I went to the Angel game on Thursday evening. Angels lostL I had a great time though appearing on the jumbo screen. You see I didn’t realize I was going to the game when I dressed that day to go to deva’s. So I ended up entertaining large crowds at the stadium in my plaid pink short kilt, lacey pink top and lace-up pink high heels. How embarrassing, yet I somehow pulled it off. I guess it was really no surprise when I saw my face up there waving to 30,000 people. I just am so camera shy!

I’m off to another Republican Fundraiser in Mission Viejo. Should be a good time since Assemblyman Todd Spitzer will be dressed as Elvis for the 50’s style party.

What a great day today! Happy Easter!

I'm sitting here at the Diamond Lounge in the Rio in Las Vegas. I think I have a good tan going after relaxing by the pool today. Life is good!

Wow, time is really flying this month! I hate to go so long without making an entry, but I have a crazy schedule. Camp Pendleton was pretty quite because most of the Marines just recently went over to Iraq to relieve the 82nd Airborne. I did find the cutest pink Marine tank top though. My friend left Monday morning for Iraq and won’t be back until August. I don’t know how they do it, I’m just glad they do.

I’m headed to Las Vegas today with Dee Dee, one of deva’s lovely bartenders. I’ll have to put up a picture of her on the website as soon as I get a chance. She just moved back from Missouri, she used to work at deva’s about 3 years ago. We went golfing last week at Aliso Creek off of PCH in Laguna Beach last week. It was freezing in the canyon! We went with my friend Randy; he is actually a pretty good golfer. Dee Dee & me met him about 5 years ago at the “Runnin’ Gunnin” golf tournament that they used to have to honor the last picked football player in the NFL draft. That was a fun tournament! You had the heckler hole where a group of people just yelled at you while you teed off. One hole they actually threw firecrackers on the green. At another hole you where target practice for several kids with water balloons. You can probably see why it’s canceled now. Anyway, after golf last week we went to Las Brisas and enjoyed the ocean out on their patio. We were entertained with locker room stories from Randy; he’s a sports columnist for the OC Register.

Wednesday Dee Dee, JJ, and myself all rented a limo and went shopping for bikinis down in Huntington Beach. Of course I can never find a suit that fits properly. We did find lots of cool stuff at a place called the Catwalk. After shopping we went back to deva’s for a while and then headed off to a car show by the circle in Orange. The Marines had this awesome Hummer; I don’t recall much else about the show. Then it was over to Paul’s cocktail lounge to play pool. Another great day!

Well, I better get packed and get to the airport!

Yesterday was my little brother’s birthday. So of course he received the usual “Happy Birthday Fool!” from his loving sister. I actually went to deva’s yesterday morning and announced to the morning crowd that I had sold the bar. I let their chins drop to the counter and put quite a scare in the morning bartender, Caroline (bless her heart, she just turned 66 two days ago) before I said the whole” April Fool’s” bit. The rest of the day they all pulled the same gag on the other regulars coming into the bar so we all had fun with it.

I am actually going to Sacramento this month for Advocacy on the 26th & 27th. This should be interesting; I’ve never been to the Capitol. Arnold will be at the luncheon on the second day I’m told. Finally, at least I’ll be in the same room with him. I’m so tired of everyone asking if I’ve met Arnold yet! The closest I’ve been to him was at his Car tax rally at the OC Fairgrounds during the campaign. All I could see was a car being smashed and a guy at the podium that I could barely make out. Anyway, I’m excited just to going up there and see how the legislature works.

I’m off to Camp Pendleton today to accompany a friend who just got back from Iraq and is on his way back in a few days. Thank God for Marines like him putting their lives on the line so we can enjoy our freedom!

National “Party for the President” Day is April 29th. I’m in the process of planning one at deva’s. We are going to have some fun that evening, we may end up chasing Democrats out of the bar. We will have campaign materials, bumper stickers, snacks, and sodas out in front of deva’s from 5pm until 8pm that night. Come on in if you’re in the area!

They had a rally today in front of Loretta Sanchez’s District Office to protest the fact that she voted against a Congressional Resolution (HR557) honoring U.S. Troops serving in Iraq. Unfortunately I couldn’t make it this morning. I got up at 7am but wasn’t feeling too well; I was at deva’s pretty late last night. I really wanted to be there to show my support. We need to get rid of this Sanchez woman! Dr. Alexandria Coronado is running against her. Hopefully I can help get out the word to vote for her, she’s a super lady! I don’t understand Sanchez at all. She actually has walked in the Tustin Veteran’s Day parade the last few years. She doesn’t know what she’s doing; a lot of people are upset with her.

People need to laugh more…………….



Subject: A Few Zen Thoughts for Those Who Take Life Too Seriously:



A Few Zen Thoughts For Those Who Take Life Too Seriously:


Save the whales. Collect the whole set.



A day without sunshine is like, night.



On the other hand..... you have different fingers.



I just got lost in thought. It was unfamiliar territory.



42.7 percent of all statistics are made up on the spot. .



I feel like I'm diagonally parked in a parallel universe.

Honk if you love peace and quiet.



Remember, half the people you know are below average.



He who laughs last thinks slowest.



Depression is merely anger without enthusiasm.



The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.



I drive way too fast to worry about cholesterol.



Support bacteria. They're the only culture some people have.



Monday is an awful way to spend 1/7 of your life.



A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory.



Change is inevitable, except from vending machines.



Get a new car for your spouse. It'll be a great trade!



Plan to be spontaneous tomorrow.



Always try to be modest, and be proud of it!



If you think nobody cares, try missing a couple of payments.



OK, so what's the speed of dark?



How do you tell when you're out of invisible ink?



If everything seems to be going well, you have obviously overlooked something.



When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.



Hard work pays off in the future. Laziness pays off now.



Everyone has a photographic memory; Some just don't have film.



Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.



What happens if you get scared half to death twice?



I used to have an open mind but my brains kept falling out.



I couldn't repair your brakes, so I made your horn louder.



AND THE ONE I RELATE TO THE MOST THESE DAYS - - -

Inside every older person is a younger person wondering "What the hell happened?!"

I took my acting teacher from Cypress College out to lunch yesterday. It’s nice to catch up on everything. I hadn’t been to the campus for a long time. Mark Majarian is a good guy, a real passionate teacher. We used to fight when I was taking his classes over 10 years ago. I can’t believe it’s been that long! Anyway, I started taking his classes right after my father passed away so I had a ton of issues to deal with. If you can’t afford therapy, join a good acting class! I think Mark helped me quite a bit, of course I didn’t know it at the time. I would storm out of class, or he would throw me out. One time he actually made me come to class for 2 weeks wearing no makeup, perfume, high heels, hairspray, jewelry, etc. It was either that or be thrown out of his class permanently because he said I used all that stuff to mask the real person underneath. Well, I did it. I didn’t like it, but I did it. He was right too. Oh well, that was a long time ago.

I went over to Chat Noir last night to meet one of my liquor salesmen for an Effen Vodka. It’s still my favorite vodka, black cherry with a hint of vanilla-yum. I just love that restaurant; it means “Black Cat” in French. I’m not a big “French” fan, but I really enjoy this place. They have live jazz, it’s really dark with red velvet booths and curtains, and there are candles everywhere. The food is quite tasty as well. Thursday nights are too busy, they actually have a line out the back door and a DJ because it’s so crowded you can’t even walk through the place and you wouldn’t be able to hear any jazz. I don’t like lines; I refuse to stand in line. They were having a private party for St. John last night. They are having a Fall 2004 fashion show today at the Bren Events Center at the University of California, Irvine. I’m staring at my invitation laying here on my desk wishing I had one good St. John’s Knit suit. I’m too tired to drag myself down there today.

Another example of just how small the world really is: as I was sitting at the bar yesterday at Chat Noir, two older gentlemen with heavy Polish accents kept motioning for me to come over to their table. I stood up and said, “ I know you” as I pointed at one of them. They laughed thinking yeah, sure, she must use that line on all the older, rich looking future sugar daddies that she hits on. Anyway, I said, “You’re George.” And I thought he was going to have a heart attack. I then proceeded to tell him his last name, that he drives a green Land Rover, and where he used to live. By now, they are both going into shock. So, I let them down easy. As it turns out that I bought my house from George and his wife 5 ½ years ago. They sold the house to me because they liked me and I promised to not change anything that he had done to the house. George was so cute; he had been saving some bathroom fixture for me at his new house because it matched my house. I also got busted because he had driven by and seen where I had to cut down all his precious bottlebrush and pepper trees that destroyed all the cement with their massive roots. Anyway, he wants to retire to Europe and wants me to look at their house before they put it on the market incase I want to buy it. Funny how things work out. He wants to sell me their house again because he spends all his time on little Home Depot projects and knows I’ll appreciate his work. How sweet.

I’m feeling a little better today. A weekend of movies is just what I needed. The movie Pay It Forward was really good. It’s sort of a chick flick, but it’s well worth watching! I can’t believe I watched Breakfast at Tiffany’s for the first time the other day. I liked it; it seemed so ahead of its time. Last night I watched We Were Soldiers. Not a good movie to watch right before you try to go to sleep. Mel Gibson is such a great actor, but the movie was so sad. Makes you think what is really important in life. Well, that’s it for the movie reviews.

Question: Why do I receive hundreds of e-mails for Viagra? What is wrong with these marketing people exactly? If I don’t respond to the first 500 ads, I’m probably not going to buy from them. I have people telling me not to click on the “unsubscribe,” because then the company will know that they have a good address. If those companies are paying attention to this I have something to say:


I don’t need prescription drugs
From singles networks, I don’t need hugs
I don’t need to refinance my house
No exterminators for a mouse
Omaha Steaks on sale again
A new car, I just can’t win
Printer ink by the ton
Victoria Secrets………well, I like that one

Happy Monday!

We had a busy night on St. Patty’s Day. My friends Allen & Kathy cooked up a bunch of Irish food for deva’s. We’re usually not that busy but I guess people are getting smarter and staying closer to home. Most of the big Irish bars are down along the beach. I’m not complaining, we had a great night!

I’m sick again. I’ve been in bed and I’m going back there after I’m done checking my e-mails. There just aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done when you’re trying to do too much. I burn the candle at both ends and it always catches up to me in the way of a sore throat or cold. I’ll rest this weekend. Last Sunday I went with JJ, a deva’s bartender, and some friends down to the beach. It was so nice hanging out by the water listening to live music. The food is really good too at Billy’s down on PCH (Pacific Coast Highway). The band “The Jetson’s” played at deva’s a few times before, they are pretty good. It’s just such a small world. We also went over to Margaritaville and took over the dance floor for a while. That’s how a weekend day should always be.

Back to watching boring TV. If I see one more commercial for dental assistant school or for lawyers promising you millions of dollars, I’ll scream!

I attended a luncheon today for the Women’s Auxiliary of the Arthritis Foundation in Fountain Valley. One of our Federated ladies, Jeanne Graves is the President of the group and I went as her guest. I can’t believe how many truly wonderful people I keep meeting. These ladies are a terrific group and I believe the only “Women’s” Auxiliary for the Arthritis Foundation around. They are currently raising money to send children that suffer from arthritis to an outdoor camp called Camp Esperanza (Spanish for “hope”) up in Big Bear. Hopefully I can help somewhat, it’s difficult with my schedule. Anyway, I had a lovely time chatting with everyone today. It’s so fun to see the reactions from different people when they find out that I ran for governor. Most are at the least curious; some just think it’s wonderful. Of course there are the ones that roll their eyes, but oh well, maybe one day they won’t think it so funny when I actually accomplish the task of winning a race. I’m thinking politics, but if it comes down to it I may need to run a marathon (okay, walk, crawl, bicycle…).

The mixer was a huge event last night with at least a hundred tables. I had no idea how many people were going to be there. I saw several women all in red with flags at their table and I had to go see who they were. Of course they were Federated Women from Fullerton with a voter registration table. There were mostly financial planning people there. A good place for them would be right next to the Cadillac dealership people. They tried to talk me into buying a Caddy; they do have a nice convertible now. (And it’s really cheap-haha.) Anyway, I did find out that Casino Barona finally obtained their liquor license as of yesterday. I can’t believe they didn’t have one until now. Anyway, it was a good time.

Well, off to work!

This week is just flying by! I can’t seem to get any work done with the weather still so nice. I just got in the pool today-yeah! The water is only 78 degrees, but it’s got to be close to 90 degrees outside. I changed the filter and solar to stay on longer this week to heat up the pool. Can you tell I really like the sun?
Yesterday a bird landed next to me on the arm of my chair. I called a neighbor over because I thought maybe he belonged to someone. The poor thing, he just kept looking at me like he needed help. Sure enough my neighbor (and bird enthusiast) informed me it was a wild bird and he was injured. I didn’t want him to be my cat’s next meal so I shooed him into the corner behind some plants until he rested up enough to fly off. Poor little bird, hope he made it to safety.

Almost finished with the tax stuff. My appointment is on the 14th; I always seem to wait till the last possible minute. Well, not much new or exciting to report for this week. I am going to a huge Chamber Mixer tonight at Angel Stadium. It will be weird being there without a baseball game going on.

No wonder it seemed so nice yesterday, it was 93 degrees! I would love it to be like that all year around. My mother just moved from Florida to Tennessee because it was too hot. I can’t wait for “hot flashes’. I originally wanted to move to Florida and attend Daytona Beach Community College. Things don’t always go as planned, but I knew I’d end up somewhere warm.

Well, it’s “Happy Monday” again, so off to work!

What a gorgeous day today! It’s currently after 5pm and the temperature is still in the 80’s! It’s a welcome change from the cold, rainy weather we’ve had lately. I could’ve lain in the sun all day. Unfortunately, the search continues for the bottom of my desk! My taxes are due on the 15th of this month so I guess I better get started. Hey, I have a few more days left. Why do today what you can turn into a stressful emergency tomorrow? Really, I would’ve liked to complete this annoying tax thing earlier this year but I’ve been so busy. Then again, nothing makes me work harder than an upcoming deadline.

I’ve got to go back outside and enjoy this weather while I can. I can smell the neighbors BBQ, hear the other neighbors watering their yard, and I’m sure it won’t be long before the other neighbors start playing Mariachi music. Ahh, the sounds of summer. (We won’t discuss the noises coming from across the street. Let’s just say the 20 people living there should really return the 5 Big Lots shopping carts parked in front of their house!)

I think that overall the Election went well. At least the people were smart enough to see through Prop 56. The electronic voting machines had fewer problems than I thought they would. Some people pushed “Cast Ballot” instead of “Enter” after the first question and that meant they were done after that point. Oh, and the Democrats are stuck with John Kerry-hehehe! I’m sure they are thrilled to have a candidate they know little about except that he is as far left as Boxer.

The meeting yesterday went well. Both speakers were very informative. Dr. Barbara Stone was hilarious! I really enjoy listening to her; the students are lucky to have her at Cal State Fullerton.

I am sad that Rosario Marin didn’t win. She gave it a good try and I think she did an excellent job for her first run for office. Now it’s time to get behind Bill Jones. It’s going to be a battle to beat Boxer.

I had such a great time last night at the Election Party for the Republican Party of Orange County. I met so many wonderful people there. I spoke with Congressman Ed Royce to start with. He actually asked me if I was November on the Recall calendar. I made sure to point out that I am 2004 November, not last year’s November! I don’t need to be confused with Mary again. I had the pleasure of meeting Tom Fuentes, Chairman of the Republican Party of Orange County. I spoke briefly with a very energetic Chuck DeVore and his lovely wife, Diane. There’s nothing like winning! Chuck’s energy was amazing; he will defiantly be going places! He will be representing the 70th District in the State Assembly. I’m so happy for Dr. Alexandria Coronado; she was winning the 47th District to challenge Loretta Sanchez. I should’ve mentioned her earlier; I can’t believe I left her out. I heard her speak at a luncheon and had the honor of meeting her last year. I hope she can get the word out to defeat Sanchez!

I think the biggest surprise of the night was when I just happened to be standing directly in front of the podium and Pete Wilson and his wife walked up on stage. He introduced Bill Jones and his family. I liked what Bill Jones had to say. Let’s hope California does too!

I almost forgot.......... Assemblyman Todd Spitzer was the charming host of the party. I didn’t manage to talk to him, as he was extremely busy. He’s defiantly the hottest looking Assemblyman! He, of course, has a very pretty wife.

Patricia Burnes, the President of OCFRW was there along with several of us Federated Women. I’m attending the meeting and luncheon tomorrow for the OCFRW, where the Honorable Bill Campbell, Orange County Board of Supervisors, Third District, will be a guest speaker. Dr. Barbara Stone will be the keynote speaker. She is great! If you ever get a chance to hear her speak-do it! I just love what she has to say; she is so funny as well. She is a Professor of Political Science and Member of the Executive Committee of the State Republican Party. Should be interesting!

I’m off to deva’s to get some work done.

Yeah! 57 & 58 passed!

Okay, today is the big day! I’ve been so busy this weekend with paperwork and payroll. Make sure you all get out there and vote! No, No, Yes, Yes! And vote for Rosario Marin for Senate! (She’s the one who signed your money-take a look.)

I can’t believe I actually watched my friend Michael Washington marry the love of his life, Valerie. I watched the ceremony “live” on the Internet on Saturday! The Internet is a wonderful thing. (I’ll have to thank Al Gore when I see him.)

Well, I’m off to the polls!

Last night I went with deva's bartenders Amy and JJ down to San Diego for Fat Tuesday. Mardi Gras in the Gaslamp district was a good time! I’ll try to upload a picture of us at deva’s before we took the train down. They do not allow cameras at the event so I left mine at the bar. The most fun we had was being driven around by muscular men on bicycles that pull little carts. I distinctly remember JJ yelling “Mush” most of the way! It was so funny!



The latest on the Rosario Marin campaign is that she’s still going strong and gaining ground! Apparently the Bill Jones campaign is broke and his fundraiser with Arnold only raised $200,000, not the $1million he was hoping for. Too bad for him. I keep hearing Rosario’s ads on KFI, funny; I don’t recall anything from the Bill Jones campaign? That alone should tell people that Bill Jones doesn’t have a chance against Boxer and her millions. What is he thinking? The candidates running for Assembly in the 70th district have raised more money than Bill Jones! Chuck DeVore and Cristi Cristich are in a heated race for the 70th Assembly District, which covers a large Republican area from Tustin to Laguna Beach. I had the opportunity to hear them each speak along with the other candidates in the race at a luncheon at the end of last year. I have to say, and I think I mentioned this earlier, that Chuck Devore is an extremely impressive speaker. I like the fact that Cristi Cristich is a successful businesswoman. She also sent me a very complimentary note after we talked; I liked the personal attention. The one thing I think she will have trouble with is the fact she supported Bill Clinton. Not financially, but it doesn’t change the fact she did support him. Also, the fact that she had to send out an apology for having implied in a mailer that Rep. Chris Cox, R-Newport Beach supported her probably won’t help much either. Chuck on the other hand, is an “Absolute Republican.” I don’t know if that’s the best description, but it’s what comes to my mind. They both are strong individuals that oppose higher taxes and support business. To find out more on Chuck Devore you can go to www.ChuckDevore.com .

I live in the 69th Assembly District so I am voting for Otto Bade. He’s a business owner, former Police Officer, Vietnam Veteran, and has the support of many prominent Republicans. From Congressman Ed Royce, Senator Dick Ackerman, to Assemblyman Todd Spitzer, and the Orange County Lincoln Club. Too many to list, but he has great support. Most importantly he is against higher taxes and wants to protect Proposition 13! It’s going to be a tough battle in a district that’s something like 75% Latino, and mostly Democratic. Otto Bade, like Rosario Marin immigrated here at a young age, he came from Guatemala. I respect people that work hard and do well for themselves. Having to learn another language on top of that is even more impressive. This country is full of citizens who have so many opportunities to make something of themselves and they are Lazy! Instead of taking advantage of the countless opportunities surrounding them, they chose to live off of the rest of us hard working taxpayers. I have little sympathy for people who refuse to educate themselves and work hard, and then complain about their situation. Sure, sometimes people do need help, and we should try to help each other. You can’t help those who refuse to help themselves. My message to those people:
If you need a helping hand, look on the end of your arm!
I may sound a bit angry. It’s just that when I came to California I had no money. I worked my butt off! I actually had 5 jobs at one time because I wanted to do whatever it took to better myself. It really offends me when people make comments that I only got ahead because some “Sugar Daddy” must have helped me. I’ll stop here but I’ll write more on this subject later.

March 2nd is really closing in fast! I’m supporting Brett Franklin for County Supervisor. I haven’t seen the 1st District candidate forum with the candidates, but the OC Register today states that Adelphia will reply it on public access channel at 6:30pm tonight and on Sunday at 1pm.

Well, I’ve gone on and on today so I better get back to the never-ending paperwork!

2/21/2004 3:22 PM

The Election is so close now! Rosario has moved up in the polls quite a bit. Last I read Bill Jones was at 24%, while Rosario was at 12%, with a large number of people still undecided. There are a lot of people who don’t have a clue and don’t care. Hopefully they won’t go with the familiar name of Bill Jones. Jones only raised a little over $300,000, while Rosario has reached $1 million! Get out the word to vote for Rosario Marin on March 2nd! She is the only candidate that can beat Boxer!!

As for the propositions:

Easy!


55 NO!
56 NO! NO! and NO WAY! (Lowers the voting requirement to 55% from 2/3rds!)
57 YES! (This better pass or we’ll be hit with higher taxes!)
58 YES!

2/20/04

I currently have no Internet connection. Lovely. Happy Friday!

Anyway, I wanted to post an e-mail I received the other day from Captain Rice. He says it well……..

All,

I have officially landed in Kuwait, never to return to that accursed country called Iraq. Though I would never call it much of a country. M any a time I looked out across the great expanse of nothing and thought to myself or said out loud to no one in particular, "They can Keep it." I am in Kuwait for the next 30 plus days as the vanguard element for the 82D ABN in planning for their re-deployment outta here...

I trust all of you are well and have endured the long hard winter. We are doing fine and keeping it going to the final days here. I want to thank you all again for all of your support, e-mails, packages, and prayers, it meant so much more than any of you will ever know.

I will leave you with my final thoughts as I flew over the vast Iraqi desert, heading south and the first steps toward 'home'...As I looked out of the window, past the door gunner, starring down at the primitive mud huts and seeing the shepards tending to their flocks. I saw so many children and even adults waving and jumping with joy as we flew over. I also thought that there are others waiting in the midsts with RPGs waiting to shoot us down. I mulled over, we have handed them one of the most precious of all gifts, we have given them freedom. Like the two Iraqis in my thoughts so it is in this country some accept the newfound freedom joyfully, others shun it, possibly out of fear of what they do not understand or have never known. I thought, so we give them their freedom, the rest is up to them, whether they use it to build a new world, or throw it away and remain the savage people I had seen so many times...So many things left for time to tell. Time is the great equalizer, we will see if they will truly live it well....


Safe Journeys,
Bart

Well, mother, grandparents and baby are all doing just fine. Courtney came home from the hospital on Friday. There’s a picture of the baby under “messages” on deva’s website.

Friday night I went with some friends to the Grand Opening of “Club Vegas” in Costa Mesa. They handed out 1,000 VIP passes for the 7pm opening. Of course they had us all lined up around the building so they could take pictures and film the crowd for obvious reasons. Luckily we were in line with the wife of a manager of the club who got us in a lot faster. I just hate to wait in a line! The place is nice inside, I think they spent somewhere around a million dollars on the place. That would explain the $8.00 Red Bull I got to go with the $9.00 Stoli. That’s a bargain though compared to the $500 or $1,000 booths you can rent for the evening around the dance floor. They do have cocktail waitress service up there though, which is where I preferred to sit. Anyway, it was a fun place to go dancing.

We registered 21 Republicans yesterday in front of Target in Irvine. That brings the tally to 50 Republicans registered in a week! I did convert one Democrat to re-register Republican on Friday at deva’s. He even said he would vote for Rosario Marin-yeah!

I’ve got to get to Trader Joes and do the shopping in time so I can watch the All- Star NBA game tonight. Maybe it will be interesting.

Finally! Baby Shamus (I was right the first time) was born yesterday a little before 6pm. They figured out why he didn’t want to come out…………..he couldn’t. Shamus weighs 9lbs, 7oz, and is 22 inches long. What a big baby! Courtney is just a petite girl and they had to perform a Section on her. Good news is the baby is perfect!

Back to the hospital………………

So I went to the hospital last night around 9pm and the baby was a no-show. I spent the night laying on a fold out chair covered by hospital blankets as the air-conditioning blew right down on me. I’m trying to avoid getting sick again, but it’s difficult when you don’t sleep all night and the room is at 60 degrees! Courtney is holding up great considering the poor girl has been throwing up and having contractions for the last 16 hours! I came home to shower and try to rest; like I can rest at a time like this. I need to get ready and head back down to the hospital before Shaymus (I think I spelled his name wrong earlier) decides to grace us with his presence! That boy just does not want to come out yet.

Wow, have I been busy lately! I’ll try to keep this blog current from now on. My good friend and “sister” is ready to give birth any day now. Actually more like any minute, as she was due Jan. 30th. Courtney is just ready to burst! The baby’s name is Shamus, how Irish is that? Anyway I’m supposed to be there to make her laugh in the delivery room. I’ve been through this once before with my friend Whittney about 7 years ago. She recorded the birth and I kept saying, “I’m not ready yet!” after the doctor said, “Next push and you’re having a baby.” I was serious! Anyway, hopefully I can be there to make Courtney smile!

I went to a Lincoln Day luncheon last Thursday. Supervisor Chris Norby (Fourth District, OC Board of Supervisors) gave a speech on Lincoln and we all had to stand and recite the Gettysburg Address. I never really paid attention to the words before. Everyone should re-read it and really think about what it says.

The candidates for Senate running against Barbara Boxer were there, or a representative on their behave. Toni Casey was quit an impressive speaker, I like her. I don’t think she could beat Boxer though. Rosario Marin wasn’t there because she was giving a press conference at the Nixon Library. I couldn’t be in two places at once so I sadly missed her speech. You can read about it though on her website:

RosarioforSenate.com

She is the only candidate that can pull this off and oust Boxer!

I have to get going, I need to drop off Voter Registration cards to the Registrar’s Office! We registered 27 Republicans this weekend!

I’ve so got to get to work……….more later!

I know it’s been too long! Sometimes “life happens” and you just can’t do everything. I took off at the last minute to Las Vegas for the Super bowl! It was a blast! If you can’t have a great time in Vegas……………….stay home! Several friends and patrons were there so that made the trip even more entertaining. Nothing like watching the Super Bowl on a giant screen in the Cirque de Soleil venue at Treasure Island. They really take care of you during the game. Waitress service, appetizers, and big comfortable seats. Okay, I’m not that into football, but the commercials are always fun. The half-time show was a bit of a shock; I wasn’t sure what I was looking at when Justin pulled off part of Janet’s top. Things look blurry on a movie-sized screen.

Anyway, off to work………running late!

I just finished addressing all of the W-2’s and 1099’s to go out in the mail tomorrow. The fun never ends! I need to start figuring out what I’m going to do for our Super Bowl party this year. We will be having our 5th Annual Chili-Cook-Off during the game. It’s seems so weird to have Super Bowl Sunday in February.

I just finished another article about The Republican’s attempt to oust Boxer. I keep reading how Bill Jones is in the lead, especially after Arnold’s endorsement. At least one article from Saturday talked about how Jones didn’t have a chance and how Rosario Marin was our best bet. Well, one article is a start.

I’m trying to sell tickets to the Laker game on Wednesday night. They are the seats I had last time on the floor behind the Lakers bench. I really would love to go again but I’m too busyL I bought tickets for the Harlem Globetrotters as well, but that’s not until February 21st at The Pond. That should be a lot of fun; we’ll be in the front row. I used to watch them on TV with my father and brother all the time as a kid. I have no idea who any of the new players are. I remember Curly and Meadowlark Lemon the most.

Well, back to paperwork………………………..

I’ve been so busy with fun tax forms lately. DE 6, DE 7, 941, 940……………….you get the idea.
Last night was another fun filled evening at deva’s with karaoke and dancing. I’m feeling much better now, finally!

I dragged my best friend Leisa to the Chamber mixer on Thursday night at the OC Register. We took a tour of the building and it was quite interesting. I never realized how much work goes into the newspaper every day. It’s really amazing to get a look at tall the different departments, editors, graphic artists, writers, researchers, the many people running the presses (at 35 miles an hour by the way). Anyway, if you get a chance it’s a tour worth your while. I did run into two of the reporters that did stories on me during the election. George Stewart I knew already because he has been in deva’s several times for interviews. He writes a column as well for the Tustin News that’s pretty entertaining. The other reporter I spoke with on the phone only so it was nice to put a face with a name. Tustin’s Chamber mixers are becoming a fun event to attend-finally!

A few days ago I had the sudden craving for orange slices. While refreshing, sweet, and full of vitamin C, I usually don’t think about eating them. It’s obvious to me today why the sudden urge. In 1991, on January 19th, my father passed away from cancer. I was there, holding him as he let that last breath escape, never to inhale again. My father held on through the night of the 18th, I remember it like it was yesterday. He kept asking me what time it was, trying to look up at the clock. He clung to life a bit longer as to not die on the same date as his father did of cancer, for his mother’s sake. My grandmother never did recover from losing her husband and son. She lived several more years and fought off the depression repeatedly. My grandmother died on August 3, her birthday, of cancer.

You’re probably wondering why the orange slices………... My father was Coach Roger Renz, basketball coach at Findlay High School in Ohio. I remember my mother cutting up a bag full of oranges before every game for my father to take to the gymnasium for his players. Every half time the players went to the locker room for orange slices and Juicy Fruit gum. Sometimes for a reaming from my father if they weren’t playing up to their potential. I know it may sound a bit strange, but sometimes it’s the littlest things that remind you of someone. I certainly remember riffling through my father’s sports coat pockets searching for the Juicy Fruit. I can see that big Tupperware container sitting on top of his clipboard, where he drew the plays for the game, tucked under his arm as we made our way to the game. My father passed away during one of his team’s basketball games. They announced it after the game and the gymnasium, I was told, was full of silence and tears. He coached right through chemotherapy, right up until he went back into the hospital for the last time. The funeral was held in the gymnasium to accomadate the hundreds of people attending. There was a basketball on top of the casket in the middle of all the flowers. The casket was on the court, right under the basket, which seemed very fitting.

I have his leather jacket that I bought him for Christmas one year hanging in my closet. I took it from the hospital after he passed away (after a struggle from a horrible step mother, I don’t want to think of her today.) There’s still a piece of Juicy Fruit gum in the pocket. I miss my father very much; he was a great man who did everything in his power to help his players, students, family, and friends. I hope I can live up to what he accomplished. Most people never even knew how much he helped others until he passed away and the local radio station had an hour show where people called in to talk about him. Now that’s a true sign of a special human being. He was only 49 years old, never smoked, rarely touched any alcohol, exercised daily, ate healthy (was a health teacher), and our family grew our own vegetables. Sometimes it just doesn’t matter how healthy you try to be.

I’m going to go cut up an orange for breakfast.

Is anyone paying attention to the propositions that will be on the March ballot? Prop 57 needs to be passed so that we will not incur more tax increases. The proposal calls for a $15 billion bond so that the state can refinance the accumulated debt. Apparently, so far, the majority seems to be against it in the polls I have read about. Wake up people! It’s far better than an increase in taxes! Of course the first people everyone wants to tax is the rich, the smokers, and the drinkers. Any further taxes on these areas will send even more businesses packaging out of California. I know my small business can’t afford more taxes. It really hits hard when you’re a small business that sells alcohol. Most of my customers that drink also smoke. It’s bad all the way around. Hopefully Arnold can convince the people that this is a good idea. And as for the $6 billion short fall anticipated by Legislative Analyst Elizabeth Hill next year………………hello! If the business climate improves in California, there will be more tax revenue coming in. It only makes sense to vote yes on Prop 57.

Well, now that I have that off my chest……………….I need to go serve up some cocktails and sing karaoke! Happy Friday!

The sun just does wonders for me. I actually spent some much needed time outside yesterday. I feel much better now, but still not completely over this hell-flu!

I went to a meeting yesterday at American Express Financial Advisors Inc for a friend who is just getting started in a new career. I do miss being in that financial environment. It’s been a long time since I sat in an office as a registered rep. My license expired a while back; I couldn’t find anywhere to “hang” it to keep it active. I sure wouldn’t want to take the Series #7 exam again! It’s a difficult test, mostly about options. Six hours of 250 questions out of a possible 10,000. At least it was 10 years ago when I took it. I can’t believe it’s been 10 years! I’m getting old fast!

I can’t believe Arnold is endorsing Bill Jones for the Senate race to oust Boxer! I still am convinced Rosario Marin is the best candidate. The endorsement today of all five Republican women in the California State Legislature was a good sign. The primary is coming up quickly; hopefully I can help spread the word about Rosario. I have heard several Democrats say that are going to vote for her, I hope that is the case come March!

I woke up at 5am today. I’ve been at my desk for almost 10 hours now! The bottom of my desk is still nowhere to be found! I know the payroll tax booklet is around here somewhere, it’s due on the 15th. Good thing I never procrastinate!

Okay, I’ve been sick now for 5 weeks. Please! I felt a little better yesterday; I’m just tired today. Everyone I’ve talked to that has this flu- thing said they were sick about 6 weeks. Lovely.

My steady diet of potato chips, french fries, popcorn, pizza, Top Ramen noodles, and raw potatoes with salt (yummy,) is starting to have an affect. I can’t wait to be well again so I can go back to Sugar Free Red Bull, yogurt, and romaine salads to shed these extra pounds! What is it about being sick that makes you crave carbs? I guess it’s that whole “comfort food” thing. I just wish comfort food didn’t make you fat! Seriously, I just had sour cream potato chips while waiting for my fries in the oven to get crispy! What a well-rounded dinner! It’s okay, I have taken tons of Vitamin C and drank gallons of juice, and so I’m good. I’m eating the healthy things as well. Rice crispy treats, ice cream with hot fudge, See’s candy, and broccoli. I’m such the health nut.

After quite a bit of feedback about the article yesterday, I guess I may have been too hard on myself. This never-ending flu must be clouding my vision a bit. Maybe the article and picture weren’t that bad. I was trying too hard to sound like a politician, when all the while people seem to like the straightforward, simple approach. Lesson learned. I just need to be myself, like always. I must have read too many articles and interviews with politicians and just assumed I needed to sound like them. Anyway, I’m just happy to have a voice and know people actually read what I had to say. I received several kind e-mails about the article. I even received one from a terrific guy involved with the Chuck Devore campaign (70th Assembly). While I originally volunteered for his campaign, I felt I had a better understanding of Rosario Marin’s efforts. I learned rather quickly that you need to volunteer for someone you feel you know on a certain level, and more importantly, someone you truly believe in. If you don’t have that, there’s no passion involved. I’m confident that the “DeVore in ’04” campaign will be strong. I only listened to Chuck speak once, so I didn’t really get to know what he’s about. I was impressed with his speaking ability; he commands such presence in a room.

Arnold’s budget plan is due to come out today. I’m curious as to what it’s going to entail.

Anyway, I need to get to deva’s. I haven’t been there in a week!

Well, it?s on page 7 today in the OC Register. I wish the reporter, Ricky Young, were calling about my subscription yesterday. The photo wasn?t very flattering to start with. The reporter twisted some of my answers to make me sound, well, stupid. Should?ve seen it coming by now, huh? The previous articles in the Register were a better measure of my speaking ability than was this horrible Q&A! Guess I was out of practice yesterday in my flu-ridden state. Usually I can steer my answers into intelligent quotes for the reporter to write. Oh well. At least they?re still asking questions and I can voice my opinion to Orange County; I should be grateful for that. Here?s the article if you are signed up with the Register:

http://www2.ocregister.com/ocrweb/ocr/article.do?id=75173§ion=REGION_STATE&subsection=REGION_STATE&year=2004&month=1&day=8


I did attend our Neighborhood Association meeting last night. City Council woman, Claudia Alvarez was there to give the ?State of the City? report as of last July. She did a good job dealing with all the complaints and problems from our section of the city. Then we had to go over the Center Line project again and again for those who missed the last meeting. What a nightmare this Center Line project has been. It?s basically a light rail train that goes nowhere and costs millions of dollars. I know the premise is that it is the foundation that we will build on in the future. Hopefully that is what will happen if this project gets approved.

Still trying to shake this flu. I should’ve bought the entire Theraflu Company to save money this winter!

The OC Register called me today. I actually answered because I thought they calling regarding my subscription. Funny. The reporter asked me how I thought Arnold was doing so far. I watched his State of the State yesterday, and I thought he did a good job on the speech. He was positive about California and was standing by his word about not increasing taxes. Anyway, you can read the Q & A in the Register in the next few days. What a pleasant surprise; I still get to voice my opinion. That was the first interview of the New Year. I’m sure there will be the “Where are they now?” interviews before too long. I guess I better “get” somewhere! If I could just get over this flu I could at least “get out of bed!”

I haven't dropped off the face of the planet; I'm still sick! This is the worst cold, flu, or whatever it is! You start to feel better, and then it hits you again!

I'm back to bed with my Theraflu!

Happy New Year!

I have nominated deva's as a meet-up place for all you fellow Republicans! Check it out:



2004-Year of the Deva!

It’s almost 2004! So much work to do! I bartended the last couple of days so I’m even further behind. Tomorrow is payroll and the big New Year’s Eve Party at deva’s. We are having chicken, spinach dip, and appetizers. I think we serve more food then most restaurants during the holidays. I wish deva’s had a kitchen! I made gallons of “Mad Cow Stew” (vegetable & Top Sirloin) for Sunday football two days ago. The patrons ate every drop and asked for more. I don’t think many people are actually worried about getting Mad Cow disease. The line is still around the corner at Inn & Out, the hamburger joint, down the street. We had steaks on Christmas Day. Its just one cow, linked to Canada, come on. I’d probably die from chocking on a piece of steak before I’d actually die from Mad Cow Disease. A person actually wrote in to the OC Register today proclaiming they weren’t going to eat beef anymore because of all the pictures on TV of cute little cow faces being slaughtered. Okay. That guy probably believed the commercials of the “Happy Cow” in California as well. Does he think that the cheese slices on his turkey or chicken sandwich today came from “Happy Cows” roaming free in the sunshine over the vast green, daisy covered, hillsides? What about the poor little cute chicken or turkey faces that were slaughtered for his non-cow meal? Give me a break. I guess we all should become vegans, wear man-made material shoes, and hug a tree.

Friday was such a lovely day at work. By the time I got there the ice machine stopped running, the cash register died, and several light s had burned out. It wasn’t even a Monday! Deva’s is such an electrical nightmare. The previous owner was an electrical contractor, and still is! Scary! We have outlets in the strangest places. The one above the TV’s is fell out of the ceiling when I first took over. I really would like to remodel the place. Only problem is all the laws, regulations, ordinances, commissions, departments, landlord, etc………. maybe someday. ( There are so many idiotic regulations that prevent imprvement.)

I’ve got to get all these bills in the mail and start searching for the bottom of my desk again before next year starts!

Merry Christmas All!

I went to the doctor yesterday. Armed with Bill O’Reilly’s “Who’s Looking Out for You?” “The Week” magazine, and a list of “The Best Notable Quotables of 2003,” I planned on the long two hour wait. I didn’t even get through a paragraph when they called me in. I have gained back 7 pounds from my lowest weight during the campaign. Lovely. My blood pressure was 110 over 80; okay I guess. I also had a slight fever, no big deal. Dr Chang looked down my throat, listened to my heart, and asked me what was wrong. I told him I thought I had strep throat and needed antibiotics. So I got the prescription for the Z-pack that I wanted. I paid cash and that really throws people off! If you want to see confused people, pay cash for a doctor’s visit and then don’t use your insurance when you go to fill your prescription either. Think about it. They told me there would be a two-hour wait, so I know they were extremely busy yesterday morning. I paid $50.00 cash for the visit with three Twenties. They barely had $10.00 cash in the drawer to give me change! So then I went to Sav-On to fill the prescription. It was a big deal because I wasn’t in their computer and I wasn’t using insurance. When I went to pick up the prescription they wanted my insurance again. I told them my insurance is so screwed up that I’d rather pay cash. They still insisted I use my insurance because the antibiotics where going to cost $57.99. I still paid cash. What’s the big deal? If I can’t afford A little over a hundred dollars when I get sick, which is usually twice a year, then there’s a problem. I choose to use my insurance incase of a major illness or accident. If everyone did that prices and doctor care would be so much cheaper. Just my opinion.

I better go rest again. I refuse to watch soap operas, those Jerry Springer type shows, Divorce Court, and basically most of daytime TV. Have you ever seen the ads they run during the daytime TV? That should tell you right there who is watching these shows. All the ads are aimed at the unemployed, weight-challenged, and people who may need an Attorney for a worker’s comp claim. Give me a break! If you see these commercials, turn the channel, you are watching “loser” TV. Come on, they assume you are stupid, fat, and unemployed. I have all the movie channels and there still isn’t anything worth watching. I can’t read because my neck is killing me and I start getting a headache. So I’m stuck with TV after the Rush Limbaugh show. Hey, he’s funny, I like his show.

Here’s an interesting e-mail holiday greeting I received, it pretty much sums up all the stupidity this society is swimming in:


Have a safe insane... ;)

Please accept with no obligation, implied or implicit, my best wishes
for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low stress,
non-addictive, gender neutral celebration of the winter solstice
holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious
persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with
respect for the religious/secular persuasions and/or traditions of
others, or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions
at all...and a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling, and medically
uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted
calendar year 2004, but not without due respect for the calendars of
choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make
America great (not to imply that America is necessarily greater than any
other country or is the only "America" in the Western hemisphere), and
without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability,
religious fait!
h, or sexual orientation of the wishee.

This wish is limited to the customary and usual good tidings for a
period of one year, or until the issuance of a subsequent holiday
greeting, whichever comes first. "Holiday" is not intended to, nor shall
it be considered, limited to the usual Judeo-Christian celebrations or
observances, or to such activities of any organized or ad hoc religious
community, group, individual or belief (or lack thereof).

Note: By accepting this greeting, you are accepting these terms. This
greeting is subject to clarification or withdrawal, and is revocable at
the sole discretion of the wisher at any time, for any reason or for no
reason at all. This greeting is freely transferable with no alteration
to the original greeting. This greeting implies no promise by the wisher
to actually implement any of the wishes for the wishee her/himself or
others, or responsibility for the consequences which may arise from the
implementation or non-implementation of same. This greeting is void
where prohibited by law.

Back to laying in bed watching countless stupid movies that I’ve never heard of.

We just get all the excitement in California! A 6.5 earthquake yesterday in the center of the state. I didn’t feel the quake because I was driving in my car at the time. It’s weird how you don’t feel them when you’re driving unless they are right under you. I certainly feel for those people going through this right before Christmas, how terrible.

Well, I’m re-sick. I don’t care if it’s not a word, I just made it up. I had the flu, now I have strep throat I think. I tried to get an appointment at the doctors—yeah right! They told me there are no appointments available and if I want to walk-in, I will have wait at least two hours. Wonderful. I only spent half a day shopping for Christmas this year and it looks like that was all the time I had. I’m basically just angry about being sick now; I don’t have time for this! I still have a New Year’s Eve party to plan! Oh, and don’t even mention all the paperwork, the year-end stuff, payroll, and can I just scream? No, I can’t because I have no voice! I can barely talk, so every time I call someone they think it’s a prank call and hang up. Terrific. I really sound like I’m in the Christmas spirit, don’t I? Well, our party was Friday and I was in the “spirits” then anyway.

We are open on Christmas of course. deva’s never closes; open 365 days a year! JJ will be coming in at 6pm for the night crowd.

I guess I better go wait in line at the doctors with a few good books so I can get antibiotics. It will be so much fun sitting there in a room full of sick people, coughing and sneezing all over the place for two hours! Maybe I’ll get really lucky and catch the flu again. This is so ridiculous to have to go through this procedure. Now I understand why so many people buy their antibiotics down in Mexico. I have to go pay the doctor to look down my throat and tell me if they a culture it will take several days to get the results and so he will just prescribe me a Z-pack and I’ll go wait in line at a pharmacy with more sick people in the back of a Sav-On Drug Store for another hour, only to pay a fortune for the medication I should just be able to go pick up somewhere! I know, I know, we are not smart enough not to abuse antibiotics; we must be protected from our own ignorance. Can you tell I don’t like going to the doctor? I only go if I need antibiotics, something is broke, or I think I’m going to die. Okay, I’m really going on about this aren’t I? This is where I procrastinate. Okay, I’m going……..

Today is deva's Christmas party! Too much fun all day and all night! We are having food, fun, shooter specials, presents, etc............. I even wrote out cards for almost all our patrons. Lots of work! All the presents barley fit in my car! I just love Christmas!

I went to the Christmas Chamber mixer last night. I actually had a good time there ( what a change from the boring mixers of the past). The Chamber is going in a much better direction than it was previously. They have a good group of people invloved now. Who would've thought? A chamber that is friendly and actually promotes business! Amazing! I can't believe no one came up with the idea earlier!

I did attend the Grand Opening of Rosario Marin's Campaign Headquarters on Monday evening. She is just an awesome individual! I can't say enough about her! I spoke to her briefly, she is so down to earth and easy to talk to. Some of the Republican Federated Women where there as well; it was nice to talk with them as well.

Well, better get to work! Gotta find the holiday costume to go with my 7 inch, red leather, platform boots! I'll be singing "Santa Baby" all day long!

Too much to do before Christmas! What a crazy week!

One of my employees ex-husband, and father of her chidren just passed away the other day. Another employee is at the hospital with her young child who is having difficulties breathing. And one more employee just got back from Indiana after taking care of his sister who was in the hospital. What a terrible time for everybody!

Anyway, I need to prepare for the Christmas party so I'm back to work...........

Okay, I’m back! That flu was just nasty! Seems like everyone is sick, even Barry’s doctor was ill. Lot’s of good news to report!

They captured Saddam! Yeah!

He looks like crap. Living in a little 6' by 8’ hole in the ground? Looks like the $750,000 he had with him was doing a lot of good. Just proves that money isn’t everything. The wimp didn’t even put up a fight. This is the guy who urged all his people to fight to their deaths? They should torture this idiot for the rest of his pathetic life. I'm extremely grateful that no one was hurt capturing him. Great work Military!

We went to Barry’s doctor on Thursday right before the OCFRW Biennial Convention, honoring Anna Bryson, President 2002-2003. Good News! The “hot spots” that the doctor was so sure were a return of his cancer, were only areas of dead cells killed by the radiation that Barry underwent. Yeah! The doctors still can’t believe how well Barry is doing! Every time they basically hand him the death sentence, they end up being wrong. I always stay positive and keep Barry positive because there is always HOPE that the doctors are wrong. And in Barry’s case, they usually are! Now if we can get him through this flu season safely, he’ll be doing okay.

Back to the convention on Thursday………… it was a really nice event. I ran into Brooke Adams, and met her father, John Adams for the first time. I should say Orange County Superior Court Judge John Adams, who won his position as a write-in during the run-off election of 2002. They are both extremely nice people, Brooke even mentioned she may go work in Washington D.C. Good for her, we need more intelligent young people there to make changes. There were so many people there I couldn’t see everyone when they were recognized. I’m still trying to put names with faces. In no particular order: OC Supervisor Tom Wilson; Mayor of Tustin, Tony Kawashima (he was actually the photographer as well); Stan Freberg (really, if you don’t know who he is go to: http://freberg.8m.com/ ) ; and of course the main guest, Paul Shanklin. I didn’t get a good look at the many other wonderful people that were in attendance. Paul was so funny! He does most of the humorous songs you hear on the Rush Limbaugh show. We had such a good evening seating with all the wonderful people from the TARWF.

Tomorrow is the Grand Opening of Rosario Marin’s office headquarters. I will be there after work for sure. If you still haven’t visited her website, I suggest you do so at: www.rosarioforsenate.com . I plan on doing whatever I can to help get the word out to help Rosario Marin beat Barbara Boxer from Marin County ( funny huh?)

I’ve had the flu all week-yuck! Barry has been sick as well. We are both getting better thanks to my vegetable beef soup, vitamin C, and Theraflu. Anyway, not much to write about since not much has happened.

There have been a few editorials about Rosario Marin. I think the word will spread quickly that Boxer better beware!

Tomorrow night is the fundraiser where Paul Shanklin will be the guest. I better get some more rest so I will be able to go!

I received a letter from a High School student, Joanne Caritan, from Terra Nova High School in Pacifica, California. She was assigned to research a candidate in the recall Election. As closure to her project she had to write me a letter, a critique of my campaign. Joanne was pretty accurate, citing the fact that backing Arnold probably didn’t help me in getting votes. She describes herself as a “rather cynical and disenchanted Northern California Democrat,” that isn’t sure Arnold is worthy of the Governor’s job. Although she does give him credit for marrying “into one of the most famous Democratic families in the world….” I wrote back and even sent a recall calendar to her. She adds that the “amateur bikini model” part helped keep the boys awake during her speech to class about me. Anyway, she sounds like an intelligent student. I’m just happy there are students like her out there actually learning!

My back is much better now; I just needed to get some rest. I got plenty of rest at the Neighborhood Association meeting I attended last night. Boring! I thought we as a group could actually get some things done to improve our neighborhood. Looks like it will take a long time to get anything accomplished. We haven’t appointed a leader officially, everyone has a different complaint (of course), and we only meet every other month. Well, I guess we have to start somewhere. A representative from OCTA spoke with us about the “light rail project,” Centerline. It will be going down Bristol Street through Santa Ana from the Civic Center to John Wayne Airport. Of course it will make a quick underground pass right where the Orange County Performing Arts center is located on Ave of The Arts. I used to live on that street, glad I moved before all the construction between that and the new Segerstrom Hall they are building. The rail project will cost about 100 million dollars per mile to build and is currently only 8.5 miles, down from the original 87 miles they had planned. Not too many people were happy about at the meeting since it is so close to some of their homes. It was in the paper yesterday that the project will wipe out a small strip center where a nice restaurant and bar are currently doing a good business. (Avo’s Bistro and Corner Office) I would certainly hate if that happened to deva’s! We are right next to the freeway, hope they don’t intend to widen it where we are!

12/2/2003 12:35 PM

I tweaked my back on the giant pot of Turkey Noodle stew I made for the bar the other day, so I’ve been out of commission for a couple of days. Didn’t know cooking could be so dangerous!

Well, SB60 was voted on by the Assembly 64-9 to repeal it! Arnold will sign it soon. Now we just have to worry what Gil Cedillo comes up with next. That’s good news! Rosario Marin is going to officially announce her candidacy for U.S. Senate today. There was a nice article on her in the OC Register today, with the “Adios Boxer” sign behind her. I certainly hope she wins! She is a pro-choice, fiscal conservative, moderate Republican. We need more of these types running for office here in California. To top it off, she is a Latina, a hard working immigrant who comes from a difficult background. Her mother a seamstress, her father a factory worker and janitor. She is just the sort of candidate that scares the extreme left! The thought of a hard working, educated, intelligent minority is just what puts the fright into these liberals. She is an example of how anyone from any background can prosper here in this great U.S.A. if only they work extremely hard for what they want. Go Rosario!

December already, I can’t believe it! I just love the holidays, except for trying to shop at South Coast Plaza. Good thing they have the Club House, and Claimjumper! I just changed my “Recall Calendar,” and Cruz Bustamante is December 2003. I don’t come up until November 2004! I don’t think I can look at him all month; I’m going to have to get creative with this calendar. It’s funny, I really haven’t heard or seen a picture of that guy since the Election.

End of the month…………..what a day. Just finished payroll for November. I cooked, and re-heated food for deva’s today and dropped it off before starting paperwork. Lots of people there today to watch football. I think we serve more food at deva’s than most restaurants close by. Only thing is we don’t have a kitchen so it’s all free to the patrons; they’re spoiled!

Well, I’m exhausted, not much exciting going on right now. Good night.

I’m sitting here doing paperwork, paying bills, the usual. Tonight is different because I have “live” entertainment to accompany my work. There’s nothing quite like hearing” When the Saints Go Marching In,” performed by a Mariachi Band. My neighbors are currently having yet another birthday party. They invited us and the other neighbors so we wouldn’t call the police on them. What’s funny is, I really like Mariachi Bands. They remind me of being in Mexico. My favorite place in the world is Cancun at the Camino Real. Can’t wait to visit again someday! One of my neighbors told my boyfriend he had to go next door and talk to their other neighbors because, “they are white people.” What’s even more hilarious is that I was just singing “Perfidia” last night at deva’s during karaoke. For some reason I can sing in Spanish probably better than in English. I even had all the music for that wedding I had in my backyard that I mentioned way earlier in this blog. They couldn’t believe it when I pulled out Vicente Fernandez, and every Gypsy Kings CD that they’ve come out with. For some reason when they have a party, my neighbors like to throw things over the wall. The question is, how many chorizo’s, lemons, and plastic bottles will I have to pull out of the pool in the morning. There must be 40 people next door, there’s no parking out on the street, and by all the hollering and whistling; the tequila consumption must be on the rise!

I’m cooking turkey noodle stew with those “Grandma’s Noodles.” The house smells so good right now. It’s going to be cozy evening since Barry put up all the Christmas decorations, the tree, and I’ll be right in front of the fireplace watching a movie with a big bowl of stew. A perfect evening when the temperature drops. Now where are my comfy Victoria Secrets flannel PJ’s?

Looks like they are repealing the illegal immigrant license law (SB60)! Whew! Arnold is following through on his promises so far.

The grocery strike is getting ridiculous. Now the teamsters quit deliveries from the distribution centers, right before Thanksgiving! I’m so glad I bought almost everything last Saturday. I have a lot of people to feed at deva’s; give me a break! There isn’t an alternative grocery store close by where I can purchase what I need. It’s so frustrating not being able to just stop by the store, my store, my Vons; right down the street. I refuse to go to those dirty, bag-it-yourself, and smelly alternatives. Trader Joes is great, but they don’t carry important items like junk food! Forget about Costco or Sam’s Club; I have a BMW. I can’t walk out of one of those stores without a truckload of stuff! It just pisses me off when I read or hear about the strikers yelling and cussing at people with children. There’s no excuse for that behavior! One of my patrons got so frustrated that he now makes several trips to Vons daily to purchase one item at a time. Yesterday he showed me a receipt for a bag of M&M’s. Another customer, “Recon Bob,” (everyone has a nickname at deva’s) was ready to get into a verbal confrontation with some strikers the other day. What stopped him was the fact an elderly couple in front of him stopped in front of the picket line, and the little old man pulled down his pants and mooned them! Now that’s funny!

Wow, time is just flying by this time of the year, as always! Thursday night I went to a Chamber mixer of several City Chambers, at the Santa Ana Performing Arts & Event Center. What a lovely building with a mahogany staircase, wood floors, and ballrooms lit by crystal chandeliers. What a wonderful meeting place, just a bit difficult to get to and find parking. I talked to several people who asked what does a company called “deva’s” do? I just smiled and gave them my card and told them to stop by when you feel like hanging out in a “dive bar.” Of course the next question was, “What’s a dive bar?” I just explained it was a friendly little neighborhood bar with pool tables, dartboards, no food, and no windows. People all react so differently it amuses me. I think the “dive bar” thing is catching on and is becoming more popular. It’s no longer so taboo, it’s just plain fun!

Friday night was our fundraiser for the Tustin Area Republican Women Federated group. Rosario Marin was our guest speaker; she is always such an inspiration to listen to. She is so down to earth; I spoke with her briefly and took a picture with her. Rosario even autographed a few new twenties I had brought with me. I made sure they were new from the bank because I had heard there were fakes going around already. How embarrassing would that be to ask the former Treasurer to autograph a fake bill? Then I thought, if a treasurer signs a fake bill, does that make it legal? Anyway, I’m sure that doesn’t happen, but just the strange thoughts of a bar owner who constantly watches the mostly cash income closely for fakes. Back to Rosario, I hope she tramples Barbara Boxer in this upcoming election. I put the “Adios Boxer” bumper stickers all over the place at deva’s. I met a few people from Bill Campbell’s office that were really super, I look forward to seeing them again at future events. In fact I met one of our Federated members that recognized me from the mixer the night before and we hit it off well. It’s a small world, can I say that enough? I had a great time at the event; it was at the Tustin Ranch Golf Course. The food is always excellent there, especially the desserts! I can’t believe I’ve been to that golf course more times for meetings than to actually golf! I need to get out there; I haven’t golfed since deva’s tournament in September.

I’ve already purchased everything I need for Thanksgiving. I always cook a big turkey dinner to take to the bar for people that don’t have family to go to. I thought I might have to work since I won’t force my employees to work on a holiday, but JJ said she wants to work. We will have a good holiday at deva’s; I’ve got a huge smoked turkey to prepare-yummy! I’ve also started shopping for Christmas; I have all the decorations for the bar except for a tree. I’m doing red, white, and blue again this year with really neat flag inspired tree ornaments. Our troops need all the support we can give! Speaking of our Troops, I received an e-mail from Bart from the 82nd Airborne! They received at least one of my packages already, I can’t believe it! Here’s his e-mail:

Reva,

It was such a pleasant surprise to receive the well wishes and great box you sent! My paratroopers and myself certainly do appreciate all the support and kind words. I followed the gubernatorial race with great pride and enthusiasm. You did well and though we do not get much news here, I know that you represented us all well.

I went online and checked out your nightclub, well done young lady! It looks like my kind of place; Lord knows I need a beer, whiskey, my Harley and some beautiful women (other than ones that are cover up with sheets and smell).

I am in Ar Ramadi Iraq. This is my second combat tour with the 82D Airborne. Before that I was in Korea for a year. So I have been home about six months in the past three years. It has been hard, but we are doing the right thing. I will forever remember the children and adults throwing flowers on our HMMWVs as we liberated each town, it was amazing and horrible all at once.

Take good care of yourself and each other. We will continue to take care of those that threaten our freedom. Keep the home fires burning, don't forget about us.

AIRBORNE! ALL THE WAY!

Live it Well,

Barton J. Rice
Captain, 82D Airborne Division
Ar Ramadi, Iraq

(AKA Bart, Shonda's little brother..6'4 220, not so little anymore, haha)

Don't open anything from Paypal! There's a lovely Paypal virus going around that really messes up your computer! I, of course, found out after trying to open an attachment that appears to be legit. I had to do a full system restore to finally get rid of it.

Off to meeting..........

Okay, the game was great! The seats were directly behind the Lakers bench! Kobe, Shaq, Rick Fox (looking so cute in his street clothes,) and Malone………..all right in front of us! We were in the second row on the floor, Shaq is huge that close up! What a view; it was so exciting to be so close to the action. A friend of mine called me the next day to say the camera caught me in a close-up after it followed Shaq back to the bench in the 3rd quarter. I could see us on the Trinitron, right behind the Gatorade cooler. Barry was definitely shocked at where the seats were. Lakers kicked serious butt on Sunday night; Miami Heat just couldn’t keep up. It was nice to see Phil Jackson talk to the team during time outs, reminded me of watching my father at the away games when we sat right behind the team. Nice memories, I was attending basketball games since I was a baby. I was the mascot one year, and had my own little cheerleader outfit; I think I must have been about 3 or 4 years old. My father would’ve been 62 tomorrow; I still miss him so much! I know he’s up there watching over me and all my crazy stunts! Anyway, I can’t wait to witness another game on the Staples Center floor!

Big news today is about Michael Jackson and the search of his “Never Land Ranch.” His father was mentioned in the OC Register, citing an interview he did with the BBC saying he never beat Michael. The funny thing is that they mention Majestik Magnificent, Michael’s personal magician in the column. It’s Majestik the Magnificent, and that is his real name. I know because I used to assist him on stage sometimes up in Hollywood at a place, which no longer exists, called Carlos & Charles. At least I’m pretty sure the place is no longer there. That’s why I was at the Jackson’s house on Havenhurst the one time that I mentioned. That’s where I met Tony Whitehead who in turn hired my roommate and I to work the party for Luther Vandross at A&M Records, where we met James Worthy. See, it’s just that simple. LOL! It’s a small, small, world! Actually, Majestik, as I knew him, was a really nice person. He introduced me to Michael one night at a party I think I mentioned earlier. Majestik was completely against drugs, did not even drink, and was really close to Michael. Guess he still is, according to the paper. Last time I ran into Majestik was in Las Vegas at some nightclub probably 8 or 9 years ago. He doesn’t like living in California because he’s afraid of earthquakes. Weird, the stuff you remember about people.

Well, Arnold is taking action and the vehicle fee is back to where it was! Maybe I’ll check into buying a new car now; mine is getting a little old. Old convertible BMW’s are not cheap to fix! He is taking a look at the illegal immigrant license bill, SB60. Let’s hope he does something with that one!

I heard back from Assemblyman Todd Spitzer today. I had e-mailed him, asking for advice. Todd said to “read the newspapers, get involved, attend meetings, and work hard!” Guess I’m on the right track for now.

I just scored tickets to go see the Lakers tomorrow night! Supposedly the seats are 2nd row from the floor, right by the Laker’s bench! We shall see! Barry has never been to a Laker game so we’re going to do it right! Last game I attended was the NBA Championship, final game in 2000 that the Lakers won. The seats were 5 rows back on the floor, right behind Magic and Diane Canon! What a game that was! I don’t think any other game will top that one; my friends and I had a blast! We were right behind LeVar Burton (Star Trek,) who was friends with Shaq, so Shaq went to talk to him a few times and we got a close up on him. I saw Andy Garcia, Whopee Goldberg, and I had better seats than them! Don’t have to be a star to get good seats, just lucky! After the game we couldn’t get out of the parking lot so we joined the celebration in the streets…………uh, I mean riots. It was all fun until a trash can flew over my head on fire and they started jumping on a news van along with a limousine. It got quite scary at that point! No place for a mini-skirt, high-heel wearing female! We made it out of there safely but it took awhile. People (idiots,) were hanging off of telephone poles, streetlights, anything they could climb on. Well, at least inside the Staples center I had the best basketball game experience of my life! Nothing like being covered in purple and yellow streamers as the Lakers won! Okay, being covered in red and white streamers signaling the Angels had won the World Series in the final game last year was a close second! And yes, there’s the Stanley Cup Finals this year at The Pond, suite center ice (my first hockey game!) Only in Southern California. Look for me on TV!

That rain we had was horrible in certain areas! It actually hailed in Watts! They were making snowballs on TV, well; I guess it would actually be iceballs-ouch! Crazy things continuing on in California! Floods damaged homes; electricity went out, what a mess. Luckily where I live we only received a little rain.

My friends are having their BLT party again (Black Tie, Lingerie, or Toga,) but I’m so tired and have so much paperwork to do I just can’t make it tonight. Hope they understand; Jeff and Gary are just two of the nicest people! Gary actually just got back from flying injured soldiers out of Iraq over to Germany for medical treatment. He’s a commercial pilot as well as an Air Force Reserve. I received a letter from Gary last month from Germany; I didn’t even know he was there. I usually get postcards from all over the world, but this was a well written, heart felt letter about how happy he was to safely get those injured soldiers to safety. Nice guy.

Well, back to searching for the surface of my desk!

I just turned on the news and now we are being flooded out here! Well, not me, not yet, I’ll keep my fingers crossed! It’s funny to watch the news; they are explaining to southern California how to act in a thunderstorm. Being from Ohio, I know what a thunderstorm is, and this isn’t anything close! The Red Cross is telling people to stay away from the windows (duh!) A little bit of rain out here just sends everything out of whack! The streets are flooded because we do not have proper drainage, power is out in some places, and people are walking away from their cars on flooded streets. Amazing! Now there are flood watches for the burned out areas from the wildfires. What next? Nobody say earthquake! Southern California……………what we put up with to live here!

http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=1483260750

Thankyou to all the Veteran’s out there! Thankyou to all our Soldiers!
The previous link is to a wonderful animated card that I received; check it out if you have time! Marine Corps birthday was on Monday, the Marines aat deva’s had a good time! I’m sending several packages to the 82nd Airborne today. I hope they get them by Christmas! You can read some of the letters from my friend Shonda’s brother Bart at the following address:

www.wpfx.com

Back in Ohio they are really trying to get people involved to send the troops much needed items. I’m sure there are many people trying to help all over the country, unfortunately this is the only drive I know about at the moment.

I’ve started reading a book that I received during the campaign from Archer Muncy, the curator of LST Brothers Library and Museum. He also has joined with the American Museum of Military History, which is planned for presentation in one of the WWII blimp hangars, which stand at the former United States Marine Corps Air Base in Tustin, (actually, not too far from deva’s.) Anyway, the book, “Total Power of 1 in America,” by Fred Holden, is so interesting! I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to get involved and be a good citizen, learn about economics, government, politics, and business. I’m not very far in the book, but it looks like I will learn a lot! What a nice person to send the book, Archer even signed the book, thanking me for being a caring Orange County citizen.

I have to go shopping, I’m cooking all day tomorrow for deva’s dart banquet. I always make rigatoni with chicken in a spicy tomato cream sauce, with mushrooms and broccoli. I’m getting hungary just thinking about it! I’m off to Smart & Final!

The meeting was terrific! Todd Spitzer had a great message in his speech for to the group. He even pointed me out as he suggested that there is a new sort of politics evolving in California and we need to get more young people involved. I talked with him briefly afterwards, reminding him that we had met a few years back at the charity golf tournament. Todd is a real down to earth, funny, intelligent guy. The other speaker was Rosario Marin, recent Treasurer of The United States. She gave a wonderful speech about how she came to America at the age of 14 and didn’t know any English, and worked very hard to get where she is today. Rosario also told of her experience on 9-11, as she was only about a mile from the Pentagon. There weren’t very many dry eyes in the room by the time she was finished. Rosario resigned as Treasurer in June so that she could run against Barbara Boxer. I have several of her bumper stickers that say, “Adios Boxer!” Hey, we had the “Hasta la Vista Davis,” stickers, so it sounds good to me! Rosario will be the main speaker at our Tustin Area Republican Women Federated fundraiser on the 21st of this month. I hope she kicks Boxer’s butt in the Election!

Well, I haven’t heard back from the Chuck DeVore campaign, maybe I’m not conservative enough for them? Maybe they are just really busy, after all one of his staff asked me to join their team. We shall see, there’s a fundraiser for Chuck on Veteran’s Day on Tuesday, I’m not sure if I should go or not.

It’s Marine Corps birthday tomorrow! Happy Birthday! I’ll have to do something to honor the Marines tomorrow at deva’s.

I went to a baby shower yesterday for my best friend’s daughter, Courtney. It was cute, with all the games and baby stuff. Of course I didn’t come close to un-scrambling “baby” words, and it was worse when it came to naming the foods in the baby food jars! Oh well, at least there was plenty of Chardonnay and good appetizers! Courtney did get a lot of needed baby items, so it was a successful shower. She is naming the baby Shamus (I’m sure no one will tease him in school!)

One of my cats is driving me crazy! Either she is going senile, or there’s going to be an earthquake in California soon! She is 16 years old, so I’m guessing that she’s losing it. We almost always have an earthquake when she acts like this; she yells continuously and wants me to go hide in a closet with her. Today she wants to hide in draws and boxes mostly, so I’ll keep my fingers crossed!

I was listening to the Secretary of State of Ohio, Ken Blackwell, today on the Rush Limbaugh show. Sounds like Ohio is waking up and voted against Governor Bob Taft’s plan to issue up to $500 million in bonds for high-tech business companies. The people want tax reductions and fewer regulations on business; sound familiar? Spending is out of control everywhere it seems.

I am attending a meeting tomorrow where Todd Spitzer will be speaking. He was an Orange County Supervisor, and is now an Assemblyman. I met him several years ago at a TGIFridays golf tournament. The restaurant in Orange used to put on a tournament every year benefiting Orangewood Children’s Home. It was so much fun, I didn’t miss one year of it. Actually their first tournament was the first time I actually played golf. On the way to the course I stopped at a golf shop and they were laughing because I walked in and asked, “What do I need in order to golf other than clubs?” They asked when would I be golfing, to which I applied, "I have a tournament in 20 minutes!” Anyway, I got shoes, tees, balls, and a glove and I was all set. I guess that’s just me; the best way to learn something is to just jump right in! Back to Todd Spitzer…………My first impression of him back then was that this guy wants to be President someday. Who knows, it could happen. I’m looking forward to listening to him tomorrow. I’m going early for a demonstration on the new voting machines. I’ll have a full report tomorrow.

I offered to volunteer for Chuck DeVore’s campaign for 70th district Assembly. He is a well-qualified, intelligent man, with incredible public speaking ability. I hope I have enough time in my busy schedule to actually help out and see how a real campaign works.

It’s off to bartend again today. The fires, and now the rain are making everyone and their children sick. I have a feeling I’ll be working a lot more this month. I don’t mind, saves me money, but leaves me less time to really involve myself with politics. I’m sure I’ll find time somehow to stay active. I had three new customers come in yesterday asking about my run for Governor, people are so fascinated by the entire event. It’s fun to meet all these new people; I think they get a kick out of a gubernatorial candidate serving them a cocktail.

It’s so cold now; overnight it seems to have turned into winter. I turned the heat on in my house for the first time this season. I’m always so cold; I don’t know how I lived in Ohio for so long! I keep the house at around 75 degrees. Anyway, I better get to work and serve up those drinks!

I’ve been so busy, not enough time to write. I attended a meeting yesterday where four candidates all running for the 70th Assembly were speaking. The candidate, Dr. Alexandria Coronado was there as well; she is running against Loretta Sanchez for Congress. I like what she had to say, she will need to raise a ton of money to beat Sanchez! Good Luck to her! I may volunteer to work on one of these candidates’ campaigns. Then I could see how a real campaign is run. I’m still learning so much every time I go to one of these meetings; it’s so interesting.

After the meeting I had to bartend till 6:30pm, then run home and get dressed up for Halloween. I was a biker chick, no time to try to come up with something original. Then it was back to bar where I made sandwiches and put out appetizers for the party. We had a blast!

I finished payroll today and am working on all the other month-end paperwork. I’ll never catch up so I can relax it seems. I think I’ll go watch a few movies and forget about finding the bottom of my desk!

They finally have some progress on some of these fires! The weather is helping out, with a few showers here and there. I saw the sky today for the first time in awhile. Right now it’s cold and looks like it will rain soon-good news!

Busy day tomorrow with Halloween, work, and I have a meeting to attend for the Tustin Area Republican Women Federated. Alexandria Coronado will be speaking; she is running against incumbent Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez for the 47th Congressional District. It would be nice to see her win; Sanchez is so annoying.

These fires just keep getting worse! I’ve been watching TV all day; I can’t believe how bad things are! It is now up to over 1600 homes destroyed! A firefighter has been killed, and others injured. My bartender JJ just called because she has a friend who is here fighting the fires in San Diego from Vegas. He said the fires were all merging in San Diego and were 0% contained! He also said that Big Bear Mountain was going to be wiped out. Apparently they can only fight that fire from the air, it’s too dangerous on the ground. It’s just amazing watching the firefighters save homes, and battle these fires. Firefighters from Oregon are being sent in to relieve the ones down in San Diego because they are just exhausted. They are bringing in military planes from Georgia and Michigan. They just said on the news that the fires are unmanageable! Arnold is in Washington asking for Federal help. We need help from God at this point! I’m thinking lots of rain or snow in the mountains would be necessary at this point!

I’m receiving several e-mails from back in Ohio, friends and family worried about me. I’m okay so far, just breathing bad air and have a lot of cleaning to do! Orange County isn’t being threatened at this point. There was a small fire that broke out earlier this week in San Clemente, but they put it out real fast! We just have all the smoke and ash hanging around in the air.

I better get to the store, I need to buy food for deva’s big Halloween party. I just love Halloween, its so much fun dressing up. It will be spooky for sure with the air like this!

Okay, the 50,000 hits were only on the RevaReneeRenzforGovernor.org website. I have no idea how many hits devasbar.com received, but it has to be way more! Wow!

These fires are relentless! Several of my patrons and friends own homes up in the mountains that are currently a blaze. One customer lost his house on Saturday. He went to work and they called to tell him his house was gone. He had to go shopping the next day to buy clothes so he could go to work. A good friend is currently waiting to see if his house is still standing. He spent $7,000 just ten days ago to have 14 dead trees removed from around his home. He brought me down some firewood that burned quickly in my fire pit out back. I can see why entire mountains of these dead trees burn so fast. There are 10 fires going right now, and over 1100 homes burned so far. What a disaster! A lot of people are going to need so much help. I’m 40 miles away and my eyes are burning, my house has ash all over, and I can smell the smoke. The people close to the fire must be miserable!

The wedding was nice, not too ashy! First time I had Philippine food, the bride is from the Philippines. The sunset was amazing; the sun was bright neon red. These fires are so bad! I just heard that over 600 homes are burned. Gray Davis was on the news earlier declaring a disaster area. The guy is actually forming a bit of a personality now, it’s like he’s happy he got recalled. My eyes are burning, I can’t breath well, and I can’t imagine what the people closer to the fires are going through. My pool is now unusable; it’s black with ash. The Santa Ana winds are kicking up and it’s making it worse. This is so devastating, these poor people losing everything. About a dozen people have died as a result of this disaster. I have to clean the filters on my air cleaners every day now, they get dirty so fast.

I received an e-mail today from a person I went to high school with; actually he was a year ahead of me. Dan e-mailed me a few weeks back really upset about what was going on in Ohio with the sales tax being raised without a vote. He was so upset and felt he could not do anything about it. Dan asked for my advice and said how he was proud of me for running for Governor. He sounded so helpless. I wrote back and encouraged him to do get off his butt and do something about it, anything, or quit complaining. I told him that you don’t have to be a career politician to get involved, just look at us here in California! Anyway, a few days went by and Dan e-mailed me to let me know he started circulating a petition t repeal the sales tax increase of 1%. He sounds so excited now, and I think he’s getting somewhere! Here is the e-mail I received today:


Good things are happening here finally.........

I brought a petition for repealing the 1% state tax to a fish fry last weekend at Bruce Zitkovic's house and wow were people jumping to sign.

They were asking when I am going to run for mayor or a council seat. { MY GOD }
I reply that I have a good 7-12 years at ------- yet before I can get a decent pension but tell them I'm thinking about it.
The wildest thing is when I tell them I am a registered Dem. and I am in favor of conservative issues. They just crap themselves.

I had over 40 signatures by nights end and everyone was talking about getting something done to help out.
Stunned by all the excitement I e-mailed radio stations in the area and in Toledo sending this letter below to the courier last Thursday morning.

It must be a hotter topic than I thought because the courier printed it the very next day in the letters to the editor section Friday Oct. 24.

I'm having fun and feeling good about myself for a change. You are right it is like an awakening and people are listening to me like I am some important voice.

Are most people really this damn dumb?? Can't they see what the government is doing to us all???
I am truly amazed. I will do my best to keep people on their toes here. I just have to be a little careful on the job of what and how I mention these topics

I'll keep you up if anything wild happens.
Take care,
Dan

-
---- Original Message -----
From: Dan Helfer
To: letterstotheeditor@thecourier.com
Sent: Thursday, October 23, 2003 6:37 AM
Subject: repealthetax.com

repealthetax.com


Registered voters who are ready to make the state of Ohio accountable for the over spending and fantasy politics that we are engaged in can make a difference today by signing on to the petition for the 1% tax repeal.

We are and have been on a course of uncontrolled spending up 70% in the last ten years. That is more that any state around here.
Our manufacturing jobs are leaving as well with over 118 thousand gone last year alone.

What is happening? We have a chance to repeal this state imposed 1% tax that has been applied to us Ohioans with out us first having a chance to vote on the issue.

Luckily for everyone a difference can be made by getting the word out about this petition and making sure our leaders in all areas act responsibly in the future with our hard earned tax dollars.

Please take the few minutes to review the information and petition at www.repealthetax.com and do what you can as a responsible voter to give our over spending people in the state house a message of reform.

A petition can be down loaded from this web site for use by any registered voter who has the resolve to make a stand. I myself have engaged in this effort and have had great response by all who have signed asking me to please keep it moving and fight for what is right.

Respectfully,
Dan Helfer
Findlay OH

Good for Dan! It’s great to hear that people are getting involved! Never thought I could influence politics in Ohio! I just hope this catches on all over the country!

I also received an e-mail today from Mike, the friend who helps me with my website. It looks like devasbar.com received close to 50,000 hits over the last couple of months! The report even lists all the different countries of visitors on this site; there were 55 different countries! Can you believe it? The UK and Canada were at the top of the list after the USA. Amazing!