News All Around

I wanted to let you know about a new e book by a friend and speaking colleague of mine.

It's called 234 things I've learned about creating, delivering and marketing speeches

and it's written by Scott Ginsberg aka The Nametag Guy.

Check out his web site: www.hellomynameisscott.com

and his latest book: www.hellomynameisscott.com/speak234.pdf

this is good stuff!!

www.marcusengel.com

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Wannabe

This morning, I received an E mail marketing piece from a company that supposedly helps authors succeed. This wasn't especially annoying as spam since I AM an author, but when I started reading some of their points, I was giving the keyboard a "What the ...?" look. As stated in this message, "To be a writer, you never have to sit at a keyboard, never have to put pen to paper, never really need to get your ideas down by yourself." Beg pardon?

I don't claim to know everything about the craft of writing, but I darned sure know that, unless you are massaging the words to say what you want to convey, then you are NOT writing! When someone dictates to a ghost writer, that does not make he/she doing the dictating a writer – it just means they can talk.

To write takes a little more effort. In this oddball world of speaking I'm in, there are literally thousands of folks who have books. But that's just it – they "have a book." It does not mean they "wrote a book." What's the diff? Basically, I'm just not a fan of people taking ownership of a title they didn't work for. If you want to call yourself a writer, then write! This ain't rocket surgery! Yet, the "attraction" that everyone feels to writing cannot be circumvented by someone writing a book for you. That's just cheesy. Do the work, reap the benefits and we'll all be happy.

www.marcusengel.com
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STIFFS

Just finished reading Mary Roach's, "Stiffs: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers." What's that, you say? What would possess an otherwise sane human being to read about dead bodies? Because it's darned fascinating, that's why.

In "Stiffs", Roach discusses how cadavers have been used to help the living throughout history. Everything from testing the machines of execution to be sure there's a clean cut, to present day when med school students "operate" to be sure they're learning on something that is NOT a dummy. Throw in that cadavers are used to test the restraint systems of vehicles, to donate organs to those who are in need and, well, there's a perfect example of "the gift that keeps on giving."

During the read, every chapter would make me think, "Yeah! That's what I want my body to be used for when I'm dead!" That's everything from testing plastic surgery techniques to bone banks to, believe it or not, human composting. More than anything, it just reinforced in my mind how important organ donation is. This is such an important point that I have it specifically written into my will – take whatever you can use. I won't need it where I'm going.

If you have a strong stomach and are looking for a good read, think about Roach's "Stiffs." And if not, just consider organ donation – it's one of the only ways to give the gift of life.

www.marcusengel.com
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October 9 - Happy Anniversary?

Why do we know one another? From you hearing me speak? Or reading an article or book I've written? If so, then the whole reason I speak and write is centered around the events that went down thirteen years ago today.

In years past, I'd recognize this date with a piss poor pity party attended by my friends in Pink Floyd and with far too many libations raised to days gone by. This year? I hadn't even thought about it until I got an E mail from my girlfriend this morning. It just really doesn't matter any more. It's not something I celebrate, it's not something I dread, it is just what it is – another day on the calendar.

If you've read my autobiography or heard me present, you may recall the stories about Ron, my buddy in Texas. Strangely, Ron and I met in Jersey while receiving our first Seeing Eye dogs. It was there that we discovered we were both blind due to car wrecks – car wrecks that happened the very same night. Car wrecks that left us both blind. Weird, I know.

Ron calls this his "re-birthday."

A time to celebrate the life he now has.

Check out his thoughts on this day at:

http://1grahamsview.livejournal.com/

For me? This little blog blurb is about the only recognition I think I'll have. And, for me, this is the best way to show that this day no longer has any power – it is what it is: another day on the calendar. Thanks to all who give me support on this day, but honestly? I don't really need anything other than to continue to live the way I do every day – with passion, with commitment and love. Happy re-birthday to you, Ron, and happy Monday to me...

and all of us, for that matter.

www.marcusengel.com
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SAVE THE DATE! SAVE THE DATE!

You, yes you, are invited!

Friday, October 27th, 7:30 p.m.

Edward D. Jones Auditorium

12555 Manchester
(270 and Manchester)

here in St. Louis

The long-awaited book release event for the second edition of my autobiography,

"After This...An Inspirational Journey for All the Wrong Reasons."

But, since your old buddy Marcus is an overachiever, this will not only be the book release event for "After This..." but the book release event for my second work,

"The Other End of the Stethoscope: 33 Insights for Excellent Patient Care!"

On this night, yours truly will do a 45 minute lecture and guitar/vocals performance where I'll play many of the songs and musical influences that helped form these books.

I would love it if you (yes, you!) can be there!

www.afterthisbook.com

www.marcusengel.com

www.myspace.com/marcusengel

University of Texas - Pan American

Thanks to all Pan Am students who came out to hear me the last couple of days! I had a blast with you guys and I hope you also got something out of it! A very special thanks goes to Christine Caruthers and the BACCHUS and GAMMA club for "purchasing" my services at the Bacchus Network General Assembly last fall.

Miguel Lopez and Christine and crew treated me to not only an excellent showing of the best south Texas has to offer, but introduced me to the most authentic Mexican food I've ever put in my mouth! Yummy... and the leftovers at the hotel weren't half bad, either!

www.marcusengel.com
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This Saturday... Merlot and Marcus!

Saturday evening, I'll be playing a set or two at

D'Vine Wines

in downtown Kirkwood, MO at 119 N. Kirkwood Road.

If you're of age, stop on in,

try some vino and hang around to hear some tunes!

www.marcusengel.com

www.myspace.com/marcusengel

What A Waste

Today is the 36th anniversary of the overdose death of Janis Joplin. One of the greatest female blues singers of all time had to throw it all away on booze and smack. I wrestle with this a bit – on one hand, I'm in favor of people living their lives the way they want. On the other hand, it really, really irritates me when intelligent and talented people succumb to the pressures of substances.

Can you imagine the hundreds of songs Janis could have put out had she not decided to load up on heroin one fateful day? Maybe then the world would know more than "Piece Of My Heart" and "Me and Bobby McGee"; great songs in their own right, but only a smidge of what her capabilities were.

Belushi, Hendrix, Cobain, Morrison, Marilyn – I just shake my head at all the talent that has been tossed down the crapper due to drugs.

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Again?

After the Columbine-ish incident in Colorado last week, we start this week with another two school situations involving guns; one in Vegas and the other in Pennsylvania. The shooting at the Amish one-room schoolhouse in Lancaster County, PA is just a disgusting, tragic event. The Vegas school gun incident isn't quite as tragic, but it does leave the country asking, "What's going on lately?" Is it a strange phase of the moon? Or is this just the world in which we live? Either way, let's just keep our fingers crossed that these do not spark copycat incidents involving guns-enough kids are dead, let's all be vigilant and keep an eye out so no more tragedies occur.

www.marcusengel.com

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Maryville University

Thanks to all who turned out for the
Maryville University Health Sciences Department Humor Program yesterday.
Thanks for welcoming me in, being such an interactive audience and for laughing at my jokes!

Har dee har har!

Special thanks to Mary Garvey for coordinating the event and for
Chuck for being such a great host!

www.marcusengel.com
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Homemade Hillbilly Jam

One of my most favoritest bands in the whole world is Big Smith. Named after the famous brand of overalls, Big Smith gave me more fun nights out than any other single entity of my college days, with the possible exception of my fraternity.

Anyway, a documentary filmmaker created a 80 min. movie detailing the family history of the men of Big Smith and it's titled, "Homemade Hillbilly Jam." It's a fantastic showing of the music and cultural influences handed down through generations in the Ozark Mountains.

This played for the first time Thursday night here in St. Louis, though it's been shown around the world in all sorts of film festivals. If you get a chance and if the show comes to your town, definitely check it out!

www.myspace.com/marcusengel

www.marcusengel.com

Homemade Hillbilly Jam

One of my most favoritest bands in the whole world is Big Smith. Named after the famous brand of overalls, Big Smith gave me more fun nights out than any other single entity of my college days, with the possible exception of my fraternity.

Anyway, a documentary filmmaker created a 80 min. movie detailing the family history of the men of Big Smith and it's titled, "Homemade Hillbilly Jam." It's a fantastic showing of the music and cultural influences handed down through generations in the Ozark Mountains.

This played for the first time Thursday night here in St. Louis, though it's been shown around the world in all sorts of film festivals. If you get a chance and if the show comes to your town, definitely check it out!

www.myspace.com/marcusengel

www.marcusengel.com

Why I Would Buy Life Insurance from Tom Hanks

Forbes just came out with a list of the top 10 most trustworthy celebrities.

http://images.forbes.com/home/technology/2006/09/25/trust-celebrity-politicians-tech_cx_lr_06trust_0925celeb.html

Now, this is all complete bunk since none of us are actually buying things from celebrities (other than through endorsements and even then, not sure anyone on this list actually advertises for anything), but this is still sorta fun.

However, the first thing that struck me is the number of African Americans on the list. The underlying prejudice in America doesn't seem visible on this list.

Secondly, read this article! I think it gives such a fascinating look into why Tom Hanks would make a great used car salesman!

www.marcusengel.com
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Big Pink Bunny

A few months ago, I told you about my friend, John O'Leary, and his nomination for the Energizer "It Keeps Going and Going and Going..." award. Well, he won!

Thanks to all the Engel's Ensights readers who took the time to go to John's site or to energizer.com to vote for my friend.

For more info on John, his story and the eight foot tall pink bunny that showed up on his lawn, check out:

www.rising-above.com

www.marcusengel.com

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Potty Mouth

Last night, I had dinner with my buddy, Jordan.

Jordan is 17 and wise far beyond his years.

Our discussion revolved around profanity and he made a point I'd never really thought of.

"People don't realize that when they use profanity,

it sounds different to the person saying it than it does to the person hearing it."

He went on to say that when someone curses,

the words hit harder on the listener than the user may feel.

Hence, be careful with the language.

Now, admittedly, I have a pretty bad potty mouth.

However, Jordan made such a great point

that it's really going to cause me to think when choosing my words.

New Book Is Almost Here!

I'm currently in Florida and finishing up the last tweaks on the new medical book,

"The Other End Of The Stethoscope: 33 Insights For Excellent Patient Care."

Today, it went in the mail back to the printer and (cross your fingers), in three weeks the copies should arrive, just in time for the Oct. 27 book release event!

Also, thanks to all who have helped to promote the Oct. 27 event!

I appreciate all of your hard work and advocacy on my behalf!

www.marcusengel.com

www.myspace.com/marcusengel

SAVE THE DATE!!

You, yes you, are invited!

Friday, October 27th, 7:30 p.m.

Edward D. Jones Auditorium

12555 Manchester

Saint Louis, MO 63131

(270 and Manchester)

The long-awaited book release event for the second edition of my autobiography,

"After This...An Inspirational Journey for All the Wrong Reasons."

But, since your old buddy Marcus is an overachiever, this will not only be the book release event for "After This..." but the book release event for my second work,

"The Other End of the Stethoscope: 33 Insights for Excellent Patient Care!"

On this night, yours truly will do a 45 minute lecture and guitar/vocals performance where I'll play many of the songs and musical influences that helped form these books. I would love it if you (yes, you!) can be there!

www.afterthisbook.com

www.marcusengel.com

www.myspace.com/marcusengel

Maybe Joan Baez Had It Right

One of the most powerful songs on the original compilation from Woodstock 1969 was Joan Baez's song "Joe Hill." My apologies if this isn't the exact title and I'm not even sure if she's the one who wrote the tune. Anyway, it's a powerful song about the power that comes from organization. I.E., one person has a voice, but a group of people with the same message can make a lot more headway.

So, Thursday night, Baltimore Orioles fans proved this. Make no bones about it, the Orioles have sucked big time for the last decade or so. And fans are fed up with their birds not being contenders. So, nearly 1000 fans dressed alike and walked out of Thursday night's game at Camden Yard. And what did it do? It showed the rest of the MLB just how much they care and want their birds to win-but it was also to show O's ownership they're ready to pay higher ticket prices to see a winning team.

Can you imagine this site? 1000 fans, all dressed in black, exiting the stadium at once-wow! And yet, this week, two "world leaders" who spit out anti-American rhetoric visit NYC and the protest has a couple of dozen people show up. Does this speak to our sheer stupidity as Americans? Props to the O's fans for organizing themselves, and shame on the rest of us for being shown by baseball fans exactly how we should band together.

www.marcusengel.com
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More Ways To Get Marcus

*drum roll, please*

Introducing, the new and improved aspect of Engel's Ensights: the RSS! So, yeah, RSS is now easily available from your Marcus Engel blog. Download all the goodies and more easily keep up with the happenings in the world of Marcus, as well as the random musings that maybe, maybe just may make some sorta profound point!

http://feeds.feedburner.com/EngelsEnsights

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Weirdos Like This Give People Like Me a Bad Name

The following is from an article from the Springfield, MO News Leader. I spent five great college years in Springfield and never once had any type of discrimination due to my Seeing Eye dog. However, people like this push the limits - and end up giving service animal owners (like moi) a bad name.

Care to debate this with me? I'd love to hear from someone who thinks this is even remotely acceptable. And further, what a stupid name for a monkey!

Woman's monkey barred from restaurants
News-Leader

A Springfield woman filed a complaint with the federal government Friday after the Springfield-Greene County Health Department declined to reverse a decision barring her from taking her monkey into businesses that serve or handle food.

see full article: http://www.news-leader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2006609160372

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More Info on Sara

Thanks to all who responded to yesterday's Marcus Engel Newsletter.

For those who want a link to Sara's web site, well, you're out of luck. As of the last time we spoke, she doesn't have one. However, I know she'd want to send you to the Holocaust Museum here in St. Louis. Here's the URL for that and, if you see her there, give her a hug for me!

http://www.hmlc.org/

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Save the Date! Save the Date!

You, yes you, are invited!

Friday, October 27th, 7:30 p.m.

Edward D. Jones Auditorium

here in St. Louis at 270 and Manchester

The long-awaited book release event for the second edition of my autobiography,

"After This...An Inspirational Journey for All the Wrong Reasons."

But, since your old buddy Marcus is an overachiever, this will not only be the book release

event for "After This..." but the book release event for my second work,

"The Other End of the Stethoscope: 33 Insights for Excellent Patient Care!"

On this night, yours truly will do a 45 minute lecture and guitar/vocals performance where I'll play many of the songs and musical influences that helped form these books.

I would love it if you (yes, you!) can be there!

www.afterthisbook.com

www.marcusengel.com

www.myspace.com/marcusengel

Eastern Washington University

Thanks to Eastern Washington University for hosting my keynote last night! I had a blast and I hope all the freshmen and Greeks got something positive from our time together! Thanks to Michelle Pingree for being such an awesome contact person, as well as for helping to supply a bunch of my books to the students! Extra special thanks goes to Asuris Northwest Health and Brady Cass for putting 100 books into the hands of EWU students! Thanks everyone! And good luck with the beginning of the 06-07 year!

www.marcusengel.com

www.myspace.com/marcusengel

Grace

This morning, I flew out of Oakland and, even with arriving at the airport nearly 90 min. before the flight; I barely made it on the plane. Over 45 minutes was spent simply sitting in the lobby waiting for an assistant to come along and help me find the gate. I had plenty of time to kill, so it wasn't an issue until the last few minutes. The reason for such a delay was simply an overload of folks needing escorts. Next to me sat an elderly woman who knew less about flying than I know about what goes on inside the NSA headquarters (that's NSA as in National Security Administration, NOT National Speakers Association). Yet, those arranging escorts and "helpers" were so good to this woman – and all passengers for that matter. Slam packed, stressed out and completely swamped, they showed such grace under pressure. This is precisely what one wants to see in customer service and it's great to see it hand delivered to a customer in such need.

www.marcusengel.com
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Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay...

I'm in the Bay area right now, hanging with my high school bud/college roommate, Ben. This is one of my favorite places on earth and I'm soaking up the San Fran flavor before heading up to Spokane, WA to speak tomorrow. Pardon my lack of blogs over the next few days, but I'm having too much fun to come up with anything all that profound at the moment!

www.marcusengel.com

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FemiWhat?

I just heard a radio clip of Jane Fonda and Gloria Steinem discussing their new radio talk show aimed at women. Steinem’s feminist literature has been much of the cornerstone of the entire feminist movement. While I'm never huge on militancy, I have to respect her drive and determination to create an equal society.

Now, in the radio clips I heard, Fonda stated how modern radio has left today's woman feeling overlooked. Today's women, do you feel that way? I'm asking because I am not one. However, if Fonda thinks this is so, and she claims her show will help change that "feeling."

Now, here's where it gets interesting – she claims her show will be accepted by women because it's radio and women can listen while they cook, sew and take care of their children. Folks, this is so off the wall I cannot possibly make it up! The first two items out of her mouth are the most degrading, stereotypical and infuriating roles that women have been lumped into throughout time! And this is a show to help women? Please! The Who said it best: "Meet the new boss, same as the old boss."

www.marcusengel.com
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Save the Date! Save the Date!!

You, yes you, are invited!
Friday, October 27th, 7:30 p.m.
Edward D. Jones Auditorium
here in St. Louis at 270 and Manchester

The long-awaited book release event for the second edition of my autobiography,
"After This...An Inspirational Journey for All the Wrong Reasons."

But, since your old buddy Marcus is an overachiever, this will not only be the book release event for "After This..." but the book release event for my second work,
"The Other End of the Stethoscope: 33 Insights for Excellent Patient Care!"

On this night, yours truly will do a 45 minute lecture and guitar/vocals performance where I'll play many of the songs and musical influences that helped form these books.I would love it if you (yes, you!) can be there!

www.marcusengel.com
www.myspace.com/marcusengel
www.afterthisbook.com

Look for the Signs

On a day when the school shooting in Canada tops the media, here in St. Louis, we also had an incident involving students and guns. At a local high school, Westminster Christian Academy, a suicidal teenager brought a gun to school. The police were called in, the gun was waved in such a manner to threaten the officers and the student was shot in the leg.

If the student was truly suicidal...did no one see this coming? I had the honor of speaking to the students at Westminster around two years ago. This is a top-notch facility. Private, clean, well-behaved students, crime free, the whole nine yards. With such a positive environment, how did no one notice this suicidal teen?

In almost every case of suicide, afterward, friends say they did, in retrospect, see some signs – but they didn't know what the signs were nor how to deal with them. All I can hope is that we all take a little further time to learn to be cognizant of the actions of others.

www.marcusengel.com
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GRIDIRON!

Happy days are here again, now that college and pro football are back in season! After watching the UT vs. Ohio State game on Sat. night, then the STL Rams vs. Denver yesterday, it's official: fall is here!

www.marcusengel.com

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This is not happening...

Five years ago today, I was sitting on my couch, listening to Steve Earl's "Guitar Town" and teaching myself to play the tune on my 12 string Taylor guitar. Then, I got the call. I didn't think what I was hearing could possibly be right, so I ran downstairs and flipped on the TV, only to hear Peter Jennings describe the scene as the second tower fell. And I thought again, "This is not happening..." but it was.

Through all the memorials and news stories of today, take a few moments to just sit and think and remember the exact moment you heard the news. And how sick you felt. And how scared you were. And never, ever forget that that could happen again.

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Hair Products

So, today I had my hair cut and styled by my favorite stylist, Becca. Ever since I left behind the days of haircuts being done by one of my buds with a trimmer in the garage, I've gone to Becca. So, who cares, right? Well, I do, obviously, but today, she said something that made me smile.

See, I first went to Becca about a year ago. I asked her what product was designed for a wafro like mine. I took her suggestion and have been sold on this product ever since. So, today, I thanked her for that recommendation and told her, "That is the best stuff I've ever used!" She was so happy I told her and said, "Thanks for letting me know that! It's always so great to hear that something I suggested works well!" Becca's appreciation for my recognition of her recommendation was such a genuine reaction. I love genuine reactions! So, take some time to thank those who've helped you or have given you suggestions – you might just make their day!

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Misguided Defense

This week, there was a hefty civil settlement awarded to a female employee of a college. The female employee sued the school for failing to protect her from a security officer who repeatedly sexually harassed her and, in what sounds like one of the scariest things I've heard lately, aimed an unloaded gun at her head and slowly pulled the trigger. An awful situation and one where the officer in question should (and was) dismissed from his duties.

Now, the oddity of this situation is this: the college is a public institution. As a public institution, it is funded by the tax dollars of you and I. So, during the trial, the college's representative pled to the court NOT to award the settlement because it'd drive up the cost for taxpayers. Beg pardon? Uh, can we discuss the issue at hand?

This is one of the major factors in why the settlement was reached. And, when the college made such a stupid move, they deserve to be punished financially.

This is one of my biggest pet peeves: not focusing on the issue at hand. If an individual smokes in bed and the house catches fire, that individual does NOT have the right to complain that the landlord should have had a sprinkler system installed. Unfortunately, we see this all too often. Don't be that guy...or that college!

www.marcusengel.com
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Lost Dogs and Terror

In the four years I've had Carson, there have been at least two instances when he's turned into a "real" dog; I.E., he's forgotten that he's a well trained Seeing Eye dog and acted like a normal, happy-go-lucky lab. Twice in recent memory, he's found a path to the outside world and went exploring – he didn't get very far since he felt the need to stop and sniff everything, but for the few moments from realization to his safe return, my heart simply stopped.

So, I'm in Florida right now and streamed in my favorite STL radio station on the ol' laptop. First thing I hear is an unfamiliar voice. Normally at this time of day, the airways of 97.1 FM are filled with the rantings of Laura Ingram; a young, conservative, dynamic radio host out of D.C. However, there's some odd dude sitting in her place. Why? Because her yellow lab, Troy, pulled Carson's disappearing trick.

First off, right now, I feel for the girl. Second, how cool is it that that Laura called in to work, took the day off and is now combing the neighborhood looking for her pup? We're not talking a normal job here – we're talking national media which bends the ear of millions of Americans. To put that responsibility on the backburner to search out her dog shows her absolute love and commitment to her pet. Best of luck in your search, Laura!

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Speaker's U

Today, I spoke with an aspiring speaker. As she looked for tips and pointers about this biz, I suggested she attend the Speaker's University conducted by my chapter of the National Speakers Association here in St. Louis. This is an all day event on Oct. 14 that will help emerging speakers get the vital info they need; not to mention helping non-aspiring speakers to hone their presentation skills. These events have been priceless for my business and, if you're local and would like to attend, please view:

www.nsastlouis.org

for more information. Hope to see you there!

www.marcusengel.com

www.myspace.com/marcusengel

Seeing Something Different

"This dude is nuts," I thought, sitting in front of the TV in the living room of my Kappa Sigma fraternity house. It was the late 90s and I was watching, for the first time, "The Crocodile Hunter." Ain't no sane person going to go play with venomous snakes and scorpions and the like. Yet, here was this Aussie doing just that. And, even more strange, he was doing it with so much enthusiasm - cautious, but not fearful.

As I watched the show, it started to become all too apparent that Steve Irwin was a one-of-a-kind. Why? Because he plays with crocs and dangerous animals? Yeah, but more than that, because he sees things (namely dangerous creatures) from a totally different angle. You and I would possibly see a diamondback rattler in the wild and head for the hills. Not the croc hunter! He'll walk up, be sure he's safe, then point out the beautiful markings on the snake's back, the intricacy of the placement of the rattles, the powerful muscle form under the snake's smooth skin, all types of things that ARE beautiful, but that are overshadowed by the one thing snakes are known for: danger!

Well, Steve met his match this morning in a freak accident in Australia. As you might expect, he died doing what he loved - exploring and documenting wildlife, no matter the danger involved. We should all be so lucky to pass in such a way.

www.marcusengel.com
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Little Miss Sunshine

Have you seen "Little Miss Sunshine"? No? Then get yourself to the theater ASAP!

Yesterday, I sat through a Saturday matinee to watch this new flick. It was the first time I'd sat in a commercial movie theater since Pacino in "Insomnia" in 02. Generally, I have way too little attention to dedicate 120 minutes of my life to a movie, but something just told me I had to go see this show (yes, it was a girl).

Anyway, here's the scoop: a dysfunctional family travels cross country in a junky VW bus to take the youngest child, Olive, to the Little Miss Sunshine pageant in California. In addition to being the cutest kid since Olivia on "The Cosby Show", Olive is the kind of kid we can all learn from. In fact, everyone in the fam teaches some sort of lesson. Wait! Did I say they're dysfunctional? Yes... and they are! But, by the end of the movie, their dysfunction turns to function. Not in some happy ending sorta way, but in a manner where they realize that life goes on, dysfunction or not.

While this flick is a bit of a copy of the classic Lampoon's "Vacation", it's still definitely worth your hard earned $8. And, if you've seen it, drop a comment - I'd love to know what you thought of it!

www.marcusengel.com
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Book of the Month

Several weeks ago, I linked my blog to the web site of J.T. Chandler, a gentleman located in CO who seems to have a very similar view of life. Well, after checking over his site and being impressed with his content, I sent him a copy of my book. We made contact because J.T. wanted to feature an article I'd written. Thus, reciprocation!

Now, I just learned that my autobiography, After This...

has been named as the book of the month.

Visit:

www.jtchandler.com

to learn more!

Thanks, J.T.!

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USDA Earth Team Volunteer Program

Thanks to the folks at the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture's Earth Team Volunteer Program conf. yesterday! You guys were so much fun! It's been a long time since I've had that much fun with an audience and I hope the rest of the conference went as well! Special thanks to Sarah Szachnieski for being such a great contact person through this whole process!

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Food For Fines

About six weeks ago, "we" here in St. Louis went through one major, major summer storm. I say "we" because I had the good fortune to be in Florida for the week (as much as I'd like to say this was intelligent planning, it was really just dumb luck). So, storm hits and a good portion, heck almost all, of the major metro area lost power for at least 24 hours, some folks even up to a week. Personally, my home was out for over four days. I'm lucky enough to have good friends, family and neighbors who, in my absence, cleaned out my fridge and disposed of thawed and spoiled food. Thing is, that food has to be replaced. Enter, a problem for those who can't afford to purchase all new food at once.

So, a local county library started a "Food for Fines" program that is just excellent! Say you have an overdue library book. Bring in a can of food for it, the fine is forgiven. Not bad, eh? The food then goes to help food banks that were strained by the power outages.

Libraries are one of those local resources that are ignored treasures. Most folks haven't set foot in a public library for years. This is just shameful. By the Jefferson County libraries taking on this "food for fines" program, I hope it'll encourage library use AND replenish the food pantry stock.

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I Wouldn't Change It

In today's USA Today in the Life section, there is a great article by Colleen Clark. It deals with the class of '06 from Benjamin Franklin High School in New Orleans.

With all the crap the media fed us after Katrina, a group of documentarians in D.C. went to N'Orleans to find the stories the media was NOT telling us. The good, heartfelt stories of people helping out their neighbors in a time of crisis. They focused this on the seniors at Franklin High, the fall semester they could not be in their own school, their return to the school in January of this year and all the usual class "stuff" that binds a senior's memories of their final year to a place.
What struck me most was one senior (now college freshman's) remarks: "If I could change Katrina, I wouldn't."

Anyone else feel like this young man? That, even through some of the worst experiences imaginable, good still rose to the surface and overshadowed the bad? I do. And I'll continue to choose to see the good in the bad. In this tragedy and in others. And props to Jordan Bridges, the young man who said just that, for having the maturity and insight to see Katrina as something that adds character to his life.

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Kiddo Safety

Today, my home state of Missouri has a new law that goes into effect and concerns two things I care deeply about: kids and traffic safety. MO's new law doesn't just bump up the requirements for car seats and the kids that ride in them, but they've made a real statement with the new regulations. Now, children have to be practically in puberty before they're allowed to ride in a car like an adult(okay, that's a bit of an exaggeration).

If you're in the state and have kids, you probably already know this stuff. Either way, it's a great example for other states to follow to help keep our little friends out of harm's way.

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Blind Outreach

Just a quick thank you to the Blind Outreach program of St. Louis for asking me to present at your luncheon today. Special thanks to Kerry Smith for setting everything up! Your organization does great work and I was honored to be a part of your luncheon!

Thanks again!

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Last Night on ABC

Did anyone see the Primetime Special Report on ABC last night "Out of Control: AIDS in Black America"? Wow, what an enlightening look at something I knew very little about.

Yet, the part of the program that struck me more than the epidemic of AIDS among black Americans was the set of remarks made by one of the most recognized leaders of black America, Jesse Jackson. If you caught the show, I'd love to know your thoughts, especially on Jesse's comments. Leave your thoughts on the comments here! Thanks!

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Missouri School for the Blind

Thanks to the staff of the Missouri School for the Blind for the opprotunity to present yesterday. I wish you the best of luck with your students this year and please let me know if there's anything I can do to help! Special thanks to Marsha Bryant and Tina Bennett for being such great contact people through this process! Thanks again!

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Central Methodist University

I had such a great time with you guys!

Special thanks to:

Chris Buckman, Ken Oliver and Sarah Smith

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Smoke 'Em If Ya Got 'Em ... NOT!

Turner Broadcasting announced today that they will be reviewing and editing some 5800 cartoons in their collection. Apparently, after a good 30 years of knowing the dangers of cigarettes, someone finally got the clue that the cartoons that were made in the pre-cig knowledge days might have a negative impact on kids.

As a kiddo in the early 80s, I can vividly remember watching tons of old cartoons from the 40s and 50s where smoking was seen and basically glorified. Since both my parents are non-smokers, I was made aware that smoking wasn't a good thing to do – even if cartoon characters did it.

I commend Turner Broadcasting for this, but really, isn't it about three decades too late?

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THE BOOK(S) RELEASE EVENT!!

Friday, Oct. 27, 2006
7:30 p.m.

Edward D. Jones Auditorium

St. Louis, MO

We'll be releasing the 2nd edition of my autobiography,

After This...

An Inspirational Journey For All The Wrong Reasons

AND a completely new work,

The Other End of the Stethoscope:

33 Insights for Excellent Patient Care.

On Oct. 27, I will hold a 45 min. program,

half lecture and half guitar/vocal performance

of many of the songs that were influential in my recovery.

Following the performance, both books will be available for signing and purchase.

To see more about the new version of my autobiography,

view the site completely dedicated to After This...

www.afterthisbook.com

DIRECTIONS TO THE BOOK RELEASE EVENT

Edward D Jones Auditorium : Manchester Building

12555 Manchester

St. Louis, MO 63131

From 270 North or Southbound

- exit I-270 at exit # 9 onto Manchester Eastbound

- at the first light turn into the parking lot of 12555 Manchester

THIS EVENT IS FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

ALL ARE INVITED

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!

Wedding Bells!

Just returned from a wedding weekend for my good friend and Kappa Sigma brother, Andy Netterville. The weekend was a blast and things couldn't have been more than perfect. Congrats to Andy and the new Mrs. Netterville on a great wedding day and best wishes for a happy life together!

Also thanks to Bryce and Nicole Taylor for being such awesome people to hang out with this weekend! Can't wait to get to Austin to hang with you guys!

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Do What You Do Best

A few months ago, I was considering taking some computer classes, just to expand my knowledge. I'd like to be able to fix some problems if they arise, diagnose my own machine, that sorta thing. Then, news flash! I have never, EVER had any desire to work with computers. Sure, I work on a computer every day, but it's to run my business. I want nothing to do with a business that revolves around the computer. Dig? So, after little consideration (mainly because it was a no brainer), I decided I'd rather just call in the experts if I have problems. I need to do what I do best-speak, write, market my services and help people in that way. I'll leave the CPU stuff to people who have a passion for it.

So, just bought a new laptop and had my fav computer company, NCD Tech, set it all up. I lovingly refer to this company as "the cavalry." Why? Because they are the reinforcements I call in when I need help. My technological 911. They did an excellent job, not only working on my new machine, but helping to iron out any problems that arise due to the screen reading software I utilize. So, I share this info with you and, if you're local, try out the company:

www.ncdtech.com

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Insult To Injury

A certain airline that shall remain nameless recently filed for bankruptcy. Shocking, I know. I'd normally give this airline's name, but I'm booked on them this fall and I don't want bad karma to bite me in the butt. Anyway, after filing for bankruptcy and having the potential of laying off thousands of workers, the company printed up a booklet and distributed it to employees. The booklet? How to Save Money. In it were suggestions like:

bring a brown bag lunch
don't be afraid to dig things out of the trash
instead of taking a date to dinner, go for a walk on the beach or in the woods

Anyone else see this as a total slap in the face? The folks are about to lose their jobs and what idiot in the company thinks it's a good idea to now show workers how to save bread? Ridiculous.

What surprises me more than anything isn't the idea, but how many steps this has to go through. No where along the way did someone say, "Ya know, this doesn't seem real smart." Think of it: the board room to the wordsmiths, the graphic designers, the printers, the distribution, the passing out of the book to the employees. As if a potential pink slip isn't bad enough!

The sheer insensitivity of people is sometimes shocking. Okay, okay, often shocking.

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What's Your Major?

Today on NPR's Talk of the Nation, the discussion is about college majors versus the labor market and employability. One of the questions asked was about the current trend of college majors and the institutions from which they come. As stated by the guest, many are now treating college as an education towards a vocation. I.E., they study specific things to do a specific job when they get out. Things like health care, engineering and education. However, fewer students are studying the social sciences and liberal arts.

My degree from Missouri State University is sociology. I often call soc the most useless degree on earth. Yet, that's not true. I often compare soc to communications - no one will ever give you a job as a communicator nor a sociologist (unless you have a doctorate), but no matter what job you do, these social sciences will help you do that job better. Why? Because at the heart of every job, there is human interaction.

If you work with people in any capacity, those who go to the top are those who can communicate. Long live the useless social sciences! We may not make much moolah coming out of college, but we'll surpass your earnings later!

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Who You're Likely To Meet

I just got word that I have finally, finally fulfilled the requirements for a companion pass on Southwest Airlines. Basically, to get this deal, you have to take 100 flights in one year. And, SWA has this program where, if you fulfill that requirement, you are awarded a companion pass. This means I'll be able to take someone with me, free of charge, on any trip I take on SWA.
Cha ching!

So, clients in the future should expect to meet my friend, editor and administrator, Marvelyne. She'll likely accompany me to programs where I'll be selling books and products at the back of the room, and, hey, she's my best friend, so I'll likely bring her along just so she and I can have fun!

Thanks to Southwest Airlines for making my life a bit easier (and more fun) with this program!

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Candy Bomber

One of the greatest character traits one can possess is the ability to shine in the face of crisis. In today's STL Post-Dispatch, there is a real touching article about one such man and the follow up, some 50 years later. Take a read!

STLtoday - News - Illinois State News

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Take Care!

Just heard a PSA put out by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In it, a man praises you, the hurricane relief worker, for your acts of bravery in the aftermath of the storm. However, the point of the radio spot is to give hurricane relief workers an outlet to release pent up emotions. An 800 numer is given and listeners are encouraged to call because, as the spot states, "sometimes the biggest act of bravery is taking care of yourself." Wow.

This is something I really haven't thought of. Maybe it's because I am not a hurricane relief worker. Okay, that IS probably it. What kind of emotional distress does a hurricane relief worker go through when finding rotting corpses in a home? How does he/she manage those feelings? Well, obviously the Dept. of Health and Human Services sees a need for these services. In the immediate aftermath of Katrina, the world was rallying to help. Now that that explosion of support has gone by the wayside, how do workers continue to do the work that still needs to be done? I don't know. But, now, at least there's a resource for them.

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Shut It Already!

With all the craziness that's gone on in England over the last 48 or so hours, it's made some big changes in U.S. air travel. These aren't changes that will inconvenience anyone for more than a few minutes. I mean, what is the worst case scenario here? I have to check my entire duffle bag instead of carrying it on because I have a bottle of hair gel. Or I can't carry my Starbucks on the flight. That's really about it. Maybe more scrutiny at the checkpoint, but that's a given. We are at red alert for the first time since the U.S. implemented the terror threat coloring system. People who I heard on radio call in shows this morning have no concept of this-it's all about how they can't carry a fountain soda on a flight. For the love of all things holy, folks, it is not your right as an American to drink a latte on a plane. Heck, it isn't even your right to fly. I'll be on at least two flights in the next seven days and, I'm sure, it'll be different. But lest we forget - this IS for our own safety.

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Back In Again

Today's USA Today reports that Robin Williams is back in rehab. After drying out from coke and booze in the post - Mork and Mindy era, he went on to make some of (what I consider) the best movies of my lifetime: Dead Poets Society, Good Morning Vietnam, Patch Adams, just to name a few.

Apparently, he started hitting the bottle again recently and, as a proactive measure, checked himself back into rehab. Props to him! I still think that checking oneself into rehab is one of the gutsiest things that can be asked of anyone. It takes a ton of humility and strength and bravery to admit... "yep, I'm outta control. I either admit it or I die."

Many addicts I've known say that for so long, they wouldn't admit they had a problem. Then, by the time they DO admit it, they're in so far over their heads they wonder if they can get out. Again, props to Robin Williams for not allowing himself to get in over his head a second time.

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Come On, Baby, Light a Fire in My Ear

This morning, I saw Dr. Jim Hartman, my otolarincologist. First, I'm not sure I spelled that right, second, try saying it three times fast! Anyway, the shortened version is ear, nose and throat doctor. Due to some major trauma to my left ear canal, Dr. Hartman gets the joy of cleaning my ear canal every month or two.

A few days ago, I was having a convo with a friend and the subject of ear wax candles came up. Do they work? Are they dangerous? Could I cut my visits to Dr. Hartman if I used these? If you're not familiar, ear wax candles are approx. the size of the taper candles you set on the table during a romantic evening. So help me God, you lay your head on a table, stick one of these minature torches thru a paper plate and into your ear. Then you light it on fire and let it burn down to a mere couple of inches. This process supposedly causes a vacuum that sucks wax and debris from your ear canal.

While Dr. Hartman had me in the chair, I asked his opinion on this freakshow medical technique. He admitted that he's never seen an ear canal before and after a candle treatment. Being a brave soul, I ask, "You want a guinea pig?"

Now, think of this: if I do this and it works, I may take a bite out of his business. Still, Dr. Hartman tells me the truth - that he's willing to experiment and maybe find a way to eliminate his services.
Friends, I think this takes a lot of integrity. He could have just suggested himself right out of a job. And yet, the patient's needs come first. Props to Dr. Hartman for being up front and honest AND for keeping his patient's needs at the forefront of all interactions.


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Hospital Humor: A Necessity

In the most drastic and frightening times, finding a bit of humor is often therapeutic. This article was in the AP today and I thought I'd share how the father realizes that retaining his sense of humor will benefit all involved. Enjoy!

SALT LAKE CITY (Aug. 8) - Reconstructive surgery is now done on both of the twins who had been joined at the midsection.

It took a total of 26 hours to separate and then do the other necessary surgery on the four-year-old girls. Both are now in side-by-side beds at the pediatric intensive care unit of a Salt Lake City hospital. They'll likely be hospitalized a month.

The twins were born with a shared kidney, liver and pelvis. They also had just one set of legs. Surgeons distributed the legs and organs among them.

Meyers said the surgery, while complicated, had not presented any major surprises for the team of six surgeons, two anesthesiologists, two urologists, one radiologist and more than 25 nurses and medical technicians.

But the days ahead will still be tough, she said.

Erin Herrin, 25, broke into tears and fell into the arms of her 26-year-old husband, Jake Herrin when the couple was told the surgery had been successful. Relatives applauded.

"I don't know that it's set in yet," Jake Herrin said. "We're not going to feel totally comfortable until they're out of the OR and everything's stable."

"And we can hold them," his wife added.

The couple, who also have a 6-year-old daughter and twin 14-month-old boys, said they were eager to tell the girls how brave they had been and how proud they have made the family.
Jake Herrin even cracked a few surgery jokes.

"Most people say, 'You made it through in one piece," he said. "We can say, "You guys made it through in two."'

TREND

Saturday August 5

TREND National Conference

sponsored by the

National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse

Special thanks to Ginny, Ed, Karen and the multitudes
of young people who made this event such a great time!
Thanks for welcoming Carson and I into your conference!

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Another Reason It's Good to Be A Man

Woman Gets Stuck on Toilet, Suffers Burns
AP

COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (Aug. 3) - A woman who became stuck to a toilet seat in a shopping mall restroom was treated at a local hospital after paramedics used fingernail polish remover to free her, officials said.

The 53-year-old Council Bluffs woman suffered burns to her skin in the incident, which happened Wednesday, officials with the Fire Department said.
Investigators said they believe someone placed a cement compound on the toilet seat in the restroom at the Mall of the Bluffs.

Investigators say they are treating the case as an assault and vandalism.
The woman, who wasn't identified, told KETV in Omaha, Neb., that the burns are painful and that the incident was one of the most embarrassing moments in her life.

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Save the Date!! Save the Date!!

You, yes you, are invited!

Friday, October 27th, 7:30 p.m.

Edward D. Jones Auditorium here in St. Louis

at 270 and Manchester

The long-awaited book release event for the second edition of my autobiography,

"After This...An Inspirational Journey for All the Wrong Reasons."

But, since your old buddy Marcus is an overachiever, this will not only be the book release event for "After This..." but the book release event for my second work,

"The Other End of the Stethoscope: 33 Insights for Excellent Patient Care!"

On this night, yours truly will do a 45 minute lecture and guitar/vocals performance where I'll play many of the songs and musical influences that helped form these books.

I would love it if you (yes, you!) can be there!

www.marcusengel.com

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Idiot

I am sick, SICK of hearing about Mel Gibson's anti-seimetic remarks. I do not care what Mr. Gibson thinks of Jews. I do not care what he thinks of women. I don't care what he thinks about God, religion, history, or World War II. This is America and we're granted (right there in the first amendment) freedom of speech. In Mel's case, this is freedom to spout off and sound like a total jackass. So, can we stop caring about if he hates Jews already? Here's something no one wants to admit: hate, by itself, has never killed a single person. Hate has to be mixed with lynch mobs and ropes, guns and whips, furnaces and gas showers to kill anyone. Again, hate, by itself, just makes an individual look like an idiot.

While hate has never killed a person, DWI kills over 15,000 people in America every year. Look at that number again: 15,000. That is five times the number of people as were killed on 9-11. And where's our war on impaired driving? Where's our outrage and literally tens of thousands of hours of talkshow time devoted to something that actually kills people? It's no where, at least not when talking about ol' Mel.

Look, Mel Gibson was drunk as a skunk and driving over twice the speed limit when he was pulled over. Do we look at that? No! Not as much as the fact he lipped off to an officer about religious bigotry which hurt NO ONE except Gibson himself (i.e., hurt his name by making him look like a hater).

Let's get off this kick of looking at his views and start persecuting him for the real crime.

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Camp TAMBO fun!

Thanks to all who made the week so special!

Legal Disclaimer

Those of us who like to play music have one major fear: lawyers. When I go sit in a pub and play Springsteen songs, I'm always a little afraid there'll be a lawyer who'll show up with a cop, arrest me, impound my guitar and amp and... why? Because I'm breaking some copyright law. Realistic? Not really. Still, I don't want someone stealing my copyrighted material, so I try to always at least say the name of the artist that wrote the tune.

So, today I was looking around on the web site of one of my faorite singers, Michelle Shocked. In the liner notes of one of her albums, there reads a very formal and legal-sounding disclaimer about copying, re-distribution, selling, etc. etc. etc. and how it's all illegal. Then, after all that jazz, she has written, "But anyone who sings these songs is a friend of mine."

Sister Shocked, this is why I love you! How can an artist create but not share? Michelle Shocked knows what's up and I now have one less thing to fear when I play "Come Along Way" while out and about.

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Testosterone-Riddled Weekend

I just returned from a weekend bachelor party for my good bud and old fraternity brother, Andy. What a great time! I'm so looking forward to the wedding weekend and seeing all the new friends I made over this weekend. Vive la Lilly...and congrats, Artsy Boy!

Happy Birthday MTV!

I was seven the first time I remember MTV. It was either a Devo or Queen video, promptly followed by a man on the moon planting, not the American flag, but a flashy flag bearing the MTV logo. Ah, memories!

Next week, MTV turns 25 years old. Chances are, though, you won't see any celebration. MTV knows their market-teens and 20-somethings. They are one of the few entities that still holds true to their roots: entertainment for the younger generation. Since their 20th anniversary of the beginning of MTV didn't really make a big difference to the average viewer, they've realized that promoting their longevity doesn't really matter to their viewership. Smart marketing move on their part, don't you think?

I am one of the first of the MTV generation. And, I know this is hard to believe, but MTV has benefitted my life greatly. How, you may ask, can a station that is famous for Ren and Stimpy and The Real World and Beavis and Butthead do anything positive for anyone? Easy - MTV has, for years, made me laugh. Laughter is precious. MTV has, in my days as a sighted person, shown me visual art mixed with music - a combination that, surprisingly enough, wasn't fused until the 1980s. MTV has shown me different cultures, lifestyles and people-something that wasn't real prominent when I grew up in a small mid-western town. For all the bad press MTV and the entertainment industry gets, I just want to say that my life is better off for having been part of the MTV generation.

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Re-Juvenilization

In southern California, there is a place where adults can go and be kids again...well, if you're a woman, that is. Camp Getaway is designated for women of any age, but seems aimed more for the 30-something and 40-something set who want to get out of mommy/wife mode for a few days. Catering to the creature comforts of their target market, they also have spa treatments and things that will go past the usual campy activities of canoeing and sing-a-longs. Finally! Finally, adults are seeing that going back to childhood; a concept called "re-juveniling" is seen as beneficial to adults!

Before I spent a week counseling at Camp TAMBO last month, one of my buds asked, "Why does a 31 year old man want to go to camp for a week?" Because where else can I eat s'mores that aren't of the Pop Tart variety? Where else can I go to bed smelling like a campfire? Where else can I get sun burnt, tick-bitten and go without a shower for days on end and, of course, love it all the while?

I get "re-juveniled" every summer, whether it's through TAMBO or Camp Miniwanca in Michigan, but those truly ARE kid camps. Still, who can deny the benefit that going back to childhood (temporarily) can bring? Come on! Let your inner child out! Just because you're past puberty doesn't mean you have to act like an adult!

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Common Ground

In the shadow of The Louvre there stands an art shop that has been in business for over 100 years. This shop has been frequented by some of the most famous artists of the last century. Now in its fourth generation of ownership, this quaint little shop is run by a gentleman who is…what? An artist? No. A chemist. Not only does he sell the paints, but he creates them. His daughter will someday inherit the store, but her profession seems a bit more in line with the family lineage. She is (surprise, surprise) a painter.

This was a featured human interest story on NPR this morning. Yet, what struck me more than the rich history of the shop was the relationship between father and daughter. A chemist and an artist don’t seem to have much in common on the surface and maybe they don’t, in general, either. Still, this father/daughter duo finds a common love in the colors and materials that have helped to create some of the most well-known art in the world.

If you think about the relationships in your life, chances are, you’re friends with someone who has virtually nothing in common with you. I know I not only have friends like this, but some relatives, too. So, what do you do? You find that simple thread between two people, some piece of common ground. Paint, literature, American Idol (though I wouldn’t suggest this one)…find something you share with another and help the relationship thrive from that common love.

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