Go West Fat Cowboy

As the seconds continue to tick away from 2009, I couldn’t let me burning some popcorn in the break room be my last memory of the decade. So a call came into the asylum about a guy on horseback traveling down Airline Hwy. No big deal was my initial reaction. Then I was told that he traveled from Georgia, now we have something. There was no question that he was on a personal crusade. After weaving through traffic I stumbled upon the “One Fat Cowboy”. He looked like something out of one of those old western movies however a nice conversation he has a great story to tell. His goal is to bring awareness to children’s causes and just make the world a better place. His reason, he lost some young family members to various circumstances. Tragedy struck him four times over and he dosen't want anyone to feel the kind of pain he endured. The trek actually started three years ago but health reasons forced him to put his mission on the side until six months ago. Now he has a full head of steam, a pair of trusted horses, the kindness of strangers, and a following from his travels so far. Before he left on his trek across the Raggedy he passed on three rules he lives by:

Rule 1: Enjoy Life.

Rule 2: Leave a mark. Make the world better than you found it.

Rule 3: Be sure to follow rules one and two.

I wish you luck One Fat Cowboy and we here at the Asylum look forward to seeing you finish your journey, did you know?

Cooking At The Raggedy

Everyone knows the talent of those who call the Big Raggedy home. From month long investigative stories to nat sound pieces that leave the viewers wanting more. You name it we’ve done it. However, take unrefined ability to the world of culinary arts. No problem. Turns out there was a little cooking segment where anyone within the wall of the asylum could showcase their unique taste for food for the noon show and my peeps didn’t disappoint. C-Line shared her recipe for “Haystacks”, a dish made famous by her family gatherings during the holidays. Then The Meeks decided to fire up the grill for his mouth watering Chicken Piccata. I had this one and trust me it is good. Hell even our producers are getting in on the act. With all of these dishes I wonder if the Raggedy can get on the Food Network. Or at least get a new cook book on the shelves.

The Funniest Time of the Year

What do you get when you put a couple of crazy dudes, a lot of time, and a ton of hilarious out takes and bloopers? You get the most anticipated showing since James Cameron’s Avatar. Only we didn’t have $300 million to play with. The final weekend of 2009 was the perfect time to unveil the annual Christmas Tape and man did it live up to expectations. This the ultimate gift for all of us in the newsroom. We cover so much stuff during the year that this is a good way to unwind, cut loose and share some sidesplitting laughs.

A lot of work and time went into this masterpiece. Meeks came up with some great skits and I had to shuttle through the funniest moments of the year. Live shots, tongue twisters, off the wall interviews you name it we got it into this year's show. In addition to the shooting, the writing, & the late night edits while keeping things under wrap, we went for shock & awe this year.

It was all worth it to see the smiles on everyone’s face. Now that we have walked the red carpet and partake in some quality fun, time to take some time off then get ready for next year’s feature. Who knows what insane idea we will come up with next?

Christmas Time In The Asylum

The 25th of December is upon us again. While families are spending quality time with each other trying to figure out how to put together the toys under the tree, the news cycle keeps on rolling. And someone has to keep watch over the asylum.

I’m always asked, “Why do you work on this day”? Just being kind I guess. The family is in town and I get to see them before gracing the padded walls with my presence. However, there are some interesting stories to be told during this time of year. A chance phone call brought our attention to someone who needs more than clothes for the holiday. Then there are a couple of foster parents sacrificing their needs to bring Christmas cheer to some kids with only a 48 hour notice. And was one of our own was spending Christmas away from home for the first time.

But the big reason I like doing this…..

….I enjoy putting smiles on the faces of my co workers, after all their my TV family. That feeling never gets old. Yeah we could have asked for the day off but we came in and feed the news beast on a day where there is nothing going on but Peace on Earth and Good Will to All.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays y’all.

The B Block

As Christmas draws near I can’t help but notice that the blog entries for this month have been scarce. Truth be told my time was being occupied with a bit of mayhem sprinkled in with the holiday madness. The 24th is coming and I can sense that I’ll be among the retailers trying to whoo over the last second shoppers looking for the must have gift of the year. However its days like today where I can really appreciate good television.

With the asylum on skeleton crews through the New Year I had to come in during the day to fill the B block of the six. Don’t get me wrong you always strive to be the lead but you can do some things in the second block. You get a little more time to fine tune your story. A chance to add some more sound maybe throw in a couple of more quick edits. Nothing wrong with adding some lagniappe to bridge gap between the news of the day and five day forecast. Therefore, what was the story du jour?

C-Line had an idea about the open access of pictures on the social networks being easy prey for the criminal element doing what ever their mind could come up with. Especially since the kids are now on Christmas break and a majority of them will spend an enorumous amount of time on the internet. Like I mentioned in a previous post you never know who is watching. This makes you think twice about what to put online and who to “friend” in the world of cyberspace.

I think its time to check my privacy settings on the Facebook page, did you know?

Sneaux Watch 2009

I’m not going to lie to you. I am confused about the calendar. I have to check to make sure that it is December. I have to make sure that it is time of year to put up the lights and decorate the Christmas tree. However, lately you would think that it is Groundhog Day and Bill Murray is going to pay you a visit.

It was December of last year. One of the top stories of 2008 was happening, again. Mother Nature was gracing us with a rare white blanket of snow across the Big Raggedy and the rest of the viewing area. I remember waking up to neighbors with smiles from ear to ear of a unique occurrence in South Louisiana. People were saying that this was an event that they may never see again.

Fast forward to this week. The BFR 9000 was busier than usual. A blast of frigid air was making its way across the country bringing some wintery mixtures with a slim chance of ….snow? Snow two years in a row how often does this happen? Granted it has been a year of weather events for us. No hurricanes making landfall in the state, thank God. Then there was the funnel cloud that sent peeps into a flood of chaos, thankfully it never touched ground. But snow in back to back years?

So I loaded up the car, threw on a cap, and went in search of the latest wintery cloth. My initial findings yielded nothing but doubt and frustrations. I’m serious there was nothing to be had. Just a constant bombardment of wind and rain. My gut was telling me that this wasn’t going to happen. Yeah it’s cold but it’s not cold enough for snow. Starting to feel like I was chasing ghosts from every dead lead that was being flooded into the newsroom. People were mistaking the sleet for the white stuff. Can’t be too mad them. Like I said this doesn’t happen often down here.

News time was drawing near and I had to set up a live hit in the parking lot. Thinking to myself that this was a lot of hype for nothing. There are going to be a lot of disappointed peeps out there. No sooner than I plugged in the lights and dialed the IFB it happened. The rain had stopped and the night sky opened up. Snow had started to fall on the streets. Better late than never. It was time to grab the fancy cam and roll off a few pictures. Even though we weren’t going to get the blanket from last year I’m sure peeps all over bundled up, grabbed the cameras, and cherished the moment.

As for me, I was able to play in the snow for a little while however I don't know if we’ll go for the hat trick next year?

Deja Vu Shootings

Scary as it may sound, a part of me was looking forward to a normal week at the asylum. The latter part of last week consisted of some time off, a late night disagreement of some food I ate during the holiday, another year of the school from the school in the Northern part of the boot beating my Jags, and me finding every over the counter medication to get me back on my feet.

As soon as walk through the padded walls I run into the Turdpolisher fresh off an urban safari. His latest discovery entailed the usual flashing lights, screaming relatives, and white van with a one size fit all stretcher in the back. Needless to say the city has just chalked up another homicide on her streets. Another young kid with no regard for human life had his taken from him. You know what they say, you play with matches and eventually you’re going to get burned. However there were some other details that started to surface.

The whole been there, done that phase comes to mind. A drive to the victims last known address yields a sudden burst of total recall. Naomi Campbell and I were in this area nearly one year ago. Another kid’s final resting place was literary steps away from where our latest statistic lived. Such a cold reality we now live in.

I hope these kids wake up from whatever delusional dream they are having. Or else it’s going to be déjà vu all over again.

Many Thanks To Give

As I sit and listen to the scanners that echo through the walls of the empty newsroom, I ponder over the number of blessings that graced my life. I remember the good things that bring a special feeling to my station logoed heart.

I’m thankful for the brave men & women of the United States Armed forces. You protect us while leaving your families behind for extended periods of time. Thank you. I always look forward to telling stories when you are reunited with with the ones you love. God Bless you all.

I’m thankful for my career in television. It’s a roller coaster of emotion but I enjoy going out to places and telling unique stories people don’t know about. Yeah I have to deal with the chaos and madness but when you get those memorable stories it’s worth it.

I’m thankful for my family, mostly for them understanding what I do. They know that I have to work long strange hours. Lord knows how many times I had to cancel family events because Pookie & Ray Ray decided they wanted to make the evening news.

Then there is my television family. The group that has to work said strange hours with me through the years. The group that works tirelessly to bring quality work to the masses of eyeballs watching the tube. It those that are at the asylum now and those that have dealt with its padded walls in the past.

Simply put, I am blessed and I have so much to be thankful for. Even you XRAY TED.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone. Be safe and God Bless.

Death Valley Drop Zone

My mom once told me that you have to be open to doing new things in life.
Whether it’s going to some place new for vacation. Or ordering something different off the menu from your favorite restaurant. However, scaling down the wall of the ninth largest college stadium in the country? That’s a new one. First things first….

Using some creative techniques the local chapter of the Special Olympics decided to have a unique fundraising event this month. For $1000, you had the opportunity to rappel down the East Side of Tiger Stadium. I had to see this. People came from as far as Florida to take advantage of this once in a lifetime event. All we had to do was be patient. Wait for the right person to descend down the wall of Death Valley. As luck would have it we found a very good person who not only wanted to help the athletes but conquer her own fear as well. So after checking out the skyline I started thinking…
How often will I get a chance to do something like this. Granted I’m not going to swinging around like Spider Man but still a chance to scale down the wall, I had to take advantage of this.
After inking the standard waiver and a quick training session it was time for the big one. I get the final instructions and it was time tame the wall. I slowly climb over the edge absorbing the initial feeling of my feet dangling 150 feet in the air and I think to myself, how crazy yet cool is this. Then I look to my left to see a great view of the football field. Yeah it was worth it.

As my feet make their way back to Earth I realize that I have something else I can cross of my list of things to do.

Special thanks to the Nubian Princess for a great story and snapping the photos for the blog.

The Day After Contest Day

Wednesday was a day I needed to clear my head. Man I wish it could have last longer. It was right before the Sportscenter Top 10, I was just putting on a freshly ironed shirt when, the Bat Phone started ringing. The desk was in need of some big time help. Turns out the cornucopia of chaos was about to ensue.

A fire was rearing its ugly head a historical church over in Scotlandville. The desk needed me to head over there. After throwing the big fuzzy in the car I made my way to the blaze. After capturing some of the action the Nubian Princess was dispatched my way to go live from the scene. Little did I know the breaking news gods were about to open the floodgates, the church fire was only the beginning.

The Turdpolisher was hanging out at Federal Court getting some plea deals on the air. Then there was Mad Dog Mercedes over in Tangi breaking the news of another ponzi scheme in play. Don’t think Bernie was involved with this one. C-Line & the Meeks were dealing with the folks over at the House that Huey built. Another team was sent to the Big Easy for a highly anticipated movie premier while the rest of the night crew was looking for an attorney emerged in controversy and a couple of peeps who got a nice wire transaction.

This is one of those days when it’s all said and done you sit down on the couch with your drink of choice and ask, “How in the world did we pull this day off”? If it was breaking news we were all over it. If it was advancing the story we handled it with style. Simply put, it was a great job by everyone today.

Time to leave all of the chaos behind and unwind from a long day. I got some sweet tea and a comfy couch waiting on me, did you know?

The Last 72

It is unavoidable. There are days where you have to go and cover tragedies that have affected people in the area. However, the last three days seemed like a broken record of family’s dealing with death all why asking themselves why did this had to happen. I know its spot news and we have to have it but constantly going to the ends of the state, navigating through the bright lights, while trying not to trip over the yellow tape can wear down even the most seasoned photographer. Then there is the challenge of not upsetting the family even more. Some would rather you not be there while others just want to let out their pent up emotions. Either way you remain respectful, no need to make a bad situation even worse. Just get your pictures and what information you can and get out of there. When its all said and done, doesn’t hurt to say a little prayer for them.

Its been an emotional three days, thankfully the desk is letting me clear out my head today.

Wakey Wakey

4:59 am Just getting into that good portion of sleep. That part where all of the worries of the previous day are long gone. The part where you are deep into your comfort zone not worrying about the troubles on the horizon. Then it happens....

5:00 am The phone rings. You hope its someone that dialed the wrong number but that's not the case. Its the office calling. The voice on the other end needs you go to a working fire. The bed wants you stay and finish sleeping. No luck there. So you throw on what you can find and hope the cold air wakes you up. No doubt the call is urgent, two alarm fire with entrapments in a neighborhood across town. The shop is probably thinking of dramatic pictures with flames & people being rescued from the raging inferno. You know that there is a fire station not far from the location and this thing will be out way before you get there. No matter, you're sure to get the firefighters putting out the last hot spot. The pictures won't win me any awards but you have to check things out just in case.

6:00 am Fire is out. Video is back in house. Time to head back home. You're thankful that its the weekend and you can rest up. Then you remember, you have to work elections today. Better get some sleep before the phone.....

.....never mind. Gotta go.

It's Been Said.....

Those who cannot bravely face danger are the slaves of their attackers. -Aristotle

To all of our brave men and women who have served and are currently serving now thank you for all that you have have done. You are the reason that we are able to have the freedom and liberties we have today. You are the ones who make it possible for us to be here today.

To those who have served, those who are serving, and thoes who will serve thank you and God Bless you all.

Time & Tapes

There are some certainties about time. It usually flies when you are having fun. It will often drag while you are in a holding pattern. Time can heal most wounds however it can produce a ton of memories long forgotten.
Therefore, when I opened my locker and saw a bunch of old tapes sitting around I figure why not play a few to help pass the time before the next call to spot news duty. What I saw was some of the weirdest, strangest, intellectually, and entertains pieces of television through the decade. I see puppies being rescued, the debate to take a vacation, a band looking for a home, and golf clubs being stolen. There are volunteers giving up their holiday for strangers and ladies taking the fight to the bad guys. There are some good television stories in this box.
Better, start archiving this stuff to the computer before the tape machines go the way of the dinosaurs. Besides I needed to clean up my locker anyway.

Tricks After Treats

You never know what can happen on Halloween, especially when the moon is full and unforeseen madness can run about on the streets of the Red Stick. It was after a small gathering of the peeps when it happened. A call comes into the newsroom the voice on the other asks what’s going on East Blvd...

As the wheels start to roll in my head I know that at this time of night, along with an extra hour of darkness, this couldn’t be good. Unfortunately, there’s no time to change out of my costume. I just hope I’m taken seriously at the mayhem since the rest of the masked ones are partying the night away. So as I pull up to the scene you would think that CSI had a location shoot.

I’m met with a long stretch of yellow tape, a bunch of markers with the alphabet, and more flashing lights than a Christmas display. Someone decided to fire off some rounds at one of the guys wearing the badge, not a good idea. Thankfully, he’s going to be all right. Too bad, I can’t say the same once the shooter is caught. While being hit with a blast of chilled air I got to thinking about the treats from earlier in the evening.

I was thinking about the Comic, the Cop, and the Champ strolling downtown hanging out with the masses. I was remembering how people would come up to guess who you were, complement the attire, and ask may I take a picture with you. To most Halloween is the second most anticipated holiday on the calendar year. Think about it for a minute. You don’t have to do much traveling. The relatives aren’t dying, no pun intended, to see you. The only requirement is to get a costume. It’s the only holiday where looking strange is completely normal. The time where oddities are accepted by all. The night where complete strangers all share similar views by being something that will catch someone’s eye. There is nothing like letting your imagination come out while having a fun time with the peeps. Halloween is a unique holiday, can’t wait to celebrate next year. Minus the after hour madness, did you know?

Homecoming Issues

It’s mid October and time has come again for Homecoming on the Bluffs at Southern University. The annual time where friends, family, and alumni come back for a large scale reunion centered on the coronation of a Queen and the competitive nature of a football game.
So why is it every year that I can’t enjoy the game? Granted I was there to roam the sidelines with the fuzzy mic but it seems like there is always some issue that overshadows the contest on the gridiron. This year problem du jour was parking, or lack thereof. There were some angry peeps trying to get to the game but got nowhere close. Naturally they voiced their concerns to Ms. Mercedes and the weekend crew. After some more calls into the university’s relations department our email inbox popped out some answers.

Only question now is will followers of the Jaguar Nation like what they were going to hear.

Maybe next year they’ll figure out how to avoid all of the drama, did you know?

Character Welcomed

I knew I was going to make up for lost time after my phone was strangely, yet thankfully, quiet during my last two rotations as the call out guy. Eventually a voice was going to awaken what slumber I could amass with the urgency of someone or something causing a disturbance in the viewing area. Oh well, all good things must come to an end.

Turns out that someone forgot how to drive this morning as they tried to give a church an instant drive thru. I’ve been called out for some major stuff before but this seemed relatively calm. No injuries, no car, and no driver. All that was left was one big mess to clean up and some time to fill in the newscast. No problem. So, C-Line and I headed out to make sense out of all of this. Not only do we find the church but an interesting person taking care of the place.

Not the first time this has happened but things are much easier when you find that one good character to wrap a story around, did you know?

Duel In Death Valley

Any normal rainy Saturday would yield a sense of calmness. It would yield a sense of peace. It would yield some quiet time and stay indoors. This was NOT a normal Saturday. This was game day on the campus of the Purple and Gold. However, this one had a different feeling to it thanks to a sequence of events five weeks in the making. It all started with LSU stringing a bunch of wins together while constantly having to be bombarded with talk of how lucky you have been or how you do not deserve to be ranked in the top ten let alone the top five in the country. Then there are the Florida Gators. The defending National Champions, a team ranked number one in the country, and a group pondering whether their starting quarterback will play. All of this leads to one thing, we have a special to produce.

Therefore, as luck would have it, The Nubian Princess and I were to descend to the cauldron of RV’s, big screen TV’s, tons of raw meat, and a river of adult beverages. Yes we had to spice up, no pun intended, a tailgating story. A friendly get together of complete strangers with a common love of cooking and a symmetrical hatred of their rivals from the Sunshine State. Therefore, as we made our way through the endless line of mobile homes it is no surprise that we find the usual screaming fans dying to be on television wanting to deliver some smack to their upcoming opponents. It’s amazing how much influence a fancy cam & fuzzy mic can have on people. I'm even more amazed that most can speak coherently.

Much as I love a good party, I knew my limits and had to get out there. Besides this story wasn’t going to edit itself. After filling our segment, it was time to kick back & watch the final product then post some pics to the Flickr page. Too bad the home team couldn’t live up to their end of the deal.

Oh well, there is always next time.

Curb Your Enthusiasm

Everyone who is a football fan know the exploits of Bobby Hebert. Member of the New Orleans Saints, member of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, and broadcaster on New Orleans radio. It's no surprise that he is passionate about his football but when your a member of the press you may have to tone it down just a little, did you know?

xray ted Highlights

That was some great pigskin played on the college gridiron yesterday. From the long TD plays to the monster hits between lines. The constant one up manship to impresses the pollsters while appeasing the fan base. To some one win can jump start the run for a championship however one loss can spell impending doom to a season. So while I was watching LSU and Georgia partake in a 12 round slug fest I couldn't help but wonder how ol xray ted was doing. The season vet was down in the trenches of the game of the day going Mano a Mano with others trying to capture the defining moment for the evening highlight reel. Then it happened, I see the traditional white towel just opposite of the fancy cam roaming the sideline on every play. I get to thinking is xray in the right place at the right time or did he manage slide a few extra dollars to the technical director in the truck? He does have a knack for showing up in big time games.

Can't wait to see the rest of the highlight reel when he gets back to the Raggedy however I'll handle all of the smack he's going to bring also.

Got Hitched

Not since Luke & Laura or Victor & Nikki has there been this much fanfare for the pending nuptial for the Big Raggedy alums, Avery Davidson & Lauren Mendes. He rose through the ranks of producer, to reporter, to manning the weekend anchor desk. She went from student to part time employee to full time producer of the news. This union had to have followed a rundown sheet of emotion. Go to work, produce some newscasts, start dating, crank out some live shots, pop the question, work on some sweeps stories, she says yes, write some teases, he jumps for joy, edit some bumps, and send out the breaking news alert of love.

Alas, the invites were sent and the day has come. Time for two lives to become one. I knew this was going to happen. I had to be there especially since there were no fancy cameras allowed within a 20-mile radius of the place. However the memories of this day will last a lifetime, everything was beautiful.

To Mr. and Mrs. Davidson, I was honored that you allowed me to come celebrate one of the biggest events of your lives. I wish you both nothing but happiness in the future. Always be there for each other and everything else will take care of itself, did you know?

Cyndi LeftCoast

I have had the privilege of meeting many people during the decade of legislation however, this is the first time I had to say farewell to someone twice.

Intelligent, beautiful, fun loving, and a good storyteller. Those who know, and have worked with, my west coast gal Cyndi Nguyen can insert a number of good adjectives to describe one of people on the planet and in journalism. It was 2003, when a young caterpillar landed in a north section of the Boot called Monroe, talk about a culture shock. From the sand & surf of Cali to a more conservative structure way of life. I’m sure she had no idea what she was in for however she continued to perfect her craft. Cranking out stories for the local station while waiting patiently for her next step of her career. Soon she played her cards and was able to cash in an opportunity to join the staff of the Big Raggedy. Now she was on her way.

By 2004 that caterpillar had morphed into butterfly ready to handle the challenges of the Raggedy. Her charm and her left coast wit added a new flair to the asylum. Still adjusting to her surroundings, she made new friends who enjoyed making good television while having a good time doing it. Whether it was a weekend travel story or the time we lost one of our men in blue she did everything she could to make the story memorable. There was never a shortage of love, admiration, and bunch of jokes with her. Fortunately some peeps down in the Big Easy took notice as she was whisked away to break new ground on the anchor desk down there. The folks in that newsroom got a great addition. Bringing the same fire and passion down there despite having to wake up early. I would see her occasionally especially when they were shorted staffed and needed her to dawn the reporter hat. Nothing had changed, same old Cyndi. Always pleasant, always run up to hug, always giving her best in what ever she did. Like I said she played the cards she was handed and she played them nicely.

Fast forward to present day, Big Moo gets a call then hands me the phone it’s Cyndi on the other end. When get to talking for a little while then she asks am I coming to her going away party. I knew she was leaving to head home but this caught me guard. I asked when the party is and she tells me that it was Friday night & that she’s leaving for the left coast the next day. I have to tell her that I worked the night shift, I can tell she’s a little sad but she understands the cards I was dealt. However I play to win.

So after doing a live shot and shooting a couple of high school football games I make my way to the Big Easy. It’s NOLA, no party ends early down there. I find the guest of honor and seeing her smile made the trip worth it. Her bodyguard she dubbed me, I had to protect her from the masses of inebriated while shooting the endless number of tailgating stories. Despite a long workday with a quick turn around I was not going to miss saying farewell.
Cyndi I can’t list the infinite number of adjectives to describe you. Please know this your will forever be my friend and I will never forget all of the good times that we shared while you down here. I wish you nothing but happiness as you write the new chapter of life. Take care and God Bless you, kiddo.

Tragic Bond

During my younger days, I was told by some network news hound that, “It we're have a good day that means someone is having the worse day of their life”. Translation, some poor soul is dealing with a traumatic experience right now, usually someone close to them. A father, mother, brother, sister someone has cross paths with something cruel.

Those cruel acts now bring a bunch of stranger together. Their only connection is the grief they share of losing a loved one to senseless acts of violence. Every year there is a service to remember those lost by someone cruel act. Every year families remember the good times spent with those they cherish. Every year they have to remind themselves that they are in a better place. Every year they remind themselves that they are not alone.

I know we are in the business of storytelling but this can wear on you especially when you feel that the circle is becoming more and more enigmatic. However, maybe just maybe by putting a face on that victim and showing that person has a family that loved them so much perhaps that circle can be broken sooner than later.

Get Off The Bus

I can't explain this at all. First there was a brave kid in Yazoo, Ms who wrestled a gun from someone who wanted to reenact the scene from Speed. Now there is the brawl that makes the UFC seem like quiet time in the library.

Boots Made For Shooting

You need a weather forecaster to know what’s coming. This time of year, you’re going to run across some wet weather in the Raggedy. Normally this would call for any assignment that would garner a climate controlled scenario. Unfortunately, we are into the second week of college football and both teams, Southern & LSU, have home games.

Did I mention that both stadiums are outdoors with the chance of rain I the category of “it’s not a matter of if but when and how much wet stuff is coming down”? In addition, both have fields that can get sloppy real fast. This isn’t a good time to get sick, especially when swine flu is continuing its tour across the globe. Rain is imminent, so it's time to suit up.
Camera cover, check. Shamee for the lens, check. Rain jacket, check. Rain pants, check. Boots? Here’s my dilemma normally I prefer a pair of old running shoes but they’re going to get soaked and having wet feet is just awful. Even though there aren’t as lovely as the Daredevil’s pair at least my feet will be dry.

So I work the sidelines capturing highlights for the late news and I run into one of the grips for the TV broadcast. “Man I was going to wear my boots but I didn’t want to be the only one”. I told it’s alight besides I wasn’t here to win a fashion contest anyway.
Mission accomplished, got some good plays for the news and everything stayed dry. Now if you would excuse me, I need check out the seven day forecast.

Just A Reminder

What a difference a year makes. This time last year, we would be into day five of hurricane mode with the aftermath of Hurricane Gustav laying some serious problems to the Big Raggedy. Trees would still be all over the place, the power would be out for most of the viewing area, and the constant voices would flood the phone lines of the newsroom.

Fast forward to today, and all is calm. I am thankful for that however, complacency is also, what caused many problems four years ago. As Betty Nguyen, pictured above with her CNN photographer, shows us that we are still in the heart of hurricane season. Moreover, this season does not have an all star break. Looks like the folks down in Mexico are getting the brunt of Mother Nature’s windy children.

Don’t get me wrong, I am thankful for the serenity out in the gulf but I want to remind everyone that things can change in the blink of an eye or with a giant blip on the radar.

Fantasy Madness

No the sign says it all. I am into fantasy football and that time has come again. The time where junkies all over the world would buy magazines and go online to play football with teams formed by the figments of our imagination. Teams known as TheSteelCurtain, TITAN4LIFE, or thewhodatnation take to the internet in search of bragging rights, a cash prize, and trophies usually given out to little leaguers.

For us it means our return to the fantasy realm. It means stat sheets, roster updates, and watching for the slightest edge that will bring us the joy of success. It has been four years since we last played this and our competitiveness was dying to get out. We have the usual cast of characters plus a few new faces and this should be fun. Just have to remind myself it’s just a game.

Who am I kidding, if it comes down to me and XRAY TED that would be a matchup of biblical proportions.

$$$$$ From Heaven

So I'm nearing the end of 12 straight days at the Raggedy and as luck would have it I end up going to Metro Council. Joy was just pouring from my face. Once the 3 hour marathon ended, with nothing to show for it, it was time to get some dinner. I was going to settle for the meeting feast of M&M’s and a Dr. Pepper but I decided to walk across the street instead. That may have been the 2nd best decision of the day.

While heading to the Golden Arches I look down near the front door and stumble across this…..
That’s right $40 just laying there on the walk way. My first reaction is that this cannot be happening. A pair of Andrew Jackson’s just resting there in a time where penny pinching may become the next Olympic sport. Once I realize that Ashton Kutcher nor his camera crew wasn’t in the area I pocket the money then start thinking that I just picked up an extra four Hamilton’s. Now what to do with it?

Buy 40 cheeseburgers? Nah, been losing weight besides the grilled chicken salad was better for me. Hey can go pick up the new fantasy football guide? That wasn’t an option since I already had one. I know make a fast trip to the Gold Club. No, Stormy Daniels wasn’t in town however I wonder if I can still write that off as a campaign donation.

Here’s what I do know? Someone is looking down on me and has given me opportunity to something good. I’m open to ideas, did you know?

Slim Pickings

As I drove to the Raggedy there was only one thought that would pop up in my mind, what in the world are we going to do today? The weekend is always slim pickings since the who’s who of sound bites were trying to enjoy what little freedom they had with Monday fast approaching. I recall that Saturday was bad so Sunday was going to be worse when it came to finding something to put on television. If you don’t believe me just ask the Nubian Princess. Although we got some free snow balls when it was all said and done.

Once I meet up with C-Line she could only conjure up two ideas. One would involve a proposed mass transit system that was scrapped because of some unwanted scrutiny. The other would be a trip to the Purple and Gold faithful as they get ready to embark on another semester of broadening their minds and exploring the opportunities to better prepare themselves for the real world. Since we didn’t get a call back for the first idea, we headed to LSU to follow the kids getting ready for the first day of school. Almost got away without doing any first day of schools stories, oh well it was going to happen sooner or later.

So as we roll past the clock tower, we were still pondering about what angle to take with this? What will get people interested in parents getting ready to send their pride and joy away for four years? The economy is still trying to gain strength. Colleges across the state have to tighten their belts some have increased tuition to make their budget, while students have to be more frugal during these times. Then an idea came to us faster than a pop quiz in chemistry, what is the one thing that the kids have to get?

Textbooks.

They have to get the books for the classes they are taking. Granted some of the prized literature may by online but most are in hardback, if you’re lucky you may find a paperback.

We catch a break. Grab some kids having to cough up some extra cash and get the books with hefty price tag attached to them. Now we had to hope the Turdpolisher left some “Turd El Wax” in the edit bay. We scrapped the sides of the jar for this one but it turned out to be a good piece.

The weekend tour is in the bag, now I have to wonder what Monday will bring the Raggedy’s way.

Posts of the Past

It’s been said that the sins of the past can come back and haunt your future. The things we do today will affect you tomorrow. If you forgot to clean the fridge then odds are that your kitchen will have unique odor. If you ran all over the house without taking "Spot" out for a walk then he’ll probably leave you an unwanted present when you get home.
This can be applied to the people who use the social networking sites, Facebook, My Space, Twitter, etc. All are wonderful tools to help connect with friends and family. But now you have to careful with what you put on the “world wide web”. The social sites are now being used by employers who look for more intel on their potential employees. Is it right or wrong, that's debatable. However more than just the eyes of those you trust are now watching.

This gets me back to that whole what whole past affecting the future thing. Turns out that the Super Model, has an interest in doing a story on the social network issue. The question, how do we put it together? Got to find someone who’s saying “ be cautious” on the sites then find a small business owner who has no interest in that practice. Too bad driving around the metro area isn’t as fast as typing a web address. Once the interviews were in the can our next challenge, making all of this make sense. Naturally you get some pics of the sites but what adding a little extra smoke to this piece. Another spur of the moment that made for decent television.

Now is you excuse me I got update my Facebook page, did you know?

GO Time

Nothing beats a little rest to recharge your battery, even if it was a couple of days to extend the weekend. No meetings, no crime tape, no flashing lights, no Pookey and the Gang, and no XRAY TED, almost. Alas, all good things must come to an end. Time to get back into the swing of things. Football season is right around the corner, that means Sportsline. The sweeps months will always present their challenges. And you never know what just might pop up at a moment’s notice. Time to saddle up for the long haul, did you know?

Cross The Line - Part 3

Normally, after shooting a great wrestling show then hanging out with the lovely Velvet Sky, one of the TNA Knockouts, would be the icing on the cake. Turns out that was a close, and I mean close second.
What I was really waiting for was the chance to put this story together. I really needed to put this one together. I’ve been stuck in a serious rut lately. There have not been too many memorable stories to sink my teeth into. Mostly it’s been yellow crime tape, people sitting around tables, and bunch of talking heads. Maybe that’s why there is extra padding at the asylum.

I knew how I wanted to put this one together. The biggest challenge wasn’t going through all of the video or logging the sound, but convincing our resident daredevil to let me handle this one. Any other time Darin Erin would handle the editing duties but after some dealing I got to take the reins on this one.

It was a couple a late nights, a bunch of quick edits, and tweaks in the audio that lead to one cool piece of television. Stories like this are few and far between and I was glad to cross the line, did you know?

Cross The Line - Part 2

Normally when wrestling decides to pay the Raggedy a visit, I’m looking to score seats so close to the action that I could do a run in for one of the matches. However, the stars of TNA and a certain daredevil had other plans.
Turns out the promotion literary opened the doors for us. I’m guessing it is part of their act to be fan interactive. What would you expect when they are prominent on the social networks. Cranking out match by match results in the six sided ring while proclaiming to the world that the revolution of pro wrestling was upon us. This time they took it to the next level by offering Darin Erin a chance to manage one their top draws in the promotion. That meant that someone had to shoot the festivities. Looks like all the years of watching on television and the re enactments in the sports department were paying off.
It’s one thing to watch from the comforts of home or from seats in the arena. It is a different beast when you have to shoot all of the clotheslines and sleeper holds during the event. This wasn’t the first time I was up close and personal. I remember when members of the famous group called “The Band” traveled to Galliano, La., for an independent promotion from the swamp. Some local guys and gals from the bayou were looking to make their mark in the industry. There is a lot those performers have to go through. I wonder if any of theme are still at it and if they made it one of the other indy promotions. That day there were two photographers, XRAY TED and myself. This time I have to go solo but it was worth it.
Can’t give away any of the storyline right now. All I can say is that Darin Erin handled herself quite well. Now if you will excuse me, got to go to the edit bay since I have a lot of video to sort through, did you know?

New Art

Like I said before, I’m always open to new experiences. However, who would have thought a brush, a blank piece of pottery, and some paint would be the latest revelation.

It all started when C-Line invited us out and one of things she likes to do is paint pottery. Little did I know how addictive this would become? Go in to the store select your subject, pick some colors, grab a table, then go where your imagination takes you.

However, this is similar to what we do five days a week. We take a glob of clay, or idea, draw out how we’re going to put it together, add some color, then show it off to the world. Only it’s a lot more chaotic.

It is nice to go at a slower pace. Carefully going over every detail of your work. No worrying about scanners, live shots, deadlines, or Pookey and Ray Ray. It’s just you and the pottery.

Now granted, I’m no Picasso but I’ll put my work on my mantle, did you know?

Cross The Line - Part 1

There has been who’s who that has walked through the door of the Big Raggedy. A number of celebrities, countless politicians, and a ton of athletes have graced the padded walls of the asylum. Hell even the Saintsations have paid us a visit. I need to find that picture. Anyway, back to the entry.

Today was no exception. Turns out a new wrestling promotion, known as TNA, is doing a tour and the Raggedy, along with a certain dredevil, was in their sights. No sooner than you could put together a storyline with a few headlocks a plan was in the works for a weekend house show.

I’ll have more on this in another blog entry, did you know?

The Fuzzy Cam Returns

Expressions of joy are raining down upon me. After a three-month hiatus, my trusted fancy cam is back from the shop. Ah, thank goodness. I missed the little things about this rig. The ability to macro some shots. Being able to shoot in low light areas. In addition, it is nice to reset the time code generator after an assignment.
While I welcome the Big Fuzzy back, I must say good-bye to the Micro Fuzz. I had some good stories with this one. We roamed the halls of the capital, demolished a house, hung out with models, and kept state agencies honest.
Now that she is ready, it’s time get reacquainted. Good thing I kept my back and shoulder in shape, did you know?

The First Steps

When you do something long enough you are going to see many faces come and go through the revolving door. Eventually you are going to garner the attention of the young interns who want to make their mark in this business. Some just go through the motions to get a grade in class. Some just want to become famous without getting their hands dirty. Then there are the select few that have the desire to good in television. That’s where my girl Mallory comes in.

She is one of the special few that has a desire to be a journalist not just someone who wants to look good in front of the camera. Last year she walked through the door of the Raggedy with nothing but determination and passion to become successful. Always willing to come in early and stay late to help better herself. Always asking questions on how this works or what can I do differently to make things better? I knew she had something special in her.

Now she’s graduated from school and is now working at the ABC in Jackson, TN. All of her hard work is starting to pay off. I’m thankful that I helped played a part in her career. I have a feeling she'll make a big splash down the road.

Nothing's Going On

Whoa? It’s August already? The year is flying by. My apologies for the lack of posting on the Forum. It’s a good thing I don’t paid by the entry since Congress is starting to clamp down on all the bailout money being dished out.

However, there really hasn’t been anything to blog about. There are so many times I can talk about Pookey shooting Ray Ray. Ray Ray shooting Pookey. Moreover, Pookey and Ray Ray shooting someone else. Lately the night shift has produced nothing but budget cuts, problems with a high end strip mall, and a ton of council meetings.

July has come and gone now it is August’s turn to step up to the plate. The month is young but I have a feeling that some strange events will be worth scribing about, did you know?

The Teachings of Yoda

It has been awhile since the last blog entry. Honestly, there really has not been much to talk about. One thing we all need to do is cool off.

Not to the extreme that my friend Bill Rodman, known to the Raggedy as “Yoda”, has pulled off in recent memory. Bill is more than a photographer, he is a passionate storyteller. He features took him to every corner of the Sportsman Paradise looking for the unique story to cap off the end of a newscast. In between shoots, he would pass some of his Jedi techniques in my direction. One lesson actually came from a renowned scientist, “For every action there is an equal an opposite reaction”. Meaning if an event is happening, don’t just shoot the event get the people being affected by the event. Yoda always had a place in my heart. He didn't have to teach me anything but he saw someone that wanted to learn and I thank him for that.

Even though Rodman isn’t at the Raggedy anymore that doesn’t mean he is in exile like the little green guy from the Lucas movies. Now he has his production company that takes him to the places across the globe. Always the passionate storyteller, still using the ways of the Force through the lens of his camera.

The Madness Continues

This is a crazy. It baffles the mind to the point of pure insanity. I do not know if it is the heat. I do not know if peeps are taking Drowning Pool seriously. Or maybe people just have no regard for human life anymore. It has been a week with bullets, flashing lights, and a bunch of trips by the coroner. At any given point, I am looking for Wyatt Earp and “Doc” Holliday to pay us a visit.

It all started on Monday, where a shoot out left one person dead and three others injured. All from some idiotic judgment at a nightclub. Then Wednesday rolls around and someone decides to rob a couple of people. Another ends up dead while the other is injured. All of that was nothing compared to what went down yesterday. Three separate shootings that day. One resulted in three people losing their lives. The madness had officially hit the Red Stick leaving law enforcement looking for answers and families asking why?

Naturally, the mayhem on the street spills into the newsroom. The chaos is all anyone is talking about and we have to feed the insatiable hunger for information. What is next are tons of cops combing the streets and community leaders pleading for the publics help all while being sandwiched in between live shots in the field and in the newsroom. This stuff can wear on you.

I hope we can at least make to the weekend without more crime tape.

Titan Lost

July 4th, 2009. The day where Lou Gehrig's speech was honored all over Major League Baseball. The day where the Williams sisters, Venus & Serena, made the grass courts of Wimbledon their personal playground. Importunely, it is also a day where a Titan of a man was lost.

Steve McNair, a 13 year NFL Quarterback, was found in downtown Nashville with a fatal gunshot wound. His presence on the field had now been trumped by the tragic loss off it.

The sports world lost a man who stared at tiny Alcorn State. Where he racked up over 16,000 yards in total offense. I watched some of those games in person since he would always fine a way to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Especially against my Alma Mata. I knew if my Jaguars were up by four with two minutes left in the game with "Air" McNair at QB for the Braves, we were not going to win that one. Sure enough he would scramble and find a Wide Receiver in the back of the end zone for the game winning score.

After a college, he went on to the Houston Oilers / Tennessee Titans where he would be named to three Pro Bowls and the leagues co MVP in 2003. During that time, he would take the franchise to its only Super Bowl appearance in 2000. That to me is one of the best football games every played. You have the Titans and the St. Louis Rams going back and forth. Every big play was answered with another big play. In the end, McNair and the Titans came up one yard short from a world championship. All of us who watched that day stood up and applauded afterwards. Finally a game that put the commercials on the backseat.

However, what will be missed most are his contributions to the communities he lived. From the time, he quote “FIRED” his mom after knowing that after he signed his first NFL contract she would not have to work another day he her life. To the time of his last football camp for some youngsters at the University of Southern Mississippi.

I do not know what personal matters he was going through but it shouldn’t have cost him his time on Earth.

One thing is for certain, God’s football team has another star on its roster.

Shark Tales

You talk about the stars being aligned for this round of filling time in the newscasts. Lately the Big Raggedy has adopted the moniker of being Louisiana’s Animal Channel. Our recent escapades have now driven us to the wonders of the great blue sea. Just one problem, those wonders are popping up in freshwater areas across the state.

While the Kidd was scrambling to find a story, after all, it is the holiday weekend; a call comes into the padded walls of the asylum. On the line is a mother saying her two sons caught a shark at the Amite Diversion Canal. Yes, someone is claiming that they caught Jaws. I wonder if they used piano wire? With nothing better to do we roll out.

As we approach said destination the fish tale starts to unravel a little. Turns out it is not Jaws but a seven footer. Alright, no big deal. Then it the seven-foot catch shrinks to five and a half feet. So I then I question is it still a shark? We would have to see this for ourselves I just hope it is not a blank fishing trip.

Once we arrive the peeps are all excited. The Raggedy has shown up to take pictures of the salt water wonder. My questions were answered. Turns out the kids discovered a Black Tip Shark. Definitely not native to this part of the world. Therefore, we take some pictures and talk to the brave souls for the late news. However, after experiencing sudden total recall, isn’t the Turdpolisher deep inside the padded walls finishing up on another shark story as well?

Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the water.

Moonwalk to the Afterlife

There are days that will stay burned in your memory when certain events happen. Thursday June 25th, 2009 was one of those days. A day when reality’s pause button was pressed and everything took a backseat to the death of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson.

There is no question that everyone knew the music icon. From the little boy who sung with his four brothers to the artist who recorded the biggest selling album in history. I had a copy of ‘Thriller’ and listened to it as much as possible when I was young. Everyone had a favorite song from him. I do have to agree with Lenslinger, ‘Smooth Criminal’ was a good one.

Hit after hit. Dance after dance. This was someone who became a legend in the music world. Now do not get me wrong, the man had his issues but there was no question of the talent he possessed.

While his mortality suddenly ended, his journey to immortality continues to grow. Fans across the globe are paying tribute with make shift memorials, by playing his music, and by just remembering how he affected their lives. It was no different here in town. Keytha K. and XRAY found one his biggest fans who was preparing to make the trip for MJ’s comeback tour in the United Kingdom. Meantime the Kidd and I hooked up with a local radio personality who knew Jackson during his rise to stardom.

He may have been strange to some but one thing is for certain he is going to be missed by his loyal following.

Sine Die

Sine die (from the Latin "without day") means, "without any future date being designated for resumption" or "indefinitely". Often used with reference to meetings or when an organized body's existence terminates.

A thorough explanation.

However, to the Ways & Means to Make Television Interesting Committee those words of Latin descent means, “It’s over”!

After months of wheeling, dealing, negotiating, and near throw down drag out fisticuffs, the odyssey known as the 2009 Louisiana Session has come to pass. The gavel-to-gavel coverage from the Government Street District was one of pure amazement while being quite informative.
From the feel good bills to the passionate debate in the chambers, we brought everything to our constituents of the district while making it look good in the process. Therefore, I have to give thanks to C-Line, Sena-Turd, The Meeks, and the rest of the committee. Job well done everyone. We combed through tons of legislation and an endless number of amendments while managing to keep what sanity we had left.

Therefore, hearing no objection, I move that we adjourn this blog entry sine die. Since we now have to cover the effects our peers in the House and Senate left us.

Special thanks to Senator Sasser for snapping the photo of C-Line & The Senator, did you know?

Spike's Back

While I was strolling through my Facebook page I stumbled on this. Good ol’ John Connelly, better known as “Spike” in these parts. It amazes me how one photo can get the memory juices flowing.

Spike is a rare breed of photographer. A funny wit combined with great eye for television. Not to mention he is the only guy who can leave XRAY TED speechless. But Spike has this talent of drawing you into his stories. You see Spike is what I call a “Sound Junkie”. If there is any way to get the sound of any object Spike is going to do it. Whether, is a raging river or some guy changing the windshield of a car, Spike is going to get a microphone to capture the sound. He once told me, “Buddy if you see it. Then you can hear it”. That thought always echo in my mind when I go put the story of the day together.

So what is Spike up to these days. Mostly capturing the once in a life time sports moments that we watch on the High Def TV. For example, remember when T.O. placed his signature on the lens, that was Spike adjusting the Macro.

Going to have to find Spike and do a little catching up. I’m sure the Turdpolisher would be interested in shooting the breeze as well. I’ll buy the first round, did you know?

Its Live TV!!!!!

I think the Turdpolisher would appreciate this one. Like his mantra states, "You got get dirty to polish a turd".

Omaha!!!!!

Time has come again for College Baseball’s elite to descend upon the Mecca of the sport. The holy ground known as Rosenblatt Stadium in Omaha, Nebraska.
It is hard to believe it was one year ago that I saw this place with my own eyes. It was one year ago that I stood among the Purple and Gold and their run for a sixth championship. It was one year ago when I got to see a father’s wish for his son come true. It was one year ago that I mingled with baseball die hards from all over the country. It was one year ago that I had this photo snapped of Erin Andrews and myself.
That was cool. You see all of this stuff on the tube but it is nothing until you witnessed it in person.

This time I’ll have to settle for watching the Series on the Big Screen. That’s cool also since there’s some good games on the horizon. Maybe next year I’ll get to go back and see the Mecca once again. However, it is time to make sure the batteries are in the remote and the drinks are chilled. I have a feeling that the Purple & Gold have some unfinished business to take of, did you know?

Change Is Coming

As the industry continues to morph before our eyes, thanks in part to the social networks and the peeps on the street with the smart phones playing reporter. It is nice to crank out some good investigative journalism especially pieces that bring about some change.

A few months ago, C-Line did some digging into some questionable practices involving to use of overtime for some state agencies. Now, is it a crime to get over time, no it is not. However, when taxpayer’s money is being tossed around like plastic trinkets on Fat Tuesday, then someone needs to be accountable.

Therefore, with a magnifying glass and a ton of patience, she, and the photography staff, was able put together the initial sweeps stories leaving a lot of people with their jaws hanging a couple of inches of the ground. The accolades, as well as the outrage, began flowing like the Nile River. However, she was not done.

Just a couple of days ago, she managed to get the audit of the agency in question and change is forthcoming. So, with a little more planning we put this together.

Hopefully, this will keep the straying hands out of the cookie jar.

234 Years And Still Going....

It is not everyday that the desk decides to let me walk among the living during the day. I guess she is showing her gratitude for the endless number of info meetings that have been thrown my way. For that, I am eternally grateful since I needed to work on my tan. So in between keeping one of our state agencies honest, C-Line and I are invited to a party of one of the elite fighting groups in U.S. history.

That group is the United States Army. A group of brave men and women who have protected this country for 234 years.

For me this is humbling. To look at people, who at any given time, will step up to the front line and defend us from all enemies, foreign & domestic. To stand in support of people who sacrifice a lot for the beliefs of the greatest nation in the world. To greatly admire a new generation of solider ready to pick up the fight when needed.

So as I try not to make a spectacle of myself while getting the story a solider comes up to me and says, ”Thank you for coming”. I respond back, “Thank you for defending our freedom”.

I know that investigative story we were working on was going to be big. However, it wouldn’t be possible with these guys, did you know?