I am really busy today, so I will piece together a tiny blog...it's a poem, done on command...sorry if it is stupid...
I like Dock of the Bay,
It's two days away.
Lots of good food,
It will put you in a good mood.
Eat lots to gain a ton,
Don't worry, it's still fun.
Dance on the waterfront,
Good luck on the silent auction hunt.
Hoping for good weather,
Please! No pants of Leather.
Lee will wear green,
To make him look lean.
Ladies will primp,
Only to eat shrimp.
Beware of the crab dip,
Goes straight to the hip.
Poetry is for nerds.
who know rhyming words.
To dumb for haiku,
But writes it for you
Nothing rhymes with purple.
Nothing rhymes with military.
Nothing rhymes with War Eagle,
Except for Beagle.
Enjoy the day...
April 30, 2009
April 29, 2009
Swine Flu, Barbecue
If you have turned on your TV lately (in the past 10 days), you have probably heard about swine flu. Swine flu is just like the normal flu, except you have the snorts as opposed to the sniffles...well, not really. The Swine Flu is very similar to the "traditional" flu...body aches, vomits, headaches, respiratory troubles, etc. Swine flu has been around for a while...there was an outbreak in 1976, too. A lot of confusion has surrounded the Swine Flu - the biggest problem so far is convincing people that thus far, is that the Swine Flu is affecting only people. Please understand that I am not an epidemioligist, and this post is meant to humor and provide an understanding of what I understand. Also, as of right now, pork meat is not affected, so I can continue my "Porks and Recreation".
While pigs have long been recognized as gross ("slop the hogs", "your room looks like a pig sty", "men are pigs"), they are actually a little better of than we are...Most captive or farmed pigs get two flu shots a year...that's two more a year than I get. Also - If a hog or pig gets loose and escapes into the wild, it becomes ferrel pretty quick...their tusks elongate, they grow hair(visible, dark hair), and begin to sniff out food sources. Ferrel hogs are quite rude to the environment...they can destroy and obliterate a lot of healthy habitat in a day. Pigs are really smart.
Humans have more uses for hogs than we realize...a lot of insulin that diabetics use is derived straight from the hog. It is really similar to the human insulin! If you like turnip greens, mustard greens, or collard greens, you have probably ordered them at your favorite BARBECUE restaurant...rest assured, they are steeped in salt meat from the hog. Barbecue, too, while one of the most debatable foods among its patrons is either pork, beef, or chicken (goat in Argentina).
I know that it would be tough to find someone that is anti-swine in North Carolina - here's why:
About 5,000 jobs are devoted to swine production.
Hog farms account for roughly half of the state's agri-income.
Hogs taste good.
North Carolina has always produced a "bumper crop" of swine...but there are detractors to this thriving and life sustaining industry. If you have ever driven by a hog farm on a hot day, it maintains a distinct smell...Lee says it smells like money. Now I think we all know where the smell actually comes from - it's from the nearly 150 types of bacteria used in decomposition of hog manure...many people argue that this is polluting our soil, water, and air. Did you know that many hog farms have now created "looping" water sytems that revert hog waste into clean drinking water that is, in turn, used for either watering the hogs or washing the hog house down...this water is looped again, and again, and again. Many hog houses are also becoming very energy efficient, too. Hay is being used for insulation, instead of fiberglass insulation.
Hogs and hog farmers are doing all that they can to be as clean, safe, and efficient as possible. In my very own personal opinion, I am still cool with the pork...I will continue to eat it until the Centers for Disease Control tell me not to do so. In fact, North Carolina's booming barbecue restaurants are the cause for this...My favorite barbecue restaurants in the Milky Way are:
10: Smithfields (Anywhere, NC)
09: Nixon's Catering (Chowan County ,NC)
08: Jim n' Nicks (Montgomery, Alabama)
07: Dreamland (Alabama)
06: Lee Scripture's personal recipe (Columbia, NC)*
05: My dad's ribs (Alabama)**
04:Parker's (Wilson, NC)
03: Sho 'nuff (Alabama)
02: Martelle's Feed House, Engelhard NC (BEST NC BARBECUE EVER!!!)
01: Country's Barbecue, Montgomery AL (BEST BARBECUE EVER!!!!)
If you ever go to Alabama, you'll find that Alabamians love their hogs, too. Please go to Martelle's in Engelhard - it is fantastic! They are also a proud supporter of 4-H! It's a long way to Engelhard, but well worth the trip!
*Lee could move up on the list if he went for quality and not quantity, but he can sure cook the best, large amount of livestock.
**My dad's ribs are the best on the planet...he will smoke them over hickory for close to 12 hours...that is really S - L - O - W! It only makes them better.
In the mean time, wash your hands as often as possible, sneeze into your sleeve, and keep surface clean of germs with a lysol wipe. I look forward to seeing NC's hog industry strengthen with the help of NC State and North Carolina Cooperative Extension...there basically at the forefront of this swine production thing...
Enjoy the day...
While pigs have long been recognized as gross ("slop the hogs", "your room looks like a pig sty", "men are pigs"), they are actually a little better of than we are...Most captive or farmed pigs get two flu shots a year...that's two more a year than I get. Also - If a hog or pig gets loose and escapes into the wild, it becomes ferrel pretty quick...their tusks elongate, they grow hair(visible, dark hair), and begin to sniff out food sources. Ferrel hogs are quite rude to the environment...they can destroy and obliterate a lot of healthy habitat in a day. Pigs are really smart.
Humans have more uses for hogs than we realize...a lot of insulin that diabetics use is derived straight from the hog. It is really similar to the human insulin! If you like turnip greens, mustard greens, or collard greens, you have probably ordered them at your favorite BARBECUE restaurant...rest assured, they are steeped in salt meat from the hog. Barbecue, too, while one of the most debatable foods among its patrons is either pork, beef, or chicken (goat in Argentina).
I know that it would be tough to find someone that is anti-swine in North Carolina - here's why:
About 5,000 jobs are devoted to swine production.
Hog farms account for roughly half of the state's agri-income.
Hogs taste good.
North Carolina has always produced a "bumper crop" of swine...but there are detractors to this thriving and life sustaining industry. If you have ever driven by a hog farm on a hot day, it maintains a distinct smell...Lee says it smells like money. Now I think we all know where the smell actually comes from - it's from the nearly 150 types of bacteria used in decomposition of hog manure...many people argue that this is polluting our soil, water, and air. Did you know that many hog farms have now created "looping" water sytems that revert hog waste into clean drinking water that is, in turn, used for either watering the hogs or washing the hog house down...this water is looped again, and again, and again. Many hog houses are also becoming very energy efficient, too. Hay is being used for insulation, instead of fiberglass insulation.
Hogs and hog farmers are doing all that they can to be as clean, safe, and efficient as possible. In my very own personal opinion, I am still cool with the pork...I will continue to eat it until the Centers for Disease Control tell me not to do so. In fact, North Carolina's booming barbecue restaurants are the cause for this...My favorite barbecue restaurants in the Milky Way are:
10: Smithfields (Anywhere, NC)
09: Nixon's Catering (Chowan County ,NC)
08: Jim n' Nicks (Montgomery, Alabama)
07: Dreamland (Alabama)
06: Lee Scripture's personal recipe (Columbia, NC)*
05: My dad's ribs (Alabama)**
04:Parker's (Wilson, NC)
03: Sho 'nuff (Alabama)
02: Martelle's Feed House, Engelhard NC (BEST NC BARBECUE EVER!!!)
01: Country's Barbecue, Montgomery AL (BEST BARBECUE EVER!!!!)
If you ever go to Alabama, you'll find that Alabamians love their hogs, too. Please go to Martelle's in Engelhard - it is fantastic! They are also a proud supporter of 4-H! It's a long way to Engelhard, but well worth the trip!
*Lee could move up on the list if he went for quality and not quantity, but he can sure cook the best, large amount of livestock.
**My dad's ribs are the best on the planet...he will smoke them over hickory for close to 12 hours...that is really S - L - O - W! It only makes them better.
In the mean time, wash your hands as often as possible, sneeze into your sleeve, and keep surface clean of germs with a lysol wipe. I look forward to seeing NC's hog industry strengthen with the help of NC State and North Carolina Cooperative Extension...there basically at the forefront of this swine production thing...
Enjoy the day...
April 28, 2009
Tyrrell County Wildlife
Welcome to Tyrrell County, Land of the Free, Home of the Bear. While many humans only recognize Tyrrell County as the blank place on the map between Raleigh and the beach, other species find this place to be home, sweet home. While Tyrrell County lacks Wal-Mart, Target, and coffee shops (I miss the Millhouse), it has all of the appointments necessary for a successful wildlife community.
Since the real estate bubble burst about a year ago, many people are finding great deals on home territories. Bears, ducks, deer, and wild turkeys are experienceing the same bubble collapse, Tyrrell County still abounds with great opportunities. While elk and bison once roamed here long ago (yeah, really), bears only recently disappeared from the piedmont - they ran out of real estate. Those bears had to move elsewhere to find suitable real estate. A real estate listing for a bear would read like this, if bears could read or write:
100 acre studio, no people around.
Outdoor plumbing, food everywhere.
Tall trees, occasional bee hive.
River views, farms nearby.
If you give a bear that option, he's there. So if you look out your Tyrrellinian window, you'll probably see the same thing. That's why bears outnumber people 3 to 1 in this county. There are about 4, 000 people, so that means there are 12,000 bears. Never approach a bear while you are eating a honey bun.
According to my Ducks Unlimited Calendar, on April 24 all scaup, redheads, and canvasbacks reached the prairie breeding grounds in what is called the Prairie Pothole Region. The PPR is a lot like Tyrrell County only it includes North and South Dakota, and the prairie provinces of Canada. This habitat is all wetland or agricultural fields with 5 to 500 acre potholes (tiny ponds) about every mile. The potholes are often shallow and have islands of cattails and bulrush, which is great for a duck to hide, lay eggs, and hide some more. Tyrrell County (and some of Hyde, Dare, Washington, and Beaufort) has a lot of the same habitat...so there are also breeding and resident waterfowl here! I have seen these ducks...mainly wood ducks...these amazing birds can live anywhere there is a hole in a tree over water. "Scuppernong Squealers" is what I prefer to call them...they are a sporting bird and are totally palatable. Notably, my favorite of the resident species are the mallards and black ducks I have found...they are in Hushmouth Creek.
Identify this duck:
The Eastern 4-H Center does it's part to conserve native wildlife. Our Camp Canvasback is pretty much the premiere hunter education and conservation camp for youth. Campers get Hunter Education cards, which are needed to acquire a license. Game wardens leadmany of the classes during Camp Canvasback...so you can rest assured that we are cultivating ethical and responsible outdoor enthusiasts. The North Carolina Waterfowl Association is a tremendous partner in this effort! They provide scholarship money that makes this type of camp possible in a place where waterfowling is as old as the Scuppeprnong. We still have a couple of openings for this weeklong camp. The total cost of the 6 day/5 night adventureis only $150!!! Camp Canvasback is July 19-24, so sign up will wrap-up soon
While many people relegate Tyrrell County as an outta-the-way place...I prefer to be here as opposed to the beach or Raleighwood. Bears are better neighbors. I want geese and swans flying over my "pizer" much more than 747's. A traffic jam here almost always includes a bear crossing the road. And with 3 bears to every person, that's a lot of bear to go around.
Enjoy the day...
Since the real estate bubble burst about a year ago, many people are finding great deals on home territories. Bears, ducks, deer, and wild turkeys are experienceing the same bubble collapse, Tyrrell County still abounds with great opportunities. While elk and bison once roamed here long ago (yeah, really), bears only recently disappeared from the piedmont - they ran out of real estate. Those bears had to move elsewhere to find suitable real estate. A real estate listing for a bear would read like this, if bears could read or write:
100 acre studio, no people around.
Outdoor plumbing, food everywhere.
Tall trees, occasional bee hive.
River views, farms nearby.
If you give a bear that option, he's there. So if you look out your Tyrrellinian window, you'll probably see the same thing. That's why bears outnumber people 3 to 1 in this county. There are about 4, 000 people, so that means there are 12,000 bears. Never approach a bear while you are eating a honey bun.
According to my Ducks Unlimited Calendar, on April 24 all scaup, redheads, and canvasbacks reached the prairie breeding grounds in what is called the Prairie Pothole Region. The PPR is a lot like Tyrrell County only it includes North and South Dakota, and the prairie provinces of Canada. This habitat is all wetland or agricultural fields with 5 to 500 acre potholes (tiny ponds) about every mile. The potholes are often shallow and have islands of cattails and bulrush, which is great for a duck to hide, lay eggs, and hide some more. Tyrrell County (and some of Hyde, Dare, Washington, and Beaufort) has a lot of the same habitat...so there are also breeding and resident waterfowl here! I have seen these ducks...mainly wood ducks...these amazing birds can live anywhere there is a hole in a tree over water. "Scuppernong Squealers" is what I prefer to call them...they are a sporting bird and are totally palatable. Notably, my favorite of the resident species are the mallards and black ducks I have found...they are in Hushmouth Creek.
Identify this duck:
The Eastern 4-H Center does it's part to conserve native wildlife. Our Camp Canvasback is pretty much the premiere hunter education and conservation camp for youth. Campers get Hunter Education cards, which are needed to acquire a license. Game wardens leadmany of the classes during Camp Canvasback...so you can rest assured that we are cultivating ethical and responsible outdoor enthusiasts. The North Carolina Waterfowl Association is a tremendous partner in this effort! They provide scholarship money that makes this type of camp possible in a place where waterfowling is as old as the Scuppeprnong. We still have a couple of openings for this weeklong camp. The total cost of the 6 day/5 night adventureis only $150!!! Camp Canvasback is July 19-24, so sign up will wrap-up soonWhile many people relegate Tyrrell County as an outta-the-way place...I prefer to be here as opposed to the beach or Raleighwood. Bears are better neighbors. I want geese and swans flying over my "pizer" much more than 747's. A traffic jam here almost always includes a bear crossing the road. And with 3 bears to every person, that's a lot of bear to go around.
Enjoy the day...
April 27, 2009
Hyde County, Quilters, and Tyrrell County's Finest
Another busy weekend has come and gone...Massive thanks to the program staff for helping pull of a great program for the Hyde County Support Our Students program....the quilters stitched to their hearts' desire, and they Tyrrell Volunteer Fire Department learned rappelling and taught me some six letter words (NOOOOO!, AAHHHH!, and SCARED).
Hyde County SOS got here around lunch on Saturday...we started off with some of our classic teambuilding...Trangela Collins (group leader) showed a nice movie and then we shared a campfire with the youth. The next day, we set-up the climbing wall for the group...they climbed all morning and early reports show that virtually all reached the top of the behemoth climbing tower. Congrats to Jonathon Casper for becoming qualified to become a full-fledged wall facilitator, too!
The Perquimans County Quilting Retreat embedded with us in the Conference Room for several days, as well. Beautiful quilts were made by these lovely women...I would like to mention my little bit of heroism - One lady told me she had dropped a ring under the decking of our Executive Lodges...She said I was the one she was looking for...which meant I looked like the sucker who would go under the decking (to join the snakes, rats, and insects) for a pretty lady...I found the ring and basked in the glory of my heroism!
The Tyrrell Volunteer Fire Department had a Ropes and Knots class recently...they would top off the class with a climbing and rappelling excursion on our 37' Climbing Tower. The TVFD ONLY refers to me as "Blueberry" (something about a smoothie), which I both love and loathe from time to time. Needless to say, our firefighters braved the height of the wall and all made it up and down successfully, even on the "tough" side. I belayed, while Lee instructed rappelling from the top deck. Volunteer firefighters in this county are true to their dedication...giving up a Sunday afternoon to become better rescuers...
In semi-related weekend news I got a sunburn. I took my boat out and parked directly in front of the Center. That's where the water is warmest (65 degrees), and the southwest wind was least invasive. I swam in the cold waters for about 15 minutes...but only because Callie jumped in first.
I also smoked a Boston Butt and a Chicken for the program staff. After cooking 12 pounds of meat, we dined on the fatty goodness. Chris called the barbecue "Porks and Recreation". We still have some leftovers! Stephanie made Mac and Cheese, Chris made "tater" salad, and Joe made ice cream. Casper helped me tend the smoker.
In case you have been living under a rock, Dock of the Bay is this weekend. Tickets are $40 if you RSVP, and $50 at the door. Don't miss this year's Dock of the Bay...you'll be sorry - we are featuring the Mighty Saints of Soul Band!
Enjoy your day....
Hyde County SOS got here around lunch on Saturday...we started off with some of our classic teambuilding...Trangela Collins (group leader) showed a nice movie and then we shared a campfire with the youth. The next day, we set-up the climbing wall for the group...they climbed all morning and early reports show that virtually all reached the top of the behemoth climbing tower. Congrats to Jonathon Casper for becoming qualified to become a full-fledged wall facilitator, too!
The Perquimans County Quilting Retreat embedded with us in the Conference Room for several days, as well. Beautiful quilts were made by these lovely women...I would like to mention my little bit of heroism - One lady told me she had dropped a ring under the decking of our Executive Lodges...She said I was the one she was looking for...which meant I looked like the sucker who would go under the decking (to join the snakes, rats, and insects) for a pretty lady...I found the ring and basked in the glory of my heroism!
The Tyrrell Volunteer Fire Department had a Ropes and Knots class recently...they would top off the class with a climbing and rappelling excursion on our 37' Climbing Tower. The TVFD ONLY refers to me as "Blueberry" (something about a smoothie), which I both love and loathe from time to time. Needless to say, our firefighters braved the height of the wall and all made it up and down successfully, even on the "tough" side. I belayed, while Lee instructed rappelling from the top deck. Volunteer firefighters in this county are true to their dedication...giving up a Sunday afternoon to become better rescuers...
In semi-related weekend news I got a sunburn. I took my boat out and parked directly in front of the Center. That's where the water is warmest (65 degrees), and the southwest wind was least invasive. I swam in the cold waters for about 15 minutes...but only because Callie jumped in first.
I also smoked a Boston Butt and a Chicken for the program staff. After cooking 12 pounds of meat, we dined on the fatty goodness. Chris called the barbecue "Porks and Recreation". We still have some leftovers! Stephanie made Mac and Cheese, Chris made "tater" salad, and Joe made ice cream. Casper helped me tend the smoker.
In case you have been living under a rock, Dock of the Bay is this weekend. Tickets are $40 if you RSVP, and $50 at the door. Don't miss this year's Dock of the Bay...you'll be sorry - we are featuring the Mighty Saints of Soul Band!
Enjoy your day....
April 24, 2009
Customer Service
I hate customer service these days. Well, I hate receiving it, anyway. Customer Service has deteriorated from "Hello, How may I help you?" to (in computerized voice) "please press 1 for options". Thankfully, the Eastern 4-H Center has the technology to prevent such terrible customer service. Unfortunately, Lee will not let us have any robots...but we do all have voice boxes...and of course, some may use them more than others.
Yesterday I picked up the phone to my credit card company...keep in mind the phone was invented to allow for CONVERSATION over long distances...I never talked to a single person until the very end. The worst part about "new"customer service is the "voice recognition". I am pretty expressive when I speak, and to compound the problem, the automatron voice's ears must be clogged - When I said "NO WAY" for additional fees, the automatron says (in computerized voice) "Did you say 'Oh Yay', please press 1 if this is correct."
This is how the "conversation" went:
Phone: Ring, Ring
Automatron: Thank you for calling Super Bank, for instructions in espanol apriete por favor ocho. For billing options, press 1. To change your personal information press 2. For balance inquiries press 3. To subscribe to additional products, press 4. To pay your bill press 5. For more options press 6 (there are no other options). To repeat this menu press 7.
Chase: (presses # 5, then hums)
Automatron: (in computer voice) Thank you for pressing 5, are you sure you want to pay your bill? Press 1 if this is correct.
Chase: (presses # 1, thinks "well, not really")
Automatron: (in computer voice) Please enter your account number followe....
Chase: (enters account number, and realizes that there was an additional instruction)
Automatron: (in computer voice) (after waiting for 30 seconds) "Please enter yout account number followed by the pound key")
Chase: (presses 9184209014#)
Automatron: (In computer voice)Please wait, while I, the computer, direct your call.
Chase: (doodling)
Automatron: (in computer voice) Please hold, until the very next customer service representative is available to take your call. Please enjoy the terrible background music that is interrupted by special announcements of other products we would like to sell you and force you into debt.
Chase: (doodling)
Real Voice: (Reads from paper, nasally) Hello Mr Cheese Lucker
Chase: (screams) IT is CHASE LUKER!
Real Voice: (Reads from paper, nasally) I am sorry about your name Mr. Looker, how can I help you today?
Chase: I want to pay my bill...
Real Voice: (Reads from paper, nasally)I would be glad to help you with this Mr. Looker. How much do you want to pay?
Chase: All of it...
Real Voice:(Reads from paper, nasally) Are you sure?
Chase: Yes!
Real Voice: OK, I show a balance of 123.03 on your account, is this correct?
Chase: Yes.
Real Voice: Please allow for my computer to process this for you Mr. Looker....It has processed is there any other way I can help you today Mr. Looker?
Chase: Can you give me the past 30 minutes of my life back? (Hangs up)
People want to sneak and trick you into more options...4-H does not do that. If you want a great club that has, does, and will teach youth responsibility, practical skills, and life skills, you just sign up at the county extension office. You can't join 4-H online (yet, anyway).
The Eastern 4-H Center has Ms. Mittie. By her own tasteful elegance, Ms. Mittie fields hundreds of calls a day and directs them to the people in the back of the offices. She always lets it ring twice...this is so that we do not appear to be overzealous about receiving a phone call. She can transfer a call in 1.3 seconds. If we are not in the office, Ms. Mittie doesn't say "He's unavailable"...she tells the truth - "He's gone into town, but he'll be back".
If you are a customer at the Eastern 4-H Center, rest assured you will get the best service we can give you, whether on the phone, in person, or through email. I strive to be as succint as possible in all forms of my communications. I enjoy serving the public, as does everybody else here. To bad that it's only small business that CARE about customers, as small businesses have fewer customers.
If you answer a phone today, be courteous. If you help somebody today, do it with a smile. Do it in earnesty and honesty.
Enjoy your day...
Yesterday I picked up the phone to my credit card company...keep in mind the phone was invented to allow for CONVERSATION over long distances...I never talked to a single person until the very end. The worst part about "new"customer service is the "voice recognition". I am pretty expressive when I speak, and to compound the problem, the automatron voice's ears must be clogged - When I said "NO WAY" for additional fees, the automatron says (in computerized voice) "Did you say 'Oh Yay', please press 1 if this is correct."
This is how the "conversation" went:
Phone: Ring, Ring
Automatron: Thank you for calling Super Bank, for instructions in espanol apriete por favor ocho. For billing options, press 1. To change your personal information press 2. For balance inquiries press 3. To subscribe to additional products, press 4. To pay your bill press 5. For more options press 6 (there are no other options). To repeat this menu press 7.
Chase: (presses # 5, then hums)
Automatron: (in computer voice) Thank you for pressing 5, are you sure you want to pay your bill? Press 1 if this is correct.
Chase: (presses # 1, thinks "well, not really")
Automatron: (in computer voice) Please enter your account number followe....
Chase: (enters account number, and realizes that there was an additional instruction)
Automatron: (in computer voice) (after waiting for 30 seconds) "Please enter yout account number followed by the pound key")
Chase: (presses 9184209014#)
Automatron: (In computer voice)Please wait, while I, the computer, direct your call.
Chase: (doodling)
Automatron: (in computer voice) Please hold, until the very next customer service representative is available to take your call. Please enjoy the terrible background music that is interrupted by special announcements of other products we would like to sell you and force you into debt.
Chase: (doodling)
Real Voice: (Reads from paper, nasally) Hello Mr Cheese Lucker
Chase: (screams) IT is CHASE LUKER!
Real Voice: (Reads from paper, nasally) I am sorry about your name Mr. Looker, how can I help you today?
Chase: I want to pay my bill...
Real Voice: (Reads from paper, nasally)I would be glad to help you with this Mr. Looker. How much do you want to pay?
Chase: All of it...
Real Voice:(Reads from paper, nasally) Are you sure?
Chase: Yes!
Real Voice: OK, I show a balance of 123.03 on your account, is this correct?
Chase: Yes.
Real Voice: Please allow for my computer to process this for you Mr. Looker....It has processed is there any other way I can help you today Mr. Looker?
Chase: Can you give me the past 30 minutes of my life back? (Hangs up)
People want to sneak and trick you into more options...4-H does not do that. If you want a great club that has, does, and will teach youth responsibility, practical skills, and life skills, you just sign up at the county extension office. You can't join 4-H online (yet, anyway).
The Eastern 4-H Center has Ms. Mittie. By her own tasteful elegance, Ms. Mittie fields hundreds of calls a day and directs them to the people in the back of the offices. She always lets it ring twice...this is so that we do not appear to be overzealous about receiving a phone call. She can transfer a call in 1.3 seconds. If we are not in the office, Ms. Mittie doesn't say "He's unavailable"...she tells the truth - "He's gone into town, but he'll be back".
If you are a customer at the Eastern 4-H Center, rest assured you will get the best service we can give you, whether on the phone, in person, or through email. I strive to be as succint as possible in all forms of my communications. I enjoy serving the public, as does everybody else here. To bad that it's only small business that CARE about customers, as small businesses have fewer customers.
If you answer a phone today, be courteous. If you help somebody today, do it with a smile. Do it in earnesty and honesty.
Enjoy your day...
April 23, 2009
Livestock Show / Random potpourri of wisdom
Yesterday, myself, Joe, and Jonathan went to the Hyde (Hoide) County (Cainty) Livestock Show in Ponzer, America. While it was "old hat" for me, it was a pretty new experience for the two program staffers...Joe is from Ohio (which makes him a yankee), and Jonathan is from Gates County (which makes him a foreigner).
This is why Hyde County and Hyde County 4-H is poised to take over the world of rural 4-H:
The 18th Livestock Show in Hyde County was well attended...there were about 400 people there, which is the entire population of the county. Our own Janice Williams (kitchen crew) was down there...here grandchildren got a blue (first place) and a red (second place) ribbon.
Hyde County has better restaurants than downtown Raleigh...Martelle's Feedhouse catered barbecue plates. Martelle's barbecue is the only barbecue in eastern NC that is not entirely vinegar...there is some former livestock mixed in...the hushpuppie tasted like funnel cake, the slaw tasted like it ought-to, and the boiled potatoes still had some skin on them...if Emeril opened the styrofoam container he would say "BAM".
Hyde County Cloverbuds outnumber all other 4-H'ers...this is not because there are not many 4-H'ers, either. Cloverbud's were coming out of the wood-work...Cloverbuds are the "bestest" way to grow a program.
The Hyde County Livestock show is the CORE OF 4-H! While 4-H has evolved, rural Hyde County is defiant of 4-Hs new modes...and while it's basically out of convenience, and not tyranny, it maintains a charm reminiscent of my very own livestock show in Coosa County, Alabama (reserve champion BABY! '91)...
Hyde County Extension Agents, Volunteers, and Sponsors made the event what it is...Natalie Wayne works a lot on this day. She also does a great job. She even made her husband kiss a pig in front of everyone. There is an old cure for chapped lips that I will now share with you - In olden times, if someone had chapped lips, they would kiss an old sow pig...this would not cure the parched lips, but it would prevent further licking of the lips...Mack Gibbs, County Extension Director for Hyde County told a story about every child when they were recognized for their award...there are few counties where this could, would, and should happen...Hyde County is all 3! Volunteers ran the chuckwagon - the place where I bought 6 pieces of fudge...
In Hyde County, there are few stoplights...most are on the island of Ocracoke, too. People can carry on about their business without having to slow down.
The Hyde County accent is the most endearing of all regional dialects in the World. They even have their own words like "interdispersed"...which is an oxymoron, but makes total sense down there, even to me...when I used the word up here in Tyrrell (Turl) County, I didn't understand it, nor did anybody else.
No foreign county or country can overtake Hyde County...the journey is tooo long, therefore becoming a "travel of attrition". The endless, but beautiful pocosin is the only scenery en route to the area.
Hyde County residents can spot invaders...I was accused of being from Raleigh, which, by the way, is the ultimate put-down in Hyde County...I quickly told them perpetrator that I was from Alabama...he had been there - Montgomery, that is - and had less than fond memories of the Alabama State Capitol...it's nice to have something in common!
Everytime I go to Hyde County, I realize how much I love it! Almost as great as Tyrrell (TURL) County, it lacks the beach traffic...
WHAT A SHOW!!! I had "tunzafun"!
Now...I was called a "Little Lee" yesterday...I have a problem with that for several reasons:
We are basically the same size, I am not little, nor is Lee big.
I have a stride, Lee has a gait.
Lee's idea of a ham sandwich includes a piece of cold cut between two pieces of salt meat.
Lee is a go-getter, I am a get-goer.
Lee has one of everything ever manufactured in the world.
Lee wrestled in school, I "rassled".
Lee would wear a green shirt, I would wear green pants.
Lee goes to the Barber, I cut my own hair.
Obviously, we are nothing alike...
Enjoy your day....
This is why Hyde County and Hyde County 4-H is poised to take over the world of rural 4-H:
The 18th Livestock Show in Hyde County was well attended...there were about 400 people there, which is the entire population of the county. Our own Janice Williams (kitchen crew) was down there...here grandchildren got a blue (first place) and a red (second place) ribbon.
Hyde County has better restaurants than downtown Raleigh...Martelle's Feedhouse catered barbecue plates. Martelle's barbecue is the only barbecue in eastern NC that is not entirely vinegar...there is some former livestock mixed in...the hushpuppie tasted like funnel cake, the slaw tasted like it ought-to, and the boiled potatoes still had some skin on them...if Emeril opened the styrofoam container he would say "BAM".
Hyde County Cloverbuds outnumber all other 4-H'ers...this is not because there are not many 4-H'ers, either. Cloverbud's were coming out of the wood-work...Cloverbuds are the "bestest" way to grow a program.
The Hyde County Livestock show is the CORE OF 4-H! While 4-H has evolved, rural Hyde County is defiant of 4-Hs new modes...and while it's basically out of convenience, and not tyranny, it maintains a charm reminiscent of my very own livestock show in Coosa County, Alabama (reserve champion BABY! '91)...
Hyde County Extension Agents, Volunteers, and Sponsors made the event what it is...Natalie Wayne works a lot on this day. She also does a great job. She even made her husband kiss a pig in front of everyone. There is an old cure for chapped lips that I will now share with you - In olden times, if someone had chapped lips, they would kiss an old sow pig...this would not cure the parched lips, but it would prevent further licking of the lips...Mack Gibbs, County Extension Director for Hyde County told a story about every child when they were recognized for their award...there are few counties where this could, would, and should happen...Hyde County is all 3! Volunteers ran the chuckwagon - the place where I bought 6 pieces of fudge...
In Hyde County, there are few stoplights...most are on the island of Ocracoke, too. People can carry on about their business without having to slow down.
The Hyde County accent is the most endearing of all regional dialects in the World. They even have their own words like "interdispersed"...which is an oxymoron, but makes total sense down there, even to me...when I used the word up here in Tyrrell (Turl) County, I didn't understand it, nor did anybody else.
No foreign county or country can overtake Hyde County...the journey is tooo long, therefore becoming a "travel of attrition". The endless, but beautiful pocosin is the only scenery en route to the area.
Hyde County residents can spot invaders...I was accused of being from Raleigh, which, by the way, is the ultimate put-down in Hyde County...I quickly told them perpetrator that I was from Alabama...he had been there - Montgomery, that is - and had less than fond memories of the Alabama State Capitol...it's nice to have something in common!
Everytime I go to Hyde County, I realize how much I love it! Almost as great as Tyrrell (TURL) County, it lacks the beach traffic...
WHAT A SHOW!!! I had "tunzafun"!
Now...I was called a "Little Lee" yesterday...I have a problem with that for several reasons:
We are basically the same size, I am not little, nor is Lee big.
I have a stride, Lee has a gait.
Lee's idea of a ham sandwich includes a piece of cold cut between two pieces of salt meat.
Lee is a go-getter, I am a get-goer.
Lee has one of everything ever manufactured in the world.
Lee wrestled in school, I "rassled".
Lee would wear a green shirt, I would wear green pants.
Lee goes to the Barber, I cut my own hair.
Obviously, we are nothing alike...
Enjoy your day....
April 21, 2009
Earth Day...who cares?
It's Earth Day...But it is not the Earth's birthday. Why do we celebrate Earth Day? When did this start anyway?
I love Earth, for a couple of reasons: (1) I live on it, (2) Most of my friends and family live there, too, (3) Ducks live there, and (4) it is pretty.
The need to celebrate the Earth was generated in the post-DDT era of pesticides. DDT that was sprayed on crops and such had detrimental effects on wildlife. DDT was pretty rude...it most notably caused egg shell thinning in birds, notably the Bald Eagle. Many people believed that more eggs would hatch if DDT were banned...those folks were right. I am still confused...some people go to the store and buy unhatched eggs, mainly for consumption. Thankfully, powdered eggs and hockey puck eggs were invented by fast food chains, which allowed for even more additional egg hatchings.
Nevertheless, April 22, 1970 was the first Earth Day. So for 39 years we have celebrated the Earth's importance. Also, hippies were given a national holiday with Earth Day's creation. April 22 has many significant meanings. Most notably, John Muir's (famed conservationist) birthday "WAS" on this day. Records later proved that he was born on April 21, and gestated for some 9 months prior to his birth. April 22 is also the birthday of everyone's favorite communist, Vladimir Lenin. Keep in mind that in the 1970's political change and opposition to communists, both at home and abroad, was prevalent. As you can see, Earth Day started off pretty rough.
Created to increase environmental awareness, Earth Day has done a so-so job. Every year (or election cycle), politicians grasp hold of the environment. Most politicians, do not understand that protection of the environment means "CONSERVATION", not preservation. Conservation means "wise use" of resources. Preservation means "no use", or leave as is - no logging, hunting, etc. Hunting and logging, when done with regulations, have long been heralded as great things for the environment and Earth. However, it is guaranteed that somewhere, there will be some bare-footed hippies uncapping oil pans on skidders or protesting game hunting or fishing. DID YOU KNOW, that sportsmen pay taxes on all of their "sporting goods" that go directly into environmental programs administered by the government. Loggers must uphold the HIGHEST environmental standards, only so hippies can climb into the trees (which scars the bark, xylem and phloem) to protest a little more.
I have never understand why Earth gets a day. I think people should care about Earth every day, not just April 22, but I guess that day is available for hippies...
Hippies have done more than anyone to increase awareness. Ask a hippie what's wrong with the environment, and you will get a great answer. Most hippies use their powers for good and not evil. I want regulated hunting, fishing, and logging...that way it'll be here for my "ganbabies".
How many people live on Earth? About 6.8 billion! Scientists estimate that the Earth's carrying capacity is at 8.8 billion...what happens win you reach the carrying capacity? Do some research - the same thing happens to deer, whales, eagles, butterflies, and worms, and everything else when it's population maxes out...now, decide which is easier, control the population or increase the carrying capacity. As we build more homes, Wal-Marts, and frivolous entertainment complexes we are certainly not increasing the carrying capacity for wildlife...wildlife will run out of food, until there are only enough wildlife to eat the available food.
If you are still opposed to helping the Earth every day of the year, consider these things:
(1) Sunbathing is not nearly as fun on Mercury and Venus.
(2) Water on Mars is frozen.
(3) Currently, 4-H is only available on Earth.
(4) Jupiter is a flaming ball of gas.
(5) Earthlings only have to deal with one moon.
As you can tell from the short list above, Earth is GREAT. Everybody should do something good for the Earth every day of the year...here are some tips:
(1) Carry a water bottle, like a Nalgene or Sigg - not a bottle of water. The bottles of water that you buy allegedly have an "eco-friendly" container - NOT! The bottle was just made of less plastic, so they are easily punctured in the factory and tossed out!
(2) IF YOU WALK PAST A PIECE OF TRASH, JUST PICK THE STUPID THING UP!
(3) Go to bed 30 minutes earlier, and wake up 30 minutes later - You will save an hours worth of electricity and get more sleep.
(4) Recycle plastic, aluminum, and glass. You can even make money! Take 1 ton of cans and get $20 for your pocket...actually this is a waste of time...just recycle and donate.
(5) Turn off or unplug items you don't use during the day - I unplug my alarm clock and microwave often...all I have to do is plug them back in when I get ready to use them.
(6) Wash clothes on the "COLD" setting.
(7) Buy only what you will eat, eat everything you cook, and do not throw away food. You will make friends in Ethiopia for being responsible.
(8) Buy a coffee mug...I have 20 and I will give you 1 if you need it. Styrofoam cups never degrade (well, after 500 years) and just fill up the landfill.
(9) Visit a landfill.
(10) Buy a Federal Duck Stamp. They are collector's items! They have a picture of a duck on them! The Federal Duck Stamp Program commits 97% of its proceeds to buyinga dn protecting waterfowl habitat. By the way, waterfowl live in wetlands...these are the water filters of the planet!
That's enough about Earth Day...congratulations to Joe, program staffer, for enriching our staff house recycling plan in honor of Earth Day! We are even going to "fluff" our worm bin today!
Enjoy your Earth Day(s)...
I love Earth, for a couple of reasons: (1) I live on it, (2) Most of my friends and family live there, too, (3) Ducks live there, and (4) it is pretty.
The need to celebrate the Earth was generated in the post-DDT era of pesticides. DDT that was sprayed on crops and such had detrimental effects on wildlife. DDT was pretty rude...it most notably caused egg shell thinning in birds, notably the Bald Eagle. Many people believed that more eggs would hatch if DDT were banned...those folks were right. I am still confused...some people go to the store and buy unhatched eggs, mainly for consumption. Thankfully, powdered eggs and hockey puck eggs were invented by fast food chains, which allowed for even more additional egg hatchings.
Nevertheless, April 22, 1970 was the first Earth Day. So for 39 years we have celebrated the Earth's importance. Also, hippies were given a national holiday with Earth Day's creation. April 22 has many significant meanings. Most notably, John Muir's (famed conservationist) birthday "WAS" on this day. Records later proved that he was born on April 21, and gestated for some 9 months prior to his birth. April 22 is also the birthday of everyone's favorite communist, Vladimir Lenin. Keep in mind that in the 1970's political change and opposition to communists, both at home and abroad, was prevalent. As you can see, Earth Day started off pretty rough.
Created to increase environmental awareness, Earth Day has done a so-so job. Every year (or election cycle), politicians grasp hold of the environment. Most politicians, do not understand that protection of the environment means "CONSERVATION", not preservation. Conservation means "wise use" of resources. Preservation means "no use", or leave as is - no logging, hunting, etc. Hunting and logging, when done with regulations, have long been heralded as great things for the environment and Earth. However, it is guaranteed that somewhere, there will be some bare-footed hippies uncapping oil pans on skidders or protesting game hunting or fishing. DID YOU KNOW, that sportsmen pay taxes on all of their "sporting goods" that go directly into environmental programs administered by the government. Loggers must uphold the HIGHEST environmental standards, only so hippies can climb into the trees (which scars the bark, xylem and phloem) to protest a little more.
I have never understand why Earth gets a day. I think people should care about Earth every day, not just April 22, but I guess that day is available for hippies...
Hippies have done more than anyone to increase awareness. Ask a hippie what's wrong with the environment, and you will get a great answer. Most hippies use their powers for good and not evil. I want regulated hunting, fishing, and logging...that way it'll be here for my "ganbabies".
How many people live on Earth? About 6.8 billion! Scientists estimate that the Earth's carrying capacity is at 8.8 billion...what happens win you reach the carrying capacity? Do some research - the same thing happens to deer, whales, eagles, butterflies, and worms, and everything else when it's population maxes out...now, decide which is easier, control the population or increase the carrying capacity. As we build more homes, Wal-Marts, and frivolous entertainment complexes we are certainly not increasing the carrying capacity for wildlife...wildlife will run out of food, until there are only enough wildlife to eat the available food.
If you are still opposed to helping the Earth every day of the year, consider these things:
(1) Sunbathing is not nearly as fun on Mercury and Venus.
(2) Water on Mars is frozen.
(3) Currently, 4-H is only available on Earth.
(4) Jupiter is a flaming ball of gas.
(5) Earthlings only have to deal with one moon.
As you can tell from the short list above, Earth is GREAT. Everybody should do something good for the Earth every day of the year...here are some tips:
(1) Carry a water bottle, like a Nalgene or Sigg - not a bottle of water. The bottles of water that you buy allegedly have an "eco-friendly" container - NOT! The bottle was just made of less plastic, so they are easily punctured in the factory and tossed out!
(2) IF YOU WALK PAST A PIECE OF TRASH, JUST PICK THE STUPID THING UP!
(3) Go to bed 30 minutes earlier, and wake up 30 minutes later - You will save an hours worth of electricity and get more sleep.
(4) Recycle plastic, aluminum, and glass. You can even make money! Take 1 ton of cans and get $20 for your pocket...actually this is a waste of time...just recycle and donate.
(5) Turn off or unplug items you don't use during the day - I unplug my alarm clock and microwave often...all I have to do is plug them back in when I get ready to use them.
(6) Wash clothes on the "COLD" setting.
(7) Buy only what you will eat, eat everything you cook, and do not throw away food. You will make friends in Ethiopia for being responsible.
(8) Buy a coffee mug...I have 20 and I will give you 1 if you need it. Styrofoam cups never degrade (well, after 500 years) and just fill up the landfill.
(9) Visit a landfill.
(10) Buy a Federal Duck Stamp. They are collector's items! They have a picture of a duck on them! The Federal Duck Stamp Program commits 97% of its proceeds to buyinga dn protecting waterfowl habitat. By the way, waterfowl live in wetlands...these are the water filters of the planet!
That's enough about Earth Day...congratulations to Joe, program staffer, for enriching our staff house recycling plan in honor of Earth Day! We are even going to "fluff" our worm bin today!
Enjoy your Earth Day(s)...
O' Town o' Columbia
Auburn, Alabama is known as the loveliest village on the plain...and it's hard to argue that, despite the nasty traffic snarls, unappreciative town merchants, and archaic professors. Columbia, North Carolina, to me, is "the loveliest village in the pocosin"... especially because there is nary a traffic jam, the town merchants, while few, are very appreciative, and there are no aging professors. The glory of my new town is expressed through its fun festivals.
The Scuppernong River Festival is a fun little party...there is a parade, complete with Firetrucks, Four wheelers, and 4-H'ers. That's it. The simplicity of the parade reflects the simplicity of life here. Only beach traffic interrupts our normal way of life. The SRF also has vendors of jewelry, art, and meat on a stick, a personal favorite of Lee Scripture. While some people come from as far away as Edenton to enjoy the festival, it's intent is to serve the people that are served by the Scuppernong. From the Scuppernong, procurers of fish, crabs, and sunburn make a living, year in and year out. The festival hosts canoe and kayak tours of the area and a street dance. It's fun, well-attended, and always scheduled during the "biggest" Auburn game of the year...I have to choose - thanks for TiVo.
Rivertown Christmas is another really cool festival that revolves around the Scuppernong River. A flotilla, complete with holiday-themed lighting on each boat, makes for quite a spectacle on the river. This festival also coincides with the fall flight of waterfowl, which alone, impresses me. Watching the Tundra Swans go to roost as the Flotilla readies is really neat. It is usually cold outside, too.
The Soul Food Festival, which I have only attended once, is great...Why? see "Soul Food".
All good festivals generally clebrate something that is important to the town...Watermelon Festivals, Cherry Festivals, and even barbecue festivals (see "Memphis in May" on Google) are a ritual that occur throughout the year that both entertain and pay homage to our cultural roots. Arab, Alabama hosts the Poke Salat Festival...so there is a celebration for everything, everywhere.
Come to Columbia for some great festivals...Come to the Eastern 4-H Center for Dock of the Bay if you want to see an "up and coming" festival/beach music party.
Enjoy the day...
The Scuppernong River Festival is a fun little party...there is a parade, complete with Firetrucks, Four wheelers, and 4-H'ers. That's it. The simplicity of the parade reflects the simplicity of life here. Only beach traffic interrupts our normal way of life. The SRF also has vendors of jewelry, art, and meat on a stick, a personal favorite of Lee Scripture. While some people come from as far away as Edenton to enjoy the festival, it's intent is to serve the people that are served by the Scuppernong. From the Scuppernong, procurers of fish, crabs, and sunburn make a living, year in and year out. The festival hosts canoe and kayak tours of the area and a street dance. It's fun, well-attended, and always scheduled during the "biggest" Auburn game of the year...I have to choose - thanks for TiVo.
Rivertown Christmas is another really cool festival that revolves around the Scuppernong River. A flotilla, complete with holiday-themed lighting on each boat, makes for quite a spectacle on the river. This festival also coincides with the fall flight of waterfowl, which alone, impresses me. Watching the Tundra Swans go to roost as the Flotilla readies is really neat. It is usually cold outside, too.
The Soul Food Festival, which I have only attended once, is great...Why? see "Soul Food".
All good festivals generally clebrate something that is important to the town...Watermelon Festivals, Cherry Festivals, and even barbecue festivals (see "Memphis in May" on Google) are a ritual that occur throughout the year that both entertain and pay homage to our cultural roots. Arab, Alabama hosts the Poke Salat Festival...so there is a celebration for everything, everywhere.
Come to Columbia for some great festivals...Come to the Eastern 4-H Center for Dock of the Bay if you want to see an "up and coming" festival/beach music party.
Enjoy the day...
April 20, 2009
Open Letter to Dock of the Bay Committee
Dear Dock of the Bay Committee,
Let me begin this letter by thanking you all for your hard work thus far. Putting on a beach music fundraiser is difficult. A mastery of the ability to discern the tastes of discerning patrons is certainly required. For this year's event, I have a couple of tiny requests, all of which, I have outlined below:
If you continue to serve locally sourced, fresh crab dip, please ensure that I am guaranteed to receive an extra morsel. The rich, nearly butter-like, crab dip is a true delicacy that tastes as if it was pulled from Bulls Bay mere minutes prior to preparation...
If you continue to offer unique silent auction items, please hide the bid sheet for the round of golf. I want to win a golf trip for the third year. Last year's trip was in Tarboro. The course was well-manicured and a challenge to play, especially since Lee kept hiding my golf balls. The prior year, a golf pass to Nags Head Links was the ultimate prize. Having played at golf courses all over the southeast, Nags Head Links offers unique challenges. It is one of the few "true" links courses I have ever played and requires accurate shot placement, and a windproof golf ball.
If you continue to play beach music, please do not make me dance. I enjoy the music enough without dancing. And now that I know what "shagging" is, I am not afraid to watch all of the patrons enjoy their time in front of the band. The Shag is a dance of low country tradition that is endanger of losing its appeal to younger generations. Shagging was generated in the 1930's and 40's...it's a blanket term for many swing dances. The word itself is traced back to late 19th century Flea Hop dancers. It's also the State Dance of North and South Carolina. So, Committee, if you ever change this dance, please make sure that the dance is changed to whatever the current State Dance is...
If you continue to "Salute the Sunset", please promise me that it will continue to NOT involve 21 guns.
If you continue to serve sliced Steamship Round, please ensure that the bone, or shank, continues to be exposed. Also, will you please continue to slice the meat across the grain, which increases the tenderness of the lean meat. In my personal belief, no party is complete without a slab of livestock served warm and juicy.
If you continue to serve Shrimp...please make sure they are as tasty as in years' past.
If you continue to invite so many people, will you please make sure that they all continue to have a wonderful time, just as in years' past? If a patron seems to be having less than a stellar time, please relocate the patron to the Chocolate Fountain, complete with brownies, blondies, marshmallows, and fruit - all ready for submersion in cocoa. This will lift even the lowest spirit. Chocolate Fountains are the greatest "social lubricants" on the market. We will have two "social lubricants" available for responsible consumption, right?
If you continue to host this event, can you please talk to the Weatherman at WITN. I want sun and seventies...PLEASE!
One last request...please ensure that I spell my name correctly on the name tag...
Best,
Chase Luker
***********
Dock of the Bay will be on May 2, and the "gates" open at 6:00 pm. Event registrations are available online at www.eastern4hcenter.org. You can also just, show-up. RSVP'ers can purchase an event ticket for $40...it's $50 at the door. Bring an appetite for fun, friends, and philanthropy...proceeds go to camperships for summer campers and our capital building fund.
Enjoy the day....
Let me begin this letter by thanking you all for your hard work thus far. Putting on a beach music fundraiser is difficult. A mastery of the ability to discern the tastes of discerning patrons is certainly required. For this year's event, I have a couple of tiny requests, all of which, I have outlined below:
If you continue to serve locally sourced, fresh crab dip, please ensure that I am guaranteed to receive an extra morsel. The rich, nearly butter-like, crab dip is a true delicacy that tastes as if it was pulled from Bulls Bay mere minutes prior to preparation...
If you continue to offer unique silent auction items, please hide the bid sheet for the round of golf. I want to win a golf trip for the third year. Last year's trip was in Tarboro. The course was well-manicured and a challenge to play, especially since Lee kept hiding my golf balls. The prior year, a golf pass to Nags Head Links was the ultimate prize. Having played at golf courses all over the southeast, Nags Head Links offers unique challenges. It is one of the few "true" links courses I have ever played and requires accurate shot placement, and a windproof golf ball.
If you continue to play beach music, please do not make me dance. I enjoy the music enough without dancing. And now that I know what "shagging" is, I am not afraid to watch all of the patrons enjoy their time in front of the band. The Shag is a dance of low country tradition that is endanger of losing its appeal to younger generations. Shagging was generated in the 1930's and 40's...it's a blanket term for many swing dances. The word itself is traced back to late 19th century Flea Hop dancers. It's also the State Dance of North and South Carolina. So, Committee, if you ever change this dance, please make sure that the dance is changed to whatever the current State Dance is...
If you continue to "Salute the Sunset", please promise me that it will continue to NOT involve 21 guns.
If you continue to serve sliced Steamship Round, please ensure that the bone, or shank, continues to be exposed. Also, will you please continue to slice the meat across the grain, which increases the tenderness of the lean meat. In my personal belief, no party is complete without a slab of livestock served warm and juicy.
If you continue to serve Shrimp...please make sure they are as tasty as in years' past.
If you continue to invite so many people, will you please make sure that they all continue to have a wonderful time, just as in years' past? If a patron seems to be having less than a stellar time, please relocate the patron to the Chocolate Fountain, complete with brownies, blondies, marshmallows, and fruit - all ready for submersion in cocoa. This will lift even the lowest spirit. Chocolate Fountains are the greatest "social lubricants" on the market. We will have two "social lubricants" available for responsible consumption, right?
If you continue to host this event, can you please talk to the Weatherman at WITN. I want sun and seventies...PLEASE!
One last request...please ensure that I spell my name correctly on the name tag...
Best,
Chase Luker
***********
Dock of the Bay will be on May 2, and the "gates" open at 6:00 pm. Event registrations are available online at www.eastern4hcenter.org. You can also just, show-up. RSVP'ers can purchase an event ticket for $40...it's $50 at the door. Bring an appetite for fun, friends, and philanthropy...proceeds go to camperships for summer campers and our capital building fund.
Enjoy the day....
April 19, 2009
Unofficial Study at Eastern 4-H Completed
The research is complete...hypothesis confirmed. Youth and adults love the Eastern 4-H Center. RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards wraps up in a matter of moments. This was my 3rd experience with RYLA, and they keep getting better and better. I "earn my stripes" with this discerning group. Rotary Clubs of District 7720 sponsor this specific RYLA. The dedicated team of Tony, Ed, Heather, and Governor Vivian Mott have ushered in a new "order" of RYLA. With their own, brand new "curriculum", they have revolutionized the program...its now more of a destination, than an event...I applaud their efforts!
Program Staff delivered great programs. We facilitated "leadership encouraging" teambuilding for the high school juniors. We also led a service project...we now have 9 of the sturdiest (heaviest) picnic tables I have ever tried to lift. The counselors (all volunteer) did an amazing job, and have been proactive in offering new ideas for next year, as well. Last night, as Scavenger Hunt was conducted...no Scavengers were found, but the participants did find a lot of random items.
This weeks agenda - Dock of the Bay (Monday), Tyrrell County & Columbia festivals (Tuesday), Weekend Outlook (Wednesday), Random Thoughts (Thursday), Countdown Begins (Friday)...
Please responsibly enjoy the photo of RYLA 2009 below...
Program Staff delivered great programs. We facilitated "leadership encouraging" teambuilding for the high school juniors. We also led a service project...we now have 9 of the sturdiest (heaviest) picnic tables I have ever tried to lift. The counselors (all volunteer) did an amazing job, and have been proactive in offering new ideas for next year, as well. Last night, as Scavenger Hunt was conducted...no Scavengers were found, but the participants did find a lot of random items.
This weeks agenda - Dock of the Bay (Monday), Tyrrell County & Columbia festivals (Tuesday), Weekend Outlook (Wednesday), Random Thoughts (Thursday), Countdown Begins (Friday)...
Please responsibly enjoy the photo of RYLA 2009 below...
April 17, 2009
Late Night RYLA Blog
RYLA is going GREAT...I have only spilled popcorn twice...i will have to clean it up before Terri finds it!
RYLA'rians are currently watching "Pay it Forward"...it is about doing favors for free (or without payback).
Callie signed up for Twitter...she is confused and now hates twitter.
Special Thanks to Kyleen Burgess (Extension IT)...she helped me on a top secret project concerning this blog and she also showed Lee how to turn on his computer. Kyleen will keep our project a secret, I hope!
Tonight we had an "Etiquette Dinner"...Sara Phelps, our Marketing Director, emcee'd the function...it went really well. Joe and Stephanie, program staffers, helped "warsh" dishes in the kitchen tonight, in an effort to speed up the process. Job Well Done!
I found out that the Carolina Hurricanes were in the playoffs tonight...I also found out that north Carolina had a hockey team, too.
See you Monday...
RYLA'rians are currently watching "Pay it Forward"...it is about doing favors for free (or without payback).
Callie signed up for Twitter...she is confused and now hates twitter.
Special Thanks to Kyleen Burgess (Extension IT)...she helped me on a top secret project concerning this blog and she also showed Lee how to turn on his computer. Kyleen will keep our project a secret, I hope!
Tonight we had an "Etiquette Dinner"...Sara Phelps, our Marketing Director, emcee'd the function...it went really well. Joe and Stephanie, program staffers, helped "warsh" dishes in the kitchen tonight, in an effort to speed up the process. Job Well Done!
I found out that the Carolina Hurricanes were in the playoffs tonight...I also found out that north Carolina had a hockey team, too.
See you Monday...
The Great One has returned...
I am back! Despite the trumpeters bugling in my ear as I walked through the office threshold this morning, I arrived with a little less fanfare than expected.
The best part about being sick is getting better. Being able to smell stuff again is quite refreshing...same goes for taste.
RYLA is here this weekend. RYLA is an acronym for Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. For those of you unfamiliar with Rotary or RYLA - Rotary is the world's first service club organization...their motto is "Service Above Self"... There are Rotary Clubs on virtually every planet...especially Earth. There are even clubs on Antarctica! They meet indoors down there.
RYLA is the youth development branch of the Rotary...Each Rotary Club sponsors, on average, 2 kids (juniors in high school) to attend. The selection criteria is simple...the best students who receive the least amount of acclaim, it seems. All of the bright students are generally on tap to be in the top 5 of their graduating class...so there are a lot of smart kids. I was 10th in my class in high school. There were 11 people in my class.
RYLA will do a service project (Service above Self)...they will build pinic tables...most of the tables we have now, were produced by RYLA...and we have a load of them.
RYLA will also participate in breakout sessions that encourage and cultivate leadership. The program is really designed to promote future leaders and increase Rotary awareness.
RYLA will also be put through the rigors of our Team Challenge Course. Our facilitators regularly turn whiners into winners! These students will certainly appreciate the course we have laid out for them this weekend!
I will be in the office all weekend...making up for my sick days, I reckon. Next week will be a little slower than this week, but the weekend will be capped off with a visit from the Hyde County SOS group...more teambuilding! We do an awful lot of this!
Enjoy your day...
The best part about being sick is getting better. Being able to smell stuff again is quite refreshing...same goes for taste.
RYLA is here this weekend. RYLA is an acronym for Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. For those of you unfamiliar with Rotary or RYLA - Rotary is the world's first service club organization...their motto is "Service Above Self"... There are Rotary Clubs on virtually every planet...especially Earth. There are even clubs on Antarctica! They meet indoors down there.
RYLA is the youth development branch of the Rotary...Each Rotary Club sponsors, on average, 2 kids (juniors in high school) to attend. The selection criteria is simple...the best students who receive the least amount of acclaim, it seems. All of the bright students are generally on tap to be in the top 5 of their graduating class...so there are a lot of smart kids. I was 10th in my class in high school. There were 11 people in my class.
RYLA will do a service project (Service above Self)...they will build pinic tables...most of the tables we have now, were produced by RYLA...and we have a load of them.
RYLA will also participate in breakout sessions that encourage and cultivate leadership. The program is really designed to promote future leaders and increase Rotary awareness.
RYLA will also be put through the rigors of our Team Challenge Course. Our facilitators regularly turn whiners into winners! These students will certainly appreciate the course we have laid out for them this weekend!
I will be in the office all weekend...making up for my sick days, I reckon. Next week will be a little slower than this week, but the weekend will be capped off with a visit from the Hyde County SOS group...more teambuilding! We do an awful lot of this!
Enjoy your day...
April 16, 2009
Late Night Blog
So I have been sick since Sunday...I have been outta the office for a couple days, too, so I haven't been able to catalog a blog, either.
The worst part about being sick is that you can't do anything with normal ease. I can't carry on a conversation without sneezing or coughing. And...more than normal, people are avoiding me.
Day Camp ended today...the staff had a lot of fun with those guys...we had some "old" faces, as well as new. The Junior Guild, from Northampton County was also here...and now they are gone...they were a special group of young ladies. Despite the rain, Joe was able to put on quite a show of teambuilding prowess. He had to pick up where Chris left off on Monday.
Also, Casper will be experiencing an interview with another 4-H Center as a potential program coordinator...I like the fact that I have cultivated several professionals in the Outdoor Education and Camping profession. Obviously, I can't take all the credit, but I will. I hire only the best (usually ;).
Nikki locked herself out of the office today...no surprise there! Teresa also said that I looked pasty...but I am sick. I haven't received any "get-well" cards, flowers, or balloons, but I am sure they are own their way.
Anyway...RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards are here today and through the weekend...this group is BIG and a lot of fun. Saturday we will lead a teambuilding activity and service projects with them...More on RYLA tomorrow...
Enjoy your evening...
The worst part about being sick is that you can't do anything with normal ease. I can't carry on a conversation without sneezing or coughing. And...more than normal, people are avoiding me.
Day Camp ended today...the staff had a lot of fun with those guys...we had some "old" faces, as well as new. The Junior Guild, from Northampton County was also here...and now they are gone...they were a special group of young ladies. Despite the rain, Joe was able to put on quite a show of teambuilding prowess. He had to pick up where Chris left off on Monday.
Also, Casper will be experiencing an interview with another 4-H Center as a potential program coordinator...I like the fact that I have cultivated several professionals in the Outdoor Education and Camping profession. Obviously, I can't take all the credit, but I will. I hire only the best (usually ;).
Nikki locked herself out of the office today...no surprise there! Teresa also said that I looked pasty...but I am sick. I haven't received any "get-well" cards, flowers, or balloons, but I am sure they are own their way.
Anyway...RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards are here today and through the weekend...this group is BIG and a lot of fun. Saturday we will lead a teambuilding activity and service projects with them...More on RYLA tomorrow...
Enjoy your evening...
April 14, 2009
Spring Cleaning
Its that time of year again...SPRING CLEANING. When the weather warms, you can do lots to get your house ready for the upcoming spring season. Oddly enough, have always wondered why our places get so messy during the winter...Spring cleaning is a time to clean out the gutters so that April Showers don't weigh down the roof of your house. Getting leaves out of the yard will allow your grass and weeds to grow without hesitation. Cleaning the house makes everyone feel better for a couple of days, too - until you have messes it up again. I have some ideas that I like to use....you can use them, too, but only if you are as an extreme cleaner like myself.
Disclaimer: No matter what you do to clean, you can never do enough to rid the evidence of Lee Scripture IV. This tiny Tyrant can get into a building and ransack the place in a matter of minutes. He can even hide stuff in the far corners of your room, as well as the universe. Also, you will never, ever clean a house or room as well as the Housekeeping Crew at the Eastern 4-H Center. Terri & Cindy can clean ANYTHING. For a challenge, they often sweep the flower beds free of dirt, clear down to the mantle of the earth.
With that being said, this is the single-man's guide to cleaning your residence:
1) If you have a girlfriend...arm wrestle her, the loser does chores for a year!
2) I love the smell of an evergreen forest. Pouring Pine-Sol into your air conditioning unit will leave your place smelling like a Red Spruce for ages. Even after you have replaced your air conditioning unit, the scent will linger.
3) Vacuum with a shop-vac...there are few things more manly than lugging a tub shaped vacuum around your living room. My Shop-Vac can pick up anything from dust and pizza crusts to small pets and lawn furniture.
4) Cleaning Counter tops is no fun...I just by a can pf spray paint that matches my counter-tops. You can also by the primer coat for that professional look, but I prefer to just spray over the entire counter, coffee grinds and all. It gives me that textured look.
5) Cleaning out the refrigerator is always a fun experience. I feel like a spanish conquistador over newly chartered lands....Why? Because I have no idea what I am about to find. I have been through my parents refigerator in the past year and found items like Coca-Cola cans that read "Happy Holidays 2001". I know that they area little old. I also like to find the 3 year old jams and jellies. This fur covered confections should be discarded immediately.
6) Sweeping the floor is also a cinch...just use your Shop-Vac.
7) Build shelves....this handy items will give you tons pf storage space...you can get everything off of the floor! Shelves can also be put anywhere - garage to bathroom!
I love cleaning a little bit. I think that cleaning men help to debunk stereotypes about cleaning. One thing that I will never understand...Why make a bed everyday if you are only going to get in it again. I don't host many open houses, so I do not think it is that important. Growing up, I was a bit messy. My Mom went on Strike in 1994 from helping me clean my room. That is the truth. She has held firm in her conviction, too. But if it weren't for the "Great Strike of '94" *** I would never have learned to clean!
***My mom went on Strike the same year major league baseball went on strike. So I had nothing to watch on TV...I started cleaning.
Enjoy your day
Disclaimer: No matter what you do to clean, you can never do enough to rid the evidence of Lee Scripture IV. This tiny Tyrant can get into a building and ransack the place in a matter of minutes. He can even hide stuff in the far corners of your room, as well as the universe. Also, you will never, ever clean a house or room as well as the Housekeeping Crew at the Eastern 4-H Center. Terri & Cindy can clean ANYTHING. For a challenge, they often sweep the flower beds free of dirt, clear down to the mantle of the earth.
With that being said, this is the single-man's guide to cleaning your residence:
1) If you have a girlfriend...arm wrestle her, the loser does chores for a year!
2) I love the smell of an evergreen forest. Pouring Pine-Sol into your air conditioning unit will leave your place smelling like a Red Spruce for ages. Even after you have replaced your air conditioning unit, the scent will linger.
3) Vacuum with a shop-vac...there are few things more manly than lugging a tub shaped vacuum around your living room. My Shop-Vac can pick up anything from dust and pizza crusts to small pets and lawn furniture.
4) Cleaning Counter tops is no fun...I just by a can pf spray paint that matches my counter-tops. You can also by the primer coat for that professional look, but I prefer to just spray over the entire counter, coffee grinds and all. It gives me that textured look.
5) Cleaning out the refrigerator is always a fun experience. I feel like a spanish conquistador over newly chartered lands....Why? Because I have no idea what I am about to find. I have been through my parents refigerator in the past year and found items like Coca-Cola cans that read "Happy Holidays 2001". I know that they area little old. I also like to find the 3 year old jams and jellies. This fur covered confections should be discarded immediately.
6) Sweeping the floor is also a cinch...just use your Shop-Vac.
7) Build shelves....this handy items will give you tons pf storage space...you can get everything off of the floor! Shelves can also be put anywhere - garage to bathroom!
I love cleaning a little bit. I think that cleaning men help to debunk stereotypes about cleaning. One thing that I will never understand...Why make a bed everyday if you are only going to get in it again. I don't host many open houses, so I do not think it is that important. Growing up, I was a bit messy. My Mom went on Strike in 1994 from helping me clean my room. That is the truth. She has held firm in her conviction, too. But if it weren't for the "Great Strike of '94" *** I would never have learned to clean!
***My mom went on Strike the same year major league baseball went on strike. So I had nothing to watch on TV...I started cleaning.
Enjoy your day
April 13, 2009
Easter Weekend......
Another Easter has come and gone...The Vaughn Family Reunion was here over the weekend and they seemed to have all had a whole lot of fun. This was the first Easter that I have not been able to attend an Easter service, but I upheld another tradition, in part due to my "locked-in" status at the Staff House. I also went to the aquarium at the Outer Banks (Manteo, actually).
Every Easter, the most regal of all sports events is held in Augusta, Georgia - The Masters Golf Tournament is held at the Augusta national Golf Club. I have only had the pleasure of seeing this course on the TV set...The meticulously manicured course is a spectacle to behold, and with the added pleasure of the blooming azaleas, the desire for HDTV only grows in my gut.
Personally, I am not the greatest golfer. I am not even good. I am better than most of my friends, but most of them don't play golf. I have always wished I could beat my dad, and I never have. He says thatas he gets older, my chances will increase...but I think we are aging at the same pace. I remember when my dad could put the golf ball where he wanted...anywhere on the green. I could barely get the ball in my pocket at the end of a hole. For those that play golf, you completely understand that golf is about 90% mental and 10 % physical, or as Yoggi Berra would say 1/2 mental and 1/4 physical. I have the 10% physical part down pat...but look at golfer's on TV. One look at this year's Master's winner and you can tell that his pregame routine probably involves a Big Mac or three. But mentally, he's in great shape.
I cannot keep my emotions in check. One errant shot is followed by one errant tossed club. I asked my dad for advice and he replied "Take two weeks off, then quit." I didn't quit, but his advice may have eliminated my slice.
Nevertheless, the Master's is a fun way to spend a weekend when your stuck in the domicile for the weekend.
I also went to the aquarium at Manteo. If you go to the aquarium to see big tanks of fish with sharks and stuff, do not go to Manteo. Their specialty is education related...Callie and I enjoyed ourselves, though...she took pictures of everything...even the ticket-taker. I tried to get Callie in on the "youth" price, but this is done by age and not height.
Not much else happened this weekend, but this week will be busy! Day Camp is in session, along with the Junior Guild. The Tyrrell County Livestock Show is Wednesday! We also have an Advisory Board meeting on Thursday...RYLA arrives on Friday and rides out the weekend! We are hoping for a GOOD weather weekend, for the first time in several RYLA's!
Enjoy your day...
Every Easter, the most regal of all sports events is held in Augusta, Georgia - The Masters Golf Tournament is held at the Augusta national Golf Club. I have only had the pleasure of seeing this course on the TV set...The meticulously manicured course is a spectacle to behold, and with the added pleasure of the blooming azaleas, the desire for HDTV only grows in my gut.
Personally, I am not the greatest golfer. I am not even good. I am better than most of my friends, but most of them don't play golf. I have always wished I could beat my dad, and I never have. He says thatas he gets older, my chances will increase...but I think we are aging at the same pace. I remember when my dad could put the golf ball where he wanted...anywhere on the green. I could barely get the ball in my pocket at the end of a hole. For those that play golf, you completely understand that golf is about 90% mental and 10 % physical, or as Yoggi Berra would say 1/2 mental and 1/4 physical. I have the 10% physical part down pat...but look at golfer's on TV. One look at this year's Master's winner and you can tell that his pregame routine probably involves a Big Mac or three. But mentally, he's in great shape.
I cannot keep my emotions in check. One errant shot is followed by one errant tossed club. I asked my dad for advice and he replied "Take two weeks off, then quit." I didn't quit, but his advice may have eliminated my slice.
Nevertheless, the Master's is a fun way to spend a weekend when your stuck in the domicile for the weekend.
I also went to the aquarium at Manteo. If you go to the aquarium to see big tanks of fish with sharks and stuff, do not go to Manteo. Their specialty is education related...Callie and I enjoyed ourselves, though...she took pictures of everything...even the ticket-taker. I tried to get Callie in on the "youth" price, but this is done by age and not height.
Not much else happened this weekend, but this week will be busy! Day Camp is in session, along with the Junior Guild. The Tyrrell County Livestock Show is Wednesday! We also have an Advisory Board meeting on Thursday...RYLA arrives on Friday and rides out the weekend! We are hoping for a GOOD weather weekend, for the first time in several RYLA's!
Enjoy your day...
April 9, 2009
Recession proof your life NOW!
Recess is fun...Recession is not. I can make your life better with the following tips. I like to randomly pretend that the economy is in recession, even when everybody in the world can qualify for a million dollar loan. The following tips are ways to modify your life, while still keeping what you like...
Save water! Water is expensive. Buy a Nalgene water bottle and fill it up at the tap, at work. Save your water use at the house. Also, shower only once a month, whether you need it or not. You can also keep a large bowl in the sink, so that every time you wash your hands, the runoff is collected. Water your garden with this leftover water.
Grow/make your own food! Restaurants are delicious and expensive. A general rule of thumb is that only 10% of your restaurant bill is food. You can cook the same meal for 90% less. You can also grow a garden. Growing a garden will save you about $75 with only about 300 hours of tiring work. Think of all the $30 shovels as long term investments, though. Ramen noodles can be home-made, too. The ingredients for one serving of Ramen noodles are 1 cup salt, 1/3 cup rice flour, 1 egg, and 1 Automatic External Defibrillator.
Along those lines...Dinner parties are always fun. However, they are expensive. I hosted a dinner party last night, and saved a lot of money...my guest list was: Chef Boyardee, Molly McButter, Betty Crocker, Slim Jim, and Mrs. Butterworth.
Stop wild purchases! If you didn't have it five years ago, you don't need it now. I will return my car immediately. I will also look at canceling my XM Radio subscription, on account of it has poor reception in Columbia, NC.
Watch Public TV! Public TV is free, unless you contribute to their telethons. I prefer to encourage others to contribute to the Public Television Fundraisers.
Do something nice! As much as recession stinks, it is probably a lot worse for non-readers of this blog. Donate money or time to youth organizations.
Exercise! Exercise is the world's original recreation...and probably the healthiest type of recreation. If you have a tough time exercising, try putting all of your food outside...that away, at least you have to get up and go outside...you can even shuffle and pout on your way out of the door.
Remember that the Recession will end! It may end with a Depression...It may end with a bull market. The Bull Market is not the same as a livestock sale. The Bull Market smells much better. I prefer Bull Markets 3 to 1.
Recessions force people to make concessions about the finer things in life and become creative problem solvers. I have given up my Keurig Coffee for Maxwell House. I make less trips to town. Hitch hiking is still out of the question, though. Creativity and ambition are two great American characteristics. Even if you have no concerns about the recession, I still challenge everyone to be creative and make wise use of your resources and our natural resources. And if you can save money from that...donate it to someone or someplace that can use it...I have never seen a Uhaul behind a hearse anyway!
Lee Scripture brought Lee Scripture to work today...enjoy Good Friday & Easter. We have a ginormous family reunion in this weekend...so the Easter 4-H Center rarely takes a break! I'll be here, waiting on the Easter Bunny!
Save water! Water is expensive. Buy a Nalgene water bottle and fill it up at the tap, at work. Save your water use at the house. Also, shower only once a month, whether you need it or not. You can also keep a large bowl in the sink, so that every time you wash your hands, the runoff is collected. Water your garden with this leftover water.
Grow/make your own food! Restaurants are delicious and expensive. A general rule of thumb is that only 10% of your restaurant bill is food. You can cook the same meal for 90% less. You can also grow a garden. Growing a garden will save you about $75 with only about 300 hours of tiring work. Think of all the $30 shovels as long term investments, though. Ramen noodles can be home-made, too. The ingredients for one serving of Ramen noodles are 1 cup salt, 1/3 cup rice flour, 1 egg, and 1 Automatic External Defibrillator.
Along those lines...Dinner parties are always fun. However, they are expensive. I hosted a dinner party last night, and saved a lot of money...my guest list was: Chef Boyardee, Molly McButter, Betty Crocker, Slim Jim, and Mrs. Butterworth.
Stop wild purchases! If you didn't have it five years ago, you don't need it now. I will return my car immediately. I will also look at canceling my XM Radio subscription, on account of it has poor reception in Columbia, NC.
Watch Public TV! Public TV is free, unless you contribute to their telethons. I prefer to encourage others to contribute to the Public Television Fundraisers.
Do something nice! As much as recession stinks, it is probably a lot worse for non-readers of this blog. Donate money or time to youth organizations.
Exercise! Exercise is the world's original recreation...and probably the healthiest type of recreation. If you have a tough time exercising, try putting all of your food outside...that away, at least you have to get up and go outside...you can even shuffle and pout on your way out of the door.
Remember that the Recession will end! It may end with a Depression...It may end with a bull market. The Bull Market is not the same as a livestock sale. The Bull Market smells much better. I prefer Bull Markets 3 to 1.
Recessions force people to make concessions about the finer things in life and become creative problem solvers. I have given up my Keurig Coffee for Maxwell House. I make less trips to town. Hitch hiking is still out of the question, though. Creativity and ambition are two great American characteristics. Even if you have no concerns about the recession, I still challenge everyone to be creative and make wise use of your resources and our natural resources. And if you can save money from that...donate it to someone or someplace that can use it...I have never seen a Uhaul behind a hearse anyway!
Lee Scripture brought Lee Scripture to work today...enjoy Good Friday & Easter. We have a ginormous family reunion in this weekend...so the Easter 4-H Center rarely takes a break! I'll be here, waiting on the Easter Bunny!
Summer Camp needs
As summer gets closer, I ALWAYS have a few more needs... If you can help with this, lemme know!
I need 2 lifeguards....they must be able to swim and hold a lifeguard certification from the American Red Cross or be eligible to obtain it. DUH! One lifeguard will work at the pool, while the other will work at the waterfront...I like the waterfront the best, but the pool is cleaner than the Albemarle Sound.
I need 1 male cabin counselor...for the 2nd consecutive year, I have had 90% of summer staff hired before May...yes, this is impressive. I cannot help people want to work here...It is a great place. If you wanted to work here, and the desired position was filled, then you can check with our competition...they always have openings, probably because: (a) The Eastern 4-H Center got all the good staff first, or (2nd) nobody wants to work anywhere other than the Eastern 4-H Center.
If you know anyone that might be interested, can you please tell them to contact me by: email (chase_luker@ncsu.edu), phone (252.797.4800), or cell phone (252.394.6093). I can send them an application and determine whether or not they are cut out for a hard/hot/fun summer.
I also need some more campers to register for Camp Canvasback, Marine Science and Sailing, and Cloverbud. Camp Canvasback and Marine Sci & Sailing are available to 12-17 year olds, while Cloverbud is open to 5-8 year olds. Our other camps are basically filled to the brim with 8-12 year olds...If you have a 9 year old that wants to go to camp, check with our competitors...they always have openings when we are full...wonder why? We can still wait list your potential camper, though if you dare not risk another eastern North Carolina summer camp. For descriptions of these camps go to www.eastern4hcenter.org - you will also find prices and dates.
I also need some paper archery targets...about 5 of them. I need them to be 3.5' by 3.5'. They are expensive, so if anyone has a good source for these, let me know.
I also need more sleep in the summer, but I conceded that a while ago.
Enjoy your Thursday.
I need 2 lifeguards....they must be able to swim and hold a lifeguard certification from the American Red Cross or be eligible to obtain it. DUH! One lifeguard will work at the pool, while the other will work at the waterfront...I like the waterfront the best, but the pool is cleaner than the Albemarle Sound.
I need 1 male cabin counselor...for the 2nd consecutive year, I have had 90% of summer staff hired before May...yes, this is impressive. I cannot help people want to work here...It is a great place. If you wanted to work here, and the desired position was filled, then you can check with our competition...they always have openings, probably because: (a) The Eastern 4-H Center got all the good staff first, or (2nd) nobody wants to work anywhere other than the Eastern 4-H Center.
If you know anyone that might be interested, can you please tell them to contact me by: email (chase_luker@ncsu.edu), phone (252.797.4800), or cell phone (252.394.6093). I can send them an application and determine whether or not they are cut out for a hard/hot/fun summer.
I also need some more campers to register for Camp Canvasback, Marine Science and Sailing, and Cloverbud. Camp Canvasback and Marine Sci & Sailing are available to 12-17 year olds, while Cloverbud is open to 5-8 year olds. Our other camps are basically filled to the brim with 8-12 year olds...If you have a 9 year old that wants to go to camp, check with our competitors...they always have openings when we are full...wonder why? We can still wait list your potential camper, though if you dare not risk another eastern North Carolina summer camp. For descriptions of these camps go to www.eastern4hcenter.org - you will also find prices and dates.
I also need some paper archery targets...about 5 of them. I need them to be 3.5' by 3.5'. They are expensive, so if anyone has a good source for these, let me know.
I also need more sleep in the summer, but I conceded that a while ago.
Enjoy your Thursday.
April 8, 2009
Bye-Bye Farmer!
Today is Farmer Elementary's final day :( . What a fun group! I remember all groups well, but there are 3 or 4 that stick out vividly in my mind. One of those is the 4-H Ambassadors from Kentucky. Last year's RYLA will be tough to forget. I am quite sure that Farmer Elementary will be lodged in my memory for quite some time. The best part about these groups is that they bring the summer camp season to April...I wish Summer Camp was year-round, but then that means that summer would be year-round, and thus, no Christmas.I enjoy Summer Camp because: Kids make me laugh, warm temperatures, and I can set my own hours. Oh yeah, you read it right, I set my own hours! Lee sets the hours in the middle of the day (8-5), but I get to set all of the hours outside of that. I don't have to leave work until midnight, if I s choose. So as long as I work 8-5, Lee is happy, and for the hours outside of that, I get to determine.
Thursday we will have an Advisory Board meeting. I will be there. You probably will not, but that's OK.
Next week we have the Junior Guild coming from Ahoskie, North Carolina. Joe will be facilitating their teambuilding and working magic. We also have Spring Break Day Camp! Next week will be lots of fun, especially since I get to see all of the Summer Day Campers!
In "Sleeping News", I can report that I have had very little lately. I will attempt again tonight to makeup for lost sleep.
Apparently, corduroy pillows are making headlines everywhere.
Last night, I selected the "Make Yourself Look Foolish" button in my brain when I decided to do the robot in front of all of the campers, but I had some help. The Program Staff and I also inducted Farmer Elementary students in to the Secret Scoggin Society. For more on the Secret Scoggin Society, contact Chris Sova, Program Staff about membership guidelines.
Enjoy your Wednesday...
April 7, 2009
New Champions
More bad news concerning the "State of North Carolina" came last night. Along with the abysmal economy, the University of North Carolina was determined to be the "meanest" basketball team around. After a story book season, Michigan State played in front of the home team crowd in the Motor City with aspirations of a National Championship. However, leave it to UNC to crush those dreams...check that, OBLITERATE those dreams. How rude!
Well, what's done is done. Tyler Hansbrough can finally graduate after what seems like 7 years as America's gutsiest player. I'm not sure what Ty Lawson will do, but if he stays for his final season, he'll continue to dream crush on a regular basis. There are several UNC players that could graduate or go to the NBA...My advice - DO NOT GO PRO. Forego your NBA rookie season! If there was ever anything I would go back in time to it would be my college years (and my 6th birthday at McDonalds). Wait until the economy is better and your professional millins are actually worth something. And, by the way, a college degree never goes out of style.
To all of the UNC players that read this blog religiously, heed my advice and enjoy yourself in Chapel Hill. Wear Baby Blue for another year...
Moving on, Farmer Elementary is here for a 2 Night field trip. Yesterday, our activities were: GPS, Bears, Wetlands and Waterfowl, and Team Initiatives. They appeared to be having fun. They could have just been laughing for no reason, I suppose...but I'll go with fun. Last night we had campfire s'mores, which, if you've never had them, you do not know what you are missing. Everyone appears to be pleased with the programs, food, and facility. One kid said "this is the greatest day of my life"...I am not making that up! He said it! We have lots of stuff in store for them this morning including a Pocosin Super Hike, Weather Walk, Team Challenge Course, and River Basins. I think they are planning on going to the beach after they depart...I'm glad we didn't have to follow up to the beach...the beach is prettier than the program staff.
Lastly, why is it so cold outside? Can the weather not read a calendar? My calendar is still on March, but I'm slow to change...It's April, now warm up!
Well, what's done is done. Tyler Hansbrough can finally graduate after what seems like 7 years as America's gutsiest player. I'm not sure what Ty Lawson will do, but if he stays for his final season, he'll continue to dream crush on a regular basis. There are several UNC players that could graduate or go to the NBA...My advice - DO NOT GO PRO. Forego your NBA rookie season! If there was ever anything I would go back in time to it would be my college years (and my 6th birthday at McDonalds). Wait until the economy is better and your professional millins are actually worth something. And, by the way, a college degree never goes out of style.
To all of the UNC players that read this blog religiously, heed my advice and enjoy yourself in Chapel Hill. Wear Baby Blue for another year...
Moving on, Farmer Elementary is here for a 2 Night field trip. Yesterday, our activities were: GPS, Bears, Wetlands and Waterfowl, and Team Initiatives. They appeared to be having fun. They could have just been laughing for no reason, I suppose...but I'll go with fun. Last night we had campfire s'mores, which, if you've never had them, you do not know what you are missing. Everyone appears to be pleased with the programs, food, and facility. One kid said "this is the greatest day of my life"...I am not making that up! He said it! We have lots of stuff in store for them this morning including a Pocosin Super Hike, Weather Walk, Team Challenge Course, and River Basins. I think they are planning on going to the beach after they depart...I'm glad we didn't have to follow up to the beach...the beach is prettier than the program staff.
Lastly, why is it so cold outside? Can the weather not read a calendar? My calendar is still on March, but I'm slow to change...It's April, now warm up!
April 5, 2009
What a Weekend!
Our first "Operation 4-Hero" family camp went off "hitchless"! Time and time again, the resiliency, toughness, and tenacity of our country's military families and children ceases to amaze me. For a group that gives so much, can we ever repay their service? That's tough to decide...I think we do deserve to give all that we possibly can to as many as we can. So nevertheless, I thank all of the military families that visited us this weekend...and I hope you enjoyed it as much as we did! Hats of to the Kitchen Staff - the meals were delicious! The Program Staff delivered solid programming, as always...
Checkout some of the pictures from the weekend...
Yeah, the climbing wall is really high...
Lil' Zac makes his ascent...
Isaiah appears to be starting earlier than Tiger Woods...
Joe hooks Kevin into the belay line...not a big deal for Kevin...he aspires to attend Columbia Med
Arod could definitely be counted on for some laughs...
Randy turned out to be a great clay pigeon shooter - 7 of 7 was a great streak!
So there you go...a pretty good weekend. Today, Tuesday, and Wednesday we have Farmer Elementary and some rain. We will overcome the rain....and show Farmer a great time!
Checkout some of the pictures from the weekend...
Yeah, the climbing wall is really high...
Lil' Zac makes his ascent...
Isaiah appears to be starting earlier than Tiger Woods...
Joe hooks Kevin into the belay line...not a big deal for Kevin...he aspires to attend Columbia Med
Arod could definitely be counted on for some laughs...
Randy turned out to be a great clay pigeon shooter - 7 of 7 was a great streak!So there you go...a pretty good weekend. Today, Tuesday, and Wednesday we have Farmer Elementary and some rain. We will overcome the rain....and show Farmer a great time!
April 3, 2009
"Happy Birthday Stephanie"
Easter is only a few days around the corner...and I am looking forward to it. According to tradition, I will probably only find a few Easter eggs. Legend has always said that Easter eggs are hidden by the Easter bunny, and are only found by good children. I am good about half of the time. Nevertheless, if you want to disturb people with your vast knowledge, you can take what you learned from today's blog. Also, the Eastern 4-H Center will not host an Easter egg hunt...but we will host an Easter week Day Camp, which is much more fun than an Easter egg hunt.
So, why do we hide eggs? Apparently, Saxons (pre-Christians) in England celebrated the birth of a new year around the Spring equinox. There is nothing more literal (and available to 1st century nomads) than the hatching of an egg with a kickin' chicken inside. They also ate spring hare for the celebratory feast. Eggs were presented to the pagan authorities as tokens of appreciation.
Primarily, chicken eggs are used around Easter, mainly for their palability. That means they taste better than other eggs. Luckily, someone invented an animal that lays plastic eggs filled with jelly beans. These colored, plastic eggs are much better than the real thing. Do not attempt to scramble a plastic egg. Soon after these animals began breeding, a mutation occurred that led to the laying of foil-wrapped chocolate eggs, some of which have creme-filled centers. Please note the spelling of "creme". This is not the same as "cream", as "cream" is a real milk product, and "creme" is a real sugar product.
Faberge` eggs were generated by Russian citizens for their leaders. These items are now highly regarded as works of art. If your child finds a faberge` egg next Sunday, call it the "prize egg" and give them $5. You should then sell the faberge` egg for about $100.
"Why do we use the Easter basket during an egg hunt", you may ask. Well, the basket is traditionally laced with straw to simulate an bird's nest. Recent traditions were originally plastic grass, but these grasses choked birds if left behind. Now "natural" grass comes in colors like pink and green, but I prefer the real grass. You can also substitute an Easter egg basket with other containers such as small buckets and coffee carafes...just ignore the strange looks.
Another tradition is the Easter egg roll, held on the White House lawn. This genteel tradition is kind of ridiculous, especially compared to a Chinese egg roll...honestly - which one would you rather participate in? But kids don't like Chinese egg rolls, and since this blogger prefers happy children 8 to 1, I will condone the White House lawn Easter egg roll.
Chocolate bunnies, to many, seem a bit macabre. This is in essence, up to code with pre-Christian traditions. As mentioned earlier, the spring hare was used as the main course in the pagan Spring Feast. They ate real bunnies, though. Thankfully, technology has provided us with a tastier version in cocoa form.
Whatever your Easter tradition is, I hope that you go all out. Holidays shouldn't be taken for granted. I am guaranteed to spend the majority of holidays away from my family, which is a little disappointing. However, when we are all together, we go nuts with the celebration. Holidays are a time to decorate your home, take family pictures, and put silly looking paper placemats at the "Kid's Table." If you do not celebrate Easter, then celebrate the weekend itself. Weekends are a great time to catch up with family and friends. Have a pig-picking (or a hog roast as I heard it called yesterday)! For those stressing out about Easter plans, take my approach to big occasions...(1)enjoy it as much as possibly (2) wear a bib all day long (3) DO NOT CLEAN YOUR HOUSE, otherwise people will want to stay longer (4) and know that it will be over before you know it, and then you'll find yourself with a ton of leftovers. I prefer to enjoy my life, not stain clothes, enjoy family and friends responsibly (quickly), and scavenge from the refrigerator.
Enjoy your weekend...and happy birthday, Stephanie!
So, why do we hide eggs? Apparently, Saxons (pre-Christians) in England celebrated the birth of a new year around the Spring equinox. There is nothing more literal (and available to 1st century nomads) than the hatching of an egg with a kickin' chicken inside. They also ate spring hare for the celebratory feast. Eggs were presented to the pagan authorities as tokens of appreciation.
Primarily, chicken eggs are used around Easter, mainly for their palability. That means they taste better than other eggs. Luckily, someone invented an animal that lays plastic eggs filled with jelly beans. These colored, plastic eggs are much better than the real thing. Do not attempt to scramble a plastic egg. Soon after these animals began breeding, a mutation occurred that led to the laying of foil-wrapped chocolate eggs, some of which have creme-filled centers. Please note the spelling of "creme". This is not the same as "cream", as "cream" is a real milk product, and "creme" is a real sugar product.
Faberge` eggs were generated by Russian citizens for their leaders. These items are now highly regarded as works of art. If your child finds a faberge` egg next Sunday, call it the "prize egg" and give them $5. You should then sell the faberge` egg for about $100.
"Why do we use the Easter basket during an egg hunt", you may ask. Well, the basket is traditionally laced with straw to simulate an bird's nest. Recent traditions were originally plastic grass, but these grasses choked birds if left behind. Now "natural" grass comes in colors like pink and green, but I prefer the real grass. You can also substitute an Easter egg basket with other containers such as small buckets and coffee carafes...just ignore the strange looks.
Another tradition is the Easter egg roll, held on the White House lawn. This genteel tradition is kind of ridiculous, especially compared to a Chinese egg roll...honestly - which one would you rather participate in? But kids don't like Chinese egg rolls, and since this blogger prefers happy children 8 to 1, I will condone the White House lawn Easter egg roll.
Chocolate bunnies, to many, seem a bit macabre. This is in essence, up to code with pre-Christian traditions. As mentioned earlier, the spring hare was used as the main course in the pagan Spring Feast. They ate real bunnies, though. Thankfully, technology has provided us with a tastier version in cocoa form.
Whatever your Easter tradition is, I hope that you go all out. Holidays shouldn't be taken for granted. I am guaranteed to spend the majority of holidays away from my family, which is a little disappointing. However, when we are all together, we go nuts with the celebration. Holidays are a time to decorate your home, take family pictures, and put silly looking paper placemats at the "Kid's Table." If you do not celebrate Easter, then celebrate the weekend itself. Weekends are a great time to catch up with family and friends. Have a pig-picking (or a hog roast as I heard it called yesterday)! For those stressing out about Easter plans, take my approach to big occasions...(1)enjoy it as much as possibly (2) wear a bib all day long (3) DO NOT CLEAN YOUR HOUSE, otherwise people will want to stay longer (4) and know that it will be over before you know it, and then you'll find yourself with a ton of leftovers. I prefer to enjoy my life, not stain clothes, enjoy family and friends responsibly (quickly), and scavenge from the refrigerator.
Enjoy your weekend...and happy birthday, Stephanie!
April 2, 2009
Operation 4-Heroes, Farmer Elementary, 3 random thoughts
Good Morning folks...this weekend will be pioneering for the Eastern 4-H Center. We are hosting our first family camp. We have hosted other group's family camps, but this one is OURS! So we invited the families that we think are very deserving...our nation's military families. We have a nice collection of military families coming tomorrow...they will do some: scavenger hunt, ecology, rock climbing, challenge course, target shooting, archery, etc. We are also having a "couple's night" for the husband and wife of each family. Eating steak, shrimp, and cheesecake will be the main objective. Afterwards, the couples will enjoy a movie in our "theatre". Our Program Staff will host a "barbecue" for the children, filled with fun activities and a campfire while the parents gorge on delicious steak. I am STI-ZOKED for this weekend.
Next Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, the Farmer Elementary 5th Graders will participate in our unique Environmental Education programs. They are coming all the way from Asheboro. There will also be lots of parents as chaperons...I have fun with parents. Below is a statement that I get from 92.4% of parents. Also, 84.32% of all statisitics are made up on the spot...
Parent: "Chase, when I went to camp, our cabins were not this nice!"
Me: "Well, parent, we have ice cold air-conditioning, toasty heating, hot and cold water, and no drafts." Our bathrooms are also very spacious and comfortable."
Parent: "The food is also amazing. When I went to camp we ate PB&J sandwiches. Your fried chicken is impeccable."
Me: "Our fried chicken is very impeccable."
Parent: "I especially like the tranquility of your camp. The gazebo is an amazing place to drink my coffee. Watching the Albemarle Sound is very fun!"
Me: "I agree with all that you say."
Parent: "Chase, how did you become so smart?"
Me: "I'm not."
Parent: "Oh, YES YOU ARE."
Me: "I appreciate your remarks."
So, I have another opportunity to blow the misconceptions and perception of what a camp is all about. I especially dare the parents to participate in our programs with the students...Our instructors are amazing at teaching and marking progress. Parents that fade into the background during the instruction can watch from a safe distance as the students' minds are blown about black bears, hurricanes, the proportion of the Albemarle watershed, and wetland waterfowl.
Nevertheless, we are getting ready to change the lives of roughly 130 people over the next 5 days. Friday is Stephanie Spears' birthday...She is quasi-excited. Atleast she is not nearly as old as Lee.
Yesterday was April Fool's Day. I didn't April Fool's anybody. I went fishing last night, too*.
The End!
* Fishing is stupid, but I went. I hate fishing with every fiber of my being, unless I am catching fish. I prefer to catch my fish from my local grocer's freezer.
Next Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, the Farmer Elementary 5th Graders will participate in our unique Environmental Education programs. They are coming all the way from Asheboro. There will also be lots of parents as chaperons...I have fun with parents. Below is a statement that I get from 92.4% of parents. Also, 84.32% of all statisitics are made up on the spot...
Parent: "Chase, when I went to camp, our cabins were not this nice!"
Me: "Well, parent, we have ice cold air-conditioning, toasty heating, hot and cold water, and no drafts." Our bathrooms are also very spacious and comfortable."
Parent: "The food is also amazing. When I went to camp we ate PB&J sandwiches. Your fried chicken is impeccable."
Me: "Our fried chicken is very impeccable."
Parent: "I especially like the tranquility of your camp. The gazebo is an amazing place to drink my coffee. Watching the Albemarle Sound is very fun!"
Me: "I agree with all that you say."
Parent: "Chase, how did you become so smart?"
Me: "I'm not."
Parent: "Oh, YES YOU ARE."
Me: "I appreciate your remarks."
So, I have another opportunity to blow the misconceptions and perception of what a camp is all about. I especially dare the parents to participate in our programs with the students...Our instructors are amazing at teaching and marking progress. Parents that fade into the background during the instruction can watch from a safe distance as the students' minds are blown about black bears, hurricanes, the proportion of the Albemarle watershed, and wetland waterfowl.
Nevertheless, we are getting ready to change the lives of roughly 130 people over the next 5 days. Friday is Stephanie Spears' birthday...She is quasi-excited. Atleast she is not nearly as old as Lee.
Yesterday was April Fool's Day. I didn't April Fool's anybody. I went fishing last night, too*.
The End!
* Fishing is stupid, but I went. I hate fishing with every fiber of my being, unless I am catching fish. I prefer to catch my fish from my local grocer's freezer.
April 1, 2009
Random Thoughts
In reference to my "Dialect" post a couple of weeks ago...my dad provided me with a couple of new words that were created in Alabama (where my parents reside). Also, I want to mention the northward migration of waterfowl. And 3 staff members celebrate April birthdays...we had a cake this morning in lieu of the age increase.
My dad is a public official in Alabama, so he's a lot of people. He also reads my blog, and emails me occassionaly. The blog is used to keep an open line of communication to all of my fans, friends, and admirers. My dad is all 3. Nevertheless, yesterday a person came into the Courthouse in Coosa County, Alabama and announced to my dad that "yestiddy, I wassah clumbin' the ladder, when I falled offit and turnt my ankle." Apparently, in Alabamam there is a present tense, past tense, and a past-past tense, and all can be used in the same sentence.
According to my Ducks Unlimited calendar, Canada Geese should be arriving in the Dakota prairies to begin nesting efforts. If you live anywhere near grass or water, then you probably know that not all geese have left for the prairies. This is because there are "resident" geese. They will never leave. They will stay there and perform all major functions needed to survive: eating, using the potty in your yard, and mating in your yard. Do not give them privacy, they don't require it. The geese are just being uncouth. It is fun to watch them fly, then pitch and cup to your lawn...pretty amazing sight, if you ask me. If you want rid of the geese, ask your county extension agent about helpful tips.
The Center staff declined to see my potential head shaving...so I may do it anyway.
Stephanie Spears, program staff member will celebrate a birthday on Friday. Lee will also celebrate his birthday over the weekend. He will turn 2304980 years old.
Charles, maintenance director, is angry with my blogging. He says I blog about him to often. He is a hero of mine though, and this practice will continue. However, I am interested in training all wannabe bloggers to begin their own blogs.
Weekend Program updates will come tomorrow. Enjoy your day...
My dad is a public official in Alabama, so he's a lot of people. He also reads my blog, and emails me occassionaly. The blog is used to keep an open line of communication to all of my fans, friends, and admirers. My dad is all 3. Nevertheless, yesterday a person came into the Courthouse in Coosa County, Alabama and announced to my dad that "yestiddy, I wassah clumbin' the ladder, when I falled offit and turnt my ankle." Apparently, in Alabamam there is a present tense, past tense, and a past-past tense, and all can be used in the same sentence.
According to my Ducks Unlimited calendar, Canada Geese should be arriving in the Dakota prairies to begin nesting efforts. If you live anywhere near grass or water, then you probably know that not all geese have left for the prairies. This is because there are "resident" geese. They will never leave. They will stay there and perform all major functions needed to survive: eating, using the potty in your yard, and mating in your yard. Do not give them privacy, they don't require it. The geese are just being uncouth. It is fun to watch them fly, then pitch and cup to your lawn...pretty amazing sight, if you ask me. If you want rid of the geese, ask your county extension agent about helpful tips.
The Center staff declined to see my potential head shaving...so I may do it anyway.
Stephanie Spears, program staff member will celebrate a birthday on Friday. Lee will also celebrate his birthday over the weekend. He will turn 2304980 years old.
Charles, maintenance director, is angry with my blogging. He says I blog about him to often. He is a hero of mine though, and this practice will continue. However, I am interested in training all wannabe bloggers to begin their own blogs.
Weekend Program updates will come tomorrow. Enjoy your day...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)