Sunday, March 23, 2008

Dad's Friend Passes to Young

Yesterday, I saw my dad have an emotional moment. Now, he's prone to such moments during a Tennessee Vol or Lady Vol game, but this one was different, so I took note. It seems a young woman he had attended junior and high school with had passed away -- at just 40 years old. Jenny Bates was her name, and if you had seen a picture of the young lady, you would see what a terrible loss it is and why Dad was emotional. I watched him as he read her obituary and then looked at her picture on a sweet web site to honor those who have passed away. If you read her profile, you'll see why I am taking the time to blog about Jenny. You see, Jenny loved animals -- cared for them and asked that memorial contributions be sent to the Humane Society of Chattanooga, TN., among other charities. Jenny had bravely fought breast cancer for years. It’s so sad that such a young, vibrant woman had to fight such a terrible disease. I'll save you my opinions on spending trillions on a war, why we still try to find treatments and cures for dreaded diseases (most of you know by now of my feelings on this). Rather, I'll ask you to remember this beautiful woman, and most importantly remember that a life lost at such a young age -- humans or pets -- should get all of our attention and commitment. I hope everyone reading this entry says a prayer for Jenny and her family. Jenny, my Dad will miss you and I'll do my small part to keep spreading the word to not forget you.

Arlie Rufus
www.myspace.com/arlierufus

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Even a Dog Knows Gas Could Top $4 a Gallon

I tend to get many chances to watch TV, check out the news, as well as online. After all, the dog with a voice must be well-versed in the topics of the day. So last week, as I had a chance to catch "W" at a news conference, I was deemed silent when he informed a room full of reporters (as well as the world) that he had not heard of analysts predicting gas could top $4 a gallon soon. The rock "W" has been living under for some time is bigger than I thought!

Mr. President, let me ask you to please read this news clip. Or perhaps this clip. And just in case you still think the reporter who asked the question last week was pulling your leg, try this third clip.

Mr. President (and I use this term loosely) what in the wide wide world of beagle love are you doing every day? The cost of gas has been a topic for months -- no years! Of course, since you refuse to mention the "R" word, you likely wouldn't know that the cost of gas is causing heartache for many American families.

With this said, let me speak on behalf of those who do not have or use their voices to speak out on this issue. "W"...become informed! We all know you have a few months left in office (the rescue dogs of America rejoice!), but at least ACT like you care. ACT as if the hardships of Americans, some of whom voted for you twice, are of importance and that you get up each and every day and think about what you can do to help. No, your actions will not likely benefit many of your contributors from big oil companies seeing record profits from the higher prices, but it might actually be what is best for the country. Promote conservation; discuss alternative fuels; advocate mass transit and investment in future mass transit; maybe even watch the news and read some online analyst comments; do something to show you care and are informed. Americans deserve your undivided attention on this matter. And if it takes a rescue dog to help get your mind on the American people then so be it!!

ArlieRufus
"The Dog with a Voice"
www.myspace.com/arlierufus