My Bad Tequila with Minimum Wage Hike, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy New Year, Feliz Navidad

Amigo Jim RIP; Kentucky Derby; Phins to the West; Pacquiao vs Mayweather - worst title fight ever!

5/31/2015

Amigas & Amigos, what a crazy, incredible fun filled month with a personal tragedy that happened on the last day of May, 2015;

My ol’ Minnesota fishing Amigo Jim shot and killed himself on May 31st as he has had Parkinson’s Disease for many years and was also diagnosed with cancer. Jim RIP

Now, let’s see – We had a lousy fight with Pacquiao vs Mayweather as I predicted in April’s Blog. And, I mentioned two fine running horses and jockeys who were competing in the Kentucky Derby and they were running 1st and 2nd at the finish line. Below is the actual writing from last month’s Blog.

“& as I watch Amigo & fellow Boise, Idahoan Mr. Gary Stevens mount for the last time at this year’s 141st Run for the Roses on Firing Line. If You want to win some dinero, bet Firing Line to Win, Place & Show as he is sure to be 1st, 2nd, or 3rd in Louisville, Kentucky. Another great horse and jockey is American Pharoah with last year’s winning jockey, the humble Mexican, Senor Victor Espinoza.

Also, there is a very, highly overrated boxing match which is being incorrectly billed as the “Fight of the Century.” What a scam when 2 men split $320 million dollars to spend 36 minutes jabbing and sparring with one another in a ring inside MGM in Las Vegas, Nevada. Don’t fall as prey into purchasing for $99.95 pay per view as most bars are even going to steer away from it.”

As you can guess I am pretty pleased with myself even though I no longer gamble or bet on such games, races, or even to purchase a lottery ticket is off limits to this “Compulsive Gambler” of which GA (Gamblers Anonymous) helped save me over eight years ago. Anything to the extreme or compulsiveness is bad news, whether it be drinking, exercising, dieting, drugs, sex – well sex can never be to the extreme unless you’re not getting any and then that is a horrible thing to have to live through, I’ve been told.

I will now predict that American Pharoah will be the next Triple Crown winner. The last horse to win was Affirmed in 1978. But, the horse of all horses was Secretariat in 1973 when he won the Belmont Stakes bya record 31 lengths - The winning time of 2:24 remains a record to this day - An Incredible Horse that ran like a fine tuned Machine!

Where oh Where have I been – Vegas Baby was great as I stayed at the Hilton Elara property which was incredible, saw my Amiga Kim Pinnegar of the Twins Dueling Pianos at Harrah’s and some other beauties scantily clad in bikinis after 12:00 midnight, the cold air conditioning of the casino did do wonders for their body accentuation if you know what I mean.   I also got to visit my Cabo Amigo Mr. Lou Dezarn who is the Engineer at #6 Fire Station in Las Vegas. A great dinner was shared with all the firefighters of that station and Rico donated 3 of his books to the fire station and those brave men that answer the call no matter what the danger.   True Heroes!

Next stop Laughlin, Nevada for the Phins to the West concerts, dances and silent auction all at the Aquarius Resort & Casino. Many great performers including my Amigo Mexico Mark Mulligan from San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico along with other favorites Bob Karwin, The Boat Drunks, Jerry Gontag, Thom Shepherd, The Hula Girls, Southern Drawl Band, Don Middlebrook & the CalypsoNuts. Great artists all of the Trop Rock genre. Got to see many of my old music loving Amigas & Amigos and met lots of new ones as there were folks from three different countries and 18 different states including on the way across the US into the Northeast – Maine was represented as was many, many more. Most came from Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah and Texas because of the proximity to the little gambling town on the Colorado River.

I also had the opportunity to give an interview about the epic, bestselling novel “My Bad Tequila” with Radio A1A hosted by Mr. Dave Burks. “Music for the Road to Paradise” which is broadcasting 24/7 from the Florida Keys. A phucking phantastic weekend was had by all the Parrotheads and Jimmy Buffett is still the King.

Next stop, San Carlos, Mexico with Amigos & Amigas Abby & Kim, Matt & Charlotte, Tony & Gerie with stops in to see Mike at Club de Capitanes and favorite patron & cowboy Tommy Pinnell. Then onto Hammerheads Dockside Bar and Grille where always a pleasure to see Troy and Noreen and there incredible staff including Oscar – he ain’t no Grouch. We had one late noche with birthday boy Joey from Tucson who turned 23 years young, Shane his brother-in-law, Abby, Matt and myself stayed out until the early dawn hours traveling to the Edge and Tequilas where we ran into my Amigo Caeser who kept the cervezas rotating in all directions.

Had the opportunity to hang with Char, Chad, Brittany & Rose on their sailboat - First Step for late night gazing at a full moon and then next evening we went to a birthday party for Amigo Mike and his wife Melissa with a Mexican Blues Band and I loved it when the lyrics came out, "I woke up this morning and I got myself MY beer."   Later that night a huge bon fire next to the Sea of Cortez - trust me, life doesn't get any better than that!

As if this isn’t enough, join me next month as I travel to the Wynn in Las Vegas to celebrate mi Cumpleanos of I’ll give you a hint. Sammy Hagar wrote a song, “I can’t drive 55.”

Until then, Vayan con Dios and be kind to your fellow man and woman.

I’ve nearly finished writing "Mexico got Lucky," a true story about a kidnapped dog in San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico.    I have begun writing "BAJA Crazy, 4 Dusty Days and Wild Nights on the NORRA Mexican Trail" of which I hope to have completed and published by end of 2015.   Both of these reads are going to again be "Classic Rico Austin writing" with more twists and turns than ELVIS PRESLEY had in "Son of the KING, an ELVIS Paradox Unveiled."

Pictures at end and below Advertisements & Acknowledgements!

"Lovin' Life & Livin' Large!" - rico austin

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Please Like my Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/pages/Official-My-Bad-Tequila-Fan-Page/108959375814100?fref=ts

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

Now that You’ve had the opportunity to “LIKE,” it is now time to “Buy.”

http://www.amazon.com/MY-BAD-TEQUILA-Rico-Austin-ebook/dp/B004OC03TS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1427090195&sr=8-2&keywords=rico+austin

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

If you were conned and ended up paying $99.95 to watch chicken Mayweather run from
Manny Pacquaio then You'll recognize this picture as show all night long!

Here's another image from the Pay per View when Mayweather was warming up
with his Amigo Justin Bieber and his pet monkey! Oh & Burger King is now
associated with this wife and child beater who won't fight like a man in the ring!

Kentucky Derby winner American Pharoah with Firing Line one length behind!

How other horses are compared to Secretariat - the Greatest Horse to run

Amiga Kim Pinegar performing at Dueling Pianos in Harrah's Vegas!

Amiga Kim Pinegar with Author Rico Austin at Harrah's Piano Bar

Amigo & Fire Engineer Lou Dezarn at Fire Station #6 in Las Vegas
Author Rico Austin donated 3 of his books to the Bad Dogs of #6

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March Madness concludes in April; New Marketing Books for Everyone; May Day & Cinco de Mayo will soon be here;

4/30/2015

1 Comment

April 2015 Blog

Que Pasan Amigas & Amigos?

March Madness has concluded in April and I believe Wisconsin Badgers got a royal screw job by the referees. The most crazy thing is that the officials were allowed to watch replays and they watched and they watched another angle and then they watched the replays a couple more times while all the announcers agreed that the basketball was last touched by Duke, my neighbor Don and I were watching it and said, great Wisconsin ball, the Duke fans were even holding their faces with angst after seeing the ball roll of the finger of Justice Winslow and the direction of the rotation of the round, brown ball changed by being last touched by a Duke Blue Devil. Then to the overwhelming surprise of everyone other than the referees who are paid to officiate made an asinine call that shook the entire Midwest and Wisconsin. Yep, hard to believe that is what happened Monday night in the NCAA Tournament championship game: With 1:53 left and Duke leading Wisconsin, 63-58, the Badgers' Bronson Koenig missed a layup and, after a scrum for the rebound, the ball went out of bounds off the fingertips of Duke's Justise Winslow. Officials had ruled the ball off Wisconsin. When the Badgers objected, the officials went to watch replays and they took their time rewatching and rewatching while holding up the game. The sports announcers and analysts all agreed that it was an easy call to give Wisconsin the ball. Here is the video of what the rest of the world saw as CBS showed slow-motion replays from several angles: http://www.nj.com/rutgersbasketball/index.ssf/2015/04/badly_blown_call_helps_duke_beat_wisconsin_for_nca.html Now I would highly recommend and suggest checking the officials bank accounts as they made three horrible calls all in favor of Duke. These referees were surely on the take and had money on the game with a Duke win. Now, forever this Championship will have an * asterick next to it as the game was changed.

Congratulations to Mike Krzyzewski of the Duke Blue Devils as he was able to cut down the net after defeating the Wisconsin Badgers during the NCAA Men's Final Four National Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium in 2015 at Indianapolis, Indiana. Duke defeated Wisconsin, 68-63. Notice the score, still 5 points difference, had Wisconsin been given the ball on their side of the court and scored a two point or three point shot they most likely would have won by at least two if not three points since Duke scored a three pointer on that incorrect possession of which Duke should not have even had the ball. It is truly a shame when overpaid, (supposedly professional officials) cannot or will not make the correct call even with the aid of slow motion replay. They’re already wearing stripes so go ahead and just lock them up for fraud and imitating a referee. At least Pete Rose never bet on the Reds to lose and did not have the advantage of giving away a game. So glad that March Madness is over, finally in April, means we are that much closer to football season. Can a get a Hallelujah?

Next month is one of my favorites with Cinco de Mayo, Kentucky Derby & Memorial Day Holiday. Stay tuned as I travel San Francisco to graduate with my Doctorates Degree in Tequila from Dr. Julio Bermejo at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant & as I watch Amigo & fellow Boise, Idahoan Mr. Gary Stevens mount for the last time at this year’s 141st Run for the Roses on Firing Line. If You want to win some dinero, bet Firing Line to Win, Place & Show as he is sure to be 1st, 2nd, or 3rd in Louisville, Kentucky. Another great horse and jockey is American Pharoah with last year’s winning jockey, the humble Mexican, Senor Victor Espinoza.

Also, there is a very, highly overrated boxing match which is being incorrectly billed as the “Fight of the Century.” What a scam when 2 men split $320 million dollars to spend 36 minutes jabbing and sparring with one another in a ring inside MGM in Las Vegas, Nevada. Don’t fall as prey into purchasing for $99.95 pay per view as most bars are even going to steer away from it.

Did I mention that I’ve finished my new Marketing Book? Yes, “Authors, Artists & Anyone’s Personal Marketing Guide, Financial Success with 11 Proven Promotions including Blogs and Social Media” is now available on Amazon.com or BarnesandNoble.com in paperback or eKindle versions; It is has already received 3 fantastic reviews from Authors Lala Corriere, Dellani Oakes and Bonnie Lee. http://www.amazon.com/Author-Artist-Anyones-Personal-Marketing-ebook/dp/B00U490944/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-2&qid=1428905261

Actually, I now have (2) new Marketing Books! The latest being “Entrepreneurs, Realtors & Anyone’s Personal Marketing Guide, Financial Success with 10 Proven Promotions including Blogs and Social Media” which will be available most any day on Amazon.com; Yes, I am sharing my secrets so that others may be as successful financially and personally as I have been blessed. “Knowledge is Power & Sharing is Great!”

I’ve nearly finished writing "Mexico got Lucky," a true story about a kidnapped dog in San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico. I have begun writing "BAJA Crazy, 4 Dusty Days and Wild Nights on the NORRA Mexican Trail" of which I hope to have completed and published by end of 2015. Both of these reads are going to again be "Classic Rico Austin writing" with more twists and turns than ELVIS PRESLEY had in "Son of the KING, an ELVIS Paradox Unveiled."

Pictures at end and below Advertisements & Acknowledgements!

"Lovin' Life & Livin' Large!" - rico austin

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Please Like my Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/pages/Official-My-Bad-Tequila-Fan-Page/108959375814100?fref=ts

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

Now that You’ve had the opportunity to “LIKE,” it is now time to “Buy.”

http://www.amazon.com/MY-BAD-TEQUILA-Rico-Austin-ebook/dp/B004OC03TS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1427090195&sr=8-2&keywords=rico+austin

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

1 Comment

Old WEST is Dying in Scottsdale, AZ: Doc Cavalliere, Reata Pass, Greasewood Flat, Pinnacle Peak Patio; Smart, Cute, Little Ass;

3/31/2015

0 Comments

Como Estan Amigas & Amigos?

Spring is here and in the air. Our Cactus skeleton had four new bird eggs in it and they have all hatched into four fine little peepers wanting food from momma and daddy bird.

Now onto a subject that is really sad: the Old West just came a bit closer to Death out here in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Years ago in Idaho my Dad - Tommie Austin 1940 - 1984 RIP had talked about a place where the Wild West still existed somewhere North of Phoenix, Arizona. I couldn't recall the name of the place; but when I moved to Arizona from Idaho in 1991, it didn't take me long to find the place he had told Cowboy tales of where a man, woman or child could ride their horse in town and tie a steed to the hitchin' post while that person enjoyed a meal or drink and some still wore a holster on their hip with a pistol strapped inside. Never any shootings, just laughter and both boisterous conversations at the bar and quiet whispers of land or cattle deals and horse trading being made at a corner table.

Dad had talked about a man named “Doc” in reverence who was living in Arizona. The only other “Docs” I had ever heard of was John Henry "Doc" Holliday who was an American gambler, gunfighter, dentist, and a good friend of Wyatt Earp. He was a Deputy U.S. Marshal during and after the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and had lived in Arizona, but further south in Tombstone and he was born in 1851 and died in 1887. The other “Doc” was an old Western Movie Star on Gunsmoke and that wasn’t his real name so I knew it not to be either of these men of which my Dad spoke.

Let’s start at the historic Reata Pass Steakhouse in north Scottsdale. During the Arizona Territory days in 1882 Reata Passwas a welcome stop on the 100-plus-mile stagecoach dusty, rocky trail connecting Phoenix/Scottsdale to Fort McDowell and Prescott (Arizona’s original capital). Reata Pass was little more than an oasis in the desert, a watering hole for thirsty horses, cowboys and stagecoach passengers. As the days of the stage coach passed us by, first by the railroad and then by automobiles, the small trickle of visitors dried up, and Reata Pass looked as if it’s well of water would go without drinkers .

Fortunately, for us who love the Old West, George “Doc” Cavalliere purchased Reata Pass in the late 1950s and turned it into a Western-themed “town” and steakhouse. Last year in 2014, the traditional grub such as “buckin’ burgers” and barbecued “ranch-hand-wiches” was rustled up and no longer served as a big home and condo developer purchased it from Doc’s Children and Grand Children after it was in a mismanaged trust upon Doc’s death on a sad day of September 19, 2009 as Scottsdale’s oldest living born resident had passed on from this life. Had Doc Cavalliere lived another 8 days he would have been 93 years of age. George “Doc” Cavalliere was born in Scottsdale, AZ on September 27, 1916. Doc was a WWII veteran who proudly served with the Army Air Corps in North Africa and Bari, Italy, repairing B-24 Liberator airplanes when they returned from their missions in combat. After the war, Doc returned home to Scottsdale, where he took over and worked in the Cavalliere Blacksmith Shop from 1945 until he passed the family business down to his son, George Allen Cavalliere, in the late 1980s. Doc also served as one of Scottsdale's first Town Council members from 1951-1959, and owned the Reata Pass Steakhouse and Greasewood Flat since 1958. Doc was the last living survivor of Mary Alice and George Sydney Cavalliere's eight children, who were one of Scottsdale's pioneer families.

A knee-high foundation of boulders and mortar supported a wooden one-room stage station built in 1882. The old jailhouse across the road from the now torn down steak house is original and was used elsewhere in the 1880's to hold Indian prisoners. Portions of the adobe walls and old stone foundation still exist.

My wife Connie had the very last birthday party at Reata Pass in 2012 with friends and family from all over Arizona, Idaho, California, New Hampshire, Wisconsin and Minnesota who all raved about the authentic cowboy atmosphere.

Now let’s mosey on down the road a mile or two to another Arizona icon, Pinnacle Peak Patio. Sprawling across the base of its namesake peak, this monstrous eatery (seating 1,800 inside and another 2,000 across the ouside patios) delivers an authentic Western experience, right down to the mesquite-grilled, perfectly-greasy steaks that drew rave reviews from BBQ maestro, Bobby Flay. Warning: Don’t order anything well-done or you’ll be served a charred cowboy boot (seriously), by Big Marv Dickson, head chef at Pinnacle Peak Patio Steakhouse. Big Marv has been grilling steaks at Pinnacle Peak Patio since 1961 and has quite a bit of history to share when he leaves the heat of the kitchen to bask in the heat of the Arizona sun. Also, leave your tie at home unless you want it to join the world’s largest collection of clipped ties hanging from the ceiling. (Rumor has it the tradition started when a local businessman refused to remove his tie, so the owner helped do it for him—with a butcher’s cleaver.) I have a tie hanging on the ceiling somewhere. Here’s an interview with Big Marv and showcasing the Pinnacle Peak Patio. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lITzJu5RmS4

On March 28th, 2015 the historic Pinnacle Peak Patio hosted the Scottsdale Rockin West Fest benefiting The Joe Niekro Foundation in helping brain aneurysm patients. The event was at Steakhouse outdoor area - from 10:00 am - 10:00 pm; Live Music by several artists, with Guest Appearances by Jessi Colter, Jerry Riopelle, Jon Chandler, Cyndi Cantrell, Jimmy Brown, a Johnny Cash Tribute & other Western Legends & Hollywood's Film Stars Karl Rove that portrayed Wyatt Earp. Also held, was a special Book Signing by Author Rico Austin including his best seller, award winning, epic adventure & mystery novel My Bad Tequila! We yelled, Come One, Come All – to one of the last Hurrahs at Pinnacle Peak Patio which has been sold and will continue to operate for six to twelve months and then be torn down by a developer.

Connie was ecstatic as she was able to talk a few minutes alone with Jessi Colter and I snapped a picture of them together. The Arizona DUUUDE also made an appearance and we had a photo opportunity. I too, made a new friend with a Smart Ass, who is also a cute little ass that I was able to pick up and hold. Pictures at the end of blog of this cuddly, little ass!

Next on the list is the famous, historic Greasewood Flat began life as an old bunkhouse building in the middle of the sprawling DC Ranch which ranged over thousands of acres of Sonoran Desert in the late 1800’s. Over the last century this desert has developed into one of the most affluent areas of Scottsdale, AZ.

Doc Cavalliere bought 45 acres where Greasewood sits back in 1955 to have a place to get away from “downtown” Scottsdale, 21 miles south. The property came with a little wood and canvas building housing a café known as Pinnacle Peak Patio. He and his wife Marge changed the name to Reata Pass and ran it until 1975. By then they were in their 60s and decided to slow down a bit, so Doc fixed up the old bunkhouse, built some picnic tables, added a dance floor and opened up Greasewood as a little hideaway for his friends.

In typical old west fashion, Doc didn’t consternate too heavily on what to name the place. The area is flat and there are a lot of greasewood bushes – thus Greasewood Flat.

Since then Greasewood has grown into one of the last bastions of Old West Scottsdale, with its outdoor dance floor, corrals full of burros, fire pits, rustic wagons and cast of characters all contributing to an atmosphere that compels you to kick up your heels and toss back a cold one.

While there has been many a celebrity to stop in to whet their whistle, the real celebrities are the locals who have been a part of Greasewood’s unique heritage and main stay throughout the many years.

Last Friday night, March 27th, Connie & I visited Greasewood Flat for the very last time as again We All lose to scamming developers, crooked lawyers & greedy bankers! Last night it celebrated 40 years of a place where a person could feel like they were still in the Old West. I have been coming here since I moved from Idaho in 1991, Connie & I had a very first date here at Greasewood Flat and we were kicked out of our first and only bar together for saying the "F" word! We thought it a joke, but not. We were welcomed back a few weeks later; but, we always warned our friends, “No F-Bombing” at Greasewood. Years later when the New Jersey and New York crowd started visiting, they had to go a little lenient of the “F” word; otherwise, no Northeasterners would ever have enjoyed the Real West and Greasewood Flat or Reata Pass.

In September 2009 Mr. George “Doc” Cavalliere, Scottsdale, Arizona’s eldest, native born resident passed away and now his beloved Greasewood Flat is being destroyed. March 31st was the last day and night being open and I would have loved to been present, but had to travel to Los Angeles for work. Below, at the end of this blog are a few pictures Connie and I took including one of me having one last beer with Amigo “Doc” Cavalliere, a photo of him celebrating his 90th birthday.

A few drops moisture came from my eyes as my memory took me back about ten years earlier on a beautiful, warm Spring day much like it was earlier that afternoon before the sun settled West in that clear Arizona sky.

I lived in the area and frequented Reata Pass and Greasewood Flat whenever the opportunity presented me the free time to walk the grounds and then sit at the bar. I would listen or share in a conversation with strangers, some local and some on vacation, all living the Western Dream.

I had seen Doc a couple three times; but, prior to that day had never felt like I should bother him as he was usually surrounded by either friends and family sharing tales of the past. Too, there were the constant vacationers who would keep him busy with questions while he tried to entertain his guests as his nature was to show great Western hospitality.

That sunny, early afternoon was different, it was quiet and I had arrived after lunch time and before happy hour had hit the magic number of four or five. A beer had been ordered in the old hundred and something year old bunkhouse and I began my slow, methodical pace to look at the old tractor that was covered by an aluminum sheet lean to, the retired, donated license plates from most every state of the lower 48, the rusty farm equipment, the wooden wagons and their amazing steel reinforced wheels, the running windmill, a classic cigarette machine, antique beer signs and an unplugged juke box sitting in a corner of an open barn.

I then noticed an elderly, white haired gentlemen in blue jeans and a plaid shirt watching me as he sat on a picnic bench under one of the giant, shade trees sipping his beer. I waved for I knew it to be the “Doc” of my dad’s tales of which I missed dearly.

Mr. Doc Cavalliere waved back and motioned for me to join him. He told me that he had seen me there at Greasewood Flat and Reata Pass many a time. I then told him of my Father, who was born in Arkansas and moved to Idaho and of the stories he would tell us of his time in Arizona when he was separated from my mother and we boys back in the early seventies.

Doc then said something to me that sent chills through my spine and the light hair on my arms stand at attention. “I remember a Cowboy named Tommie that would ride his horse down here sometimes, I think he was renting a piece of ground near here for his horse and living in a small travel trailer. This guy, Tommie would sometimes bring his guitar with him, play and sing us some songs in the evenings.”

I couldn’t hold back my extreme emotions of excitement and interrupted my elder, something I had always been taught to refrain from, “My Dad’s name was Tommie and he played a guitar and sang Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash and old Hank Williams songs. When he came back to us in Idaho, he had a small white travel trailer and showed us pictures of a horse he had bought in Arizona.”

Doc looked at me and I saw a huge smile develop across his face and a tear form slowly and perfectly from each eye and he asked, “By gosh, You look like your dad, your hair is lighter, but you’ve got his build and strong cheek bones and you grin just like he used to do.” He then asked the question of which the answer surprised him greatly, “How is your, dear old dad doing?”

I looked at the ground and gently kicked some dust to help hide my hurt, “Dad passed away in ‘84’ when I was a young man.”

“I’m sorry son, your dad was a special man that loved the outdoors and the old western lifestyle out here in Arizona. He couldn’t have been very old, hell he was still a kid when he was out here in the seventies, I believe it was.”

“Yes,” I replied he had just turned 43 in December and passed away in early May of quick pneumonia. He died in Grand Rapids, Michigan while driving truck. His driving partner Elvin told us that Dad was not feeling well and was in the sleeper berth behind the cab. Elvin said that Dad never complained about not feeling well, so he knew it must be serious and they both decided that they would drop their load in Michigan and head back to Idaho “bobtail” style with no load. He said he when he tried to wake Dad there was no response, so he put his right hand back there to try and nudge him awake and he was ice cold, so Elvin immediately pulled the truck over. Dad was already gone.” When I finished telling of my family’s loss my voice was nearly broken and I was slightly shaking.

“Since your Father has passed, I’m sure that he would want me to share a personal story of which I’ve never mentioned to anyone. Seems, there must be a reason why we met, probably GOD’s way of handlin’ things,” said Doc in his easy talking style.

“Your Dad told me all about the five of you boys, of your mother, of his drinking and of other things that need not be discussed. I listened and even though I would have loved to have had him come around for many years to come and he could have played here the rest of his life on that guitar and his beautiful, strong voice; but, I told him that he needs to get back to Idaho and to those five boys of his and work through it with his wife. And, I told him to try and ease off on the bottle a bit, even though your Dad was a great deal of fun when he’d had some whiskey in him.”

I hugged Doc and thanked him for sharing an unbelievable story that many others would try to deny.

We tipped our bottles together and I told Doc in a determined voice, “Someday I’m going to write about Reata Pass and Greasewood Flat. A place You, my Dad and I all love and cherish.”

I never saw Doc again during my sporadic and final few visits that were separated by many months and sometimes years because of business travel, family and life, though it was always my favorite place to visit in all of the Great State of Arizona.

My promise was kept to Doc of writing about the Old West, Greasewood Flat and Reata Pass; but, little did we know on that special day we met, I would be writing of it’s obituary.

Doc Cavalliere, Tommie Austin, Reata Pass and Greasewood Flat RIP!

Did I mention that I’ve finished my new Marketing Book? Yes, “Authors, Artists & Anyone’s Personal Marketing Guide, Financial Success with 11 Proven Promotions including Blogs and Social Media” is now available on Amazon.com or BarnesandNoble.com in paperback or eKindle versions; It is has already received 3 fantastic reviews from Authors Lala Corriere, Dellani Oakes and Bonnie Lee. http://www.amazon.com/Author-Artist-Anyones-Personal-Marketing-ebook/dp/B00U490944/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-2&qid=1428905261

I’ve nearly finished writing "Mexico got Lucky," a true story about a kidnapped dog in San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico. I have begun writing "BAJA Crazy, 4 Dusty Days and Wild Nights on the NORRA Mexican Trail" of which I hope to have completed and published by end of 2015. Both of these reads are going to again be "Classic Rico Austin writing" with more twists and turns than ELVIS PRESLEY had in "Son of the KING, an ELVIS Paradox Unveiled."

Pictures at end and below Advertisements & Acknowledgements!

"Lovin' Life & Livin' Large!" - rico austin

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Please Like my Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/pages/Official-My-Bad-Tequila-Fan-Page/108959375814100?fref=ts

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

Now that You’ve had the opportunity to “LIKE,” it is now time to “Buy.”

http://www.amazon.com/MY-BAD-TEQUILA-Rico-Austin-ebook/dp/B004OC03TS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1427090195&sr=8-2&keywords=rico+austin

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

Reata Pass RIP 2014; Tommie Austin RIP 1984;

Cowboy Tommie Austin RIP and his horse visiting Reata Pass for a cold beer!
Circa 1974, photo by Doc Cavalliere

Reata Pass Steakhouse in Scottsdale, Arizona

R
REATA PASS Legend

REATA PASS Water Tower & Prison - photo by Sheila Webster

Connie & Author Rico Austin's last night at Greasewood Flat

Author Rico Austin having one last beer with Amigo "Doc" Cavalliere at Greasewood Flat

Our last night at Greasewood Flat, we did purchase some t-shirts 3-28-2015

"I'm not Lisa" said Jessi Colter. Miss Jessi and Connie Austin at Pinnacle Peak Patio

Jessi Colter and Rico Austin at Pinnacle Peak Patio - gave Jessi signed copy of
"My Bad Tequila"

Author Rico Austin with the Official Arizona DUUUDE - Mr. Bob Roloff
& his signed copy of "In the Shadow of ELVIS"

Rico Austin & Doc Cavalliere have left Greasewood Flat - SAD Night 4 ALL!

Connie Austin with new friend Martin - what a cute, little Ass
at Pinnacle Peak Patio in Scottsdale, AZ

Author Rico Austin holding a cute, little Ass named Martin!

             Author Rico Austin with Hollywood Actor Martin Kove whose credits
                    include John Kreese the mean, Karate Instructor in the Karate Kid!

One of my favorites: Martin Kove starring as Jackson, the helicopter pilot,
in Rambo: First Blood Part II, TriStar, 1985; Photo by Gallery of History, Inc.

Front Cover of Author Rico Austin's latest published book!

Back Cover of Rico's newest published work:
Authors, Artists & Anyone's Personal Marketing Guide,
Financial Success with 11 Proven Promotions including Blogs and Social Media

Bonus Photo: the Gorgeous Hollywood Starlet & Rico's Amiga Mamie Van Doren

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Caboholics 4th Annual Convention; Tribute & Remembrance of Steven F. Austin; Audrey on Red Carpet at the Grammys

2/28/2015

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February Blog 2015

Amigas & Amigos, the end of February has graced us with its short month and what a blast as I have “Blame it on Mexico” to bear most of the fun experiences.

February is usually a tough month for me as it was the 28th of February 1978 that I lost my youngest brother to a tree climbing / falling accident in which he broke his neck at the young age of 10 years. I try to look at it as a blessing, because little Steven is in heaven and didn’t have to see the World Trade center fall to terrorists, has not seen the devastation by Mother Nature done to Earth and its humans by way of Hurricane, Tornado, Cyclone, Earthquake, Drought and Famine to name just a few. Yes, Steven had a great life of 10 years with very little heartache and misery. He was one of the lucky ones, as Billy Joel wrote & sang, “Only the Good Die Young.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhjNm20XbXw

Now, “Blame it on Mexico” by Mr. George Strait http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=blame+on+mexico&FORM=VIRE2#view=detail&mid=582F770387AD3371347E582F770387AD3371347E

What a fantastic month and visit to Cabo San Lucas because of the Caboholics 4th Annual Convention, a group started by Johnny & Maddie Corona. Here is their description on Facebook of what a Caboholic is: “This group was created to help all Caboholics cope with the day to day struggles of Caboholism....” “YES, I am a true Caboholic,” but there are another 6,000 members plus that are true Caboholics as well.

Not sure who is and was with more famous people. My niece Audrey Austin was with the Grammy folks in Tinsel Town & I'm hangin' in the town that Amigos Sammy Hagar, Brian Flynn, Miguel Hill & Johnny Corona built! Lovin' the Caboholics Support Group! Audrey you and Courtney deserved this trip & I included 3 photos mixed into the Caboholic photos for a nice variety and mix. Thank You for making me proud and please ignore the bad words in this blog, they are used strictly for emphasis and sensationalism! love Uncle Rico

Well, my adventure began on the early morning of Feb. 5th, for a 6:20 am flight 2787 of which Southwest would not check my luggage all the way through from PHX – SJD because of the many hours of layover between my connecting flight in SNA Orange County. Fog was heavy in Orange County so my flight was canceled and I was moved onto a later flight that was late leaving; however I was assured by the gate agents of Southwest Air that I would be able to retrieve my bags and books, recheck at Orange County and then reboard the same plane bound for Cabo San Lucas. But Guess Fuc-ing What? The lead agent at SNA Orange County was not onboard with the plan and told me that I needed to check my luggage at least 1 ½ hours before the flight – r U kidding me? I just arrived via Southwest and could not check my luggage all the way through as per Phoenix agents. SNA agent Jacquie Plitt smugly tells me with a smile on her face, “You’re not going to Cabo today and You’re not going to Cabo tomorrow!” I asked why I wouldn’t be able to go manana Feb. 6th and she said, “because we’re sold out.”

Unbelievable, they wouldn’t put me up for the two nights so I had to fly back to Phoenix and was charged by “Jacquie Plitt the Southwest Twit that doesn’t give a Shit” about customer service, you or I.

I then booked with USAirways flight 532 on Feb. 7th and arrived safely into Cabo to begin my incredible adventure which makes PeeWee Herman’s adventure look like child’s play on Saturday.

My first night was spent at Siesta Suites right in the middle of Cabo – very convenient and clean. I loved it except for the episode of the “Hand” of which I’ll get to in just a bit. First stop after checking into the hotel was to see my Amigo Chris Shuler of Gonzalez, Texas Fame and his restaurant La Palapa where I met fellow Caboholics Pam and Jim Conway. Pam was experimenting with a new drink and “of all the margarita joints in all the towns in all the world I walk into her,” instead of Chris who was nursing a toothache. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qa8d-jwFwds – scene from Casa Blanca with Humphrey Bogart. Yes, I walked into the right bar at the right time to try the first “Blue Snapper” – pictures at the end of the blog.

Later that night I stumbled into Two for the Road Jazz Spot owned by great friends Kathy and Marty Daniels. Kathy was relaxing at the bar while Marty played piano and newly met Amiga Corey Prentice whom all afore mentioned are also of that special, giving, partying, fun loving Caboholics Support Group. I would be back Monday night for a book signing and to hear Ms. Kathy Daniels belt out the tunes with her deep, melodic, blues baritone voice.

Now, for the scariest part of this blog except when I was trapped in an elevator for a short time because of a power failure as I held the cold, metal handrails tightly waiting for a freefalling crash to the bottom of six high flights of stairs. Complete darkness and of course I had my sunglasses on which made the darkness even more magnified and me more terrified than when I saw the “HAND!” I had only shared this story in first “hand” conversation with one other person – Ms. Brooke Yoder of Clark, Washington, who was fairly impressed when I told her that I knew where Clark, Washington was located and had eaten at the local Taco Bell some odd years ago. I shared the story over a drink at Happy Endings, bar #2 (officially, I believe) on the Poker Crawl a few days later. What did not impress me about Brooke was her laughter after I confided my torturous, medieval tale of fear that had enveloped me my first sunny morning wake up at the Siesta Suites – woooo!

It was early morning and the bright sun was shining through the only window in my room, a small, rectangular window set high on the wall. I opened my eyes in celebration of my first full day in Cabo which would be my first opportunity to meet Maddie and Johnny Corona and many other Caboholics. As I went to stretch my arms I saw a shadow of a huge hand, it was the largest shadow of a hand that my eyes had ever seen and it was nearing my neck. I grabbed the covers, pulled them over my head and awaited the hand to squeeze the last breath from my stiffened, trembling body. Nothing, nothing, this killer with the giant hand was toying with me. Was he or it still near the bed? Was it or he still in the room? Seconds, turned into minutes and minutes into more and finally I eased back the cover and I am alone. I then move my arm and the hand suddenly reappears, just as enormous, just as frightening and again I grab for the covers, this time I noticed that the hand joined in the same movements as did my own arm and hand. Thank Goodness, it was a good hand that had clapped many times to great performers, had held other hands much more softer and gentler than his own. It was a hand that knew what hard work in the fields felt like, it was a hand that had stroked and touched every fiber of his own skin at one time or another. It was a firm hand of which had been placed on his body’s heart when the Pledge of Allegiance was recited and the Star Spangled Banner was played or sang at the opening of a ball game. It was Rico’s own hand and he silently clasped it with his other hand in joy and reunion that another day in Cabo would be had.

I jubilantly jumped for joy as I rose from the double bed with a single guy that is married and took a shower. I met Alex and thanked him for his hospitality, asked for directions to Cabo Cantina because I had a book signing to attend with fellow Caboholic Author Stuart Gustafson with his best seller Missing In Mexico.” I had never met Stuart, but our books of Mexico have rivaled each other on the eKindle version of Mexico Travel Genre many times in the last 3 years. My Bad Tequila is rough, startling and goes down like a double shot of raw Tequila. Missing In Mexico is smooth, tranquil and flows like a tasty, well blended margarita. Great stories are both; but, as different and diverse as Mother Mexico.

As I made the very, short walk around two corners and down the main street to help glow in the celebration of the grand opening of the “Official Caboholic Store,” my face lit up like a lighthouse on a foggy night as did another lighthouse like face nearby – Mr. Johnny Corona in the flesh, just as I had seen him a hundred times and more on facebook with his Mexican style sombero, with brown, gray and some snowy colored hair, covering part of his face and atop covering all his head. Even if his hair someday finds itself alone with white color, this man will never be mistaken for Santa Claus as his belly does not look like a bowl of jelly when he laughs and Mrs. Maddie Corona will never be mistaken for Mrs. Claus as Maddie has beautiful dark hair and a complexion of a Greek Goddess.

I waved the instant I saw Johnny and he to me as in a second Mr. Corona too knew who I was by our constant companionship on Facebook with hundreds of other true, cyber friends who all love each other and respect the friendships we’ve developed and nurtured. His computer was open under the palapa that shaded his table, his chair and his communication device. A Corona cerveza set within an easy grab length from whichever key he choose to stroke with his quick, fun anecdotes of sharing his love of Cabo Life, Boobs, Dogs, Maddie, Cabo Blue and not in this order as his first and greatest love is of his mate for life – the other, prettier Corona.

Johnny stood as I moved closer and we held each other like Brothers reunited after years apart, sailing other seas. I was so pleased that I met Johnny for a one on one time that will forever be cherished as the opportunity to talk with Johnny alone again came up once more at the Auction on the second floor outside when he asked me, “Did you bid on anything?” “YES,” I responded, “on YOUR empty Arco del Cabo Tequila bottle that Miguel Hill gave you.” Johnny smiled. Later that week I took home to Arizona a small part of Cabo San Lucas history.

After about ten minutes three more individuals walked up to our table, two of them gave Johnny a big hug and introductions were made of the Seahawk wearing couple and their friend. David Bambino who has the tan of a thousand Italians and his bonita esposa – Ms. Marnee Ricker of Spokane, WA and their amiga Kat Drake, whose mission in life is to drive old and young men wild with her female exoticism (someday her Grandchildren will read this & the questions will fly).

Next came Maddie and Pam, so I quickly hugged and introduced myself to Maddie as she and Angel were getting ready for the grand opening with putting on the finishing touches and setting up the donated gifts and books. I asked Pam, “Have you brought any Blue Snapper’s to go,” and gave the fiery redhead a hug.

I then had the extreme pleasure of meeting another couple from the New England area that were great friends with the couple from the Spokane area. Liz N Theo Joyal as per their Facebook name greeted us with Liz’s gorgeous, soft face and strong, Bostonian accent. Theo had the persona and looks of Jimmy Buffett relaxing somewhere in the Keys of Florida. A big Grin and a heart a thousand times that of Grinch after it had Grown.

Stuart Gustafson introduced himself and we signed for each other a copy of one another’s best seller and decided that we needed to share a margarita or three. Miguel Hill showed up with amp, guitar and his great voice as did his amiga Frannie Kapsalis who was busy taking many new Arco Tequila orders of which I placed one for the red bottle that is missing from my home collection. I had met Miguel Hill a few years earlier when he had serenaded my wife Connie and I at his restaurant as we sipped Arco del Cabo Tequila and marveled at Miguel’s songs and agave juice. It was great to hug Miguel again and smell the Tequila on his breath as he too took in the aroma of the tequila that hung heavy with me.

The sweet, sweet Mariana Estrada-Tallman came waltzing again into my Cabo life and I once again felt complete. I had met Mariana on that same trip to Cabo when I first met Miguel and Mariana introduced me via facebook to Miguel and the delightful, hospitable Mr. Juan Ramon Tatemura Quesada of Cabo Lounge Bar fame. Mariana was also responsible for introducing me to the great couple Kathy and Martin Daniels of Two for the Road Jazz Spot of which is a staple of my rich diet in Cabo San Lucas. Too, through this social girl, I had met amigo Jay Nance of whom had once owned the Cabo Lounge Bar, but is now a residing neighbor in Arizona. Mr. Larry Bryan came over and introduced himself and told me, "I've been waiting to get my hands on that book of yours, called My Bad Tequila and so it was and so it shall be. Gracias Larry for the true compliment. And a special Thank You to Danny Matthews D Griss for taking the many, memorable photos.

After many songs, ribbon cutting of the opening of the Caboholic Store, some book sales, tequila consumption and cerveza sipping I was asked by Liz N Theo if I wanted to join them, Dave and Marnee, Kat, Brooke and Mariana at J&J La Casa del Habano for some great tequila tasting and a Mojito that Hemingway would appreciate. How could I say anything except, si, Si, SI, Vamos! ;-)

Gran Centenario Anejo Tequila has now taken the place in my mind where I thought about sex, boobs, rock n’ roll, fishing, guns, bigger boobs and other manly shit. Liz N Theo introduced me to this nectar of blue agave, fabulous, fucking good tequila and I am in love. I held her, I smelled her, I caressed her, I sipped her, I nibbled her, I tasted her on my tongue, in my mouth, throughout my body and then I wanted my way with her again and again. Each time her bodily fluids running wild through my veins and I knew I would not find another that satisfied me again, in this way, on this earth. In Cabo, I have found true love, I now just call her lovingly, “Tequila!” Even now, she is beckoning me to join her.

I am now awaking each and every morning at the Playa Grande Resort on the sixth floor, in a suite on the corner with 180 degree views of Cabo and the Pacific Ocean, but I am not alone, “Tequila” is near me.

Dear Andy Benish each morning helps start our day, with a "Good Morning Caboholics" picture and wake up call. We do all love seeing his name and the new locale he has decided to bless the Facebook wall with. Keep up the Great Work, we all love and appreciate it and you.

Next on the agenda, the Meet & Greet of the Sponsors for the Caboholic Convention of which I am extremely proud to announce that “My Bad Tequila” book is in great company with other fine restaurants, bars, cantinas, tequilas, condos, delivery services, taxis and hotels. The venue chosen was exceptional at The Giggling Marlin. This is where I first saw and met Flat Chad Erchul and we became constant companions only being separated by the resorts we had unwisely chosen separately. I think I met Flat Chad’s wife Laura briefly, but it was Flat Chad that consumed my time and laughter. We hit strip joints, late night parlors and bars that only Flat Chad knew the password to get in. One night we hooked up with Brian Williams, just the three of us and we were so indiscreet at the Go Go clubs that nobody even recognized any one of us. It was such fun to be with two other celebrities and none of us getting hounded by autograph seekers, mothers that wanted us to kiss their boobies, I mean babies and naked women flaunting themselves carelessly in harmful yet sexy ways (well, that part, we would have been okay with). Usually when I go out with other famous people such as Captain Wild Bill Wichrowski, Sammy Hagar, Zach Galifianakis, Paul Michael Glaser aka Starsky, David Hasselhoff and Lou Dezarn never do we get a quiet moment to just talk like the regular guys we are, except that we’re super famous and chicks dig us and guys want to hang out with us and we get free shit all the time.

Oh speaking of Lou Dezarn, he did leave his famous firehose in Vegas where he regularly hangs out with Carrot Top, Siegfried and Roy, Mike Tyson and occasionally Nicholas Cage to bless us with his presence in Cabo. He also brought a special, little treat with him by the name of Lisa Morin DeZarn who enhances his appearance greatly. Well, I knew it was going to be kinda of an odd event when Texan Katherine Tanton gives me a “Keep AUSTIN Weird” pin shaped like the Texas Flag and Belinda Travers is coaxing me to “Go ahead & wear it” as she pokes it into my shirt and into my skin and playfully adds, “a little blood never hurt anyone.” Lou not wanting to let everyone know that it is really him in the flesh that has made an appearance as the emcee at Giggling Marlin announces himself as Rico Austin and is wearing my “Rico Austin” name tag. So, lo and behold I am given the “Lou Dezarn” name tag and I’m surrounded by women that are telling me that I’m much better looking in person than on television and the movie screen. Being that I know how to handle hot and really hot women in these “Weird” circumstances and “Weird” situations I just let them compliment me and touch me and plant kisses all over my body. Now, Lou sees this and guess what, he goes beserk, saying “I’m the real Lou Dezarn!” That is Rico Austin a low life imitator of an author that became addicted to “Tequila” and he’ll never love you the way that I love Lisa. I just smiled that smile that I’ve seen Johnny Corona do a million times over again and signed another boob, not pretending it was a book.

Hang on, because “AUSTIN keeps getting Weirder” as a tall dude from Folsom Prison, I mean Folsom, California struts into the bar that has a Giggling Marlin as it’s mascot and says, “My name is Craig Duggins, I’m here to meet my amigo, Rico Austin” and then notices the name tag on Lou’s puffed up chest and states, “You’re an impostor because Rico and I are good facebook buddies and I have an autographed copies of all his books.” Lou begins to stutter and the microphone is powered to “Super ON” and everyone whether a Mexican National, Canadian or American heard both Lou and Brian Williams claiming to be someone that they may or may not be and in desperation Lou belts out a “Meatloaf Challenge” to Chris Shuler who was minding his own business and that of three single ladies. Seems that the talented and famous Lou Dezarn had cooked a few meatloaves for Siegfried and Roy at the Mirage on “Tiger Tuesday” at the Mirage and had heard about Senor Shuler’s famous meatloaf in the food circles of which he hung with. Chris accepts the challenge in his Texas drawl on one condition, “That it is held at La Palapa and all proceeds go to Charity” and shows his belt buckle that he won in a meatloaf cook off in Nashville some 17 years ago to the three single girls that could have or might have been older than 50 years young so that would have made them only 33 years of age when Chris Shuler took home the belt buckle and the waitress / judge.

I’m just enjoying the show as “Tequila”, Liz N Theo Joyal and I enjoy each other’s company. I give Flat Chad a high five & since FC knew everyone that was anyone, he introduced me other friends of Katherine and Belinda – who turned out to be Michelle Lopez Anthony, Patti Slater, Donette Wilson Sullivan, Kristin Couillard, Amanda Osborne, Karen Donovan Joyce, Patti Markus, Kathy Hammer, Dot Hayes, Cabo Di and a bunch of other fun, “Giggling” Girls. I believe I heard a “great tale” (pun intended) that Belinda Travers gave to her BFF Patti Slater the first #1 “Whale Tail Caboholic Pin” or perhaps it was the other way around; but it was a heartwarming story of which I wish I had heard Paul Harvey’s “The Rest of the Story.”

After talking with Chris Shuler about the fun and adventures that Wild Bill Wichrowski of Deadliest Catch and I have had we all decided to go to Blue Cabo for cocktails, singing, dancing, romancing and karaoke. I make one last walk around looking for Amigo David L. Van Amburg as we have been chatting on facebook about this trip for months. Still a no show! I probably should make a Disclaimer for this Blog only: “The events happened, the day or night in which it actually happened may or may not be correct. Remember Boys and Girls, Tequila and Cervezas were involved which both are considered Alcohol and are Mind Bending, Memory Losing substances that can help distort your thinking that you’ve become a great dancer, a beautiful voice that has to be heard or that you have become bullet proof and hard falls just make you stronger.” Alrighty then, off to Cabo Blue where Craig and I become heavily intoxicated and talked with several individuals including but not limited to Rick Ayers, , Scott Moore, Alan Thiers and involved in multiple fun conversations of which I don’t recollect many or any of them with the charismatic couple of Kathryn Riechel Stoner and Kirk Stoner of which when my bar tab came due at the end of the great, hot evening my credit card could not be accepted and Margo Marek had to give me the dismal news. I was confused, distraught, embarrassed and several other things that I don’t have the time to list or describe. Low and behold a man who I had just hours earlier met said, “No problemo Rico, here’s $2000 pesos to get you by until you can get things straightened out with your bank or credit card.” How Awesome is Kirk Stoner, he is that Awesome. The next day I called the credit card company, got it straightened out, had mucho casho dinero and when I went to pay Kirk back he tells me, “You signed us a couple of books, take some of that money back.” No way Jose or Kirk, or whatever Your name is: You did a great deed and You will get full payment. Kirk then bought me a beer with his money. ;-) Kirk and I took pictures together with the “Cabo Stong” picture frame. Thank You Amigo!

What day is it now? Maybe Monday, yes Snorkeling and Booze Cruise named Cabo Escape and there were so many of us that others had to go on the Pirate Ship – Cabo Legend? YES, Garrett Doyle was correct with his ever conviction of a prediction that "We're gonna need a bigger boat." Best booze cruise I’ve ever been on, might have been the Caboholic persons, might have been the endless cervezas and tequila, might have been the whale show of which Amiga Katherine Tanton captured a superb shot with her iPad of a breaching whale. I see the whales, the cocktails, but still no David L. Van Amburg. I’m still wondering why Bob Noxious and Mariana Estrada Tallman got preferential treatment and were boarded prior to us others. Could it be that they are well respected in the Circle of Captains of Cabo? YES, great Trip, snorkeling not so great, but the cool water, just hangin’ drinkin’ cervezas in the Sea of Cortez was one of the highlights of the trip. Got to party some more with Justin Erfle, Jessica Ross, Craig Duggins, Mariana, Bob Noxious and some other cool people. Wish Liz N Theo Joyal hadn’t left for the cold just yet. They would have enjoyed another day with Dave, Marnee, “Tequila” and I. This song is for Liz N Theo – You and Tequila make me Crazy by Kenny Chesney; http://www.bing.com/search?q=you+and+tequila+make+me+crazy&src=IE-TopResult&FORM=IETR02&conversationid=

I now have time to go back to Playa Grande Resort, take a swim, perhaps a nap and even a shower (just kidding, of course I took a nap.) I get on Facebook and there is a message from David L. Van Amburg that there has been a family emergency and he will not be making the trip to Cabo. I’m sad for him, say a little prayer and take a nap. Time to get dressed, get my remaining books together and head over to the Two for the Road Jazz Spot for a night of great music, tequila drinking and book signing and maybe a hug or four from a female fan. Yes, Kathy and Marty Daniels are two very special people to Cabo and to me. I love them both dearly and have had many late night conversations , some serious, some outrageous and some just plain slapstick silly, but all enjoyable and meaningful. I did a couple of readings, one from “My Bad Tequila” and another from “In the Shadow of ELVIS, Perils of a Ghostwriter.” I drank some good tequila, shared some memories and stories and stumbled home feeling complete. Well, my home that night was in the backseat of a pickup as my poor little, tired, drunk self just couldn't make it up that hill again. Thank You Mr. Truck owner for not locking the door.

It might be Pub Crawl Day or Meat Loaf Cook Off Day? They’re all running together. Busy schedule, no time for the beach or the pool as I’ve got Amigas & Amigos to see, pubs to crawl to and meatloaf to taste. Guess, I’ll go with the Meatloaf Cookoff since it involves my two, too good amigos Lou & Shu as their head to head competition has them slated. I choose not to judge as I know I’ll love them both and I can not, will not, would not, could not, should not judge this food extravaganza. It was close, but Chris Shuler took home another belt buckle and waitress / judge and Lou, well Lou is still famous and will go back to Vegas to his glamourous lifestyle while the rest of us will return home to our dull and meaningless lives of writing books, milking cows, counting money, selling tires, fixing people’s lives, mending broken bones, serving meals to the homeless, bartending, giving root canals, selling mansions and mega real estate, farming the field, picking the grapes, teaching young children to read, drilling for oil, fishing and prostitution.

Okay, we might be doing the Pub Crawl that consisted of 11 or 12 stops? You might have noticed my detail is getting less and less as I am hovering at over 5,500 words just on this single topic which is over 1/10th of a novel. Some of this may go into a short story or into “My Bad Tequila II, the Next Bottle!” I am going to premature apologize for not remembering all of the Pub Crawl Bars and Sponsors – will try to list what I remember: Hooligans was the last stop I believe, Happy Ending, Wicked Pizza, The Wet Cactus, Cabo Blue Bar, Tanga Tanga, The Jungle Bar, Rips, Cabo Cantina, Rock n Brew, Uno Mas, Sangria Bar & John’s Place. I do remember some of the people on our team – Bob Noxious – team captain, heavy drinker; Jessica Ross and Brooke Yoder and some other people that I couldn’t tell if they were on our team or someone else’s team as the teams were kind of all there or maybe I was just seeing double and triple. I know that Bob told me I won a “I’m a Caboholic” koozie that I had to give my wife when I returned home, but I have Johnny Corona’s empty Arco bottle and a Sponsor Banner given to me by Maddie.

I also need to mention that some events were very charitable, not only in giving dollars and pesos; but, with time donated and spent visiting orphans – Feeding Los Cabos Kids, homeless animals – Humane Society and El Ranchito. I am sad to say that I was signed up for the El Ranchito in San Jose, but missed the ride. Stayed out too late at Two for the Road Jazz Club. Thanks to Maddie for arranging this and to all those that spent part of your valuable vacation time doing something Fantastic and Unselfish.

Hiking Solmar with Cabo Kruzer, the other hike was to be led by Bob Noxious, but he injured his foot and had to cancel so that gave me a legitimate reason to cancel. Thanks a lot Bob!

George Landrum also donated a Fishing Trip Raffle in honor of his late wife Mary at the “Meet and Greet.” “Great Respect for a Great Man that has Respect for a Great Woman.” – rico austin

Todos Santos Day Trip to see the famous Hotel California. I wanted to take this excursion, but will wait to share it when my bride can tag along and I believe we’ll probably spend the night.

Cabo Villas Pool Party was a blast, music a blaring, skin a bearing, Miguel a sharing (his Tequila). I remember seeing Maddie getting pulled around the pool like a queen on her inflatable chariot by several different roman soldiers. I even took my tour of duty like a brave infantryman. I sold a couple of books which bought me a couple of drinks. What happens in Cabo, stays in Cabo, we don’t need no stinkin’ IRS.

Fire truck engine ride time! I may be a mongrel Heinz 57 mutt; but, for the first time in all my puppy life I knew what it felt like to be a Dalmation with the wind blowing through my white and black spotted hair, the shrill whistle screaming through my alert ears and my little pug nose getting to smell every little taco stand that we whizzed by with my skinny little tail wagging huge in the air as I was waving my paw at all the children, workers, vacationers, shop owners and other mutts in the street! Pam Conway with her not matching red hair to the red fire truck sat up front. Thanks for a fun time Karen Libby, Scott Martin, Jim Conway, Garrett Doyle and his lovely bride / wingman as he calls her – Maureen Fine Doyle who celebrated her 60th year since birth with the Caboholics. Gracias Bomberos Voluntarios de Cabo San Lucas for your fire protection and Amiga Maddie Corona for putting this together and Amigo Lou Dezarn for convincing me that this was an activity not to miss! Feeling like man's best friend!

Finale was the Dinner / Auction at Desperado’s where many of us donated items of which we made, built, wrote, drank from, or spent cash on providing. The highlight of the night was when they auctioned off the cardboard “Cabo Strong” sign made by Mr. Kevin Crosby (THANK YOU KEVIN) that toured the San Jose / Cabo San Lucas area during the devastating Hurricane Odile. Johnny Corona had the winning bid at I believe $500 and purchased it for his love and partner of Cabo – Maddie Corona. I love the Haneys! I’m just going off a bad memory, but I believe the total raised for the week for various charities was $11,000; If I was still gambling I would double down on that figure as I know how lucky we are as Caboholics and how this group continues to amaze me when it comes to helping others that desperately are in need. Again, Garrett Doyle was correct in his many posts "We're gonna need a bigger boat," and Miguel Hill played his music and sang his Cabo songs and I have my beautiful "Tequila" on my lips.

Special shout out to The Wet Cactus and Keith Perry’s incredible crew. On my last, lonely night I decided to go and have the Lobster Nachos, met a nice couple of Caboholics from the Salt Lake City, Utah area and left my bag that had my Sponsor Flag and my empty bottle of Arco that had previously been finished off by Johnny Corona at The Wet Cactus. When I returned home to my resort I realized I had left the bag of goodies and called the bar. They had the merchandise behind the bar and gave it to me. For their honesty and help, I have them $100 peso and all of us were happy. I relayed this story via facebook to Keith and we also received great news that none of his immediate family were seriously injured in the vehicle accident. GOD is Great!TODOS SANTOS DAY TRIP

DINNER / AUCTION AT DESPERADO'S TODOS SANTOS DAY TRIP

DINNER / AUCTION AT DESPERADO'S CABO ESCAPE / CABO LEGEND SNORKEL PARTY

CABOHOLIC POKER/CANTINA CRAWL

TODOS SANTOS DAY TRIP

DINNER / AUCTION AT DESPERADO'S

I have lived the CABO life, where everybody gets treated like a Rock Star including Sammy Hagar (The Red Rocker)! Last minute one-way fare to CABO $383.00; Taxi from SJD to downtown CABO $17.00, a Blue Snapper drink $10.00 at La Palapa, getting to be on stage with Brian Flynn and/or Miguel Hill, sharing a margarita with Dave and Marnee and having a Mojito at J&J Hemingway's with Liz N Theo Joyal- Priceless!

Lost & Found Section: I lost my pet Scorpion - Sting and my "Keep AUSTIN Weird" pin given by Amiga Katherine Tanton. I am extremely distraught about both losses, more so than my virginity which also fell by the wayside, but that was before I boarded the plane. Last time I saw either one of the other two was on my flight back to Los Angeles. If any of you happen to hear of a story involving someone getting a prick or stung, please notify me immediately and please keep it quiet. I don't need no bad publicity no time, no where, know what I mean. http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/15/us/lax-scorpion-plane/index.html

Pictures at end of Advertisements!

"Lovin' Life & Livin' Large!" - rico austin

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Please Like my Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/pages/Official-My-Bad-Tequila-Fan-Page/108959375814100?fref=ts

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

Now that You’ve had the opportunity to “LIKE,” it is now time to “Buy.”

http://www.amazon.com/MY-BAD-TEQUILA-Rico-Austin-ebook/dp/B004OC03TS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1427090195&sr=8-2&keywords=rico+austin

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com
blog.mybadtequila.com

CABO, YOU Complete ME!

Caboholics 4th Annual Convention - February 7th - 14th, 2015

Author Rico Austin with fellow Caboholics Liz N Theo Joyal & Rico's true love "Tequila"

We're celebrating the life of Centenario (TEQUILA) & of being blessed as a Caboholic!

Rico, Theo Joyal, Kat Drake, David Bambino, Marnee Ricker, Mariana Estrada & Liz Joyal

Yep, some of Rico's adventures begin at the Airport! & no he's not scared, just confused!

My beautiful neice Audrey Austin & cousin Courtney Shippy at Grammys

There are those 2 beautiful girls making their way to the Red Carpet!
Stayed tuned for the next picture!

Okay, it is Official, Audrey & Courtney are on the Red Carpet at the Grammys!

Flat Chad with Amigos! Flat Chad, AMEX & Brian Williams, everywhere You want 2 B
!

Meatloaf will never be looked at the same way again!

Will the real Lou please stand up?

Brooke Yoder telling & joking about my serious "HAND" story!
Not Funny, Jessica & Maddy!

More fun at Rico Austin's expense! He shares a personal moment & the world laughs!

At least Author Rico Austin has some place he can hide and talk in privacy with Lou Dezarn

Author Rico Austin tasting the first ever "Blue Snapper" by Pam Conway at La Palapa!
It was fun, no one recognized me with Sunglasses & a huge glass filled with Blue Snapper!

Whale sighting while on Cabo Escape, captured by Amiga Katherine Tanton

Author Rico Austin trying to make it to another Caboholic event!
My poor Ass hurts from being all over Cabo!

Marty Daniels sent me this photo of Steve Miller doing a gig at Two for the Road Jazz Spot
Senor Daniels swears that Rico Austin is uncover Steve Miller!

Fire Truck Engine Red Fun - Where is Maddie? Went 2 get another Cocktail!
I see Pam Conway almost driving the Red Truck with the Red Hair!

Okay enough already! Brian, please give it a rest! We know, we heard all Your stories during the Caboholics 4th Annual Convention and we're sick of it. We know You know Flat Chad, Lou, Shuler, Liz N Theo, Johnny Corona & his wife Maddie, Brooke, Senor Bambino & his squeeze Marnie, Audrey & Courtney, the Conways - Jim & Pam, Craig, Kirk & Kathryn, Miguel Hill, both Bryans - Flynn & Larry, Miguel Hill (you've mentioned him twice now), Garrett, Andy, Kathy & Marty Daniels, Wild Bill Wichrowski, Rico Austin & Sammy Hagar! Please go back to Flat Chad's Cabo Villa & Chillax!

"And there I was, buying a beer for Rico Austin when he lost a lens of his glasses,"
another story by Brian Williams

I nearly made it back to Playa Grande Resort, just shy of 4 blocks & a steep hill!
Now where did I leave my Ass?

Now I remember, loaned it to some Amigos to haul "Tequila" back to Flat Chad's Villa!

On stage with Bryan Flynn, taken right before getting kicked off stage!
Not pictured: Flat Chad, Lou Dezarn, Brian Williams

Uh Yeah, what he said! "Lovin' Life & Livin' Large" - rico austin

One of my favorite places & favorite people - Kathy & Marty Daniels!
I have had more book signings here than anywhere in Cabo - 4 is the lucky number!

Three Beautiful Caboholic Women, One Super Hero, & One Lucky, Righteous Dude!

Even Batman is a Caboholic! Not pictured Robin!

The Wild Bunch at Two for the Road Jazz Spot!

This Clown & Chris Shuler will be giving out Free Hugs at La Palapa!
for a free Tequila lick - tell 'em Rico sent ya!

Grand Opening - Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of Johnny's Caboholic Store!
February 7th, 2015!

Proud Sponsors of the 2015 Caboholics Convention! Please Support!

These Caboholics supported all the Convention Sponsors !
Will YOU on YOUR next Trip? Of Course YOU will, YOU'RE CABOHOLICS!
Thank You to Danny Matthews D Griss for taking memorable photos including this one!

     Thank YOU Maddie & Johnny!   I can not wait for the V Convention in 2016!
                Please invite me back, I promise to be a better hombre next time!
   No more partying with Flat Chad & Brian Williams until the wee hours of the manana!

    this picture was taken right before Johnny Corona bid the winning amount of $500
         to give this to his wife Maddie who is holding the "Cabo Strong" frame!
    Lou still can not believe he lost the Meat Loaf cookoff while Chris gloats off to the side!
      This was an incredible week & auction - even those that could not make it sent items!
                          THANK YOU CABOHOLICS!     I Love YOU Man & Woman!

I found David Van Amburg! Still missing "Keep Austin Weird" pin & pet scorpion - Sting!

Sorry Sammy! Didn't make it to Cabo Wabo this trip! I was super busy & we'll get together again on Your Birthday - October 13th, 2015! Don't worry, Flat Chad will B there!

Hey, don't B pointing fingers! I didn't give Baby Carlos the Tequila!
Zach where R U?

Author Rico Austin with Amigos Zach Galifiankis & Baby Carlos somewhere in Cabo!

               Rico Austin with Amigo Kirk Stoner at Desperados for the Caboholic Auction!
                         One Memorable, Unforgettable Week of Celebration and Vacation!
                                                "Living on a Prayer" - Bon Jovi!

2 Comments

Tiger Woods takes a huge dump at Waste Management; Caboholics Convention coming soon; Sherlock Holmes Protégé solves Abby's Golf Bag Mystery; Brian Williams is .......

1/31/2015

2 Comments

January 2015 Blog

Amigas & Amigos – Happy New Year, this is the first Blog of 2015 and it is shaping up to be quite a year already.

I’m heading to Cabo in February for the 4th Annual Caboholics Convention and the grand opening of the Caboholics Store in downtown Cabo San Lucas by Caboholic Founders Johnny & Maddie Haney aka Mr. & Mrs. Corona. Membership is over 5300 of the wildest, tamest, fun loving people of the United States, Canada & Mexico. I’m honored to be a part of this group now for about four years; however this is my first convention. All kinds of activities will await from Booze Cruise with snorkeling, Fire Truck rides with beer drinking, Pub Crawls with Tequila shooting, visits to the Humane Society, Orphanage and that’s just the first two days. There is hiking of Sol Mar mountain, a bus trip to Los Santos to see the famous Hotel California, a fund raising dinner with silent auction for the humane society & boys club with many donating Sponsors including my Texas Amigo Chris Shuler’s new restaurant – La Palapa & Two for the Road owned by Amiga & Amigo Kathy & Marty Daniels who perform jazz nightly and I’ve been asked again this year to have another book signing there. My Bad Tequila is also a proud sponsor right alongside the Giggling Marlin, Cabo Blue, Wet Cactus, Wicked Pizza, Cabo Lounge, Cabo Cantina and Tanga Tanga, what great cantinas and bars to be affiliated and named with. Can’t wait, will post mucho photos when I post February’s Blog at the end of that short month.

Finally, I was able to go see Tiger Woods play in the flesh, first time I’ve seen him live at the Phoenix Open aka Waste Management at TPC Scottsdale and boy was I disappointed, good thing I went Friday because Eldrick Woods did not make the cut. I wanted to see him golf before he lost all of his teeth. Tiger’s front tooth was knocked out earlier this month by a photographer and his camera, not sure if ex wife paid for it to be done or not, so far they’re claiming accident; but, that is what he claimed when she took a nine iron to him after finding out about his whore lovers.

The Waste Management golf tournament was a riot, an extreme party on a golf course made up of mostly hot chicks that have never golfed and old frat boys that I hope never grow up. Thursday’s attendance which was the first day of the tournament set a new record of 118,436 eclipsing the old opening day record of over 30,000 golfing revelers and wanna be models or chicks that think they have what it takes to be married to a professional golfer. Lots of thirty something & forty something women looking for a new, high dollar man in their baby making years that are ticking away far too rapidly. On Friday morning I made my way to the 16th hole – loudest hole in golf where Tiger Woods made a hole in one in his appearance in 1996, I was there that day as well; but, chose to follow Phil Mickelson that day which turns out to be a mistake. My girlfriend at the time Patricia wanted to follow Tiger, but the crowds were so large that we decided against, been kicking myself ever since. So, I decided to wait for Tiger on the 16th hole in a shared suite with very rich and famous companions of Will Ferrell and Jimmy Fallon just a few seats away. Tiger was flustered, not smiling as usual and hardly acknowledging the crowd as he was having his worst golfing day as a professional where he shot 11 over for the day for an 82 and plus 13 for the two days which ended him in a tie for dead last – 132 players & he ties for 131st place with some guy I have never heard of, but probably have played golf with when I shot my best round ever on 4th of July, 1994 in Mesa, AZ in 109 degree weather. I drove through the sprinklers on most every hole to keep myself cooled on in route to a career best 77 which had I received that score on Friday I could have / would have beaten the great Tiger Woods by 6 strokes. Now, I know some of you mathematicians out there are saying, “hey, wait a minute 82 subtract 77 = 5 strokes.” Yes, but I was playing a 72 par course and Tiger a 71 par course with a nearly same slope rating.

Well enough of this golf stuff! That cool dude Brian Williams the reporter is everywhere I tell ya. He was at the Waste Management Open in Scottsdale helping Tiger Woods read putts and I'm almost sure I saw him on New Year's Eve at the Fiesta Bowl when Boise State made it 3 for 3 at University of Phoenix Stadium, this year against Arizona Wildcats. I am almost sure he will attend next month's 4th Annual Caboholics Convention in Cabo San Lucas. I'll be sure to have many pictures of him hangin' with most of us. Brian Williams, Tequila & MasterCard - everywhere YOU want 2 B!

Well, wait I have a story with pictures at the end about my Amigo in Green Valley, AZ – Manuel aka Abby that was playing in a golf tournament and discovered that someone had f-cked with his bag. Being that I’ve always wanted to be a Sherlock Holmes guy and since I was having beers and margaritas with Tiger since he didn’t make the cut, I tried my “Elementary Dear Watson” routine out and here is what I discovered and uncovered.

Abby's own words on facebook of what he found: "CLEANED OUT MY GOLF BAG AND DISCOVERED I HAD TWO FULL BOTTLES OF WATER, SEVERAL CRUSHED CANS OF BEER, SEVERAL RANGE BALL'S AND SEVERAL OLD SCORE CARD STUCK DOWN THE HOLES WHERE MY GOLF CLUBS GO. MY CLUB'S WERE NOT GOING IN THE HOLES ALL THE WAY. I GOT A FEELING WHICH GOLFER'S DID THIS BECAUSE I HAVE THE OLD SCORE CARDS. .PAY BACK ARE A BEEACHE."

Rico aka Sherlock Holmes wanna be: "Okay, I'll tell you what happened. I saw Tiger fuc&ing around with Your bag & we got into an argument & I punched Tiger in the mouth & his tooth came out and then he poked me in the eye and he felt bad so he bought me a beer and while that was going on, one of your old girlfriends said, Is that Abby C.'s bag? That guy left me at the alter, that son of a bitch" & then she threw some stuff in your golf bag. So I think that is what happened! Tiger is here at my house right now drinking Tequila with me because he shot 2+ yesterday & 11+ today & we're joking that he is a worse golfer than Abby!

here is the beer Tiger Woods bought me after poking me in the eye! he likes the Arizona State Sun Devils beads that You & Kim gave me. He wants some or one of Your Boise State Broncos Blue Fans & he wants to be a Blue Elvis!

I didn't know that Tiger & Justin Bieber are Homeys & now we going to become a Wolfpack like in The Hangover 1, 2 & 3! We might even star in The Hangover 4 since Tiger knows Mike Tyson & he is missing a front tooth too. It is such a small world! I love hangin' with these guys - Tequila & Women everywhere!

Here I am with Zach Galifianakis, enjoying another beer that Tiger bought me when my eye got better! Amigo Zach is showing me how to act as a Wolfpack member for my upcoming audition!

Here I am with some chicks that the Canadian boy singer of
Justin Bieber - Never Say Never hooked me up with!

Here's Your Ex girlfriend that put all the shit in your golfbag. She wasn't very hot looking on the golf course; but when Tiger Woods & I stared drinking My Bad Tequila with her, You know she ain't half bad! I think she might be Tiger's next girlfriend & then EX. I think she'll probably go after him with a golf club like his former EX wife did because she seemed kinda like a crazy bitch especially when she does shooters on the bar!

Well at least the mystery is solved and you won't have to go looking for guys that are going undercover like these 2 dudes I saw. I think they're guilty of something because they just didn't seem quite right - something was a miss! LMAO ;-)
Hope You enjoyed the Saga! I think this should be a short story or a full length movie!

And now a message from Cliff to Norm of which You all should take heed!

"Drinking Tequila speeds the process up even more, killing all the weak brain cells so that the smarter ones have more room to process, thus making those that drink Tequila very intelligent while making wise decision upon good decision of those based with a Yes or No response!" author & tequila connoisseur Rico Austin

Brian Williams, Tequila & MasterCard - Everywhere YOU want 2 B!

http://elitedaily.com/life/15-reasons-tequila-actually-really-good/927020/

Buenos Noches Compadres!
Saludos y Vayan con Dios,
Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

Now that You’ve had the opportunity to “LIKE,” it is now time to “Buy.”

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com
blog.mybadtequila.com

2 Comments

Merry Christmas; Grand Mayan Tequila; Happy New Year 2015; Fiesta Bowl - threepeat for Boise State University Broncos; Tom Chambers; Arizona Wildcats are Cool Cats & Great Fans; Florida State & Jameis Winston embarrassed;

12/31/2014

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Feliz Navidad, Happy Hanukkah & Festivus for the Rest of Us! I hope the end of 2014 brought all of you happiness, health & prosperity, with it following you each into 2015. I wish only the best for my Amigas, Amigos, Fans, Family & Readers!

As we close out this last month of 2015, I wish to Thank GOD for another year of Life and good Health and to wish for Peace & Goodwill towards All Men & Women on this Earth!

Santa was good to me again this Christmas as I received a beautiful Pat Tillman ASU Jersey #42, a Hideaway / Harley Davidson Shirt and Grand Mayan Tequila; http://www.gmtequila.com/site/ Pictures at the end with Santa who personally handed the Grand Mayan Tequila to Rico and decided to have a few sipping shots before climbing back on that sleigh. Say what You want, but for me and Grandpa we believe. Santa sent me a picture of he and one of his helpers enjoying their favorite author on some down time in New Port Beach, CA. Also a picture of me with my new ASU Jersey at Harold’s Corral with Amigos Tom Chambers (former Phoenix Suns Basketball Player) & Jim & Barbara & Tina. Here’s one of Tom’s more famous dunks, many moons ago against the New York Knicks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDyBSTQDwH8

There is one picture or two photos of me being a bad boy hangin’ out with the Dirty Dogg Saloon Babes. Maybe Santa knows about this picture and this hangout, maybe not? But, I do think he would approve, not so sure about Mrs. Santa. Such hot ladies I had to post them twice because they're both naughty and nice.

The Housewives of North Scottsdale also paid me a late night visit and they brought their own wine and vodka, I supplied the tequila and ......

This Holiday Season allowed me to hang out with Arizona Biking Legends Buddy Stubbs & Mark Bradshaw at Hideaway Grill located somewhere in Cave Creek, AZ. I’ve written about both these legends, one in each of two books – My Bad Tequila & In the Shadow of ELVIS, Perils of a Ghostwriter. https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Hideaway-Grill/227878947315122

As soon as I finish this Blog, I’ll head to the airport to pick up my good friends from Boise, Idaho for the Fiesta Bowl that will be played at the University of Phoenix stadium on Dec. 31st, 2014 at 2:00 pm local, Mountain Time. The Boise State Broncos will be taking on the Wildcats of Arizona from Tucson. Didn’t get the Blog finished until January 4th, 2015. This is the first time since I began writing this Blog in 2009 that I have not had a blog ready by months end. Life and fun with friends took precedent and got in the way. I know each of You will understand because I was doing what Ernest Hemingway said & wrote best, “In order to write about life, first you must live it.” https://social.newsinc.com/media/json/69017/28299005/singleVideoOG.html?videoId=28299005&type=VideoPlayer%2F16x9&widgetId=2&trackingGroup=69017

We had a fun group which includes Boise State Fans – Rico, Connnie, Rich, Rhonda, Kory, Michelle, Blu Kaboy, Bronco Girl, Rick, Jason, John & Kim P., Tiana, Claudia, Nick, Kristina, Greg, Ian, Jay, Spencer, JP, Don, Tina, Glen, Jake, Jennifer, Orin, John, Denise, Jerry, Randy, Patrick, Joe, J.R., Dillon, Ron, Mary, Larry, Katherine, John C., Denise and many, many more. On the Arizona side will be Abby, Kim C., Steve, Sandy, Matt, Charlotte, Robert and others. Also got my picture taken with Ian Johnson which our photo ended up on Good Morning Idaho. (For those of you that don’t know who Ian Johnson is: He was on the Bronco squad in 2007 at the first Fiesta Bowl in which Boise State University played the powerhouse of Oklahoma and its Sooners. Ian scored the winning 2 point conversion with a perfectly executed Statue of Liberty play taken from QB Jared Zanbrasky in Double Overtime, winning 43 – 42 and then Ian proposed to his BSU cheerleader girlfriend Chrissy Popadics on National Television.) All the BSU & some of the U of A fans met up at the Hi Fi Lounge in Old Town Scottsdale for the BSU Rally at 4:00 pm on Dec. 30th. http://hifibars.com/ & here is the a shot of the local newscast of which I was selected to be a part of:
https://social.newsinc.com/media/json/69017/28299005/singleVideoOG.html?videoId=28299005&type=VideoPlayer%2F16x9&widgetId=2&trackingGroup=69017

Time to recognize those that have entertained us through the years and have earned their time to rest among the clouds and mountain tops.

Joan Rivers RIP, born a natural comedian as Joan Alexandra Molinsk on June 8, 1933 and left this Earth on September 4, 2014 was an American actress, comedian, writer, producer, and television host noted for her often controversial comedic persona where she made most of her fun at the expense of herself, towards other celebrities and dimwit politicians. Rivers came to prominence in 1965 as a guest on The Tonight Show with mentor Johnny Carson. She was perhaps the funniest woman alive.

Joe Cocker RIP was born on May 20 1944 and passed on December 22, 2014. John Robert "Joe" Cocker was an English rock and blues singer and musician who came to popularity in the 1960s. He was known for his gritty voice, spasmodic body movement in performance, and cover versions of popular songs, particularly those of The Beatles. Cocker's cover of The Beatles' "With a Little Help from My Friends" reached number one in the UK in 1968. He performed the song live at Woodstock in 1969.

Donna Douglas RIP was born Doris Smith in September 1932 in Louisiana and passed peacefully on January 1, 2015 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Donna was an American actress known best for her role as Elly May Clampett in The Beverly Hillbillies (1962–1971). After her acting career ended, Donna became a real estate agent, a Gospel singer and inspirational speaker, and authored books for children and adults.

Little Jimmy Dickens RIP aka James Cecil Dickens born December 19, 1920 -January 2, 2015 was the oldest living member of the Grand Ole Opry. Jimmy was an American country music singer famous for his humorous novelty songs, his small size, 4'11" (150 cm), and his rhinestone-studded outfits. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1983. At the end of this blog is a picture of Little Jimmy Dickens with country singer Brad Paisley to show Little Jimmy's complete physical stature.

Lots of great fun at the Vizio sponsored Fiesta Bowl with Boise State winning its 3rd Fiesta Bowl win – 3 for 3 at the University of Phoenix Stadium, the winningest college football program on that field and second overall of all Fiesta Bowls to Penn State with a 6 – 0 record; but, by Paterno turning his head the other way while young boys were molested ruined all that Football & School glory. If it had been one of Joe Paterno’s grandsons being raped, I’ll bet he would have informed law enforcement. There are many things in this life that are more important than football, especially the innocence of a child.

This Year’s Bowl game was another close one as BSU held off the Wildcats of University of Arizona in a score of 38 -30; Here is part of an interview I did at the tailgate with ABC Channel 6 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cB1ubT4-hA0&feature=share

After claiming victory and congratulating the Arizona Wildcat Fans for being a great sports fans and team, came home and hosted a New Year’s Eve Celebration for Boise State, Arizona, Arizona State & Wisconsin fans – great way to end 2014 and bring in 2015 with giant snowflakes here in almost Sunny, Northern Scottsdale. The Boise crowd yelled with dissatisfaction, claiming to have left Idaho for Arizona to leave the powdery white stuff, while the Arizonans all shouted with glee at the very rare weather of falling snow that was building into a possible snowman, not just melting as soon as ground was hit. We all enjoyed spirits galore, honey baked ham, scalloped potatoes by Connie with cheese, salami, pepperoni, nuts, Tostito Chips and Yes we missed having them as a Fiesta Bowl Sponsor and a delicious salad put together and served up by Tina. Unfortunately, Tom Chambers had to cancel because of a previous commitment with “the Chuckster.” Yes, a Charles Barkley New Year’s Party takes precedence over a Rico Austin New Year’s Party and probably, rightly so. Auld Lang Syne - “ Should old acquaintance be forgot
And never brought to mind.” The song begins by posing a rhetorical question as to whether it is right that old times be forgotten, and is generally interpreted as a call to remember long-standing friendships. Therefore, Amigo Tom Chambers made the correct decision of visiting an Old Friend, Mr. Charles Barkley.

Looks as if Amigo John Joseph Stone started a new trend in getting a tattoo as his lead has been followed by Amiga Kristina S. who also has taken the epic, award winning novel “My Bad Tequila” as reading material to read while receiving her new TaT. Pictures at the end.

I found out from twtrland has me as Number Seven on the list of most influential persons or companies associated with Tequila and they show the book cover of “In the Shadow of ELVIS, Perils of a Ghostwriter.” Please don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining, only I would have thought “My Bad Tequila” book cover posting more appropriate! Can't believe I rated higher than Sammy Hagar (The Red Rocker) & Cabo Wabo. Thanks to my faithful fans on Facebook, Twitter and the My Bad Tequila Blog that I have such a high rating and recognition, oh & I drink lots of Tequila and have many bottles at home – some empty, some nearly full and all very tasty and special. “You’ll see the true reflection of me when the Tequila bottle is empty.” – rico austin, My Bad Tequila!
http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ftwtrland.com%2Fskills%2FTequila&h=YAQGElt7B&s=1

A couple of great New Year's College Bowl games. Wisconsin Badgers win in a dramatic overtime finish over Auburn Tigers. Great game to Ohio State with its win over (unbeatable SEC team) Auburn. Looking forward to a fantastic Championship Game on January 12th, 2014. Meanwhile at the Rose Bowl the Oregon Ducks of the PAC 12 heavily handed the over rated #2 Florida State Seminoles & Jameis Winston & Jimbo Fisher. Jameis not only fumbled, threw interceptions but he treated his coach Jimbo Fisher with no respect several times during the rout that the disciplined #3 Oregon handed them, even removing their starting lineup midway through the 4th quarter. Oregon forced 5 turnovers in 6 possessions at the start of the second half and just like that the mystique, the cockiness, the house that Bowden built was destroyed into million of little Humpty Dumpty pieces that all the King's Men & all the King's Horses will never be able to put Florida State together again because they lost their self respect. The final score was 59 - 20 showing what most of us knew, Florida State had a weak schedule and barely won some of its games. Also, the TCU win over Ole Miss of 42 - 3 proved that the Playoff committee made a mistake of choosing Florida State over TCU. To TCU & Coach Gary Patterson's credit, no complaints as they went to the Peach Bowl and won in Goliath style. Meanwhile back to the Jameis Winston / Jimbo Fisher soap opera, Coach Fisher said this on National television to his out of control quarterback, "If You Don't Calm the FUCK Down, You're Going to the Bench." Yeah, right, just like the mother that threatens her screaming child at the mall, "If You Don't Calm the FUCK Down, You're Going to the Time Out Corner," - it never happens as Jameis & the screaming child keep acting up because of a lack of leadership and discipline. Jimbo Fisher's willingness to tolerate anything from Winston and his shortness to the media they justly asked questions about the quarterback and his off field troubles. To me, Jimbo comes across as a slimy, win-at-all-cost and arrogant football coach. With Fisher and the Tallahassee Police Department as willing enablers, Winston has had a Heisman like run of bad behavior. The BB guns, the free soda at Burger King and the stolen crab legs (Amigo Captain Wild Bill Wichrowski is not at all pleased with this behavior) are relatively minor screwups, even though there is the possibility that "You'll shoot your eye out" with a BB gun. For further explanation, please see "A Christmas Story."

Now for the more serious allegations of which good ol' boy Coach Jimbo and Tallahassee's finest have overlooked and brushed under the football bleachers. The alleged rape of a fellow student is of the most disturbing and disgusting and in the way is was handled by the Tallahassee police and Florida State school officials and staff. This is a horrible thing for a young woman who did everything she should have done after an alleged assault and rape. I feel certain that guilty or innocent, the authorities and Florida State Boosters protected Winston at this young girl's expense. She will have to live with that night for the rest of her life without a formal resolution for a violation of other human being to her body. Hopefully, Winston and Florida State will never escape the allegations. If a professional football team should be idiotic enough to offer a QB position to Jameis Winston, perhaps a civil lawsuit will at least compensate the victim partially; however, Florida State, the school, the alumni, the fans and the football teams present and future will be constantly reminded by different things such as a few of Oregon's players - doing the Tomahawk chop and chant, adding in the words, "NO Means NOOO." Jameis Winston's legacy will not be that of a Heisman Trophy winner or of leading a Florida State team to 29 consecutive victories. No, it will be a legacy of theft, petty crime, using weapons on campus, even possibly rape - none of which any discipline was deemed necessary by Jimbo Fisher whose legacy will also be attached to negative thoughts, words and actions of a coach that favors winning a football game at any and at all costs. I do expect that Oregon's taunt is far from the last he'll hear that Jameis Winston or his coach will hear. The truth and the taunts will be heard much louder and longer than more any national championship or a long winning steak. "NO Means NOOO!" http://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2015/01/02/Oregon-players-face-discipline-for-No-means-no-victory-chant-at-Jameis-Winston/7111420209789/

And with that Buenos Noches Compadres!
Saludos y Vayan con Dios,
Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

Now that You’ve had the opportunity to “LIKE,” it is now time to “Buy.”

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com
blog.mybadtequila.com

               Rico closing 2014 with a Bang at Dirty Dogg Saloon - Addicted to Love
                     iThe girl just over Rico's shoulder looks like Robert Palmer's Girl
                              https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XcATvu5f9vE

The Austin Family Christmas Tree & Cactus Skeleton in Scottsdale, AZ

Merry Christmas 2014 from Rico & Happy Hanukkah, Festivus for the Rest of US

Connie Austin decorating tree while standing on granite bar top - Rico doesn't decorate

Santa & his helper taking a break in Newport Beach, CA with their favorite books
My Bad Tequila & In the Shadow of ELVIS, Perils of a Ghostwriter

Contrary to belief that Santa's favorite drink is Milk - sorry, but Got Tequila?
Santa Don presenting Rico with his Grand Mayan Tequila for being a good boy in 2014

Author Rico Austin hangin' with the hot & talented Dirty Dogg Saloon Ladies!
Not sure if Santa knows about this Hideaway spot in Scottsdale of Rico's or not?

Santa Don & Author Rico after celebrating a few shots of Grand Mayan Tequila
"It was the night before Christmas, and all through the house ............

At John & Kim P.'s Holiday Party - Johnny P. & Rico sharing the Festivus Pole
..... but we have no grievances! PEACE & LOVE to ALL

Rico aka Blue Elvis with Mr. & Mrs. Claus & Blu Kaboy - Christmas Past!

Amiga & Fellow Boise State Bronco Fan - Kristina S. reads My Bad Tequila while tattooed.
She is one brave girl, tackling a great book & great pain at the same time! My Hero!!!
Kristina is the first woman on Earth to tackle this feat!

And the guy that started the My Bad Tequila / tattoo craze - Mr. John Joseph Stone!

Legends at the Hideaway Grill - somewhere in Cave Creek, Arizona
Biker Mark Bradshaw, Author Rico Austin, Harley Davidson VIP & Stuntman Buddy Stubbs

   Amigo Buddy Stubbs & his autographed copy of My Bad Tequila with Author Rico Austin
                               Buddy Stubbs mentioned in Chapter 21;
        Hollywood Stuntman & first Phoenix area Harley Davidson Dealer in 1966.

First time I met Tom Chambers in person in 2011 I knew we were going 2 B great Friends!
Author Rico, Tom Chambers, Rhonda Collins & Rich Collins at Handle Bar J's in Scottsdale

Basketball Announcer & Former Suns Player Tom Chambers & Author Rico Austin

Author Rico Austin & BSU running back from 2007 Fiesta Bowl on Good Morning Idaho!

Arizona Wildcat Fan - Mr. Robert Cox sharing Azunia Tequila & Cigar w/Writer Rico
at Fiesta Bowl on Dec. 31, 2014 at University of Phoenix Stadium

Author Rico Austin with BSU Fan & Cousin - Mr. Rick Shippy at BSU Rally in Scottsdale

BSU Fiesta Bowl Rally, BSU Fan Rich Collins, Wildcat Fan Abby Cady & Author Rico Austin

Bronco Fans - Rico, Connie, Rhonda & Rich; Wildcat Fans - Kim, Abby at BSU Rally 2014

Arizona Wildcat Fans - Matt, Abby, Steve, Sandy, Charlotte, ???, Kim in Glendale, AZ

Hey easy there Mr. Wildcat Abby Cady - leave our BSU Cheerleaders alone!

Now Wildcat Fan Abby Cady is harassing BSU former football player Ian Johnson!

BSU Fans Rich C. & Rico A. with Arizona Fans Abby C. & Matt H.

BSU Fans Nick Vlamis & Claudia Hernandez Vlamis getting harassed by YOU Know Who!
Next time Abby Cady goes to his own team's rally! lol

Yep, Abby Cady's at it again - this time BSU Fans Rhonda Collins & Michelle Pukash!

Not again - Wildcat Abby Cady photo bombing another Boise State University Fan photo!Abby Cady - annoying Wildcat red, Dillon Reynolds, J.R. Reynolds, Rico Austin, Rich Collins

Wildcatters Charlotte Honeycutt & Kimberly Cady at Fiesta Bowl 2014!

United States of America Flag flying proudly at the field at University of Phoenix stadium!
Fiesta Bowl 2014; Final Score Boise State University 38 - University of Arizona 30
a great battle until the final tick of the clock!

BSU Fans Glen Thomas, Rick Shippy, Jake Morphey, Jennifer Smith Morphey & Orin Bowles
University of Phoenix Stadium - Fiesta Bowl, December 31, 2014

Post Game or Pre Game Celebration - I'm not sure! BSU Fans Denise Bunch & John Collins
Fiesta Bowl 2014!

Arizona Wildcat Fan & Amiga Ann Medley taking the promised shot of Tequila from BSU shot glass after disappointing loss of 38-30 in favor of Boise State University at Fiesta Bowl
  Her husband Toby Medley fell to the same kind of depression after 2007 Fiesta Bowl!
             His Oklahoma Sooners losing to Boise State 43 - 42 in Double Overtime -
                     ESPN - Greatest College Football game or bowl game ever!!!

Author Rico Austin celebrating the Boise State Bronco win with a Glass of Beer in Wildcat Mug given to him by Wildcat Amiga Ann Medley; Also pictured ELVIS Christmas ornament, given to Rico by Arizona Wildcat Amigo Abby Cady! I love the Wildcat Fans & Teams!

Amiga Wildcat Fan Charlotte Honeycutt at Arizona Fiesta Bowl Rally 2014!

Lifetime Boise Friends - Author Rico Austin, Jerry Nicolona & Rich Collins !
University of Phoenix Stadium - Fiesta Bowl, December 31, 2014!

Vizio Fiesta Bowl 2014 Boise State Broncos vs. Arizona Wildcats !!!
University of Phoenix stadium on Dec. 31, 2014!

Fun Times with Great Friends! What a way to end 2014!

       BSU Fans & Alumni Rich & Rhonda Collins at Fiesta Bowl, December 31, 2014;
                        Minnesota Girl turned BSU Fan - Connie Austin
          Author and former Boise State Football Player #29 - Rico Austin

Author & Former Boise State Bronco Football Player #29 - Rico Austin 1985

Amigas Tina & Barbara & Amigo Tom Chambers, guy in hat ?, Author Rico Austin
Harold's Corral in Cave Creek, AZ - Dec. 26th, 2014

Housewives of North Scottsdale pay Rico Austin a late night visit at his quiet home!

The Passante Familia with Connie Austin at Rico's New Year's Party 2014

One Boise State Bronco Fan - Rico Austin with Wild, Arizona Wildcat Fans!
Matt Honeycutt in front & Abby Cady far right

This picture was taken right before Abby Cady was arrested - YES, Harrassment! LMAO

It's been a busy Month of Holidays & College Football Bowl Games
Author Rico Austin is going to relax by the fire with some Arco del Cabo Tequila!

Joe Cocker RIP 2014

Joan Rivers RIP, 2014

Donna Douglas RIP, 2015 aka Elly May Clampett

Little Jimmy Dickens RIP, 2015; Shown here at Grand Ole Opry with Brad Paisley!

     Happy New Year 2015 - Rico, Patrick, Rich, Rhonda, Connie, Kim, John, Don & Tina;
                                                        Picture courtesy of Tiana!
                                       Not shown - Tom Chambers & Charles Barkley

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Black Friday; Michael Brown; SEMA Show & Pinnegar Twins - VEGAS; John Kenneth Schoen RIP; Jameis Winston; Tequila ArteNOM Seleccion de 1414 Reposado;

11/29/2014

0 Comments

November 2014 Blog

Hola Amigas & Amigos, Happy Thanksgiving to YOU All!

Lots of interesting things to write and read about this past November of which I’ll begin with the SEMA show in Las Vegas – pretty girls, gorgeous cars and a short chat with racing legend Mr. Richard Petty the King of the Racetrack. As always there will be photos at the end of the “My Bad Tequila” Blog and once again You will not be disappointed.

For those of You that don’t know what the SEMA show is or for those that have longed to attend, here is a short history of the exhibition. Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) of the automobile aftermarket was formed in 1963 and now consists of 6,383 companies worldwide, bringing together aftermarket manufacturers, original equipment manufacturers, media, car dealers, specialty equipment distributors, installers, retailers and restoration specialists.

Products in this $29.99 billion-a-year industry include performance and racing components, cosmetic and functional accessories, wheels and tires, mobile electronics, safety products, restoration parts, handling equipment, drivetrain parts and more. The industry covers Hot rods, muscle cars, classics, luxury vehicles, sport compacts, street rods, light trucks (off-road and sport trucks) SUVs, Custom and recreational vehicles.

The largest of the SEMA events held annually during the first week of November is the SEMA Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada in conjunction with the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week. As part of this event, SEMA and other automotive aftermarket trade groups make-up one of the single largest events on the Las Vegas calendar. This is a title formerly held by the now defunct COMDEX show. This auto show is not open to the public. Registration as media, manufacturer, buyer or exhibitor is required. Total attendance at the Show now tops 100,000 manufacturers, buyers and other industry representatives, making contacts and doing business.

This year the big draw was Richard Petty & his Dodge Challenger and my Amigo Aaron Hagar with his refurbished Woody surfer and fishing station wagon. Yes, Aaron is the son of Red Rocker Sammy Hagar of Mas Tequila and Cabo Wabo fame. The night life was great in VEGAS Baby as we dined at Lawry's the Prime Rib is second to none. http://www.lawrysonline.com/lawrys-primerib/las-vegas

Then of course Amigo Gibbo & I have to watch our favorite twins Kim & Tamara Pinegar perform Dueling Pianos at Harrah's Piano Bar only in VEGAS! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOSZkOhLWho

Amigas & Amigos, here is a sneak peek of (1) of the subjects for the November 2014 "My Bad Tequila" Blog. Decided to share it separately since I probably will not have the Blog finished until early morning as I have many pictures to add as well as all the subjects. THIS is my take on BLACK FRIDAY! Hope YOU Enjoy, some may be offended: Black Friday may be one of the most ridiculous marketing schemes of which too many unsuspecting folks have bought into (pun intended). I don’t know about you, but when a grown, young woman named Ashley Bowers purchases a $300 tent to save $50 on a television set, $25.00 on a printer, $33.00 on a blu-ray player and $17.99 off a cell phone, then I would say Ashley’s parents wasted a lot of money on her University of Oregon Duck education and wished they would have helped her get an assistant manager’s position at Best Buy so that she wouldn’t have to waste 9 days sleeping in an asphalt parking lot in Glendale, Arizona.

Ashley says, “she isn’t bored as she has lots of dumbass duck friends to call during the day that also have nothing going on in their lives." She describes her days as flying by as do the countless cars that spread their exhaust in her new pitched home and tells of the countless average looking geeks that have winked at her while she lounges in her $29 camping chair as they enter the store. Not sure if Ashley has had any male geek sleepovers or not as she refused to let me interview her when I stated that I was here to do an unbelievable story about someone that would waste over 216 hours in a parking lot to save a little money and embarrass most of womankind and all of her family. Needless to say, the interview was over before it began; but I did get some great pictures & a souvenir University of Oregon Duck shot glass that was lying on the sidewalk which reeked of a memory from the 80s, that smell of T.J. Swan's "Mellow Days" wine which only a 17 year old could appreciate, that was lying on the sidewalk of which must have rolled out of her tent. Here is the link to the story that AZ Central picked up.

http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/glendale/2014/11/22/phoenix-shopper-begins-line-black-friday-best-buy/19381835/

I must mention that there are other individuals breathing and probably able to produce that are even more crazier in the head than Ashley as I found a story about (2) women in Beaumont, California that have been camped out since November 7th, 2014 which is over 3 weeks before Black Friday. The only sensible thing about this story is that they did not purchase a new $300 tent, they’re roughing it with lots of blankets and pillows and camping chairs that they have had for a few years. Their dream is to snag a regularly priced $499 50” HD Television for $199.00 which is a whooping savings of $300 divided by 2 women in line for 22 days for a total of 528 hours each or let’s say 1056 hours total. Now let’s figure out what their real cost of sitting in a make believe line with only 2 individuals at In & Out Burger’s wages at $10 per hour x 1056 hours = $10,569 of opportunity costs given up by standing in line for a savings of $300 not counting neck and backaches which leads to medical bills, insomnia, having to use a store potty when available, otherwise a crap behind the dumpster with a rat looking at your fat ass. But, to be fair, I did divide the $10,569 by 3 which would be 8 hours of working per 24 which is still $3,523 which could have been made by working instead of sitting on their asses. Yes, I am so THANKFUL that I have a degree in Business and that my brothers graduated high school and know the value lost by camping next to a Best Buy for 9 days or 17 days or 22 days or even losing out on some valuable sleep by getting up at 3:00 am on the day after Thanksgiving to fight for a parking spot, trample a tent or two just to save a few bucks on a new stereo or computer. I’ll just wait for a regular sale and if I miss out, so be it, at least I’ll have my self dignity so I can look my family in the eye on Christmas morning without embarrassment about the cost of the tent, the opportunity costs lost and people teasing me, “Man you could’ve gone to Cabo San Lucas or Hawaii or Key West or a cruise to the Bahamas or even visited the Queen in England with that time and loss of money spent on the asphalt of a Best Buy.” Even spending Your time in a cantina 24 hours a day looks pretty enriched compared to this alternative. Now this is just one thing that is wrong with our country!

https://www.yahoo.com/tech/two-california-women-already-in-line-at-best-buy-for-102539063964.html

On a recent trip to Seal Beach, I met a young couple Krista and Matthew who were celebrating a week of marriage at Patty’s Place http://pattysplacerestaurant.com/ which I might add has one of the best Seared Ahi Tuna Appetizers I’ve tasted. In fact it is so good, I have it as a main course because it is served chilled and sliced with fresh ginger / soy dipping and there is enough for two persons. Well this couple and I started a conversation and we found that we all shared a love for Tequila and they had an extra bottle of Tequila ArteNOM Seleccion de 1414 Reposado at their home, and agreed to drop it off a the hotel I was staying at the next morning. I couldn’t let this good deed go undone so sent them an autographed copy of the epic, award winning, best selling novel “My Bad Tequila.” Sure enough next morning, my bottle of 100% Blue Weber Agave which contains no additives whatsoever had arrived which rests in previously used American white oak bourbon barrels for 10 months yet is very pale in color, just a bit darker than a blanco. Its aroma is of rich agave with a mixture of sweetness and a vegetal linger complimented by a slight touch of brine. It’s mild, but tasty with cinnamon and clove. Seleccion 1414 Reposado has a variety of blend flavors that produce a perfect balance of taste to the palate. There is a bit of a friendly kick to awaken and tells you that you have indeed found a real tequila.

The history of this tequila is as rich as its flavor. Feliciano Vivanco began cultivating highland Agave during Mexico's tumultuous post-revolutionary period of 1919-1929. In Don Feliciano's hometown of Arandas, Jalisco, the next four generations of the Vivanco family remained devoted to expanding the family's Agave plantations and in 1994 the family dream of acquiring their own Arandas distillery was finally realized with the purchase of the "Destilería El Ranchito." With approximately 2,000 acres of estate-grown Agave (elev. 5,400') at their disposal, the Vivanco family has since become renown for producing rich, well-balanced tequilas created by marrying honored distillation traditions with modern innovation. http://www.deltequila.com/

Tequila ArteNOM presents aficionados with the personal selections of artisan Tequila distillers. These distinctive, limited release Selecciones are carefully chosen to reflect the best of Tequila craftsmanship by highlighting Agave altitude, soil, harvest and unique distillation technique. You are invited to savor these personal distillers' selections and celebrate their art of distinction, the Art of their NOM. No two ArteNOM Selecciones will ever be the same. Gracias Matthew & Krista for the introduction and bottle of this tantalizing tequila.

Now that I have you mellowed out, time to talk about Ferguson, Missouri – what a f-cking mess. Michael Brown a young, black man of 18 years of age who robbed a liquor and cigar store, would not obey the orders of a Ferguson, MO police officer Darrin Wilson, tried to get the officer’s gun and was shot. Outgoing U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder incited the tragedy and fanned the racial strife by making statements of which an Attorney General should not have expressed by saying, “He was both the highest law office of the nation and a black man.” He also claimed to be a victim of past racial harassment and hinting that Michael Brown was a young, law abiding citizen as was he when a young man. When the video came out showing Michael Brown stealing and bullying a store owner, Holder had realized he had made a big mistake yet turned it over to the Grand Jury to seek murder charges against a police officer performing his duty.
  http://dailycaller.com/2014/08/15/video-shows-michael-brown-stealing-cigars-from-store-before-shooting-video/

Holder will be stepping down after repeatedly bringing unwelcome racist comments into many cases which have been handed to his office. Upon the news that the Grand Jury ruled against filing charges on Darrin Wilson, the community of Ferguson decided to riot against its own neighbourhood, stores, builidings and cars further deteriorating the place where they live and work – it is similar to taking a shit where you eat type mentality. The riots and fires started immediately upon the verdict being publicly read as Michael Brown’s mother Lesley McSpadden was shouting obscenities and boyfriend Louis Head was yelling “ Burn this motherf---er down" and "Burn this bitch down," according to a New York Times video of which I have attached: http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/11/25/michael-brown-s-mother-speaks-after-verdict.html

Louis Head’s orders to the crowd came shortly before an eruption of rage by some protesters over the decision not to indict police Officer Darren Wilson in the August shooting death of 18-year-old Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. Sadly, the community of St. Louis has been torched by its own residents and Michael Brown wasn’t even raised by his mother, his grandmother raised this boy and Lesley McSpadden even beat up her own mother. Michael Brown’s mother and father are the most to blame because they never made their son accept responsibility for his own actions and now many lives have been destroyed. But, c'mon folks of Ferguson, isn't burning your own town sort of like taking a sh-t in your own nest. Does not make any common sense at all; but, that is another thing wrong with our country - Commons Sense is a lot like ELVIS, both have left the building.

Football time is awaiting me as Boise State Broncos will host Utah State on the Albertson’s Blue Turf as televised on ESPN 2. If the Broncos win they will automatically win the Mountain Division of the Mountain West and with the best conference record will host the Championship on December 6th and with a win that night, a 3rd trip to the Fiesta Bowl could be awaiting for the Broncos. It would be a very short road trip for Rico if this announcement takes place by the Fiesta Bowl Committee.   I want to make mention of a very special man on this team that is playing while on a list awaiting a kidney, perhaps from his mother. BSU senior and safety Jeremy Ioane is one tough hombre. Please read the story and if you can help please do so: http://www.obnug.com/2014/11/27/7299269/jeremy-ioane-is-a-warrior

Now of a football player that should not be playing because of the many off and on campus violations including a possible rape. Jameis Winston is not a good human being even though he might be good at throwing a football. The community of Tallahassee including his coach, his school administration, the police department, the alumni, the students and the entire fan base is partly to blame for continuing to turn a blind eye to his many trespasses against being a good and contributing citizen.   http://www.foxsports.com/college-football/story/jameis-winston-incidents-timeline-091714

I am beginning to think that the Florida State Seminoles Football fans are some of the most irritating, uneducated & don't watch much of the game as they are constantly chanting some oh, ho, oh, oh & making karate chops with their good arm all through the game! If You're a True Football Fan, You at least watch some of the game; but, maybe it is to try and remove the thoughts and guilt of your quarterback Jameis Winston being nothing but a thug! On tonight’s Saturday night game, Nov. 29th, I was cheering for the hand chomping Florida Gators!   I am calling out Jameis’ coach Jimbo Fisher, your job as a coach and mentor is to help young men grow into responsible and ethical adults, not to excuse and continue to let Jameis Winston do as he pleases with no consequences. No wonder he has no remorse and doesn’t act like a true leader, he has an enabler aka Coach Jimbo Fisher. http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2230251-florida-state-needs-to-suspend-quarterback-jameis-winston

My Great Amigo, Mr. John Kenneth Schoen RIP of Spoof TV has passed on and the world will forever be a better place because of his existence. Here is his tribute that he made unto me and I am forever grateful. John will be missed, please check out and share his work and video. He has many of them on YouTube for your viewing pleasure. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NAtKT_YN1uc

I hope YOU all enjoyed Thanksgiving with at least person of whom you love or care.   Only 25 shopping days left until Christmas. Since I didn't share any Halloween pictures with you last time, I'll throw in a couple from Doug & Dana's rad 2014 party in Cave Creek, AZ!

I would also like to share an Amigo, Mr. John Joseph Stone getting a tattoo in Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico while reading his copy of “My Bad Tequila” and drinking some great tequila. He sent me some great shots (not tequila shots).

Congratulations to the University of Arizona Wildcats & Abby Cady on their Territorial Cup win over the Arizona State Sun Devils! Wait til' next year!!!   Speaking of Wild Cats, I have just been honored in Boise, IDAHO by Amigo Max Anthony as he has named his new Cat Friend "Rico Austin" because of his charm, good looks and the way he chases female felines! Picture of "Rico Austin" the Cool Cat at very end of BLOG pictures. I want each of YOU to leave this Blog with a great feeling.   LOVE YOU ALL!!!! rico the author

From tonight, November 29th, 2014 through Christmas Day, 3 of my books on eKindle Amazon have been drastically reduced in price for the holiday giving. “My Bad Tequila” is offered for the low, low price of $0.99 cents and “In the Shadow of ELVIS” & “Son of the KING” have both been reduced to $1.99; All three eKindle books usually sell for $3.99 or $4.99 each. Great Savings on Great Reading.

My Blog is Free and my books are darn close to Free so please purchase for yourself or as a gift. I do appreciate it and they are all fantastic reads with “My Bad Tequila” winning 14 awards.   Here is the link to order:

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=rico+austin

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com

http://blog.mybadtequila.com

Richard Petty - the King of NASCAR racing with Author Rico Austin at SEMA Show 2014;

Author Adventurer Rico Austin with Aussie Girl in Las Vegas!

Author Rico Austin in Vegas with Aaron Hagar's project wagon of Rat Runner's Garage!

Writer Rico Austin with Kim & Tamara Pinnegar at Dueling Piano Bar Harrah's Las Vegas!

Amiga Kim Pinnegar sporting her new "I Love this Bar" Toby Keith cowgirl hat -
a present from Author Rico Austin for the many years of satisfaction he has had listening to Her at Dueling Piano Bar at Harrah's in Las Vegas BABY! Oct. 2014

Author Rico Austin taking a photo op with Beautiful "My Bad Tequila" fans from the UK!

Amigos Aaron and his dad Sammy Hagar having fun on stage…In an effort to help the recent hurricane that devastated the city of Cabo San Lucas, Sammy and Vic Johnson were at The Island Bar and Grill here in down town Roseville performing songs from their upcoming album. Portions of the event were recorded for a TV special that will benefit the destruction caused by hurricane Odile. Operation REBUILD CABO! LOVE both of these HAGAR GUYS! ;-) Rock on Brothers!

This is the art piece that Author Rico Austin is purchasing from Aaron Hagar
"I Can't Drive 55" of his Dad Sammy in a Ferrari!
Aaron is multi talented with his painting, car restoration & music!

Here's one of many fun cartoons that Amigo John Kenneth Schoen RIP of Spoof TV
did of Author Rico Austin, Captain Wild Bill Wichrowski & of himself John Kenneth Schoen!
"The World was a Better Place to live because of YOU, John Kenneth Schoen!" ;-)

Amigo John Joseph Stone of Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo MEXICO getting a Tattoo
while enjoying the epic, award winning, best selling novel "My Bad Tequila"
& his favorite Tequila! What a way to ease the Pain!

Amigo John Joseph Stone having fun with a local Playa del Carmen Bartender!
Also pictured "Jose Cuervo & My Bad Tequila"

A good look at the Tequila - Jose Cuervo Tradicional

Author Rico Austin sharing a beer with nephew "Chuckie" the Doll at Doug & Dana's!

This is where Chucky Doll rests at night

Uncle Rico giving Chucky Doll a ride on his shoulders while Lil' Chuck enjoys a cold one!

Amigo Matthew & Amiga Krista enjoying their 8th Day of Marriage!
Felicidades !

Congratulations to Arizona Wildcats & Abby Cady on YOUR win over the SunDevils!
Notice the Boise State Bronco visor! Go BRONCOS!

I call this one, "Girl wasting Life in a Tent at Best Buy." Crazy lunatic Ashley Bowers a proud graduate of University of Oregon Ducks program in Eugene, Oregon spends 9 days in a parking lot in a non existing line to save $50 on a new big screen TV while spending $300 for a new tent and gives up opportunity costs of doing anything productive!
Oh MY, this ain't Your Daddy's America!

A picture of the Oregon Duck shot glass I found outside loser Ashley Bower's tent in the parking lot of Best Buy! It reeked of T.J. Swan's Mellow Days or Easy Nights wine!

GO ARIZONA WILDCATS vs. Oregon Ducks for the PAC 12 Championship!

Please let me introduce YOU to "Rico Austin" the Coolest Cat in Boise, Idaho!

Perhaps the Coolest Cat in the entire WEST!

                                 The WOLFPACK is Back - and then there were two!

         Author Rico Austin with Amigo Actor Zach Galifianakis & Baby Carlos at Piano Bar!

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Wausau Wisconsin; Caboholics Support Group; Bisbee's Black & Blue Tournament; Green Bay Packers; Ebola & Obama - the virus & disease; Lady with a Leg - Juanita;

10/26/2014

1 Comment

Hola Amigas & Amigos,

October has been a very cool month for the most part, other than Ebola getting spread from city to city by a careless, self centered person / nurse Amber Joy Vinson that was more worried about her own personal wedding plans other than the welfare of her family, friends and Human Mankind in Cleveland. I’m sure that she’ll not be wanting to keep her maiden name of Vinson after this stooge move.   If you are flabbergasted by the childlike decisions of Vinson, you’re really going to be bowled over by the next story (pun intended). Doctor Craig Spencer rides around freely on the subway, goes bowling while touching everything in sight at the snackbar, hugs friends, all after returning from treating Ebola patients in Africa. Talk about irresponsibility to the Nth Degree from Health Care Workers, these are supposed to be professionals who have taken oath to promote wellness, who are trained to keep us safe. A sad state of affairs for the United States, for the World and for the Human Race.

Sometimes you hear of a wonderful place in the world and you just know that someday you need to experience it firsthand up close and personal. Well, this is the way I’ve felt about the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin for many, many years. With all the close friends I have from Wisconsin, I’ll attempt to name the former ones and then later the ones I met after my awesome travels to the Cheesehead Country. John P., Joe V., Mark B., Don K., Patrick C., Denny & Gail P., JP D., Muffy D., Mousie D., Dea B-D., Bitsy D., Susannah S-T.,

Yes, Dairyland is only one of two states I had never traveled to despite having many friends and umpteen acquaitances from there, most of whom I have traveled South for the warm climate of Central & Southern Arizona. The other state West Virginia of which I only have two friends, both of whom are not married to their first cousin, sister, mother or daughter – those things can make for a bad divorce within the family. The most asked question of divorce proceedings in West Virginia is, “If I get a divorce from my wife, will she still be my sister?”   Okay, now I may not have any friends in WV. Sorry, for the jokes at your state’s expense, but Arkansas is off bounds as my Dad was born in Arkansas and my good buddy Robbie lives and hunts in that Great State.

Well back to my Ebola story, no wait, I mean Wisconsin story: To make this writing assignment much easier and to show my true appreciation, I will just submit my Letter of Thanks to those that hosted one of the top weekends of my long and somewhat luxurious life of hanging with Tequila Familias, Movie Stars, Screen Writers, Film Producers, Stage Directors, Professional Athletes, Roller Derby Girls, Music Artists, Divas, Sculpture Chiselers, Bar Proprietors, Tire Guys, Crab Fishermen, Football Fanatics and an occasional stripper aka pole dancer.

Hello Boone, Romey, Mark, Peggy & Genevieve for an excellent trip & super fun memories.   Also, Thanks to Don for helping Mark put it together and the planning stages of getting us from Arizona & Texas to Beautiful WhassUp Wausau!

Mark & Genevieve - the food, the fire burning and warming the place with the sweet aroma of wood smoldering in the fireplace, the welcome basket, the Don Julio were all fantastic.    Also Mark, please thank Bill for the 9 holes of golf at Greenwood Hills Country Club!  Peggy, thank You for your hospitality and sharing your friends & relatives with us.    The bus was a Kick & so were all the all folks of the Packer Nation that clammered onto the traveling circus!   Please tell John, thanks for bringing a television to help keep the crowds down at Lambeau Field.

Romey, Gracias para todo Amigo, for the initiation of becoming Roman Cantina Lifetime Members, for the many shots of Tequila, for the bonita botela de rojo of Tierra de Indios Anejo Tequila that made it safely to Arizona wrapped in my protective Levis inside the center of the suitcase. It is now proudly displayed on the mantle for all to marvel at its Mexican beauty.   The Romano's sauce will be tasted often and vigorously spread on all foods that are strong enough to tolerate its super duper strength.   Please give our Gracias to Mrs. Donna B. and her hospitality and story of when she wrote the letter in 1965 to help her Dad get Green Bay Packer season tickets.

Boone aka Dan, Thank You for allowing me and the other wild ones to hang out at your drinking establishments and sell things including books, timeshares, jewelry and more shares of Packer stock. Very cool of You to buy me out on the children's book, "ARIZONA Is Where I Live," to be able to give each child in your daughter's class their very own copy.   Your staff at Bunker's
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bunkers/219996431458346?fref=ts
and at The Chatterbox
https://www.facebook.com/pages/THE-CHATTERBOX/114622810633?rf=117540758272535 were exceptional and quite friendly given our loudness and yelling What’sUp Wausau every few seconds.

Amiga Lisa for sharing your stories about nephew Nik Wallenda and giving him a copy of “My Bad Tequila” for his reading enjoyment as he does his next high wire act, I believe in Chicago on November 2nd in an attempt to tame some skyscrapers. He has conquered the Grand Canyon and her heights. I watched in terror as he made his journey on live television that gusty day that GOD seen fit to let him walk on a cable strung high above the Colorado River.

Don, Tina, Travis, Sara & Connie - Thank You for being roommates in a log cabin fit for a King of Queens and not drinking all of the Tequila & for saving some squeaky cheese curds!

Connie & I had an absolute blast and can't wait to return to see Our WISCONSIN Familia!

Now back to the scary Ebola saga that is more frightening than any Halloween imaginable. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) and President Barack Hussein Obama have acted very irresponsible in their not successfully trying to contain this horrific disease originating in Africa. And now Aides to President Obama are criticizing decisions by three states to quarantine people who are returning from Eboa-stricken West Africa. Are You fricking kidding me? These three states are being proactive in the war against this deadly virus and possible outbreak never before seen in the United States. Officials in New York, New Jersey and Illinois have acted in the best interests of its citizens in the wake of a new Ebola case in New York as they cannot rely on people to safely quarantine themselves and show personal responsibility.   I completely stand by these states in the correct decisions of these states and hope that the other 47 will act accordingly as our President and his administration will not do make the right decisions. For the complete story, click onto the following link. http://www.usatoday.com/story/theoval/2014/10/26/obama-ebola-quarantine-samantha-power-anthony-fauci/17955781/

To leave this Blog on a smiley note that leads away from 2 deadly viruses of Ebola and Obama, let’s travel South to the tip of the Baja where Caboholics abound and acts of kindness are true and profound.

As you all must have heard and seen of much devastation handed to the Baja by Hurricane Odile in September. Well two special groups of persons came together of which I personally know and am affiliated, I’m sure there were many other groups and caring individuals who shared by way of donations, rebuilding and prayers.

Caboholics Support Group collected in excess of $30,000 in a fund set up by Amiga and Caboholic Founder Maddie H. aka Corona which has been distributed for the homeless, the hungry, the downtrodden, abandoned pets and orphaned children. I am proud to be a member of this great fun organization of persons enjoying Cabo and everything she has to offer.

Bisbee’s Cabo Relief Fund put together by the Wayne Bisbee Family including Bisbee’s Marlin World Magazine and Bisbee’s Black & Blue which is one of the World’s Richest Fishing Tournaments held in Los Cabos, California Baja Sur, Mexico. https://www.facebook.com/bisbeescaborelieffund Wayne and his family donated the first $250,000 to get the fund off to a good rolling start.   Where CABO RELIEF FUND MONEY IS BEING SPENT - Housing for those that lost everything ....... Club Dust Houses being put together at the Casa Hogar orphanage, then they are loaded onto a truck for their final building site. The orphans are even helping assemble the kits. Pretty cool thing to see!   And guess who won first place in the Overall Team & $500 Daily? – Casa Hogar Team of 10 anglers and crew were fishing on behalf of the local non-profit organization that provides food, shelter and education to under-privileged #LosCabos boys. Angler Omar Castaneda scored the win after landing the biggest qualifying fish of the tournamentearning a check of $258,325 all of it being donated back to the orphanage of Casa Hogar Cabo.

Dreams do come True! AMEN!!!

I must mention that there were many teams fishing that normally would not have due to an anonymous donation allowing teams that used a Cabo based fish crew and rented a Cabo fishing boat to be allowed to waive the $5000 entry fee. By allowing this “Hook Up” program it allowed some of us (wished I had an extra week of vacation) to fish in the Most Glamorous, Richest Fishing Tourney on the face of the Globe. Caboholics had (4) teams of four men and/or women in the Tourney, all I believe were first timers / virgins in the Bisbee Tournament. One of the teams placed 8th overall. Everyone had a Fishing Great Experience – even the anglers that were skunked (didn’t catch a darn thing except a tequila or cerveza buzz). Cabo - where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean and Miguel Hill plays his guitar and sings “No Bad Days” with the Cabo Cowboys. Check out my good Amigo & his musica:    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLwiy-dFCK0

Another fellow Caboholic and Amiga - Julia H. B. and her esposo (husband) collected shoes for Feeding Los Cabos Kids. Her hubby and she did an email / facebook campaign to their friends and family and this is the great result. In Julia’s own words, “ Amazing is the generosity that GOD places on people’s hearts.”

Remember “Lady with a Leg” from the last issue of the blog in September 2014. Well a fellow Caboholic read my Blog and suggested that we all donate for a Prosthesis for this Warrior of a Woman with a Heart of a Lion. Within a few hours another Caboholic posted that there was an individual that would bear the full cost of the prosthesis if we could find this Amiga.   Well, I’ll be a monkey’s uncle if Amiga Mariana E. didn’t see a news cast “Historias de Los Cabos” by El Jitomatazo on Cabo about the Odile Hurricane and in this documentary she sees “Lady with a Leg” getting interviewed by Francisco Aviles “El Cazador,” and now we know that Juanita is her name.   Still awaiting news of whether she has been fitted for her new prosthesis.   As soon as I know, I’ll relay the outstanding news in my next blog. Check out the interview, in Spanish, but You’ll understand what is happening.   ;-)   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9rmOhQNjHI

As always, plenty of photos at the end of the Blog so skeptics can’t call Bullsh-t!

Vaya con Dios!

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, Righteous Dude, Fisherman, CEO& Amigo of MY BAD TEQUILA
"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com
http://blog.mybadtequila.com

Welcome basket by Genevieve & Mark - Wausau, Wisconsin is a great place to visit!

Sara, Don, Rico, Travis, Mark, Chris, Tina, Romey, Connie at Mark's bar in Wausau, WI;

Author Rico Austin & Illustrator Connie Austin at Lambeau Field 10-19-2014
Green Bay Packers kicked some Carolina Panther butt, 38 - 17

Author / Writer / Tequila Connoisseur Rico Austin making good on a dare in Wisconsin

Green Bay Amigo Joe and Connie Austin showing at Lambeau Field with My Bad Tequila

This is the lovely log home that we stayed at when visiting Wausau, Wisconsin!

Matthews is watching Matthews play at Lambeau Field -
home of Vince Lombardi & Brett Favre & the Packer Nation!

Some of the favorite things I brought back from Wisconsin to Arizona
Romano's Sauce, Green Bay Packers beer coozie, Tierra de Indios Anejo Tequila, GB ticket

Adios to Wausau & Green Bay on Highway 29 - hey that was my football jersey #29 at BSU

Football that was intercepted by Hero Pat Tillman on Jan. 2, 2000;
Thrown by Brett Favre at Lambeau Field

Young Readers in Wisconsin enjoying a copy of "ARIZONA Is Where I Live" Children's book
Bunker's at Tribute Golf Course book signing 10-18-2014

Book Signing at Bunkers Bar & Grill in Wausau, Wisconsin! Gracias to Boone

The Chatterbox book signing - great time - Gracias Mike, Mark & Boone!

Caboholic Julia H. B. and her esposo (husband) collected these shoes for Feeding Los Cabos Kids. Her hubby and she did an email / facebook campaign to their friends and family and this is the great result. In Julia’s own words,
“ Amazing is the generosity that GOD places on people’s hearts.”

Bisbee's Black & Blue Fishing Tournament in Cabo San Lucas 2014
Team Casa Hogar - First Place Overall Team - $258,325, all donated back to the Orphanage

#‎2014BisbeesBlackandBlue‬ And the winner is ..... ‪#‎AnglerOmarCastaneda‬ of #‎TeamCasaHogar‬ is at the scale with a 385lb Blue Marlin! Congratulations!!!!

Caboholics Team 1 which placed #8 overall in Bisbee's Black & Blue

Caboholics Fishing Team #1 - Lou, Pam, James, Maddie, not pictured - Lisa

Caboholics helping out after devastating Category 4 Odile Hurricane in Cabo San Lucas

There is more to the Bisbee Family than this - a Familia Grande that helps Cabo San Lucas

Author Rico Austin's marlin catch in 2003 in Cabo San Lucas, Baja Sur, Mexico
Also, got engaged to now wife Connie 2 days prior at Sol Mar
He caught the fish and the girl during same trip to Cabo!
Someday he hopes to fish in the Bisbee Black & Blue Marlin Tourney

Juanita - "Lady with a Leg!"
The next time I present Amiga Juanita, I hope it is with her new Prosthesis;

1 Comment

Lady with a Leg; HammerHead's in San Carlos; V-Town Derby Dames; Alaska; Odile Hurricane; Diana Gabaldon; Gilligan's Island; Bonanza;

9/28/2014

1 Comment

September 2014 Blog

Hola Amigas y Amigos, Labor Day is always a great way to start September 1st as it fell upon the first Monday of September which this year just happened to be on 9-1-2014;

This Blog is dedicated to "Lady with a Leg" who I believe should become the spokesperson for CABO STRONG and the rebuilding, restoring of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose Del Cabo in the BAJA of Mexico! *Spoiler Alert - the photo of her is at the very end of this Blog, to give all something very deep and spiritual to think about after being entertained. "I am a writer of words, bringing visions to the minds of those who read the stories I pen; but, this picture captures more than the words I am gifted to scribe." rico austin

Our gang of four – Connie aka Ginger; Tina, Don and Rico went to San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico and became the first paying customers at HammerHead’s Dockside Bar & Grille - great food, friendly atmosphere, cold beer, delicious margaritas and a view of the marina.  Gracias Doug, Troy, Norene, Oscar, Suzy & Emilio 4 a Funtastic Time at HammerHead's Dockside Bar & Grille! (become friends with them at:) https://www.facebook.com/HammerHeadsDockside?fref=ts We settled for a four day cruise as opposed to a three hour cruise on Gilligan’s Island, yes 50 years ago in 1964, the first episode of the Castaways aired on CBS. Gilligan's Island is an American sitcom created and produced by Sherwood Schwartz and originally produced by United Artists Television. The situation comedy series featured Bob Denver as First Mate Willy Gilligan, the bumbling, accident-prone crewman (affectionately known as "Little Buddy" by "the Skipper") of the S.S. Minnow. Actor Alan Hale, Jr. better known as the Skipper Jonas Grumby; Jim Backus as snooty millionaire Thurston Howell III; Natalie Schafer as Mrs. Howell aka Lovey; Russell Johnson the high school science teacher Roy Hinkley aka The Professor; Tina Louise as the Sexy Movie Star Ginger Grant, and Dawn Wells as Mary Ann Summers, the vacationing Farm Girl.

Gilligan’s Island aired for three seasons on the CBS network from September 26, 1964 to April 17, 1967. The sitcom was originally sponsored by Philip Morris & Company (the tobacco company) and Procter & Gamble, the show followed the comic adventures of seven castaways as they attempted to survive the island on which they had been shipwrecked. Most episodes revolve around the dissimilar castaways' conflicts and their failed attempts (frequently Gilligan's fault) to escape their plight. Gilligan's Island ran for a total of 98 episodes. The first season, consisting of 36 episodes, was filmed in black and white. These episodes were later colorized for syndication. The show's second and third seasons (62 episodes) and the three television movie sequels were filmed in color. The show enjoyed solid ratings during its original filming run, then grew in popularity during decades of syndication, especially in the 1970s and 1980s when many markets ran the show in the late afternoon after school (yes, that is when I was first introduced to the Skipper and his Little Buddy - Gilligan.) Today, the title character of Gilligan is widely recognized as an American cultural icon. Whenever asked the choice of which castaway I’d rather have – Ginger or Mary Ann, I always chose Ginger except those times I would choose Mary Ann. Um, still not sure as they both made my boat float – ironic isn’t it, since their boat was shipwrecked.

My wife Connie told me that her and her little brother Wade would race down the driveway of their Minnesota home to get to turn the TV on for ½ hour. Connie wanted Dark Shadows and Wade wanted Gilligan’s Island because Connie knew that those Castaways were never getting off that island and it frustrated her into watching a scary show.

Since we recognizing an iconic sitcom, why not honor an iconic weekly Western that is also celebrating 50+ years of success.

55 years ago on 9-12-1959, these 4 Horsemen rode into our lives & we called it Bonanza!   Go Little Joe, you're one heck of an actor & Little House on the Prairie will be waiting 4 U!   Hoss is the favorite; but never got laid!    Adam was always the ladies' man, but a bit too serious, so the writer's wrote you out!   Ben was one heck of an old man & dad! Hop Sing always had dinner awaiting in the kettle & was wearing a cool, blue outfit (actually didn't know it was blue until we got our 1st color tv - 12" in 1968) with a little circle hat when the riding men came back to the Ponderosa Ranch!   Check out some Hop Sing in the Bonanza clip below - pretty cool, little Chinaman. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EJebBY-Yk0

If YOU had a Fast Gun & a Fast Horse, You could do just about anything you pleased with anyone you pleased! I should've been a cowboy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aIq1LvzSLsk

As I traveled to Alaska this last week, I thought about the last time I was there 2 years ago in July 2012 and decided that I would republish that Blog written 8 seasons ago to remind us that many things change; but, there are some that remain the same. On my last evening before flying back to my Arizona home, I stopped into Pancho Villas Mexican Restaurant in Anchorage where I had a book signing and there to greet me was Dawarita at the bar and she says, "I remember you - author of 'My Bad Tequila,' however I don't remember your name. We exchanged pleasantries and names, I ordered a Margarita and then she asked if she might buy me a shot of Tequila. Not much to anyone's surprise, I accepted and she went onto say, "Rico, you are the perfect person to try this on, we just received these place mats from Tequila Cazadores and she poured me not 1, not 2; but 3 shots of this nectar of which I love - Anejo, Reposado and Blanco were there for my taking and enjoyment. Unfortunately, I did not get to see Carlos or Ricardo - the owners, but I did get to visit their great establishment one more time and wouldn't you know it - a commercial featuring Pancho Villas' came on the television set and there was Dawnarita pouring a thirsty Alaskan hombre a drink!

I had forgot had magical the Denali area is – aka Mount McKinley as it stands [native name Denali (Koyukon Athabaskan for "The High One", Dghelaayce’e in Ahtna)] is the highest mountain peak in North America, with a summit elevation of 20,237 feet (6,168 m) above sea level. At some 18,000 feet (5,500 m), the base-to-peak rise is considered the largest of any mountain situated entirely above sea level. Measured by topographic prominence, it is the third most prominent peak after Mount Everest and Aconcagua. Located in the Alaska Range in the interior of US state of Alaska, McKinley is the centerpiece of Denali National Park and Preserve.

The first European to document sighting the mountain was George Vancouver in 1794. In 1903, James Wickersham recorded the first attempt at climbing McKinley, which was unsuccessful. In 1906, Frederick Cook claimed the first ascent, which was later proven to be false. The first verifiable ascent to McKinley's summit was achieved on June 7, 1913 by climbers Hudson Stuck, Harry Karstens, Walter Harper, and Robert Tatum, who went by the South Summit. In 1951, Bradford Washburn pioneered the West Buttress route, considered to be the safest and easiest route and therefore the most popular currently in use.

On September 11, 2013, Alaska's lieutenant governor Mead Treadwell announced Mount McKinley is 20,237 feet (6,168 m) tall and not 20,320 feet (6,194 m) as measured in 1952 using photogrammetry. Courtesy of Wikipedia!

I did pass by an Alaska version of Sturgis and you’ll see the pictures, I was either the first one there or the last to leave – not sure.

A couple of videos that I shot with my BlackBerry phone are now posted on You Tube and I’ve included the addresses in case you’re the least bit interested. I have to warn you, I am singing along with the radio – Bee Gees – “If I can’t have You” & Gloria Estefan – “Turn the Beat Around” which was filmed next to the Trans-Alaska pipeline that goes on and on – over 800 miles I believe. if I would have been just a few years older I am sure I would have taveled North to work on the pipeline as jobs were scarce in Idaho during these years and I kept tabs on the construction, hoping I would graduate high school, but NOOO! The pipeline was started in 1973 and completed in 1977.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BcW-OsjpYOs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-hwatr-JFI

"You don't know me if You don't like me! Ever walk the Streets of Bakersfield?"   Just arrived into Buck Owens and Merle Haggard territory along with a little bit of Dwight Yoakam; Buck Owens' Crystal Palace in Bakersfield! Pictured below is Buck Owens' Cadillac that was custom built for ELVIS PRESLEY . Buck won it in a poker game in 1976; but story is he cheated!   Oh well, Buck put it to good use as a Display - 21 guns and that my Friends is My Lucky Numero!

This is how I spent my last Saturday night, September 20th, 2014 with the V TOWN DERBY DAMES who played a match at home vs. Unforgiven Roller Girls of Bakersfield!   Then went to party with 4 teams of women - V Town Derby Dames, Unforgiven Roller Girls, Pacific Coast Recycled Rollers and the b team in Visalia aka V-Town - the Derby Darlings; By the way the Dames kicked some Bakersfield ass with a score of 230 - 60 in the premier match! My bruises are minimal since I didn’t get elbowed & hip bounced too much that night! C'mon out and watch the hottest, fastest skaters - the V TOWN DERBY DAMES on Saturday, November 8th at 5:00 pm in Visalia, California. http://www.vtownderbydames.com/   https://www.facebook.com/vtownderbydames?fref=ts

Odile, a category 4 Hurricane devastated Cabo San Lucas and was the worst storm / hurricane to hit the baja since storm tracking has been in place. There were some great stories of incredible human giving and sacrifice and too, there were stories of man acting out in his lowest form as a wild beast. Wayne Bisbee, founder of the Bisbee Black & Blue Marlin Tournament was one of the first to come to the rescue starting with a $250,000 donation from the Bisbee Family to the Bisbee’s Relief Fund which All funds collected through the relief fund will help support the residents and businesses rebuild, provide temporary housing for all in the Cabo area. Here is the website should you decide to donate. https://bisbeesconservationfund.org/donate/CaboRelief

Also, there is another legitimate fund that you may opt to donate which has been started by 'Caboholics Support Group' founders, Maddie & Johnny Haney aka Mr. & Mrs. Corona of Cabo San Lucas. The site is http://www.youcaring.com/nonprofits/cabo-strong-relief-efforts-after-hurricane-odile/235470

Now, for the unhuman part of the story when I found out that I had Caboholic Amigas & Amigos that were having to band together in their neighborhoods to ward off looters and thieves that carried machetes to hack away at a person if that is what it took to take someone else’s electronics or property.

There is a mist in our world that only good deeds done can help lift! I fear for our Country, for our Earth, for our Universe;   After seeing the same looting, killing, stealing, murdering in Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur as was done in New Orleans Louisiana, all after devastating hurricanes, all I seem to know, is this is how it will be when other destruction is upon our land! Machetes used in Africa, used in Mexico, people killing people for products - stereos, computers, laptops, iphones in the name of necessities such as food & water; I am truly saddened by our world; but the good thing is that people rise up such as BISBEE'S CABO RELIEF FUND & Caboholics Support Group to help Good overcome Evil! Very saddened by Mexico and Mexicans as I thought they might be different from what I witnessed in Lousiana, USA;

But wait, Human decency finds itself atop cruelty as witnessed by a well known business Giggling Marlin which posted 2 signs outside their doors after reopening: We Are Open &    "If You are hungry and have no money, We have a hot meal for You, Please Come In."   & again, below it in Spanish   "Si tienes hombre y no tienes dinero, nosotros una comida gratis por usted, Por Favor, Venga"      - WoW, the Giggling Marlin skyrocketed in value with me! The picture below shows this is no fallacy, but indeed a true act of kindness.   They have no idea that I have put this into the "My Bad Tequila" Blog.    I just went onto their website for the first time and saw owner Gary W.'s message. His nickname is Goyo and when in Cabo stop in, say hello and let him know that You saw this message on my Blog, order some food, have a drink and thank him for his kindness in the wake of Hurricane Odile.    www.gigglingmarlin.com

I've finally arrived - invited to Green Bay Packers game and will be doing 3 different book signings while in beautiful Wisconsin - 1 of 2 states of which I've never the opportunity to visit! Can YOU say Cheesehead? https://www.facebook.com/TributeGolfCourse Bunkers Bar at Tribute Golf Course and The Chatterbox – both in Wausau, Wisconsin!   This is 1 of 2 states that I have never visited. Now, only West Virginia will remain to be conquered. https://www.facebook.com/pages/THE-CHATTERBOX/114622810633?fref=ts

I’ve been watching the OUTLANDER Series on Starz Network since I've participated in 2 book signings with world famous Diana Gabaldon, the author of the Outlander Series. In fact about 2 years ago, I stood at the end of a line to get my 20th Anniversary copy of Outlander signed & Diana looks up at me and says, "Hello Rico, how have you been?" and then signed in her Outlander Novel, "For Rico: Enjoyed My Bad Tequila" Diana Gabaldon. I then said, "You read 'My Bad Tequila'" and she said, "of course!" I've attached her signing on her book to the bottom of blog.

And, I haven’t even began to report on all the sporting events that have happened, especially College & NFL Football with the Adrian Petersen child beating and the wife beater Ray Rice of the Ravens. I truly do not know what is the most disturbing, Ravens football player Ray Rice knocking his then fiancée, now wife, unconscious in an elevator, the NFL lying to protect him or the women defending Rice for punching “an unarmed woman.” All are equally repulsive. But a woman, saying Rice’s wife Janay Palmer deserved it, is downright unacceptable and insane. Roger Goodell should be looking for a new position outside the NFL as he is no longer respected as an honest leader quarterbacking the NFL.

Whoa and don’t even get me started with the resignation of U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder who is a racist of the worst degree. When I looked up Eric Holder on Facebook, I was directed to Al Sharpton – this is the absolute truth. Now, isn’t that something that Facebook even recognizes birds of a feather and is getting them flocked together. Lastly, Obama has finally agreed that ISIS might possibly be a threat – Hallelujah and after 13 years and a few days after the anniversary date of September 11, 2001.   *Special Thanks to our living and deceased heroes in the Armed Forces who know that “Freedom doesn’t come free.” Remembrance for those that gave their lives on that tragic day in September 2001. “May we never forget.”

"The Cow" - Amigas & Amigos, a little joke to kick off Your Week and to give Your Spirit a Lift and Your Face a Smile after you read this, "The Cow."

Suddenly, a cow runs out into the road, and a limo driving late at night, hits it head-on and the car comes to a stop. The woman in the back seat - in her usual abrasive manner, says to thechauffeur, "You get out and check on that poor cow. You were driving." So the chauffeur gets out, checks, and reports that the animal is dead, but it appeared to be very old. Well, says the woman, "You were driving, so you go and tell the farmer in that lighted farmhouse over there."Two hours later the chauffeur returns totally inebriated, a full belly, his hair ruffled, and a big grin on his face. "My Gosh, what happened to you?" asks the woman. The chauffeur replies, "When I got there, the farmer opened his best bottle of single malt scotch, the wife gave me a meal fit for a king,and the daughter made love to me." "What on earth did you say?" asks the woman. Well, I just knocked on the door, and when it opened, I said to them, "I'm Nancy Pelosi's chauffeur, and I've just killed the old cow."

*** Spoiler Alert - Best Picture is the Last One - "Lady with a Leg!"

Adios & Vayan Con Dios Amigos!
Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO & Amigo of
MY BAD TEQUILA
"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com
http://blog.mybadtequila.com

    HammerHead's Dockside Bar & Grille - first paying customers on August 31st, 2014;

           Left to Right: HammerHead with Mick Jagger lips on wall,

        Rico with Cabo Cowboy Hat, Connie aka Ginger, Miss Tina & Smiling Mr. Don;

The S. S. Minnow Castaways of Gilligan's Island; Left to Right: The Professor, Mary Ann, Gilligan, Ginger = Hot, Thurston Howell III, Mrs. Howell aka Lovey, The Skipper;

All on Gilligan's Isle

BONANZA of the Cartwright Family; Left to Right: Ben - Lorne Greene;

Adam - Pernell Roberts; Little Joe - Michael Landon; Hoss - Dan Blocker; and Horses

Not pictured: Hop Sing - Victor Sen Yung

In Visalia, CA for roller derby, Rico with the V-Town Derby Dames - Rough & Hot Skaters!

     Rico's favorite V-Town Derby Dames:   They had a free ticket waiting for me at Will Call!

          Left to Right: Pyro Princess #911; Rico; GymNasty #9975;   Busty Chops #36D

          I tried to get Busty Chops to change her number to 38D; Great, Fun Derby Girls!

Roller Party, Left to Right: Chris - Coach of V-Town Derby Dames & Derby Darlings;

Author Rico, Manager of Roller Towne - Jesse; Waitress Girl - didn't get her name or #!

The V-Town Derby Dames & Darlings want to wish You a very Merry Christmas 2014!

V-Town Derby Dames & Derby Darlings - What a Hot Group of Skatin' Mommas!

Diana Gabaldon signing her 20th Anniversary Edition of Outlander to fellow Scottsdale, AZ Author Rico Austin, "For Rico - Enjoyed My Bad Tequila Diana Gabaldon

Arizona Authors - Rico Austin, Marcia Fine, Diana Gabaldon, Donis Casey & Connie Mariano
at Arizona Authors & Appetizers sponsored by Friends of the Scottsdale Public Library
Scottsdale Civic Center Library, Drinkwater Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ - May 20th, 2011

Fellow Scottsdale, AZ Author - Diana Gabaldon getting costumed for her cameo in the
series based on her best seller "Outlander" being shown on Starz Network!
Break a Leg, Amiga Diana! So Pleased for You!!! ;-)

Picture of Dwight Yoakum & Buck Owens taken at the Palace in Bakersfield, CA;

The Cadillac with 21 guns attached to it that Buck Owens won from ELVIS in a poker game!
Story is that Buck cheated; but, ELVIS still gave it to him!

I found Sturgis in Alaska, can't remember if I was the first to arrive or the last to leave!

Author / Writer Rico Austin waiting on his Sturgis, Alaska motorcycle Amigas & Amigos!

No BEER today at Sturgis, Alaska! Harley Davidson & Moose Parking only!

This is where the bands play & stay when they perform at Sturgis, Alaska - the Last Frontier

This is the way that I like to be welcomed to a Hampton Inn after working all day!

Notice the electrical plug outlet which is attached to the dip stick in the oil to keep the engine block from freezing at -70 degrees Fahrenheit in the Winter & +20 degrees in the winter! A guy in Anchorage told me, "Do you know that there is only one thing worse than Fairbanks in the Summer?" I answered, "No," what is worse. He then answered, "Fairbanks in the Winter!" & I believe he is telling the truth about the interior of Alaska!

Here's the type of vehicles that the Hotels have in Fairbanks - not a minivan!

Not a Minivan in Fairbanks, It's a HAMPTON INN VAN for real men & women!

Now you see why a minivan is not used - Polar Bear & Brown Bear at Hilton Anchorage!
Notice how small my suitcase & laptop are compared to the size of these Wild Beasts;

The Trans-Alaska Pipeline above ground between Anchorage & Fairbanks, getting ready to go over a river, this area heavily watched and guarded because of liberal crazies that want to blow it up or put a hole in it so it leaks and then kills wildlife and plants, does not make a lot of sense as they are destroying the environment even more than did the pipeline.

If YOU mess with the Trans Alaska Pipeline or Related Facilities the FBI and Rico Austin will hunt your ass down and feed YOU either a Polar Bear, a Grizzly Bear or a Brown Bear!

Here's another place in Alaska where the Pipeline is going underground to cross the Hwy!

        Ever wonder what kind of boat Santa Claus fishes from?    Here it is!!!
               Notice the "North Pole, AK" under the name Golden Nugget!
      Santa and some of his Elves are in the store buying beer for their little outing!
   Mrs. Santa is checking the list twice to see who has been naughty & who has been nice!

This is what the North Pole looks like in early September 2014;
located just South of Fairbanks!

YEP, this is where all the Big Decisions are made all Year - Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus' Home!The Grandchildren don't know that they'll be receiving a Genuine Letter from Santa and the North Pole and will own a square inch of this Wonderland this December 2014! Sshh!

Uncle Rico Austin was put in time out by Santa because he knows when I've been bad!
Stay tuned & keep scrolling through the pictures and you'll know how naughty I was! Ssh!

Just continue down St. Nicholas Dr. and you'll run into Santa's house in North Pole, AK!

No, I didn't go to the Whorehouse, just took this picture while visiting The Great Alaskan Bush Company in Anchorage, AK; There is also (1) other Great Alaskan Bush Company in Phoenix, AZ; Both of these establishments were owned by Brothers, one in Alaska and one in Arizona. I believe both of the brothers are now deceased and some of the family sold so now no longer affiliated with each other. Just some information that I gathered from Santa as we were discussing why I was in there and I threw the question back at him, so don't worry I am still getting my stuff for Christmas, just had to spend a few minutes in the "Time Out Sled" for naughty boys and girls. I have one more cool sign that I took a picture of, remember they don't allow cameras or videos at the Great Alaskan Bush Co.

Uh, yeah, I saw Santa and a few of his Elves visiting this place as well;
I think I'm safe for just about every year here out for getting some really cool gifts!

Now if You're wondering what is a tequila drinking, mild mannered Author / Writer doing in the Great Alaskan Bush Company, let me remind You all that I am also a Tire Guy and that is what a Tire Guy does - after a long day of work & pretending to be the Michelin Man we need to relax and have a cold one while watching a hot one twirl around the pole and then we go home - no touchy, just looky and no nooky! It's all Safe & Harmless Fun unless your wife or girlfriend or Santa finds out! That's a Big NO BUENO! ;-(

Okay, back to the other Wildlife, this is just outside the little town of Denali!

Here is some background on the politics behind the name change back to Denali from Mount McKinley. YES Sir, those damn Politicians are always mucking things up!

I am exactly 41.5 miles from the South Summit of Denali aka Mount McKinley!

Denali aka Mount McKinley in the background - just a mere 41.5 miles away!

Gasoline at $5.00 a gallon - I'm not complaining as I was never so glad to see a pump in the middle of nowhere. I gladly paid $20.00 for 4 lovely gallons of fuel that kept me from being stranded and eaten by a Polar Bear or Grizzly Bear or Brown Bear, oh MY!

Yep, that's my rental car and this place is closed, it is after 6:00 pm; but the door was open even though there was a closed sign and I was scared as I pushed the door open and yelled "Hello, can I buy some gas?" Luckily, a woman answered and said she'd be right out!This was a scary situation, I had no gun, no ammo, no cell phone service, no food, no water and no gas! I did have cash, a green Jefferson which took care of everything. When traveling the lonely, long roads of Alaska, keep an eye on the fuel gauge!

This is the Alaskan Flag that was created / designed by a 13 year old boy named Benny Benson who was in the seventh grade. The American Legion held a territory -wide contest for school children in 1926 and the flag was adopted for the Alaska Territory on May 2, 1927.

Amiga Dawnarita serving me a delicious margarita & (3) Shots of Cazadores at Pancho's Villa Mexican Restaurant in Anchorage, AK; I had a book signing there in June of 2012;

Now this is living large - Cazadores Margarita & a shot of each Anejo, Reposado & Blanco - all of Cazadores fine Tequila, on the house as they wanted my opinion of what I tasted!
It pays to have your Masters in Tequila & working on your Doctorates in Tequila at Tommy's Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco. Now traveling in Alaska & getting Tequila!

Some of You might think or believe I'm leaving or exiting; but, those that know me well realize that I am going to 555 Corona Street where the beer is cold and the women aren't.

Caboholic Amiga Mariana with My Bad Tequila & Caboholic Amigo Johnny Corona with Cowboy Hat & Beer in Cabo San Lucas this summer before Hurricane Odile 2014!

Just a small showing of the actual force of Category 4 Hurricane Odile 2014!
Many homes of the poorer Mexicans were completely devastated and lost.
Hotels were damaged with complete walls missing and the airport was inoperable!
But, you will see in the next few photos, CABO STRONG attitude overpowered the storm!

This Mexican hard working man showed what CABO STRONG really is!
Within just a few days, some businesses are back to operating, hoping the Tourist return

If YOU live within a 50 Mile Radius of WAUSAU, WI then I expect to see You there!
Uncle Rico is going to his first Green Bay Packer game at Lambeau Field! YEEHAW!!!

I look forward to see all of You that live within a 50 Mile Radius of WAUSAU, WI!
Uncle Rico is going to his first Green Bay Packer game at Lambeau Field! YAHOOO!!!

                                              "LADY with a LEG!"    ;-)
                    This is Determination & Citizenship at its Peak
This Cabo San Lucas photo is of a woman that sees herself as having a leg, not missing a leg.   She has become one of the CABO STRONG and doing her part to clean up the havoc caused by Hurricane Odile 2014;  I hope those that are on Welfare because of laziness and perceived personal problems are embarrassed when they see this picture.
                 I am Humbled and Thankful for this "Lady with a Leg!"

"I am a writer of words, bringing visions to the minds of those who read the stories I pen; but, this picture captures the heart, more than the words I am gifted to scribe."   rico austin

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Sunglasses - Spoof Video of Author Rico Austin by John Kenneth Schoen

9/28/2014

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Alaska; Sun Valley & McCall, ID; Ernie Els; Dirty Tequila; Penn State; Vote for America

9/14/2014

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Compadres & Amigas,

As I traveled through Alaska this last week, I decided to dig up this Blog on my last visit to the Great State just two years earlier as a reminder of how some things change and others remain the same. Please enjoy!

Another great month of Summer has gained on us and where better to be than in the wild of Alaska and taking in the beauty of Central and Southwest Idaho and then one more crazy night in Vegas.

Unfortunately, there has also been tragedy and lunatics abounding again in the state of Colorado of which we will discuss later in the Blog. And lastly we will cover the statue of Joe Paterno aka JoePa (literally & figuratively).

4th of July, our nation’s birthday I spent the evening prior in my hometown of Marsing, IDAHO with my mother, wife, brother, his girlfriend, niece and nephews. The fireworks were incredible as seen coming off the reflection of the Snake River into the dark of the sky. Marsing, ID is the home of a very special young man and Boise State University football player – Shea McClellin that once lived off Chicken Dinner Road on a 20 acre farm became the highest drafted Idaho-born player from Boise State as he was chosen in the first round by the Chicago Bears.

Next morning on the 4th of July we left beautiful downtown Marsing after I paid my respects to the Marsing street I was raised on, “Canal Street” and headed north for McCall, Idaho aka (ski town USA) as there is the crystal clear, blue Payette Lake that resembles Lake Tahoe clarity and sereneness.    Boise Amigos Kory, Michelle, Rich & Rhonda invited us for a memorable and laughter filled 4th;   Exactly 25 years to the date of the famous incident at the Yacht Club as mentioned in the epic, award winning novel, Rico was invited back this time for a book signing on the famous deck that overlooks the gorgeous lake with fireworks galore. This is one of the most beautiful settings of which YOU will ever be able to view a firework show second to none (Disneyland comes close.)

Time to move on along near the 45th parallel to Red Fish Lake and then into Sun Valley / Ketchum ID area. If You have ever visited the Sun Valley area in the Summer time you would never question why Ernest Hemingway aka Papa made this is final home. If You ever make it to Ketchum a trip is not full without a stop at Whiskey Jacques on Main St. where Brent, Mark, Dave or Cody will greet You will a beer and a smile (order may be reversed.) Again, another memorable book signing while the rambling, rolling, grooving, good times music played by the Musketeer Gripweed band helped keep the bookworms in rhythm.

Oprah Book Club 2.0 has begun to shake the literary world once again and we’re awaiting the phone call to arrive in Chicago to talk about why Oprah just has to recommend “My Bad Tequila” to her fans. I do hope it is during football season so that Oprah can take me to the Bears game and then we’ll meet up with Shea McClellin and show Ms. Winfrey how a couple of Idaho and former Boise State Football players party with Tequila.

“Dirty Tequila” is a different animal of Tequila than I have ever tasted thanks to co-owners and entrepreneurs George & Corbin of the greater Phoenix area. The best way to describe it is: “Tequila perfected! It starts with 110 proof blue agave tequila and with the addition of natural and artificial flavors and sweeteners, including agave nectar, the result is a uniquely smooth delicious tequila drink that will not leave your throat burning. You can sip this tequila chilled neat, on the rocks, or mixed with your favorite tequila cocktails to add a little extra flavor to the mix.”   Should be available in several different markets by August 1st, 2012; but guess what? I have already tried it at a “Dirty Tequila” party on the water at Lake Pleasant and man is it great tasting. For a few fun pictures of the fiesta continue reading and at the end of the Blog – there they be. There was even the Son of Elvis present: have You heard the story of John Smith the DNA positively tested son of the Rock n Roll Great, Elvis Presley? Well, he is alive and living well somewhere in Cave Creek, Arizona with his lovely wife Lisa. There may be a book deal in the works for an Amigo that You may have heard of. We’ll keep You posted as the story progresses.

The final day of the British Open was anything but ho-hum. At the start of the round Adam Scott with the world renowned caddy Steve Williams led the field by 4 shots and still led the field with 4 shots with only 4 holes to play. On the 15th hole things began to unravel for the Aussie and his Aussie caddy as he bogeyed the 15th, 16th, 17th and needed to save par with a makeable 7 foot putt and bogey again. Meanwhile back on the course South African Ernie Els was busy stocking away birdie after birdie and yes, birdies the 18th hole. While Els awaited his fate as the last twosome of Scott and McDowell played the 18th hole the world watched the heartbreaking collapse of Adam Scott. While watching I could not help but think of another Australian golfer that came so close but was denied time and time again – Mr. Greg Norman (one of my favorite all-time golfers).   Well Ernie again won the British Open exactly 10 years and a day to his last win of the Open.

Now You may be asking, what happened to Tiger Woods? Yes, Amigos of the golfing world Tiger collapsed as well, faltering in the last few holes except for birdie on the 18th.   The truth is I don’t care about Tiger Woods as I am not a fan, yes I will admit he is a good golfer; however, as a human being I have had little to no respect for this guy for many years and here is the rest of the story as quoted by Paul Harvey. Tiger Woods was the only major golfing personality that did not attend Payne Stewart’s funeral in 1999. He felt that it was more important that he get ready to play and try to win the tournament on Thursday.   I remember seeing a picture of all the great golfing professionals standing together saddened by the departure of their close golfing amigo and Tiger Woods is missing from the picture with a story telling of Eldrick (Tiger) Woods believing that it was more important to concentrate on his golfing and guess who won – yes, tigger won it. I kept that newspaper picture clipping on my refrigerator door for over a year as a reminder of why I would not get caught on in tiggermania or as I think of it “total selfishness.”    There is also the case of when he (Tiger) did not go to honor Jackie Robinson after he'd won the Masters - he was on vacation, he had no excuse not to go -- and then tried to defend his decision. He later apologized to Rachel Robinson but the harm had been done. Tiger needs to learn about character about life and about honesty and integrity. I am surprised that he still has any sponsors left after the humiliation he has bestowed upon his family and friends including the quick dismissal of close confidant and caddy – Steve Williams who stayed quiet and loyal throughout the entire sex scandal. Woods may have apologized to lots of people or collateral as he might call and think of them; but, He will never be able to apologize to one of Golfer’s Greatest Statesmen and Characters – Mr. Payne Stewart RIP.

Now for the not so fun news of the crazy fuc_s that want to kill and maim and hurt innocent children, women and men. Aurora, Colorado is the latest town to undergo a tragic ending by lunatic James Holmes at the Black Knight Batman midnight showing. Poor Colorado has had its share of dumbasses, stupid fuc- s and lunatics including the Columbine School students and killers Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold and a rapist who was visiting Vail, professional basketball player Kobe Bryant. Lucky for Colorado, Kobe does not live in the state but the citizens of Los Angeles have to claim him.   All four of these individuals will not / did not get their deserved and correct punishment.   Public hangings would definitely make a person reconsider their motives, their planned killings, their rapes before carrying out such atrocities. We the public have paid for Harris and Klebold and will most likely pay to house Holmes for many years in a solitary confined area away from the other prisoners of whom may be offered cigarettes, money or bitches to off Holmes.   We did not have to pay for Bryant, he did that on his own by offering and paying a substantial amount of NBA money to the victim to spare her of explicit testimony. Kobe even bought his wife an extra large diamond ring to satisfy her anger and disappointment in a relationship that was founded on lies, adultery and betrayal.

To all the families and friends of the Aurora shooting, my deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers. To Holmes and all the other crazy fuc-s scattered throughout the world such as Tucson, Norway, Virginia, Oklahoma, Iowa, California, Iran, Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq:   We will survive and you will not Break our Spirit, Love and Pursuit of Continuous Freedom.

“The statue of Joe Paterno, Penn State's late, disgraced former football coach, has been taken down, after university officials announced early Sunday their decision to remove it.

‘I now believe that, contrary to its original intention, coach Paterno's statue has become a source of division and an obstacle to healing in our university and beyond,’ Penn State president Rodney Erickson said in a statement. ‘I believe that, were it to remain, the statue will be a recurring wound to the multitude of individuals across the nation and beyond who have been the victims of child abuse.’

The decision comes on the heels of a damning 267-page report by former FBI Director Louis Freeh--which concluded Paterno concealed information about former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky's sexual abuse of underage boys--and a day before the NCAA announces sanctions against the school and its football program.” – YAHOO News!

Early this Sunday morning, a blue quilted moving blanket was placed over Paterno’s statued head of the 7 foot tall, 900 pound statue which had been erected in 2001 at Beaver Stadium on the State College, Pa., campus. This same day July 22nd, 2012 the statue was airlifted via forklift and placed in an unnamed secure storage unit where it may be the winning bid for an upcoming Storage Wars televised segment. In case some of You are familiar with Penn State but not Storage Wars it is a reality show on A&E Network and features auctioneers Dan Dotson and Laura Dotson, as well as auction hunters Barry Weiss (my favorite), Dave Hester, Darrell Sheets and the team of Jarrod Schulz and Brandi Passante. Executive Producer and Creator Thom Beers serves as the off-screen narrator. And that is all I am going to say about that except that Penn State finally has some balls and did the right thing so that the abused victims, their families and the surrounding community can start to heal. One more thing, give Penn State Football the “Death Penalty” for at least one year and start the program anew. How deep and how many layers beneath the truth surface did the cover up go?   How many players and other coaches knew what took place in the locker room, behind the bleachers and in the closed, darkened classrooms as well as Sandusky’s family home?   Yes, there are still many questions of which we and more importantly the many victims will never learn the answers to.   Yes, Penn State Football and the University has not only been tarnished but has an evil taboo that will take perhaps decades or even longer before its brand is once again one to be proud of.    I feel for my Amigas and Amigos that have graduated from Penn State because it is currently not something that YOU want sticking out in a resume and during that interview You are asked, “So what do You think of Joe Paterno?” or “Are You a huge fan of the Nittany Lions Football program?” One thing is clear, I love College Football and have cheered for Penn State in games past; but, children’s’ lives being protected and not being ruined is far more important to this Sports Fan and I am certain it is for most adult persons in this Mega World we live in and share with our Fellow Man or Woman.

Now to end this Blog on a great note where else to end the trip other than the last frontier Alaska.   There is an incredible place that serves the best Grandes and Mexican Food in the town of Anchorage since 1972 – Pancho’s Villa Mexican Restaurant owned by Carlos & Ricardo with Dawnarita serving as manager and helping Carlos serve up tasty Margaritas mixed with Jimador, Cazadores, Patron, Tres Generaciones and Corralejo Tequilas.    A fun crowd showed up for the “My Bad Tequila” book signing including Jimmy Moose (yes, that is his real name) who moved to Alaska some twenty to thirty some odd years ago because of his name and to escape where he came from – Pittsburgh or Cleveland or Erie or some city that was near a lake, river or canal.   Jimmy knew that a better life awaited him in the cold north because of his last name and he followed his calling and has been content in Alaska for all these many years as has Kim, Donna, Leonard and dozens of other Anchoragites. Each of them gave me the Eskimo welcome and told me I could stay at their igloos anytime except when it gets very warm.

I traveled to Wasilla but did not see the Sarah Palin the former governor or Bristol or the little guy that helped trip up the last presidential election because of young Bristol Palin getting pregnant out of wedlock.    Who cares if the Republican Vice President Nominee’s daughter did get knocked up? What should have it mattered? You are right, it should not have mattered, but the media had a field day with it as did the opposition. I believe Bristol now has a reality show called “Bristol Palin, Life’s a Tripp” which is the name of her son.   I do wish Sarah would have finished her Governorship with Alaska as she was elected by the people of that great state to serve, but book deals and television appearances seemed to be much more fun and liberating than running the largest State in the United States.   I did lose a great deal of respect for Ms. Palin for not finishing her term and as I traveled around the State, I found that several Alaskans held the same sentiments as an Arizonan.

I have to admit I wanted John McCain to become our new President because I felt if ever a person deserved to be our leader it was McCain who served our Great Nation, who was a Prisoner of War, who is a Businessman, a true and honest American but it was not to be.   The handlers of McCain did not let John McCain be the Man and the Maverick of which we knew him to be as he served in Arizona. I try to stay away from Politics but it is an election year and I believe I can look at the candidates unbiased as I was once a Democrat, I was once a Republican and now I am an Independent.   I have never voted strictly along party lines and wish that most individuals would not, but I know from polls and from what I see in the media most people vote along their party lines and nothing else in taken into account.   In 2008, I believed Hillary Clinton would be a good choice, I believed Obama and in his change, but I was an Arizonan and knew the many good and honorable things that John McCain had done and I voted as such.

Before YOU read any further I ask that each of YOU be open-minded to continue to read my Blog in the future whether or not YOU agree with my point of view. This is what makes America so great, it is the Freedom of Choice and the Choice to Agree or to Disagree. I welcome any comments in disagreement or agreement and will post them all as long as the posts / comments do not personally attack an individual or a group. That being said, let us continue to read and write.

This year I wish Hillary Clinton would have the opportunity to run on the Democratic ticket as I have lost all respect for Barack Hussein Obama for several reasons: (1) Never taking the blame for anything these past 4 years. Obama asked to be elected and the people answered his wish. Once in office Obama blamed the past administration for everything, “Bush did this, Bush did that.”   I look at the Office of a new President of the United States as a new, fresh CEO taking over the reins of a company in trouble and turning the company around. The new CEO never mentions the Old or Past Administration, he or she just leads the company toward new goals, new profits and does what she or he promised.    (2) Obama told us how he would bring change, how he would bring the parties closer together, how he would be non-partisan.   The only thing that has changed is that I like You are worse off than we were 4 years ago before Obama took control of the White House.   (3) Vacations, galore at the expense of the taxpayers – You & I are footing the bill as Obama, Michelle and their two daughters flit about the country and the world. (4) Constant campaigning for another term rather than concentrating on the poor economy and the dismal job market.   Barack Hussein Obama told us that the economy is much better even though there are still hundreds of thousands of Americans out of work.   I am fortunate to be working, but tell the multitudes that are not working or who have lost their homes that the economy is good is like getting personally and physically slapped by the President himself.   (5) The majority of the people told Obama that they did not want Government controlled Health Care but he believes he knows better for us and pushed it anyway.   (6) Immigration issue has had a band aid put on it and now the policies in place are even more controversial than before. (7) There are many other reasons, but my intention is not to run Obama into the ground but for us to look at perhaps a new solution - WE the PEOPLE of the UNITED STATES of AMERICA need a Businessman or Businesswoman more than ever to help US become a Global Leader once again and restore OUR GREAT COUNTRY to where it was during the Reagan Administration.   WE need to gain OUR Respect back from Foreign Countries and WE need to help show OUR YOUNG what it means to be PROUD AMERICANS.    Vote not for Color, Vote not for Religion, Vote not for Party, BUT PLEASE Vote for Leadership, Vote for Freedom, Vote for Positive Change, Vote for a Better America and VOTE!

Enjoy & Share! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q22H3a_QNVA
New website to get Your copy of “My Bad Tequila" eReader: http://www.bibliocracy.com/e-books/travel/my-bad-tequila for only $2.99

& available in hardcover, paperback & eKindle on Amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/MY-BAD-TEQUILA-ebook/dp/B004OC03TS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1339399474&sr=8-1

& available in hardcover, paperback & Nook at BarnesAndNoble.com   http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/my-bad-tequila-rico-austin/1103214438?ean=9780981978932

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Uncle Rico Rico Austin Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA
"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com

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Robin Williams RIP; Parrot Grande; Dwight Yoakam; Michael Brown = burn Ferguson down; Boise State Broncos vs. Ole Miss in Atlanta; Blue ELVIS

8/27/2014

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?Que Pasan Amigas y Amigos? r U ready for a real juicy, controversial "My Bad Tequila" Blog?

Lots of things fine and not so cool episodes to write about for my trusted, intelligent and thoughtful readers. Yep, I’m smearing it on real good this month, because I love YOU all and it has been a great August here in the Scottsdale, Arizona area with lots of rain and even a few days that did not make it into the triple digits. GREEN is the word of my surroundings - very GREEN and Beautiful!

I’ll begin with something lighthearted and fun. I just now saw this posting from my San Carlos / Tucson Amigo - Mr. Abby Cady: “Dwight Yoakam in town tonight. At the historic Fox theatre and it will be an awesome concert. Having a Asahi beer with a saki chaser at sushi on a roll. Downtown Tucson rocks.” And wouldn’t you know it, a pleasant memory was brought to my frontal lobe reminding me of when I saw Mr. Dwight Yoakam in 2010 or 2011. Well, here is the story.

I saw Dwight in Silver Legacy Resort Casino Reno, Nevada 2 nights in a row; First night, he was drunk off his ass and could hardly sit upon the stool; He didn't do his cool leg wiggle when singing "Fast as You," so I started dancing my way up to the stage, crowd started going wild, next thing I know I'm grabbed by security and being thrown out. People are throwing shit at the security guards to let me go. They were cool when I told them what was going on. Then went the next night and Dwight put on a Hellava Great Show with dancing, wiggling legs. The following day, my Amigo RC and I caught a taxi to the airport to rent a car to drive to Lake Tahoe and spend the day on the beach. The taxi driver keeps looking at me in his rear view mirror and says, “I think I know you. You look awfully familiar” A few minutes later he blurts out, “You’re the guy we kicked off the stage 2 nights ago at Dwight Yoakam concert, I was one of the security guards that let you go.” I tell him, Yep, that was me and we share a laugh & Oh Yeah, by the way, I was with Rich Collins that historic night! Stay off the stage - security doesn't like that! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2qo1x9rcCc

Amigas & Amigos, most of You did not get to see this on the Golf Course as it was a Sponsored Golf Hole for the Parrot Grande Tourney at The Falls at the Pointe Hilton Tapitio Cliffs. It included a picture of performers Mark Mulligan, Kelly McGuire, Sam Rainwater, along with the Bieb aka Justin Bieber, The Boise State Blue Elvis aka Rico Austin, Alice Cooper, Blu Kaboy Bobblehead Doll with two of Rico’s books, “My Bad Tequila” & “In the Shadow of ELVIS,” Abby’s dog, Gordie RIP, and Cabo Wabo Tequila.

Also performing at Parrot Grande 2014 was Bob Karwin and he put on an afterhours show privately for a few Parrotheads, CRAZY, CRAZY! Great show by headliners Mexico Mark Mulligan and Kelly McGuire and opening act – Amigo Sam Rainwater. Mark & Sam just happen to be my neighbors in San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico; therefore, I am one lucky, righteous, cool dude that has the opportunity to hear them many times throughout the year. Last year 2013 at Parrot Grande, Mr. Brent Burns stole the show with his hit “Margarita Smile.” It is fast becoming my favorite trop rock song, watch out Jimmy Buffett “Margaritaville,” and Kenny Chesney “Have another beer in Mexico.”   Great Songs by Great Songwriters!~ Here is Brent Burns’ “Margarita Smile” for those that have never had the pleasure.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_ZF7RQToe8

Mark Mulligan: A Bar down in Mexico https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Hcp5nluKZ0

Kelly McGuire: Blame it on Buffett https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8rhM_4p8hA

Bob Karwin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZ-hwneHZiY

Sam Rainwater: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6TIwZpGOo0M & one more from Sam,

as I used to have a trailer in Mexico https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwYSdICSh_Y

Okay, now back to some current events, we’ll take a visit to Missouri where the locals are rioting, stealing and vandalizing store owners and property owners that had nothing to do with the police shooting of Michael Brown. The St. Louis suburb of Ferguson with population of 21,000 is in havoc and turmoil by violence as protesters outraged over the 18-year-old's shooting faced off with police, not adhering to a mandatory curfew. Their stories are at the complete opposite spectrum of each other – Michael’s friend, Dorian Johnson, 22 who like Brown was black in race. To me they are Americans not African Americans as they nor their parents, nor their parents' parents have ever set foot on the soil of Africa. I am not a Euro American nor is my wife a Scandinavian American, just because our ancestors came from those areas. In my book, You are either an American, an European, an African, a Mexican, a Colombian, a Russian – but not a combination unless you do indeed have a passport that displays dual citizenship of which Brown nor Johnson had.

At the onslaught of the news it was reported that Michael Brown was an upstanding citizen, grade A student in high school and enrolled to begin college in just a few, short days and then the truth became known thanks to a video camera that Michael Brown was a bullying, thieving thug with no intention of a higher education as lied about by the dishonorable Al Sharpton and having sex with your church members reverend Jesse Jackson. How this all plays out, who knows; but one thing is apparent, those that are looking for any excuse to use the race card as an excuse to steal, riot and vandalize will do so, no matter what the dire situation. The FBI has found a witness that has the same story as the police officer that Michael Brown attacked him and was trying to shoot him in the police car. If Obama had a son ……..

Here is CNN video surveillance shows Michael Brown stealing cigars and shoving the store clerk from a Ferguson, Missouri Quiktrip convenience store just minutes before being fatally shot by officer Darren Wilson. Michael Brown was also be investigated and wanted for a strong arm robbery that had occurred. Doesn’t sound like my kind of model citizen as his family tries to convince the media and public.

Shame on Attorney General Eric Holder who has also played the race card and incited more upheaval and bigotry by saying, “I am the U.S. Attorney General, but more importantly, I am a black man.” WoW – can you say Racism!

Again, if Obama had a son ……..

http://dailycaller.com/2014/08/15/video-shows-michael-brown-stealing-cigars-from-store-before-shooting-video/

Robin Williams RIP, funny man, comedian, actor, father, husband and human took his own life due to depression, a sickness that is hard to diagnose and cure. A disease that the carrier can hide from others. Robin was born July 21st, 1951 in Chicago and left this Earth for Ork on August 11th, 2014 in Tiburon, California, may he find peace on Ork. Mr. Robin Williams came into our living rooms on a television set in the 1980s as Mork from planet Ork on the Mork and Mindy show. He later starred in some great movies such as Mrs. Doubtfire, Good Will Hunting, Good Morning Vietnam, Dead Poets Society, Aladdin, One Hour Photo, The Fisher King, Hook, The Birdcage, Awakenings, The World according to Garp are some of my favorites. Adios Amigo!

Why am I in a hurry to get this Blog out tonight, August 27th? It is because Boise State will be opening the college football season on a nationally televised ESPN broadcast versus Ole Miss, the Rebels of University of Mississippi in Atlanta in the Georgia Dome at 5:00 Pacific Standard Time on Thursday, August 28th; This is the first time in several years that Boise State enters the season unranked as they suit up in their football armor against nationally ranked #18 Ole Miss. I am hoping for the best, going against the rest, not thumping my chest and I do not know what zest, my beloved Boise State Broncos possess! The many faces of the Boise State Broncos and Author / Writer Rico Austin are below as well as Robin Williams and Dwight Yoakam.

The ALS aka Lou Gehrig's Disease is a terrible disease and has gained much needed funds through the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. More importantly that doing the challenge is to make sure that each of You are being honest with yourselves and sending in at least $10 to the following link: http://www.alsa.org/   A facebook Amiga Colette P. shared with me that she lost her Dad to ALS and this is what I shared back with her: So Sorry for Your loss Amiga, I lost my dad when he was only 42 years young to quick pneumonia and stomach ulcer! No Bueno of all diseases, cancers, sicknesses, famines and wars.

If you want to see one more ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, feel free to watch mine and please no comments about how small the pail was - it's not the amount of ice water, it is the thought and donation that count. ;-)

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10203359236354350&set=vb.1014427752&type=2&theater

Had an incredible and tasty Mexican Meal for Lunch on August 21st, Thursday at my Amigo Grant's place - El Capitan in downtown Flagstaff; Next time - Mas Azuñia Tequila - Gracias Grant & Staff!

Have a Safe and Funtastic Labor Day Weekend!   Vayan con Dios!

Author, Writer, One Righteous, Cool Dude - Rico Austin
Uncle Rico
“Have a Double Shot of Reality” TM

http://blog.mybadtequila.com
www.mybadtequila.com

Dwight Yoakam in concert at Historic Fox Theatre in Tucson!

My Amigo Abby Cady's shadow is in the picture wearing his U of A Wildcats Cap!

Robin Williams RIP in one of my favorite movies, Mrs. Doubtfire! Rest in Peace on Ork!

Parrot Grande Weekend at Tapatio Cliffs at Pointe Hilton in Phoenix, Arizona;

Pictured Clockwise from Top Left to Right: Gordie RIP with a Cabo Wabo Cowboy hat & Cabo Wabo Tequila, Boise State Broncos Logo, Alice Cooper, more Cabo Wabo Tequila, Amigos Kelly McGuire & Mexico Mark Mulligan, Blue Monkey & Justin Bieber & Blue ELVIS aka Writer / Author Rico Austin, Amigo Sam Rainwater, Blu Kaboy Bobblehead Doll & epic, best selling, award winning My Bad Tequila & In the Shadow of ELVIS, Perils of a Ghostwriter

Amigo Grant Gardner, owner of El Capitan Mexican Grill in Flagstaff, Arizona with his personal autographed copy of My Bad Tequila while Author / Writer / Tequila drinking Gringo Extraordinaire Rico Austin shows off the El Capitan Menu!

Oooh, I see two of my Favorites: Pacifico Beer & Azunia Tequila at El Capitan in Flagstaff!

I love this Logo, the food & the Tequila at El Capitan - Fresh Mexican Grill in Flagstaff, AZ!

Lost photo of Author / Writer Rico Austin #29 Boise State Bronco jersey in 1985!

Boise State Mania Fanatics getting ready for some Bronco Football!!!
Blu Kaboy, Rich Collins, Elf, Rico Austin, Michel Bourgeau at Sam Boyd Stadium!

Boise State Bronco Football Amigos Steve Elliott and Rico Austin on Blue Turf in Idaho!

Coach Chris "Pete" Petersen and Blue ELVIS aka Rico Austin at MAACO Bowl in 2012 during a happier time; Good Luck Coach Pete at University of Washington Huskies!

Boise State University Football Team 1985 - last year of the Green Turf;

Author / Writer Rico Austin seated in bottom row, 2nd from right #29!

The Blue ELVI aka Rico Austin & Rich Collins & Blu Kaboy aka Emilio after another victory!

Ironically, this is the Boise State vs. University of Washington MAACO Bowl

which was Coach Chris Petersen's last Bowl game with BSU, now with U of Washington

Even Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus travel from the North Pole to cheer on the Broncos!

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Rico Austin's Private Idaho - Fifty Authors from Fifty States

7/28/2014

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http://annettesnyder.blogspot.com/2014/03/rico-austins-private-idaho.html

This is copied from Annette Snyder's Blog "Fifty Authors from Fifty States" as written by guest blogger and author Rico Austin. The website above is to the direct site and original posting by Annette Snyder on March 23rd.

I was thrilled to be chosen to represent Arizona last year, 2013 in the Fifty Authors from Fifty States Blog as it has been my home on and off for the last 23 years; but, I am truly honored to have been given the nod to represent Idaho where I lived life to the fullest of my first 30 years.

My own private Idaho is not based upon the 1991 American independent drama film, but of my experiences while growing up in a community and state of sparse population, but abundant with endless adventures for my four younger brothers, numerous cousins and me.

I was born and raised in Southwest Idaho, along the banks of the Snake River and couldn’t wait to find my own way. This part of the state is a farming mecca with never ending fields of potatoes, corn, hops and wheat bordered by orchards of fruit bearing cherries, apples, pears, plums and the most round peaches. As you drive through the countless trees, you’ll pass through vineyards of glorious grapes that become some of the finest wines of North America such as those grown and bottled at Ste. Chapelle, Idaho’s largest winery just across the river from my small hometown of Marsing, population 801. When I graduated high school there in the mid 70s the population was 510; others and I have left, but we have been replaced by those seeking a more tranquil life and peaceful, serene views of the winding Snake River and of the local landmark of Lizard Butte.

While still in Southwestern Idaho, we have to pay homage to the capital city of Boise, located in the high desert area about 40 miles from Marsing, (once the center of my world) is a tree lined valley of the Boise River, a distinct landmark for the early French fur trappers and traders which originally named this area, “La riviere boisee,’ which translated means, “the wooded river.” Boise is the largest city and metropolitan area between Portland, Oregon and Salt Lake City, Utah and is home to Boise State University, the largest university in the state. BSU Broncos have the famed Smurf Turf aka the Blue Field of Football and have been nationally ranked in Football and in Basketball. I studied at Boise State while playing football and it is here that my first, bestselling novel and winner of 14 awards, “My Bad Tequila” began during a Spring Break trip from BSU to San Carlos, Mexico, gone heavily awry. This is the story of that adventurous, journey of mystery which spans 30 years of the main character’s life. My favorite line from the book is, “You’ll see the true reflection of me when the tequila bottle is empty,” I shouted out to the wind as I tossed the sad, angry, bottle-shaped mirror to the sea.

Growing up I loved camping, rafting, hiking, boating and fishing in the Salmon River Mountain Range, Owyhee Mountains and the Teton Range that are part of the Rocky Mountains of North America. Exploring my
state was high upon my list, almost as high as the elevation of these ranges where vast mother lodes of gold and
silver have been mined; but, still veins await discovery. One of my favorite places to camp and walk the outdoors was in the Sawtooth Mountains on the south central part of the state where hundreds of lakes were created by by vanished alpine glaciers. The largest of these lakes being Redfish Lake, Stanley Lake and Sawtooth Lake of which many a trout have been pulled and served up as the main course of a delicious campfire meal. Some of you may have heard of a place named Sun Valley, Idaho and/or the neighboring town of Ketchum, a skiers dream and home of former Olympic Gold Medalist, Picabo Street. She won gold medals in super G at the 1998 Winter Olympics and in downhill at 1996 World Championships. She also won the World Cup downhill season titles in 1995 and 1996, the first American woman to do so.

Street was inducted into the National Ski Hall of Fame in 2004. Sun Valley is also the final resting place of Ernest Hemingway, one of the greatest American Writers, who too loved the Idaho outdoors and the adventures that were awaiting him.

There are so many numerous places of natural beauty within the State of Idaho, from the top of the panhandle with the towns of Sandpoint and Coeur d’Alene hosting the lakes of Pend Oreille and Coeur d’Alene with its famous floating green where golfers from around the world test their skill and swing. The
University of Idaho, home of the Vandals is located in nearby Moscow, next to the Washington border. In Central Idaho is where Ski Town USA aka McCall is located, with the Payette Lake for water skiers being surrounded by the town and Brundage Mountain on the outskirts of town for the snow skiers. McCall is mentioned in two of my books, each having a story that connects the reader to this place of the beauty and my favorite town within the borders of Idaho. An in-depth look at Idaho through the towns of McCall and Marsing are shared in the biography / memoir telling the true story of how and when I met the legitimate, illegitimate son of the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Mr. Elvis Presley. You will read of all the trials and tribulations of ghostwriting, John Dennis Smith’s epic and incredible mystery of being adopted and discovering his birthright. This is his journey of finding out WHO his birth mother and father really were.

This too, is of my adventure, trying to get the full story documented, written and published for the world to read of this incredible, well kept secret of over five decades.

As we finish our travels to the eastern part of the state we have Pocatello which is home to one of the three state universities, Idaho State University and the Bengals mascot. From Idaho Falls, you can see the towering Tetons in the background heading northeast to the entry of Yellowstone National Park by way of West Yellowstone, another picturesque spot in the very diverse state of Idaho that is made up of pure evergreen and aspen forests of wilderness with untamed rivers flowing through the rugged landscape. When visiting this unique place on Earth with breath taking views of Hells Canyon, Shoshone Falls, Craters of the Moon, River of No Return, Shoshone Indian Ice Caves and the Bruneau Sand Dunes, there are three things you do not want to forget: a camera to capture the beauty, a fishing pole to cast into the lakes and rivers, and a pen to encompass your thoughts as you see what Lewis and Clark first beheld in my own private Idaho.

http://www.amazon.com/Rico-Austin/e/B004HY01DG/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0

Entering Eastern Idaho from the Utah border on the Interstate

Hells Canyon with the Snake River

St. Chapelle Winery - owned by Symms Fruit Ranches near Marsing, Idaho on Sunny Slope

Lizard Butte - Easter Morning Ritual each & every year!Winding, long, Snake River at beautiful Marsing, Idaho; This is the area where Author Rico Austin was raised, worked, went to school & learned to swim with 4 brothers & numerous cousins.

ARIZONA Is Where I Live is Rico's only Children's Book!

My Bad Tequila - Rico's first novel, winner of 13 National Awards & 1 International Award; This book details his life growing up in Idaho, traveling to Mexico for Spring Break and then back to Arizona. A book that spans 50 years of the Author's incredible journeys and exciting life with the ups and downs that is given him.

Downtown Boise, Idaho

Sawtooth Mountains - near Stanley & Sun Valley, Idaho

Author Rico Austin in 1985 during Summer Double Days of Football on the Boise State University Turf - last year of Green Turf before the Blue Smurf Turf - his practice jersey was #14 and Game Day Jersey #29 which was the same number that his Amigo Rick Woods of Steeler Fame wore when BSU won the Division I AA National Championship in 1980; Boise State began as a Junior College and at one time had a 31 Game Winning Streak under Coach Lyle Smith. Boise won thirteen conference titles in football under Smith and the NJCAA National Football Championship in 1958. Smith's final record is 156–26–6

Shoshone Falls just east of Twin Falls where Evel Knievel made his attempted jump over the Snake River Canyon on September 8, 1974.

Bruneau Dunes State Park - Southwest Idaho

Author Rico Austin at BSU Blue Turf with 3 of the 4 original, famous BLUE ELVI or BLUE ELVISES! The four soldiers made a pact when in Iraq that when they returned to their home in Boise, ID that they would have Elvis outfits made and attend home football games at Boise State University. Johnny Vogt - pictured far right, loaned his costume to Rico Austin to wear in Las Vegas at the Las Vegas MAACO Bowl on December 22, 2012. Boise State kicked a 27-yard field goal with 1:16 left in the game to defeat Washington 28–26 to win their third consecutive Maaco Bowl Las Vegas game.

Coach Chris Petersen of BSU and Author Rico Austin at Hard Rock Casino on December 21, 2012. Special interesting, little unknown fact - In 1985, Chris Petersen was the Quarterback for UC Davis and played against BSU that fall. Petersen threw a pass away to the sidelines and it was caught by Austin. Ironically, Chris Petersen is now the head football coach at University of Washington and will make his debut in fall of 2014. Also, Chris Petersen signed a football and had it sent to Rico's brother Sam Austin who was serving in Iraq as Sam was the leader of the soldiers that promoted "PETE CREW - We Have Your Back All The Way From Iraq."

On the front page of the Las Vegas Review Journal on Sunday morning, December 23, 2012. Left to Right - Rich C., Emilio VooDoo Daddy & Rico Austin;

Front page of the Sports Section in Idaho Statesman on December 23, 2012; Pictured left to right: Emilio, Rich, Elf, Rico & Michel Bourgeau who was also a team member of the 1980 Division I AA Championship Team. Michel went on to play play ten seasons in the Canadian Football League for the Ottawa Rough Riders and the Edmonton Eskimos.

Even Justin Bieber and his Blue Monkey are Boise State Football Fans and wanted their picture taken with Author Blue Elvis Rico!

This is the true story of how and when I met the legitimate, illegitimate son of the "King of Rock 'n' Roll," Mr. Elvis Presley. This is the recording of all the trials and tribulations of ghostwriting John Smith Presley's epic story. This is his journey of finding out Who, his birth mother and birth father really were and discovering his birthright. This too is of my adventure that same year of traveling to Iceland, Mexico, San Francisco and Las Vegas to get the full story of which you have seen just a few of the pictures that make this a Classic Read that you will not want to miss.

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Mexico got Lucky; Buffalo Wyoming; Ken Wright; Oakland Walmart; Julio Bermejo & Alcatraz Tequila

6/30/2014

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Summer time, summer time is here, just a couple of days after the Solstice which is an astronomical event that occurs twice each year as the Sun reaches its highest or lowest excursion relative to the celestial equator on the celestial sphere.

Hey, sorry to start the informational learning so quickly into the Blog, just thought I’d throw a little surprise in there as usually I start out with a Hola Amigas & Amigos or Que Pasan Compadres. Nope, this time, straight to the learning curve of life. If you already knew about the Solstice, I’ll guarantee that You won’t know anything or everything about our other three subjects that we’re gonna cover, maybe more if we get sidetracked and you know with Tequila drinking Uncle Rico that is very possible.

Okay, let’s see we’ve got Summer introductions finished, now let’s visit a cool place that I discovered last week in WYOMING!

Some of us including myself travel many different parts of the country and that is what makes our employment fun at times and sometimes difficult, as we’re away from loved ones on the road more than most of the population.

Every once in awhile we’ll stumble upon a town that is quite unique and that we feel that we are a part of or think to ourselves, “man, I wouldn’t mind hangin’ here for a couple of weeks, looks like a cool place.”

Well, I had the opportunity to travel through Wyoming last week and while the state is not the most beautiful state in the Union, it does have its moments; Yellowstone, Laramie, Cody and now another unique town that I discovered as I drove down the highway of life which landed me in Buffalo, Wyoming. Hell, I even like the name of this town!

I hope YOU enjoy the pictures at the end of this Blog as I felt this town deserved a little more than just a drive by. Would have loved to spend the night, but got here too early in the day, so onto Billings, Montana I drove, all the while thinking about this town where the Population is almost as high as the Elevation with the Bighorn Mountains in the Background. You’ll see what I mean!

The Beautiful Downtown of Buffalo, WY which is also their official mascot and their state flag is of a Buffalo. Didn’t see any, but loads of antelope and saw a few deer – in fact one ran across the road in front of me into the KOA camp and I got a shot (camera shot so don’t get too excited) of it. The inside of the Occidental Hotel had animal trophies galore. But I assure YOU, no animals were harmed during this excursion and the only time I carry a gun is when I’m in Los Angeles or Seattle or Denver or Albuquerque and definitely in Chicago – home of the Mobsters and Corrupt Politicians, uh where again did Barack Hussein Obama say he was from? Let’s see Indonesia and Chicago! Okay, I will not go there – don’t want to be labeled a birther or son of a bitcher or …….

Speaking of Southern California, I stumbled upon an Air Museum that I had no idea existed, March Field Air Museum at 22550 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518 of which you’ll be able to see it, just off the 215 Freeway. www.marchfield.org

Actually I saw this off the freeway as I was headed South from Riverside area towards Temecula, a little town called Perris, California. So I took the off ramp, paid my $10.00 very reasonable admission and was welcomed by the nicest gentleman who just happens to be a former Navigator in the Royal Air Force serving in World War II. Mr. Ken Wright, an English Bloke was a B-17 Combat Wingman and shared a very unique and interesting story with me.

Ken, we’re on a first name basis now, joined the Royal Air Force in Great Britain on December 8th, 1941. Why does that date sound familiar or a bit peculiar – because that was exactly 1 day after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on the infamous 7th day of December 1941. When Ken told me this, my first reaction was Wow! You joined in the fight for Freedom because of the attack in Hawaii of the USS Arizona and he replied in his British accent, “No, the 8th of December, 1941 was the day that I became 18 years of age and I could legally join the service. I’m no mathematician, but that makes Ken 91 years young and counting and just in case some of you ladies are thinking, hey a handsome World War II hero is what I’ve been waiting for – not gonna happen. He is still married to his first bride Debra and they have some history together, so back off all You Old Maids and Young Senoritas!

If you’re in the area and want to see some cool, ancient flying aviation equipment and planes this is your stop. They also have “Parties in an Airplane,” “Simulator Rides,” “Guided Docent Tours,” “Tram Tours,” and a Museum Gift Shop. I swear I am not fabricating about the “Parties in an Airplane” as Ken Wright even verified that for me and a guy named Brian B. was present as well. So get down to March Field and have a “Party in a Plane.”

Okay, now some uncover, secret agent news: “MEXICO Got Lucky” will be my next best selling book. The announcement came via www.vivasancarlos.mx/ on the Bulletin Board. This is the true, incredible story of Lucky, a poodle mix that was stolen in San Carlos, Mexico and was held captive for over three months all the while the entire country was searching for Lucky to get the $26,000 peso reward. I hope to debut this book on Labor Day Weekend in English and it will later be translated into a Spanish language version for the Mexican population. Go to Facebook and give “Mexico got Lucky” a like and be one of the first to read of this unbelievable journey of one dog and the man that roamed the streets of Mexico searching for his lost dog aka son. Don’t be surprised when Disney Pictures picks this up for an Oscar winning movie. https://www.facebook.com/MexicoGotLucky?fref=ts

In the words of the great Henry Ford, “The harder I work, the luckier I get.”

I seen some crazy ass sh-t this evening at Oakland Walmart - different world just 2 blocks away at Hilton Oakland Airport Hotel; Quick visit at Walmart, was propositioned by large gal in orange next to the car, she says, "You wanna hot tamale, I get it to you Louisiana style!" "Um, no thanks!" was my polite refusal as her eight year old daughter or niece is there listening and watching every word and move. Saw a theft, but the 2 greeters were busy chatting to each other, "Man I can't believe Homey got married! - first greeter to other greeter as thief and I walk out the door. "Yeah, that's fuc-ing crazy, can't believe it," says greeter number two to greeter number one as thief gets in a car waiting just outside the door. Then walking back to my car, get propositioned a 2nd time & I just chuckle while another dude lifts the chick in the orange onto the back of the car so she can sit while workin' it. Then I have to witness a guy peeing next to his car, guess he knew the bathroom in Walmart would be a little messy. Next a fender bender with two very nice, new expensive cars with chrome wheels (not original equipment) and finally witnesses, several different stories and I got in my car and drove slowly away, back to the Hilton I will stay while in Oakland! San Fran is wild, but not like this!

I wanna go back, there is some wild, unbelievable things happenin' at Walmart while I sit in my room with a lonely laptop that loves to have me tap on her letter keys until she writes "I Love YOU Rico Suave with the smoothest touch this side of the Mississippi." Okay, well ...... Amigo Julio Bermejo did give me a cool Alcatraz Tequila bottle last night. The tequila was 15 years old in that bottle, we (4 of us - Julio, Kern, Reggie & Rico) sipped on it and finally he poured the rest into a pitcher for margaritas since I was traveling by plane and would not be able to take a 1/2 bottle of good tequila through security! Thanks alot Bin Laden!

Yeah, now I know why the Oakland Raiders & Oakland Raiders Fans are thugs, they have to be to survive in Oakland, California across from the Bay - the step child of San Francisco, California! I'm sure glad that this Hilton is barricaded up like a cartel king pin's hacienda to keep the rest of Oakland out! Sorry for the cruelty Oakland, but I've witnessed your fans at our Arizona Cardinals games and it ain't pretty, but I do love Jack London Square & Jackie's book - Fang and Amigo, Hero Pat Tillman RIP grew up just down the road in San Jose, California!

Oh, & one more thing - another guest with pretty far-out clothing & I am being kind, has his book in his hand called, "Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome." I kid you knot!

Thought I was safe here at Hilton, turns out some locals are having a wedding & reception (of which I might add I was not invited) and a shooting broke out, heard the guy was marrying some other dude's Ho and that is all I know!

I can't tell the good guys from the bad guys, everyone looks "bad" in Raider ville! I was hoping those were firecrackers going off, but no sounds like more shooting and a couple more cops have arrived! Locked in my room with diet Dr. Pepper, wings & popcorn, I'm gonna wait this thing out!

With this all said, I do miss Jim Plunkett. James William "Jim" Plunkett (born December 5, 1947) is a former American football quarterback who played college football for Stanford University, where he won the Heisman Trophy, and professionally for three National Football League teams: the New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers and Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders. He led the Raiders to two Super Bowl victories (XV and XVIII). He is the only eligible quarterback to start (and win) two Super Bowls without being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

A curious quirk in Plunkett's career is that he never once played against the New England Patriots, the team that drafted him; he was injured early in 1985 and did not play in the Raiders' playoff run ending in a 27-20 Divisional Round loss to New England.

Currently, Plunkett does a post-game radio show of Raiders games, and is a co-host of several Raiders TV shows. Wish I could have ran into him while in Oakland instead of the characters at Walmart.

And lastly, how about that idiotic cannibalistic hombre from Uruguay? Luis Suarez should be living in Juarez a border town in Mexico where hoodlums, convicts and drug lords rule the city or perhaps he is the right country as his coach, team mates and countrymen of futbol (soccer) fans continue to idolize a biting animal. What makes this even worse is that Suarez has bit opponents not once, not twice, but now a record three times and his only punishment is that he is banned by FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) for several months, and that most of Uruguay as a country believe that Suarez really didn’t do anything that bad. If he was as good as the Urugauyans claim, then why not let his footballing do the talking, why must he cheat for any advantage and try to maim or hurt his worthy opponents. Luis Suarez now claims: I lost my balance and my face hit the player, hurting my teeth. WoW!

Uruguay captain Diego Lugano has described Luis Suárez's four-month ban as an act of "barbarity" that breaches the player's human rights. Fifa suspended Suarez from all football-related activity until the end of October after he bit Italy's Giorgio Chiellini during Uruguay's final group game on Tuesday, June 24th, 2014. If FIFA would have wanted to do the right thing, Luis Suarez would never be allowed on a Soccer field again. Pete Rose never hurt anyone and was banned from Major League Baseball forever. How dishonorable now for the country of Uruguay that when mentioned, the first thing that comes to our minds is, “Isn’t that where that Hannibal the Cannibal character played futbol (soccer).View shared post

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new pages on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)" & “Son of the KING, an Elvis paradox unveiled” & “Mexico got Lucky.”

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Son-of-the-KING-an-ELVIS-paradox-unveiled/454127424682020?fref=ts

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous, Fun Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com
blog.mybadtequila.com

Buffalo, Wyoming where the Population is almost as high as the Elevation

Occidental Hotel on Main Street in Buffalo, WY

Occidental Hotel - this historic hotel founded in 1880, when you walk in this famous hotel, you will be walking where many famous people of the Old West walked – Butch Cassidy and the Hole-in-the-Wall Gang, Calamity Jane, Buffalo Bill, Tom Horn, the young Teddy Roosevelt... and many more.

Inside the Occidental Hotel, notice all the instruments & heads of animals -
would rather see the instruments being played and the animals roaming wild; but - this is an incredibly historic hotel - when you walk in this famous hotel, you will be walking where many famous people of the Old West walked – Butch Cassidy and the Hole-in-the-Wall Gang, Calamity Jane, Buffalo Bill, Tom Horn, the young Teddy Roosevelt... and many more.

Occidental Hotel - 2nd picture of this historic hotel founded in 1880, when you walk in this famous hotel, you will be walking where many famous people of the Old West walked – Butch Cassidy and the Hole-in-the-Wall Gang, Calamity Jane, Buffalo Bill, Tom Horn, the young Teddy Roosevelt... and many more.

Another angle of the Bar & Restaurant in the Historic Occidental Hotel

Cowboy roping a calf for branding - Main St., Buffalo. WY

Wyoming Cowboy of years past! An American Heritage

Not everyone drives a Pickup Truck in Wyoming, taken on Main St., Buffalo, WY

        This Post Office was built years after the end of the Pony Express Riders of which my

           Great Grandfather Abraham Shippy.   Abraham's wife was Sarah Shippy;

          My Grandfather was born in 1896 and died in 1957, before I was born;

My Great Grandfather was born in 1845 & was 16 years old when the Pony Express was dissolved after only 18 months in 1861 and he made his last ride with the Pony Express.

                                  Truth is stranger than Fiction

Notice the white tail deer in center of picture, on KOA Camp in Buffalo, WY

Where some of the Cowgirls & Cowboys whet their whistles in the Summer Heat!

         Big Horn Tire with the Big Horn Mountains in the background -

         Buffalo, WY Population 4585 - SALUTE!     Remember Hee Haw?    ;-)

Author Rico Austin with World War II Hero & Pilot - Ken Wright, former Navigator in the Royal Air Force serving in World War II. Mr. Ken Wright, an English Bloke was a B-17 Combat Wingman and shared a very unique and interesting story with me.

Entrance into March Field, just outside Riverside, CA; A great place for Plane Acificiandos

One of the many planes and fighter jets available to look over at March Field Museum

This picture taken outside, at the parking lot; When you pay inside You'll be allowed to walk through the grounds for up personal photographs and viewing

Author Uncle Rico Austin at March Field

Author Rico Austin, Hero Ken Wright & Brian

Preview of Rico Austin's next book cover - Mexico got Lucky!

Just an ordinary day at Oakland, CA WALMART or is it?

        There is more going on that the initial eye contact can comprehend!
       Gal in Orange by the small girl and gal sitting on trunk of car is soliciting each male;

            Man in white T-Shirt with his back to the photo is taking a leak on a car,

     next to a car that was just involved in a fender bender;

            Stolen merchandise is already half way to Stockton!

Oakland's Finest showing up at Hilton Oakland Airport to calm down wedding attendees!

Lot's of shooting, cussing & Walmart bags!

As close to an Oakland cop car as I want to be - lucky me, didn't see the inside, but ....

One of my Heroes - Pat Tillman has a park named after him in Oakland, CA!

               "The Biter" look at those chompers - Hannibal the Cannibal Suarez!

              a face that only a Uruguay or Uruguayan or Orangutan could love!

               Kiddies - This is what a non-hero & bad sportsmanship looks like!

Uh, no thanks! No Mas Futbol para ti!

Author Rico Austin with Tequila Extraordinaire Julio Bermejo at Tommy's Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco, Richmond District!

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NORRA Mexican 1000; Memorial Day; Albertsons Stadium; Tiger Woods; Rory McIlroy; LUCKY;

5/31/2014

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                                          This is where the story begins:
     NORRA Mexican 1000 Baja Race - prerace drinks of  Azuñia Tequila
              at San Diego Old Town Mexican Restaurant!

Amigas & Amigos - Wow, Memorial Day is just around the corner, so let us begin by thanking all those that have served and to those that are currently serving so that You and I can enjoy freedom of speech, freedom to attend the church we wish and for being able to walk down the streets in our towns without fear. There is much wrong with our Country, the United States of America; but, it is still the greatest nation on Earth.

Some crazy ass shit this month, I was part of the Azuñia Race Team and Rick Johnson Race Team in the NORRA Mexican 1000 Baja race that covered over 1300 miles of the roughest, desert terrain in the world. https://www.norra.com/ Yes, Rico the mild mannered writer embarked on what may have been his wildest, grandest, coolest adventure to date! This is what movies and dreams are made of. Writing about the NORRA Mexican 1000 as a crew member, spectator and racer in the toughest cross country race in the World. I had my doubts from the beginning if Jim Riley of Intersect Beverage would be able to supply enough Azuñia Tequila to get us from Ensenada to the finish line in San Jose del Cabo. Yes, there was Tequila everywhere, every night, every afternoon and there it was staring at us every morning; however, good race drivers and crew members wait until the race is over at the end of each day to begin whetting our whistle with sweet agave and cervezas. My goal is to write of this particular adventure as I interviewed nearly 30 drivers and various crew members. Team Azuñia and Rick Johnson Racing had four vehicles entered into the race: ’71’ Nova – Snortin Nortins, ‘57’ Chevy – Rippin Rooster, a Trophylite Truck and a 1970s model Jalopy.   Of the four starting vehicles, we had three that finished and the ‘57’ Chevy Rippin Rooster took first in its class of Vintage Production Sedan driven by Jim Riley, Dana Dague and Damen Jeffries with navigators Steve Ware, Justin Pulliman and Mike Lawrence. There were 25 of us that made up the team.   Just so I don’t spoil the reading for when the book is out, I’ll just tell you it was an awesome experience included with a short vacation in Cabo San Lucas at the end with friends Matt, Tricia, Connor, Rich & Rhonda with tons of pictures of this journey, some of which I shall share at the end of this blog. http://www.azuniatequila.com/

Corporate Greed won out again – Boise State University Football Field aka Bronco Stadium with the Blue Turf is now Albertsons Stadium. It’s Joe Albertsons' supermarket but the football field is his too.   Situated right next to Taco Bell Arena in Boise, Idaho – home of where the BSU men’s and women’s basketball team plays their home court games. Not liking corporate names at all, even though Albertsons, LLC has agreed to commit $12.5 million over 15 years.

Looks as if Tiger Woods might never get back to where he once was due to his back injury. Jack Nicklaus can sleep a little easier on his back knowing that in the near future his record winning 18 major championships are safe for now. Eldrick “Tiger” Woods has won 14 major championships but has been in a drought for several years since last winning U.S. Open in 2008.   Yes, age and infidelity have taken a toll on the 38 year old golfer as he has been abused with the same nine iron that he felt so comfortable in the past swinging.   Miss Elin Nordegren, a Swedish former model found out Tiger was cheating on her with several different mistresses and hookers and on the early hours of Thanksgiving Day, 2009 one of Tiger’s golf clubs was missing from the bag. It didn’t take long before Tiger knew exactly where that club was: being gripped by his soon to be ex-wife as she swung many times at Tiger and at his car. The National Enquirer was to blame for Tiger getting found out. If you remember many years ago, I wrote that Tiger Woods was a selfish bastard that only thought of himself, this after he being the only top golfer that did not attend Payne Stewart’s funeral. When Tiger was asked about why he did not attend, his response was, that he would be too upset and not be able to concentrate on his game of golf and guess who won that weekend, YES the same man that did not pay his respects to a golf great – Mr. Payne Stewart. Strange how Tiger has time for many extra marital affairs but no time to attend a funeral.

Now we have Tiger giving advice to Rory McIlroy who just broke off his engagement with Danish tennis professional Caroline Wozniacki from 2011 to 2014. He proposed on the 31 December 2013 in Sydney, where she said yes. On 21 May 2014, it was announced that McIlroy had ended the engagement: "The problem is mine. The wedding invitations issued at the weekend made me realize that I wasn't ready for all that marriage entails. I wish Caroline all the happiness she deserves and thank her for the great times we've had.”   Yes, Tiger had been seen talking to Rory earlier and it is greatly rumored that he advised the younger McIlroy of against tying the noose unless you want to get beat up by a club on a holiday. As Nike would not say, “Just Don’t Do It.”

I’ve been blessed with another great writing project that has made it to my corner of the world. LUCKY, is about a dog that was stolen in San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico this last early March, 2014 and through the gigantic efforts of the Mexican, American and Canadian population in the surrounding towns and cities, Lucky was found 300 miles south of San Carlos this last May, 2014. His friend and owner Jim K. searched diligently and offered a reward of up to $23,000 pesos - $2000 US Dollars for the save return of Lucky. I had made some comments on Facebook about Lucky as I had Jim as a Facebook friend whom I had never met; but, Jim had read my epic, award winning adventure and mystery novel, “My Bad Tequila” and had enjoyed it, so guess who “Luckily” got the call to write the story of “Lucky.” Yes, sometimes we just get “LUCKY.”   In the words of the great Henry Ford, “The harder I work, the luckier I get.”

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new pages on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)" & “Son of the KING, an Elvis paradox unveiled”

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Son-of-the-KING-an-ELVIS-paradox-unveiled/454127424682020?fref=ts

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous, Fun Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM
www.mybadtequila.com
blog.mybadtequila.com

SPLASH - between Tijuana & Ensenada on Pacific Ocean with Dana Dague, Nathan Ford & Rick Dorn (sick, dehydrated Rico taking picture)

Team Azuñia & Rick Johnson Race Team - 70s Jalopy, '57' Chevy - Rippin Rooster &

'71' Nova - Snortin Nortins, all getting staged at Ensenada for start of Race - Mother's Day

#619 - 1971 Nova - Snortin' Nortins - lasted 400 miles into Day 1 of 1300 + mile race

Day 1 preparation with Videographer Bobby Guitterez & Driver Jim Riley - Ensenada!

Bad Ass Galaxy 500 - in same class Vintage Production Sedan

Late night repairs on Trophylite Truck after 539 miles 1st day racing - Baja de Los Angeles, Mexico! Least favorite place to spend the noche of the Baja!

Ensenada, Loreto, Paz & San Jose Del Cabo are Bueno!

Hollywood Dowland, Leo Gladden, Mike Malloy & Justin Pulliman working with wrenches!

Amigos Dana Dague & Nathan Ford trying to get Rippin Rooster
ready for Day 2 of the NORRA Mexican 1000!

Retired Fire Chief and Road Warrior Mike Malloy fueling the Rippin Rooster
in Bahia de Los Angeles for Day 2 of the NORRA Mexican 1000!

Navigator Mike Lawrence after Day 1 in Rippin Roosterat Bahia de Los Angeles, Baja Norte!

That is one ugly Author, Writer, Blogger, Tequila Drinker & Crew Member Rico Austin
waking up in back seat of pickup, his bed for the night after Day 1,
this is what the NORRA Mexican 1000 does to a Hombre after 500 + miles
in the Baja Desert, I was one of the lucky ones as 2 of the guys - Hoss Milson
& Steve Ware spent the night in the Baja - 80 miles from civilization and 50 miles
from Baja Highway 1 guarding the broken down 1971 Nova - Snortin Nortins &
believe you me that desert gets cold at night especially where they were near the
Pacific Ocean; Team Azunia only allotted 5 rooms for 25 crew members
which included 22 men and 3 women; but who's counting?

Off Baja #1 near Pacific Ocean - Day 2 from Bahia de Los Angeles, Baja Norte near the Sea of Cortez all the way across Baja to Pacific Ocean and back again to Loreto along the Sea of Cortez in Baja Sur!

Hollywood Dowland on top of the world in his race suit after navigating in the Trophylite on Day 2; Driver Jim Riley in background before he put on his driver's suit to finish Day 2 to Loreto in the '57' Chevy - Rippin' Rooster and crew member Chris Taylor checking out his arm after being mosquito bitten on the Baja in Bay of Los Angeles! ;-(

Mexican Fans of the Rippin' Rooster pose while navigator Justin Pulliman gets ready to jump in with Driver & Tequila CEO Jim Riley of Azunia Tequila!

AZUNIA TEQUILA -

Proud Sponsor of NORRA Mexican 1000 & other fine races - La Mision in Loreto, Mexico

End of Day 2 at Loreto, Baja Sur with Walter Messer (green shirt) age 76 on his way to completing his first NORRA Mexican 1000 with Chase Crew Members Chris Malloy, Hollywood Dowland & Mike Malloy

Crew Members Leo Gladden, Hoss Milson & Josh Schartel sleep on flat bed trailer after end of Day 2 in Loreto, Baja Sur! These guys were suppose to join me in Room 211 at La Mision where the party was being held, but Leo drinkin' Tequila, couldn't remember the room number so out came the sleeping bags!

Room 211 at La Mision in Loreto, Baja Sur, Mexico; Notice the sign on the bed - You'll see what it reads in the next picture; My mattress on the floor is far left side against the wall, dream bed after previous night sleeping in the Gray Pickup Chase Truck!

"Hoss, This is Your BED!" Rico wanted to make sure Hoss got to have the bed in Room 211 since he had spent the previous night in the Baja desert alone with Amigo Steve; He deserved a nice soft bed, but no!!!
He had to sleep on flat bed trailer because Leo forgot the Room Number - Mas Tequila!

Rico proved his team spirit to the crew that night & was officially accepted!

Team Azunia Tequila & Rick Johnson Race Team vehicles all lined up along the road in Loreto, Baja Sur behind La Mision Hotel; The Red Truck with Hauler, the Jalopy, the '57' Chevy, the Gray Pickup Chase Truck and a Writer's Shadow all on the Cobblestone Road beginning of Day 3 - Loreto to La Paz!

Day 3 - Loreto to La Paz, Writer Rico Austin filling the Rippin' Rooster while Retired Fire Chief Mike Malloy has fire extinguisher handy in case fire breaks out!

Safety Numero Uno Priority!

YEAH, now that's what I'm talkin' about - NORRA Mexican 1000 Party with Azunia Tequila!

Mexican School Boys on break getting Team Stickers and posing in front of Jalopy
with Rick Johnson behind the wheel on Day 3 - Loreto to La Paz!

Driver / Racer Rick Johnson at NORRA 1000 finish line awaiting his shot of Azunia Tequila & maybe congratulatory Kiss from who else - of course, his lovely wife Brenda Johnson!

Jim Riley & Steve Ware riding to the finish line with a 1st PLACE WIN in the class of Vintage Production Sedan!
Congratulations to all TEAM Members: Jim Riley, Rick Johnson, Brenda Johnson, Mark Taylor, Chris Taylor, Steve Ware, Chris Ware, Bobby Guiterrez, Chris Malloy, Mike Malloy, Hollywood Dowland, Hoss Milson, Leo Gladden, Justin Pulliman, Rick Dorn, Nathan Ford, Dana Dague, Damen Jeffries, Mel Jeffries, Mike Lawrence, Paco Sheriff, Josh Schartel & Rico Austin!

Congratulations to Todd, Shirley & Kyle Jergensen for their great finish & thanks for use of the trailer!
Congratulations to Trophylite Drivers & Navigators - Chris Fantl, Justin Havens & Ben "Race" Philips!
Congratulations to TEAM Messer - Walter, Gary & Troy Messer (3 generations) & Doc Chantler & Mike Padilla!

GREAT RACE & THANK YOU ALL for letting me be a part of NORRA 2014 - Rico Austin

Team Messer with a 2nd place finish in their class with a 5 man team including drivers and pit support. Mike Padilla (not pictured - taking picture) built a solid t1970 F-100 Ford Truck with zero mechanical issues;
Pictured left to right: Gary Messer, Troy Messer, Rico Austin, Walter Messer and Mooney (Doc) Chantler. 3 generations of Messers w/ Grandpa Walter driving across the finish line & downing his shot of Azunia Tequila

Writer Rico Austin giving a finisher their shots of Azunia Tequila as they cross
the finish line in San Jose del Cabo at end of NORRA Mexican 1000!

At end of NORRA Mexican 1000 - Brenda Johnson standing on left in white T-Shirt
set up the Azunia Tequila welcoming bar at end of each leg each night;
Navigator Chris Ware in black FOX T-Shirt; Steve Ware in black hat & white T-shirt;
Driver Jim Riley in black hat, black T-Shirt & sunglasses standing, finishes in '57' Bel Air;
Driver Rick Johnson seated in black T-Shirt with sunglasses on head, finishes in Jalopy!

Motley Crew of Team Azunia & Rick Johnson Race Team - Rico A., Hollywood D., Chris T., Justin P., Hoss M. kneeling, Leo G., Josh S., Mike M., far right - driver of Trophylite;

Victory Row Celebration - Hollywood Dowland, Brenda Johnson, Rico Austin, Hoss Mlson,
Josh Schartel, Mike Malloy, driver of Trophylite, Driver Rick Johnson, Driver Jim Riley

Rhonda Collins & Connie Austin at NORRA Mexican 1000 Fiesta in San Jose del Cabo!
It was a "Full Moon" Noche - May 14th, 2014

Victory Celebration for Rick Johnson Race Team & Team Azunia at Rick & Brenda Johnson's AGAVE Hotel & Cantina in Los Barriles, Mexico!
Look at all those beer cans - all in a day's work on May 15th!

Pool party & victory celebration at Los Barriles, Rico holding the NORRA Mexican 1000 Trophy with Justin, compliments of the '57' Bel Air with Jim Riley and Steve Ware riding the Rippin Rooster into San Jose del Cabo for a 1st place finish in the Vintage Production Sedan class - What a Team!

Mike, Rico & Chris on Los Barriles Beach with Sea of Cortez in background!

Rico Austin with Azunia Tequila & Jim Riley with Baja Trophy!
Both with a Baja Smile that lasted for more than 1300 miles!

Mechanic Extrordinare - Mr. Leo Gladden sporting the Azunia Team Hat!

The Boys just Chilaxing at AGAVE Hotel & Cantina in Los Barriles, Mexico!

Rick Johnson is already planning team's strategy for NORRA Mexican 1000 in 2015!

Famed Road Warriors & Chasers, Mike & Chris Malloy taking in the Win!

The DJs rocked the house with Toby Keith, Kenny Chesney, Sammy Hagar, The Eagles, Jimmy Buffet, Zac Brown, Van Halen, George Strait, Alan Jackson, Meatloaf, Journey,

A little Father & Son time with Mark Taylor & Chris Taylor while Mel Jeffries, the thinker!

Connie & Rico Austin enjoying AGAVE Hotel & Cantina in Los Barriles on Sea of Cortez!

This Familia made the best hot dogs & hamburgers, notice the racing decals on cart!
Rick Johnson still strategizing in background for next year 2015 NORRA Mexican 1000!

Rico paying his last respects to '57' Chevy - Rippin' Rooster with a bottle of Azunia Tequila!

There was another IDAHO Amigo on the crew taking it easy in Cabo!
Nathan F. reading the numero uno libro in Mexico - MY BAD TEQUILA!

Nathan Ford, Robyn & Dana Dague relaxing with Margaritas in Cabo after grueling race

Rico & Connie's last night in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico at Pueblo Bonito Rose

The BAJA Rock at Land's End in Cabo San Lucas!

The Arch aka El Arco at Cabo San Lucas, Baja Sur, Mexico!

I can't go any further, the entire length of the Baja from Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas

Hey, I guess I could go a little further South, traveled the entire length of the BAJA!

Seriously, did YOU really think I was going to drive back to Tijuana or San Diego?
My kind of Airport, Cabo has a Tequila Tasting Bar! YES, I will return!

          Rory & Tiger discussing marriage, hot chicks and club wielding wives!
     Rory takes Tiger's advice and breaks off engagement to Caroline Wozniacki;
     "It's not her, it's me. The problem is mine," confesses a smiling Rory McIlroy!

It's Joe Albertsons' Supermarket, but the stadium is Joe's as well!

Joe Albertson has everything, even a park in Boise named after his late wife, Kathyrn!

Looks like a Football Stadium, wait just a dog gone minute, is this a Supermarket?
Wonder if there are any Cheerleaders wandering around in the produce department?

This is Boise State University Football Stadium in 1985 - last year of green turf;
Writer, Blogger Uncle Rico Austin #29, bottom far right, next to last;

Writer Rico Austin in training at BSU as a football team member in 1985;

29 years later he would be a team member for Azunia, racing down the Baja

LUCKY, the most famous dog in Sonora, Mexico!
Thanks to All that helped Jim find his Amigo Perro!

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March Madness, How I Met Your Mother, NOAH, Don Laughlin, NORRA Baja 1000, GA, Mickey Rooney, Peaches Geldof

4/30/2014

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Hey Amigos, glad March and its Madness is over as it came in like a lion and went out like a little pussy wildcat, uh excuse me, I stand corrected, out like a pack of Huskies. Kentucky couldn’t get it done in the NCCA Basketball Tourney and left the court to the University of Connecticut. Let the April Showers bring in the Cinco de Mayo flowers and holiday!

     Disappointed!!! Only Hollywood can turn a Great Bible Story - "NOAH" into a madman, almost baby killer with transporter size like talking boulders with another insane Killer that is able to stow away on board the Ark. My advice don't waste YOUR Time or Money. Actor Russell Crowe should be embarrassed beyond belief for portraying such a wicked and lunatic Noah character. Hollyweird sure showed its horrible colors in the making of this film. I saw several people walk out during the movie, I kept thinking or wishing it would get better. Silly ME!!! 2 Thumbs down and 2 Middle Fingers to Hollywood!!   No Bueno pelicula!

     Let me tell You about my best friend, well not my absolute best friend, but a Compadre that I admire and of whose business and marketing sense is second to none. Don Laughlin is who I speak of, the rogue businessman, gambler with roots from Minnesota that told Las Vegas to kiss his ass and he built his own Casino Resort Getaway on the banks of the beautiful and scenic Colorado River across the bridge from Bullhead City, Arizona. http://www.riversideresort.com/ Don Laughlin's Riverside Resort Hotel and Casino was founded and established in 1966 as Laughlin, Nevada’s first hotel and casino. Yes, I’ve known Don now for about 21 Black Jack Years, the last 7 of which I have not gambled, thanks to a great organization called GA (Gamblers Anonymous). If You’ve ever lost time from work or school due to gambling, There is HOPE! http://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/ On April 6th, 2007 in the early morning hours I placed my last bet in Caesars Palace, which was my gambling establishment of choice, even before Hang Over the movie was made and I’ve partied with Zach Galifiankis in Vegas Baby! Thanks to the help of GA and My Dear LORD, I no longer have the urge to purchase a lottery ticket, enter a raffle or place any sort of bet – I’m not bragging, just letting You know that if You believe You might have a problem, there is help out there. Any Addiction is Bad, when it interferes with Your Family, Work, School or consumes your time, thinking and most of your hard earned dinero. No One is of Perfection and sometimes we need Love, Understanding and Help. Don’t be afraid to seek it if You need it.

     Getting back to Laughlin and my buddy Don, I told him this last time I visited his town that I had 4 heroes of which he was one. The others were / are Conrad Hilton, Clint Eastwood and my mother’s favorite actor – Mr. John Wayne. I respect Laughlin and Hilton for their business sense and overcoming all odds of starting small and growing tall. Clint Eastwood because he is not afraid to go against the grain of Hollywood and tells it like it is – believes in Patriotism and Freedom and tells the world what he thinks of Obama and his lousy leadership despite what most others in Tinsel Town say. Clint didn’t like Obama before it was cool to dislike Obama as his backers continue to diminish. John Wayne, I like because of his acting and because my mother adored him. True Grit!!! Well, I never got my picture taken with the other three, but I did get a photo with Don on my last trip to his Riverside Resort, “Where the Customer is King” with 26 different reasons why You or I should choose his establishment over any of the others that line the river banks, proudly displayed on his bar napkins. After hangin’ with Mr. Laughlin for an hour or so, I made my way to Losers Lounge to see the band Groove Inc. with lead singer Brian from Queens, NY and the band members from Kansas City, MO.

     Bike Week in Cave Creek and Scottsdale, AZ lasted from March 28th until April 6th, 2014. That is one long week of 10 days which is actually 1/3 of a month Bike Days. I had a book signing on both Friday evening and all day Saturday of April 4th & 5th at Hogs N’ Horses http://cavecreeklive.com/hogs-n-horses-cave-creek , owned by Amigo TC Thorstenson, the Buffalo Trainer and Rider and also walked across the street at my other Amigo’s bar, the Hideaway Grill http://www.hideaway-usa.com/ owned by biker Mark Bradshaw to visit with friends and have a cocktail of margarita laced with Azunia Tequila. http://www.azuniatequila.com/

     Lame is how I would describe the last episode of “How I Met Your Mother.” Barney Stinson aka Doogie Howser aka Neil Patrick Harris is a dumbass actor whose character should have been killed off at least 2 years ago to save the show of his weak and pointless pick-up lines.   His character was pathetic as was the entire last episode. You would think with a gang of Hollywood writers they could have, would have, should have come up with a much better ending to a show that has nine years of belly fat hanging over its belt. Glad, ecstatic that M.D. (mad dog) Doogie or Doggie will have to move on and will no longer inhabit my television set. Adios to YOU and those kids’ mother.

     RIP Mickey Rooney passed away on April 6th at 93 years of age. Thank YOU for being one of Hollywood's brightest stars in the 1930s and 1940s.

         RIP Peaches Geldof age 25, the daughter of Bob Geldof and the late Paula Yates was pronounced dead in Wrotham, England. The death is being treated as unexplained and sudden according to police. Peaches mother died of an overdose when Peaches was only 11 years young. Ironically her last tweet was an Instagram of herself and her mother Paula Yates. “Me and my mum,” tweeted Peaches on April 6th, 2014. When I read this story it reminded me of a love I lost long ago when I was 18 years naive, to a girl named Peaches who lived along the banks of the Snake River in a small town called Glenns Ferry, Idaho. I remember driving my 1976 Rally Sport Camaro 102 miles each way from my home in Marsing, Idaho also situated along the Snake River to see my beautiful Peaches who now lives somewhere in Southern California with a family of her own.

     Stay tuned next month as I travel on an adventure of a Writing and Riding Riot with the Drivers of the NORRA Baja 1000 coming soon to a Baja Peninsula near you with Drivers and Vintage Cars being fueled with Mexico’s finest Azunia Tequila.    https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-general-tire-norra-mexican-1000-conquistadors-de-baja-1971

     Check out the fellow Author Annette Snyder's "Fifty Authors from Fifty States" Blog of which I was honored to be chosen to write of my birth state, Idaho! http://annettesnyder.blogspot.com/2014/03/rico-austins-private-idaho.html

     Special Congratulations to the Fort Gibson High School Girl's Basketball Team who has won the last 2 State Championships in the Great State of Oklahoma and 3 Championships in the last 4 years. Go and like their Facebook page and tell em' Rico Austin a fan from Arizona sent ya! https://www.facebook.com/fortgibsonladytigersbasketball

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new pages on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)" & “Son of the KING, an Elvis paradox unveiled”

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Son-of-the-KING-an-ELVIS-paradox-unveiled/454127424682020?fref=ts

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous, Fun Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com

blog.mybadtequila.com

Mr. Don Laughlin with Author Rico Austin in Winners Lounge
Laughlin, Nevada 3/25/2014

Writer, Author Rico Austin with Actor Zach Galifianakis in Vegas;

The Wolfpack is Three including Baby Carlos!

                My Bad Tequila mixed with Loathing in Las Vegas

                Hunter S. Thompson & Rico Austin - best sellers!
         Good Neighbor Don was an Amigo with Hunter S. Thompson!

All the reasons why "Customer is King" at Don Laughlin's Riverside Resort

Order your copy of the best selling, award winning epic, adventure & mystery novel, "My Bad Tequila"
available in eKindle, hard cover & paper back
at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/MY-BAD-TEQUILA-Rico-Austin-ebook/dp/B004OC03TS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397435060&sr=8-1&keywords=my+bad+tequila or

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/my-bad-tequila-rico-austin/1103214438?ean=9780981978932

See why Rico is several readers most favorite Author!

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Philip Seymour Hoffman, 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, Somewhere Over the Rainbow, Matthew McConaughey, Shirley Temple, Historic Prescott AZ

3/29/2014

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Que pasa Amigas & Amigos?

The short month of February has blown by with many winter storms in the big cities and small towns. I believe that everyone officially wants spring to arrive as it has in my part of the world – beautiful Arizona with the brittle brush sprouting its yellow flowers into the desert wild.

Lots of Hollywood to discuss from deadly overdoses to Oscar winners to gentle, old age related deaths to …….

Let us start by mentioning RIP Philip Seymour Hoffman who at the age of 46 returned to his demon, his master of darkness - Heroin was awaiting return to Philip’s successful life. The sinister, Evil Heroin wanted to replace the goodness of Success and Family. Heroin is not content being in the distant past, forgotten about, put in a corner of bad choices from a yesterday that no longer controls. Yes, Heroin was constantly trying to remind the actor Hoffman of what he had been missing for 23, long years. It is true that Philip Seymour Hoffman entered rehab this last May 2013 after staying clean for over two decades, but Heroin will not let its previous indulgers rest as he must persist to agonize and pursue relentless on its former users. This incredibly, talented actor that won an Academy Award for his portrayal of the writer Truman Capote in the 2005 film, Capote. Philip who starred in other films such as The Hunger Games, Pirate Radio, Twister and The Ides of March was another victim of drug abuse led by the infamous, torturous Heroin and his bludgeoning sidekicks, Cocaine, Benzodiazepines and Amphetamines, each of them portraying themselves as fun drugs, a cool way to get high and away from reality. The only true reality that was removed for Mr. Hoffman was Philip’s life and his lifetime partnership with Mimi O’Donnell, a costume designer and his future with their three children, Cooper, Tallulah and Willa.   On Groundhog’s day, February 2nd, 2014 – a day that Philip Seymour Hoffman’s family and friends would love to have back with a new beginning, not the same horrible, traumatic ending which will be relived over and over in their minds with never the chance for another rebirth of a great, new, sunshine filled day as was possible in Bill Murray’s portrayal of a weather man on February 2nd, in the film Groundhog Day.

Groundhog Day is a 1993 American philosophical comedy film directed by RIP Harold Ramis who too passed away this February, 2014. Starring alongside Bill Murray was Andie MacDowell and Chris Elliott. It was written by Ramis and Danny Rubin, based on a story by Rubin. Murray plays Phil Connors, an egocentric and arrogant Pittsburgh TV weatherman who, during a hated assignment covering the annual Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, finds himself in a time loop, repeating the same day again and again. After indulging in hedonism and numerous suicide attempts, he begins to re-examine his life and priorities. In 2006, the film was added to the United States National Film Registry as being deemed "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".

The comedian actor Mr. Bill Murray honored his late friend and collaborator Mr. Harold Ramis who passed away on February 24th, 2014 with an amusing tribute during the Oscars as he and actress Amy Adams were presenting the best cinematography award. After all nominees were announced, Bill added an additional nominee as he playfully stated, “We forgot one. Harold Ramis for Caddyshack, Ghostbusters, and Groundhog Day.” Occasionally we see honor in Hollywood. I’ve always admired Bill and Harold, two true friends that made amends in the end as Bill went and visited Harold before his death and made the following statement about his late Amigo after his death, saying that Ramis had “earned his keep on this planet.”

If You’d like to see Bill’s tribute at the Oscars for his lifetime friend Harold then click away at the site that follows: http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/oscars/bill-murray-honors-harold-ramis-oscars-article-1.1708579

*Special Note – Philip Seymour Hoffman was our first choice to portray the older Rico Austin in Double Shot, the movie based on my, best selling epic novel, “My Bad Tequila.”

I was in Universal City, California staying at the Sheraton Hotel which is located on the back lot of Universal Studios Hollywood. This particular Sheraton is known as “The Hotel of the Stars.” Shirley Temple was born on April 23, 1928, in Santa Monica, California. Shirley Temple RIP was a leading child film actress during the Great Depression, starring in works like Bright Eyes and Captain January. When her rendition of the song "On a Good Ship Lollipop" became famous in the 1930s, she earned a special Academy Award. Temple took on some acting roles as an adult before entering politics, becoming a U.S. diplomat for the United Nations. She died on February 10, 2014, at age 85, in California. President Franklin D. Roosevelt called Temple "Little Miss Miracle" for raising the public's morale during times of economic hardship during the Great Depression, even going so far as to say, "As long as our country has Shirley Temple, we will be all right."

One of the many highlights of this year’s OSCAR Awards was Bette Midler pouring her heart on stage while singing “Wind Beneath My Wings”.   Her 1988 hit song which was featured in the film "The Rose" tugged at my heart strings while paying tribute to those who have died in show business over the past year.”

Another glorious and highly unexpected highlight was when Matthew McConaughey was chosen as Best Actor for his leading role in Dallas Buyer’s Club and the acceptance speech which he gave thanking GOD for his life and existence. Matthew, I commend You for not being afraid to mention GOD in Hollywood and for making the world know of your gratitude and faith.   Mr. Matthew McConaughey, You rocked it Amigo by thanking GOD & giving him credit! Hollywood could use a Guy like You! Congratulations and I hope to meet You in person someday and Yes, please invite Clint Eastwood, Amy Adams and Jennifer Lawrence, she can trip and fall on me anytime.

Jared Leto returned to Hollywood film from his rock star persona in "Dallas Buyers Club" that won him an OSCAR for Best Supporting Actor as he transformed himself into HIV-positive character Rayon. "This is for the 36 million people out there who have lost the battle to AIDS," Leto said as he accepted the Oscar. "To those of you who have felt injustice because of who you love and who you are, I stand here with you and for you."

"Dallas Buyers Club" is based on the true story of homophobic drug addict Ron Woodroof, played by Matthew McConaughey, who smuggles much needed but unapproved medication into the United States to distribute to other AIDS patients. He forms an unlikely friendship and alliance with the sweet and tolerant Rayon.

Pink was the color and the performer who sang an emotional “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” as a tribute to the Wizard of OZ on its 75th year anniversary. http://youtu.be/8Zr0ULEeblc

My newest writing / book, a Biography “Son of the KING, an Elvis paradox unveiled” will soon be hitting the bookstores and Amazon.com. In fact the debut book signing will be in downtown Prescott, Arizona on historic Whiskey Row. Friday night, March 14th from 4 – 6:30 pm at the Bird Cage Saloon http://www.birdcagesaloon.com/ and then again on Saturday afternoon, March 15th from 2 – 5:00 pm at The Palace Restaurant and Saloon http://www.historicpalace.com/ for a fantastic read, good food, tasty drinks and a great start to kick off St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

Russia pulled off an incredible and interesting Winter Olympics 2014 in Sochi; but, unfortunately the aggression displayed and shown to Ukraine has diminished much of the goodwill earned from the outside world. President Vladimir Putin delivered a robust defense of Russia's actions in Crimea, stating he would use force in Ukraine only as a last resort, easing market fears of East-West tension over the former Soviet Republic could lead to war. Why can’t we all just get along as we drink Tequila and Vodka?

This last weekend as I was at my good friend TC Thorstenson's bar & restaurant - Hogs N Horses, I overheard a young English bloke at about 4 years old ask TC, "Mister, are you a real cowboy" in his high pitched British accent.   I had to smile to myself as the youngster could not have found more of a cowboy in Arizona had he had a year to look. TC is the world renowned Buffalo rider and trainer.

On Sunday morning, March 16th, my Guest Blog representing Idaho will be featured on fellow author Annette Snyder's blog: http://annettesnyder.blogspot.com/

Remember there are pictures at the very bottom of the BLOG! If you like this Blog and have not purchased one of my books, please do so, You will be greatly rewarded with entertainment and a knowledge that will have been gained.

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new pages on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)" & “Son of the KING, an Elvis paradox unveiled”

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Son-of-the-KING-an-ELVIS-paradox-unveiled/454127424682020?fref=ts

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous, Fun Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com

blog.mybadtequila.com

http://site.mybadtequila.com/Guestbook.php

Brittle Brush blooms in February - April in Arizona desert. It is considered a weed, but when it blooms its yellow flowers, I love it to grow wild!

RIP Philip Seymour Hoffman - Heroin is bad stuff, Stay away, go for the Tequila!

RIP Philip Seymour Hoffman!

RIP Shirley Temple "Little Miss Miracle"

RIP Shirley Temple Black - U.S. Diplomat
for the United Nations & a Movie Starlet

Matthew McConaughey accepting his OSCAR for Best Actor
in "Dallas Buyers Club" & giving Thanks to GOD!

PINK singing "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" at 2014 OSCARS for 75th Anniversary for "Wizard of OZ." Pink absolutely stunning in her Ruby Dress & Ruby High Heel Shoes!

The stunning, sensational Bette Midler performing at the
2014 OSCARS, "Wind Beneath My Wings"

Amy Adams & Bill Murray at OSCARS 2014 in which Bill gives a warm tribute to Amigo Harold Ramis RIP of Ghostbusters, Caddyshack, Stripes & Groundhog Day fame!

The first OSCARS that I can remember watching completely and

while completing my tax return for 2013!

Book Signing debut for "Son of the KING, an Elvis paradox unveiled" at Historic Bird Cage Saloon in downtown Prescott, AZ on Whiskey Row

Cowboy, Buffalo Rider & Trainer, Hogs N Horses owner TC Thorstenson talks about riding horses to this curious little English youngster that asked TC, "Hey Mister, are You a real Cowboy?

Children from England in the United Kingdom enjoying the tales and rope lessons from Cowboy TC Thorstenson

Book Signing debut for "Son of the KING, an Elvis paradox unveiled" at historic
"The Palace Restaurant and Saloon" in downtown Prescott, AZ on Whiskey Row!

Rico Austin's newest book, the biography of ELVIS & his legitimate, illegitimate son!

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GOD is Great, GOD is Goodness, GOD is Love

2/28/2014

3 Comments

Hola Amigas & Amigos, as I was adding archived Blogs from November 2009, I came across this one and figured I should probably post this once again as it serves thanks and a lesson for humanity of living by the Golden Rule. I hope You do enjoy this, nearly 5 years later than when first posted.

Hello Amigos, Brothers & Sisters,
Today is about GOD, about his Greatness, his Goodness and his Love! It is G day in the alphabet and the only thing I can think of to write about is GOD. I am not a prophet, an evangelist nor a spiritual adviser. I do however, know of God's Love for all his Children and I am thankful I am one of his many Children in this fantastic world that he created. All the animals, plants, sea creatures, birds and the brainpower he has given us to build unbelievable structures and do incredible things with electronics that are in our airplanes, cars, trains, space shuttles and even our computers.

This Blog today is not about a certain religion or belief, it is not about Judaism, Christianity, Buddhism, Islam or Hinduism; it is about Brotherly Love for one another. It is about the Golden Rule - "Do unto others that you would have them do unto you" or more simply "Treat others as you want to be treated." Not too difficult of a concept to comprehend; but, in today's face paced world, it is overlooked daily by most of us, Moi included.

Let us all take a moment to say a Prayer for Our Planet, Our World, Our Country, Our Friends, Our Family and Our Household.

On Easter Sunday 2007 it was estimated that 2 billion Catholic, Protestant and Eastern Orthodox Christians recited, sang or read the short prayer in hundreds of languages. "Although many theological differences and various modes and manners of worship divide Christians, there is a sense of solidarity in knowing that Christians around the globe are praying together....., and these words always unite us" according to a Fuller Seminary professor.

Let us all recite the Lord's Prayer, it is perhaps the best-known prayer in Christianity and I being a Christian know this Prayer.

"Our Father, which art in Heaven
Hallowed be thy Name
Thy Kingdom come
Thy will be done, in earth as it is in heaven
Give us this day our daily bread
And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us
And lead us not into temptation
But deliver us from evil
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen"

While we're at it , let's not forget to thank our Lord GOD for all that he has blessed us with and to say a special prayer for those who can not walk, for those who can not see, for those who are afflicted with disease or afflicted with sorrow, for those who are without parents or relatives. Say a special Prayer for our Soldiers and International Red Cross as they put themselves in harm's way to help defeat World Terrorism and provide us with the Freedom that GOD gave to us all.

Amen,

Rico Austin
Author & CEO - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality"

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Pismo Beach, Tommy's Restaurant & Tequila with Julio Bermejo, Streets of San Francisco, Final BCS Championship, AutoReturn & SFMTA = bad news for San Francisco visitors!

1/31/2014

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January 2014 Blog

Happy New Year (Feliz Ano Prospero Nuevo) Amigas & Amigos;

Are you all as excited for 2014 as am I?   2013 kicked most of our asses and now to get back on that damn burro and ride it into the glorious New Year’s sunset.

Pismo Beach was the first stop of my book signing tour on Monday evening, Jan. 6th which was the same night as the National Championship for College Football between Florida State and Auburn. Well, as I was driving from Scottsdale making my way up to Pismo Beach, my most direct route took me onto 210 West, you guessed it at about 1:30 - 2:00 pm right past the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.   At first I wondering what in the heck is going on with all this traffic, I left specially early at 6:00 am to avoid the LA bumper to bumper ride down memory lane. Why do I call it “memory lane?” Because when you’re stuck in traffic for minutes and hours upon the asphalt blacktop, there is a lot of time on your hands to recollect about the past, to think about all those good times, bad times and lost times with relatives and friends. Should spend some time rehearsing for the future as well and thinking ahead; but, realistically we are thinking about something that has already occurred in our life, in our day at work or at play.

I’m cruising along at a comfortable 70 mph in a 65 mph speed zone when red tail lights coming from all 5 lanes including HOV lane are staring back at me and alerting me that something is amiss, awaking me from my bliss with my cruise control fully in progress and lit.   At first I’m thinking how bad of an accident lies ahead? Will there be bodies strewn (wrecklessly) across the sewn together tar? How far ahead is this disaster and will I make it to Pismo Beach in time for my book signing and to watch the football game in The Boardroom?   That is when I saw the limo with a giant, striped orange and white tail flowing like Tequila from the exterior rear of the black, extra long and luxurious van and the Auburn Tiger stickers pasted to the sides of the vehicle, and at this moment is when a light bulb went off in my head and I said aloud, “Oh my goodness, I forgot the National Championship was being played this year at the Rose Bowl.” I then settled down and enjoyed the crawl, rolled down my tinted windows and started giving thumbs up to the Florida State fans and middle fingers up to the Auburn fans. I don’t dislike Auburn, just tired of SEC fans constantly chattering, chanting, tweeting and twerping that no other conference in College Football can compete with the South East Conference. Oh, is that so – Alabama, who lost to Oklahoma by a two touchdown margin being favored by 14. The Sooners kicked some Crimson Tide butt in a complete football game of one hour by a score of 35 – 21, same score and margin as the Oklahoma Boomer Sooners trounced and gave a good ol’ fashioned ass-whoopin’ to Notre Dame. Yes, the University of Oklahoma handed both teams that played in the 2013 Championship game a 35 – 21 spanking.

Okay, now that the world is back in sequence and I’ve pissed off my SEC fans, time to move on. This year’s BCS Championship game was fun to watch as the SEC fell to an “inferior conference.” I think not!    Speaking of which the Oregon Ducks of the PAC 12, that bunch looked like lame ducks in their bowl game – embarrassing is the word I think that I’ve heard most Eugene and surrounding residents use. I would also like to add it was a total “Quack Up.”

I arrived exactly three minutes before game kickoff and had even checked into the Hilton Garden Inn before driving down to the boardwalk area, then carting in my books into The Boardroom Pub for some serious beer drinking and wing eating and book signing while watching football with in between signatures, gulps and bites. This is the last and final BCS (Bowl Championship Series) game.   Oh, how I love the feel of those three consonants as they roll off my tongue – Final BCS game!   Special thanks to viewers and fans, Steve aka Tim Tebow's older brother, Johnny, Joyce, Tony the cook and Bob the Bartender for an incredible, delightful evening.

Next stop Santa Cruz with its gigantic, sprawling roller coaster and some of the gnarliest Christmas lights at a house in town that would make any Elf blush with or without green and red leotards. I went through a little community known as Watsonville, known for their tasty and delicious strawberries just a few miles south of Santa Cruz.

The City by the Bay always brings a smile to my face and a glow to my heart – the most beautiful city in the United States. I usually have only positive things to write and say about San Francisco, however, a parking incident and an unjustified tow will have their day on paper. First, we’ll discuss the good stuff.

My favorite Mexican food joint in all of Northern California is Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant with owner and bartender Julio Bermejo behind the spirits that flow continuously. This mecca for Tequila drinkers and Food lovers was established by Julio’s father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Bermejo in the year 1965 of Our LORD.

I was scheduled for 2 book signings on Wednesday and Thursday nights and I’ve also been working on obtaining my Master (MBA) in Tequila for nearly four, long years which can be taken only at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant by Tequila instructor and aficionado Julio Bermejo who is also the Ambassador from the U.S. to Mexico for Tequila. It was on Wednesday night, January 8th which is Elvis Presley’s birthday. Elvis was born in 1935 and if he had not left the building at such an early age, he would have been 79 years young that last Wednesday evening. I had completed my 35th tequila sampling from the nation’s best selection of premium 100% Agave Tequila. My 35th Tequila sampling was an Extra Anejo Tequila – Herradura Seleccion Suprema – Unbelievable!   I am now studying and drinking for my Ph.D., Dr. Rico Austin – Tequila Ph.D. has a Margarita ring to it and sounds a bit exotic.   I do like the sound of that – “paging Dr. Rico, paging Dr. Rico, can you please come to the bar, Dr. Rico, we need you to give a Tequila shot to a beautiful Senorita, she needs your attention right away. Paging Dr. Rico!”

Are you ready for the, what is ironic about this story?   Remember, my first novel was “My Bad Tequila” and my second book, an autobiography, “In the Shadow of ELVIS, Perils of a Ghostwriter.”   Becoming a “Tequila Master” on Elvis Presley’s birthday – was it “Another coincidence or the subconscious mind at work?”

I now have my Blue Agave Ph.D card readily available for show and tell. This Blue Agave Club is now 8,000 members strong across the globe with nearly 800 members having successfully passed the course thus becoming a “TEQUILA MASTER.” There are nearly 200 members worldwide that have achieved their “TEQUILA Ph.D.”   One of the few, the proud, the Tequila Master.

While touring the streets of San Franciso, I found the warmest spot in San Francisco when the sun is shining on Nob Hill. Where else, but on Phoenix Street? - it is less than 1/2 block long and is surrounded by houses on all 3 sides, so gets almost no wind. Pretty wild and I discovered this on my own - don't need no stinkin' tour guide!

Also, Where would you expect to find an old Chinese woman hanging her "Granny Panties" in the window to dry? China Town? Red Light District? Nope, it was Nob Hill, near intersection of Phoenix and Pacific! If you look closely at top window, you can see her hanging her undies in the open! Pictures at the end of the Blog.

Loved a comment from one of my fans at Tommy's book signing! Rico, you are different than most writers / authors in that You don't just observe, You partake in living life, as did Hemingway! WoW, what a compliment!

And now for the finale of the first Blog of 2014! Drum roll please; San Francisco seems to be as corrupt a city as Chicago! My car was illegally impounded and a parking violation added to it. When I went to my car, there was another vehicle in the parking spot and my car had been towed. $452.00 to get it out, once I found where it was located and on the windshield was the violation ticket for another $100.00   The recording at AutoReturn says that if the car is not picked up within a couple of hours an additional $60.00 will be added each few hours until the car is retrieved. Talking with a couple of local residents and a taxi cab driver (that took me to my car – another $40.00), they explained that the city concentrates on vehicles with out-of-state license plates and rental cars. There is a tow hearing that you can request, but, guess what? nothing available for a week and I like most tourists and visitors have to leave. Very disappointed in another branch of government, this time the SF city and SFMTA (San Francisco Municipal Transportation Association). Seems as if every level of government from local to federal and national has corrupt officials and employees. Shame on the City by the Bay. Side note: several cars in the impound area with out of state plates and dust – owners did not have the financial means to retrieve their vehicles while fees and costs are compounded daily. Rita is not a lovely Meter Maid in San Franciso!   Here is a breakdown of the costs that equal $592.00:

SF Admin Fee – Excluding Tickets   -   $254.00

Tow Passenger Vehicle    -    $218.00

Parking Violation   -    $100.00

Cab Fare    -   $40.00

Freedom of Speech, able to Blog and post on Facebook & Twitter   -    Priceless

Remember there are pictures at the very bottom of the BLOG! If you like this Blog and have not purchased one of my books, please do so, You will be greatly rewarded with entertainment and a knowledge that will have been gained.

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous, Fun Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com

blog.mybadtequila.com

Downtown Pismo Beach, near San Luis Obispo

The Boardroom Pub near the Boardwalk in Pismo Beach, CA

The Boardroom Annual Meeting - for the Final BCS Championship Game
with "My Bad Tequila" & "In the Shadow of ELVIS, Perils of Ghostwriter" book signing with members - Joyce, Johnny, Rico, Steve aka Tim Tebow's older brother and cook Tony, picture taken by bartender Bob!

Beautiful Pismo Beach & the Boardwalk, January 6th, 2014 - Rico was here

Book signing at Tommy's Mexican Restaurant a San Francisco Treat home of fine food & 100% Agave from the choicest Tequilas

Tequila Master & Writer Rico Austin receiving his diploma from TEQUILA Aficionado & Tequila US Ambassador to Mexico - Julio Bermejo on January 8th, 2014 - the birthday of ELVIS PRESLEY the King!

               Phoenix Street in San Francisco -
             right off Pacific, the warmest place in SF, on Nob Hill,
                         notice the Bay Bridge in the far background!

Another shot of Phoenix St. on Pacific facing the Bay Bridge

The beginning and end of Phoenix Street, the warmest spot in SF, when the sun is shining almost completely shuts out the wind!

An Uncle Rico discovery - no tour guides were used nor harmed!

Chinese lady hanging her Granny Panties and unmentionables in the window to naturally dry in the streaming sunlight of the window glare!
Uncle Rico is not a peeping tom, just happened to walk by on Pacific!!!

"In order to write about life, first you must live it." Papa Hemingway RIP!

San Carlos, Mexico Amigos Abby Cady & Rico Austin disguised and coming soon to a town near you!
Unarmed & slightly dangerous when Tequila is added!

San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico Abby Cady, first case of Swine Flu 2014
     & Writer / Author Rico Austin, first bottle of Tequila consumed 2014
                          It's going to be a Fun, Memorable Year!!! - Rico

             "Stay Thirsty My Friend" - most interesting man in the world

   "Mas Tequila"   - Sammy Hagar

"You'll see the true reflection of me when the Tequila bottle is empty" - Rico

               "Buenos Noches"  - Mexican Amigas saying goodnight

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Minimum Wage Hike, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy New Year, Feliz Navidad

12/20/2013

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Feliz Navidad to my Amigas & Amigos;

May YOU All have a Great Holiday Season whether Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah or Festivus for the Rest of US is how You celebrate. I do hope that 2014 is a Fantastic Year for my Family, my Friends and my Loyal Readers for both Health, Happiness and Prosperity.

This is my first ever having a Guest Blogger. My Amigo from the Boise, Idaho area, Mr. Steve Elliott posted his stance and reasoning behind his not wanting the Minimum Wage hiked up to $15.00 or even close to that amount as it will have severe implications for all of us. So please pay close attention and if You or You know someone that works for minimum wage share this information so that he or she might realize that raising a wage so drastic, quick and high will hurt all of us in many forms of higher prices and phenomenal inflation - two things that America does not need during its recovery.

I believe Steve's comments below to be spot on. Please enjoy and take this warning to heart. And, Yes he is also a Boise State University Bronco Fan and Season Ticket Holder. Maybe that is why are views are so closely linked and we both grew up along the Snake River - 15 miles apart, one in Marsing and the other in Wilder and we never knew each other until 30 years later through business and sharing the same American ideals of Freedom and the Pursuit of Happiness of enjoying life, family and friends. We both know that Freedom doesn't come free and would like to thank all those that have served and are serving in the Armed Forces.

"Just watched a news report about raising the minimum wage to around $15.00 hr. While I wholeheartedly embrace the concept of making more money to better our lives, I am totally against this drastic of an increase.

Here's why.
The majority of businesses affected by this will be fast food places, restaurants, and basically every retail store and service based company in the country. All of these entities will be forced to raise their prices. And wages across the board, not just the minimum. There isn't an option here folks. Trust me on that. So while most folks will get higher wages, they will instantly pay much higher prices everywhere they go. I predict that it will backlash and hurt the economy, not help it. Prices will balloon. Who benefits? Government. Think about it. Sales tax will increase, income tax will increase. Food stamp costs will increase. Gas prices will increase. Again. Why? Because minimum wages just skyrocketed by 66%. So add that amount to: a Big Mac, a pair of shoes, a gallon of gas, a haircut, a loaf of bread.

If you think it won't happen, think again. That's how businesses operate. It's called Capitalism. Careful what you wish for..."

Please scroll down to see photographs and to pay tribute to American Hero - Patrick Tillman RIP of the US Army!

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous, Fun Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com
blog.mybadtequila.com

Amigo, Fellow Idahoan & Patriot - Steve Elliott at Las Vegas Nascar Race

Guest Blogger & Philosopher Steve Elliott with Rico Austin at Boise State Football Game

Lizard Butte and the Snake River - near where Guest Blogger Steve Elliott
& Author / Writer Rico Austin grew up in Idaho

American Hero - Patrick Tillman RIP

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Happy Thanksgiving, Happy Hanukkah, Kings Kids Orphanage In San Carlos / Guaymas Sonora Mexico

11/28/2013

0 Comments

Happy Thanksgiving; Happy Hanukkah; Kings Kids Orphanage in San Carlos
Happy Thanksgiving to ALL!

I want to write and to let you in on a great place in Mexico. It is the San Carlos / Guaymas, Sonora area along the Sea of Cortez. I first discovered this place on a Spring Break trip from Boise State University in Idaho. There were 19 students, 3 chaperones and a bus driver on a March 1986 vacation. It is of this first trip down to Mexico that 70% of the epic, award winning, adventure & mystery novel “My Bad Tequila” is written.

Well almost 20 years later my wife Connie and I go back down and buy a vacation condo. One holiday we were down there and one of our neighbors that had a condo down there too asked us if we had anything to donate for the orphanage as Gerri and her husband Tony were driving over to the orphanage which is about 10 – 15 miles from our condo near the beautiful blue waters of the Sea of Cortez. We had a little food, but that was about it because we knew nothing of this place for children without families.

On our next trip we brought down children’s clothes and young adult clothing as the age ranges are from newborn to senior in high school. We also brought some food and were able to meet the children, only the young ones that were not school age yet as we stopped in during late morning. The children are adorable, loving and well mannered. On that first trip the ladies caring for the children thought we were there to adopt and brought out all the newborn babies and toddlers for us to look over. As much as we would have wanted to take one home, that was not are reason for being there. All the caregivers spoke Spanish and I know conversational Spanish so we were able to communicate that we were only interested in donating clothes and food.

One of the most memorable stops was when we brought cereal and toys. One of the brands was Fruit Loops and as soon as one of the young toddlers saw the Fruit Loop box he became very excited, jumping up and down and smiling while clapping his hands. The ladies there had never seen Fruit Loops nor had any of the other children except this young boy who was about three years of age. Somewhere in his past life before being in the orphanage he had either seen Fruit Loops advertised or had eaten them because that was brand recognition to the Nth degree. Of course we had to open the box right then and all the children loved the cereal without the need of milk. It was like candy to them. So now each time we visit we try to take new fun cereals along with Fruit Loops.

Well now comes the sales pitch on a way you can help the orphanage and get a great Christmas or Hanukkah gift (a great read) for that special someone or treat yourself.

This year I will be donating 100% of my proceeds from eKindle book sales on Amazon.com from today (Thanksgiving Eve) & (Hanukkah Eve) until Christmas Eve for purchasing food, clothing & TOYS, lots of fun TOYS for the Kings Kids Orphanage! My books are “My Bad Tequila,” “In the Shadow of ELVIS, Perils of a Ghostwriter” & “ARIZONA Is Where I Live.” I have just finished on Thanksgiving night, “Son of the KING, an ELVIS Paradox Unveiled,” and am now in the editing stages with hopes of it being published in January 2014. Below is the website of the Orphanage if You would want to make a direct donation! May GOD Bless US All & Remind US of how fortunate WE are & to Count Our Blessings Each & Every Day! Happy Thanksgiving! Feel Free to Share, more sales = more TOYS! http://kingskidsorphanage.com/

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"
https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

Now that You’ve had the opportunity to “LIKE,” it is now time to “Buy” and help out several youngsters at the Kings Kid Orphanage.
http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis
Uncle Rico Rico Austin Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous, Fun Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA
"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com

blog.mybadtequila.com

Kings Kids Family in Guaymas, Sonora, Mexico

Girls that adopted each other as Sisters in the Orphanage

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Halloween; Ricky D. = Holy Matrimony; San Carlos & Trop Rock; John Schoen & Spoof TV; We (US) don't need no stinkin' ObamaCare;

10/28/2013

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Amigas & Amigos, BLOG Time for the Halloween Month of October has arisen like the full moon on Friday the 18th of this month. My Amigo Rick D., yes the Dancer Man that suggested and helped me move from the cold, icy mountains of Idaho to the clear, almost never freezing desert of Arizona of which when my days are no more, I shall be buried next to a cacti, six feet under, just as my Amigos of old Tombstone are covered with the dirt of which the scorpion crawls and the rattlesnake slithers. Each night the lone coyote will howl atop my grave and the native Arizona Indian that has not taken up with the white man’s gambling and alcohol will decipher the story of my tremendous journey and life.

"It is not the length of life, but the depth." Ralph Waldo Emerson

Yes, I wish happiness for all days and nights for my good Amigo Rick and his new bride, Tina of Italian and German descent. Rick has waited 57 years, 11 months and 1 day to experience the wedded life – be it bliss or be it piss; only time will tell as it can be glorious heaven or it can be pure hell. Word of advice, happy wife = happy life!

Great trip to my favorite country in the world where most of the Mexicans live – yep, MEXICO is where I GO to Chillax and sip cervezas of frio and drink margaritas as fast as little Luis can blend “the frozen concoction that helps me hang on.” – Cheers to Jimmy Buffett and my other Trop Rock Amigos – Mark Mulligan playing at La Palapa, Eric Holland performing at Soggy Peso and Sam Rainwater strumming his ukulele for guests at Bahia Delfin – all of San Carlos fame. This trip we took a couple of virgins from Boise, Idaho with us that had never traveled to Sonora, Mexico by way of car, train, bus or plane.   Rich & Rhonda were extremely surprised at the fun night life and the restaurants galore that made up the small fishing, tourist village of San Carlos. Amigos Abby, Kim, Connie, Tony, Gerrie, Tom, Emma, Jeff, Jay and Mary. Viva San Carlos!!!

Halloween Party at Don & Tina’s place in North Scottsdale was the place to be on Saturday night, October 26th with catered Italian lasagna and the works. Plenty of TEQUILA as Rico was dressed as a rootin tootin Tequila Pancho Villa with shots galore being poured to all with a costume and especially those without. Finally, enough Tequila and Cervezas were downed by a cowboy and this wasn’t a costume. Cord was the Cowboy that took off his boots and shirt exposing some bad tattoo work and jumped into the swimming pool holding 68 degree water and floating ghosts. Cord was one dripping mess with those Wrangler jeans still on and soaked. Mayhem was a hit as a costume – with suit and black smudges on the face with a small bandage and a very similar resemblance to the actor that portrays the smartest raccoon, a streaker and a torn banner on a car – Mayhem had his trusty sidekick Flo of Progressive Insurance to take care of everything he touched. Yes, Progressive Insurance providing coverage for State Farm Mayhem.   Only thing worse would be ObamaCare aka the Unaffordable Health Care that is costing America and its tax payers mucho dinero.   Check out this video of someone who loves ObamaCare.

http://gopthedailydose.com/2013/10/29/interview-loves-welfare-food-stamps-obamacare/

I guess I’ll just pay the fine like almost every other red blooded American, once Obama’s government bunch gets the site working correctly. Still dumbfounded over why Pelosi, Reid and Boehner along with Barack Hussein Obama are still in office and are in control of our lives with a retirement plan like no other and guess what, No Obama Care for these Politic Rats – they are immune to the disease that may put most of America under the weather.

Boise State Football has hit a new low since the walk-on freshman made his debut on the green turf now dubbed smurf turf.   Yes, Boise State is now 5 – 3 after a poor showing with 5 turnovers in Provo, Utah while visiting the Brigham Young University (BYU) Cougars. The BSU Broncos could match the 1985 season with a possible 7 – 4 record going into the Bowl Season. One of the losses has been respectable with a 41 – 40 nail biter in Fresno of which I was able to attend the game. My other favorite team, the Oklahoma Sooners aka the Crimson and Cream Machine are doing a great job after defeating 10th ranked Texas Tech this last Saturday and now have a 7 – 1 record and a BCS ranking of Numero 10; Should be a great game versus BCS #6 Baylor Bears coming to us this Thursday evening, October 31st – Yes, College Football on Halloween.   Sorry, you little tricker treaters, I won’t be answering the doorbell as I’ll be glued to a television set, probably in Spokane, Washington as I’ve heard there are an over abundance of vampires in that area and I consider myself a vampire killer, not quite as good as Buffy, plus her breasts are much fuller and plumper than most vampire slayers which probably gives her an advantage when slaying a male vampire. Hey, just because they are vampires, doesn't mean that they are dead and only interested in virgin necks.

Oh, and one more thing about Halloween, my good Amigo, John Kenneth Schoen of Spoof TV produced his Happy Halloween 2013 featuring twenty two personalities including Wild Bill Wichrowski and Zack Larson of Deadliest Catch Fame, Bobby Brown of famed Bail Bonds – another Reality Star and Yours Truly – Author, Writer, Rico Austin – another non-Reality Star, but with a catch phrase, “Have a Double Shot of Reality.”   Great job John, check out his talent of Spoofing:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151631475596377&set=vb.700416376&type=2&theater
- Theme Song, “Ghost Busters” – love it!

And with that Buenos Noches Compadres!

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"
https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

Now that You’ve had the opportunity to “LIKE,” it is now time to “Buy.”
http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis
Uncle Rico Rico Austin Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA
"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com

blog.mybadtequila.com

Couple of Bandidos in San Carlos, Mexico!

Swine Flu Season & ObamaCare is coming, get Your Flu Shots!

Amigos Rico, Connie & Rich at San Carlos Marina

What does a one-eyed Pirate Author drink while watching ASU Football? SOL Cervezas!

Good 2 B back with my Amiga in San Carlos at Captain's Club

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Miley Cyrus twerk = Achey Breaky Heart for Billy Ray, Arizona Parrot Heads, Adam Scott, Brent Burns

9/1/2013

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Hey Amigas & Amigos, this Gringo is ready for a fun Labor Day Weekend which includes some College Football as August is ready to close out.

Who would have guessed 20 years ago that Ozzy Osbourne's daughter would be giving good, sound advice to Billy Ray Cyrus's daughter.   Remember around 2005 - 2009 when Kelly Osbourne was in and out of rehab for drugs and Miley Cyrus was the good little Disney Girl starring as Hannah Montana.

Well advance the time 5 years and now Kelly Osbourne (age 28) now has her shit together, is engaged, fashion designer and giving advice to her Amiga Miley (age 20) to "Just put your Tongue in your Mouth."   Seems Miley probably won't take the advice as she wants her tongue out and about, to be seen just like the rest of her body.

I do feel bad as I am sure this is giving Billy Ray Cyrus an "Achy Breaky Heart" which became the first single ever to achieve triple Platinum status in Australia. It was also the best-selling single in the same country in 1992 and was translated into more than 100 languages.   Yes, it is a strange world we live in, Ozzy a British Rock Star and Billy Ray a Country Music Singer now have daughters that are having good and bad influence of pop culture with our young and restless teenagers and 20 twenty year olds.   Even Justin Bieber has a little more respect from fellow celebrities, mothers and dads than does Miley and her Twerk.

You may have the question was is Twerk or Twerking? According to the Oxford Dictionary which will be adding the word as part of its quarterly updates: The definition: "Twerk, - VERB, dance to popular music in a sexually provocative manner involving thrusting hip movements and a low, squatting stance."   Now please don't be twerking at the office, factory or around the water cooler or you may be twerking your ass in the unemployment line instead of working your butt off on the assembly line.

Got to hang this last weekend with members of the Arizona Parrot Head Club, Lake Havasu Parrot Head Club, Las Vegas Parrot Head Club, Desert Sharks Parrot Head Club, San Diego Parrot Head Club and Club Agave at Pointe Hilton at Tapatio Cliffs Resort in Phoenix.   Starting the party off was my dear old San Carlos, Mexico Amigo - Mr. Sam Rainwater of Mesa, AZ who donates 100% of proceeds from his music and CDs with his company and partners matching all proceeds which go to the Castaway Kids in Guaymas & San Carlos, Mexico. I believe at last count SAM has raised $87,000 for Charity through his music. Now that has earned him hero status as far as I am concerned.  Writing of Heroes, I must mention my favorite Hero - a fellow Arizona Amigo, Mr. Pat Tillman, RIP!

TROP ROCK ARTISTS: Let's see Brent Burns of Gulf Shores, Alabama was there and I was able to trade a copy of "My Bad Tequila" the best selling epic novel for Brent's best selling, epic CD "Margarita Smile."   Also spent some quality pool time with Trop Rock musician, Rick aka Kid Conch of Florida who knows my Amiga Mayor Gonzo Mays of Key West, Rob Mehl played sang some great tunes and played some musica.

Adam Scott is having a heck of a summer after winning the Barclay's at 11 under as Tiger Woods collapsed to his knees from a bad spasm and poor sportsmanship of swinging his club at the ground after a horrible shot.   Rumor in the clubhouse is: Tiger Woods is trying to woo his former caddie - Steve Williams from Adam Scott, but I don't think it will happen as these Australians like to drink Foster's beer after tournaments as they dine at the Outback Steakhouse.   Tiger can still co-star and play himself in the movie of which I have written the screen play of "Two and a Half Men minus Three Families playing around Four Par"  co-starring Charlie Sheen and Jon Gosselin.

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

Now that You’ve had the opportunity to “LIKE,” it is now time to “Buy.”
http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,
Uncle Rico Rico Austin Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA
"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com

blog.mybadtequila.com

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Royal Baby, Phil Mickelson = British Open, Obama Vacation, Weiner Race

8/20/2013

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Author Rico inducted into the Wolf Pack at Piano Bar in Harrah's Las Vegas with Hangover Star - Zack Galifianakis & Baby Carlos!

Amigas & Amigos, Summer is in full swing with days of heat, sweat and beers.

Many activities of the month past with a big win at the British Open for my favorite golfer in the world – Mr. Phil Mickelson. This was his 5th major and he comes through as a shining knight at King Arthur’s round table after squandering another lead in the U.S. Open just a month prior. I will now place a new nickname for this beloved golfer of whom we never know how great or how much trouble his golf swing will be or find. “Phil the Thrill” has placed 2nd no less than six times in the U.S. Open, so his time may be nigh. What will Phil do next was the big question after his surprise win at the British Open and just a couple weeks prior in his last golf tournament at the Scottish Open takes that trophy as well. The “Thrill” was emotional as he accepted the Claret Jug and gave his acceptance speech. Yes, Phil had us wondering if he would get an English milkshake, hug his wife and kids for the umpteenth time on the green or would he take the invitation of the Queen to have English Tea at Buckingham Palace?

Speaking of Buckingham Palace we now have a new member to the Royal Family of the Duke & Duchess of Cambridge, okay Will & Kate plus one prince charming = more fun than that other Kate that hates her ex and exploits all eight of her offspring that fortunately look much more like their Daddy Jon than they do their sad, Mommie Dearest. One American family – Kate plus 8 minus one Daddy cost its viewers time lost that they will never be able to retrieve while another British family cost the Britons an estimated 55.5 million per year so that they can travel at a fraction as much as do the “vacationing Obamas” that have amassed a fortune in U.S. travel debt. “According to a new report by the nonpartisan Government Accountability Institute (GAI), President Barack Hussein Obama has spent over twice as many hours on vacation and golf (976 hours) as he has in economic meetings of any kind (474.4 hours).” The report, “Presidential Calendar: A Time-Based Analysis,” used the official White House calendar, Politico’s comprehensive presidential calendar, and media reports through March 31, 2013 to calculate its results.

According to a White House spokesperson this $100 million vacation is listed by the Presidente of the United States as a working vacation to justify bringing along wife, Michelle and daughters Sasha & Malia. Pretty wild stuff - $100 million would according to the Philly Post be enough that “The average family of four could take a vacation to Disney World, stay in a great hotel onsite, enjoy access to all the theme parks and water parks, and eat like pigs for 91 years before they’d spend 100 million bucks. Or, a family of four could buy the best seats in Citizen’s Bank Park and enjoy no fewer than 3,858 years of home games. (Maybe long enough to see another World Series win!)”

http://blogs.phillymag.com/the_philly_post/2013/06/19/obama-familys-outrageous-100-million-vacation/

Looks as if the Brits have nothing to complain about as they are definitely getting a much better deal with the Royal Family and there’s a new baby to show off. The Americans have to deal with a “Royal Pain in the Ass” with the obamas who may get a new dog to chew up more furniture in the Lincoln room. This reminds me that Justin Beiber and I both want new pet monkeys and we deserve them. I just know that Malia and Sasha will have a pet orangutan before I do – life is full of unfair disappointments, but as Gloria Gaynor sings, “I will survive.”

Special call out for the River Bend Golf Course in Wilder, Idaho – home of a very special Amigo named Steve E. and his family that grew up in the Hop growing community. I’m talking Hops as in helping make beer with barley, grain & hops. Also, a hello to Mickey Rays BBQ in Eagle, ID and the Basque Center held their annual Basque party in downtown Boise. Gotta love those beautiful Basque women and girls.

Almost forgot to mention the ELVIS Festival in Las Vegas at the LVH aka many years ago, Las Vegas Hilton. Never have I believed I would encounter so many fans and Elvis look a likes – many with incredible, talented voices. I was invited to the festival to sell and sign “In the Shadow of ELVIS, Perils of a Ghostwriter” and was able to meet some of Elvis Presley’s oldest lifetime friends Joe Esposito, Jerry Schilling, John Stuart, Sammy Shore and actress playing one of Elvis’ love interests in the hit movie, Blue Hawaii – the talented Ms. Darlene Tompkins.

Yes, ELVIS is alive and well in Las Vegas, VIVA Las Vegas & ELVIS!

Why are politicians held to a lesser point of accountability and standards? I’ve always believed that politicians and leaders should be held to a higher standard of ethics and accountability, but not so again as shown by the antics of the Weiner. Anthony Weiner, former U.S. Congressman from New York City has now been involved with two sexual scandals related to sexting which is sending explicit sexual material by cell phone. Seems Weiner likes to show his leaner weener to women and young ladies. Weinergate led this his resignation in 2011 and I guess he figured that 2 years later he would run for political office again, this time in the form of becoming New York City’s mayor and begin sexting right where he left off, but would send his private parts to more cell phones of women that he had numbers. I do hope that the Yankee, Mets, Giants and Jet fans will vote for a much better choice than Oscar the Mayer weiner and help keep the joke out of the mayor's office and great city.

On a fun note, I hung out with Amigo Rich C. aka Artie the One Man Party with the Piano playing Twins - Kimberly & Tamera Pinegar at Harrah's Piano Bar where I was inducted into the Wolf Pack by Hangover Star - Mr. Zach Galifianakis, tagging along was an imposterous Baby Carlos.

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"
https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?fref=ts

Now that You’ve had the opportunity to “LIKE,” it is now time to “Buy.”
http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/1936745097/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367280599&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=in+the+shadow+of+elvis

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,
Uncle Rico Rico Austin Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA
"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com

blog.mybadtequila.com

    My Bad Tequila with Rico Austin caricature
                by Amigo & Artist John Kenneth Schoen

Cape Caution with Captain Wild Bill Wichrowski & Zack Larson caricature

by Canadian Artist & Amigo John Kenneth Schoen

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Bahamas; Toby Keith; Montana; James Gandolfini; Tres Generaciones; Glacier National Park; Archie Bunker;

6/30/2013

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Que Pasan Amigas & Amigos, what a month May ended up being, with a trip to the Bahamas at the Grand Bahamian at Sandals in Nassau, with an upgraded connection from Atlanta to Nassau in first class, compliments of Delta Airlines.

But, before we get lost in the Bahamas, I wanted to give a shout out for the Oklahoma Tornado Victims – GOD Bless! One of my favorite country artists, Mr. Toby Keith was raised in Moore, Oklahoma where one of the worst and most deadly tornado struck this last May, 2013. Toby has once again risen to the challenge to help those less fortunate as he has in the past, putting on concerts and visiting with the good folk that serve in our military. Mr. Toby Keith has put together the “Oklahoma Twister Relief” concert with some of his great Amigos & Amiga in the Music World. This 100% donated concert proceeds will go the United Way Central Oklahoma May Tornadoes Relief Fund. It is affordable at $25 per reserved ticket which includes all taxes and fees and will be held at Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Oklahoma – Home of the OK Sooners. Excited, I tried to call in to purchase 2 tickets to donate to a couple Tornado Victims; but, already sold out! I do hope some people that lost everything in that horrific storm are able to enjoy a few hours of music and fun to remove themselves from the pain for if just a little while; GOD BLess the State of OKLAHOMA & Toby Keith, Garth Brooks, Willie Nelson, Trisha Yearwood, Ronnie Dunn, Sammy Hagar, John Anderson & Mel Tillis and all their Fans! What incredible and caring artists to make this affordable for Oklahomans!     Toby Keith for Presidente!!!;-)

Http://www.sandals.com/main/bahamian/ba-island.cfm I love Sandals signature line: “LOVE Is All YOU Need.” “At Sandals, love is all you need, because everything else is included. Revel in some of the world's most breathtakingly romantic beachfront settings with Sandals Luxury All inclusive Caribbean vacations. Our Caribbean holidays allow you to choose from an unparalleled array of gourmet a la carte restaurants. Embrace unimaginable luxury in one of our incredibly lavish, innovative and exquisitely stylish suites. Experience for yourselves why, quite simply, Sandals' all-inclusive luxury vacations represent an unprecedented new level of supreme perfection.”   There were exactly 21 (Black Jack Baby!) of us Amigas & Amigos from all over the US – Arizona, Oklahoma, New Jersey, Nevada, Tennessee, New York, Maine and including one, fun couple from Ontario, Canada.   All I can say about this trip, is it was everything I hoped and dreamed it would be. Unlike Jamaica, I would travel to the Bahamas again, again and again as the Bahamian locales were incredible hosts and some of the most friendly persons I’ve ever encountered while traveling. The Bahama flag is made up of three colors: Aquamarine, Gold and Black. The black equilateral triangle on the left represents the unity, strength and determination of the people of the Bahamas.   The triangle is oriented toward three equal-width stripes symbolizing areas of natural resource; two aquamarine stripes at the top and bottom of the flag representing the sea and one gold stripe representing the sun. The flag was adopted on July 10, 1973 and is flown with great pride by its beautiful people. I want to thank the Bartendars at the Swim Up Bar for making every single drink for a Facebook Picture opportunity as Amigos Oklahoma Gibbo & Uncle Rico tried and finished all 18 alcohol fueled drinks on the board plus an additional three to give us the equivalent of a Libation Black Jack or the coveted 21 Drink Salute (one drink for each member of our party) of which less than 1% of all famed drinkers have ever accomplished such feat of incredible concentration and stoic destination. A word of magnificent gratitude to the bartenders at the Piano Bar for their help in making the “My Bad Tequila” & “In the Shadow of ELVIS, Perils of a Ghostwriter,” book signing at the Sandals Bahamian a fun and successful event enjoyed by visitors from many states and several different countries. Long live the Free Nation of the Bahamas.

Now we travel to the wild, wild West of Montana and Northern Idaho. First stop, Coeur d’alene, Idaho a paradise of paradises with the town built around the lake, (see past blog of June 26th, 2010 for more information on Coeur d’alene) and then onto Montana, a state with plenty of cowboy towns where cowgirls abound. Dillon, Montana has a population of about 4,300 residents with a one old rancher / retired rodeo bull rider who also lives in Cave Creek, Arizona named Brent of whom I know and by chance ran into him and two of his ol’ Amigos, Jerry and Kent of Dillon, Montana. We met at the old Hotel Metlen (in the bar), which is on the US National Register of Historic Places. It is a three story building that was one of Dillon's first hotels. Built in 1875 along the railroad tracks across from the old Dillon Depot (now home to the Beaverhead County Museum), the Hotel Metlen is still in operation today. The hotel also has the most historic bar in Montana, with the bar’s woodwork coming from the historic town of Bannack, Montana.   We then wandered over to the Kupfer Club Bar which was closed; but, luck would have it that Amigo Jerry owned this museum in a bar and wanted to show me some Montana history in the way of rare saddles, photographs and a US Flag with only 48 stars that was made right after Arizona became the 48th state in 1912. There was even a photograph of my Amigo / Hero / All Around Cowboy / Saddle Bronco Champ – Mr. Larry Mahan of which both Brent and Jerry were close friends with when Larry and Brent were on the rodeo circuit together and Jerry was collecting rodeo artifacts which included rare saddles, bridles, spurs, chaps and photographs of the Wild West. The Kupfer Club Bar is for sale, is huge and has 3 studio apartments above it which are included in the sale. If you decide to buy, tell Ol’ Jerry that Rico of “My Bad Tequila” fame sent you and I’ll collect my drinks in the future.

Next major stop, Glacier National Park of which I drove from Billings, MT to Great Falls to visit some customers and then onto Glacier where I arrived at 11:20 pm on June 14th, 2013 to check in. There to greet me where half a dozen staff members as they were awaiting to see who the last guest would be to check in. Prior to my check-in, the last guest had entered the historic lodge at about 8:00 pm. I had not made reservations, just hoping for availability and not having to pay a sky rocket price. Luck would have it, I was the last guest to check in for the first hundred year anniversary. To my great surprise the East Lodge at Glacier Park was about to turn 100 years old at midnight on June 15th, 1913 in the year of our Lord, This is the day the Lodge opened to its first visitors.   I didn’t know why I had the urge to keep driving at night so very late as I absolutely hate being on the highway after dark; but, there was a unseen force (traveling Vortex?) pushing me onward. As quoted by one of the Park’s manager Michelle, “How appropriate for an Author to be our esteemed last visitor of the centennial of Glacier National Park. I was upgraded to one of the suites with my own veranda overlooking the sensational mountains. I am now forever tied to the history of Glacier National Park.

After a lovely stay at the park, I make my way to see an ol’ cousin that is nine months older than I and who came from Payette, Idaho to live in the mountains of Mountain years later – Robert Shippy and his wife Dee (they are both inventors, I call Rob, my inventing cousin) spend the summers in Hungry Horse / Columbia Falls, MT about 30 miles from the West entrance of Glacier National Park where Rob works as a Guide at the House of Mystery / Vortez and Dee works in the gift shop. http://www.montanavortex.com/

A night in Kalispell and back to Spokane, Washington to catch a flight back to sunny, hot Scottsdale in time to say goodbye to Spring on June, 20th & hello to SUMMER on June 21st which is also my Jefe Grande / Oklahoma Amigo’s Dia de Cumpleanos – Gibbo, Happy Birthday with a double shot of Tres Generaciones Tequila!

James Gandolfini, who personified the New Jersey mobster in HBO's acclaimed series “The Sopranos” died today, while on vacation in Rome, most likely of a heart attack. He was scheduled to appear this week at the Taormina Film Festival. The Emmy winning actor was 51 years young and to me was similar to the Archie Bunker character on “All in the Family,” with a gun to match his bad attitude and as a modern day mobster that had been made. Carroll O’Connor and James Gandolfini were both extremely talented actors that played in long running series; “The Sopranos” ran 6 seasons – 86 episodes; “All in the Family” ran 9 seasons – 209 episodes. Both shows were iconic as were the lead actors and their characters’ wives.   Archie Bunker – a lovable bigot and Tony Soprano – a lovable mobster. James Gandolfini, September 18th, 1961 – June 19th, 2013 RIP.   “Those were the days.”

Now for one parting bitch about yet another protruding and intruding arm of our United States Government. No, not the IRS (Internal Revenue Service), no, not the NSA (National Security Agency) – even though they should both get dishonorable mentions; The (USPS) United States Postal Service has now turned on its citizens and a few bad apples are stealing gift cards, cash in birthday cards, anniversary cards, graduation cards and others. The reason I know is because I did not receive 2 of my birthday cards and my mother never received 10 Children’s books, “Arizona Is Where I Live” to give to tykes at her church as gifts. When I talked to a postal worker at the General Store postal location in Scottsdale, he did tell me that there have been some theft that has led to U.S. postal employees being fired.   Only fired for stealing gift cards and opening mail not addressed to he or she: I thought this was a Federal Offense which was punishable by a prison term and a huge fine; but, apparently our U.S. Government does not want to bring more shame to its name and dismisses the thieving employees with a pink slip and a good luck slap on the back. Shameful that some of the government employees are picking up the bad habits of Congress and the House of Representatives. Go Figure!!!!   For another good feel story to leave on a positive feeling and note, please see 2nd paragraph about Amigo Toby Keith and his musician friends giving a concert with all proceeds donated to the Oklahoma Tornado Victims.    Gotta Love a real American and a World Class Citizen, Mr. TOBY KEITH!

Last, but not least, please “LIKE” my new page on Facebook, "ELVIS - (In The Shadow Of)"

https://www.facebook.com/#!/InTheShadowOfElvisPerilsOfAGhostwriter?...

Now that You’ve had the opportunity to “LIKE,” it is now time to “Buy.”

http://www.amazon.com/In-Shadows-Elvis-Perils-Ghostwriter/dp/19367...

Saludos y Vayan con Dios,

Uncle Rico
Rico Austin
Author, Blogger, Tequila Connoisseur, Co-Songwriter, Part-time Movie Star, CEO, Amigo & One Righteous Dude - MY BAD TEQUILA

"Have a Double Shot of Reality" TM

www.mybadtequila.com

blog.mybadtequila.com

Author Rico Austin & Mike Gibson aka Gibbo trying the menu of drinks at Sandals!

Group Picture at Pool Bar - Julie, Joe, Debra, Jeanette, David, Ian & Connie - Bahamas!

Connie with Atlantis in Background at Nassau Bahamas

Meeting of the Minds - Olaf, Chris, Gibbo & Rico

Cays Island - Privada Isle; Wild things happen on this island!

Rico & Connie enjoying the hammock on Cay Island!

Rico & Gibbo with the menu lineup of drinks, ready to consume while Amigo Chris focuses!

Two lovers in a Hammock - K- i - s - s - i - n - g Well, until we were disturbed!

Yes, contrary to belief - Authors & Writers do like to swing! Just ask Rico

Rico & Connie Austin reading Author & Amigo Derringer Bolton's books on Bahama Beach

Rico with Psy on far side of Sandals Pool! They just finished entertaining the crowd!

Texas Mike bought all 3 of Rico's books during book signing in the Piano Bar at Sandals

First Book Signing ever held at Sandals Nassau Bahamas

Rico with Amiga Peggy from the East Coast at Book Signing in Piano Bar

Amigas Jeanette, Birta & Debra sitting at Piano with Piano Man at Sandals!

Amiga Liv on her Birthday singing with Piano Man as Amiga Sybille joins in.

Amigas Liv & Sybille with Amigo Olaf enjoying the Piano Bar at Sandals in Nassau Bahamas

Friends & Family gathered around for a night of singing in the Piano Bar

Rico & Bartender before the Book Signing - just Boys & their Beers enjoying Life

What a great surprise - Sandals brought out food for Rico's book signing - Yummy!

Connie at Gordon's on the Pier - a pleasant dining experience at Sandals!

The next day after book signing, strolling on the beach & find Dave reading In the Shadow of ELVIS & Chris enjoying my best seller MY BAD TEQUILA in the Bahamas BABY!

All 3 of Olaf's beautiful girls - Birta, Sybille, & birthday girl Liv sitting next to Piano Man!

Rico relaxing on Cay Island - remember wild things happen here!

Connie loves Seahorses, so we had to find them at Atlantis!

Amigo Chris with shirt tied up - don't know what that is all about?

Maybe showing off his new Belly Button Ring - Lol; Just kidding Amigo!

Rico & Gibbo wearing Gilligan's Hat discussing Obamacare!

Amigo David & Amiga Jeanette enjoying some privacy on their private isle - Cay Island!

Hey the party's just getting started! Olaf, Connie, Chris on land, Gibbo & Rico

Rico is only 4.5 million short of purchasing this Yacht, he'll have to sell a few more books!

Group photo - One of the most relaxing vacations ever! I love Bahamas & Sandals!

The Motto at Sandal's - YOU Bring the LOVE, and Sandals were have everything else! ;-)

Amigos Gibbo & Rico - living life large in the Bahamas!

Hotel Metlen in Dillon, Montana right off the RR tracks; built in 1875 across from old Depot

Hotel Metlen in Dillon, Montana - constructed in 1875

Amigo Kent, Bartender, Rico, Mt Cowboy Jerry, Saloon Girl, & AZ / Montana Cowboy Brent

The most historic bar in the state of Montana at Metlen Hotel,
the bar's woodwork came from Bannock, Montana
The mannequin is holding a "Double Shot of Reality" from best seller My Bad Tequila!

Jerry owner of Kupfer Club in Dillon behind the bar, Brent & Rico drinking after hours!

All Around Cowboy Larry Mahan & other famous rodeo cowboys!

Kupfer Club Bar in Dillon, Montana for sale on Main St.

Antique Saddle in the bar / museum of Kupfer Club

Amigos Brent, Jerry & Kent with their signed books from Author Rico Austin

Refection of Author Rico Austin at Kupfer Club in Dillon, Montana!

United States of America flag with 48 stars in Kupfer Club

the Limo awaits at Glacier National Park in Montana

Author Rico Austin last guest of the first 100 years at Glacier Park Lodge,
First guest checked in June 15th, 1913 & Rico checked in at 11:20 pm June 14th, 2013

Glacier Park Lodge manager Michelle with Author Rico Austin & his books!

Rico Austin with young man that checked him into Glacier Park Lodge

Author Rico Austin with inventing cousin Robert Shippy at Vortez

Author Rico Austin in the House of Mystery!

Mountain Truck with Beer on the Grill!

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Rico Austin Ph.D.Enjoy the writing & the craziest adventures of the most interesting Tequila Connoisseur & Story Teller in the World- !Archives

Rico Austin Ph.D.

Enjoy the writing & the craziest adventures of the most interesting Tequila Connoisseur & Story Teller in the World- !

Archives