Gary Moyers

My Blog is Moving, I Am Not

2011-02-28T22:22:00.002-06:00

I am happy to say that I am not moving. I am very happy in Shallowater, thank you very much.

BUT, my blog is moving. This will be my last entry at this site. For future inane ramblings, you can find me at:

http://www.garymoyers.wordpress.com

Come on over!

Church Presentation Software

2011-01-07T08:49:00.001-06:00

This looks interesting. We'll see how it turns out, but it could be really nice for churches like ours with multiple leaders and people in the prep process...

NFL Red Card

2010-11-08T09:17:00.001-06:00

Rant time. The violence in the National Football League is out of control. I like a good hit as much as anyone and I understand the physical nature of the game, but the level of aggressiveness has escalated beyond tolerance.

I watched two games this weekend (with one to go tonight). In both games, I was witness to flagrant helmet to helmet hits... hits which are supposedly against the rules. I squirmed in my seat as I watched Indianapolis Colt Austin Collie lay unmoving on the ground for over 10 minutes and then be carted off on a stretcher (where was the cart?). Later that evening I watched Dallas Cowboy Roy Williams collapse like a rag doll after a helmet shot from a defensive player. Too much.

After an over-abundance of these hits, the NFL has enacted a new policy of fines and possible after-the-fact suspensions for helmet to helmet hits. It appears to have done little to prevent the violence. Such a policy does nothing to address the gravity of the situation at the time of the offense. The punishment needs to be ramped up to match the level of the infraction.

Since I know that most of the top NFL officials read my blog, I suggest they copy a policy from the other “football”. When a flagrant foul is committed in soccer, the offending player can be red carded. The result of a red card is immediate ejection from the game and suspension from the next game. Occasionally, a fine is included from the league. If the NFL would adopt this policy - immediate ejection from the game, suspension from the next and $100,000 fine - I believe it might begin to have an effect on the violence of head to head hits. The punishment is immediate and effects the game where the foul was committed. The financial penalty has teeth. The pressure from the team is heavy because their actions have kept them out of the next game as well.

Will the NFL do this? Probably not, but something more has to be done. The NFL needs to fix this problem before someone gets crippled or, heaven forbid, killed.

Artist Promotion

2010-10-13T09:49:00.003-05:00

More and more, it seems to me that the days of the corporate music label are waning.

As many of you know, I was throughly invested into that world for many years, working as an artist through The Acappella Company and as a distributed label artist through Word and Sony. The latter portion of my time there I worked as a "label exec" and had the opportunity to see the business from the other side. I know what it took to get an artist where he or she needed to be. What amazes me is that the things I formerly worked so hard at are now available to any up-and-coming artist through various online resources.

The resources that a label provides as an exclusive service, and therefore an incentive to sign with the label, are becoming fewer and fewer. This is probably one of the reasons that labels, as I'm told by the few contacts I have left in the label world, are generally concentrating more on building up current artists than on recruiting new talent.

One of the great new resources is a company called Discmakers. They are not, by definition, a new company or resource, but they have made great strides in recent days in offering new artists (and established, for that matter) the tools they need to make a presence in the music world. Granted, their ultimate goal is to sell their service and make money, but they have figured out the best way to do this is to increase your chances of making a sell.

Take, for instance, one of their recent blog posts. It is a portion of Dexter Bryant's latest ebook The Record Label’s Guide To Digital Branding & Music Marketing 2.0 which can be found in its entirety at this link.

I repost this bit of wisdom here, with due credit to Dexter Bryant and Discmakers:

Music Marketing 2.0: The Digital Brand Manifesto

Every artist needs a fully customized DIGITAL BRAND to succeed. Proper branding requires the following:

1. A unique web domain separate from an artist profile on the record label website. The artist’s website functions as the central web hub for that artist’s digital brand.

2. A simplified e-commerce system on the artist website. Easy check-out store supporting various forms of payment (PayPal, credit, debit, etc).

3. The artist’s web properties are interlinked for increased e-commerce (website | social media pages | web stores).

4. Preorders: the key to maximizing digital revenues. All retail digital albums should launch with at least 3 months of preorder promotions. Promote digital singles with 1 month of preorders.

5. Digital distribution of singles & albums to key online retailers in target markets worldwide (determined by the artist, management, and the marketing department).

6. Free mp3s and mixtapes “leaked” to bloggers, podcasters, DJs, internet radio, journalists, and e-zines.

7. Digital PR team working internet radio, podcasters, bloggers, journalists, and DJs. PR team handles online promotions for packages of similar artists. Use logic and common sense to assemble artist packages.

8. Cover/promo art for all mp3 and mixtape releases. Submit art to major search engine image directories (Google, Yahoo, Bing).

9. Web concerts, web TV shorts documenting the artist’s life & career, concert & tour footage, and interactive web events that allow the artist to build direct connections with his/her fan base.

10. A mobile app that is integrated with the artist’s web properties. App features frequently updated multimedia content with the artist’s music as the primary focus. App is compatible with iPhone & iPad. (Eventually, Android & Blackberry compatible apps should be explored for maximum marketing reach.)

11. Direct to fan (DTF) engagement on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. Conduct 2nd string social media marketing on PureVolume, Bebo, and MySpace.

12. Custom banners on social networks containing links to the artist’s other web properties.

14. An email list of the artist’s fan base. Post email list sign-up form on all the artist’s web properties (along with multiple sign-up incentives) and ask fans at concerts to sign-up. Communicate with the artist’s e-mail list regularly using an e-marketing service equipped with an autoresponder.

15. A frequently updated events calendar listed across all the artist’s web properties.

16. Negotiation of strategic brand partnerships and sponsorships to cross-promote releases and drive customer acquisition.

17. A 24/7 digital radio station airing current priority releases. Available on label website, artist websites, high traffic internet radio directories (Live 365 Radio, etc), and cable & satellite music channels. Brand this station as your record label’s official radio station.

18. A digital licensing platform for film, TV, multimedia, and ad agency professionals with a no hassle licensing system. Brief turn-around time for licensing quotes and approval from the label/artist. Reference existing music licensing platforms to research basics and best practices that you can implement on your platform.

For this system to be effective your artists must be encouraged to take an active role in their digital brand. Equip all artists with a mini HD camcorder, a 500 gig external hard drive (for video storage), and a 3G mobile device (netbook/notebook/iPad/iPhone/Blackberry). Require all artists to stay connected with fans on the go.

The aforementioned electronic devices are necessary items for artists who want a digital future in the music business. The expense of these items is negligible when compared to the revenues that can be generated from the post-production and retail distribution of inexpensively produced video content.

Creativity and direct-to-fan engagement are top priorities in the digital future. Each artist will personalize their direct-to-fan engagement strategy based on persona, image, and how much of his/her personal life the artist is comfortable sharing with fans. Fans demand direct relationships with their favorite artists and it is the artist and the label’s job to facilitate that relationship. Failure to engage fans will result in lost sales and lost opportunities.

Weird Summer

2010-10-01T12:42:00.002-05:00

I haven't posted much, as this has been a strange summer. We've found ourselves meeting ourselves coming and going. Is that possible? Probably not. I need to ask Michael J. Fox.

The last real post on this blog was a panorama shot of Pine Springs Youth Camp. That was on the morning of Thursday, June 10th. Three hours later, my wife had a little accident. Pine Springs has a big deck around the "bus stop" where people congregate. It's sort of a flow area from the guys side to the girls side. The laundry room is at the back of that area.

The deck is constructed with 2x6 boards. In one area, near the back of the deck, 24 inches of 2x6 was missing. My wife stepped right into it. I was in the cabin working on the evening's worship order, so I did not see this happen. After she injured herself, she got up and carried the clean laundry back up to the main hall, which is up a long stairway. How she did it, I do not know.

After we got home and had a chance to see doctors and such, we found that she had 2 fractured bones and a torn MCL. The doc did not want to do surgery on the MCL, so her best course of action was to sit and do nothing for 6 weeks and let the bones knit. Then she got to start rehab. We spent the next 6 weeks in a wheelchair (in public) and with a cane (at home). She could not drive, so I got to drive Miss Daisy around.

About three weeks later on a Sunday afternoon, my daughter Ashley was at the High School for the Shallowater Community Theater rehearsal. She decided she wanted to roost on the handicap rail around the ramp. Jumping up, she overshot the rail and went off the back side. She reached behind her to pad her fall, which allowed her entire weight plus momentum to come straight down on her right arm. Snap goes the humerus (sung to the tune of that weasel song). After eight hours in the emergency room, our house now has two sets of broken bones. At this point, my son and I are walking around on tiptoe, watching our back.

Then it's August and our life is consumed with back to school schedules, band rehearsals, therapy for Sherri and my driving availability. So, it's been a weird summer.

Now that we're into October, things have straightened out a little. Ashley is healed and back to her regular schedule. Sherri is much better, though still walking with a pretty good limp... especially when she's tired. But she has come a long way. Austin is playing tennis and drums for the First Baptist youth praise band. Things are good for now.

Hopefully I'll be able to blog a little more. We shall see. Thanks for reading...

Why You Should Consider Using a Professional Recording Studio

2010-10-01T12:07:00.000-05:00

BMI.com | Songwriter101 - Articles | Why You Should Consider Using a Professional Recording Studio

Elk. Nuff said.

2010-06-10T15:22:00.001-05:00

I have no idea if this pic will come through or not. It's a 360 degree panorama of a meadow about 300 yards up from the camp. Beautiful place.

Buddy Mills took Sherri and I up the mountain today in his honkin big truck. We traveled roads that looked as if they haven't been driven on since last year at least. We saw some beautiful sights.

At one point, we came around a corner and ran up on a herd of at least 60 elk. There were no bulls in the packs, but I'm sure they were hanging back and watching.

The herd ran up the side of the mountain and we parked and watched. This massive herd was about 1/3 younglings (what do you call a baby elk?). As we sat and watched, the air was filled with the sound of all these elk calling out for their babies in a massive group effort to connect. It was slightly reminiscent of a dock full of gulls in Corpus Christi, magnified greatly and an octave lower. It was truly an awe inspiring moment.

Two days left, and then back to the real world.

Holy is He

2010-06-09T15:47:00.001-05:00

This has been a good week for me, even though I have been weakened by some sort of bug that has kept me chained to the cabin. I am currently at Pine Springs Youth Camp which sits at about 9000 feet in the Sacramento Mountains of New Mexico. I have been serving as the worship leader and food server (when it was safe for me to do so).

Our evening worship services have been punctuated by heavy thunderstorms. At points it was so loud it was hard to hear the evening speaker even through the sound system. It has led to a different outlook on corporate worship for all of us. It's hard to sing Awesome God while the thunder rolls all around you and not be moved.

The second night of worship, Monday evening, I wanted to focus on the holiness of God. We talked about the four living creatures of the book of Revelation and how they continually chanted "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come." We spent several minutes chanting this phrase as a group, and we repeated it after every song. I went to bed that night with the sound of 150+ youth chanting the holiness of God ringing through my head.

As the week has continued, I have been amazed at how often this theme has repeated itself in the songs we have sung. It's like God is using the weather and the recurring theme of His holiness to drive home the point to these kids. At least he has to me.

As I sit here preparing for tonight's service, the sun is shining across the pines from one side of camp, while the other end is covered in heavy clouds with flashes of lightning and roils of thunder. And tonight we are singing Keri Jobe's Revelation Song.

I get it, God.

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.

Pine Springs Youth Camp

2010-06-07T11:01:00.002-05:00

Last night was the first evening of camp here at Pine Springs. You can see the panorama shot of the worship service. Josh made the pic twice.

It was a beautiful evening. We had a strong thunderstorm right in the middle of worship. We were singing How Great is Our God while thunder and lighting were all around us. What a great way to sing that song. Next time we sing it at Broadway, maybe God will provide and light things up for us.

How Much Do Artists Make?

2010-04-16T10:07:00.002-05:00

I ran across an article recently, suggested by Jeff Henig from Facebook. The article, from informationisbeautiful.net, is based on British royalty rates and info... but I believe it is still a good overview of the industry in general. The question is, how much do you have to sell to receive the equivalent of minimum wage? It's not very encouraging. As Jeff said in his post, "food for thought."

How Much Do Music Artists Earn Online?

Pitch Pipecast Ep. 17

2010-03-13T21:22:00.002-06:00

I added a new episode for the Pitch Pipecast this afternoon. Josh Wheeler of Legacy joins the Pipecast again, this time for a special pre-release sneak preview of their new release, Reliant. Josh introduces and talks about four songs from the album: Give Me Your Eyes, Slow Fade, Lord I'll Fly and In The Light. Some big changes have happened with Legacy, mainly the fact that they are now a full time ministry. Listen in for a rare chance to hear some of the album before it drops.

You can find it at PitchPipePro.com or download it directly from this link.

Austin's Bill of Rights

2010-02-07T14:46:00.003-06:00

My son is an auditory learner. He can read something all day and not learn very much. Let him hear it once, and BOOM. He's got it. Which is why he's having trouble in History (for the first time in his school career). His teacher believes in letting kids go to a quiet corner and read about it. When we found out she was doing that, we had to start teaching it over again at home. Rather frustrating.

Anyway, he has to know the Bill of Rights tomorrow. Here's what we came up with to remember. See if you can see the Bill of Rights in this...

One, YouR'e a SAPP.
Two, I'll shoot you.
Three, my house is for me.
Four, stay out my door.
Five Due Process of Law (think golden rings)
Six, the trial was fixed.
Seven, Jury heaven.
Eight, what is my fate?
Nine, my rights are fine.
Ten, the power's in.

Feels a little bit like the Dirty Dozen, huh? Here's it is again with the actual bill under it.

One, YouR'e a SAPP.
1. Freedom of Religion,Speech, Assembly, Petition and Press.

Two, I'll shoot you.
2. The right to bear arms.

Three, my house is for me.
3. The right not to quarter soldiers in private homes.

Four, stay out my door.
4. Freedom from unreasonable search and seizure.

Five Due Process of Law (think golden rings)
5. Due Process of Law (right to remain silent, right to an attorney, etc)

Six, the trial was fixed.
6. The right to a speedy trial.

Seven, Jury heaven.
7. The right to a trial by jury.

Eight, what is my fate?
8. No cruel or unusual punishment.

Nine, my rights are fine.
9. Constitutional rights do not deny other rights not listed.

Ten, the power's in.
10. Powers not listed in the Constitution belong to the State.

How would you learn it?

Merry Christmas from Studio 84

2009-12-16T22:23:00.002-06:00

Here's a fun little video we put together at the Studio. I ran around the office with a digital recorder and sampled all the sounds. Then I put together a midi sequence using all the sounds. After that, Stuart, our head video guru, went to work filming all the sounds and all the staff. Put it together and what have you got? Merry Christmas from Studio 84!

Pimp my iPhone #1

2009-12-13T21:35:00.005-06:00

If you've followed my blogging, you'll remember I've posted a couple of articles called "Pimp my Mac." I recently purchased an iPhone and have been busily attempting to fill it up with apps. I figured I might as well talk about the good ones. I've mentioned a few on Facebook. I'll probably post more here, since my blog is echoed on FB as well.

Today, I bought an app called TrueHDR. For those of you unfamiliar with the term "HDR", it stands for High Dynamic Range and refers to a photographic process in which a series of photographs are merged together. Usually, a minimum of three shots are taken, one at normal exposure, one slightly over exposed and one slightly under exposed (real photogs will quibble at my choice of terms, but this is the easy explanation). These three (or five or however many you wish to use) are woven together within your software of choice to provide a much more detailed photograph than is usually possible.

The iPhone has never been able to provide HDR shots, since the camera/phone cannot change Fstop and exposure settings. Most of the HDR apps available just mess with the saturation levels and call it HDR. TrueHDR is different. This little app utilizes the tap-to-focus feature of the 3.0 software in the iPhone. After you launch the app, it walks you through the process of taking two shots of your subject. In the first shot, you tap on the brightest spot in your frame and then take the picture. On the second, you tap on the darkest and repeat. The software does the rest. It will align your shots and merge the two pics, giving you a wider range of colors, lighting and resolution.

It's not as good as real HDR with multiple shots, but it's a big step for the iPhone. Here are a couple of HDR-ish shots I took this afternoon, just before sunset. It's not true HDR, as the app title suggests, but it sure makes an iPhone shot look better than it would normally.

While I'm talking about iPhone photos, I might as well mention a couple of photo editing apps. Photoshop Mobile is a good app. It does a good job of editing shots, but I prefer an app called PerfectPhoto. It offers more filters and options and I get generally better overall results.

Another fun one is Lo-Mob. This little program is chock full of special effects, the likes of which would have cost a pretty penny even just a few years ago. It's worth the few cents that it costs. Enjoy.

Birmingham 3-Day Diet

2009-11-21T11:04:00.001-06:00

My wife stumbled upon a diet recently. I had serious doubts that any 3-day diet would make any kind of an impact and may even prove unhealthy. I guess I was wrong.

According to the old copy we received, this diet was developed, or at least used, by a cardiac unit in Birmingham for patients who need to lose large amounts of weight heading into a surgery. The claim is that you can lose up to 40 lbs in a month. After doing it I suppose that it’s possible, although I wouldn’t recommend trying it without the oversight of professionals.

The goal is to diet for 3 days, then spend a few days eating responsibly, then back another 3 days, etc. Sherri has gone through it three times in three weeks and I’ve done it twice in two weeks. Sherri has lost 12 lbs and 2 pant sizes. I’ve lost 14 lbs and a belt notch. It hasn’t been hard at all.

There are some substitutions allowed. I didn’t know that when I first saw it, which was the first thing that turned me off. Keep that in mind as you read it and I’ll tell you about the possible changes in a minute. So, here it is:

DAY ONE
Breakfast:
1 cup black coffee or tea
1/2 grapefruit or juice (8 oz)
1 slice toast
1 tbs. peanut butter

Lunch:
1/2 cup tuna
1 slice toast
coffee or tea

Dinner:
3 oz. any type meat
1 cup string beans
1 cup beets or carrots
1 small apple
1 cup vanilla ice cream

DAY TWO
Breakfast:
1 cup black coffee or tea
1 egg
1 slice toast
1/2 banana

Lunch:
1 cup cottage cheese or tuna
5 saltine crackers

Dinner:
2 wieners (franks)
1 cup broccoli or cabbage
1/2 cup carrots
1/2 banana
1/2 cup vanilla ice cream

DAY THREE
Breakfast:
1 cup black coffee or tea
5 saltine crackers
1 slice cheddar cheese
1 small apple

Lunch: 1 hard boiled egg
1 slice toast
1 cup black coffee or tea

Dinner:
1 cup tuna
1 cup beets or carrots
1 cup cauliflower or greens
1 cup cantaloupe
1/2 cup vanilla ice cream

The paper says, “This diet works on a chemical breakdown and is proven to work. Do not vary or substitute any of the foods. Salt and pepper may be used but no other seasoning. This diet is to be used 3 days at a time. In 3 days you will lose 10 lbs. After 3 days dieting you can eat your usual food, but do not overeat. After 4 days of normal eating, start back on the 3-day diet.”

I did some substituting within the diet. For instance, on lunch for day 2, I would do a 1/2 cup of cottage cheese and a 1/2 cup of tuna instead of one cup of either one. I don’t handle fruit well (it’s a texture thing), so whenever apple or bananas were called for, I would drink grapefruit juice. On some days, I would substitute 5 crackers for a slice of toast (we have no toaster at work). We also found some tuna packages that came flavored... 1/2 cup of sweet and spicy tuna or lemon pepper tuna. They’re new. Even though seasoning is off limits, I did it anyway. I still lost 14 lbs.

As I’ve told others, anyone can do 3 days. Try it once and see if you like it. If so, try it again the next week. I did it Tues-Thu so I could have my weekends free for normal food... in moderation, of course. Good luck!

Help! I need this bike!

2009-11-14T13:21:00.005-06:00

I need the help of all my friends online. I am looking for a special bike. This is a picture of Shay, from this season's Biggest Loser. She was eliminated in week 9 and this is a screen grab from her "where are they now?" video online. You can see the actual clip at this link. The bike scene happens a little over a minute into the video.

It's a trike, with a wheel in the back. There is no seat, you stand on the machine. In motion, it acts like a stepper. The handles move back and forth as you move, like a stepper as well. The bike/trike/stepper is apparently steered by leaning, like a Segway.

I've looked online and can't seem to find the thing. This would be perfect for me, if I can figure out what it is. Anyone have a clue?

Maybe Sean can help me out. Sean, did you use any of these on the Ranch or when you got home. What is it?

UPDATE: Thanks for the help folks. These are called Streetstriders and can be found at Streetstrider.com. They are apparently pretty popular and low in stock. And they cost $1,999. Ouchy.

Merry Christmas from Moyers Sound

2009-11-10T09:30:00.001-06:00

South Africa 2009

2009-11-08T20:43:00.004-06:00

I recently had the opportunity to travel back to South Africa to sing. My last trip to this far land was in 1995 with Marvin Phillips, George Pendergrass, Duane Adams and Robert Guy. This time around, I traveled with a group termed "Acappella Classic." Once again I was with George, but the remainder of our jolly troupe consisted of Keith Lancaster, Rodney Britt, Kevin Schaffer and Steve Maxwell.

We were booked for two concerts, Johannesburg and Capetown. I was not able to stay the entire time to make the Capetown concert, but my short time in Joberg was a wonderful experience. I've been many places all over the world and experienced many different cultures. I can say without reservation that the people of South Africa are some of the most open, friendly and accepting people I've met.

After a 30+ hour trip from Lubbock to Joberg (Wed-Thu), we spent the first evening relaxing and trying to figure out what time it actually was. Rodney did not make it in with us. He was stuck back in the States going through a long chain of troubles. Ask him about it sometime.

But I jumped ahead of myself. Before we made it to the lodge for the evening, we were greeted by the wonderful people of Joberg. After we had finally cleared South African passport control and customs, we emerged into the large rotunda/public area. We began looking for someone holding a sign that said "acappella" or something similar. We noticed a very large group (200 or so) of what appeared to be scouts, both boys and girls. A few of them were carrying drums and they seemed to be looking for someone. Suddenly, two of them noticed George and starting jumping around yelling something. Within seconds, all 200+ people crowded around us and began singing and going nuts on the drums. For the next 45 minutes, it was constant handshaking, hugging, singing and signing. The other guys (with the exception of George) did not know it, but this was a repeat of a scene 14 years ago in Port Elizabeth. The South Africans are exceedingly friendly.

Friday was a day of becoming acclimated to our new time zone and rehearsals sans Rodney. What amazed me was our trip to the mall for lunch. The mall itself was pretty cool, sprawled across several blocks and multi-level. Even more interesting was the mix of people we encountered. We obviously saw many Africans in their cultural dress. Within the space of a few minutes, we also saw Indians in sarongs, Muslims in hijabs, modern Europeans suits and even Hassidic Jews complete with peyot. I've seldom seen such a wide array of cultures mingling together in, what appeared to be, harmony. At any rate, Rodney arrived that night amidst a downpour and we were complete and ready to go. After another rehearsal or two.

The next morning we made the trip to a local radio station to promote the concert that evening. The security to get into the place was as tight as an airport. Searches, scanners, registration, etc. Pretty tight. After being "removed" from the wrong studio (the only rude Africans I met), we wound up in the studio of RadioFM 2000. As it turns out, it wasn't a local station at all. It was a nationwide radio station that was also the official station of the 2010 World Cup. Extremely cool. I was one year too early.

That afternoon, we rolled into Rhema Bible Church for sound check. I've seen some large church buildings, and this one is as big as any of them. 6500 seats. I did a slow camera pan of the empty sanctuary. It took 2 hours. We had almost 2000 people at the concert and the place still seemed mostly empty. Massive.

The concert was extremely well-received. The crowd knew and sang along with most of the songs. We sang through our exhaustion, and God took care of it. The next day, I boarded the plane for the long route home. The rest of the gang stayed for a safari and the Capetown concert.

I look forward to our return. I DO NOT look forward to the 30+ hour trip one-way. Nasty.

City of Black and White

2009-10-22T14:06:00.002-05:00

Our head video engineer, Stuart Blalock, put this video together. He shot a ton of aerial footage over Lubbock. While editing, he started messing around with the colors and Matt Kearney's song came to mind. This is the result.

The Moyers Mash

2009-10-11T22:28:00.001-05:00

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Songwriting 50/90

2009-09-30T15:02:00.005-05:00

I stumbled across an interesting site today. It's called The 50 Songs in 90 Days Challenge. It's an online community of people who have taken up the challenge of writing, as the title suggests, 50 songs between July 4 to October 1, 2009. This is not the first year for it. I'm not sure how long it's been going, but this year there are over 2700 members and 4400 songs have been submitted. From what I've seen, about 10% of the members have done 90% of the writing. The rest are lurking along checking things out.

I find this idea somewhat alluring. The only way to become a good writer is to sit down and write every day. In the past, I have been an "on-demand" writer. Acappella would need a certain kind of song for a certain album, so I would write it. Keith Lancaster had somewhat the same approach. He just did a whole lot more of it.

The really good writers I've met (who make a living from it) mark out a daily chunk of time to write, say 9:00 AM to lunch. The goal is never really to write one song during that time, but more to document ideas. Over time, several of those ideas flow into one song. And then another, and another, etc.

I find it interesting that I ran across this site just as I am getting into a new group, The Sons of Korah. I really like their writing style, putting the Psalms to music. It runs right along the style I like and the way I like to write.

So who knows? Maybe I might challenge myself to something a little less stressful than 50/90. I'm thinking something more along the lines of 26/52. That 26 songs in 52 WEEKS. One song every two weeks. Even that would be a challenge. My schedule is crazy right now. Something to consider... anyone else up to it?

Shut De Do - Exappella

2009-09-16T12:49:00.002-05:00

Here's another song from the Boys Ranch Telethon. We had rehearsed several songs for the show, one of which was Everybody Said. At this point, we were going to sing Shut De Do. My intro confused Kevin and he started the wrong song. Some things never change.

I refer to my ability to confuse Kevin, not his starting the wrong song.

Hush - Exappella

2009-09-01T16:06:00.001-05:00

Here's a clip of the four of us, me, Duane Adams, Kevin Schaffer and Gary Evans, singing "Hush" for the Texas Boys Ranch Telethon.

Serious Street Corner Do-wop

2009-08-29T12:40:00.002-05:00

Here's what happens when New York based Naturally 7 cuts loose on an unsuspecting crowd in the Paris Metro subway.

Exappella

2009-08-16T15:40:00.002-05:00

This coming Friday, Aug. 21st, KAMC Channel 28 (ABC) in Lubbock will be hosting the annual Texas Boys Ranch Telethon. Several artists will be performing, including Richie McDonald (formerly of Lonestar).

Studio 84 is producing the music for the show as well as doing all the filming and graphics. When we were putting it all together, the folks from the Boys Ranch asked if I could get some of my old singers together. I immediately realized that Gary Evans was here in Lubbock with me, and Kevin Schaffer and Duane Adams were in Amarillo. That made it real easy to pull things together. Thus, Exappella was born. At least for one show. :)

So if you are in the Lubbock viewing area Friday evening and want to tune in, we will go on at the 10:35 PM slot, immediately after the newscast. And if you want to come out to the Firehouse Theater (where it's being filmed), there is no charge for entrance. We will also be singing a few songs for the crowd during the newscast. You are welcome to come for any part of the show, which airs from 7:00 PM to 12:00 AM, with a break from 10:00 to 10:35 for the news. Be advised, the Firehouse only seats about 300 people. See you there...

Universal Health Care

2009-08-06T09:09:00.001-05:00

When the people fear their government, there is tyranny; when the government fears the people, there is liberty.
Thomas Jefferson

Power of Music

2009-08-02T12:33:00.002-05:00

My friend Russ White turned me onto this one. Bobby McFerrin does a great job of simply presenting the power of the pentatonic scale. You'll notice that he only sings three notes for the crowd, but they pick up on everything else. Pretty cool.

Barney Fife and Acappella

2009-07-24T20:29:00.001-05:00

We used this video for a while as an introduction to our concerts. I found it again on YouTube. Funny stuff.

He Gave Her Water

2009-07-24T09:30:00.006-05:00

Recently, I had the opportunity to return to an annual spiritual retreat in Paris, TN. It is nearly impossible to explain what happens at the retreat. Suffice it to say that it is a mountaintop experience every year.

This year, we gathered together several old fogies to sing, calling ourselves Acappella Classic. It was me, Keith Lancaster, Rodney Britt, George Pendergrass and Steve Maxwell. At one point, we sang the old favorite "He Gave Her Water" with our friend Jerome Williams.

Every time we sing this song, Jerry Jones hops on stage and tries to sing the song with us. This time, we pulled the old trick "turn your back on the guest from the audience" that Acappella (His Image) used to do years ago.

It worked, until Jerry decided to take the lyrics of the song literally. In an attempt to get the microphone, He Gave Me Water. I suppose I've been sprinkled by the pope. A baptismal redeaux. Take a look.

MJ's Death a Hoax?

2009-07-08T09:12:00.003-05:00

The king is dead. Long live the king.

Many comparisons have been made between the death of Michael Jackson and the death of his father-in-law Elvis Presley. I'm sure you've seen them and I won't recount them here. So here's my prediction:

Within a month, you will begin to see stories suggesting that Michael Jackson is not dead. He couldn't handle the stress of the new tour. He wanted to drop out of site completely. We'll see shots of what appears to be clandestine meetings between Michael and his children.

The seeds have already been planted. AP released a story about Michael's death certificate and stressed that the cause of death was listed as "deferred." This is obviously because the autopsy had not been completed, but you watch... that's where it will start.

Also, why did the golden casket containing his body detour from it's trip to Forest Lawn? No one seems to know where the final resting place is. Could it be?

Don't get me wrong. I fully believe that MJ has truly shuffled off his mortal coil. This is more a comment on the current society of instant info and our Ethernet-in-the-belly-button lifestyle. Just wait. It's coming.

Book Review: Latter-Day Cipher

2009-06-30T19:31:00.002-05:00

I have decided that maybe it’s better to read books by authors you do not personally know. This is no judgement against the book Latter-Day Cipher. As a matter of fact, I really like the book, but more on that in a moment.

I’ve known the author, Latayne Scott, for many years. I’ve read some of her other works and sat in seminars under her leadership and teaching. She is one of the few people I’ve met that I would consider brilliant. Her depth of theological understanding and her ability to present subjects in a clear and understandable manner are highly developed. She has a great sense of humor which, in my experience, runs on the dry and slightly sarcastic side. It’s a joy to be around her.

Which is why it took me completely by surprise when the opening paragraphs of Latter-Day Cipher graphically present the first in a series of serial murders. It made me wonder if I had the right book. I did. And I’m glad. As I write this, I am slightly over halfway through the novel. You are safe from spoilers.

As a novelist, it seems to me that Latayne has a unique style, at least when coupled with this genre. Her flowing language and use of metaphorical imagery create a striking contrast to the topic at hand. Oftentimes, her poetic description of events make them seem all the more horrific.

Latter-Day Cipher flows well. Characters are introduced and fleshed out at a pleasing pace. Events roll along without getting bogged down. The story is well constructed. You won’t fall asleep reading this, unless you take medicine and read it when you go to bed, as do I. But that’s not the fault of the book. That’s the fault of restless leg syndrome.

The story is very compelling and engaging, but what really impresses me is the way she presents truth in an apologetical wrapper. Latayne draws on her extensive history and understanding of the Mormon culture and weaves its secrets into an astounding tapestry. The truths of Christianity shine when compared with the falsehoods embraced by the Mormons of Latter-Day Cipher, and the Mormons of the world.

As I said, I have not completed the book. I look forward to finishing the journey, and I highly recommend you take it as well. Latter-Day Cipher by Latayne C. Scott. Best murder mystery I’ve ever read by someone I actually know.

Wings Point Aid to Nicaragua

2009-06-26T09:24:00.003-05:00

Wings Point Ministries has shipped their first sound system to the mission field. Benny Baker heads up Mision Para Cristo in Nicaragua, a medical mission servicing the entire nation of Nicaragua. They were in need of a portable sound system to use as they travel from city to city dispensing aid. Also, one of the larger churches in the country had a place to meet but no means to be heard. God allowed Wings Point to provide for their needs.

On June 24, we delivered 2 sound systems to Global Samaritan Ministries in Abilene. Global Samaritan ships materials to mission points all over the world, including Mision Para Cristo in Nicaragua. Pictured here is David Catalina of Global and me as we stand by a portion of the system, delaying the men who were trying to load it. They had a serious production line going.

Each system we shipped consisted of 2 JBL Eon 305 speakers, a Soundcraft GigRac 600 powered mixer, speaker stands, mikes and cables. Benny tells me that they often use one speaker for their church and one speaker to set out in the street so the town can hear the gospel. That's what it's all about.

If you have any interest helping with future shipments, Wings Point is a non-profit entity. Any donations given are tax-deductible and will greatly help in spreading the Word of God to people who need to hear it around the world.

MLS

2009-06-12T08:25:00.002-05:00

Anyone who knows me would probably assume I'm talking about Major League Soccer. Not this time. Since we are moving over the next couple of weeks, we have contracted a Realtor to deal with our house here in Midland. Therefore, MLS refers to the Multiple Listing System. At least I think that's what it stands for.

Anyway, our house can now be seen on Realtor.com at this link. Or you can just search our MLS number, which is 78589.

On another front, I enjoyed watching Gizmodo's live coverage of the WWDC keynote where they announced the new iPhone. I've waited 2 years for this one. My contract finally expired about 5 months ago, allowing me to upgrade around Christmas. I got phones for the family, but held off for mine. I suspected that there would be a new iPhone coming down the pike. I'm glad I waited. 3Gs 16G for me in late June! Whoohoo!

Pitch Pipecast: Episode 16 - Terry Cheatham

2009-05-28T22:33:00.002-05:00

Just posted a new podcast!

Episode 16 of the Pitch Pipecast welcomes original AVB 1st tenor, Terry Cheatham. Wes McKinzie joins host Gary Moyers as the three discuss the original days of the Acappella Vocal Band.

Terry shares his favorite AVB songs from his tenure with the group. He talks about his first days as an AVB'er and his first 24 hours, which included the recording of one of his trademark songs.

You can catch the podcast from the Pitch Pipecast website, or as always you can access it directly from this link.

Pitch Pipecast Episode 15: Bret Testerman

2009-05-09T22:23:00.005-05:00

A new episode of the Pipecast is now available! Bret Testerman joins me and Wes McKinzie for a great discussion leading up to AVB's reunion concert this coming July.

Bret was the lead singer for AVB during their transition from a back up group for Acappella to a full time independent ministry. He sings lead on some of their most memorable songs, including The Victim.

The Pipecast can be found at PitchpipePro.com. Or as always, you can download it directly from this link.

Roses and Recordings

2009-04-27T09:35:00.005-05:00

Not much in general to say lately. We've got our house on the market and we're waiting. One week and no calls.

In the meantime, we've had some nice rains and Sherri's roses have come out nicely. Not that she planted them or anything. They were here when we moved in. She rescued them because they were in pretty bad shape. The rains have helped. Midland water on roses does not do well. Too many minerals. So the better the rain, the better the roses.

I'm heading to Lubbock for the next four days. I've been producing the new release for Taylor Productions. RJ (Sonny) Taylor released a hymnal over 10 years ago. Every year he releases a supplement accompanied by a CD for education and edification. The first 5 were done by Darrell Bledsoe when he was in Houston. The next 5 were done with Ryan Christian at Richland Hills. I get to do #11.

It's been a lot of fun. I've recruited 3 other singers to help me do it right. Lauren Mooney and Jill Riggan are both members of Best Friends from LCU. They sing like angels. For bass, well, there was never really a question. Gary Evans is amazing.

So, my first project with Studio 84 is taking me back to old school. A cappella again.

FSBO: 3306 Dentcrest Dr, Midland, TX

2009-04-20T08:31:00.003-05:00

I've mentioned that we have our house up for sale. I realized I might as well go ahead and post the ad on my blog so you won't have to make a trip to 3306dentcrest.com. Here goes:

Great Two-Story House With Charm!
3306 Dentcrest Dr
Midland, TX 79707
MAP THIS HOUSE

3 beds, 2.5 baths
2050 Sq. Ft.
2 Car Attached Garage

FSBO: 3306 Dentcrest, Midland TX

Detailed Description:
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2.5
Total Rooms: 7
Floors: 2.0
Square Footage: 2150
Year Built: 1983
School District: Parker Elementary, Abel Middle School, Lee High School
Garage Size: 2.0
Lot Size: 7013 SF

LIVING ROOM (18×15): Fireplace, multiple windows, tile floor.
LARGE KITCHEN (22X10): Multiple cabinets and tops, built ins, incandescent lighting, matching appliances, adjoining breakfast area w/ceiling fan.
DINING AREA (11×12): Open architecture, flows into living area, multiple windows, wet bar and cabinets.
ENTRY AREA (9X14): Cut-back stairs leading to upper loft hallway.
UPSTAIRS: office/library/extra room at top of stairs (17×6).
LARGE MASTER BEDROOM (18×15): Tall vaulted ceiling, private backyard door, tile flooring, 2 huge walk-in closets (4X6 & 9X7).
MASTER BATH: His and her vanity, private toilet and shower/tub.
2nd/3rd BEDROOMS (11×15 & 11×12): Good carpet, natural lighting with multiple windows.
2nd BATH (11×6): Upstairs, vinyl floor, tub/shower combo.
HALF BATH: Downstairs just off living area.
PATIO: Large covered area.
GARAGE (20×21): 2 car attached with shelving and storage area.
ATTIC: Drop-stair, garage entry.
UTILITY ROOM (6.5X11): Area for washer/dryer. Closet for water heater.
BACKYARD: Fenced with cement apron, basketball goal with half-court (18×32), small out building, fenced garden area with 3 beds.
OTHER AMENITIES: Dual HVAC Systems w/Heat Pumps, Central AC, Central Heating, Security System, Tile Floors downstairs, Carpet upstairs, Ceiling Fans throughout, Built-in Appliances (Range/Oven. Dishwasher, Disposal, Microwave), large mature trees.

The Sound of Music

2009-04-16T08:52:00.002-05:00

This video was made in the Antwerp, Belgium Central Station (train) on March 23, 2009. It was a Monday morning and with no warning to the passengers passing through the station, a recording of Julie Andrews comes on the public address system singing “Do, Re, Mi.” As the bemused passengers watch in amazement, some 200 dancers begin to appear from the crowd and station entrances.

This was created with just 2 rehearsals. It was a promotional stunt for a Belgian television program that was looking for someone to play the leading role in their musical production of "The Sound of Music". You can see how the crowd reacts. Amazement. As well it should be. Life would be a lot better if this kind of thing happened more often. :)

Ashley & the Talent Show

2009-04-12T09:25:00.004-05:00

Ash really wanted to be in the talent show at Midland Christian this year. She kept jumping back and forth on what she wanted to do... sing, play, what song, etc. The night before the show, 90 minutes from rehearsal, she still had not settled on what she was doing. I was concerned, being the stupid perfectionist that I am. So I made her try out for me. Afterwards, I made a small suggestion. She loves doing remixes on Acid (the program, not the drug). Why not do a remix of the song she really wanted to do? Her mind went to work and you can now see Ashley performing Bella's Lullaby from the movie Twilight... techno.

Moving?

2009-04-03T08:16:00.003-05:00

It seems the rumor mill is still alive and well. We've not tried to keep this a secret. At the same time, we've not gone out and shouted it from the mountaintop either. That being said, yes, we are seriously considering a move to Lubbock this summer.

I've had several people come up and ask me about it. I suppose it's time to talk more about it. My job with Moyers Sound and Studio 84 is increasing in scope. Studio 84 is in need of someone to manage it. Things are about to take off there, with many plans on the drawing board. Instead of trying to find someone to oversee it all, Wally asked me if I would consider moving to Lubbock and doing it myself.

So, here we go again. This time, it's a good move. We have not sold our house as of yet. That's a big thing. We feel sure that God has something up his proverbial sleeve. I've begun to put together a website to help it sell. If you are interested, you can find it at 3306Dentcrest.com, which is the actual address of our house.

Sherri is applying at several school districts in the area, Lubbock, Frenship & Shallowater. We've made an offer on a house in Shallowater, so it would be very nice to get a job there. We'll see.

If anyone has any suggestions or networking possibilities, please let me know. God seems to be on a roll with this one, and he may want to use you. :)

Pimp my Mac #2

2009-04-01T09:03:00.003-05:00

MacHeist is a pretty cool annual offering. Never heard of it? This is year three for the event. It's gotten progressively bigger every year.

The MacHeist people conduct an online spy game, leaving clues on servers all over the world. It's very detailed, so much so that I've never really gotten involved in the game itself.

The cool thing is, they bundle together a ton of software as the reward for being involved. I signed in this year as a player and basically observed the contest. Doing so allowed me access to free software as the game progressed.

At the end, they offer a great bundle of software to anyone who wants it, player or not, for a ridiculously low price. A large percentage of the money goes to charity. It a great way for software developers to get their product into your hands.

This year, the total retail value of the bundle is $950.70 and they are selling it for only $39. Ridiculous. And it's good stuff too. I highly recommend it. There are a couple of programs in the bundle that are easily worth $39 alone.

Here is a link to the bundle. Check it out. And no, this is not an April Fool's joke.

http://www.macheist.com/bundle/u/39573/

Tulsa Snow & Sound Ministry

2009-03-28T19:22:00.010-05:00

I've spent the past three days in Tulsa at the Workshop. It's been six years or so since I've had a chance to be here. The event is much smaller than it was even a few years ago. It was still quite effective, I believe, even though it was smaller in size. At least, it was for us. Moyers Sound had a booth at the event and we made some wonderful contacts. My in-laws were also exhibitors at the event. You can see them here at their booth for New Mexico Christian Children's Home.

We had a significant weather event as well. I've been to the Tulsa Workshop at least 15 times before and experienced all kinds of weather. This is the first time I've seen it snow like this. We had 7 inches in about as many hours. The picture below was at about the three inch level. Pulling a trailer was a lot of fun in this weather.

I am amazed at the things God can do when you make yourself available. We came to Tulsa to let people know that I was now involved with Moyers Sound and, hopefully, make some inroads into churches needing system upgrades or new installs. Some of that happened, but much more took place in another area entirely.

Wally, my cousin and the "Moyers" behind Moyers Sound, has always had a dream to do more with Moyers Sound than install AVL systems in churches. One of the common questions we hear after a new install is, "What do we do with the old stuff?" Often, the old system will be relegated to a closet or sold on eBay with shipping costing more than the price it was sold for.

Wally and LaTronda formed a non-profit organization called Wings Point. Wings Point has several purposes, one of which provides an solution to the problem of perfectly good sound systems going to waste.

A system that may be 20-30 years old and "outdated" may be perfectly suitable for an inner-city church that has nothing... or a church in a third world country with less than nothing (is that possible?). Over the past few days, God made it possible for us to connect with several ministries located all over the world... South America, East Asia, Africa and Eastern Europe. Till now, our dream of distributing used systems to needy 3rd world churches has been hampered by two things: 1). a good system to identify deserving churches, and 2). a way to deliver them. God has provided an answer to both this week.

Lord willing, we will be delivering our first two sound systems to churches in Nicaragua this coming June. From there, who knows? At this point, the world is open to us. We just pray that God will bless this effort.

More to come...

The Simple Life

2009-03-20T21:21:00.002-05:00

This past week was a both a breath of fresh air and an exhausting experience.

My mother's family is from central Missouri, the little hamlet of Middle Grove, about 30 miles north of Columbia. Her only sister, Margaret, is at home in hospice care after a long fight with cancer. We used the spring break from school as a chance for my family to reconnect with her and several other aging family members in Missouri.

The exhausting experience comes from the fact that the family no longer lives in Middle Grove. They've spread out in a 45 mile radius from Centralia to Mexico to Paris to Moberly. So instead of driving 2 miles to see the next relative, we drove about 50 miles a day after a 900 mile trip there. Then a 900 mile trip back. We are plum exhausted.

At the same time, what I experienced was refreshing as well. Certainly the family renewal was part of it, but we left Missouri with a new appreciation of the country lifestyle. The majority of my Missouri relatives are seemingly isolated from the changes of the world and the culture around them. They see the news and are aware of the issues, but they don't seem to be touched by it. Certainly not all of them fall into this category, and some of those who do have felt the effects at times (my uncle lost his farm because of the Nixon beef policy). But on the whole, they seem to be set apart from the entire thing.

We spent part of a day riding through Amish farm country. We shopped (and spent too much) in an Amish store. After leaving the Amish region and heading back into "normal society"... well, things didn't feel too different.

They still live in the same homes. The homes themselves haven't changed in 30 years. In some cases, it seems like the same dog is still in the barnyard. It's sort of an eerie experience, overall.

Don't take that as an insult. Remember, I said it was refreshing. They seem to have a better grasp on the biblical idea of taking one day at a time. Little worry and less rush. Get up, feed the cattle, work in the field, eat supper, sit around telling stories, go to bed. Sleep in the same bed your grandfather built. Next day repeat same.

There's a sense of peacefulness and continuity that we miss in our rush-toward-tomorrow society. Some of them may read this and laugh, wondering what old crazy Gary is talking about now. That's okay. I've always been a little off. I hope that's because I've got some Missouri roots in me. It sure felt like home to me.

Mutant Potato Two-Toed Tater

2009-03-13T19:58:00.005-05:00

My son is in need of some extra cash and he's learned about capitalism. So he's asked me to sell this potato for him on Ebay. Here goes.

This truly unique potato is one of a kind. It's a special spud. A two-toed tater. You can't find a Murphy like this inside of Idaho or outside of Ireland. This one potato will feed at least one and a half people easily. This is one spud you don't want to miss. Bid now and bid high!

If that doesn't move you...

IT'S A MUTANT POTATO! Discovered in the south of New Mexico near White Sands, this potato grew from a small root into a two-headed terror. Nothing in Roswell can match it. The entire town of Lovington ran screaming into the night when this potato was unveiled. Buy it now and clear your block of any unsavory types. Simply set the potato on your porch and the let the hideous nature of this tater take it's course.

Or maybe...

For sale! Special lover's potato. This special spud was designed with two in mind. You may have missed Valentine's Day, but this V-shaped potato will bring it all back. Not only is it "V" in nature, but the rounded edges give it the unique properties of a heart. This potato beats for you. Buy it for your love now, or be forever sorry.

Or could it be....

If one were to stand on their head while looking at this picture, one would see that this potato looks very much like a Star Trek insignia. The new Star Trek movie is opening soon. Buy this potato and wear it on your chest with pride. This spud will help you live long and prosper.

My son just said, "I think that's enough, Dad." Please help him learn about the American Way. Buy my son's potato. Please.

If you have a heart and wish to bid on my son's potato and preserve his faith in justice, freedom and the free market system, follow this link to Ebay and bid high. My starving son thanks you. Well, actually he's not starving or he would eat the stupid thing. But he thanks you anyway. (Bidding available through Mar-20-09 17:57:29 PDT)

Moyers Family Riverdance

2009-03-11T17:34:00.003-05:00

My daughter always wanted to be in Riverdance. I'm not sure how my son got there though... Happy St. Patrick's Day to ye.

P.S. Since I've posted this, two issues have been raised. 1) Sherri does so much work around here there seem to be 2 of her, thus 2 in the dance, and 2) yes, my son is secure in his manhood.

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Pitch Pipecast: Episode 14 - Acappella's Sneak Preview

2009-03-10T23:23:00.003-05:00

I've just posted episode 14 of the Pitch Pipecast with Keith Lancaster. It's a sneak preview of Acappella's new album, Find Your Way. Keith joins us and gives the "behind the scenes" story of the album. Five songs are highlighted as Keith tells the background and reasoning behind the song... and then you get to hear it!

It's a chance to hear a part of the album before it releases. It's a sneak-peak treat you'll find only on the Pitch Pipecast.

You can hear it at PitchpipePro.com or download it directly from this link.

Before and After

2009-03-10T13:00:00.006-05:00

A while back, I posted a couple of shots of my son getting a haircut, before vs. after. I thought I might do the same with my house. We had the trees trimmed today.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

WOW! There's a house in there after all.

Fake Phone Mesages

2009-03-09T23:50:00.002-05:00

I was reading a blog by Kevin Rose and ran across a fun entry. I thought I'd try it for myself. AT&T Labs Research has a fun text-to-speech site. Enter your own phrase, choose your voice and go to town. I've been having a little too much fun.

Here are a few of the voice mail messages I created. Hope you enjoy...

This is the first one I tried.

Here's a fake iPhone message I borrowed from his site.

I love this voice. Speak loudly.

This is my oops message.

People are always interrupting conversation.

And last but certainly not least, a phrase or two borrowed from my previous life.

Give it a try. I may even bluetooth some of these into my phone and actually use them...

Pitch Pipecast: Episode 13 - Jay Smith

2009-02-20T10:24:00.002-06:00

I've just posted the latest edition of my podcast, the Pitch Pipecast. Original AVB member Jay Smith is our guest on this episode of the Pipecast. Jay joined the Acappella Vocal Band at its inception in 1986 and was responsible for the birth of vocal percussion in the group. Though small in stature, he still holds a large place in the history of the group and the memories of his fans and friends.

Wes McKinzie co-hosts this episode with Gary Moyers.

You can get this podcast, as well as the previous 12 episodes, at pitchpipepro.com. Or, you can download the file directly from this link.

Helicopters and Hogs

2009-02-11T11:17:00.002-06:00

This past week I had the chance to shoot some aerial HD footage in the Lubbock area. It was a wonderful experience that I plan to do much more of in the future (since it's part of my job). We shot out of a Robinson R-44 helicopter with the door removed.

After covering downtown Lubbock and some of the Buffalo Lakes area, we continued on into the canyons leading toward Post, TX. We flew over a herd of deer and had some fun with them, but the best part was the hog.

We picked up a massive feral hog coming over the back side of a hill in the canyon. We chased it probably half a mile. It was running full tilt trying to get away from this big red bird in the air. I imagine it was about to die of exhaustion by the time we turned off.

The hog did not make it into this compilation video. Sorry. Hope you enjoy it. YouTube does a good job of squishing the video into ugliness, but the original HD is just stunning. Someone needs to build a Statue of Liberty in Lubbock so I can film it. Maybe a 1200 ft. tall Raider Red.

Kiss a Wookie a cappella

2009-02-10T19:52:00.001-06:00

Baby Dave's

2009-02-04T09:12:00.003-06:00

With my new position at Moyers Sound and Studio84, I am beginning to receive a few job requests that don't fall under our business model (yet). I have just completed a logo for Baby Dave's.

Allan Durham was in need of a logo for his new restaurant opening in Shallowater, TX. He requested the design to be based on a picture of his father, Baby Dave. Their initial idea was to use an animated, cartoon-like mockup. After several attempts it was clear this approach was not the best. The new direction included a "rough sketch" of Baby Dave's face and a font style that suggested the country flavor of the store.

Anyone else need any logo work? I'm enjoying this...

Pitch Pipecast: Episode 12 - Keith Lancaster

2009-01-30T23:50:00.004-06:00

The Pipecast is back!

The Pitch Pipecast returns after a year's hiatus with Gary Moyers and co-host Wes McKinzie. Special guest for episode 12 is Keith Lancaster.

Keith joins Gary and Wes to discuss Acafest 2009. They cover the history of the seminar turned festival, the future, the plans for this year and specifically the AVB Reunion Concert.

You can access the podcast homepage at www.pitchpipepro.com.

Or, you can download this episode directly from this link:

Aerial Inauguration

2009-01-21T12:19:00.004-06:00

Ever wondered what 2 million people at an inauguration looks like? Try this:

On the far right you see the blue roof of the capitol building. The dark mass in front of it is the crowd out front. As you move down the Mall to the left, you see various other dark masses of people. This shot was taken during the swearing-in ceremony from the GeoEye-1 satellite, 423 miles above the National Mall traveling from north to south at about 17,000 mph.

Pimp my Mac #1

2009-01-10T16:15:00.006-06:00

I have pretty much made the switch from PC to Mac. I held on for a while, living in both worlds. This week, I am transferring all my personal files off my PC in my office (bedroom) and sending the PC to my daughter's room. And I'm giving my Toshiba laptop to my son. That leaves me with a Mac Pro and a Macbook Pro.

I have always been a fan of the underdog, doing my best to utilize the really good programs that don't carry the Big Dog names (ala, Adobe, Macroshaft, etc). I figured I might as well share the programs I really like. Thus, Pimp my Mac #1.

It was hard to choose where to begin, but for this entry we start with Pixelmator, an excellent image editor designed for the Mac. And that's one of the first things you notice when you open the program. You think, "Wow... this is so Mac." The architecture of the program is just pretty. It's the kind of thing you find only in the Mac world.

The program is available as a direct download and has a free 30-day trial. Afterward, the costs is only $59 and well worth it. I use Pixelmator 90% of the time, only opening Photoshop when I have to. For seriously advanced editing, Photoshop is still the way to go. But for everyday image editing, which I do a lot of as a web designer, Pixelmator is great.

I won't go into details on the program since the website is very good and provides an in-depth overview. I will say if you are short on bucks and need a good image editor, terminate Photoshop and pick up the Pixelmator. Now read that last sentence again with a Schwarzenegger accent.

By the way, you may ask what I plan to do with the kid's current computers if they are both getting my old ones. Ashley's Dell may get set up somewhere in the house as a backup for my wife. I may have changed to Mac, but she's not going quietly. In the spirit of going with the underdog, as I mentioned earlier, Austin's Dell will soon become a Linux box. Ubuntu awaits.

And he smiles.

Walking on Water

2009-01-06T08:50:00.002-06:00

Here is today's entry in my personal journal. I don't often share this kind of thing, but for some reason this one is supposed to be shared. I have copied and pasted directly from my journal.

John 6: 1-24. Jesus feeds the 5000 and walks on water.

I saw something interesting today in this reading that I’ve not noticed before. It may have not been meant as anything important, but I took it as a small encouragement.

Jesus has just fed 5000 people with almost no food. Everyone is astounded and John says that Jesus went into the mountains to hide because he knew they would try to make him king by force. After a while, the disciples get into a boat and take off to the other side, whereupon they experience a storm. Jesus walks on water to them and immediately the boat reaches the other side. Another miracle.

My question is this: why did the disciples leave in the first place? They’ve just experienced an astounding miracle in the feeding of thousands with nothing. They knew where Jesus went. They surely saw him withdraw into the mountains behind them. Why, then, did they get in a boat and head the opposite direction, across the water, from where Jesus went?

I have no answer. All I know is this: when the disciples, who knew better, went the wrong way, Jesus walked on water to go after them. I can only assume that when I do the same, Jesus will come after me. Thank you Lord.

Merry Christmas 2008

2008-12-22T15:52:00.003-06:00

I sent a Christmas Card via email this year. If you did not get one... here is what I wrote. God bless you and thanks for reading my blog.

Gary, Sherri, Ashley and Austin wish you and your family the Christmas season's joys and wonders.

We hope this has been a good year for you. As for us, it continues to be a season of change. This past Thanksgiving marked our 2nd year in Midland, TX. The transition from Corpus Christi has been long and challenging at times, but God has blessed us throughout.

Sherri continues to teach special education at a Junior High here in Midland. She has the "Life Skills" class and I am continually amazed at her level of patience and love for these children, some of which are bigger than her. She had the opportunity to go to a high level training conference in South Carolina this past summer. She was hobnobbing with Special Ed teachers from all over the world.

At 14, Ashley seems to be blossoming. Her first year here in Midland was one of the toughest years she's had yet, but 2008 seemed to settle her some. She is still heavily involved in dance and would like to find more advanced teachers. As an option, she is adding drama to her list of extra-curricular activities in January. Midland Community Theater offers a high school drama group and she's excited about adding more drama to her life.

Austin grew 4 feet in two weeks, or so it seemed. At 12, he is now taller than his sister, who is taller than her mother. Soccer has always been a joy for him, but his gentle nature makes it harder for him to enjoy competitive sports where others depend on his performance. It's especially hard when you are the goalkeeper. As a 7th grader, he had to choose a sport. He is now on the Midland Christian Middle School tennis team, and he brought home 2nd place in his first two multi-school tournaments.

I started a new job with Mission Health Care in early January. After seven months, I left that position due to highly unethical behavior on the part of certain members of the board. That is a story in itself, one that I'll not spend time on here.

In September, I had the opportunity to reconnect with the Moyers side of the family. This was obviously God's plan all along. I am now working with my cousin Wally as part of Moyers Sound Solutions. We are an audio/visual/lighting company that designs and builds systems for organizations all over the country, primarily churches. I am also doing a heavy load of design work with Studio84, an audio/video production company owned by Wally.

I am excited about future prospects with Wings Point Ministries, the non-profit arm of Moyers Sound. For years, they've been installing new systems in churches. The question always arises, "What do we do with the old stuff?" I will be helping Wings Point provide an answer to that question. Lord willing, we will soon begin collecting old systems that are still useable and making them available to inner city and third world churches. Please keep this effort in your prayers.

Once again, Merry Christmas. May God bless you and yours in this wonderful season. Enjoy the holiday.

The Moyers Family

Baptisms... Baptizms... Baptismz.. Gettin' Dunked

2008-12-21T23:42:00.003-06:00

I had the chance to witness a really cool baptism service today. Short of my own kids, this was about the neatest I've seen.

We visited Mid Cities Community Church this morning. Sherri was hit with another bad migraine and couldn't go. I hate that. She would have really appreciated this.

Mid Cities is one of those big Baptist churches that built a new building out in the country and changed it's name, much the same as is happening all over the country. They're doing it mostly right. But this is not an entry about the church. This is about the baptisms.

They have baptism classes every couple of months that culminate in "Baptism Sunday." I did not attend 1st service, but they said 7 children were baptized. During 2nd service, which I attended, they had 15 adults (I think, I lost count).

The first 5 went as one would expect. It was no different than other baptisms I've seen, though that did not make them any less moving. Then it really got fun. They introduced a father and son. The son was a young college kid, probably 19 or 20. The father looked my age (which is looking younger all the time). Anyway, the son came down to baptize the father, which I did not expect. He was very nervous, but the bear hug of affection after he came up was a sight to see. Father and son.

Next, a husband and wife were introduced. The husband came down first and was baptized. Then his wife joined him and the husband baptized her! He had to be coached on what to say, but the deed was done. And then they both stood in the water, embracing each other and crying.

Several more married couples were baptized as well. It left me a little breathless when it was all done.

Coming from a background where you were dunked as soon as you make the decision, I seldom ever got a chance to see more than one at a time. To see so many in succession today was truly a blessing.

Star Trek meets Monty Python

2008-12-07T21:57:00.002-06:00

I ran across this on You Tube while I was uploading some stuff from work. For me, this is almost the perfect video. The audio is from Monty Python and the Holy Grail while the video is a montage from the original Star Trek series. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Project #3 and SkyView

2008-12-04T07:25:00.002-06:00

Next big project is mostly complete. SkyView Helicopters is offering Christmas Lights Tours around Lubbock through December. I had about two weeks to get a website up and put together several print and email marketing pieces. I think it has been successful. Wally tells me the phone is ringing off the wall and there's a pretty good buzz going on about it in Lubbock. Here is the site if you want to take a look.

Of course, not all that buzz is due to my efforts alone. They've worked their tails off passing out flyers, posters and such. And they've put together a commercial (which you can see on the front page of the site) as well as a great radio campaign. KLLL alone has done wonders.

So if you're in Lubbock over the holidays, give SkyView a call. See the lights the way Santa sees them!

On to the next project.

Texas Film Deck

2008-11-22T16:51:00.002-06:00

I've started a new blog.

As some of you know, I've been filming the football games for Midland Christian this year. I'm always wondering what we're walking into when it comes to stadiums. As I searched around on the Internet, I noticed there were lots of sites about the overall stadiums themselves, but nothing about the film deck.

So, I'm doing it. I realize this topic will only be interesting to a select few. There are only so many people out there filming under Friday night lights. But for those who are into it, I'm trying to catalog all the film decks I"ve seen and give each one a grade.

Check it out. Texas Film Deck.

Project #2 and WFX

2008-10-30T14:42:00.005-05:00

One good use of blogs, I suppose, is to let people know when you've finished a project. Or maybe it's just a way to celebrate finishing one even if no one else cares. Either way, project #2 is done.

Or at least as done as a website ever gets. They are continually under construction. But this one's pretty done. Medium well, at least. The new Moyers Sound Solutions site is the subject of my salient soliloquy. You can see it here in all it's glory.

For anyone else traveling next week, I will be at WFX, the Worship Facilities Conference and Expo, in Houston. Moyers Sound has a booth there and I'll be hanging out talking with church tech people. If you're in Houston and would like to attend the Expo free of charge, let me know and I can send you a link that will get you through the gates.

I guess I took a step this past weekend. Burke Brack was leading worship at GCR and they were short on tenors. He asked if I'd sing with the team. I haven't been on that stage in, well let's see... almost 15 months. I did not want to go up there because I knew my heart would not be right. I still had some troubles, but overall it went well.

Afterwards, Marc Kondrup (my former assistant and now he pretty much runs the show) asked me if I was interested in regular rotation on one of the teams. My reply? "One step at a time, dear Savior."

SkyView Helicopters

2008-10-22T22:48:00.002-05:00

I am really enjoying working with Moyers Sound Solutions and Studio84. For the first few months, I am concentrating my efforts on marketing, trying to catch these companies up to where they need to be.

I have completed my first website for them. It was done for SkyView Helicopters, one of our side businesses. You can see the new site here. As I write this, I am about two days away from completing a pretty deep site for Moyers Sound Solutions... by far the biggest site I've done yet. I'll post that when it's done.

After that, I have at least two more sites to do. I also have a big convention in November that we're doing and I am in charge of the booth. Then I have to line up several other conventions, write a couple of magazine articles, line up advertising in several magazines, and that's just the beginning.

This is all eerily similar to what I did for the Acappella Company from 2000 to 2004. I think that may be why I enjoy it. That, and I get to work from home. No more dressing up for the clients, at least until I hit the road and start doing system consulting and sales.

New Horizons

2008-09-23T14:47:00.003-05:00

It appears God has provided a new job for me, one that draws on my years of experience in the music industry. As you may have read below, I left my position with Mission Health Care about a month ago due to some seriously unethical behavior within the board of directors. About the time all of this came to a head, I was reintroduced to the Moyers family through a reunion.

Long story short: I am stepping into a position with Moyers Sound Solutions and Studio84. Moyers Sound is owned by two of my cousins, Wally Moyers and his son Jeremy. Wally has been running Moyers Sound Solutions in Lubbock for 20 years, installing sound, video and lighting systems in churches, concert halls, businesses and stadiums all over Texas. Jeremy opened up an Atlanta office in 2006 and has been focusing on taking his division nationally. I will be working out of the Atlanta office.

Studio84 is a professional recording studio and video production company. With studios in both Lubbock and Atlanta, they offer top-level audio recording and HD video services such as commercials, promotional video, aerial photography and video, and much more. I will also add website development to their list of offerings.

It seems that this is right up my alley. I will post more information soon. In the meantime, if your church or business is in need of audio/visual support or consultation, give us a call. I'm sure we can help you.

Fantasy Football

2008-09-07T21:12:00.003-05:00

I have never ventured into the world of fantasy sports. This year, my brother-in-law, Kendall, talked me into joining a family and friends football league. Sherri and I are co-coaching the team. It gives us something to do together, and she's pretty good. The family that plays fantasy together, stays together... or something like that.

Most of our players did moderately well, as we'd planned. One problem we did not expect, Peyton Manning had an off night. We don't have Manning on our team, but we do have Marvin Harrison and Dallas Clark. Their numbers were down because Peyton was a little off. And then Dallas Clark went out injured.

The other BIG problem was that our starting QB, Tom Brady, got injured in the 1st quarter. Fantasy coaches all over America are holding their breath at this point. Brady is a big point player.

I think I'm getting too deep into this too quickly.

And I just saw a commercial where Peyton Manning dogged soccer. What is this world coming to?

A-Hunting We Will Go

2008-09-02T10:56:00.004-05:00

Read the title and think Elmer Fudd. Memories, huh?

We took a big step yesterday. I took my son hunting for the first time. Dove season opened yesterday so Alan Gower and I and our boys went out to his dove lease. Austin has been a big BB-gun and airsoft gun person for a while. I figured he could handle it. I asked if he wanted to come along and he jumped on it.

I never had the chance to hunt with my father. He wasn't really a hunter. But after spending 15 years in Tennessee, I saw how important it was for a father and son to bond over a hunt. So I grabbed a little 410 shotgun and ran him through the basics of gun care and safety. He only fired accidentally once. Not bad for a first time. Thankfully, he had the gun pointed into the dirt pile in front of us, which is what I told him to do. He learned a lesson quickly.

Anyway, neither of us hit anything. We went out in the middle of the afternoon to avoid crowds and make it easier on the kids, but nothing was flying. Still, we had a good time.

My son is hunter. Cool.

Just for fun he says, "Get a job."

2008-08-26T21:47:00.004-05:00

With apologies to Bruce Hornsby, I am back in the job market. I have resigned my position as Executive Director of Mission Health Care. Today's board meeting resembled more of a lynching than anything else. I have never experienced the level of vehemence, animosity, underhanded behavior, and orchestrated attack as I did today in our board meeting.

Details aside, when it all shook out there were an even number of directors falling on each side. That is not good enough for me to continue. There is no way that I will put up with such behavior from a board and remain associated with the organization. I walk away with my integrity in place.

Of course, integrity won't pay the bills. But God has a plan for me. I have never lacked what I needed. I know this will be the same. I just hope the clients at Mission are not overly effected by this. I have a feeling that, after my departure, there will be more turbulence. The former E.D. has taken her position back. So say a prayer for me and my family and for Mission Health Care. We all need it.

More info later...

Back to School

2008-08-26T08:26:00.004-05:00

Yes Virginia, he does have ears.

School started yesterday and this past Saturday I finally got Austin into a barber's chair. Or at least into a chair at SuperCuts. I don't know if there's a good old barber shop in Midland anywhere. Surely there is. I'd love Austin to experience the old barber shop atmosphere instead of a shop full of tattooed and pierced ladies talking about which bar they're going to as soon as they can lock the doors to keep people out of the shop.

I think hair style salons are a good microcosm of our society. Give me a good old barber shop any day. Wanna fix America? Two things. Jesus and barber shops.

Austin started Jr. High and Ashley started High School this week. Where did my little kids go? I found some pictures the other day of my kids when they were little. I'll post some of those soon. What a change.

Austin also started tennis at school and a new soccer season. Somehow, he got changed over to a new team, one he played against last year. He is now a Rhino instead of an Icebreaker. Personally, I think it's a good change. He fits better. The coach has two teams, a U-13 and a U-15. They practice together, which is good for the U-13. Austin gets to scrimmage against older, better players twice a week. And somehow, I ended up as assistant coach. Here we go again...

Moyers Sound Solutions

2008-08-10T17:36:00.005-05:00

This past weekend I had the opportunity to make a few connections. Maybe "re-connections" is a better phrase. My family was able to attend the Moyers family reunion in Shallowater, TX.

It's been many years since I've been able to attend, and I am sad to say that my children don't know most of the Moyers side of my family. It was a great day and everyone in my family had a wonderful time. Austin almost wrecked a golf cart, so he had a good day. Ashley got to swim and found a friend, so she had a good day. Sherri got to meet lots of relatives and put part of the Moyers puzzle together. And I had the chance to spend some time with one of my cousins, Wally Moyers.

The reunion was held at Wings Point, Wally's hanger out in Shallowater. About once a month, he hosts a musical ministry event there at Wings Point. Wally comes from a family of musicians, and he married into another musical family, the Maines family. Wally's son, Jeremy, played with the country group Lonestar for many years. Another son, Swade, runs Studio 84 in Lubbock. And Wally's dad, Wally, was a well known musician in West Texas for many years. Wally and his two sons, Jeremy and Swade, run Moyers Sound Solutions. If your church is in need of a new sound system or an upgrade, Moyers Sound Solutions can help you out.

Anyway, Wally's been involved in music for many years, as have I. It's a shame that we have never had the chance to play together. That was rectified over the weekend. Wally, his wife Latronda and I did four songs together for the reunion folks. He played guitar and I fumbled around on mandolin (I'm glad Wally was patient) and sang. Latronda sang as well... she has a beautiful voice. I really enjoyed it. It's been way too long in coming. I hope to make a return trip up to Shallowater and help them out with Wings Point Ministries.

Hair Boy

2008-08-07T22:26:00.002-05:00

Last summer, we allowed Austin to grow out his hair over the summer. You may have seen a picture of him at the end of the season. This summer we allowed him to do the same.

Welcome to Season 2.

This time around, Ashley got hold of him late one afternoon and pulled out her hair straightener. When his hair gets long, it gets really curly. So this was a strange look for us all. This is Austin at 12 with straight hair.

And one eye.

Psalm 5

2008-08-04T12:24:00.002-05:00

It's not often, for me at least, that a scripture just jumps off the page and gives me peace. I have been going through some tuff stuff recently with my employment. For the past couple of weeks, since I came across this scripture again, I've been claiming its promise. If you are going through anything stressful or if anyone is coming against you today, maybe it will help you too. Shalom.

Psalm 5
For the director of music. For flutes. A psalm of David.
1 Give ear to my words, O LORD,
consider my sighing.

2 Listen to my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.

3 In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you
and wait in expectation.

4 You are not a God who takes pleasure in evil;
with you the wicked cannot dwell.

5 The arrogant cannot stand in your presence;
you hate all who do wrong.

6 You destroy those who tell lies;
bloodthirsty and deceitful men
the LORD abhors.

7 But I, by your great mercy,
will come into your house;
in reverence will I bow down
toward your holy temple.

8 Lead me, O LORD, in your righteousness
because of my enemies—
make straight your way before me.

9 Not a word from their mouth can be trusted;
their heart is filled with destruction.
Their throat is an open grave;
with their tongue they speak deceit.

10 Declare them guilty, O God!
Let their intrigues be their downfall.
Banish them for their many sins,
for they have rebelled against you.

11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad;
let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

12 For surely, O LORD, you bless the righteous;
you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

DigitalFish Media

2008-07-27T17:32:00.006-05:00

It always amazes how God works out the timing of things. Short version for all you skimmers: Less than a week after I wrote my last post, I started a new media company with Alan Gower called DigitalFish Media. Now, as Inigo Montoya said, "Let me 'splain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up."

Alan and I have both been offering media services for a couple of years around Midland. Video services, website development, marketing, etc. We've been dabbling in this and that. Through a series of events, Alan found himself looking for a new job. He kept running into the same old corporate HR department run around... and he had just finished reading the book 48 Days to the Work You Love.

That book is gonna get someone in trouble someday.

If you've read any of my previous posts, you know I am not entirely at ease with my new job. I would love to be able to do what I enjoy for a living. Alan was in the same boat, but his boat is sinking faster since he is currently out of a job. We both have the talent for this kind of thing. He has the marketing degree and the personality to go out and shake the bushes. So, we began this new company. I will continue to work my regular job (for now) during the day. Weeknights and weekends I'll help support Alan in the work load of DigitalFish Media.

It's all very new and we are still putting our business plan together. He spent the last week at Camp Opportunity as videographer. We are already contracted as the official media company of Midland Christian Football. We'll be filming all the games this year. Many things are coming together quickly. I'll let you know more soon.

In the mean time, if you or your company needs a web presence or someone to freshen up your old, stale site, let us know. We offer many other services as well. For more information (or at least as much as we know right now), visit our website at DigitalFishMedia.com.

48 Days

2008-07-04T16:52:00.004-05:00

I recently read a book called 48 Days to the Work You Love. I loved the premise of the book. One of the things it stressed was the concept of not relying on one job. Why not create several income streams based on the things you enjoy and the things you do well. Then you could work for yourself. If there's a problem, fire yourself and try something else.

Something like that would be another step of faith, but many others have taken this path. Jerome Williams come to mind immediately, and those of you who know him would agree. So I began thinking about what combined income streams I could pull off, do well, and honor God by doing it?

Here's what I've come up with:

1. Booking Agent - I've had a lot of experience dealing with groups and events. I know what's expected and what it takes. Might I be able to contract several groups and do my own booking thing?

2. Event Videographer - I'm already doing some of this. Last year I did all the video for Midland Christian's elementary school programs, and then sold the videos of the event to the families. It was a no-brainer kind of thing. Could I expand to other schools and events as well?

3. Wedding Videographer - I have one wedding under my belt and another coming up. I already have the equipment that I bought for the event stuff. And there's always a market for weddings.

4. Website Design - I've done many sites for many people. All of them free to this point. Maybe I could contact the small businesses out there who have no web presence, or a bad one. I can do it quick and cheap and nice.

5. Arranging and songwriting - Long term income. But I definitely have experience.

6. Worship Leading - Why not make myself available for worship leading at special events for other churches and organizations?

I need some wisdom. You're reading this. What do you think? Please leave a comment or drop me an email. I'd love to get some input. There is wisdom in the council of many, especially if the many happen to be tuned into God's frequency.

Oh, and happy Independence Day.

Tough Day

2008-07-03T15:15:00.003-05:00

As days go, this is a tough one. And it's only 3:16.

I've been dealing with some job-threatening persecution at work. That's another story and it's been going for several weeks now. Needless to say, it's caused some stress knowing I may loose my job again, all because I'm a Christian.

This morning, I was downtown taking care of some business. As I was pulling out of the street parking, I was rear-end by a Grand Cherokee. Never heard brakes squeal. I didn't see him and he didn't see me. The collision threw me back through my parking space and up onto the curb. My car is messed up pretty bad in the back, but it is driveable. I am ok, but I think I'll need some serious chiro work. My neck feels pretty messed up.

Three hours later, my wife had a wreck. She rear-ended a new Chevy Tahoe. The Tahoe literally didn't even have a scratch. Sherri's car was totaled. Austin was with her and was able to call her attention to the stopped car just in time for her to slow down a little, but it was a pretty hard smack. They are both ok, but Sherri's chest hurts pretty bad from the air bag. She sits very close to the steering wheel and there wasn't much space for the bag to do its thing.

So we went from two cars to one car with a hole in the back in the space of three hours. Thankfully, Ashley is away at camp. As long as they don't call and say she broke her arm, I think we're safe for the rest of the day. We're not leaving the house. No one is walking upstairs or they might fall. No one is showering for fear of falling and breaking something. We're not going to cook lest we burn down the house.

Ok, maybe not quite that much. But thanks be to God we're all well...

In Country

2008-06-13T21:21:00.002-05:00

Ashley has been in Mexico for the past few days on a mission trip. We've been awaiting word of how it went.

Around 2:30 this afternoon, my wife received a text message from Ashley that read as follows:

"I am once again a US citizen. I am currently chowing down on DQ."

I guess she's OK... my little 14 year-old non-communicative missionary.

Legends

2008-06-09T10:39:00.002-05:00

It's not very often you get to see a gathering of legends in one place. This is one of those times. The recording was made in the Netherlands a few years ago. The background band is full of some pretty famous faces as well, but up front you have none other than Ray Charles, Jerry Lee Lewis and Fats Domino. The whole band improvises their way through a couple of songs. Enjoy.

A Daughter in High School

2008-06-03T18:42:00.002-05:00

This is one of those times where you feel a little bit old. Do any of you out there remember the song I wrote in 1993 called "Rockin' Song?" Sherri was expecting a child, our first. I was co-producing the new Acappella Lullabies album and I wanted to write a song about my little girl that was on the way. The song turned out to be a favorite of many people and Ashley turned out to be my favorite daughter. :)

Anyway, she was born the week of the big ice storm in Tennessee, the 2nd week of February, 1994. We had to actually schedule the delivery so I could be home... February 14. The morning of the 12th we wake up and hear shotgun blasts outside. At least, we thought it was guns.

Turns out, the ice was so thick it was breaking off big limbs from the trees. I'm talking the big ones... the limbs that could be trees themselves. By 8:00 AM the power was gone. Gone over most of Tennessee. We're laying in bed wondering how much damage there is, how we're going to get around, how to deliver a baby in 48 hours, and how to cook with an electric stove and no power.

Between convenience stores with gas stoves (the Tackle Box), friends with pot-bellied stoves (Larry Sparks) and generators at the hospital, Ashley was born into an ice storm on Feb. 14, 1994.

Fourteen years later, my little Rockin' Song girl is going to High School and wearing formals. I'm very proud of her, but I miss the days when we had our own language and could talk for hours without saying one intelligible word. Life goes on.

Lord please bless my daughter so that she may grow strong in Your word.

West Texas Windvitational 2008

2008-05-26T11:17:00.003-05:00

This past Memorial Day weekend, Austin's soccer team participated in the West Texas Invitational Cup 2008 in Lubbock, TX. After all these years of playing, it was Austin's first tournament. If you don't want to read the whole post, here's the short version:

Six games in two days with 95+ degree temperature and constant winds of 30+ mph and gusts over 50 mph.

Austin was the only goalkeeper in his flight of 5 teams to produce a shutout.

Austin made the game winning save in overtime of the finals.

The Icebreakers took 3rd place in their age bracket of 9 teams.

Longer version but still good reading:

Game 1: Saturday 8:00 AM. Icebreakers 4 – Hobbs Santos 4. This was the team that defeated the Icebreakers 8-0 last year. Most of them were small and lightning fast. It was a high paced game (since we now have some pretty quick kids out front) and the game ended in a draw. Everyone was pretty pleased at that.

Game 2: Saturday 11:45 AM. Icebreakers 4 – Lubbock Texas Thunder 0. Austin was in the goal the entire game and this was his shutout. His first clean sheet. That made the weekend pretty sweet.

Game 3: Saturday 3:30 PM. Icebreakers 1 – Lubbock Rowdies 3. The Rowdies went on to eventually win the tournament, although their style of play was very unorthodox. They got a couple of points ahead and then spent the majority of the rest of the game kicking the ball out of bounds. They used the wind for this. They would purposely kick as hard as they could with the wind. Our guys would spend 60 seconds chasing the ball across two other fields just to get it back, throw it in and have them boot it across the park again. Half the game wasn't played because we were tiring ourselves out chasing balls. We spoke to the 2nd place team at the end and they said the exact same thing happened to them. Shame...

Game 4: Sunday 7:45 AM. Icebreakers 2 – Borger HC Heat 1. Both teams had to win to advance to the finals. It was very hard fought and they scored the leveling goal within the last minute. But the linesman's flag went up and the goal was disallowed because one of the players was called offside. Afterward, the Heat refused to line up and shake hands with us. It wasn't very pretty. The referee forced them to line up and shake hands. I'm sure they protested to the tourney commissioner, because they were all over the ref afterwards. But it was a good call and we advanced to the finals.

Game 5: Sunday 11:00AM. Icebreakers 1 – San Antonio Bombers 4. In my opinion, this was the best team in our age bracket. It was hard to tell though, as the wind played a major factor. It was constant and literally 30 mph and harder at times. Any kicks against the wind just died. This was also a hard game for Austin. The coach wasn't paying attention and forgot to put him in the game. She even called him up to the sub spot and then forgot he was there. She subbed in two others while he was standing there. When she realized what she had done, she said “I'm so sorry!” But she never attempted to put him in again. He sat there 20 minutes waiting for her to do something. She never did. I almost lost it at the end. Her actions were inexcusable. She humiliated my son. We went back to our cousin's house for a couple of hours and considered our options. In the end, Austin said he would give it one more try, despite the coach's actions. I'm glad we returned, because...

Game 6: Sunday 3:00 PM. Icebreakers 5 – Midland Chaos 4. This was the consolation final for 3rd place and we were playing our old local rival, Chaos. We'd already played them twice this year and lost by 1 and tied 1. The kids were pumped for this game.

Austin was in the goal for most of the game. We ended the first half down 2-1. We were against the wind in the 2nd half. But the front four came out ready to play and we scored three unanswered points in the first four minutes. Over the next 20 minutes, Chaos scored twice more drawing them even and the coach pulled Austin out of the goal. After the previous game, he was pretty dejected that he had allowed four goals and gotten pulled. It was hard for him to see that he had stopped a lot more than he had allowed. The game ended level at 4-4. Overtime.

Austin sat out the first 10 minute overtime period. We scored pretty quickly into it and were up 5-4. We both assumed his playing time was done for the day. They had 60 seconds to break and prepare for the last 10 minute overtime period and the coach yelled, “Austin, in the goal!” Surprise, surprise. We scramble to get him back into his keeper clothing.

The last period begins and we are against the wind, but up by one point. It goes back and forth several times with shots on goal at both ends. I am timing the game and everyone keeps asking me how much is left. We get down to one minute and it's a corner kick on Austin's end. It goes back out. Another corner. 30 seconds left. Kick. Out of bounds. 15 seconds left. Another corner. Out of bounds. Goal kick this time.

At this point, the time has well-expired, but it's the referees call when the game ends. I know from being a former ref that this can be a tough thing. For one, the ball must be in play for the game to end. Also, refs generally don't call the game when there is a good chance that a score might be made. It usually ends in a riot. So I'm thinking, “Ok, Austin will make the goal kick, clear the box and get it out into the field and the ref will call the game.”

Austin makes the kick head level and it barely clears the box, landing at the feet of a Chaos player with the wind at his back. Inside I'm screaming “NO!” Chaos plants and kicks a beautiful shot over every one's head, but basically straight at Austin. He reaches up and pulls the ball down, but looses the grip and it bounces forward. Two Chaos players are on it immediately. In the three longest seconds of the weekend, Austin fights them in front of the goal and gets the ball back in his hands. He runs to the edge of the box and clears it out. And immediately, tweet tweet tweet. Game over. My boy saved the game with his time-expired grab. Thank you Lord.

We came home with a trophy and sun-aged skin. The trip home through the major duststorm in Lamesa and the lightning show north of Midland is another story.

Generations

2008-05-21T22:07:00.004-05:00

For the past several months, I have had the opportunity to be part of a class called Generations. It is offered each year by the Nonprofit Management Center and the Permian Basin Area Foundation. The class is targeted toward 20-30 year old young professionals and the purpose is to train the next generation for board service in local non-profit organizations.

It is a wonderful 8-week class and it thoroughly prepares you to carry your weight well as a member of a board. Although I am slightly older than the stated target for the class, I still got to participate. I was able to look at the information through slightly different eyes, that of an Executive Director of a non-profit. It allowed me to see what my board could be like at Mission Health Care. It also trained me for service elsewhere.

As of yesterday, I was voted onto the board of Community Concerts of Midland, soon to be monikered as Live on Stage. We offer a concert series each year consisting of high quality acts. It helps bring a wide range of arts to the Permian Basin. This past year they offered the Juggernaut Jug Band, the Celtic Tenors, the Harry James Orchestra, Michael Kaeshammer (pianist), On Broadway (a Broadway Revue) and Revolution (a tribute to the Beatles).

I'm not sure what role I may play, but I'm guessing my contribution may have something to do with websites.

And lastly... GO DAVID COOK! Congrats...

Wayburn Dean

2008-05-04T16:37:00.003-05:00

I ran across an old friend today. Wayburn Dean and his wife Janae are here in Midland for a concert at Tru-Lite Fellowship. Unfortunately, I cannot make it for the event since tonight is my daughter's eighth grade graduate banquet. So I ran by the church just after sound check and had a great time talking to them.

For those of you blissfully unaware, Wayburn and I sang together for several years in the group Acappella, along with George Pendergrass and Duane Adams. It was very good to see him again. We had the opportunity to laugh (which I've been short on lately) and just be stupid again.

Wayburn's new album is doing well. He currently has a song at #3 on the charts and I expect there to be more to come. He has a song co-written by another friend, Albert Hall, that should be another chart-topper. Of course, being up on the charts is not the ultimate goal and Wayburn would be quick to tell you that. But it's neat to see that God is still blessing Wayburn's work.

Even is he is an old man now. :)

Follow this link to learn more about Wayburn's ministry.

MLS Rant

2008-05-03T13:51:00.002-05:00

I'm mad at MLS (Major League Soccer) and the Fox Soccer channel.

I can watch no end of English Premiere League games. They are on all the time and I enjoy them. But when I want to watch MLS, I get very few choices. Today, for instance, there is one game being shown on FSC. Ah, but there are FOUR on the upper tier game net channels. You have to pay extra to see those.

MLS, you say you want to get more folks watching soccer and increase the sport in the USA, but you put the games in a place where no one but die-hard fans with extra money can watch. Who's running programming anyway? Get a clue.

End of rant.

Garden Beds

2008-04-27T20:58:00.003-05:00

I have finally finished my third round of garden beds. They have gotten progressively smaller.

My first set was in Paris, TN. We had 2 acres of land and an old horse corral sat up on the hill by the barn. I built six raised beds, two big trellises and a strawberry pyramid. We had quite the garden. I miss that place.

Then we moved to Corpus Christi. We had 1/3 an acre backyard, still pretty big. So I built a garden with five raised beds and had it enclosed in a chicken wire fence. We moved a year later.

Now that we are in Midland, it was time for round three. The trouble is, our backyard would fit inside that corral I had in Tennessee. Plus our dogs just love digging. Nothing pleases them more, other than a good smelly trashcan. So I had to work creatively.

There was a small area on the side of our backyard that would barely allow for three 4x8 beds. Plus, I needed to fence it off because of the dogs. So you see my solution. I think it turned out pretty well. Now it's Sherri's baby.

I hope this doesn't mean were moving again. Although, I'm getting pretty good at it by now. Building, not moving.

Shutout!

2008-04-05T18:46:00.002-05:00

Short version: Icebreakers 7 - Chili Peppers 0.

Longer version: Austin has not played soccer since we left Corpus Christi. I didn't want to push him into something he really didn't want to do. This Spring he told me he was ready to play. I jumped on it quickly (since I bleed green and my cell phone ringtone has the recording of that Spanish guy screaming "goooooooooooooooal!").

Austin has played 10 seasons or so. He's never really been on a seriously good team. And he's always been one of the smallest on the team.

No longer.

Now Austin towers over everyone else on the team. He's grown 4 inches in the past three months. He was placed on a recreational team that has club level players. I don't think the league realized who they had put together, but the center striker grew up in Norway. He scored three from the top of the box today, all long shots over the keeper into the top corner. Sweet.

We have a long legged girl on wing that outruns everyone and has a great cross. She served up several great balls into the box today. And then there are the brothers. Have you seen Kicking and Screaming with Will Ferrell? Remember the two Italian brothers who played soccer like it was breathing? They are also on our team. They were juggling, passing and dribbling around people like flowing water. It was truly fun to watch.

Austin sat out the first half and played keeper in the 2nd half. He kept it a shutout. Our team is called the Icebreakers. Today was a good start. I'm glad he's playing again.

GOP - DOA?

2008-04-01T20:38:00.002-05:00

This is a reprint of an article posted at ConstitutionParty.com. I am not endorsing or dismissing the Constitution Party, but this article makes sense. You decide.

Primary turnout and recent surveys show conservative "values" voters have abandoned the Republican Party.

Illustrating a dramatic about face from past elections, a recent study shows that if the election were held today, 40% of all evangelical Christian voters would choose the Democratic candidate and just 29% would choose the Republican candidate. The remaining 28% are undecided, saying they would make their selection without respect to party affiliation.

A Barna Group release titled: Born Again Voters No Longer Favor Republican Candidates cites figures that spell doom for the Republican Party, given that "in the past couple of elections, the born again vote represented about half of the total number of votes cast in the U.S. (and)... given the close tally in 2004, the born again vote (is) vital."

"The political pendulum hasn't swung this far since the Whig Party became extinct back before the Civil War," noted Constitution Party National Committee Chairman Jim Clymer. "Just as the Republican Party, then a third party, wound up deposing the Whigs, we're seeing the demise of the Republican party because voters have decided it's lost its relevance. That explains the steady and solid growth of the Constitution Party," Clymer added.

The Constitution Party, on course to have ballot access in all 50 states this November, is the largest and fastest-growing third party based on voter registrations (Ballot Access News).

"Conservative voters have made it clear they want no part of the Grand Old Party. Statistics show many are saying they will no longer buy into 'party loyalty' when their party has been anything but loyal to them. With candidates like Senators McCain, Obama and Clinton in the mix, voters will correctly assume they have nothing to lose by voting their conscience in November — even if that means a vote for a smaller party candidate," Clymer predicted.

George Barna, head of the recent voter preference survey said, "The evangelical vote is up for grabs. In recent elections, the faith vote sided with the Republican candidate.... This year... however, the faith vote cannot be taken for granted. Republican candidates have a tough road ahead of them."

"To succeed in his bid for the White House, McCain must consolidate his support among conservatives, which will not happen just because he is the Republican nominee. In the wake of... Republican scandals... and... failure to advance... the social conservative agenda,... support for the GOP has diminished," wrote Tony Perkins of the Christian political advocacy group the Family Research Council. Likewise, GOPUSA notes: "The problem the GOP faces is with turnout. Plain and simple, more (than double the number of) Democrats are voting in the primaries than Republicans."

The Constitution Party will choose a presidential candidate at its April 23-26th Nominating Convention in Kansas City, Mo.

garymoyers.com

2008-03-19T22:25:00.002-05:00

No, it is not a vanity site. For a while, I've been trying to figure out a way to make what I do as a hobby available to everyone else. That way I can continue my hobby and make a little back from it as well.

So, my name dot com is a site that will hopefully draw a few clients my way. It will show samples of the musical arrangements I have done and highlight website I have created. If you know of anyone who needs some music put to paper, or a small business that needs a new or redesigned web presence, tell them about garymoyers.com.

Ok, so maybe it's a little bit vanity. I gotta sell myself. :)

Misc. Ramblings

2008-03-03T14:15:00.003-06:00

I have a few thoughts, none of which deserve their own entry. Maybe they will work together. Sort of a hodgepodgeblog.

Yesterday I was digging post holes in my back yard and it was 78 degrees and sunny. Today I wake up and it's snowing. Tomorrow it's supposed to be 68 degrees. Something is fundamentally wrong about that. Don't tell Al Gore. He might write another book about it and get more facts wrong.

I was listening to the classic rock channel on Pandora.com this past Saturday. For some reason, they were nailing just about every song. I came up with a list of the best rock singers ever in the history of mankind that no one can argue with.

1. Brad Delp (Boston)
2. Steve Walsh (Kansas)
3. Steve Perry (Journey)
4. Freddie Mercury (Queen)
5. Nancy Wilson (Heart)

Yes, there were other bands that were great, but they didn't always have the best lead singer, such as Foreigner, Styx, Pink Floyd, etc.

March is colorectal cancer month. In honor of this prestigious event, I present you a song. The Colorectal Surgeon Song.

New Job

2008-01-31T16:05:00.000-06:00

I mentioned that I would update you on my new job. I am the new Executive Director of Mission Center Adult Day Service. We are a non-profit organization that provides adult day care services for clients who are not capable of spending the day by themselves. The majority of our clients suffer from Alzheimer's, although we have other medical diagnosis patients as well.

I have spent the last month under the training and guidance of the former ED, Terry Smith. She has served as director for six years and done an amazing job. The Center was in pretty serious straights when she took over and she has brought it to a stable standing with a great reputation in the community. She has many years of experience and has tirelessly drilled it into my bald head for the past month. Today was her last day. I am on my own now (he says shriveling into the corner).

Working with Alzheimer's has been an enlightening experience. It is a ministry in itself and I have learning much in the past month. These are sweet people who have been ravaged by a disease with no cure... yet.

We have one lady who has owned (and still does) restaurants in the Texas panhandle. She can seldom speak an intelligible sentence and in her mind she is overseeing her own business. We work for her. I love it.

We have another gentleman who was part of the occupation force in Germany after WWII. He was one of the men responsible for rebuilding the country after the war. He is also a member of MENSA. His brilliant mind is mostly scattered now, and what conversation is possible ranges back and forth from English to French to German.

There are many such stories. We have over 40 clients who spend the day with us in our facility and each one is unique. Our mission is not only to serve these clients, but to enhance the lives of their caregivers, most often their adult children. In some cases, it is their spouse who is aging as well but with a sound mind and frail body. Mission Center provides much needed relief.

So, while this may be the first job I've had that is not either music-related or church-affiliated, it is still very much a ministry. Keep me in your prayers.

~ Gary

Pitch Pipecast Episode 11

2008-01-29T20:15:00.001-06:00

Season 2 of the Pitch Pipecast has begun with episode 11. Why season 2? Because it's a convenient way to explain why I took 4 months off from podcasting. "Season 2" sounds better than "he was in a funk because he lost his job and sat around all day trying to figure out what to do."

But I digress... Episode 11 features Marcus Barnum of The Soul Influence. They hail from Houston and have been together for nine years. We feature their new album, You've Gotta Believe. As I was interviewing him, I found out that the album has not even been released as of yet. So this was sort of a pre-release Pipecast. Cool...

You can find Episode 11 at pitchpipepro.com, or as always you can download it directly from this link.

The Golden Compass Revisited

2007-12-31T09:23:00.000-06:00

I mentioned in an earlier post that I would let you know more about the book The Golden Compass after I had read it. You may recall I said there was a good possibility that I would read it long after the movie was released. I finished the book last night.

As far as the movie is concerned, it may be somewhat of a moot point. It has been out for a month or so now and received only fair reviews. Most critics say that the movie gets lost in the details and special effects. It has been panned as "over-reaching" in an attempt to cover every aspect of the book. The viewers have voted with their pocketbooks as well. As of yet, it has not even reclaimed the money it took to make it. Speculation is that there will be no sequel.

I would not count Hollowood out though. And beyond that, video sales in three months may put it way over the top. Which brings me back to the purpose of this post... the content of the book.

I wanted to read this book and see what the hubbub was all about. As a piece of literature, I found it well written and engrossing. It has a very good pace, similar in style to that of the Harry Potter series. No section is too long and it leaves you wanting more each time. It was an enjoyable read.

As to the accusations of anti-Christian themes, I would say there is some merit. Philip Pullman, the author, has been associated with comments ascribing the purpose of the book (and series) to be the gentle corruption of the church in the mind of young people. If there is truth to this, I would say this book certainly plants a seed for that root.

A strong tool for this, I believe, is the constant use of the singular term "daemon." In the series, every human is endowed with an animal form that encompasses their essence, or spirit. It cannot be separate from them without pain and eventual death. These animals speak to the human and the major part of the storyline revolves around them. It is the near constant use of the word daemon that slowly rankles my skin. I, as most other Christians, have strong negative feelings associated with the term demon. Pullman uses this term as an object of affection, something to be desired. He makes his daemons extremely attractive and lovable. By itself, this is not something to damn the book (pardon the pun), but I believe it is somewhat insidious by its repetitive nature.

The book takes place in an alternate universe, a common theme among science fiction and fantasy writers, which allows Pullman great leeway in his factual reporting. He uses this tool to make corrections to what he sees as an an ineffectual church system. The story takes place in the mid 19th century, after the last Pope, Pope John Calvin (which is a statement unto itself), has been deposed and the Catholic church has been replaced by an intellectual/scientific oriented organization called the Magesterium. They are set up as the villain throughout the book. The church is the bad guy, or at least one of the bad guys (there are several).

Again, this alone is not so bad. In some ways I even agree. The problem comes in that there are so many small jabs at Christianity throughout the book, you feel like you've been sucker punched when you hit the last fifteen pages.

It is here, in the last chapter of the book, that Pullman's true nature seems to rise to the top. I'll not reveal the ending, in case some of you wish to read the book, but the actions taken in the final few moments and the conversation that is recorded between the two major "bad guys" takes away any doubt as to Pullman's intentions. In all honesty, I was prepared to write a review basically saying, "what's the big deal?" until I read the final chapter.

Yes, it takes place in an alternate reality. Yes, the church that is so lambasted in the end was a replacement for the church that we know. But it does not feel that way. He even goes as far as re-writing and quoting scripture to fit his alternate reality and twisting theology to take away any personal responsibility for sin.

Final tally: A good read for a mature, intellectual and grounded believer. A dangerous read for non-believers (who would not catch most of the subtlety anyway). I would not recommend it for children (Pullman's stated target).

I can only imagine what books two and three are like. I have heard they are not as veiled as the first. I will not be reading them. ~Gary

Dan Fogelberg 1951-2007

2007-12-23T19:30:00.000-06:00

I was saddened to learn that one of my lifelong musical idols died this past week. I remember my first experience with Fogelberg's music. It was a Jr. High ski trip to Ruidoso, NM and someone brought a homemade compilation tape that included the song Lahaina Luna. I was fascinated by the sound of the song, an instrumental tune from the mostly instrumental album Twin Sons of Different Mothers.

I returned home from the trip determined to find another album by this guy named Fogelburg. I was pleasantly surprised to find that most of his albums contained singing as well. Even better, he was an amazing guitarist. And as I investigated even further, I found that he played the majority of the instruments on his albums. I was hooked.

I had already been involved in guitar lessons under Dave Branson for several years. I found that Fogelberg's finger-picking style was a great match for the style that Dave had started me on. I began learning as many Fogelberg songs as I could. I became somewhat of a Fogelberg junkie.

I even remember a night in college on a quartet tour in California. Robert Hinds and I had the Greatest Hits LP (that's a vinyl record for you young-un's) and we were playing it backwards ala Beatles backward masking style. Sure enough, during the song Power of Gold, we could clearly hear Fogelburg say, “Oooh, you can sleep with anyone, sweet Melinda is the one.” Scandalous. He wasn't saying that when the album was going forward. Like I said, Fogelberg junkie.

It's 30 years later and I am still playing his stuff. He made a big impact on me. I would like to think that wherever he is now, he is still playing. Unfortunately, I never saw any evidence that he ever found the true Inspiration for playing. Such a loss...

Get a Job... Pt. 2

2007-12-22T16:34:00.000-06:00

OK... I did.

Thanks to God, I have finally been offered a job. After five months of searching and countless false leads and dead ends, God has opened a door and I intend to step through it.

Mission Health is a non-profit adult day care that specializes in Alzheimer's patients (although the client list is much wider). The current Executive Director is stepping down on January 1. I have been offered this position. I have not officially signed the contract yet, but it's the weekend now, followed by Christmas eve. I will probably turn it in after Christmas. I begin working Jan 1.

I'm sure I will have much more to say about the new position. It will be a steep learning curve for me, I'm sure. My job is almost completely administration. The health stuff is handled by the people who know how to do health stuff. I'm sure I will certainly lend a hand, but that will not be my main area. I handle human resource, fund-raising, marketing, board functions, etc. It will be a change from my usual music-centered job, but I am looking forward to it.

I will continue to pursue music. I don't believe I have a choice in that. Some interesting things are beginning to crop up in that area. You probably read earlier that I had a chance to lead worship recently at New Life Church in Odessa. I am joining them again for a Christmas Eve service, along with some other players. I would say we have a definite "Eagles" sound. Should be lots of fun. And if God blesses us, at least a two of us may continue to play together doing the coffee house thing. But I will let you know more about that when it happens.

For now, Merry Christmas to all and God bless us everyone.

Still Going...

2007-11-18T09:25:00.000-06:00

Many people have been asking about my job search and how things are going. I have intentionally not commented much about it in this blog. I figure that the ins and outs of a job search are not the best thing to discuss in a public forum. I figure a potential employer probably doesn't need to know about how many people have turned you down, or how many other jobs you are considering. I know if I were considering hiring someone, I would certainly do some searching online to learn more about them.

So, I will say that there are some possibilities coming up that, if the Lord wills, could be a good fit. I'll let you know when something comes up.

I am returning to worship leading this week. I get to lead at New Life Church in Odessa for their Tuesday night Thanksgiving service. And I get to play again. Pull out the old guitar and dust it off. I am really looking forward to playing and worshiping again. Honestly, I have not been excited about a worship service for months. I hope you can understand why. If not, well... that's another blog entry. Probably another book.

More later. God bless.

The Golden Compass

2007-11-01T10:21:00.000-05:00

I've seen previews of this movie coming soon, starring Nicole Kidman. I even bought the book for my son, thinking that this was another "Narnia" type movie and book series. He has not read the book yet. Turns out this is a good thing.

I received an email from a friend recently. It reads as such, "This atheistic author's avowed goal is to "kill God in the minds of children". The author hated C.S. Lewis and wanted to UNDO what C.S. Lewis did in the Chronicles of Narnia. His trilogy has sold over fifteen million copies globally. Spread the word and boycott the movie. Read the article below. Its scary."

I'll leave the boycott issue up to you. But the email pointed to the Snopes site, which is a website dedicated to urban myths and legends. you may visit the site which is located here, but I'll quote some of the site.

"The Golden Compass, a fantasy film starring Nicole Kidman that is scheduled to be released into theaters on 7 December 2007, has been drawing fire from concerned Christians. The film is based on Northern Lights (released in the U.S. as The Golden Compass), the first offering in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy of children's books, a series that follows the adventures of a streetwise girl who travels through multiple worlds populated by witches, armor-plated bears, and sinister ecclesiastical assassins to defeat the oppressive forces of a senile God.

The series' author, Philip Pullman, is an avowed atheist who has averred that "I don't profess any religion; I don't think it's possible that there is a God; I have the greatest difficulty in understanding what is meant by the words 'spiritual' or 'spirituality.'" Critics of Pullman's books point to the strong anti-religion and anti-God themes they incorporate, and although literary works are subject to a variety of interpretations, Pullman left little doubt about his intentions when he said in a 2003 interview with The Sydney Morning Herald that "My books are about killing God." (Conservative British columnist Peter Hitchens labeled Pullman "The Most Dangerous Author in Britain" and described him as the writer "the atheists would have been praying for, if atheists prayed.")"

The article quotes several emails that are circulating. The following are quotes from some of those emails:

"The movie has been dumbed down to fool kids and their parents in the hope that they will buy his trilogy where in the end the children kill God and everyone can do as they please. Nicole Kidman stars in the movie so it will probably be advertised a lot. This is just a friendly warning that you sure won't hear on the regular TV."

"What I thought was important to communicate is what part of the agenda is for making this picture. This movie is a watered down version of the first book, which is the least offensive of the three books. The second book of the trilogy is THE SUBTLE KNIFE and the third book is THE AMBER SPYGLASS. Each book gets worse and worse regarding Pullman's hatred of God. In the trilogy, a young girl becomes enmeshed in an epic struggle against a nefarious Church known as the Magisterium. Another character, an ex-nun, describes Christianity as 'a very powerful and convincing mistake.' As I understand it, in the last book, a boy and girl are depicted representing Adam and Eve and they kill God, who at times is called YAHWEH."

I have the book and plan to read it. I will let you know what I find out, unless the movie comes out before I get it read, which is a distinct possibility.

Laugh #1

2007-10-01T20:01:00.000-05:00

Did you hear about the dyslexic devil-worshiper?

He sold his soul to Santa.

Dust

2007-09-25T14:50:00.000-05:00

Over the past few days, I've found myself in a cycle of depression, anger and confusion. I am told this is normal in my circumstance (loosing my job, for those of you who have not read down further). I've caught myself blaming God, then feeling guilty for thinking those thoughts, then blaming myself, then feeling stupid.

Then I'm usually hungry. Some things never change.

I ran across two things in the past few hours that helped. The first is a song by an artist/producer named Joe Beck. It may not mean much to you, but it helped set my perspective a little clearer. Here's a verse and a chorus:

You magnify my helplessness
That I might see Your faithfulness
I stand in awe because of who You are
Creator of my heart, O God

The Mystery of You in words
When Heaven's mercy kissed the earth
The price completely paid by You alone
I fall before Your throne and I cry

I am dust
I am frail
I am weak
I fail
You are God
You are King
Over all the universe You reign
And I stand amazed that You could truly love
This dust

Then this morning I picked up a book that I was reading and had set aside for a while, Richard Foster's Celebration of Discipline. I vaguely remembered that where I left off had seemed something that I wasn't catching. The importance of it had not settled into me. So I opened up the dog-eared page and looked at the title of the section where I had quit reading.

The Dark Night of the Soul.

It seemed a little more appropriate now. I quote Foster:

What does the dark night of the soul involve? We may have a sense of dryness, aloneness, even lostness. Any overdependence on the emotional life is stripped away... The dark night is one of the ways God brings us into a hush, a stillness so that He may work an inner transformation on the soul... When God lovingly draws us into a dark night of the soul, there is often a temptation to seek release from it and to blame everyone and everything for our inner dullness... Be grateful that God is lovingly drawing you away from every distraction so that you can see him clearly. Rather than chafing and fighting, become still and wait."

And so I quietly wait. I am dust.

Burning Rubber

2007-09-20T11:32:00.000-05:00

Austin was out on his new bike the other day. We were at Grande Stadium and he was breaking it in. In the process, he left some serious tread marks. Take a look...

Get a Job...

2007-09-18T14:48:00.001-05:00

Well, that's what I'm trying to do. I've not posted much here about my job search, or for that matter why I'm even needing a new job. I think I'll continue my self-imposed silence on the situation at GCR.

But as far as jobs are concerned, thus far I have been approaching the search with the thought that I am open to whatever is out there and that God will lead me to the right position. I have even caught myself thinking "just get a job that pays. You can pursue your passion on your off-time." I am beginning to rethink that.

This morning a new acquaintance recommended a book to me. Maybe you've heard of 48 Days to the Work You Love. It is highly recommended by Dave Ramsey (although he is not the new acquaintance I mentioned). The book was released this year (2007) and is written by Dan Miller. I have only read the introduction and first chapter and it's really gotten me to thinking already.

Here is a quote from the first chapter... "Perhaps we can create a definition of work that includes more than just completing duties for a paycheck. What if we were able to create a model for work that included work, play, leisure, and spiritual components? Would it be unreasonable to expect to find fulfilling, enjoyable, spiritually significant, income producing work?" According to Miller, the obvious answer is a resounding "no, it's not unreasonable!"

I truly believe I was in this situation when I worked for Acappella Ministries. I felt the same at Christ Family Fellowship in Corpus Christi. I believe I would have come to feel this at Golf Course Road, given time. And now, I need to pray and believe that it can happen again here in Midland. I certainly do not want to settle for a "job."

Lord, give me the faith and patience to see what you've laid before me. Or at least to make the best out of the situation if I pick the wrong thing. Is that a contradiction in faith? *sigh*

Pitch Pipecast: Episode 10

2007-09-15T13:41:00.000-05:00

The new Pipecast is up. Episode 10 features Eric Gwin, solo a cappella artist. You can find it at PitchPipePro.com or, as always, download it direct from this link. Hope you enjoy it.

Nearer My God to Thee

2007-09-05T10:51:00.000-05:00

Dave Gerhart pointed me to a fabulous video that I want to share with you. As you know if you've read this blog any at all, I love good a capella music. I do a podcast dedicated to it. Here is one that falls right square into that category.

This is a group from BYU called Vocal Point. The video is of them competing at the ICCA Quarterfinals this past February of 2007. As you will see, it is a fabulous arrangement of Nearer My God to Thee (done by James Stevens) and garnered them 1st place. Enjoy...

Pitch Pipecast: Episode 9

2007-08-31T21:34:00.000-05:00

I have just posted the most recent episode of the Pipecast. Chris Lindsey of Watershed Worship makes an appearance. We talk about their trip to South Africa, their recent run-in with Mandisa, and their latest album entitled "I Know You Love Me."

You can catch it at PitchPipePro.com or as always you can download it right here directly from this link.