Just Another Fan, Taking It Easy on Friday Nights .....

"For me, nowadays, Friday nights in West Texas are a lot different then they used to be," I wrote, just a year ago, "... and Vive le Difference!"

And now, my Friday evenings are different, yet again ... at least a little bit.

This time of year, people in towns big and small congregate under the lights for fun, fellowship - and even worship, of sorts - in football stadia of all shapes and sizes. For many, it's the biggest night of the week. The same can be said for television news departments, where they pull out all the stops to provide special coverage of something that has a special appeal for many of us.

It IS a big night ... and a LOOOONG one, too. Just ask any sports reporter or photog making the rounds of West Texas. You see, it would be easy to fill the sports segment of a regular news broadcast with highlights for Midland and Ector county schools, and results for other schools in their district ...

... but no regular broadcasts on Friday nights! that's why they have 'football forecasts' in weather, extended live sports segments or stand-alone programs, or website features on KMID, KOSA and KWES.

And that's why photographers will be going out in different directions, covering large loops around the region, stopping in an numerous towns to get quick video of that evening's game. In the late 90s, when I was living and working in Fort Stockton, I was also stringing for NewsWest 9, getting video at the Fort Stockton games and handing it off to some hard-driving photog, just arrived from Pecos or Balmorhea, who'd then drive off to cover Buena Vista, or McCamey, or Crane on his way back to the station.

Later, when we moved back to Midland, and I was editing mywesttexas.com, Friday nights were spent at my keyboard in the office, uploading 10-minute chunks of raw audio/video from each of the games our roving photogs visted, fielding phone calls with scores from around the region, updating the website while someone ran the notes to the sports anchor on the set, and the cg operator in the control room.

Long nights, usually following a full day ... really draining, and the family's asleep by the time you get home. I used to be a part of all that, until a couple of years ago. And, really, I don't miss them at all ... and I have A LOT of respect for the people who do that - FOR YOU - every Friday night.

BUT, my Friday evening routine DOES change some this year, now that Younger Son is taking the field as part of the Midland High School Bulldog Marching Band. So, for part of the evening, you'll find the McDonald clan out there, following one of the schools ... and that's just enough for me.

Historic warship may weigh anchor for final sortie .....

This summer, during an all-too-brief stop in Philadelphia, I hiked down to the riverfront to visit, once again, the U.S.S. Olympia ... at the time, I didn't know that it may have been a farewell visit.

A grand old ship that stayed the course in the face of the Spanish Navy more than a hundred years ago, the Olympia has been ravaged by time, the relentless barrage of the elements and - admittedly - an inadequate maintenance program. She's the oldest steel warship still afloat, and the last of her kind in all the world. But, barring a dramatic change in her fortune, she may soon go to the bottom forever.

The Olympia is a snapshot in time, and a glimpse of the revolutionary changes in the practice and technology of naval warfare that were taking place in the late 19th-century. Her gun turrets resembled those that were introduced by the U.S.S. Monitor during the American Civil War, though they were dramatically improved. She brought a new, larger and more lethal generation of deck guns into the fray, as well. Her armament also included above-surface torpedo tubes, which would see their heyday in later ships, in the next century. And while she was powered by a new type of coal-fired steam engine, she still had masts capable of carrying a set of sails for emergency propulsion. And she was one of the first of the Navy's ships to have electricity and powered steering gear.

It was not only a transitional period for warship design worldwide, but one for warship policy in the United States, as the U.S. Navy's focus shifted outward from coastal defense, to project our growing influence around the globe. The Olympia and others of her generation (including the U.S.S. Maine) were a preview of the Great White Fleet that would circumnavigate the world 15 years later, demonstrating America's military power and "blue-water" navy capability.

In a number of ways, the Olympia would make her mark in history. She is perhaps best known for her services as Commodore Dewey's flagship at the Battle of Manilla, during the Spanish American War. It was from her deck that Dewey spoke the famous words "You may fire when ready, Gridley," launching the attack that resulted in the sinking or capture of the entire Spanish Pacific fleet, and silencing the shore batteries at Manila. I remember my first visit to the Olympia, as a youngster, scrambling up to the deck, and standing on the brass footprints that marked where Dewey stood when he said those words.
In the years that followed, Olympia was active in the Pacific, the Atlantic, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. She served as a training ship for the U.S. Naval Academy. She was a barracks ship in the port of Charleston, South Carolina, until America's entry into World War I, when she went back to sea. She saw service in the Russian Arctic as part of the brief Allied intervention in the Russian Civil War. In 1921, she brought home the body of America's Unknown Soldier from World War I. Shortly after that, the U.S.S. Olympia was decommissioned.



Today, she is part of the Independence Seaport Museum in Philadelphia. It's been reported, though, that the museum is no longer able to fund the ship's preservation costs. It's been noted that "historic steel-hulled ships should be dry docked for maintenance every twenty years, but Olympia has been in the water continuously since 1945." Essential repairs are estimated at $10-million ... a staggering cost to say the least. The Independence Seaport Museum has set November 22 as the date it will close the Spanish-American War era battle cruiser Olympia to the public. What will happen to the national historic landmark after that remains uncertain. Plans to scuttle the Olympia, making her into an artificial reef are under consideration.

An independent non-profit corporation known as the Friends of the Cruiser Olympia was recently organized with the goal of preserving the Olympia. I wish them good luck and Godspeed in their efforts. In the "for what it's worth" department, I plan to send a contribution to help them in those efforts ... and I ask you to give thoughtful consideration to making a contribution, as well.

Anime artist/writer/director had short - but brilliant! - career .....

A passing of note for me - and for all fans of anime, really ... Satoshi Kon, a highly acclaimed Japanese anime director, died suddenly of cancer on Monday evening. He was 47.

Kon was not a pioneer of the genre ... nor was he its most prolific artist. But he had a special significance, a special impact, nonetheless. Like many in the west, I was introduced to his screen works in the mid-90s, when he directed a segment of Memories. This was followed by a short list of films (short ... but every one of them a gem), and one of the better animated series to ever appear on American television screens.

The films were Perfect Blue, Millennium Actress, Tokyo Godfathers and (my favorite) Paprika. The television series was Paranoia Agent.

Each one challenged us - the viewers - in different ways, and stretched our definitions of "cartoons" to the breaking point, and beyond.

Probably the best comment on Kon's death that I've seen comes from a Tweet by jbetteridge, who wrote, "It's not that anime will never be the same with Satoshi Kon gone. It's now much more likely that anime will always be the same."

So true.

Time's Running Out on a Wonderful Opportunity .....

FOLLOW-UP ... "A 56-year-old FedEx official announced his candidacy Monday against incumbent District 3 City Councilman John James in the November 2 election. Robert L. 'Bob' Crites said he became motivated to seek a three-year term in the central Midland jurisdiction during last Tuesday's public hearings on the 2010-11 property tax rate and budget." more ...

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According to this report from the MRT's Ruth Campbell, "Filing deadline for the November 2 election is 5:00 p.m. today [Tuesday, August 24]. Spots on the Midland City Council, Midland Independent School District board and Midland Memorial Hospital board are available."

That means time's running out on a wonderful opportunity for some Midlanders to "practice what they preach," "put their money where their mouth is," "walk the walk, not just talk the talk" ... take your pick. Here's a chance for YOU to take all that expertise and energy on display at rallies and council/board meetings and put it to work for the benefit of all.

Several years in journalism, covering the goings-on in city halls, county courthouses and school boardrooms, has given me a great appreciation for the job involved in managing our local governing agencies ... especially their budgets. It is NOT an easy job, and it's not always done correctly, and it's never done to the absolute satisfaction of absolutely everyone.

... when it's done well, you'll read about it in the paper, or see it on television - to the annoyance of some.

... when it's done badly, you'll read about it in the paper, or see it on television - to the annoyance of others.

I've left journalism, of course, and taken a job on the staff of a community college. But the opportunity to see local elected officials at work, and appreciate what that work entails, has continued. And in the past, even when I published a report that led to criticism for an elected official's actions, I was always mindful that the number of those who are willing to step-up, take a seat in our local government, who are doing their best, and who are willing to endure the verbal stones being chucked from the back of the room ... they always seem to be in the minority.

I respect anyone who shows the good sense to stay out of elected office ... unless they're someone who sits in the back, and chucks those stones. It's time for them to take advantage of the wonderful opportunities that are out there, run for office, and take a leadership role in our local government.

Blogging for Fair Havens, 10: Here I Go Again .....

I know, I know ... I said this once before ... but this time, for sure ... I'm wrapping up my contribution to this year's Blogging for Fair Havens, and leaving the keyboard in the more-than-capable hands of Jimmy Patterson at Sticky Doorknobs.

I want to add some thanks and recognition to my earlier posts. Thanks to the Tall City's young musicians. First, there's Matt McCutcheon, Tim Howard and James Patterson who collectively call themselves "A Separate Peace." They're performing now at the BfFH locations. Also on the scene the Midland-Lee High School marching band's drumline.

Also, thanks to Spencer and Maureen Bennett, who are manning the Celebrity Lemonade Stand as I leave. You maaaayyy see a video out there of Spencer with his "biggest fan" ... watch at your own risk :-)

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Midland Fair Havens equips single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings.

You are invited to learn more about Midland Fair Havens, and then consider joining them in this life-changing work.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Midland Fair Havens.
CLIC HERE to make a contribution to Midland Fair Havens.

Blogging for Fair Havens, 9: Well, I THOUGHT It Was a Wrap.....

Jimmy's takin a well-earned break during the noon hour ... so, I'm filling-in just a little longer. Jimmy will be back at the keyboard at one o'clock, providing BfFH updates at Sticky Doorknobs.

In the meantime, thanking some of this year's BfFH contributors ... Norma and Torivio Duran, John and Constance Angus, Mary and John Crosby, Charles and Lou Ann Adams, Les and Lanell Honeyman, Jennifer Samp, Paula Kelly and Cynthia Preay.

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Midland Fair Havens equips single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings.

You are invited to learn more about Midland Fair Havens, and then consider joining them in this life-changing work.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Midland Fair Havens.
CLIC HERE to make a contribution to Midland Fair Havens.

Blogging for Fair Havens, 8: And That's a Wrap for Me - But the Mission Continues.....

This is my last post for today. i'm heading out ... but Jimmy and the Fair Havens staff and volunteers are here for the entire day. PLEASE come out and show your support.

Just had a visit from KMID-TV, Big 2 ... so look for Jimmy on their news broadcast this evening.

The group Seperate Peace is here, setting-up ... so look forward to enjoying some music - along with some lemonade - when you come to visit.

One last note ... this isn't just about FUND raising ... it's also about raising AWARENESS, COMMITMENT and SERVICE. See below for some suggestions on how you or yor organization can get involved in Fair Havens and its mission.

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Midland Fair Havens equips single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings.

Volunteer Opportunities for Individuals
You are not limited to the following options. If you have a special talent or skill that our residents would enjoy and/or can benefit from, we encourage you to please share it!
● Reading Program: Read to the children - or have children read to you - on Monday nights at our facility.
● Computer Lab: Provide supervision, guidance and tutoring for children and adults who use our computer lab.
● Music: Provide music on Monday nights or music lessons for the residents.
● Tutoring: Provide after-school tutoring for children and adults at our facility.
● Life Skills Instructor: Budgeting, resume' writing, teaching job interview skills, parenting, nutrition, Bible studies.
● Speaker's Bureau: Speaking to congregations, civic groups, schools, volunteer fairs.
● Facility Support: Electricians, plumbers, painters, make ready, computer techs.
● Office Support: Clerical and data entry support.

Volunteer Opportunities for Groups
Here are a few ideas for your club, organization or church group to consider:
● Sponsor a drive or host a fundraiser: Diapers, wet wipes, paper goods, disposable razors, children’s socks and underwear, soap, twin sheets, twin mattress covers, twin quilts/coverlets/comforters, towels, full size shampoo/conditioner, detergent/fabric softener, and household items are always needed.
● Warehouse Warriors: Assist with sorting and/or organizing our donations in the storeroom.
● Maintenance: Carpet cleaning, power wash siding and stairwells, minor repairs.
● Provide Meals: Provide meals for the families.

You are invited to learn more about Midland Fair Havens, and then consider joining them in this life-changing work.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Midland Fair Havens.
CLIC HERE to make a contribution to Midland Fair Havens.

Blogging for Fair Havens, 7: Judith - A Success Story .....

Thanking today's contributors ... Mary and Harold White. Ellen and Dennis Hopkins, and Alice and Roger Friedline.

As I said in my last post, when you talk about Fair Havens, you can't confine it just what they WANT to do ... but also what they HAVE DONE. Check below for one of Fair Havens' success stories.

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Midland Fair Havens equips single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings.

Success Story ... Judith: A Lasting Hope
With no alternative and on her last dollar, Judith* first called Fair Havens looking for rental assistance. The pride in her voice revealed how difficult it was for her to ask for help but she was exhausted from the daily struggle to keep from being evicted. Detecting a desire to ‘pull her life together,’ our case manager nurtured a non-residential relationship for months before Judith lost her apartment and finally moved into Fair Havens to pursue her education and improve her income capacity.
Read the rest of Judith's story ...

You are invited to learn more about Midland Fair Havens, and then consider joining them in this life-changing work.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Midland Fair Havens.
CLIC HERE to make a contribution to Midland Fair Havens.

Blogging for Fair Havens, 6: Sarah - A Success Story .....

Thanking today's contributors ... Toni and Tmmy Lent, Jill and Cary Brown, DiAnn and George Koehl, Jerri Riplinger, Constance and John Angus and Norma T. Duran.

Jimmy is a multi-media man ... known mostly for his work in print, he is also experienced in online media - and now television! Jimmy just finished interviewing with KOSA-TV, CBS 7. You can see their report this evening at six o'clock. Jimmy did, IMHO, a VERY good job talking about Fair Havens

When you talk about Fair Havens, you can't confine it just what they WANT to do ... but also what they HAVE DONE. Check below for one of Fair Havens' success stories.

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Midland Fair Havens equips single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings.

Success Story ... Sarah: A Complete Turn Around
“I’ve never had anyone believe in me. You did and now look what I have been able to do! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!” These statements came from a young single mother of three precious daughters who had accomplished amazing things during and after her residency at Fair Havens.

Sarah* first came to Fair Havens when her parents were turning her out on the street. She had made choices in her teens that could have been fatal for her, but God had another plan. Following years of drug abuse and violent attacks by several boyfriends, Sarah was jolted into reality by the birth of her third daughter. She woke up one morning knowing that if she continued her current lifestyle, she and her babies would end up dead!
Read the rest of Sarah's story ...

You are invited to learn more about Midland Fair Havens, and then consider joining them in this life-changing work.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Midland Fair Havens.
CLIC HERE to make a contribution to Midland Fair Havens.

Blogging for Fair Havens, 5: Those Who Serve.....

More than once, this morning, I've mentioned the people of Fair Havens. So, who are they, and why have become a part of Fair Havens and its mission? The best way to answer those questions is to come by the Midland H.E.B. parking lot today, meet with them. talk to them, hear their first-hand experiences with Fair Havens and its mission ... and commit to supporting that mission.

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Midland Fair Havens equips single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings.

Their Leadership
CLICK HERE to meet the Fair Havens staff, and their board of directors.

You are invited to learn more about Midland Fair Havens, and then consider joining them in this life-changing work.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Midland Fair Havens.
CLIC HERE to make a contribution to Midland Fair Havens.

Blogging for Fair Havens, 4: So, What Do They DO? .....

At the moment, Jimmy's the only one up in the air ... literally! On the ground are plenty of Fair Havens staff, directors and volunteers who will be more than happy to talk to you about Fair Havens and the services it provides. Trust me on this ... it's WELL worth your support. Why not come by the Midland H.E.B. parking lot today, and show your support for Fair Havens and their mission?

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Midland Fair Havens equips single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings.

Their Services for Residential Clients
● Housing at no cost for up to 24 months
● Individual case management with emphasis on accountability to a plan of personal goals
● Life skills training in the areas of finance, parenting, health, nutrition, personal development, and Bible study
● Consistent emotional support through the care of Christian staff and volunteers
● Referral to community resources for education, vocational evaluation and development, counseling, and family assistance

Their Services for Non-Residential Clients
● Financial assistance for utilities and rent, including budgeting advice, to prevent homelessness
● Basic needs assistance with clothing, food and personal hygiene items
● Referral to community resources for education, vocational evaluation and development, counseling, and family assistance

You are invited to learn more about Midland Fair Havens, and then consider joining them in this life-changing work.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Midland Fair Havens.
CLIC HERE to make a contribution to Midland Fair Havens.

Blogging for Fair Havens, 3: A History of Service.....

Blogging for Fair Havens 2010 is well underway ... a great way to help insure that more than a decade of service continues into the future. Won't you stop by and visit with BfFH leader Jimmy Patterson (you can't miss him - he's the only guy sitting atop a scissor lift, 30 feet above the Midland H.E.B. parking lot), enjoy a glass of lemonade from one of the Fair Havens staff and volunteers, and learn more about their mission?

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Midland Fair Havens equips single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings.

Their History
In 1997 a dream began with one staff member, a devoted board, and a 4 bedroom home. This faithful group felt the Lord’s call to offer hope to determined, single mothers and their children caught in difficult circumstances. They humbly stepped out in faith and welcomed the very first family to Midland Fair Havens.

In 2001, Midland Fair Havens experienced full occupancy in its housing facilities. Referrals and requests for services continued to escalate. Recognizing the desperate need for additional housing and services, the Midland Fair Havens Board of Directors initiated the “Building a Future for Families” capital campaign.

After the building funds were raised, a transitional living community was completed in 2004. This facility houses 12 single mothers with their children and provides space for expanded services to residential and non-residential clients. With the addition of a Family Enrichment Center in 2007, the needs of single mothers and children are being met even more effectively.

You are invited to learn more about Midland Fair Havens, and then consider joining them in this life-changing work.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Midland Fair Havens.
CLIC HERE to make a contribution to Midland Fair Havens.

Blogging for Fair Havens, 2: Their Mission, Their Vision, Your Suoort.....

It may be early on a Saturday morning, but people are already showing their support for Fair Havens and its mission. What about you? Blogathon 2010 continues through six o'clock this afternoon, in the parking lot of the Midland H.E.B. But the mission of Fair Havens continues throughout the year, every year.

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Midland Fair Havens equips single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings.

Their Mission
The mission of Midland Fair Havens is to equip single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings.

Their Vision
In order to continue the mission to strengthen families and provide a brighter hope for the next generation, the vision of Midland Fair Havens is to become a single parent resource center for residential and non-residential families in the community.

You are invited to learn more about Midland Fair Havens, and then consider joining them in this life-changing work.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Midland Fair Havens.
CLIC HERE to make a contribution to Midland Fair Havens.

Blogging for Fair Havens, 1: Off and Running.., er, Blogging...

Blogging for Fair Havens 2010 is under way, and we're hoping you'll come out and join the fun. Look for Jimmy Patterson up in the scissor-lift, visit with the Fair Havens staff and volunteers on the ground, and enjoy a glass of the perfect remedy for the West Texas heat - lemonade!

And, at the same time, learn more about Fair Havens and their mission ... and make a contribution in support of that mission.

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Midland Fair Havens equips single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings.

Why "Fair Havens?"
The Apostle Paul took temporary shelter at a place named Fair Havens when he was faced with adverse conditions while traveling to Rome (Acts 27:8). The harbor at Fair Havens provided sanctuary for Paul as he prepared for the rest of his journey.

In a similar way, Midland Fair Havens serves as a place of refuge and restoration for single mothers as they prepare to make a better life for themselves and their children.

You are invited to learn more about Midland Fair Havens, and then consider joining them in this life-changing work.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Midland Fair Havens.
CLIC HERE to make a contribution to Midland Fair Havens.

Blogging for Fair Havens, TODAY .....

Things are up in the air for me today, as I join local writer/blogger Jimmy Patterson on the scissor lift for the 2010 edition of Blogging for Fair Havens, Saturday, August 21, in the H.E.B. parking lot, near the corner of Wadley and Midkiff streets, in Midland.

We won't be hard to find ... just look for people with computers, in a shaded platform sitting atop a scissors lift, overlooking the parking lot. What we'll be doing is working our weblogs, raising awareness and - we hope - funds for Midland Fair Havens. In the past, other local bloggers have participated, as well, as have leaders from various facets of the community. I'm looking forward to a good time ... won't you join us?

"The mission of Midland Fair Havens is to equip single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings."

"The Apostle Paul," we are reminded, "took temporary shelter at a place named Fair Havens when he was faced with adverse conditions while traveling to Rome (Acts 27:8). The harbor at Fair Havens provided sanctuary for Paul as he prepared for the rest of his journey."

"In a similar way, Midland Fair Havens serves as a place of refuge and restoration for single mothers as they prepare to make a better life for themselves and their children."

Blogging for Fair Havens, Tomorrow .....

Things are up in the air for me tomorrow, when I join local writer/blogger Jimmy Patterson on the scissor lift for the 2010 edition of Blogging for Fair Havens, Saturday, August 21, in the H.E.B. parking lot, near the corner of Wadley and Midkiff streets, in Midland.

We won't be hard to find ... just look for people with computers, in a shaded platform sitting atop a scissors lift, overlooking the parking lot. What we'll be doing is working our weblogs, raising awareness and - we hope - funds for Midland Fair Havens. In the past, other local bloggers have participated, as well, as have leaders from various facets of the community. I'm looking forward to a good time ... won't you join us?

"The mission of Midland Fair Havens is to equip single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings."

"The Apostle Paul," we are reminded, "took temporary shelter at a place named Fair Havens when he was faced with adverse conditions while traveling to Rome (Acts 27:8). The harbor at Fair Havens provided sanctuary for Paul as he prepared for the rest of his journey."

"In a similar way, Midland Fair Havens serves as a place of refuge and restoration for single mothers as they prepare to make a better life for themselves and their children."

So, What Do YOU Think? .....

The change.org team, creators of Blog Action Day, are preparing for the 2010 edition, which takes place in October. They want to know what I (and all other past participants) think would make a good topic for Blog Action Day 2010 ... and I want to know what YOU think.

"What important issue do you think the world should talk about on October 15th," they ask. "Based on nominations we received during voting process for last year's topic, we've put together six potential topics for this year, outlined below ..."

Water
"The UN recently declared water to be a human right, but millions around the world still lack even the most basic access, causing widespread disease and the possibility of military conflict over access to clean water."

Human Trafficking
"From prostitution to forced labor, more than 27 million people are modern-day slaves, making human trafficking one of the most overlooked man-made tragedies in the world."

Women
"The most discriminated against group in the world isn't a minority: it's women. From inequality in schooling to reduced economic opportunities, women face a disproportionate degree of adversity all over the world."

Sustainable Food
"Industrial agriculture has overtaken the world's food supply – creating obesity in the developed world and spreading genetically modified crops and oftentimes undercutting local farmers in the developing world."

Hunger
"While many of us may take healthy, nutritious food for granted, more than 1 billion people around the world see it as an unattainable luxury."

Oceans
"Overfishing and pollution have decimated untold species of fish and other ocean life over the past few decades, and recent oil spills have shown how vulnerable aquatic life is to man-made disasters."

"Don't see an issue you're passionate about in this list? We'd love to hear about it."

... so, what do YOU think would make for a good Blog Action Day topic?

Make-Believe Midland 'Mad Man' .....

Hardly a day goes by that someone doesn't ask me, "So, what's it like working in a college PR office?" And I tell them, "It's a lot like that 'Mad Men' TV series ... except without all the hanky-panky."

See for yourself in this shot, made possible through madmenyourself.com ...

... by the way, the one in the middle, that's me.

A 'Must Read' Op-Ed from the MRT .....

If you haven't yet perused today's copy of the Midland Reporter-Telegram, whether in print or online, you should ... and urge others to do so. In particular, I recommend this op-ed piece from the MRT editorial board. It's about a traditional means for elected officials (and candidates for election) to reach out to their constituents ... and about a decision by one official to bypass said means.

Speaking from my experience as a former newspaper reporter (staff and freelance) and, later, as the managing editor of a newspaper ... the MRT is spot-on in their analysis of the official's decision, and I hope that official will hear their plea to reconsider that decision.

Blogging for Fair Havens, This Weekend .....

Things are up in the air for me this weekend, when I join local writer/blogger Jimmy Patterson on the scissor lift for the 2010 edition of Blogging for Fair Havens, Saturday, August 21, in the H.E.B. parking lot, near the corner of Wadley and Midkiff streets, in Midland.

We won't be hard to find ... just look for people with computers, in a shaded platform sitting atop a scissors lift, overlooking the parking lot. What we'll be doing is working our weblogs, raising awareness and - we hope - funds for Midland Fair Havens. In the past, other local bloggers have participated, as well, as have leaders from various facets of the community. I'm looking forward to a good time ... won't you join us?

"The mission of Midland Fair Havens is to equip single mothers and their children for self-sufficient living by addressing their educational, vocational, spiritual, and emotional needs in residential and non-residential settings."

"The Apostle Paul," we are reminded, "took temporary shelter at a place named Fair Havens when he was faced with adverse conditions while traveling to Rome (Acts 27:8). The harbor at Fair Havens provided sanctuary for Paul as he prepared for the rest of his journey."

"In a similar way, Midland Fair Havens serves as a place of refuge and restoration for single mothers as they prepare to make a better life for themselves and their children."

Apathetic, All A-Twitter, or Undecided? .....

A lot of Tweeting and Retweeting going on today, that, "At 6 minutes and 7 seconds after 5 o’clock today it will be 05:06:07 08/09/10.....This won’t happen again until 3010. WOW."

However, it appears the claim doesn't stand up to close scrutiny, as demonstrated by this post at ApathySketchpad.

Still, it was neat to think about ... for a little while, at least.

Born in the U.S.A. ! .....

"Happy Birthday!" greetings to President of the United States Barack Obama, born August 4, 1961, at the Kapi'olani Medical Center for Women & Children in Honolulu, Hawaii, United States, to Stanley Ann Dunham, an American from Wichita, Kansas, and Barack Obama, Sr., a Luo from Nyanza Province, Kenya.

A proud citizen - by birth! - of the United States of America ... deal with it.

Doh! ...

There was so much attention being paid to this weekend's nuptials in Rhinebeck, that I forgot all about a similar blessed event taking place in Springfield.

Hmmmm ... now that this milestone has been reached, it does make me wonder what might yet be in store for Ms. Simpson-Parkfield.