ByBates Blog: Tales from an Okie with Attitude

Lazy Sunday at the Book Store

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 00:57:00 +0000

8/5/07 -- Since Saturday was spent in the sun volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, we decided to spend today relaxing with some good reading.

Once or twice a month we really enjoy going to either Borders or Barnes and Noble and spending a few hours with a frappuccino, a deli sandwich and a stack of magazines and books we're too cheap to buy.

While Vickie paroozes an assortment of women's magazines and investment books, I dive in to videography, Photoshop and marketing magazines.

Vickie has always wanted me to do an Andy Warhol type poster of her to hang in our front room (which is very retro).

While going through a Photoshop magazine I read an article on how to replicate Warhol's famous Marilyn Monroe painting.

I took the above photo of Vickie and decided to try to use it to create some pop art.

You can see the results didn't turn out too bad. I can't wait to take this to Sam's tomorrow and have them print a poster size print to hang on the wall!

After a few hours of literature, we stopped by my folks' house to pick up a couple of koi that had outgrown their patio pond and transfer them to our larger pond (photos coming soon).

Once home it was the perfect time to snuggle up on the couch and watch a few movies... 300 (4/5), Ghost Rider (2/5) and PathFinder (2/5).

It's Another Habitat for Humanity Saturday!

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Sun, 05 Aug 2007 00:02:00 +0000

8/4/07 -- Though Vickie and I have enjoyed volunteering for Habitat for Humanity for awhile now, Devin was always too young to join in. Well, not anymore.

Since turning 16, Devin can now swing a hammer and tote a load like the rest of us.

I'm proud to say he wasted no time getting to work and even managed to keep up with the regulars.

Within an hour of arriving, Devin was on the roof and decking it like a pro!

I gotta say, it was not the best day for manual labor. With barely a cloud in the sky, the temperature quickly reached 90-some-odd degress.

By the end of the day the entire house was decked and ready for the roofers.

Also, the house Vickie and I framed several months ago was recently dedicated to a new family.

Devin enjoyed the work so much he plans to volunteer again soon and thinks he may even look for a construction job next summer.

An Evening at a Parking Lot Carnival

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 05:33:00 +0000

7/19/07 -- OKC, OK - My wife's nephew, Dalton, turned 5 today so we decided to make a day of it.

The day started out with a trip to the Oklahoma City Zoo, then dinner at Pizza Hut and finally a trip to a local parking lot carnival.

I haven't been to one of those traveling carnivals since I was about Dalton's age.

This one was setup on SE 44th near S. I-35 in a grocery store parking lot.

I don't know which was more fun, watching Dalton's smiling face while he rode the kiddie rides or the look of shear terror on Vickie's face when Devin talked her into riding the "Whirl Wind."

Even at $3 per ride, it was a fun hour or so and capped off a great day.

Devin Turns 16

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 04:30:00 +0000

7/12/06 -- Devin turned 16 this summer (more to come).

Dinner for Two!

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Sat, 23 Jun 2007 04:45:00 +0000

6/22/07 -- As any parent knows, finding time for a romantic dinner for two can be almost impossible.

But, Friday night was our lucky night!

I like to consider myself the cook of the family.

While Vickie and Devin both enjoy whipping up a meal from time to time - I tend to be the one that cracks open the cook book to find something special for the dinner table.

Tonite it was shrimp with homemade mango salsa, sushi and marinated steak!

Pay attention fellas, this not too difficult dinner can make you a hero whether you are married or not.

The shrimp were of the larger variety, bought and steamed at the local grocery store. The sushi can also be purchased at nicer grocery stores around town.

Here is my recipe for fresh mango salsa;

First, pick out a fresh mango. If you don't know how, let me give you a few tips - Pick up a mango and softly press your thumb against its flesh. It should give just a bit. Most importantly, a mango should smell very fragrant. It should seem heavy for its size and should not be green if you plan on eating it right away.
Now, peel, pit and dice your mango (see how here).
Chop/dice a small red onion.
Finely chop 1 Jalapeño chile (leave the seeds if you want it spicy).
Peel and dice 1 small cucumber (need about 1 cup).
3 tablespoons of cilantro (chop fresh leaves if at all possible).
3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice.
1 medium avacado peeled and diced.
Dash of salt and pepper.
Combine all the ingredients and chill in the frig for about 30-minutes. Tastes great on the shrimp or even on tortilla chips or a fresh salad.

Now to my favorite steak recipe;

Purists are going to crindge, but believe it or not, this steak is cooked in a skillet on the stove!

I buy the tri-tip cut from Sam's Club. This cut will come in long narrow pieces that are about 1.5 inches think. You will need to probably cut each strip in half.
Place the cut of meat on a cutting board and pound with a tenderizing hammer until about 1/2 inch thick. This will tenderize the meat and the reduced thickness will make it cook very fast.
Let the meat marinate in Allegro (available at Sam's Club) for at least an hour in the refrigerator.
In a skillet, place a pad of butter and a spoon full of minced garlic (also available at Sam's Club).
Place the steaks into the butter and garlic and allow to cook for a few minutes over medium-high heat on each side (for medium rare - my personal favorite). Remove from the skillet and serve promptly.

That's it - enjoy!

KFOR Ch4: Oklahoma YouTube Super Stars!

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Mon, 07 May 2007 13:13:00 +0000

5/7/07 -- OKC, OK - (*Note: This article will be updated over the next few weeks) The other day my step son was commenting that he had been studying inventions in the past and that nothing exciting had been invented during his lifetime. "You've got to be kidding!" was the only thing I could think of to say.

According to CNN, there has been a long list of innovative inventions and advancements over the last 25 years. I have to concur that the Internet is probably No. 1.

When Devin was born (1991) the Internet was still in its consumer infancy.

Today, every 10-year old has their own website, you can read the news headlines from around the globe, and everyone with a video camera can enjoy their 15-minutes of fame on the Internet.

Here in Oklahoma, we have our own YouTubers gone wild and they are being featured by Oklahoma's own News Babe, Ali Meyer with KFOR News Channel 4.

Ali is doing a four part series called "YouTube Super Stars!"

Ali scoured YouTube and found four Oklahoman's who invite millions into their lives via videos posted the the internets most popular video sharing Web site.

And the winners (or is that wieners?) are...

The Famous Stacie: (aired 4/30/07) "The realest housewife on the planet." Residing in Tulsa, this mother, wife and aspiring actress is always on the go and she brings you along for the ride.
Billy Julio: (airs 5/7/07) A criminal justice student living in Elk City. Billy Julio describes himself as "a full time student, because it sounds better than unemployed." Billy Julio invites viewers to ride, walk or just pull up a chair an sit a spell as you get a front row seat to his fight with obesity and upcoming gastric bypass surgery.
To be announced before the segment airs 5/14/07.
To be announced before the segment airs 5/21/07.

The first episode , FamousStacie, was excellent. The second episode, starring Billy Julio, is set to air tonight and the third and fourth episodes will air the following two Mondays ~ You don't want to miss a single one.

As many of you know, I too utilize YouTube in both my family life and activism.

I post family videos to my account at BatesFamily and my anti-street prostitution activism at VideoVigilanteOKC (support site to JohnTV.com).

I currently have 43 videos on YouTube that have been watched over 1-million times in the last 6-months.

My favorite 5 videos that I have shot and posted are...

Prostitution in Oklahoma City - Robinson Minute 03/2007 (9,000+ views).
Segment from Video Vigilantes Special (470+ views).
Hypocrisy of Oklahoma City Vice - Caught in a Lie! (31,000+ views).
Interview with Yvonne; Oklahoma Street Prostitute (30,000+ views).
Interview with "Fire," a Street Prostitute (16,000+ views).

There are literally hundreds of Okies who post to you tube, and they include...

Rob Hedrick, aka TVWeatherGuy: KOCO News Channel 5 videographer.
West Moore High School Band, aka WHStubachick: Like the name says, these are clips of the West Moore HS band.
Parker Best, aka ckyguy420: From Edmond, this 18-year old films local rock band performances.
UCO Chemistry Club, aka UCOCHEM: Like the name says.

If you have a favorite Okie YouTuber, post a like in the comments section of this article.

Restaurant Review: Falcone's Pizzeria & Deli

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Mon, 07 May 2007 00:48:00 +0000

5/6/07 -- OKC, OK - What to do on a Sunday afternoon? Why not some authentic Italian pizza at a locally owned pizzeria! And there is no better place for pizza by the slice than Falcone's Pizzeria & Deli in NW OKC (and coming this week to Bricktown).

Owner Danny Falcone (see photo) is a 2nd generation Italian American, born and raised in the Little Italy district of New York City.

Danny brought his secret family recipes and techniques to NW 67th and N. May Ave. in August of 2006.

Within a couple of months Falcone's (pronounced Fal-coneys) was a hit. The lines were to the door and tables were being turned several times a day for pizza pies, pasta and fat deli sandwiches.

Personally, our family favorites are cheese pizza, pepperoni pizza, any of the fresh salads and the chicken cutlet parmigiana sandwich. For dessert you can't miss with any of the flavored Italian ice (cherry, lemon and chocolate) or tiramisu!

To top it off, how many restaurants do you go to in OKC where the owner serves you and even walks around the tables and genuinely seems interested in the dinning experience of his patrons.

Today I did two slices of pizza (cheese and pepperoni), a house salad and lemon ice. The wife, mom and dad each had cheese pizza, house salad and Italian ice.

As always the pizza was hot and fresh.

Danny sat down for a second and shared the progress on the new Bricktown location.

The new location will open this Friday and promises the same high quality foods with just a slight increase in prices over the original Falcone's.

Danny seemed particularly delighted in the outdoor dining and canal view the Bricktown location will offer.

Best of luck to Danny and we can't wait to try the new restaurant on one of our weekend trips to the movies.

Falcone's Pizzeria & Deli
6705 N. May Ave.
OKC, OK
405-242-2222

2nd Location set for Bricktown
In front of the Harkins Movie Theatre (next to Sonic).

Falcone's Pizzeria & Deli Review:
Service: 5/5 (You can't beat a restaurant where the owner serves and greets each and every guest.)
Atmosphere: 5/5 (Laid back, very clean, family atmosphere.)
Food Quality: 5/5 (The best authentic Italian pizza by the slice in the city. Very fresh ingredients and secret recipes.)
Price: 4/5 (Huge pizza by the slice for $2-$3 and sandwiches $6.25-$7. A whole pie can run $24.)
Recommendation: Excellent authentic Italian pizzeria. Great casual restaurant for a great lunch or relaxed dinner date.

Heads Up - Mother's Day is Around the Corner

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Sun, 06 May 2007 14:10:00 +0000

5/6/07 -- OKC, OK - May means lots of things to different people; time to plant summer flowers, school is almost out, the weather is warmer and the year is almost half over already.

But there is something else very special about the month of May that cannot be ignored ~ it's Mother's Day on Sunday May 13th! (yep that's my mom and me in the picture)

That's right all you sons and daughters, only 8 days to find that perfect gift or gesture that tells mom how much you love and appreciate her. Also, husbands and fathers out there, lets not forget the wife for being such a good mom to the kiddos.

I've already done my shopping for the wife (can't reveal what I'm doing as she sneaks peeks at this blog). I'm still trying to figure out what to do for a mother that already has everything, but I'm getting close.

I thought I'd share some ideas I've done in the past that might spur some creative juices out there;

Probably one of my favorite gifts I've given my mom in the past was a poem I wrote. I know, I know, how sappy is that ~ but hey, it works.
If you have lots of old photos laying around from when you were a kid, and you are even a little bit handy with a computer and printer, then you must make that favorite mom in your life a Epson StoryTeller photo album (see some pages from my album here). Trust me guys and gals, this one brings a tear to their eyes! If you don't have the time and patience for the full Fledged photo album, gather up your photos and take them to a local retailer that has one of those walk up photo processing units. Often these have scanners and you can scan all your photos and create a CD or DVD that has a slide show of all the family photos.
If you've got a camera (digital or film) then there are several mom friendly gifts you can create. Personally, I love family photos, and with the great May weather what better time to take an up-to-date family photo than on Mother's Day. Gather mom and the rest of the family in a living room, neighborhood park, backyard or wherever. Plus, if you are using a digital camera, you can print 8x10's at most pharmacies, Sam's Club, Target or Wal-Mart for a just a couple of bucks in only 5 minutes (film cameras in about an hour). Buy a picture frame and walla, instantly you're mom's favorite kid!
If all else fails, just make a day out of spending time with mom. Bring the whole family, cookout on the grill and just enjoy being together. I find moms enjoy those times most of all.

Restaurant Review: Cinco De Mayo at Hacienda Don Elias

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Sat, 05 May 2007 22:40:00 +0000

5/5/07 -- OKC, OK - Today is Cinco De Mayo (5th of May), a Mexican holiday which celebrates the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. A battle in which French forces were defeated by the Mexican army and temporarily delayed (by 1 year) in invading Mexico City.

Many people in America falsely believe Cinco De Mayo is Mexico's Independence Day.

To commemorate the day we decided to visit our favorite locally owned Mexican Restaurant, Hacienda Don Elias (HDE).

HDE is one of the few locally owned Mexican restaurants in Oklahoma City in which the food is not only authentic Mexican fare, but actually identifiable with a specific state in Mexico - Michoacán (translates: "place of those who have fish").

HDE opened in April of 2005 and is a bit off the beaten path. Located on SW 24th, between South Robinson and Harvey, you would never know it was there unless someone gave you directions.

The wife and I discovered this great little hideaway a little over a year ago and we have been regular guests ever since. Often we bring family and friends in hopes of spreading the word of this truly enjoyable restaurant.

We've tried about everything on the menu, and find we are particularly fond of the beef soft tacos (lots of cilantro, yummy!), beef tostadas (see photo above), enchiladas, and shrimp cocktail.

Family owned and operated, every meal starts off with homemade chips and salsa.

If you are visiting on a hot summer day, be sure and try a glass of their fresh cantaloupe juice, lemonade or even Horchata (a sweet rice drink).

An excellent complement to any meal is their made-to-order guacamole.

If you have room for dessert, you can't go wrong with the Pan de Tres Leche (3 milk cake).

Hacienda Don Elias

221 S. W. 24th St.

OKC, OK

405-601-9010

Hacienda Don Elias Review:

Service: 4/5 (Mostly young female Hispanic waitresses without much food service experience. Don't be in too much of a hurry as orders are made fresh to order.)

Atmosphere: 4/5 (Laid back, very clean, quite nice for the area and usually not crowded.)

Food Quality: 5/5 (The flavor and use of spices is truly unique with virtually every item on the menu from the chips to dessert being homemade.)

Price: 5/5 (Very affordable. Often the least expensive items on the menu are the most popular. Be sure and try the beef or pork soft tacos!)

Recommendation: Excellent authentic Mexican restaurant. No free queso or sopapias, but real food at a really good price.

TacoVille; Mexican Fast Food Hideaway in S. OKC

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Thu, 03 May 2007 04:01:00 +0000

5/2/07 -- OKC, OK - I'm one that loves to eat at those out of the way tiny places that most people wouldn't bother to stop at.

I find these mom and pop type establishments are a real treat and the atmosphere often cannot be beat.

South Oklahoma City is literally overflowing with small locally owned restaurants.

One that I recently discovered is TacoVille.

Locally owned, I believed they opened in 1967, and have been serving up South OKC's best burritos, tacos and their signature hot sauce ever since.

I was introduced to TacoVille a couple of months ago, by my mechanic, and have made it a regular spot for a quick lunch.

TacoVille is located in a strip mall area in SW OKC where Newcastle Road and SW 29th intersect; 3502 Newcastle Road to be exact.

Looks to have originally been a small convenience store as an entire wall still contains a long row of refrigerated coolers full of soda-pop and beer.

I personally prefer the hard tacos and the burrito supreme. Their hot sauce is unbelievable and should be used with caution.

Speaking of caution; two words of warning.... One, the neighborhood is a bit scary (okay it's downright dangerous) and two, get there early as patrons tend to be lining up the walls at lunch waiting for a seat.

If you are ever in the neighborhood and your looking for an adventure, give TacoVille a try and you'll be hooked.

TacoVille Review:
Service: 4/5 (You order/pick up at the counter, but the mostly female staff is great.)
Atmosphere: 4/5 (Laid back, loud and packed with blue collar types.)
Food Quality: 4/5 (Hey, it's Mexican fast food at its finest.)
Price: 5/5 (Most everything on the menu is from $.99 to $3.00.)
Overall: 4.25/5
Recommendation: TacoVille is a great hole in the wall Mexican fast food treat.

Family Game Night; Skip-Bo anyone?

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Wed, 02 May 2007 14:35:00 +0000

5/2/07 -- OKC, OK - Today's 'modern' family has replaced the 'family night' with takeout in front of the TV and individuals retreating to their room of choice in the house with little or no family interaction and reflection of the day's events.

In many ways my family is no different. Between work, school (all 3 of us are in school) and the never ending to-do lists, there seems to be less and less down time - let alone family time.

However, as I like to show in this blog, we make every attempt to make a family retreat out of simple things, like a visit to the zoo or a night out to dinner.

Another fun family tradition is 'game night.'

Game night for us can be duking it out blasting each other in rounds of Halo or Call of Duty (XBOX 360), or, more preferably a classic board or card game. Our favorite board games are Risk, Clue, and Monopoly. On casino nights we breakout the Roulette Wheel and/or go through several hands of Texas Hold'em.

The other night ,while enjoying steaks and great conversation at my uncle's home in Edmond, we were exposed to the apparently popular card game Skip-Bo.

Skip-Bo is by the same people who brought us Uno.

Skip-Bo quickly had me hooked (maybe that is because I won the first hand!).

The other day I bought a deck of Skip-Bo cards at Target to add to our growing collection of board and card games.

Last night we decided to play a round (about an hour with 3-players, 30-cards each).

It was close with Vickie leading most of the game. However, in the final stretch it was Vickie and I with one card left (Devin was still sitting on about 9 cards).

That's when I decided to play dirty and offered Devin $10 to set me up to win (I had a 7 card left and I needed him to play his 6 and stop there). Devin, being a teenager and perpetually on the search for money, gladly sold out his mother.

The most memorable parts of the game where the friendly jabs back and forth and a tussle that erupted when Vickie rescinded a placed card and we invoked the "a card laid is a card played" chant. To no avail though, as mom bullied her way. The best part though is that the tirade was caught on tape! Possibly to be posted in the near future.

If you know of any other must play games, let us know in the comments section.

FYI, you can find Skip-Bo cards at most any toy retailer or on Amazon for about $7.

Well, since I seem to like to post reviews, here goes it...

Skip-Bo
Price: 5/5 $6.99 - $16.00 (depending on where you buy and if you go for the board game or card only version - no difference in play)
Age Suitability: 5/5 Game says 7yrs and up. That may be true, but I'd say 10 and up.
Playing Time: 5/5 Takes us an hour for 3-players with 30-cards each.
Learning Curve: 4/5 Easier to understand if someone explains it. I found the included instructions confusing. A person can explain it in about 5 minutes.
Fun Level: 4/5 As far as card games go it has a good mix of luck and strategy without having to put too much brain power into it.
Recommendation: I highly recommend this card game for families with wide age ranges that want an easy to setup and play game that can go from shuffle to victory in an hour's time. Perfect game to take on vacation or trips to the lake!

Weekend Wrapup; Festival of the Arts, Zoo & Yard Work

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 16:31:00 +0000

4/29/07 -- OKC, OK - Today marked the final day of the 40th annual Festival of the Arts in downtown Oklahoma City. So, naturally we had to take it all in.

Saturday we spent the entire day catching up on yard work and relaxed that evening in front of the television watching Blood Diamond(4/5/).

We woke up bright and early this morning with a plan to take in an early movie in Bricktown, lunch in Bricktown to follow and then desert at the Festival of the Arts.

To our disappointment, there was not a single movie playing at the Harkins Bricktown Cinema 16 that either, one, we wanted to see, or two, was family appropriate (we are pretty strict on what we allow our 15-year-old son to watch).

Whatever happened to the summers where you could always count on a family friendly movie by Steve Martin, Robin Williams or the like? Today the movie choices are one extreme or the other - either too young (Meet the Robinsons in Disney Digital 3-D), or, too adult (Vacancy).

I like to always check the website Kids in Mind when deciding on a movie that is appropriate for the family. While I don't always agree with their reviews, I like that they tell you exactly what to expect as far as nudity, sexuality, violence, etc.

With our movie plans no longer a go, we decided to just head to the Festival of the Arts.

We got to the fest about 10am. There was plenty of parking within a short walk and the temperature was about 70 degrees.

Thousands attend this 6-day event that celebrates the visual arts, performing arts and culinary arts.

While attendees look forward to the returning artists and vendors, one guest that seems to always make an unwanted appearance is the rain. This year was no different, with the first half of the festival a virtual flood.

When we got there we bypassed the culture and headed straight for the cuisine.

All together we shared a chipotle burrito (3/5), fried dill pickles (4/5/), funnel cake (3/5), sweet potato fries (4/5) and fried peaches with ice cream (3/5).

With full bellies we perused the artist's tents.

To be truthful, I usually see very little that is in my taste or budget, though I am often drawn to the photography and I particularly like Burt seabourn's paintings.

By noon it was getting hot and we had, had our fill of food and festivities.

With an entire day ahead of us we decided to take in the Zoo. As always it did not disappoint; The grizzly bears were cooling off in the water, the gorillas were playing and the big cats were basking in the sun.

Later we enjoyed steaks, strawberry shortcake and a few rounds of Skip-Bo at my uncle's in Edmond.

All-in-all a very good weekend indeed!

This will mark our first family review of a great state annual event experience;

Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts
Atmosphere: 4/5 (Very festive and family friendly atmosphere. Very clean and safe.)
Value for the money: 4/5 (Admission is free! Food is the average cost and taste for this type of event.)
Fun factor: 4/5 (Whether or not art is your thing, there is something for everyone, young and old alike.)
Overall: 4/5
Would we return: We do every year!

Habitat for Humanity Saturday

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Sat, 21 Apr 2007 21:19:00 +0000

4/21/07 -- OKC, OK - The kiddo was gone this weekend so the wife and I decided to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity for the day. And what a perfect day to be working outdoors!

We got up bright and early, ate a quickie breakfast at Sonic, did some super fast shopping at Target and then off to the build site by 9am.

We worked in a new housing addition East of Broadway Extension and North of Wilshire.Our build group was a relatively small one, consisting of some OCU law students and some future home owners putting in 'sweat equity.'

The home we were assigned to was a new build and was just a slab of concrete when we started.

By noon we had all the wall units built and by quiting time all the interior and exterior wall framing was in place ~ which we were told was pretty impressive for such a small team of volunteers.

Vickie and I really had a great time swinging a hammer, getting a little dirty and meeting fun people.

Steve and Salazar, the build leaders, were a lot of fun and very patient.

If you've never volunteered with Habitat for Humanity you should really give it some consideration. It is a great workout, you learn some construction skills, meet great people and are helping others.

Habitat homes are an opportunity for low income, hard working families to own a house.

Each home owner is selected after a careful screening process. After being selected, the home owner was commit to at least 300-hours of 'sweat equity.' In exchange they can buy a very nice home for no money down, no interest and payments based on their income.

Families with incomes as low as $16,000 annually can be approved for a home that often costs less per month than substandard apartments or rent houses.

The average monthly payment on a three bedroom home is only $400.

Reflecting on April 19, 1995

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 16:23:00 +0000

4/19/07 -- OKC, OK - Today marks the 12th anniversary of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City.

As we all know, on that morning, Timothy McVeigh parked a Ryder van loaded with explosives in front of the Murrah building. In a cowardly act, McVeigh calmly walked away as the van detonated, killing 168 men, women and children.

April 19th means many things to many people.

For me, it marks one of those few instances where I had one of those "Do you remember where you were when..." moments that last a lifetime.

So far in my lifetime I vividly remember what I was doing when the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded, the terrorism attacks of 9/11, and of course the Oklahoma City Bombing.

That morning started off like any other. At the time I worked as a marketing manager for The Children's Hospital of Oklahoma and The University Hospital (OU Medical Center).

I was on the 6th floor in my department's reception area when we all heard a "boom" and the building seemed to shake slightly.

We knew cranes were placing equipment onto the roof of the hospital, so naturally we thought something fell.

We went to the window and instinctively looked down. Then, almost in sync, we all slowly looked up to see a large mushroom type cloud billowing from downtown Oklahoma City, maybe 1.5 miles away.

Within minutes the hospital went "code black," meaning we were locked down and in the middle of a large scale medical emergency and to prepare for mass causalities.

We had often trained for such a situation, but we honestly never thought the practice would come into play. Janitors became orderlies, cafeterias were cleared for triage, and medical helicopters were launched and poised to transport.

For our department (marketing and public relations) it meant we broke out the walkie-talkies and dispersed among the vast medical complex.

Our job in these situations was to dispense information to the media, protect patient's privacy from the media and to keep administration and security apprised of the situation.

I was dispatched to the Children's Hospital emergency room entrance.

I remember initial reports were that a bomb had exploded at the county or federal court house. My father is an attorney and I knew he might be downtown at the time. Additionally, my mother was an administrator for the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic that was located downtown.

Cell phone accessibility at the time had ground to a halt. It seemed the entire city was trying to dial out or receive a call at the same time.

Eventually I got through to my mother and she assured me that she and my father were fine and that she had sent their medical staff to the bombing scene to offer assistance.

The Children's E.R. was nothing short of organized chaos. While the flood of wounded never materialized, there were patients arriving via ambulance, private car, helicopter, police cruiser and even city buses.

In addition, medical supplies were being loaded into anything that could carry them and then transported downtown.

I remember the silence and then anguish when a call came in for amputation kits to be taken immediately to the scene.

While that initial day was a hurried blurr, the weeks that followed were nothing less than exhaustive.

Our small staff began working 12 hour shifts, 24-hours a day, to accomodate media and family requests from across the globe.

In a future blog I will share some of the stories, pictures and videos from the experience that day and the weeks and months that followed.

I still remember that surreal feeling when I first saw the damage done to the Murrah Building.

Twelve years later a memorial has been erected where so many died that day. Like the memorial in Dallas, honoring the assassination of President Kennedy, you will find individuals and groups at the Oklahoma City National Memorial 24-hours a day, rain or shine.

Resources:

Oklahoma National Memorial website.

YouTube video (media coverage the day of the bombing).

Another YouTube video.

Another YouTube video (the memorial).

Wikipedia

Pet Peeve: Gas Prices

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 14:59:00 +0000

4/19/07 -- OKC, OK - Who hasn't been effected by rising gas prices over the past couple of years. I remember in 2000 when I could fill up my gas tank for $25; Today it costs me $43.

Many people's answer to rising gas prices has been to buy one of several hybrid vehicle's that tout from 40-50MPG or even more in some cases.

The problem though is two-fold; First, you often pay a premium for the hybrid option (which you may or may not be able to recoup at tax time) and second, the application of the technology is still fairly new and shrouded with misinformation/myths and unknown pitfalls.

My answer - I got rid of my gas guzzling SUV with a high monthly payment and full insurance and bought a cheap mini van I could pay cash for.

My Mitsubishi Montero Sport was fun to drive and looked sharp, but, the bank payment and required full coverage insurance made my monthly obligation around $450 - that's $5,400 annually!

In December of 2004 I got rid of the SUV and bought a 1994 mini van in good condition for $1,500 cash.

Almost 2.5 years later the van still runs great. It gets the same gas mileage my SUV did, holds 7 as opposed to only 5 passengers, has leather seats and has lots of cargo room. The best part? I have saved over $13,000 in car payments and full coverage insurance. The only downside is that I drive an older model, very non-sexy, mini van. So much so that friends have pet names for my van (not appropriate to be shared here) and my wife even bought me a very 70's t-shirt that reads, "Mini Vans are Mega Fun!" But hey, I'm married and in my 30's, what do I care.

Back to gas prices.

The 'experts' tell us gas prices are a reflection of tensions in the Middle East, rising costs in production to meet emission standards and the cost to transport and deliver the gasoline to your local station.

I'm certainly no expert, so I can't (with any real credibility) speak to those 'reasons.' But what I do know is that none of those excuses address why two stations within a two minute drive from each other are selling the same grade gasoline for a $.16 difference in price per gallon (see photo above).

Just today I noticed that two major gasoline franchises had two completely different prices per gallon in the same area of town.

The top half of the photo above is from the Shell station at SW 44th and S. Walker Ave. The lower half of the photo is from a Conoco station at SW 29th and S. Robinson Ave (about one mile apart).

As if that example wasn't bad enough, OklahomaCityGasPrices.com shows a $.23 per gallon difference in price throughout the city.

It could not have cost any more to deliver gasoline to any one of these metro stations as opposed to the other, let alone the other myriad of excuses listed above.
It is clear that individual stations/brands have a huge impact on what you and I pay at the pump.

If gasoline prices per gallon rose $.16 (let alone $.23) on average overnight, it would be the headline on every newscast. So don't tell me gouging (or whatever you want to call it) does not take place.

Personally, I think today's technology would allow for regulations that require each and every gas station to post their current per gallon price online . This would allow consumers to price shop and better cause the industry to regulate its prices more fairly.

This type of technology would also eventually integrate with vehicle computer systems or even cell phones.

With prices databased online, your vehicle could even warn you when you are near a station with an exceptionally low price on gasoline. Or, at the very least let you know what the average price per gallon is in your particular area. Thus, allowing the driver to make an informed decision on when and where to buy gasoline.

But, what do I know.

Resources:

PC Magazines debunks some hybrid myths
EIA - official energy stats from the U.S. gov't.
Oklahoma City gas prices (community supported database of current gas prices).

Sunday at the Zoo

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Sun, 15 Apr 2007 23:03:00 +0000

4/15/07 -- OKC, OK - The morning started off pretty cool, but as soon as the sun came out we decided it would be a great day for a trip to the Oklahoma City Zoo.

The only problem? Seems about 10,000 parents with toddlers had the same idea. Fortunately, the zoo is so large you rarely experience a crowd or have to wait longer than a few minutes at any exhibit or vendor.

We decided to go ahead and purchase a 'Zoo Friends' season pass. It's really a great deal if you go more than twice a year. Plus, you get discounts off rides, shows and refreshments. Besides, you're helping out one of the true great treasures in Oklahoma.

Besides a fun time out with the family, our main objective was to see the new Oklahoma Trails Exhibit ~ it did not disappoint!

The gorillas, big cats, Lorikeet aviary and rhinos were the favorites of the day (as they often are).

We were good and avoided the snack bar except for a diet cola. But man those funnel cakes smelled good.

This was my first time in the Lorikeet aviary. This is where you get up close and personal with some beautiful birds. For only $2 you can buy a small container of nectar. The birds will literally land on your arms, hands, head, etc. - two to three at a time and lick the nectar.

One word of warning though, what goes in, must come out. So, watch your step and make sure their business end is pointing away from you.

Speaking of, my mother joined us and she had the unfortunate luck of being both pooped on by a Lorikeet and puked on by a little 8-year-old girl who'd enjoyed a little too much cotton candy.

Be sure and wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Oh yeah, take a camera too!

I think what I appreciate the most is that all ages find the zoo entertaining and educational. No fancy rides or in-your-face technology needed to have a great family filled day of laughs, wonder and good times.

This will mark our first family review of a great state experience;

Atmosphere: 4/5 (Very clean, and though the crowds can be large you hardly notice.)
Value for the money: 4/5 (regular admission is $7. Cheaper than a movie and lasts longer.)
Fun factor: 5/5 (How can you not have fun when watching gorillas chasing each other.)
Overall: 4.33/5
Would we return: Definitely! And will do so many times.

Dinner at Texas Roadhouse

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 20:25:00 +0000

4/13/07 - OKC, OK - We decided not to spend Friday the 13th inside and instead braved the rain and cold weather for a little family time out to eat.

We decided on Texas Roadhouse near Crossroads Mall in South Oklahoma City.

If you haven't been there then you are missing a real treat. The steaks are tender, the ribs fall off the bone and the sides are divine!

One word of warning, arrive early or be prepared to wait.

But, if you have to wait, be sure and stockup on the free peanuts.

We got there about 6pm and it was filling up fast. After a 15-minute wait we were seated in our favorite booth near the bar.

The wife and I split an adult beverage (something 'peach fuzz') and fought over the warm bread with honey butter.

The wife and kiddo went with a 6oz and 9 oz steak respectively and I went with the half rack of ribs complete with the sweet potato loaded and a salad.

The waitress, Liz, was great and the conversation plentiful - mostly about what we want to do this weekend and how we need to hurry and get the taxes done!

Texas Roadhouse is by far our favorite local steak and BBQ restaurant in the metro for the price. Their $8.99 6oz steak with two sides beats the heck out of Cimarron Steak Houses $6.99 chewy steak special and terrible service.

This will mark our first restaurant review here on the ByBatesBlog.

Service: 5/5 (Liz was great.)
Atmosphere: 4/5 (Laid back, loud and packed with families and friends.)
Food Quality: 4/5 (Steaks were great, ribs were good, drink was watered down.)
Price: 4/5 ($45 for three meals and a drink + free peanuts and rolls = $15/person.)
Overall: 4.33/5
Recommendation: Texas Roadhouse is a can't miss for a night out with family or friends.

Full Contact Easter Egg Hunt 2007

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Sun, 08 Apr 2007 20:47:00 +0000

It all started innocently enough four years ago... A dozen boiled eggs, some dye and a traditional Easter Egg hunt. But then something went awry. First there was a push. A push became a shove. And a shove turned into a total free-for-all. Thus, the Bates's new family tradition of the Full Contact Easter Egg Hunt was born!

This year was just Vickie, Devin and I, so, it was two rounds of who can gather the most eggs while running, shoving, tripping and outright stealing eggs from other family members.

In round one it was Vickie versus Devin - mother vs. son. Vickie put up a good fight, but in the end she was out weighed, out smarted and out manhandled by her 15-year-old 5'8", 120lb son with Devin finding (stealing) 6 of the 9 hidden eggs.

Round two pitted Me (Brian) versus Devin - Stepdad vs. son. This round was rougher, tougher and full contact all the way through. It was close, but in the end, I won by a one egg margin.

That's okay, because every year there is a rematch.

See the video here! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMK91ZD2hp8

A New Litter for Easter!

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Sun, 08 Apr 2007 14:08:00 +0000

OKC, OK - On Easter eve we were snuggled up watching a rented scary movie (The Hills Have Eyes) when all of a sudden my wife, Vickie, says "did I just hear a kitten?"

We lifted up the bed skirt and sure enough our newly adopted cat was lying on our dog's pillow and licking her first of what soon became 6 kittens!

This morning we got up and cut the top off a large box, placed towels into it and transferred the mama cat and her kittens (see photo) ~ just to make sure the dogs don't get jealous and want their pillow bed back.

I know, I know "pet overpopulation!" ~ spay or neuter, spay or neuter.

In our defense, the cat adopted us.

One night Vickie was outside when the cat just showed up and never left.

Before we knew it, our occasional outdoor visitor was pregnant and became a permanent part of the family.

We've never really given her a name. We simply refer to her as "Ms. Gato."

Surprised the wife with an Advent Easter Basket

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Bates) — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 02:15:00 +0000

OKC, OK - With Easter only being a few days away I figured I'd better come up with something fast.

The wife is a little old for the traditional Easter Basket filled with trinkets and trash, but, I wanted to preserve some tradition in my gift.

Neither of us really see the point of cut flowers that are overpriced and die within a day or so but the wife does appreciate potted flowers.

So, the answer was to pick up a pot of just about ready to bloom Tulips, place them in a pretty basket and fill it with some Easter grass. To make it seem more tailored to the holiday I added traditional Easter themed candy and five plastic eggs (I for each day leading up to Easter at the time). The idea being that the wife would open one egg each day, thus revealing a gift, until Easter day. The 5th egg, golden of course, reveals a special prize!

I surprised the wife yesterday at her work when I offered to take her to lunch. Yep, I scored major points!

She's opened two eggs and the card so far.

Egg number one contained a $20 gift certificate for Quiznos. Egg number two had a gift card to Sweet and Eats (see a pattern developing here?).

The 5th egg though will be a big surprise. I can't reveal it here as she may read this blog.

Okay guys, now you have a killer idea for next year - trust me on this.