Barbie Perkins-Cooper, Author

Blog

  • Communicating With My Precious Animals


    My silly pups. Prince Midnight Shadow, my cold black giant schnauzer rushes inside to brush against the leashes, hanging near my office. He is telling me he is ready to walk today. “Mommy,” he says, staring into my eyes. “It’s nice outside today. The heat will not burn my paws. Can we go for a walk later?” I smile. Nod at him. Now, he is resting by the leashes. And to think, I’ve actually been told that only a ‘crazy person would believe that dogs communicate and understand what we are saying to them.’ I smile, snickering to those people saying, “Maybe you are the crazy one…I communicate with my animals. They understand what I say, and they love me for communicating and understanding their needs.’ Like earlier this morning, when Hankster the Prankster, my smallest mini-schnauzer, raised up by my legs, wanting me to pick him up. He doesn’t like to be picked up. He’s always afraid that he might get hurt. It is so obvious that he was mistreated by someone. It doesn’t matter who mistreated him. All that matters now is he is not closed inside a crate where he was barking…barking…barking…at the top of his little lungs when I agreed to foster him. It doesn’t matter that someone raised their arms to him, ready to attack him. It doesn’t matter that he was dropped off at a kill shelter, to end his life. What does matter is this little guy has found a home that loves him, regardless of his demeanor, temperament, and personality. He is finally getting more comfortable with us, and he hasn’t snapped at my husband’s hands in a few days. That is an accomplishment for him. Although he is small, he is powerful and quick with his mouth. He defends me from everyone!

    Hank is unafraid and will protect his mommy, at all cost. He doesn’t care that something or someone could harm him. He cares about me and his home. That is, now that he has a home that accepts him and is teaching him he doesn’t need to snap at others. All he needs to do is trust. Today, when he raised up on my legs, he scratched his little paw on my leg, as if to say, ‘pick me up, Mommy.’

    “What’s the matter, little buddy,” I asked him? “Do you want Mommy to pick you up?” He growled. When he growls it is usually a warning to back off, but I carefully scoop him up in my arms. He grunts, placing his little salt and pepper fur next to me, then he cuddles next to my neck. This is something he has never done before. He rears back, to look into my eyes. “What’s the matter, Hankster? Are you finally saying how much you love me and this home?”

    He grunts again. I place him down. Moments later, he returns. He wants me to pick him up again, and so, I do. We talk for a bit without saying words. Our eyes stare into one another. He moans, moves his head close to my chest. He is telling me how much he loves me. My eyes fill with tears.

    Today is Wednesday, a day of remembrance for me. On Wednesday, May 2, 2012, I lost my precious Prince Marmaduke Shamus, also known as “Shamey-Pooh.” Wednesdays are still a sad day for me. Words cannot express how deeply my heart ached after losing Shamey-Pooh. A tsunami of grief appeared to wash over me, like a gigantic, rushing, angry tide and for weeks I wasn’t certain if I would survive. I did survive. The sun still rose in the morning, and set at night. Bills still needed to be paid, and Father Time continued to tick, tick, tick the minutes of life by. Still, my heart ache for the loss of Shamus continued, and that is when I decided to foster Hank, until Schnauzer Rescue of the Carolinas could find a suitable home. Hankster and I bonded, even after he left our home for an adoptive home. I dreamed about him on several occasions, dreaming he wanted to come back to us. That dream came true, like many of my dreams.

    Last October, Hankster returned. When I suggested allowing us to pick him up from his adoptive parents, some people were afraid he would not remember us. At first, he seemed aggressive, only to relax inside the car when he heard me singing. Silly dog. I think he remembered that I liked to sing. Arriving home, he rushed inside, to the water bowl, the toy box, and to greet our children. Hankster announced, “Hey guys, I’m back!”

    Today, Hankster communicated to me — as if to say — thank you! Snuggling next to me for a few minutes, he grunted, and then he brushed my face with a soft kiss, something he never does! Now, he is resting next to me, along with Shasta, and Sandy Bear. Hankster is home! It is such a beautiful, cooler day outside so I’ve decided a brisk walk with my babies will be more healing to me than a treadmill!

  • Remembering 9-11-2001


    Remembering 9-11-2001, — I recall awakening a bit later than normal for me on 9-11-01, due to a headache. It was a beautiful day in Charleston. Bright sunshine, clear skies. The phone rang. I checked caller ID noticing it was my husband. “Now what is it he wants so early this morning?” Those of you who know us recognize that my husband would be surgically attached to me — IF he could! Answering the phone as my head pounded, his first words were, “Are you watching TV?”

    “No. I have a headache.”

    “I know how you love to stay in touch with current events. You might turn the news on. A jet has crashed into the World Trade Center.”

    My mind raced with dreadful thoughts. ‘How could this happen? How could a plane drift off course and crash into the World Trade Center?

    Turning the television on, I listened as the broadcasters speculated what was happening. The news was happening so quickly, speculations were changing every moment, every breath. No social media on that date. No Facebook. Twitter…just speculations as the broadcasters raced with bated breaths to report “the latest…” Cell phones around the locations of the World Trade Center were jammed. Communication was almost crippled.

    My mind drifted to those inside the World Trade Center. The receptionists, administrative assistants, food service workers, and others — trapped inside. What must it be like to glance outside the windows to watch an airplane approaching so closely one could almost see the color of the pilots eyes? What must it be like to see the plane crashing into the windows while recognizing you have no way to escape? Those questions would never be answered.

    Reports continued…smoke billowing out of the buildings. People rushing out of the building. Another report stated that the people inside of the World Trade Center were told to stay inside. “No way.” I said. “I would get out of that building.”

    My heart was heavy. Somehow I knew that something tragic was happening, and it was not an accident. A planned attack, to use American jets to crash into a building and kill Americans.

    Nothing was reported about that, at the moment. Speculations. Guesses…Reports unconfirmed…

    My mind drifted back to a nightmare I had a few nights prior to ‘9-11.’ In my dream there were four men dressed in black, moving across America, carrying weapons – shooting people on the beach, on the highways, and in populated areas. Never did I mention this horrific nightmare to anyone. I simply told myself I dreamed about the beach simply because I love the beach, and I love driving. I suppose I was psychoanalyzing my dreams. Weird! I have had visions such as this all of my life, just like my precious grandmother did.

    Now, I was glued to the television. Afraid to move away for fear I might miss something. I saw the plumes of smoke coming from the buildings, and I watched in horror as another plane crashed into the second World Trade Center.

    Shaking my head, I recognized this was not an accident, but a planned attack on America. In the blink of an eye, I recognized the United States of America was now at war. So frightening. So unexpected. Just how can this happen to US?

    News reports continued as the broadcasters interviewed people on the streets, family members, and a few of the people trapped inside the buildings. Rescue teams and first responders, fire fighters, and medical triages were ready to assist those who needed medical care and assistance to escape, but as the news continued, Americans watched in horror as people who could not escape found a tragic way out — jumping out of the buildings. Tiny images of bodies flying out of the building, falling…falling…falling into a horrific moment of death. Although I wanted to turn the television off, I could not. This was a day I would never forget. I kept praying that rescuers would free more of the people, but the reports were skimpy. “These people need to get out,” I prayed. “They aren’t safe…What if…may God forgive me…but what if the building crumbles to the ground?”

    I watched in horror as a horrific sound roared on the television and the building seemed to move, tumbling to the ground as smoke, debris, and the building fell to the ground.

    “How can this happen? And why — why are buildings built so tall that people cannot escape safely? Who would do this? What kind of monster would crash a jet into a building?”

    So many questions raced in my mind.

    Twelve years later, much has happened to our nation. We are at war with Iraq and Afghanistan. Many lives have been lost and America will never feel the safety we once felt. The safety we took for granted. For a brief time, Americans pulled together to help one another, never thinking or suspecting that if we reach out to others, we might be helping, in some small, caring way. Now, we have more violence in our cities. We see people talking and texting on phones, never acknowledging others, appearing to be clueless to what is happening nearby. We are so wrapped up in our own lives that we take life for granted once again.

    My wish for America is peace. Fellowship. Friendship. Trust and love for one another. We must remember 9-11, while recognizing that our lives have continued after such tragedy. I confess, it was difficult for me to awaken every morning for a while, without asking why. What would make someone such a monster that he would become so destructive, and that he and his followers would plan such an attack? Why?

    While it is true that Osama bin Laden has been killed, his death does not end the threat of terrorism. Terrorism is everywhere. Not just in other countries. Terrorism is everywhere. In our cities. Our towns. And just because one terrorist was killed, this does not end terrorism.

    Today is not a day to end this discussion with the subject of terrorism. Today, 9-11-2013, is a day of remembrance…a day to pray and give thanks for all that we, as Americans, have endured on 9-11-2001. May we move forward to embrace that we have life and freedom. Freedom comes with a cost. Sometimes a price that cannot be bought or expressed. Today is a day to embrace one another and to remember that many lives were lost, in the blink of an eye. None of us saw this coming. Today is a day to appreciate life and the loss of those we loved and lost, gone too soon.

    May we never forget — 9-11-01. Please take a moment today from your busy life to remember those we lost. The price we have paid. The threats we have experienced. On the morning of 9-11-01, our world changed dramatically. Let us never forget it, the victims, families, and freedoms so threatened. Let us pray that we never experience such a tragedy again.

    Today, my heart still breaks for those lost so unexpectedly, in the blink of an eye. Let us NEVER FORGET while we pray for our Nation, our soldiers in harms’ way, and for the freedoms we so cherish.

    Remembering 9-11.

  • Top 10 Workout Songs – September 2013


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    The Top 10 Workout Songs For September 2013

    Fort Wayne, IN – September 1, 2013 – This month’s top 10 is dominated by duos. There are two songs by M83 and Imagine Dragons that have been out awhile but are just now getting their due from gym-goers. There are a couple tracks by Capital Cities and Bruno Mars that cracked the top 10 already and are re-entering in remixed form. Lastly, there’s a pair of dueling singles from Lady GaGa and Katy Perry’s forthcoming albums.
    Here’s the full list, according to votes placed at Run Hundred–the web’s most popular workout music blog.
    Lady GaGa – Applause – 140 BPM
    Bruno Mars – Locked Out of Heaven (The M Machine Remix) – 85 BPM
    Lana Del Rey & Cedric Gervais – Summertime Sadness – 125 BPM
    Rihanna & David Guetta – Right Now – 130 BPM
    Imagine Dragons – Radioactive – 137 BPM
    Krewella – Live for the Night – 127 BPM
    M83 – Midnight City – 105 BPM
    Capital Cities – Safe and Sound (RAC Mix) – 118 BPM
    Katy Perry – Roar – 90 BPM
    Pink & Lily Allen – True Love – 95 BPM
    To find more workout songs, folks can check out the free database at RunHundred.com. Visitors can browse the song selections there by genre, tempo, and era—to find the music that best fits with their particular workout routine.

    Contact:
    Chris Lawhorn
    Run Hundred
    Email: Admin@RunHundred.com

  • Diet Is A “Four Letter Word”


    Dearest Readers:

    If you are reading my posts lately, you will note I have written about Domestic Abuse, Weight Loss, and other topics. Yesterday, while at my Weight Watchers meeting, we discussed the cliché, ‘If I had known then what I know now,’ and other topics, including the word — dare I say it — “Diet.”

    One of my weight watchers friends sitting behind me shared the interesting expression “Diet is a four letter word!” Such a great title for a post about weight loss. As you know, dearest readers, I have been bouncing back and forth with a yo-yo effect with Weight Watchers; nevertheless, I have determination in my backbone and although I struggle, I am continuing the pursuit. Why? Many of my friends have expressed that question — one stating that if she continued to bounce back and forth like I have, she would simply quit. I must be strong. I cannot allow negative comments to influence me. Besides, even when I am a yo-yo, I am losing inches. I work out regularly and need to do it daily – instead of ‘when I feel like it.’ I need to simply get off of my butt and move. My treadmill has become a great friend. A 1998 model, almost an antique, compared to the latest and greatest treadmills, I enjoy getting on it and moving. Originally purchased weeks after my husband’s quadruple bypass, for years it served as a cluttered piece of equipment to rest clothing that I did not dry in the dryer. My husband has used it — maybe twice! My mini-schnauzer “Hanks the Tank” likes to walk on it and sometimes I have to almost fight with him to use it. Just how can a small animal intimidate and demand to use the treadmill? Today, I will increase my treadmill time to 45 minutes. Yes, at first, it is a bit boring to get on it and move, but this I do for me, so I shall continue.

    If you have never gone to a Weight Watchers meeting, you might consider attending. Yes, it is intimidating but oh, so rewarding. I cannot wait until I hit goal. No, I haven’t established a goal with a leader yet. I have a number in my head, but before I express a goal weight I want to check with my doctor. The number I have dancing inside my circular thinking brain is a number that will make me weigh less than I did in high school. I really do not care how long it takes to accomplish that bloody number, but I do look forward to the date and time I hit it! My main concern is once I hit this number — is it a number that will be easy to maintain? Perhaps it will, perhaps not…but I have an unpublished number inside my dancing head!

    At Weight Watchers, we do not say we are on a diet, or we ‘are dieting…’ Weight Watchers is a work-in-progress…a portion control way of life…and a lifestyle change. For me, I like to say it is a lifestyle change…a healthier, simpler way to eat, move and maintain. Who cares if it takes me FOREVER to reach my magic number…I am certain I am achieving it. I eat healthier now. More fruits. More fruits than I’ve EVER eaten in my life! Slowly, I am teaching my husband to try new things. He is from the old school — that ‘damned ‘good ole boy’ syndrome…and I do my best to open his eyes to change. As you probably know, ‘good ole boys’ do not like change. They believe in the silly philosophy of ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!’ When I started making salads, adding fresh fruits and almonds, my husband thought I was nuts. Well, if you know me, you probably recognize that I am opinionated, but open to change. My husband is not. He refused to eat the salads, and other foods I have served. Again, he is of the mind-set that fruits and vegetables don’t mix. And don’t even suggest yogurt to him! If only he knew!!!

    Enough about my husband…aka, the good ole boy…macho man!

    In my next life, there will not be a good ole boy…simply a woman with ‘a mind of her own…’ Whatever that means…and that is how Phil describes me….”Barbie is a woman with a mind of her own!”

    What??? Am I not supposed to have a mind?

    If diet is a four letter word, it isn’t a good one. What is so great about Weight Watchers is the fact that all of us are in this together. We share our lifestyles, experiences, set backs, discoveries, recipes, and successes! I am so proud when I see someone called to the front of the meeting to share her lifetime membership status. I look forward to when I achieve goal and stand before those who first saw me entering Weight Watchers on my first date. Yes, it will be a celebration, but a good one!

    This week I did not lose. I gained .04 of a pound. It was a tough week for me, starting with my birthday. Although I did not eat birthday cake, I allowed my birthday to depress me. I had a multitude of stress last week — starting with car problems, then the purchase of three expensive tires for my car, and it seems I had to stand in line everywhere I went. Two days before my birthday I had to renew my driver’s license. I confess. I never take a good picture and most of my driver’s license could be a mug shot — if ever the need arises. I waited in lines at the Dept. of Motor Vehicles, in anticipation of the dreaded photograph. Much to my surprise, this time, the gentleman operating the camera asked, “Are you ready?” I looked at him, turned into the position that I have a chance of a better photograph and I asked, “May I smile?” He replied, “Just tell me when you’re ready.”

    I inhaled. Licked my lips, smiled and nodded to him. “OK.”

    About five minutes later, he handed my driver’s license to me. No mug shot! My eyes were bright. Clothing tropical and my face held a smile! “Nice shot,” I thought. “Is this really me now? No balloon face?”

    All to the credit of Weight Watchers!

    Thank you Weight Watchers — for the courage you’ve given me. The pride. Determination. A more slender face….Is this really me?

    And that is why I yo-yo at Weight Watchers — simply because I know — It works. Weight Watchers…This I do for ME!

  • Domestic Abuse — Just WHEN Will It End???


    Dearest Readers:

    This will probably be the shortest blog I have written in a while. I am busy with life today…cleaning the house, getting dressed to go to the doctor for my last Supartz injection and caring for a husband with a neck ache. I’ve always said my husband is a pain in the neck, and now I suppose that is true!

    Today, I simply must express a bit about domestic abuse. I know lots about the subject matter since I served as the referee between my mother and dad when they fought, sometimes attempting to kill each other from their raging, violent tempers and toxic voices. Back when I was a child, domestic abuse was not an issue or a crime. People simply swept it under the rugs, while whispering “He Beats Her…” Yes, and she “beats him!” Never could I call the police, or 911. Crimes of ‘passion’ from parental hatred and jealousy simply did not exist. Thank goodness our Nation finally recognized that domestic abuse DOES EXIST, and it is definitely A CRIME!

    Yesterday, I got a phone call from a close, respectable friend, sharing with me that one of our co-workers at Johnson & Wales University was killed by her boyfriend. http://www.postandcourier.com/article/20130824/PC16/130829578/1009/boyfriend-charged-with-killing-woman-in-west-ashley&source=RSS

    I am so outraged I could scream. Reportedly, he is in jail now. How I hope and pray he will remain there for the rest of his life, but as we know, these maniacs manage to get out of jail. Reportedly, he beat her badly, leaving internal injuries and strangulation. Obviously, David Reagan meant to kill her. They found an empty purse by her body. He reportedly used her credit cards after the crime, to purchase beer. Just what an abusive maniac needs, isn’t it!

    I don’t have many details at the moment, but I am so sad to hear and read about how Kathy Hawkins died. She was 52 years of age, with a nine-year-old daughter. Like all who succumb to domestic abuse, she did not deserve to die in such a violent manner.

    As I’ve stated, I know a lot about domestic abuse. Not from my husband, or any prior boyfriends before marriage. I observed domestic abuse as a child, standing between my mother and father, telling them it was time to stop the fighting and be nice to each other. When I was five years old, I saw my dad knock my mother to the ground for the first time, leaving her head bleeding from the force of his temper and rage. I made a promise to myself that I would never allow anyone to beat me, and that is what domestic abuse is — a beating — and now, a crime.

    Please, let us do all that we can to STOP DOMESTIC ABUSE. And let us remember, it is not just a crime for women. There are many women in the world who abuse their loved ones, regardless of who they might be. Domestic abuse is wrong. It should end…NOW! No one deserves to die from the violence of someone we once loved and trusted. NO ONE!

    Stop the abuse now – the abuse related to children, spouses, elderly, family members, animals…just abuse in general. I will have more blogs about domestic abuse later..after all, I observed it as a child. Never did I speak about it to others. I was too afraid I would be physically abused because I spoke up. Years later, I do speak up about it. My husband and I rescued one of my sisters from a domestic abuse situation many years ago, moving her closer to get away from a maniac, now ex husband. I will continue to vocalize my beliefs about domestic abuse. I will stand on my soapbox to do all that I can to stop abuse. I’ve seen friends abused and when I do, I react – jumping right into the fire, daring the abuser to hit me. So far, no one has taken my dare. I suppose they know — they will end up in jail. I will not be quiet. I will not walk away, and I will make certain I do not look the other way, like so many people choose to do.

    Kathy Hawkins was the victim I am speaking about today. She is now deceased, from the hands of a boyfriend. Kathy was a lovely, friendly woman who deserved to see her nine-year-old daughter grow into adulthood. She deserved so much more. Rest in peace, Kathy Hawkins. How I hope David Reagan remains in jail, but I doubt it! Someone will probably bail him out.

    More later! Trust me, this issue is not something I will keep to myself. Domestic abuse MUST END! It is a crime. Too many victims are murdered and murder is a crime!

  • Dollywood Company Announces—


    http://www.tnvacation.com/press

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Melanie Beauchamp
    DATE: Aug. 21, 2013 Tennessee Dept. of Tourist Development
    Public Relations Media Manager
    Melanie.Beauchamp@tn.gov
    615-532-0484

    THE DOLLYWOOD COMPANY ANNOUNCES $300 MILLION IN INVESTMENTS, DEVELOPMENT DURING NEXT 10 YEARS
    Capital investments include FireChaser Express coaster in 2014 and
    Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort set to open in 2015.

    PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. – Entertainment legend Dolly Parton announced today plans for $300 million in capital investments in The Dollywood Company over the next 10 years. The investment includes new attractions, resorts and the creation of more than 2,500 jobs.

    Construction is under way on the new FireChaser Express rollercoaster, opening in March 2014 at Dollywood. To mark the company’s 30th anniversary in 2015, the 300-room Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort will open adjacent to Parton’s award-winning Dollywood theme park and Dollywood’s Splash Country waterpark, both located in Tennessee’s famed Great Smoky Mountains.

    “I’ve always been a big dreamer just like I’ve always wanted to do more for my home here in these beautiful Smoky Mountains,” Parton said, “This is where I nurtured my heart’s dreams, and I want to share more of them. My plans for the next 10 years are to expand my Dollywood properties to offer families more opportunities to play together and grow closer while they make their best memories. It’s truly the culmination of this country girl’s wildest dreams!”

    “With Dolly Parton’s vision and world-class properties like Dollywood theme park and Dollywood’s Splash Country waterpark as our foundation, The Dollywood Company is poised to become a family vacation destination like no other,” said Craig Ross, president of The Dollywood Company. “Dolly welcomes folks into her home and her heart, and our plans to grow and expand The Dollywood Company are steeped in her desire to bring families closer together by creating experiences delivered from the heart.”

    The scope of the company’s future developments resonates in Parton’s native Sevier County and throughout the contiguous counties in East Tennessee. An independent economic impact study commissioned by The Dollywood Company projects that Dollywood and its hospitality investments will add $150 million annually to the local economy. Additionally, more than $11 million in state and local taxes will be generated by the company’s 10-year investments. Approximately 2,500 jobs will be created, primarily in the hospitality and construction industries, due to the addition of the resort.

    Scheduled to open summer of 2015, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort is situated on 100 acres and features a design reminiscent of the iconic Southern gathering spot, the front porch. With rocking chairs that invite guests to linger and admire pristine mountain views, the property is nestled amid the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and offers the best of both worlds—tranquility and adventure—throughout the sprawling resort and surrounding grounds.

    The variety of accommodations sleeps up to six guests. Two reunion suites in one- or two-bedroom configurations include a parlor that serves as the family center filled with games, drive-in television and a food and beverage zone. Each was designed specifically with families, girlfriend getaways and other groups in mind. The property’s eleven specialty suites on the ground floor offer private porches with outdoor pool access.

    Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort includes more than 8,000 square feet of indoor meeting space complete with state-of-the-art technology. Outdoors, the property can accommodate groups as large as 500.

    The property’s crown jewel is the 2,200-square-foot Dolly’s Suite Dreams celebrity suite, with décor inspired by Parton.

    A full-service restaurant, fashioned after an old farmhouse, provides indoor and outdoor dining opportunities, including a wrap-around veranda with views of the pool and surrounding mountains while an indoor pool, carefully situated amid all-glass windows, invites the outdoors inside. An intimate amphitheater nestled in the rolling countryside offers outdoor entertainment while an event lawn welcomes craft demonstrations and special entertainment. Fire pits, hammocks and story spots allow guests to take full advantage of the outdoors. The resort’s spa and salon will offer both a serene indoor and outdoor spa experience.

    Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort is just minutes from neighboring Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited in the U.S. The property joins Dollywood Cabins as the company’s second venture in the lodging industry. Launched in 2009, Dollywood Cabins offers luxurious, amenity-rich cabins just two miles from Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country.

    FireChaser Express is the latest addition to The Dollywood Company’s list of innovative new rides. In March 2012, Dollywood opened the $20 million Wild Eagle, the country’s first wing coaster. In 2013, Dollywood’s Splash Country followed with the addition of RiverRush, Tennessee’s first and only water coaster. The nation’s first dual-launch family coaster, FireChaser Express travels forward and backward on a winding 2,427-foot track, leaving the loading station in one direction and returning in the opposite direction. Perched 12 stories above the park’s Wilderness Pass area, the coaster’s 39-inch minimum height requirement invites families to ride together.

    To find your next vacation sweet spot explore tnvacation.com and join other Tennessee travelers following us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube.

    ###

  • Augusta, GA September’s Brown Bag History Series Lecture


    PRESS RELEASE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    STOP: SEPTEMBER 4, 2013

    MEDIA CONTACT:
    NANCY J. GLASER
    AUGUSTA MUSEUM OF HISTORY
    (706) 722-8454
    amh@augustamuseum.org

    Business, Southern-Style
    September’s Brown Bag History Series Lecture
    AUGUSTA, GEORGIA (8/20/13) – As part of its continuing Brown Bag History Series, the Augusta Museum of History presents, Business, Southern-Style a talk given by Dr. Marc Miller, on Wednesday, September 4, 2013 at 12:30 p.m. His talk will include the economic history of the United States which began with trade, merchants, and agriculture. He will address what made doing business southern style over the years so unique.

    Dr. Miller is the Dean of the Hull College of Business, Georgia Regents University, Summerville Campus. The Hull College has a network of over 7,000 alumni located across the United States. Over the last six years, the Hull College has initiated key programs in response to the educational needs of the Augusta and the state of Georgia as a whole. These initiatives include the Knox School of Accountancy, the MIS Undergraduate Degree, the Blanchard Center for Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility and a revamp of the Hull College study abroad programs.

    He is currently the chair of the Savannah River Site Community Reuse Organization and on the board of directors for Junior Achievement and the Greater Augusta Chamber of Commerce. His research interests include e-Commerce, Technology Transfer, and Higher Education Administration.

    Dr. Miller, a Texas native, was raised in Augusta and graduated from the business school when it was known as Augusta College. He received his doctorate from Auburn University. His career in academia includes the State University of West Georgia where he was chairperson of the Department of Management and Business Systems.

    The Brown Bag History Series is an educational lecture series provided monthly by the Augusta Museum of History, and is an ideal lunch-time break for downtown professionals, retirees, and students. The lectures are free to Museum members and $3 for non-members. Participants should bring a lunch and the Museum will only be providing beverages. Lunch can begin as early as 11:30 a.m.; the lecture runs from 12:30 – 1:00 p.m.

    Augusta Museum of History, the only Museum in the CSRA accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, was established in 1937 for the purpose of preserving and sharing the material history of Augusta and the region. From a 10,000 year-old projectile point to a 1914 locomotive, to James Brown memorabilia the collections chronicle a rich and fascinating past. The museum is located at 560 Reynolds Street in downtown Augusta. Please call (706) 722-8454 for more information or visit our website http://www.augustamuseum.org.
    Hours: Thursday – Saturday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm; Sunday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm; Closed Monday-Wednesday
    Admission: Adult: $4 • Senior: $3 • Child (6-18): $2 • Child (5 & under): Free

    The 1797 Ezekiel Harris House¸ said to be “the finest eighteenth-century house surviving in Georgia”, is located at 1822 Broad Street and is an excellent example of early Federal architecture. Fully restored in 1964 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the Ezekiel Harris House is a reminder of the days when tobacco was the primary cash crop of Georgia. For more information, call (706) 722-8454 or visit http://www.augustamuseum.org.
    Hours: Guided tours by appointment Tuesday – Friday, with the last tour beginning at 4:00 pm; Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, with the last tour beginning at 4:00 pm; Tours by appointment only Tuesday – Friday; Closed Sunday & Monday. To schedule tours call (706) 722-8454.
    Admission: Adult and Senior: $2 • Child: $1

  • “The Butler,” Is One Of The Best Movies I Have Seen In A Long Time…


    Yesterday, my husband and I went to see “The Butler.” http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1327773/

    Forest Whitaker captivated me as Cecil Gaines, “The Butler.” From the poignant opening scene of the movie until the end, I was spellbound, remembering the Civil Rights Movement, how blacks were treated and how angry I got, as a child, recognizing the ‘colored’ signs, the derogatory names and treatments of what it was like to grow up during that setting in America.

    I grew up in a mill village in Georgia, where racism existed. When I questioned anything, I was told to “keep quiet. You have no say-so and it doesn’t affect you, so just be a little Southern girl and keep your mouth shut.” Silly me. I refused to listen! “The Butler” brought all of those memories back to me.

    Forest Whitaker has always been one of my favorite actors. http://www.biography.com/people/forest-whitaker-212046. He truly brings the character of Cecil Gaines to life. I cried and cried…and cried!

    No doubt, when the DVD comes out, I will add “The Butler” to my collection of movies. A few of my friends are refusing to see “The Butler,” because Jane Fonda “stars” in it. In all reality, she only has two or three scenes as Nancy Reagan. Although she is in the credits, her performance is one that if you blink your eyes, or run to the restroom, you might miss her performance.

    I am hopeful “The Butler” will be nominated for an Academy Award and will win. Definitely a must see movie for 2013! To those of you unfamiliar with the Civil Rights Movement, “The Butler” is an education of what happened and how narrow-minded America was during the 1960’s and Vietnam era. Still, I find it shameful, unforgivable!

    “The Butler” is well worth seeing. Oprah Winfrey and Forest Whitaker are fabulous as Cecil and Gloria! And for those who are not familiar with the bigotry of what it was like to grow up during the Civil Rights Movement, “The Butler” is an education of those dreadful times of change. I am so happy that America finally awoke, recognizing that all of us are equal.

    Please add “The Butler” to your must see movie list.

  • Lightning, The Roaring Thunders – And Inner Storms for Charleston, SC And A Child of the Chattahoochee


    Storming outside — reminding me of the many storms I have endured, especially as a child. Still, these storms, especially when I see lightning, take me back to the sadness and pain I hid away for much too long. Perhaps the torrential rains are tears – the tears I cried as a child, then — refused to cry as an adult. Today is a day to go on record…effective next week, I will start a new challenge…

    This is my announcement to my fans, readers, and close friends. Many of you know how long I have played with the story idea I started many years ago. Now, I have convinced myself it is time — time for me to finish “Chattahoochee Child.”

    The story is a complicated one that at first, I had no concept of what it should be about. I kept changing it, basing it on life in the Chattahoochee, within the mill village of Bibb City. Nevertheless, after the death of my mother, I realized I have more material, plot points and characters to bring to life.

    And so, effective next Monday, I will set a new goal — to WRITE! I confess, I have not touched “Chattahoochee Child” in months. While reading about writing today, I realize the subjects in the materials I am reading today are written about me! I can so relate to the inner voice and the inner critic. A dialogue keeps playing with my mind, telling me — “You silly girl. You are NOT a writer.” Another critic shouts, “You’re too stupid to be a writer…Stupid is as stupid does…and YOU, are STUPID!”

    Sometimes at night, while fighting sleep, I hear these words, recognizing they are the words I heard as a child – for much too long. The cold, cruel, ridiculing words from my mother’s lips…And now, I know…I must complete this story. I must write it…shout it…scream it, if necessary, because I am a writer!

    Effective Monday, August 19, 2013, I will write 500 words daily – based on five working days. My goal is to complete “Chattahoochee Child” within six months and begin the marketing aspect of getting this story published.

    I am sharing this with my reading public to force me to complete this story. I must confront my inner critics, inner voices and WRITE!

  • Caring For A Sick Baby — Our Little Maltese


    Dearest Readers:

    To those of you who read my blog regularly, you recognize what an advocate I am for animals, especially rescued dogs. We are the proud family with five dogs, four which are rescues. Yes, they are expensive to keep up and care for, but words cannot express how fulfilling it is to see them grow under our care. Last month, Shasta, our aging Maltese, and Shakespeare, our oldest mini-schnauzer had their wellness checkups. We were concerned about Shasta because she has a slight growth on her nose. Our vet checked it. According to the reports, she has a slight cancer of the nose, so we are treating it with a medication. We must administer the medication — two pills every three weeks – with gloved hands. Upon giving her the pills, mixed with peanut butter so she could swallow them easier, I could not help wondering if I had to wear gloves to administer the medication, just what would these pills do to a tiny less than seven pound Maltese. Last week Shasta received her second dosage. Yesterday, I noticed how lethargic she is, lying around, barely moving at all, and she refused to eat her food. Knowing she must have fluids, I managed to get her to lick ice chips. When my husband got home, I shared with him my observations of how weakened she is. He tried to coax her to eat. She turned her head, locking her mouth. At dinner time, I had leftover mashed potatoes. Phil scooped a few bites of mashed potatoes on a spoon, and Shasta opened her mouth to eat – a bit.

    Later, I noticed her blankets were soiled, so I placed fresh towels around a pillow so she could rest comfortably in the breakfast room. We managed to get her to drink ice chips again, deciding to leave her alone for the evening.

    This morning, Shasta went outside to potty, flopping down in exhaustion. I’ve spoken to the vet’s office and this was anticipated. They reassured me we are giving her the proper care and this too shall pass — just like it did with the first dosage. Gathering all of her blankets and bedding to wash them, I placed a pillow inside a plastic container, a nice red blanket over it (her favorite) and I have Shasta resting next to me while I write and do laundry. Frustrated that she would not eat or drink again, I gave her ice chips. She locked her mouth down once again.

    Earlier, for lunch, I decided I didn’t want to prepare anything time-consuming, so I made a fresh smoothie with bananas, yogurt, blueberries and strawberries. Shadow, my youngest, and most energetic giant schnauzer, loves yogurt. While I attempted to drink my smoothie, Shadow whined for his share. I poured a small amount into a bowl and he consumed it in moments. Now that he is outside, I decided to see if Shasta would drink a bit of smoothie. Pouring just enough to barely cover the bottom of the small bowl, I am pleased to announce, Shasta licked every bit of it and she is a bit more energetic now. Suppose it could be due to the storm and thunder brewing outside, but I suspect she is feeling just a tad better.

    Her nose is almost healed now, but I cannot help wondering — when an animal gets sick from medications that they must have, should we administer them? I suppose I am questioning the ‘quality of life’ for now…and I do feel a bit of guilt while recognizing that I was the one who gave her the pills that have weakened her tiny body so much. She looks up at me with weakened eyes that cannot see me since she is blind now and can only see bright shadows. It breaks my heart to see her so weak and I have prayed that God is guiding me to care for her properly.

    For today, she is enjoying her smoothie. If she wants more, you must believe her mommy will make certain she gets another one. We rescued Shasta in June 2005. She has blessed our lives with her sassy little demeanor and energy.

    Looks like I must cut this short. It is lightning outside. I must cut the computer off. I will share more updates about our sweet little “Shasta Daisy Shampagne…She is white, like a Shasta daisy…bubbly like champagne. Such a little princess. At the moment, she holds her head high. Shakespeare, our oldest schnauzer that must snoop his nose into everything, is sniffing at her, making certain all is AOK.

    More later, Readers — after the brewing storm!