It's Monday, the day following the final day of Fiesta 2008. Unlike some of my San Antonio neighbors, I don't have a hangover. What I DO have, as every year on post-Fiesta Monday, is a case of the blues. You see, every Fiesta seems to conclude too soon; at least one event that I truly want to go to but lacked the time. After all, we're talking well over 100 events which comprise the party-to-end-all-parties! (This counts each & every day of multi-day events; even not counting each day separately would probably still total over 50.)
However, in this Year of Our Lord 2008 I shall NOT sing with Willie Nelson: "Turn out the lights, the party's over. . . ." After all, as I've affirmed so many times in my years of residence here, San Antonio's middle name is "Party"! Folks, we've just one week to rest up & recover from Fiesta. This very next weekend will be time for Cinco de Mayo celebrating! Hey! workers at el Mercado might as well keep booths and stages in place and San Saba Street closed (the block passing thru Market Square, that is). After all, el Mercado is a major venue for Cinco de Mayo frolics! Soon also, the party called "Texas Folklife Festival" will take place. And so on. And on. And on. Talk about "good times never end"!
Before we move on to S.A.'s future parties, allow me to indulge one last backward gaze at Fiesta '08. Here are some reflection about the just-concluded Fiesta 2008, particularly its final weekend.
First of all, one concluding reflection on the Battle of Flowers Parade. While I was aboard the VÍA bus heading downtown to my accustomed "stake-out" spot to watch the parade, I was glad I wasn't using a POV ("Army-ese" for a privately-owned/operated car). Not only was traffic dreadful (as usual during Fiesta). Parking was more expensive. Lots near the parade origin point were exacting $15. A little further away the price went down to $12, then on St. Mary's Street near the San Antonio Museum of Art parking lowered to $10. Riders on my bus were remarking about these prices - and THEN we passed Central Catholic High School. Students there were waving signs advertising "Fiesta parking" for $8! I remarked (rather loudly, I admit), "Look! Yay, Catholics!"
I confess that I found myself at "Fiestas Fantasías" at Market Square (el Mercado) multiple times -- even more than once on Fiesta's opening weekend! Well. . . I like the heavily Mexican ambiente of the place and live performances of Mexican and Tex-Mex styles of music: conjunto, Latin rock, Tejano, mariachi. . . . But -- smile -- I almost longed to tell someone nearby, preferably a chicano, "I simply HATE Mexican-American music! It's so danceable, it gives me an insatiable urge to dance, and I have no one with whom to dance!" (More confession: at times I simply gave into the urge and discreetly danced solo.)
If I can't really, truly dance with my whole heart and body due to lack of a partner, I can certainly enjoy simply sitting and observing while lucky couples cut the rug. A most delightful episode happened on Saturday the 26th. Inside the Farmers Market building of Market Square a large central open area has a permanent platform, a stage for song & dance performances all thru the year -- often by children of all ages. In this case a boy and a girl age 7 or 8 took the stage. He was dressed in boots, jeans, Stetson and a reddish western-cut shirt; she wore a long skirt to match his shirt. And wow! could this young, young couple cut the rug! We were all (audience surrounding that stage) hollering encouragement and clapping our hands to the beat of "Jambalaya!"
I experienced more than one incident of what I shall call "camaraderie" (for lack of a better word). The State Motto since 1930 is "Friendship" -- supposedly "Texas" or "Tejas" was the Spaniards' rendition of a native, Caddo, word that meant "friends". And San Antonio is renown as a very friendly city! So during Fiesta my fellow citizens, and visitors, let down what little guard we may have. We're all friends the first time we meet! I remember one evening I found myself listening to the group performing on the stage under the raised interstate highway passing above the west edge of el Mercado. They sounded really good -- and danceable, too! -- and I commented on such to a couple standing beside me. (I cannot say that I said it to encourage these two to get out and cut the rug, but whether I did or not, they didn't, alas!)
Finally, allow me to remark about the honoring of the military that takes place during Fiesta. San Antonio is often labelled a "military city" or some other title that hi-lites the military presence here. So it's natural that the U.S. armed forces get honored and feted all during the ten-day party! Of course, Fiesta began in 1891 as a remebrance of the heroes of the battles of The Alamo and San Jacinto -- indeed, it always falls in April so that the 21st is included, and that's the anniversary of the San Jacinto victory that won Texas independence. So we have the "Official Opening Ceremony" in front of The Alamo, and a "Pilgrimage to The Alamo" on San Jacinto Day.
And on the final Sunday afternoon there is an "All-Veterans Salute" in Memorial Plaza in front of Municipal Auditorium. I was there this year, altho' I missed the opening minutes of it and the main speaker was already into his speech. Due to the strong, gusty wind one could hear him only with difficulty. And indeed, the emcee for the ceremony at one point had to walk back to the podium and hold down the speaker's papers! This was unfortuante, because what one could hear of the speech it was very inspirational. He was a retired General Brady, who earned the Medal of Honor in Vietnam. The Medcom Band from Fort Sam Houston provided music. They quietly played "Abide with Me" while attendees filed down the walkway to the Vietnam Memorial. This is a larger-than-lifesize statue of a soldier (a medic) squatting over a fallen comrade and gazing up in the skies -- as if either in prayer or in search of a 'copter. Several people laid flowers or wreaths or bourquets along the base of the memorial.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Saturday, April 26, 2008
"Good times never end!"
My title quotes a slogan I heard many times during the four years I lived in the chapter house of Lambda Chi Alpha at the University of Idaho. I heard it especially whenever we had a kegger or dance or some other party. As this week of Fiesta 2008 goes by this slogan comes to mind again! Often!
Monday evening the Citizens Advisory Council had its monthly meeting at VÍA Metro Center, specifically the Administration Building. As soon as it was over I went down to the Riverwalk near the Central Library to take in as much of the "Texas Cavaliers River Parade" as I could. I don't think I missed much! The floats which actuallyand ltierally "float" down the San Antonio River, were as colorful as always, and there was lots of music (live or recorded).
Thursday I found myself, for only the second time, at NIOSA. "A Night in Old San Antonio" happens in La Villita for four evenings, and is sponsored by the S.A. Conservation Society. In the 1980s the family went, and I was looking forward to it, due to the sponsorship and to its publicity of being a sort of mini-Folklife, with lots of celebrating of the city's (and perhaps state's) history and cultures. Not! Shoulder-to-shoulder people, like a sardine can, and about the third time some drunk spilled his beer on me, I said, "Never again!" Only. . . thanks to strong urging by fellow Conservation Society members, with advice to visit NIOSA early, and a complementary ticket provided me, the "never again" came to an end.
I'm glad it did come to an end. I didn't get beer spilled on me, and found room to maneuver in the "Little Town". I spent much of my time in La Villita Assembly Hall, where I had been the past Saturday evening for the Ball. This time it was decorated like a German beer hall and had a live "oompa band" playing. I requested that they do Ein Prosit der Gemuetlicheit -- and then missed it (they played it while I was out exploring the rest of NIOSA). In compensation, I suppose, I got to do "The Chicken Dance" twice!
After a little over an hour at NIOSA, I caught the bus to Alamo Stadium for a Fiesta event I never miss if I can help it: "The Battle of Flowers Band Festival". The theme of '08 wasn't all that thrilling: "Broadway. . . and All that Jazz" -- also theme for the parade the next day. Still, I always enjoy the marching of the high school marching bands, the on-field performances by the three or four featured bands, and the grand finale of all the bands massing on the field and performing theme music while the fireworks burst overhead!
Surprises this year at the Band Festival were that Alamo Heights HS didn't enter its band, and the McCollum HS band is much smaller. In earlier years McCollum was enormous -- even tho' it's a Class 4A school. Lanier's band was larger than in earlier years, while Sam Houston, like McCollum, presented a smaller marching band. But the mostly Afro-American school's marching instrumentalists in uniform still presented their "jungle-beat" stepping as they marched down the stadium's track.
Friday morning I once again took my folding chair, got on the bus and after alighting near Broadway and Third I set up the chair on that intersection's southeast corner next to a light pole. It's a great location to watch the best parade of all parades and the original Fiesta event: "The Battle of Flowers". From here I view the left side of parade units (their left side, my right) as they approach on Broadway, and after each turns onto Third to head for The Alamo, I observe their right side, close up!
Skies remained mostly overcast (but not threatening precip) and it was muggy. But I think I'd rather have that than clear sunny skies and humidity!
This year I actually saw someone I knew and who knows me! Norman Collins, science teacher (and department chair) at AHHS, was in the third set of "pooper-scoopers" from the high school! I cheered him and gave him a high five! I also saw and greeted Commission President John Steen, with whom I had spoken at UTSA's Fiesta event a week earlier.
Focus of this parade, I suppose, is the floats bearing the feminine royalty who were feted at a "Coronation" event in Municipal Auditorium (only a couple of blocks north of my spot) a few evenings before. Tickets are expensive, so I don't go, but the color of the ceremony must be awesome. I day this because the lovely young ladies on the lovely, colorfu and flowery floats are engaging in the parade setting!
Years ago the "Battle of Flowers Parade" became my favorite of any and all parades I've ever seen, live or on television. On Monday evening of the past couple of Fiestas, I've come away from the "Texas Cavaliers River Parade" thinking that this particular year the river parade was so good that it would unseat BoF as my fave. BUT THEN along comes the BoF; it always manages to retain its place as Number One in the heart of this parade lover!
Monday evening the Citizens Advisory Council had its monthly meeting at VÍA Metro Center, specifically the Administration Building. As soon as it was over I went down to the Riverwalk near the Central Library to take in as much of the "Texas Cavaliers River Parade" as I could. I don't think I missed much! The floats which actuallyand ltierally "float" down the San Antonio River, were as colorful as always, and there was lots of music (live or recorded).
Thursday I found myself, for only the second time, at NIOSA. "A Night in Old San Antonio" happens in La Villita for four evenings, and is sponsored by the S.A. Conservation Society. In the 1980s the family went, and I was looking forward to it, due to the sponsorship and to its publicity of being a sort of mini-Folklife, with lots of celebrating of the city's (and perhaps state's) history and cultures. Not! Shoulder-to-shoulder people, like a sardine can, and about the third time some drunk spilled his beer on me, I said, "Never again!" Only. . . thanks to strong urging by fellow Conservation Society members, with advice to visit NIOSA early, and a complementary ticket provided me, the "never again" came to an end.
I'm glad it did come to an end. I didn't get beer spilled on me, and found room to maneuver in the "Little Town". I spent much of my time in La Villita Assembly Hall, where I had been the past Saturday evening for the Ball. This time it was decorated like a German beer hall and had a live "oompa band" playing. I requested that they do Ein Prosit der Gemuetlicheit -- and then missed it (they played it while I was out exploring the rest of NIOSA). In compensation, I suppose, I got to do "The Chicken Dance" twice!
After a little over an hour at NIOSA, I caught the bus to Alamo Stadium for a Fiesta event I never miss if I can help it: "The Battle of Flowers Band Festival". The theme of '08 wasn't all that thrilling: "Broadway. . . and All that Jazz" -- also theme for the parade the next day. Still, I always enjoy the marching of the high school marching bands, the on-field performances by the three or four featured bands, and the grand finale of all the bands massing on the field and performing theme music while the fireworks burst overhead!
Surprises this year at the Band Festival were that Alamo Heights HS didn't enter its band, and the McCollum HS band is much smaller. In earlier years McCollum was enormous -- even tho' it's a Class 4A school. Lanier's band was larger than in earlier years, while Sam Houston, like McCollum, presented a smaller marching band. But the mostly Afro-American school's marching instrumentalists in uniform still presented their "jungle-beat" stepping as they marched down the stadium's track.
Friday morning I once again took my folding chair, got on the bus and after alighting near Broadway and Third I set up the chair on that intersection's southeast corner next to a light pole. It's a great location to watch the best parade of all parades and the original Fiesta event: "The Battle of Flowers". From here I view the left side of parade units (their left side, my right) as they approach on Broadway, and after each turns onto Third to head for The Alamo, I observe their right side, close up!
Skies remained mostly overcast (but not threatening precip) and it was muggy. But I think I'd rather have that than clear sunny skies and humidity!
This year I actually saw someone I knew and who knows me! Norman Collins, science teacher (and department chair) at AHHS, was in the third set of "pooper-scoopers" from the high school! I cheered him and gave him a high five! I also saw and greeted Commission President John Steen, with whom I had spoken at UTSA's Fiesta event a week earlier.
Focus of this parade, I suppose, is the floats bearing the feminine royalty who were feted at a "Coronation" event in Municipal Auditorium (only a couple of blocks north of my spot) a few evenings before. Tickets are expensive, so I don't go, but the color of the ceremony must be awesome. I day this because the lovely young ladies on the lovely, colorfu and flowery floats are engaging in the parade setting!
Years ago the "Battle of Flowers Parade" became my favorite of any and all parades I've ever seen, live or on television. On Monday evening of the past couple of Fiestas, I've come away from the "Texas Cavaliers River Parade" thinking that this particular year the river parade was so good that it would unseat BoF as my fave. BUT THEN along comes the BoF; it always manages to retain its place as Number One in the heart of this parade lover!
Monday, April 21, 2008
Weekend's over, but THE Party isn't!
Yup, dear reader, the first weekend of Fiesta San Antonio 2008 is over. But of course the party goes on for ten days total, thru next weekend. And in the meantime, I'm into the thick of it!
Saturday morning I attended one of my favorite among Fiesta events: "Walk Across Texas" at the S.A. Botanical Gardens. This time there were no signs set up near the entrance, which is thru a relocated and restored carriage house, to indicate the way to the "Walk". Considering the complexity of the Botanical Gardens, which include formal areas, a garden for the blind, an underground Conservatory, glass roofs for which jut up high above the surroundings, etc., and the manner in which the paved paths wander every which way, it's a challenge to locate the three parts of the gardens where the "Walk" is conducted. These represent three of the major ecological areas of the Lone Star State: the East Texas Piney Woods, the central Hill Country and the South Texas chaparral (or matorral, as signs in Spanish in that part label it).
After three attempts I located the start of "Walk Across Texas" and shortly was enjoying coffee and biscuits made from scratch from Pioneer Mills (here in S.A. and going back to the 1800s). This was at the Ault House, a restored cabin of Hill Country vintage. Once I'd enjoyed a cup of "java", a biscuit with gravy and another with jelly, I proceeded on to the other restored house, a German fachwerk edifice (half-timber), in the "Hill Country" area. Then I moved on to the East Texas "Piney Woods" section, which surrounds a beautiful pond, home to several water fowl. On its banks is a log cabin. And finally I briefly took in the "South Texas" area which presents an adobe hut typical of this most Spanish-Mexican portion of the state.
As I scrutinized signs and handouts identifying and detailing vegetation (and some animals) of the three regions, I considered how much I enjoyed this knowledge and this experience of God's good outdoors. I also considered how I came by this interest and enjoyment naturally. You might say it's in my genes, since my mother is also a student of botany!
From "Walk Across Texas" I went across town, to the Westside and Guadalupe Plaza, for "Piñatas en el Barrio". More singing, more dancing -- including by the flamenco dancers again (they were at Friday's opening ceremony) -- more refreshments. In a word, MORE PARTYING! I suppose that THIS particular Fiesta event is one of the most Latin-flavored, being as it is in the original barrio (Spanish "neighborhood"). And I suppose that I stuck out like a sore thumb among the sea of chicanos. No matter! I enjoy just being on the Westside among my chicano fellow residents. The song "Who's that Gringo?" says it all: "I may be white on the outside, but in my heart I know I'm refried!" Yes, dear reader, my heart is definitely and positively refried!
After a couple hours of "Piñatas en el Barrio" it was back to el Mercado for awhile. Both Friday and Saturday I was keeping an eye out for a group I had seen recognized at the City Council meeting last Thursday, and associated in some way with TxDOT, that promotes "Fiesta safe, Drive sober, San Antonio". They were said to be distributing attractive bags with this slogan in the market place. But I didn't see them at any time I was there for Fiestas Fantasías. However, I did find a sash to buy, with which to display some of my sizable collection of Fiesta medals and pins. I've acquired or bought a few dozen over the seven Fiestas of my residence in San Antonio.
Later I went home, rested awhile and then got dressed for a Ball. On my way to that event's venue I went by The Alamo to see the beginning of the ceremonial "Investiture of King Antonio LXXXVI". While seated on the bleachers before the hallowed chapel I arranged the medals on the sash. I used a Battle of Flowers button from a few Fiestas back to pin the sash ends at my waist. Then I went on over to La Villita Assembly Hall, for the "Patriotic and Historical Ball". This is sponsored by the Texas Pioneers Association and is free, but ticket-controlled. I'd used my associate membership in the San Antonio Conservation Society to finagle a ticket and a seat at the Conservation Society table. You see, somehow I'd managed to acquire a ticket last year and had enjoyed the party so much I really longed to return this year.
Because of my brief stop-over at the king's investiture before The Alamo I was still signing in at the door when the ball program commenced with the Pledge, Invocation etc. I was a bit surprised when I got escorted to the San Antonio Conservation Society table and I was the first there! There were some brief speeches by Pioneer officials, and then we were treated, as last year, to singing by the 82d Airborne Men's Chorus. They sang two verses of "America the Beautiful" -- including my dearest verse, the one that begins "O beautiful for pilgrim feet." It always makes me think of the Oregon Trail, "a thoro'fare for freedom" passing by Boise, where I grew up. They also sang, "I Am an American Soldier" by Toby Keith, and my buttons almost popped off from my pride of being a vet soldier! And from having a brother, and nephew and a best friend all currently on active duty with the US Army! The chorus concluded with Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA". Talk about a "patriotic ball!"
Fiesta royalty, including the just-invested King Antonio LXXXVI put in appearance, to be honored by the attendees and to give greetings to the same, and presents to the Pioneer officials, etc. Then the program portion of this Ball concluded with the "Grand March". This is done by having couples go toward the door into the hall and walk in single file across the floor toward the stage. As each couple neared the stage they were directed alternately to the left or the right; these circled back, beside the tables to approach the door again. Once all couples had passed toward the stage, one couple from the left and one from the right linked arms to make a foursome and the foursome walked toward the stage. Alternately each quartet was sent to the left or the right to again go toward the door. Then THIS time two foursomes linked up to make a line of eight.
So finally we had an orderly mass on the floor, consisting of rows of eight people. The band ceased the "grand march" music and played "The Eyes of Texas Are Upon You". UT alumni went crazy, of course, lifting their right hands in the "hook 'em 'Horns!" sign. Two girls in front of me responded by raising their hands in the Baylor "Bear claw". In like "protest" manner I lifted the TCU Horned Frog sign! This is done by folding the thumb over the ring and little fingers of the right hand while strongly hooking the other two fingers above these. TCU students and alumni began this sign after I was at the school earning my M.Div. (1979)
And then there was Sunday! I opened this by attending the "Fiesta Mariachi Mass" at San Fernando Cathedral. Lots of Fiesta royalty and officials were prominent in the wall-to-wall crowd. In his opening, welcome remarks, Father David García, the Cathedral's rector, remarked about how Fiesta is a time of fantasy in San Antonio, when a few people pretend to be kings or queens or royalty and important people. "And the rest of us play along and honor them." Father David also mentioned how Fiesta events also raise a lot of money for charitable causes. And as he often does in his homilies, Father David related the lectionary readings for the day, particularly the Gospel reading, to San Antonio now -- which today meant relating it well to the party!
After a small breakfast in the cafe next to the cathedral I bused over to the Westside and my church, Mexican Christian Church (Disciples). We had a pretty good turn-out for our small congregation, and I led them in the praise singing to start Worship. One song I led them all the way thru was "De Colores".
Once worshp concluded I sought out a non-official party. It's one that's sure to become an official Fiesta event after the requisite two years. This "Mariachi Fest" event had been announced by handout sheets and verbally during the "Piñatas en el Barrio" Saturday afternoon in Guadalupe Plaza. One of the speakers, in describing this new "Mariachi Fest", said that it would begins on Sunday about noon and go on "hasta que nos cansamos (until we get tired)". To which I replied, "Tanto me encanta la música de mariachi que jamás me canso. (Mariachi music enchants me so much that I'd never get tired of it)".
And indeed, while I was at the "Mariachi Fest" listening to, first, recorded mariachi music and then to two live mariachi groups -- all young people -- that I felt quite invigorated, very much "at home" here on the Westside, and definitely that "I may be white on the outside, but in my heart I'm refried!"
Saturday morning I attended one of my favorite among Fiesta events: "Walk Across Texas" at the S.A. Botanical Gardens. This time there were no signs set up near the entrance, which is thru a relocated and restored carriage house, to indicate the way to the "Walk". Considering the complexity of the Botanical Gardens, which include formal areas, a garden for the blind, an underground Conservatory, glass roofs for which jut up high above the surroundings, etc., and the manner in which the paved paths wander every which way, it's a challenge to locate the three parts of the gardens where the "Walk" is conducted. These represent three of the major ecological areas of the Lone Star State: the East Texas Piney Woods, the central Hill Country and the South Texas chaparral (or matorral, as signs in Spanish in that part label it).
After three attempts I located the start of "Walk Across Texas" and shortly was enjoying coffee and biscuits made from scratch from Pioneer Mills (here in S.A. and going back to the 1800s). This was at the Ault House, a restored cabin of Hill Country vintage. Once I'd enjoyed a cup of "java", a biscuit with gravy and another with jelly, I proceeded on to the other restored house, a German fachwerk edifice (half-timber), in the "Hill Country" area. Then I moved on to the East Texas "Piney Woods" section, which surrounds a beautiful pond, home to several water fowl. On its banks is a log cabin. And finally I briefly took in the "South Texas" area which presents an adobe hut typical of this most Spanish-Mexican portion of the state.
As I scrutinized signs and handouts identifying and detailing vegetation (and some animals) of the three regions, I considered how much I enjoyed this knowledge and this experience of God's good outdoors. I also considered how I came by this interest and enjoyment naturally. You might say it's in my genes, since my mother is also a student of botany!
From "Walk Across Texas" I went across town, to the Westside and Guadalupe Plaza, for "Piñatas en el Barrio". More singing, more dancing -- including by the flamenco dancers again (they were at Friday's opening ceremony) -- more refreshments. In a word, MORE PARTYING! I suppose that THIS particular Fiesta event is one of the most Latin-flavored, being as it is in the original barrio (Spanish "neighborhood"). And I suppose that I stuck out like a sore thumb among the sea of chicanos. No matter! I enjoy just being on the Westside among my chicano fellow residents. The song "Who's that Gringo?" says it all: "I may be white on the outside, but in my heart I know I'm refried!" Yes, dear reader, my heart is definitely and positively refried!
After a couple hours of "Piñatas en el Barrio" it was back to el Mercado for awhile. Both Friday and Saturday I was keeping an eye out for a group I had seen recognized at the City Council meeting last Thursday, and associated in some way with TxDOT, that promotes "Fiesta safe, Drive sober, San Antonio". They were said to be distributing attractive bags with this slogan in the market place. But I didn't see them at any time I was there for Fiestas Fantasías. However, I did find a sash to buy, with which to display some of my sizable collection of Fiesta medals and pins. I've acquired or bought a few dozen over the seven Fiestas of my residence in San Antonio.
Later I went home, rested awhile and then got dressed for a Ball. On my way to that event's venue I went by The Alamo to see the beginning of the ceremonial "Investiture of King Antonio LXXXVI". While seated on the bleachers before the hallowed chapel I arranged the medals on the sash. I used a Battle of Flowers button from a few Fiestas back to pin the sash ends at my waist. Then I went on over to La Villita Assembly Hall, for the "Patriotic and Historical Ball". This is sponsored by the Texas Pioneers Association and is free, but ticket-controlled. I'd used my associate membership in the San Antonio Conservation Society to finagle a ticket and a seat at the Conservation Society table. You see, somehow I'd managed to acquire a ticket last year and had enjoyed the party so much I really longed to return this year.
Because of my brief stop-over at the king's investiture before The Alamo I was still signing in at the door when the ball program commenced with the Pledge, Invocation etc. I was a bit surprised when I got escorted to the San Antonio Conservation Society table and I was the first there! There were some brief speeches by Pioneer officials, and then we were treated, as last year, to singing by the 82d Airborne Men's Chorus. They sang two verses of "America the Beautiful" -- including my dearest verse, the one that begins "O beautiful for pilgrim feet." It always makes me think of the Oregon Trail, "a thoro'fare for freedom" passing by Boise, where I grew up. They also sang, "I Am an American Soldier" by Toby Keith, and my buttons almost popped off from my pride of being a vet soldier! And from having a brother, and nephew and a best friend all currently on active duty with the US Army! The chorus concluded with Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA". Talk about a "patriotic ball!"
Fiesta royalty, including the just-invested King Antonio LXXXVI put in appearance, to be honored by the attendees and to give greetings to the same, and presents to the Pioneer officials, etc. Then the program portion of this Ball concluded with the "Grand March". This is done by having couples go toward the door into the hall and walk in single file across the floor toward the stage. As each couple neared the stage they were directed alternately to the left or the right; these circled back, beside the tables to approach the door again. Once all couples had passed toward the stage, one couple from the left and one from the right linked arms to make a foursome and the foursome walked toward the stage. Alternately each quartet was sent to the left or the right to again go toward the door. Then THIS time two foursomes linked up to make a line of eight.
So finally we had an orderly mass on the floor, consisting of rows of eight people. The band ceased the "grand march" music and played "The Eyes of Texas Are Upon You". UT alumni went crazy, of course, lifting their right hands in the "hook 'em 'Horns!" sign. Two girls in front of me responded by raising their hands in the Baylor "Bear claw". In like "protest" manner I lifted the TCU Horned Frog sign! This is done by folding the thumb over the ring and little fingers of the right hand while strongly hooking the other two fingers above these. TCU students and alumni began this sign after I was at the school earning my M.Div. (1979)
And then there was Sunday! I opened this by attending the "Fiesta Mariachi Mass" at San Fernando Cathedral. Lots of Fiesta royalty and officials were prominent in the wall-to-wall crowd. In his opening, welcome remarks, Father David García, the Cathedral's rector, remarked about how Fiesta is a time of fantasy in San Antonio, when a few people pretend to be kings or queens or royalty and important people. "And the rest of us play along and honor them." Father David also mentioned how Fiesta events also raise a lot of money for charitable causes. And as he often does in his homilies, Father David related the lectionary readings for the day, particularly the Gospel reading, to San Antonio now -- which today meant relating it well to the party!
After a small breakfast in the cafe next to the cathedral I bused over to the Westside and my church, Mexican Christian Church (Disciples). We had a pretty good turn-out for our small congregation, and I led them in the praise singing to start Worship. One song I led them all the way thru was "De Colores".
Once worshp concluded I sought out a non-official party. It's one that's sure to become an official Fiesta event after the requisite two years. This "Mariachi Fest" event had been announced by handout sheets and verbally during the "Piñatas en el Barrio" Saturday afternoon in Guadalupe Plaza. One of the speakers, in describing this new "Mariachi Fest", said that it would begins on Sunday about noon and go on "hasta que nos cansamos (until we get tired)". To which I replied, "Tanto me encanta la música de mariachi que jamás me canso. (Mariachi music enchants me so much that I'd never get tired of it)".
And indeed, while I was at the "Mariachi Fest" listening to, first, recorded mariachi music and then to two live mariachi groups -- all young people -- that I felt quite invigorated, very much "at home" here on the Westside, and definitely that "I may be white on the outside, but in my heart I'm refried!"
Friday, April 18, 2008
Fiesta '08 - Let the Party begin!
Today is the official opening day of Fiesta San Antonio 2008. Yup, dear reader, it's time for S.A.'s annual party-to-end-all-parties!
And what be-e-e-eautiful weather the "Man Upstairs" gave us for the opening! Cool with low humidity (despite a brief but noisy thundershower in the wee hours). The sky above The Alamo and the opening-ceremony site was a clear deep blue. Or as our golden-throated neighbor George Strait might say, "blue clear sky". (That's the name of one of his albums and its title song, one of Strait's many, many #1 country hits.)
In that opening ceremony, hosted by two local TV personalities and broadcast live by their TV station (a Fox affiliate newly awarded Fiesta coverage), Texas' "First Lady", Mrs. Rick Perry, was one of the speakers, as were His Honor Mayor Hardberger, this year's Fiesta San Antonio Commission President John Steen and County Judge (and former S.A. Mayor) Nelson Wolff. The most prominent speaker, I suppose, was U.S. Senator John Cornyn. He was introduced as "born in Houston, but he got to San Antonio as fast as he could!" This is a play on the popular slogan of auslanders (a Deutsch term for Texas residents who were born out-of-state): "I wasn't born in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could!"
A unique element of the program for this year's "Official Opening" was that ladies of the Battle of Flowers Association, attired in their typical yellow dresses and yellow sun hats (wide flat brims and low crowns) came out from behind the stage (from the direction of The Alamo chapel), bearing hand baskets filled with flowers. They proceeded to throw the blooms at people on the stage, in the audience and each other. This was a re-enactment of the very start of Fiesta! Back in 1891 society ladies had decided to entertain President Harrison (first sitting US President to visit S.A.) AND honor the heroes of The Alamo and San Jacinto by staging a parade of carriages bearing flowers and having a "flower battle" in front of the Cradle of Texas Liberty. How delightful to have this re-enactment of how the annual party-to-end-all-parties began!
Our city's Mayor, Phil Hardberger, was attired in suit and tie, like all the men on stage and unlike Mayor Ed Garza at my first opening ceremony for Fiesta (the party in A.D. 2002), who came in a guayabera. Well, the male encee (from the Fox station) was casually attired, now that I think about it. Mayor Hardberger, among his remarks, mentioned that Fiesta was "ten days to not think!" Hm-m-m. . . I'm not in complete agreement with that assessment! However, the co-hosts took advantage of the remark later, when the lady emcee, Cynthia Lee, said that she was looking forward to not thinking for ten days - and co-emcee, Mike Valdes, quipped something like, "Oh, is that anything new (with you)?" Arr-rr-gh!
We were also treated to musical entertainment, including by a military band beside the stage, flamenco dancing and the ceremonial cutting of an official's ugly necktie, to signify "business casual" apparel for the ten days of the party. I've not minded the cutting of one tie, but in recent years all officials on the platform and men in the audience were all but ordered to come out of theirs. It's a pity that high-ranking government officials have to submit to this indignity. Today two men up there did NOT remove their neckties! Neither did I take off my Fiesta 2002 tie! Let's have a big "Hooray!" for men who KNOW that we guys CAN have fun while sharply attired!
The ceremony concluded with everybody cracking cascarones over one another's heads while shouting, "¡Viva Fiesta!" or responding, "¡Viva!" Then I took the bus across downtown to El Mercado for their Fiesta event. And then I rode out to UTSA for theirs.
Once I was on the "ugly-modern-grey-concrete" campus of the university (my description of this very unattractive campus), out near Fiesta Texas, I searched in vain for my brother Lambda Chis. In the past two years they had run a food booth, one year with kabobs for sale and the other fajitas. But in this A.D. 2008 version of Fiesta UTSA we were not to be found! Wonder why.
However, the entertainment and the food that I did sample were quite enjoyable. As is custom, at one point a goodly selection of Fiesta royalty showed up and made a processional from the building that houses the Library upstairs and the cafeteria at ground level, along a red carpet under la Sombrilla (a fancy grating that provides some variegated shade to the pavement below), to a shaded seating area. Various of the royalty were introduced and brought up on the stage, as was UTSA President Romo. I couldn't help but notice that Fiesta Commission President John Steen again sported his necktie! I congratulated him for looking sharp again, as I also pointed to my Fiesta 2002 necktie.
Later on I passed by the Cattlemen's Square on the west side of downtown' just west of the elevated IH 10-35 and north of Houston Street. This is the site of Fiesta's "Tejano Explosion" and I wanted to read the line-up of artists and groups who will perform various types of chicano or Tex-Mex music during it ten-day run. (Actually I think T.E. run a day or two longer that Fiesta's officical ten days.)
Finally, I returned to el Mercado for a while, to enjoy the live music on four or so stages set up around Market Square for their ten days of "Fiestas Fantasías del Mercado". However I didn't stay very long. I wanted to get home and get some shut-eye, to be ready for Saturday's full schedule of Fiesta partying!
¡Viva Fiesta!
And what be-e-e-eautiful weather the "Man Upstairs" gave us for the opening! Cool with low humidity (despite a brief but noisy thundershower in the wee hours). The sky above The Alamo and the opening-ceremony site was a clear deep blue. Or as our golden-throated neighbor George Strait might say, "blue clear sky". (That's the name of one of his albums and its title song, one of Strait's many, many #1 country hits.)
In that opening ceremony, hosted by two local TV personalities and broadcast live by their TV station (a Fox affiliate newly awarded Fiesta coverage), Texas' "First Lady", Mrs. Rick Perry, was one of the speakers, as were His Honor Mayor Hardberger, this year's Fiesta San Antonio Commission President John Steen and County Judge (and former S.A. Mayor) Nelson Wolff. The most prominent speaker, I suppose, was U.S. Senator John Cornyn. He was introduced as "born in Houston, but he got to San Antonio as fast as he could!" This is a play on the popular slogan of auslanders (a Deutsch term for Texas residents who were born out-of-state): "I wasn't born in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could!"
A unique element of the program for this year's "Official Opening" was that ladies of the Battle of Flowers Association, attired in their typical yellow dresses and yellow sun hats (wide flat brims and low crowns) came out from behind the stage (from the direction of The Alamo chapel), bearing hand baskets filled with flowers. They proceeded to throw the blooms at people on the stage, in the audience and each other. This was a re-enactment of the very start of Fiesta! Back in 1891 society ladies had decided to entertain President Harrison (first sitting US President to visit S.A.) AND honor the heroes of The Alamo and San Jacinto by staging a parade of carriages bearing flowers and having a "flower battle" in front of the Cradle of Texas Liberty. How delightful to have this re-enactment of how the annual party-to-end-all-parties began!
Our city's Mayor, Phil Hardberger, was attired in suit and tie, like all the men on stage and unlike Mayor Ed Garza at my first opening ceremony for Fiesta (the party in A.D. 2002), who came in a guayabera. Well, the male encee (from the Fox station) was casually attired, now that I think about it. Mayor Hardberger, among his remarks, mentioned that Fiesta was "ten days to not think!" Hm-m-m. . . I'm not in complete agreement with that assessment! However, the co-hosts took advantage of the remark later, when the lady emcee, Cynthia Lee, said that she was looking forward to not thinking for ten days - and co-emcee, Mike Valdes, quipped something like, "Oh, is that anything new (with you)?" Arr-rr-gh!
We were also treated to musical entertainment, including by a military band beside the stage, flamenco dancing and the ceremonial cutting of an official's ugly necktie, to signify "business casual" apparel for the ten days of the party. I've not minded the cutting of one tie, but in recent years all officials on the platform and men in the audience were all but ordered to come out of theirs. It's a pity that high-ranking government officials have to submit to this indignity. Today two men up there did NOT remove their neckties! Neither did I take off my Fiesta 2002 tie! Let's have a big "Hooray!" for men who KNOW that we guys CAN have fun while sharply attired!
The ceremony concluded with everybody cracking cascarones over one another's heads while shouting, "¡Viva Fiesta!" or responding, "¡Viva!" Then I took the bus across downtown to El Mercado for their Fiesta event. And then I rode out to UTSA for theirs.
Once I was on the "ugly-modern-grey-concrete" campus of the university (my description of this very unattractive campus), out near Fiesta Texas, I searched in vain for my brother Lambda Chis. In the past two years they had run a food booth, one year with kabobs for sale and the other fajitas. But in this A.D. 2008 version of Fiesta UTSA we were not to be found! Wonder why.
However, the entertainment and the food that I did sample were quite enjoyable. As is custom, at one point a goodly selection of Fiesta royalty showed up and made a processional from the building that houses the Library upstairs and the cafeteria at ground level, along a red carpet under la Sombrilla (a fancy grating that provides some variegated shade to the pavement below), to a shaded seating area. Various of the royalty were introduced and brought up on the stage, as was UTSA President Romo. I couldn't help but notice that Fiesta Commission President John Steen again sported his necktie! I congratulated him for looking sharp again, as I also pointed to my Fiesta 2002 necktie.
Later on I passed by the Cattlemen's Square on the west side of downtown' just west of the elevated IH 10-35 and north of Houston Street. This is the site of Fiesta's "Tejano Explosion" and I wanted to read the line-up of artists and groups who will perform various types of chicano or Tex-Mex music during it ten-day run. (Actually I think T.E. run a day or two longer that Fiesta's officical ten days.)
Finally, I returned to el Mercado for a while, to enjoy the live music on four or so stages set up around Market Square for their ten days of "Fiestas Fantasías del Mercado". However I didn't stay very long. I wanted to get home and get some shut-eye, to be ready for Saturday's full schedule of Fiesta partying!
¡Viva Fiesta!
Monday, April 14, 2008
Plaza de las Islas, reopened
Sunday evening (last evening) I went downtown to experience the "grand re-opening" of Main Plaza, also known as Plaza de las Islas. The latter name (Spanish), the older name for the location, refers to the islands from whence came the Canary Islanders who arrived in San Antonio in March of A.D. 1731. They founded the first civil settlement and municipal government in Texas, began the time-consuming erection of Texas' first parish church (as opposed to mission church or presidial chapel), and laid out the square (plaza) as the heart of their new town.
Main Plaza/Plaza de las Islas has seen numerous major changes of appearance over the approximately 177 years since then. And the latest radical alteration of appearance was celebrated this past evening.
I went, resigned that the square would not have the two north-south streets, which had been eliminated by the planned renovation. By this fact alone it now varies further than ever from the standard design of city squares of the colonial Spanish Empire. I was ready for this, but I consoled myself that the vista-blocking undergrowth and the ugly central fountain would be gone. And surely anything would be an improvement.
Not!
Much to my surprise, pedestrian access from the south into the central portion of the renovated square was blocked by gardens and the ends of low walls. And such access from the north into the center did not include gentle ramps for the disabled, just steps and low retaining walls which can be used as impromptu benches. The center portion's surface consisted of three things. Some areas were covered with rough and uneven ashlar (quarried stone). In at least three places waterworks consisting of small geysers or fountains of water bathed rectangles of finished stone or concrete; the boundaries of these waterworks were mostly defined by where the wet ended and the dry began. Thirdly, large areas consisted of no more than bare dirt. It was easy to guess that at our first gully-washer this "new" Main Plaza will become a muddy hog wallow!
The layout of the raised and lowered areas and the placing of permanent kiosk-like structures make it impossible that Main Street and Soledad Street will ever again pass thru the square, as before. Thus north-south traffic thru the plaza is permanently blocked. I was vigorously against this from the beginning of announcement of public hearings on plans for Main Plaza renovation.
I had read of several elements to be included in the ceremony of Sunday evening, and sort of looked forward to it. But in this I was disappointed, too. For one, catering of picnic boxes for purchase had been set up inside the new square by Bill Miller Bar-b-cue, one cookie-cutter store of which sits at the northwest corner of the square. Now, why couldn't the body that fabricated this celebration have chosen Grady's with its superior bar-b-cue, or the fried chicken of Church's (another S.A. eating establishment), or something from Jim's Restaurants?
When the male-female pair of emcees for the main portion of the ceremony were introduced, they were both from KENS TV-5, and the male in the pair was weatherman Bill Taylor. The usually sharply-apparelled Taylor was sporting a suit and dress shirt, but no necktie! At least one public official on the platform was similarly garbed (i.e., no tie). Mayor Hardberger, his wife and the cathedral's Father David Garcia were in the front row of seats up there; this trio was the driving force behind Main Plaza renovation. Indeed, conventional wisdom among S.A. citizens is that she (Mrs. H) was THE driving force.
These folk and some other spoke about the history of Plaza de las Islas/ Main Plaza. Before all the talk there were some dramatic presentations by Canary Islander descendants and a military group in period costume. In all of this there was no mention of anybody or anything that happened in what is now downtown San Antonio between the times of the nomadic Coahuiltecan bands and the Islanders' arrival in 1731. I was distressed that there was in this a forceful effort to represent that this city as a permanent community began with those settlers from the Canaries! What about the original mission, San Antonio de Valero, founded on 1 May A.D. 1718? (Years later it became the famous fort and battleground, The Alamo.) What about el presidio, the protecting fort, also called San Antonio, founded four days later? And the villa set up for soldiers' families and a few farmers and craftsmen who also settled in 1718? What about the second mission, San José, founded in 1720?
Let's hope, dear reader, that there isn't such shunning of the first decade plus of this city's true history as a settled community when we get to A.D. 2018. That is when this so unique and historic city can celebrate its tricentennial. Let's also pray that this city gets a wiser set of leaders in its municipal government by then, who will seek to undo the deleterious effects of the current redoing of Main Plaza!
Main Plaza/Plaza de las Islas has seen numerous major changes of appearance over the approximately 177 years since then. And the latest radical alteration of appearance was celebrated this past evening.
I went, resigned that the square would not have the two north-south streets, which had been eliminated by the planned renovation. By this fact alone it now varies further than ever from the standard design of city squares of the colonial Spanish Empire. I was ready for this, but I consoled myself that the vista-blocking undergrowth and the ugly central fountain would be gone. And surely anything would be an improvement.
Not!
Much to my surprise, pedestrian access from the south into the central portion of the renovated square was blocked by gardens and the ends of low walls. And such access from the north into the center did not include gentle ramps for the disabled, just steps and low retaining walls which can be used as impromptu benches. The center portion's surface consisted of three things. Some areas were covered with rough and uneven ashlar (quarried stone). In at least three places waterworks consisting of small geysers or fountains of water bathed rectangles of finished stone or concrete; the boundaries of these waterworks were mostly defined by where the wet ended and the dry began. Thirdly, large areas consisted of no more than bare dirt. It was easy to guess that at our first gully-washer this "new" Main Plaza will become a muddy hog wallow!
The layout of the raised and lowered areas and the placing of permanent kiosk-like structures make it impossible that Main Street and Soledad Street will ever again pass thru the square, as before. Thus north-south traffic thru the plaza is permanently blocked. I was vigorously against this from the beginning of announcement of public hearings on plans for Main Plaza renovation.
I had read of several elements to be included in the ceremony of Sunday evening, and sort of looked forward to it. But in this I was disappointed, too. For one, catering of picnic boxes for purchase had been set up inside the new square by Bill Miller Bar-b-cue, one cookie-cutter store of which sits at the northwest corner of the square. Now, why couldn't the body that fabricated this celebration have chosen Grady's with its superior bar-b-cue, or the fried chicken of Church's (another S.A. eating establishment), or something from Jim's Restaurants?
When the male-female pair of emcees for the main portion of the ceremony were introduced, they were both from KENS TV-5, and the male in the pair was weatherman Bill Taylor. The usually sharply-apparelled Taylor was sporting a suit and dress shirt, but no necktie! At least one public official on the platform was similarly garbed (i.e., no tie). Mayor Hardberger, his wife and the cathedral's Father David Garcia were in the front row of seats up there; this trio was the driving force behind Main Plaza renovation. Indeed, conventional wisdom among S.A. citizens is that she (Mrs. H) was THE driving force.
These folk and some other spoke about the history of Plaza de las Islas/ Main Plaza. Before all the talk there were some dramatic presentations by Canary Islander descendants and a military group in period costume. In all of this there was no mention of anybody or anything that happened in what is now downtown San Antonio between the times of the nomadic Coahuiltecan bands and the Islanders' arrival in 1731. I was distressed that there was in this a forceful effort to represent that this city as a permanent community began with those settlers from the Canaries! What about the original mission, San Antonio de Valero, founded on 1 May A.D. 1718? (Years later it became the famous fort and battleground, The Alamo.) What about el presidio, the protecting fort, also called San Antonio, founded four days later? And the villa set up for soldiers' families and a few farmers and craftsmen who also settled in 1718? What about the second mission, San José, founded in 1720?
Let's hope, dear reader, that there isn't such shunning of the first decade plus of this city's true history as a settled community when we get to A.D. 2018. That is when this so unique and historic city can celebrate its tricentennial. Let's also pray that this city gets a wiser set of leaders in its municipal government by then, who will seek to undo the deleterious effects of the current redoing of Main Plaza!
Monday, April 07, 2008
Emmaus Celebration, at Mt. Wesley
Most of this past weekend, I was in Kerrville, Texas, at Mt. Wesley, church camp (or "Conference Center" as they now call it) of the UMC. All of us in attendance were celebrating 25 years of Walks to Emmaus and Chrysalis in Southwest Texas (SWTX of the UMC, that is.)
Before I left for the Celebration on Friday, I had a substitute teaching assignment at Alamo Heights HS. We had a pep rally for the Spring sports early in the morning; the theme for it was Fiesta, as in "wear Fiesta clothes". So I took advantage of this theme to wear my Fiesta necktie and my rainbow suspenders. I planned to wear them to the Emmaus Celebration later in the day, and also on Sunday.
As soon as I turned in my substitutes folder at the end of classes I boarded a VÍA bus and rode out to University UMC. From there I rode with Jay and Chrissie Smith of UUMC; Ann Rossi of Los Angeles Heights UMC also rode with us. We had a nice drive out to Kerrville; even the Friday home-bound rush hour wasn't all that bad, for San Antonio. Despite the lack of rain -- can you say, "another drought"? -- there were some wildflowers in the median and on the shoulders of IH Ten. Even a few bluebonnets. And lots of the little pink teacups of the primrose!
When we four drove up Methodist Encampment Road in Kerrville and arrived at Mt. Wesley camp, the first person I saw that I recognized was none other than Arlie Lammers! He had agreed to have me as houseguest for the weekend (wife Kitty was away on the West Coast). Arlie and I were roommates during service on the Teams for Kairos Torres #9 and #11. He's a former UMC clergy who switched to Disciples of Christ, and is a non-pastoring member of First Christian Church (Disciples) in Kerrville. He (and wife Kitty) live out in the country, in fact across the road from the site of the annual Kerrville Folk Festival. I greeted him and gave him a hug -- not an easy thing to do since he's several inches taller than yours truly. I also introduced him to my fellow travelers.
After registering I went up to the fairly new dining hall, built sometime between my two team services on Walks #1005 (August '02) and #1327 (Nov. '06). While in the hall for supper I encountered George Bradley, a Methodist clergyman and fellow volunteer in Kairos Prison Ministry. Remember, Kairos is the version of Emmaus (or any Cursillo renewal) designed for inmates. We had a great time talking while eating! After dinner he headed home (he had been here for a clergy licensing meeting of the UMC). I went to Worship in the Emmaus style in the former Moore Auditorium (remodeled, air-conditioned and renamed sometime also between the two Walks).
Saturday included four workshop sessions, with over a dozen topics from which to choose. Between breakfast and commencement of the workshops I chose to ascend the hill, actually called "Mt. Wesley", behind the camp's buildings to its summit. I chose to use the less steep paved drive going up the side of this hill, rather than going straight up on the trail. Nevertheless, I could tell that the climb was more taxing on my aging body than earlier climbs had been. (I ascend Mt. Wesley Hill every time I come to the camp for an Emmaus event, except for Candlelight.) But it's worth the physical exertion, for the view over the Guadalupe River and the wonderful Texas Hill Country. AND worth it to stand below the large wooden cross surmounting a pile of rocks at the summit. The wood came from Bolivia, sent years ago by Bolivian Methodists. For me there isn't a better graphic example of the worldwide unity and love of the Christian people!
In the morning I chose to participate in a music workshop facilitated by Yohann Anderson in the conference room where the 15 talks are done on a Walk; it actually took up both sessions. Yohann is compiler-editor of a songbook that contains songs written by him and lots of camp-style Christian songs, traditional hymn lyrics and lyrics for popular hit numbers. It's called simply "Songs". The earliest issue of "Songs" was a brown-cover book; I had a firm-spine version during high school and college and beyond. Since moving to San Antonio I'd acquired the newer green-cover, spiral-bound edition. And NOW at Yohann's seminar I bought the newest edition of "Songs": blue and containing about 1100 songs (up from over 300 in the first edition). This workshop (or seminar) was not just group singing of songs from the book. Most of it was actually Yohann teaching us techniques for making song-leading more effective. He also provided us with a handout.
In the afternoon I first attended a workshop on clergy requirements (for being a spiritual director on a Walk, and also for a Fourth Day Group), in the beautiful little Chapel of Mt. Wesley. Then I went to a small building behind former Moore Auditorium, to "Studio B" for a session called "Why Cain't We Do It That Way?" (spelled that way). By the title and brief description this was to be a discussion of sticking to the manual for presenting a Walk to Emmaus. But the presenter (facilitator), a lady who was one of four people representing the International Office of Emmaus in Nashville, had us focus first, on suggesting reasons for celebrating Emmaus, and second, challenges we face as we continue to strive to keep the spiritual renewal movement effective and viable. Chrissie Smith was one of the other participants, as her husband Jay had been another at the morning "double-length" Yohann workshop, and Arlie had been one at the clergy seminar.
Also during the afternoon I used breaks in the schedule to peruse various vendors who were set up in the former dining hall of the camp. Most of these were locals, and arlie knew all of them. The one out-of-town vendor was a fellow from Cokesbury (the Methodist bookstore chain). Noticing that he had a few music CDs I asked if he had the CD version of an audiocassette I had purchased years ago after my piligrim Walk, called "Palanca Songs". He did indeed, so I purchased it. On a later pass by the Cokesbury table my eyes happened to fall on a "De Colores" necktie! I didn't ahve a clue that anyone made Cursillo/Emmaus ties! You guessed it, dear reader; it's now mine!
Saturday ended as Friday had, with dinner and then Worship (same locales). The music group ("praise team" if you wish) which led the singing at this evening Worship was very good! And Victor Pérez, full-time clergy from Emmaus in Nashville, gave a pretty good talk ("sermon" if you wish). I was a little disappointed that my pre-conception that THIS service would be open to the general Emmaus community (like a Walk's candlelight) was wrong; only registered Celebration participants were in attendance.
Sunday morning I packed my suitcase at Arlie's house, and we drove into Kerrville as the eastern sky began to lighten. Yesterday he had actually driven me by the new First Christian Church (Disciples) building. A few years ago I had gotten a ride to a Candlelight for a Walk, stayed the night with Arlie and Kitty, attended Sunday Worship with them at the old FCC (closer to Methodist Encampment Rd.), and then attended closing for the same Walk.
The concluding Worship for the Emmaus Celebration was in the Chapel. Music was the little pipe organ in it -- this was the first time I had heard it played! Shelton Johnson, current Spiritual Director for the Southwest Texas Emmaus Community, gave the sermon, a very brief message to "go out celebrating Emmaus and being fishers of men!" Then we shared the Lord's Supper one final time, and it was time for farewells and hitting the road back to home.
Because the Emmaus Celebration concluded so early Sunday morning we returned to San Antonio in time for me to ask the Smiths to drop me off at San Antonio Christian Church, not far from their church (UUMC). Pastor here is Ed Palow; he was my roommate on Kairos Briscoe #1, and the music for Sunday Worship here is often provided, as it was this day, by Rich and Joy Drady and their group, "Just Us" (called so because it's anybody who wants to bring their instrument and play it with the Dradys). I got acquainted with Rich and Joy when I first began attending Alamo Heights Christian Church (Disciples). Worshiping at San Antonio Christian served as a great transition back into the "everyday" living in the city after the weekend of Emmaus spiritual "high"!
But. . . I didn't quite get back to "normal" right away! From San Antonio Christian I got a ride to St. Mary's University on the city's west side. Lambda Chi Alpha was celebrating its Founder's Day barbecue there this year, a month later than the past two years. But the weather was fabulous for the fraternity's event. After chatting with alumni and undergrads of the three local Zetas (chapters) and enjoying hot dogs, etc., I got a ride home with an active (an undergrad member) of Pi-Epsilon Zeta (Incarnate Word). He "happened" to live nearby, on Vandiver!
However, when I walked up to my door I discovered that my keys were not in any of my pockets. Nor in my suitcase or bag! I'd left them at Arlie's! So I had to borrow a phone to call the La Fiesta management and get let in to my efficiency. Not a good ending to a great weekend! But it didn't quench my joy in the celebrations!
Before I left for the Celebration on Friday, I had a substitute teaching assignment at Alamo Heights HS. We had a pep rally for the Spring sports early in the morning; the theme for it was Fiesta, as in "wear Fiesta clothes". So I took advantage of this theme to wear my Fiesta necktie and my rainbow suspenders. I planned to wear them to the Emmaus Celebration later in the day, and also on Sunday.
As soon as I turned in my substitutes folder at the end of classes I boarded a VÍA bus and rode out to University UMC. From there I rode with Jay and Chrissie Smith of UUMC; Ann Rossi of Los Angeles Heights UMC also rode with us. We had a nice drive out to Kerrville; even the Friday home-bound rush hour wasn't all that bad, for San Antonio. Despite the lack of rain -- can you say, "another drought"? -- there were some wildflowers in the median and on the shoulders of IH Ten. Even a few bluebonnets. And lots of the little pink teacups of the primrose!
When we four drove up Methodist Encampment Road in Kerrville and arrived at Mt. Wesley camp, the first person I saw that I recognized was none other than Arlie Lammers! He had agreed to have me as houseguest for the weekend (wife Kitty was away on the West Coast). Arlie and I were roommates during service on the Teams for Kairos Torres #9 and #11. He's a former UMC clergy who switched to Disciples of Christ, and is a non-pastoring member of First Christian Church (Disciples) in Kerrville. He (and wife Kitty) live out in the country, in fact across the road from the site of the annual Kerrville Folk Festival. I greeted him and gave him a hug -- not an easy thing to do since he's several inches taller than yours truly. I also introduced him to my fellow travelers.
After registering I went up to the fairly new dining hall, built sometime between my two team services on Walks #1005 (August '02) and #1327 (Nov. '06). While in the hall for supper I encountered George Bradley, a Methodist clergyman and fellow volunteer in Kairos Prison Ministry. Remember, Kairos is the version of Emmaus (or any Cursillo renewal) designed for inmates. We had a great time talking while eating! After dinner he headed home (he had been here for a clergy licensing meeting of the UMC). I went to Worship in the Emmaus style in the former Moore Auditorium (remodeled, air-conditioned and renamed sometime also between the two Walks).
Saturday included four workshop sessions, with over a dozen topics from which to choose. Between breakfast and commencement of the workshops I chose to ascend the hill, actually called "Mt. Wesley", behind the camp's buildings to its summit. I chose to use the less steep paved drive going up the side of this hill, rather than going straight up on the trail. Nevertheless, I could tell that the climb was more taxing on my aging body than earlier climbs had been. (I ascend Mt. Wesley Hill every time I come to the camp for an Emmaus event, except for Candlelight.) But it's worth the physical exertion, for the view over the Guadalupe River and the wonderful Texas Hill Country. AND worth it to stand below the large wooden cross surmounting a pile of rocks at the summit. The wood came from Bolivia, sent years ago by Bolivian Methodists. For me there isn't a better graphic example of the worldwide unity and love of the Christian people!
In the morning I chose to participate in a music workshop facilitated by Yohann Anderson in the conference room where the 15 talks are done on a Walk; it actually took up both sessions. Yohann is compiler-editor of a songbook that contains songs written by him and lots of camp-style Christian songs, traditional hymn lyrics and lyrics for popular hit numbers. It's called simply "Songs". The earliest issue of "Songs" was a brown-cover book; I had a firm-spine version during high school and college and beyond. Since moving to San Antonio I'd acquired the newer green-cover, spiral-bound edition. And NOW at Yohann's seminar I bought the newest edition of "Songs": blue and containing about 1100 songs (up from over 300 in the first edition). This workshop (or seminar) was not just group singing of songs from the book. Most of it was actually Yohann teaching us techniques for making song-leading more effective. He also provided us with a handout.
In the afternoon I first attended a workshop on clergy requirements (for being a spiritual director on a Walk, and also for a Fourth Day Group), in the beautiful little Chapel of Mt. Wesley. Then I went to a small building behind former Moore Auditorium, to "Studio B" for a session called "Why Cain't We Do It That Way?" (spelled that way). By the title and brief description this was to be a discussion of sticking to the manual for presenting a Walk to Emmaus. But the presenter (facilitator), a lady who was one of four people representing the International Office of Emmaus in Nashville, had us focus first, on suggesting reasons for celebrating Emmaus, and second, challenges we face as we continue to strive to keep the spiritual renewal movement effective and viable. Chrissie Smith was one of the other participants, as her husband Jay had been another at the morning "double-length" Yohann workshop, and Arlie had been one at the clergy seminar.
Also during the afternoon I used breaks in the schedule to peruse various vendors who were set up in the former dining hall of the camp. Most of these were locals, and arlie knew all of them. The one out-of-town vendor was a fellow from Cokesbury (the Methodist bookstore chain). Noticing that he had a few music CDs I asked if he had the CD version of an audiocassette I had purchased years ago after my piligrim Walk, called "Palanca Songs". He did indeed, so I purchased it. On a later pass by the Cokesbury table my eyes happened to fall on a "De Colores" necktie! I didn't ahve a clue that anyone made Cursillo/Emmaus ties! You guessed it, dear reader; it's now mine!
Saturday ended as Friday had, with dinner and then Worship (same locales). The music group ("praise team" if you wish) which led the singing at this evening Worship was very good! And Victor Pérez, full-time clergy from Emmaus in Nashville, gave a pretty good talk ("sermon" if you wish). I was a little disappointed that my pre-conception that THIS service would be open to the general Emmaus community (like a Walk's candlelight) was wrong; only registered Celebration participants were in attendance.
Sunday morning I packed my suitcase at Arlie's house, and we drove into Kerrville as the eastern sky began to lighten. Yesterday he had actually driven me by the new First Christian Church (Disciples) building. A few years ago I had gotten a ride to a Candlelight for a Walk, stayed the night with Arlie and Kitty, attended Sunday Worship with them at the old FCC (closer to Methodist Encampment Rd.), and then attended closing for the same Walk.
The concluding Worship for the Emmaus Celebration was in the Chapel. Music was the little pipe organ in it -- this was the first time I had heard it played! Shelton Johnson, current Spiritual Director for the Southwest Texas Emmaus Community, gave the sermon, a very brief message to "go out celebrating Emmaus and being fishers of men!" Then we shared the Lord's Supper one final time, and it was time for farewells and hitting the road back to home.
Because the Emmaus Celebration concluded so early Sunday morning we returned to San Antonio in time for me to ask the Smiths to drop me off at San Antonio Christian Church, not far from their church (UUMC). Pastor here is Ed Palow; he was my roommate on Kairos Briscoe #1, and the music for Sunday Worship here is often provided, as it was this day, by Rich and Joy Drady and their group, "Just Us" (called so because it's anybody who wants to bring their instrument and play it with the Dradys). I got acquainted with Rich and Joy when I first began attending Alamo Heights Christian Church (Disciples). Worshiping at San Antonio Christian served as a great transition back into the "everyday" living in the city after the weekend of Emmaus spiritual "high"!
But. . . I didn't quite get back to "normal" right away! From San Antonio Christian I got a ride to St. Mary's University on the city's west side. Lambda Chi Alpha was celebrating its Founder's Day barbecue there this year, a month later than the past two years. But the weather was fabulous for the fraternity's event. After chatting with alumni and undergrads of the three local Zetas (chapters) and enjoying hot dogs, etc., I got a ride home with an active (an undergrad member) of Pi-Epsilon Zeta (Incarnate Word). He "happened" to live nearby, on Vandiver!
However, when I walked up to my door I discovered that my keys were not in any of my pockets. Nor in my suitcase or bag! I'd left them at Arlie's! So I had to borrow a phone to call the La Fiesta management and get let in to my efficiency. Not a good ending to a great weekend! But it didn't quench my joy in the celebrations!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Dos iglesias unidas/2 churches united
Domingo el treinta de marzo había una adoración dominical uniendo dos iglesias biligues de los Discípulos de Cristo. On Sunday the 30th of March there was a special Sunday worship uniting two bilingual Disciples of Christ churches of San Antonio.
Back in January the younger congregation, Spanish Christian Church, had hosted my congregation, Mexican Christian Church, in their facility. They don't have their own building but rather meet in Woodlawn Christian Church (Disciples) off Fredericksburg Road in the Deco District of the city.
And now, this past Sunday, it was Mexican Christian's turn to host a joint meeting. Spanish Christian's praise music team came over early and set up drums, guitars and mikes on the platform behind and above the communion table. We had about half an hour of praise singing, then continued in an order of worship similar to Mexican Christian's usual Sunday order of worship. There were also a few special songs added to the service. Brother Orta, the Spanish Christian pastor, did the invocation, pastoral prayer and benediction. Christian and Evelyn Torres, newlyweds who had joined MCC last Fall, read the scriptures, and Pastor Liz Sanchez gave the sermon.
Following Worship we all adjourned downstairs for a fellowship dinner. There was lots of delicious food (a usual happening at church dinners, as well as at Emmaus events). Aun mejor, fue simplemente el platicar entre los miembros de las dos congregaciones, mientras almorzábamos. (Better yet, was simply the conversing between members of the two sister congregations while we were eating.)
Now, events or happenings such as THIS are what engage me as a disciple of the Nazarene! I have strong loyalty to my personal congregation, yet thrill to have fellowship with brother and sister Christians of another church, or even other denominations! Unity in the earthly Body of Christ, that's what I long for! A unity based on mutual love, the agapé love of I Corinthians 13, and on our common search to live out the essential teachings of our Risen Leader! May we Christians never forget, and always strive to fulfil, the clause of Jesus' "High Priestly Prayer" in which He besought ABBA for the same oneness among His disciples as existed between Him and ABBA (see John 17).
Back in January the younger congregation, Spanish Christian Church, had hosted my congregation, Mexican Christian Church, in their facility. They don't have their own building but rather meet in Woodlawn Christian Church (Disciples) off Fredericksburg Road in the Deco District of the city.
And now, this past Sunday, it was Mexican Christian's turn to host a joint meeting. Spanish Christian's praise music team came over early and set up drums, guitars and mikes on the platform behind and above the communion table. We had about half an hour of praise singing, then continued in an order of worship similar to Mexican Christian's usual Sunday order of worship. There were also a few special songs added to the service. Brother Orta, the Spanish Christian pastor, did the invocation, pastoral prayer and benediction. Christian and Evelyn Torres, newlyweds who had joined MCC last Fall, read the scriptures, and Pastor Liz Sanchez gave the sermon.
Following Worship we all adjourned downstairs for a fellowship dinner. There was lots of delicious food (a usual happening at church dinners, as well as at Emmaus events). Aun mejor, fue simplemente el platicar entre los miembros de las dos congregaciones, mientras almorzábamos. (Better yet, was simply the conversing between members of the two sister congregations while we were eating.)
Now, events or happenings such as THIS are what engage me as a disciple of the Nazarene! I have strong loyalty to my personal congregation, yet thrill to have fellowship with brother and sister Christians of another church, or even other denominations! Unity in the earthly Body of Christ, that's what I long for! A unity based on mutual love, the agapé love of I Corinthians 13, and on our common search to live out the essential teachings of our Risen Leader! May we Christians never forget, and always strive to fulfil, the clause of Jesus' "High Priestly Prayer" in which He besought ABBA for the same oneness among His disciples as existed between Him and ABBA (see John 17).
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Hermano Julián López
This past Monday, el día después de Pascua, a longtime and faithful member of my Westside church went home para quedar con Jesucristo. Hermano (Brother) Julián López was only a few years older than yours truly, and had serious health issues for as long as I've attended la Iglesia Crustiana Mexicana, Mexican Christian Church. But now he is free of these and his weak mortal body and enjoying the eternal bliss of being in the Lord's presence.
Hermano Julián probably made as big an impression on me as anyone at the church. His love for the congregation, for neighboring Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, for the Westside and most of all for his -- and our -- Lord were very evident. After I began attending Mexican Christian Church I would travel by bus across San Antonio early on Sundays, to get there in plenty of time. I'd arrive before all the others -- except for Julián. He was always there before me, and greeted me with his customary smile. He usually had the coffee already brewing. Sundays when he didn't, I would make it. There came to be a tacit competition between the two of us, to see who could make the best pot of coffee for the church. I concede that Julián probably won that contest.
And there was no doubt that Julián was "king of church bell ringers". He delighted in ringing the church bell at the start and the end of each Sunday service. He would ring exactly twelve times, one for each of the Apostles! Once Julián ended up in the hospital for his second leg amputation it sort of fell on me to get the bell rung. But I hardly felt like a worthy successor to this "king of church bell ringers"!
Wednesday evening Mexican Christian Church (Disciples) hosted a visitation and prayer service for Hermano Julián. Since he was also active in the barrio senior citizens center and in Guadalupe Church there were lots of folks present. Several of us presented songs for or stories about Julián. I myself sang two: "I Am the Resurrection and the Life" and "Pues Si Vivimos".
I'm sorry that my bilingual brother in Christ has gone home to be with Jesus -- only in that I won't get to hear him ring the bell again or compete with him in the matter of "gourmet" coffee making. But I'm glad that he's now in that perfect place where he's not in pain, and his being is whole. Que descansa en la paz y la gloria de Cristo, mi hermano y amigo.
Hermano Julián probably made as big an impression on me as anyone at the church. His love for the congregation, for neighboring Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, for the Westside and most of all for his -- and our -- Lord were very evident. After I began attending Mexican Christian Church I would travel by bus across San Antonio early on Sundays, to get there in plenty of time. I'd arrive before all the others -- except for Julián. He was always there before me, and greeted me with his customary smile. He usually had the coffee already brewing. Sundays when he didn't, I would make it. There came to be a tacit competition between the two of us, to see who could make the best pot of coffee for the church. I concede that Julián probably won that contest.
And there was no doubt that Julián was "king of church bell ringers". He delighted in ringing the church bell at the start and the end of each Sunday service. He would ring exactly twelve times, one for each of the Apostles! Once Julián ended up in the hospital for his second leg amputation it sort of fell on me to get the bell rung. But I hardly felt like a worthy successor to this "king of church bell ringers"!
Wednesday evening Mexican Christian Church (Disciples) hosted a visitation and prayer service for Hermano Julián. Since he was also active in the barrio senior citizens center and in Guadalupe Church there were lots of folks present. Several of us presented songs for or stories about Julián. I myself sang two: "I Am the Resurrection and the Life" and "Pues Si Vivimos".
I'm sorry that my bilingual brother in Christ has gone home to be with Jesus -- only in that I won't get to hear him ring the bell again or compete with him in the matter of "gourmet" coffee making. But I'm glad that he's now in that perfect place where he's not in pain, and his being is whole. Que descansa en la paz y la gloria de Cristo, mi hermano y amigo.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
My S.A. Eye Doctor
This morning I had my annual eye exam by my ophthalmologist. He is Dr. Wendall Baumann. Should you have need for an eye doctor, I highly recommend him. (But be warned: he's very popular!)
I first met Wendall in the Summer of A.D. 2002. In seeking an Emmaus Reunion group to join, for weekly prayer, accountability and support, I found one that included him, meeting each Monday at lunch time. During the academic year we met in the Skyline Room of the student union on the Trinity University campus. This was on the second floor of the hilltop structure, giving diners a glorious view of downtown San Antonio! And the food was a delicious and inexpensive buffet. But the best part was the fellowship with four to six other men.
At the time I was a waiter at Jim's Restaurants, and Wendall was an Air Force ophthalmologist, rank of Colonel and actually stationed at the US Army's Brooke AMC (hospital). Since that time -- truly the "good ol' days" -- the Reunion group has dissolved (and I now meet in the Mama's Café men's Bible study instead) and Wendall has retired from the military and gone into private practice. As soon as I heard him share that he was about to do this, I asked to become one of his earliest clients.
Wendall lives in a house facing Primrose Street near its Broadway end, while Alamo Heights Christian Church (Disciples) is at the North New Braunfels Ave. end, on the other side. The back edge of the lot is Castaño Ave., across from Alamo Heights High School. There are many lovely houses on Primrose, but long before I knew Wendall lived there I though his home, a pretty stone two-story cottage, was the most attractive (and the only one I'd feel comfortable residing in).
Well, one evening just after Wendall had retired from the Air Force I was walking down Primrose to go to something at AHCC(DC), and I noticed in passing his house that there were two plywood storks with babies in the front yard, one pink and one blue. These I interpreted that my friend had become a grandfather, even tho' I'd never known of such yard storks being used by anyone than the parents. The next time I spoke with Wendall the storks and the male and female babies they represented came quickly into the conversation, and I found out that he was indeed a new dad! It seems that he and his wife had been trying to have children for years -- and finally succeeded! Doubly succeeded!
Shortly I got invited over to the Baumanns to see the twins. The house was as winsome inside as was the outside of it. And of course the babies were adorable! I was back for a visit soon afterward, but now it had been over a year. I reminded Wendall of this when I went in for my eye appointment this morning. Indeed, even tho' the exam resulted in good news (no further deterioration in my vision), the best part of the visit was just talking with my dear friend, reminiscing over the old Reunion Group days, commenting on the house, and of course the babies. Now I'm looking forward to another visit in the near future!
I first met Wendall in the Summer of A.D. 2002. In seeking an Emmaus Reunion group to join, for weekly prayer, accountability and support, I found one that included him, meeting each Monday at lunch time. During the academic year we met in the Skyline Room of the student union on the Trinity University campus. This was on the second floor of the hilltop structure, giving diners a glorious view of downtown San Antonio! And the food was a delicious and inexpensive buffet. But the best part was the fellowship with four to six other men.
At the time I was a waiter at Jim's Restaurants, and Wendall was an Air Force ophthalmologist, rank of Colonel and actually stationed at the US Army's Brooke AMC (hospital). Since that time -- truly the "good ol' days" -- the Reunion group has dissolved (and I now meet in the Mama's Café men's Bible study instead) and Wendall has retired from the military and gone into private practice. As soon as I heard him share that he was about to do this, I asked to become one of his earliest clients.
Wendall lives in a house facing Primrose Street near its Broadway end, while Alamo Heights Christian Church (Disciples) is at the North New Braunfels Ave. end, on the other side. The back edge of the lot is Castaño Ave., across from Alamo Heights High School. There are many lovely houses on Primrose, but long before I knew Wendall lived there I though his home, a pretty stone two-story cottage, was the most attractive (and the only one I'd feel comfortable residing in).
Well, one evening just after Wendall had retired from the Air Force I was walking down Primrose to go to something at AHCC(DC), and I noticed in passing his house that there were two plywood storks with babies in the front yard, one pink and one blue. These I interpreted that my friend had become a grandfather, even tho' I'd never known of such yard storks being used by anyone than the parents. The next time I spoke with Wendall the storks and the male and female babies they represented came quickly into the conversation, and I found out that he was indeed a new dad! It seems that he and his wife had been trying to have children for years -- and finally succeeded! Doubly succeeded!
Shortly I got invited over to the Baumanns to see the twins. The house was as winsome inside as was the outside of it. And of course the babies were adorable! I was back for a visit soon afterward, but now it had been over a year. I reminded Wendall of this when I went in for my eye appointment this morning. Indeed, even tho' the exam resulted in good news (no further deterioration in my vision), the best part of the visit was just talking with my dear friend, reminiscing over the old Reunion Group days, commenting on the house, and of course the babies. Now I'm looking forward to another visit in the near future!
Monday, March 24, 2008
Resurrection Day
Earlier postings of this month of March of A.D. 2008 related incidents connected with my birthday and those of my dad and brother.
Well, yesterday was ALSO my birthday! That one back on the Eve of the Ides of March was simply the day my Mom gave birth to me, in the US Military Academy hospital at West Point, New York. Yesterday was the Sunday when we Christians celebrate the greatest event of all history -- the Resurrection of Jesus the Christ! On Resurrection Day of A.D. 1969 toward the end of Worship in Red Rock Christian Church (Disciples) in Boise, Idaho, I responded to the Invitation arose from my seat and walked forward to state my faith in the Nazarene as the Christ, Son of God and my personal Savior! Or to put it otherwise, I was "born again" (or born from above) on Resurrection Day of 1969.
On this Resurrection Day of this Year of Our Lord (2008) I experienced tremendous celebration of the risen Savior -- all thru the day!
This commenced as usual with Sunrise Service at Alamo Heights Christian Church (Disciples). Due to the new earlier start of Daylight Saving Time this year the service actually began close to sunrise. But with the overcast sky we didn't have many sun rays visiting the lobby where the service is held. Nor shining upon the cross of rugged old wood, covered with chicken wire. When we go up to receive the Lord's Supper we place fresh flowers into the chicken wire, which thus converts the centerpiece into a floral cross! Very impressive!
When the service ended we adjourned downstairs to Kirtley Fellowship Hall for breakfast. Then during the following Sunday school hour the choir practiced the cantata "Jesus Is Alive" one final time. And then we sang it in the regular-time worship. It has five songs with brief narration before each. The final two are medleys (which gives eight song in part or in whole). The first I had difficulty singing the harmony, but on the second, "Come to the altar", the harmony came easily, and I really enjoyed singing it. The third song is "Via Dolorosa", which is mostly a very moving soprano solo, with a bit of choral inclusion. The "Cross Medley" of the fourth piece is Dottie Rambo's Behold the Lamb", the "Above All", then the refrain of "The Old Rugged Cross". Every time I practiced it and again when we sang it during the Worship I almost choked up on the refrain of "Above All".
. Crucified. Laid behind the stone.
. You and alone.
. Lie a rose, trampled on the ground,
. You took the fall and thought of me
. Above All!
And then there was the "grand finale" -- the title piece, "Jesus Is Alive". It's quite a triumphant celebration in song of the reality of the Resurrection to eternal life of our Savior. Just this past week I had listened to Dr. John MacArthur on "Grace to You" (aired on KDRY AM 1100) speak of the Resurrection from God's viewpoint, and what all the emptying of the tomb on the third day means for Christianity and the Gospel. If there were no resurrection of Jesus the Nazarene, then there really is no Christianity and no Good News! This is why the bodily Resurrection is so vehemently attacked. But those who seek to invalidate the Gospel by proving that Jesus didn't rise from the dead usually end up being converts to the very faith they set out to attack!
And so we sing, "Hallelujah! Jesus is alive! Death has lost the victory, and the grave has been denied. Jesus lives forever; He's alive!"
Later, in the evening of Resurrection Day, I rode the bus over to the Westside, where Mexican Christian Church, la Iglesia Cristiana Mexicana, held the final evening of a week-long tent revival, una campaña de carpa. Evangelist Jorge Marín conducts these tent revivals usually twice a year in the church yard beside Guadalupe Street. This time the revival "happened" to coicide with Holy Week. Great timing!
I myself felt led to participate this final revival evening, by testifying to the tremendous reality of the Resurrection, particularly as follow-up to the Nazarene's death by crucifixion -- the ransom for all who put their trust in His power to save! I also sang a couple of songs, including my favorite "cross song", which is "The Old Rugged Cross." It was a windy evening (and the tent had no side flaps, just a roof upheld by thin poles), yet by using weights I was able to keep my music open before me as I picked guitar and sang.
Another song I sang was "Un Día a la Vez", the Spanish version of "One Day at a Time". (I first heard the Spanish version right here in Mexican Christian Church, during my first visit here, and quickly grew to prefer la versión española to the English!) Later, two women independently sang the same song, using accompaniment CDs. I was strongly impressed by this "coincidence" of threefold singing of the same song! So after the third, I asked Hermano Marín if I could briefly witness. I informed those present that this threefold repetition of "Un Día a la Vez" was no mere happening. Rather, it was God calling us to faithfully seek His presence and guidance and power ONE day at a time, or each day of life!
Now dear reader, just this very day I came to the sharp realization that I needed His help un día a la vez. At the breakfast at AHCC (DC) in mid-morning I'd eaten two heaping platefuls to break my customary Maundy Thursday to Resurrection sunrise fast. TWO heaping platefuls! Then, after the second worship I had the gall to tahe the bus to Picante Grill and ahve Sunday dinner! Picante grill was the first Mexican restaurant that Patrick and LaRae tried out upon moving here. A few days ago Patrick had mentioned that they still preferred it above all others (except perhaps for one close to Fort Sam). I wanted to order an enchilada lunch plate (two enchiladas rather than the tree on a dinner), but the waitress said that due to it being a holiday lunch dishes weren't available. So I chose a taco salad. But I only ate less than half of it. I just sat there, looking at the remains. I had to assure my waitress, "Please do not think this is a reflection on the food; it's about the tastiest taco salad I've eaten. Rather, it's a reflection on my gluttony!"
Yes, let me be honest. I'm a glutton, and I need to do something about it. Pray for me, please. Thanks!
Well, yesterday was ALSO my birthday! That one back on the Eve of the Ides of March was simply the day my Mom gave birth to me, in the US Military Academy hospital at West Point, New York. Yesterday was the Sunday when we Christians celebrate the greatest event of all history -- the Resurrection of Jesus the Christ! On Resurrection Day of A.D. 1969 toward the end of Worship in Red Rock Christian Church (Disciples) in Boise, Idaho, I responded to the Invitation arose from my seat and walked forward to state my faith in the Nazarene as the Christ, Son of God and my personal Savior! Or to put it otherwise, I was "born again" (or born from above) on Resurrection Day of 1969.
On this Resurrection Day of this Year of Our Lord (2008) I experienced tremendous celebration of the risen Savior -- all thru the day!
This commenced as usual with Sunrise Service at Alamo Heights Christian Church (Disciples). Due to the new earlier start of Daylight Saving Time this year the service actually began close to sunrise. But with the overcast sky we didn't have many sun rays visiting the lobby where the service is held. Nor shining upon the cross of rugged old wood, covered with chicken wire. When we go up to receive the Lord's Supper we place fresh flowers into the chicken wire, which thus converts the centerpiece into a floral cross! Very impressive!
When the service ended we adjourned downstairs to Kirtley Fellowship Hall for breakfast. Then during the following Sunday school hour the choir practiced the cantata "Jesus Is Alive" one final time. And then we sang it in the regular-time worship. It has five songs with brief narration before each. The final two are medleys (which gives eight song in part or in whole). The first I had difficulty singing the harmony, but on the second, "Come to the altar", the harmony came easily, and I really enjoyed singing it. The third song is "Via Dolorosa", which is mostly a very moving soprano solo, with a bit of choral inclusion. The "Cross Medley" of the fourth piece is Dottie Rambo's Behold the Lamb", the "Above All", then the refrain of "The Old Rugged Cross". Every time I practiced it and again when we sang it during the Worship I almost choked up on the refrain of "Above All".
. Crucified. Laid behind the stone.
. You and alone.
. Lie a rose, trampled on the ground,
. You took the fall and thought of me
. Above All!
And then there was the "grand finale" -- the title piece, "Jesus Is Alive". It's quite a triumphant celebration in song of the reality of the Resurrection to eternal life of our Savior. Just this past week I had listened to Dr. John MacArthur on "Grace to You" (aired on KDRY AM 1100) speak of the Resurrection from God's viewpoint, and what all the emptying of the tomb on the third day means for Christianity and the Gospel. If there were no resurrection of Jesus the Nazarene, then there really is no Christianity and no Good News! This is why the bodily Resurrection is so vehemently attacked. But those who seek to invalidate the Gospel by proving that Jesus didn't rise from the dead usually end up being converts to the very faith they set out to attack!
And so we sing, "Hallelujah! Jesus is alive! Death has lost the victory, and the grave has been denied. Jesus lives forever; He's alive!"
Later, in the evening of Resurrection Day, I rode the bus over to the Westside, where Mexican Christian Church, la Iglesia Cristiana Mexicana, held the final evening of a week-long tent revival, una campaña de carpa. Evangelist Jorge Marín conducts these tent revivals usually twice a year in the church yard beside Guadalupe Street. This time the revival "happened" to coicide with Holy Week. Great timing!
I myself felt led to participate this final revival evening, by testifying to the tremendous reality of the Resurrection, particularly as follow-up to the Nazarene's death by crucifixion -- the ransom for all who put their trust in His power to save! I also sang a couple of songs, including my favorite "cross song", which is "The Old Rugged Cross." It was a windy evening (and the tent had no side flaps, just a roof upheld by thin poles), yet by using weights I was able to keep my music open before me as I picked guitar and sang.
Another song I sang was "Un Día a la Vez", the Spanish version of "One Day at a Time". (I first heard the Spanish version right here in Mexican Christian Church, during my first visit here, and quickly grew to prefer la versión española to the English!) Later, two women independently sang the same song, using accompaniment CDs. I was strongly impressed by this "coincidence" of threefold singing of the same song! So after the third, I asked Hermano Marín if I could briefly witness. I informed those present that this threefold repetition of "Un Día a la Vez" was no mere happening. Rather, it was God calling us to faithfully seek His presence and guidance and power ONE day at a time, or each day of life!
Now dear reader, just this very day I came to the sharp realization that I needed His help un día a la vez. At the breakfast at AHCC (DC) in mid-morning I'd eaten two heaping platefuls to break my customary Maundy Thursday to Resurrection sunrise fast. TWO heaping platefuls! Then, after the second worship I had the gall to tahe the bus to Picante Grill and ahve Sunday dinner! Picante grill was the first Mexican restaurant that Patrick and LaRae tried out upon moving here. A few days ago Patrick had mentioned that they still preferred it above all others (except perhaps for one close to Fort Sam). I wanted to order an enchilada lunch plate (two enchiladas rather than the tree on a dinner), but the waitress said that due to it being a holiday lunch dishes weren't available. So I chose a taco salad. But I only ate less than half of it. I just sat there, looking at the remains. I had to assure my waitress, "Please do not think this is a reflection on the food; it's about the tastiest taco salad I've eaten. Rather, it's a reflection on my gluttony!"
Yes, let me be honest. I'm a glutton, and I need to do something about it. Pray for me, please. Thanks!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Events of March
On this first day of Spring in A.D. 2008, I'm reflecting upon what an eventful month it's been so far. And with a third of the month to go!
Dad's visit and the three birthdays -- his, brother Patrick's and mine -- were the hi-lite of March, of course. And actually, this wasn't done with when I last posted. On my actual birthday, Friday the Fourteenth -- which could also be called the "Eve of the Ides of March", but let's not go down that road -- Dad, Patrick and LaRae picked me up and took me downtown. They wouldn't tell me our destination (nor did they divulge it when Dad asked), but my suspicion of what it was got stronger and stronger as we went along. Sure en'uf, we went to El Mercado and Mi Tierra. It was the same restaurant I'd been taken a year ago! They didn't seat us by the remarkable mural wall in the final dining room, but I did order the Monterrey Plate of cabrito (goat) again. Yum, yum! -- to both the food and the companionship!
Still, some days earlier I had told AHHS Track head Coach Bobby Newton that my birthday celebration would begin a day early this year. This was because the Mule Relays track and field event held in AHHS' Orem Stadium would be on 13 March (usually it falls on or near April Fool's Day). As in most years when I've helped Coach Newton with the track meet, the weather was pur-r-r-fect! And once again I showed off my skill of handling the stop watch (for timing race competitors). It's a skill born when I was manager of the track team at Borah HS (my alma mater in Boise) and honed while managing the Vandal track team at University of Idaho. Both the teams of the AHHS Mules, boys and girls, finished second (both behind Steele HS from northeast of S.A.).
One unusual thing about my actual birthday this year was that it didn't fall during Spring Break. Most universities and school districts (like Alamo Heights ISD) chose to have the break later than customary, to coincide with the very early arrival of Palm Sunday and Holy Week. In the last couple of years I've had no problem working at Fiesta Texas amusement park on my birthday. But this year I got to substitute teach at Alamo Heights High School, both the day before and on my birthday. But whoa! the theme park also wanted me to work, clocking in at 2:30 PM, when I would still have been in the classroom! Hey, Fiesta Texas, 'nuf's en'uf!
Three days following my birthday was the annual day when everybody sports green clothing, Saint Patrick's Day. It being Spring Break (as well as Holy Week) Monday, I worked at Fiesta Texas, where there is no green in the general employee uniform. However, one of the tiny flags in the Six Flags logo in the uniform cap I wear is green. And should that have been insufficient amount of the appropriate color, I also sported a plastic shamrock peeking out above my name tag. This I obtained at Alamo Heights Christian Church; on Palm Sunday the after-worship snacks featured cupcakes iced in either green or white, with a green plastic shamrock stuck in each. Hm-m-m-m, so where were the palm branches? (Oh, well, I guess all the provider could scrounge up at the HEB bakery was St. Patrick's Day cupcakes!) So I had some green, despite Six Flags' uniform colors' lack thereof. Erin go braugh! Heh, heh!
St. Patrick's Day and the day following the weather was sufficiently threatening and the resultant visitors to Fiesta Texas low in numbers, that I got to clock out early, which was fine with me. And then we actually got something falling out of the sky. But it wasn't the pure rainfall we so much need. It was "mud rain"! The next day vehicles that had been parked outside, VÍA bus stop benches and similar items were covered with little dots of dust. Strange storm, strange aftermath!
And so today is the first official day -- or, first calender day -- of Spring. And with all that's happened so far during this March of the Year of Our Lord 2008, we've STILL got a third of the month to go! Including this up-coming most significant weekend of any weekend -- regardless of whether it falls in March or April. So stay tuned. . . !
Dad's visit and the three birthdays -- his, brother Patrick's and mine -- were the hi-lite of March, of course. And actually, this wasn't done with when I last posted. On my actual birthday, Friday the Fourteenth -- which could also be called the "Eve of the Ides of March", but let's not go down that road -- Dad, Patrick and LaRae picked me up and took me downtown. They wouldn't tell me our destination (nor did they divulge it when Dad asked), but my suspicion of what it was got stronger and stronger as we went along. Sure en'uf, we went to El Mercado and Mi Tierra. It was the same restaurant I'd been taken a year ago! They didn't seat us by the remarkable mural wall in the final dining room, but I did order the Monterrey Plate of cabrito (goat) again. Yum, yum! -- to both the food and the companionship!
Still, some days earlier I had told AHHS Track head Coach Bobby Newton that my birthday celebration would begin a day early this year. This was because the Mule Relays track and field event held in AHHS' Orem Stadium would be on 13 March (usually it falls on or near April Fool's Day). As in most years when I've helped Coach Newton with the track meet, the weather was pur-r-r-fect! And once again I showed off my skill of handling the stop watch (for timing race competitors). It's a skill born when I was manager of the track team at Borah HS (my alma mater in Boise) and honed while managing the Vandal track team at University of Idaho. Both the teams of the AHHS Mules, boys and girls, finished second (both behind Steele HS from northeast of S.A.).
One unusual thing about my actual birthday this year was that it didn't fall during Spring Break. Most universities and school districts (like Alamo Heights ISD) chose to have the break later than customary, to coincide with the very early arrival of Palm Sunday and Holy Week. In the last couple of years I've had no problem working at Fiesta Texas amusement park on my birthday. But this year I got to substitute teach at Alamo Heights High School, both the day before and on my birthday. But whoa! the theme park also wanted me to work, clocking in at 2:30 PM, when I would still have been in the classroom! Hey, Fiesta Texas, 'nuf's en'uf!
Three days following my birthday was the annual day when everybody sports green clothing, Saint Patrick's Day. It being Spring Break (as well as Holy Week) Monday, I worked at Fiesta Texas, where there is no green in the general employee uniform. However, one of the tiny flags in the Six Flags logo in the uniform cap I wear is green. And should that have been insufficient amount of the appropriate color, I also sported a plastic shamrock peeking out above my name tag. This I obtained at Alamo Heights Christian Church; on Palm Sunday the after-worship snacks featured cupcakes iced in either green or white, with a green plastic shamrock stuck in each. Hm-m-m-m, so where were the palm branches? (Oh, well, I guess all the provider could scrounge up at the HEB bakery was St. Patrick's Day cupcakes!) So I had some green, despite Six Flags' uniform colors' lack thereof. Erin go braugh! Heh, heh!
St. Patrick's Day and the day following the weather was sufficiently threatening and the resultant visitors to Fiesta Texas low in numbers, that I got to clock out early, which was fine with me. And then we actually got something falling out of the sky. But it wasn't the pure rainfall we so much need. It was "mud rain"! The next day vehicles that had been parked outside, VÍA bus stop benches and similar items were covered with little dots of dust. Strange storm, strange aftermath!
And so today is the first official day -- or, first calender day -- of Spring. And with all that's happened so far during this March of the Year of Our Lord 2008, we've STILL got a third of the month to go! Including this up-coming most significant weekend of any weekend -- regardless of whether it falls in March or April. So stay tuned. . . !
Monday, March 10, 2008
March: the Month of Birthdays
My last posting here concerned a birthday celebration at the end of February. It was for a famous San Antonian (José Antonio Navarro) who would have been 213 years old were he yet alive.
By contrast, March is THE month for birthday parties for the living! Certainly for men in the Graham family. And so. . . my Dad flew here from Boise, arriving late Monday evening the Third. His birthday was the next day -- 75 candles. My "baby" brother Patrick's is tomorrow the Eleventh -- 41. And mine is Friday the Fourteenth -- 54!
Now it had been in my thinking that we should probably have a joint celebration of all three. And that became sort of imperative when Patrick drew 24-hour duty ON HIS BIRTHDAY! (Hey, Army! that's cruel & unusual punishment and unconstitutional!) So the "main event" so to speak was yesterday (Sunday the Ninth). But before the "main event" there were other frolics.
First, on Dad's day LaRae and I took him to the Medical Corps Museum (AMEDD) on Fort Sam Houston. It's close by the old Brooke Army Hospital. In addition to inside displays covering the development of military medicine over the nation's history, we saw some static displays outside, of various wheeled ambulances and medical helicopters.
In the gift shop a shirt caught my eye. It was "medical maroon", with golden threads spelling out BAMC, along with the words (Brooke Army Medical Center) and the military medical symbol (caduceus). I considered that this might be a great gift from me to Brother for his birthday. LaRae affirmed my supposition, so I purchased the classy shirt.
On Friday the Seventh, Uncle Chuck and Aunt Alice came down from Georgetown, Texas, and the six of us Grahams lunched at Paloma Blanca. When my son David visited me on his way to begin drama ministry with Covenant Players in '04, Howard Haring and family (see 14 Dec 06 posting for info on him) treated us to dinner at Paloma Blanca, an elegant Mexican restaurant on Broadway in Alamo Heights just south of City Hall. Well, we all ordered scrumptious plates. Mine was enchiladas de pollo en mole (chicken enchiladas in a Mexican chocolate sauce, mole). Yum, yum! We also had photos of us taken by the wait staff. (Perhaps I can learn how to post such photos on this blog, eh?)
Saturday I had to work at the Fiesta Texas ticket booths. As soon as I got sighed out in late afternoon, I phoned Patrick et al., and learned that they planned to dine at the County Line, on The Riverwalk. Since the next VÍA bus would get me downtown to that area (Riverwalk) about five, I suggested that I simply meet them there at the restaurant.
And so it was. I had to lug my overcoat along with me, because it had been at or below freezing when I left my efficiency to go to work that morning. But by late afternoon it was a very pleasant day. So I was glad that the other three (Dad, Patrick and LaRae) had gotten seats at an outdoor table in front of the County Line, right beside The Riverwalk. As I had ordered my favorite Mexican plate at Paloma Blanca for Friday lunch, now I ordered my fave off the County Line's menu: beef ribs. They serve three of the big whoppers, plus two sides (in my case, I ordered pinto beans and cole slaw). Best of all, perhaps, is that the County Line serves loaves of fresh bread as appetizers, one wheat and one white. The bread is terrific -- I swear I could make a meal just out of eating the C.L. bread! LaRae surmised that it's made with honey. Probably so....
Well, the "big" birthday celebration was Sunday afternoon and evening, in Patrick and LaRae's quarters on post. We exchanged birthday cards and gifts. Patrick was indeed pleased with the BAMC polo shirt! Dad gave each of us, his sons, a Hewlett Packard laptop "notebook" computer. A good portion of the late afternoon and into early evening was spent getting mine set up and then me getting familiar with my new "toy".
And "toy" is an appropriate word, I think, because at one point I commenced a game of computer solitaire. I'd gotten hooked on this in the mid-1990s, when I was an adjunct instructor at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. You see, I really enjoyed watching the computer "shuffle" the deck when you won a game! But... THIS computer was different for playing solitaire! Indeed, it took several tries before I won a game, and then the "shuffling" wasn't all that engaging. PLUS, this computer's program doesn't let you change the back of the cards, etc. Oh, well....
All the time that we (Patrick & I) were dealing with hi-tech, the big-screen TV was on the GAC ("Great American Country", as in music) cable channel. Shortly they began a show celebrating country music of A.D. 1996. Now, that year just "happened" to be the year I worked at Grand Ole Opry Tours in Nashville. In our lobby (where I did most of my work as Tour Coordinator, selling tickets) were two large TV sets in the upper corners of the ceiling, set constantly to CMT, the country music video channel. We workers plus guests got to watch all the videos which were popular that year, such as Leeann Rymes' "Blue" and Alan Jackson's "Itty Bitty". And here this GAC show was showing them again! Talk about a trip down memory lane! I didn't even have to shut my eyes to picture myself back behind the counter at GOOT, watching these songs for the first time!
I kept wishing that they would show the most engaging video of that time, for me. It was "Sold (The Grundy County Auction Incident)" by John Michael Montgomery. A good portion of the images on this video were of three Amish farmers versus three Jap businessmen in a livestock auction barn, and it was hilarious!
Well, they didn't show that video, but the did show a more deeply cherished one: "Go Rest High on That Mountain", written by Vince Gill (upon his brother's untimely death, if I remember correctly), and sung by him, Ricky Skaggs and Patty Loveless, gathered around a single floor-stand microphone (just like in the olden days, "golden days" of radio). It's a beautiful song, with deeply touching lyrics, sung with strong feeling. Truly it caused my head to leak and my heart to long to return to the hills and hollers of Tennessee, the "greenest State in the Land of the Free!"
Here are the lyrics:
"Go Rest High on That Mountain"
I know your life
On earth was troubled
And only you could know the pain
You werent afraid to face the devil
You were no stranger to the rain
Chorus:
Go rest high on that mountain
Son, you work on earth is done
Go to heaven a shoutin
Love for the father and son
Oh, how we cried the day you left us
We gathered round your grave to grieve
I wish I could see the angels faces
When they hear your sweet voice sing
By contrast, March is THE month for birthday parties for the living! Certainly for men in the Graham family. And so. . . my Dad flew here from Boise, arriving late Monday evening the Third. His birthday was the next day -- 75 candles. My "baby" brother Patrick's is tomorrow the Eleventh -- 41. And mine is Friday the Fourteenth -- 54!
Now it had been in my thinking that we should probably have a joint celebration of all three. And that became sort of imperative when Patrick drew 24-hour duty ON HIS BIRTHDAY! (Hey, Army! that's cruel & unusual punishment and unconstitutional!) So the "main event" so to speak was yesterday (Sunday the Ninth). But before the "main event" there were other frolics.
First, on Dad's day LaRae and I took him to the Medical Corps Museum (AMEDD) on Fort Sam Houston. It's close by the old Brooke Army Hospital. In addition to inside displays covering the development of military medicine over the nation's history, we saw some static displays outside, of various wheeled ambulances and medical helicopters.
In the gift shop a shirt caught my eye. It was "medical maroon", with golden threads spelling out BAMC, along with the words (Brooke Army Medical Center) and the military medical symbol (caduceus). I considered that this might be a great gift from me to Brother for his birthday. LaRae affirmed my supposition, so I purchased the classy shirt.
On Friday the Seventh, Uncle Chuck and Aunt Alice came down from Georgetown, Texas, and the six of us Grahams lunched at Paloma Blanca. When my son David visited me on his way to begin drama ministry with Covenant Players in '04, Howard Haring and family (see 14 Dec 06 posting for info on him) treated us to dinner at Paloma Blanca, an elegant Mexican restaurant on Broadway in Alamo Heights just south of City Hall. Well, we all ordered scrumptious plates. Mine was enchiladas de pollo en mole (chicken enchiladas in a Mexican chocolate sauce, mole). Yum, yum! We also had photos of us taken by the wait staff. (Perhaps I can learn how to post such photos on this blog, eh?)
Saturday I had to work at the Fiesta Texas ticket booths. As soon as I got sighed out in late afternoon, I phoned Patrick et al., and learned that they planned to dine at the County Line, on The Riverwalk. Since the next VÍA bus would get me downtown to that area (Riverwalk) about five, I suggested that I simply meet them there at the restaurant.
And so it was. I had to lug my overcoat along with me, because it had been at or below freezing when I left my efficiency to go to work that morning. But by late afternoon it was a very pleasant day. So I was glad that the other three (Dad, Patrick and LaRae) had gotten seats at an outdoor table in front of the County Line, right beside The Riverwalk. As I had ordered my favorite Mexican plate at Paloma Blanca for Friday lunch, now I ordered my fave off the County Line's menu: beef ribs. They serve three of the big whoppers, plus two sides (in my case, I ordered pinto beans and cole slaw). Best of all, perhaps, is that the County Line serves loaves of fresh bread as appetizers, one wheat and one white. The bread is terrific -- I swear I could make a meal just out of eating the C.L. bread! LaRae surmised that it's made with honey. Probably so....
Well, the "big" birthday celebration was Sunday afternoon and evening, in Patrick and LaRae's quarters on post. We exchanged birthday cards and gifts. Patrick was indeed pleased with the BAMC polo shirt! Dad gave each of us, his sons, a Hewlett Packard laptop "notebook" computer. A good portion of the late afternoon and into early evening was spent getting mine set up and then me getting familiar with my new "toy".
And "toy" is an appropriate word, I think, because at one point I commenced a game of computer solitaire. I'd gotten hooked on this in the mid-1990s, when I was an adjunct instructor at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. You see, I really enjoyed watching the computer "shuffle" the deck when you won a game! But... THIS computer was different for playing solitaire! Indeed, it took several tries before I won a game, and then the "shuffling" wasn't all that engaging. PLUS, this computer's program doesn't let you change the back of the cards, etc. Oh, well....
All the time that we (Patrick & I) were dealing with hi-tech, the big-screen TV was on the GAC ("Great American Country", as in music) cable channel. Shortly they began a show celebrating country music of A.D. 1996. Now, that year just "happened" to be the year I worked at Grand Ole Opry Tours in Nashville. In our lobby (where I did most of my work as Tour Coordinator, selling tickets) were two large TV sets in the upper corners of the ceiling, set constantly to CMT, the country music video channel. We workers plus guests got to watch all the videos which were popular that year, such as Leeann Rymes' "Blue" and Alan Jackson's "Itty Bitty". And here this GAC show was showing them again! Talk about a trip down memory lane! I didn't even have to shut my eyes to picture myself back behind the counter at GOOT, watching these songs for the first time!
I kept wishing that they would show the most engaging video of that time, for me. It was "Sold (The Grundy County Auction Incident)" by John Michael Montgomery. A good portion of the images on this video were of three Amish farmers versus three Jap businessmen in a livestock auction barn, and it was hilarious!
Well, they didn't show that video, but the did show a more deeply cherished one: "Go Rest High on That Mountain", written by Vince Gill (upon his brother's untimely death, if I remember correctly), and sung by him, Ricky Skaggs and Patty Loveless, gathered around a single floor-stand microphone (just like in the olden days, "golden days" of radio). It's a beautiful song, with deeply touching lyrics, sung with strong feeling. Truly it caused my head to leak and my heart to long to return to the hills and hollers of Tennessee, the "greenest State in the Land of the Free!"
Here are the lyrics:
"Go Rest High on That Mountain"
I know your life
On earth was troubled
And only you could know the pain
You werent afraid to face the devil
You were no stranger to the rain
Chorus:
Go rest high on that mountain
Son, you work on earth is done
Go to heaven a shoutin
Love for the father and son
Oh, how we cried the day you left us
We gathered round your grave to grieve
I wish I could see the angels faces
When they hear your sweet voice sing
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
A José Antonio Navarro: ¡Feliz Cumpleaños!
That is: "'Happy Birthday!' to J.A. Navarro". And yes, I know that if you, dear reader, aren't from Texas (& possibly even if you are) you're asking, "Jose Antonio who?" Well, here's the scoop: of the many heroes from Texas or significantly associated with this heroic state, José Antonio Navarro is in my "Top Three Heroes of Texas"!
On this date (27 February) in the Year of Our Lord 1795, he was born in this city of San Antonio to a father from Corsica and a mother who was a "rose of San Antonio". He was a "patriot's patriot": as a resident of this city all his long life (he died in 1871) he lived under five of the "six flags of Texas". (The only flag missing is that of France, which hardly counts since French occupation was so tenuous and ephemeral.) Navarro fought for the freedom of his beloved native city, first from the imperial Spaniards, then from the dictatorship of Mexican General Santa Anna. He served in legislative bodies for Texas, as a part of Mexico's state of Coahuila y Texas, as an independent Republic, and as one of these United States! Most of all, this native son of San Antonio, a lawyer by profession, fought legally for the rights and heritage of los tejanos -- the native-born Texans of Spanish surname and Spanish or Mexican or mestizo ethnic-cultural background.
This morning the San Antonio Conservation Society hosted a birthday party for this historic and heroic tejano, at Casa Navarro, the family homestead in what is now downtown San Antonio. (In his lifetime, his home and office complex was toward the southwestern outskirts of town.) Several descendants of Navarro were also present, as were the curator, representatives of the "Friends of Casa Navarro" and of the Texas Historical Commission (which just took oversight of the property from the state Parks and Wildlife division), and County Commissioner Tommy Adkisson. The latter read a Proclamation from Bexar County proclaiming the day to be "José Antonio Navarro Day" in honor of his birthday and his tremendous significance for tejanos and for Texans in general.
Navarro, let it be known, was one of two delegates whome San Antonians chose to represent them at the convention in Washington-on-the-Brazos which concluded by declaring Texas free and independent. He and the other San Antonian, his uncle José Francisco Ruiz, were the only native-born Texans (and the only Spanish-surname) to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence. Navarro also served on the committee that drew up the Constitution for the Republic, and later served again on that which framed the state document -- and always he fought vigorously for the equal rights of the original inhabitants of the Lone Star State: los tejanos.
Hi-lite of the Navarro Birthday Party was a re-enactment of a meeting between José Antonio and Sam Houston, in period costume. The Anglo general (actually then still just a colonel) was performed by Mike Waters -- who stand six feet tall if that in contrast to the towering real-life Houston -- and performing as the tejano leader was the man who wrote the script: Maclovio Pérez. Maclovio is a local media personality, weatherman for WOAI. He also is one of voices heard giving the forecast if one dials 225-0404 (time, temp & forecast). I've heard him several times in my years of residence in this city, dialing that number at least a couple of times a week! And now I was getting to meet the man -- in the guise of one of the top heroes of Texas (in my book at the least)!
Title of the Pérez-authored dramatic conversation -- the two gentlemen drank toasts twice -- is "The Winds of Change: Jose Antonio Navarro and General Sam Houston." Let me assure you, the dialog between the two gentlemen sounded quite authentic - true to their personalities and to the politico-social situation of 1835 Texas. Houston spoke with deep concern and conviction about the discontent of the Texian colonists in the east part of the state. And Navarro uttered very unflattering epithets against Santa Anna. I don't know if any such meeting and conversation between the two occurred in Casa Navarro, but I sure hope it did and basically in agreement with Pérez' script!
The program portion of the birthday party segued into refreshments, including tamales a huge layer birthday cake and hot cocoa, served in the kitchen of the Casa Navarro complex. This third building of the complex (the other two being the two-story office and the one-story, porched residence) was surprisingly large; perhaps one of the rooms served as pantry. Many of us took our birthday snacks outside to enjoy them under los ancianos encinos (ancient live oaks) of the property and the blue, clear sky with its warming sunshine. All in all, we threw a terrific birthday party for a terrific Texas hero!
On this date (27 February) in the Year of Our Lord 1795, he was born in this city of San Antonio to a father from Corsica and a mother who was a "rose of San Antonio". He was a "patriot's patriot": as a resident of this city all his long life (he died in 1871) he lived under five of the "six flags of Texas". (The only flag missing is that of France, which hardly counts since French occupation was so tenuous and ephemeral.) Navarro fought for the freedom of his beloved native city, first from the imperial Spaniards, then from the dictatorship of Mexican General Santa Anna. He served in legislative bodies for Texas, as a part of Mexico's state of Coahuila y Texas, as an independent Republic, and as one of these United States! Most of all, this native son of San Antonio, a lawyer by profession, fought legally for the rights and heritage of los tejanos -- the native-born Texans of Spanish surname and Spanish or Mexican or mestizo ethnic-cultural background.
This morning the San Antonio Conservation Society hosted a birthday party for this historic and heroic tejano, at Casa Navarro, the family homestead in what is now downtown San Antonio. (In his lifetime, his home and office complex was toward the southwestern outskirts of town.) Several descendants of Navarro were also present, as were the curator, representatives of the "Friends of Casa Navarro" and of the Texas Historical Commission (which just took oversight of the property from the state Parks and Wildlife division), and County Commissioner Tommy Adkisson. The latter read a Proclamation from Bexar County proclaiming the day to be "José Antonio Navarro Day" in honor of his birthday and his tremendous significance for tejanos and for Texans in general.
Navarro, let it be known, was one of two delegates whome San Antonians chose to represent them at the convention in Washington-on-the-Brazos which concluded by declaring Texas free and independent. He and the other San Antonian, his uncle José Francisco Ruiz, were the only native-born Texans (and the only Spanish-surname) to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence. Navarro also served on the committee that drew up the Constitution for the Republic, and later served again on that which framed the state document -- and always he fought vigorously for the equal rights of the original inhabitants of the Lone Star State: los tejanos.
Hi-lite of the Navarro Birthday Party was a re-enactment of a meeting between José Antonio and Sam Houston, in period costume. The Anglo general (actually then still just a colonel) was performed by Mike Waters -- who stand six feet tall if that in contrast to the towering real-life Houston -- and performing as the tejano leader was the man who wrote the script: Maclovio Pérez. Maclovio is a local media personality, weatherman for WOAI. He also is one of voices heard giving the forecast if one dials 225-0404 (time, temp & forecast). I've heard him several times in my years of residence in this city, dialing that number at least a couple of times a week! And now I was getting to meet the man -- in the guise of one of the top heroes of Texas (in my book at the least)!
Title of the Pérez-authored dramatic conversation -- the two gentlemen drank toasts twice -- is "The Winds of Change: Jose Antonio Navarro and General Sam Houston." Let me assure you, the dialog between the two gentlemen sounded quite authentic - true to their personalities and to the politico-social situation of 1835 Texas. Houston spoke with deep concern and conviction about the discontent of the Texian colonists in the east part of the state. And Navarro uttered very unflattering epithets against Santa Anna. I don't know if any such meeting and conversation between the two occurred in Casa Navarro, but I sure hope it did and basically in agreement with Pérez' script!
The program portion of the birthday party segued into refreshments, including tamales a huge layer birthday cake and hot cocoa, served in the kitchen of the Casa Navarro complex. This third building of the complex (the other two being the two-story office and the one-story, porched residence) was surprisingly large; perhaps one of the rooms served as pantry. Many of us took our birthday snacks outside to enjoy them under los ancianos encinos (ancient live oaks) of the property and the blue, clear sky with its warming sunshine. All in all, we threw a terrific birthday party for a terrific Texas hero!
Friday, February 15, 2008
Let's Rodeo, San Antonio!
Here's to you, dear reader, a belated "Happy Valentine Day!"
I had the holiday off yesterday -- not because Valentine Day is a school holiday in the AHISD, but just because I didn't have a sub-teaching job. So I took advantage of this to attend the opening of the San Antonio City Council meeting in the mid-morning.
After I had passed thru the new airport-style security gate -- having divested myself of all metallic objects and my belt -- I entered Council chambers (the former ground-floor lobby of the former Frost Bank skyscraper next to the Cathedral on Main Plaza/Plaza de las Islas) to see that the Council, Mayor Hardberger and City Manager Scully were posing for their formal group mug shot. You see, we have two new "temporary" or "fill-in" Council members, because those two Councilmen, Roland Gutierrez of District 3 and Kevin Wolff of Dist. 9, resigned at the start of the calendar year to campaign for other offices. I deem it very inconsiderate to the citizens of those districts that these men did this soon after being re-elected. It means that for most of what would have been their second term their former districts are represented by persons chosen by the Council, not the district voters! Perhaps the two-year two-term limit is not such a bad idea after all!
Anyhow, after the photo-taking (many of the women -- now the majority on the Council -- wore red dresses and the men red neckties due to the holiday) one of the first orders of business was introduction and explanation of the new "branding" that the Convention & Visitors Bureau will use in promoting the City of San Antonio. Ten posters were displayed, which will apparently be seen as pages in travel magazines, brochures, and even on the Web. Each poster/page had a montage made up of one or two "background" subject(s) and a lower corner (approximately a quarter of the space) of a candid of some person, separated somewhat from the "background" subject(s) by a discreet ripped edging. Subjects included The Alamo (naturally) accompanied in the ripped-edge corner by the Director of The Alamo, a Riverwalk footbridge, a painted charro figure associated with Mi Tierra Restaurant, etc.
At center bottom a maroonish quatrefoil encloses the words "San Antonio. Deep. In the Heart". These words appear in more prominent print toward the top. The phrase of course implies the great song "Deep in the Heart of Texas" -- I've known and loved that song since my Idaho boyhood and of course I thrill every time I hear it at the finale of the "Lone Star Spectacular" at Fiesta Texas. By leaving off the "of Texas", the branding phrase fosters a more diverse interpretation. E.g. that San Antonio gets deep under one's skin, to become a passion, as it did with me upon my first visit to the Alamo City around 1980. Indeed, the quatrefoil was interpreted, among other ways, as having the four parts People, Passion, Pride and Promise!
So, what does the Council meeting presentation on the new "branding" have to do with the Rodeo? Well, that's the point. The Rodeo was one of many potential subjects which did NOT grace any of the ten poster/pages. This omission leapt out at me, since I already was planning to attend it that evening. Also, of the many, many annual events -- perhaps I should say "parties"? -- of San Antonio, the Stock Show and Rodeo is msot appreciated because it connects me to my "roots" as a boy growing up in Idaho, where we Grahams annually attended the Snake River Stampede in Nampa! I love rodeos! Always have!
I'd originally planned to attend Friday evening's competition (and concert) with my brother Patrick and sister-in-law LaRae. But then the military intervened -- again -- by assigning a later shift for Patrick to work at the hospital OR. So once again I didn't get to see the thrills of the cowboy competitions with family. Just by my little lonesome. See my posting of Monday 19 February 2007 for how we all enjoyed the Stock Show grounds last year but only yours truly the Rodeo. Speaking of which, together we three did attend "Cowboy Church" on Sunday the Tenth. Suzie Luchsinger was there this year, sounding and looking as great as ever; and Brother Ikels preached as engagingly as always. He has a great way with sermon illustrations!
After I purchased my Rodeo ticket I wandered the Stock Show grounds for the hour-plus before the competition was to begin. In my wanderings I was delighted to run into my old radio buddy Jerry King of KKYX-AM 650, at the booth (actually tent) for KKYX and Y-100. We had a great conversation while I snacked on a free sample of black beans I'd been given just across the way.
After entering the AT&T Center and locating my seat, I noticed that in addition to the four NBA Champion banners honoring the Spurs, there also hung from the ceiling three banners from the PRCA honoring our Rodeo as the "Best Indoor Large Rodeo" in these United States! Hooray, San Antonio! I also located, from the "nosebleed section" the two announcers for the event, Randy Corley and Hadley Barrett -- both great guys. The Rodeo commenced with its traditional colorful and patriotic horseback presentation of the flags, of the Rodeo, of the State of Texas and of Old Glory.
Competition in each event was exciting. Of course, each had at least one contestant who didn't complete the eight-second ride or had a disqualification. But there were some terrific efforts from others! One competitor in the Tie-Down Roping (I think) hailed from Chubbuck, Idaho. Later another, in Saddle-Bronc Riding (I think), came from Bruneau in the State of my raising. (Recently I was told that "raising" is for horses and other domesticated animals and that human children are "reared" by contrast; oh well, whatever. . . .) There were also two competitors during tis evening from Pendleton, Oregon. When I was a boy I knew that the "Pendleton Round-up" was a big rodeo, as were the "Calgary Stampede" in Alberta, Canada, and the rodeo in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Of course, my provincial, "backwoods" young mind considered Nampa's Snake River Stampede to be the equal of any of those three!
Anyhow. . . it was an exciting and fun night of ridin' 'n ropin' in the S.A. Rodeo!
After the competitions, they set up the floor for the featured entertainer on this Valentine Day evening, Clay Walker. He's one of the newer stars of country music, so I'm not familiar with him -- I really need to listen more to KKYX's sister station Y-100 or to KJ-97, so I can keep up with current country hits! Including the latest release by my man George Strait! He may be a legend now, having been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, but he's still a superstar too -- who keeps recording new albums and producing great new hit songs! If you haven't listened to "It Just Comes Natural" with its 15 top-notch songs, go give your ears a treat!
But I did know that Clay Walker is a so-called "hat act" -- after George appeared on the country-music scene and kept on wearing his Stetson while performing despite Nashville bigwigs' objection to headgear, others such as Alan Jackson and Garth Brooks donned Stetsons and spawned the originally derisive term. And I knew that Clay had a fair singing voice and sang in a more-or-less traditional style.
What I didn't know and found out this nite is that he loves and supports our military. Before he came out to start live singing of country love songs, they played a video of still shots of soldiers in Iraq (and a few scenes from military funerals here at home) while Clay was singing his song "Fall". Even tho' the lyrics are on the face of it a romantic love song, many of the phrases seem fit for expressing the comradeship of brothers in arms in the face of the grimness of combat.
. . .Forget about the world tonight
. All that’s wrong and all that’s right
. Lay your head on my shoulder let it fade away
. And if you wanna let go baby its okay
. Fall. . . go on and fall apart
. Fall into these arms of mine
. I'll catch you every time you fall
. Go on and lose it all
. Every doubt, every fear, every worry, every tear
. I'm right here
. Baby. . . fall
I had the holiday off yesterday -- not because Valentine Day is a school holiday in the AHISD, but just because I didn't have a sub-teaching job. So I took advantage of this to attend the opening of the San Antonio City Council meeting in the mid-morning.
After I had passed thru the new airport-style security gate -- having divested myself of all metallic objects and my belt -- I entered Council chambers (the former ground-floor lobby of the former Frost Bank skyscraper next to the Cathedral on Main Plaza/Plaza de las Islas) to see that the Council, Mayor Hardberger and City Manager Scully were posing for their formal group mug shot. You see, we have two new "temporary" or "fill-in" Council members, because those two Councilmen, Roland Gutierrez of District 3 and Kevin Wolff of Dist. 9, resigned at the start of the calendar year to campaign for other offices. I deem it very inconsiderate to the citizens of those districts that these men did this soon after being re-elected. It means that for most of what would have been their second term their former districts are represented by persons chosen by the Council, not the district voters! Perhaps the two-year two-term limit is not such a bad idea after all!
Anyhow, after the photo-taking (many of the women -- now the majority on the Council -- wore red dresses and the men red neckties due to the holiday) one of the first orders of business was introduction and explanation of the new "branding" that the Convention & Visitors Bureau will use in promoting the City of San Antonio. Ten posters were displayed, which will apparently be seen as pages in travel magazines, brochures, and even on the Web. Each poster/page had a montage made up of one or two "background" subject(s) and a lower corner (approximately a quarter of the space) of a candid of some person, separated somewhat from the "background" subject(s) by a discreet ripped edging. Subjects included The Alamo (naturally) accompanied in the ripped-edge corner by the Director of The Alamo, a Riverwalk footbridge, a painted charro figure associated with Mi Tierra Restaurant, etc.
At center bottom a maroonish quatrefoil encloses the words "San Antonio. Deep. In the Heart". These words appear in more prominent print toward the top. The phrase of course implies the great song "Deep in the Heart of Texas" -- I've known and loved that song since my Idaho boyhood and of course I thrill every time I hear it at the finale of the "Lone Star Spectacular" at Fiesta Texas. By leaving off the "of Texas", the branding phrase fosters a more diverse interpretation. E.g. that San Antonio gets deep under one's skin, to become a passion, as it did with me upon my first visit to the Alamo City around 1980. Indeed, the quatrefoil was interpreted, among other ways, as having the four parts People, Passion, Pride and Promise!
So, what does the Council meeting presentation on the new "branding" have to do with the Rodeo? Well, that's the point. The Rodeo was one of many potential subjects which did NOT grace any of the ten poster/pages. This omission leapt out at me, since I already was planning to attend it that evening. Also, of the many, many annual events -- perhaps I should say "parties"? -- of San Antonio, the Stock Show and Rodeo is msot appreciated because it connects me to my "roots" as a boy growing up in Idaho, where we Grahams annually attended the Snake River Stampede in Nampa! I love rodeos! Always have!
I'd originally planned to attend Friday evening's competition (and concert) with my brother Patrick and sister-in-law LaRae. But then the military intervened -- again -- by assigning a later shift for Patrick to work at the hospital OR. So once again I didn't get to see the thrills of the cowboy competitions with family. Just by my little lonesome. See my posting of Monday 19 February 2007 for how we all enjoyed the Stock Show grounds last year but only yours truly the Rodeo. Speaking of which, together we three did attend "Cowboy Church" on Sunday the Tenth. Suzie Luchsinger was there this year, sounding and looking as great as ever; and Brother Ikels preached as engagingly as always. He has a great way with sermon illustrations!
After I purchased my Rodeo ticket I wandered the Stock Show grounds for the hour-plus before the competition was to begin. In my wanderings I was delighted to run into my old radio buddy Jerry King of KKYX-AM 650, at the booth (actually tent) for KKYX and Y-100. We had a great conversation while I snacked on a free sample of black beans I'd been given just across the way.
After entering the AT&T Center and locating my seat, I noticed that in addition to the four NBA Champion banners honoring the Spurs, there also hung from the ceiling three banners from the PRCA honoring our Rodeo as the "Best Indoor Large Rodeo" in these United States! Hooray, San Antonio! I also located, from the "nosebleed section" the two announcers for the event, Randy Corley and Hadley Barrett -- both great guys. The Rodeo commenced with its traditional colorful and patriotic horseback presentation of the flags, of the Rodeo, of the State of Texas and of Old Glory.
Competition in each event was exciting. Of course, each had at least one contestant who didn't complete the eight-second ride or had a disqualification. But there were some terrific efforts from others! One competitor in the Tie-Down Roping (I think) hailed from Chubbuck, Idaho. Later another, in Saddle-Bronc Riding (I think), came from Bruneau in the State of my raising. (Recently I was told that "raising" is for horses and other domesticated animals and that human children are "reared" by contrast; oh well, whatever. . . .) There were also two competitors during tis evening from Pendleton, Oregon. When I was a boy I knew that the "Pendleton Round-up" was a big rodeo, as were the "Calgary Stampede" in Alberta, Canada, and the rodeo in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Of course, my provincial, "backwoods" young mind considered Nampa's Snake River Stampede to be the equal of any of those three!
Anyhow. . . it was an exciting and fun night of ridin' 'n ropin' in the S.A. Rodeo!
After the competitions, they set up the floor for the featured entertainer on this Valentine Day evening, Clay Walker. He's one of the newer stars of country music, so I'm not familiar with him -- I really need to listen more to KKYX's sister station Y-100 or to KJ-97, so I can keep up with current country hits! Including the latest release by my man George Strait! He may be a legend now, having been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, but he's still a superstar too -- who keeps recording new albums and producing great new hit songs! If you haven't listened to "It Just Comes Natural" with its 15 top-notch songs, go give your ears a treat!
But I did know that Clay Walker is a so-called "hat act" -- after George appeared on the country-music scene and kept on wearing his Stetson while performing despite Nashville bigwigs' objection to headgear, others such as Alan Jackson and Garth Brooks donned Stetsons and spawned the originally derisive term. And I knew that Clay had a fair singing voice and sang in a more-or-less traditional style.
What I didn't know and found out this nite is that he loves and supports our military. Before he came out to start live singing of country love songs, they played a video of still shots of soldiers in Iraq (and a few scenes from military funerals here at home) while Clay was singing his song "Fall". Even tho' the lyrics are on the face of it a romantic love song, many of the phrases seem fit for expressing the comradeship of brothers in arms in the face of the grimness of combat.
. . .Forget about the world tonight
. All that’s wrong and all that’s right
. Lay your head on my shoulder let it fade away
. And if you wanna let go baby its okay
. Fall. . . go on and fall apart
. Fall into these arms of mine
. I'll catch you every time you fall
. Go on and lose it all
. Every doubt, every fear, every worry, every tear
. I'm right here
. Baby. . . fall
Thursday, January 24, 2008
3 days & 3 ways of brotherhood
The three days of Monday thru Wednesday past were days of profound experiencing of brotherhood for yours truly! When I use "brotherhood" I intend it in the old-style, generic significance. You see, the first incident, on Monday evening, involved both genders in sweet Christian fellowship (or "brotherhood").
At that time I boarded a van whose other occupants were Jay and Chrissie Smith and two women passengers, all members of the Northwest San Antonio Emmaus Fourth Day Group. We were all traveling from University UMC in far north-northwest S.A., down IH 35 to Pleasanton, Texas, where First UMC would be hosting the semi-annual Joint Gathering of the San Antonio Area FDGs. On the way there and back we had great conversation, mainly about Emmaus and other Christian ministries or programs we are involved in.
At Pleasanton, the "Birthplace of the Cowboy", we had a great turn-out from most of the FDGs. One man appeared looking sharp in a dark suit and red necktie; he said he had come directly from work to the gathering. Well, turned out that he, Dennis, was both guitarist playing in the group supplying the music AND our "Fourth-Day Speaker!" When the Lay Director of the local Brush County FDG introduced Dennis he commented that he'd told him that dress at gatherings was casual. As tho' the speaker had done wrong by "getting cleaned up!" Well, during the "food & fellowship" I told Dennis that I was glad he'd dressed sharp; that when I gave my first Fourth-Day Talk I likewise wore a suit and tie and carried a handheld cross -- just like the fifteen speakers on the Walk (the 3-day Retreat)!
On Tuesday, I had my second experience of brotherhood. After a brief time on the computer terminal, during which I posted a contribution on a new blog started by VÍA, I rode bus with my best friend in San Antonio, Joe Tovar, as he drove bus on Zarzamora Street. When we got to Palo Alto College, the southern terminus for Route #520 and the spot where I first met Joe, I gave him a printout of what I had posted on the VÍA blog. You see, my comment had been how the bus company had literally given me my best friend in S.A.
Tuesday evening I began the third type of brotherhood in three days -- and it was the one that would continue the third day. Brothers in the bond of Lambda Chi Alpha. For I took the bus out to UTSA for the Phi-Upsilon Zeta's "formal Zeta" chapter meeting. Only, when I walked into the lecture hall where the meeting was held, I saw at once that only the alumni advisor, Brother Rob Mendiola, had on a necktie! This was definitely not going to be a "formal" Zeta! Bro. Rob informed me that the undergrads had changed it from "formal" before he could warn me. Not that I minded being suited and tied for it; I enjoy dressing up!
And I was glad that I came, ties or no ties. I found out, among other things, that L.C.A. is now the largest fraternity on campus, and is in some so-called "Inner Circle" of Zetas (chapters) of L.C.A. around the nation. Cheers! I also got to contribute my two cents to remedying the Zeta's one shortcoming: low grades. I told a couple of the officers that I would gladly tutor any Brother in Spanish, History or English.
Next evening I went to the Valencia Hotel downtown for a Lambda Chi Alpha alumni meeting. Now dear reader, much as I may enjoy rubbing elbows with "actives" (i.e., undergrad Brothers), I prefer gathering together with my brother alumni. And here we were, together in a ground-floor meeting hall at the Valencia!
Having followed signs toward the Siena Room I found an open door at the end of a hallway, to an unlabeled room full of men. But just inside the door was a shelf where guys had placed certain personal items, including an elegant business folder (the kind with padded leather or faux-leather) imprinted with that familiar Cross and Crescent! As I was signing in I saw the Brother I most looked forward to seeing here: our Grand High Alpha (International President, for non-L.C.A.s) Dr. Ed Leonard. When I walked up he greeted me, smiling and extending his arms for a bear hug of brotherhood. Yes, it was so good to see this particular Brother in the Bond again!
The first time I met Brother Dr. Ed was at the Founders Day Barbecue in A.D. 2006 (early March, just before I commenced this blog spot). At that time he was Grand High Delta of the fraternity. He has a charismatic personality, if anybody I know in any official position of authority has charisma! He wore a polo shirt to that shindig that had stripes of our Brotherhood's colors: purple, green and gold. (When I remarked about the colors he informed me that he'd actually purchased it at a Mardi Gras in New Orleans, his wife's hometown -- that was when I first knew that the three colors were those of N.O.'s famous festival as well as those of L.C.A.!)
Now, this evening at the Valencia Bro. Dr. Ed was sporting a necktie in the fraternity's colors. In fact I'd seen Brothers, live and in photos, with exactly that same striped tie. He informed me that one could obtain such neckwear via the fraternity's Web site.
During the meeting I saw other local Brothers whom I already knew well: Alumni Association officers and alumni advisers and High Alphas of the San Antonio's universities' Zetas. These last had also been invited here and during the actual "business" portion of the gathering they each gave brief reports on their respective chapters. There were also short speeches by the three Brothers who are officers from Indianapolis. (Our International HQ is in that Indiana city, just like my denomination, the Disciples of Christ -- fascinating "coincidence"!) Some of their words referred to a "True Brother Initiative" that the brotherhood has undertaken in the past year, to enhance both education of the new associate member (L.C.A. was the first social fraternity to eliminate "pledgeship" with its demeaning and often harmful hazing) and to reinforce the on-going experience of brotherhood as an initiated member and then as alumnus. When I had read information about the T.B.I. a few months ago I got excited about its potential to enhance the fraternity I hold so dear!
There was also a generous helping of humor during this meeting, as one would expect from dear friends -- Brothers united by the unique bond of our teachings and Ritual. Indeed, on a more serious note (sort of), the undergrad reps from our three local Zetas were invited to stand with the youngest of the officers from Indy and conclude our meeting by leading us all reciting the Creed of Lambda Chi Alpha.
Good ending to a gr-r-r-reat gathering of Brotherhood -- one of three in three days! Plus the one-on-one get-togehter with my best friend in S.A.!
At that time I boarded a van whose other occupants were Jay and Chrissie Smith and two women passengers, all members of the Northwest San Antonio Emmaus Fourth Day Group. We were all traveling from University UMC in far north-northwest S.A., down IH 35 to Pleasanton, Texas, where First UMC would be hosting the semi-annual Joint Gathering of the San Antonio Area FDGs. On the way there and back we had great conversation, mainly about Emmaus and other Christian ministries or programs we are involved in.
At Pleasanton, the "Birthplace of the Cowboy", we had a great turn-out from most of the FDGs. One man appeared looking sharp in a dark suit and red necktie; he said he had come directly from work to the gathering. Well, turned out that he, Dennis, was both guitarist playing in the group supplying the music AND our "Fourth-Day Speaker!" When the Lay Director of the local Brush County FDG introduced Dennis he commented that he'd told him that dress at gatherings was casual. As tho' the speaker had done wrong by "getting cleaned up!" Well, during the "food & fellowship" I told Dennis that I was glad he'd dressed sharp; that when I gave my first Fourth-Day Talk I likewise wore a suit and tie and carried a handheld cross -- just like the fifteen speakers on the Walk (the 3-day Retreat)!
On Tuesday, I had my second experience of brotherhood. After a brief time on the computer terminal, during which I posted a contribution on a new blog started by VÍA, I rode bus with my best friend in San Antonio, Joe Tovar, as he drove bus on Zarzamora Street. When we got to Palo Alto College, the southern terminus for Route #520 and the spot where I first met Joe, I gave him a printout of what I had posted on the VÍA blog. You see, my comment had been how the bus company had literally given me my best friend in S.A.
Tuesday evening I began the third type of brotherhood in three days -- and it was the one that would continue the third day. Brothers in the bond of Lambda Chi Alpha. For I took the bus out to UTSA for the Phi-Upsilon Zeta's "formal Zeta" chapter meeting. Only, when I walked into the lecture hall where the meeting was held, I saw at once that only the alumni advisor, Brother Rob Mendiola, had on a necktie! This was definitely not going to be a "formal" Zeta! Bro. Rob informed me that the undergrads had changed it from "formal" before he could warn me. Not that I minded being suited and tied for it; I enjoy dressing up!
And I was glad that I came, ties or no ties. I found out, among other things, that L.C.A. is now the largest fraternity on campus, and is in some so-called "Inner Circle" of Zetas (chapters) of L.C.A. around the nation. Cheers! I also got to contribute my two cents to remedying the Zeta's one shortcoming: low grades. I told a couple of the officers that I would gladly tutor any Brother in Spanish, History or English.
Next evening I went to the Valencia Hotel downtown for a Lambda Chi Alpha alumni meeting. Now dear reader, much as I may enjoy rubbing elbows with "actives" (i.e., undergrad Brothers), I prefer gathering together with my brother alumni. And here we were, together in a ground-floor meeting hall at the Valencia!
Having followed signs toward the Siena Room I found an open door at the end of a hallway, to an unlabeled room full of men. But just inside the door was a shelf where guys had placed certain personal items, including an elegant business folder (the kind with padded leather or faux-leather) imprinted with that familiar Cross and Crescent! As I was signing in I saw the Brother I most looked forward to seeing here: our Grand High Alpha (International President, for non-L.C.A.s) Dr. Ed Leonard. When I walked up he greeted me, smiling and extending his arms for a bear hug of brotherhood. Yes, it was so good to see this particular Brother in the Bond again!
The first time I met Brother Dr. Ed was at the Founders Day Barbecue in A.D. 2006 (early March, just before I commenced this blog spot). At that time he was Grand High Delta of the fraternity. He has a charismatic personality, if anybody I know in any official position of authority has charisma! He wore a polo shirt to that shindig that had stripes of our Brotherhood's colors: purple, green and gold. (When I remarked about the colors he informed me that he'd actually purchased it at a Mardi Gras in New Orleans, his wife's hometown -- that was when I first knew that the three colors were those of N.O.'s famous festival as well as those of L.C.A.!)
Now, this evening at the Valencia Bro. Dr. Ed was sporting a necktie in the fraternity's colors. In fact I'd seen Brothers, live and in photos, with exactly that same striped tie. He informed me that one could obtain such neckwear via the fraternity's Web site.
During the meeting I saw other local Brothers whom I already knew well: Alumni Association officers and alumni advisers and High Alphas of the San Antonio's universities' Zetas. These last had also been invited here and during the actual "business" portion of the gathering they each gave brief reports on their respective chapters. There were also short speeches by the three Brothers who are officers from Indianapolis. (Our International HQ is in that Indiana city, just like my denomination, the Disciples of Christ -- fascinating "coincidence"!) Some of their words referred to a "True Brother Initiative" that the brotherhood has undertaken in the past year, to enhance both education of the new associate member (L.C.A. was the first social fraternity to eliminate "pledgeship" with its demeaning and often harmful hazing) and to reinforce the on-going experience of brotherhood as an initiated member and then as alumnus. When I had read information about the T.B.I. a few months ago I got excited about its potential to enhance the fraternity I hold so dear!
There was also a generous helping of humor during this meeting, as one would expect from dear friends -- Brothers united by the unique bond of our teachings and Ritual. Indeed, on a more serious note (sort of), the undergrad reps from our three local Zetas were invited to stand with the youngest of the officers from Indy and conclude our meeting by leading us all reciting the Creed of Lambda Chi Alpha.
Good ending to a gr-r-r-reat gathering of Brotherhood -- one of three in three days! Plus the one-on-one get-togehter with my best friend in S.A.!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
San Antonio and MLK Jr.
Yesterday San Antonio staged its annual Martin Luther King Jr. March thru the East Side, honoring the memory of the slain civil rights leader. I did not participate in this, billed as the largest (in number of participants) in the nation. Haven't marched in previous years either -- choosing to focus my "marching support" on the César Chávez March in early Spring.
However, I did attend Sunday afternoon's MLK Memorial Interfaith Service, for the first time. I had received a flier about this special worship from Nettie Hinton, an Afro-american lady who served with me on the VÍA Citizens Advisory Council. (Her term recently ended, but then I'd seen her at another meeting, to organize opposition to digital billboards -- she's quite the activist.)
I wish I'd known that Nettie was a member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, host church for the worship. Had I known, I could have phoned her (off the CAC member list) for directions to the church. All I knew from the flier was that Holy Redeemer is at 1819 Nevada, and that Nevada is one of the "state-name" streets running west-to-east south of East Commerce on the near East Side. When I called the church's phone number three times Sunday morning all I got was a recording about the Mass schedule.
So I went early by bus to the East Side, the closest thing San Antonio has to a ghetto neighborhood. I did a walking search around St. Phillips College, for first Nevada Street and then Holy Redeemer Church. Turned out the church was very close to the college, a historically Black junior college and now one of the campuses of the Alamo Community Colleges. Holy Redeemer, an historically Black Catholic parish, has a beautiful and traditional sanctuary in red brick, to which a larger sanctuary space has been added in back, with semicircular seating.
I became very glad that I'd persevered in my search for the church, because the MLK Interfaith Service was, in two words, inspired and inspiring! In the "Black tradition of worship" which I learned about while a seminarian at TCU's Brite Divinity School, it was long -- almost two hours -- and sort of "multi-media" in that it contained elements of dance as well as song, litanies, brief addresses from public officials, and a sermon or message. This last was given by Cary Clack, an Afro-american column writer for the San Antonio Express-News. Cary is one of three E-N columnists whose writings are in my opinion very good, enjoyable and informative reading! His spoken message this day wasn't as electrifying as the man whose memory we were celebrating. But then, Martin Luther King, Jr., was a very gifted speaker! And I did appreciate some of the words Cary had to say regarding Brother King. A major theme of it was to remember that King wasn't all that popular at the time of his death (even among Afro-american civil rights activists). Also, we mustn't let Dr. King's memory become a sanitized, frozen icon for the current on-going struggle for civil rights for all.
Earlier, one of the speakers mentioned a fascinating tidbit or research data. Seems that three separate genetic researchers had separately determined that no one human is more than 50 cousins removed from any other human! "So turn to your neighbor and greet them with 'hello, Cousin!'"
I should point out that this white bread (i.e., yours truly) wasn't standing out like a sore thumb, surrounded by a sea of black African faces! There were several other whites or Anglos, a few Hispanics and numerous Sikhs and other Indians. A true mosaic of races and ethnicity, reflective of the diversity of San Antonio!
When I had scanned the order of worship handout, I noticed that on the back side of the folded paper were the lyrics for "We Shall Overcome", which all would sing at the closing. It's natural to connect this particular song with Brother King. However, years ago I had learned that Dr. King's favorite song was "Precious Lord, Take My Hand" by Tommy Dorsey. I happened to enjoy that hymn, too, and knowing his preference for it caused me to cherish it even more. Therefore, I considered that we ought to have included it in our program.
The San Antonio Choral Society made up for this omission with a song they sang. Their song's title wasn't printed in the order of worship, but as soon as they began singing it a whirl of emotions surged thru me: peace, nostalgia, thanksgiving, longing. . . . For the song was "There Is a Balm in Gilead". While I was a University of Idaho student I'd purchased a vinyl LP album which on one side had the Vandal Marching Band and on the other the Vandaleer Choir. One of the choir's numbers was "There Is a Balm" sung a capella, and the recorded rendition was identical to the S.A. Choral Society's live singing now! Even to a solo female (soprano, I think) on one particular verse!
Remember how back in September I "died and went to Heaven" when I was at a Ray Price concert with my brother Patrick and Price sang "Crazy Arms"? Well, this was a very similar feeling! This one had the added benefit of being a peaceful expression of trust in our Heavenly Father (rather than being a pop country bemoaning of unrequited love). It also had a minus, sort of, of causing intense longing for Idaho (which upon my first sojourn in Texas in '76 I had called "God's Country"). I was close to tears for the mountains and pines of my raising -- HERE, in a MLK service in the Alamo City!
Following the service there was abundant food in the nearby fellowship hall. I got to thank Cary Clack for his well-written columns in the newspaper and his speech/sermon here. And I got to speak with my friend and sister Nettie. . . well, "cousin" according to that one speaker before Clack -- but she IS my sister-in-Christ. When I told her how much "There Is a Balm in Gilead" had blessed me (she's one of the singers in the S.A. Choral Society), she informed me that that a capella version comes from the Tuskegee Institute, another historically Black college. (I'm certain that my alma mater got the song from that source.)
However, I did attend Sunday afternoon's MLK Memorial Interfaith Service, for the first time. I had received a flier about this special worship from Nettie Hinton, an Afro-american lady who served with me on the VÍA Citizens Advisory Council. (Her term recently ended, but then I'd seen her at another meeting, to organize opposition to digital billboards -- she's quite the activist.)
I wish I'd known that Nettie was a member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, host church for the worship. Had I known, I could have phoned her (off the CAC member list) for directions to the church. All I knew from the flier was that Holy Redeemer is at 1819 Nevada, and that Nevada is one of the "state-name" streets running west-to-east south of East Commerce on the near East Side. When I called the church's phone number three times Sunday morning all I got was a recording about the Mass schedule.
So I went early by bus to the East Side, the closest thing San Antonio has to a ghetto neighborhood. I did a walking search around St. Phillips College, for first Nevada Street and then Holy Redeemer Church. Turned out the church was very close to the college, a historically Black junior college and now one of the campuses of the Alamo Community Colleges. Holy Redeemer, an historically Black Catholic parish, has a beautiful and traditional sanctuary in red brick, to which a larger sanctuary space has been added in back, with semicircular seating.
I became very glad that I'd persevered in my search for the church, because the MLK Interfaith Service was, in two words, inspired and inspiring! In the "Black tradition of worship" which I learned about while a seminarian at TCU's Brite Divinity School, it was long -- almost two hours -- and sort of "multi-media" in that it contained elements of dance as well as song, litanies, brief addresses from public officials, and a sermon or message. This last was given by Cary Clack, an Afro-american column writer for the San Antonio Express-News. Cary is one of three E-N columnists whose writings are in my opinion very good, enjoyable and informative reading! His spoken message this day wasn't as electrifying as the man whose memory we were celebrating. But then, Martin Luther King, Jr., was a very gifted speaker! And I did appreciate some of the words Cary had to say regarding Brother King. A major theme of it was to remember that King wasn't all that popular at the time of his death (even among Afro-american civil rights activists). Also, we mustn't let Dr. King's memory become a sanitized, frozen icon for the current on-going struggle for civil rights for all.
Earlier, one of the speakers mentioned a fascinating tidbit or research data. Seems that three separate genetic researchers had separately determined that no one human is more than 50 cousins removed from any other human! "So turn to your neighbor and greet them with 'hello, Cousin!'"
I should point out that this white bread (i.e., yours truly) wasn't standing out like a sore thumb, surrounded by a sea of black African faces! There were several other whites or Anglos, a few Hispanics and numerous Sikhs and other Indians. A true mosaic of races and ethnicity, reflective of the diversity of San Antonio!
When I had scanned the order of worship handout, I noticed that on the back side of the folded paper were the lyrics for "We Shall Overcome", which all would sing at the closing. It's natural to connect this particular song with Brother King. However, years ago I had learned that Dr. King's favorite song was "Precious Lord, Take My Hand" by Tommy Dorsey. I happened to enjoy that hymn, too, and knowing his preference for it caused me to cherish it even more. Therefore, I considered that we ought to have included it in our program.
The San Antonio Choral Society made up for this omission with a song they sang. Their song's title wasn't printed in the order of worship, but as soon as they began singing it a whirl of emotions surged thru me: peace, nostalgia, thanksgiving, longing. . . . For the song was "There Is a Balm in Gilead". While I was a University of Idaho student I'd purchased a vinyl LP album which on one side had the Vandal Marching Band and on the other the Vandaleer Choir. One of the choir's numbers was "There Is a Balm" sung a capella, and the recorded rendition was identical to the S.A. Choral Society's live singing now! Even to a solo female (soprano, I think) on one particular verse!
Remember how back in September I "died and went to Heaven" when I was at a Ray Price concert with my brother Patrick and Price sang "Crazy Arms"? Well, this was a very similar feeling! This one had the added benefit of being a peaceful expression of trust in our Heavenly Father (rather than being a pop country bemoaning of unrequited love). It also had a minus, sort of, of causing intense longing for Idaho (which upon my first sojourn in Texas in '76 I had called "God's Country"). I was close to tears for the mountains and pines of my raising -- HERE, in a MLK service in the Alamo City!
Following the service there was abundant food in the nearby fellowship hall. I got to thank Cary Clack for his well-written columns in the newspaper and his speech/sermon here. And I got to speak with my friend and sister Nettie. . . well, "cousin" according to that one speaker before Clack -- but she IS my sister-in-Christ. When I told her how much "There Is a Balm in Gilead" had blessed me (she's one of the singers in the S.A. Choral Society), she informed me that that a capella version comes from the Tuskegee Institute, another historically Black college. (I'm certain that my alma mater got the song from that source.)
Monday, January 14, 2008
Good Ol' So. Texas So. Gospel Music
It should have been evident early on at this blogsite, that yours truly enjoys singing and music. Music of nearly any genre! And my favorite genre? Dear reader, that would be Southern Gospel music!
Alas! Southern Gospel isn't as easily accessible here in South Texas as it was back in Tennessee. However, in the past two weeks I've had opportunity to let it bless my appreciative ears on two occasions.
First, annually on the nite that ends the old year and commences the new, Ashley Road Baptist Church holds a New Years Watch Night service. From about six 'til after midnite this little church on the South Side (off Roosevelt Street and not far beyond Stinson Airfield) is alive with the music of several local Gospel groups. Such as, New Life, a mixed group that employs a variety of instruments in accompaniment (including pedal steel guitar), or Frank 'n' Joe, a chicano father-son act (daddy Frank sings lead and son Joe accompanies on piano or keyboard and lends harmony).
An hour plus break commencing about ten gives artists and audience time to retire to the fellowship hall for a late supper of New Years food (think: black-eye peas, tamales, etc.) in addition to plenty of the typical church potluck fare. Then it's back to the sanctuary for the featured group's singing us up to the New Year. In most years that I've attended the Watch Night this group has been The Telestials, from Hendersonville, Tennessee. However, they were absent this time -- apparently lured away by some mega-church that made them an offer they could not refuse.
The absence of the Tennesseans could have been a "downer", since I like their sound and cherish an old hit of theirs, "Help Wanted". But I just focused on the gospel sounds being offered by the locals. New Life was filling in for the former featured group. For about five or six minutes right at midnite, Pastor Anthony Shipp led us in "praying out the old year and praying in the new". New Life was then supposed to do one or two more songs. But there was a Spirit in the place, and we all just kept on praising the Lord 'til one a.m. with Gospel singing! (At Southern Gospel concerts, the audience -- at least some of us -- often sing along with the artists, on familiar songs.)
This past Saturday morning I rode VÍA buses to Fiesta Texas for the employee rehire party. I chose to take a "scenic route" rather than the most direct route (but still arriving in the neighborhood when I intended, just before the party was scheduled to start in Sangerfest Halle). On the way, at Vance Jackson and Wurzbach I saw Oak Ridge Baptist Church with its peaceful campus covered with live oaks. I remembered that in Friday newspaper's "Weekender" section it had been announced that on Saturday afternoon this church would be hosting a "South Texas Southern Gospel Festival" with several groups.
So, after the rehire party I took the bus(es) to the church. (The rehire party, BTW, involved a deejay who among other selections played the "Cotton-eyed Joe" and a country-music line dance number -- it was fun to watch these & would have been even more fun to dance to but I was in serious rehire conversation at the start of both.) When I arrived at Oak Ridge church and found my way into the sanctuary, I discovered that I had missed the first two groups, but was in time for the rather late lunch break. And the festival was scheduled to continue until after six in the evening.
Well, I'd considered attending the festival for only awhile. But each of the five featured groups was very good -- and I stayed around for all the second round. (Thus I got to hear the two groups I'd initially missed.)
One of the groups that was new to me was the Robby Wright Family, a husband and wife and their two daughters from North Texas. One of the daughters wrote a couple of their songs, and they were good; indeed, she has a gift in this! Other songs they sang came from standard repertoire for Southern Gospel singers. On these I considered that the Robby Wright Family sounded just as good as the "big" family names in national Gospel music, such as The Hoppers or The McKameys.
One of the two groups with whom I was already familiar is David's Song, from northeast Texas (one lives nearby in Louisiana). This trio is all "David" by first name, and they all wore dark suits and red shirts and neckties. They sounded as sharp as they looked! I especially felt blessed by their piano player, who was originally from San Antonio. And I was pleasantly surprised when they sang "Boundless Love", an early major hit by the Cathedral Quartet As a trio arrangement they didn't at all sound bad -- even tho' I missed the bass part. Be aware, this baritone isn't exactly fond of bass singers (naturally). Nevertheless, I did cotton to the late George Younce of The Cathedrals, and particularly liked his part on this song. But even without that fourth part, David's Song did them proud, I'd say!
The other familiar artists are The Moodys, a father-daughter act I had heard a few years earlier at Western Hills Christian Church. They're from nearby Universal City. After a few songs, dad John Moody told about how "doors opened" recently for him to go to Iraq and visit with our troops over there. He was insistent that our news media was not giving us the entire picture of what's going on in the Middle East. (I'd known about this journalistic bias toward exclusively the negative and the anti-American for some time). He showed a slide show (DVD or video) which presented phrases like "I am your brother" and "I am your sister" and other family relations, each followed by a picture of a soldier of that gender. Then there were several statements which he said soldiers had made to him during the visit, such as "I miss you" or "I'm doing my job here, don't forget me there!" All of this was backed by soft instrumental music.
I felt convicted! For a long time I had fervently prayed for our troops over there, their families here and our Commander-in-Chief. But I hadn't been doing such praying much as of late. Time to get back down on my knees on behalf of our military (and the people of Iraq)! And dear reader, if you're a "prayer warrior", please get down on your knees, too, for our troops and their families and the peace-lovers among the Iraqis!
Alas! Southern Gospel isn't as easily accessible here in South Texas as it was back in Tennessee. However, in the past two weeks I've had opportunity to let it bless my appreciative ears on two occasions.
First, annually on the nite that ends the old year and commences the new, Ashley Road Baptist Church holds a New Years Watch Night service. From about six 'til after midnite this little church on the South Side (off Roosevelt Street and not far beyond Stinson Airfield) is alive with the music of several local Gospel groups. Such as, New Life, a mixed group that employs a variety of instruments in accompaniment (including pedal steel guitar), or Frank 'n' Joe, a chicano father-son act (daddy Frank sings lead and son Joe accompanies on piano or keyboard and lends harmony).
An hour plus break commencing about ten gives artists and audience time to retire to the fellowship hall for a late supper of New Years food (think: black-eye peas, tamales, etc.) in addition to plenty of the typical church potluck fare. Then it's back to the sanctuary for the featured group's singing us up to the New Year. In most years that I've attended the Watch Night this group has been The Telestials, from Hendersonville, Tennessee. However, they were absent this time -- apparently lured away by some mega-church that made them an offer they could not refuse.
The absence of the Tennesseans could have been a "downer", since I like their sound and cherish an old hit of theirs, "Help Wanted". But I just focused on the gospel sounds being offered by the locals. New Life was filling in for the former featured group. For about five or six minutes right at midnite, Pastor Anthony Shipp led us in "praying out the old year and praying in the new". New Life was then supposed to do one or two more songs. But there was a Spirit in the place, and we all just kept on praising the Lord 'til one a.m. with Gospel singing! (At Southern Gospel concerts, the audience -- at least some of us -- often sing along with the artists, on familiar songs.)
This past Saturday morning I rode VÍA buses to Fiesta Texas for the employee rehire party. I chose to take a "scenic route" rather than the most direct route (but still arriving in the neighborhood when I intended, just before the party was scheduled to start in Sangerfest Halle). On the way, at Vance Jackson and Wurzbach I saw Oak Ridge Baptist Church with its peaceful campus covered with live oaks. I remembered that in Friday newspaper's "Weekender" section it had been announced that on Saturday afternoon this church would be hosting a "South Texas Southern Gospel Festival" with several groups.
So, after the rehire party I took the bus(es) to the church. (The rehire party, BTW, involved a deejay who among other selections played the "Cotton-eyed Joe" and a country-music line dance number -- it was fun to watch these & would have been even more fun to dance to but I was in serious rehire conversation at the start of both.) When I arrived at Oak Ridge church and found my way into the sanctuary, I discovered that I had missed the first two groups, but was in time for the rather late lunch break. And the festival was scheduled to continue until after six in the evening.
Well, I'd considered attending the festival for only awhile. But each of the five featured groups was very good -- and I stayed around for all the second round. (Thus I got to hear the two groups I'd initially missed.)
One of the groups that was new to me was the Robby Wright Family, a husband and wife and their two daughters from North Texas. One of the daughters wrote a couple of their songs, and they were good; indeed, she has a gift in this! Other songs they sang came from standard repertoire for Southern Gospel singers. On these I considered that the Robby Wright Family sounded just as good as the "big" family names in national Gospel music, such as The Hoppers or The McKameys.
One of the two groups with whom I was already familiar is David's Song, from northeast Texas (one lives nearby in Louisiana). This trio is all "David" by first name, and they all wore dark suits and red shirts and neckties. They sounded as sharp as they looked! I especially felt blessed by their piano player, who was originally from San Antonio. And I was pleasantly surprised when they sang "Boundless Love", an early major hit by the Cathedral Quartet As a trio arrangement they didn't at all sound bad -- even tho' I missed the bass part. Be aware, this baritone isn't exactly fond of bass singers (naturally). Nevertheless, I did cotton to the late George Younce of The Cathedrals, and particularly liked his part on this song. But even without that fourth part, David's Song did them proud, I'd say!
The other familiar artists are The Moodys, a father-daughter act I had heard a few years earlier at Western Hills Christian Church. They're from nearby Universal City. After a few songs, dad John Moody told about how "doors opened" recently for him to go to Iraq and visit with our troops over there. He was insistent that our news media was not giving us the entire picture of what's going on in the Middle East. (I'd known about this journalistic bias toward exclusively the negative and the anti-American for some time). He showed a slide show (DVD or video) which presented phrases like "I am your brother" and "I am your sister" and other family relations, each followed by a picture of a soldier of that gender. Then there were several statements which he said soldiers had made to him during the visit, such as "I miss you" or "I'm doing my job here, don't forget me there!" All of this was backed by soft instrumental music.
I felt convicted! For a long time I had fervently prayed for our troops over there, their families here and our Commander-in-Chief. But I hadn't been doing such praying much as of late. Time to get back down on my knees on behalf of our military (and the people of Iraq)! And dear reader, if you're a "prayer warrior", please get down on your knees, too, for our troops and their families and the peace-lovers among the Iraqis!
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