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A Harmonious Journey: Driving Through the Smoky Mountains with ‘Smoky Mountain Rain’

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There are moments in life when everything aligns perfectly, creating memories that stay with us forever. One such moment for me was when I first heard Ronnie Milsap’s “Smoky Mountain Rain.” It was October 1980, and I was driving cross-country, heading to my new duty station for Admin Chiefs school at Parris Island, South Carolina. As a United States Marine who had attained the rank of Corporal, I had started this journey from Southern California, and it was my first time driving through the Smoky Mountains. The scenery was breathtaking. The winding roads, the lush greenery, and the misty, smoky peaks created a serene and magical atmosphere. As I navigated the curves and ascended the mountains, the radio played softly in the background. Suddenly, the announcer’s voice broke through the music, “And now, for the very first time, a new song by Ronnie Milsap called ‘Smoky Mountain Rain.’” Although the song had been officially released in September, it was possible that the radio station was
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The Royals’ New Home: A Nostalgic Trip Down Absurdity Lane

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Municipal Stadium Brooklyn Ave and E 22nd Street  In the latest episode of “Let’s Move the Royals,” the Kansas City Royals are considering a move downtown. But why stop there? Why not take a trip down memory lane and set up shop at the corner of Brooklyn Avenue and E. 22nd Street, where Municipal Stadium used to be? It would make just as much sense as any other suggested location so far. Imagine the nostalgia! Picture this: parking in neighborhood yards, just like the good old days. Who wouldn’t want to relive the thrill of finding a baseball in their flower bed or the joy of explaining to visitors why there’s a good old-fashioned ballpark in the middle of a residential area? It’s like a time machine, but with more traffic and fewer parking spaces. The Sacred Ground This isn’t just any location; it’s the sacred ground where legends like Jackie Robinson, Buck O’Neil, and other Hall of Famers graced the field. Players like Satchel Paige, Ernie Banks, and Cool Papa Bell showcased their ta
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A Bridge, A Bike, and President Truman

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   Imagine meeting a former president while taking a break from a bike ride. Sounds surreal, right? Well, that’s exactly what happened to me. When I was around 6 to 8 years old, in the mid-1960s, I lived in Independence, MO, just a few blocks west of the Truman Library. One particularly hot day, with the sun blazing and the cicadas buzzing, I was riding my bike and decided to rest in the shade under the 24 Highway bridge near the library. To my surprise, President Harry S. Truman himself walked by. We had a brief conversation, though I don’t remember the details. It was one of those moments that felt surreal, almost like a scene from a movie. Meeting a former president while taking a break from a bike ride is not something many people can say they’ve experienced. The funny thing is, at that time, I had absolutely no idea who I was walking with or talking to. Can you believe that? Another reason I often found myself under that bridge was because I had discovered a cafeteria at the Unive
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A Rodeo to Remember: Meeting Jack Lord, the Legendary Stoney Burke, in Independence

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  In Independence, Missouri, the annual rodeo was more than just an event; it was a celebration of the Wild West spirit. Among the cowboys and rodeo clowns, one figure stood out, capturing the imagination of everyone present – Jack Lord, famously known as Stoney Burke and later of   Hawaii Five-0   fame. It was a warm evening, and the rodeo grounds, located between Truman Road and the road off of 291 going north that turns right into the caves, were illuminated just like all rodeos are. Today, this area is known for its historical significance and the extensive underground caves, but back then, it was the perfect setting for a rodeo. The air was filled with the scent of popcorn and the sound of cheering fans. As a young boy, I was thrilled to be there, but nothing could have prepared me for what was about to happen. As the rodeo events unfolded, a hush fell over the crowd. There he was, Stoney Burke, in all his glory. Jack Lord, with his rugged charm and commanding presence, was the ep
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An Unbelievable Journey: A Mother’s Intuition

 Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them. One of the most unbelievable experiences of my life happened during a seemingly ordinary trip to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. I had helped a friend move and was tasked with returning the rental truck. The plan was simple: drive the truck to Eureka Springs, turn it in, and then take a bus the rest of the way home. Little did I know, this simple errand would turn into an adventure I would never forget. After dropping off the truck, the owner asked if I had filled the tank completely. I hadn’t, so I went to the nearest gas station and topped it off, spending just a few dollars. With that done, I asked the owner for directions to the bus terminal. He told me it was just up the street and to the left. Simple enough, right? Well, not quite. I walked and walked, and then walked some more. Nine miles later, I finally reached the bus stop. Along the way, I tried to use my ATM card, only to discover that my account was frozen
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Welcome to Deputy Doug’s Dispatches

Hello everyone, and welcome to my new blog,  Deputy Doug’s Dispatches ! I’m excited to share my journey, thoughts, and stories with you. As a 100% service-connected veteran with Parkinson’s, I have a unique perspective on life, and I hope to create a space where we can explore various interests together. A Journey Through Kansas City Kansas City holds a special place in my heart. From its rich history to its vibrant culture, there’s always something new to discover. One of my favorite spots is the  Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum . Truman’s legacy is a powerful reminder of how humble beginnings can lead to great achievements. Another gem is the  Vaile Mansion  in Independence, MO. Built in 1881 by Colonel Harvey Vaile, this stunning example of Second Empire architecture boasts 31 rooms, nine marble fireplaces, and a 48,000-gallon wine cellar. It’s a testament to the opulence of the Gilded Age and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The Magic of Music and Baseball Musi
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Location: Kansas City, MO, USA
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