Yesterday at 5:AM, at the Hillcrest neighborhood on the east side of Chapel Hill, NC, a dead body was found. There was no ID on it, and it was described as a white female aged 18 to 25 years old. Police arrived in response to calls from neighborhood residents reporting sounds of gunshots when the body was found.
This morning Chapel Hill Police announced they had identified the body. It was 22 year old Eve Carson, student body president at UNC - Chapel Hill. She had died of multiple gunshot wounds, including one to the head. They were still looking for her car, which was found today at 2:PM on North Street.
The entire day today was a very sad one on the UNC campus. Eve Carson was the 4th female student body president in UNC history, and easily one of the best loved. There were tears and hugs everywhere. A memorial service was held at The Pit, and was attended by literally thousands of students. There will be a candlelight vigil on campus tonight at 7:PM.
Eve Carson was loved by everyone, or so it seems today. It is hard to imagine she had any enemies. Yet two disturbing questions remain.
Who killed Eve Carson, and WHY?
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Irish Scenes
Allow me to introduce to you the true spirit of Ireland.
My mother's maiden name was O'Bryan. Her father came to America from County Cork.
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Friday, February 29, 2008
Brianna Denison 1988 - 2008
Brianna Denison is not a person I know personally, and I'm sorry to say I never will. But what I do know about her is this.
She was a beautiful 19 year old woman who's body was found recently in Reno, Nevada, about a month after she went missing in January.
She is loved by many, and you can tell.
Type the name "Brianna Denison" into any search engine, and you may be surprised how many pages you will find about her.
Or go to YouTube and enter her name, and you will find a few pages of videos about her in there too.
She is all over the news, and all over the Internet.
You won't have to look far to learn her story, but I suggest you go to http://bringbriback.blogspot.com/
Her killer is still at large, but I am glad to see that so many people have come forward to pay such loving tribute to this beautiful soul who has lived in our world.
I am sure she will forever be remembered.
And I believe that as long as a person is remembered, they will always be with us in spirit.
I don't have to tell the story of Brianna Denison, because her story has already been told. But I do feel compelled to mention her at this time.
There are lessons to be learned here,
but you don't need me to tell you that.
She was a beautiful 19 year old woman who's body was found recently in Reno, Nevada, about a month after she went missing in January.
She is loved by many, and you can tell.
Type the name "Brianna Denison" into any search engine, and you may be surprised how many pages you will find about her.
Or go to YouTube and enter her name, and you will find a few pages of videos about her in there too.
She is all over the news, and all over the Internet.
You won't have to look far to learn her story, but I suggest you go to http://bringbriback.blogspot.com/
Her killer is still at large, but I am glad to see that so many people have come forward to pay such loving tribute to this beautiful soul who has lived in our world.
I am sure she will forever be remembered.
And I believe that as long as a person is remembered, they will always be with us in spirit.
I don't have to tell the story of Brianna Denison, because her story has already been told. But I do feel compelled to mention her at this time.
There are lessons to be learned here,
but you don't need me to tell you that.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Objectivity Vs. Subjectivity
Objectivity Vs. Subjectivity - a study in philosophy and journalism.
by Bill Widman
Perhaps it was Socrates who introduced the concept of objective perspective to western thought. If not the originator, he was certainly a powerful advocate. Socrates argued that reality is in no way dependent on our ability to perceive it in order to exist. Instead, reality exists far beyond our perception. If a tree falls in the forest and no one's around to hear it, the same vibrations occur whether they are perceived or not. The universe does not revolve around the human mind, and this is fortunate because no one knows how to direct the life forces which govern the universe.
Thus spoke Socrates, "The true lover of knowledge, whose nature is to strive toward reality, shall not tarry among the objects of opinion which the many believe to be real."
The idea that reality revolves around a certain individual (such as one's self) is considered delusional, and referred to as "self centered." This is perhaps the most irrational of all delusions. Socrates is considered a rationalist. He taught that there is a whole lot more going on outside our awareness than within it, and probably more than we will ever know.
Thus it has long been considered that being objective is relative to being rational.
Ask any police officer about what happens when a number of witnesses are being questioned who all saw the same accident, and he will probably tell you that each witness gives a different account. That's because each person sees things in his/her own unique way. Here we have an example of people being subjective. These people are not just telling about what they saw, but also the impressions it has made on them, often with more emphasis on the latter.
Since the early days of American journalism, it has been a rule that a reporter must not give his/her opinion or any personal thoughts on the story he/she was reporting, and give only a completely objective account. There are professional people in this world who are referred to as "a trained observer." It is widely believed that a human being cannot be completely objective, so one must be specially trained for it. We are all personally affected by whatever we experience.
As Jack Webb was famous for saying, "Just the facts, Ma'am."
On May 6, 1937, in Lakehurst, NJ, radio announcer Herb Morrison gave one of the most famous news reports in American history, the Hindenburg Disaster. This announcer had never covered a disaster before, when one occurred during his announcement on the arrival of the famous zeppelin. His emotional reaction to the scene has made him famous, and the recording of it is still very popular. Urban legend has it that Morrison was fired from his job with radio station WLS in Chicago for going so emotional on his coverage, but this was denied by Morrison and the radio station. On the contrary, he was highly commended for his conduct, as he continued with his story with accurate description.
Perhaps the most notorious name in American journalism is Hunter Thompson. He had long held a reputation for breaking all the rules. Thompson was discharged from the Air Force, where he was writing for the base newspaper, for his controversial opinions. Later, he was writing a sports column for a Kentucky newspaper, where he continued to express his strong anti-republican views. This made him offensive to some, but endearing to others. Letters to the editor from people who have enjoyed reading his column have kept him from getting fired, and in some cases, got him hired back. Thompson is credited for introducing what he called, "Gonzo Journalism." It was his well demonstrated opinion that a good writer must put himself in the story, get involved in it, and write from that perspective. I believe that the success of Thompson as an author lends strong support for his theory.
When responding to an emergency situation, the first thing we are taught is, "stay calm, don't panic." Emergency medical technicians, law enforcement officers, and mental health professionals, all know very well that emotion can "cloud your judgment," and only by maintaining an objective perspective can you "see through" the crisis at hand, and focus your attention on what needs to be done.
Psychologists divide human behavior into two bodies, Reason and Emotion. Emotion may be allowed to go out and play sometimes, but Reason must always be in charge. Reason is the responsible adult who sits in the driver's seat, and commands obedience. Emotion is the fussy child who sits in the back seat, and is told to behave. Emotion must never be allowed to drive, as the results could be dangerous. When Reason is negligent of maintaining command, the individual may get into trouble with those in proximity, or even harm himself.
No philosopher in his right mind (or left one either) would dare suggest that we do away with emotion, as it is the very source of connecting with the world we live in, and those we share it with. It is what every artist strives to effect.
A good writer must know that the best way to get people to read what one writes, is to write what people want to read. Emotion may be used to get in touch with the reader. I believe that a writer's greatest challenge is to establish a personal connection with the reader, with the inscribed words being one's only source of contact.
In closing, Dear Reader, I leave you with a quote from one of my favorite writers, Dr. Ben Franklin.
"If passion drives you, let reason hold the reins!"
by Bill Widman
Perhaps it was Socrates who introduced the concept of objective perspective to western thought. If not the originator, he was certainly a powerful advocate. Socrates argued that reality is in no way dependent on our ability to perceive it in order to exist. Instead, reality exists far beyond our perception. If a tree falls in the forest and no one's around to hear it, the same vibrations occur whether they are perceived or not. The universe does not revolve around the human mind, and this is fortunate because no one knows how to direct the life forces which govern the universe.
Thus spoke Socrates, "The true lover of knowledge, whose nature is to strive toward reality, shall not tarry among the objects of opinion which the many believe to be real."
The idea that reality revolves around a certain individual (such as one's self) is considered delusional, and referred to as "self centered." This is perhaps the most irrational of all delusions. Socrates is considered a rationalist. He taught that there is a whole lot more going on outside our awareness than within it, and probably more than we will ever know.
Thus it has long been considered that being objective is relative to being rational.
Ask any police officer about what happens when a number of witnesses are being questioned who all saw the same accident, and he will probably tell you that each witness gives a different account. That's because each person sees things in his/her own unique way. Here we have an example of people being subjective. These people are not just telling about what they saw, but also the impressions it has made on them, often with more emphasis on the latter.
Since the early days of American journalism, it has been a rule that a reporter must not give his/her opinion or any personal thoughts on the story he/she was reporting, and give only a completely objective account. There are professional people in this world who are referred to as "a trained observer." It is widely believed that a human being cannot be completely objective, so one must be specially trained for it. We are all personally affected by whatever we experience.
As Jack Webb was famous for saying, "Just the facts, Ma'am."
On May 6, 1937, in Lakehurst, NJ, radio announcer Herb Morrison gave one of the most famous news reports in American history, the Hindenburg Disaster. This announcer had never covered a disaster before, when one occurred during his announcement on the arrival of the famous zeppelin. His emotional reaction to the scene has made him famous, and the recording of it is still very popular. Urban legend has it that Morrison was fired from his job with radio station WLS in Chicago for going so emotional on his coverage, but this was denied by Morrison and the radio station. On the contrary, he was highly commended for his conduct, as he continued with his story with accurate description.
Perhaps the most notorious name in American journalism is Hunter Thompson. He had long held a reputation for breaking all the rules. Thompson was discharged from the Air Force, where he was writing for the base newspaper, for his controversial opinions. Later, he was writing a sports column for a Kentucky newspaper, where he continued to express his strong anti-republican views. This made him offensive to some, but endearing to others. Letters to the editor from people who have enjoyed reading his column have kept him from getting fired, and in some cases, got him hired back. Thompson is credited for introducing what he called, "Gonzo Journalism." It was his well demonstrated opinion that a good writer must put himself in the story, get involved in it, and write from that perspective. I believe that the success of Thompson as an author lends strong support for his theory.
When responding to an emergency situation, the first thing we are taught is, "stay calm, don't panic." Emergency medical technicians, law enforcement officers, and mental health professionals, all know very well that emotion can "cloud your judgment," and only by maintaining an objective perspective can you "see through" the crisis at hand, and focus your attention on what needs to be done.
Psychologists divide human behavior into two bodies, Reason and Emotion. Emotion may be allowed to go out and play sometimes, but Reason must always be in charge. Reason is the responsible adult who sits in the driver's seat, and commands obedience. Emotion is the fussy child who sits in the back seat, and is told to behave. Emotion must never be allowed to drive, as the results could be dangerous. When Reason is negligent of maintaining command, the individual may get into trouble with those in proximity, or even harm himself.
No philosopher in his right mind (or left one either) would dare suggest that we do away with emotion, as it is the very source of connecting with the world we live in, and those we share it with. It is what every artist strives to effect.
A good writer must know that the best way to get people to read what one writes, is to write what people want to read. Emotion may be used to get in touch with the reader. I believe that a writer's greatest challenge is to establish a personal connection with the reader, with the inscribed words being one's only source of contact.
In closing, Dear Reader, I leave you with a quote from one of my favorite writers, Dr. Ben Franklin.
"If passion drives you, let reason hold the reins!"
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Little Arrows for V-Day
Jeremiah the Bullfrog, who is an authority on groovy tunes of the 60's, has recommended this gem from 1968 for Valentine's Day.
The video part should catch us up with the present decade. -- Enjoy!
Friday, February 08, 2008
The Wizard of Blogs - Part 4
So spoke the Wizard --
"For thousands of years, Humanity has never realized itself as a whole, except in the visions of great seers. Humans have always identified themselves by their race or tribe, their faith or nationality. For thousands of years humans have maintained the delusion that their customs and beliefs make them right, and all those who do not practice the same are wrong. Tragically, the enlightened teachings of the great seers have been used, by their supposed followers, to maintain this division."
"It is the Internet that has eliminated national boundaries between people, and has made distances between them irrelevant. For the first time in human history, individuals throughout the world are able to communicate freely with one another."
"While there are those who continue to send false messages of fear and hate, we can use this same medium to promote world peace. We CAN do this, and we WILL!"
"Let us remember that the flying monkeys are still out there. Although they no longer have a leader to unite them, they are still capable of damage on their own."
"But for now, let us celebrate our newfound victory. The Wicked Witch of the West is no longer a threat to us, thanks to the efforts of Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tinman, and C-Lion."
There is an applause in the Wizard's great hall, as he steps down and approaches the table where our friends are seated. He then talks directly to them.
"Scarecrow," he says, "tell us what you've learned since you've teamed up with Dorothy."
"That although no one knows everything, everyone learns something that others do not, so everyone has something to teach us."
"Tinman, what have you learned?"
"That even though the enlightened teachings I have read have been around for centuries, there are always those who need to be reminded."
"And you, C-Lion?"
"The more that we share, the more we become aware."
"And you, Dorothy, I know that it was your work that has brought this team together, and that it was your inspiration to bring your message of happiness to the World Wide Web, so that others may find the happiness you've found. This I wish to support, and I promised to reward you all, so let me show you what I have for you."
"Now when you get home, you will find you have a new house, with rooms for all of you, so that you can continue working together. There will be new computers for you, equipped with the best security systems available. It is my hope that you will continue your great service to humanity."
As Wizard spoke, he went over to where he had longest instrument panel any of them had ever seen. Walking along and typing on keys, he continues addressing his audience.
"Blogs have been created so that people can share what they've learned with each other. They give each of us a forum to speak in, allowing us to express what we feel and believe in. This is good! As long as positive energy is being transmitted, I will be there to support you. Wherever there is clear communication, mutual respect, and good intentions, the seeds of peace are sown.
Now take a look at the new website I have made for you."
On a large screen that covered the entire wall, the most fantastic image appeared. A magnificent rainbow arched across the sky, with sparkling letters in bright colors, along with singing birds, fluttering butterflies, and flowers everywhere. It had happiness written all over it.
"And this is just the home page!" Wizard said.
Dorothy and her friends get out of their seats and walk up to the screen. They are speechless. Finally C-Lion breaks the silence.
"So what do you think, Dorothy?"
She replies,
"There's no place like our home page!"
And so it was, my dear readers, that I have come across this story of Dorothy and her friends, who have since then been busy looking for other websites that bring positive messages to us, and linking up with them, creating a network.
Every now and then I get a ping from Dorothy, reminding me of the importance of transmitting positive energy with every message we send, in hope of bringing peace to the world.
Now I pass this on to you. May you do the same.
Wishing you peace and happiness;
Wild Bill
"For thousands of years, Humanity has never realized itself as a whole, except in the visions of great seers. Humans have always identified themselves by their race or tribe, their faith or nationality. For thousands of years humans have maintained the delusion that their customs and beliefs make them right, and all those who do not practice the same are wrong. Tragically, the enlightened teachings of the great seers have been used, by their supposed followers, to maintain this division."
"It is the Internet that has eliminated national boundaries between people, and has made distances between them irrelevant. For the first time in human history, individuals throughout the world are able to communicate freely with one another."
"While there are those who continue to send false messages of fear and hate, we can use this same medium to promote world peace. We CAN do this, and we WILL!"
"Let us remember that the flying monkeys are still out there. Although they no longer have a leader to unite them, they are still capable of damage on their own."
"But for now, let us celebrate our newfound victory. The Wicked Witch of the West is no longer a threat to us, thanks to the efforts of Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tinman, and C-Lion."
There is an applause in the Wizard's great hall, as he steps down and approaches the table where our friends are seated. He then talks directly to them.
"Scarecrow," he says, "tell us what you've learned since you've teamed up with Dorothy."
"That although no one knows everything, everyone learns something that others do not, so everyone has something to teach us."
"Tinman, what have you learned?"
"That even though the enlightened teachings I have read have been around for centuries, there are always those who need to be reminded."
"And you, C-Lion?"
"The more that we share, the more we become aware."
"And you, Dorothy, I know that it was your work that has brought this team together, and that it was your inspiration to bring your message of happiness to the World Wide Web, so that others may find the happiness you've found. This I wish to support, and I promised to reward you all, so let me show you what I have for you."
"Now when you get home, you will find you have a new house, with rooms for all of you, so that you can continue working together. There will be new computers for you, equipped with the best security systems available. It is my hope that you will continue your great service to humanity."
As Wizard spoke, he went over to where he had longest instrument panel any of them had ever seen. Walking along and typing on keys, he continues addressing his audience.
"Blogs have been created so that people can share what they've learned with each other. They give each of us a forum to speak in, allowing us to express what we feel and believe in. This is good! As long as positive energy is being transmitted, I will be there to support you. Wherever there is clear communication, mutual respect, and good intentions, the seeds of peace are sown.
Now take a look at the new website I have made for you."
On a large screen that covered the entire wall, the most fantastic image appeared. A magnificent rainbow arched across the sky, with sparkling letters in bright colors, along with singing birds, fluttering butterflies, and flowers everywhere. It had happiness written all over it.
"And this is just the home page!" Wizard said.
Dorothy and her friends get out of their seats and walk up to the screen. They are speechless. Finally C-Lion breaks the silence.
"So what do you think, Dorothy?"
She replies,
"There's no place like our home page!"
And so it was, my dear readers, that I have come across this story of Dorothy and her friends, who have since then been busy looking for other websites that bring positive messages to us, and linking up with them, creating a network.
Every now and then I get a ping from Dorothy, reminding me of the importance of transmitting positive energy with every message we send, in hope of bringing peace to the world.
Now I pass this on to you. May you do the same.
Wishing you peace and happiness;
Wild Bill
Sunday, February 03, 2008
The Wizard of Blogs - Part 3
Some wizards are known to be such pompous megalomaniacs, but our Wizard is not one of them. This one is as kind and gentle as he is wise and powerful. He welcomes his visitors most graciously, seeing to their comfort.
"I hope my gatekeeper didn't give you much trouble." says Wizard.
"Well, he was kind of an ass." says Scarecrow.
"Um, yes, well, sorry about that. You see, my people are always careful about who they open the door to."
It is not until after his guests have assured him they are good with their offered refreshments that our Wizard opens with his presentation.
"You are here because I need your help. The Internet is in danger. As we speak, malicious software runs unchecked throughout cyberspace.
The Internet was created as a service to humanity, as an instrument of peace, to unite the people of the world by providing a medium in which to communicate freely with one another.
But predators of every description have found their foothold, and the Internet is not safe anymore. They must be removed, or at least, held in check."
"The leader of all these evil forces is the Triple W Witch. I wish to see her defeated once and for all. This, my friends, is where you come in."
Dorothy and her friends look to each other in astonishment.
"What can we do?" they all ask.
"Yeah, how can people like us defeat the Wicked Witch of the West?"
"It's quite simple really, although it will require every bit of courage you've got, and more than a little bit of sacrifice. You must enter her Domain without firewall protection. There you will be immediately captured by the flying monkeys, who will bring you to Witch's castle. Once inside, you can gain access to her master computer."
"If she doesn't decide to kill us!" says C-Lion.
"Not likely," says Wizard. " I understand she lives in a dark and gloomy castle, and spends most of her time scanning the Net. That means she probably doesn't keep up with her housekeeping very well. So it is more likely she will keep you as slaves to clean her castle. I doubt her flying monkeys can do a good job of that."
Our friends spend the next hour or so discussing the risks involved, the inevitable discomfort they must suffer, and the slim possibility of success.
But Dorothy had succeeded before in inspiring confidence in Scarecrow, Tinman, and C-Lion, and in the end, was able to do so again. Besides, they all agreed, it was for the good of all humanity.
"Bring me the hard drive of Witch's master computer," declares Wizard, " and I promise you, you will all be rewarded beyond your wildest dreams!"
Our brave and determined friends set out for the Witch's Domain, where, just as they had planned, they are captured by the flying monkeys, brought to Witch's castle, and put to work on cleaning her awful mess. Witch cackled and shrieked with sheer delight, thinking victory was hers.
The dark and gloomy castle had been sadly neglected in it's upkeep for years, and their enslavement was anything but pleasant. But our friends were encouraged by the fact that they had access to plenty of water, as was necessary for mopping floors, washing dishes, and cleaning most everything else in there.
All they needed was to find a way to channel water from the kitchen to the master computer, and for Witch to leave the castle long enough to give them a chance.
Sure enough, the time had come when Witch had found that she had run out of cookies. So she got out her broom to head to Munchie Land to replenish her supply, as her sister was doing on that fateful day when a house fell on her.
Our friends worked fast, hooking up a hose to the kitchen faucet that they had made during their stay. Then they ran down the hall with it to the computer room. The flying monkey guarding the door hissed and snarled as they approached. C-Lion distracted him by giving him a cookie, the last of which he had carefully hidden until that time. Scarecrow and C-Lion held the hose, aiming it at the master computer, while Tinman ran down the hall to tell Dorothy to turn on the water.
As the water let loose from the hose, there were sparks flying everywhere, popping and zapping in a cloud of steam, while the monitors blew out, along with all the lights on the control panel. Witch returned just in time to see what they had done. And then, to everyone's surprise, she began to melt. It seemed she was a product of her own creation, and couldn't exist without her instruments of evil.
The flying monkeys, seeing their leader melted into a puddle on the floor, with their little brains unable to think for themselves, took off as fast as they could, each one through the nearest window. Their dark wings filled the sky, before scattering in all directions.
Tinman, who always carried an ax, walked along the wreckage to determine where the hard drive must be housed. Then he swung his ax. Reaching into the hole he had made, he then deftly extracted the hard drive from its housing.
With no one there to stop them, our friends left the castle. Stepping outside, the world looked brighter and more beautiful than it did before.
to be continued...
"I hope my gatekeeper didn't give you much trouble." says Wizard.
"Well, he was kind of an ass." says Scarecrow.
"Um, yes, well, sorry about that. You see, my people are always careful about who they open the door to."
It is not until after his guests have assured him they are good with their offered refreshments that our Wizard opens with his presentation.
"You are here because I need your help. The Internet is in danger. As we speak, malicious software runs unchecked throughout cyberspace.
The Internet was created as a service to humanity, as an instrument of peace, to unite the people of the world by providing a medium in which to communicate freely with one another.
But predators of every description have found their foothold, and the Internet is not safe anymore. They must be removed, or at least, held in check."
"The leader of all these evil forces is the Triple W Witch. I wish to see her defeated once and for all. This, my friends, is where you come in."
Dorothy and her friends look to each other in astonishment.
"What can we do?" they all ask.
"Yeah, how can people like us defeat the Wicked Witch of the West?"
"It's quite simple really, although it will require every bit of courage you've got, and more than a little bit of sacrifice. You must enter her Domain without firewall protection. There you will be immediately captured by the flying monkeys, who will bring you to Witch's castle. Once inside, you can gain access to her master computer."
"If she doesn't decide to kill us!" says C-Lion.
"Not likely," says Wizard. " I understand she lives in a dark and gloomy castle, and spends most of her time scanning the Net. That means she probably doesn't keep up with her housekeeping very well. So it is more likely she will keep you as slaves to clean her castle. I doubt her flying monkeys can do a good job of that."
Our friends spend the next hour or so discussing the risks involved, the inevitable discomfort they must suffer, and the slim possibility of success.
But Dorothy had succeeded before in inspiring confidence in Scarecrow, Tinman, and C-Lion, and in the end, was able to do so again. Besides, they all agreed, it was for the good of all humanity.
"Bring me the hard drive of Witch's master computer," declares Wizard, " and I promise you, you will all be rewarded beyond your wildest dreams!"
Our brave and determined friends set out for the Witch's Domain, where, just as they had planned, they are captured by the flying monkeys, brought to Witch's castle, and put to work on cleaning her awful mess. Witch cackled and shrieked with sheer delight, thinking victory was hers.
The dark and gloomy castle had been sadly neglected in it's upkeep for years, and their enslavement was anything but pleasant. But our friends were encouraged by the fact that they had access to plenty of water, as was necessary for mopping floors, washing dishes, and cleaning most everything else in there.
All they needed was to find a way to channel water from the kitchen to the master computer, and for Witch to leave the castle long enough to give them a chance.
Sure enough, the time had come when Witch had found that she had run out of cookies. So she got out her broom to head to Munchie Land to replenish her supply, as her sister was doing on that fateful day when a house fell on her.
Our friends worked fast, hooking up a hose to the kitchen faucet that they had made during their stay. Then they ran down the hall with it to the computer room. The flying monkey guarding the door hissed and snarled as they approached. C-Lion distracted him by giving him a cookie, the last of which he had carefully hidden until that time. Scarecrow and C-Lion held the hose, aiming it at the master computer, while Tinman ran down the hall to tell Dorothy to turn on the water.
As the water let loose from the hose, there were sparks flying everywhere, popping and zapping in a cloud of steam, while the monitors blew out, along with all the lights on the control panel. Witch returned just in time to see what they had done. And then, to everyone's surprise, she began to melt. It seemed she was a product of her own creation, and couldn't exist without her instruments of evil.
The flying monkeys, seeing their leader melted into a puddle on the floor, with their little brains unable to think for themselves, took off as fast as they could, each one through the nearest window. Their dark wings filled the sky, before scattering in all directions.
Tinman, who always carried an ax, walked along the wreckage to determine where the hard drive must be housed. Then he swung his ax. Reaching into the hole he had made, he then deftly extracted the hard drive from its housing.
With no one there to stop them, our friends left the castle. Stepping outside, the world looked brighter and more beautiful than it did before.
to be continued...
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Friday, February 01, 2008
The Wizard of Blogs - Part 2
Our friends have been walking along the Micro Chip Road for quite some time, with little more to eat than the chocolates and chips they've packed along from Munchie Land.
Considering the circumstances, they were fairing pretty well, until the sun began to set. Then it got a little spooky.
"Do you suppose there may be dangers in the night here?" asked Dorothy.
"Well, there are viruses," said C-Lion.
"And spyware." said Scarecrow.
"And spam." said Tinman.
The group picked up their pace, chanting,
"Viruses, spyware, and spam!, Oh my! Viruses, spyware, and spam! Oh my!"
The chant, along with the pace, continued to rise in tempo, until our friends were confronted by a flash of light and a puff of smoke, before the frightful form of Witch appeared in their path.
"So you thought you could escape my clutches, did you?" cackled Witch.
"Aw shut up you stupid witch!" an unknown voice was heard.
The voice came from an apple tree, who was throwing apples at Witch. Other apple trees were doing the same, shouting,
"Get out of here, you dirty stinking witch!"
"Yeah! Go on! Beat it!"
Bombarded by apples, Witch disappeared in a flash and a puff of smoke.
"Oh thank you for saving us!" said Dorothy to the trees.
"Yes, thank you!" said the others each in turn.
"We are your pop-up blockers. We were planted here to help you." said the apple trees.
"Would you like some apples to take with you?"
"I've always been a PC man, myself, but I'm sure the fresh fruit would do us some good!" said Scarecrow.
Glad to have something more substantial in their bellies, our friends continued their onward pace through the night. By dawn, as the group topped the crest of a hill, the bright colorful spires of Cyber City could be seen on the horizon.
"Almost there!" cheered Dorothy.
"Yes, but look what we have to go through to get there!" said Tinman.
As the daylight increased, endless fields of poppies could be seen on each side of the road. Having been walking all night, our friends passed out one by one.
Scarecrow opened his eyes. He could hear someone singing.
"He was the Wizard of a thousand kings.
and I chanced to meet him one night wandering.
He told me tales and he drank my wine.
Me and my magic man kind of feeling fine."
Scarecrow shook the cobwebs from his head and raised up on his elbow. He could see his friends waking up around him. In their midst there was a big singing frog. He continued his song.
"He had a cloak of gold and eyes of fire,
and as he spoke I felt a deep desire,
to free the world of its fear and pain,
and help the people to be free again."
By this time they were all awake.
"Who are you?" said Dorothy.
"Jeremiah the Bullfrog, at your service. I have breakfast for you." came the reply.
Jeremiah handed out sandwiches and opened a bottle.
"Isn't it a little early for wine?" asked C-Lion.
"This is something to combat the effect of the poppies." said Jeremiah.
"Oh God! Real Food!" said Scarecrow as he buried his face in it.
"I am the Wizard's troubadour, and I have come to make sure you arrive safely to see him." Jeremiah continues. "I have brought you groovy tunes from the 60's and 70's to help you along. The music of the Beatles is well known to keep the Meanies away."
Jeremiah presents a basket of CD's and a portable player.
"3 Dog Night is pretty cool, too!" said C-Lion
"Thank you" said Jeremiah. "They created me, you know."
"We all know that." said C-Lion." But tell me, how come you were singing a Uriah Heep song?"
"This is a multi-dimensional world here, and we've learned to harmonize quite well."
"Oh my!" said Dorothy. "Look what we've got here! Jefferson Airplane, Buffalo Springfield, Grateful Dead..."
After they had revived and were back on their feet, they packed up for the remainder of their journey. Jeremiah explains that he won't be coming with them. He assures our friends that while armed with the music of a generation inspired to bring peace to the world, they would be safe from any bad vibes that could bring negative manifestations.
"Will we ever see you again, Jeremiah?" Dorothy asked.
"You can find me on YouTube." he says.
Then with thanks and hugs, our friends proceed merrily on their way, singing,
"Joy to the world, all the boys and girls. Joy to the fishes in the deep blue sea. Joy to you and me."
to be continued...
Considering the circumstances, they were fairing pretty well, until the sun began to set. Then it got a little spooky.
"Do you suppose there may be dangers in the night here?" asked Dorothy.
"Well, there are viruses," said C-Lion.
"And spyware." said Scarecrow.
"And spam." said Tinman.
The group picked up their pace, chanting,
"Viruses, spyware, and spam!, Oh my! Viruses, spyware, and spam! Oh my!"
The chant, along with the pace, continued to rise in tempo, until our friends were confronted by a flash of light and a puff of smoke, before the frightful form of Witch appeared in their path.
"So you thought you could escape my clutches, did you?" cackled Witch.
"Aw shut up you stupid witch!" an unknown voice was heard.
The voice came from an apple tree, who was throwing apples at Witch. Other apple trees were doing the same, shouting,
"Get out of here, you dirty stinking witch!"
"Yeah! Go on! Beat it!"
Bombarded by apples, Witch disappeared in a flash and a puff of smoke.
"Oh thank you for saving us!" said Dorothy to the trees.
"Yes, thank you!" said the others each in turn.
"We are your pop-up blockers. We were planted here to help you." said the apple trees.
"Would you like some apples to take with you?"
"I've always been a PC man, myself, but I'm sure the fresh fruit would do us some good!" said Scarecrow.
Glad to have something more substantial in their bellies, our friends continued their onward pace through the night. By dawn, as the group topped the crest of a hill, the bright colorful spires of Cyber City could be seen on the horizon.
"Almost there!" cheered Dorothy.
"Yes, but look what we have to go through to get there!" said Tinman.
As the daylight increased, endless fields of poppies could be seen on each side of the road. Having been walking all night, our friends passed out one by one.
Scarecrow opened his eyes. He could hear someone singing.
"He was the Wizard of a thousand kings.
and I chanced to meet him one night wandering.
He told me tales and he drank my wine.
Me and my magic man kind of feeling fine."
Scarecrow shook the cobwebs from his head and raised up on his elbow. He could see his friends waking up around him. In their midst there was a big singing frog. He continued his song.
"He had a cloak of gold and eyes of fire,
and as he spoke I felt a deep desire,
to free the world of its fear and pain,
and help the people to be free again."
By this time they were all awake.
"Who are you?" said Dorothy.
"Jeremiah the Bullfrog, at your service. I have breakfast for you." came the reply.
Jeremiah handed out sandwiches and opened a bottle.
"Isn't it a little early for wine?" asked C-Lion.
"This is something to combat the effect of the poppies." said Jeremiah.
"Oh God! Real Food!" said Scarecrow as he buried his face in it.
"I am the Wizard's troubadour, and I have come to make sure you arrive safely to see him." Jeremiah continues. "I have brought you groovy tunes from the 60's and 70's to help you along. The music of the Beatles is well known to keep the Meanies away."
Jeremiah presents a basket of CD's and a portable player.
"3 Dog Night is pretty cool, too!" said C-Lion
"Thank you" said Jeremiah. "They created me, you know."
"We all know that." said C-Lion." But tell me, how come you were singing a Uriah Heep song?"
"This is a multi-dimensional world here, and we've learned to harmonize quite well."
"Oh my!" said Dorothy. "Look what we've got here! Jefferson Airplane, Buffalo Springfield, Grateful Dead..."
After they had revived and were back on their feet, they packed up for the remainder of their journey. Jeremiah explains that he won't be coming with them. He assures our friends that while armed with the music of a generation inspired to bring peace to the world, they would be safe from any bad vibes that could bring negative manifestations.
"Will we ever see you again, Jeremiah?" Dorothy asked.
"You can find me on YouTube." he says.
Then with thanks and hugs, our friends proceed merrily on their way, singing,
"Joy to the world, all the boys and girls. Joy to the fishes in the deep blue sea. Joy to you and me."
to be continued...
Thursday, January 31, 2008
The Wizard of Blogs - Part 1
Dorothy was a sweet and innocent farm girl from Kansas.
Dorothy was a happy person. She loved her home, her family, and her dog Toto, who were always there for her.
While growing up, Dorothy became aware that others were not so happy, and she always wished she could do something about it.
So when Dorothy got her first computer, she created a website, and called it "Over the Rainbow."
One of the first visitors to her blog was Scarecrow.
Scarecrow was a modest fellow who seemed to think that everyone else was smarter than he was. He never said much, until he met Dorothy on her blog page.
"I don't know very much," Scarecrow said, "so I always listen to what others have to say."
"That means you're smart." Dorothy told him.
"If you're smart enough to listen, you're smarter than most everyone else."
Scarecrow soon became a team mate in Dorothy's blog.
Another visitor who joined the team was Tinman. He too felt low in self-esteem until his first visit to "Over the Rainbow." Tinman's complaint was that he felt old and rusty. Everything that he wanted to say had already been said. He felt that he had learned all the important lessons in life, but all these lessons were already written in books he had read, and he really didn't have anything to add.
Dorothy convinced him he had plenty to add. She assured him that everyone in the world needed to be reminded of all the great teachings he had learned about. So he too, joined the team.
Finally, there was C-Lion. His name used to be Cowardly Lion, but later became Courageous Lion. He decided to shorten it to C-Lion. The name brought pleasant memories of the California coast, and he liked that.
C-Lion's problem was that he was shy. He never thought that anything he had to say was of any interest to anyone. Dorothy convinced him otherwise. After that he developed great confidence in himself, and also joined the team of happy bloggers.
Together they maintained a blog where people could visit whenever they needed a lifting of spirits. People who were bummed out and depressed could stop in "Over the Rainbow" and get rejuvenated. Dorothy and her friends felt they were providing a great service to humanity.
But there was an evil stalker of the Internet who didn't like what they were doing.
She was known as the Wicked Witch of the West, or more simply, "WWW." This name was a clever disguise for her, as it appeared on every website address.
She hated the influence that Dorothy and her friends had on people, of whom she was seeking to take advantage of their fear and ignorance. So she devised her evil plan to destroy them.
Witch lived in a dark and gloomy castle that was lit only by the eerie glow of an elaborate instrument panel and some screens. From this room she monitored Internet activity around the world, preying on the unsuspecting and the vulnerable.
One day she pressed the button that said, " Summon Flying Monkeys."
When they appeared she commanded them,
"Destroy Dorothy and all her friends! Destroy their work, and every positive influence they have made!"
The flying monkeys took off at her command, filling the sky with their dark wings, in search of the website called "Over the Rainbow."
They proceeded to hack their computers and infect them with viruses, causing all programs to crash. The impact was so great it not only blew up the computers, but blew up Dorothy's house as well. And by "blew up" I mean that the house literally blew way up into the sky, yet somehow remained intact.
When the house landed with a crash, and the shaken but curious occupants came outside, they quickly realized they were far from home. Nothing looked familiar. Dorothy noticed a pair of feet protruding out from under the house.
"Oh My!" she said.
Soon they were greeted by a good witch named Glinda, who was kind enough to explain to them what the hell was going on.
"Now what you see here," she says, "is an example of how bad karma always comes back to you." indicating the feet under the house.
"That's the sister of the Witch who attacked you. Her attack backfired, as what always happens to doers of evil deeds!"
Dorothy and her friends look at Glinda with expressions of bewilderment, telling her she needs to explain a lot more than that.
"Someone attacked us? Why?" asked Dorothy.
Glinda explains how evil always seeks to destroy good, assuring them that it was their good work that made them targets of such destruction.
"But fear not, for everything happens for a purpose, and your purpose now is to find the Wizard, who will repair the damage and restore things back into order."
"But where are we?" asked Dorothy and her friends all at the same time.
"You are in Munchie Land" says Glinda.
Scarecrow, Tinman, and C-Lion step cautiously as they examine their strange surroundings. Tinman looks curiously at the leaves on a bush. Plucking a leaf, he finds it is really a potato chip in his hand.
Scarecrow taps a round paving stone with his foot, than stoops down to pick it up. He finds it is a big chocolate chip cookie.
C-Lion checks out the flowers. The leaves are green spear shaped gum drops. The petals are sweet-tarts.
Dorothy notices the people, who are called Munchkins. They all appear to be fat and lazy. She thinks she knows why.
"Unfortunately," says Glinda, "the only food here is junk food, but it grows everywhere."
"Well, I don't think we should stay here very long." says Scarecrow.
"Me neither" says C-Lion.
"No matter," says Glinda, "for you must now prepare for a very long walk. You must go to Cyber City to see the great Wizard."
"Who is this 'Wizard' ?" asked Tinman.
"Well, besides being your only way back home," says Glinda, "he is the great Internet master who will tell you what you must do to undo the great damage that has been done. He is the Wonderful Wizard of Blogs!"
"So how do we get to Cyber City?" asks Dorothy.
"You must follow the Micro Chip Road."
The Munchkins, one by one, repeat the words.
"Follow the Micro Chip Road"
before breaking out into song.
to be continued...
Dorothy was a happy person. She loved her home, her family, and her dog Toto, who were always there for her.
While growing up, Dorothy became aware that others were not so happy, and she always wished she could do something about it.
So when Dorothy got her first computer, she created a website, and called it "Over the Rainbow."
One of the first visitors to her blog was Scarecrow.
Scarecrow was a modest fellow who seemed to think that everyone else was smarter than he was. He never said much, until he met Dorothy on her blog page.
"I don't know very much," Scarecrow said, "so I always listen to what others have to say."
"That means you're smart." Dorothy told him.
"If you're smart enough to listen, you're smarter than most everyone else."
Scarecrow soon became a team mate in Dorothy's blog.
Another visitor who joined the team was Tinman. He too felt low in self-esteem until his first visit to "Over the Rainbow." Tinman's complaint was that he felt old and rusty. Everything that he wanted to say had already been said. He felt that he had learned all the important lessons in life, but all these lessons were already written in books he had read, and he really didn't have anything to add.
Dorothy convinced him he had plenty to add. She assured him that everyone in the world needed to be reminded of all the great teachings he had learned about. So he too, joined the team.
Finally, there was C-Lion. His name used to be Cowardly Lion, but later became Courageous Lion. He decided to shorten it to C-Lion. The name brought pleasant memories of the California coast, and he liked that.
C-Lion's problem was that he was shy. He never thought that anything he had to say was of any interest to anyone. Dorothy convinced him otherwise. After that he developed great confidence in himself, and also joined the team of happy bloggers.
Together they maintained a blog where people could visit whenever they needed a lifting of spirits. People who were bummed out and depressed could stop in "Over the Rainbow" and get rejuvenated. Dorothy and her friends felt they were providing a great service to humanity.
But there was an evil stalker of the Internet who didn't like what they were doing.
She was known as the Wicked Witch of the West, or more simply, "WWW." This name was a clever disguise for her, as it appeared on every website address.
She hated the influence that Dorothy and her friends had on people, of whom she was seeking to take advantage of their fear and ignorance. So she devised her evil plan to destroy them.
Witch lived in a dark and gloomy castle that was lit only by the eerie glow of an elaborate instrument panel and some screens. From this room she monitored Internet activity around the world, preying on the unsuspecting and the vulnerable.
One day she pressed the button that said, " Summon Flying Monkeys."
When they appeared she commanded them,
"Destroy Dorothy and all her friends! Destroy their work, and every positive influence they have made!"
The flying monkeys took off at her command, filling the sky with their dark wings, in search of the website called "Over the Rainbow."
They proceeded to hack their computers and infect them with viruses, causing all programs to crash. The impact was so great it not only blew up the computers, but blew up Dorothy's house as well. And by "blew up" I mean that the house literally blew way up into the sky, yet somehow remained intact.
When the house landed with a crash, and the shaken but curious occupants came outside, they quickly realized they were far from home. Nothing looked familiar. Dorothy noticed a pair of feet protruding out from under the house.
"Oh My!" she said.
Soon they were greeted by a good witch named Glinda, who was kind enough to explain to them what the hell was going on.
"Now what you see here," she says, "is an example of how bad karma always comes back to you." indicating the feet under the house.
"That's the sister of the Witch who attacked you. Her attack backfired, as what always happens to doers of evil deeds!"
Dorothy and her friends look at Glinda with expressions of bewilderment, telling her she needs to explain a lot more than that.
"Someone attacked us? Why?" asked Dorothy.
Glinda explains how evil always seeks to destroy good, assuring them that it was their good work that made them targets of such destruction.
"But fear not, for everything happens for a purpose, and your purpose now is to find the Wizard, who will repair the damage and restore things back into order."
"But where are we?" asked Dorothy and her friends all at the same time.
"You are in Munchie Land" says Glinda.
Scarecrow, Tinman, and C-Lion step cautiously as they examine their strange surroundings. Tinman looks curiously at the leaves on a bush. Plucking a leaf, he finds it is really a potato chip in his hand.
Scarecrow taps a round paving stone with his foot, than stoops down to pick it up. He finds it is a big chocolate chip cookie.
C-Lion checks out the flowers. The leaves are green spear shaped gum drops. The petals are sweet-tarts.
Dorothy notices the people, who are called Munchkins. They all appear to be fat and lazy. She thinks she knows why.
"Unfortunately," says Glinda, "the only food here is junk food, but it grows everywhere."
"Well, I don't think we should stay here very long." says Scarecrow.
"Me neither" says C-Lion.
"No matter," says Glinda, "for you must now prepare for a very long walk. You must go to Cyber City to see the great Wizard."
"Who is this 'Wizard' ?" asked Tinman.
"Well, besides being your only way back home," says Glinda, "he is the great Internet master who will tell you what you must do to undo the great damage that has been done. He is the Wonderful Wizard of Blogs!"
"So how do we get to Cyber City?" asks Dorothy.
"You must follow the Micro Chip Road."
The Munchkins, one by one, repeat the words.
"Follow the Micro Chip Road"
before breaking out into song.
to be continued...
Saturday, January 19, 2008
"Birthday" - Paul McCartney
Dr. King and Me
There were two people in my life that I shared a January birthday with, who have been a major influence in my growing up
The first one was my brother, Rick Widman, who's birthday is in the same week as mine. Rick's birthday on Jan 20, and mine on Jan 25.
The other one was Dr. Martin Luther King, who's birthday is really on Jan 15, though it's often observed around Jan 20.
Yours Truly was born January 25, 1955, in Washington, DC.
When Dr. King came to DC with his large following in 1963, I was 8 years old and, believe it or not, I remember it.
On live TV I watched, while safe at home, the man everyone was talking about giving his famous "I have a dream" speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. I knew where that place was. My little legs have climbed up those very steps holding my Daddy's hand.
I remember hearing this man referred to as "Martin Luther Coon" and about the day "the niggers marched on Washington." I heard a lot of things from grown-ups who thought I wasn't listening.
In 1968 I was 13 years old. It was in April of that year, shortly before Easter, when Dr. King was assassinated. There were riots in DC. I stayed home from school and watched soldiers patrolling the streets from our window.
That same year, just two months later, on June 5, 1968, Robert Kennedy was assassinated. It was at the Ambassador Hotel, a building in DC I was very familiar with. He died the following morning. It was noted the date of his death had three sixes in it, 6/6/68.
Somehow my young mind was able to grasp that the whole world as I knew it had experienced an impact that will never go away.
In 1969, at the age of 14, I had the honor of signing a petition that went around in my school to make the birthday of Martin Luther King a national holiday.
Eventually they did make it a holiday, but they don't call it MLK's Birthday anymore, but MLK Day. Rather than the birthday proper of Jan 15, it is dated each year to fall on a Monday, in order to give us a 3 day weekend, usually around the 20th.
In 1970, at the age of 15, I came to Chapel Hill, NC for my first time. I decided I wanted to live here. I felt a lot safer here. People in Chapel Hill did not get shot for talking about peace.
My brother Rick and I used to celebrate our birthdays together, as they were so close together. Now I get to celebrate it in the same week as Dr. King. I consider this a great honor.
So for me and Dr. King, through the courtesy of YouTube, I have asked Paul McCartney to play a birthday song for us. Now wasn't it nice of him to comply?
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Todd Matthews
I'd like to introduce my readers to Todd Matthews, who has recently become a hero to me. His work is very impressive. I am looking forward to working with this man in the near future. Watch and Learn! - BW -
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Message from NC Wanted
Early this afternoon I have received this message from NC Wanted. Let me show it to you. - BW -
-NC WANTED INSIDER-
12/29/07
ALERT: Skeletal remains of a woman found in Pennsylvania might have ties to North Carolina. Authorities describe the woman as white, approximately 30-40 years old, with brown hair and a slight build.
NC WANTED currently covers three missing women fitting this general description.
For more on this story, go to www.ncwanted.com
NC WANTED airs Saturday Nights after WRAL's 10 O'Clock News on FOX50,
and after WRAL's 11 O'Clock News on WILM-TV in Wilmington
-NC WANTED INSIDER-
12/29/07
ALERT: Skeletal remains of a woman found in Pennsylvania might have ties to North Carolina. Authorities describe the woman as white, approximately 30-40 years old, with brown hair and a slight build.
NC WANTED currently covers three missing women fitting this general description.
For more on this story, go to www.ncwanted.com
NC WANTED airs Saturday Nights after WRAL's 10 O'Clock News on FOX50,
and after WRAL's 11 O'Clock News on WILM-TV in Wilmington
Monday, December 24, 2007
See New Slideshow
You've read the posts, now see the slideshow.
Just scroll on down to the bottom of this page, and stop where it says "More Pictures." Then check out the awesome photography!
Special thanks to Laura and Judith for creating this.
Merry Christmas from all of us at FDK.
God bless us, every one!
Just scroll on down to the bottom of this page, and stop where it says "More Pictures." Then check out the awesome photography!
Special thanks to Laura and Judith for creating this.
Merry Christmas from all of us at FDK.
God bless us, every one!
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Vigil Pics
The Vigil pictures have all been moved to the bottom of the page and can be seen in the two slideshows.
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Thanks to All
Special thanks to all who braved the cold night to participate in the vigil. Thank you for being there, and for making it happen.
To Steve, for transporting all the furnishings that were set up in the parking lot, including, if not especially for, the kerosene heater!
To Jade Palace Chinese Restaurant, for offering the use of their big side dining room for us to gather in preparation for our long cold night.
To Debbie's sister, for bringing lots of candles, and for the good things she had to say.
To Joy, for making sure everyone knew about it.
To the Carrboro Police Dept for watching over us through the night.
To the camera crew for the Fox 50 production of "NC Wanted," for aiding our cause through the publicity of television coverage. Thank you for all the time you've spent with us.
To Open Eye Cafe for supplying us with coffee.
To John Allore who always stood by us.
To Judith Gadd, my Web Goddess.
To all the friendly folks who were out having a Friday night on the town, who came by to visit us.
As cold as it was, it left me with a warm glow.
It did my heart good to see everyone there, to share stories, goodwill, and good spirits. I love you all!
We are promising pictures of the event, coming soon!
To Steve, for transporting all the furnishings that were set up in the parking lot, including, if not especially for, the kerosene heater!
To Jade Palace Chinese Restaurant, for offering the use of their big side dining room for us to gather in preparation for our long cold night.
To Debbie's sister, for bringing lots of candles, and for the good things she had to say.
To Joy, for making sure everyone knew about it.
To the Carrboro Police Dept for watching over us through the night.
To the camera crew for the Fox 50 production of "NC Wanted," for aiding our cause through the publicity of television coverage. Thank you for all the time you've spent with us.
To Open Eye Cafe for supplying us with coffee.
To John Allore who always stood by us.
To Judith Gadd, my Web Goddess.
To all the friendly folks who were out having a Friday night on the town, who came by to visit us.
As cold as it was, it left me with a warm glow.
It did my heart good to see everyone there, to share stories, goodwill, and good spirits. I love you all!
We are promising pictures of the event, coming soon!
Monday, November 26, 2007
Candlelight Vigil News
Vigil to honor memory of Debbie Key
By Beth Velliquette : The Herald-Sun
bvelliquette@heraldsun.com
Nov 25, 2007
CARRBORO -- It was 10 years ago, the weekend after Thanksgiving, when friends of Debbie Key realized something was wrong.
Her car, with her purse still inside, was parked in a bank parking lot near their favorite hangout spot, Sticks & Stones at 102 E. Main Street.
"When we realized her car was still there, and her door wasn't locked, that was so out of character," recalled Key's friend, Joy Preslar. "Immediately we knew something had happened to her."
Key was never found, and she is presumed murdered. To honor her memory, Preslar and other friends have planned a candlelight vigil for Friday at the spot where she was last seen alive, in the Bank of America parking lot, from 9 p.m. until 3 a.m. Saturday.
The organizers are hoping to find an indoor space nearby where Key's sister, Susan Gagnon, will speak between 7 and 9 p.m. They also hope to lay a stepping-stone in her memory near the site. Key's mother, who has since passed away, placed a similar stone there years ago but it was stolen.
Preslar remembers that weekend 10 years ago. Usually she and her husband stopped by Sticks & Stones on their way home from Sunday dinner, but that night they decided to drive straight home.
Other people who were at the bar later told police that they saw Key, 35, talking with a younger man with a ponytail. He had recently started showing up at the bar, where he drew drawings of nude women.
"She was out with friends, meeting new people," Preslar said. "She committed no crime. She had not put herself into a dangerous situation until he misperceived her intentions and lost his temper and strangled her."
He, many people believe, was Andy Dalzell, a young man who grew up in the area and attended local schools.
Key was last seen with Dalzell in the parking lot next to her car.
Dalzell confessed to strangling Key, driving her body to Wilmington and putting it in a waste bin. But a judge later threw out the confession, saying the Carrboro Police Department violated Dalzell's constitutional rights as well as a number of North Carolina laws when they tricked him into believing he was being arrested for murder and would receive the death penalty unless he immediately told police where to find her body.
Dalzell's family said they believe he made a false confession, but many others believe he did indeed kill Key after she rejected his advances in the parking lot.
Preslar still thinks of her friend, who she called a vivacious, warm and friendly woman who loved music. "She and I were concert buddies," said Preslar, who sings and plays in a band.
Although it's been 10 years since her friend went missing, the pain still cuts deep, Preslar said. "I stopped going to Walnut Creek [a concert venue]," she said. "It was just too painful."
Driving to the Raleigh arena makes her think of Key. "I can't make it alone," Preslar said. "I just start crying."
Key knew many musicians, and they've been invited to bring their instruments to the vigil. If the weather is good, they may play music, said Bill Widman, who maintains a Web page called debbiekey.org in Key's memory.
A television station will also be there to film a few scenes of the vigil for a segment that will be part of a show called N.C. Wanted, Widman said.
© 2007 by The Durham Herald Company. All rights reserved.
By Beth Velliquette : The Herald-Sun
bvelliquette@heraldsun.com
Nov 25, 2007
CARRBORO -- It was 10 years ago, the weekend after Thanksgiving, when friends of Debbie Key realized something was wrong.
Her car, with her purse still inside, was parked in a bank parking lot near their favorite hangout spot, Sticks & Stones at 102 E. Main Street.
"When we realized her car was still there, and her door wasn't locked, that was so out of character," recalled Key's friend, Joy Preslar. "Immediately we knew something had happened to her."
Key was never found, and she is presumed murdered. To honor her memory, Preslar and other friends have planned a candlelight vigil for Friday at the spot where she was last seen alive, in the Bank of America parking lot, from 9 p.m. until 3 a.m. Saturday.
The organizers are hoping to find an indoor space nearby where Key's sister, Susan Gagnon, will speak between 7 and 9 p.m. They also hope to lay a stepping-stone in her memory near the site. Key's mother, who has since passed away, placed a similar stone there years ago but it was stolen.
Preslar remembers that weekend 10 years ago. Usually she and her husband stopped by Sticks & Stones on their way home from Sunday dinner, but that night they decided to drive straight home.
Other people who were at the bar later told police that they saw Key, 35, talking with a younger man with a ponytail. He had recently started showing up at the bar, where he drew drawings of nude women.
"She was out with friends, meeting new people," Preslar said. "She committed no crime. She had not put herself into a dangerous situation until he misperceived her intentions and lost his temper and strangled her."
He, many people believe, was Andy Dalzell, a young man who grew up in the area and attended local schools.
Key was last seen with Dalzell in the parking lot next to her car.
Dalzell confessed to strangling Key, driving her body to Wilmington and putting it in a waste bin. But a judge later threw out the confession, saying the Carrboro Police Department violated Dalzell's constitutional rights as well as a number of North Carolina laws when they tricked him into believing he was being arrested for murder and would receive the death penalty unless he immediately told police where to find her body.
Dalzell's family said they believe he made a false confession, but many others believe he did indeed kill Key after she rejected his advances in the parking lot.
Preslar still thinks of her friend, who she called a vivacious, warm and friendly woman who loved music. "She and I were concert buddies," said Preslar, who sings and plays in a band.
Although it's been 10 years since her friend went missing, the pain still cuts deep, Preslar said. "I stopped going to Walnut Creek [a concert venue]," she said. "It was just too painful."
Driving to the Raleigh arena makes her think of Key. "I can't make it alone," Preslar said. "I just start crying."
Key knew many musicians, and they've been invited to bring their instruments to the vigil. If the weather is good, they may play music, said Bill Widman, who maintains a Web page called debbiekey.org in Key's memory.
A television station will also be there to film a few scenes of the vigil for a segment that will be part of a show called N.C. Wanted, Widman said.
© 2007 by The Durham Herald Company. All rights reserved.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
New Version of Genesis
This is an e-mail I got from my dear friend, Tammy. I thought it was good enough to share with everyone.
Tammy says,
I think this is hilarious! I NEVER HEARD CREATION EXPLAINED THIS WAY BEFORE!
In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth. and populated the Earth with broccoli, cauliflower and spinach, green and yellow and red vegetables of all kinds, so Man and Woman would live long and healthy lives.
Then using God's great gifts, Satan created Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream and Krispy Creme Donuts. And Satan said, "You want chocolate with that?" And Man said, "Yes!" and Woman said, "and as long as you're at it, add some sprinkles." And they gained 10 pounds. And Satan smiled.
And God created the healthful yogurt that Woman might keep the figure that Man found so fair.
And Satan brought forth white flour from the wheat, and sugar from the cane and combined them.
And Woman went from size 6 to size 14.
So God said, "Try my fresh green salad." And Satan presented Thousand-Island Dressing, buttery croutons and garlic toast on the side.
And Man and Woman unfastened their belts following the repast.
God then said, "I have sent you heart healthy vegetables and olive oil in which to cook them."
And Satan brought forth deep fried fish and chicken-fried steak so big it needed its own platter. And Man gained more weight, and his cholesterol went through the roof.
God then created a light, fluffy white cake, named it "Angel Food Cake," and said, "It is good." Satan then created chocolate cake and named it "Devil's Food."
God then brought forth running shoes so that His children might lose those extra pounds.
And Satan gave cable TV with a remote control so Man would not have to toil changing the channels. And Man and Woman laughed and cried before the flickering blue light and gained pounds.
Then God brought forth the potato, naturally low in fat and brimming with nutrition.
And Satan peeled off the healthful skin and sliced the starchy center into chips and deep-fried them. And Man gained pounds.
God then gave lean beef so that Man might consume fewer calories and still satisfy his appetite. And Satan created McDonald's and its
99-cent double cheeseburger.
Then he said, "You want fries with that?" And Man replied, "Yes! And super size them!" And Satan said, "It is good." And Man went into cardiac arrest.
God sighed and created quadruple bypass surgery.
Then Satan created HMOs
Tammy says,
I think this is hilarious! I NEVER HEARD CREATION EXPLAINED THIS WAY BEFORE!
In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth. and populated the Earth with broccoli, cauliflower and spinach, green and yellow and red vegetables of all kinds, so Man and Woman would live long and healthy lives.
Then using God's great gifts, Satan created Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream and Krispy Creme Donuts. And Satan said, "You want chocolate with that?" And Man said, "Yes!" and Woman said, "and as long as you're at it, add some sprinkles." And they gained 10 pounds. And Satan smiled.
And God created the healthful yogurt that Woman might keep the figure that Man found so fair.
And Satan brought forth white flour from the wheat, and sugar from the cane and combined them.
And Woman went from size 6 to size 14.
So God said, "Try my fresh green salad." And Satan presented Thousand-Island Dressing, buttery croutons and garlic toast on the side.
And Man and Woman unfastened their belts following the repast.
God then said, "I have sent you heart healthy vegetables and olive oil in which to cook them."
And Satan brought forth deep fried fish and chicken-fried steak so big it needed its own platter. And Man gained more weight, and his cholesterol went through the roof.
God then created a light, fluffy white cake, named it "Angel Food Cake," and said, "It is good." Satan then created chocolate cake and named it "Devil's Food."
God then brought forth running shoes so that His children might lose those extra pounds.
And Satan gave cable TV with a remote control so Man would not have to toil changing the channels. And Man and Woman laughed and cried before the flickering blue light and gained pounds.
Then God brought forth the potato, naturally low in fat and brimming with nutrition.
And Satan peeled off the healthful skin and sliced the starchy center into chips and deep-fried them. And Man gained pounds.
God then gave lean beef so that Man might consume fewer calories and still satisfy his appetite. And Satan created McDonald's and its
99-cent double cheeseburger.
Then he said, "You want fries with that?" And Man replied, "Yes! And super size them!" And Satan said, "It is good." And Man went into cardiac arrest.
God sighed and created quadruple bypass surgery.
Then Satan created HMOs
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
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