
Subject: Jan's Memorial Cruise picture posted last
night--
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 11:32:31 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-212-209-69.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.212.209.69
Message:
Jan- your favorite cruise picture that you posted last night really touched me--
it is so full of symbolism-- that life goes on- [one life passes-Fats- and a new
life begins-the beautiful grandbaby]--and Holly and Marcus are looking out to
sea, from whence we all began,-to return Fats ashes to that place of beginning,
where his new life will begin. His ashes to be lovingly spread from the white
and blue urn that Holly is holding-the colors of the urn being the colors of the
island's sand and sea that Fats loved so much--to me, ALL of that symbolism is
contained in that one wonderful picture, and it deeply touched me, Jan-
beautiful--Love, Joy

Subject: Thanks Bruce
From: John S
To: All
Date Posted: 11:04:43 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: EvilleBuffett@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
We enjoyed the pictures it was nice of you and Jan to lets us who could not
attend to become part of Fat's Memorial services.

Subject: You are most welcome.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 11:16:06 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
All of you made it possible. You, who are far away, held us upon your shoulders
so we could reach what we were reaching for. There will be more photos coming
soon from the lenses of other prospectives. It should be great.

Subject: And a big DITTO from Oklahoma, we appreciate
it. gj
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 11:06:48 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-65-71-191-171.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 65.71.191.171
Message:

Subject: DI BBS
From: Terri
To: All
Date Posted: 10:25:45 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: TerriRG@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
What is the future for this board?

Subject: Welcome home, Terri - we've missed you . . .
n'm
From: Gertie Stein
To: All
Date Posted: 11:09:09 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: gosb2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
: What is the future for this board?

Subject: Re: DI BBS
From: vicki
To: All
Date Posted: 10:33:39 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
Tell her, Bruce!!!!!!!!!!!

Subject: Looks like it is here forever. I even have
another guy,,
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 10:51:20 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
,, locked and loaded with username and password for the A.F.D.I.bbs for when I
decide to join Fats.
: Tell her, Bruce!!!!!!!!!!!

Subject: Bruce...
From: Donna
To: All
Date Posted: 11:40:10 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: Beki72@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
Fats is a hard act to follow and he left some mighty big shoes to fill, but it's
your calling and you are perfect for the job. Fats can rest in peace knowing his
creation is in the best of hands and his legacy can and will live on through
you. You will be an excellent board master! Carry on, sir....but don't let this
"master" title go to your head and don't start trying to boss us womenfolk. We
won't stand for it. We're still gonna have our say, you hear. Thanks
Bruce!........Donna

Subject: Re: Looks like it is here forever. I even
have another guy,,
From: Faye
To: All
Date Posted: 11:14:16 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: faye.kerzic@emersonprocess.com
Entered From: adsl-146-229-101.mob.bellsouth.net at 70.146.229.101
Message:
We hope that won’t be any time soon. Leaving Coolville, now that you are the
king, is not an option. You are the right guy for the job! We all need this
board to be kept informed, to stay in touch and to be silly on. Long live the
king!!!!

Subject: Re: Looks like it is here forever. I even
have another guy,,
From: VICKI
To: All
Date Posted: 11:05:16 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
Estate planning for all us BB lurkers? I love it, and I thank you so very much.
Just don't be planning to join Fats, at least till you read the little funny I
am about to post to make all us believers, no matter what faith, LOAO, ROFL,
etc..................viki

Subject: So long Fats, and Thanks for all you did
From: beachbumbob
To: All
Date Posted: 09:21:16 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: bobturner56@hotmail.com
Entered From: adsl-070-147-165-115.sip.mcn.bellsouth.net at
70.147.165.115
Message:
I'm not a property owner on DI (wish I was) but I have enjoyed the Island since
my very young childhood growing up in Tillman's Corner, and every year for the
past 20 years with our annual weeklong summer family gathering there, even
though we live in Georgia now. The Island has truly been a treasure for us, and
seeing the damage she has taken from Ivan, Cindy and Katrina has really hurt my
heart. Now, looking at Bruce's photos from Fats' memorial cruise, I was reminded
when I saw the close up shot of the lighthouse that it sat on quite a large
island when it was constructed and for many years afterward. When I was a child,
there was still a sand island surrounding it. Mother Nature has now taken that
away, and it gave me a stark reminder of what is happening right before our eyes
to the beautiful west end of DI. And that brings me to what I believe is one of
Fats greatest legacies (besides his family). In creating this BBS, Fats gave us
all a way to become part of the same community, even for lurkers and
non-landowners like me, and through his creation he made a way so many people to
become united in their support of the island that it so desperately needs right
now. Seeing the cooperation of so many folks through this BBS in the past
several months, whether its been about the POA, the berm project or the COE
lawsuit opt-in, gives me great hope that the Island is and will be in good
hands, and that it can and will be saved form the fate of the original Sand
Island, in spite of all that Mother Nature has dished out so far (and will
undoubtedly serve up in the future). Without this BBS, I'm not sure that so many
DI lovers could have been connected in such a positive and effective way that
has had a truly real impact on saving the Island. That means that all of us,
even those of us who don't live close, and don't (financially, anyway) own a
part of her, but still love her can still enjoy her charms and beauty in the
future. For that, Fats, I am eternally grateful. It is sometimes amazing how the
simplest little things (like an internet BBS) can have such a dramatic impact on
so many lives and even change the future of one of God's beautiful places,
Dauphin Island. We should all be grateful for that gift. Thanks, Fats.

Subject: Yes, AMEN. Just what if?
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 11:07:01 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
What if Fats had never came to Dauphin Island? Where would we all be?
For a basic starter, the information that visitors digest
from this message board would not exist AT ALL.
The friendships, small talk, fusses and arguments,
differences of opinions, and fellowship we all have come to accept as just a
normal routine on this board would not exist AT ALL.
You, him, her, and me would not know of each other.
Fats passing would have been a sad loss for a small family
and a few close friends and coworkers.
But it goes much deeper than all that.
Without even trying, Fats gathered thousands of friends in a
few short years, which is not an easy thing to do if you WERE trying.
Information flow about Dauphin Island would still be back in
the stone age.
Reports during and after storms to potential beach rentals,
not to mention the torment of those who know islanders, worry about them and
their property, and not knowing what has happened, except for news reports,
would keep people in the dark about such concerns.
Earth-moving communications like the need for berm donations
and opt-in pleads would have not been possible AT ALL.
And we would have all been lesser individuals in a way.

Subject: Re: So long Fats, and Thanks for all you did-
INDEED!
From: Larry O
To: All
Date Posted: 09:59:20 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: kmadole@ev1.net
Entered From: 206.180.134.185.txl-dial-ip.hal-pc.org at 206.180.134.185
Message:
INDEED! AMEN! ALL THAT.
LARRY o.

Subject: Here are my photos of yesterday
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 08:56:18 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Click the link and scroll down.

Subject: Re: Here are my photos of yesterday
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 11:07:01 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-212-209-69.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.212.209.69
Message:.
Well- I am right now having a good cry- - - Thank you so much
Bruce-I am sure that I speak for all of us who could not be there to bid Fats
farewell on his journey--- Love, DD

Subject: Re: Here are my photos of yesterday
From: Donna
To: All
Date Posted: 11:06:22 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: Beki72@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
Bruce, thanks for providing this for all of us who felt as if we knew Fats and
his wonderful family. Wish I could have been there. Hugs to you and Marilyn.
Ya'll are the best!...Donna

Subject: Thanks to everyone
From: Marcus Weiland
To: All
Date Posted: 07:52:56 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: arkansas-fats@stampkeller.com
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
My family and I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of love that they have
shown. We really enjoyed our stay, and definately are planning to return. I
loved to meet everyone, and can understand why my Dad loved you so much. You are
all wonderful people, and very special.Once we figure ut how to post pictures,
we will post some of ours. Once again thank you, and see you hopefully in a
year. I will be up on the board though....

Subject: Re: Thanks to everyone
From: Faye
To: All
Date Posted: 10:46:33 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: faye.kerzic@emersonprocess.com
Entered From: adsl-146-229-101.mob.bellsouth.net at 70.146.229.101
Message:
Marcus,
What an exceptional task you accomplished in carrying out
your Father’s wishes to return him to his beloved island. It was certainly a
privilege meeting you and your terrific family and sharing this experience last
evening. It is my hope that all the good memories you have of your Dad will help
mend your heart and ease your sorrow.

Subject: The flowers were beautiful, Jan! n'm
From: Gertie Stein
To: All
Date Posted: 11:01:18 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: gosb2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:

Subject: Yes, indeed - They were beautiful, Jan . . .
Thanks! n/m
From: Ralph
To: All
Date Posted: 11:04:44 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: rhavard@skyynett.com
Entered From: at 216.226.180.3
Message:
n/m

Subject: I'm proud to know you Marcus. You did good.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 08:54:15 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Eric was very proud of you. And he was extremely proud of your choices in
brides, and even more proud of his new grandson. When you get time, you can
email me your photos you want posted and I will take care of that. Also keep
pecking away at finding about Erics Stamkeller site and email me or Vince about
his photo storage site. That will be where you can upload pictures for storage,
and that's where you post them from. Be careful driving back home, and start
planning your next vacation down here so you can chat and walk awhile with Fats,
and discuss the changing times. For here is where he's happy, happy forever
more, just off the watery shore.

Subject: Re:stampkeller.com
From: Ev
To: All
Date Posted: 09:28:58 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: tartans@plaidepalette.com
Entered From: cpe-72-226-1-110.nycap.res.rr.com at 72.226.1.110
Message:
This is registered to Eric till Apr 4, 2007.
Then, it is up for "grabs"
If you are interested, I can have it continued in my system.

Subject: I think that is a great offer Marcus.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 11:19:13 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I know Stampkeller.com has to survive, so whatever you have to do to get the
keys, you need to do. And Ev could be a big help for you.

Subject: Re: Thanks to everyone
From: Gertie Stein
To: All
Date Posted: 08:24:07 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: gosb2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
Marcus, you are the son of your father indeed.
You have well-honored his heart's desire. Nothing nobler could have been done.
AF slept wit da fishes last night - in the best sense.
The Weiland Clan has a new Patriarch - and it obviously has
been left in good hands.
Blessings heaped upon you all, in the name of your father,
and your Father!
Yesterday was another exciting day in the eternal life of AF.
Love,
Gertie

Subject: Gertie, wonderful and true sentiments.
From: Marion
To: All
Date Posted: 10:19:09 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: di2@ideawercs.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Marcus did a standup job taking his Dad's wishes to his favorite place. I was
honored meeting you Marcus. I wish you Godspeed on your travels and much joy
with your family. Come back and visit DI anytime.
Marion

Subject: Take care..........
From: Jan
To: All
Date Posted: 08:07:54 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: JnZirlott@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
Marcus, it was a joy to meet you and your precious family. Your beautiful wife
and child must make you so proud. I am sure you have made your father proud also
in the way you have handled his last wishes.
Take care and come back to visit when you can. jz

Subject: Fats
From: Kelly
To: All
Date Posted: 06:26:10 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: kellylerch4@hotmail.com
Entered From: xpress42166.htc.net at 65.87.42.166
Message:
I know this has been said before many times. I feel as if I just attended a
funeral and a celebration of a wonderful soul and dear, dear friend. I also
never met him in person, nor did I ever talk to him on the phone. Just
conversations on this board and a few e-mails through the whole hurricane last
year trying to figure out how my school district could help the area. Thank you
Bruce and everyone for taking us step by step through the day yesterday. Thank
you for sharing a very touching celebration and homecoming for Fats. In this
incredible world filled with stress and people too busy to take a breather, the
DIBB is a stop off place for many, many people to get a chance....no matter
where they live....to soak up a little "Island Time" for just a few seconds or
minutes each day. For me....it gives me a reason to keep working towards coming
back. Thank you Bruce for giving your heart and soul to keeping us all informed.
Thank you for walking the steps and carrying us with you yesterday. You did the
tough job. Thank you for being so incredibly unselfish and giving so much to us.
Thank you for totally living up to the standard set by Fats and carrying on his
generous, giving heart! Much love to you and your family and thank you.

Subject: Memorial Wreath of Flowers
From: Jan
To: All
Date Posted: 22:52:15 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: JnZirlott@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
Sailing away...........

Subject: I'm trying to read all the message board, but
it is late.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 22:48:34 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I took one photo today that really sums it all up. We all enjoyed eachothers
company, it was a great gathering. This is just one of my photos that hits me in
the chest. I's sorry Buffalo Fred, but I could not read the poem. I practiced
and practiced, and always choked, but aboard the cruise, Jo_n made me feel as if
I could. I only got about three words out. Jo_n and Marilyn finished it
beautifully. Also B.F., the tequila, a special CD I made to play on the cruise
and later giver to the family, and a manila envelope with 50 copies of your poem
and photo of Fats, and DDs' poem,,, just vanished. Ralph saw them on the boat
and described them to me. I do not know where they went. It was not a lot of
places they could have gone, and only the captain and a crewman were on board,
and neither are even suspects. I think Fats snuck them overboard when no one was
looking. I'm very puzzled,, but I am sorry. I let you down twice today. I can
say that Fats was very proud of this whole group today. Every single member of
the A.F.D.I.bbs. We fumbled through something that none of us had done before,
and we did it with friendly style, no flash, no frills, and it was just damned
comfortable. And we all felt good for what we did for someone who cared for us.

Subject: Hey, You All Done Good.....I would have
Welled up too..
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 03:44:15 04/07/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: cpe-65-189-28-235.cinci.res.rr.com at 65.189.28.235
Message:
Fats wanted to have it all to himself. All the more reason to bring some more
with me when I come down in a few months.
Thanks to everyone who made down for the cruise and all who
sent their good wishes...
Buffalo Fred

Subject: Ashes are set adrift
From: Jan
To: All
Date Posted: 22:48:12 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: JnZirlott@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
Holly and Marcus set ashes adrift.

Subject: Marcus read a letter he wrote to his father
From: Jan
To: All
Date Posted: 22:44:27 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: JnZirlott@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
Marcus shared the letter he wrote to his father after his passing. I am sure he
made his father very proud.

Subject: Bruce starts the Memorial
From: Jan
To: All
Date Posted: 22:40:38 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: JnZirlott@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
Bruce worked hard to make today go smoothly.

Subject: Memorial Cruise Pic
From: Jan
To: All
Date Posted: 22:15:07 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: JnZirlott@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
My favorite pic from today on the Fats Memorial Cruise.
Marcus holding his son , Isaac, and Holly holding Fats urn.

Subject: Good Night My Friends
From: Flamingo Sister Mary Ellen
To: All
Date Posted: 21:39:04 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: mew5656@hotmail.com
Entered From: linn-cs3-09.osagecon.missouri.org at 207.160.4.41
Message:
A long day for all of us and as you climb into bed tonight, turn off the lights,
stare at the dark ceiling and wonder if everything that happened these past
couple of weeks really happened, know they did. Like I told someone after Bob
died, "this part of life really sucks".
The togetherness today, be it in person on the Duke with
"Fats" with his Family and friends, or observing through the DIBBs because our
hearts and prayers were with you, is the beginning of a long healing process.
Many of us today reflected upon the loss of our own loved ones as well and cried
for them also.
Tomorrow the sun will rise, the sun will set and life will
move forward, and as each day passes, our memories will bring us joy.
Good Night My Friends, and God Bless.

Subject: Words of hard won wisdom, Mary Ellen. gj
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 22:36:14 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:

Subject: Re: Good Night My Friends
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 21:44:06 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-212-209-69.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.212.209.69
Message:
God bless----Love, DD

Subject: I'll try the pictures again......
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 20:16:00 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: 12-208-152-99.client.insightbb.com at 12.208.152.99
Message:
I don't know why they show up so small, they look fine on my computer.
I downloaded them onto Webshots, for those of you who missed
the webcam this afternoon.....

Subject: Re: I'll try the pictures again......
From: Donna
To: All
Date Posted: 20:39:02 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: Beki72@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
Marina, that worked beautifully...nice, large pictures. Thank you...Donna
I don't know why they show up so small, they look fine on my
computer.

Subject: A HUGE thanks to Bruce for pulling this day
together.
From: Marion
To: All
Date Posted: 19:51:38 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: di2@ideawercs.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Bruce, I know you will be thanking others for making today such a special one
for Fat's family and all who loved or were touched by his passing. But, as with
the opt-ins, you started the ball rolling and kept on kicking it along. Again,
my heartfelt thanks! (the Scotch was YUMMY).
Marion

Subject: And thank YOU Marion, for being so generous!
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 20:09:07 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: 12-208-152-99.client.insightbb.com at 12.208.152.99
Message:

Subject: I am so deeply saddened.......
From: Donna
To: All
Date Posted: 19:23:33 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: Beki72@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
by the loss of this gentle soul we knew as Arkansas Fats. He captured the spirit
of our island and beamed it out into the universe for all to dream and yearn for
and he did so much more.
I've truly been gone too long this time - (Lake Malone - no
landline - no laptop) and I missed the boat, literally.
I'm missing the island and I missed all of you.
And DD, I loved your words, "Heaven has a new
star"...............Donna

Subject: Wish I could sent you a card---or something!
We've all...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 20:43:56 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:
had more time to assimilate...
Bless your heart.
gj
p.s. It's one of those QUITE RARE times when privacy costs. Overall, it is more
than worth it.
When my angelic sister Patti mentions "too often" to my 80-Something mother that
she worries about Mom living alone on the land her mother's parent's
homesteaded, Mom tries to sooth her by reminding her, "Well remember, this is
where I wanted to be."
Our time is our own.

Subject: Re: Wish I could sent you a card---or
something! We've all...
From: Donna
To: All
Date Posted: 21:07:34 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: Beki72@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
gj, thank you for such a kind and sweet thought. Our only commutation has been
our cell phones but when I return to the lake house, I'm having the land line
connected. I have really missed hearing from the island and all the chat on
board. Every day I found myself wondering what I was missing. Never dreamed it
would be such sad news. I was just stunned, as I started reading today's
postings.
Your mother's words have so much meaning..........Donna

Subject: AF's Family
From: Terri
To: All
Date Posted: 17:54:02 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: TerriRG@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
I returned to the board today, after many months away. I was shocked and
saddened for our loss, but glad to see that our wonderful host has graduated to
a heavenly DI. Just know that the thoughts and prayers of those of us in
northwest Ohio are with you. AF and this board have been the source of a
wonderfuly special community. Thank you for sharing him with us. Terri Galloway

Subject: You are a welcome part of that "wonderfully
special...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 22:42:47 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:
community".
And I am a lttle part.
Nice, isn't it?
gj

Subject: Gosh, these hours are long, today. gj
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 16:59:05 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:
nm. nm indeed.

Subject: The Sidewalk in our Neighborhood
From: Steve K
To: All
Date Posted: 16:25:57 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: skenney35@comcast.net
Entered From: at 68.63.51.130
Message:
The bulletin board seems to me to be a sidewalk thru a neighborhood where
everyone knows each other and we all go out on our front porch to talk to each
other, see who is walking by, stop to talk, discuss politics, tell a good joke,
laugh, and cry with each other. When stangers move in everyone trys to get to
know them. If this sidewalk weren't here to connect us it might be lonely in our
neighborhood.
It is difficult to believe that a man few of us ever met (in
person) provided us a way to become a neighbors to each other. I am thankful for
Fats and am happy to know his family got to share in his love of Dauphin Island.
Rest in Peace Fats.

Subject: Re: The Sidewalk in our Neighborhood
From: Donna
To: All
Date Posted: 19:55:24 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: Beki72@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
Thank you, Fats..........Donna

Subject: Re: The Sidewalk in our Neighborhood
From: And by golly...That's also well said! gj
To: All
Date Posted: 20:33:40 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:

Subject: Re: The Sidewalk in our Neighborhood
From: Donna
To: All
Date Posted: 20:48:03 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: Beki72@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
gj, just wanted to make sure that Steve was given due credit for writing this
wonderful piece. I contributed only the added thank you to Fats for making it
all possible and yes, by golly, it is well said, isn't it...Donna

Subject: I thought it was perfect. I understood. Hoot
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 22:49:24 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:

Subject: Re: The Sidewalk in our Neighborhood
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 17:10:30 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-212-209-69.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.212.209.69
Message:
How beautifully put, Steve! Love, DD

Subject: wonderful, thanks! n/m
From: Mary Ann
To: All
Date Posted: 17:09:12 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: Maryann29@cox-internet.com
Entered From: sgs.fayar.net at 66.204.18.9
Message:

Subject: Perfect metaphor---Never thought of that!
It's the...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 16:55:31 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:

Subject: Nicely said and very true!! n/m
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 16:43:36 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-147-69-19.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.69.19
Message:

Subject: Re: The Sidewalk in our Neighborhood
From: Flamingo Sister Mary Ellen
To: All
Date Posted: 16:28:47 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: mew5656@hotmail.com
Entered From: at 168.166.80.211
Message:
Well Said. God Bless you all on your journey today and everyday.

Subject: In case you didn't see them on the
webcam.....
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 16:18:44 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: 12-208-152-99.client.insightbb.com at 12.208.152.99
Message:
They aren't the best quality and they are kind of small, but here they are......




Subject: Re: In case you didn't see them on the
webcam.....
From: Mary Ann
To: All
Date Posted: 17:04:45 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: Maryann29@cox-internet.com
Entered From: sgs.fayar.net at 66.204.18.9
Message:
:Oh, Marina, Thank you sooooo much, I knew I would have to miss it. I am glad
you caught it for us!!!!

Subject: Any glimpse is great! Thanx for the effort!
gj
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 16:46:10 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:
:

:

:


Subject: First Cruise photo is on the DITimes Website
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 16:16:38 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-147-69-19.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.69.19
Message:
See link below.

Subject: Fats Memorial Cruise - DI Webcam Viewing
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 15:44:55 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-147-69-19.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.69.19
Message:
For those interested, the Fats Memorial Cruise will be passing in view of the DI
Webcam in about 15-20 mins. Let's all salute as they pass by.

Subject: By the way, the boat is Red with a White
hardtop n/m
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 15:47:26 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-147-69-19.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.69.19
Message:

Subject: Re: By the way, the boat is Red with a White
hardtop n/m
From: Stephen
To: All
Date Posted: 16:12:48 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: sking2000@yahoo.com
Entered From: 207-118-41-26.dyn.centurytel.net at 207.118.41.26
Message:
The DUKE passed by the webcam at 4:08 pm. The refresh rate on
the cam was very slow I'm sure because of all of Fat's friends wanting to say
goodby.

Subject: They should be going by anytime now....
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 16:02:35 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: 12-208-152-99.client.insightbb.com at 12.208.152.99
Message:

Subject: Bruce said it was a little windy so it may be
a bit choppy..
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 16:05:15 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-147-69-19.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.69.19
Message:

Subject: There they are!
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 16:07:27 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: 12-208-152-99.client.insightbb.com at 12.208.152.99
Message:

Subject: And there they go!! n/m
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 16:10:48 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-147-69-19.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.69.19
Message:

Subject: What a beautiful place
From: Marcus Weiland
To: All
Date Posted: 12:10:43 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: arkansas-fats@stampkeller.com
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I just want to take time out to thank Bruce, Marion, and all who have helped us
out... Your island is absolutely stunning. I took my son Isaac out into thewater
today..I think I enjoyed it more than him. We are definately putting this on our
lists of places to visit on vacation. Right now Dad is overlooking the gulf.
Once again thank you to all who have made this a warm stay.

Subject: No fair piling-on. But a big thanks to,,
Skinners Seafood.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 13:48:08 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
,, Buffalo Fred and Rusty, who tried in vane to pay for the Weilands steamed
seafood. But the Skinner Family provided huge shrimp and dungeoness crabs,
steamed to perfection, and it was great. I just left the Fats Clan and they were
about to pig-out of real fresh seafood. Here they are. From left to right,
Richard, Kitty, Marcus, Mika, and Holly.

Subject: Gary is the MAN.. Can't fault a guy for
trying...
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 18:50:20 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: cpe-65-189-28-235.cinci.res.rr.com at 65.189.28.235
Message:
Rusty, great minds think alike... or at least like skinners seafood..
BF

Subject: ALERT: Realtime photos will appear during the
Memorial.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 10:58:42 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Everyone open an extra browser window and open the Dauphin Island Times page.
There is a button for it on the top of our main page here at the A.F.D.I.bbs. I
have included a link at the bottom of this message also. Thanks Mark for helping
with this. Now all this is dependent on whether Vinces cell phone will have a
connection out there or not.

Subject: Re: ALERT: Realtime photos will appear during
the Memorial.
From: VICKI
To: All
Date Posted: 11:53:38 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
You is the KING of COOL today, Not KING of COALS!!!!!! Thank you!

Subject: Oh King, is there no end to your boundless
generousity? gj
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 11:10:13 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:

Subject: It's Vince and Marks efforts. Keeping fingers
crossed.n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 11:40:15 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:

Subject: Re: It's Vince and Marks efforts. Keeping
fingers crossed.n/m
From: VICKI...THANKS, VINCE MARK.....N/M
To: All
Date Posted: 13:37:37 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:

Subject: Anyone spoke withe Holly and the Family
today?...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 09:52:51 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:
Just wondering how they are holding up.
I'd think all the adoration and effort by y'all on DI would be gratifying.
They've had a "pretty rough row to hoe" lately.
gj

Subject: They are like pigs in the mud.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 10:02:30 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I just told them I would have them some of Skinners best steamed seafood at
their house at 1 pm. They wanted me to stay and eat with them, but I only have
enough time to show them how to crack and eat the dungeoness crab, then I must
fly like the wind. :)

Subject: Re: They are like pigs in the mud.
From: vicki......excellent, Bruce. n/m
To: All
Date Posted: 10:15:04 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:

Subject: Bruce just cleaned the DI Webcam
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 09:12:28 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-17-178-221.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.17.178.221
Message:
With all you have going on right now, thanks for taking the time to do that for
us. Nice Job!! Looks SO much better.

Subject: Very strange things happening.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 09:18:39 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Webcam stayed fairly clean until Fats died. Then all of a sudden, the building
got pressure washed and murked up the lense. It's always a pain to clean it
because I have to stack my ladder upon a picnic table to reach it. They moved
the picnic table a few weeks back so I was dreading figuring out how I was going
to clean it this time. When I got down there, there was a 10 foot fiberglass
ladder sitting right under it, as if it were placed there for me. Seems like I'm
getting help from higher levels.
With all you have going on right now, thanks for taking the
time to do that for us. Nice Job!! Looks SO much better.

Subject: Glad to hear that sometimes good things
happen....
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 09:22:45 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-17-178-221.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.17.178.221
Message:
....for good people. Thanks again. Did you find out if the Duke will pass within
its view today?

Subject: I think it comes through Billygoat Hole. So
we will try.n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 09:23:52 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:

Subject: If you don't find out until you are on the
boat....
From: Ken K.
To: All
Date Posted: 09:29:48 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-17-178-221.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.17.178.221
Message:
....and have the time, feel free to call me and I will post on the board so that
others can watch for the Duke to pass by on the webcam if they like. My cell
number is 205-540-3673

Subject: Will do.n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 09:36:22 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:

Subject: AF's Memorial
From: John S
To: All
Date Posted: 08:16:46 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: EvilleBuffett@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
Eric work to do whatever he could to to help those of Dauphin Island from
keeping this board alive, contributing to the berm and Lighthouse to doing GPS
maping to help the town. Now even with his passing he and his family are still
thinking of Dauphin Island. Please if you havent yet contributed to the Memorial
fund please take a moment to do so. This fund goes to the betterment of Dauphin
Island in the name of Fats lets make him proud. Send donations to.
Bruce Adkins
P.O. Box 607
Dauphin Island, AL. 36528

Subject: Memorial Cruise
From: Paula
To: All
Date Posted: 07:59:05 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: Dryhydro@aol.com
Entered From: adsl-0-184-116.mob.bellsouth.net at 65.0.184.116
Message:
To my sorrow, I will not be able to make the memorial to Fats today. Just to let
you know there will be one more slot if someone wants to go. Someone stole my
husband's truck and I am in the middle of getting a new one and clearing up all
that goes with it. My heart will be with Fat's Family and my prayers.

Subject: An exerpt about Fats . . .
From: Gertie Stein
To: All
Date Posted: 07:57:05 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: gosb2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
from my Blogspot . . .
Fats was so very patient with us all - we had to go to
Passwords a few years ago, to keep the porno-spammers out, and I can only
imagine how many times people went to Fats, hat in their hand, asking for their
password - again. It's a wonder he found the patience and retained his calm
persona - but he did.
He introduced me to several restaurants in Little Rock that I will never forget
- some real landmarks, with character, and storied pasts - and good quality food
and drink. Kind of like Fats. Character, storied, good quality.
He was pretty high mileage - the guy had covered some ground in his lifetime! He
was the Real-Thing - a cultural relic - a man among men. And courtly with the
ladies - ah, he was a gentleman indeed! So smooth . . .
He was amazing - just as gentle and calm, but at the same
time, you knew he was in charge, and he ought to be. He was the unquestioned
authority - the grown up - the parent - on this board of eccentric geezers.
Judge and jury - counselor and arbiter. And unquestionably, it was right that it
was that way - nobody balked.
Doggone, he left to quick! Way to quick - I was just planning
to go to Little Rock again in a couple of weeks and of course, he and MLowe
would be my dinner companions once more -- and now the old geezer is gone.
Sure changes things - sure does . . .
Love,
gertie

Subject: Re: An exerpt about Fats . . .
From: PP
To: All
Date Posted: 15:12:01 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: m.plasman@comcast.net
Entered From: c-24-98-40-129.hsd1.ga.comcast.net at 24.98.40.129
Message:
Hope you go to LR anyway, Gert, and keep mlowe-geezer company. All us geezers
need to keep the good times rolling cause you just never know when they're gonna
roll to a stop.

Subject: Congratulations to all making today's
Memorial Cruise...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 07:52:24 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:
possible!
(I checked out the flights and car availability again last
night. Sue Anne didn't "talk me out of it," but I didn't hear, "Hoot, you really
ought to go!" either. It's the health concerns I think, for her. I am prone to
live life pretty haphazardly sometimes, and she knows it.)
I have a sense about this ash spreading cruise, as I believe
many of you do---that it will be ultra-memorable, binding those present even
more closely. But I digress. I'm not sure "who all" is involved in making this
cruise and subsequent Memorial possible. Bruce, obviously, and many others of
us. But this morning, I was thinking about the family, and their dedication
towards doing Eric's wishes.
I must say I am impressed. An untimely death, away from home, puts an inordinate
strain on any family---needless to say---not to mention the grief! So here we
have an entire immediate family, with a NEW BABY, doing ALL the things necessary
to arrange the funeral---in Little Rock.
THEN traipsing the entire group another
however-many-hundreds-of-miles across the country to a place only Holly has EVER
been, to memorialize their Eric, with people they have never met(!)--- just
because Eric had told his son that is what he'd like. And it is all, of course,
because of Eric's love of the island---and your love of the island---whereever
you are and whether or not you can attend. And a family entirely dedicated to a
wonderful man's wishes.
With that much "Good Karma" being focused on one place, no telling what may
happen or result!
Happy Sailin' Fats!
gj

Subject: Re: Congratulations to all making today's
Memorial Cruise...
From: Mary Ann
To: All
Date Posted: 08:15:33 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: Maryann29@cox-internet.com
Entered From: sgs.fayar.net at 66.204.18.9
Message:
I, too, wish I could go along. I just had the pleasure of meeting him last
December. He presented me one of the DIBBS tee shirts, which I treasure even
more now. I am in parent conferences tonight, so I will not be able to view the
web cam and will only be able to check in after 7 p.m. I hope to see pictures
posted by then, if at all possible. To all of you who are able to go, give an
extra hug to the family for me!
Fats, I will be there in July!

Subject: Is there anyone able to post realtime pics
today?
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 07:49:36 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
If so, let us know your email address and Vince will email you photos while we
are on the Arkansas Fats Memorial Cruise, and you can post them here for all to
see. This will be happening between 3pm and 6pm central time.

Subject: Re: Is there anyone able to post realtime
pics today?
From: Mark
To: All
Date Posted: 09:40:24 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: timetrial@gmail.com
Entered From: 24-107-71-192.dhcp.stls.mo.charter.com at 24.107.71.192
Message:
You can post them on the Dauphin Island Times. No formatting required, and
it's an automated upload process. All you need to do is sign in with your
log-on information and click the "Create Content" link on the left under your
name.
How fitting. I was just able to turn on this upload photos
thing the other
day. It was something I'd discussed with Fats' on a couple of occasions. He
wrote one or two stories on the site and wanted to post pictures. I told him
I was working on it but unfortunately didn't get it done in time.
You all give Fats a great send off today. He deserves this
great honor. We
wish we could be there for it, but as I told Bruce earlier, we're only
scheduled there later this month. We'll raise a glass to Fats, and to all of
you.
- Mark
www.dauphinislandtimes.com

Subject: Are you talking about from phone-camera to
posted?n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 09:45:05 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:

Subject: Re: Are you talking about from phone-camera
to posted?n/m
From: Mark
To: All
Date Posted: 10:45:16 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: timetrial@gmail.com
Entered From: 24-107-71-192.dhcp.stls.mo.charter.com at 24.107.71.192
Message:
From a mobile phone you could email them to me and I'll be happy to post
them up for the sender using my own account. Either email them to this
account or to mark@dauphinislandtimes.com
Cameras can only send their photos to a computer or a
printer, so you won't
be able to do this until you get back.
If you have digital photos to post just select the digital
camera folder on
your computer when you're browsing for a photo to upload, click "OK". The
site will take care of the rest.
- Mark
www.dauphinislandtimes.com

Subject: A tribute to Fats
From: John S
To: All
Date Posted: 19:50:08 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: EvilleBuffett@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
Here in Indiana tomorrow morning at the Stevens household the Dauphin Island
flag will be flown at half staff in tribute to Eric. We urge all to do the same.

Subject: Re: A tribute to Fats
From: Barb of the frozen North
To: All
Date Posted: 08:23:07 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: b-beza@umn.edu
Entered From: ande-213-af.lib.umn.edu at 160.94.236.65
Message:
I have this as a song on tape. Have been playing it for days now.
To all of you who will take the cruise - thanks!
Barb of the frozen north....
A poem by:
John Masefield
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I must go down to the sea again, to the lonely sea and the
sky
And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by;
And the wheel's kick and the wind's song and the white sail's shaking,
And a grey mist on the sea's face, and a grey dawn breaking,
I must go down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide
Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied;
And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying,
And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying
I must go down to the seas again, to the vagrant gypsy life,
To the gull's way and the whale's way where the wind's like a whetted knife;
And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover,
And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick's over.

Subject: Re: A tribute to Fats
From: Jon from Texas
To: All
Date Posted: 00:37:05 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: jon@mooncentric.com
Entered From: adsl-71-145-140-230.dsl.austtx.sbcglobal.net at
71.145.140.230
Message:
Damn, there's a Dauphin Island flag?

Subject: There certainly is. You will see it in some
of the photos,,,
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 07:46:22 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
,,, of today.
: Damn, there's a Dauphin Island flag?

Subject: Re: A tribute to Fats
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 20:59:18 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-212-209-69.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.212.209.69
Message:
John S.--so sweet- I wrote a little tribute to Fats for
tomorrow since I can't be there in person- using the first letters of his name:
A ll of the many who knew you
R emember you fondly today
K infolk and friends are gathered
A t this Island you loved, to say
N ice, so nice it was being your friend-
S o sad that you could not stay
A mong all of us who love you --
S o--singing your praises, we pray-
F or you Fats, who brought us together
A nd Oh, how grateful we are, so
T o you Fats, we bid a loving farewell--
S ee you later!---as heaven's next star--
Love, DD

Subject: GOOD IDEA..
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 20:56:47 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: cpe-65-189-28-235.cinci.res.rr.com at 65.189.28.235
Message:
I am gathering the buffalo herd for a tequilla toast. Picture to follow.

Subject: The Weilands have landed.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 19:19:50 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Marion and I met them and helped them settle in.
Fats is sporting a new turquoise and gold urn, and yes he was
all smiles and giggles.
Holly looks great and is in good spirits and is happy to be
back on the island.
Marcus is just overwhelmed with the beauty of the island. His
dad tried many times to drag him down here, but Marcus said he was too busy, and
now he knows why his dad loved the place. He's a clean-cut young man with a very
beautiful wife named Mika (pronounced Meka) and a cute little new son, Eric and
Hollys grandson, and I forgot to get his name. When he gets 5 years old, I'm
sure everyone around will know it because his mom will be using it quite often.
Marions new beach house was beautiful as we stocked it with
foods of many kinds this morning, thanks to Julie and Steve Kenney. But when
Erics family walked into it, it seemed to swell with pride and welcomed them
with open arms. They were breathless from the beauty of the house, the views of
Erics Gulf, and the feeling that fell upon them as they crossed that bridge.
Marcus was going to drive them down to the end of the road
and let them all watch the sunset, then he is going up to Ship-N-Shore and buy
him some beer and the ladies some wine, and they are going to sit on the deck
and down by the surf and just soak it in.
Tomorrow, I'm gonna treat them to some of Gary Skinners
biggest steamed bay shrimp and Dungeoness crabs for their lunch. Then I will
begin to try to talk Marcus out of going AWOL,, which he has already pondered.
Thanks to you guys here in the A.F.D.I.bbs, tomorrow,
starting at 3pm, we shall embark on a venture which the Weilands will never
forget, and neither will we. All made possible by you folks.

Subject: Re: The Weilands have landed.
From: Vince (aka vimis)
To: All
Date Posted: 22:00:50 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: vimis@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-068-209-209-231.sip.cha.bellsouth.net at
68.209.209.231
Message:
You, sir, also have a wondeful way with words....truly looking forward to seeing
all of you tomorrow...

Subject: We are so glad you and Anna could make it.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 22:16:55 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I know there are huge numbers of people who are down because they can't make it
happen for them, but it is in the middle of the week, and hundreds of miles from
many of them. But no one should feel bad. If we had planned on this weekend, we
would all have been drown at sea. Looks like a little ugly weather coming in for
the weekend. Now I wonder how we happen to pick such a weird day of the week to
do this, with pretty weather predicted, and missed the most logical time, which
would have been a stormy weekend. Humm, oh well, I'm confident in Winkey, but as
we all know, on the Gulf, it ain't over until the fat lady sings. If it all goes
as planned, I may have a snort or two tomorrow night as I relax my mainspring.

Subject: Well, I've probably missed doing a lot of
things.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 22:46:09 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I didn't schedule a gathering before or after the cruise, thinking we would have
3 hours to visit on the boat, and not wanting to use up the Weiland family
precious time as they absorb what has, what is, and what will, happen in joining
Eric with our environment, as well as allowing them to realize why he wanted
this. I think they realized that immediately upon arriving. He told me once he
wanted his ashes scattered out by the lighthouse when he died. I told him he'd
better put it down in writing or the family may not do it. Well, apparently he
did it right in telling Marcus and Holly what he wanted. I just love it when a
plan comes together. Now, if I can just get down there and clean that damn
webcam lense in the morning. I will try to get the skipper to loiter between the
gazabos and the weather station at the Fort for all you guys to get a look at
us. It should be in the time frame of between just before 4pm to just before 5pm
central time. I'm not sure the Coast Guard will allow him to stop in the channel
though. And remember, with lots of yall watching, the webcam will probably take
5 minutes to refresh.

Subject: Heading to DI...
From: Vince (aka vimis)
To: All
Date Posted: 06:33:38 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: vimis@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-068-209-209-231.sip.cha.bellsouth.net at
68.209.209.231
Message:
We will be heading out in a little while...we are very glad we can make it too
(and I ain't sayin' where I was scheduled to be this weekend). We just really
want to be there to see Fats' send-off...I am going to bring my Blackberry
along, and maybe we can real-time a photo or two, Bruce, if we have a
photo-posting host ashore....well maybe...Here's the first few lines from Jamie
Cullum's "All at Sea" just to send us along...
I'm all at sea
Where no one can bother me
Forgot my roots
If only for a day
Just me and my thoughts
Sailing far awayyyyy...

Subject: Have a safe trip! Glad you can make it! Poem
is...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 07:07:06 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:
Very Nice!
I'll file it with the other poems and tributes!
I want to tell you to "tell everyone hi!" but---as Buddy would say, "Sheeeeeeeeeeeeez,"
I haven't met them either!
gj

Subject: The sunset amazing for them this evening. n/m
From: R
To: All
Date Posted: 20:14:21 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: r.grice@comcast.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
:

Subject: Here is a guest list for the cruise tomorrow.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 16:07:13 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
The main man himself, Eric Weiland (aka Arkansas Fats)
Holly, Erics wife
Katherin and Richard, Hollys Sister and her hubby
Marcus, his wife Mika, and new baby boy Issac
Marion
Jason
Marilyn
Bruce
Lynette
William
Slavica
Heidi Cawood
Doug Cawood
Jo_n
Teddy, his wife
Jan Zirlott
Faye
Ralph
Cathy
Vince
Anna
John Reed
Jon Kemp
Chuck Gorman
Patti Gorman
Perry Zirlott
JJ and Princess Jan
Should be a great outing. Anna is bringing a vegetable
platter, Marilyn is bringing bite size chicken nuggets and her new (prototype)
whole wheat rolls which has sawdust and splinters in them. Actually it's nuts
and seeds chopped up real fine like particle board. Just a few goodies to keep
the hunger away. I know a couple of ladies are bringing a couple of bottles of
wine, And I know we are going to do tequila shots in Fats honor while enjoying
the nice tequila Buffalo Fred brought me as a gift for Fats, of which had things
worked out differently, Fats would probably be sleeping in this week during his
vacation to the island. So all those who can, lets have a wee-shot with Eric to
welcome him home..

Subject: A three hour tour - a three hour tour . . .
From: Gert Stein
To: All
Date Posted: 16:50:03 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: gosb2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
I kept hoping my tasteless jab would provoke someone to write lyrics to the
Gilligan's Island tune for this cruise. It's poignant, at least to me it is,
that the journey "...aboard this tiny ship..." is three hours long - and just
begs for a song (hint, hint - Grady Joe? Vince? Jo n?)
Gert

Subject: You asked for it....
From: Grady Joe
To: All
Date Posted: 09:35:24 04/06/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-66.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.66
Message:
One last time we each lift our glass,
To Arkansas Fats our friend.
To his gentleness and his class,
Our elbows here doth bend.
For Fats was a stalwart Island man,
Sea Blue eyes and Heart so pure,
We honor him as best we can,
On this three hour tour,
A three hour tour.
You'll know Fats through all his friends,
If y'alls paths not crossed.
Whereever you are---toast a shot for Fats!
The moment will not be lost.
The moment daresn't be lost.
gj

Subject: Thursday afternoon weather and marine forcast
for DI
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 15:54:50 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-220-205-201.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.220.205.201
Message:
For Thursday - High 80 degrees F and partly cloudy. Thursday night - Low 65
Degrees F and mostly cloudy.
Marine Forecast for Thursday - Southeast winds 10 to 15 knots
becoming south in the afternoon. Seas 1 to 3 feet. Bays and coastal waterways a
light chop. (link below)

Subject: For those celebrating FAT's life
tomorrow........
From: vicki
To: All
Date Posted: 11:16:03 04/05/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran
JOY AND SORROW
Then a woman said, "Speak to us of Joy and Sorrow."
And he answered:
Your joy is your sorrow unmasked.
And the selfsame well from which your laughter rises was
oftentimes filled with your tears.
And how else can it be?
The deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy
you can contain.
Is not the cup that hold your wine the very cup that was
burned in the potter's oven?
And is not the lute that soothes your spirit, the very wood
that was hollowed with knives?
When you are joyous, look deep into your heart and you shall
find it is only that which has given you sorrow that is giving you joy.
When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you
shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight.
Some of you say, "Joy is greater than sorrow," and others
say, "Nay, sorrow is the greater."
But I say unto you, they are inseparable.
Together they come, and when one sits alone with you at your
board, remember that the other is asleep upon your bed.
Verily you are suspended like scales between your sorrow and
your joy.
Only when you are empty are you at standstill and balanced.
When the treasure-keeper lifts you to weigh his gold and his
silver, needs must your joy or your sorrow rise or fall.

Subject: POA E-mail with nice tribute to Fats &
meeting info
From: Julie
To: All
Date Posted: 17:38:30 04/04/06 ()
Email Address: skenney35@comcast.net
Entered From: at 68.63.51.130
Message:
Monthly POA Board Meeting
Saturday, April 8
10:00 am
Isle Dauphine
All are welcome to attend
Other stuff:
Opt-Ins: In the past few weeks, some of you may have been called by your
neighbors to ask you to opt in for the law suit against the Corps of Engineers.
Buddy of Arkansas Fats fame was called upon to help the cause. He must have done
something incredibly right because a group of 9 people from all over the country
took it upon themselves to organize, spending their own time and money to
research phone numbers and addresses of property owners. They took the time to
carefully explain time and again and again and again, the benefits of the opt
ins.
In all cases against the government, "opt ins" must be used. This of course is a
more difficult situation for the plaintiff/s. However, in this case, because of
Chip James and his dedicated callers our numbers are way up there. According to
a consulting company dealing with opt-ins, we have surpassed the usual
percentage by jillions.
As of now, we have over 1800 and are still counting.
Would some of these have come in anyway? No doubt. But each time Chip targeted
an area, the area turned pink overnight! (Each time an opt-in form came in, the
property owners lot or set of lots was colored in with a pink marker.)
Coincidence? We think not.
A great big thank you to Buddy, Chip and the other phone angels. Surely, these
words are inadequate for all you have done!
There is a possibility that the deadline will be extended. We will let you know
if that is the case. The reason for the extension request was to find all who
were MIA from Ivan, Katrina, Cindy, Dennis, and an over-the-top 4th of July
party held on the west end several years ago!
Sad news:
For all of you who enjoy the Arkansas Fats site/bulletin board, a lifeline for
many of us during the past hurricane-riddled years, and a pleasure during the
rest of the time, the news was indeed sad. Arkansas Fats, creator of the site
passed away earlier this month. One had only to read the chat news comments to
know how beloved and respected he was. Thank you for all you have done AF.
More news on the rest of the island coming up shortly in a separate e-mail.

Subject: Just talked to Marcus.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 15:19:32 04/04/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Fats received full military honors at Ft. Smith. The ashes were placed in a box,
which the family were taken a little aback by, so they purchased him a nice urn.
Marcus stated that he and his mother would be honored if everyone who wished
would help with the ashes spreading by spreading a handfull each. I told him I,
and many others I know, would be honored to do so. We may can find a small scoop
that would make it easier. He also has a document that must be signed by
witnesses which states that Erics ashes were scattered at sea off Dauphin
Island. Something to do with the legal aspect of Erics estate. They will head
this way from Little Rock tomorrow morning. I will meet them on the island and
show them to Marions beach house. Marcus also told me he has found all the
usernames and passwords to the many Arkansas Fats and Stampkeller websites.
Those of you who wanted to help with those sites can contact me after this
weekend.

Subject: Bruce, I am at the PJ house tonight. Call in
the AM. nm
From: Marion
To: All
Date Posted: 20:45:19 04/04/06 ()
Email Address: di2@ideawercs.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
: Fats received full military honors at Ft. Smith. The ashes were placed in a
box, which the family were taken a little aback by, so they purchased him a nice
urn. Marcus stated that he and his mother would be honored if everyone who
wished would help with the ashes spreading by spreading a handfull each. I told
him I, and many others I know, would be honored to do so. We may can find a
small scoop that would make it easier. He also has a document that must be
signed by witnesses which states that Erics ashes were scattered at sea off
Dauphin Island. Something to do with the legal aspect of Erics estate. They will
head this way from Little Rock tomorrow morning. I will meet them on the island
and show them to Marions beach house. Marcus also told me he has found all the
usernames and passwords to the many Arkansas Fats and Stampkeller websites.
Those of you who wanted to help with those sites can contact me after this
weekend.

Subject: Dear Fats,
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 15:04:02 04/04/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: rrcs-24-106-78-130.central.biz.rr.com at 24.106.78.130
Message:
Nurse Mary and I will be unable to attend your Island Homecoming Cruise.
You and your family have some pretty wonderful people there
on the island and no doubt they will do it up right. I hope we all can meet that
family of yours someday. Maybe take a stroll along the beach and have a chat.
Fats, I hope we make you proud of the things this group will do, in your honor,
over the coming years. Keep your eye on Bruce's code writing and enjoy paradise.
The sun will always shine on the smiles, of memories shared..
Buffalo Fred & Nurse Mary

Subject: Updates
From: John S
To: All
Date Posted: 09:01:37 04/04/06 ()
Email Address: EvilleBuffett@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
You folks keep posting of how nice the Island is recovering and how beautiful
the weather was so let us land bound stuck here forever people see. Post some
pictures of your visits and especially of the Memorial Cruise on thursday.

Subject: Weather Report for Thursdays Memorial Cruise.
From: Winkey
To: All
Date Posted: 13:34:11 04/03/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
At 3:30 pm, winds will be 11mph from SSE, temp will be 71º, it will be partly
cloudy with just a 10% chance of rain and only 57% humidity. This means it will
be most comfortable, but bring a light jacket, and an the way out to the
lighthouse, the starboard aft corner of the Duke will be the leaward corner. I
would be going along, but me and gulls don't get along well.

Subject: Re: Weather Report for Thursdays Memorial
Cruise.
From: Gertie Stein
To: All
Date Posted: 14:30:58 04/03/06 ()
Email Address: gosb2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
I don't believe we could ask for anything more perfect.
Just a wee bit of sobering chill to keep the senses keen long enough to do the
duty for a comrade - followed by a shot of Tequilla to anesthetize them so you
can do the honors for that comrade, and warm up the cockles and muscles clinging
to the outside of an Old Salt's heart. It's just like he himself would have
done, had it been you or me in that coffee can, headed out to sea one last time.
Love,
gert

Subject: My Island Holiday Report
From: Jon from Texas
To: All
Date Posted: 10:20:30 04/03/06 ()
Email Address: jon@mooncentric.com
Entered From: user-0vvddbd.cable.mindspring.com at 63.246.181.109
Message:
Ok, so first I had it set up to go to Mobile to visit my parents and then visit
the Island a few days.
A week before I was to go, my mother passed away. Then, I began having a problem
that turned
out to be a major kidney stone. Then, AF left the building. OK, so I left four
days early.
The service for my mother was great, we put her ashes in the water out by the
Estuarium. The
kidney stone finally passed. I went to the Island.
I had a major time- went to many sights as I had only three days. Looked for
Bruce on his bike,
hoping to make a few points. No such luck. Went to Skinner's. I got some oysters
and ruby reds
steamed for lunch and man they were the best! They ship to other points, hmm.
I was out on the beach one afternoon and it was a little late so it got pitch
dark. There's nothing
like the experience of the waves pounding and the stars making a huge horizon on
D.I. Had an
Arkansas Fats sighting I'm sure.
I can't make the service but here's my contribution in the mail for you fine
people.
I look forward to my next island holiday, maybe later this year. Certainly by
next year.

Subject: Re: My Island Holiday Report
From: vicki
To: All
Date Posted: 13:17:48 04/03/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
Might have been a "mom" sighting, do you think? I love to hear about other
people's Island experiences. I am very sorry about your mother. Vicki

Subject: Nice report. Sorry to hear you mom left us.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 10:44:59 04/03/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I'm not on my bike much these days. Look for a white Ford Bronco with a guy
wearing long gray hair. There is a lot of important ashes around here. Before
long we may be able to apply for national memorial cemetary status. And that
lighthouse must continue to stand. Thanks for the donation and I'm glad your
life has hit a somewhat even plane for a while.

Subject: The Duke leaves the dock at 3:30 Thursday.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 07:42:00 04/03/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Be there close around 3pm. We still have enough space for about 19 more.

Subject: I'm putting this up here again for all to
see.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 06:57:26 04/01/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
The Duke will leave the D.I. Marina at 3:30 on April 6 for a sunset cruise out
by the Lighthouse for a Memorial to Fats. The cruise will last for 3 hours and
should be very nice.
The Weiland Family will spread Erics ashes and we will all
say goodbye and welcome to Dauphin Island at the same time. We are planning
flower blossoms for Fats' friends to lay upon the water and maybe a balloon
release.
There is NO CHARGE for joining us for the cruise since the
cost has been covered by gracious donations from some of those who can not
attend and who loved Fats. The Duke can comfortably accomodate 49 passengers and
there are about 26 slots still open so email me and reserve your space if you
can come. I would like to have as many of those who loved Fats aboard as
possible. The Duke is very stable and the owners say they have NEVER had a case
of seasickness. The Duke has restrooms and water coolers. Personal coolers are
welcome. Bring your cameras.

Subject: My goal is to end up with a zero balance for
Fats Memorial,,
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 07:12:05 04/01/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
,, monies. John S mentioned after expences, memorial benches, etc., and maybe a
donation to save the Lighthouse rather than the berm fund. I think his family
are going to donate to the berm fund in his honor. What do you guys think?

Subject: Re: My goal is to end up with a zero balance
for Fats Memorial,,
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 14:04:22 04/01/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-220-248-217.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.220.248.217
Message:
My vote would be to do whatever you think Fats would want done.

Subject: Re: My goal is to end up with a zero balance
for Fats Memorial,,
From: John S
To: All
Date Posted: 08:01:59 04/01/06 ()
Email Address: EvilleBuffett@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
It was just a thought. I know from reading his post Fats
loved that ol Lighthouse. Even if there is no money left from the memorial fund
I urge everone to help perserve this peice of history. It has withstood
countless hurricanes it would be a shame to let it fall from neglect.

Subject: Sounds good to me. The lighthouse needs the
help.n/m
From: Carl
To: All
Date Posted: 07:52:57 04/01/06 ()
Email Address: kellenburg@adelphia.net
Entered From: clspco-cuda-1-68-64-9-221.clspco.adelphia.net at
68.64.9.221
Message:

Subject: Just repostiing Ken K's Cruise idea up
here....
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 23:15:56 03/30/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-137-72-41.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.137.72.41
Message:
...where people will see it.. gj
(Posted by Ken K March 30, 2006) In Reply to: There will
obviously be many of us who will be unable... posted by gj on March 29, 2006 at
21:50:45:
How about.....
....ask that the boat pause in sight of the DI Webcam on the way out to the
lighthouse? Daylight savings time starts this weekend so there should still be
plenty of light.
Perhaps we should pick an exact moment when all of us who can't attend could
take a minute or two in silence to share that moment together. I think I'd like
that---any time y'all pick.

Subject: I'm not sure the Duke goes that way. n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 07:44:51 03/31/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:

Subject: Only 30 places left aboard the Duke to see
Fats off.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 22:25:51 03/30/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Hey, you didn't have to be kin to him, have met him face to face, etc. If you
want to be there, let me know. 30 places left. Get in the game!

Subject: Donations are paying for the charter of the
Duke.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 09:03:36 03/31/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Those aboard will not have to pay to attend.

Subject: Love the pic of Fats
From: Sue
To: All
Date Posted: 22:06:00 03/30/06 ()
Email Address: suebilliot@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-190-68-241.dhcp.slid.la.charter.com at 68.190.68.241
Message:
Is this going to be permanent? I would like to think so. Doing a great job,
Bruce.
Thanks to you and Merlyn for getting the throw for me. It will be my lil piece
of my island reminder. sue

Subject: Yes, this website will remain as long as
people want it.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 22:13:25 03/30/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
It is very cheap even for a retired fireman. I have Mark Ewers and Doug McIntire
and Brian Ezzelle, who can help me with this old-timey code system, so between
us all, I think we can make it keep going.

Subject: Your point makes me even more gratified that
some...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 09:40:06 03/31/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-79-51.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.79.51
Message:
guys others than my own danged self have volunteered to take care of this
valuable site. I would have a heckuva time figuring all that out! Thanks again.
In retrospect, I am glad we thanked Fats as much as we did---there was rarely
more than a couple days pass before some poster or another was complimenting the
pictures, or something.
And I, for one, was glad to hear the story of how Fats had singlehandedly
stepped up to the plate to deliver the site to you all. And he and "Jeff N" were
cooking up some more goodies before his untimely death.
As a youth I thought the song "Live Fast, Love Hard and Leave a Beautiful
Memory"---by Faron Young I think---sounded good. I'm not familiar with Fats
life's experiences, but from what you all have offered, Eric had a full life
with a beloved family and a host of farflung loyal friends. Few of us would hope
for much more. And the older I get, the more important friends seem to me.
Perhaps because I've lost a few, and hopefully because retirement has allowed me
to think awhile!
Life is a busy place.
gj

Subject: Several of us have "Fats Stories" to tell,
and that will,,
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 11:02:27 03/31/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
,,, come later. Some are funny and some are just sweet. But I will start those
out in a few weeks and welcome additions at that time, so the Weiland family
will have the opportunity to read them.

Subject: I'll look forward to that. From the few I've
heard, Fats..
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 11:41:12 03/31/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-137-72-60.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.137.72.60
Message:
seems to have often done thoughtful and unrequested favors for folks he barely
knew, or didn't know at all, expecting no thanks. That, in itself, tells a lot
about a person! gj

Subject: Re: Yes, this website will remain as long as
people want it.
From: Sue
To: All
Date Posted: 22:15:55 03/30/06 ()
Email Address: suebilliot@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-190-68-241.dhcp.slid.la.charter.com at 68.190.68.241
Message:
:I know that I speak for all of us when I say that we would be more than willing
to assist with the costs of running the site. Afterall, you are doing all the
work. Hey....does this now make you King? lol sue
It is very cheap even for a retired fireman. I have Mark
Ewers and Doug McIntire and Brian Ezzelle, who can help me with this old-timey
code system, so between us all, I think we can make it keep going.

Subject: Fat's Island time
From: annieoakley from Louisiana
To: All
Date Posted: 11:49:38 03/30/06 ()
Email Address: ann.wyatt1@ipaper.com
Entered From: stuntpilot.ipaper.com at 141.129.1.98
Message:
I have been so sadden by the loss of Fat's. I know he is in a better place than
we are, but just knowing he is gone, leaves a vacant spot. Correct me if I am
wrong, but didn't he have posted Island time in 2 weeks. He was coming one way
or another. I didn't get to meet him, but he sounded like he loved life and the
island. Well I know he loved the island, not many of us don't love the island or
we wouldn't be here on this board. I have been to Dauphin Island 3 times and I
haven't made it to The Light House, in the picture it looks beautiful. It is a
wonderful place for Fat's to go for his final resting place. Peaceful! My love
to his family. I know from my own experience the loss of a loved one can be
extremely hard. Even when you see them suffer from cancer or a stroke. I guess I
was just selfish and wanted them to stay with me. Well I admit I was selfish.
God speed in your recovery of such a huge loss.

Subject: The "Duke" will leave the dock with Fats at
3:30 April 6.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 09:10:18 03/30/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Anyone here needs to be there by 3pm. I hope to see lots of locals. Those who do
not like boat rides can view from the East End at the rocks at Fort Gains. It
will be a three hour cruise. Where did I hear a jingle about a three-hour-tour?

Subject: Re: The "Duke" will leave the dock with Fats
at 3:30 April 6.
From: Flamingo Sister Mary Ellen
To: All
Date Posted: 09:28:59 03/30/06 ()
Email Address: mew5656@hotmail.com
Entered From: at 168.166.80.211
Message:
I will be with you all in thought and prayer.
I hope the weather doesn't too rough, the tiny ship might
toss, but Fats will be with you to give your courage to be a fearless crew, thus
the "Duke" will not be lost; the "Duke" will not be lost.

Subject: The Duke leaves the dock with Fats at 3:30
pm. on April 6.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 08:58:12 03/30/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Please try to be there by 3pm. Anyone who don't like boat rides can view from
the East End at the Fort. Another place Fats loved to just sit and watch. The
cruise will take 3 hours. Now where did I hear a jingle about a
three-hour-cruise?

Subject: If anyone would like to donate to memorialize
Fats,,
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 16:27:35 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
,, in leu of flowers etc, you can send your donations to me. I have rented the
"Duke", which would have enough room for 49 people who can come be with Erics
family as Fats' ashes are laid to rest out by the lighthouse.
So everyone who can come please come and say goodbye to Fats
and at the same time welcome him to Dauphin Island. It will be a sunset cruise
that leaves the D.I. Marina at around 4pm and will return at 7pm.
We are also planning to purchase a memorial bench with Erics'
name on it to be placed along the bike path, and any leftover monies will be
donated to the berm fund from Arkansas Fats Dauphin Island Lovers, in his name.
Marcus has high hopes of lots of Fats friends attending, and the whole family is
very comforted by all of our concerns and love of Eric.
I know we are all about "donated out", but several people
have asked what they can do to help. And I promise not to buy scotch with any of
the monies.:)
Also thanks to those who have offered lodging for the Weiland
family. It means a lot to them, and to me. Looks like Marion is going to be able
to keep the Weiland family together at his new beach house instead of us taking
them in at several homes. What a great thing. They will be near the surf. Thanks
Marion.
I have never done a donations collection like this before,
but if you would like to make a small donation, my mailing address is:
Bruce Adkins
P.O. Box 607
Dauphin Island, AL. 36528

Subject: Superb! Marc has mentioned a Memorial---Great
Concept. gj
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 22:21:22 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-137-70-160.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.137.70.160

Subject: Re: If anyone would like to donate to
memorialize Fats,,
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 19:06:16 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: 12-208-152-99.client.insightbb.com at 12.208.152.99
Message:
Thank you Bruce, that sounds like a great idea, I'll be sending you a check
tomorrow.
And thank you Marion for your generosity in donating your
home to Fats' family for this, what a thoughtful and generous gesture.
I wish I could be there to honor Fats' memory and celebrate
his life in person, but I will definitely be there in spirit.

Subject: Also, we can house a few out of towners if
you can come.n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 16:52:49 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:

Subject: Have room for a couple (2) at the Orleans Dr.
house. nm
From: marion
To: All
Date Posted: 20:24:02 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: di2@ideawercs.net
Entered From: w161.z064002164.atl-ga.dsl.cnc.net at 64.2.164.161
Message:

Subject: Heehee, guess I should tell you all which day
huh?
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 16:40:35 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
It will be a beautiful gentle sunset cruise on the evening of April 6, 2006. The
boat will be leaving the dock at approximately 4pm. Yall come.

Subject: Wish I could be there...
From: Brian
To: All
Date Posted: 19:00:28 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: bezzell@yahoo.com
Entered From: cblmdm72-240-124-60.buckeyecom.net at 72.240.124.60
Message:
... but I'll be in Toronto all week. I'll be sure to take a moment at sunset to
remember the friend I never met but will always remember.

Subject: There will obviously be many of us who will
be unable...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 21:50:45 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-137-70-160.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.137.70.160
Message:
to make it. Perhaps we should pick an exact moment when all of us who can't
attend could take a minute or two in silence to share that moment together. I
think I'd like that---any time y'all pick.
How 'bout 6 or 7, Dauphin Island Time?
Just a thought.
gj

Subject: How about.....
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 11:23:03 03/30/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-63-203-206.bhm.bellsouth.net at 208.63.203.206
Message:
....ask that the boat pause in sight of the DI Webcam on the way out to the
lighthouse? Daylight savings time starts this weekend so there should still be
plenty of light.

Subject: Works for me, If someone who is going...
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 03:45:09 03/30/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: cpe-65-189-28-235.cinci.res.rr.com at 65.189.28.235
Message:
would take a camcorder. I will make it into a dvd or create a link to watch
online when I get the file.

Subject: Re: Heehee, guess I should tell you all which
day huh?
From: Marion
To: All
Date Posted: 16:45:55 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: di2@ideawercs.net
Entered From: 68.143.152.33.nw.nuvox.net at 68.143.152.33
Message:
I would like to attend but will step aside if the boats capacity is overwelmed
by Eric's personal friends. I unfortunately never had the honor.
M

Subject: You are going to be the 7th person aboard.
n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 16:51:30 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:

Subject: Count me in if space permits.
From: Jason
To: All
Date Posted: 19:43:00 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: tnitwodniw@yahoo.com
Entered From: cache02.lax.untd.com at 64.136.26.226
Message:
I also feel the same way, it would be nice to be there to say goodbye to Eric,
but I of course will stay in line beyond those closest to him

Subject: I think there is going to be plenty of room.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 20:09:31 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I want everyone who can come to come, even those who didn't meet him face to
face.

Subject: Having not met Fats, some may feel strange
attending...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 22:07:30 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-137-70-160.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.137.70.160
Message:
I've certainly had that thought, mostly from a feeling of not wanting to
intrude---you know what I mean. But don't think Fats would have ever agreed! His
welcome companions seems to have always included all who love Dauphin Island.
I'd encourage any who have hesitated to reconsider. If the grief is real, the
evening on the "Duke" should be too. (I'm always a great advice giver.)
It will be a very special "gentle sunset cruise" to be remembered and shared,
always. The family is being so understanding I believe, in letting DI people say
"So Long" in such a meaningful way. Marc has obviously heard his father speak
fondly of you and your island---and has seen what the group thinks of Eric.
God Bless.
gj

Subject: e-mail address
From: MelKY
To: All
Date Posted: 15:08:12 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: pmeljewell@aol.com
Entered From: at 71.31.4.202
Message:
Just read the news and I am so sorry to hear about Fats. I check here every week
or so to see what is going on in my favorite place on earth.
My e-mail address is pmeljewell@aol.com
Thanks, Bruce

Subject: Eric Weiland's Funeral Information
From: Marcus Weiland
To: All
Date Posted: 14:11:01 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: marcus.weiland@us.army.mil
Entered From: cpe-24-174-202-141.elp.res.rr.com at 24.174.202.141
Message:
My father's funeral will be held on Monday the 3rd of April 2006 at 1400 at the
Fort Smith National Cemetery in Arkansas. We will tenantively leave to Dauphin
island on the 5th of April and I am hoping to spread his ashes on the 6th. I
would like to receive feedback as far as time for those who would like to
attend. Thank you.

Subject: Marcus is expecting approximately 6 family
members to come.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 14:47:52 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I am working on the lodging for the immediate family and will be contacting
those who volunteered. Does someone know the owners of the Duke (charter party
fishing boat)? We also need to know who all will be attending the ceremony out
by the lighthouse (weather permitting). This will be the fairwell to Fats and
the dedication of his body and spirit to the place he loved most. Everyone
please let me know of your intentions to be here. That will be on the 6th or
7th. Holly and Marcus wishes to make a donation to the berm in Erics' name and I
will make sure that happens while he is here also.

Subject: We can breath a little easier.
From: Bruce, (Fats' assistant)
To: All
Date Posted: 12:26:44 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Thank you, thank you, thank you Tracy for answering my emails and all our
prayers. We can now keep this site going without having to do a complete
rebuild.

Subject: Paypal donate option.
From: Marion
To: All
Date Posted: 21:03:34 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: di2@ideawercs.net
Entered From: w161.z064002164.atl-ga.dsl.cnc.net at 64.2.164.161
Message:
Click on link and scroll down on the left. This might be an
option for covering website expenses. Just a thought.
Marion

Subject: Excelent! (n/m)
From: Brian
To: All
Date Posted: 19:11:51 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: bezzell@yahoo.com
Entered From: cblmdm72-240-124-60.buckeyecom.net at 72.240.124.60
Message:

Subject: Thanks, Bruce!
From: Julie
To: All
Date Posted: 19:07:22 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: skenney35@comcast.net
Entered From: at 68.63.51.130
Message:
This is one only a few sites I am "addicted" to.... glad to hear you will be
helping keep Fats's tribute to Dauphin Island going.....

Subject: Way to go Bruce.....
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 18:15:08 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-159-184-183.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.159.184.183
Message:
....I'm sure that we are all appreciative that you are willing and able to pick
up the torch and run with it. I will be more than happy to offer funds to help
keep this board going if needed. Just let me know.

Subject: Thank you, Bruce! Appreciate that! nm
From: Faye
To: All
Date Posted: 14:13:15 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: faye.kerzic@emersonprocess.com
Entered From: adsl-146-229-101.mob.bellsouth.net at 70.146.229.101
Message:

Subject: Re: We can breath a little easier.
From: evvan
To: All
Date Posted: 14:03:17 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: evvan_70@yahoo.com
Entered From: at 68.187.16.27
Message:
Great news and many thanks.

Subject: Re: We can breath a little easier.
From: Robert B
To: All
Date Posted: 13:51:49 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: rbusb3101@sbcglobal.net
Entered From: at 170.94.43.242
Message:
Thanks Bruce, as DD stated you are Da Man.
Robert B

Subject: Re: We can breath a little easier.
From: Vince (aka vimis)
To: All
Date Posted: 13:48:15 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: vimis@msn.com
Entered From: psicorps.millerind.com at 12.177.85.13
Message:
Thank you, Bruce and congratulations! We all appreciate your keeping this
wonderful madness going...I am starting to hear giggling behind me now
too...cool! BTW, the messages that show up re double-posting are an indication
of the famed "DD" virus, which fortunately is a good omen and should never be
deleted from anyone's hard drive.
Also, I did contact Webshots about keeping the Arkansas
Webshots albums going...they are suppoosed to get back to me within a day or
two...don't know if anyone tried to do that yet, but I did not want to lose
those either...

Subject: Good idea. His photo sites are keepers.n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 14:39:49 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:

Subject: muchos gracias,Bruce!!!nm
From: Tim
To: All
Date Posted: 13:44:56 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: viceman62@earthlink.net
Entered From: adsl-070-147-123-033.sip.mob.bellsouth.net at 70.147.123.33
Message:

Subject: Re: We can breath a little easier.
From: chip
To: All
Date Posted: 13:44:19 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: lsjiv@yahoo.com
Entered From: h-66-167-163-6.sndacagl.dynamic.covad.net at 66.167.163.6
Message:
Nice work...now you get to touch up on those html skills. Who says a dog can't
learn new tricks?

Subject: This A.F.D.I.bbs has been up and running
since 6/18/01.n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 13:20:55 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:

Subject: WOOO, Looking at the secret files...nm
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 14:24:14 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: rrcs-24-106-78-130.central.biz.rr.com at 24.106.78.130
Message:

Subject: It seems like it's been around forever!
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 13:27:22 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: port2.ins.state.il.us at 163.191.11.36
Message:
I was wondering the other day how long this board had been going, thanks for the
info!

Subject: Thanks Bruce! I knew if it could be done,
you'd find a way!
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 13:13:03 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: port2.ins.state.il.us at 163.191.11.36
Message:

Subject: Re: We can breath a little easier - Thanks
Bruce nm.
From: Flamingo Sister Mary Ellen
To: All
Date Posted: 13:12:55 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: mew5656@hotmail.com
Entered From: at 168.166.80.211
Message:
:

Subject: Great effort! Thank you so much! That "Mamacita..."
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 13:09:04 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-76-41.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.76.41
Message:
message scrolling across has been haunting me a bit.## #

Subject: Many thanks, Bruce! You da man! nm
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 13:00:26 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-17-150-174.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.17.150.174
Message:

Subject: Re: We can breath a little easier.
From: Doug
To: All
Date Posted: 12:44:42 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: dmcintyre@reeftanklighting.com
Entered From: user-112178t.dsl.mindspring.com at 66.32.157.29
Message:
Way to go Bruce! Keep an eye out for these <> and
Doug
:

Subject: Wow, it's like being in an Egyptian cave.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 12:49:23 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
There are hiroglypics, or highrowgliffiks everywhere. :)

Subject: Re: Wow, it's like being in an Egyptian cave.
From: Doug
To: All
Date Posted: 13:02:27 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: dmcintyre@reeftanklighting.com
Entered From: user-112178t.dsl.mindspring.com at 66.32.157.29
Message:
And believe it or not they all mean some thing. The BBS did not like my tag...we
will try it again "".
By the way they are called HTML tags.
Doug

Subject: Thanks, Bruce!!! n/m
From: Mary Ann
To: All
Date Posted: 12:38:37 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: Maryann29@cox-internet.com
Entered From: sgs.fayar.net at 66.204.18.9
Message:

Subject: Thanks Bruce
From: Connie
To: All
Date Posted: 12:47:01 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: cfoster2@kc.rr.com
Entered From: cpe-67-48-116-177.kc.res.rr.com at 67.48.116.177
Message:
Is anyone having problems posting? I keep getting an error message about
duplicate posting. Any help would be appreciated.
Connie

Subject: Hey Fat's ...Loook who is manning the help
desk!!!nm
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 12:54:57 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: rrcs-24-106-78-130.central.biz.rr.com at 24.106.78.130
Message:

Subject: I'm home alone, but feel hot breath on my
neck and hear,,
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 13:22:54 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
,, giggling behind me.

Subject: WAY TO GO BRUCE!!!!!!!nm
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 12:32:49 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: rrcs-24-106-78-130.central.biz.rr.com at 24.106.78.130
Message:
: Thank you, thank you, thank you Tracy for answering my
emails and all our prayers. We can now keep this site going without having to do
a complete rebuild.

Subject: Latest info on Fats arraingments.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 10:57:41 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Marcus emailed me and said he is finalizing the funeral arraingments which will
be held in Ft. Smith Ak. He said he is tentatively planning to come to the
island on the 6th or 7th. He will know more later today or tomorrow.

SSubject: so sorry
From: lisa betts
To: All
Date Posted: 08:11:23 03/28/06 ()
Email Address: lisa.betts@coldwellbanker.com
Entered From: dsl-ilwrdn623.madisontelco.com at 66.242.201.115
Message:
I am very sorry to everyone who lost a good friend. I was shocked to read about
Fats. I do not post that often on the board but I do check in about once a week
and see how things are doing on the island. that Is when I saw the post about
Fats last night.
I am really sorry for all of you that were freinds and family. its seems that he
has done a great thing with the board so everyone cans stay in touch. I know he
had a lot of plans for the island. God bless you all.

Subject: ATTN: Bruce...Re: e-mail list
From: Mike in TN
To: All
Date Posted: 22:23:05 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: edgeman2001@comcast.net
Entered From: c-68-52-154-171.hsd1.tn.comcast.net at 68.52.154.171
Message:
Pardon my ignorance...I meant to reply to an earlier thread.
I told you I rarely post, as you can probably surmise.
mike

Subject: So sad....
From: Julie
To: All
Date Posted: 20:58:08 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: skenney35@comcast.net
Entered From: at 68.63.51.130
Message:
Have been out of town, unable to "connect" and post or read without my password,
but learned of our sad news. Though I never met Fats in person, I will always be
thankful for the insight he has given us to DI, and the chance to meet others
who feel as we do about the island.

Subject: Some good news gang.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 11:27:31 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
The host of Fats Frapper site has agreed to email him to find out if it is okay
for me to be one of the admins for the site. If he don't object, I will be
granted admin abilities. I'm still working to get admin privliges for this site.
Some of you may be contacted for verification of your wishes and verification of
the circumstances. Just tell them what you think.

Subject: Re: Some good news gang.
From: Hogfanlarry
To: All
Date Posted: 21:05:27 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: lengland@cox-internet.com
Entered From: ip70-173-87-214.fv.dl.cox.net at 70.173.87.214
Message:
Awesome news Bruce! Thanks for taking on the responsibility!

Subject: Bruce for President, No, KING---yeah, KING.
gj
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 15:51:36 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-138-33-6.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.138.33.6
Message:

Subject: Re: Some good news gang.
From: kettim@bellsouth.net
To: All
Date Posted: 13:39:03 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: kettim@bellsouth.net
Entered From: host-209-214-45-151.mob.bellsouth.net at 209.214.45.151
Message:
I doubt that there is anyone who would do a better job as webmaster than you,
Bruce. Thank you for your interest and willingness. Also, thank you for the
calendar that you sent me via by daughter-in-law. I do miss that place. Ketti

Subject: Woo Hoo! That's great news! ..........n/m
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 13:37:58 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: port2.ins.state.il.us at 163.191.11.36
Message:

Subject: Geez, ... This is great news! nm
From: Faye
To: All
Date Posted: 13:13:03 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: faye.kerzic@emersonprocess.com
Entered From: adsl-146-229-101.mob.bellsouth.net at 70.146.229.101
Message:

Subject: I'm sure Fat's would be very happy.
From: John R.
To: All
Date Posted: 13:09:00 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: fabricman@earthlink.com
Entered From: rrcs-24-106-147-134.central.biz.rr.com at 24.106.147.134
Message:

Subject: Re: Some good news gang.
From: vicki......
To: All
Date Posted: 12:07:00 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
That is good news! See some of you this week....I hope everyone else is well,
and coping okay with the sad news. But, Bruce, if you keep this going, that is
honoring Fats. Let me know if I can do anything to help you with this. $$$$$,
time, whatever. Vicki

Subject: I wonder how many people have set up folders
for...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 18:23:17 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-137-72-187.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.137.72.187
Message:
"Poems for Fats" and "Tributes to Fats"?
gj

Subject: Re: I wonder how many people have set up
folders for...
From: Flamingo Sister Mary Ellen
To: All
Date Posted: 09:06:15 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: mew5656@hotmail.com
Entered From: at 168.166.80.211
Message:
I saw the news about Fats earlier this morning....a co-worker asked if I was ok
because it was evident I was crying. Without giving it a thought, I simply said
"I just got word that a friend died". I've never met Fats, although I felt I
knew him. Just like I feel I know all of you here on DIBBS. My thoughts and
prayers are with you all my friends. God Bless.

Subject: "Jeff N"---I think I remember Fats talking
about you as...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 17:19:06 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-74-120.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.74.120
Message:
his "GIS Partner" or something like that, and that you had a "real cool imaging
system". Think it was within a month of Katrina. I'm sure you will miss him. I
hope all of Fats plans for the island will not be wasted, that would be a real
shame.
Smoking some stuffed pork chops today---first ones after the burn ban. Life
feels a little more in balance.
Wonder how Drifters' doin'?
gj

Subject: Re: "Jeff N"---I think I remember Fats
talking about you as...
From: Jeff N
To: All
Date Posted: 21:57:30 03/28/06 ()
Email Address: hahabl@yahoo.com
Entered From: at 69.85.207.242
Message:
: his "GIS Partner" or something like that, and that you had a "real cool
imaging system". Think it was within a month of Katrina. I'm sure you will miss
him. I hope all of Fats plans for the island will not be wasted, that would be a
real shame.
Yep, that's me. I hope someone can send me the data he was
working on. I'll make sure it doesn't go to waste. I know he was planning to
give it to the town once he had it all complete. I've got some more data I was
gathering to send him...

Subject: ALL LURKERS EMAIL ME SO I CAN CONTACT YOU OF
CHANGES.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 12:10:35 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I have noticed the message board has slowed down some and if I can not contact
the host webmaster, I fear it will stop and I may have to build a new one. But
please email me so I can add you to the A.F.D.I.bbs emailing list so you can be
al3rted to any move. I hope it is not necessary. I wish I had Fats username and
password.

Subject: Re: ALL LURKERS EMAIL ME SO I CAN CONTACT YOU
OF CHANGES.
From: annieoakley from Louisiana
To: All
Date Posted: 09:47:37 03/29/06 ()
Email Address: ann.wyatt1@ipaper.com
Entered From: stuntpilot.ipaper.com at 141.129.1.98
Message:
please put me on your list ann.wyatt1@ipaper.com. Thanks, Great Job!!!
God Bless all the family and friends of Fats. He will be
missed!!!!!

Subject: Re: ALL LURKERS EMAIL ME SO I CAN CONTACT YOU
OF CHANGES.
From: Cheryl
To: All
Date Posted: 16:55:28 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: cangwin@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-147-92-97.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.92.97
Message:
Please add me to your list. I check in often and have even run into a long lost
friend on the site. Thanks.

Subject: Re: ALL LURKERS EMAIL ME SO I CAN CONTACT YOU
OF CHANGES.
From: Manoj
To: All
Date Posted: 21:41:48 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: manojs@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-065-012-191-183.sip.asm.bellsouth.net at 65.12.191.183
Message:
Bruce, please add my email to your list. I am one of the
lurkers who religiously check this board every night. Hope this board will
survive.
Manoj
manojs@bellsouth.net

Subject: Re: ALL LURKERS EMAIL ME SO I CAN CONTACT YOU
OF CHANGES.
From: beachbumbob
To: All
Date Posted: 21:12:00 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: bobandbeth@alltel.net
Entered From: at 216.96.38.159
Message:
I Wasn't sure how to email you (I looked at your KOC site) or if you can access
my email addy from my bbs reg. anyway, I'm at bobturner56@hotmail.com. Thanks,
Bruce.

Subject: Re: ALL LURKERS EMAIL ME SO I CAN CONTACT YOU
OF CHANGES.
From: Chuck Patty Gorman
To: All
Date Posted: 18:04:03 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: chuckgorman45@hotmail.com
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Thank you Bruce, we haven't met any of you ,but we feel we
know you form the DIBBS please add us to any changes that might happen to the
DIBBS. our e-mail address is chuckgorman45@hotmail.com thanks, and prayers for
all.

Subject: Re: ALL LURKERS EMAIL ME SO I CAN CONTACT YOU
OF CHANGES.
From: mallard
To: All
Date Posted: 17:47:15 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: agillespie@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-17-148-71.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.17.148.71
Message:
Bruce - add me to the emailing list. I am a frequent reader of the bbs but not a
frequent poster. I love the island and just returned home to find out about
Fats. I am so sorry for his family. I never met him but I am certain he was a
great man!
I did think of you and the bbs while I was on the island. I
was driving down beinvielle towards town and saw a real big raccoon near the
kids park past the school house. Maybe you can track it down!
agillespie@bellsouth.net

Subject: Re: ALL LURKERS EMAIL ME SO I CAN CONTACT YOU
OF CHANGES.
From: Sharon
To: All
Date Posted: 15:54:21 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: speter4481@aol.com
Entered From: cache-ntc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 207.200.116.135
Message:
I am always checking in. We love Dauphin Island.

Subject: I MEANT THOSE WHO HAVE NOT ALREADY.n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 12:12:07 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:

Subject: Re: I MEANT THOSE WHO HAVE NOT ALREADY.n/m
From: Marcus Weiland
To: All
Date Posted: 12:47:56 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: marcus.weiland@us.army.mil
Entered From: cpe-24-174-202-141.elp.res.rr.com at 24.174.202.141
Message:
Please include me on any information. I will hopefully be able to piece together
details of Dad's funeral and our trip to DI to spread his ashes. I am hoping to
get assistance as far as securing overnight lodging for my family. Once I find
out when we can get down there, I would like to know a good time for everyone to
gather together. Finally, I don't know if there is publuc land on DI, but I am
contemplating a small memorial fund for my father down there, and would
appreciate input. Once again, I am thankful of his friends there on the island.
He always spoke highly of all of you.

Subject: Re: I MEANT THOSE WHO HAVE NOT ALREADY.n/m
From: amydune
To: All
Date Posted: 11:28:10 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: amydune62@yahoo.com
Entered From: dpc67142130037.direcpc.com at 67.142.130.37
Message:
Tim and I can help with lodging offers. also keep me on the
mailing list - amy@acpinfo.com

Subject: Thanks Amy n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 13:11:21 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
: : Please include me on any information. I will hopefully be able to piece
together details of Dad's funeral and our trip to DI to spread his ashes. I am
hoping to get assistance as far as securing overnight lodging for my family.
Once I find out when we can get down there, I would like to know a good time for
everyone to gather together. Finally, I don't know if there is publuc land on
DI, but I am contemplating a small memorial fund for my father down there, and
would appreciate input. Once again, I am thankful of his friends there on the
island. He always spoke highly of all of you.
: :Tim and I can help with lodging offers. also keep me on
the mailing list - amy@acpinfo.com

Subject: I got you in the list. When you get to your
dads computer,,
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 13:07:11 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
,, I sure wish you could see if you could find his keys (username and passwords)
to his websites. Lots of people are interested in keeping these going if
possible. As far as lodging for the services down here, we will need to know
dates and number of family members. I'm sure we can find room.
: Please include me on any information. I will hopefully be able to piece
together details of Dad's funeral and our trip to DI to spread his ashes. I am
hoping to get assistance as far as securing overnight lodging for my family.
Once I find out when we can get down there, I would like to know a good time for
everyone to gather together. Finally, I don't know if there is publuc land on
DI, but I am contemplating a small memorial fund for my father down there, and
would appreciate input. Once again, I am thankful of his friends there on the
island. He always spoke highly of all of you.

Subject: Bruce, put me down on the list for lodging
offers. nm
From: Marion
To: All
Date Posted: 06:07:06 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: di2@ideawercs.net
Entered From: w161.z064002164.atl-ga.dsl.cnc.net at 64.2.164.161
Message:
: ,, I sure wish you could see if you could find his keys (username and
passwords) to his websites. Lots of people are interested in keeping these going
if possible. As far as lodging for the services down here, we will need to know
dates and number of family members. I'm sure we can find room.
:
: : Please include me on any information. I will hopefully be able to piece
together details of Dad's funeral and our trip to DI to spread his ashes. I am
hoping to get assistance as far as securing overnight lodging for my family.
Once I find out when we can get down there, I would like to know a good time for
everyone to gather together. Finally, I don't know if there is publuc land on
DI, but I am contemplating a small memorial fund for my father down there, and
would appreciate input. Once again, I am thankful of his friends there on the
island. He always spoke highly of all of you.

Subject: Will do. Thank youi. nm
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 07:47:05 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
: : ,, I sure wish you could see if you could find his keys (username and
passwords) to his websites. Lots of people are interested in keeping these going
if possible. As far as lodging for the services down here, we will need to know
dates and number of family members. I'm sure we can find room.
: :
: : : Please include me on any information. I will hopefully be able to piece
together details of Dad's funeral and our trip to DI to spread his ashes. I am
hoping to get assistance as far as securing overnight lodging for my family.
Once I find out when we can get down there, I would like to know a good time for
everyone to gather together. Finally, I don't know if there is publuc land on
DI, but I am contemplating a small memorial fund for my father down there, and
would appreciate input. Once again, I am thankful of his friends there on the
island. He always spoke highly of all of you.

Subject: The drive home...
From: Vince (aka vimis)
To: All
Date Posted: 11:22:07 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: vimis@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-068-209-209-231.sip.cha.bellsouth.net at
68.209.209.231
Message:
We got back to the mountain last night after a wonderful week on the
island...wonderful but melancholy after we got the sad news about AF Friday.
Thanks to all our great friends for the hospitality, and truly sorry we didn't
get to see everyone!...we again lost a few days of visiting due to the annual
spring migration of family to our house. The scaffolding and lumber and
quickcrete bags in the den and all the construction didn't deter them. They are
a tough and flexible lot...
I hate leaving the island...just hate it. The last couple of
days before I leave I stir about what else we could have done or seen, but the
truth is that we had a great time. I wouldn't change any of the trip, except for
maybe a couple of errant drives and putts at Isle Dauphine, and getting to see a
few more DI'ers. The drive back was pretty. We had to take a side trip on 188
through BLB to Pascagoula, and it was very nice day for a drive. Instead of the
usual pelicans ushering us off the Island over the bridge, we were greeted by
ospreys this time. We saw all the people fishing at the new Cedar Point, and the
signs for Bellingrath Gardens. Going through BLB, we slowed down to go over the
bridges to look at the boats being built and those already launched. Anna and I
talked about Fats' trips into BLB and his pictures that he posted for all of us.
We saw the new Mexican restaurant that Bruce and Marilyn recommend, and we even
saw the famed Italian restaurant in BLB that Buddy favors for romantic getaways
in his pickup truck...I believe it is called the "Pizza Hut". On our trip, we
saw things that we had seen before, and we also saw things that we had
experienced through our contact with this DIBB. Thanks, Fats, for making this
work and for bringing us together. Thanks to all of you for making it
great...and let's please keep it going!!!!
I did post some pics of the past week's sights. if anyone is
interested. The link is below. Thanks!!!!

Subject: Re: The drive home...
From: Sue
To: All
Date Posted: 14:19:25 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: suebilliot@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-190-68-241.dhcp.slid.la.charter.com at 68.190.68.241
Message:
:Really enjoyed your tale and your pics, Vince. If we EVER get our electricity
back on, I look forward to putting my big feet back in the sand our beautiful
island once again for a few days. sue
We got back to the mountain last night after a wonderful week on the
island...wonderful but melancholy after we got the sad news about AF Friday.
Thanks to all our great friends for the hospitality, and truly sorry we didn't
get to see everyone!...we again lost a few days of visiting due to the annual
spring migration of family to our house. The scaffolding and lumber and
quickcrete bags in the den and all the construction didn't deter them. They are
a tough and flexible lot...
: I hate leaving the island...just hate it. The last couple
of days before I leave I stir about what else we could have done or seen, but
the truth is that we had a great time. I wouldn't change any of the trip, except
for maybe a couple of errant drives and putts at Isle Dauphine, and getting to
see a few more DI'ers. The drive back was pretty. We had to take a side trip on
188 through BLB to Pascagoula, and it was very nice day for a drive. Instead of
the usual pelicans ushering us off the Island over the bridge, we were greeted
by ospreys this time. We saw all the people fishing at the new Cedar Point, and
the signs for Bellingrath Gardens. Going through BLB, we slowed down to go over
the bridges to look at the boats being built and those already launched. Anna
and I talked about Fats' trips into BLB and his pictures that he posted for all
of us. We saw the new Mexican restaurant that Bruce and Marilyn recommend, and
we even saw the famed Italian restaurant in BLB that Buddy favors for romantic
getaways in his pickup truck...I believe it is called the "Pizza Hut". On our
trip, we saw things that we had seen before, and we also saw things that we had
experienced through our contact with this DIBB. Thanks, Fats, for making this
work and for bringing us together. Thanks to all of you for making it
great...and let's please keep it going!!!!
: I did post some pics of the past week's sights. if anyone
is interested. The link is below. Thanks!!!!

Subject: Re: The drive home...
From: ShaggyMay
To: All
Date Posted: 13:18:48 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: donnagwilliams@comcast.net
Entered From: c-71-56-17-225.hsd1.ga.comcast.net at 71.56.17.225
Message:
Thanks for the pictures Vince.
: We got back to the mountain last night after a wonderful
week on the island...wonderful but melancholy after we got the sad news about AF
Friday. Thanks to all our great friends for the hospitality, and truly sorry we
didn't get to see everyone!...we again lost a few days of visiting due to the
annual spring migration of family to our house. The scaffolding and lumber and
quickcrete bags in the den and all the construction didn't deter them. They are
a tough and flexible lot...
: I hate leaving the island...just hate it. The last couple
of days before I leave I stir about what else we could have done or seen, but
the truth is that we had a great time. I wouldn't change any of the trip, except
for maybe a couple of errant drives and putts at Isle Dauphine, and getting to
see a few more DI'ers. The drive back was pretty. We had to take a side trip on
188 through BLB to Pascagoula, and it was very nice day for a drive. Instead of
the usual pelicans ushering us off the Island over the bridge, we were greeted
by ospreys this time. We saw all the people fishing at the new Cedar Point, and
the signs for Bellingrath Gardens. Going through BLB, we slowed down to go over
the bridges to look at the boats being built and those already launched. Anna
and I talked about Fats' trips into BLB and his pictures that he posted for all
of us. We saw the new Mexican restaurant that Bruce and Marilyn recommend, and
we even saw the famed Italian restaurant in BLB that Buddy favors for romantic
getaways in his pickup truck...I believe it is called the "Pizza Hut". On our
trip, we saw things that we had seen before, and we also saw things that we had
experienced through our contact with this DIBB. Thanks, Fats, for making this
work and for bringing us together. Thanks to all of you for making it
great...and let's please keep it going!!!!
: I did post some pics of the past week's sights. if anyone
is interested. The link is below. Thanks!!!!

Subject: Re: The drive home...
From: Gertie Stein
To: All
Date Posted: 12:40:30 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: gosb2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-rtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 152.163.100.200
Message:
Thanks Vince - enjoyed the pictures enormously.
I'ts a beautiful sunny day here in Chicagoland - I can almost feel springtime on
the island in me blood. Got to get down there . . . the pictures must make all
the more urgent.
My best to Miss Anna and the Vimisian family. Thanks for
sharing your trip.
Love,
Gertie

Subject: Re: The drive home...
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 11:37:11 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-147-100-159.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.100.159
Message:
Great pictures, Vince--in the midst of destruction, there is
still the beauty--Love, DD
: We got back to the mountain last night after a wonderful
week on the island...wonderful but melancholy after we got the sad news about AF
Friday. Thanks to all our great friends for the hospitality, and truly sorry we
didn't get to see everyone!...we again lost a few days of visiting due to the
annual spring migration of family to our house. The scaffolding and lumber and
quickcrete bags in the den and all the construction didn't deter them. They are
a tough and flexible lot...
: I hate leaving the island...just hate it. The last couple
of days before I leave I stir about what else we could have done or seen, but
the truth is that we had a great time. I wouldn't change any of the trip, except
for maybe a couple of errant drives and putts at Isle Dauphine, and getting to
see a few more DI'ers. The drive back was pretty. We had to take a side trip on
188 through BLB to Pascagoula, and it was very nice day for a drive. Instead of
the usual pelicans ushering us off the Island over the bridge, we were greeted
by ospreys this time. We saw all the people fishing at the new Cedar Point, and
the signs for Bellingrath Gardens. Going through BLB, we slowed down to go over
the bridges to look at the boats being built and those already launched. Anna
and I talked about Fats' trips into BLB and his pictures that he posted for all
of us. We saw the new Mexican restaurant that Bruce and Marilyn recommend, and
we even saw the famed Italian restaurant in BLB that Buddy favors for romantic
getaways in his pickup truck...I believe it is called the "Pizza Hut". On our
trip, we saw things that we had seen before, and we also saw things that we had
experienced through our contact with this DIBB. Thanks, Fats, for making this
work and for bringing us together. Thanks to all of you for making it
great...and let's please keep it going!!!!
: I did post some pics of the past week's sights. if anyone
is interested. The link is below. Thanks!!!!

Subject: Photos of our "Toasting Fats and remembering"
From: Bruce and Company
To: All
Date Posted: 11:20:59 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Clink the link and scroll down a bit.

Subject: Re: Photos of our "Toasting Fats and
remembering"
From: John S
To: All
Date Posted: 12:23:21 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: EvilleBuffett@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
Lookin good Bruce. When are you gettin the Harley. {:)

Subject: Harley seats are not wide enough. n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 12:26:11 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
: Lookin good Bruce. When are you gettin the Harley. {:)

Subject: A fine looking crew indeed. Thanx. But it
looks like...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 11:55:49 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-74-120.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.74.120
Message:
anyone wanting a sip of that Tequila had better hustle their buns in that
direction. And so far as doing tequila shots, Bruce is the only one really
showing commitment to the task.
I guess it's OK to laugh now.
Have a great Sunday everyone. And thanx for "The Drive Back" report Vince, that
was fun. gj
: Clink the link and scroll down a bit.

Subject: You are correct-sir...
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 12:02:27 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
This was just "A" bottle of tequila, not "THE" bottle. And I thought when you
saluted someone, you were suppose to bottom-up-it. But Fats did sip tequila, so
I guess the guys acted appropriately. Yes, it is okay to laugh. Fats would be
pissed if we were sad. Like I said before, he got promoted and kicked upstairs
where he is enjoying lots of great "french-benefits" and an office with the
greatest view.
: anyone wanting a sip of that Tequila had better hustle their buns in that
direction. And so far as doing tequila shots, Bruce is the only one really
showing commitment to the task.
: I guess it's OK to laugh now.
: Have a great Sunday everyone. And thanx for "The Drive Back" report Vince,
that was fun. gj
:
: : Clink the link and scroll down a bit.

Subject: Wouldn't mind some "french benefits" my
ownself...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 12:19:11 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-74-120.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.74.120
Message:
but I fear I scarcely yet qualify to be "kicked upstairs".
I figured it was a different bottle, but then, that didn't seem right either. It
takes a dyed-in-the-wool tequila lover like my wife to "sip" tequila.
Tried to be "gentle" last night. Most seemed to think I was sick. I've said
before it's sufficient trouble to just be me, not much sense in trying to
emulate someone else. Think I was right.
Still, some graciousness would certainly help this world!
gj
: This was just "A" bottle of tequila, not "THE" bottle. And
I thought when you saluted someone, you were suppose to bottom-up-it. But Fats
did sip tequila, so I guess the guys acted appropriately. Yes, it is okay to
laugh. Fats would be pissed if we were sad. Like I said before, he got promoted
and kicked upstairs where he is enjoying lots of great "french-benefits" and an
office with the greatest view.
:
: : anyone wanting a sip of that Tequila had better hustle their buns in that
direction. And so far as doing tequila shots, Bruce is the only one really
showing commitment to the task.
: : I guess it's OK to laugh now.
: : Have a great Sunday everyone. And thanx for "The Drive Back" report Vince,
that was fun. gj
: :
: : : Clink the link and scroll down a bit.

Subject: Re: Wouldn't mind some "french benefits" my
ownself...
From: Sue
To: All
Date Posted: 14:35:58 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: suebilliot@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-190-68-241.dhcp.slid.la.charter.com at 68.190.68.241
Message:
:gj, there's "gentle" and there's "gentle". Some have it and some don't and
others try to become gentle. I am sure you are more gentle and sensitive than
you are admiting about yourself.
Aubrey is much more gentle now that it is just the too of us and we aren't so
distracted with raising children. Can't believe I said that....we almost always
have a house full. A couple of nights a week "they" even sleep over even though
"they" only live 20-30 min. away. Sometimes it is very tiring but most of the
time we count our blessings and are thankful that "they" want to be with us.
Back to gentle...my late father defined the word gentle. He said very little,
Mama never shut up. He was always listening though. If any of us or if any
friend mentioned something that they would like to have or like to have done, if
it was in his power he would do it. The old E.F. Hutton commercial reminded me
of him. When he spoke, everyone would listen. His sense of humor was priceless
and he would come out with hysterical observations that would only occur to him.
Thursday nights during football season the cheerleaders would meet at our house
because we had use of the airport hangers. We would spread out freezer paper on
the floors of a hanger to make our spirit signs. Daddy would wander in and
contribute some of the best slogans anyone could imagine. My class always built
our homecoming floats in those hangers with Daddy's help. He was really
creative.
Guess I am rambling on about my father so much relating to Marcus's loss even
more. March 13th was the 20th anniversary of Daddy's death due to a massive
heart attack. He was one mo. shy of 65 yrs. old. I was 35 and felt as if I had
been orphaned and cheated. I still miss him so much as I know Marcus will miss
precious Fats. As they say, time will make it easier. Yes, that is true but you
will always wish they were there with you to share life. I feel both my parent's
presence a lot and I know that this will be the same for Marcus.
Sorry to ramble, didn't intend to do that. Guess Fats is so heavy on my mind and
heart. sue

Subject: Re: Wouldn't mind some "french benefits" my
ownself...
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 15:42:14 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-147-100-159.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.100.159
Message:
Fats has been very heavy on my mind, too, Sue, and like you,
along with memories of my own father- Papa died suddenly and unexpectedly at age
57 of a massive MI, in the dawn hours of Thanksgiving Day-- We were telephoned
the news as we were loading up the children and the car that morning, to go home
to them for Thanksgiving-he had planned to take the boys fishing that morning
before Thanksgiving dinner- it hit us like a ton of bricks, and took me forever
to get over it enough that I became happy remembering him, instead of tearful--
and like you, I remember many life lessons from my papa-- once after he heard me
criticizing someone less fortunate who was also of a different color than me, he
gave me a little brass moccasin and told me to put it on my desk so I would see
it every night doing my homework- and told me that every time I looked at it I
was to remember that, as a famous quote said, I was never to criticize anyone
until I had "walked a mile in their moccasins". I was pretty chastened. I still
have that little brass enameled moccasin. Marcus- Sue and I really do know how
you feel- and our hearts are with you--time, faith and patience are key. Love,
DD

Subject: I just like to get everyone thinking about
something...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 15:17:44 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-74-120.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.74.120
Message:
positive. And some are sensitive to that! They don't want to be disappointed I
guess, so they just expect the worst. Well, guess what, it'll happen---imagine
that!
Heck I don't know. Wish I was 16 again---when I knew everything. Gaining
knowlege is sometimes painful---and embarassing.
Have a good one.
gj
:

Subject: Morning Report
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 05:58:21 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: cpe-65-189-28-235.cinci.res.rr.com at 65.189.28.235
Message:
It’s 5:55 am local DI time as I watch the frames of the web cam change every 9
or 10 seconds. The temp is about 49 degrees with the winds out of the NE at 15
knots.I can almost smell the salt air. The golden sunrise is a solid line in the
distance with the rig in the foreground. The surf seems a bit choppy but
sparkles in the morning rise and I sit here 800 miles away thinking about Eric,
his family and friends. I read, Fats always wanted everyone to get together on
the Island one day, to meet and laugh and party. I hope to make that trip and
meet Fat’s in the memories of the many who were lucky enough to spend time with
him and the memories of the ones who, like me, weren’t so lucky.
Good Morning DI
Buffalo Fred Reporting

Subject: Re: Morning Report
From: Calarry
To: All
Date Posted: 09:37:11 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: larry.pellett@lmco.com
Entered From: cache-ntc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 207.200.116.135
Message:
BF - could you post the webcam website. I would like to get
into that AM island spirit also.

Subject: Re: Morning Report
From: Sue
To: All
Date Posted: 09:43:42 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: suebilliot@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-190-68-241.dhcp.slid.la.charter.com at 68.190.68.241
Message:
: Thanks for the morning report, Buff Fred. You have a way with words and I
betcha you swooped your wife off her feet with your gift of gab. lol I too hope
to be able to make it for Fat's service on the island. We will be gone much of
April though, but maybe it will work out. sue

Subject: Thinking of Fats and the Island..
From: Kathy Carl
To: All
Date Posted: 20:20:17 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: kellenburg@adelphia.net
Entered From: clspco-cuda-1-68-64-9-221.clspco.adelphia.net at
68.64.9.221
Message:
...ever since we heard the sad news and trying to find a way to express our
condolences. Our sympathy goes out to his family and all that knew and loved
him. We did not know Fats but, we do know how much he loved the Island.
Accordingly, as someone else has already said, we felt it would be most
appropriate to make an additional contribution, in his honor, to the berm fund.
We believe that Fats would approve.
Kathy & Carl Ellenburg

Subject: Farwell to one of our finest
From: Brad, Beth and Josh Cox
To: All
Date Posted: 17:50:23 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: beth@boardwalk-realty.com
Entered From: user-2injqha.dialup.mindspring.com at 165.121.234.42
Message:
Our entire family wish godspeed to AF and our sympathies to his family. He has
touched so many of us over the years.

Subject: Re: Farwell to one of our finest
From: Michelle
To: All
Date Posted: 15:32:27 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: M1DIRTRACER@AOL.COM
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
The family and friends of AF are in the thoughts and prayers
of our family.

Subject: Re: Farwell to one of our finest
From: Alicia
To: All
Date Posted: 19:32:00 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: aliciahames@adelphia.net
Entered From: eycb01-00-brtwga-69-164-204-19.atlaga.adelphia.net at
69.164.204.19
Message:
Same here! He touched my life, and Fats and Bruce assured us on our first visit
to DI (july 2-9 2005-2 hurricanes that week) that there was NO WAY we could get
bitten by a shark! LOL. So my hubby got in the water. Too bad. I wanted the
street named after him and a city holiday being the first to be bitten on DI. I
will miss you! I haven't been around lately, and I logged in tonight to hear the
news and reconstruction on the island. My thoughts and prayers to all who knew
him well, and the ones like me who only knew his words and beautiful pictures!

Subject: WISHES
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 16:38:02 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-78-191.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.78.191
Message:
I'm going to a Young Family Weeny Roast tonight, at the farm. I was thinking 1)
I'll introduce Fats to my family-------------------- somehow; 2) I'm goin' nuts.
I do wish I had posted a picture so he could have seen what a great bunch of
folks they are---like Sue, for instance, has posted pictures---we know her
better from those pix. I wish...
And, my dear DI clan, I wish we would, sometime each share, from time to time,
pix of our families... Then maybe I won't feel this way again.
But if I can introduce them, I will. Maybe I can sorta do it by being as
"gentle" as I can! All I've heard is about Fats' gentleness. Deep blue eyes,
yes, generous-nearly to a fault, yes---many admirable traits. But the gentleness
always caught my eye---and who had said it, by the way. Gentleness is something,
like the nearly extinct graciousness, that the world needs more of it.
I'll just do my best to be gentle. I think he'd like that.
Whew, I can't BELIEVE this is so tough---and I "never met him"---as I've read so
often. It makes me wonder what's going on? I don't sob over people I've known
for years.
Oh well, on to the Weeny Roast...g-e-n-t-l-y.
luv
Hoot
p.s. I apologize for any bloopers. I'm not going to proof this. I'd not send it.
G-e - n-t-l-y,gj

Subject: Photos
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 15:34:00 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-147-70-42.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.70.42
Message:
For anyone that wants a full size version of the lighthous photo, it can be
found at
http://image50.webshots.com/150/0/3/47/457000347BfxqtU_fs.jpg
For those who are unaware of Fats' "Webshots" DI Photo
collection, follow the link below to visit and browse. There are literally
hundreds of photos. I am honored that Fats thought enough of the photos that I
sent to him, that he thought it worthwhile posting them there. I hope that
someone can preserve the work that he has done on that site.

Subject: R
From: For Eric.
To: All
Date Posted: 14:01:29 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: r.grice@comcast.net
Entered From: c-24-99-162-31.hsd1.ga.comcast.net at 24.99.162.31
Message:
In 1959 my father was stationed on Dauphin Island with the Air Force and parents
moved to Mobile. I was born a year later.
We would visit there as I grew up from time to time when I
was a child. In middle school I remember a field trip to clean up the beach. Boy
scouting to Petit Bois Island for overnight bon fires and roasted marshmallows.
In 1976 I had my first job with Southern Water Sports and we
took dive trips out of the Marina on L'escargot.
I went away to college and didn't visit for many years. When
I met who is now my wife, I took her there and she fell in love with the place
and I realized again how special it is there. She took all of her bridesmaids to
the Island for a long weekend a few weeks before our wedding in 1993.
Living in Atlanta, it is a tough drive for a weekend so each
trip is precious for us.
In 2001 we had our youngest daughter Baptized at St. Francis,
afterwards we headed to the Seafood Galley for celebration meal and afterwards
had a beautiful cake that Mary had made for us at the Lighthouse Bakery.
By the next year we bought a house down there and another lot
the following year.
When Katrina came through, I had no way to find out what had
happened to the house, Ben's, Seafood Galley, the little red schoolhouse.
Then I found this bulliten board and with a few days, Bruce
had posted a picture of our place still standing. This is where I found out.
I check the board everyday just to feel closer to home and
the folks on here.
My heart is broken for a friend that I never met.
I bid you Peace and I thank you for doing the things you did
for us.
You mattered to us.
When I'm on the Island in a few more days and feel the warm
sun, maybe all of us won't be hurting so much.
We'll all be home.
R

Subject: Beautifully said!...N/M
From: Vince (aka vimis)
To: All
Date Posted: 09:19:23 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: vimis@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-068-209-209-231.sip.cha.bellsouth.net at
68.209.209.231
Message:

Subject: I do think that is an absolutely stunning
picure, Ken...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 13:45:29 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-78-191.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.78.191
Message:
I had intended to compliment Fats for his selection, but I remembered that
others already had while I'd been busy earlier in the week. So, eventually, I
decided it would just be more junk on the board---he'd already been
complimented, etc.
Now it gripes me I didn't take the last chance to thank him again for his
efforts. Just goes to show, if you have something positive to say, even if
repeating, say it!
gj

Subject: Thanks gj....
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 15:09:36 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-147-70-42.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.70.42
Message:
....I too regret not taking the time to thank Fats for posting my picture and
now it's too late. I noticed the comments about the photo also, but at the time,
I did not feel right jumping in and taking credit for the photo. Now I am both
sad and proud to admit "it's mine" !!!!
I wholeheartedly agree with your statement "Just goes to
show, if you have something positive to say, even if repeating, say it!"

Subject: A Memorial to Fats
From: kgeske
To: All
Date Posted: 13:16:34 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: kgeske@lsu.edu
Entered From: ip70-177-62-17.br.br.cox.net at 70.177.62.17
Message:
In memory of Fats, we are sending an additional check to the DIPOA berm fund.
Think he would approve.

Subject: For Fats.
From: Larry O
To: All
Date Posted: 10:33:52 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: kmadole@ev1.net
Entered From: 206.180.134.69.txl-dial-ip.hal-pc.org at 206.180.134.69
Message:
Sea-Fever
I MUST down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,
And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by,
And the wheel's kick and the wind's song and the white sail's shaking,
And a grey mist on the sea's face and a grey dawn breaking.
I must down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide 5
Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied;
And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying,
And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying.
I must down to the seas again to the vagrant gypsy life.
To the gull's way and the whale's way where the wind's like a whetted knife;
And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover,
And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick's over.
{John Masefield}

Subject: I'm so sad!
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 10:03:07 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: 12-208-152-99.client.insightbb.com at 12.208.152.99
Message:
It seems silly to keep crying for a man I never had the opporutnity to meet in
person, but I felt that I DID know him. This bulletin board has been a part of
my daily routine since Fats started it. There was once another board ran by the
town???? (Help me here Bruce) I'm not 100% sure, I think it was called DI Forums
or something to that effect, but it was moderated and if someone complained
about public officials, the town, etc. that post was immediately deleted.
Fats was a relative newcomer to the board when they suddenly
decided to take it down because a lot of people were complaining about town
officials and I guess it just gotten out of hand. We were all lost without
having any way to contact each other and I remember being really upset at losing
my connection to Dauphin Island, Bruce, Buddy, and several others I had
befriended back then (there were only a few female posters in those days!). One
day I checked around to see if the old board had come back up and found that
Eric had taken it upon himself to make a new Dauphin Island board for us all to
enjoy, keep connected AND we were all free to say what we wanted without worry
of censorship. I think we were all surprised that this man, that hadn't been
around the board for that long, had done this at his own expense. We all offered
to pay him or help him with costs, but he never asked for a thing. He gave me a
whole new set of friends that I would have never otherwise met and he will
always have my love and gratitude for that.
I will never forget the first time anyone had an AF
sighting.....everyone was shocked that Arkansas Fats was NOT fat! We all had
pictured him as this big heavy set guy, I think Bruce was the first to have met
him and immediately filled us in on Eric's secret. He was skinny!
I'm going to miss you Arkansas Fats!

Subject: The old forum was owned by a man who was
under pressure,,
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 13:46:08 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
,, from several paying customers. Seems our bantering of politicians and the
police chief put him in a sticky position and he faced losing his income from
his web hosting customers. He had to pull the plug or go out of business. The
forum was not a money venture, but more a public service. I understand why he
had to try to please his customers. Fats came through. I had seen Fats post on
the old message board and was delighted that someone stepped up and created what
is now our other home.
I just returned back home after sitting on the rocks down by
the fort with Carrollbob and watching Markbob fish. While there, I seemed to be
constantly aware of Fats. I have never heard so many kids yelling and screaming
as they played in the water, as if someone was tickling them. Dolphins came
right up to the rocks where people were standing and fishing. Gulls hung just
three feet over my head in the cool westerly breeze. And the lighthouse seemed
to keep pulling my eyes that way. It was a very calming experience. Fats can be
here as much as he wants now, and he don't have to worry about flood insurance.
:)

Subject: Re: I'm so sad! (me too)
From: Steve K
To: All
Date Posted: 10:58:06 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: skenney35@comcast.net
Entered From: at 68.63.51.130
Message:
Individuals like AF (Eric) who have a purpose and spirit to serve leave a legacy
that goes beyond the physical world - his spirit and love have touched me - what
a wonderful man. Thanks AF!

Subject: Poem
From: Marcus Weiland
To: All
Date Posted: 09:32:26 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: marcus.weiland@us.army.mil
Entered From: cpe-24-174-202-141.elp.res.rr.com at 24.174.202.141
Message:
When we come down there to spread his ashes, my mother, wife, and son, so far. I
would love for that poem to be read and for everyone that called him friend
would help to spread the ashes. From what I gather, he loved a particular
lighthouse there. Thank you, and I will give you more information as it becomes
available.

Subject: I'm Honored.. nm
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 10:50:16 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: cpe-65-189-28-235.cinci.res.rr.com at 65.189.28.235
Message:

Subject: Sorry about Fat's Passing
From: Nancy
To: All
Date Posted: 07:59:23 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: nana_lee123@yahoo.com
Entered From: at 207.40.91.37
Message:
I never met the man, but I shared his (and your) love of the island. He created
this place for all to come and keep in touch with a place that has a special
spot in their hearts. I do so hope that someone will continue to have this type
of board in memory of Fat's. It has been a place of great enjoyment to me even
though I have only posted a time or two.
My thoughts and prayers are with you...his family and
friends.

Subject: A Buffaloem for Fat's
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 07:41:43 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: cpe-65-189-28-235.cinci.res.rr.com at 65.189.28.235
Message:
Spread my ashes by the sea,
Just off the watery shore.
Let them float upon the waves,
And over the sandy floor.
Let children play upon me,
And laugh and smile all day.
While the sun shines down upon me
On this island place I stay.
So this is where I’ll be my friends,
Stop and see me any time.
We’ll have a chat and walk awhile
And discuss the changing times.
For here is where I’m happy,
And happy forever more.
Just ashes by the sea,
Just off the watery shore.
BF 03/25/06

Subject: So beautiful and appropriate, BF---nm
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 19:50:41 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-147-97-139.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.147.97.139
Message:

Subject: Lovely Poem
From: Michelle
To: All
Date Posted: 12:43:48 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: M1DIRTRACER@AOL.COM
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:

Subject: VERY nice BF n/m
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 11:32:41 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-63-202-153.bhm.bellsouth.net at 208.63.202.153
Message:

Subject: Love, love, love it
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 09:49:00 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: 12-208-152-99.client.insightbb.com at 12.208.152.99
Message:
It's a perfect sentiment and made me start crying all over again. You have a
true gift BF.

Subject: B.F.'s poem and Ralphs photo.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 09:22:49 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Click the link.

Subject: It keeps getting Better, nice Display Bruce
andRalph nm
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 15:35:10 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: cpe-65-189-28-235.cinci.res.rr.com at 65.189.28.235
Message:
Thanks

Subject: It keeps getting Better, nice Display Bruce
andRalph nm
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 15:34:26 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: cpe-65-189-28-235.cinci.res.rr.com at 65.189.28.235
Message:

Subject: Re: A Buffaloem for Fat's
From: Sue
To: All
Date Posted: 08:34:24 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: suebilliot@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-190-68-241.dhcp.slid.la.charter.com at 68.190.68.241
Message:
: Buff Fred, that is beautiful! This should be read at Fat's service on the
island. Those blue eyes of his will be shining from above as those that love him
pay tribute to this precious soul that touched so many of our lives.
Thank you all of you for being who you are. There is no time like the present to
tell all of you what you mean to mean and that I love you all whether I have met
you or not. sue

Subject: Well stated Sue, (Oh, Positive Force)...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 08:47:27 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-65-71-191-165.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 65.71.191.165
Message:
I wanted to say something like that, but this covers it nicely---
"Thank you all of you for being who you are. There is no time like the present
to tell all of you what you mean to me and and that I love you all whether I
have met you or not."
It sounds a tad strange, but it is the truth I guess. I was telling Sue Anne
last night I will never doubt the integrity of Internet "relationships" again.
These are heartfelt regrets, from everywhere! It must be very gratifiying to
Marc and rest of the family.
gj
p.s. Broke my heart to read Bruce's midnite note. This makes us realize how many
lives each of our lives touch, although Fats certainly over-achieved! And it
should make promise ourselves to redouble our efforts to appreciate every moment
here.
p.s.s. And yes, I think this poem should be read as his funeral...or perhaps a
DI Memorial Service?

Subject: Cool. n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 07:59:35 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:


Subject: Beautiful n/m
From: Mary Ann
To: All
Date Posted: 08:44:15 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: Maryann29@cox-internet.com
Entered From: ip70-178-208-107.ks.ks.cox.net at 70.178.208.107
Message:

Subject: He liked fried grouper from Seafood Galley
From: frank
To: All
Date Posted: 07:30:08 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: williamson434s@hotmail.com
Entered From: at 216.220.208.126
Message:
As much as I did. He would rspond to Leroy's posts. I only met him once in
person, but he left a lasting impression of really caring for those around him.
Eric, we know you're on the island with us today.

Subject: Re: He liked fried grouper from Seafood
Galley
From: Judy
To: All
Date Posted: 13:56:19 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: judy_presnall@yahoo.com
Entered From: dialup-4.88.78.5.dial1.atlanta1.level3.net at 4.88.78.5
Message:
: As much as I did. He would rspond to Leroy's posts. I only met him once in
person, but he left a lasting impression of really caring for those around him.
Eric, we know you're on the island with us today.
I just left the island this morning after a wonderful week
there. My husband and I drove by the old Seafood Galley building. I can remember
going there and wondering if some of the people there was Ark. Fats and Bruce.
He sure did a good job with the board. I'm a lurker, but I can tell you I always
enjoyed looking at all the current events. So, even though I never met him, his
family and all his friends are in my prayers.

Subject: A Favorite Fats Story
From: Gertrude Stein
To: All
Date Posted: 22:14:15 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: gosb2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-rtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 152.163.100.200
Message:
Last spring, while we were down for a nine-month stretch, Fats announced an
impending visit to the island.
Everybody was awaiting his arrival, keeping an ear tuned to the street. Before
long, phones were ringing around the island - "He's here!"
"There has been a 'Fats' Sighting!"
"I just saw Fats!"
"He's at Barnacle Bill's" -
"He was seen at Ben's!" -
"He's headed for William and Slavica's!"
"Turn on the landing lights - he's headed to Bruce and Merlyn's!"
After arriving on the island around noon, stopping first at
Barnacle Bill's, of course, he made his requisite stops, spreading AF brand of
Cheer - and finally went to bed at about 7 pm and slept until 7 the next
morning. He had driven from LR to DI - partied his brains out for about seven
hours, and collapsed in the bed at Bruce's house.
Woke up the next morning, fresh as a daisy, ready to go again!
He had left a lot of bodies in his wake, at every stop!
It was a festive few days - full-contact Doms, Scotch tastings (rigged, of
course), all the usual island festivities and feasts. The man had an incredible
appetite for the pleasures of the island! He could work more party into 24 hours
than I could hold up to in a week!
Love,
gertie

Subject: He was the topic of conversation tonight.
From: Bruce Co.
To: All
Date Posted: 23:57:49 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Thanks Gert for a perfect definition of how it was when he walked the sands of
Dauphin Island. Tonight, there was a gathering of Ralph & Cathy, Markbob &
Carrolbob, Mike and Linda, Vince & Anna, and Marilyn and Bruce. We had planned
this days ago, light-years from anyones demise or so we thought in our simple
minds, yet Eric and his family was the whole topic of the evening. We hoisted a
few good tequilas to Fats,, we spoke of his gentleness and compassion because he
gave everyone a wide birth and never criticized anyone, and when he bragged, it
was about Holly and his kids, as has been stated before. We can only hope to be
as loved by so many. Wish you could have been here with us Fats, but soon, you
will be here forever with us, and your family can revel in the fact that when
they visit, this is where dad and grandpaws spirit is. We miss you so much and
cling to your memory. It hurts badly now,, but we will eventually reconcile.

Subject: Fats
From: mlowe
To: All
Date Posted: 19:04:13 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: mlowe99436@sbcglobal.net
Entered From: adsl-70-232-57-9.dsl.ltrkar.sbcglobal.net at 70.232.57.9
Message:
You know those folks you meet once and you know you will be lifetime friends?
That was Fats. I had the most wonderful pleasure of knowing him at home, here in
Little Rock. We were never on the island at the same time, but this board and
the love of Dauphin Island brought us together. We talked on the phone, but
never met until Anita came through here a couple of years ago. We ate at Doe's,
Eric's favorite place next to Lindsey's BBQ. The only thing he ever "bragged"
about were his wife, his children, and his grandchildren. Fats was the
peacemaker on this board, behind the scenes. He had a great gift of
understanding people, listening to both sides, working to reach consensus and
mend fences. Each and every person who joined this board was his family. He
loved each of you dearly, almost as much as he loved the island.
The banner means so much to me. We had a standing agreement to call each other
about a week before either of us was headed to paradise. "Have a good
time......:)" means I won't be there, so you have to enjoy it twice as much,
until I get there and I will do the same.
You got it Fats! I will miss you.

Subject: Just got home and heard...
From: Jason
To: All
Date Posted: 18:43:49 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: tnitwodniw@yahoo.com
Entered From: cache02.lax.untd.com at 64.136.26.226
Message:
so sorry to hear such terrible news. don't know what to really say... it's
just... just that. I sat and reread the threads about 5 times trying to see if
I'd hopefully just misread somehow - but the words aren't changing no matter how
times I reread them.
I only got to meet Eric one time, when he followed me home to
introduce himself, I felt a little honored then that he'd gone that far out of
his way to do that, now I feel that way all the more. I'll definately always
remember him now...
how terrible, my sympathies to his family, what a terrible
thing.
thanks for all you did AF, we'll never be able to replace
you.

Subject: Fats' address
From: Bill from Wheeling, WV
To: All
Date Posted: 14:21:45 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: wdcoe@nttc.edu
Entered From: system160.nttc.edu at 198.252.172.160
Message:
Several years ago I sent some DI photos to this address:
Eric Weiland
2021 North Poplar Street
North Little Rock, AR 72114
Bill

Subject: Thanks Bill. Good heads-up.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 00:16:15 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Your email was comforting and reassuring, but I wanted everyone to know that you
were the one who had this info. I would say "send your cards here". As for
flowers or money, I will get that info later. Cash may help greatly with travel
plans for the family to get to where Fats wants to be. Keep watching.

Subject: Yep, here's a link that shows it.
From: Jon
To: All
Date Posted: 20:22:25 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: jon@mooncentric.com
Entered From: user-0vvddbd.cable.mindspring.com at 63.246.181.109
Message:

Subject: My father
From: Marcus Weiland
To: All
Date Posted: 14:15:06 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: marcus.weiland@us.army.mil
Entered From: cpe-24-174-202-141.elp.res.rr.com at 24.174.202.141
Message:
My Father, Eric Weiland, passed this morning at 0148. I will miss him dearly. I
will fulfill his wishes to have his ashes spread in the ocan down there on the
island. I am trying to coordinate his funeral at home in Arkansas first. He will
hopefully be given a military service. Things are still very vague as far as
dates and times. I will keep in touch on this board as I fiind out more
information. My email address is marcus.weiland@us.army.mil if there are any
rewuests of me or info that could help me fulfill his wishes.

Subject: Re: My father
From: Hogfanlarry
To: All
Date Posted: 22:30:53 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: lengland@cox-internet.com
Entered From: ip70-173-87-214.fv.dl.cox.net at 70.173.87.214
Message:

Subject: Re: My father
From: John S
To: All
Date Posted: 20:41:22 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: EvilleBuffett@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
Your dad was a great guy who will be missed by more than he could have ever
imagined. Judy and I send our condolences and want you to know our hearts are
with you and your family during these hard times.Your dad is with God looking
down on us and will ever be with us all.

Subject: Your father
From: Vince (aka vimis)
To: All
Date Posted: 16:10:01 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: vimis@msn.com
Entered From: host-209-214-45-146.mob.bellsouth.net at 209.214.45.146
Message:
Your father loved you very much and was so proud of you, Marcus. He was very
much loved by all of us and will be missed very much too...for those of you who
can't see it, and AF now can, here is a picture that I took this afternoon of
the beach right out in front of Foresight on Bienville...it was the place where
he truly loved to stay here on DI...


Subject: We are all heartbroken.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 14:20:34 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Thank you for posting. I will get in touch with you via email. We are hear and
ready to help, you just take care of family matters and when you are ready, we
will take care of Erics final wishes down here. When that time comes, try to
give us plenty of notice because I know there will be a lot of people who will
want to be here with you. Take comfort in knowing that this end of his wishes is
a done deal. Our prayers are with you all and I will be in touch.

Subject: ATTENTION: All Arkansas Fats Message Board
lurkers.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 14:08:29 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
It is very important that you all email me so I can put your emails in my A.F.
Message Board folder so I can notify you all if and when things change. The
Arkansas Fats D.I. Message Board WILL SURVIVE, thought it may possibly move. I
need a way to let you all know in the event that this happens. I currently have
emails logged of all the present posters. Look down the message board and if you
have not posted in the existing viewable page, please drop me an email at
badkins100@usa.net so you won't get left behind if a move should occur. I know
this is quick, but I think Fats would approve.
Thanks for the photo work Ralph.

Subject: Re: ATTENTION: All Arkansas Fats Message
Board lurkers.
From: Rick G
To: All
Date Posted: 12:49:19 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: goette5@yahoo.com
Entered From: at 66.0.222.194
Message:
Sorry to hear about Fats

Subject: Re: ATTENTION: All Arkansas Fats Message
Board lurkers.
From: APirateLooksAt50
To: All
Date Posted: 08:53:51 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: ov40pirate@aol.com
Entered From: cache-rtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 152.163.100.200
Message:
An email in on the way. Lana and I don't come on the board much anymore, but we
are shocked and saddened to hear about Fats. He was a fine man, and a Gentleman
in all respects.
He will be missed.
Ken and Lana Polk



Subject: I'm reading though the tears, but I will not
miss one of you
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 00:10:53 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I see all those who want to maker sure they are recorded and I am recording you.
I won't miss a single one..

Subject: Thanks Bruce....
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 14:31:07 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: port2.ins.state.il.us at 163.191.11.36
Message:
I'm so glad we can always count on you. I know Fats would approve too. The last
thing he'd want is this board to dissolve. When the old board went away, he is
the one that brought us all back together again with a new and improved version.
I love the photo too!

Subject: YES, thanx Bruce! I know the work helps you
too---but...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 19:13:15 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-138-32-147.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.138.32.147
Message:
we appreciate so much your efforts in memory to Fats.
gj
:

Subject: A Spirit passed.
From: Buffalo Fred
To: All
Date Posted: 13:58:51 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: FSCHUMACHER@CINCI.RR.COM
Entered From: rrcs-24-106-78-130.central.biz.rr.com at 24.106.78.130
Message:
I never met Eric. I only knew him through the blog and the posted pictures. I
thrived each day on the internet connection he provided me to all of you. I left
a bottle of Tequilla at Bruce's house for him to enjoy. Bruce told me liked it.
I would hope all, who visit the island, will stop by Bruce's and take a sip and
toast Arkansas Fat's....
"So when you walk along those paths that lead to the beach,
Or stroll next to the gulf by the waters gently rolling.
Breath in those scents of sea and remember ,
And recall the spirit in him that is now free."

Subject: Re: A Spirit passed.
From: David
To: All
Date Posted: 07:24:41 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: davidladewig@charter.net
Entered From: 68-113-90-14.dhcp.leds.al.charter.com at 68.113.90.14
Message:
I hope his family finds some peace down the road and his grandson is taught
about the good character of the man. RIP. David

Subject: Re: A Spirit passed.
From: Rob Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 20:56:18 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: rob@ethannoise.com
Entered From: adsl-217-124-34.asm.bellsouth.net at 68.217.124.34
Message:
I raise my Scotch and throw on my Buffett at home tonight in Atlanta to my
friend Arkansas Fats. I remember during the hurricane times online - this was
one of his favorite Buffett tunes.
Biloxi
Down around Biloxi
Pretty girls are swimmin in the sea
They all look like sisters in the ocean
Boy will fill his pale with salty water
And the storms will blow from off towards New Orleans
The sun shines on Biloxi
The air is filled with vapors from the sea
The boy will dig a pool beside the ocean
He sees creatures from his dreams underwater
And the sun will set from off towards New Orleans
Stars can see Biloxi
Stars can find their faces in the sea
We are walking down beside the ocean
We are splashing naked in the water
And the sky is red from off towards New Orleans
May our friend Eric rest in peace.

Subject: Re: A Spirit passed.
From: Vince (aka vimis)
To: All
Date Posted: 09:15:01 03/26/06 ()
Email Address: vimis@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-068-209-209-231.sip.cha.bellsouth.net at
68.209.209.231
Message:
Great, Rob! Good to hear from you too...that song is one of my favorites and I
had forgotten that AF liked it so much...

Subject: When Fats returns to Dauphin Island,,,
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 15:19:40 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
,, it awaits. This gift was far more important than we realized Fred. I thank
you and I know Fats will. I will let Holly and Marcus open it, take a sip, maybe
share a few sips with us thursty urchins, and maybe give the rest to Fats to
enjoy. He really loved good tequila, and this is the good stuff. Thanks again
Fred for loving Eric enough to want to give him gifts, though you never met.

Subject: Re: A Spirit passed.
From: Vince and Anna
To: All
Date Posted: 14:44:08 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: vimis@msn.com
Entered From: host-209-214-45-192.mob.bellsouth.net at 209.214.45.192
Message:
Just beautifully said, thanks!!...and we may take you up on the sip too...

Subject: Martha
From: vicki
To: All
Date Posted: 13:31:37 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
I just spoke with her. She did not know about Fats. She is okay, upset, but
okay. She will be on the island as planned this weekend. Her concern was for
Holly, and whether she was with Fats at his sons. I didn't know the answer to
that question, so I told her to get on the BB when she could, so she could read
what has been posted today. I am not worried anymore....I just couldn't bear the
thought of her driving across that bridge and having to hear that news first
thing. Prayers for all of you. Vicki

Subject: Thanks Vicki....
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 13:34:27 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: port2.ins.state.il.us at 163.191.11.36
Message:
I was worried about Martha, I know her and Eric were such good friends. I'm glad
she's okay and I'm with you, I wouldn't have wanted her to hear the news after
arriving on the island either. Thanks again.....marina

Subject: Oh my . . .
From: Gertie Stein
To: All
Date Posted: 12:53:30 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: gosb2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
I've been out running errands this morning, so wasn't on-line.
While I was gone, William delivered the news that Arkansas Fats has gone home.
It just about knocked the wind out of me.
I thought of how glad I was that he got to see his son and that gorgeous new
grandson again.
He was so proud of that boy and his lovely daughter-law and handsome
soldier-son. He was no less proud of his daughter too! Fats was proud of his
children.
And my heart just breaks for poor dear sweet Holly . . . there aren't words . .
.
Despite all the grief, this is the most exciting day of Fat's
life - veils have been removed from his beautiful, baby-blue eyeballs (he did
have the prettiest eyes, don't you think! They were about the color of the
wallpaper on the DIBB!)
He no longer sees life through a veil darkly - but now, face
to face, to paraphrase a snippet from my favorite book.
What must he have been thinking when he crossed over?
He was a master at photography - and it's no accident that the current DIBB
picture is what it is.
Can you imagine the greatest sunrise -- all the great sunrises you've ever seen,
bottled together, and magnified a thousand times - even that wouldn't compare
with what Fats woke up to see. Reckon he wanted to grab a camera and capture it
for all of us to see? I wouldn't be a bit surprised . . . that would be the Fats
I know!
In a moment - in the twinkling of an eye . . .
1 Corinthians 13:11-13
- version - The Message Bible
11 When I was an infant at my mother's breast, I gurgled and cooed like any
infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good.
12 We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog,
peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the
sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us,
knowing him directly just as he knows us!
13 But for right now, until that completeness, we have three
things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope
unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.
Love,
gert

Subject: Re: Oh my . . .
From: Katy in Illinois
To: All
Date Posted: 02:57:58 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: imkatidoo@yahoo.com
Entered From: ppp-70-225-33-146.dsl.covlil.ameritech.net at 70.225.33.146
Message:
Gertie,
What lovely words.
Thank you,
Katy W

Subject: Here he is.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 08:42:41 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
The young Fats

Giving the peace sign

Enjoying homebrew (background)


Subject: Re: Here he is.
From: Buddy
To: All
Date Posted: 09:04:47 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: buddybrueck@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
those were good days !!
Fats isn't "gone", we just can't see him. He is still here,
living on in each of us. Rest in Peace Eric my friend.

Subject: Re: Here he is.
From: Vince and Anna
To: All
Date Posted: 12:00:24 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: vimis@msn.com
Entered From: host-209-214-45-195.mob.bellsouth.net at 209.214.45.195
Message:
Those were all great days!!! Thanks for sharing them with us, Fats! We were
honored to be able to call AF our friend. This morning, before I heard this sad
sad news, I went for a long walk along the north shore surveying things. While I
was out, I was thinking about all of you DIBB'ers, and how you might react to
all the re-building that is going on here and all the destruction that is still
so evident. Eric was supposed to stay here with us at the beach this past fall
break, but Katrina got in the way...what a shame...

Subject: Re: Here he is.
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 11:42:33 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-155-130-175.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.155.130.175
Message:
We will miss him so much- he was such a sweet man-- I am
probably not the only one to whom it has occurred that the last picture of the
week that Fats posted was that of a setting sun, almost as if he had a
premonition or something-- Fats created the "sunshine" of this board, and now
his sun has set-- as I said, we are sadder than sad-for ourselves- but as for
Fats himself- I am sure that he is in a much better place.. DD

Subject: DD's double-post. I know Fats got a grin out
of that.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 12:26:08 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
And that is a rising sun DD, not setting, which I think has a happier meaning. I
imagine Fats is in a meeting with Mother Nature right now enlisting her help in
stopping the harrassment of his beloved Dauphin Island. I would not be surprised
if we never saw another hurricane around here now.

Subject: I'm so glad you double posted, DD!!!
From: Gertrude Steinstunned
To: All
Date Posted: 12:16:24 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: gosb2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
It gave him and the rest of us a good chuckle, I'm sure!
Some things just don't change! LOL!
Hugz and love,
Gert

Subject: And thank God for the chuckle! I've stayed
away from...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 16:31:22 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-75-234.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.75.234
Message:
the Board all day after the first heartfelt regrets were posted. Just didn't
want to think...
Bless all of you who knew him better than I. You were just luckier, that's all.
That's a take.
gj

Subject: Re: I'm so glad you double posted, DD!!!
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 12:38:34 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-155-130-175.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.155.130.175
Message:
You know, Gert- I thought about that- and do you realize that
that is the first time I've double posted in MONTHS! Weird---
My eyes have been tearing up off and on all morning and my heart is so sad--
just still can't believe I'll never see Fats again--
Love and hugs to you too, and to Buddy--give Buddy a really big hug from me-we
almost lost him too- Love, DD

Subject: Alright, you Red Episcopalian . . .
From: Gertie Stein
To: All
Date Posted: 12:58:40 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: gosb2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
My eyes have been tearing up off and on all morning and my heart is so sad--
just still can't believe I'll never see Fats again--
: Love and hugs to you too, and to Buddy--give Buddy a really big hug from me-we
almost lost him too- Love, DD
DD - you WILL see Fats again - or at least you have that option, and I'm pretty
sure you've already made your reservation!
Of cousre, you'll be domiciled over in the red section of the Episcopalian
neighborhood. (It's a good thing you like small towns! ROFL!!! I'm sorry - I
couldn't help it.)
I'll be easy to find - look over in the Pentecostal
neighborhood - we can be a noisy, musical lot!
Love,
Gert
Love,
Gert
(I don't know how you double post - I've tried to replicate
your deed, and can't!)

Subject: Re: Here he is.
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 11:41:19 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-155-130-175.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.155.130.175
Message:
We will miss him so much- he was such a sweet man-- I am
probably not the only one to whom it has occurred that the last picture of the
week that Fats posted was that of a setting sun, almost as if he had a
premonition or something-- Fats created the "sunshine" of this board, and now
his sun has set-- as I said, we are sadder than sad-for ourselves- but I am sure
that he is in a much better place.. DD

Subject: DD
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 12:30:25 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-220-193-56.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.220.193.56
Message:
The photo to which you refer was that of a rising sun which may be even more
meaningful. You are right that Fats did create the "sunshine" of this board and
the fact that the sun is rising in the photo, makes me like to think that is the
direction that Fats took upon his passing. Being that it is a photo which I took
and sent to Fats, it will now forever have a special meaning to me.

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Katy from Illinois
To: All
Date Posted: 02:54:38 03/27/06 ()
Email Address: imkatidoo@yahoo.com
Entered From: ppp-70-225-33-146.dsl.covlil.ameritech.net at 70.225.33.146
Message:
I just now visited the board after several days, and am so saddened to hear
about Fats. I'm a daily visitor who wishes now I would have expressed my
appreciation for all his hard work on this forum.
What I remember most is his deep patriotism and his immense
pride for his son.
My deepest regrets to the Weiland Family.
Katy W in Illinois

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Lona
To: All
Date Posted: 01:00:16 03/25/06 ()
Email Address: LonaCollins@charter.net
Entered From: 66-190-203-152.dhcp.thbd.la.charter.com at 66.190.203.152
Message:
I am just checking in and I see the tragic news, I am so sorry to all of you who
knew him so well. This is truly a tragedy and the world certainly was a better
place with him in it. I never met Fats in person, but I almost feel as if I did
through the message board. Rest in peace my friend, say hello to my best friend
in heaven for me. Bruce, just in case you don't have my e-mail, it's
LonaCollins@charter.net
Fats you are in my prayers.....

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Sherry
To: All
Date Posted: 18:20:15 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: SherrysTaggin4U2@aol.com
Entered From: cache-dtc-ac06.proxy.aol.com at 205.188.116.135
Message:
Oh my heavens!! I am soooo sorry to hear this. I have never
met Fats but have talked to him in Emails.
Such a great Loss!

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: djtom
To: All
Date Posted: 18:00:09 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: djtom@charter.net
Entered From: 24-181-103-45.dhcp.dctr.al.charter.com at 24.181.103.45
Message:
I am so sorry to hear this news. I didn't know Fats personally, but appreciated
so much his hosting this board which helped us keep up with news of the island
we love. My condolences to his loved ones. Very sad news indeed.

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Jan
To: All
Date Posted: 17:05:32 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: JnZirlott@aol.com
Entered From: cache-rtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 152.163.100.200
Message:
I only met him once on the New Years Eve 2004 at Buddy and Anita's but feel that
I had known him for years! He had the most beautiful blue eyes and gentle
spirit. He will be missed by so many peole all over the US. I hope his family
knows how his kind act of sponsoring this board touched so many lives.
William I told you that we all missed you here . Thank You
for letting us all know of the passing of Fats. jz

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 18:32:43 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-155-130-175.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.155.130.175
Message:
Yes, William, we have missed you very much--- it's sad that
it took such an awful occurence to get you back on the board--but I do hope that
you will continue to post- thank you for letting us know---- Love, DD

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Jeff N
To: All
Date Posted: 16:34:13 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: hahabl@yahoo.com
Entered From: ckpnt11.intergraph.com at 65.208.22.26
Message:
This is so sad... I feel like I've lost a father figure, even though I never met
him in person.
I just re-read Eric's last email to me about the GIS system
he was putting together to donate to the town. (We shared a love of maps) This
man wanted to do so much for the Island he loved and the family he brought
together; it's heartwarming to see some of that love returned in the messages on
his board today. Good news Fats! Your vacation on the Island can be as long as
you wish!
Jeff N

Subject: I have an overwhelming sense of loss. My
condolences.nm
From: Marion
To: All
Date Posted: 16:14:39 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: di2@ideawercs.net
Entered From: 68.143.152.33.nw.nuvox.net at 68.143.152.33
Message:

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Marina
To: All
Date Posted: 13:14:32 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: nutfamily5@insightbb.com
Entered From: port2.ins.state.il.us at 163.191.11.36
Message:
I've been sitting here for the past half hour staring at this blank comment area
in total shock. When I read William's post, my heart fell to my stomach. I never
had the opportunity or pleasure to meet Eric in person, but I hoped to meet him
one day. I'm shocked, saddened, sick and thankful I'm the only one in the office
right now as I sit here with tears running down my face. Unless you were a
member of Eric's little DIBB community, I don't think you could understand how
upset we all are.
Did anyone get a hold of Martha? I know her and Eric were
very close friends and she was on her way to the island.
In Fats honor and memory, we must keep this board going. I'm
sure that's what he'd want. I will do whatever I can to help.
My condolences go out to his family and many friends. I'm
happy that he got to Texas to see his son and his family, I know how much they
meant to him. I take comfort in knowing he was among people who loved him.
Rest in peace Eric. You will be greatly missed by us all!
marina

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: VICKI
To: All
Date Posted: 13:21:16 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
I just hung up with her. She finally called me back. She is upset, of course,
and concerned about Holly. She did not know about Fats, and was asking if she
was with Fats. I told her I didn't know anything much, to get on the
board....but she is going to try to find Holly first to see where she is. Thanks
for asking about her. They were good friends. She will be on the island Monday
as planned. Vicki

Subject: Thoughts and Prayers,
From: Doug
To: All
Date Posted: 13:12:28 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: dmcintyre@reeftanklighting.com
Entered From: user-112105l.dsl.mindspring.com at 66.32.128.181
Message:
are with you Fats this day. His work has touched so many lives. I feel as if I
have lost a friend and I never had the chance to meet him in person.
Doug McIntyre

Subject: No! No, No, No!
From: PP
To: All
Date Posted: 11:39:41 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: m.plasman@comcast.net
Entered From: c-24-98-40-129.hsd1.ga.comcast.net at 24.98.40.129
Message:
Can't stop the tears. William, Gertie, Buddy, Bruce, mlowe and all of you who
knew and loved him, I am so sorry for your loss.

Subject: So long Fats, & thanks for all you did.
From: beachbumbob
To: All
Date Posted: 11:25:08 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: bobturner56@hotmail.com
Entered From: adsl-070-147-165-115.sip.mcn.bellsouth.net at
70.147.165.115
Message:
I never got to meet Fats, nor most of the regulars on this board, but thanks to
him, I had a way to get my daily DI fix. Because of Fats' BBS, I feel like I
knew him and many of you who also share the love of one of the last best places
on earth, at least one where we all have a realistic chance to actually spend
time. DI is one of my favorite places on earth, and Fats' BBS was one of my
favorite places in cyberspace, the one site I checked more often than any other,
because of my love of the Island and my desire to keep tabs on her, especially
in light of all the damage she has incurred in the past few years. Thanks to
Fats, I had a way to do that. Not only that, but I have had the opportunity to
meet and discuss with many of you online and share our concern for the Island. I
hope that this BBS can continue in Fats' memory. It would be a lasting tribute.
My prayers go out for his family and all those who knew him as a personal
friend. It is a great loss and a sad day.

Subject: Marcus, we need some contact information.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 10:47:09 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
Please email me at badkins100@usa.net or call me at 251-402-0603 if you have not
given your info to William already. Our prayers are with you all. We loved him
too.

Subject: We are sadder than sad-- what a loss-------nm
From: DD
To: All
Date Posted: 11:25:31 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: jharper5142@msn.com
Entered From: adsl-155-130-175.bhm.bellsouth.net at 72.155.130.175
Message:

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Robert B
To: All
Date Posted: 10:11:59 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: rbusb3101@sbcglobal.net
Entered From: at 170.94.43.242
Message:
Thank you Fats for everything that this BB stands for, you will be missed
by all.
Regrets to the Weiland family.
Robert B

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: chip
To: All
Date Posted: 10:09:03 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: lsjiv@yahoo.com
Entered From: h-69-3-67-42.sndacagl.dynamic.covad.net at 69.3.67.42
Message:
My thoughts are with everyone who knew Eric and considered him a friend.
Although I never met him I have a great deal of respect for the manner in which
he conducted himself and this board. He will be missed.

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: John Judy S
To: All
Date Posted: 09:56:03 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: EvilleBuffett@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
Although we never got to meet Fats we considered him a good friend. Our hearts
go out to his family. From what I know of Eric the world has lost a great man
but God has gained one. My he get to visit the place he loved at his own will
now. We will miss you Fats.

Subject: He smilingly scolded me for roughing you up.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 10:03:48 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
He told me to go easy on you. I said, "he started it", but he said, "well John S
is our resident crumudgeon and we only need one". He told me to "play perty and
not scare anyone off". I'm glad you didn't scare. :)

Subject: Re: He smilingly scolded me for roughing you
up.
From: John S
To: All
Date Posted: 10:42:28 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: EvilleBuffett@aol.com
Entered From: cache-mtc-ad06.proxy.aol.com at 64.12.116.200
Message:
Its a sad day for all of us. Friends are a great asset to all of us. To lose one
is just like losing a family member. You may rough me up and bad mouth me but I
will always still consider you a friend. The people I have met on here will
always be in my heart.

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Neal
To: All
Date Posted: 09:40:05 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: surferbama2001@earthlink.net
Entered From: at 65.5.82.28
Message:
My heartfelt condolences to the family and close friends of Eric. He was a great
asset to the world and I'm sure his legacy will live on in those he touched
while here.

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Ralph
To: All
Date Posted: 09:06:32 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: rhavard@skyynett.com
Entered From: at 216.226.180.3
Message:
There is obviously no good time or way for someone for whom you respect to die,
and I am sad to
learn of Eric Weiland's passing. Though I didn't have the opportunity to
personally meet Fats, I was
so looking forward to meeting him on his planned visit. He has brought a fun,
interesting and
definitely unique group of people together in a bond of lasting friendship. In
Fats' honor we mustn't
let his message board go dark. . . Ralph

Subject: Amen! gj
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 10:34:23 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-75-234.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.75.234
Message:

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: ShaggyMay
To: All
Date Posted: 09:04:20 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: dwilliams@jacksonspalding.com
Entered From: at 209.168.191.74
Message:
Those of you who are close to his family please let us know what we can do.
Flowers? Cards? Anything.

Subject: What impressed me the most...
From: Dave
To: All
Date Posted: 08:56:45 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: Trickhat@aol.com
Entered From: smtp.lbkmgmt.com at 209.44.32.166
Message:
about AF was his unwaivering patriotism, his obvious love and dedication to his
family and especially his rare ability to bring so many people together through
this forum. Although I never met AF, I feel as though I knew him. We need more
people just like him in this world. Godspeed AF

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Tim
To: All
Date Posted: 08:55:02 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: viceman62@earthlink.net
Entered From: adsl-070-147-123-033.sip.mob.bellsouth.net at 70.147.123.33
Message:
My thoughts are with his family and friends.Dauphin Island is
a wonderful place to be but he's in a much better place now.

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Mary Ann
To: All
Date Posted: 08:53:33 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: Maryann29@cox-internet.com
Entered From: ip70-178-208-107.ks.ks.cox.net at 70.178.208.107
Message:
Oh, I am just shocked and very, very sad. I, too, had the pleasure of meeting
him, but I feel as though I have known him for a very long time. A lovely guy,
just lovely. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and this family on his
board. We all loved him. Bless Marcus for calling to let us all know.

Subject: Thank you William.
From: Sandy Toes
To: All
Date Posted: 08:52:22 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: hls@nctv.com
Entered From: host-69-59-68-165.nctv.com at 69.59.68.165
Message:
To the Weiland family. We are all saddened by the loss of
Eric. I had never met "Fats" but felt as though I knew him. He added so much to
our lives and to our enjoyment of our beloved Island. May your Faith in the Lord
and His loving grace for you get you through the coming difficult days and
months. May God bless you all in a special way and give you the assurance that
only He can give that "Fats" has gone on to a higher calling. God will comfort
you. No one else really can.
Sandy Toes

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Sue
To: All
Date Posted: 08:47:32 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: suebilliot@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-190-68-241.dhcp.slid.la.charter.com at 68.190.68.241
Message:
This is just too shocking and sad with him being so close to his much awaited
trip to the island. We never know, do we, when we will no longer walk this
earth. One thing I do know is that Fat's spirit will be smiling down over his
beloved island always.
I will forever be grateful that I got the chance to meet him and be in his
company twice. A man of few words on the message board that has provided so many
of us with information, laughs and friendship.
God Bless you Eric Weiland. We love you and will miss you terribly until we meet
again one day. sue

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Connie
To: All
Date Posted: 08:47:14 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: cfoster2@kc.rr.com
Entered From: cpe-67-48-116-177.kc.res.rr.com at 67.48.116.177
Message:
I am so sorry to here this news. I did not know AF, but he must have been one
hell of a man. He was able to bring all DI Lovers together. If someone is taking
donations for the family or maybe a flower arraingment from the DIBB, please
post info - I would love to contribute. My prayers are with his family and
friends.

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Ken K
To: All
Date Posted: 08:34:35 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: ken_kacker@bellsouth.net
Entered From: adsl-220-193-56.bhm.bellsouth.net at 68.220.193.56
Message:
This is very sad news indeed. Although I have never met Eric, I had a sense of
knowing him from his photos, stories and posts on this board. I too looked
forward to meeting him someday. He has done so much to bring people together on
this board as well as the Frappr site. I am sure that his tireless energy in
promoting and supporting Dauphin Island, as well as his friendship to all will
be deeply missed. I feel a sense of honor that the last picture of the week that
he posted on this board was one that I sent to him. My heartfelt condolences go
out to his family. Rest in peace Mr. Fats. May you live forever on another
island paradise.

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: VICKI
To: All
Date Posted: 08:39:38 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
Very beautiful words, Ken.......

Subject: We all have lost a friend
From: Faye
To: All
Date Posted: 08:22:18 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: faye.kerzic@emersonprocess.com
Entered From: adsl-146-229-101.mob.bellsouth.net at 70.146.229.101
Message:
I am deeply shocked and sorry by this news. I held the warmest feelings for him,
even above the respect he commanded as our board leader. How is it possible to
show his family our sympathy? Please continue to keep us informed.

Subject: Re: We all have lost a friend
From: Mark
To: All
Date Posted: 08:51:41 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: timetrial@gmail.com
Entered From: 24-107-71-192.dhcp.stls.mo.charter.com at 24.107.71.192
Message:
Shocking news. I'm at a loss for words. Eric is such a true friend.
Please do let us know how we can show our support for Eric's
family.
Mark
mark@dauphinislandtimes.com

Subject: Re: We all have lost a friend
From: John and Nancy R
To: All
Date Posted: 09:03:58 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: fabricman@earthlink.com
Entered From: rrcs-24-106-147-134.central.biz.rr.com at 24.106.147.134
Message:

Subject: Yes, please post address for Fats' family.
I'm sure ...
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 10:45:13 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-75-234.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.75.234
Message:
they would appreciate all of your heartfelt remembrances posted here too.
I have never seen such an immediate outpouring of appreciation for a man and his
works.
I feel very lucky to be in contact with each of you. Fats made that possible.
(Katrina made it happen.)
Thank you Fats,
Hoot

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Virginia
To: All
Date Posted: 08:21:40 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: virginiashirley@jam.rr.com
Entered From: cpe-24-170-15-134.jam.res.rr.com at 24.170.15.134
Message:
Thanks, Fats, for all you've done. You will certainly be missed. It is a sad
day, indeed.

Subject: I'm so very sorry
From: R
To: All
Date Posted: 08:15:10 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: r.grice@comcast.net
Entered From: gw2.cox.com at 24.248.72.254
Message:
My prayers and thoughts to the family. I was counting on meeting him one day
soon on Dauphin Island.
Peace.
Rusty

Subject: Great Loss !
From: Markbob
To: All
Date Posted: 08:01:11 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: uithoven@yahoo.com
Entered From: ca03-ch03-bl02.ca-sanfranc0.sa.earthlink.net at
207.69.139.154
Message:
As most of u knew, he was due on the island next week & he was so looking
forward to it! It was Fats that brought us all together. I'm not sure what we
will do without him.

Subject: That's a shocker. Is there anything we should
do? Bruce? g
From: gj
To: All
Date Posted: 08:00:45 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: garyjyoung@swbell.net
Entered From: ppp-66-141-75-234.dialup.okcyok.swbell.net at 66.141.75.234
Message:

Subject: Jumping ahead into the material world, which
I think Fats,,,
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 08:15:13 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
,,, would want, I think we need to build our email contact names from those
currently living on his message board. He brought us all together and I think it
was one of the nicest things he ever did. I imagine this message board will go
black, but I am sure it will rise again, and we need a way to let all his
followers know about it when it happens. I also imagine there will be a fair
size gathering on D.I. soon to pay last respects, and that will take some
coordinating. It's a little too soon to begin that, and it all depends on his
first families wishes. We will keep you all informed. I would suggest that all
us who live here or has lodging here be thinking about how many guests we could
house for a couple of days somewhere in the near future.

Subject: Count me in for lodging. nm
From: Marion
To: All
Date Posted: 17:16:03 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: di2@ideawercs.net
Entered From: 68.143.152.33.nw.nuvox.net at 68.143.152.33
Message:

Subject: Re: Jumping ahead into the material world,
which I think Fats,,,
From: amydune
To: All
Date Posted: 09:24:27 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: amydune62@yahoo.com
Entered From: dpc67142130028.direcpc.com at 67.142.130.28
Message:
I never had the fortune of meeting Fats, but Tim and I are willing to help with
the gathering for last respects. Our house is open. I feel like I know him from
the forum.

Subject: Arkansas Fats was the man- no doubt about it.
From: Jon
To: All
Date Posted: 09:11:16 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: jon@mooncentric.com
Entered From: user-0vvddbd.cable.mindspring.com at 63.246.181.109
Message:
Perhaps his son will enable someone Fats trusted to take over the board. It
exists now, it's really
a simple matter of an account at"hwforums" currently set up and Fats probably
left the password
some where. The board doesn't really have to disappear; it's ten bucks a month
and a dollar per
megabyte of archive space. Also the service provider could probably even help
given the
circumstances. There is probably one person on the board Fats would give the nod
to.
Aside from all that, thank you Fats for your presence in my day to day world,
making it easier
than it would have been otherwise.

Subject: I have emailed the hwforms webmaster to find
out. n/m
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 09:20:59 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:

Subject: Bruce, well stated.
From: Faye
To: All
Date Posted: 08:29:23 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: faye.kerzic@emersonprocess.com
Entered From: adsl-146-229-101.mob.bellsouth.net at 70.146.229.101
Message:
Fats brought us all together, it is hard enough losing him, surely we cannot
lose each other now.

Subject: Re: That's a shocker. Is there anything we
should do? Bruce? g
From: Vicki...Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 08:08:56 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
Someone needs to go see Martha Lowe......if she is on the island....I think she
was leaving today. I have her cell phone number in my book; if I need to call
her, let me know. Vicki

Subject: Martha
From: Carrollbob
To: All
Date Posted: 08:13:57 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: uithoven@yahoo.com
Entered From: ca03-ch03-bl02.ca-sanfranc0.sa.earthlink.net at
207.69.139.154
Message:
Vicki,
If you have her number, I would go ahead and call her just to make sure that she
knows.

Subject: Martha
From: Mary Ann
To: All
Date Posted: 08:59:56 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: Maryann29@cox-internet.com
Entered From: ip70-178-208-107.ks.ks.cox.net at 70.178.208.107
Message:
I think Martha is still in school today, her last day before her spring break.
Martha, get us his address in NLR before you leave town and post here, please.

Subject: Re: Martha
From: VICKI
To: All
Date Posted: 09:07:45 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
Yes, I think you are right...she and her mom were going to leave tomorrow, go
gamble and then to the island Sunday. I left a message for her. Thanks..vicki

Subject: Re: Martha
From: Vicki
To: All
Date Posted: 08:24:01 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: pete_bob_love@yahoo.com
Entered From: 68-93-30-68.ded.swbell.net at 68.93.30.68
Message:
I just tried her cell.....left a message for her to call me, and paged her, as
well. This is going to be so hard on her.

Subject: I got the call this morning from Marcus.
From: Bruce
To: All
Date Posted: 08:00:21 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: badkins100@usa.net
Entered From: at 209.136.113.80
Message:
I could not get the number Marcus was telling on my recorder and was trying to
search using the area code, but I knew from the tone of Marcus's voice, it was
nothing good to hear. Good bye Eric, say hey to everyone on that side, and rest
assured that your ashes will live at Dauphin Island forever if we can make it
happen.

Subject: Re: Very Sad News
From: Jim
To: All
Date Posted: 07:56:14 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: jimfox@gamestop.com
Entered From: at 12.25.107.2
Message:
That's very sad news. My prayers go out to AF's family.

Subject: Very Sad News
From: William
To: All
Date Posted: 07:51:39 03/24/06 ()
Email Address: harper52@yahoo.com
Entered From: 1cust2196.an3.atl16.da.uu.net at 63.17.168.148
Message:
Marcus Weiland just called me from El Paso, Texas. His father, Eric Weiland, or
as we know him, Arkansas Fats, passed away while visiting him and his new
grandson. It was a massive heart attack. I will know more later, but I have a
feeling that Fats will be coming to the Island soon.
