Kansas Prairie Archives for November 2003

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Sunday, November 30, 2003

WORDSMITH WORDS

"What do the words acme and acne have in common, besides being next to each other in a dictionary? The word acne began its life as acme. As a result of a misreading, it took on a new spelling. There are many more such words in the English language. Buttonhole once was buttonhold. Shamefaced used to be shamefast in the sense of restrained by shame. Cherry was originally cherise, but as that seemed to be plural, people spoke of a cherry when referring to a single fruit. The same happened with pease which was wrongly assumed to be plural and became pea. The list goes on and on.

Next time you see someone misspelling the word "definitely" as "definately" don't snicker. Chances are the new spelling will find a way into the dictionary just as "miniscule" did for the original word "minuscule" because people thought the word had its origin in prefix mini-. It's the usage that determines the flow of language."

I love words. I wish I were better at using and remembering them.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:34 PM CST [Link]

FOREIGN ACCENT SYNDROME

An American woman told how how she suddenly developed a British accent after suffering a stroke.

This is a strange story:

"When Tiffany Roberts, 57, recovered from the stroke she found she had an accent placed somewhere between East London and the West Country.

Even the pitch of her voice changed, becoming much higher than the deep Indiana drawl she once had.

The dramatic change is even more surprising because she has no links with Britain.

She has never been to Britain or followed British television programmes.

Doctors have diagnosed her with a rare condition called foreign accent syndrome, which is caused when part of the brain is damaged.

The rest of the story.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:18 PM CST [Link]

SOLICH IS OUT

As of last night Frank Solich, the Nebraska football coach, was out of a job. He has won more than 75% of his games, but that's not good enough. The Nebraska fans have long memories, are short on patience and won't settle for anyone who isn't as good as Tom Osborne. It really doesn't matter one way or the other about Solich losing his job as I've observed college and pro football and basketball coaches move up and down the highway finding other coaching jobs and continue doing what they want to do, probably at a greater salary. Solich will probably get hundreds of thousands ...or bazillions of bucks...when they buy the rest of his contract. He's not exactly on his way to selling Amway Quixtar door to door.

P.S. It will cost Nebrask 1.8 million to give Solich the boot. See??? Something's really wrong with this picture, imo.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:27 PM CST [Link]

YEAH ANNIKA!

In the first day of the million dollars Skins Game yesterday, Annika Sorenstam led the charge. She sank a 39 yard eagle shot from a sand trap on the 9th hole and won $175,000. She won the first hole today for another $50,000. She's on a roll. She's the first woman to compete in the 21 year history of the Skins Game. It's about time the women had an equal chance at the money. At least one has the chance.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:00 PM CST [Link]

CLEAR THINKERS

I had a wonderful visit this morning with one of my friends whom I don't see often. Out of necessity these days we rely on the telephone to stay in touch. She's part of our group of "clear thinkers", as we refer to ourselves. We have such a strong basis of understanding built up over the past 55 years that we spend no time explaining...we share information of the same political/religious/cultural/economic/liberal thinking. It's comfortable. I don't know what you do in life without friends.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:38 PM CST [Link]

DIET UPDATE

Well, I've not melted and left a blob of butter where I once stood, but despite the lack of evidence, I think my diet might be working. I guess I won't know for sure until I return in February to the doctor who will take a look at all my blood levels. Our bodies are made of chemicals and he's really into weighing and measuring chemical levels. I'm sure he'll let me know right away which one is in control of my body. I’m hoping all the prognostications in the South Beach book prove right in my case.

Diets have not worked for me. OH, one did...the one where I ate every other day. I can't believe I could do that. That was a long time ago and I lost weight. I was also told to get off it so I did and regained the weight I’d lost, plus some.

I joined some weight-loss club, the name forgotten, in the early 80s where I had to buy their food and eat it. That was horrible. Only some anorexic bulimic person could manage to eat that food. I sure couldn't. Plus…I was constantly starved, irritable and grumpy.

So, faced with the South Beach Diet, as I am, I find it just might be working. I’m encouraged that it and the Atkins Diet have worked for many others and continue to work.

Statistics say that if present trends continue everyone in the US will be FAT by 2040. That’s terrible. When I was in grade school/high school, I only remember a handful of students who were overweight. It was very rare. Look at our kids now. We’re doing something very wrong.

I look forward to “bacon and eggs” for breakfast, but limit myself to true bacon and eggs. This morning I had egg beaters with fresh diced onions, green peppers, tomatoes and lots of Serrano peppers mixed in. That will tide me over quite well, thank you, until I figure out what to eat next with steamed or stir fried veggies. It’s pretty painless and I don’t feel deprived. I was not even tempted to eat mashed potatoes, gravy and dressing during our Thanksgiving dinner. But there isn’t any way I could have survived a diet that said “just push away from the table of wonderful food that Ally cooked for you”. That just doesn’t work for me although I see it working for others all the time.

I know I’m not eating those things I’m not supposed to eat, and I’m not even hungry for them. I thought I’d be curled up in a ball, naked in the corner by now without bread, but I’m doing very well in that department. I don’t think about bread and toast and how good it is. Well, right now I am but I’m not tempted.

The thing about diets is that you hope you’ll see results right away. I suppose some people who carry around cisterns that gather up liquids will see some immediate changes, but I figure it took me 20 years to put this solid weight on and I can’t expect it to take less time to rid myself of it. Well, maybe by the end of next year things will be different. We’ll see. The possibility is close at hand.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:00 PM CST [Link]

SUNDAY MORNING

Coffee is brewed around here each morning rather irregularly. It's the only time we make coffee unless we have guests for dinner and they want it.

Since Brit's retirement ten years ago, he has made the morning coffee more frequently than I. Usually I'm up much earlier and don't want to rattle around in the kitchen and disturb him and Jack so I trudge silently in my 30 year old Indian mukluks to the basement and plop in front of my computer. Later, sometimes hours later but always about 7:30, he makes the coffee. He and Jack bring me a hot mug and we exchange greetings of the day. That includes hugs and a Beggin' Strip for Jack.

We're both morning people and very glad of it. I can't imagine having to live with someone who was grumpy or sullen in the morning. What a waste of a good morning.

Many mornings, like today, our schedules coincide so I make the coffee. I like to know what it is I'm drinking. Brit methodically measures the coffee, teaspoonful by teaspoonful, while I dump coffee into the basket until it's almost full. The results are decidedly different. If I'm going to drink it, no matter what it is, I like it strong. Maybe that's why I think Rich Vargo makes the best fruity wine in the world. Maybe that's why I have so much difficulty drinking water. Probably it relates to my shattered taste buds. Poor Brit is "wired" for the day on the mornings I fix the coffee. One 12 cup pot takes us zooming through the day!

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:08 AM CST [Link]

Saturday, November 29, 2003

KU HEADED TO TANGERINE BOWL

KU is headed to the Tangerine Bowl which will be at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 22 in Orlando.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:23 PM CST [Link]

ADDITIONAL BEDS PROPOSED FOR EL DORADO PRISON

A proposal to add space for as many as 256 additional inmates at the state prison outside El Dorado was endorsed Tuesday by a legislative committee. FULL STORY

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:20 PM CST [Link]

MY SORTA NAMESAKE IS IN TROUBLE

We've had good, professional fireworks in Ellsworth for over 20 years and now we learn they are in jeopardy. The lack of money and volunteers are the culprits.

The Star Spangled Spectacular, as it has been known in recent years, was a name I suggested and it won the little contest they had for it. I'm not sure anyone else entered! I still have my Sammy Beanie Baby they gave me for winning. It sits on top of my monitor and smiles down at me.

Ron Svaty, the event organizer, wrote a letter that said in part: "For the past few years, I have been the fundraiser for the Fourth of July celebration. Basically, the committee has operated on putting things together and I told them I would raise the money and that has always worked. This year it did not. At the time of my writing this letter, we are still $840 short of paying off the Fireworks Company...

...While I think the event itself has improved dramatically over the last few years under Lou Boley's guidance, the financial support from the community has continued to decline. I have therefore advised Lou that I can no longer continue to be the fundraiser..."

The fireworks cost between $12,000 and $13,000 and the city has picked up from $5,000 to $7,500 of that amount from its tourism fund. The rest has come from private donations. Unless there are financial commitments and more volunteers, the project seems doomed.

Some activities have already been set for the 2004 celebration. The committee hopes to know by February 1st if the celebration will be a go.

It's my favorite holiday. I love the community activities and fireworks that combine in such a beautiful way to celebrate our independence.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:13 PM CST [Link]

EXPLORING THE MUSE

The PBS special last night, Exploring the Muse, was excellent. The photography and narrations were very good...and of course, the subject matter was well chosen.

If I have any criticism at all...and certainly it is slight...I would have liked to have heard Dennis Rogers talk more about his art rather than having it come from the narrator. The words were well-chosen and effective nonetheless.

If you missed it last night, maybe it will be on again. They have run the first Muse more than once and I've enjoyed it each time. I wish everyone who saw it would send Marci Penner $18.61 to join the Explorers Club. 978 Arapaho Road, Inman Kansas 67546 will catch her.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:24 PM CST [Link]

MORE ABOUT THE FLU

As of Wednesday 3,957 cases of the flu have been confirmed in Colorado. Three children have died. Normally, only three or four children die in an entire year in Colorado from flu complications. More cases have been reported in Colorado this year than in any four previous seasons. Only a handful of states have no reports of flu.

Flu season usually peaks in December and January and giving rise to the early start this year that more and worse is yet to come

"They say" the vaccine is never sure thing even when there is a match between the vaccine and the circulating strains of flu. For those of us who are older, the vaccine is only 30% to 70% effective when there is a match. No match, no protection. Most deaths are in people over 65.

The predominate strain of flu in circulation this year is type A, a type that usually causes high rates of hospitalizations and death. One subtype of this strain, A/Panama, is included in the current vaccine, and a different subtype of it, called A/Fujian has emerged causing illness.

One virologist says the strains of flu circulating now are not the variety that could cause a pandemic, or worldwide outbreak, because there is not an unknown strain. There was a pandemic in 1918 when more than 20 million died and in 1957 when the Asian flu caused nearly 70,000 deaths in the U.S. In 1968, 33,800 Americans died in a flu pandemic. We're going to be in a corner when the next pandemic hits, which they expect to be severe, as we don't have anti-viral medicines stockpiled and we're not ready to develop effective new vaccines quickly.

I guess the best we can do is get flu shots, stay away from those who have it (crowds) and my favorite, keep your hands clean and away from your face. Old folks ought to hibernate, it seems.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:55 PM CST [Link]

TO THE MARKETSCORE.COM READER IN THE YUCON

I have several faithful marketscore.com readers, but two happen to be very far away...one in the Yucon the other in Russia. At least that is where their time zone readings come from.

The Yukon is a big place....well, a whole lot of territory around Whitehorse, I guess you'd say... but I'd like to suggest to the Yukon reader to take a look in the entertainment section of the Whitehorse newspaper for Heather Bishop, my singer/songwriter friend to see where she is performing in Whitehorse. She's scheduled there for performances until Dec. 4th. She puts on one heck of a good show. You will fall off your chair laughing at some of her songs. If you can take in her show, you will love it...and please tell her hello for me. I chatted with her the other day before she left home, but there's nothing like a friendly face in the audience bringing good wishes from a friend.

I only have one friend in Whitehorse, that I know of...Annie with a husband and a son named Huckleberry!

HEATHER BISHOP

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:32 AM CST [Link]

DON'T MISS THE CHRISTMAS OPENING MONDAY AT 4:00 DOWNTOWN!

I always enjoy the evening of the Christmas opening in downtown Ellsworth. It's festive and reminiscent of the days when I walked with my grandmother, hand in hand, from her house by the river to down town Ellsworth...that would be 70 years ago.

There are things to see and do, food to munch on, stuff to buy from those trying to make money for their organizations, the EHS band to listen to...plus all the stores are open with everything new and different stocked for Christmas shopping. It's just a nice time to be downtown.

I think this is the plan...everything starts downtown at 4:00. The food booths open at 5:00 and the tree lighting is at 5:30 at the Hodgden House Museum. There may be caroling like last year during the lighting ceremony. The parade starts at the Museum at 6:00. I think the EHS band will be in the parade. At least I know a couple of trumpet players plan to be there. There will be carriage rides and photos of your kids with Santa will be available.

We don't have many occasions to gather downtown in the evening. Some towns have a night set aside when merchants stay open until 8:00 but that has never been very successful here...that is since the old days when Ellsworth was very much a Saturday night town. I guess if you don't continue trying, it won't ever work. But it's the merchants call from what they see at their cash registers and they put in very long hours as it is.

Last year the air was brisk and the mood festive. Everyone was having a good time. I intend to be there and would encourage you to spend some time wandering around downtown Monday evening. It's a nice thing to do. We need to do as much shopping at home as we possibly can.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:19 AM CST [Link]

STEAMED SPICY SHRIMP

I found this on a fellow blogger's website and I intend to try it. It sounds very good.

You need a steamer pot, or a pot large enough to hold a metal colander.

For each pound of peeled and deveined medium or large shrimp, in a small bowl make a seasoning mix of 1 teaspoon of salt, one tablespoon of cajun seasoning, and one tablespoon of Old Bay® seasoning.

There are several brands of cajun spices that will work well in this recipe. The House of Blues chain sells a version online, and there are other varieties available through online outlets such as Peppers (look in the dry seasoning section).

Pour into the pot a ½ cup of cider vinegar and a 12 ounce bottle or can of beer. Heat to boiling.

As the liquid heats, place a layer of shrimp in the steamer container or colander, and spread a liberal dose of the

seasoning mix over the layer. Repeat until you run out of shrimp and seasonings.

Place the steamer container or colander over the boiling beer/vinegar mixture, cover, and wait a few minutes.

Remove the cover, stir the shrimp a few times, and cover again. Check frequently.

When all the shrimp are pink, they’re done. Remove from the heat and pile the shrimp on a bowl or plate.

These shrimp don’t need anything to go with them other than a good beer.

For those who like cocktail sauce with their shrimp, I find Chili Sauce mixed with horseradish, lemon juice and Tabasco to taste is very good.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:31 AM CST [Link]

PRIME RIB NIGHT AT THE MIDLAND

It's prime rib night at the Midland but I'm not sure I can weasel another invite from the squeeze to eat out again this week.

I do know, in case I've said otherwise, you get prime rib by making early reservations and getting your order in for dinner so that others before you haven't gobbled it all up. It's on a first come-first serve basis...arrive early in the evening and there will be some hot out of the oven. I'm told you can't go for dinner at 8:00 and expect there to be any prime rib left.

Sometimes I get an early morning call from the chef during her commute from Abilene to Wilson. She says they already have 68 reservations for tonight.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:22 AM CST [Link]

Friday, November 28, 2003

TURKEY-FRYERS-ONLINE.COM

If you are interested in turkey fryers, here's a site Janis Gore offered. She also says a lesser-known delicacy particularly good for small groups is fried cornish game hen, prepared just as you would turkey but cooked a shorter time. You can cook a few of these for, say, a threesome or foursome.

From what I've heard (and I sure know nothing about it), I've learned you really need the sturdy stainless steel fryer, not the aluminum type. Also, I've heard the types that have a basket are preferable to those that don't...for some purposes. But don't take my word for it.

The only thing I can say for sure is the fried turkey that Butch Kepka fixed for us was absolutely wonderful. He has made a real believer out of me for HIS fried turkeys.TURKEY FRYERS

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:09 PM CST [Link]

HAVE WE HUMANS PEAKED AS A SPECIES?

Dane sent this to me a long time ago and I just forgot to run it. It is a very good essay and I think you'd enjoy reading it.

In part: "I would say, here, “if we can send a man to the moon, …” but we even gave that up. About the same time American aerospace industry canceled its own version of the Concorde — the stillborn “SST” — America’s space priorities shifted from manned interplanetary adventure to hauling cargo into orbit. Not coincidentally, I would argue, that’s about when we set a national speed limit of 55 miles per hour, had our last house call from a doctor or fresh milk delivered in cold glass jars at the front door."
As Concorde goes, so do we

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:45 PM CST [Link]

NEWSCIENTIST.COM

Here is a very interesting read that I picked up off Jim Smith's blog.

"A small company in London, UK, claims to have developed a technique that overturns scientific dogma and could revolutionise medicine. It says it can turn ordinary blood into cells capable of regenerating damaged or diseased tissues. This could transform the treatment of everything from heart disease to Parkinson's."BLOOD REPAIR KIT

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:33 PM CST [Link]

DROVERS CHRISTMAS TREE

Jim and Cody Gray and Linda Kohls were decorating a beautiful Christmas tree today when I stopped in Drovers to see them. They cut a tall, well-shaped tree at Bell Tree Farm (as once we used to do) and placed it right by the front door. When I left they were adding ornaments that are for sale...cute little cowboy type decorations. It's a very festive tree. If you need a stocking stuffer or an exchange gift for not too much money, stop in and buy an orament, or any one of a number of unusual gift items they have for sale. It's a good thing to shop at home.

I had not met Cody Gray before, but maybe I have and forgot. He's too good-looking and personable to do that or maybe he was too far away for me to get a good look when he was here a number of years ago re-shingling our roof with the Kohls brothers. He was recently married, lives in KC and does contract work for Sprint. I like Jim and Robin's boys and their sister Megan...nice young people.

The downtown area was full of cars and people which is a very good sign. I need to check to see when the Christmas opening is...Monday I think. I don't want to miss that.

The high school Spanish class is selling homemade peanut brittle today at ALCO. They appeared to be doing a brisk business. Drew helped with that. He says he doesn't know how to make it as it was an assembly line project and all he did was the same one thing over and over for four hours. If you haven't tried their peanut brittle, I can attest to the fact it is as good as any you can make. It's pulled thin and has a great flavor. I think I bought 12 pounds last year for gifts. This year I'm steering clear. The diet you know.

Brit got a load of red oak firewood from Todd, Karen and the boys for his birthday. Caleb Svaty had it as a fund-raising auction item at the Presbyterian Church so Todd bought it and today Caleb and his cousin delivered it. Drew and Tyler helped stack it. It didn't take those strong, willing guys very long to do that and bring a bunch to the back door for our fireplace downstairs. We use a lot of firewood during the course of the winter.

It's time to start on the Christmas "stuff" that I churn out of my kitchen. It isn't what it once was by any means and a lot of that is because the friends my age, like me, are on restrictive diets of some kind or can't "drink", so nogs are out.

I have a peppery "sorta" hot, candied pickle recipe that I've made to share. And I will continue to make several batches of Rom Pope, the very secret recipe I'm sworn not to divulge to anyone...for fear of instant death. Last year I think I blogged how we got the recipe and I'm not going to blog it again. I just can't tell how I make it as I promised Ally I wouldn't and she promised the guy who told her she wouldn't. It took years and years to get it.

I have several friends who would never let me forget it if they didn't get a big jug of Rom Pope every year. Meridith and Cindy have fits of apoplexy just thinking about getting through the holidays without it. Jim Gray is not far behind only he savors his for months. I thought you'd die if you didn't drink it in a couple of weeks, but he is living proof you won't.

I better go check to see how my supplies are for making it.

We're not putting up a tree this year, at least I don't think so. I have my Christmas chair that Lori at La Prairie made for me and that is enough. The grandkids really don't care and for the last 15 years, I've only done it for them. I falter at traditional Christmas celebrations for obvious reasons...as do many of my friends. The family has grown accustomed to our humbug spirit during the holidays and enjoy things with us other than the anticipation of Christmas.

Speaking of the grandsons, they are joining their brother, Rod, his uncle Ron and other guys to see the K-State basketball game tomorrow. The grandson brothers are driving themselves to Manhattan tomorrow. It's not their first trip, but it tells me that when they can do that...and they are responsible...they are growing up. They'll soon fly away.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:29 PM CST [Link]

FLU PANDEMIC...25 TO 37 MILLION DIED

There have been many recent warnings from researchers that we're due for another flu pandemic within the next ten years. They talk about the pandemic of 1918-1919 that hit right after WWI and although I haven't been around THAT long, I remember my parents, relatives and friends talking about it. George Fairchild was a good friend of ours who happened to be at Camp Funston/ Ft. Riley at that time where thousands died. He survived because he made his way back home to Ellsworth where he was nursed back to good health by his wife. There were many from Ellsworth and the surrounding area who survived the same way, but many did not.

It all started on the morning of March 11, 1918 at Camp Funston, Kansas.

A company cook named Albert Mitchell reported to the infirmary with typical flu-like symptoms - a low-grade fever, mild sore throat, slight headache, and muscle aches. Bed rest was recommended.

By noon, 107 soldiers were sick. Within two days, 522 people were sick. Many were gravely ill with severe pneumonia.

Then reports started coming in from other military bases around the country. Thousands of sailors docked off the East Coast were sick.

Within a week, the influenza was hitting isolated places, such as the island of Alcatraz. Within seven days, every state in the Union had been infected.

Then it spread across the Atlantic. By April, French troops and civilians were infected. By mid-April, the disease had spread to China and Japan. By May, the virus was spread throughout Africa and South America.

The actual killer was the pneumonia that accompanied the infection.

In Philadelphia, 158 out of every 1000 people died. 148 out of 1000 in Baltimore. 109 out of 1000 in Washington, D.C.

The cause is unknown, but today researchers still say they think like other serious viruses it goes from birds to swine where it mutates into a horrible virus. These are the deadliest of all viruses. Eighteen months after the disease appeared, the flu bug vanished and has never shown up again. Both the Asian flu (1957) and the Hong Kong flu (1968), which were not as deadly, mutated from pig viruses.

The United States death toll was a total of 850,000 people, making it an area of the world that was least devastated by this virus. Sixty percent of the Eskimo population was wiped out in Nome, Alaska. 80-90% of the Samoan population was infected, many of the survivors dying from starvation (they lacked the energy to feed themselves).

Luxury ocean liners from Europe would arrive in New York with 7% less passengers than they embarked with. The confined area of the ship was especially conducive to the spread of the disease.

In the end, 25 million people had died. Some estimates put the number as high as 37 million.

The scary part is that it could happen again - and we're not prepared for it. It takes six months to develop a vaccine. We aren't prepared for the next outbreak and researchers say it is coming.

Scary thought.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:47 AM CST [Link]

EXPLORING THE MUSE

There is a good program that will be aired on all the Kansas PBS stations tonight at 8:30...Exploring the Muse. It focuses on Dennis Rodgers, an Indian educator, and Marci Penner, the woman who still has hope we can save rural Kansas. Many of you will remember that Dennis is the one who performed recently at the Kansas Originals Festival. The segment on him is quite good.

Marci is the executive director and lone employee of the Kansas Sampler Festival and Kansas Explorers Club. Her work to keep rural Kansas alive is relentless. She also needs your support, although she'd be the last to ask for it. By joining the Kansas Explorers Club for $18.61, you can help her to continue her work.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:07 AM CST [Link]

Thursday, November 27, 2003

A DAY WITH THE FAMILY

It was a day of laughter around here at the house and over dinner at the Midland. We shared Drummers with Lila, Adolph and Lindy Vopat for dinner and that was nice. It was like a private dining room and we enjoyed it very much.

The food was wonderful...every bit of it...turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, gravy, dressing, candied sweet potatoes, our family green bean casserole, cranberry relish and jell, relish plate, rolls and an assortment of homemade pies. Ally is a good chef and makes excellent pies.

I think she must have had about 70 diners for the buffet. It was so nice not to have to cook. (I also did well on my diet and avoided all the starchy stuff...and had only a bite of Ally's coconut cream pie, which is my favorite. No guilt.)

We have two grandsons who get kidded about a lot of things and they take it really well. Rod went through it too when he was younger. Mostly it comes from their Uncle Dane. They've enjoyed it and can pitch it back too.

Uncle Dane has a big weekend surprise planned for his nephews....for brother Todd, Rod, Drew and Tyler. Drew and Tyler were not told where they would be going or why. They have guessed everything imaginable. Dane gave them occasional clues which included: Mount Zion...Raptors... May 24, 1979...Magical weekend...7th, 4th, 1st...James Garner...American Airlines, etc.

It has driven Tyler crazy trying to figure it out. He and Drew finally decided they were going to KC to the K-State - Oklahoma game next weekend. Dane said it didn't fit the clues. Tyler then figured it was a trip to Jerusalem to visit Mt. Zion. They guessed Illinios, St. Louis and other places. It has been amusing.

Today with the help of a few more clues, they did they get all the information together to find out where they are going next weekend. It finally fell into place. They are heading to Dallas to see Orlando Magic play Dallas Mavericks in the American Airlines Center. Tracy McGrady is the player they are going to watch. They have excellent seats about 14 rows up from the court. Mackenzie and Luke will also join them for the game and other surprises that are planned. It's their Christmas present and they'll all have a great time. Dane is staying an additional day to see the Christmas lighting ceremony at SMU which is supposed to be pretty spectacular.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:15 PM CST [Link]

MIDLAND DINNER LAST NIGHT

Dinner last night at the Midland was very good...and I'm not just saying that because I know the chef. She doesn't know which plates go to whom.

The special was a KC strip steak (ours were very tender and cooked just right) and included soup and salad, baked potatoes and veggies, rolls and pie, for $14.95. I had her omit my potato, soup and pie and I still couldn't eat it all. Kenz and Luke brought the pie home and had it later when Tyler and Anna came by.

KC strip steaks are more tender than sirloin....just a bit of information to pass on when you are ordering.

When I called for reservations yesterday afternoon, she only had one reservation. I added four more. She ended up serving 67 people last night...62 without reservations. I didn't know anyone who was there which was a switch. I don't know how you can do that and prepare for Thanksgiving dinner too. I sure couldn't.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:36 AM CST [Link]

FRIED TURKEY

I've never tasted deep-fat, fried turkey. My computer techie guru from years ago, used to talk about them all the time and how he'd fix 15 or 20 over the weekend for friends and neighbors. He was going to do one for me, but he lived in Salina and our timing was always out of sync. This was 10 or so years ago. It was all new to me, but popular in the south, so I learned.

Since then, the sport has moved north and grown to include almost anyone with a big pot of oil. Some even fry them indoors and set their houses on fire.

A certified, qualified extra-wonderful Ellsworth volunteer fire fighter friend is fixing ours....outside. Butch Kepka, the main man, is the main cooker person.

Mackenzie brought me a fresh 13# butterball from Salina yesterday and this morning, Butch is going to fry it for us. I think that is very nice of him...especially when it was Juanita who offered his services and he graciously complied.

Since we're going to the Midland for dinner, we won't have leftovers...which is both good and bad. It will be nice to have some fried turkey tonight to make a sandwich. Mine will be rolled up in lettuce with a little mayo and mustard. There is no bread in this house!

P.S. My turkey was in Butch's kettle when I called this morning so I dashed down to see him finish it off. He gave me some of the particulars. He's been doing it for 15 years or more...and has perfected it to a fine science.

He cleans the turkey and sprinkles it liberally with Tony's Creole Seasoning, a staple in my kitchen. He wraps it in Saran Wrap and lets it marinate overnight in the refrigerator. The next day, he gets his peanut oil up to a temp of 375 degrees in his home-designed stainless steel cooker. He has a metal hanger that goes entirely through the cavity so there is no opportunity for the turkey to flee the country. He then gently lowers the turkey down into the slender cylinder, hence the 14# max size requirements, and cooks it at 350 degrees for 3 1/2 minutes per pound. Overcooking it doesn't seem to matter as it's still tender and juicy. The turkey tends to float when it nears doneness.

That isn't the end of the story. It smelled so good I had to have a turkey leg when I got home. It was my breakfast. I'm required to eat breakfast on my diet, you know. So, I ate both the legs. It was the best turkey I've ever tasted. Juanita says that's the only way she'll eat turkey and I can see why. I asked Butch to put me on his list for "next time".

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:14 AM CST [Link]

5 DAY DEODORANT PADS

When I was a kid, there was such a thing as "Five day deodorant pads". I have no earthly idea why I keep remembering them. I even recall what they looked like. It seems they came in a round, blue jar the same size as the pads. I puzzled at them then and continue to today.

That was the name of them. They were little circles of cloth saturated with stuff that were supposed to keep your underarms odor free for five days. I suppose that meant with one application you could work Monday through Friday and your fellow workers would be safe from eye-burning vapors. I think they were popular with the people who only bathed every week as was the custom with many back in those days.

My curiosity got the best of me and I googled for them this morning. Speaking of googling, the Google graphics for Thanksgiving are really cute so take a look. Anyway, MedShop Express has "5 Day Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Pads Regular Scent - 75 each for $4.54. Satisfaction within 5 days". It doesn't say "satisfaction guaranteed". They are still on the market, the packaging is different and the added message of "satisfaction within 5 days" leaves me puzzled. In fact it conjures up all kinds of images and I'm not going there.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:54 AM CST [Link]

MEMOREX MX3300 MULTIMEDIA

It doesn't take much to keep me happy and little things mean a lot!

The keyboard that came with my Dell computer was essentially a POS after using it a couple months. Flash forward almost three years and it really was. You couldn't tell one letter from the other, especially the qwerty ones I use all the time. Black pieces of plastic fell out of it and gathered at my feet like dust balls. And the keys were sticking so that I enrolled in a little-finger-weight-lifting-program in order to have the strength to pound out an a or ".

Yesterday Kenz arrived with a new one...a Memorex MX3300 which is a dandy. It even matches my computer, all silver, black and sleek....with 17 small white buttons at the top that will do assorted little chores at my command. But, to this country girl who hasn't been in a computer store in many years to see the array of goodies, this piece of technology is amazing. I can open up all my office stuff, cut and paste, regulate my music and do stuff on the keyboard that I ordinarily have to do with my mouse. It even has a scroll bar on it. Yikes! How much fun. It's going to be a challenge to see how much I can avoid using a mouse. My dancing fingers may never have to leave the keyboard again. Soon I'll be able to move up to the controls of a 767.

I bet there is a way to send subliminal messages through the headset that Brit uses to hear TV....maybe I could even program them to run automatically...."time to empty the trash", "the garage needs a good hosing", "maybe I'll throw a steak on the grill tonight", "Ask Peg if she wouldn't like to drive back up to Nova Scotia for the summer...and I'll stay home and watch Jack".

And it was only $27.00.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:27 AM CST [Link]

Wednesday, November 26, 2003

MIDLAND REPORT

The chef called on her way home last night to report they had another big night at the Midland. There were people there from Ellsworth, Wilson and about. She served a steak and shrimp special that went over really well.

The Midland is a good place to go and relax and have fun...and see people you know doing the same thing. That's what I like about it. I get to go tomorrow!! Yeah...the buffet includes ham and turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberries....all the staples, etc.....and a bazillion pies she's making. I don't know how she does all that, but I know she isn't going home tonight. She's going to be in the kitchen.

P.S. We're going to the Midland for dinner tonight. She's actually working that in too. Mackenzie and her bf are on their way here and will stay for dinner. They will enjoy eating there, visiting with the chef and they can see the place a little better than tomorrow when it will be so crowded.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:44 AM CST [Link]

DRY SKIN

Cold and dry air have settled in. Today I had to drag out the heavy-duty tractor grease, bag balm, and emu oil, to keep the largest organ in my body from shriveling and blowing away in the wind.

I can manage with Eucerin and some of the light weight lotions during the summer months. Having a partner to grease my back is a real plus and he gets thanked a lot for that. It's a place I can't reach (can anyone?). Shower water that's hotter than we're told to use just makes it worse.

Greasing down is just another of the morning rituals that takes time. The older we get, the longer the rituals.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:31 AM CST [Link]

Tuesday, November 25, 2003

5 KU 81....4 MSU 74

KU played like fury last night against Michigan State. It was a pretty ragged game, but fun to watch. They led throughout the game but the gap narrowed toward the end and they probably would have lost had it lasted much longer. I think we have an exciting season to look forward to.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:28 PM CST [Link]

WORST FLU SEASON IN 30 YEARS

"They say" the worst flu season in 30 years is upon us. I suppose flu shots are in order. Brit and I got ours earlier this month so we're as protected as the shots allow.

One thing I don't like is to be around people with colds and sore throats when they are careless with coughing and sneezing. Everyone ought to know to sneeze and cough into the crook of their elbow or if they can't remember to do that, they ought to leave home with blankets over their heads to keep from spreading germs all over healthy bystanders.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 06:42 PM CST [Link]

EXPLORING THE MUSE

Tune in a Kansas PBS station Friday evening at 8:30 to see Exploring the Muse....with Dennis Rogers and Marci Penner.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 05:17 PM CST [Link]

VIDALIA LOUISIANA MENU

This is what my friend Janis Gore is fixing for Lyman, Michael and Lucy:

Menu: homemade yeast rolls, shrimp cocktail, salad with mustard vinaigrette, Chicken Francese, fresh vegetable casserole, oven-roasted potatoes, apple-cranberry pie.

Doesn't that sound just scrumptious?

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:10 PM CST [Link]

Monday, November 24, 2003

PEANUT BRITTLE SALES

From Becky Bailey:

Students from the JR-SR classes (and parent volunteers) will be making and selling peanut brittle.
Proceeds benefit the After-Prom Activities Fund.

We will start making the brittle the Wed (11-26-03) before Thanksgiving, as well as the 11-28-03 and
11-29-03.

If you are interested in purchasing some for your Thanksgiving Holiday, please contact Kristi West (472-3217, 472-8684) or Becky Bailey (472-5484, jbailey@informatics.net) and you will get the first, right-off-the-stove peanut brittle.

We will also be selling at the December 1st parade and festivities, scheduled for a day at Alco and perhaps during home basketball games prior to Christmas.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:56 PM CST [Link]

HEATHER BISHOP

Heather Bishop, the Canadian singer/friend of mine, wrote today to tell me she is touring with the Peggy Lee show these days. She's been on the road in earnest and stopped by her home in Manitoba long enough to get my mail and drop me a line plus doing the usual catching up. She leaves Wednesday for the Yukon and more touring.

She's sending me a copy of a new Peggy Lee CD that she just finished that was released two weeks ago. How much fun. I'm looking forward to that. She's also sending me several copies of Chickee's on the Run as I've had requests for it from friends for their kids. The kid in me wants one too.

Heather spent the month of September in Spain and walked 650 km's on the Camino to Santiago de Comp Estella. Although she didn't say so, I think that is a pilgrimage type of trek.

I always enjoy getting mail from friends.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:50 PM CST [Link]

I'M NOTICING A DIFFERENCE...HOWEVER SLIGHT

I'm into Day 5 of my diet and, unlike other diets I've tried and struggled with, I think this is going to work.

I hate being hungry as it aggravates me, ruins my days and my attitude. If these first few days are any indication, that isn't going to happen with this diet. I'm not hungry and except for a couple of things, I don't think there is anything I'm going to miss very much. Those two things being fruit and whole grain sour dough breads...the mainstays of my prior life. And later on, I can have moderate amounts of those food groups.

I hate to express too much optimism, but usually I'm discouraged by the 5th day, and grumpy. I feel great and probably it's my imagination, but I feel more energetic.

There are two habits I've changed. One is that I've removed the orange juice from the refrig and handed it over to my skinny grandkids. I've learned that one of the worst things I can do is drink a glass of orange juice first thing in the morning....or anytime. Later on if I crave it, I'll substitute a whole orange and be fine about it.

The second thing is that I'm eating breakfast again. It's my favorite meal of the day, but I gave it up for the most part years ago thinking that was part of my weight gain problem. And it was as I always included toast with it...sometimes jam and orange juice.

Lately, I pour a glass of tomato juice and sip a little to take my morning meds then put the rest in the refrig for a treat later. I scramble some "Better 'n Eggs" with sliced dill pickles (hey...it's a family standby from generations ago and really good), or cheese, or a combination of tomatoes, hot peppers and onions, etc. I have Canadian bacon on the side. Breakfasts are my specialty so I won't have any problem with it with a variety of veggie omelets I can fix. It's amazing. I don't get hungry for hours and I feel good. Food quantities don't seem to matter. Carbs do.

I should have done this years ago.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:56 AM CST [Link]

JANUARY 12, 2:00 P.M.

The Legislative Session for both House and Senate convenes January 12th at 2:00 p.m. This isn't far away.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:28 AM CST [Link]

Sunday, November 23, 2003

THE BIRTHDAY BOY HAS BEEN BUSY

The "local" relatives arrived bearing greetings and the others have sent cards and called to remind Brit he's another year older. It has been a nice day for him. We'll do it all again on Thursday. He's a lucky and much beloved guy.

The favorite granddaughter called in to say she was anxious to come home and would leave Dallas about 2:00 Tuesday after class. She's bringing her bf who also is a computer guru. They will bring the tools of their trade to see if they can rid my machine of glitches. Actually, I think I solved some of them today with a new Mozilla download. I just wish there were a way to upgrade MSIE and Outlook, but that isn't possible. I probably should just scrape my c drive clean and reload everything...reformat. Probably that isn't going to happen anytime soon. I know someone who does that every two weeks. Argh.

It's niippy outside and we've had the fireplaces going today. It has been a good day.

A new blogger friend, Jim Smith sent me the website for carbocounters. I've made it through another day with 20 or less carbs. Yeah!

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:08 PM CST [Link]

Saturday, November 22, 2003

K-STATE 24....MISSOURI 14

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:11 PM CST [Link]

BIRTHDAY DINNER FOR BRIT

We had a good time at the Midland tonight. When we arrived, we were the only two in Drummers, but it didn't take long before travelers started wandering in for drinks and dinner. By the time we left there were about ten more having dinner. The upstairs was full and we stopped to say hello to friends before leaving. It was a busy Saturday night.

The service was very good and the food was terrific. My choice was prime rib, broccoli and salad. Brit had the same along with a large baked potato. He was starved. There was a vase with two long-stem red carnations for our table that Jennifer Kepka at Sincerely Yours is now making available for special occasions at the Midland. It was a thoughtful gesture. It's a pleasant place to have lunch or dinner.

We are always watchful coming home from there at night because of the deer. We saw one dash in front of the car ahead of us at the wooded area where four deer have been killed just in the last couple of weeks. It pays to be careful, particularly after dark.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:06 PM CST [Link]

TURKEYS TO SEX

Driving to Salina this morning I encountered a rafter of turkeys that has been hanging out just a little east of town. They were by the south side of the highway except for one that had wandered over on the north side. He decided when I got close, and figured I was unaware of him, that he wanted to wander south to be with the girls. I caught a glimpse of him just in time to slow down and avoid having wild turkey stew for dinner. It spread it's wings and loomed right in front of my windshield as big as a '47 Buick. I barely missed him.

I don't know what all the fencing is about down in the valley by the turnoff to Aylward's ranch but they have had a large crew there for a couple weeks trimming the red cedar hedge row and planting fence. I'll have to wait until Marvin gives me a call to find out. Yohooo, Marvin.

And who does that ugly propane tank belong to that sits right there by the highway? I don't know how they can ruin the landscape with such abandon. First they tore down our historical Eisenglass Hill and now that ugly tank appears to be there to stay. It even has a sign on it advertising someone's propane. I thought Lady Bird had some say so about signage along the highways. I don't find any of this really necessary. It just shows a total disregard to conserve the beauty of our countryside.

We're heading to the Midland Hotel for dinner tonight. Actually, the chef called us early this morning to see if we wanted to make reservations and have prime rib...Brit's favorite. Tomorrow is his 78th, but we aren't really celebrating until Thursday (killing two birds with one whack..so to speak). It will just be the two of us around our table down in Drummers Tavern tonight having a good time.

I ran into good friends, Mike and Nancy from Russell, today in Salina. Nancy designed a house for a friend and goes there periodically to check on the construction. That was a real plus as I hadn't seen either of them for several months. It made the trip very worthwhile.

The grocery store had an ample supply of nice, fresh odd veggies for me that no one else had managed to buy. The weirder they are, the better I like them. I don't know that I've ever had a fruit or vegetable I've not liked....loved! So I bought many that were on my list of okay to eat and I'm ready to roll. I also got a rope of cheese, Canadian bacon and those artificial eggs. I can manage with this diet. And I can see right now my downfall has been all the juice, those lugs of Bing cherries, grapes and all the other fruit that I devour. Tomato juice is still on the good list, so I'm okay. Eventually I'll get an apple and it will be a Fuji, my favorite.

Winter storm warnings for Ellsworth just rolled across the TV. Our bird feeders are really getting traffic today as the feathered ones fill their little bellies in preparation for the change in our weather. They seem to know when snow is arriving. Too bad they don't make little nests to help them stay warm. You'd think they would have figured out by now that nests are good for more than just raising the chicks.

The town is empty again today. All the K-State fans have headed east for the game. I wonder how long those of us who prefer to watch KU basketball will have to wait to see some really good team play? They look pretty ragged so far.

I heard in Salina today that one of our local attorneys seems the likely judicial appointee. Seems logical to me too. That would be very nice for him. He's a very fair guy in his personal life and that will go far to make him a good judge. Fairness is 90% of it, in my opinion.

The Texas Tech quarterback has passed for over 5,000 yards just this season. So my in-house quarterback tells me.

Our Journal delivery person arrived precisely at 5:05 a.m. just as I was heading downstairs to read and blog. I don't know who it is, but they are about the best we've ever had. He/she doesn't often forget us.

My granddaughter is going to bring me a new keyboard when she comes home from Dallas. I've just worn the heck out of this one and Dell really doesn't like to replace it unless it falls apart. I could hardly see the letters on the keys after just a few months and some of the keys stick. It looks pretty tacky. It was suggested I throw it on the floor and claim it broke as then they will replace it, but I can't do that. They aren't all that expensive and Kenz will pick out a good one that should last.

Texas Tech 3...O. U. zip. It is early in the game.

Dave Letterman said something funny last night...well, he's always funny...and his conversations frequently revolve around sex. I thought of the Adult Arcades and the fact they are there because there is a demand for what they sell. He said something like...if you don't think sex is important to people, how the heck do you think we came to have 8 billion people in the world?

O.U. is on a roll.

The end.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:29 PM CST [Link]

DIET...DAY 3

Day 3 should probably be Day 1, since I now find I included a couple of food items in the first two days that probably I should not have. But...the first two days have to count for something since I didn't have any bread, and I could exist on good whole grain bread. No doubt about it.

Another thing is that The South Beach Diet by Arthur Agatston, M.D. makes a lot more sense and seems a much healthier approach to dieting than the Atkins Diet. Although initially it doesn't include fruit, there are several veggies that I can include. My mainstays have always been fruit, veggies and whole grain bread. Obviously, that kind of eating will no longer work for me as there are too many carbs in it.

I'm no expert, not in this or anything, but I think I can actually stick with the South Beach Diet, whereas I'm afraid I couldn't with the Atkins. South Beach stresses leaner meats and lower fat cheese. I can't see needlessly plugging more fat into my system.

After a couple days, I've noticed I'm not hungry or craving particular foods. For me, that's a step in the right direction. Maybe I've just been scared out of being hungry. I'm going to pick up a copy of the book for Todd as he was by last night and said he had started the Atkins Diet. He might like to peruse the South Beach book and maybe it will provide some encouragement during his struggle.

The South Beach Diet book costs $15.00 at Sam's and I've received $15.00 worth of good ideas already. It's full of highlights! And the way I look at it, I can make it a life-style, particularly since the alternative isn't a happy one. The author could do a better job listing foods. I Know he wants to make it simple, but when he has tomatoes under the listing of food to avoid, then says you should limit them to one whole tomato per meal, I'm left a little confused. Maybe I haven't reached the tomato chapter yet.

Before the bad weather sets in, I think I'll make a grocery run for some of those items that will make this first two weeks somewhat easier. There are enough veggies on the good food list to keep me happy for a long time.

All I really know is that everything I once learned to be true is no longer true. I've always believed that fresh fruit juice was good for you. I love fresh squeezed fruit juice more than any other beverage. I love bananas. Those are about the worst things in the world for me. Geez. My efforts to re-learn don't apply to nutrition alone, they apply to about everything...the possible exception being math and I've forgotten most of that anyway. So I continue to read and learn and hope no one tells me I have to start drinking broccoli juice to stay healthy.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:33 AM CST [Link]

Friday, November 21, 2003

PARENTS AND PLAYERS LIKE THE PROSPECTS OF THE NEW BASKETBALL PROGRAM

Enthusiasm abounds for the new basketball coach, his intensity, his style of play and all the other things associated with his program. It has been described as "professional", "intense", "strong on defense", "full of positive criticism" and "enthusiastic". Spirits are high.

It's going to be a team approach, as well it should be. Everyone will dress in shirt, tie and slacks and look like a team of athletes and scholars. All the players will ride the bus together, going to and coming from games, no exceptons. They will make their grades in order to play. If they are suspended they won't play. Boys are out that haven't been in several years, and along with the other players, they are optimistic. Players have regained their enthusiasm for the game. That's all good. Parents have told me that in their meeting with the coach, they didn't disagree with anything he said. They overwhelmingly approved of his program as he presented it and as the players responded to it.

That's all very good news.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:25 PM CST [Link]

SCOTT ALLEGRUCCI

For a young man who has not spent many of his adult years in Kansas, Scott has the heart of a native Kansan. You can sense it.

Scott leads the Travel and Tourism Development Division within the Kansas Department of Commerce and Housing and has only been on the job a few short months. He is good! Very good and I think he will be capable of producing results even though his past experiences have never been in government. He's a bright young man. The Gov. made a good choice in appointing him.

He spoke today at the annual meeting of the Amazing 100 Miles held at the Rolling Hills Zoo. The content of what he said was insightful to our needs in rural Kansas and he understands that economic development IS tourism. He spoke like a veteran. He is a native Kansan.

He has a fast delivery, as I prefer, and is direct, organized, very informative, cohesive...and I like the flow of his words. He was definitely on target, especially for not being on the job any longer than he has been. I was impressed.

Several of us wanted to meet him after the meeting, but three women on the Amazing board surrounded him the entire time and let no one near him. He has his back to the wall and they closed in on him on the front and sides. I don't know what that was all about but I found it weird and disappointing. If they hadn't been hanging on him, and instead were facing the other way scanning the crowd, I would have thought the Secret Service was on duty.

The new conference center at the zoo is a wonderful place to have a meeting. The accommodations couldn't be any nicer. It was a pleasure to be there. Bob Brown conducted a tour of the museum afterwards but I could only stay for a small part of it as my passenger had a tab to get out. There is always so much to do. That museum of Charlie Walker's is going to be a show place beyond belief. Bob Brown and his staff are doing a remarkable job developing it. I'm proud to be member #42 of the zoo.

And I did very well with my diet. I surprised me. They had Salisbury steak, huge baked potatoes, steamed broccoli, zucchini, cauliflower and carrots, salad, homemade dinner rolls and elegant cheese cake, tea, coffee and Smoky Hills wine. I limited myself to the salad, meat and veggies...and a small glass of dry red wine. I feel pretty smug right now to have done that well. I'm only beginning, but I have to do it. I have no options here.

Brit has laid wood in both the fireplaces in preparation for the front that is supposed to arrive this weekend. The geese were on a rampage heading south a few days ago so I suppose the forecasters are right. It's about time for us to experience some Kansas winter.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:21 PM CST [Link]

DIET...I MADE IT THROUGH DAY ONE

I had an encouraging letter from a friend/reader this morning that was helpful. Tips from everyone will be appreciated. Yesterday went very smoothly with no food cravings at all. I'm not exactly sure what I should or should not eat on a low-carb diet, but I gather the idea is to keep the carb intake to a minimum. Duh. Someone said "20...read the labels".

I have the South Beach Diet Book that I bought a couple weeks ago...on a premonition I guess. I didn't open it until two days ago and now I keep it right beside my computer so I can read and highlight stuff. I grew up believing you weren't supposed to mark in books and it has taken me a long time to rid myself of that notion. Now I mark them up anyway that I find helpful. Highlighters are great for getting around those old notions.

So far, it looks like the first few days to two weeks will be the ones to mind carefully. I think I can do that. About the only thing on the list that I will really miss is GOOD bread...the sourdough kind from Wheatfields. I'll have to put a lock on my freezer door. I don't care for pasta, won't miss potatoes or those other white things I'm to avoid. But I do like fruits and veggies, which are my mainstays. Now it's going to be meat and high protein foods that generally I don't have very often. It's worth a try. If it works for most other people, I'll try to make it work for me.

I do best with a list of foods I can eat and ones I can't. Maybe I can get that compiled later on today. There are plenty of recipes in the South Beach book, but as usual, many of the ingredients can't be obtained locally. I think it must be easy to diet in California.

Keep the suggestions coming!

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:45 AM CST [Link]

Thursday, November 20, 2003

INITIATING THE SHOWER

Tomorrow morning the refurbished shower will be initiated! How long has this been going on? Six weeks? I've forgotten. It's a little like pain memory...pretty soon the inconveniences of the renovation will be forgotten.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:53 PM CST [Link]

SCOTT ALLEGRUCCI AND CHARLIE WALKER

Scott Allegrucci, who leads the Travel and Tourism Development Division within the Kansas Department of Commerce and Housing, will be the speaker at the Amazing 100 Miles annual meeting tomorrow at the Rolling Hills Zoo. I'm anxious to meet him and hear what his ideas are for stimulating tourism in Kansas. I understand he's a terrific guy... and capable of meeting the challenges before him.

I hope he's good. The tickets were $15.00 with Salisbury steak on the side. That's hamburger with a few sprices thrown in. Oh well...it's the perfect food now that I think of it. I started a diet today and figured the one everyone else is on should work for me too. Beef is on the okay list of foods. I have to unload some weight right now...at the wrong time of year to get mentally prepared for it.

While I'm there, I'll go visit my animal friends. I love the zoo and think it's the greatest thing ever to happen to central Kansas. For people who really love this part of Kansas, Charlie Walker has to be everyone's hero. Certainly he's one of mine.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:48 PM CST [Link]

THOUGHTS ABOUT THE XXX SIGN AND SHOP

There are a lot of quirky little things about the XXX After Dark Adult Arcade that I haven't figured out...not that I've tried very hard. It really doesn't matter much in the big picture. Actually, it's pretty humorous.

Everyone, so I've heard, has denied loaning money to anyone to buy the Texaco Station for an arcade. I always thought when you loaned people money you had some idea of what they were going to do with it. On the other hand, anyone could have bought the station and no one did. Getting a bad loan off the books is just good business.

Now, some people don't like those who bought the Texaco station, although we don't know for sure who they are, and want them run out of town. They are trying to ruin the Arcade business by reporting to employers those truckers who stop there. That's not the American way.

Then too, I was told by an employee that the Waterin' Hole carried many of the same items and had booths just as the current Arcade does. Nuttin' new going on there...just more of it and that big sign. Those novelties have been around for months....maybe years.

I haven't heard anything about on whose property the XXX sign is planted. But it is definitely planted on private land. If they were well-paid for it, how can you blame them if they have no objection to the store? Farmers need income. How can it be any worse than letting someone plant an ugly and threatening wind-generating machine on your property?

No one has stepped forward to claim authorship of the fliers that were put on car windshields during church service one Sunday. They were filled with lies and misinformation and obviously distributed to incite people. Ooops...that part backfired on them.

All their claims of the big sign ruining the town's businesses seem unfounded. If there are claims that business is going south anyplace near the location of the "sign", maybe it's a red herring. Maybe the business was way down and in trouble before the arrival of the sign.

There are other Wilson businesses advertising inside the Arcade hoping to attract visitors to their places of business. That's interesting and seems like good business.

Everytime I've passed by the Arcade hardly any cars are parked there, but I'm not a night person. Maybe business picks up after the rest of the town has gone to sleep. Terry Yarbrough, who's running the place, is just trying to make a living...like the rest of us.

One of the most conservative men I know.......way to the right, nice guy, but wayyyy right....has no problem with the Arcade and is incensed about the furor over it. He feels if you don't like it, don't go there. That's the way most people seem to feel. The people who scream the loudest about it may have other agendas. That's often the case. Cover up.

It seems like a lot of hoopla over nothing.

So far this has been a case of those who want to tell us what to do against those of us who don't like being told what to do. It was a typical local altercation. The injection of the invitation to bring someone from the American Family Association here to stir up trouble adds a whole new dimension to the argument. You might like to do a little research on the net to see what this group does for a living.

If the Wilson group follows the petition course taken by some Abilene residents, and the court orders a jury hearing to determine what is pornography and what is obscenity, we can all expect to pay higher taxes for that bit of folly.

Anyway, the complexities that are now clouding the picture are going to needlessly involve county officials and everyone else. It's too bad we couldn't try to be better neighbors and learn to accept and grow with the diversity that prevails everywhere else. Until we do, we can't expect people to want to move to rural Kansas. We just need to be more accepting of our differences and move ahead to save our communities. As it stands now, we are only rearranging our deck chairs on the Titanic.

"You've got to be carefully taught"....to think the way some do.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:58 PM CST [Link]

HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR

DATE: Sunday, November 30 - Tours from 2-8 p.m. include the following homes: Ron & Pat Svaty, Jim & Sheli DeVolder, Mark & Malinda Cunningham, and Bernadine Bachman.

Homemade Soup and Pie Supper: Ellsworth VFW Hall 5-7 p.m.

COST OF EVENT: $10 ticket includes home tours and soup supper

Sponsored by the Purple Power Catbackers. All proceeds will go to a KSU Athletic Scholarship in Sara Goddard's name. Contact Johnnie Goddard or Bernadine Bachman for additional information. Tickets can be purchased from Catbacker members, La Prairie, Citizen's Bank, First Bank, and Svaty, Sherman, & Hoffman Law Offices.

Anne Deming also has 10 tickets to sell and you can find her at home in the evenings.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:26 PM CST [Link]

NO ONE LIKED MY IDEA....

Kansas might be best-known for two things: farmers and "The Wizard of Oz." So it's not surprising that designs featuring those themes were among the five recently submitted to the U.S. Mint. One will become the Kansas quarter in 2005.

The Kansas Commemorative Coin Design Committee recently selected the five finalists from more than 1,200 entries. All the entries reflected great pride in the state.

Well, that is all well and good. It will be a nice, conventional looking quarter. like every other state has, that people use for making change, getting sodas from machines and such. Unless you are a collector, people don't pay much attention to what is on the face of a coin.

So, I had a better idea, but I didn't officially suggest it for fear of being run out of the state...and I love Kansas and Ellsworth. But I'll tell you what it was. It was a chance for us to be unique, creative and rich...and a lot folksy.

I figured since the state is broke, nearly so or going to be...or whatever someone who has had the most recent say so on the subject has determined...we should do something to raise money and show concern for all our citizens. And what better way, I say, than to have a lottery and give everyone who has $1.00 for a ticket an opportunity to have his or her mug put on the new quarter. What a great idea.

Someone in Kansas (they should have some tie to Kansas, don't you think?...something even as remote as knowing someone in Kansas so that we'd bring in a lot of new money to the state) would have a face that would be remembered almost forever.

"Look at this quarter, Tiffany Pearl....that's the face of your great-great-grandma. She wasn't famous or rich, but she won the lottery back in O three"

I figured almost everyone in Kansas would buy a bucketful of tickets with the hope he or she, one of their kids or ancestors, or an alien friend in Florida would be the eventual winner. Wouldn't that have been fun?

Then, on some cold, snowy night when everything in the state was at a standstill, we'd tune the TV to the long ballyhooed channel, like we did for the episode of "Who Killed J.R.? where Vanna White, Brad Pitt or some heartthrob would draw the winning ticket from the giant barrel where tickets had been accumulating and drawing dust for months. Think of the excitement and suspense. Photographers would have done a brisk buisness so that hopeful winners would be prepared.

Vanna, not being a Kansan and fumbling with the ticket, would have a puzzled look as she tried to figure out the name. She'd pass it to the Gov. who would pass it to an aide who would pass it to someone from rural Kansas, who then with an enlightened look would whisper the name back to the aide, who would whisper it back to the Gov. who would then announce the winner's name....ANNABELLA MARIE CAJTHMLOZOFOSKY. Everyone would say "Rats!" then... "ANNABELLA MARIE WHO?"

But the state would be a wallowing in money at that point...so we could fix our schools, the health system, rural Kansas and all those things that need fixing because of Annabella Marie Cajthmlozofosky and others just like her who had bought a bazillion tickets. Everyone would be so impressed with Kansans and our friendly, folksy approach to things that we'd have all kinds of people with kids moving to our small rural towns with the hope they could live next door to someone just like Annabella Marie Cajthmlozofosky. We'd all take pride in the face of one of "ours", or a friend of a friend of one of ours, being on the new Kansas quarter.

I thought it was a humdinger of a grand idea.

The end.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:14 AM CST [Link]

SEBELIUS EXPECTS NO CHANGE IN MARRIAGE LAW

The Associated Press

Thursday, November 20, 2003

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius would not say Wednesday whether she supports or opposes gay marriage, only that she does not think a Massachusetts court's ruling on the issue will lead to a repeal of Kansas' ban anytime soon.

Pressed further about her own views on same-sex marriages, she said, "Well, I need to read the case. I don't really even understand quite what the facts were or what they took a look at. I think that the Kansas Legislature overwhelmingly set the framework for the law in Kansas, and as I say, I don't see that changing anytime soon." Full Story

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:27 AM CST [Link]

YEA! RANDY IS HERE

It's better than a room full of gifts if you can get a plumber to show up for work! Randy is here today to get the water running in our shower and lavatories. Well, that's an exaggeration as all the bits and pieces aren't here. At least this is a step in the right direction. Tiling the shower seems like a life-long project and as it turns out, I hope it is finished and I get to use it before I croak.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:25 AM CST [Link]

GREAT AMERICAN SMOKEOUT

The idea for the Great American Smokeout came from Arthur P. Mullaney, a Massachusetts resident who asked people to give up smoking for a day in 1971 and donate the money they would have spent on tobacco to a local high school. Then, in 1974, Lynn R. Smith, editor of the Monticello Times in Minnesota, spearheaded the state’s first D-Day, or Don’t Smoke Day.

The idea caught on, and on November 18, 1976, the California Division of the American Cancer Society successfully prompted nearly one million smokers to quit for the day. That California event marked the first Smokeout, and the Society took it nationwide in 1977.

Nicotine is as addictive as heroin or cocaine and it's a huge loadstone around the necks of three of my family members and lots of other people, particularly our young. They know they shouldn't smoke. They know you can die from smoking, die too early in life...and kill others that encounter their second-hand smoke.

And there are ways to kick the habit. Lots of us did kick it. It doesn't work to tell someone they shouldn't smoke. They already know that.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:20 AM CST [Link]

LINDA'S INDY EDITORIAL

As usual, Linda's editorial, "There are better ways to fight", in this week's INDY is a good one. "Grand jury investigation isn't the answer to concerns over adult video store".

"It's not easy to turn an adult video store into a victim, but the folks in Abilene are close to accomplishing the transition. Let's hope Wilson residents don't follow their lead. Because everyone else is too naive...or immoral...to avoid the temptations of the Lion's Den Adult Superstore in Abilene, a group calling itself Citizens for Strengthening Community Virtues has decided to help us out.

"When members weren't jotting down the license tag numbers of truckers who frequent the store, they were collecting signatures on a petition to force a grand jury investigation into the Lion's Den.

"Friday, judges of the Eighth Judicial District approved the order summoning the grand jury. As a result, 15 jurors, who must be impaneled within 60 days, will be asked to decide whether items sold at the store are obscene or merely pornographic.

"Obviously, this exercise in democracy will cost taxpayers a few dollars---and all because a few want to control the behavior of many...."

"...Forever, residents of rural Kansas have rejected laws and regulations that would have given small towns and counties control over their growth. They seemed to be to fly in the face of the independent, 'I'll-do-whatever-I please-with-my-own-property' attitude that fills the Kansas landscape."

This about sums it up in a nutshell. People have brought zoning suggestions to the city and county for years and the powers that be have always been reluctant to enact laws regulating the use of private property. I remember the struggle that the Ellsworth City Council went through many moons ago while trying to establish some kind of zoning for Ellsworth. If you look around, you can observe there isn't much zoning other than regulating single and multiple family dwellings...and not always then.

In Abilene, as in Wilson, it was a local fight between those who want to tell us what to do and those who don't want to be told what to do until the added element of American Family Association was injected into the play. Now the rules are different and the game will be played in a different way. That is unfortunate.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:56 AM CST [Link]

A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE ARCADE

Someone told me yesterday he thought he'd stop by the Lion's Den last Saturday, just to look around, but he wanted to get home to watch the K-State game and was running out of time.

Instead, as he watched the "watchdogs" taking down the license plate numbers of those going inside, he decided to reverse the action and get their license plate numbers. Their cars were off to the side and when he drew along side them, the men came up and asked what he was doing. "Just getting your license plate numbers". He said they looked perplexed, stuttered and didn't know what to do.

He said it was fun!

The watchdogs haven't figured out that their actions are only increasing the number of curious shoppers.

Too bad they aren't going after the people who have automatic weapons, hand guns or smoke....as those things kill us. No one every died from using something they bought in an arcade.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:27 AM CST [Link]

Wednesday, November 19, 2003

NICK'S ROLLING IN THE CHAMBER MEMBERS

From Nick:

"Congratulations and welcome to the Ellsworth County Commissioners who are joining our chamber family. As with our school district, this government entity is a natural partnership with our community’s’ businesses. Many things the commissioners do reflect or affect our business environment. How well we do as a business community certainly affects the decisions they have to make. Both can enhance the quality of life for our communities and that is an important ingredient of the Chamber’s mission. I personally look forward to working with County Clerk Jan Andrews, a former school board member colleague and good friend, as well as the commissioners, individually and collectively. Welcome aboard commishes."

"We also welcome aboard a long-time downtown business, now an edge of town business, Holm Motor Company, Jeff Holm, President. We are very pleased that Jeff has made the decision to remain one of our local car sales and services operations. From the bygone days when Ellsworth downtown had five new car dealers to zero in 2003 is a sign of the times. It is a significant benefit to our communities to continue to have this family tradition of quality service for our auto needs. We wish Jeff and his associates continued success."

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:18 PM CST [Link]

Tuesday, November 18, 2003

THE PORN FIGHTERS ARE COMING!

Randy Sharp, an official of the Tupelo, Mississippi-based "American Family Association", a right-wing watch group, (formerly known as the National Federation for Decency) is going to be speaking in Wilson on Dec. 3rd at the Catholic Parish Center at 8:00 P.M. A similar meeting will be held at 7:00 the next evening in Abilene at Sterl Hall. Mr. Sharp will "offer legal support" to those concerned about the adult stores.

A certain handful of citizens from Wilson and Abilene have gone on record opposing adult video and novelty shops since they have opened on I-70 exits near these two towns. The ruckus seems to cause more irritation among the natives than the shops.

This is the Mission Statement of the "American Family Association", a conservative, religious-right organization, as presented by Charity Navigator.

"Founded in 1977, the American Family Association (AFA) exists to motivate and equip citizens to change the culture to reflect Biblical truth. AFA stands for traditional family values, focusing primarily on the influence of television and other media - including pornography - on our society. We believe in holding accountable the companies which sponsor programs attacking traditional family values. We also believe in commending those companies which act responsibly regarding programs they support."

Further evaluation of this group can be found at: this website There are over 1,500 entries about this organization on the net and can be found by googling for "American Family Association".

These are some of the American Family Association ministries and/or websites. (The following is taken from their website)

* American Family Association
* American Family Radio
* AFR News
* AFA Journal
* AgapePress.org
* OneMillionMoms.com
* OneMillionDads.com
* OneMillionYouth.com
* NoGayMarriage.com
* StopLiberalJudges.com

AFA’s principal issues:

American Family Association targets the media and entertainment industry’s “attack” on “traditional family values.”

Two of the main duties that AFA assigns to itself are “promoting the centrality of God in American life” and “promoting the Christian ethic of decency.”

“Indecent” influences in American culture include: television, the separation of church and state, pornography, “the homosexual agenda,” premarital sex, legal abortion, the National Endowment for the Arts, gambling, unfiltered internet access in libraries, and the removal of school-sponsored religious worship from public schools.

# Among its hundreds of boycott targets over the years are "Cheers," "The Johnny Carson Show," "Saturday Night Live," "Roseanne," "Nightline," "NYPD Blue," and “Ellen.” AFA has called for widespread boycotts of all businesses that “promote” pornography, homosexuality, or other forms of “indecency.”

# A major target has been Disney and its subsidiaries. According to the group “Disney’s attack on America’s families has become so blatent, [sic] so intentional, so obvious, that American Family Association has called for a boycott of all Disney products until such time as this activity ceases.”

# Other boycott targets include American Airlines for their policy of providing domestic partner benefits and K-mart for selling music that has a “parental advisory warning” sticker, even to adults.

# Donald Wildmon has called for the shutdown of PBS and as a result of the AFA's campaign, many state legislatures reduced funding for public broadcasting. The AFA spearheaded the attack on the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the 1980’s, using direct mail and extensive print advertising to distort the NEA's record of sponsorship of the arts.

Well, this describes the nature of this group pretty clearly.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:52 PM CST [Link]

TURKEY DAY IS APPROACHING

There isn't going to be any bird cooking around here this year as we're going to the Midland.

I've done time in the kitchen over turkeys and I'd just rather not do it again soon. There is something about turkey that requires a lot of time and cooking. In our household, that means several traditional side dishes in addition to the dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy and green bean casserole.

To most of us, it isn't Thanksgiving without scalloped oysters. There are others who feel the same way about candied sweet potatoes. We all want cranberries...three kinds...sauce, jell and baked, all from fresh berries of course.

No one really likes molded salad or my family's traditional 24 hour salad with Royal Ann cherries, toasted almonds, pineapple and cooked custard but me. Sometimes I make "green jello" for the boys and me.

There is always way too much food and left-overs to deal with. That's the downside. The other downside is that there is no leftover turkey for one fat sandwich with dressing on it. Bummer.

So, they're not off through the woods to grandmother's house this year as I'll be in Wilson along with my entire family. I know the food there is going to be terrific. I know because I've been to her Thanksgiving Day spreads before. Bring on the bird!

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:40 PM CST [Link]

THINK AGAIN ABOUT DRIVING WHEN YOU ARE DROWSY

New Jersey cracks down on drowsy driving

November 18 – New Jersey lawmakers and highway safety advocates across the country hope the state’s new ‘drowsy driving’ legislation – the first in the nation – will be a wake-up call to drivers who hit the road when they’re tired and currently cause more than 100,000 accidents per year nationwide. The measure allows motorists to be charged with vehicular homicide, an offense punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $100,000 fine.

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS A precedent has been set.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:11 PM CST [Link]

MASS. HIGH COURT RULES GAY MARRIAGE LEGAL

By The Associated Press, The Boston Globe

Massachusetts' highest court ruled today that same-sex couples are legally entitled to wed under the state constitution, but stopped short of immediately allowing marriage licenses to be issued to the couples who challenged the law.

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS "The right to marry the person you love and with whom you wish to share your life is one of the most fundamental of all our human and civil rights," the plaintiffs wrote in a legal brief. "The desire to marry is grounded in the intangibles of love, an enduring commitment, and a shared journey through life."

There remains much to be said on this subject.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:06 PM CST [Link]

YOU'VE GOT TO BE CAREFULLY TAUGHT

Given the feelings I expressed about prejudices here on my blog, one of my readers thought the lyrics to "You've Got To Be Carefully Taught" would be appropriate to publish. He's right. The lyrics to this song are so true.

Stop and listen to what children say, particularly when they bully other kids and call them names, tease them about their masculinity or acne, or being fat, black or skinny....think about where they learned to hate. It is happening in our schools here in the county every single day.

Think further about the bullies and taunters. The details differ, but a common thread runs through nearly all of the school shooting cases. School shooters are consistently described by classmates as "different"...specifically skinny, lanky, chubby or scrawny. These characteristecs are exactly the opposite of how one might imagine a gun-weilding killer to look. And that might be the point.

Male role models among faculty, parents and students' peers should encourage academic success and community participation, not just athletics and competition. New models of manhood could go far to ameliorate school violence.

From the musical "South Pacific":

You've got to be taught to hate and fear
You've got to be taught from year to year
It's got to be drummed in your dear little ear
You've got to be carefully taught
You've got to be taught to be afraid
Of people whose eyes are oddly made
And people whose skin is a different shade
You've got to be carefully taught
You've got to be taught before it's too late
Before you are six or seven or eight
To hate all the people your relatives hate
You've got to be carefully taught
You've got to be carefully taught

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:06 AM CST [Link]

POSSUMBLOG HAS LIMPED BACK TO WORK

From Terry's blog:

An animator who's a soldier serving with Chief Wiggles, wants to make a comic book to help spread the word in Iraq about the toy project. He's asked for stories that feature Chief Wiggles that teach a good principle or convey a positive attitude (think Chicken Soup for the Iraqi Child's Soul). He'll draw pictures and convert the story into comic book format. It will be translated into Arabic.

If you've always wanted to write a children's book, here's your chance! We'll cite you as the author. In the event that we sell the book, all the proceeds will go towards the toy drive. Please send us your uplifting stories!

You can email those stories to us at chiefwiggles@operationgive.org.

Maybe some of our students from here who are sending pencil boxes to the children in Iraq (through Kris Thompson) might be interested in contributing a story.

For more details, CLICK HERE TO REACH POSSUMBLOG

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:21 AM CST [Link]

MEGA-CASINO FAILS TO INTEREST GAMBLING COMMITTEE

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius' gambling advisory committee on Monday showed little support for a mega-casino concept developed by two northeast Kansas Indian tribes.

For the full story, follow what Senator Ben has to say here: "I definitely am opposed to any more Indian casinos," said committee member Ben Vidricksen, a former Republican state senator from Salina."

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:08 AM CST [Link]

One ought, every day at least, to hear a little song, read a good poem, see a fine picture, and, if it were possible, speak a few reasonable words.

–Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832)

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:22 AM CST [Link]

Monday, November 17, 2003

DO YOU KNOW WHO HAS THEIR EYE ON OUR WATER?

Becky Tanner of the Wichita Eagle has an article you might want to read. I know Becky...she used to work at the Salina Journal and I respect her talents as a reporter and writer.

One of these days we are liable to wake up and find out everyone around us....Hays, Russell and Salina to mention a few...is going to be draining quantities of water from Wilson and Kanopolis Lakes. Reference is made to that in the following article which makes some points about how critical water is going to be for us. We really need to take notice of articles like this. Hays is going to take our water

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:33 PM CST [Link]

VADA ROLFS IS 94 TODAY

How many 94 year old women do you suppose go to basketball games because they like and admire the coach? Well, that is exactly why Vada Rolfs, Letha Nienke and another woman whose name I can't recall were at the middle school ball games tonight. They all live together at the Good Sam home and are friends of Scott Moore's. They wanted to see his team play.

Vada had a full day with several cakes, presents, greetings and phone calls from all over the US including Hawaii, she said. It has been a splendid day for her.

And I might say, the boys teams appear to me to be better organized and coached than in years past. They certainly play better than they did a few years ago so they have picked up some fundamentals along the way.

There are a lot of boys out and I think since they have three teams, they all get to play. I finally played out toward the end of the second game, but I got to see my neighbor, Chris Buchholz play as I told him I would. He's a good little ball handler and scrapper...he shows signs of being very good. If we keep all these kids in the program, it will show promise for our high school team.

Jean Schwerdtfeger was frying hamburgers so I bought one for the ride home. They were really good, fat patties and well seasoned. But ...they aren't serving onions any more. I don't know why. Maybe they think everyone is sitting too closely together at games.

Now to see if I can figure out what is wrong with my Outlook. What a pain!!!

Posted by Peg Britton @ 06:46 PM CST [Link]

MIDDLE SCHOOL BASKETBALL

Scott Moore and Dale Kuhlman ought to be an unstoppable combination. I love to watch Dale coach, I like the way he treats his players...especially when they follow his directions. I don't mind at all that he yells and screams and stamps his feet because he's not at all mean when he does it. I know and understand meanness in coaches and he isn't one of them. He's just trying to get the attention of his players...who really have a lot to learn by the time he inherits them.

Scott is a good friend and I know how much he loves coaching. I have missed his other games...even one they won...so I'm going to the middle school for their 4:30 game against Sterling. That's what the schedule says. It should be fun. Anyone want to join me there?

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:38 PM CST [Link]

I REALLY AM PATRIOTIC...but maybe not in the most traditional ways

A few uneasy quivers creep under my skin when I see that someone from the Department of Administration in Topeka is on my blog followed an hour and a half later by someone using the the House Information Systems client at 2nd and D St. SW in DC. Then USDA from Ft. Collins. If they can find me out here in Ellsworth Kansas....guess what?

Maybe I should explain I'm too old to be a threat to anyone! Well, sortakinda.

Now someone is ringing our doorbell...men in black suits? I guess not. Brit is here and they are gone. I suppose it was the JW's.

Now if I could only get my mail to work right. I need an Outlook expert to tell me what is wrong.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:29 PM CST [Link]

POSSUMBLOG IS SICK

My friend Possumblog is sick. It would be hard for me to describe exactly what has put him in bed, but I think we should commiserate with him as he lies there in Birmingham waiting for it to pass. Here's what he has to say:

Recipe for Misery

One pound of gravel
One tube of contact cement
One cup of sand, grit, or other coarse particulate matter
Two large rocks, approximately 6 pounds each

Take gravel, stuff inside of sinus cavities until firmly packed. Squeeze entire tube of contact cement into sinuses, taking care to ensure that all voids between gravel pieces are filled.

Take out eyeballs, place in plastic bag with sand, shake until fully coated. Pour remaining sand into eyeholes, then replace eyeballs. Tie two rocks to head over eyeballs in order to maintain pressure at bursting point.

Garnish with sprig of parsley.

I have something. I don’t know what it is, and I suppose I should be grateful it’s not accompanied by a 212 degree fever and jet-propelled excrement, but it is something, nonetheless. It started creeping over me during the car show, and was fully formed along about mid-day Saturday. It has stayed with me, and although the congestion and coughing is unpleasant, at least there are the weird, half-awake dreams it produces. Who needs peyote?! Anyway, I am at home today. After I type this, I am going to crawl under the covers and sleep the sleep of the dead for about ninety-eleven hours.

See you all tomorrow with Tales of the Car Show, Getting Sick, Soccer, Fur in my Head, and I don’t know what all else.
posted by Terry Oglesby at 8:10:32 AM Oh, So Many Comments! (2)

You can find Terry's blog, which is enormously humorous, in my blog list to the left.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:30 PM CST [Link]

BOUNCE!

I think I blogged this once before, but it's worth running again. There are lots of uses for Bounce and many of them I use and find helpful. I don't often use it in the dryer unless I'm doing a load of Brit's shirts. Most certainly, I never use it with towels of any kind. It makes using them like they were pieces of waxed paper. No thank you.

One of my school chums from Salina, Paul Strand, sent this to me. After retiring from the insurance business, he's full of helpful hints. I haven't seen him for many, many years, but back then, he was the handsomest guy I ever dated. Correction: He was the handsomest guy in a six-state area, imo, and probably still is.

Here's what his list included?

It will chase ants away when you lay a sheet near them.

It also repels mice.. spread them around foundation areas, or in trailers or cars that are sitting and it keeps mice from entering your vehicle.

It takes the odor out of books and photo albums that don't get opened too often.

Repels mosquitoes. Tie a sheet of Bounce through a belt loop when outdoors during mosquito season.

Eliminates static electricity from your television (or computer) screen. Since Bounce is designed to help eliminate static cling, wipe your television screen with a used sheet of Bounce to keep dust from resettling.

Dissolve soap scum from shower doors. Clean with a sheet of Bounce.

Freshen the air in your home. Place an individual sheet of Bounce in A drawer or hang in the closet.

Put Bounce sheet in vacuum cleaner.

Prevent thread from tangling. Run a threaded needle through sheet of Bounce before beginning to sew.

Prevent musty suitcases. Place an individual sheet of Bounce inside empty luggage before storing.

Freshen the air in your car. Place a sheet of Bounce under the front seat.

Clean baked-on foods from a cooking pan. Put a sheet in a pan, fill with water, let sit overnight, and sponge clean. The anti-static agent apparently weakens the bond between the food.

Eliminate odors in wastebaskets. Place a sheet of Bounce at the bottom of the wastebasket.

Collect cat hair. Rubbing the area with a sheet of Bounce will magnetically attract all the loose hairs.

Eliminate static electricity from venetian blinds. Wipe the blinds with a sheet of Bounce to prevent dust from resettling.

Wipe up sawdust from drilling or sand papering. A used sheet of Bounce will collect sawdust like a tack cloth.

Eliminate odors in dirty laundry. Place an individual sheet of Bounce at the bottom of a laundry bag or hamper.

Deodorize shoes or sneakers. Place a sheet of Bounce in your shoes or sneakers overnight.

Golfers put a Bounce sheet in their back pocket to keep the bees away.

Put a Bounce sheet in your sleeping bag and tent before folding and storing them. Keeps them smelling fresh.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:13 AM CST [Link]

DEMOCRAT BLANCO WINS LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S RACE

Democratic Lt. Gov. Kathleen Blanco became the first woman ever elected governor of Louisiana on Saturday, defeating a conservative Indian-American and scoring a rare gain for Democrats in an election season that has seen a string of Republican victories.

It will be interesting to see how thiis Kathleen compares to our own Democratic Kathleen.

Blanco is a 20-year veteran of public office, has had a low-key career first as a legislator, then as a Public Service Commissioner, and finally as lieutenant governor, where she oversaw the state's tourism efforts. Her campaign sought to portray Blanco as a warm, family-oriented public servant.

With her experience in tourism, maybe she's done something in LA similar to resolving the problems we have in Kansas with agri-business insurance. Wouldn't that be nice if she could provide a template for us.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:05 AM CST [Link]

AN OPEN DAY

As I sit here enjoying my morning cup of coffee...while deleting a window full of trashy spam...it occurred to me that this is my only open day this week. Not that the rest of the days are completely jammed with stuff on top of working eight hour days as they aren't. But they will be full. There are doctor's appointments to keep, meetings to attend and a luncheon meeting at Rolling Hills on Friday to listen to Scott Allegrucci, the new tourism director for the state Travel and Tourism Development Division within the Kansas Department of Commerce and Housing. He's a very popular and capable guy so I'm looking forward to hearing what he has to say. He better be good as they are charging $15 bucks for the lunch that goes with the event.

The high school boys start practice today to open another season of round ball. The feeling I get from my grandsons and listening to their friends is that everyone going out for basketball is excited about the new coach, Travis Powell, and they are looking forward to working with him. They feel he will be fair and demanding, respectful of the players and capable of teaching the game and producing results. And...they repeatedly talk about the conditioning program and how valuable it is to them.

The chef at the Midland reported she served 100 dinners Saturday night...with no complaints and no returned meals. Among those who ate there were Mazie and Jack Grothusen and their entire family. It was Jack's birthday so they were all celebrating the occasion. Happy Birthday, Jack! Ally prepared prime rib for those who had made reservations and ordered it. Others wanted it but hadn't made reservations. It's a learning process. She does a great job on prime rib and has the equipment at the Midland to slow roast it...as she was famous for at the Briar Rose in Breckenridge. Not every restaurant has the right kind of ovens for that.

Friends open all kinds of doors for me. Last week I spent a day in Salina...a very long, lovely day as it turned out...with a good friend from Russell. She was born in Germany and grew up there before moving to the U.S. She was familiar with ALDI, which I guess is a German-owned store. I didn't know that. I'd been there once but wasn't impressed. I didn't know what to look for. Now I'll go back with my eyes open.

One of the things she wanted to get while we were in Salina was stollen from ALDI. I love stollen which essentially is a German rich yeast bread containing raisins, citron, and chopped nutmeats....or some other kind of filling. They were out of the apricot marzipan loaf she wanted, but we got some of the kind they did have left which was the traditional loaf....and it is very good stuff. You have to like raisins and a slight hint of citron, and I do, but it surprised the socks off me. It's very good. I wish I'd bought more and stuck it in the freezer. When I go back this week, I'm going to check for it again.

Last night after I crawled in bed, I ran across an interview with Michael Moore. I REALLY LIKE MICHAEL MOORE! Wouldn't you know I fell asleep right in the middle of it? I can't believe I did that. He's the author of the best-selling "Dude, Where's My Country", which I am reading. He's also the author of the New York Times best seller, "Stupid White Men"...and the documentary that I liked so well and blogged to death, "Bowling for Columbine". There's a lot of interesting reading about the special relationship between the Bushes and the Saudi royal family...all documented.

Monday is an awful way to spend 1/7th of your life...but lately, they haven't been all that bad. Actually, it has all the marks of being a very good day.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:37 AM CST [Link]

Sunday, November 16, 2003

THE WARDCRAFT WAY...more on housing

Those needing "affordable" housing ought to read the article that appeared today in the Salina Journal. The manufacturer of Wardcraft housing boasts affordability and quality in a short queue of as little as seven weeks. A similar 1,500 square foot house, ranch-style house built on site would take six months or longer and cost more.

There are several Wardcraft houses in town, and Kohls Construction is still the rep for this company. If you are thinking "mobile home"...think again. These are well-built stick houses, framed with 2 x 6 lumber. The walls are insulated to R-23 and the ceilings to R-38. Every home is fitted with central heat and air and maintenance-free, steel-sided soffits and facias. The exterior is 7/16 wall sheeting with a layer of 1/2 inch Styrofoam before the siding goes on.

They stream-line build these houses indoors in Clay Center after buying materials in volume, thus saving the owner big bucks. You can go visit and watch them build your house.

Wardcraft warranties the completed houses for one year. You get quality with these homes.

Zach Jones, of Wardcraft, says they build houses for $47 to $66 a square foot. This does not include the cost of the foundation, basement and garage or extras. If you compare apples to apples, a Wardcraft house will match the quality and be cheaper than a site built house.

Now, a site-built house will cost at least $100 a square foot...and probably closer to $125 here in Ellsworth and other small towns. Check with Ralph Doubrava or Kenny Kohls. Of course you get more options on design and size with on-site constructed house. But if you are looking for affordable, stout construction take a look at Wardcraft. Kenny can refer you to Wardcraft homeowners in town.

So, what is the problem here? If we are short 3 bedrooms, two bath homes, then anyone who can afford to buy a house should be able to afford a Wardcraft to fit their budget. We can't just give houses away. That makes more sense to me than building houses that don't sell, or are sold at a tremendous loss, because they aren't what buyers want or the construction is faulty, to use a conservative word.

Wardcraft can provide a house that meets the requirements of the buyer at the most affordable price. You get what you pay for in a house...if you pick a responsible builder with a sound reputation. It's a matter of what people can afford. Call Kenny or Ralph for good advice when it comes to home construction.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:40 PM CST [Link]

KASPAROV LOSES SECOND VIRTUAL GAME

After a three hour battle against a computer, international chess master Garry Kasparov made a mistake late in the game Thursday and his challenger "pounced".

In this "Man vs. Machine" series, the Russian-born champion was at a disadvantage after a draw in the first game against S3D Fritz. With a victory today, Kasparov has equalized the match (current score 1.5:1.5) and the last game is Tuesday, when Kasparov has Black.

X3D Fritz, a 12-year old German program, defeated its IMB rival Deep Blue in 1995. Kasparov beat Deep Blue in 1996, but an upgrade defeated him in 1997.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:38 PM CST [Link]

SMOKING IS A KILLER

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is sponsoring a new telephone hot line to provide help to smokers who want to quit.

The agency launched the Kansas Tobacco Quitline on Thursday. The number is 1-866-KAN-STOP, or 1-866-526-7867.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:08 PM CST [Link]

SENATOR NANCEY HARRINGTON

The chairwoman of the Kansas Senate committee that handles contentious social issues such as gambling and liquor plans to resign from the Legislature on Dec. 6.

Sen. Nancey Harrington, R-Goddard, sent a brief letter to the secretary of state's office, which released it Thursday. The letter did not say why Harrington planned to resign.

Harrington has served three years as chairwoman of the Federal and State Affairs Committee, one of the Senate's most visible positions because of the legislation that comes before the panel.

Issues considered by the committee have included expanded gambling, legalized Sunday liquor sales and proposed regulations for abortion clinics. Harrington opposes new gambling and Sunday liquor sales and holds strong anti-abortion views.

It's okay that she move along. "Strong views" don't lend themselves well to open discussion.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:43 PM CST [Link]

REMEMBER IVAN WEICHERT?

Ivan is an old friend of mine and works for "the state". I blogged him several months ago when he was here and first told me about his work locating all these unused state cars that were just sitting there. He's pretty amazing developing programs to keep track of such things. There was a news release about it at that time.

Now the push is to rid the state of 739 vehicles which the Gov. says will save the state $8.6 million. There will probably be some good buys at the auction. The state will then rent cars as needed. That makes sense. Ivan is one of the nicest guys you'll ever meet.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:36 PM CST [Link]

PATIENT IS DOING GREAT

I think Brit feels better than he has in a very long time. The Roto-Rooter surgery cleared up a lot of problems associated with the prostate gland and bladder. Older guys tend to encounter these things eventually. Certainly the surgery took care of a lot of his discomfort and infections.

I'd just suggest that the surgery is much easier on younger guys and putting off things won't make the problem go away. Brit waited far too long to seek out a surgeon. He just can't grasp the concept that we are all responsible for our own health care.

I'll take him for his post-op check up on Thursday and I imagine the doctor (Brian Smith) will lift most of his restrictions. Yea!

I'm glad this is behind us now. It was painful for him both before and following surgery...and he was an absolute helpless mess for a few days following surgery, but that is all a thing of the past. We're both glad for that. I'm just delighted he's feeling so much better. And we thank you for your cards, letters and calls.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:52 PM CST [Link]

CHESS AFICIONADOS SAVE DECEMBER 13-15 FOR LINDSBORG

World chess champion Anatoly Karpov will be in Lindsborg to participate in scheduled chess events at the Karpov Chess School December 13-15.

On the 13th, he will interact with students and give opening remarks at a scholastic chess tournament that is expected to draw competitors from Kansas and the Midwest.

Karpov and other top-rated grandmasters will play in a special tournament December 13-14. Grandmaster Ulf Anderson from Sweden also has been invited to the Swedish Capital of Kansas for the tournament.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:31 PM CST [Link]

MILDRED HOLT AND SEND A CARD

I remember many moons ago when a friend of mine told me that her mother was "having a difficult time", as she had reached an age when all her friends were sick, dying or dead. Well, technically they were all "dying" as that begins happening when we hit age 40. That conversation doesn't seem like it happened long ago.

And I understand the meaning of that first hand now. Where once I bought a dozen birthday cards for friends, now I buy a dozen sympathy and get well cards and run out all too soon.

And, I recall my good friend Mildred Holt told me repeatedly that except for a handful of her local friends who were also in their 90s, her other friends were dead. These ladies would go everywhere together...to public meetings like the ones Dane held for the prison, school programs and church. They'd all sit on the front row with their accumulated ages and wisdom totaling about 500 years and be very supportive.

Mildred's friends didn't live to see her, at age 105, appear on the Johnny Carson show. She was supposed to appear on only one segment of the show, but she was so good he let her fill out the hour and the other scheduled guest never appeared. She was an amazing woman with a great sense of humor and wit.

She let it slip on the program, as she was tipping a drink, that she preferred hard stuff to the beer I took her. She didn't "name" me but I knew who she meant since no one else took her booze. She liked a pony can of beer before she went to bed so I kept her supplied, but each time I took her some, she reminded me that I shouldn't tell her friend Eva, who was a confirmed teetotaler. And I reminded her she was 100 and something and should do as she pleased. And she'd agree.

When she was 105 she was reelected secretary of the DAR for another 3 year term.

She was famous for her afghans...or as her friends said...afercans. I have a small one she made for me and I like it because she dropped stitches all over the place. Her eyesight was good, but as she aged she was in a hurry to finish everything so she didn't stop to correct mistakes.

Anyway, I was reflecting this morning on what Mildred used to say about all her friends dying or being dead....and I know exactly what she meant. My list of friends is being chopped because of that very thing. In addition to others, another half dozen of my high school classmates probably will not survive another six to nine months. We're talking about another reunion...but I have already begged out of doing another memorial for those who have died.

This isn't going anywhere....I was just pondering.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:10 PM CST [Link]

SALINA REGIONAL HOSPITAL

Salina Regional Hospital is filled to the rafters. It's a zoo, so I've been told. It's not a situation where there is a lot of influenza or any one thing among patients, it's just a deluge of a variety of illnesses. Stay healthy as there is NO room at the inn where you are referred from here.

Wash your hands. People just don't see the need in really scrubbing their hands. Certainly they aren't taught that in school and it would seem to be a good thing to cut down on the amount of diseases the students spread around. A doctor once told me the proper way....wet your hands, slather them with lots of soap and the scrub front and back and between the fingers while singing "Yankee Doodle Dandy"...all the way through. Then rinse thoroughly and use a clean something or other to dry them. And if you are in a public bathroom, figure out a way to get out of the door without touching the door handle. Do this several times a day, keep your hands out of your mouth and eyes and you just might avoid what's going around.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:56 AM CST [Link]

FROM A DAILY READER OF MY BLOG

"Any time I read about prejudice a song from the musical South Pacific comes to mind: Carefully Taught. I am certain you have heard it, but it is worth listening to again. And speaking of "read some books on political thought and social issues..." I happened to stop flipping channels long enough one night to listen to James Bovard (Terrorism and Tyranny) being interviewed by Brian Lamb on CSPAN's Booknotes program, Brian Lamb does a great job of interviewing authors of serious non-fiction books. Anyway, I ordered the book, which arrived this week, and at least to start with I find it to be a very powerful commentary on US terrorism policy.

BTW, while I will never be a fan of blogs in general I really do enjoy reading your Blog on a regular basis. Keep on blogging."

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:11 AM CST [Link]

RUNAWAY JURY

This movie has been showing in Salina for a long time, but I found it really good. Of course, you have to work in the fact Gene Hackman was in it, and I do think he is a very good actor...one of my favs. I'd rather he played the good guy part, but he was excellent in this portrayal of a voir dire expert in a suit involving a firearms company. It was exciting without the element of gore.

And...another thing I learned. We went to the Tucson Grill afterwards for dinner. I hadn't been there since they trashed the floor with peanut shells and I never cared to return as the food just wasn't all that good. The place looks the same sans the shells and the food was very good. I had baby back ribs that fell off the bone, broiled veggies on a skewer, and stewed spicy apples. I also had 3 broiled tiger shrimp on the side. It was a great combination and I recommend all of it. Linda had their sirloin Jack steak...which had been seasoned well and marinated in Jack Daniels. She said it was excellent as well. They also serve a generous drink and all at a reasonable price. I wouldn't have picked that place on my own, so it's always nice to draw on another's information about good places to eat.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:07 AM CST [Link]

Saturday, November 15, 2003

HOUSE FOR SALE IN ABILENE...

Ally has a house for sale on N.W. 14th street across from the Abilene Country club...on three acres.

It's a dandy house...a one-story ranch with three bedrooms (two of them are large), two full baths, and all the extra space that goes with generous-sized bedrooms and baths. There is a large combination living, dining and kitchen area. It has a full unfinished basement, stubbed for another bath. It has it's own well water and septic system. I can't remember when it was built, but it was by a local, respected builder..and rather recent construction. It's on three acres with most of it fenced in and adjoining pastureland to the south and west.

If you are interested, give me a call at 472.3844 and I'll tell you how to reach her.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 05:39 PM CST [Link]

LET WELL ENOUGH ALONE

The judge is going to convene a grand jury based on the petitions signed by a few people in Abilene. We're talking about the Lion's Den Adult Store. I'd suggest the people of Abilene watch their backsides as one of them may be the next one to get a petition passed against them for merely existing or thinking out of the box.

No one has to go to the store. No one has to buy anything. No one has to even acknowledge the place exists.There isn't anything there intended to hurt or kill anyone. Think cigarettes! It seems that those who protest so much must have something they are trying to hide.

And who among us likes for a very few people to dictate what we should or shouldn't do and what we should think. They want to make decisions for the majority and they are of the opinion that their association with religious right gives them the authority to do that. Frankly, I believe I can decide these matters for myself and I am not as ignorant as they would like to believe. I really do a slow burn with those who believe they have a right to make decisions for the rest of us. Those aren't their decisions to make.

No wonder people from the city don't want to move to our small rural towns...there is a sign at the city limits which says..."Diversity, tolerance and open-mindedness here in River City are unacceptable. Be narrow-minded like us or be out of town by sundown."

I remember similar signs years ago warning blacks to be out of town by sundown. How shameful and cruel...on both counts.

Alas. I can only suggest that it would do a lot of good if people would travel, visit other parts of the country...or heaven forbid, another country....read some books on political thought and social issues...get educated as to how things are in the real world.

And they cry about "zoning". Well, let me see a city or county that is very interested in zoning anything. They descended from stock who fell off the covered wagons in Kansas and hated having the land fenced in... and they haven't forgotten it. It's pretty difficult to do a good job "zoning" when no public body has any long-range goals for anything. Think about it.

Or maybe everyone thinks Fred Phelps and his family are role models to aspire to. These people are all in the same camp. Hatred and prejudice starts right in our own homes with our children and our children's children as evidenced by Phelps, petition passers and others like him. Let it be gone! I'm not sure how these people sleep at night.

Sorry for the outburst, but I get really upset with people who try to shove their beliefs on innocent bystanders who are only minding their own business.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:59 PM CST [Link]

OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY...again!

This test is pretty amazing and it aids in determining if you need an aggressive type of glaucoma treatment long before you could determine it by other means. Eye pressure alone doesn't come close to matching this test which shows the optic nerve in section so that you can determine how far off normal it is. Linda will run this test periodically to see how each tests compares to the base test I just took.

The downside is that I need aggressive treatment for one eye. One is better than two as the med for one eye, Lumigan, came in a very small bottle costing $102. My ophthalmologist said it was expensive. No kidding! It figures as she's anguishing over the cost of the machine. Expensive machine, expensive test, expensive treatment.

The medicine might last a month or more...maybe. Meantime, the warnings include one that says my eye might "turn dark". Great ...two eyes, one blue, one "dark", whatever that means. I hope they are referring only to the part that is supposed to have color.

Well...anything to keep from going blind.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:51 PM CST [Link]

NICK KEEPS BRINGING THEM IN

Nick Slechta's report of new Chamber of Commerce members:

B & B Plumbing (Alan Byerley & Bruce Bowie, owners), 224 E. South Main, as returning members to the chamber family.

K C’s Restaurant, 606 W. 15th Street. They continue to offer a varied menu with evening specials Wednesday and Thursday and buffets on Friday and Saturday. They also feature B-B-Q buffalo and other meat specialties. Don’t forget their catering service when it comes to family gatherings and other special occasions.

Congratulations and welcome to Tammy Kruse, Oxhide Jewelry, 119 E. First Street. Tammy is also no stranger to the Chamber. Her unique specialty shop offers great gift and decorating ideas. Tammy offers local customers and visitors what they really love to shop for; homemade crafts, friendly and helpful service with some food items thrown in for good measure. Her business is very complementary to the other craft and specialty stores in the community and stands to benefit immeasurably when we begin capitalizing on our tourism capabilities. Until then, we encourage everyone to “Shop Home First.”

USD #327 school board has accepted invitation to join our Chamber family with a positive vote during their Monday meeting. During a recent visit with Superintendent Moeckel I was encouraged by his supportive attitude and his recognition of the importance of the public education-chamber of commerce partnership within the communities. Our Chamber is fortunate to have this additional collaborative relationship which, I believe, will serve the best interests of both of our organization’s missions. Our communities will be the real winners as we work together to enhance the quality of life for every citizen.

December 1st - Here’s the skinny on the Christmas parade: Activities will begin downtown at 4:00 p.m. as various organizations set up bake sales and candy making demos. Food booths are scheduled for 5:00. The traditional lighting of the Christmas tree at the Historical Hodgden House will be 5:30 followed by the “Spirit of Tradition” Christmas Parade at 6:00 p.m. Other Ellsworth County communities are being encouraged to bring a float or entry of some kind, displaying the heritage of their town. Caroling, photos with Santa, free buggy rides, etc, are being planned throughout the evening with most merchants open until 8:00 p.m. Entries for the parade are available at the Ellsworth County Independent-Reporter and the Chamber office and should be returned by November 26th, 5:00 p.m. You may call Michelle Van Buren, 472-5083 for additional information.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:16 PM CST [Link]

CELL PHONES

Cell phones are getting so they really irritate me. I don't know how many times someone has called, we start a conversation and the next thing I know, I'm talking to myself....and they have been cut off their service. They are irritating (and dangerous) in other situations, but this part really annoys me. I can't see any reason to have a cell phone that isn't going to work when I want it to.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:24 PM CST [Link]

OUT OF CIRCULATION

I wonder if anyone besides me won't be watching the K-State vs. Nebraska game today? Surely someone else is out there swimming against the tide.

I'm planning to go to Salina to see a movie later on today...actually, there are a couple I'd like to see...Run Away Jury is one and I can't remember the name of the other. Then there is dinner to figure in too. It's hard to work in all those things if you don't start early in the day....but guess what? The person I'm going with has to watch the K-State game first.

If I lived in Salina, I'd spend a lot of time at the Art Cinema and a moderate amount of time in the Dickinson theaters. I don't mind at all going by myself...I just find it hard to justify driving 70 miles to go to a movie alone. My depression up-bringing draws a line there unless it is something really exceptional.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:26 AM CST [Link]

HOUSE HUNTING

I'm not sure what all the hoop and holler is about not having any houses in the area to buy. It seems to me there is an ample supply of houses for sale, of every size and description. Maybe it's just that the people who claim we need more are the same people who make money from selling them. This reminds me that the economic development house in Wilson remains unsold. I don't think they can get anyone to even look at it.

I don't know of anyone, unless they have an unlimited amount of money like Bill Gates, who can get exactly what they want in a house. Everyone makes sacrifices that separate their dreams from reality. Anyone can dream away about the house they want the same way young innocent girls dream about the details of what they want their ideal wedding and husband to be. It's nice to have such fantasies to escape to but real life doesn't usually work that way.

There are lots of houses on the market in and around Ellsworth and Wilson. I've seen a lot of them in the last week. Some are ready to move into unless you don't like the color of the carpeting or paint. One I saw is so clean and perfect it couldn't be any better. It's an older home with small closets and small rooms, but that might be perfect for someone. There is one that is perfect on the outside where nothing more could be done, and the interior doesn't need a lot, just someone who can get on a ladder and paint...and new carpeting. And there are bargains out there as well. You have to consider what the replacement costs of these houses would be when you look at them.

Most of us who have lived here awhile know that when we build a house we better plan on living out our lives in it. Certainly, we have lived out the mortgages on the two we've lived in. You don't make money on real estate in Ellsworth County. Well, maybe the realtors make a good living at it, but home owners don't.

And speaking of building, I've been told that basic construction costs now are running about $125 a square foot. If your design and dreams include lots of corners, angles, a fancy roof line, brick, solid oak cabinetry and plush bathrooms, jack that up the square foot costs considerably.

If anyone knows of a house on a larger scale that is ready to move into...in or around here or Wilson, preferably in the country, give me a call at 472.3844. I'm not moving, but a family member is relocating closer to work. She has a beautiful large ranch-style home with 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, full basement house on 3 acres across the road from the Abilene Country Club if anyone is looking to relocate there.

Meantime the search continues.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:26 AM CST [Link]

OLLIE'S ANTIQUES

I haven't been to Corky's Antique shop yet to eat, but I have been in several times to browse around the place. She's created a wonderful place to browse if you're a collector.

In addition to antiques, Russell friends and friends from here have told me how good the food is there so I'm going to give it a try. Maybe I can do that next week. Who knows...I may just drive over there today. It seems I'm going over there about everyday house hunting. Anyway, she makes everything from scratch, as they do elsewhere in Wilson, and it is said to be very, very good. I want to hit a day when she has green beans and dumpling soup.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:47 AM CST [Link]

PIRATES OF PENZANCE

The high school play last night created a small riot of laughter and applause among the audience who packed the PAC. The same degree of perfection was achieved in Pirates as has been evidenced in previous musicals.

Every year there are good voices who come to the rescue of such productions. We seem to have a very talented group of students with musical talent and combined with the expertise of the music instructors, a wonderful evening of entertainment was provided.

We're very fortunate to have such wonderful facilities to hold such appreciative audiences. Just imagine what such a performance would be like in the grade school gym or the city hall gym, where once they were held. We would have been deprived of Ken Hakoda's high wire act before the performance.

Congratulations students and teachers...and the parents who help...for elevating the cultural standards of Ellsworth just one more degree.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:40 AM CST [Link]

BILLION

The next time you hear a politician use the words "billion" casually, think about whether you want that politician spending your tax money.

A billion is a difficult number to comprehend, but one advertising agency did a good job of putting that figure into perspective in one of its releases:

A billion seconds ago, it was 1959.

A billion minutes ago, Jesus was alive.

A billion hours ago, our ancestors were living in the Stone Age.

A billion dollars ago was only 8 hours and 20 minutes, at the rate Washington spends it.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:24 AM CST [Link]

Thursday, November 13, 2003

MIDLAND HOTEL

Following a meeting this afternoon in Wilson, about 30 of us gathered at the Midland Hotel for dinner. We all had the same thing which was whatever fell out of the freezer. It could not have been better.

The menu included French onion soup (prepared like it is supposed to be...under the broiler with French bread and Swiss cheese and piping hot soup), great tossed salad, roast pork loin, mashed potatoes topped with dill gravy, dressing, steamed broccoli, sauerkraut with caraway seed, hot rolls and bread pudding with chantilly cream sauce. Whew...but it was good.

The hotel is under new management....someone who has had a lot of experience and has local ties who wants to make the hotel successful. Drop in and see for yourself. Things have changed for the best.

It was a great experience....elegant food, good service....shared with friends.

Alan and Dian Wilson from Denver/Breckenridge and Alan/s sister, Ann Wilson were there when we arrived. Alan and Dian were here visiting Ann and learned Ally was the new chef/manager at the Midland and went there for dinner. They were great fans of Ally when she was a chef at the Briar Rose and other restaurants in Breckenridege. Vesta made special trips to eat where Ally was cooking. It was wonderful seeing them there tonight...and quite a surprise. I introduced them to the Heller's who are now living in their family home on Forest Drive as they were there too.

The Midland is the place to go.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:26 PM CST [Link]

AN AUTONOMIC FAILURE-DETECTION ALGORITHM FOR DISTRIBUTED OBJECT SYSTEMS

This is the title of the paper that my granddaughter is presenting at the Fourth International Workshop on Software and Performance (WOSP 2004) January 14-16, 2004 Oracle Conference Center Redwood City, California, USA

The conference is co-sponsored by ACM SIGSOFT, SIGMETRICS in-cooperation with IFIP WG 6.3 and 7.3.

I haven't a clue as to what any of this means. I do know she researched and compiled the information with a team during her summer internship in D.C. at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. And I do know it is very, very difficult to be accepted to present a paper before this august body. She's doing very well.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:10 PM CST [Link]

Wednesday, November 12, 2003

PIRATES OF PENZANCE

Friday night with ticket in hand, I'm heading to the high school with my family...part of them anyway...to see the annual school musical, Pirates of Penzance. I look forward to their productions every year as they are always very well done and provide a wonderful evening of entertainment. Pirates is a long-time favorite Gilbert and Sullivan creation and always well-received. The high school students and music department teachers do a superb.

There is a showing tomorrow night and another on Friday, both starting at 7:00 p.m. If tickets are still available, I'd like to suggest to spend an evening in the PAC and show your support for the music department and students. It beats TV any day.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:05 PM CST [Link]

NICK SLECHTA IS ON A ROLL!

Nick has been named the full-time director of the Ellsworth-Kanopolis Area Chamber of Commerce. In his interim position, Nick signed up 12 new members which is outstanding. The board is working in teams with volunteers with a goal to contact 80 businesses in Ellsworth and Kanopolis and sign up at least 25 new members.

The teams are: "The Drovers" (John Sherman and Linda Denning); "Trail Bosses" (George Stover and Georgina Bates; "Saddles Soars" (Roger Pearson and Colette Kelly) and "Bronk Busters" (Dennis Katzenmeier and Ken Robson).

For more information, call Nick at 472.3888.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:49 PM CST [Link]

Monday, November 10, 2003

MY WEBMASTER AND FRIEND IS WORKING ON GREYMATTER. I'LL HOLD OFF FROM ADDING ANY MORE POSTS UNTIL SHE IS FINISHED.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:50 PM CST [Link]

MORE ABOUT "SHADOWS ON THE RIVER" by Lonnie Haden

You can purchase the book at Jim and Linda's Drovers Mercantile in downtown Ellsworth for $14.50. There will be a book signing so you can get your personally autographed copy at Drovers. Look for a notice of when that will be. The book contains 199 pages and has a local setting about a dog that has been abused. Lonnie has raised and sold dogs for years. He is also a coon hunter, or he used to be. He also was a school board member...we sat at the same table for a long time.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:46 PM CST [Link]

SHADOWS ON THE RIVER

From Sharon Urbanek:

Have you read the new book "Shadows On The River" by Lonnie Haden, Ellsworth? It's his first book and retirement dream. I'm about a fourth of the way through it and can hardly stop reading.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:59 PM CST [Link]

TUNE IN YOUR PUBLIC TV STATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28TH AT 8:30 P.M TO SEE "EXPLORING THE MUSE: THE SPIRIT OF CREATIVITY". All of you who are Kansas Explorers and trying to keep rural Kansas alive and well will want to see this.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:06 AM CST [Link]

FULL MOON

How could I have forgotten? I saw that beautiful moon on the drive home from Hutchinson tonight....yet, I blamed my restlessness on coffee or "something". Actually, I hadn't had coffee since noon, or tea. Finally, it dawned on me. I NEVER sleep during the full moon phase. I couldn't even get close to going to sleep tonight, so I got up. If the moon can cause fifty foot tides in the Bay of Fundy and tidal bores to make rivers run backwards...both which I've seen...then it can cause tides in me to keep me awake all night. Whew! This is the time of the month where there is increased crime. Some say it's because of the added visibility at night to commit crimes...but city policemen claim it's the pull of the moon. Probably it's a combination of both.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:37 AM CST [Link]

Sunday, November 9, 2003

OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY

Interesting sort of process this is. I learn the results of the test this week. Actually I think it is a technique for making detailed x-rays of a predetermined plane section of my optic nerve while blurring out the images of other planes. But I'm not sure. It's something new.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:37 PM CST [Link]

EXPLORE THE MUSE: THE SPIRIT OF CREATIVITY

"Do you ever have ideas that seem to come out of nowhere? A new thought that arrives in a flash of stunning clarity? Perhaps you've almost felt a hand on your shoulder, pointing something out...or you seemed to be in exactly the right place at the right time, and later marveled at the synchronicity of it all. You've experienced The Muse."

What is The Muse? It's a creative spirit that's been with us since time began. Greek mythology put faces to it: the original Muses were the nine daughters of Zeus, and people could call on them for inspiration before they began to work."

This PBS television documentary, Episode II: "Preserving Culture", explores how we experience inspiration in modern life by telling the stories of two Kansans who are changing the world around them in big ways and small ways.

I just returned from this special premiere of "Exploring the Muse: The Spirit of Creativity" at the Historic Fox Theater in Hutchinson. It is about 25 minutes long and features Dennis Rogers, cultural educator, and Marci Penner, rural ambassador. It's a story about people who change our lives with the power of their ideas and the way they see the world.

I'd like to suggest you mark your calendars to see it when it is shown on PBS...that will be Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, the 28th of this month at 8:30 p.m. on all the PBS stations across the state. I'll blog the time again as we get closer to the date.

This is a production of First Generation Video...Martha Slater is the producer/writer/narrator... in collaboration with KTWU, the exclusive presenter of this program in the Topeka/Kansas City area.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:04 PM CST [Link]

Saturday, November 8, 2003

FROM ANOTHER READER ABOUT MOVING TO SMALL TOWNS...

...If certain people can not accept changes, diversity, and support those who are trying to make a difference to keep small Kansas communities alive, then they have two choices: one, continue doing nothing but keeping toxic gossip and hate alive in their communities or two, getting involved and work together to make their community one that people would be proud to live in.

...You can’t expect people to swarm to narrow minded, conservative, hate infested communities. Regardless of your beliefs, most people want to live in communities which offer tolerance of diversity and acceptance of cutural differences...

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:27 PM CST [Link]

Friday, November 7, 2003

YESTERDAY WAS ALL OF THESE THINGS...

Yesterday seemed, at the time, like one of the worst days of my life, but in retrospect, it wasn't.

It really wasn't something truly bonecrushing, but it was simply a relentless series of crummy, daunting, grueling, tedious, annoying, mean, cruel, aggravating, tiring, frustrating, insidiously tormenting/persistent little nuisances. I hate those kinds of days and don't deal well with them when I am overly tired.

Usually I can get out of the above by imagining a nice little tree house at the edge of a forest on my own personal, very private little island ... feeling the soft gentle breezes while sitting out on my deck in the late afternoon watching the dolphins swim by as they're heading in for the night ...

Today has been a much better day.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 06:05 PM CST [Link]

THE TILE LOOKS GREAT!

The Kohls brothers and Harold finished the bathroom tile project Wednesday. Now it is curing! And...we are waiting for Randy to come finish the plumbing. I hope by Wednesday we can shower inside again. That well water outside is getting pretty chilly! (kidding)

They did a great job on it and it will last us several life times. We should have done it that way in the first place. The tile we used 30 years ago was fine...it was the grout that turned out to be the water leaking culprit. Epoxy grout is the way to go. Anything with cement in it is eventually going to soak up water and leak. there have been many improvements in technology and the Kohls brothers still do things the right way...like they were doing it for themselves. Our house will be standing long after others are wobbling in the wind.

Now I need someone to come paint. Someone who is neat and tidy. Ah....I think I know someone. Nan the covered wagon lady is good, they say. And I know she is neat with her work.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:53 PM CST [Link]

FLU SEASON IS UPON US

The County Health Department is a convenient and nice place to go get your annual flu shot. I just did that and caught them at a time when there was no line. I'm ready for whatever. But then...I haven't had the flu since 1958. I remember that clearly and continue to cross my fingers that I don't get it again.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:32 PM CST [Link]

2004 PRESIDENTIAL DEBATES

From: Bob Bagby

We wanted to make you aware that Washington University in St. Louis has been selected as one of the three sites for the 2004 Presidential Debates. In connection with this announcement we are pleased to inform you that A.G. Edwards has agreed to be a sponsor of this Debate, scheduled for October 8, 2004. You can find more information about the Debate at the following website address: Washington University Press Release.

We anticipate the Debate to be highly successful and highly visible on a national level, and we believe our involvement reflects the efforts to raise awareness of our brand through intelligent, informative programming.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:27 PM CST [Link]

THANK GOODNESS FOR ROTO-ROOTERS

Men, particularly the older ones, have a support group like you wouldn't believe. Now that Brit has undergone “Roto-Rooter Prostate Repair Surgery”, almost every guy in town has called to offer his sympathy. Some have called several times. There are a lot of men out there who have experienced the same problems.

Brian Smith was Brit's surgeon ...he's a partner of Randy Hassler's...and was excellent in Brit's case. Personally, I like him a lot. He helps his wife shop for groceries... they have a new baby and a small one, plus two in school. I know...I ran into them in the soup aisle. Brit's very difficult, long and unusual surgery was successful and that counts for a lot too. Maybe this information will help someone out there.

One friend was in the room next to Brit at the Salina Surgical Center who had what he called a “vaporization” treatment, instead of the Roto-Rooter service. He thought he was doing fine until he had to make a run to the emergency room a few nights ago because he couldn’t pee. His catheter is back in and it's once again his best friend. We hope he gets his plumbing problem solved soon as that is very painful...according to the guys. I've heard the intimate details of all their "chipping away" stories.

We’re venturing out to the hospital spaghetti supper tonight as Brit's repaired enough now to take out in public. Until today I was beginning to wonder if I'd ever see this day. Our local doctor, Dennis Kepka, is making the spaghetti sauce…it's that secret recipe he brought back from Italy when he was there in medical school. Every ambulatory person in town…and some not so ambulatory…and us, somewhere inbetween, will be there.

It’s a community fund-raising project for the hospital that has been going on all day and people are very supportive of it. Besides…the spaghetti is very good. They start serving at 4:30...just a little over an hour from now...and dish it out until all of the sauce is gone...that's usually about 6:30...maybe 7:00...depends.

See you there!

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:41 PM CST [Link]

HAWAIIAN PIE RECIPE FROM DENEEN

People were raving about the Hawaiian pie at the Historical Society supper at the Officer's Quarters in Kanopolis the other day, so I chose a piece of it too. If you like pineapple and coconut the way I do, you can't beat this combination. It's easy too...and from the kitchen of Deneen Shively.

Here’s the Hawaiian Pie recipe I promised you. Enjoy!!!

1 ½ cups sugar
1 cup crushed pineapple (do not drain)
3 eggs, slightly beaten
3 Tbsp. flour
1 cup flaked coconut
¾ stick butter, melted
1 unbaked pie shell

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stir all ingredients together and pour into deep dish pie shell. Bake one hour or until filling is set and browned. Cool and top with Cool Whip and serve.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:28 AM CST [Link]

Thursday, November 6, 2003

FROM A READER

"Your blurb on living in Ellsworth was dead on. I’ve lived in Salina, Ulysses, and Syracuse (Kansas to all) and must say, “There’s no place like home!” For many years I swore that I would never live in Ellsworth, but when I came back, I was ready for it and it was the best move of my life. When I first came back, I really noticed the small things about Ellsworth like the brick streets that so many people despise (I love them and drive on them any chance I get); the brick sidewalks with grass growing in the cracks in front of Lois Katzenmeier’s house on Douglas Avenue; the familiarity of faces I’ve grown up with and was comforted to see once again. I could have moved any where I wanted, but Ellsworth was the right choice. Now I live just outside of Kanopolis and am getting acquainted with residents of this small town. Strange to think that I grew up in Ellsworth all my life and knew so few people in Kanopolis – only five miles away. Well, I’m making up for lost time now! "

Posted by Peg Britton @ 06:15 AM CST [Link]

Wednesday, November 5, 2003

YEA! I BROUGHT MY MAIN SQUEEZE HOME TODAY

Brit was released from the Salina Surgical Center this morning sans his auxiliary tubing! That was good news to both of us. He's taking it easy and being doted over. Now to let him mend... and that will take several weeks.

I guess the big news in the family ....and it's very much on the street so I'm not jumping the gun...is that daughter Ally is going to start at the Midland on Monday as general manager and executive chef. Many of you have called to inquire, so there you have it. I suppose there will be an announcement soon.

The Drovers board is meeting tonight and I hope to be able to go.

The patient requested oyster stew for dinner so I need to tend to that and get him settled in front of the fire and TV for the evening.

I'm a tad busy right now....I'll blog when I can find some time. Hang in there with me for awhile.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 05:34 PM CST [Link]

Sunday, November 2, 2003

EAGLE SCOUT CEREMONY

The ceremony this afternoon honoring Drew and Kyle was very nice. Don Ray added a special touch as he also performed Dane's Eagle ceremony in 1967. Time passes.

The family gathered afterwards at our house for a wide variety of Mexican food. It's always fun. Todd and Dane let it out that they have a secret trip planned for Dec. 6 and 7th for Drew, Tyler and Rod. Drew and Tyler don't know which way they are heading or what the special event is, but I expect Rod is privy to the information. After all, he's a big guy...but he loves the fun of surprises too. The rest of us haven't a clue where they are going. Drew and Tyler are going nuts trying to figure it out.

The blood mobile was in town today and Drew gave blood for the first time.

It has been a very nice day. Now to get through tomorrow....the Kohls brothers are going to keep an eye on Jack so he'll be taken care of. The rest of the day is pretty much out of our hands.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:10 PM CST [Link]

Saturday, November 1, 2003

NOVEMBER 4TH FLU SHOTS

It sticks in my mind that Monday is the last day the County Health Department nurses will be out and about giving flu shots. I remember it is the day I intended to get mine, but I'll have to call and check with them on the location and time.

And...it's the day I need to get my patient to Salina by 11:00 for surgery. He'll be glad to have that over with. Me too as he hurts.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:48 PM CST [Link]

OCTOBER STATISTICS

Total hits (any request) on my website for the month of October was 44,100. September was an all time high for hits at 49,203. Last December I had the lowest number of hits at 13,149. I can't complain about any of those figures.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:43 PM CST [Link]

LIVING IN A SMALL TOWN...CONTINUED

A relative and I visited at length this morning about her plans to relocate, and something she said struck home. It's related to what I said earlier this morning about the choices people make about where they live.

In the course of this conversation, she said "...and I have thought about moving to Lafayette (LA) where I still have many relatives, but I never again will live in a small town." She grew up in a very nice, small town in Louisiana about the size of Ellsworth. I didn't ask her why, but I believe I could come up with most of her reasons ...

Lack of acceptance of diversity of thought and global influences…
A lack of job opportunities that would utilize her skills…
Lack of economic opportunities and challenges...
Lack of educational opportunities…
Lack of many of the service that are available in cities...
Pharmaceuticals cost more…
Groceries cost more…
Gas costs more…
Housing costs more…
Entertainment costs more…
Travel costs more…
Medical specialists aren’t available…

And the list goes on.

And, of course, there are the positive things about living in a small town that keep us here...and those things are less important to those who choose not to live here. We adjust.

I love Ellsworth and it is my choice to live here. I'm fortunate to have a choice. I could live elsewhere if I wanted to. That choice may not always be available to others or mine to make, but it is right now and here is where I want to be. I've lived in Kansas City, Salina and Lawrence and loved each of those places at the time. I also have been very fortunate to have traveled around much of the world. I don't want to live any place except here. It has a lot to do with family, friends and "roots" and mine go back here to 1873.

Other people have other reasons why they don't want to live here. Those who choose to live here think it's the best place in the world to be, as do I, but we'd be very short-sighted to conclude everyone feels about it as we do.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:32 AM CST [Link]

DREW W. BRITTON AND KYLE W. WEST

Tomorrow is going to be a special day for Drew and Kyle as it will mark another important milestone in their long journey to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. They've worked toward that goal since they entered scouting at the same time. School and athletics have also found them working together toward similar goals. And their dads and moms have been beside them all the way.

Their ceremony is tomorrow at 2:00 at the Presbyterian Church Sanctuary. Rev. Don Ray will be a part of it as well as son Dane, also an Eagle Scout, who will give the charge. It's a very nice ceremony and an important one to the boys, their families and friends.

Following the reception, our family will gather for dinner and the usual lively conversation and conviviality. Everyone will be there except Mackenzie who by virtue of being a college student in Dallas can't always participate in our family affairs. We'll call her and each of us will tell her what she is missing out on...in this case it will be Mexican food.

It's difficult for boys to get this far in scouting and many of them drop out along the way for various reasons. Given the fact these boys stuck it out, continued to work and never lost interest or sight of their goal speaks very highly of them. It also speaks highly of their parents. Both dads have spent hours in a tent with their sons at one Boy Scout camp or another. Todd took his sons to the National Boy Scout Jamboree. And the moms have been right there too offering their support and encouragement.

And we have another grandson...the Whooper kid....who is just about there too. He has yet to complete his community service and another merit badge and he'll be heading for a ceremony as well.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:53 AM CST [Link]

THE BEAR CAME TO VISIT

Our little friend, Micah, came disguised as a bear last night. He was really cute and the costume was great. He brought along Zorro and a neighbor girl. Those were the only ones we had for Halloween and it contrasted greatly from the other Brittons who had over 150 tricksters looking for treats. It depends on where you live as to how many you get. It's out of the way to come here and all our friend's children and grandchildren who once came by have grown up now. Besides, they can hit one end of town walking from house to house and gather more candy than they can eat in a year. If I were a kid, I'd go to the house where they give you a full-size candy bar with a dollar bill attached. That's a very nice gift for the kids. Which reminds me. Old family friends told me long ago that my grandmother who lived by the river bridge did that back at the turn of the century. She gave the Halloweeners a nickle when they came by. That was quite a bit of money back in those days and she was pretty popular with the kids.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:31 AM CST [Link]

FOOTBALL FIELD LIGHTS ARE STILL ON

Sometimes I feel like the guardian of the football field lights. There were years, during the Garhardt ages, when I'd call about midnight after a game to ask if they intended to leave the lights on all night. Someone always forgot to turn them offl and I could see the meter turning and the bill escalating.

Well, it's 7:15 a.m. and they are still shining brightly...banks of them and the meter is spinning. I'm sure they wanted to ward off the goblins last night and figured running the lights might be cheaper than repairing whatever damage they thought might occur if they weren't on. That's only an educated guess.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:17 AM CST [Link]