The only thing the court was not able to take, or impound, from me was my membership in the Colorado Air National Guard. I was allowed to continue managing the affairs of the cold storage facility so that it would remain in operation and for sale but I was not to be paid for my efforts. I was blessed with having some very capable and honest people working for me as well who did not need micromanagement. At this point I appealed to a friend, the Chief Veterinarian of the Air Force, for extended active-duty assignments. I had the opportunity for two-week assignments at Minot AFB, ND, Eglin AFB, FL, Scott AFB, IL, in addition to my annual field training at Buckley ANG Base, CO. I also appealed to other business associates for short-term duties that I might sustain myself. Indulge me to write of these is a separate section. Let it suffice to say I paralleled these with four different bible studies with four different teacher/instructors. I recall soaking up the Word like a sponge. I must share about being mentored and ministered to by Pastor John Lawless. He drove up from Boulder every Thursday morning for a 4 hour, one on one, teaching experience. His instructions were, before he was to get there, I should decide on a couple subject that we would discuss thoroughly. At the close of almost every meeting he would suggest we discuss ‘baptism’ sometime soon. I had been baptized by sprinkling, pouring, and lightly touching the water and the laying on of hands, but never by emersion.


Each time he would say to me, if you ever change your mind, don’t put it off, call me immediately, ok? I had many problems that I would share with the Lord every night. And several times during the day. Late one night as I was praying, I heard the Lord tell me “Why should I help you with that problem, you don’t even have the decency to get baptized.” I turned a light on to see what time it was, and it was 0230 am. I reached for the phone and called him. Humorously I told him to get the water hot, he had one more chicken to scald (baptize). From that suggestion, I was baptized by emersion on October 21, 1981.

With the assistance of friends and family I purchased a house in Aurora, Colorado where
My daughter, Danice, and I shared it with my oldest daughter’s dog and a cat. This house was outside the west gate of Fitzsimmons Army Medical Hospital. Two very memorable events took place while we lived there. I was working for Mr. Steak Corp. In that capacity I renewed my relationship with the Director of Operations for Digby Freight Lines. My comment when we parted was “If you come across any bargains, let me know” Four days later he called me. They had a trailer truck loaded with 44,000 lbs of hotdogs go off the road up in the mountains. He asked if I would supervise the salvage of this wreckage, since he knew that I had been in meat inspection for years. I was well paid for effectively saving some 41,000 lbs. When I went to their office with my statement he was on the phone trying to sell them. I gave him some grief by sharing that if he was a descent salesman he would have them already sold. Then he asked if I wanted to buy them. My response was that I didn’t have any money but if he wanted to trade them for my bill, I would do that (not realizing that he would even consider it). He surprised me by saying he would and even let me store them in their yard, plugged in until I got them sold. My bill was for almost $600.00 which would mean .015 per lb. Within 4 days I had them all sold for .10 a lb. They went to 4 large catholic charities and the Salvation Army. God’s hand was definitely upon this deal, as I was able to pay all my debts and have some leftover. He was faithful and always provided my needs in every way.

On December 24, 1982 (Christmas eve), it started to snow. My middle daughter (Danice) was baby-sitting with a pair of twins and I had been in church. That night it snowed 39 inches! Wherever you were that evening you stayed for several days. My car was totally covered as it sit in the driveway, you couldn’t even tell there was a car there. Since she could not get home, I spent the holiday alone with the animals. What a blessing.

Shortly after the first of the year I received another miracle. I was in the midst of a prayer meeting with about 15 people that I had just met. One of the ladies prophesized over me that tomorrow I would receive an answer to a prayer that I had been diligently praying for. I was immediately elated, however, I suddenly realized that I had several items on the list so was not sure what to expect. On the way home, I prayer that they Lord would make sure I didn’t overlook what he had for me. This he did. The next morning I received a call from a meat company in Michigan asking for my assistance. I had been recommended by a member of their staff that I had not seen or heard from in over 2 years. This position paid well enough that I got back on my feet and was debt free in just a few months. I eventually moved to MI and transferred my Air National Guard membership from Colorado to Michigan. They just happened to have one slot available.

Within a short time I applied for reinstatement to USDA federal service. My first assignment was in Antigo, WI. I worked as an area veterinarian over 9 counties in NE Wisconsin, controlling Brucellosis, Tuberculosis, Pseudo-rabies, and ecto-parasites primarily. During the evening I attended the Area Technical College where I studied computer science, micro computers, and data entry . I also attended short courses in Problem Solving & Decision Making, Management Principles for Supervisors, and Interpersonal Management Skills. During this assignment I had the opportunity to review operations at several city zoos, as in Milwaukee, Madison, Stevens Point, Green Bay, and others, plus over 50 road-side zoos under private ownership. Among my duties was to serve as a relief veterinarian in other states when their OIC was either in training, vacation, or a temporary assignment. It was during these tours the Regional Director became aware of my performance and recommended me for a position in Washington, D.C. in the office of the Administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.

As a Special Assistant to the Deputy Administrator, I and my counterpart, and our Supervisor had total control and oversight for all inbound animal products being shipped into the country. We were the final support for approximately 1400 port inspectors. I was in this position for over 7 years, where I was able to travel to nearly every port in the US, to every state (except Hawaii as the boss always went there). I traveled to every contiguous state plus Alaska, Virgin Islands, Peurto Rico, and Solomon Islands that has an Air, Sea, or Land Port of Entry. Some we had the opportunity to visit 2 and 3 times a year.

On the lite side of this assignment, I found out that if one did much of the review at night, it could be done with little interruption from Importers interference. Soooooo. I worked at night and played golf in the daytime several days a week. Both my review performance and my golf game improved dramatically. It was better than working during the day and watching TV at night.

In October, 1994 I retired and moved to Kansas, back to where I started my adult working history. It was not long, probably 2 months, before I became bored and went to work. I didn’t have enough money to play golf every day and it was often too windy to fish so I got a job at AutoZone selling auto parts. Soon after I got fed up with the excitement of working there, and receiving a .07 cents per hour as an employee in the top 10% rating, I started driving clients for the County Mental Health Service.

It was during this period that I was invited to drive for Kaw Valley Center, a contract transporter of clients (youth) for SRS. I have been doing this for over 5 years and love it. In these 5 years I have had the opportunity to be in nearly every county and able to see the farming practices in every season. I really admire this opportunity. I also enjoy chatting with the kids I transport and letting them know they are loved, especially by our Savior Jesus Christ. Many want to know more about Him and I enjoy sharing and giving bibles to them. This part is my private contribution.

Kansas Politics, Part 2

I have been collecting information to blend in with the political stew intended to enlighten my friends and fellow Kansans. While working, driving, I was also listening to 580am, WIBW, to Raubin & Megan interviewing the State Attorney General, Phill Kline. Since I drive in and out of the signal area I was forced to retrieve the complete interview from their website. I went to Raubin’s blog and there was all of the information I had been collecting and more. He had done a yoeman’s job of telling the entire story and had given many links to the supporting documents. I encourage you to go to their website, click on the blog, bookmark it, and save it as well. While you are in their website, you may also listen to their interview with Attorney General Phill Kline. It would be well worth your time. In case you are unfamiliar with Raubin and Megan, I encourage you to listen to them on WIBW, at 8 minutes after the hour of 1200 until 300pm. They provide one of the most comprehensive coverage of issues affecting Kansans that I have found.

The Governor has bragged about having $3,000,000 plus in her campaign coffers with much more available if needed. It is very evident from the dishonest, outrageous, and prevaricating ads on TV that she intends on spending it all. Honestly, I hope she does as that revenue will be spent in Kansas and should improve the economy to some extent.

I am not sure when I have been more active in a political campaign where every word of every ad or message needs to be weighed for truth, integrity, and content, and compared to the historical record.

Stay tuned! There will be more to come. Praise the Lord who is in control.

Illegal Immigration - Part 3

Illegal Immigration, Part 3

A short while after I finished my post earlier today of ‘Part 2’, I had an appointment with the Emporia City Attorney. Our meeting was both cordial and informative. I explained the major tenants of what I sought to do and we discussed them both from the standpoint of intent and purpose and also regarding areas that were unavailable as far as enforcement would be concerned.

I and a few other men have collectively been very concerned with the direction the federal, state, and local governments have been trying to lead concerning immigration, health care, Medicare, social security, education, oil prices & production, and many other related issues to name only a few. A few weeks ago I heard on a talk radio program how a small town in Pennsylvania was “taking the bull by the horns” so to speak as a result of having to face these same issues. When I pulled up their website, I discovered their city was about the same size as Emporia and had taken steps to cope with these problems thru adoption of a ordinance by unanimous vote by the city council.

I agreed to meet with the City attorney to be briefed on the detailed procedures, which would bring this before our city council, as well as the procedures that would be necessary in the event the council did not adopt it. He was very well informed and shared each step necessary including the collection of petitions and the various necessary requirements for the various elements the petition must contain as well as the number of signers.

Having written down all of these requirements, I was prepared to leave when he said there were a few other things I should know concerning putting such an ordinance in place here in Emporia. I was somewhat amused and reminded of the old axiom of ‘I was about to hear the other shoe fall’ on this subject. I greatly respect his willingness to share so that one doesn’t have surprises in the event our decision is to continue in our effort. He explained that our city does not have regulations concerning hiring practices, housing, rental contacts, who may rent and who can’t, do not have restrictions for identifying illegal individuals, and many of the other restrictions identified in the Hazelton document. He also shared that until recently there were no provisions to incarcerate illegal individuals. Since the city would have to pick up the cost of placing them in confinement, they had to let them go. You may wish to peruse this website to see for yourself what action they took concerning these issues.

This is where the effort brought us as of this date. I am sure the problems are not going away but our next step(s) must be more than one person’s effort. Don’t touch that dial. Stay tuned. I will keep you informed of the situation.

Illegal Immigration, part 2

Recent events have made it quite clear to me that some issues must be resolved soon, or the State of Kansas, and specifically this county, will be dangerously close to bankruptcy. The City of Emporia is the county seat of this (Lyon) county. I have been in several meetings recently where the subjects of taxes, school tuition, school transportation, gasoline prices, unemployment, and several others issues have been discussed to a variety of depths. I took copious notes so that I could attempt to arrive at some conclusions that might be useful in setting a course of action.

As I reflect on the notes I have listed 1) The U.S. has, according to our sources, somewhere between 11 and 15 million illegal aliens. 2) Literally every school district in our consideration has serious budget problems, particularly with transportation of students, salaries of teachers and aides, maintaining sports and other extra-curricular academia such as music and debate, and utilities. 3) Sporadic power outages throughout the U.S. 4) Fires that develop out of control in a variety of areas nationwide. 5) Political apathy over the entire nation. 6) Budgetary problems at the local hospital. In addition to these starred subjects, there were several more that failed make the list.

One common denominator for all of these problems is insufficient monies to continue operations in a normal manner. Why does every agency within the State have the same or similar problems. Not all of the problems are related to money directly, but most have been impacted one way or another. As I attempt to find if there is a correlation or an area of common concern that affects these issues on national, state, and local levels these thoughts come to mind. 1) Is there a common link to the power outages that have recently occurred during the tremendous heat experience all over the nation? 1a) Might it be that every power company, in the nation, has failed to have the foresight to prepare for attrition of equipment or other factors significant to the utility? 1b) Might it be that some subversive plot to increase the revenues of utilities is working under cover that CEO’s salaries might increase? (Surely they are not all Westar utility companies) or 1c) Does the infiltration of 15 million more people, desiring to be kept cool and clean, have an impact on the utilities, electrical power, gas and water? 1d) Is this stress on utilities affect just the source, or does it extend into every other facet of their lives?

Where are these 15 million people living? I believe they are creating a debilitating affect on the economic and social programs, medical facilities, schools, housing, and health care facilities. In this state they are being given reduced tuition at state supported schools, driver’s licenses (which allows them to vote), many do not bother to purchase insurance. Social security funds are being extended to them. Welfare programs through SRS are extended to immigrants more easily than to indigent and worthy residents of this state.

Many of these immigrants originate from areas where they have no home, no house to live in, where they have lived for generations sleeping on mats on the ground. Many are accustomed to natural resources being their provider of shelter, hygiene, and sanitary needs. Is there a connection between this standard of living being brought into the US and the unexplained fires throughout the nation? I have no idea. It takes resources to investigate issues of this sort and with millions of people infiltrating that is seemingly impossible.

I believe it is ludicrous to put the National Guard on the border to bolster the entry points, to build a fence costing millions of taxpayer dollars, or any other makeshift program to attempt to deny entry while businesses in this country are paying them to come here, plus subsidizing them for months after they get here. I further believe it is definitely not in the best interest of the taxpayer to join with the businesses who pay them to come in and give them driver’s licenses, reduced tuition, and provide for amenities, including medical, dental, and vision care, that are greater than is being given to our instate residents.

I have absolutely no objection to people from any country coming to the US legally. This gives our country an opportunity to plan ahead, provide for necessary amenities, and regulate the numbers. It also allows the person to pay his or her own way into the system of care each individual needs.

More to follow, stay tuned!

Kansas politics, 101

Here we go again!

It didn’t take long for the politicians to get underway with their outrageous distortion of the facts, distortion of accomplishments, and most certainly distortions of the truth. I would hope the citizens of Kansas go to the effort to write down some of the politicians claims that impact their personal lives and pocket books so they can put them under their pillow. Perhaps that activity is outdated, or not politically correct, any more as is moral values, honesty, integrity, and citizenship. It appears the golden rule has even been made from technologically improved materials so it bends easier and when it was made of that which didn’t break. Perhaps the demand for those, including rulers and paddles, has gone from our presence because of liberal views and vain attempts at creating a more politically correct environment and society. I am privileged to be old enough to recall how life was before most of the morals, ethics, Christian values, and respect for one another, has been replaced with deceit, greed, corruption, and liberalism. I have personally met Presidents Truman and Eisenhower, and they both maintained great standards of social and moral values. I also had the opportunity to work for President Clinton and several in his cabinet failed to demonstrate those standards. Reflecting back a few presidential terms though it seems the wheels came off that moral wagon with ending of WW II.

The main purpose of my writing is to let off some steam plus sharing some encouragement to examine the political future in this ‘Land of Ahs’ with a great deal of caution. The recent election results, both local and state, have identified some serious areas of concern, from my personal viewpoint. Right out of the chute, our illustrious democrat governor had the audacity to share that she has over $3,000,000 at her disposal, with much more if needed, to give her another term in office. It is worthy of note the abortion providers are among the most liberal contributors, I am told. And if money won’t buy it, she puts her record of accomplishments on the table for good measure.

One of the more notable is the TV ad that tells of an audit that she ordered has identified over $1.0 Billion of waste in state funded activities. Since this is the same, or similar, message that she gave when she ran for office last time, I am not sure what the future holds. There was no evidence of reorganization or program changes to reduce the budget. As a matter of fact she, the house democrats, and the RINO’s, tried to raise taxes several times in this past term without success. She has the same philosophy as many other liberals that believe if you throw enough money at the problem, surely it will correct itself or self- destruct. Personally, she wants to add thousands of illegal aliens to the roles in school and then get her friends in the court to demand more money be allocated in the budget to make sure they get a good education. She also seems to think the we need more casinos in the state so that low income people don’t have to drive so far to invest their welfare checks. While I have compassion for those with low incomes, I do believe there are better places for them to spend their money than casinos. Our precious governor may be guilty of many things but leadership is not one of them, there is not sufficient evidence to do anything but bring her to trial before the November election.

Very soon after Election Day she appointed two new judges to the circuit bench. One, Mark Brown, had been on the Topeka school board where some of the $450 million in taxpayer funds could be squandered. That same judge had served as chairman of the Republicans for Sebellius fund raising organization and I was told this group contributed over $6,000.00. Not sure whether or not he routed the funds from the abortion industry in Kansas. In addition, Mr. Brown’s wife currently works for the Sebellius re-election committee. These bits are just the tip of the iceberg. I will do more homework and report some facts with sources later.

If there happens to be a reader of this message who is not familiar, George Tiller is a nationally famous abortionist in Wichita. I am not sure whether or not he is a doctor because there seems to be a lack of regulations governing that activity. This and other concerns are probably of questionable value, there were only 5 ladies who lost their life with abortion procedures last year in this state, so I have been told. I find it more than amusing that if a pregnant woman is murdered, the assailant is charged with taking the life of two, the mother and the unborn baby. If she looses her life at the hands of an abortionist, the assailant doesn’t get charged for either. Probably some obscure rules that only a judge would understand.

Fantastic experience

I have just returned from a fantastic trip where I attended the 2006 U.S. Senior Open Golf Tournament in Hutchinson, Kansas. Now for all of you wonderful people who think Kansas is in the sticks, I would invite you to peruse the link to the Prairie Dunes Golf Course where it was held.

My attendance was necessary because I had volunteered, and was accepted on the first round, as a VIP driver. As such, I served on a team of 48 folks who transported the USGA officials, Professional Senior Players and their families, Media folks, plus some dignitaries and others who were very instrumental in putting on this exercise. We even had the opportunity to transport the pilot and staff of Snoopy “the gas bag” as they referred to it.

It all started when I received an email from McConnell AFB +inviting retirees to volunteer. I got that email on Saturday and on Sunday a friend, Bob Wilhite, from church mentioned it as we were having lunch. I came home, got on the internet, and after about a half hour of reading, submitted my application. I also submitted a short narrative as to why I would like to be a VIP driver. Actually I concluded that the fee included a full ticket to the tournament and it would be reasonable for all of the VIPs, whoever they might be, should already be in before the tournament started or remain until after it was over. Hence, I would have an opportunity to enjoy watching the entire event. Makes sense to me, don’t you agree?

Well, let’s just say this conclusion was quickly added to the long list of other wrongful conclusions I have made in my life. Don’t get me wrong, it was not as I expected for many good reasons, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. From the time I attended the training session several weeks prior to the main event, all the way to the conclusion, it was a magnificent and overwhelming experience, literally every facet of it.
Recognizing that God orchestrated the entire chain of events. I will try to share some details but please know that in each, it will only be the tip of the iceberg of what took place.

The same day I sent in my application, I concluded there may be a shortage of motel space resulting in my making a reservation in the State Fair Grounds for a place to park my camper. Reservation accepted. Two weeks later I was visiting with Gwen Laflin and telling her about my excitement, she said that I could stay with her brother, Gene Smith, with his permission of course, who is temporarily occupying their deceased mother’s home in Hutchinson. As it turned out, this house was air-conditioned and close to the course. A real blessing for sure, since motels had doubled their rates during this event. (They must not be covered by the ‘price gouging’ rules.) In addition, I sat in the front yard and watch the city fire-works display only 3 blocks away.

My first clue of how enormous this event was to be was at the training session for the volunteers. To list some trivia, there were nearly 1500 volunteers needed and ALL were filled. VIP transportation alone enlisted 280+, with many of us agreeing to work over if needed, and many of us did. Prior to the start of the event some 320 autos, vans, and SUVs were driven in from neighborhood dealers, rental agencies, and corporate interests. Many of the volunteers assisted driving these vehicles from their owner sites to the course parking areas for later use.

It is worthy of note that volunteers came from 43 of the 50 states and 11 foreign countries. One chap has volunteered for at least 3 events per year for 19 years. This seems to be a prestigious membership of little known fame. When I went to the training session I stopped by the course to see the layout. I had a hard time finding it as the grass and brush or thickets were 4 to 6 feet high and only a two-lane winding driveway into the course. Driving in I couldn’t even see part of one fairway for all the brush, how on earth are they going to accommodate some 140,000 attendance.

The volunteer package included ) 1 Two custom-designed embroidered Ashworth golf shirts, featuring the official Championship logo. 2) One Ashworth short sleeve wind shirt. 3) One cap or visor. 4) Volunteer appreciation party. 5) Coleman water bottle. 6) Volunteer credentials valid all week. 7) Meals provided during working shift. 8) Preferred free parking. And 9) 20% off Championship merchandise. The fee to volunteer was the same as that charged the public for admission into the event. We were only required to work 4 six-hour tours of duty. Little did I know that I would personally work 7 tours from 6 to 9 hours each. One can’t go home when there are golf’s greats to be met, signatures to be gotten, and a private chat for a few minutes. Time flew by since most of the drives from the course to the motels and back would generally take about 30 min and create a new experience along the way.
Every day I would write of the exciting events of my day, so for the remainder of this narration, I will share my edited notes.
Saturday morning I traveled to Hutchinson to claim the promise that I had a place to stay with Gene Smith. He is a construction superintendent for a company in Alaska. For the last two years he had been on a job in Russia. His hospitality was great, the room pleasant, comfortable, air conditioned with a ceiling fan. After I unpacked and got acquainted I drove to lot ‘C’ where volunteers were supposed to park. This lot was approximately 40 acres, native grass mowed to about 4”, complete with portable lights and relief stations. The attendant pointed me to the spot where I parked, placed my sun protection in the windows, and boarded the bus which transported people to the course. All volunteers were to use lot C until it was full. Two 20 passenger buses were available. Since I was the only passenger, the driver was a lady and very vocal about the tournament. She had been a driver for the Women’s Open in ’92 plus she was a fulltime bus driver at the school for 33 years. She was very informative about the residents, the surrounding roads that lead to the Club House at Prairie Dunes. Many of the houses in the area are 10-15 years old with an original value of $250 M >. Hard to tell what they are worth now. Each was landscaped for privacy. According to her most were doctors, layers, corporate folks, but only 3 veterinarians, that she knew of. I doubt any of my classmates are in that area. I had the opportunity to visit with several members there and found the initial fee at PDCC was $7500, plus 275.00 a month. This includes the entire family for golf, swimming, driving range, food of $175 included, locker for men & women, and some other amenities. I was told the fees used to be a lot higher but they decided that members were more important. Now, I am told, that since many clubs give reciprocity for membership, they have approximately 7000 members. As I was later informed, this course was selected by the USGA, at this tournament, the No. 1 course in the U.S. Green fees currently are $180.00 for non-members, however, following the latest accolades from the USGA, that may increase.
Preparation for this event commenced approximately 3 years ago. Probably the most important position in the task of preparation is the volunteer coordinator. As I perused the 25 categories of activity using volunteers, this person could be well paralleled to a 2-Star General in the Military. This position was filled by a lady named Laura Caleal. I had the opportunity to chat briefly with her concerning my assignment and she gave me the impression that she was well in control, the same as one gets from chatting with a seasoned veteran. I later learned the coordinator comes to the area some 3 years prior to the event and joins with the General Chairman and a very few other dignitaries to bring the event to fruition. It is my understanding the original individual that was assigned to be coordinator was not able to continue and resigned with about 6 months to go, for what ever reason. Ms. Caleal was summoned to complete the task. I do not believe I have had the opportunity to witness such capable accomplishment and confidence as she demonstrated. Everyone spoke of her as being a superb achiever. Each time I seen her nearby as we each went on our duties, she would call me and others by their first name, with a smile on her face, in an atmosphere of calm and tranquil.
My first official transport was to pick up Matt Schwenderman, a media official. His duties were to head up the IT department what would feed the networks with minute by minute data on each player as the tournament got underway. After he overwhelmed me with info concerning his duties along with the whys and hows that had to take place, he related that he had been working with a K-State graduate who promised that he would be in for an environmental and cultural shock when he got to Kansas. This lad was from the NE corner of New Jersey, near NYC, and had never been west of Chicago in his life. He was hungry for information concerning life in this area, farming, industry, and the local culture from many aspects. I obliged in giving him a 2 hour tour through the heart of the Flint Hills from Wichita to Hutchinson, sharing many facets of agriculture and local environment. He was astonished with learning about cattle, sheep, horses, and other animals, crops, haying activities, harvest machinery, irrigation, etc in the wide open spaces.
On my day off, I decided to take pictures, get autographs, and walk the course. This was not one of my better decisions except that I did take quite a few pictures, plus got to meet Gary Player, Tom Watson, Ben Krenshaw, Randy Reif, Ray Christenson, Dana Quigley, Jim Colbert, Alan Doyle, and several others. The temperature was 102 F, and my ability to walk the course was very short lived. The vertical variation eliminated me after the 4th hole. I was amazed at the stamina any competing player must have to do 18 holes 2 days of practice rounds and 4 days for the competition. These guys have to be in superb condition to finish the tournament.
I will not bore you with all of the official ‘trivia’ I collected during my travels taking these individuals from place to place. Lt it suffice to say that I recorded 9 pages of notes concerning little known activities the USGA puts into play when hosting a tournament, along with food and water service, sanitation activities, physical therapy, medical attention, gift sales, security, and much more. In the event anyone is the least bit interested, please let me know.
I consider it a blessing from the Lord to have been in attendance with such a privileged position as a driver of VIPs. Not only did I get to meet, quiz, and share with many dignitaries, but I had an opportunity to be an ambassador pro-tem for Kansas, K-State, and the Lord on a couple of occasions. Lastly, I regret to inform you that all this exposure to the heart of golf has not taken any strokes off my game at all. Oh well!

The Illegal Immigration Problem

I have been spending a lot of time in the car lately, listening to the political pendants give their analysis of what should be happening with illegal immigrants. The more I hear the more I am convinced these people are dumber than a box of rocks. Either they don't really know the depth of the problem or for some political reasons they choose to suggest how the problem can be fixed without solving the problem. It shows they have very little respect for the general population in America. It reminds me of when I was in college, I had an instructor who made a habit of saying, "I see the situation but what is the problem?" I have tried, unsuccessfully, to write my opinion of the situation but have not had time and energy to get it done. In hopes of putting my thoughts on record, I want to set some parameters.

The Mexican people who have come across the border are destitute, hungry, penniless, and depressed because they are unable to care for their families. I am convinced, from having been down there a few times, that they are becoming increasingly more destitute as time goes on due to the type of government. In fact, their state of depression was almost identical to that which I experienced back in the 30's, where men were working for pennies a day. From this viewpoint, I cannot blame them for seeking every opportunity to provide for their families. I seriously do not believe anyone would do any different under the circumstances.

In the midst of this depression they are informed that companies will give them an advance of several hundred dollars to come to America and work. In addition to the advance, they are promised a subsidy to live on after they get to the United States since they don't have money. As one might expect, they give part of the original advance to their family to get by on while they journey north. I am more than just familiar with the total monetary and employment experience since I had years of first-hand experience personally observing it take place. In the event anyone would like details, let me hear from you.

This is where one of the first dilemmas starts the vicious ball rolling, in the wrong direction in my opinion. Many large Corporations which utilize inexpensive labor become greedy and dishonest to the point of luring these people into the United States. No all of those encouraged to come in are Mexican as many believe, they are from all over the world. In general it started with Mexico but as other low-income people from all over the world seen the benefits happen, they joined the flow. Primarily my personal observations were of Meat and Poultry processing companies. I watch these corporations send funds and favors to the Secretary of Agriculture, under the Clinton Administration, bribing the diminishment of regulations, standards, reduced inspection techniques, lessened quality controls, and a myriad of sanitary requirements to the point that the Secretary got fired. His getting fired was justified. He departed. However, the requirements that he allowed to be changed were not reestablished and remain in affect or worsened today.

For those of you who are totally unfamiliar with such requirements, take a good look at where our food chain has been challenged with BSE, bovine spongiform encephalopathy, and the millions of dollars lost with the failed inspection of meat to Japan and other foreign markets. Where did the first case of BSE in the US originate? The answer is Canada, where inspection at the border has been reduced to minimal at best. Incidentally that shipment from Canada, according to my informants, came from France originally. In my opinion, had the inspection procedures been in place what were maintained in the 80's, both import and export, these events would not have taken place. In addition, criteria for passing inspection has been minimized, authority taken away from inspectors for many products, quality control taken away from inspectors and given to company personnel under surveillance of inspectors and then only at predetermined intervals and times. I could go on for several pages but for the curious novice of local events, take a good look at the manure and refuse being thrown from cattle trucks at the intersection of 6th and Prairie, and at the underpass on West Hwy 50 as the highway goes under the east bound exit of the turnpike. Further, I am told that it is no longer a requirement to operate the rendering plant under a negative air pressure assuring the smell will be washed in a cleansing solution prior to release into the atmosphere. These real life situations are but a few of many resulting from compromised authority of regulatory officials. Perhaps it is more noticeable when one is dining at Carlos O'Kellys when the wind is in the south.

However, I regress. During much of the same time as regulations were being compromised, pamphlets were being distributed by air over the mountains of Mexico inviting potential workers to come to the U.S. In addition to employment, females who were pregnant and delivered while in the U.S., were reportedly informed that medical services were available and the newborn offspring would become an American citizen immediately. Further, because it was dependant upon it's mother for survival, the mother could not be deported back to Mexico. While on this subject, during more than one of my visits to border crossings I was told by Mexican nationals that less than 2 percent of these low-income family females were delivered with any medical assistance. It makes sense to me that persons in this state of living conditions would spring up at the chance to better themselves. One must also know they had not a clue what life in the U.S. would be like or what lurks in the future, but they did know the dismal opportunities they faced if circumstances remained as they were in the past.

Another twist to the exodus of poor, uneducated, hungry, and medically challenged people are that these individuals were a 'burden' to the Mexican government. The officials in authority of both civilian and military activities were progressively being challenged by the possibility of mutiny. Monies brought in from literally all sources were funneled to the top, skimmed off and embezzled while the underprivileged are being
Denied. This misuse of monies generated by the petroleum, lumber, pharmaceutical, utilities, and many other industrial giants, is very similar to practices currently at work here in the U.S. It is very clear to this writer the exodus was an advantage to the upper class of Mexico. The more that move and send their money back to those who don't move is a plus to their economy.

I do not even hope to convey all of the illegal activities involved with corporations providing false social security numbers, false green cards, false documents to obtain benefits from SRS, ADC, Medical Care, and the list goes on. This is not the fault of the immigrant, most don't even know it is wrong because they are told by Corporate personnel these benefits are an entitlement. How could they know, they do not speak the language or have a clue what is right from wrong in our society. It is a humungous departure from anything they have ever experienced in Mexico or any other departure point.

The corrupt Corporations that have generated and promoted this vicious circle of human suffering should, in my opinion, be apprehended and forced to make restitution. How the Corporate giants in America who have participated in enticing these immigrants to come here, have the audacity to suggest building a wall, deportation, or any other nonsensical ridiculous program, should cease and desist immediately! In addition, the political machine from both sides of the isle are as guilty as are the Corporations by reason of association. Our political do-gooders go all over the world talking about human suffering and ignore what is in their homeland. Don't let these political brains fool you, they know what is going on, they just don't have the integrity to face reality. How can they claim to represent the people without knowing what is going on in their area of responsibility. Could they be overpaid to the point they believe they are better than the immigrants? Possibly pride has a factor in their decisions to resolve the problem.

I served in Washington D.C. for several years. I was continually reminded by those in authority over me of several things. Since I had been given significant authority over a variety of industry officials, participating in the importation of animal products, it was my responsibility to do three things when I wrote violations and fines.
l. Make sure that I detailed the violation to and with full understanding of all parties.
2. Make sure that I detailed the solution to the violation to and with full understanding to all parties.
3. Enlist sufficient and appropriate authorities to enforce resolution to full completion.

In light of my pre-retirement operational history, I hereby present my opinion.

1. I believe I have identified part of the illegal immigration problem along with some of the contiguous circumstances needy of attention. I am certain these few are just the tip of the iceberg, so to speak.

2. I believe our federal, state, and local governments should put sufficient resources to do an 'all out' identification of EVERY individual or Corporation that hires, or has hired in the last 5 years, an illegal immigrant (II) from any foreign country or territory. Every II should be identified and given an identity card. This card should have retinal scan, photograph, and fingerprints including the address from which he or she departed. This identity card or device should be accomplished by a very reputable private enterprise or Corporation. Every (II) individual must be required to possess such identification at ALL times under penalty and immediate deportation.

3. I believe that every (II) immigrant, following receipt of identification, should identify with proof in the form of employment documents, the Corporation that enticed him or her to journey to America, along with pay documents, showing among other things, length of employment at each Corporate entity for whom they were employed.

4. The guilty, unscrupulous, greedy, and dishonest Corporations should be fined for every infraction of employment or participation of inducement. A fine should be levied for EVERY individual received into their employment, whether current or within the previous 5 years. These fines should range in amounts from $20,000 to $100,000, depending upon the length of time said employee had or has been in their employee. The fines are to be paid within 15 days, subject to their discontinuance in commerce. Fines should be placed in an acceptable depository to the Treasurer of the United States in a separate account that could not be politically invaded.

Distribution of these funds should be carefully and timely distributed back to the (II) immigrant for compliance with requirements establish to the benefit of both the immigrant and an oversight agency of the federal government. This procedure would answer the problem in several ways.

A. These individuals, after enticement, came to America for money they could not make in their homeland. Their families could not survive on the revenue they could generate. Since the American Corporations, and other entities, enticed them to leave with promises of monetary gain, they should receive compensation from such Corporations for their efforts in correlation to that which they endured. The Corporations, and other entities, involved in this scandalous maneuver should be removed from commerce with the federal and state governments for a period of 5 years, minimum. In the event these fines would place them into bankruptcy or some form of liquidation, it would seem appropriate that other reputable commercial interests with integrity might exchange assets with them.

B. I would suspect the economy of the homeland of these individual would improve following timely receipt of revenues. Distribution should be slow enough to prevent their unlawful manipulation after returning home. I am of the opinion as well that immigration to America would drastically reduce for a variety of reasons.

C. Since the immigration numbers should be down, the need to build 2500 miles of wall, regardless of the material used, would be unnecessary.

5. Last but not least, dissolve the agency created to effectively accomplish this task. These employees should be discharged with a performance award and transferred to another agency in control of our borders with every high-tech device to prevent drug smuggling, terrorists, and other facets of illegal activities.

It is my hope and desire with this writing that voters use much more discernment come time for the next election of State and Federal candidates.

In addition, I would encourage those who support this view of solving this problem to share it with elected officials, and if you are not in support, please add your comments, pro or con, to my blog. Thank you in advance.

May God Bless America and prevent is destruction by evil forces.

My life without Christ

My life without Christ (1928 – 1981) As the hymn tells us “He was there all along”

My mother, Minerva (Woodbury) McCauley, developed cancer soon after I was born and subsequently passed on when I was 2 years old. My father, Robert A. McCauley eventually married Grace Darlene Drake who had cared for and loved me beyond any of her 5 children. Without doubt she was one of the first miracles to come into my life.

My life story begins at the time I left home, age 18. (I reserve the opportunity to share some stories of my childhood at a later time if my energy permits) Prior notes tell that I had the mumps when the tests were given to graduate from the 8th grade. Since the school permanently closed at the end of the year due to lack of students, technically I did not graduate but was allowed to enter high school in the fall. I attended one year, however, since I did not make good grades my father took me out of school so that I could help on the farm. I did not attend for 2 years but later attended for two more years.
1946 – Reaching 18 yrs of age. I enlisted into the Army Air Corps as a Pvt. Following basic training I was trained as a Photo Lab technician, specializing in aerial mosaic processing. When WWII ended the need for mosaics ended.

In 1947 I was assigned to the Historical Division of Tactical Air Command. My duties were to safeguard the classified 76 unit histories that had to be submitted on a periodic basis. This office had 2 PhD civilian historians whose responsibility it was to write the composite for Air Force headquarters. One of these was Dr. J. J. Lichman, Chief Historian ,who took me under his wing and groomed me for adulthood. During this same time I met a precious young lady who I dated exclusively for 2 years. We were very much in love but I did not think I was ready to get married. She asked me to pray about it but I thought that was a foolish thing for me to do since I was not acquainted with God.

In June 1949 I was discharged from the military. I returned to KS and farmed for 2 yrs. The first year my Dad and I disagreed on the split of the revenue, I went on my own the second year. I cash rented 450 acres of land, planted it to wheat and went to work nights for Kansas Soya Products, now Bunge Corp. in Emporia, KS. I was initially employed by a pipeline company installing a cross-country gas line and later on by the Santa Fe Railroad At harvest time, June 1951, this area experienced the greatest flood in over 100 years, my entire crop was lost.

On August 5, 1951 I married Maxine Marie Tatman at the Grace Methodist Church. Later that year we moved to Newton, KS. I was first employed by the AT&SF Railroad store department, and later by Beech Aircraft on the evening shift

In late August, 1952 a co-worker, Milas Brink, encouraged me to take an occupational guidance test. The cost was $300. I could not afford to take it and he convinced his dad to pay the fee for me. Another early miracle. Results of the test – I should be a large animal veterinarian. I started to school that fall in Pre-vet/med at Wichita State University and never looked back. In 1953 we moved to Manhattan and I was subsequently accepted into Veterinary School in 1954.

1956 – My first taste of politics. Was elected Mayor of the housing district named Hilltop Courts. This was a ‘makedo’ housing facility of 200 barracks that had been used to house Japanese immigrants living in the U.S. who were taken into custody at the start of WW II. These buildings were 25 feet wide and 100 feet long and placed on cement blocks 6’ apart. Each building was divided into 4 units (25 x 25) by a 2x2 studded wall having sheet rock on only one side. Talk about privacy, we had it! The greatest part of this experience was that the rent was $29.00 a month, bills paid!

In May of 1956 I received a B.S. degree in Biological Sciences. This diploma was the very first I had ever received from any institution. As a result of this degree I received a commission in the Army (National Guard) the last month prior to my 28th birthday, the last day I could be eligible. Another miracle as I look back.

In June, 1959 – Graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, and moved to Tyndall, SD and in August, 1960 having worked for Dr. Glenn Duncan for a year, he offered me the opportunity to buy into a partnership with him. This did not work out for a variety of reasons.

In August, 1961 I bought a practice and moved to Wakonda, SD, a small town in SE South Dakota. I enjoyed a very active predominantly large animal practice with hours 5 to 9 twice a day due to the fact the clients were mostly row-crop farmers and in touch with their animals only during chore time, unless for specific or appointed activities. In 1964 the major feed companies that manufactured and sold protein supplements to cattle, hog, and sheep feeders in the area made a major financial move. They offered contracts to delay payment of their feed bill until such time as they sold their animals in exchange for their exclusive purchase of feed, feed additives, veterinary biologics, and all animal care. These contracts had a significant negative impact on revenues that would normally be directed to my practice as I could not afford to wait to be paid for this length of time. After suffering this negative impact for several months, I made an effort to abandon my practice with intent to be gainfully employed elsewhere.

In 1967 I became gainfully employed by the federal service. USDA – Meat Inspection and moved to CO – Served as relief Veterinarian then later accepted a permanent assignment in Loveland CO. In addition to my regular duties, I was elected to be the Regional Representative to the National Association of Federal Veterinarians. I was responsible to represent the concerns of all federal veterinarians in the 9 north-western states. Every quarter we traveled to Wash DC to meet with the Administrator, discuss relevant issues and report back to constituents. In discussing the problems associated with the protocol for handling inspected products being exported, it was noted that frozen product in production plants was inspected in a much different way from that stored in cold storage warehouses. To make a long story very short, I discussed this with the Plant manager who agreed to enter into a contract if I should build a facility near by. I did the math on revenue and then invited a preliminary cost from my architect friend, Keith Titus. The margin was huge. I proceeded to pursue the options and made application for funds to build the facility. I knew that once I was in the process of building, I would have to quit working for the government due to having a conflict of interest.

Just before the loan was finalized, I was informed by the lender, Metro Bank of Denver, that we needed more ($400,000) operating capital in case of a delay in revenues. After consulting with my accountant, Silas Halliburton, he advised me to form a LLP, however we only had 43 days to get it finished before the loan commitment expired. The law required that no one may invest more than 80,000, nor less than 20,000 and none could be relatives, nor partners, nor could any of them be relatives of one another. Then the Lord got involved and I still didn’t even know him at this time. Because of the shortness of time, I went to Boulder, CO where my daughter was attending Colorado University. After careful consideration, I started with the professional listing of people who had the most money. At this time I did have 3 investors (one 40 M) and 2 (20 M). I could not have more than 16 more individuals. I got on the phone and contacted 21 Orthodontists for a personal chat appt. Within the next 3 days I sold the entire 400M with 120 more possible in case anyone backed out, and only 16 individuals… and never met any of them face to face. The following night I contacted each and picked up their check with no one backing down. As soon as the paperwork was approved by the state, the checks were cashed. The Lord had to be looking over my life. The building was started after we obtained a contract with Monfort of Colorado for their products to be frozen and stored. Three months later it was built and ready to go. 180 x 300 and 36 feet clear inside. Capable of holding 2.4 million pounds of meat products. Blast freezer capable of freezing (50 degrees to –30) 8 truck loads (320,000 lbs) every 24 hours. This project had a final cost of 1.7 Million Dollars. From the time the refrigeration was started until all the building was slowly brought down to –20 it took 8 days. It had to be done slowly to prevent cracking the walls or floor.

In 1978 - The plot thickens – The very day the engineers said it was cold enough to receive products, we made preparation to notify Monfort Packing we could start on Monday. About an hour and a half later they called me and said their workers had gone on strike. It is worthy of note they stayed on strike for almost 3 years. Their meat packing operation was moved to York, Nebraska where they purchased a plant. The cold storage facility in Omaha served their needs. We were able to serve a number of smaller operations but never to the extent it would allow our operation to break even financially. We slowly approached the end of our operating capital. I probably made a thousand phone calls trying to generate business from anywhere but we were not in a strategic place for any other packing operation. We had it partially filled with potatoes, crab, vegetables, etc but conditions were not as lucrative as meat. I laid awake many nights trying to come up with a way to redirect the business operation so not to loose the plant. Finally, I decided to put a ground beef manufacturing operation in a part of the building that was used for chilled storage. We could purchase the beef from other small operations that stored beef with us and resell it to the Denver grocery market. I quickly cornered that opportunity and put it under contract. Now to remodel a portion of the plant and get the machinery. It was determined that we would need another $350,000. I had my accountant put a Performa together, he did and it looked very attractive. Very profitable. Sufficient margin to pay both loan payments. All I needed was a lender. I must have presented that Performa to 10 banks within the next week. Every one turned it down for a variety of reasons although it did look attractive to them. My personal banker gave me the name of a young man who had inherited 27 independent gas stations. I was told that he was a multi-millionaire and enjoyed investing in speculative ventures. I called him to look at the facility the next day. He did look at it and then wanted 2 other associates to look at it who could develop the market with him. 3 days later they all toured our facility and loved it. This principle member said he would get back to me in a couple of days. On the 3rd day he called me and wanted an appt with me. I told him he never needed one and to feel free to come anytime he wanted. He said he would be out at 1100a. I thanked him and told him I looked forward to meeting with him. He said “Don’t get your hopes up, I am not going to invest.” And then hung up.

This was Nov 13, 1980
Billy Fogelman (the potential investor) brought the news to me.

He sat across my desk from me. A young man about 35 or so, big smile, braces on his teeth, and conservatively dressed in western jeans, etc. He told me that he and his relatives had discussed the situation and agreed that it was a worthy venture, a great building, and plenty of profit margin. However, when he prayed about it, he said the Lord told him not to invest. I was furious and heart broken. (I had been praying every morning as I come to work and I thought the Lord had given me an indication that He would help me) Remember now that I was a Methodist with no personal relationship with the Lord. I was sitting at my desk, elbows on the desk, and my head in my hands at this point. Speechless. After some time I calmed myself enough to look him in the eye and asked (somewhat sarcastically) “What did the Lord say to you?” He said “The Lord told me to tell you that if you would give your life and this business to Him, you would not need my money.” I told him “I didn’t tell you I did need your money.” And he said “The Lord did!” Believe me, absolutely no one knew my financial condition except myself and accountant at that point and neither of us was a Christian. After regaining my composure from knowing that it had to be coming from some source other than people, I said to him “ What else did he have to say?” He said, “The Lord told me to pray with and for you, if you would let me.” After another period of silence, I looked up at him and said “ You had best get started. I am at the end.”

My financial advisor was there with me and we both knelt down and gave our life to the Lord that day.

I had been receiving one to 3 phone calls each day from creditors (8 major) demanding money. We had some money, however, my advisor said we needed to keep most of it to file bankruptcy if we had to. So I put them off. After giving my life to Christ, I never got another call demanding money. I never said a word about anything to anyone. Five months later when we were in front of the Court at the bankruptcy hearing, all 8 of my creditors appeared and supported my plan and efforts of reorganization. The Judge said he had been on that bench for 28 years and had never seen that happen before. Within just a few days I received interest from people I never met, or heard of, to purchase both my home and the Cold Storage Plant. Both sold. All creditors received their monies as did the investors. No one lost money except me. The court would not allow me to receive a portion. After we received a contract a liquidation hearing was necessary. A lawyer, banker, and accountant from each of the interests were at this hearing, plus my wife and I. It was necessary to set aside enough monies to pay each of those who had an executive part in the distribution. Each indicated how much they needed for their activity and sufficient money was available. The necessary documents were prepared as a contract and delivered to the bankruptcy court.

Following this most stressful meeting, as an act of kindness, my local banker, Norman Rarick, invited me to have dinner at the Black Steer Restaurant near by, along with others who would care to join us. Before we dispersed from this meeting however, he wanted to make an announcement to the group. He stated “If ever I wanted to start off again, he would like me to know that he would be there for me.” I would like the world to know that he handed me a $100.00 bill to keep me from being penniless. Here started a ‘Walk with Christ’. I plan to write about that walk in another portion.