crimes of the century: Helter Skelter by ric gustafson
On a hot August night in 1969, followers of Charles Manson killed actress Sharon Tate who was married to movie director Roman Polanski. Four others were murdered that night at a Benedict Canyon home. Killed were Tate, Jay Sebring, coffee heiress Abigail Folger, Wojciech Frykowski and Steven Parent.
The next night, Manson along with Charles Watson, Patricia Krenwinkel and Leslie Van Houten went to the home of Leno LaBianca and his wife Rosemary. They were murdered and the walls of the home defaced with the slogan ' Helter Skelter' in blood.
Manson and the others got life sentences because California banned the death penalty in 1972. Manson now 78 is still in Corcoran State Prison and has been denied parole 12 times.
research help: Enquirer Special Investigation
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Christmas: doing good for others
Christmas: doing good for others by ric gustafson
There is a powerful lesson that we can learn about Christmas. Doing good for others is a big part of the Christmas spirit. God has done everything for us and we should do the same for others. We demonstrate God's grace when we touch other lives. Christmas represents everything that God has done. He sent his Son Jesus to the world for our salvation. God sacrificed himself for us and he wants us to do the same for others. Where the Spirit of God is, the Spirit of good will come also.
As God's people, we need to show kindness to others now and throughout the year. A gift, a meal, an invitation, a letter, a kind word or another kind of blessing.
I Peter 3:9 says that we will be blessed when we bless others.
research help: Turning Points December 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
There is a powerful lesson that we can learn about Christmas. Doing good for others is a big part of the Christmas spirit. God has done everything for us and we should do the same for others. We demonstrate God's grace when we touch other lives. Christmas represents everything that God has done. He sent his Son Jesus to the world for our salvation. God sacrificed himself for us and he wants us to do the same for others. Where the Spirit of God is, the Spirit of good will come also.
As God's people, we need to show kindness to others now and throughout the year. A gift, a meal, an invitation, a letter, a kind word or another kind of blessing.
I Peter 3:9 says that we will be blessed when we bless others.
research help: Turning Points December 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 29, 2013
the broken Christmas pitcher page 2
the broken Christmas pitcher page 2 by ric gustafson
Myron woke up and his eyes darted around the large room. The scrapes and bruises that he had felt had been worked on while he slept. In this bedroom, he saw three large bay windows and a fire that crackled in a corner fireplace. He closed his eyes in peace because of the peaceful surroundings of the room. After a while, he heard the bedroom open and then close.
" Myron, how do your feel?".
He tried to raise his head but couldn't. " I'm sore all over".
" Yes, those young men beat you up pretty good".
" Where am I?".
" My spare bedroom". He walked over and opened the white blinds to reveal bright sunshine. " How do you like my clay pitchers?".
Myron raised his head a little and noticed wooden shelves filled with clay pitchers and pots. " They are very nice".
The young man smiled. " After you have recovered from your wounds and feel better, would you like to see my studio?".
" Sure".
research help: original story and ' Mended' by Angie Smith
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Myron woke up and his eyes darted around the large room. The scrapes and bruises that he had felt had been worked on while he slept. In this bedroom, he saw three large bay windows and a fire that crackled in a corner fireplace. He closed his eyes in peace because of the peaceful surroundings of the room. After a while, he heard the bedroom open and then close.
" Myron, how do your feel?".
He tried to raise his head but couldn't. " I'm sore all over".
" Yes, those young men beat you up pretty good".
" Where am I?".
" My spare bedroom". He walked over and opened the white blinds to reveal bright sunshine. " How do you like my clay pitchers?".
Myron raised his head a little and noticed wooden shelves filled with clay pitchers and pots. " They are very nice".
The young man smiled. " After you have recovered from your wounds and feel better, would you like to see my studio?".
" Sure".
research help: original story and ' Mended' by Angie Smith
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Christmas: be joyful
Christmas: be joyful by ric gustafson
We would love to have a Norman Rockwell painting Christmas but it never turns out that way. Instead, it becomes a stressful time of year with traveling, shopping, spending, baking, partying, entertaining and so on. This is not what God wants.
One thing we can do to have joy this Christmas is to have a joy verse. Choose a bible verse about joy such as Nehemiah 8:10, Psalm 27:6, Psalm 35:9 or Psalm 118:24. Next, we can try to identify what is killing our holiday joy such as overscheduling or handling memories the wrong way. After that, we can put together a joy plan such as fewer decorations, focusing on a tree or using inexpensive candles. We can do less shopping and stick to a budget. We can do less entertaining and be selective where we go and whom we invite. Lastly, we can be a joy giver with a smile, a cheerful word, a kind look or a warm embrace. The most important thing at Christmas and all year long is that Jesus Christ is the most important thing in our lives.
resource help: Turning Points December 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
We would love to have a Norman Rockwell painting Christmas but it never turns out that way. Instead, it becomes a stressful time of year with traveling, shopping, spending, baking, partying, entertaining and so on. This is not what God wants.
One thing we can do to have joy this Christmas is to have a joy verse. Choose a bible verse about joy such as Nehemiah 8:10, Psalm 27:6, Psalm 35:9 or Psalm 118:24. Next, we can try to identify what is killing our holiday joy such as overscheduling or handling memories the wrong way. After that, we can put together a joy plan such as fewer decorations, focusing on a tree or using inexpensive candles. We can do less shopping and stick to a budget. We can do less entertaining and be selective where we go and whom we invite. Lastly, we can be a joy giver with a smile, a cheerful word, a kind look or a warm embrace. The most important thing at Christmas and all year long is that Jesus Christ is the most important thing in our lives.
resource help: Turning Points December 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 28, 2013
Mary of Magdala page 7
Mary of Magdala page 7 by ric gustafson
Mary began to have intermittent nightmares. She was always in that dingy room with that man leaning over her. She could hear his mocking laughter. Just when he reached to grab her, she woke up in a sweat. Her mother would come in and hold her until she would go to sleep.
She tried to go to the market with her mother but strangers made her cringe. At night, shadows came and filled her with terror. One night, she tried to talk to her mother and a strange sound erupted from her mouth.
" It is HaSAtan, the evil one".
Jared went to the synagogue and talk to the local Rabbi. He asked him about a exorcism.
" Gather a group of ten men and we will gather here tomorrow".
Mary was eager to be free from her torments.
research help: ' Mary Magdalene' by Diana Wallis Taylor
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Mary began to have intermittent nightmares. She was always in that dingy room with that man leaning over her. She could hear his mocking laughter. Just when he reached to grab her, she woke up in a sweat. Her mother would come in and hold her until she would go to sleep.
She tried to go to the market with her mother but strangers made her cringe. At night, shadows came and filled her with terror. One night, she tried to talk to her mother and a strange sound erupted from her mouth.
" It is HaSAtan, the evil one".
Jared went to the synagogue and talk to the local Rabbi. He asked him about a exorcism.
" Gather a group of ten men and we will gather here tomorrow".
Mary was eager to be free from her torments.
research help: ' Mary Magdalene' by Diana Wallis Taylor
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
the broken Christmas pitcher page 1
the broken Christmas pitcher page 1 by ric Gustafson
Myron Lindell opened one of his eyes. He could feel snow flakes on them. He closed them again because he hurt so much. He could only remember that a group of young men had chased him into the yard. He opened them again and then tried to look around to see where he was. He could feel snow coming down on his face and then he noticed that he was lying on a mountain of pottery shards. He felt that he could not get up. He closed his eyes to die.
" Son, let me help you get up".
Myron blinked and tried to adjust his eyes to the dark. " The Potter". He had heard rumors over the years about a strange man who lived on the edge of town. He stared at a young dark bearded man who had a white robe on.
" Looks like you have had a busy night".
Myron took the young man's outstretched hand and slowly stood up.
" Let's get you inside the house".
They slowly walked across the pottery sharded ground toward the front door of the plain white house.
research help: original story and ' Mended' by Angie Smith
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Myron Lindell opened one of his eyes. He could feel snow flakes on them. He closed them again because he hurt so much. He could only remember that a group of young men had chased him into the yard. He opened them again and then tried to look around to see where he was. He could feel snow coming down on his face and then he noticed that he was lying on a mountain of pottery shards. He felt that he could not get up. He closed his eyes to die.
" Son, let me help you get up".
Myron blinked and tried to adjust his eyes to the dark. " The Potter". He had heard rumors over the years about a strange man who lived on the edge of town. He stared at a young dark bearded man who had a white robe on.
" Looks like you have had a busy night".
Myron took the young man's outstretched hand and slowly stood up.
" Let's get you inside the house".
They slowly walked across the pottery sharded ground toward the front door of the plain white house.
research help: original story and ' Mended' by Angie Smith
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Mary of Magdala page 6
Mary of Magdala page 6 by ric gustafson
Rachel cried as Eliab carried Jared through the gate. She was overjoyed to see Mary walking behind him. " Eliab, you found Mary".
The burly slave put Jared on his bed.
Merab the faithhealer came over and examined Jared. " His stab wound is clean and no serious organs were involved". She smiled. " I think he will be alright".
Mary shivered in fright. " Mama, that man wanted to hurt me".
She held her daughter tight in her arms. " Mary, you are safe now".
That night as she slept, she woke up in a cold sweat from a nightmare.
research help: ' Mary Magdalene' by Diana Wallis Taylor
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rachel cried as Eliab carried Jared through the gate. She was overjoyed to see Mary walking behind him. " Eliab, you found Mary".
The burly slave put Jared on his bed.
Merab the faithhealer came over and examined Jared. " His stab wound is clean and no serious organs were involved". She smiled. " I think he will be alright".
Mary shivered in fright. " Mama, that man wanted to hurt me".
She held her daughter tight in her arms. " Mary, you are safe now".
That night as she slept, she woke up in a cold sweat from a nightmare.
research help: ' Mary Magdalene' by Diana Wallis Taylor
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Production # 1060 page 6
Production # 1060 page 6 by ric gustafson
MGM knew that the Wizard was a major role in the Wizard of Oz. They went to great lengths to find just the right actor. Mervyn Leroy wanted comedian Ed Wynn for the role. Freed and Harburg wanted W.C. Fields for the role. Wynn would have been emotionally and physically zany. Fields would have acted like a con man, blustering and boisterous. They decided to look at their contract players as an option.
Frank Morgan made sixty eight pictures at MGM from 1933 to 1949 when he died in his sleep. In his films, he portrayed a man who stammered his way through life. He was one of eleven children and had followed his brother Ralph onto the stage.
He begged for the role, got up on stage and adlibbed a test. He won the role.
Charley Grapewin got the role as Dorothy's Uncle Henry and Clara Blandick got the role of Dorothy's Aunt Em.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
MGM knew that the Wizard was a major role in the Wizard of Oz. They went to great lengths to find just the right actor. Mervyn Leroy wanted comedian Ed Wynn for the role. Freed and Harburg wanted W.C. Fields for the role. Wynn would have been emotionally and physically zany. Fields would have acted like a con man, blustering and boisterous. They decided to look at their contract players as an option.
Frank Morgan made sixty eight pictures at MGM from 1933 to 1949 when he died in his sleep. In his films, he portrayed a man who stammered his way through life. He was one of eleven children and had followed his brother Ralph onto the stage.
He begged for the role, got up on stage and adlibbed a test. He won the role.
Charley Grapewin got the role as Dorothy's Uncle Henry and Clara Blandick got the role of Dorothy's Aunt Em.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
the story of Cletus ' Apple' Pie page 2
the story of Cletus ' Apple' Pie page 2 by ric gustafsonapple
Hello there!. Thank you for reading about me today. There are many myths as far as how I became popular. The first takes place during our colonial period. Humans grew apples for cider and apple dishes began to appear. Apple pies started to become popular. At this time, a price drop for grain and a large migration of Germans to the US. Beer became popular so with a glut of apples and cheap wheat flour, apple pies became popular. Apple trees flourished in the US and because of folklore such as Johnny Appleseed, apple pies became popular. During the Civil War, both sides took green apples and made their own apple pies.
Next time we chat, I will talk about a big part of my makeup, pieflakes and piecrust.
research help: ' Apple Pie an American story' by John T Edge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Hello there!. Thank you for reading about me today. There are many myths as far as how I became popular. The first takes place during our colonial period. Humans grew apples for cider and apple dishes began to appear. Apple pies started to become popular. At this time, a price drop for grain and a large migration of Germans to the US. Beer became popular so with a glut of apples and cheap wheat flour, apple pies became popular. Apple trees flourished in the US and because of folklore such as Johnny Appleseed, apple pies became popular. During the Civil War, both sides took green apples and made their own apple pies.
Next time we chat, I will talk about a big part of my makeup, pieflakes and piecrust.
research help: ' Apple Pie an American story' by John T Edge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 25, 2013
the story of Cletus ' Apple' Pie page 1
the story of Cletus ' Apple' Pie page 1 by ric gustafson
Hello there. My name is Cletus Pie. When I was young, someone gave me the nickname ' Apple'. My name has been Cletus ' Apple' Pie since. Now that the Christmas season is here, I figured that it was a good time to tell you my story.
Before I tell my story to you, I do want to mention something that has been on my mind. Lots of people have told me over the years that I am as American as apple pie. If that is true, I am honored. In 1976, M.F.K Fisher wrote on the occasion of our nation's bicentennial that I was a national institution. I am honored to hear that. Now I will tell you some little stories about how I became what I became. I hope you enjoy it.
research help: ' Apple Pie an American love story' by John T Edge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Hello there. My name is Cletus Pie. When I was young, someone gave me the nickname ' Apple'. My name has been Cletus ' Apple' Pie since. Now that the Christmas season is here, I figured that it was a good time to tell you my story.
Before I tell my story to you, I do want to mention something that has been on my mind. Lots of people have told me over the years that I am as American as apple pie. If that is true, I am honored. In 1976, M.F.K Fisher wrote on the occasion of our nation's bicentennial that I was a national institution. I am honored to hear that. Now I will tell you some little stories about how I became what I became. I hope you enjoy it.
research help: ' Apple Pie an American love story' by John T Edge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Production # 1060 page 5
Production # 1060 page 5 by ric gustafson
Buddy Ebsen was tall at 6 foot three. In April 1938, MGM wanted him to play the Scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz. He was in a two year contract at a salary of $ 1,500 a week. He came to MGM in December 1934. Later, he played Jed Clampett in the Beverly Hillbillies. At the age of sixty six, he played a private investigator as Barnaby Jones. In the end, Ray Bolger became the Scarecrow and Ebsen was to play the Tin Woodman. Two weeks into the production, because of health problems related to the Tin Woodman costume, he was replaced by Jack Haley. Ebsen's career slumped after that until 1956.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Buddy Ebsen was tall at 6 foot three. In April 1938, MGM wanted him to play the Scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz. He was in a two year contract at a salary of $ 1,500 a week. He came to MGM in December 1934. Later, he played Jed Clampett in the Beverly Hillbillies. At the age of sixty six, he played a private investigator as Barnaby Jones. In the end, Ray Bolger became the Scarecrow and Ebsen was to play the Tin Woodman. Two weeks into the production, because of health problems related to the Tin Woodman costume, he was replaced by Jack Haley. Ebsen's career slumped after that until 1956.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Production # 1060 page 4
Production # 1060 page 4 by ric gustafson
In March of 1938, Ray Bolger was called into Mervyn Leroy's office. He was told that he was to be the Tin Woodman in the Wizard of Oz. His response was not enthusiastic. Bolger was interested in playing the Scarecrow instead. Fred Stone who played the Scarecrow in the 1902 version was an idol of Bolger's.
Bolger started in vaudeville and then went to Broadway. In 1935, he did one picture for MGM at $ 20,000 a week. On April 11 1936, he signed a long term contract for $ 3,000 a week. On set, he enjoyed playing the races and watching his bookie show up every Friday. One month after the Wizard of Oz wrapped, Bolger asked to be released from his contract.
Bolger's largest success came a decade later with a musical called ' Where's Charley' in which Bolger would star for nearly four years.
In the end, Bolger would get his wish and play the Scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In March of 1938, Ray Bolger was called into Mervyn Leroy's office. He was told that he was to be the Tin Woodman in the Wizard of Oz. His response was not enthusiastic. Bolger was interested in playing the Scarecrow instead. Fred Stone who played the Scarecrow in the 1902 version was an idol of Bolger's.
Bolger started in vaudeville and then went to Broadway. In 1935, he did one picture for MGM at $ 20,000 a week. On April 11 1936, he signed a long term contract for $ 3,000 a week. On set, he enjoyed playing the races and watching his bookie show up every Friday. One month after the Wizard of Oz wrapped, Bolger asked to be released from his contract.
Bolger's largest success came a decade later with a musical called ' Where's Charley' in which Bolger would star for nearly four years.
In the end, Bolger would get his wish and play the Scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 22, 2013
Production # 1060 page 3
Production #1060 page 3 by ric gustafson
Judy Garland entered the MGM system on September 27 1935. This was three months after her 13th birthday. She was signed to a seven year contract with seven options. By the fall of 1937, her salary was $400 a week. By September 1939, she was making $600 a week. By August 1940, she was earning $2000 a week.
She made six pictures before the Wizard of Oz including Broadway Melody of 1938 and Everybody Sing. She made eight pictures with Mickey Rooney. On February 24 1938, it was reported that Garland was to be cast as Dorothy. At this point, she had been at MGM for two and a half years. Shirley Temple was MGM's first choice for Dorothy but Darryl Zanuck of 20th Century Fox would not loan her out. Judy Garland was cast as Dorothy.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Judy Garland entered the MGM system on September 27 1935. This was three months after her 13th birthday. She was signed to a seven year contract with seven options. By the fall of 1937, her salary was $400 a week. By September 1939, she was making $600 a week. By August 1940, she was earning $2000 a week.
She made six pictures before the Wizard of Oz including Broadway Melody of 1938 and Everybody Sing. She made eight pictures with Mickey Rooney. On February 24 1938, it was reported that Garland was to be cast as Dorothy. At this point, she had been at MGM for two and a half years. Shirley Temple was MGM's first choice for Dorothy but Darryl Zanuck of 20th Century Fox would not loan her out. Judy Garland was cast as Dorothy.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Production # 1060 page 2
Production # 1060 page 2 by ric gustafson
On February 28 1938, Herman Mankiewicz was assigned to write a screenplay for the Wizard of Oz. He was one of ten screenwriters selected by MGM for this task. By 1928, he had received credit for seventeen pictures. Mankiewicz had a compulsive gambling addiction and was fired by Mayer in 1939 for unpaid gambling debts. In 1940, he wrote Citizen Kane which won an Academy Award in 1941. Mankiewicz came up with the idea of having the Kansas sequence in black and white and then OZ in color. On March 22 1938, Noel Langley turned in a forty three page screenwrite for the Wizard of Oz. Langley's screenwrite became the framework for the finished film. Langley's screenwrite introduced Miss Gulch who became the Wicked Witch of the West and the two farmhands who became the Scarecrow and the Tin Woodsman. The farmhand Zeke who became the Cowardly Lion did not show up until the final script. Things such as the Cowardly Lion pulling on his tail and talking apple trees were in the final script. By the time Langley was removed from the project, four more writers were assigned to the project. Herbert Fields worked on the project from April 19 to April 1938 and Samuel Hoffenstein from May 31 to June 3 1938. On June 3 1938, Florence Ryerson and Edgar Allan Woolf were assigned to the project. Jack Mintz worked on the project from August 3 to September 2 1938. Sid Silvers was assigned to the film from October 17 to October 22 1938. The last writer for the Wizard of Oz was John Lee Mahin who worked on the film from October 27 1938 to Jan 10 1939.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
On February 28 1938, Herman Mankiewicz was assigned to write a screenplay for the Wizard of Oz. He was one of ten screenwriters selected by MGM for this task. By 1928, he had received credit for seventeen pictures. Mankiewicz had a compulsive gambling addiction and was fired by Mayer in 1939 for unpaid gambling debts. In 1940, he wrote Citizen Kane which won an Academy Award in 1941. Mankiewicz came up with the idea of having the Kansas sequence in black and white and then OZ in color. On March 22 1938, Noel Langley turned in a forty three page screenwrite for the Wizard of Oz. Langley's screenwrite became the framework for the finished film. Langley's screenwrite introduced Miss Gulch who became the Wicked Witch of the West and the two farmhands who became the Scarecrow and the Tin Woodsman. The farmhand Zeke who became the Cowardly Lion did not show up until the final script. Things such as the Cowardly Lion pulling on his tail and talking apple trees were in the final script. By the time Langley was removed from the project, four more writers were assigned to the project. Herbert Fields worked on the project from April 19 to April 1938 and Samuel Hoffenstein from May 31 to June 3 1938. On June 3 1938, Florence Ryerson and Edgar Allan Woolf were assigned to the project. Jack Mintz worked on the project from August 3 to September 2 1938. Sid Silvers was assigned to the film from October 17 to October 22 1938. The last writer for the Wizard of Oz was John Lee Mahin who worked on the film from October 27 1938 to Jan 10 1939.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Production # 1060 page 1
Production # 1060 page 1 by ric gustafson
In 1923, Mervyn Leroy and Arthur Freed met on a silent picture set. Leroy was hired as a gag man and Freed played background music on an organ. Fourteen years later in 1937, LeRoy was a producer at MGM and Freed was a songwriter for the studio.
MGM was the largest and most exclusive of the Hollywood studios. It's quota was one picture per week for fifty two weeks. Production # 1060 was one of forty one pictures released by MGM in 1939. Samuel Goldwyn formed his own production company in 1915. In 1924, he brought in Louis B Mayer to form Metro-Goldwyn. In February 1938, Mayer gave the studio the ok to option L Frank Baum's children story The Wizard of Oz. Once the option was bought, Mayer appointed LeRoy to produce the movie and for Freed to be his assistant.
Mervyn LeRoy in 1938 was thirty seven. He was a director at Warner Bros and was a son in law to Harry Warner. In his first year and a half with MGM, LeRoy will produce four films including the Wizard of Oz.
Production # 1060 was budgeted at slightly over $ 2 million and cost more and took more time than any other picture in 1939. It took over twenty years for the Wizard of Oz to earn it's money back for the studio.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In 1923, Mervyn Leroy and Arthur Freed met on a silent picture set. Leroy was hired as a gag man and Freed played background music on an organ. Fourteen years later in 1937, LeRoy was a producer at MGM and Freed was a songwriter for the studio.
MGM was the largest and most exclusive of the Hollywood studios. It's quota was one picture per week for fifty two weeks. Production # 1060 was one of forty one pictures released by MGM in 1939. Samuel Goldwyn formed his own production company in 1915. In 1924, he brought in Louis B Mayer to form Metro-Goldwyn. In February 1938, Mayer gave the studio the ok to option L Frank Baum's children story The Wizard of Oz. Once the option was bought, Mayer appointed LeRoy to produce the movie and for Freed to be his assistant.
Mervyn LeRoy in 1938 was thirty seven. He was a director at Warner Bros and was a son in law to Harry Warner. In his first year and a half with MGM, LeRoy will produce four films including the Wizard of Oz.
Production # 1060 was budgeted at slightly over $ 2 million and cost more and took more time than any other picture in 1939. It took over twenty years for the Wizard of Oz to earn it's money back for the studio.
research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
the Butterball Turkey fitness class
the Butterball Turkey fitness class by ric gustafson
Anita Cobb nervously bit her fingernails as she waited by the front desk. She smiled as a young woman entered carrying a blue workout bag. She shook Anita's hand. " Hi, I'm Pamela Cross".
" Anita" was her reply as she opened the door leading to the stairs. " We're glad you are here to teach the class at the last minute".
" I'm not sure what the class is" she said as they reached the bottom and turned toward a room on the right. " But here I am".
They reached the room and walked in. Pamela did not see anyone there except for six loud gobbling turkeys. " Where's the fitness class?".
Anita pointed at the turkeys.
" They are turkeys" she exclaimed loudly as the turkeys gobbled louder. " What's going on here?".
" Butterball has a mystery on their hands".
" What do you mean?".
" These turkeys did not get plump enough for Thanksgiving".
" You mean skinny turkeys".
" Keep your voice down" Anita said as the turkeys gobbled louder. " They are very self conscious".
" Butterball doesn't know what happened".
" No" she replied in a hush tone. " Could be antibiotics, they are not sure".
" No turkey for Thanksgiving" Pamela retorted as she walked out to change in the dressing room. When she returned, Anita had an angry look on her face. " Thanks to your loud remark, all the turkeys ran out and escaped".
Pamela could not believe what she was hearing.
" Butterball is not going to be happy".
Pamela left the YMCA with a puzzled look on her face.
research help: an MSN.com article
Peace and a happy Thanksgiving to all. Love Ric
Anita Cobb nervously bit her fingernails as she waited by the front desk. She smiled as a young woman entered carrying a blue workout bag. She shook Anita's hand. " Hi, I'm Pamela Cross".
" Anita" was her reply as she opened the door leading to the stairs. " We're glad you are here to teach the class at the last minute".
" I'm not sure what the class is" she said as they reached the bottom and turned toward a room on the right. " But here I am".
They reached the room and walked in. Pamela did not see anyone there except for six loud gobbling turkeys. " Where's the fitness class?".
Anita pointed at the turkeys.
" They are turkeys" she exclaimed loudly as the turkeys gobbled louder. " What's going on here?".
" Butterball has a mystery on their hands".
" What do you mean?".
" These turkeys did not get plump enough for Thanksgiving".
" You mean skinny turkeys".
" Keep your voice down" Anita said as the turkeys gobbled louder. " They are very self conscious".
" Butterball doesn't know what happened".
" No" she replied in a hush tone. " Could be antibiotics, they are not sure".
" No turkey for Thanksgiving" Pamela retorted as she walked out to change in the dressing room. When she returned, Anita had an angry look on her face. " Thanks to your loud remark, all the turkeys ran out and escaped".
Pamela could not believe what she was hearing.
" Butterball is not going to be happy".
Pamela left the YMCA with a puzzled look on her face.
research help: an MSN.com article
Peace and a happy Thanksgiving to all. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
attributes of God: the goodness of God
attributes of God: the goodness of God by ric gustafson
Psalm 84:11 says for the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord gives grace and glory; no good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.
Jesus wants to be the master of every area of our lives. God wants to be in charge of our lives. God is so good that he gave us his most precious gift, his Son. It is easy to think that God does not have my best intentions at heart. Thus I could not believe that he was good. God's goodness is kind and full of good will toward men. God is tenderhearted, full of sympathy and is open frank and friendly to all. He bestows blessings to all and takes pleasure in the happiness of all people. God is infinite, eternal and holy in his goodness. We are the objects of his affection and that will never stop.
God reveals his goodness to us through natural blessings. He also reveals his goodness through a specific deliverance. A classic example of this is Psalm 107 which states to give thanks to the Lord for he is good and his lovingkindness is everlasting. God also reveals his goodness through his Son Jesus.
How are we to respond to God's goodness?. First, we must repent of our unbelief and ingratitude. Second,We must also rest in his goodness when we encounter adversity. Third, we risk stepping out in faith like never before.
The promise from God is that no good thing will be withheld from us from those who walk uprightly in him. God's goodness is unlimited power, wisdom, compassion and an eternal guarantee.
research help: ' God as he longs for you to see him' by Chip Ingram
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalm 84:11 says for the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord gives grace and glory; no good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.
Jesus wants to be the master of every area of our lives. God wants to be in charge of our lives. God is so good that he gave us his most precious gift, his Son. It is easy to think that God does not have my best intentions at heart. Thus I could not believe that he was good. God's goodness is kind and full of good will toward men. God is tenderhearted, full of sympathy and is open frank and friendly to all. He bestows blessings to all and takes pleasure in the happiness of all people. God is infinite, eternal and holy in his goodness. We are the objects of his affection and that will never stop.
God reveals his goodness to us through natural blessings. He also reveals his goodness through a specific deliverance. A classic example of this is Psalm 107 which states to give thanks to the Lord for he is good and his lovingkindness is everlasting. God also reveals his goodness through his Son Jesus.
How are we to respond to God's goodness?. First, we must repent of our unbelief and ingratitude. Second,We must also rest in his goodness when we encounter adversity. Third, we risk stepping out in faith like never before.
The promise from God is that no good thing will be withheld from us from those who walk uprightly in him. God's goodness is unlimited power, wisdom, compassion and an eternal guarantee.
research help: ' God as he longs for you to see him' by Chip Ingram
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Fall: treasuring family and friends
Fall: treasuring family and friends by ric gustafson
At this time of year, God wants us to strengthen our relationship with friends and family. God wants us to tell those close to us what they mean to us. For kids, the social reunion at school with their friends is important. For church life, fall is the time when friends come back to church and small groups start again. The anticipation of Thanksgiving is a fall event everyone looks forward to. It's the one time of year when we open our doors, tell people to bring a dish and thank God for all the blessings that he gives to us every day. Thanksgiving is the holiday of food and fun and Christmas is the holiday of love. During the Christmas season, God wants us to draw closer to those we love as family and friends.
The End- dedicated to Tom E
research help: Turning Points September 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
At this time of year, God wants us to strengthen our relationship with friends and family. God wants us to tell those close to us what they mean to us. For kids, the social reunion at school with their friends is important. For church life, fall is the time when friends come back to church and small groups start again. The anticipation of Thanksgiving is a fall event everyone looks forward to. It's the one time of year when we open our doors, tell people to bring a dish and thank God for all the blessings that he gives to us every day. Thanksgiving is the holiday of food and fun and Christmas is the holiday of love. During the Christmas season, God wants us to draw closer to those we love as family and friends.
The End- dedicated to Tom E
research help: Turning Points September 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 18, 2013
Fall: fall in love with Jesus
Fall: fall in love with Jesus by ric gustafson
We spend a lot of time planning our summer vacations. This fall, why don't we plan on spending more time with Jesus?. We can make a plan to spend more time with Jesus. We can sit down and make a plan to study his Word more each day. We should plan to spend more time each day praying and speaking to Jesus about whatever we want too. He will always listen to us. Lastly, we should make a plan to serve Jesus and help others in need. God has a personal ministry for each of us and when the Holy Spirit controls our schedule, we can serve him.
Let us this fall make a plan to love Jesus, spend time with him, pray and talk to him and serve him by helping others.
Next we will talk about this fall treasuring family and friends.
research help: Turning Points September 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
We spend a lot of time planning our summer vacations. This fall, why don't we plan on spending more time with Jesus?. We can make a plan to spend more time with Jesus. We can sit down and make a plan to study his Word more each day. We should plan to spend more time each day praying and speaking to Jesus about whatever we want too. He will always listen to us. Lastly, we should make a plan to serve Jesus and help others in need. God has a personal ministry for each of us and when the Holy Spirit controls our schedule, we can serve him.
Let us this fall make a plan to love Jesus, spend time with him, pray and talk to him and serve him by helping others.
Next we will talk about this fall treasuring family and friends.
research help: Turning Points September 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
elevator no.4 page 8
elevator no.4 page 8 by ric gustafson
" I can't believe you are thinking of food at a time like this" Mark exclaimed in a loud voice. " We might die in here".
" No we won't". Justin pulled a tiny black bible from his back pocket. " The bible says that God will always protect us".
Anita took a plastic fork and put some mashed potatoes into her mouth. " How do you know that?".
Justin turned some pages. " John 3:16".
" What does that verse say?".
" For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life".
Mark rolled his eyes. " Oh brother".
Anita bit into some of the turkey. " God can love even a sinner like me".
" Of course" Justin replied as he took a bit of turkey. " All you have to do is admit that you are a sinner and that you want to change".
Tears began to flow down her face. " I want to".
Mark shook his head. " I don't believe this".
She got down on her knees and bowed her head.
" Tell God that you are a sinner and that you want to change".
She repeated the words.
" Ask God to come into your heart and be in charge of your life".
She repeated the words as more tears streamed down her face.
" Thank you God Amen".
" Thank you God Amen".
Just then, the elevator opened.
" Sorry folks" said the hotel employee they had seen earlier. " I got it open as quick as I could".
Mark yelled as he walked out. " Get me out of here!".
Justin gave Anita his little black bible. " Anita, welcome to God's family".
" Thank you" she said with joy as she hugged him. She walked out of elevator no.4 with a look of joy and peace on her face.
The End- dedicated to Tom E
research help: original story
Happy Thanksgiving to you all. Love Ric
" I can't believe you are thinking of food at a time like this" Mark exclaimed in a loud voice. " We might die in here".
" No we won't". Justin pulled a tiny black bible from his back pocket. " The bible says that God will always protect us".
Anita took a plastic fork and put some mashed potatoes into her mouth. " How do you know that?".
Justin turned some pages. " John 3:16".
" What does that verse say?".
" For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life".
Mark rolled his eyes. " Oh brother".
Anita bit into some of the turkey. " God can love even a sinner like me".
" Of course" Justin replied as he took a bit of turkey. " All you have to do is admit that you are a sinner and that you want to change".
Tears began to flow down her face. " I want to".
Mark shook his head. " I don't believe this".
She got down on her knees and bowed her head.
" Tell God that you are a sinner and that you want to change".
She repeated the words.
" Ask God to come into your heart and be in charge of your life".
She repeated the words as more tears streamed down her face.
" Thank you God Amen".
" Thank you God Amen".
Just then, the elevator opened.
" Sorry folks" said the hotel employee they had seen earlier. " I got it open as quick as I could".
Mark yelled as he walked out. " Get me out of here!".
Justin gave Anita his little black bible. " Anita, welcome to God's family".
" Thank you" she said with joy as she hugged him. She walked out of elevator no.4 with a look of joy and peace on her face.
The End- dedicated to Tom E
research help: original story
Happy Thanksgiving to you all. Love Ric
Sunday, November 17, 2013
elevator no. 4 page 7
elevator no. 4 page 7 by ric gustafson
Justin pushed the elevator button as he held onto the Styrofoam container. The door opened and he held it open.
" Thank you" replied the young woman as she walked inside.
He held the door open for the young man with the scowl. He did not smile or say thanks.
Justin walked in and then the door closed. He pushed the button for the first floor. " Is everyone going down to the first floor?".
Both nodded yes.
Justin pushed the first floor button again and then felt the elevator jolt.
Anita felt the jolt. " What happened?".
" I'm sure it's nothing". He pushed the button again. Nothing happened.
" That's just great" Mark said as he gave them a stern look. " It's Thanksgiving and I'm stuck in an elevator".
Justin pushed the call button.
" Yes".
" There are three of us stuck in elevator no.4 on the 3rd floor".
" Stay calm, we are currently working on the situation".
Mark shook his head at the other two. " Just when I thought my day couldn't get worse".
" God will protect us" Justin said as he opened the Styrofoam container. " Would either of you like to share some leftover Thanksgiving turkey and mashed potatoes and gravy with me?".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Justin pushed the elevator button as he held onto the Styrofoam container. The door opened and he held it open.
" Thank you" replied the young woman as she walked inside.
He held the door open for the young man with the scowl. He did not smile or say thanks.
Justin walked in and then the door closed. He pushed the button for the first floor. " Is everyone going down to the first floor?".
Both nodded yes.
Justin pushed the first floor button again and then felt the elevator jolt.
Anita felt the jolt. " What happened?".
" I'm sure it's nothing". He pushed the button again. Nothing happened.
" That's just great" Mark said as he gave them a stern look. " It's Thanksgiving and I'm stuck in an elevator".
Justin pushed the call button.
" Yes".
" There are three of us stuck in elevator no.4 on the 3rd floor".
" Stay calm, we are currently working on the situation".
Mark shook his head at the other two. " Just when I thought my day couldn't get worse".
" God will protect us" Justin said as he opened the Styrofoam container. " Would either of you like to share some leftover Thanksgiving turkey and mashed potatoes and gravy with me?".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 16, 2013
elevator no.4 page 6
elevator no.4 page 6 by ric gustafson
Mark closed the door and slowly walked toward the elevator.
" Hello" a hotel employee said as he listened to his work cell phone. He pointed at the elevator. " Hopefully the elevator is ok to use".
" That's just great" he muttered to himself as he watched a woman approach the elevator. " This elevator better be working". He couldn't wait to go down to the hotel's bar and drink away his sorrows. ' What else can go wrong with my life' he thought as he noticed an older gentleman approach the elevator holding a Styrofoam container. As he approached the elevator, a scowl came to his face. " Who needs God".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Mark closed the door and slowly walked toward the elevator.
" Hello" a hotel employee said as he listened to his work cell phone. He pointed at the elevator. " Hopefully the elevator is ok to use".
" That's just great" he muttered to himself as he watched a woman approach the elevator. " This elevator better be working". He couldn't wait to go down to the hotel's bar and drink away his sorrows. ' What else can go wrong with my life' he thought as he noticed an older gentleman approach the elevator holding a Styrofoam container. As he approached the elevator, a scowl came to his face. " Who needs God".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 15, 2013
elevator no, 04 page 5
elevator no. 04 page 5 by ric gustafson
Anita closed the door and started to walk toward the elevator. She noticed an older gentleman who was carrying a Styrofoam container. It looked like he was talking to a hotel employee. The employee walked fast toward her. " This elevator should be ok" he said as he pointed toward it. " We've been having problems with them all day". He quickly walked away as he talked into his cell phone.
She walked up to the elevator and nervously stared at her outfit. She was hoping that this business outfit would help her at the job conference downstairs. She watched as the older gentleman and a young man with a scowl on his face approached the elevator.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Anita closed the door and started to walk toward the elevator. She noticed an older gentleman who was carrying a Styrofoam container. It looked like he was talking to a hotel employee. The employee walked fast toward her. " This elevator should be ok" he said as he pointed toward it. " We've been having problems with them all day". He quickly walked away as he talked into his cell phone.
She walked up to the elevator and nervously stared at her outfit. She was hoping that this business outfit would help her at the job conference downstairs. She watched as the older gentleman and a young man with a scowl on his face approached the elevator.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
elevator no.4 page 4
elevator no.4 page 4 by ric gustafson
Justin held onto the styrofoam container as he closed the room door. He took two steps and then bumped into someone.
" I'm sorry" said a hotel employee as he tugged on a tool belt that was around his waist. " I should watch where I am going".
" What's all the rushing around?".
" We've been having trouble with the elevators". His cell phone sounded. He opened it. " This is Mike". He listened intently to the call. " Ok, I'll be right there". He smiled at Justin as he walked away. " For right now, they are working ok".
As Justin walked toward the elevator, he noticed two other people approaching. One was a young man with a scowl on his face and a young woman wearing a business suit.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Justin held onto the styrofoam container as he closed the room door. He took two steps and then bumped into someone.
" I'm sorry" said a hotel employee as he tugged on a tool belt that was around his waist. " I should watch where I am going".
" What's all the rushing around?".
" We've been having trouble with the elevators". His cell phone sounded. He opened it. " This is Mike". He listened intently to the call. " Ok, I'll be right there". He smiled at Justin as he walked away. " For right now, they are working ok".
As Justin walked toward the elevator, he noticed two other people approaching. One was a young man with a scowl on his face and a young woman wearing a business suit.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Fall: simplicity and order
Fall: simplicity and order by ric gustafson
I Corinthians 14: 33 and 40 says God is not the author of confusion but of peace let all things be done decently and in order. God does not want us to have havoc in our lives and fall is a good time to tackle those things. It could be balancing your checkbook, emptying your inbox, working in your closet and putting away your summer clothes. We need to ask ourselves what fall reorganizing do we need to do.
A To Do list helps to organize our tasks. Jesus told us not to worry about tomorrow so we should only tackle one messy day at a time. As we have quiet time with God, we can ask him what he would like us to do today. If we take care of our minutes and hours, God will take care of our seasons and years. Fall is a great time to de-clutter our lives and learn the art of sanctified simplicity.
Next we will look at rekindling our love for Jesus in the fall.
research help: Turning Points September 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I Corinthians 14: 33 and 40 says God is not the author of confusion but of peace let all things be done decently and in order. God does not want us to have havoc in our lives and fall is a good time to tackle those things. It could be balancing your checkbook, emptying your inbox, working in your closet and putting away your summer clothes. We need to ask ourselves what fall reorganizing do we need to do.
A To Do list helps to organize our tasks. Jesus told us not to worry about tomorrow so we should only tackle one messy day at a time. As we have quiet time with God, we can ask him what he would like us to do today. If we take care of our minutes and hours, God will take care of our seasons and years. Fall is a great time to de-clutter our lives and learn the art of sanctified simplicity.
Next we will look at rekindling our love for Jesus in the fall.
research help: Turning Points September 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Fall: God's people for all seasons
Fall: God's people for all seasons by ric gustafson
There are two seasons in every day, daylight and darkness. There are two seasons in every week, six days for work and one for rest and worship. There are four seasons in the year and as God's people, we should be spiritual people for all seasons.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 says that to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven. God has given us the seasons into our lives for our benefit. God uses the seasons as part of the rhythms and cycles God has built into creation.
Let us be spiritual men and women of all seasons. Let us use the fall season to reaffirm, restore and realign ourselves to God. We need to be focused, faithful and focus on fellowship with God.
Next we will look at having simplicity and order in the fall season.
research help: Turning Points September 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
There are two seasons in every day, daylight and darkness. There are two seasons in every week, six days for work and one for rest and worship. There are four seasons in the year and as God's people, we should be spiritual people for all seasons.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 says that to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven. God has given us the seasons into our lives for our benefit. God uses the seasons as part of the rhythms and cycles God has built into creation.
Let us be spiritual men and women of all seasons. Let us use the fall season to reaffirm, restore and realign ourselves to God. We need to be focused, faithful and focus on fellowship with God.
Next we will look at having simplicity and order in the fall season.
research help: Turning Points September 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
crimes of the century: the death of Bobby Kennedy
crimes of the century: the death of Bobby Kennedy by ric gustafson
On June 5 1968, Bobby Kennedy was celebrating his win in the California Democratic presidential primary. Just after midnight at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, Kennedy and some campaign workers were trying to leave the hotel through the hotel kitchen. A 24 year old man named Sirhan Sirhan stepped forward and shot Kennedy with a .22 caliber pistol. Kennedy died on the hotel kitchen floor from a bullet to the head.
Sirhan was convicted of killing Kennedy on April 17, 1969. Since then doubts about the killing have come up. Evidence has shown that Kennedy was killed from a single shot behind and below his right ear. Sirhan was not close enough to shoot that fatal shot. An eyewitness who was standing behind Kennedy at the time he was shot claimed that she heard between 12 to 14 shots being fired instead of the maximum of eight from Sirhan's gun. The conclusion is that there was more than one shooter.
L.A. Police Sgt Paul Sharaga noticed two people running past him away from the scene including a woman in a polka dot dress.
Right now, Sirhan Sirhan sits in California's Pleasant Valley State Prison.
research help: ' Enquirer Special Investigation'
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
On June 5 1968, Bobby Kennedy was celebrating his win in the California Democratic presidential primary. Just after midnight at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, Kennedy and some campaign workers were trying to leave the hotel through the hotel kitchen. A 24 year old man named Sirhan Sirhan stepped forward and shot Kennedy with a .22 caliber pistol. Kennedy died on the hotel kitchen floor from a bullet to the head.
Sirhan was convicted of killing Kennedy on April 17, 1969. Since then doubts about the killing have come up. Evidence has shown that Kennedy was killed from a single shot behind and below his right ear. Sirhan was not close enough to shoot that fatal shot. An eyewitness who was standing behind Kennedy at the time he was shot claimed that she heard between 12 to 14 shots being fired instead of the maximum of eight from Sirhan's gun. The conclusion is that there was more than one shooter.
L.A. Police Sgt Paul Sharaga noticed two people running past him away from the scene including a woman in a polka dot dress.
Right now, Sirhan Sirhan sits in California's Pleasant Valley State Prison.
research help: ' Enquirer Special Investigation'
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 11, 2013
the madman of Gadara page 4
the madman of Gadara page 4 by ric gustafson
The voices in my head had multiplied so much it seemed as if a million voices were telling me what to do. The voices were telling me that trouble was coming from the Sea. As I stared at the raging storm, I saw what looked like a small boat being battered against the wind and rain. Then I noticed a tall bearded man get up and stretch his arms. All of a sudden, the violent wind and the huge waves calmed down and the Sea became quiet and tranquil.
The boat came toward shore and the voices inside told me to destroy this man and his friends. A couple of men with oars in their hands jumped out of the boat. The voices told me to attack. I ran toward them shrieking and rattling my chain. The two men lifted their oars to protect the bearded one.
The bearded man got out of the boat and quietly walked up to me. He pointed a finger at me " come out of him". The voices inside me shrieked loudly and made me lie face down in the sand. " What is your name?" asked the bearded one.
Several voices inside shrieked at the same time " legion".
A loud voice inside shrieked " do not send us to the pit we beg you".
Another voice inside shrieked " send us into that herd of pigs".
I convulsed, thrashed around and then fell to the ground.
I heard squealing and then saw the herd of pigs run over the cliff and drown in the Sea below.
The bearded one smiled and then helped me to my feet.
I smiled back. " Can I come and follow you?".
Jesus shook his head. " Go back to town and tell people what had just happened to you".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The voices in my head had multiplied so much it seemed as if a million voices were telling me what to do. The voices were telling me that trouble was coming from the Sea. As I stared at the raging storm, I saw what looked like a small boat being battered against the wind and rain. Then I noticed a tall bearded man get up and stretch his arms. All of a sudden, the violent wind and the huge waves calmed down and the Sea became quiet and tranquil.
The boat came toward shore and the voices inside told me to destroy this man and his friends. A couple of men with oars in their hands jumped out of the boat. The voices told me to attack. I ran toward them shrieking and rattling my chain. The two men lifted their oars to protect the bearded one.
The bearded man got out of the boat and quietly walked up to me. He pointed a finger at me " come out of him". The voices inside me shrieked loudly and made me lie face down in the sand. " What is your name?" asked the bearded one.
Several voices inside shrieked at the same time " legion".
A loud voice inside shrieked " do not send us to the pit we beg you".
Another voice inside shrieked " send us into that herd of pigs".
I convulsed, thrashed around and then fell to the ground.
I heard squealing and then saw the herd of pigs run over the cliff and drown in the Sea below.
The bearded one smiled and then helped me to my feet.
I smiled back. " Can I come and follow you?".
Jesus shook his head. " Go back to town and tell people what had just happened to you".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 10, 2013
the madman of Gadara page 3
the madman of Gadara page 3 by ric gustafson
I sat under a tree in the middle of Gadara and waited for someone to approach me. I'm not as famous or should I say infamous as I used to be. It's been a long time since the incident happened but I remember as if it had just happened. When people come up to me and ask if I was the madman, I simply nod my head and say yes.
When the young bearded man and his friends came in their boat, the voices began telling me to do whatever it took to keep them away. The voices knew they were coming. These voices had me under their control for most of my life. The voices told me that I was no good and not worthy of anything.
When the voices started to multiply, my behavior changed dramatically. The voices made me violent and I began to yell and hit townspeople. I was given the name ' the madman of Gadara' and forced to leave town.
I retreated to the caves and the voices kept multiplying. The voices made me wear animal clothing and have wild hair. I began wearing a huge chain that rattled and I began to shriek like a ghost. The fishermen and the swine herdsmen in the area began to avoid the caves where I lived.
One night, a violent storm arose on the Sea and I retreated to one of the caves to avoid the storm.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I sat under a tree in the middle of Gadara and waited for someone to approach me. I'm not as famous or should I say infamous as I used to be. It's been a long time since the incident happened but I remember as if it had just happened. When people come up to me and ask if I was the madman, I simply nod my head and say yes.
When the young bearded man and his friends came in their boat, the voices began telling me to do whatever it took to keep them away. The voices knew they were coming. These voices had me under their control for most of my life. The voices told me that I was no good and not worthy of anything.
When the voices started to multiply, my behavior changed dramatically. The voices made me violent and I began to yell and hit townspeople. I was given the name ' the madman of Gadara' and forced to leave town.
I retreated to the caves and the voices kept multiplying. The voices made me wear animal clothing and have wild hair. I began wearing a huge chain that rattled and I began to shriek like a ghost. The fishermen and the swine herdsmen in the area began to avoid the caves where I lived.
One night, a violent storm arose on the Sea and I retreated to one of the caves to avoid the storm.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 9, 2013
crimes of the century: Martin Luther King Jr
crimes of the century: Martin Luther King Jr by ric gustafson
There was a man whose powerful orations and dreams of ending racism rallied the nation. His name was Martin Luther King Jr. During a speech in Memphis, he appeared to foretell his own demise. " I've seen the promised land" he said at the Mason Temple Church April 3 1968. The next day on April 4 at 6:01 pm, a sniper's bullet struck King in the neck as he stood on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel.
King was rushed to a hospital but damage to his heart could not be repaired. A hunt for his killer started. A man was seen fleeing the area after the shooting. A two bit criminal named James Earl Ray was spotted at the scene and his fingerprints were on a rifle that was seized.
On March 10, 1969 Ray confessed to the crime and was sentenced to 99 years in prison. On April 23, 1998, Ray died in prison at age 70 from liver failure.
research help: Enquirer Special Investigation
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
There was a man whose powerful orations and dreams of ending racism rallied the nation. His name was Martin Luther King Jr. During a speech in Memphis, he appeared to foretell his own demise. " I've seen the promised land" he said at the Mason Temple Church April 3 1968. The next day on April 4 at 6:01 pm, a sniper's bullet struck King in the neck as he stood on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel.
King was rushed to a hospital but damage to his heart could not be repaired. A hunt for his killer started. A man was seen fleeing the area after the shooting. A two bit criminal named James Earl Ray was spotted at the scene and his fingerprints were on a rifle that was seized.
On March 10, 1969 Ray confessed to the crime and was sentenced to 99 years in prison. On April 23, 1998, Ray died in prison at age 70 from liver failure.
research help: Enquirer Special Investigation
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 8, 2013
crimes of the century: The Boston Strangler
crimes of the century: The Boston Strangler by ric gustafson
In Boston during the summer of 1962, Anna Slesers aged 55 was murdered in her apartment. Thus began a 19 month killing spree. During that time period, at least 11 women were raped or murdered.
The murders stopped when a blue collar maintenance worker named Albert Desalvo was arrested. While locked up in prison, he confessed to the murders. He was sentenced to life in prison and six years later, was stabbed to death in the prison infirmary.
Fifty years after his death, his body was dug up and his DNA was extracted. His DNA matched that of victim Mary Sullivan.
The city of Boston was finally convinced that they had their man.
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In Boston during the summer of 1962, Anna Slesers aged 55 was murdered in her apartment. Thus began a 19 month killing spree. During that time period, at least 11 women were raped or murdered.
The murders stopped when a blue collar maintenance worker named Albert Desalvo was arrested. While locked up in prison, he confessed to the murders. He was sentenced to life in prison and six years later, was stabbed to death in the prison infirmary.
Fifty years after his death, his body was dug up and his DNA was extracted. His DNA matched that of victim Mary Sullivan.
The city of Boston was finally convinced that they had their man.
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
the madman of Gadara 2013 page 2
the madman of Gadara 2013 page 2 by ric gustafson
The Teacher woke up and looked around. He slowly stood up and stretched out his arms. " Quiet, settle down" he said in a loud voice. The wind and the Sea calmed down. The Teacher turned and pointed a finger at us. " Don't you have any faith at all".
All of us were amazed that the wind, rain and the Sea obeyed him.
We rowed into the sand of Gadara. Myself and another follower jumped out of the boat to pull it in. As we were doing this, what looked like a madman ran toward us. He was wailing and rattling a huge chain that hung around him. We had oars in our hands and were ready to defend the Teacher. This madman fell onto his knees at the Teacher's feet.
A strange voice came out of his mouth. " What business do you have here Jesus Son of God?".
Jesus stared at the man. " What is your name?".
" Legion".
" Come out of him!".
" Please don't send us away" a voice shrieked from the man. " Send us into that herd of swine".
Jesus looked at the swine herd. He nodded his ok.
The demons entered the swine. The whole herd went over the cliff and drowned in the Sea below.
Somebody helped the madman get up and he began to talk in a normal voice. He asked the Teacher if he could join our group. The Teacher hugged him and told him to stay and tell everyone what had just happened to him.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Teacher woke up and looked around. He slowly stood up and stretched out his arms. " Quiet, settle down" he said in a loud voice. The wind and the Sea calmed down. The Teacher turned and pointed a finger at us. " Don't you have any faith at all".
All of us were amazed that the wind, rain and the Sea obeyed him.
We rowed into the sand of Gadara. Myself and another follower jumped out of the boat to pull it in. As we were doing this, what looked like a madman ran toward us. He was wailing and rattling a huge chain that hung around him. We had oars in our hands and were ready to defend the Teacher. This madman fell onto his knees at the Teacher's feet.
A strange voice came out of his mouth. " What business do you have here Jesus Son of God?".
Jesus stared at the man. " What is your name?".
" Legion".
" Come out of him!".
" Please don't send us away" a voice shrieked from the man. " Send us into that herd of swine".
Jesus looked at the swine herd. He nodded his ok.
The demons entered the swine. The whole herd went over the cliff and drowned in the Sea below.
Somebody helped the madman get up and he began to talk in a normal voice. He asked the Teacher if he could join our group. The Teacher hugged him and told him to stay and tell everyone what had just happened to him.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
crimes of the century: Bonnie and Clyde
crimes of the century: Bonnie and Clyde by ric Gustafson
In 1930, Bonnie Parker was nineteen and married to a man who had killed. Clyde Barrow was twenty years old and a small time Texas thief. He was imprisoned for a time for petty crimes.
In February 1932, Barrow was paroled and shortly after, met Bonnie Parker. They stole a car and drove to Joplin Mo where they killed two cops. Next, they drove to Hillsboro Texas where they executed a man. Then, they traveled to Stringtown Ok where they killed a sheriff.
In March 1933, Clyde's brother Buck Barrow and his wife Blanche joined them. The group was caught in a Joplin garage where Clyde was wounded but they still were able to kill two more officers.
Eventually, Buck becomes fatally wounded fighting law men and Blanche is captured. Bonnie and Clyde kill three more cops.
In May 1934, a posse led by Frank Hamer catch the duo in Ruston La. A gunfight ensues and both bank robbers were killed. Their dead bodies were displayed by lawmen for everyone to see.
Bonnie Parker was 23 and Clyde Barrow was 25.
Their lives were immortalized in a 1967 movie called ' Bonnie and Clyde'.
research help: ' Enquirer Special Investigation'
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In 1930, Bonnie Parker was nineteen and married to a man who had killed. Clyde Barrow was twenty years old and a small time Texas thief. He was imprisoned for a time for petty crimes.
In February 1932, Barrow was paroled and shortly after, met Bonnie Parker. They stole a car and drove to Joplin Mo where they killed two cops. Next, they drove to Hillsboro Texas where they executed a man. Then, they traveled to Stringtown Ok where they killed a sheriff.
In March 1933, Clyde's brother Buck Barrow and his wife Blanche joined them. The group was caught in a Joplin garage where Clyde was wounded but they still were able to kill two more officers.
Eventually, Buck becomes fatally wounded fighting law men and Blanche is captured. Bonnie and Clyde kill three more cops.
In May 1934, a posse led by Frank Hamer catch the duo in Ruston La. A gunfight ensues and both bank robbers were killed. Their dead bodies were displayed by lawmen for everyone to see.
Bonnie Parker was 23 and Clyde Barrow was 25.
Their lives were immortalized in a 1967 movie called ' Bonnie and Clyde'.
research help: ' Enquirer Special Investigation'
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 3, 2013
crimes of the century: Lindbergh baby
crimes of the century: Lindbergh baby by ric gustafson
Charles ' Lucky Lindy' Lindbergh was an American hero. On March 1 1932, his twenty month son named Charles Jr was snatched from his crib. A ransom note was given to Lindbergh and his wife Anne demanding $ 50,000 for the return of their son. Everyone helped the Lindbergh family because he was the first man to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
America was stunned when Lindbergh's son was discovered in a shallow grave just a few miles from their home. Later, a gas station discovered ransom money had been used there. That marked bill led to a German immigrant named Bruno Hauptmann. He was convicted of the kidnapping and death of Charles Lindbergh Jr. He was put to death on April 3 1936.
research help: ' Enquirer Special Investigation'
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Charles ' Lucky Lindy' Lindbergh was an American hero. On March 1 1932, his twenty month son named Charles Jr was snatched from his crib. A ransom note was given to Lindbergh and his wife Anne demanding $ 50,000 for the return of their son. Everyone helped the Lindbergh family because he was the first man to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
America was stunned when Lindbergh's son was discovered in a shallow grave just a few miles from their home. Later, a gas station discovered ransom money had been used there. That marked bill led to a German immigrant named Bruno Hauptmann. He was convicted of the kidnapping and death of Charles Lindbergh Jr. He was put to death on April 3 1936.
research help: ' Enquirer Special Investigation'
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
crimes of the century: St Valentine's Day Massacre
crimes of the century: St Valentine's Day Massacre by ric Gustafson
Chicago crime boss Al Capone had a stronghold on the city. He controlled bootlegging, gambling and prostitution in the city.
On Valentine's Day Feb 14 1929, seven men from a rival gang run by George ' Bugs' Moran were caught. Moran was the archenemy of Capone's for the control of Chicago. In a garage, the seven men were lined up against a wall and executed. The men were surprised by men posing as cops that were actually Capone's men. No one was ever convicted for these murders.
The bullet ridden bricks are now on display in the Las Vegas Mob Museum which opened in 2012.
research help: ' Enquirer Special Investigation'
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Chicago crime boss Al Capone had a stronghold on the city. He controlled bootlegging, gambling and prostitution in the city.
On Valentine's Day Feb 14 1929, seven men from a rival gang run by George ' Bugs' Moran were caught. Moran was the archenemy of Capone's for the control of Chicago. In a garage, the seven men were lined up against a wall and executed. The men were surprised by men posing as cops that were actually Capone's men. No one was ever convicted for these murders.
The bullet ridden bricks are now on display in the Las Vegas Mob Museum which opened in 2012.
research help: ' Enquirer Special Investigation'
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 2, 2013
the madman of Gadara 2013 page 1
the madman of Gadara 2013 page 1 by ric gustafson
This day I will remember for a long time. The other followers of the Teacher along with myself were listening to him tell us a story about some seeds sprouting and growing. As with most of his stories, we asked him to explain it because we did not understand.
Later that day, the Teacher said to us " let us go across to the other side of the Sea'. When he got into the small boat, he looked very tired. He walked to the back of the boat, laid his head on a cushion and went to sleep.
As we started to go across, the weather was fine but as we kept rowing the sky got darker and darker. The waves got choppier and then it started to storm.
Waves began to come over the side and we all began to panic. I thought that we were going to die. I ran up to the Teacher and woke him up. " Teacher, we are all going to drown".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This day I will remember for a long time. The other followers of the Teacher along with myself were listening to him tell us a story about some seeds sprouting and growing. As with most of his stories, we asked him to explain it because we did not understand.
Later that day, the Teacher said to us " let us go across to the other side of the Sea'. When he got into the small boat, he looked very tired. He walked to the back of the boat, laid his head on a cushion and went to sleep.
As we started to go across, the weather was fine but as we kept rowing the sky got darker and darker. The waves got choppier and then it started to storm.
Waves began to come over the side and we all began to panic. I thought that we were going to die. I ran up to the Teacher and woke him up. " Teacher, we are all going to drown".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
elevator no.4 page 3
elevator no.4 page 3 by ric gustafson
Room 320
Mark Dodge watched as a woman named Joyce Meyer preached about having a joy filled life with God. ' Who needs God' he thought with a sneer as he put a spoonful of turkey into his mouth and slowly chewed. ' I can't believe Maureen wants a divorce' he thought to himself as he kept watching this woman. She was beginning to disgust him.
" What a holiday this turned out to be" he muttered to himself as he turned the channel to the History Channel. He took a bite of a slice of pumpkin pie and then threw the container into a trash can. He smiled as an idea came to him. ' I'll go down to the hotel bar and drown my sorrows' he thought as he turned off the lights and opened the door. " Who needs God" he said to himself as he closed the door\.
Peace and holiday blessings. Love Ric
Room 320
Mark Dodge watched as a woman named Joyce Meyer preached about having a joy filled life with God. ' Who needs God' he thought with a sneer as he put a spoonful of turkey into his mouth and slowly chewed. ' I can't believe Maureen wants a divorce' he thought to himself as he kept watching this woman. She was beginning to disgust him.
" What a holiday this turned out to be" he muttered to himself as he turned the channel to the History Channel. He took a bite of a slice of pumpkin pie and then threw the container into a trash can. He smiled as an idea came to him. ' I'll go down to the hotel bar and drown my sorrows' he thought as he turned off the lights and opened the door. " Who needs God" he said to himself as he closed the door\.
Peace and holiday blessings. Love Ric
crimes of the century: Fatty Arbuckle
crimes of the century: Fatty Arbuckle by ric gustafson
Roscoe ' Fatty' Arbuckle was a silent film comedian and was one of Hollywood's biggest stars. He was adored by millions and was the first movie star to earn $ 1 million a year.
On September 5 1921, he threw a huge bash in San Francisco and invited a party girl by the name of Virginia Rappe. After the party she fell ill and it was determined that she was suffering from alcohol poisoning. She died four days later and a friend of hers accused Arbuckle of raping her and crushing her bladder.
Arbuckle went through two trials in which both ended with a hung jury. He was acquitted in April 1922 but the damage was already done to his career. On June 28 1933, he signed a new contract with Warner Brothers. It was short lived as he died that night at age 46 from a heart attack.
He died penniless.
research help: ' Enquirer Special Investigation'
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Roscoe ' Fatty' Arbuckle was a silent film comedian and was one of Hollywood's biggest stars. He was adored by millions and was the first movie star to earn $ 1 million a year.
On September 5 1921, he threw a huge bash in San Francisco and invited a party girl by the name of Virginia Rappe. After the party she fell ill and it was determined that she was suffering from alcohol poisoning. She died four days later and a friend of hers accused Arbuckle of raping her and crushing her bladder.
Arbuckle went through two trials in which both ended with a hung jury. He was acquitted in April 1922 but the damage was already done to his career. On June 28 1933, he signed a new contract with Warner Brothers. It was short lived as he died that night at age 46 from a heart attack.
He died penniless.
research help: ' Enquirer Special Investigation'
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)