About the Author
Marvin David Webster
When David Webster graduated from Pampa High School in 1969 he began a life of twists and turns that many have said was a life without direction.
Webster begs to differ. He claims he was simply born under a wanderin' star and the stories here are tales from the places that star has taken him.
Driven is a word Webster knows well, but not in the normal sense. Webster has "driven" everything from racecars to taxicabs and even eighteen wheelers.
His passion is communication. Whether over the microphone of a radio station, from the front seat of a taxi, the written words of a story, or behind a speakers podium he loves to take people with him on his journeys.
When reflecting on the twists and turns of his diverse life Webster quotes his favorite storyteller . . . Harry Chapin
"It's the sequel to our story,
About our journey between heaven and hell.
Half the time thinking 'bout what might have been
Half thinking just as well. -
I guess only time will tell."Feed List
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You are a great writer. I was spellbound to keep reading. I was in the Class of 78 but had older relatives from the Class of 74 and 70. I too, had driven by Central Park and saw "the tree" where the crash occurred. I admire your sense of brotherhood. I know this was not easy to write. I pray you've truly forgiven yourself as you know Phillip would have easily have forgiven you for any real or perceived transgressions. God Bless you and thanks for the entries.
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Looks like you've found your true calling, David. Keep up the good work. Also...you look really good minus the hair and the extra pounds. I'm happy for you that you've gotten rid of that "monkey". He was getting heavy, wasn't he?
Suzanne
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wonderful work as always.
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I like your story. There must be several good stories about the Peppermint. A few folks were not so lucky as you and I heard had a hard time getting out alive. In my one and only great adventure there, it was with the knowledge that I knew several folks there and I hoped that they would keep us out of trouble. We were lucky ourselves in that we were in a place we had no business being but we were bullet proof!!!
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Good to have a new post David. Missed hearing from you. I spent 10 days last October in KK,Malaysia. I met a number of Philippine refugees and a few 'boat people'. It was an eye opening type trip. It made me realize, once again, how blessed we were to grow up in a town like Pampa in the USA.
Great story Tommy. Thanks for sharing with us.
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Earth to David: where are you?
Seriously, we, your readers, are deprived....need new postings from you!
-Josiah
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Hi David.
Tommy Davis here. Your site has kept me from getting much work done the last few hours. It is very well done. You are a gifted story teller. I just found your site via the PHS 1969 class site, which I also found just a couple of days ago.
Ah, the memories your stories bring up - like when Phil and I stopped to talk to each other outside the Lamplighter Restaurant - probably less than a couple of hours before his departure through that thin place that manifested itself at City Park that night. Phil and I did not know each other all that well - but for some reason he greeted me like a long lost friend as they were coming out and we were going in. I always admired Phil, and for him to stop and visit with me like he did when I thought he barely knew me from Adam - well, it just made me feel like I was worth being liked.
Thanks for your labor of what ever you call it. Its good and its a blessing.
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Donny, myself and my sisters laughed our ass off reading this. Keep them coming.
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Thanks, David. This is definitely a part of Pampa that I knew very little about. So sad for all of us that we were so segregated in those days.
I got a huge kick out of the video... I will never do the twist without a "hop" again!
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David S., in my comment, when I said "Perryton," I meant LIBERAL, the destination of your prior story.
Josiah
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Thanks, Josiah. I am considering that. I have like 32 potential stories I have thought of and I bet there are a couple more I have forgotten about. I have written several more but I think this is it, no more til I put it in black and white. It could be fun. Everyone has been very supportive so it's not hard to get going. I think everyone has a few stories so I may lean on some folks to give me one to ghost write. Pampa may never be the same to a lot of folks after they have read my stories...
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David S.,
You are a really fine storyteller! With this chapter and the story about your trip to Perryton, you have a great start on a nonfiction book about what it was like to grow up in Pampa, Texas in the sixties!
David W.,
Thanks for publishing David S.'s story today!
Josiah
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David, it is great to know you, in all areas of your life. It was great visiting with you today, what a treat and I hope to have more visits in the future.
It's great to read this last blog and hear you have kicked ass on the gambling addiction. The story reads easily and it's just great to know you have found a way to deal with "stuff" without taking a risk.
You are remarkable and I am so glad I found my the Pampa site... that Jann remember me and invited me to come aboard....so I can get to know the people I didn't get to know as well as I would've liked. ( I love writing too, my skills are not as finely tuned but it is fun !)
Just looking forward to hearing more from you.
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David; Probably don't remember me but I
was loooking for photos of Caldwells Drive Inn for a doc. film and stumbled onto
your blog . . .fantastic; I'm hooked. Look
forward to keeping up. Class of '70 by the way. Take care and Keep it up.
Ken Vaughan
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Of course I remember you, Ken. Thanks for the compliments. I am glad you "stumbled" in.
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I really never knew how much the average worker really got of what we paid his company. In those days, the way it worked was for our agent to talk to a Filipino company official, usually at a high level, and tell them what we needed. They would then tell us whether they could provide what we needed or not. I think what they did was see if they could round up the number of skilled people we requested. We tested everyone because they had to be able to do what was advertised. I only remember sending one back who could not pass the tests. They used to tell me they were very worried about the Chinese and Koreans. Those two groups had been undercutting the Filipino's market of late and they could see the handwriting on the wall. We could have had Chinese for $5 an hour but we did not dare mix them with Algerians. They hated each other. Algerians at that time at least had a natural fear of the orientals. They would not let the Japanese on site even tho they had offered several times to perform projects at no cost. I know a lot of the Filipinos were hoping to go to India when we were through with them because there were going to be (and were) massive jobs there. I have no clue how the market shakes out today but I feel like the Chinese set the price for skilled labor.
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David, That is an interesting comment and one I totally agree with.
So would you also say that the Chinese have a great amount of influence on the price of skilled labor throughout the world?
Could countries like China perhaps have more to do with America's unemployment issues than countries like the Philippines?
I would love to see some more discussion on this thread. I feel like finally some things are starting to make sense.
Thank you, David.
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David, your series continues to enlighten your readers. I hope a lot of people are reading it.
-Josiah
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I knew and respected Filipino sailors when in the Navy. I have since known some women who married former servicemen and they are hard working people and they deserve respect..
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Give Bufford a hug for me and Lori. I really liked Bufford and feel for you and Donna.
Billy
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I spent 2-1/2 years going back and forth to Algeria on an LNG project. I was second in command and we hired 750 Phillipinos to do the skilled work we could not hire in country.(no one knows how to do anything in Algeria) I was extremely impressed with their work. We hired welders, pipe fitters, electricians and instrument fitters. We also hired 3000 locals but they were assigned to mostly help the Filipinos. They were great. We provided housing and a mess hall with a Filipino cook. I would go over to their mess about once a month. It was fantastic. Just like home to them. We gave them everything we could and they worked extremely hard. Without them, the project would not have been sucessful. Most of them had been away from home for 3-4 years. During the project, they never were able to go home and only got leave to Italy. Most went no where and just worked. We paid their company like $8 per hour for their labor but I think they only got maybe half that. Still, several of them told me it was the most money they had ever made and the conditions were absolutely the best they had ever had. We had put together a little village of connexes, the containers that are used to ship goods. We cut a door, one window into the boxes. They were insulated and we installed a window air conditioner. They did not like it because it was too cold. We furnished the insides with 4 beds, a table and chairs, a couch and 2 chairs and that was it. No TV or radio. They had TV, phones, radio, movies, pool tables, ping pong, etc in their rec building. It was used a lot. To stay busy, they would take scrap stainless steel pipe and beat it into belt buckles, cuff links, buttons for shirts, and all manner of things. They sold these to the Gringos!! Several of my Filipino friends gave me a really neat belt buckle when we began dismantling the project. I was really surprised. It took them about 2 weeks to make it for me. One of my trophies of working here and there.... I think everyone of those guys were working wherever they could to make like tolerable back home. Soem of them told me there was no way they could make the kind of money we paid at home. Everyone worked (including me) 14 hours a day, 7 days a week. Most of them made probably $20,000 a year. Most of the 175 Americans, Brits, Canadians and Frenchys we hired as supervisors, engineers and managers made well over $120,000 a year. There was quite a disparity in wages. Dont ask me what we paid the locals..... I would welcome another project with Filipino labor. By the way, we spent almost a billon dollars in the 2-1/2 years I was on the project for labor and materials. Including travel and all, the Filipinos represented about $50 million of the total.
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David, I really appreciate you adding this detail to this story. From the beginning I felt there was a lot missing in the way I told this story and you filled in a lot of details in a way that only someone who was there could.
I have heard that the amount most of these OFW companies eventually pay the workers is more like one third rather than one half and that as the skill level decreases so does the percentage. In recent years the Philippines government has passed laws to try and protect workers in countries where reciprocity agreements have been established, but many countries do not have any agreements with the Philippines and in those countries the OFWs are still badly abused.
It is estimated the money these OFWs send back home accounts for as much as 11% of the Philippines GNP.
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Thanks so much for following me on Twitter. I really love your blog, what a great example of personal branding. I loved this post it shoots straight from the heart. The simple things in life are what make us who we are.
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Dogs are our most important allies in the day to day life fight we go thru. They understand evrything and will try to make it better if we ask them. They can be our primary source of solice if we ask them or they will passively support you with knowing looks. I feel for you buddy. I still can not bear to think about my lost lab, Daisy Mae.
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David, sorry your heart is heavy.
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Hi David, spend time with Buford. Time is one of our most precious possessions. He is important.
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My heart goes out to you. Dogs are key elements of civilization.
Josiah
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Go get 'em Ace! Time for some Spur Action!!!
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David, I love the jeepneys. I'm sure they would pass customs to bring one to the US right?
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Pampa sounds more interesting than Tampa the way you put it.
I have missed my High School reunions, at least till this point. I feel as though I am not sure which one to go to? I attended a different High School each of my years. Mainly due to choice but also due to them moving the "lines" and a new school opening my Sophmore year.
I enjoy that Facebook opened up though because I have connected with people all the way back to elementary school and am very surprised at where everyone has gone and what they are doing. Some have pretty well just stayed put.
My life has been quite a whirlwind and I have moved around but now I am back to the same area. What is funny though is I very seldom run into anyone I know... This area is too big.
Your writing makes me feel like I was just right there though.
Tracy Solomon
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Wow, the video really seemed to bring your story to life.
Love is between two hearts which obviously knows no colors. Love is kind and honest and beautiful.
Love can conquer all and even grow through the hardest of times.
True love can be the truth in the world that shows what is right, what is pure and what is real.
If what everyone wanted was right and not just out of greed for selfish reasons this country and so many other countries would not always be at war.
The problem is that it is not our place to be judging others and saying who is the "right" color or for that matter why are so many people the ones holding the "lists" making the rules??
All the people standing around these "rule makers" can suddenly be on the wrong lists at any moment.
People need to learn to think for themselves and stop being so judgemental of things that can't be changed.
Skin color is something that people are born with. It is the same as judging someone for a handicap or their gender.
I wrote a blog about this.
"Are you the "right" color?"
http://tinyurl.com/262squa
Tracy Solomon
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I was born in 1969 and I grew up in Tampa, Florida. We had an area near where I grew up, a long street where a large number of black families lived. I took the bus to school and our bus had their bus stop. It wasn't looked down on but certainly it wasn't looked forward to. A large number of kids got on there. I was always the person that "dared to be different" so in first grade my best friend was black and I was scolded for it once because I was told she was going to be sent to a different school when we reached left 5th grade...SO! I thought that was so stupid! I thought a lot of things were stupid people said. We were buddies. She was nice and that was all I cared about at that age. Why can't we see things like kids?? What people are like and not what they look like? Go by what we feel like around them and not what other people tell us about them?
It just seems, well it IS the right thing to do. Wouldn't we want someone to do that for us? Go by the truth about us and not what people ay about us?
"Are you the "right" color?"
http://tinyurl.com/262squa
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Very well said. Times have changed and thankfully, so thankfully said. Very sadly in many places and in quite a few hearts, times have not changed and people have not moved on though. I have written a blog on this if you would like to read this.
We are all the same, the same inside. Skin color is just that. Again, I very much enjoyed your blog and I thank you for sharing your thoughts.
"Are you the "right" color?
http://tinyurl.com/262squa
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David, I read through a few of your blogs and finished with the series about you and your friend Phillip. You have a great gift of writing, expressing yourself and holding onto the reader's attention. Phillip sounds like he was an amazing friend and buddies like that are just gifts to have.
Thank you for sharing.
Tracy Solomon
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It has been a while since I travelled abroad but the street people have always been a problem. In Italy and Spain, the Gypsy's are the problem. They will have 10-15 kids, 5-10 years old, surround you and go thru all your pockets! What do you do, hit a kid? You can shove them but it is like a bunch of bees--you cant get away. Then they scatter. It is awful. Police just look the other way cause they know there is nothing they can do. Nevertheless, you loose everything in your pockets. Tourists beware.....
I know it has to be worse now than the last time I was out and about. There is one truism that holds always---The world is a poor place!
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I remember that speach he gave and when he finished, we all knew that we would do it. I did not have doubt one that we would go to the moon. There are some people who can convince you with not many words. JFK had the gift. I think JFK likewise knew that we would do it, although as it turns out he never had a chance to actually see it happen. There were few naysayers. We were all so naive about what it would take. And I remember when they picked the original 7 Astronauts and I wanted to be one so bad....I sat and stared at the picture of those seven and tried to decide who would be the one. The one to walk on the moon. Actually, I dont think any of the original guys got to do that but we did not know that and neither did they at the time. I would dare to say that I have NEVER EVER EVER been so convinced of anything as I was that the moon was ours for the taking. When you are 11 or 12 years old, things are much more black and white, simpler and easier. Ah, to be 12 again......
But that is not the end of the story, as it worked out, an aspiring young engineer in training at Texas Tech was previledged to work on the Apollo program. It is a long story, but yes I worked on a NASA grant testing materials for the spacecrafts. My professor predicted the Apollo 13 near disaster. We got a lot more money after that... I met Werner Von Braun and several later astronauts. That 12 year old kid could dream of being an astronaut but could never have thought of what really happened and how long it really took. The closest I got to going to the moon was shaking the hand of 2 people who eventually would really do it. But for a kid from Pampa Texas, that was damn near as good as going there anyway. Who would have thought.............
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The clip reminds me so much of the film "City of God," the story of street kids and the violence they face daily on the streets of Rio de Janeiro. Thanks for this, David, and for what you're doing to help. -Cindy
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Worth the wait....I will quell my impatience to know more....
Josiah
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At the moment the line went right over my head, but at the end of the record Sheila began. "Last night in a fiery plane crash just northeast of Dallas television star and singer Ricky Nelson was killed."
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I hope you now have ingrained in your mind that regardless of where they live or what you think, the most important thing in employee satisfaction is a boss or employer who understands their situation. American employers have lost that feeling. Employees are only numbers, an asset but an expendable one, and the bottom line is everything. There is no loyalty anymore from either side. Sad, because when you do have mutual respect and loyalty, it can be fantastic. One of the things that is Wrong With America.
Cindy is right....
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Give that girl her job back, dude!
: >
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David, what an adventure. I am going to deem you Allen in Wonderland. What a year for you!
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Well, here we go again. On another adventure. Let's see where it leads us. I have traveled a great deal in the world and to me the most disconcerting thing is the first day in a hotel, maybe the first hour. Everything can be different or it can be like home. The most disconcerting place I ever visited --believe it or not--was Milan Italy. The hotel I stayed at was 300-4-- years old and I swear the furniture was that old also. Everything was an antique. The bed was the size of my daughters (she was about 3 at the time). I think twin would be generous. The dresser, chest and desk were all hand painted and guilt. It was very pretty but totally impractical. I was afraid I would break something and it would be worth a fortune. What a first night!! Can you imagine and old West Texas boy leaving spur marks on some damn 15th century bed?! What a trip...
So far we have a good start...but then again it's always kind of like Captain Kirk when he points at the screen and says, "Engage!"
the Swab
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Funny you would bring Captain Kirk up. He negotiated my air travel to get me to the Philippines.
It took 30 hours to get there and on my way I got to look down at Anchorage, Alaska from 30,000+ feet. A non-stop from DFW to Manila would have made it in about 15 hours, but the price would have be around $5,000 instead of $1,100.
I think Kirk has found his true calling. He is a much better price negotiator than he is a navigator
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I like ur post keep it up...
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Ok David I'm ready for the next leg!
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David, I can tell that this is a huge story....and you have me hooked. Look forward to the next installments.
Josiah
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You are sweet--gosh, David, that seems like another lifetime ago...the girls are so sweet and getting so big...Chloe just turned 7, and is just amazing! Love you.
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Hello David. It has been awhile and you are back. First let me say, I am sorry that I missed your birthday, but I hope you had a wonderful one. I have not been on the website for awhile. It just seems life is rushing by and I get nothing done. Some days I just wonder what is around the next corner and am so afraid to turn it that I wait until I am forced to. And sure enough, it brings new adventures that I am not sure I am ready to go on. Life is so full of surprizes. Some good and some not so good. Oh well, enough.
Your explanation of why you outsourced to the Philippines is not necessary. David you did what you feel you had to do and it is your decision. And it is your right. You owe nobody an explanation. Your story is very interesting and well written. Yes, I believe that our government has a hand in a lot of things that we do not understand. So much goes on that we are not told and a lot we are told is so whitewashed. Go back to the wars we have been in. The truth of Vietnam, will anybody ever know the real truth? I believe the answer is NO. But how harshly OUR AMERICAN SOLDIERS were judged. And by the American people no less. What a tragedy. Yet, we live with it everyday. And a lot of those soldiers were our classmates, our friends. A lot of lives were lost there. And a lot of those that came home have to live with it everyday. Just like all wars, even the survivors have stories. I wonder how many of Americans could handle the truth that only those soldiers could tell if they were able to talk about it. My dad was in WWII, just like so many of our dads. He never talked of the things that he saw. Not until a few years before he died. And the things that he saw made me cry. He was there and saw the bodies of those many gassed in chambers. Piled high and left there. Men, women and children. He said it made killing the germans so much easier. But he had to live with the fact that he had blood on his hands and it haunted him. He never forgot and he never felt that he was forgiven. How many are there out there with the same feelings?
I am sorry, I got sidetracked. The poor countries, yes they have stories to tell. But America is a poor country. And our government is taking us there at an extremely rapid pace. Who is going to be there to help us? Who is going to bring work to our unemployed? And believe me, we have plenty of unemployed. Just look around, I have friends that are in that boat. College educated, and can't find a job. I find that disgusting. Thanks to our government.
We have to get out there and be heard. We are christians and we outnumber the non believers. But the non believers seem able to get more done. WHY???
Americans better wake up and VOTE!!!
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Ill add a happy birthday here. Keep em coming. Your on a roll.
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Webby---glad you are back on the bean... keep it going. I am curious what you will say. I have an opinion as to what happened and is going on in the PI.
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Very interesting article! I am white, I suppose I should call myself a European African. I have lived in Africa my entire life, was born in Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) and was there while Kaunda destroyed the economy. Now 45 odd years later it is slowly coming right. Zimbabwe, which used to be the bread basket of Africa has also been destroyed by 'Mad Bob' Mugabe. I'm coming to the point - in 1990 the 'new' South Africa came about with the release of that wonderful man Nelson Mandela affectionately known as 'Madiba' in SA, much was expected of the future, after all South Africa was the economic powerhouse of Africa and now that it was no longer the pariah nation of the world it could only blossom. In 1994 the ANC came to power. Now 16 years later our education and health systems have collapsed! Our local, provincial and national governments are staffed by friends of politicians who are corrupt and incompetent, service delivery has failed! We have the highest (or second highest behind Columbia) murder rate in the world, crime in general has a conviction rate of .8%! Africa does it again! In 1990 the Philippines implemented a plan and it is working! I ask you, why are Africans incapable of doing similar things? Why?
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Traveling to other cultures is always a wake up call on so many levels, and I can't wait to hear your impressions. I like the new look, too! Quite a shave and haircut you got there!
with a hug, Cindy and Nick
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Ok, lets hear it David. I always like the Philippines. The girls are cute to.
Billy
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I knew you were chewing on something. Well, we are at your service. Lay it on us. I think you will find it easier once you truly get started.
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I am in for the ride - just added this blog to my feed reader so I will see when you post.
Having just got back from two months in India I am primed to listen to your journey into 'both sides of the story'.
I've been blogging about India, looking at whatever interested me - a travel bog if you will.
So your blog - looking at outsourcing, and concentrating on that - is a different thing and I am looking forward to hearing your thoughts unfold.
Best
David
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David, what a year you have had. The word change just jumps out. I am looking forward to your future writings to see if we agree on a few issues I have in this area. I have a feeling we will. Judy
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David, so lay it out . . . we want to know what you have seen, considered, and concluded . . .
Josiah
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More than just interesting, it's eye-opening for me. I had no idea that's how it worked. Suddenly. being on top of the economic mountain feels very insecure
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David S., that was a terrific telling of a classic sixties story...I enjoyed every word of it.
I feel privileged to be the reader of great stories now by both Davids...keep 'em coming please, both of you...
Josiah
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I encourage everyone to submit other stories. It breaks things up from just my stuff and gives me a little bit of a break as well.
Of course, I nearly rolled over my dog Buford's dog bone as I laughed my way down the hall on this one.
My Dad and Dan Cameron were really close friends and he was always coming over to our house. I know how overpowering he could be and I kept thinking about what I would have done in the same situation. I would have floored it too.
Dead is dead and you were already there. There was no such thing as deader. Your only hope was to escape.
You are still one lucky dude.
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hahahahaha!!!!!!!
GREAT story, David.
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Thanks Judy, but really we all have memories and events that should be written down. There are things that happened that maybe only a few folks know--but it needs to be written. For example--Someone has a great Screaming Wells story, someone has a neat Caldwells story, someone has a fantastic party story, and so on and so on. We just need to do it! Webster is a great editor if you can keep him home!!
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David, this was great. Let's hear some more. So many memories! It's our Wonder Years.
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Buzzy, I dont know how I can remember all of the things that happened 40 years ago! I guess there are some things that just kind of get burned into your mind...
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Great story, David. That is more than 40 years ago now. Where did the time go?
Thanks for sharing.
I can't wait to read your next tale, Webster.
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I have been traveling outside the USA and haven't had adequate access to the internet to blog properly, but I returned to the USA last night. I have a lot of material to blog about. I have one story that came in from David Schaub I am going to post before I get started and then get ready to hear of a new adventure. WOW!
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Every time I read this story it reminds me of my mother. Her name was Irene and never knew there was a town with her name. Of course I'm sure she inspired someone to name the town after her
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I really like the analogy of Pacino's speech and internet marketing. It gets me fired up every time I hear / see that but never thought how it could apply to this.
Thanks for the add on twitter,
Howard
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Good story. i believe in teamwork because without it, I can not be effective as a manager. I think however, you have to be careful about hype.
Dave
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Now I gotta see that movie. There is a lot of truth there. Inch-by-inch...winning/living as a team...losing/dying individually.
Tell us more....
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Isn't that the truth!! One (me) cannot stand by and simply shrug off the simplicity of that truth. How often I have tried to do things my way, only to realize that I need to ask for help and there are people willing to give whatever help is needed.
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I don't know much about the history of Valentine's Day but I am glad that I have someone to love on that day. I'm glad you do to David.
Billy
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Now the connection between the color red and Valentine's Day has bee revealed. Another great piece, David.
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I believe that I read one time that the color red and pink for St Valentine's day was to symbolize the heart and the hot blood that exists on that day. It also is to symbolize the blood which St Valentine shed in order to marry people againt the will of the king.
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Happy Valentines Day, dad!
I love you.
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What do you think of the new movie coming out with Depp as the Mad Hatter? It looks good, but at the same time I like what's already in my head (mostly the book version).
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Neo office is another great Microsoft office mimic. I believe it's just for Mac. Some things are missing, but I like it and as a writer it seems to have the things I need.
I think WC Fields would, if alive, be sending me emails from Nigerian princes letting me know I was rich!
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Thanks, David, for these great tips!
I would just like to add one more - the best word program that is NOT microsoft that I've found is abiword (totally free). Just do a "save as" .doc or whatever other format with which you want to make it compatible.
free download at http://files.uberdownloads.com/apps/abiword/index.php
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Me - Me - Me !!
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Good advice dude!
Now, raise your hand if you know the famous WC Fields quote regarding water...Josiah?, Buzzy?, Judy?, ...anybody, anyone....
Yeah, we all know it...
Dave
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I am forwarding this sage advice to everyone I know.
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Very good advice, David.
And what a great clip!!
Thanks!
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We all have our choices. And I thank you for helping someone make money that otherwise might not be able to.
Judy Stone
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Yep, you will be the international equivalent of a sweat shop...you could have celebrities coming to Irene and picketing your house!
I kind of like the idea. It is kind of like the days when people I knew went down to Mexico or Costa Rica and picked out a live-in maid. Then, abracadabra, and poof, she was smuggled up here and probably still lives here today. They were paid in those days about $50 a week and given a room with some new clothing. Every doctor/lawyer/captain of industry on Memorial Drive had one or two.
I say go for it. Everything is shot to hell anyway. How could it possibly make it anything but better.
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Oh the wicked ways of our system! It is to our economic advantage to continue on the same path as you have chosen....Do well my friend. The mistakes of our forefathers have certainly led to economic conditions of today...
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David, your insightful and trenchant report/analysis of outsourcing deserves a wide audience....certainly an eye-opener for me too. Well done.
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Hey dad, I tried to comment on this the other day by my phone, and I guess it didn't go through. I just wanted to let you know that I love you and I also wish I could have been with you for those times. I think about you every single day and I hope you are doing well. Even though I haven't been able to see you or speak to you everyday while growing up, I still love you more than you could ever know. Keep your head up and know that I'm here for you always.
I love you,
Whitney
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Great story dad! Perfect for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
I love you!
-Whitney
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We have been subjected to the most amazing amount of things in our lives, especially when we were kids. Think about it.
We had the cartoons full of violence, murder, sexual stalking (oh yeah, well what about Pepe la Pew??). We had the Three Stooges who made assault a family way of life. We had constant gun fights on TV--via cowboy movies, detective stories, police stories, etc. Everyone smoked on TV and drank, sometimes heavily. Why, Dean Martin was no good sober! Wrestling came on every Saturday and you were shouted down if you said it wasn't real! They sold every kind of snake oil imaginable on TV as the real thing (I think that one is still with us).
SO HOW DID WE GROW UP AND BE SUCH SOLID CITIZENS????
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Coming from Pampa, I really thought that I was not prejudiced but you really don't know until you are put into a situation where you can find out. I mean, we barely had 1000 "colored" folks out of the about 25,000 that lived there back then. We had even fewer Hispanics....they were called Mexicans then. But I only saw a few black folks and then only in rare circumstances. But we had a family deal much like yours and I was with the ones on the the side of "ain't no way this is going to happen in MY family". But it did and I was wrong and I know it now. We really do have to confront who we are at various stages of our life or else we really don't know who we are.
Good story.
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Gosh David! I look forward to reading short stories. Just sharing from the heart!
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Very Nice!!!
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I, too have had my eyes opened to find a very wonderful colorful family...We are so blessed my friend. Linda
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Hey David, cool video. Hope your son and wife are very happy. She had to be smart if she worked as a pharmacy tech in the Navy. That school is ruff.
Bill
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David, you are off to a great start with the "new" blog in the New Year, and we, your readers, are the richer for it. I look forward to reading each one of your projected 100 stories in 2010.
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Well David, it sounds as though we'll have an entertaining year.
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A most ambitious 2010. I am sure you will make it. I have always thought the city of Irene sounded familiar and now that I look at the map provided in the Irene obituary you listed, I know why. My wife's mother's family on both sides lived around that area for quite some time. Her grandmother was originally from Mt. Calm. Her grandfather was from some ghost town not that far away. She has relative buried all around there. In fact, we determined she is related to everyone buried in the Mustang Cemetary. Her greats are buried at Hubbard. We spent a week one time going thru the area and all the cemetaries trying to find her family members that were long lost. But we did not go thru Irene. Sadly only a distant cousin is buried there.
I will send you a note soon about what will be happening with me in early 2010!
Adios Amigo....
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David, I am hoping that you take care of your health first. I am married to a brittle diabetic and I know what the diabetes can to do your body. Watching someone with diabetes cope with life and eating properly, eating is such an important part of your life it becomes something you hate to do, is difficult. So please for those that love you, do take care of yourself.
As for your step daughters house, if there is something that we can do let us know. Thank God the kids were not at home. Stuff can be replaced, lives cannot.
Good luck on your resolutions, I quit making them a long time ago. Never could stick to them. LOL
Connie
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Hey dad, this is Whitney. Cameron told me about this website. You are a very good writer. I enjoyed this story a lot. I wish that we could have spent Christmas together and that you could have enjoyed the Christmas lights here in Pampa. Now that I know about this website I will try to make more frequent visits to read your posts.
Love you,
Whitney
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Ditto what Josiah said, David.
Feel better soon.
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I confess that I am eager for your new blog site to get up and running. But take your time, get out from under the weather, and work out the bugs. We appreciate you.
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Well, Happy New Year!!! It is now 2010 and I know that we are all looking forward to a blessed new year. Here is to you and all our classmates, Cheers!!
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All I can say is WOW!! Phillip and I were friends at Pampa Junior High. I knew then he was bound for glory, I didn't realize he would be "Glory Bound" at such a young age. I'll never forget how he would call me "bird legs" and smile that million dollar smile that by itself could ROAR with laughter without making a sound. David (my late husband) and I had talked about Phillip a lot over the years and would laugh about things he said or did in Jr High. I want you to know I appreciate you and your memories of our lives of '69. You have touched my life with your blog, have made me smile, and brought me close to tears at times. I salute you dear David and my you have a truly God Blessed life. Linda Dalsing McPherson
OW
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Great stories David!
I remember exactly what I was doing when I heard about Rick Nelson's death. Myself and a co-worker were waiting around until mid-night to make end-of- year changes to our Merganthaler editorial computer system here at The Albuquerque Journal. We sat around exchanging stories about Rick and his family. Isn't it strange how much influence Rick Nelson and family had on all of our lives. I felt truly sad that night.
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Ok, David I enjoyed the articles and stories. I have enjoyed talking to you by e-mail. A lot of memories have been brought back. Some are good and some are bad but facing the past can help face the future. Lori and I are looking forward to seeing you and your wife this next year.
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David,
You know that your blog has been very interesting and has enlightened me on several things. I have enjoyed your writings. And I appreciate that you research the subject so as to put in the truth. I know that is the journalist in you. But the human in you gives each blog a new twist. Yes, the end of 2009 is near and as we begin a new year, I hope to see some interesting stuff from you. I am glad that you missed Woodstock and went with Phil, you were a good friend to Phil and you told his story for our class to have some insight into the last months of his life. I never knew that Phil was fighting demons, but I should have. Because all of us have our demons to fight. You have many and as you share the story of each, you are in a sense slaying your demons. It is very cleansing to tell stories of why things happened the way they did or did not. I for one am glad that our class gets involved and cares. For all these years I have ran from Pampa to find a way to put it behind me. I was not one of the typical PHS girls. I grew up a little differently and because of that, I have never felt that the class of '69 was a real part of my life. As I read your blogs I realize that we were all the same way. Funny how maturing shows us what we knew all along. We all put our pants on one leg at a time. God made each of us and we know that God does not make trash. So here is to a new beginning my friend and I look forward to 2010 bringing so much more for each of us. God Bless you,
Connie
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Thank you, Connie. For some reason a song seems to come to my mind for everything I write and everything I read. I guess that is why I am always attaching videos to my stories. For some reason the song that came to mind in reading your message especially after all the others that have been posted this evening is a song that was recorded by a neighbor of mine from Abbott, Tex, a little town about 20 miles from Irene. He also owns a place called Carl's Corner up on the Interstate about 15 miles from me where I often eat at the Blue Sky Cafe. I have never met him, but at Carl's Corner a lot of his memorabilia is on display and I often look at some of his hand written notes where he was inspired to write something and am amazed at what I see. This video was recorded in 1997 and kind of reminds me of all of us tonight as we have shared our thoughts as classmates.
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David,
Buzzy put it so well. Phillip was one of those people that you couldn't help but like even if you were only casual friends. My only recollections of Phillip are greetings passing in the hall. We spent our high school years in different circles. I believe we recognized each other, but knew nothing about each other. The class reunions have been a great opportunity to spend time and actually get to know the people in our class.
Thanks for giving me an insight into a classmate about whom I always wanted to know more. I agree with the other comments regarding the need for more of these stories. Please continue writing.
Thanks for sharing your story,
David
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David, thank you for the gift of your writings during the second hald of this 2009. Your blog is enriching all its readers, and I will continue to be a reader in 2010!
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Great story. Lots of new info for me. Here's to 2009. It was a rotten year for me and most, I think. 2010 brings a lot of hope and promise for a CHANGE for the better! Adios--dave
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David,
Thanks for the stories this past year. I will be watching for more in the new year. You have really found your calling. Keep wandering!
David
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I LIKED IT!!! I actually had a tape of theirs at one time. Don't know what happened to it but I did like them. I think they look more like Dad now than with long hair....Ozzie might have hit the ceiling if he had known. After all, he sported a crew cut and those famous all American values--zippydee doodah!
I bet Cindy liked it too....
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David,
What a trip! You were placed in a unique position. Phillip and I were buds in the VERY early years, but we parted ways somewhere around 13 or 14 years of age. In some ways, I couldn't keep up with him. In other ways, he just couldn't accept the more traditional (and compliant) path which I chose.
Others got very close to Phillip in high school, and then most of us completely parted ways with him at graduation.
Very uniquely, you fill the gap from that important day in May 1969 to his death a year later. Thanks for sharing about that time.
He was a young man with a magnetic personality and incredible (almost unlimited) potential. but it is important that we not idolize the self-destructive lifestyle that drew him to his fate. His energy and innate love of life encouraged everyone he contacted, and we all loved him. Alas, his potential was unrealized.
Thanks for the terrific story.
Buzzy
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Another great story, David. The opening lines brought to mind the Robert Frost poem:
I have been one acquainted with the night.
I have walked out in rain -- and back in rain.
I have outwalked the furthest city light.
I have looked down the saddest city lane.
I have passed by the watchman on his beat
And dropped my eyes, unwilling to explain.
I have stood still and stopped the sound of feet
When far away an interrupted cry
Came over houses from another street,
But not to call me back or say good-bye;
And further still at an unearthly height,
O luminary clock against the sky
Proclaimed the time was neither wrong nor right.
I have been one acquainted with the night.
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Perhaps I should have told the story behind this video when I posted it, but this video has a certain characteristic to it that is similar to Ronnie Parsley passing away during our reunion and Phillip Long sitting in the car four weeks before his death and saying "I've got too much living too do."
I suppose I am just letting superstition get the best of me so I need to get over it. This is just too beautiful not to share.
This video was recorded August 19, 1980. I have been collecting Harry Chapin videos for a long time and have over 40 of them. This is the last known video I have ever been able to find and recorded 11 months before his death. It was an encore after a terrific concert at Hamilton Hall in Hamilton, Ontario where he sang nearly every song he had ever wrote. The crowd had been spectacular and his voice was beginning to fail. Harry was exhausted and he came back out on the stage for one last curtain call.
In effect . . . this was Harry Chapin's "Good Bye".
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I can't say I really appreciated Harry Chapin until you started writing about him, David. He was really a consummate singer, songwriter, and performer. Thanks for sharing all this about him. A little research reveals he was quite the activist too. Such a loss that he died so young.
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Thanks David, I am glad you got my message. I also enjoyed the musical posting. A long time ago (in college), a professor in English class of all places made a statement that I have heard in my mind over and over when I attempt to write something to a group of people. I think it works for me and maybe it will work for you.
He said, "Write so that whoever reads it is standing next to you all along the path of the story. They see everything, they know everything and then they will experience what you experience." I cant even remember the profs name but it is not important to me...what he said has been, however. I hope it helps you.
Merry Christmas Buddy.
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Sorry, David, I have been out of town and not able to read the stories. Sorry I have not commented....it is Christmas I think. As much as you do not feel it is Christmas, I think I do. At least for this year. I am sure part of it is my 3 grandkids and their belief if Santa and everything. Their exuberance and wide-eyed enthusiasm Christmas morning makes it all worthwhile. I am sorry that you dont have anything to help push you into the mood.
The stories were good. I think I would like to have more information in the body of the stories. For example, I lived in Mexico City many years ago on a project. I walked everywhere in the Zona Rosa because I did not have a car and it was reasonably safe back then. I also like to walk because you see and hear so much more. I distinctly remember that when I would come to a residential area, regardless of what time of day it was, I always smelled that heavy, meaty, half burned beans aroma of Mexican cooking. I can almost smell it right now writing this. I bet you also could smell the living odors as you moved into the area. Also, she was bleeding but from a deep head cut and was it staining her dress, was she trying to hold her hand over it to stop the bleeding, was it scarlet red or that dull dark red of beginning to dry blood,...see what I mean?
I wondered too exactly what she meant by amigo...Mario surely knows better than you or I. I think it was her way of saying thank you to someone who helped. I also wondered what the son was doing while you were getting her into the cab. Was he agressive and others had him at bay or was he just one of those sleepy eyed drunks with no idea where he was or what he was doing.
Keep up the good work...I assume more stories soon.
Schaub
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Ok, Webster, so I have enjoyed all the blogs so far, but I must confess that this one left me "hanging" a bit. So you were nice enough to do a good deed and the woman called you "amigo" but I have to ask," did you ever see her again?" My being a person of Spanish ancestry I must tell you that when we say "amigo" it is much deeper than saying "friend." I gather you trasure the memory, but did you follow up???
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I did not. Like many things that happened in my life when I was young I was ignorant to the value behind it at the time.
I could probably give you several lame excuses why I didn't, but the truth is the house was only one block off of Main Street and I passed within one block of it several times a day.
Also, I never wanted to be a part of that scene from the beginning and my participation wasn't done with a noble spirit.
Why she reached out her hand to me and said "amigo" is even more puzzling now that you point out the depth your ancestry places on it. You could probably come closer to knowing than me. She obviously was feeling something deeper than anything I was feeling.
Quite honestly I was glad when I got back to Main Street and headed for home.
Wow, Mario. What a comment. I think every time I recall that story from now on I will have to also think about what you just pointed out to me and I sincerely apologize for leaving you "hanging". I think you know that was just an insensitive gringo not fully understanding the depth of an endearing term of another culture.
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David,
You have lived a varied life and had some interesting experiences. I thank you for sharing them. It makes us all a little humble. Keep up the stories.
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You know the old saying, "there but for the grace of God ...." ?? Since we can never really know anyone else's circumstance, it's always better not to rush to judgement. Good for you, David, for treating her as a human being! Coincidentally, I got another email this morning with this wise and synchronous signature line: "Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle."
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David,
This is a very interesting story. I too have helped a person in need and I know what you did for that lady was a big thumbs up. She is a victim of circumstance and like you said, she did survive the best way she knew how. Many people do not look at a person like her as human, but God made her and God does not make trash. Most people think that they are so much better than her, but every person in the world is only $1.00 away from being in a similiar situation. Never feel like you cannot help. Because a simple gesture of a good meal can help change a person's life. There are millions of people that have gone from rags to riches, but the real story is the ones that go from riches to rags. It happens more than we will ever know. I bet there are lots of stories from the class of "69, that would amaze everbody. If people could only tell the truth, how many of us has been down on their luck and just one small gesture from a kind person helped us return to God. That would be a good story to hear. Thank you David for this story, especially at this time of the year when every person is so busy picking out the perfect gifts for loved ones. If every person would just spend a few dollars on a warm blanket, gloves, hats, scarves, etc and take to a homeless person what a blessing they would receive in return.
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That story was more than a simple "slice of life".....
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I just finished reading your story about Phil Long. I was really touched by your ability to open your heart and share your experiences.
I couldn't help but identifying with you throughout. Phil was in one of my classes. He was certainly a natural leader. I believe we all secretly wanted to be like Phil.
I believe we all feel like we have abandoned friends at times. I believe the over-riding factor is that we all must live our own lives. We make our own decisions. We do have influence in this world, but in the end we all make our own way.
One of the most eye-opening experiences in my life was when I realized that I am responsible for my own life. It's not my parent's fault, friends, or the infamous "they". If I don't like my circumstances then I must change them. You didn't abandon Phil.
I found that it is very important to look inside and examine what I believe about myself.
I found that I was believing a lot of lies that just weren't true.
Continue to write David!
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This entry made me cry.
So well said, David. -C
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Webster--That was great. I absolutely know that that was a story which had to be told. I think that it is one that should help a few people in your class and elsewhere to understand Phil and you and the whole situation around and leading up to his death. There has always been a little muffled, whispered undertone to his death to the effect...."there is more here than just this." Maybe this is the "more". I dont know.You are a marvelous storyteller and I cant tell you how much I enjoyed it. It also gave me an insight into someone whom I knew long ago that was more than I thought and at the same time less. Phil came across as being a lot more confident and assured than apparently he really was.
The end of the story leaves me wanting more but I dont know whether it is more stories or more about Phil or his ending. I have to think about it and let you know. Regardless, this is the start of the book you must write. Now that it is started, you cant stop. We need a book on growing up Pampa or Class of '69 or whatever you want to call it because there are other stories out there that also need to be told.
Great job buddy.
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David Schaub and I see it the same way. I had to wait a few days to comment on it because the story has affected me so strongly. It is a powerful story. It is a universal story. You have told it in a really down to earth way that has gripped me. This should be a book. I join David in urging that.
I have gone back through my yearbooks to find each photo of Phil. He made a strong impression on me since about 7th grade. You have answered a lot of questions that had been long tucked away in a corner of my mind since summer 1970.
Of course you are not responsible for Phil's post-high school trajectory and tragic demise, but the theme of abandonment/betrayal/denial is ancient and even religious in human experience and nature . . . and very, very literary and profound . . . and you have successfully captured it and put it into words.
Thank you for doing all of us a service.
-Josiah
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David, Thank you so much for sharing this story, one that I know many of us were reading with increasing anticipation. I want you to know that I certainly don't see what happened as abandonment on your part in any way. No one can (or should) take responsibility for anyone else's path, least of all two 19-yr-old rebel rousers off on an adventure just out of high school. Unless you believe in the good/bad leprochaun-on-the-shoulders theory, you were in charge of your destiny and Philip was in charge of his. The friendship you formed was priceless, and therein lies the crux of this story. (I can't wait to read the follow-up.) -Cindy
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The guy I was with in Tijuana made sure I got back to the base. But don't beat yourself to death over this. As I learned in Nam, Shit happens.
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Ok, David. That story brought back memories of Tijuana and getting drunk on Singapor Slings. God, was I sick. I was in Corps School at this same time. We weren't restricted from Mexico. I wonder why.
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I don't remember being called maggot but I was call screwup a few times. I had hell figuring out when the damned socks were inside or out. Oh, well. I can laugh now.
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Have faith, dude. Even the world's greatest artists were not recognized for their abilities until they had expired! At least you are still here with us....
You have some momentum now. When this story is over, I hope you know what you want to do next. It would be a shame to lose the impetus that you have gained. It only takes a little input or energy to keep a stone rolling down hill but a lot to get it going from a dead stop. Just my two cents again...
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David, thank you for the installments you have written so far. It is a powerful story, powerfully told.
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I am going to violate one of my own rules about commenting or saying anything about what someone else has done. But it is because I specifically want to make a point to you. There is one thing that is etched in my brain from the school of hard knocks, being in trouble in a foreign land, betting $100 on a drag race with $10 in your pocket, getting into something that you cant possibly get out of in one piece, etc, etc. and that thing is what Maverick also learned the hard way in Top Gun---You Never Ever Leave Your Wing Man! I hope you dont hold ANY bad feelings or harbor any guilt for doing that in this situation because it is also the natural thing to do. You had every reason to leave and lots of reasons why you should not stay. But you have to have The Code reinforced at least once in your life or else it does not mean anything.Of course the Marines take it to extremes but that really is another story....
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Excellent--I can almost smell the dead dog! Believe it or not, I have a similar story in Juarez!!!!! But that was another time and place.....
As Joe said, I am hanging on every word.
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David, thank you for undertaking this memoir. I am hanging on every word.
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Hey, Webster, your recollections of NTC are almost correct. Just remember that CPO's do not have "scrambled eggs" on their hats. That honor is ONLY reserved for the officers rank of Commander and up. (Mario Garriga, RecruitCPO, Company 162, Orlando NTC, 1971.) Otherwise, you are taking me down a pleasant time in my life. Can't wait for the rest!
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Great start Webstyer, but you missed the story start. Of course, I have only heard it not seen it in writing. Nevertheless, It should be: "This is no shit, BUT..." Then there is a pregnant pause and the story begins. I cant wait for the next installment...like waiting for the next installment of Zorro at the Lenore Theater on Saturday mornings....ah, what a time that was....
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Really eager to read it.
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David, I agree with Josiah about the impact of that story. I for one would be interested to learn more about your Navy experiences.
Thanks for sharing.
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David, that is a powerful story and well told. You are one very fine writer and storyteller. I wish I had picked up on this blog before now.
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I am so glad you follow the paths that open for you. We all get to benefit from it.
I wasn't expecting to be touched so early this morning but was and thank you for it.
Just when the mundane starts getting hold of me, then something like this just washes it away.
What a journey you are on with your new venture. Thanks for sharing Nettie and the others with us. Judy
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David, I agree that you have a special gift for putting your reader in the scene. Keep it up, and don't be so picky about having the perfect topic. The magic is your writing, not necessarily the topic.
Best wishes!
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David-remember me? I, too, am a writer, mostly for smalltown newspapers but do have a romance novel published. Love all the stories on your blog and Wandering Star is a favorite. You are on a great path here. Don't quit. You should tell the story of the night you rolled your car-unless I missed it. I am sure there are others, too. The Class of 69 was special. I know more people than in my own. The night Phil died I was at the Capri. Saw Mike wondering around, didn't hear the rest until much later. Keep it up. Really good stuff here. Karen G.
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In Viet Nam if you were with the Marines you had buddies. Some of your buddies became what we laughingly called, pardon the language, asshole buddies. You slept together, ate together, drank together, had sex together and covered each other ass. To many guys died stupidly and to many died later stupidly. Though I will give one thought about Viet Nam. The politicians lost that war not the men and women who served there. We were never defeated. Many of us still carry the scares both physical and mental but we never gave up or surrendered. We could have defeated the North Vietnamese if the politicians had let us fight to win. Oh, well, I hope maybe I explained Ricky Marson's friend. Unless you lived it you can't truly explain it. I found out that I could love and hate at the same time. I grew up real fast and had a buddy that is still alive and living in Philadelphia. I love it when the Eagles get clobbered.
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David, I love what you have done so far. You are an awesome writer. I might be great to have others send in stories of their memories of growing up Pampa or someone special from their past. We might find out some very interesting things such as we did with you and your gambling. I'm also a retired, recovering gambler, although I do slip away to Shreveport from time to time and regret it every time.
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"Rolling Stone" magazine ranks this song #1 of all time.
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Hey, the '55 chevy looks like my old road warrior...
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Those were great stories. I especially like the O'Brien twist. Did you ever want to find him and ask what the deal was and how did all this come down? Something happened that is not being told. It could be marvelous...people dont get tatoos with the name of young dead soldiers unless he did something extraordinary? Was Rickie decorated for the action he was in? Webster, get out there boy and get the story......
I really liked the Phil story too. I drove him around Screaming Wells one Saturday so he would not get lost that night, but he did. Funny, I had forgotten that until I read your story.
Good stuff....Gracy looks like @#$% however. I was deeply in love with her in college. I thought she was the sexiest person on the planet (now I know she was not from this planet). Wow, it's sad when a long lost love bursts right in front of your one good eye....
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Go for it!!
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I had a crush on Rickey for at least 2 yrs before he left for the marines. We did a lot of partying back then and any time I needed him he would rescue me. His death his me very very hard. He was the first a many young friends I lost to Viet Nam. What a tragedy.
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I just remembered that when the traveling wall came to Killeen TX back in the 70's I made a special trip into the mall to find Ricky's name and when I found it I stood for a couple of hours and cried, a cleansing I had needed for a long time. I read the names of almost all the soldiers on that wall and said a prayer for each of them and their families. Such a sad, sad time in our lives. And now 30 yrs later young men and women are still dying in wars that we wish we could stop. Reminds me of the song "Blowin' in the Wind".
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