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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 6, 2021 22:43:57 GMT -6
"Daddy, am I gonna get any more brothers or sisters?"
Siobhan turned from the stove and arched her eyebrows at Cal."
"Well, I think you should ask your mother too. That's kind of a family thing."
"Momma, are you gonna give us another baby?"
"Well, do you want a brother or sister?"
"I want a sister. She can play dolls with me."
"But if you get a brother, how would you feel?"
"Oh, that would be okay. I could help you love and take care of him."
Siobhan looked at Cal with glistening eyes. Cal grinned and said they would see what they could do.
That night, after the kids had gone to bed, Siobhan took Cal by the arm and said, "Come on soldier boy….you have another mission to complete."`
Cal stopped by the greenhouses the next morning and Dawn greeted him.
"Cal, I need to talk to you about something."
"Well, talk. I'm all ears."
"I want to expand the melon production, but also support some of the indigenous population. I want to bring in selected people from the Southern Ute tribe and train them here, then provide them a couple of high tunnels to grow the product on their reservation, with the Farm as the initial owners. Eventually, they would own the venture and provide jobs for the reservation."
"Sounds good. Let's convene a meeting for tomorrow morning at 9:00 and I'll have the charity, lawyers, accountants and procurement there so we can iron this out."
"Wait! I haven't even talked to the reservation officials yet!"
"That's okay. We can get them started on the process while we go talk to the Utes. Why don't you make contact with them and get us an appointment to talk with them about this?"
"Okay. Thanks Cal, I'm hoping this brings them much needed revenue."
"Okay, let's get this started. Dawn, why don't you explain your idea to the rest."
"Dawn explained her vision to the rest and Cal watched while the others listened and nodded their heads."
When Dawn finished, Cal spoke again.
"Diana, can we handle this as a charity project?"
Diana nodded. "Yes, but I don't know about the ownership by the Farm though."
"I thought about this last night. What I'd like to see is for us to provide the funding and guidance for one year. After that, they have control of everything. They will sell only to HTR Farms. We'll ship directly from the reservation. We'll provide them with the two high-tunnels with medium and necessary tools, an 18-wheeler reefer, and two refrigerated box trucks. I'll let the lawyers and accountants figure out the incidentals. Dawn, I want you to do an employee cost analysis to include wages for all."
Dawn smiled, "I've already done that for our meeting with the reservation officials." "Have you got a meeting date and time?"
"Yes, Friday at 10:00."
"Good, we can take the Huey. Do you have the location coordinates?"
"Yes. We can land in the parking lot at the reservation office. I'll notify them of our mode of transportation."
"Well, anyone have any questions? If not, we'll reconvene after we've talked to the reservation officials."
Over the next few weeks, the reservation project went along smoothly. In another month they would have the grand inauguration of the Ute Farms complex.
Diana Whitman met with Cal one day. "Cal, you need to get rid of some gold. There's at least $20,000,000 sitting down there."
"I guess I need to make a run then. I'll get with the accountants and see what I have to do to keep from paying so many taxes. How is the excavation going?"
"Everything is on track. We've been enlarging the garage area and will have enough space to park everything the Ranch owns, with the cavern we ran across. We just need to level some places in the floor with concrete."
"That reminds me, I wanted to hire a couple of mechanics. I need to get on that."
Cal left and went to see Andy for him to run background checks on prospective mechanics. Cal walked in and told Andy what he needed. Andy sighed and leaned back in his chair and rubbed his face with both hands.
"Cal, I've lived a charmed life. I haven't had the heartaches and women problems that a few of the guys here have had."
"Andy, if this is too much, I'll get someone else to run the checks."
"Cal, it isn't that. As a matter of fact, it just might be an answer to your request. You need to sit down, this might take a little bit."
Cal got a bottle of water and sat down with Andy.
I got a call from Max Dudley. He was telling me about Grady and Tom Baily. They're brothers who are going through a nasty divorce. I served for a couple of years with Tom. Anyway, their wives worked together with Tom's mother-in-law in real estate. Seems as though they were mixing business with pleasure. The boys got suspicious and put a PI on them and got the goods. Tom and Grady went in together on a garage after Tom got out of the Army and became very successful. They were Very successful. The guys say the MIL is a certified bitch so they know the wives will try to take them for everything they can get."
"Crap! I hate to see a guy get railroaded by a cheating bitch. I'll let you handle this. You have my full support. Disappear them, get them new I.D.'s, whatever it takes. Just help them out of that mess."
"I'm on it Boss."
Andy disappeared and returned four days later, grinning.
"Well, how did it go?"
"Cal, it was slicker than snot on a doorknob. The wives won't know what hit them. I leased a couple of 18-wheelers and they going to clean out their garage of everything but the lift. The lift came with the leased building. On Friday, they'll clean out their checking and savings accounts and cancel their credit cards. They each will leave their wedding rings and a DVD of their spouses in action. If the women want a divorce, they'll have to pay for it. I've got complete new documents for them. I'd like Ken to fly me down to pick them up."
"No need. I'll fly you down. I want a little piece of the action too."
"Great! We planned to pick them up at 1700 at the Columbia Regional Airport."
"If we leave here at noon, that will give me time to refuel there, not that we'll need it."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 6, 2021 22:44:44 GMT -6
"COU this is N251GD requesting landing instructions."
"Roger N251GD, traffic is clear, you are cleared for direct approach on runway 20."
"Roger COU." Cal brought the Otter down to a soft landing and did a right-turn off the runway to the hardstand. Cal went to arrange to have the tanks topped off. Andy sent a text to Tom. Just as the fuel truck left, Tom and Grady showed up.
"We got finished early and came on over."
"Where did you park your vehicles?"
Tom chuckled. "We sold them. Burning all our bridges."
Cal checked his watch. "Well, if no one has a better idea, let's get out of here."
Cal got his instructions and took off. Once clear of the airfield airspace, he got on his heading and set the autopilot.
"Andy handed Tom and Grady headsets.
"Cal, I'd like to introduce Barry and Jon Stevens, your new vehicle mechanics."
"Who's Barry and who's Jon?" Tom asked.
Andy chuckled and handed each a packet.
"Put anything that has your old name in the envelope, and I'll destroy it."
"So, what is the plan for us from here on?" Ryan asked.
Andy answered first. "I've got the trailers going to different areas to be swapped off a couple of times to cut down the likelihood of them being traced. We'll head back to the Ranch and get you settled.":
Cal broke in. " We've got rooms ready for you and my wife will have a late dinner waiting for us. We'll discuss your salaries and duties later. I just want you all to get settled in and get familiar where everything is. First of all, we're doing additions to our garage area and I'd like you to work with Diana Whitman, who is in charge of the project, on the repair and maintenance area layout."
"Sure Cal, we'd be glad to help any way we can. I'm just glad to get away from that mess in Fulton. I still can't believe those bitches."
Barry chuckled. "I wish I could see Sheila's face when she gets back from her "convention" in Kansas City. Along with my wedding ring and the DVD I left on the kitchen table, I also left her a Plan B pill with them. I'm sure she'll get the idea then. Good riddance."
You two don't seem to be too broken up about your situation" Cal said.
"We're men. Live in a man's world. We live in a free country. I've read about all the crap other men go through when they find out their wives are cheating on them. We all know the litany. Oh, I'm so brokenhearted! My wife doesn't think I'm good enough. Oh, I think I'll just wring my hands and cry. How can I face my friends? My equipment wasn't big enough? Will I ever regain my self-respect? How could she have done this to me, to our happy home? I can't bear the thought...NAH! We're throwing out the trash, and good riddance. Maybe. with my new life, I can find a woman I can trust."
As the plane neared the runway at the Ranch, Cal keyed the frequency that turned on the runway lights. Cal had left the Suburban parked at the airfield, so they quickly loaded the luggage. Arny, the plane mechanic, brought out the small tractor they used as a tug and moved the plane into the hanger.
Cal drove them to the cabin and showed them to their rooms.
"Jesus! You've got quite the layout here, Cal"
"I'll show you guys around tomorrow. Let's go get some of Siobhan's meatloaf."
Cal gave Jon and Barry a tour of the complex the next morning.
"Cal, this place is amazing. I can't believe how extensive the Ranch is!"
"Well, it's taken a while, making it what it is, that's for sure."
Cal took them finally to the underground garage where they ran into Diane.
"Diana Whitman, I'd like to introduce you to Barry Stevens and Jon Campbell. They are our new Master Mechanics. I'd like you to use their advice on how big their maintenance area should be."
"I'm pleased to meet you. Why don't you come with me and we'll do a walk around to see what we've done so far? We're just finishing some cleanup and we can start any changes you want to do immediately. Cal. I need to get with you later on the elevator shafts. When we finish with the garage, are we'll be able to start on those. Oh, and I install Radon detectors throughout the complex, and we are clear."
"Excellent! Give me a call when you're ready to for the shafts."
Cal left them to their business and went back to the cabin kitchen. Siobhan was there talking to Mary, but they quit talking as he walked in.
"Well,," Mary said, I've got to get to the greenhouse. Helen, Martha and I are going to help with the strawberries this morning."
"Doesn't Dawn have enough help?"
"Yes, but we're going to make a test batch of strawberry jam for sale at the market. Since Cam became the Marketing Manager for HTR Farms, she's come up with some great ideas."
"Okay, tell Dawn I'll be down to talk to her later about the reservation ceremony."
Mary left and Siobhan put her arms around Cal and buried her face in his chest.
"We're pregnant." She whispered.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 6, 2021 22:47:31 GMT -6
Cal hugged her tighter to his body. "I love you so much. Have you told Amy?"
"Not yet. I was going to tell her tonight when we put the children to bed, but she'd be so excited she'd never get to sleep. We can tell her at lunch."
Siobhan tilted her face up and Cal gave her a soft kiss. "Every day with you I just get happier and happier."
Siobhan grinned. "Well, life with you isn't the pits either. Go see Dawn."
"Are you coming to the ceremony with us?"
"I'd like to. Helen and Mary said they'd babysit."
"Good. We'll only be gone around five hours."
"Okay, I'll let them know."
Cal took a UV34 to the greenhouses and found Dawn in the Processing Building with the women preparing to make the strawberry jam.
"Are we all set for the ceremony Friday?"
"Yes, the teams are finishing up the planting beds on the reservation. Everything will be complete for the grand opening. The teams we trained are doing an excellent job. They've been training their new workers for about three weeks. I underestimated the amount of plexiglass boxes we'd need and got those delivered to the reservation yesterday."
"Sounds good." Anything else?"
"Oh! Yes, here are your lapel pins. We'll all be wearing tan slacks and new blazers. Pin this on your left lapel. Siobhan already has her and your clothes ready."
Cal looked at the lapel pin. It was artistically formed HTF letters in gold. He could see it was Akira's work.
"Only you, I, Siobhan and Diana Conrad have these. I have others if you need them."
"You've outdone yourself! Also, you and Siobhan have been keeping secrets from me. I wasn't sure she'd be going to the ceremony until this morning."
"We're NOT keeping secrets! We're just prepared to do what you would do anyway."
"Well, okay. Meet us at the airfield in the morning."
The flight down was uneventful. When they landed on the prepared pad, they were met by Sam Grey Eagle.
"Mr. Coleman, we are pleased you are here. If you will follow me, we have refreshments set up."
They went into the tribal headquarters where he was introduced to other tribal officials.
"Gentlemen. I'm not much on formality when it comes to names. Please call me Cal. It is a pleasure to finally meet all of you and to working closely with the tribe in the future.
Cal was introduced to the tribal shaman, who stood and stared at him for a minute before speaking.
"You are a warrior who has been on a long journey. It is good to see you use the yellow metal that Sinaway bestowed on you to do good for all. You indeed have the blessing of the Spirits and the Weminuche people."
Cal took on an astonished look. Sam Buck chuckled.
They were taken out and all got on a charter bus to go to the ceremony site. On the way Sam started talking to Cal.
"This enterprise will be a great boost to the tribe's welfare. We have several small industries but not enough for the jobs needed."
Cal nodded. "I believe I see some opportunities to seed more industry. I'd like to meet with the council to get your ideas on what could be done. I want to provide jobs that people will enjoy getting up and doing every day. If the people are happy, the business will succeed."
"That is true. I will speak with the elders and we will set a time we can meet."
The bus pulled up to the greenhouse site by the small river. Cal gazed around and saw there was plenty of space to add at least four more of the high tunnels if needed. They were moved over to the ceremony site and seated near the podium. The event was attended by at least 200 others. The tribal chairman, Donna Nelson took to the podium.
"We are honored today to inaugurate a new business for the tribe. With the help of HTR Farms and Hope For The Future Foundation, new jobs will be available for the tribal members. We are anxious to see this grow to be one of the larger endeavors to bring prosperity to our people. We look forward to establishing more businesses and creating jobs for our young men and women. I would now like to introduce Mr. Cal Coleman, who without his assistance, we would not have completed this endeavor as quickly. Mr. Coleman."
"Ladies and gentlemen, it is truly an honor to be here. When I was approached by Dawn Bannon about this project, I immediately saw the benefit to the reservation. You now have the benefit of growing a unique product that is selling quite well and I see an opportunity to broaden this project and perhaps introduce others. I thank Chairman Nelson and the Council for inviting us here and look forward to working with you all in the future."
The Shaman came forward and conducted his ceremony for blessing the site and Cal and Chairman Nelson cut the ribbon. The facility was open for business.
Chairman Nelson came over to Cal and was introduced to Siobhan, Diana and Dawn."
"Chairman Nelson…" Chairman Nelson held up her hand. "Please call me Donna."
"Then it is Cal for me. Donna, if this gets off to a good start, I see enough room for at least four more high tunnels. They would provide seventy plus more jobs for the tribe."
"I was going to mention something like that. Sam tells me would like to meet with the Council to talk about more opportunities."
"Yes, but I want the ideas to come from the people here and we would help to possibly bring your ideas to fruition."
"I'd like that. I think we'll have a great future working together."
Dawn made plans to come down weekly to give support and guidance. Cal made Diana the primary contact for future projects.
On the flight back, Cal talked to Dawn.
"I need you to check on the reliability of electricity for the high tunnels. I've got a contact at Ft. Carson who says there are some surplus 30 Kw generators going on sale there."
"I'll check on that, but why not go ahead and get them. They're probably going to need rebuilding. Couldn't Barry and Jon do that? Even if the reservation didn't need them, I'm sure there will be a future use for them."
"You're right. I'll go ahead and bid on them. By the time the reservation needed them, the guys would probably have the rebuilds done."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 6, 2021 22:48:57 GMT -6
"Barry, Jon, meet Dennis. He's basically our heavy equipment operator and mechanic. I'd like for him to start working with you two. I've got four to six 30 Kw generators coming in for rebuild and I'm sure you could use the help."
"Yeah, sure. He'd be a big help."
"How is your maintenance area coming along?"
"Just about finished. Diana and the guys are finishing up the grease pit and we're working with Joshua on fabricating the pit covers. We've got our tools stored away and the two trailers have been sent back. We should be ready to rumble when the generators come in. By the way, to you have equipment logs for the other equipment?"
"Yeah, they're down in the equipment hangar. Dennis knows where they are. You probably need to go down there and look over the spare parts we have there."
"Do you mind if we move the spare parts here? We've set up parts bins and are cataloging what we have.?
"Hey, no problem. Would you like a computer and programs for maintenance? I can have Glen wire you up. That way you can have backups on the server."
"That would be great! It would be better than paper records."
"I'll have Glen get right on it."
Cal ended up getting six generators, so he sent Dennis with the flat-bed 18 wheeler and Jon and Barry with the crane truck to Ft. Carson DMSO to pick them up. They brought them back and wheeled the into the inside parking area and placed them side-by-side. This way they could tear down three at a time with one generator for each man. It was going to be fairly easy because each generator came with its maintenance manuals. It ended up the generators were in excellent shape and the brushes had plenty of life left in them. Jon got a list of parts and two rebuild kits for each one ordered to keep on hand.
"Cal, there's a C-27 landing tonight with some three-letter cargo on it." Andy said.
"Were you expecting anything?"
"No, they just called me a few minutes ago."
"There may be pallets so have a forklift handy. We're having dinner guests tonight, so you'll have to handle it."
"No problem. I'll get everything sorted out."
Donna Nelson and Sam Buck were coming in this afternoon for a tour of the farm. Ken should be on the way back with then in about an hour. Cal went to the cabin and found Siobhan and Sonia in the kitchen doing initial dinner preps.
"It's a little early to start dinner isn't it?"
"No. I've got to marinate this bison roast and it needs to cook on low heat for about three hours."
"Oh, okay. Anything I can help you with?"
"No, Sonia and I have it under control. Perhaps you could pick out a couple of bottles of wine for tonight."
"I'll do that. Any preferences?
"Perhaps a Côtes du Rhône or a Châteauneuf-du-Pape."
As Cal got back with the wine Ken called on the radio and said he was on final. Cal jumped into the Suburban and went to the airfield, arriving just as the Otter pulled onto the hardstand. Cal greeted them as they deplaned.
Sam grinned. "Nice setup, Cal!"
"Don't get any ideas. Government built, but they let us use it. Welcome to High Top Ranch you two. How was the flight?"
"Very nice Cal. Where is Siobhan?"
"She and her sister are doing dinner preps." We have time to put your bags away and go on a little tour."
They loaded the bags into the Suburban and drove to the cabin.
"As they unloaded the bags, Cal stopped. "Before we go in, I'd like to give you a little history of the place. That will curtail some of the questions I know you will have as we go to your rooms."
Cal gave them the oral history of building the tunnel, the shelter rooms, etc. As they went in, both Donna's and Sam's heads were on a swivel. Cal assigned them their suites and returned to the kitchen.
"Hi Donna, Welcome to our home." Said Siobhan, smiling.
"Siobhan, you have an amazing place! It better than some of the up-scale hotels I've stayed in."
"All the credit goes to Cal. He had a lot of it done before I arrived on the scene. Donna, Sam, this is my sister, Sonia. Sonia, this is Donna Nelson and Sam Buck."
"Donna, Sam, I'm pleased to meet you. I hope you enjoy your stay here."
"I'm sure we will. It is a lovely place."
Cal put on his Stetson. "Well, let's take you on a little tour. Siobhan, can you accompany us?"
"Absolutely!"
They walked down to the greenhouse complex where they were met by Dawn.
"Hi guys! Well, here it is in all its glory!" Dawn conducted the tour including the Processing House. She showed them the trailer they used for the farmer's market and explained about the crops they grew. Donna turned to Sam and commented about doing something similar. They finished the tour and retired to the cabin porch. Siobhan went inside and returned with iced tea for everyone. Donna took a sip of her tea and turned to Cal.
"Cal what inspired you to develop the ranch the way you did?"
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Post by texican on Aug 6, 2021 23:37:05 GMT -6
An item not mentioned is access from the shelter to the barns and other areas without going outside. With the tunneling excavators, this could be done below the utility lines.
Texican....
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Post by texican on Aug 7, 2021 0:07:46 GMT -6
ncsfsgm,
Depending on the size of an asteroid that impacts the earth will drive the amount of dirt and dust expelled into the atmosphere which may or may not be a problem.
Enjoying your story.
Texican....
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:21:39 GMT -6
"Well, initially it was to be a retreat, for a while it was a refuge, then as people came to me needing help it just sort of developed along the lines of what the people needed to sustain healthy minds and bodies. Everyone who lives here is doing something they enjoy, and it branched off into doing for others. The bottom line is I want to keep us out of the crossfire of the political idiots in this country. I'm striving to make us as self-sufficient as possible. When the stinky stuff hits the fan, we'll protect our own."
"Well, I think you have something really special here. I can see the underlying tone is helping other people. I'm hoping we can do the same thing on the reservation. We have a casino, but I wonder in the back of my mind what would we do if things turned bad. We need to be on the path to self-reliance also. I want to lean on you for the help to do that."
"Donna, I'd be happy too. You've got the human resources and the will to try, the rest is keeping up with it. We're already prepared to add four more high tunnels and I've got back-up generators if you ever need them,"
"Cal, I'm interested in the farmer's market aspect you've cultivated."
"That wasn't my idea. He ladies did that."
"Well, we have a little trading fair we hold; a little more than a flea market, but there is some produce. Some don't have a lot of money."
"What about barter in lieu of cash. You could even use chits for labor in any aspect needed at the time. It gives them fresh food for their labor and a benefit for all. If they barter other goods, you'll have to assess the value."
"That's a great idea. It would give everyone access to good food."
"I've got to go in and start dinner." Siobhan said.
"I'll come in and help." Replied Donna.
Sam and Cal sat there for a bit just enjoying the late afternoon.
"Sam, would you like a beer?"
"Sure, I would love one."
Cal came out with a couple of Irish ales.
"Now that's different." Sam said "Smithwick's." Sam read from the label.
"In Ireland, its pronounced "Smitticks."
"Well, it is good."
"Cal, the Shaman said you had a troubled past, but your spirit was getting stronger."
"The Shaman is an amazing man. Yeah, I've had some bad times, with combat, the loss of two wives, and other little speed bumps in life, but I've developed roots and they are getting stronger each day. My days are happier when I can help or protect someone."
"The Shaman and I can see it. Your spirit is strong."
"Thank you."
"On another note. Dawn mentioned one of your companies runs training for law enforcement."
"Yes, we handle various advanced training for law enforcement personnel."
"Is it possible to get training for our tribal police? We have 15 personnel." "I'm sure we can handle that. If you can do without half your force for a week, we could train them then switch them out and train the other half. We can fly them up here in the Otter."
"That would really help."
"I'll have my security director get in touch with the tribal police chief and arrange the desired training and time. We also have billeting for them."
"Thank you, Cal., It would really help. I will leave you with the contact information."
"I'm flying you back tomorrow. Why don't I have Andy fly back with us and he can meet with the chief and discuss their requirements."
"Excellent! Could I borrow your phone?"
"Sure."
While Sam was talking to the police chief, Cal called Andy on the radio and informed him they would be taking a trip in the morning and why. While he was at it, he called Dawn and asked he if she wanted to accompany them. She agreed to come and asked if Dave could come too. Cal agreed and signed off.
"All set. He'll meet us at the Durango-La Plata Airport with transportation."
Siobhan appeared at the door. "Dinner is ready guys."
Cal showed Sam where to wash up and seated the women at the table.
"Oh my! Bison roast! It has been a long time since I've had that. Oh! This is delicious! I've never had it prepared this way."
Siobhan smiled. "I finally got the recipe down to what I wanted. It is a little twist on a French recipe."
"I'd love to get this recipe." Donna said.
"Sure. It is delicious with venison and beef also." Siobhan replied.
When dinner was over with, Sam groaned.
"I didn't mean to make a pig of myself, but that was the best meal I've had in years."
Donna frowned. "Sam Buck! I cooked for you two weeks ago!"
"Well, if you cooked that good, I'd marry you!"
"Cal grinned. "Sam, Siobhan has already said she was giving her recipe to Donna."
Sam's eyes shot opened, then he blushed.
"Donna grinned. "Gotcha!"
Siobhan laughed. "Donna, maybe I should make you a complete copy of my recipe book."
Sam blushed again.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:22:26 GMT -6
As they were flying back from the Ute reservation Andy keyed the mike.
"Cal, I've a pretty good idea for the training plan for the tribal police. One thing though, they haven't had any real amount of training ammunition in a while. What do you think about footing them some ammo from the shipment we received yesterday?"
"How much do you think?"
"We can easily afford 20,000 rounds. That's not including what we'll fire during training."
"Let's do it then. Give them 20,000 for each type of weapon if we can do it. When do you want to start training?"
"In a couple of weeks. I'll need a couple of days to work up the schedule, then give the Chief a heads-up so he can set up his work schedule. What I envision is to pick them up on a Sunday and return them the next Sunday. We'll do a range qualification on Saturday morning and have a cook-out Saturday afternoon. We can take the ammo back with us when we return them."
"Let's take the ammo down on the pick-up. Some of those boys are a little hefty. Let the Tribal Police Chief know we're bringing ammo."
"Sounds good."
"Just how much ammo did we receive?
"I'll have to pull the inventory list. It was a lot and various."
"By the way…bill the training to the ranch."
Andy chuckled. "Out one pocket and in to the other."
"Cal, we need to restock some of our bulk supplies. Are you to able to get away Wednesday?"
Cal turned to Siobhan. "Sure, how much do we need?"
"We should probably take the box truck. Sonia wants to go also, so we'll take my Jeep."
"Yes Mistress. Your wish is my command."
"Oh, hush. We're a little short from giving things to the new people and supplying the worker's quarters. I need to start getting restocked on the baby supplies."
"No problem. It gives me a chance to shop with two beautiful women."
Siobhan sat down at the computer and ran the inventory program for their storage items and added a few items and printed out a shortage list.
"Do you think all of this will fit in the box truck?"
Cal looked at the list. "Did you update the number of the adults and children?"
"No. Let me do the update and printed it again."
"No problem. Although, I'll add the enclosed trailer in case you two find something else."
Cal found himself the official cart pusher. The went to both COSTCO and Sam's Club and had to make several trips back inside at both stores to get everything.
Finally, after the last cart had been loaded, Siobhan let out a huge breath and sat down on the cart.
"Well, that's all the groceries. Sonia and I are going to pick up baby things. They should all fit into the jeep. I want to pick up a couple of cradles and keep them boxed in storage."
Cal thought a second. "Only two? Just go ahead and pick up four. They don't take up that much that much space."
"Okay, anything else?"
"Didn't you mention something about a baby food maker?"
"Yes, I'll take a look at them. But they can't be much more than a food processor unless the blades are different."
"All right. I'll head back to the ranch and get this stuff unloaded."
Siobhan reached up and kissed him. "We won't be long."
Cal got back and unloaded the truck. Lilly had come to see Siobhan, so she sat at the computer and entered the updates. By the time they finished, Siobhan and Sonia arrived. Cal took a pair of hand trucks out and brought in the cradles while Siobhan added them to the inventory. Sonia had been making sandwiches and soup, so they sat down and had a late lunch.
After lunch, Cal went to the garage and looked in on the guys. He found Barry doing maintenance on one of the UV34s while Jon was working on the parts inventory.
"How's it going Jon?"
"This inventory program is going to work out great. I'm going through the maintenance manuals and adding the normal maintenance parts plus those that might wear out before their time. We'll be able to have a heads up when it's time to order more filters and oils. The calendar function allows to program scheduled maintenance and give us a notification for any time period we want before it is due."
"That's great Jon. It was worth all of Glen's work to put this together."
"We're going to place vehicle numbers on all the like vehicles, like the UV34s, so we can quickly identify them. There's also a location field here in the program we can add the usual location where we can find it. We're going through and doing the initial inspections and oil changes on each vehicle as a base start. There's even an inspection part of the program we fill out, so we'll have a history of any failures. That will help us track mean time failures and can up or lower our parts inventory."
"Great job Jon! Looks like ya'll have a handle on this."
"Yeah, if we could type a little faster. Neither Barry or I are great shakes at computers. When do you want us to deliver those generators to the Reservation?"
"Pick a time when it's easy on ya'll. Just take two down there for now. One generator will be able to handle two to three high tunnels. Just let me know when you are going."
"Will do, Cal."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:23:18 GMT -6
"Cal, here's the ammo list we were delivered."
"Jesus, Mary and Joseph!" They really are wasting the taxpayer's money!"
"Well, we get the benefit. We are a convenient dumping ground for them, and they can write it off their books."
"What is the deal with the NVGs?"
"I have no idea, but there are 6 cases of four each and a load of batteries."
"From the looks of this, we can afford to send the tribal police 25,000 rounds of 9mm, 12 gauge, 5.56 and .308."
"That's what I was thinking. I need to call them and tell them to be prepared to have storage available."
"You still picking up the first class next weekend?
"Yep. I was going to send the Chief an email with the warning order this afternoon with packing list. I'll add on about the ammo also."
"Andy, I want to get a handle on the ammo inventory. Can you get with Glen and see if he can modify one of his programs to develop an ammo inventory database?"
"Sure. Once he has it, I'll get a couple of guys to do the inventory."
"Thanks. I've lost count of what we have. Have him put it on the secure network so the Facility has access to it also."
"Well, I'm gonna take the afternoon off and help Siobhan get the dough ready for tonight. Pizza Night ya know."
Andy chuckled. "I'll see you this evening."
"Wash your hands. I was just about to start with the dough."
Cal went into the washroom and wash his hands. "Do you want me to do dough or chop vegetables?"
"Go ahead with the veggies. Also, we have a request for anchovies, pineapple and ham."
"Jesus! Who asked for those?"
"Me."
"Oh no! The pregnant lady's has begun her strange diet requests."
"Hush and chop!"
Sonia walked in. "Hi guys What can I do to help?"
Siobhan looked around. "Go pull out one big bag of Mozzarella and one of Provolone out of the freezer and put them in the fridge to thaw."
"K"
"I forgot to tell Barry and Jon about tonight."
"Don't worry. Diana told them. I think she's sharpening her hooks for Jon."
"What is it about this place that brings people together?" Cal said in exasperation.
"Because you tend to draw in the best people and there's some type of mutual magnetism."
"Yeah, right."
Other ladies arrived and helped carry the pizza ingredients down to the Gathering House. Cal and Dave set up the tubs for beer and soft drinks and covered them with ice. Dispensers with lemonade and iced tea were set on the counter. When it looked like everyone was there, Cal spoke up.
"Could I have your attention? I'm starving, so I won't take long. When we've all stuffed ourselves, I'd like to have an informal meeting of everyone on Ranch business. So, everyone enjoy your meal. Reverend, would you lead the blessing?"
James gave the blessing and the kids, with adult assistance, prepared their pizzas.
Later, Helen and Mary went over to where Cal and his family was seated.
"Cal, if you don't need us as the meeting, Mary and I will take the children to their playroom, so they don't get bored."
Thanks Helen. That would probably be best."
Cal motioned Camryn over and she took a seat.
"How's the strawberry jam going?"
"Well, the girls made up a couple of dozen pints and I'm getting them out to some of the stores and specialty shops."
"Are you looking at other products?"
"Yes, but we're going to take it slow and see what the market will take."
"Well, I guess I'll get this started."
"OKAY FOLKS! LET ME HAVE YOUR ATTENTION!"
"We've had a pretty good year so far and even though it's still summer, I want you to start thinking about the coming winter. It was a little rough last year and I really don't see it being any better this year. We've had a lot going on, so in order to keep everyone informed, I'll have the different section heads stand up and give an overview of their section and what the status is. We'll start with Dawn."
In turn, Dawn, Andy, Jon, Diana Whitman, Diane Conrad, Joshua, Jonah and Joanna Cannon, from the Circle B gave their updates. A few questions were asked, and answers given.
"Cal, the ladies want to know when we're having another cookout. We'd like to invite the ladies from the women's shelter."
"You tell me when. Why don't we have a pig-pickin'? Just let me know the date so I can have the hogs ready."
"Let's do it next Saturday afternoon. We can have the sides done before we go to market. You men can stay back and tend the meat."
"Everyone in agreement? Okay then, next Saturday it is."
The ladies were extra busy that week planning the pig-pickin.' They had all the sides ready by Friday evening, completing after the market goods had been prepared for the farmer's market. Joshua had completed fabricating a deep fryer to add to the cooking equipment. Everyone was looking forward to the party.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:24:08 GMT -6
Diana Conrad and Jana showed up with two 15 passenger vans with the current residents of the women's shelters. They immediately pitched in to help carry the sides to the gathering house and helped get things set up. Joshua had started the oil heating in the deep fryer to cook hushpuppies. Cal grabbed a Smithwick's and did a final check on the pigs. Jana and Diane were going around introducing the shelter women to everyone. He watched Barry key in on one of the women, Arial Johnson. She stood out like a lantern on a moonless night. When she broke free, Cal motioned Jana over.
"Jana, What's the deal on the Johnson girl?"
"Arial? She suffered abuse from her boyfriend. He skipped town, taking everything. We're trying to get her a job to help her back on her feet."
"She know how to use a computer?
"Yes, she does. She does have a few other skills."
"Have you introduced her to Barry Stevens?
"No, not yet. What do you have in mind?"
"Well, if you think she can handle it, I'll hire her as a data input clerk for Barry and Jon. They've got a lot of inventorying to do and she would be a help. When you get a chance, bring her over and introduce her to me…no wait, let me get Barry over here and bring her to us. I can hit her up on the job offer then."
"Okay, I'll do that. Cal, she's had some hard knocks, but she is tough as nails. I'm glad you're going to give her a chance."
Everyone got their meals and Cal went and sat with Barry and Jon. When they had cleaned their plates, Cal started the conversation.
"How's things at the shop going?"
"Jon took a swig of beer. We're getting there. It's slow putting in the data, but once it's done, we can have the maintenance on any of the vehicles at the touch of a key."
"I think I have a solution for you. I'm about to hire a data input clerk for you. You and Barry just give her the information and she can enter the data for you."
"That would be a great help. That's what's taking the most time."
Jana walked up with Arial. "Cal, this is Arial Johnson. Arial, this is Cal Colman, Barry Stevens and Jon Campbell."
"Oh yes, Arial, could I speak with you a moment?"
They walked off to the side.
"Arial, I need a data input clerk to work with Barry and Jon. They are our Master Mechanics and are reorganizing our maintenance shop and procedures. They are a little slow with computers and could use the help. Is that something you think you could do?"
"Oh Yes! But I don't have a car to get out here."
"That's not going to be a problem. You'll live here on the Ranch and it would be a short commute by electric car to the maintenance facility. I can have my wife Siobhan show you where you will be staying."
"Yes, yes I would like the job."
"All right then. I get Siobhan to show you your suite."
Cal spotted Siobhan and walked over.
"Siobhan, would show Arial around the underground complex and show here Suite 32? I've hired her to work with Barry and Jon to help with the computer work."
"Oh good. She's a nice woman. I'll get her right now."
Cal watched as Siobhan walked out the door with Arial. Turning, he walked back to where Barry and Jon were sitting.
"That, gentlemen, is your new data input clerk. Be nice to her."
Jon grinned. "I don't think you need to remind Barry of that."
"Guys, she's just out of an abusive relationship and needs some healing time."
"We'll handle her with kid gloves. This is going to speed things up. By the way, Cal, we need a lot of copies of maintenance forms made up. That way, we just fill out the form when we're doing maintenance and hand them to Arial when complete."
"Work with Arial and develop the forms you need, and I'll get them to the printer."
"WOW! I've never seen anything like this Siobhan!"
"Siobhan chuckled. "It takes a little bit to get used to, but it really is very nice. I hope you like to sleep in the cool temperature. If you need, we can provide a space heater."
"Oh no! I like it when it's cool. Does the temperature change?"
"No, even in the coldest of winter, the temperature remains the same. He's your new bedroom."
The suite had a queen-sized bed, a full bath, and a sitting area. Aggie had already laid out towels and extra linens.
"This is wonderful! This is like a major hotel! I can't wait to get my first paycheck so I can build my wardrobe back up."
"Of course, you can personalize it for yourself. Would like to move out here tomorrow? I can come it and we'll load all your things in the Suburban and get you settled in.
"There isn't much to load. Rich took all my things. If I hadn't had my backpack with me, he'd have it all."
"Well, a trip to the mall is in order then. I'll pick you up at 2:00 pm tomorrow and we'll do a little shopping."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:25:16 GMT -6
"I'm going in and picking up Arial tomorrow afternoon after church."
Cal turned around. "No problem. Take the Suburban and a trailer to haul her things."
"I won't need a trailer. She's got very little so I'm taking her shopping also."
"Good. Get her a good supply of everything. Lord knows she PROBABLY needs a break. I think she'll fit in just fine."
After church, as Cal and Siobhan were loading the kids in the Suburban , he noticed Diana and Jon talking to the Reverend.
"Take a look at that. Wonder what they are talking about."
"Probably their wedding." Siobhan answered.
Cal's head snapped around. "What!"
"You haven't noticed? They been getting touchy-feely for a while. Don't look. They're coming over."
"Cal, we want to officially notify you that we're getting married."
Diana blushed. "I know you might think this is sudden, but something clicked the minute we met. I've never felt this way about anyone in my life."
Cal looked at them for a minute. "I'm not going to tell you how to live your life. If you two are happy, then I'm happy for you. When do you plan to get married?"
"Next Saturday. We just want a simple wedding. Diana just needs to get a dress."
"Shop-a-rama!" Siobhan squealed. "We'll go Monday, Diana!"
The men just laughed.
"Well, we need to go get the kids fed if you are picking up Arial. We'll see you guys later."
"When you are shopping with Diana, make sure she is shopping for her honeymoon also. I'm going to give them 7 days at the Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort on Kauai and $5,000 pocket money."
"You never took me to Hawaii!"
"Well, it's belated, but I want to take you later on in the winter. After the baby is born, we can take a family trip."
That would be nice.
During the wedding reception, Cal handed Jon the an envelope with the tickets and explained what they were for.
"Cal! I can't take this! I've got so much to do!"
"Barry and Arial are on it and you can pick up when you get back. You two have a good time. You need to leave here by 6:00 for Ken to fly you to Denver to catch your flight." "Diana gave Cal and Siobhan a hug. "Thank you two so much!
"Now the next two." Siobhan grinned
"What two?" Cal asked.
"Why Barry and Arial. I know you put those two together for a reason."
"Barry showed some interest when she came to the pig-picking, so I thought I'd see where it headed."
"Well, she certainly isn't turning away, as far as I can see."
"We'll see."
"Cal, Larry Augustine called. He's coming in on a G5 this afternoon and wants to talk."
"Looks like another 'Scratch my back and I'll scratch yours' visit. Okay, Have Mike give a call when they're on final. I'll bring them here to the secure conference room.."
Around 3:00 pm Mike called Cal and said the plane was on final. Cal drove to the airfield and met the aircraft on the hardstand. Larry and another man got off the aircraft and walked over to Cal,
"Cal, this is Robert Phillips. He's with Homeland Security. You have a place we can talk?"
"Yeah, get in the truck."
Cal drove them to the facility and led them into the Facility secure conference room.
"Cal, " Larry began, "we've signed over a couple of unarmed MQ-1C Gray Eagles to Homeland Security to monitor drug trafficking in the southwest. That is all they will be used for. We want to base them here and put in a team of controllers."
"I have no problem with supporting counter-drug operations, but I don't have the hangar space."
"We'll build a smaller hangar for the effort."
"Okay, fine with me. But if I find they are being used outside those parameters I won't be nice."
Larry smiled. "Trust me, I work for the government."
"Larry, I mean what I say. I won't put up with any violations of the Bill of Rights."
"I know, I know. This is legit. Do we have your permission?"
"Sure, when will your construction team be coming in?"
"An Air Force Red Horse unit will be here tomorrow. They'll take care of everything."
"Pretty sure of yourself, aren't you Larry?"
"I know what type of person you are. We won't cross you. By the way, do you have room for a maintenance team for the Eagles?"
"Yeah, we have rooms here at the Facility. You pay for their food."
"No problem. Is there anything we can do for you?"
"No, but you owe me."
"Anything less than an F-35, we can do."
"Okay gentlemen, is there anything else?"
"No, that's it Cal. As soon the hangar is finished, which will only take a few days, they'll truck in the drones and assemble them."
"If you can have the controllers and maintenance people show up a day early, we can get them logged into our security system and get them the appropriate I.D. cards."
"No problem. Well, I guess we need to get back to the airfield."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:26:03 GMT -6
Cal added milk to the chipped beef roux, stirred to blend and added butter to a large frying pan. He broke four eggs and as they started to turn white, removed the biscuits from the oven and plated them. He stirred the gravy and turned the eggs. Taking a bowl out of the cupboard, he poured in the gravy and put the plate of biscuits and bowl of gravy on the table. He then took two plates out of the cupboard and plated the eggs. After setting the plates on the table, he refilled his coffee, set the salt and pepper shakers on the table and poured Siobhan's coffee as she walked into the kitchen.
"Well, aren't you the Chef Extraordinaire this morning!"
"Just practicing for when you are too tired to waddle around the kitchen fixing breakfast."
"You hush! You know I never did that!"
'I know Love. I just wanted to fix you breakfast because of all you do for me."
Siobhan kissed him. "That's because I love you so much. Let's eat before it t gets cold."
Andy knocked on the door and walked in.
"Andy! Sit down and have some breakfast." Siobhan invited.
"I've already eaten…well, maybe a biscuit and some gravy."
"Andy, you'll have about 9 personnel staying in the Facility dorms until further notice. Let Aggie know to set up a menu plan. I'll fill you in on the specifics after breakfast."
After eating Siobhan said she'd take care of the dishes, so Cal and Andy headed to the Facility.
"Andy, a Red Horse Team is coming in today to build a hangar to house two MQ-1C Gray Eagles to monitor drug traffickers. They are sending in a maintenance team and a team of controllers to take care of everything. Is there room in the controller room to fit them in?"
"That's the armed version, isn't it?"
"These won't be armed. They'll only be used for surveillance."
"I don't see any problem. It would be the most secure area for them. I'll take care of it."
That afternoon, two C-130s landed and off-loaded equipment for construction. Later, a C-17 landed and off-loaded the hanger components. Andy was busy working with the Air Force Captain set up deliveries of concrete for the pad. By the end of the day, all the forms were set and ready for the concrete to be delivered the next morning.
As each cement truck pulled in, Red Horse personnel added additives to make the concrete cure faster. The footings and pad were quickly poured, and concrete finishers worked through the afternoon completing the finishing. No rain was forecast so they didn't cover the pad. Andy had arranged for the Red Horse personnel to stay in the Facility dorms for the duration of their stay. Aggie and her daughter were in the kitchen preparing their dinner meal.
Cal drove up to the construction site to check things out. Andy and Robert Phillips met him as he drove up.
"How's it going?"
It's going great Cal." Robert said. "The concrete will take about 3 days to cure and they can begin construction of the hangar. Two 18-wheelers will be dropped off here tomorrow and the maintenance personnel and controllers will be in the day after. Will it be safe to leave the trailers here at the airfield?"
"Absolutely." Andy replied. "We have this whole complex under 24-hour surveillance. Plus, we'll have a couple of our people stationed here until your people get here. We need to make sure your alarm system is tied into ours, so we have complete coverage."
"Where are the workers being billeted?"
"I put them up in the dorms. Aggie is going to feed them."
Cal nodded. "Robert, it would be nice if the Red Horse personnel showed a little appreciation to Aggie for cooking for them. She is a great cook."
"I'll talk to the Captain. I'm sure he will concur."
The Captain placed a tip jar in a conspicuous location in the dining facility and the men were glad to donate once they'd tasted Aggie's food.
The two trailers came in with the disassembled Eagles and were parked away from the hangar area. The controllers and maintenance technicians arrived, and Andy processed them for electronic gate passes and issued them their rooms.
Cal had the crane truck brought up for them to use and construction was complete in a couple of days. The next morning two C-130s landed to take the Red Horse personnel back to their base. Dennis Daley backed the trailers into the hangar and the techs started unloading drone components for assembly. Andy assisted the controllers in moving the consoles to the monitoring room.
Robert was watching the men work when Cal walked up to him.
"When will the drones be ready for operation?"
"It will take a couple of days to assemble and test everything out. Our flights will mainly be at night, so no one can get a good visual on them. We'll try and be as low-visual as possible."
"That's fine. Anything we can do, let us know."
"Oh, can we buy fuel for the drones from you?"
"Talk to Augustine, it's his fuel."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:27:01 GMT -6
Cal and his family were just finishing dinner when the radio broke squelch.
"Cal, are they loading cattle on the west range of the Circle B tonight?"
"Not that I know of Adam. I'll call Joanna. Do you have a drone keeping watch?"
"Sure do. Sonia is getting another one up to augment and replace."
"Okay Give me approximate coordinates and I'll call Joanna."
Joanna said they DID NOT have any cattle scheduled to be moved. Cal gave her the coordinates then called Ken to get the helicopter ready. Andy drove up as Cal was putting on his kit.
"I was listening on the radio."
Cal jumped into Andy's truck and sped to the airfield. Ken was just starting the turbines. Cal handed Ken the coordinates so he could enter them into the NAV computer. As the helicopter took off, Cal dialed in the Ranch UHF frequency and called Joanne.
"Yes Cal, I've got 5 hands and are headed there now. I'll give you a heads up when we've got them in sight."
"Ken, is the spotlight and loudspeaker working?"
"That's a Roger. We're about 5 minutes out."
"Kill your navigation lights. We don't want to be a target."
"I'm going in first using the IR spotlight. I'm turning on my NODs.
Cal and Andy pulled down their Night vision device and Ken switched the instrument panel to IR mode
"I see them. Closest road is to the west. Let's swing around that way first."
Ken maneuvered the Huey around the to the trail coming from the county road.
"Looks like they may have cut the chain. Okay, get us some altitude and turn on the IR."
Ken climbed to 500 feet and centered the spotlight on the activity.
"Attention! Stop what you are doing, drop any weapons you have and move out into the open 50 meters to the west of the cattle hauler!"
One of the men on the ground raised a rifle in the direction of the Huey so Andy leaned out and put a bullet at the man's feet. The six men on the ground dropped their weapons on the ground and started moving away from the vehicles. When they got far enough out, Cal told them to sit on the ground.
"Let's ditch the NODs and switch to white light."
Everyone took off their NODs and the large spotlight came on.
"Joanne, how far out are you?"
"We can see the chopper. We should be there in 5."
"Okay, we'll maintain hover. When you get here, we'll back off but maintain the spotlight. Pull each individual out away from the group, one by one and frisk them, they dropped weapons, but you never know."
"We'll do that. We see the group."
Cal called back to Adam and told him to call the Sheriff and to give him the coordinates. Joanna called back and said they had the rustlers secured.
"Okay Ken. Let's set her down. Andy do you have flex cuffs with you?"
"Yeah. I'll get with Joanna."
Ken landed the Huey and Cal went over to Joanna.
"Hi Cal. Thank goodness for those drone patrols! We could have lost 25 head and they would have been long gone."
They waited 45 minutes for the Sheriff's Deputy to get there.
"Lord, I don't have room to carry them back!"
"Have the prisoner transport van come to the Ranch. Be quicker that way. If you take two, we can haul the rest in the helicopter."
"That'll work. Let me call and then get the information on these scum."
Cal called Adam and let him know the prisoner van was on its way and to direct them to the airfield.
After walking the kids to school, Cal and Siobhan went to visit the greenhouses. The found Dawn and Ellen out by the composting area.
"What's up, guys?" Ellen greeted them.
"Nothing much. Just getting in a little walking time." Siobhan replied. "What are you doing?"
"Making dirt. We want to have dirt for the right PH content for the apple trees we're planting in the spring. If we get them planted in time, we could have apples next near. These will be just for the Ranch. We're not going to try to grow enough to sell."
"Where are you planning to plant them?
"Down below the tank. We want to plant 20 eight-foot trees. Kengo says he can help us with a gravity watering system. We'll have plenty of apple pies!"
"Don't forget apple butter and apple sauce."
"For sure!"
"Are there any strawberries in the cooler? I wanted to fix strawberry shortcut for dessert tonight."
"There should be a few quarts in there. Take what you want. I am going to freeze-dry a lot of them tonight."
"Okay, thanks. We'll see you later."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:28:44 GMT -6
"Coleman."
"Mr. Coleman, this is Special Agent Wicker."
"Yes, Special Agent. What can I do for you?"
"I really need a big favor from you. We have an eyewitness to a murder that we need to put under wraps. The case she is involved in goes pretty high up and I'm not sure just who we can trust. Your ranch is the most secure place I know of unless a Super Max."
"Yeah, we'll help you. If she's that important you know they have you tailed all over the place."
"I know. We're thinking of flying her out there."
"Still easy to check out the flight. I suggest taking her to Cheesman Park, next to the pavilion. We can pick up in a blacked-out Huey and fly her back here. We can stay below radar so they can't track us."
"Sounds like a plan."
"One other thing. Don't notify the Denver police until 5 minutes before midnight. We'll pick her up at 12 on the dot. Do you have access to a satellite phone?"
"Yes."
"Good. Let's use that for communications from here on."
Cal gave him the phone number and hung up. Ken picked up on the first ring.
"Ken, we need the Huey for a blackout mission. Cover the I.D. and plot a flight plan to Cheesman Park Pavilion to pick up a guest. We're going in low and TOT is midnight and returning here."
"Roger. I'll have NODs for us. Anyone else coming?"
"Yeah, Andy will be along. Bring a pair of NODs for our guest also."
Ken, Cal and Andy took off that night and flew north. They wove their way through the valleys and worked their way to set up to enter the park from the north. Cal called Wicker when they were 10 minutes out. As they came to a hover Cal blinked a light toward the pavilion and Ken set the Huey down. Cal saw a man leading someone out to the helicopter. He loosened the gun in his shoulder holster until he recognized Wicker. Andy threw the door open and helped the woman in, fastening her seatbelt and handing her a set of handsets.
Wicker came up to Cals window.
"Cal, her name is Alana Richardson. I'll give you a call on the SATPHONE at 10:00."
"Okay."
"Ready" Andy's voice came over the intercom.
Ken lifted the chopper up and took an arching flightpath to the northeast toward the Colorado Air and Spaceport Once they got clear of the urbanization, he dropped altitude and went back on NODs. Andy help the woman don her NODs.
"Alana, are you comfortable?"
"I guess. I've never ridden in a helicopter before."
"If you have any discomfort let us know. Your pilot is Ken, I'm Cal, and riding next to you is Andy. We've got about an hour to our destination. If you need anything, let Andy know."
"Okay. Thank you."
The flight was uneventful, and they landed at the Ranch with no problems. Siobhan had the Suburban waiting on the hardstand and they quickly shut down and loaded into the truck and drove to the cabin.
"Alana, would you like something to drink?" Cal asked as they entered the cabin.
"Do you have iced tea? I'm so wound up I don't think I could sleep right now."
Siobhan stepped up. "Why don't I show you to your room so you can freshen up. I have a nightgown and a robe for you to change in to. We can come back and have a drink with Cal."
"That would be great!"
When Siobhan and Alana came back, Alana was exclaiming about the layout of the home.
"I've never seen anything like it! Where in the world did you ever come up with an idea like this?"
"Siobhan smiled. "You're looking at him right over there."
Cal brought over Alana's iced tea and Siobhan her wine."
"It's a long story. We'll show you around and explain tomorrow. Special Agent Wicker didn't tell us much about you, just he needed to keep you safe."
Alana looked down at her lap for a moment. "My brother is…was a bartender, mostly for special parties. He observed one of our congressmen engaging in sex with a minor. He later found out it was all a part of a child exploitation ring that includes politicians, law enforcement personnel and businessmen. I saw two of the policemen involved murder my brother."
A tear ran down her face as she finished. Siobhan moved over and put her arms around her.
"Alana, I promise, with all the assets available to this ranch, we will help in any way we can to see these people are brought to justice."
Alana nodded and took a sip of tea.
"I hope you understand this may take some time. I'm sure Wicker will try and bag as many as he can in one fail swoop."
"I know. Jimmy was working with Agent Wicker to get information. I know he wore a wire sometimes."
"I'll talk to Wicker this morning and see where this is going. While you're here, I don't want you to feel like a prisoner. Feel free to walk around as much as you want. Just about everyone here goes around armed so don't let that frighten you."
"I have my Concealed Carry Permit, but my gun is in my safe in the apartment."
"I'll have Andy take you to the range to get you checked out and issue a carry weapon. What do you have?"
"I have a Springfield XD Sub."
"Yeah, I have one in the armory. I'll have Andy outfit you in the morning.
"Sure, but we better get some sleep."
"Okay then. We'll walk you to you room and see you at breakfast later this morning."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:31:51 GMT -6
Siobhan, Alana and Sonia were in the kitchen when Cal came back from seeing Andy and briefing him about Alana.
"Good morning Alana. How are you this morning?"
"I must be all right because Siobhan's cooking has me starving!"
Siobhan had scrambled eggs and bacon cooked and was finishing up the blueberry pancakes. As they dug into the food, Andy walked in the door.
Siobhan invited Andy to sit down but he declined and headed for the armory. A few minutes he came back carrying the Springfield XD with holster and 100 rounds of ammo. After pouring himself a cup of coffee, sat down at the bar.
"Andy, Sonia is going with you two to the range. Siobhan shouldn't be near loud noises during this stage of her pregnancy. I've got to stick around for a call from Wicker."
"I've got some ball for her to practice with and three mags of Gold Dot for carry. We shouldn't be long. Sonia, if you can bring her down to the range in one of the 34s when you are finished, we can get started."
"Okay Andy. We'll see you in a few. I just want to help Siobhan put the dishes in the washer."
Andy watched Alana load her magazines. When she was ready, he had her engage the 7-, 15- and 25-meter targets with one magazine each. When he checked the targets, she had put all her shots in the 10-ring except on the 25 meter target. She had one flyer just outside of the 10-ring. He helped her load the Gold Dot in her magazines and let her place the holster and mag pouches on to her liking.
"Alana, that was some good shooting. You practice much?"
"Yeah, I hit the range at least twice a month. I've shot IDPA a few times."
"Well, I have not a problem with you. I wish I could get Siobhan to the range as often."
"Well Buster, you keep the kids and she'd be there more often!"
Laughing, Andy held up his hands as if to fend her off. "Okay, okay! I get the picture. Well, that's all. If you need anything Alana, let me know."
"You have a cleaning kit?"
"We have one at the house. Come on."
"Cal, thanks again for providing refuge for Alana. Has she settle in?"
"Yes, and she told Siobhan and I some of what is going on."
"Cal, we need to keep this quiet. I don't know yet how far this extends."
"We can keep it under our hats, but I want to know who's implicated. I'm not going to ask for any reimbursement on keeping Alana here. Number one, there's no tracing anything back to the Ranch, number two, you have a built-in safe house that no one has any tracks to.
"Thanks Cal. That's going to come in handy some day."
"What's the word on the two cops that murdered Alana's brother?
"Well, we have the tapes and Alana's testimony, but we're not getting much more than that on the ring."
"You're going to have to trust me on this. I want a list of the people you've currently tagged in this mess. I also want the particulars on the two cops who murdered Jimmy. I'll get you your information."
"Cal, I can't do that!"
"Well, you can let this drag on for months or years or get this wrapped up in weeks."
"Well, okay, but I don't want to do this on the phone."
"Okay, get everything on paper and get it out to the Colorado Air and Space Park at 2:30 that afternoon. I'll pick it up in the Twin Otter."
"Okay. I'll talk to you later."
Cal called Andy and told him to free himself for the afternoon. They were going to take a flight.
Cal pulled the yoke back and rotated the aircraft and quickly went to cruise altitude.
"Andy, we're going to pick up some information on some people involved in the Exploitation Ring. Right now, I want to key in to the two cops that Alana says murdered her brother. I want you to use Mitch Carr on this. He has some particular skills that will be needed. Don't put any of this to paper."
"Got it."
Cal landed at CASP and was met by the courier plane side. Retrieving the package, they quickly got back into the air.
"Take the packet and start working on a plan to snatch the dirty cops for 3 or four days. I want their cohorts wondering. Hopefully, they'll start making mistakes."
"Let me look this over and I'll get back to you with a plan."
Later in the week Andy came back with his plan.
"We don't have enough people to cover everyone. I do have the schedules and patrol area of the two cops though."
"Let's go into my office and get a map."
"Can you pull a snatch?"
"Yeah, but then what?"
"This will have to be at night. If you can drug and hood them, bring them out here. This road is far enough away from any houses no one could identify the Porter. We bring them here and find out what they know. Does Mitch have his stuff?"
"If he doesn't, we'll get it."
"Okay. Once here, bring them through the back access and we'll keep them in room 56. Mitch can get as much out of them as possible. No rough stuff, no bruises or blemishes. Waterboard is as far as we want to go. Once we've squeezed all the information out of them as we can get, we'll put them back under. Is there a way you can secure their patrol car so we can put them back in it? It would sure put them under a microscope."
"I'll find a way."
"Let me know when you want to execute the plan. I want to do the pickup at night, so plan accordingly."
"One other thing Cal, I want to bring Astrid in on this."
"Fine."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:32:50 GMT -6
"Cal, the package is secured."
"You have any problems?"
"No, Astrid had some stuff that knocked them right out. They haven't seen anyone's face. Mitch is going to start the interrogation an hour."
"Are you recording all of it?"
"Every bit. Astrid will transcribe it and have a copy ready for Wicker, if he'll play along."
"Well, it won't be anything that can be used in court but will give him leads."
"You know Mitch is going to use the information if he can."
"I know, and I won't have any regrets. Let's just make sure it stays among us four."
"You know it."
"Here you go, Cal." Mitch laid down a file on Cal's desk."
"Is it good?"
"I verified what they told me. After the drugs were washed out of them, I waterboarded them. Same story."
"How about the plan to get them back to Denver?"
"While they were out, we cleaned their uniforms and underwear. We'll liquor them up and put them back in the car with a half-dozen condom wrappers on the back floorboards. The car will be left in one of the shadier parts of town. They'll come up under investigation pretty quick."
"Okay, I'll get this transcript to Wicker for him to use."
Wicker asked no questions and started tightening the noose on those he knew they could prosecute. Then things started getting tense when those who they didn't have enough charges to prosecute either started disappearing or ended up dead of drug overdoses. As a Grand Jury was convened, one of those who were to be principally indicted, turned and tried to make a deal. Forty-seven people were indicted, businessmen in Denver Colorado Springs and Castle Rock; seven law enforcement officers from the Denver; a congressman, a retired senator, a District Court Judge and three lawyers.
"Cal, Vince Wicker. I just wanted to call and thank you. Your information sped up the investigation immensely."
"Our pleasure. It was time something was done."
"I'm not asking any questions on how you did it, but some of these people were scared to death…or something."
"I have no idea what you're talking about. From what I read, there were a lot of drug deaths."
"Yeah, right. Well, thanks again. I owe you one."
"You're welcome Vince. Don't forget our training programs."
"Sure won't. Later."
Cal hung up and walked to the kitchen.
"I'm ready for a BBQ."
"Siobhan turned around. "You are, are you?"
"Yeah, Let's do chicken, burgers and brats Sunday afternoon, Invite everybody. We need more chickens for the freezer anyway and we can rotate out some burger out of the freezer. I'll go pick up a case of brats when I pick up the chickens from Sam's"
"Okay, I'll let everyone know."
Cal cooked the chickens on the grill in the Gathering House while Joshua and Jonah were going to handle the burgers and dogs at the pool house. Loading the cooked chicken in stainless steel pans he drove them up to the pool area where the cookout was being held. The kids were already playing in the pool. Cal and Tinka transferred the chicken to the small chafing pans, added water into the large chafing pan and sat the smaller pans in the water. Lighting the canned heat, he placed them under the chafing pans to keep the food warm.
Siobhan, Mary and Martha came in with lettuce, tomatoes, sliced onions, potato salad and macaroni salad.
All the ladies were busy placing condiment bottles around on the tables. Cal grabbed a Smithwick's and moved over to the grill where Joshua was flipping burgers.
"I've got a chafing pan ready for the burgers and dogs, Joshua."
"Good. These are about ready to come off."
Aggie walked up with one of the small aluminum chafing pans and Joshua added burgers to it."
"Brats are just about ready, Hon."
Aggie brought another chafing pan, and the brats were loaded up. Everyone took plates and started filling them.
After eating, Cal called Mitch and Astrid to the side.
"You two come with me."
Cal took them through the underground garage entrance and boarded a cart. Cal drove them to a door that had a fake electrical hazard sign on it.
"I don't necessarily condone what took place during the operation, but I understand it. I'm giving you two this room for your personal use. Let's keep from storing anything outside in the compound. You two will have the only access so set your own codes."
They went back to the cookout and Siobhan and her girls began playing music. Soon, Sean and Aedan joined in.
Cal walked over to Alana and together they listened to the music. When the band had finished their set, Cal turned to Alana.
"Well, I guess you're safe now. Have you got any plans?"
"I don't know. I just don't feel safe in Denver anymore. I guess I'll leave and find some other work."
"What job did you have?"
"I was working in advertising and marketing."
Cal called Cam over.
"Cam, Alana is looking for a job in advertising and marketing. Know of anyone who could use some help?"
"Absolutely! I could use another brain to help me! When can you start?"
"Uh…Monday I guess."
"Great! Thanks Cal!'"
"Cal, you didn't have to do that."
"Why?"
"I've talked to a lot of people on this ranch and there are several who've told me similar stories about how you helped them."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:36:05 GMT -6
"Alana, I don't go out of my way to do anything. I just try to make sure the square pegs go into the square holes."
"An 8-ton precision roller press. I found it in Sacramento, and it's being shipped here. Joshua, I want you to be in charge of getting it installed. Akira, I want you to do the artwork on the coin dies for silver coins. Make one-ten ounce, one-quarter ounce, one-half ounce, and one-ounce denomination dies, just like we have for the gold coins. I'll start trading for processed gold and silver, and we can press the ingots to the thickness we need for each coin then do the final press for the artwork. If we don't need it if SHTF, then we can always melt them back into ingots and sell it."
"Why can't you either process the metals yourself or have it done?" Joshua asked. "The process is too extensive to do it on our own. I'll look into finding a refinery. Anyway, we'll still need the press and dies completed."
Joshua and Akira nodded and left Cal's office.
Siobhan walked in. "What was that all about?"
"The money we've invested from the gold is giving us a steady payout that more than covers the charities and expenses. Any gold we recover from here on out, we'll turn into coinage. If we need to sell it, we remelt it into ingots. If the SHTF, then we'll have coinage ready."
"But won't the government have something to say about using our own coins?"
"If it comes down to us using the coins, there won't be a government to complain."
"Diana, let's go down one more level. We'll make this open, just support columns. I want to make this strictly storage."
"Do you want to extend the elevator shaft to the third level?"
"Yes. But I also want to do a ramp and put a security garage door in place. When is the elevator installation?"
"They won't be here until next month. That gives us plenty of time to get the excavation done to run the elevator to the 3rd level. We've have the power run so all they'll have to do is install. I'll have the rock drills available for them to use if needed."
"Good. Look, your cabin is going to be ready by then. Why don't you let one of your guys handle the installation crew and you and Jon get your home in order. I won't take 'No' for an answer."
"Thanks Cal. I haven't really had a chance to do any shopping."
"Okay. Go ahead and get your house arranged and don't restart excavating the rest of Level 3 until after the elevator installation."
"Will do."
Diana left and Cal went to find Siobhan.
"Hey, Diana hasn't had a chance to get a few things that make a house a home. Can you and a couple of the girls take her shopping tomorrow? We'll foot the bill."
"Of course! We'll need the trailer. I pretty much know what she's needing. Can you hook the trailer to the Suburban for me?"
"I'll do it first thing in the morning." Mike called and said a Gulfstream was inbound in thirty minutes. Cal acknowledged and went to the airfield. When the aircraft shut down. Larry Augustine deplaned.
"Hello Cal! Mike said you wanted to talk to me."
"Well, I didn't intend you to make a special trip! I meant the next time you were through here."
"No special trip. I was on the way back from somewhere else. What can I do for you?"
"I've been recovering a little gold and was wondering where I could get it refined."
Larry's eyebrows arched. "How much you talking about?"
"I've got 242 2-lb. raw ingots."
"Well, there are refineries in Germany, Switzerland, Japan and South Africa. The closest is in Ottawa. I could get it refined for you there, no questions asked, through our contacts. Is this going to be a continuing thing?"
"No. One time only."
"Yeah. I could set that up. I'll give you a call. Best if we pick the shipment up with our plane. No customs that way."
"Thanks Larry. Want to stay and have lunch?"
"No, I need to get back. I should know something this week. Oh, what about the recovered content of the silver?"
"Whatever. Just make an ingot."
"Okay. I'll talk to you later."
Larry walked back to the Gulfstream as the pilots started the engines. Cal waited until the aircraft took off and returned to the cabin.
Adan, Joshua and Able monitored the installation and testing of the elevators. The test consisted of adding weights to 6000 pounds, the maximum the elevators were rated for. Safeguards were added to prevent the elevators from working in case of emergency. A forklift with a full pallet was tested with no problems.
"With the forklift and full pallet, we won't reach max capacity. I like it." Adam said.
Joshua nodded. "This is going to make shifting things around much easier. Now, I wonder what Cal has in mind."
When the installation was complete and the crew had left, Cal and Diana met Adam, Joshua and Able at the 1st level location.
""Well, this looks great!" Cal said. "Now for the next phase. Diana, when can you get started on the 3rd level?"
"We can begin moving the excavators tomorrow."
"Great! I want to make the 3rd level nothing but pallet and shelving storage. Place the support columns where you need for maximum safety. If you can, make it 150 by 300 feet by 12 feet high. Doable?"
"I don't foresee any problems. As you can see, the rock is seamless here and should be down to 6 feet, by my testing, Lower, the rock contains seams which could mean more gold. That will give us 6-foot-thick ceilings and I can reinforce the columns in any fractured strata."
"Good. Then this is your baby. I plan to use the third level as supply. I'll look for a guy to be the logistician and turn it over to him when the excavation is complete. Can you give me a tentative drawing of the layout and column locations? He'll have to start planning on shelving and pallet locations."
"I can do that."
"As soon as he, or she, gets here, I'll have them get with you for any specifics they'll need. I'll let you all get to whatever you need to do. I've got to get Andy on a people search."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 1:37:40 GMT -6
Cal took a UV34 down to the facility and went into Andy's office. Cal began telling Andy about his future plans for the 3rd Level, then brought up his idea of bringing in an ex-supply person to handle the Level 3 operations.
"I'll start putting out some feelers." Andy said. "You do want prior military, don't you?"
"That's my preference. I don't care if they're single or married. We need to make a selection ASAP because they need to start inventorying what we have scattered around and make a plan for how to set things up."
"I'll make calls this afternoon."
"I'll leave you to your work."
Cal left and went back to the cabin. Siobhan was sitting in the Gathering Room reading through catalogs.
"What's up?" Cal asked.
"Oh, I was looking for ideas to fix Evan's room up. I wanted him to get used to sleeping there before the baby arrived. I can pick up most of the stuff in Grand Junction, but I want to get him started next month."
"Aren't you afraid he'll get lonely?"
"Not really. With the Jack and Jill setup, he can visit Amy. Except for sleeping, he doesn't even go into the nursery now. He's like you. He always has somewhere else to be."
"What if you got together your ideas, but we take him shopping and let him pick out some things?"
"We can do that…yes, that's a good idea. He can help setting up his room."
"Cal, I think I've found who you need for Supply." Andy said.
""Talk."
"Her name is Charlene Thompson. She worked as a Supply Specialist for Support Squadron, 1st SFOD."
"What's her story now?"
"Well, she was wounded in the 'Stan when her chopper went down. Ended up medically retired, and now working as a bartender at Midland Country Club in Southern Pines. The Squadron guys had nothing but good to say about her."
"Okay, give her a call and set up a meet. If she's okay with it, charter a jet and we'll fly into Moore County airport."
"Will do,"
Andy set it up for them to meet her at the Country Club on Thursday. Cal and he flew in that morning and met her at 1:00 pm.
"Charlene, I'm Cal Coleman and this is Andy Murray. I'm here to offer you a job."
"A job? Well, as you know I have a job here."
Cal explained what he needed, the amenities and starting salary."
"Are you for real?"
"For real. As a matter of fact, Major Dobson recommended you."
"In that case, you have a Supply Specialist. When do I start?"
"When can you start?"
"Well, when I put in my two weeks' notice, they'll let me go anyway. Bartenders are a dime a dozen around here"
"Well, as soon as you can get your affairs together, we'll fly you out to Colorado."
"I live with a friend. My affairs fit into one suitcase and a duffle bag. I can be ready to leave in an hour."
Cal looked at Andy, then back at Charlene.
"Well, we'll wait for you at the Moore County Airport. Blue and white Citation."
"I'll be there and call me Charlie."
Charlie went and talked to the main bartender who went back and had a check made out to her and she left.
"Man, she doesn't mess around!" Cal chuckled.
"Sam Dobson said she is the best. I think we've got a real winner."
Charlie met the at the airport and they boarded the Citation. When the plane landed at the HTR airfield, Charlie's head snapped to Cal.
"Where are we?"
"We have our own airfield. Let's get your bags and head for the house."
Andy got in his vehicle and Cal and Charlie got into the Suburban and drove to the cabin. When they got there, Siobhan met them at the door.
"Siobhan, this Charlie Thompson. Charlie, this is my wife Siobhan. Siobhan, would you show Charlie to the cabin guestroom?"
Siobhan glanced quickly to Cal and back to Charlie.
"Welcome to our home Charlie. Come with me and I'll show you to your room."
When they returned, Siobhan offered drinks and poured wine for Charlie and Cal while she took tea.
"I know you didn't have dinner, so I made pizza. It's in the oven baking now." Siobhan smiled.
"Oh! You didn't have to go to any trouble. But pizza sounds good!" Smiled Charlie.
"While the pizza is cooking, come over here a minute and I'll show the layout of where you'll be working."
Cal unrolled some plan maps on the kitchen table.
"What you see here is just a cabin, but if you go through that door, you'll find the first level of a modified underground complex. The first level is for housing. Presently, the second level is for storage. We are digging a third level which will become our primary storage facility. Your job is to verify the inventory of what we have on the second level and plan where to store it when we finish the third level. You'll be working with Diana Whitman, I'll introduce you tomorrow, to work up the storage plan."
"My God! This place is enormous? What kind of place is this? Government?"
"No. All of this is private. A retreat if you will. It does have its commercial aspect, but as you work around here, I'm sure everyone will give you their side of the story."
Siobhan laughed. He just doesn't like tooting his own horn."
Charlie frowned. "Okay, I guess. As long as it isn't anything illegal."
Cal grinned. "No, not necessarily, but we brush the walls at times."
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Post by gipsy on Aug 7, 2021 8:00:19 GMT -6
You are sure weaving a great tale here.
I just thought of someone youo might add. How about a vet for all the animals.
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darth
New Member
Posts: 5
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Post by darth on Aug 7, 2021 8:43:35 GMT -6
"Sean, can you sing 'And the band Played Waltzing Matilda'?" Sean nodded and began picking out the tune. Now when I was a young man, I carried me pack, and I lived the free life of a rover From the Murray's green basin to the dusty outback, well, I waltzed my Matilda all over. Then in 1915, my country said son, It's time you stopped rambling, there's work to be done. So they gave me a tin hat, and they gave me a gun, and they marched me away to the war.
And the band played Waltzing Matilda, as the ship pulled away from the quay And amidst all the cheers, the flag-waving and tears, we sailed off for Gallipoli And how well I remember that terrible day, how our blood stained the sand and the water And of how in that hell that they called Suvla Bay, we were butchered like lambs at the slaughter. Johnny Turk he was waiting, he'd primed himself well. He shower'd us with bullets, And he rained us with shell. And in five minutes flat, he'd blown us all to hell Nearly blew us right back to Australia.
But the band played Waltzing Matilda, when we stopped to bury our slain. We buried ours, and the Turks buried theirs, then we started all over again. And those that were left, well we tried to survive, in that mad world of blood, death and fire And for ten weary weeks, I kept myself alive, though around me the corpses piled higher Then a big Turkish shell knocked me arse overhead, and when I woke up in my hospital bed, And saw what it had done, well I wished I was dead. Never knew there was worse things than dyin'.
For I'll go no more waltzing Matilda, all around the green bush far and free To hump tent and pegs, a man needs both legs-no more waltzing Matilda for me. So they gathered the crippled, the wounded, the maimed, and they shipped us back home to Australia. The legless, the armless, the blind, the insane, those proud wounded heroes of Suvla And as our ship pulled into Circular Quay, I looked at the place where me legs used to be. And thanked Christ there was nobody waiting for me, to grieve, to mourn, and to pity.
But the band played Waltzing Matilda, as they carried us down the gangway. But nobody cheered, they just stood and stared, then they turned all their faces away And so now every April, I sit on me porch, and I watch the parades pass before me. And I see my old comrades, how proudly they march, reviving old dreams of past glories And the old men march slowly, old bones stiff and sore. They're tired old heroes from a forgotten war And the young people ask, what are they marching for? And I ask myself the same question.
But the band plays Waltzing Matilda, and the old men still answer the call, But as year follows year, more old men disappear. Someday no one will march there at all.
Waltzing Matilda, Waltzing Matilda, who'll come a-waltzing Matilda with me? And their ghosts may be heard as they march by that billabong, who'll come a-waltzing Matilda with me?
I very rarely post but Eric Bogle is a big favourite of mine. First heard his songs in the 80's, Courtesy of Mike Harding (thank god for the BBC) Clearly I'm English and the spelling on this board is US American. Congratulations on knowing about his music. This story is awesome and I'm loving it but that was the icing on the cake. You made me cry reading the words I already knew and putting them to the music in my head.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 9:09:26 GMT -6
You are sure weaving a great tale here.
I just thought of someone youo might add. How about a vet for all the animals.
Patience....she/they are around the corner...
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Post by gipsy on Aug 7, 2021 9:29:08 GMT -6
Of the stall
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 11:18:50 GMT -6
Cal took a UV34 down to the facility and went into Andy's office. Cal began telling Andy about his future plans for the 3rd Level, then brought up his idea of bringing in an ex-supply person to handle the Level 3 operations.
"I'll start putting out some feelers." Andy said. "You do want prior military, don't you?"
"That's my preference. I don't care if they're single or married. We need to make a selection ASAP because they need to start inventorying what we have scattered around and make a plan for how to set things up."
"I'll make calls this afternoon."
"I'll leave you to your work."
Cal left and went back to the cabin. Siobhan was sitting in the Gathering Room reading through catalogs.
"What's up?" Cal asked.
"Oh, I was looking for ideas to fix Evan's room up. I wanted him to get used to sleeping there before the baby arrived. I can pick up most of the stuff in Grand Junction, but I want to get him started next month."
"Aren't you afraid he'll get lonely?"
"Not really. With the Jack and Jill setup, he can visit Amy. Except for sleeping, he doesn't even go into the nursery now. He's like you. He always has somewhere else to be."
"What if you got together your ideas, but we take him shopping and let him pick out some things?"
"We can do that…yes, that's a good idea. He can help setting up his room."
"Cal, I think I've found who you need for Supply." Andy said.
""Talk."
"Her name is Charlene Thompson. She worked as a Supply Specialist for Support Squadron, 1st SFOD."
"What's her story now?"
"Well, she was wounded in the 'Stan when her chopper went down. Ended up medically retired, and now working as a bartender at Midland Country Club in Southern Pines. The Squadron guys had nothing but good to say about her."
"Okay, give her a call and set up a meet. If she's okay with it, charter a jet and we'll fly into Moore County airport."
"Will do,"
Andy set it up for them to meet her at the Country Club on Thursday. Cal and he flew in that morning and met her at 1:00 pm.
"Charlene, I'm Cal Coleman and this is Andy Murray. I'm here to offer you a job."
"A job? Well, as you know I have a job here."
Cal explained what he needed, the amenities and starting salary."
"Are you for real?"
"For real. As a matter of fact, Major Dobson recommended you."
"In that case, you have a Supply Specialist. When do I start?"
"When can you start?"
"Well, when I put in my two weeks' notice, they'll let me go anyway. Bartenders are a dime a dozen around here"
"Well, as soon as you can get your affairs together, we'll fly you out to Colorado."
"I live with a friend. My affairs fit into one suitcase and a duffel bag. I can be ready to leave in an hour."
Cal looked at Andy, then back at Charlene.
"Well, we'll wait for you at the Moore County Airport. Blue and white Citation."
"I'll be there and call me Charlie."
Charlie went and talked to the main bartender who went back and had a check made out to her and she left.
"Man, she doesn't mess around!" Cal chuckled.
"Sam Dobson said she is the best. I think we've got a real winner."
Charlie met the at the airport and they boarded the Citation. When the plane landed at the HTR airfield, Charlie's head snapped to Cal.
"Where are we?"
"We have our own airfield. Let's get your bags and head for the house."
Andy got in his vehicle and Cal and Charlie got into the Suburban and drove to the cabin. When they got there, Siobhan met them at the door.
"Siobhan, this Charlie Thompson. Charlie, this is my wife Siobhan. Siobhan, would you show Charlie to the cabin guestroom?"
Siobhan glanced quickly to Cal and back to Charlie.
"Welcome to our home Charlie. Come with me and I'll show you to your room."
When they returned, Siobhan offered drinks and poured wine for Charlie and Cal while she took tea.
"I know you didn't have dinner, so I made pizza. It's in the oven baking now." Siobhan smiled.
"Oh! You didn't have to go to any trouble. But pizza sounds good!" Smiled Charlie.
"While the pizza is cooking, come over here a minute and I'll show the layout of where you'll be working."
Cal unrolled some plan maps on the kitchen table.
"What you see here is just a cabin, but if you go through that door, you'll find the first level of a modified underground complex. The first level is for housing. Presently, the second level is for storage. We are digging a third level which will become our primary storage facility. Your job is to verify the inventory of what we have on the second level and plan where to store it when we finish the third level. You'll be working with Diana Whitman, I'll introduce you tomorrow, to work up the storage plan."
"My God! This place is enormous? What kind of place is this? Government?"
"No. All of this is private. A retreat if you will. It does have its commercial aspect, but as you work around here, I'm sure everyone will give you their side of the story."
Siobhan laughed. He just doesn't like tooting his own horn."
Charlie frowned. "Okay, I guess. As long as it isn't anything illegal."
Cal grinned. "No, not necessarily, but we brush the walls at times."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 11:20:47 GMT -6
The timer went off and Siobhan collected the pizza and brought it to the table. Cal got plates down and refilled everyone's drinks.
"This pizza is great!" Charlie exclaimed.
"Well, one of the perks here in our little community is that Thursday nights is Pizza Night at the Gathering House. We all get together and make our own pizzas and cook them in a wood-fired pizza oven."
"This place sounds better and better all the time!" Charlie grinned.
Cal looked at Charlie. "One other thing we require is everyone be proficient with firearms."
"No problem." Charlie replied. I have my North Carolina CCW. My gun is in my bag."
"Good. We'll have Andy take you to the range to verify and get you a permit for Colorado. We'll get you a laptop with the present inventory on it and you should be set. There are really no restrictions on where you can go, but if you have questions, feel free to ask anyone and they'll point you in the right direction."
"Will I also handle acquisitions?"
"Not right now. We already have someone doing that. We'll combine all that into one section in the future."
"I guess that's all the questions I have now. I know it's early here. It's going to take a little while to get accustomed to the time zone changes, but I need to get some rest."
They all got up from the table. While Cal was clearing the dishes, Siobhan went with Charlie to make sure she had everything she needed.
Siobhan came back a few minutes later.
"She has a slight limp."
"Yeah, she got wounded in Afghanistan and was given a medical discharge."
"Oh! She seems to have a good attitude."
"I don't think she'll have any problems."
The next morning, Cal took Charlie on a tour of all the facilities. She was amazed at what she'd seen. They took a break at the Gathering House for some water and sat down.
"Why are you doing this Cal?" Charlie asked.
"This all started as a getaway place. I worked on it a little while I was in, but after I retired I did a few more improvements. A lot of my friends needed a retreat and it kind of snowballed. Over time, I watched as the world slid steadily towards the edge of the abyss. Governments were spending money they didn't have, on things that were considered "too big to fail." Interest on debt owed had moved past 30% of GDP in the United States and still the government didn't stop spending. Foreign entanglements kept the military out of the country and deployed overseas as the United States continued to be invaded over its own unsecure borders and drug violence raged. With 24% real unemployment it was up to the rest of the country to support the unemployed and the retired. When Social Security was formed, there had been 20 workers paying for each retiree's Social Security. But now, there only 3 to pay for each retiree. When Trump became President, I saw a light at the end of the tunnel. I had prayed for someone like him since Carter was in office. The leftists have fought tooth and nail to get him out of office, but he only has a max eight years. My current planning is for what happens after Trump. I'm making this ranch as self-sufficient as possible. By that time, we may have to fight for what we have."
"I see. Well, I'm in Boss. Call on me anytime."
"Thanks, Charlie. We're going to need all hands on deck."
"Cal, you know you are just throwing away a good commodity."
Cal had been inspecting the excavation on Level 3 with Diana Whitman.
"What are you talking about?
"You could be stockpiling the tailings from the sluice and use it for the roads. Compacted correctly, it would be as tough as asphalt."
"How would we get it out of the shelter?"
"I can add another conveyor and punch a hole through the wall and drop it outside."
"Do it then. You need extra help?
"No, we have it covered. You need to look for a roller compactor."
"Roger that."
Cal called around and found a construction firm going out of business. An auction was being conducted Saturday, so he notified Dennis Daley to be prepared to roll out with a lowboy early Saturday, early. He was determined to come back with the vibrating compactor they had listed.
Charlie waylaid Cal about the Level 3 setup and showed him the layout.
"This is what I have laid out. I've got the inventory, minus guns and ammo, ready to move into their assigned spaces. I'll move in the pallets first, then we can complete the shelving. It'll probably take us a week to complete the movement. If you have anything to order, now is the time to gets things ordered. They should be here in time to go right into Level 3."
Cal nodded. "Yes, I do. I'll get you a list together."
Cal went back to his office and made up his list. He found Charlie back on Level three.
"Here's the list. Take the list to Emily. She may have to order the PRI items from Power Research, Inc. directly if you can't find a dealer nearby."
2 ea. 55-gal drum Pri-G additive 2 ea. 55 gal. drum Pri-D additive 2 ea. 55-gal(of each type) bulk motor oils and lubricants (See Jon) Hard White wheat- 300 lbs. (Pleasant Hill Farms) Hard Red Wheat - 300 lbs. (Pleasant Hill Farms) Wheat, Soft White, SuperPail, 10 ea. (Pleasant Hill Farms) Buckwheat, SuperPail, 6 ea. (Pleasant Hill Farms) Beans, Red Kidney, SuperPail, 6 ea. (Pleasant Hill Farms) Beans, Black, Turtle, SuperPail, 6 ea. (Pleasant Hill Farms) Beans, Pinto, SuperPail, 6 ea. (Pleasant Hill Farms)
"I've already talked to Jon. He gave me a list of oils, lubricants and fluids to buy bulk. It's pretty much the amount you had on your list."
"Compile your lists and get them to Shannon or James and get them ordered. This level should be completed in a couple of weeks."
"Will do, Boss!"
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 7, 2021 11:21:38 GMT -6
"Pizza Night! Pizza Night! Pizza Night!" Amy chanted as she danced around the kitchen.
Charlie giggled. "She sure must like pizza!"
"Siobhan chuckled. "She's a little oinker. We have to watch her, or she'll eat herself sick. Come on Amy, help us load the UV34 with all this stuff."
The girls took everything down to the Gathering House and everyone chipped in to help unload. The men were already gathered around either tending the fire in the oven or partaking of their favorite beverage.
As the ladies were helping the children make their pizza, Joshua and Akira walked over to Cal.
"We just finished stamping out the first coins." Joshua said. Akira handed Cal a handful of coins.
"Hey! These look great!" Cal exclaimed.
"It took a while to figure out the thickness of the gold sheet to match the troy weight, but we're ready to start production."
"Well, you two take charge If you need any help, let me know."
"No, we can handle it. We've got a system going that works for us."
"I've got a case of different sized plastic sleeves I'll pull out. Each one holds 20 coins. All you have to do is drop the coins in and heat shrink the open end with a heat gun."
"Yeah, those will help us keep count." Joshua said. "I think I'll go over and help Aggie make our pizzas."
As Joshua walked away, Ken walked up and placed his hand on Akira's back. She smiled up at him.
"Ken, I'm going over to start our pizza."
"Okay, I'll stick here with Cal."
They watched as she walked over to the prep table.
"The Porter is going to be down for a few days for an engine rebuild." Ken said.
""Why don't we get a spare engine to have on hand?"
"That's up to you. What about the Otter and the Huey?"
"Yeah, get spares for them also. I'll have a storage building built by the hanger to keep them in. No use in holding on to money as it keeps losing buying power."
"Okay, I'll take care of it in the morning."
Ben Cannon sat down with them and started talking about the weather.
Over across the room, Cam and Alana were gazing around and sipping iced tea, waiting to get their pizzas in the oven.
"Who is that over there talking to Cal?" Alana asked.
"That's Ken."
"No, I know Ken and Akira. I'm talking about the other guy."
"Oh! That's Ben Cannon. He's the go to guy when something needs to be built."
Cam watched Alana as the girl continued to gaze at Ben.
"Interested?"
"Well…I… "
"Hey! No problem. From what I gather, he's divorced. He wife cheated on him when he was overseas. His feet had hardly hit the ground at the airport when he was served with papers."
"He must really be gun-shy now."
"Oh, I don't know. Those Special Forces types are pretty resilient. Come on, I'll introduce you."
Pulling her arm, Cam led Alana over to the group of men. Ken was just getting up.
"Hi guys! Ben, I don't think you've met Alana. Alana this is Ben Cannon. Ben, this is Alana Richardson."
Ben and Cal both stood up. Ben softly shook Alana's hand.
"Well, I'm going to find Siobhan and the kids." Ben said. "I'll see ya'll later."
Ben looked at Alana. "I think we've been set up."
"Worse things have happened to me." Alana grinned.
"Well, I guess we should humor them and sit down and talk." Ben grinned.
"What brings you to the Ranch?" Ben asked.
Alana told the story about the sex ring and her brother and Cal offering her a job. She accepted because she felt safe here.
"What about you?" Asked Alana.
Ben looked down at the table for a few moments.
"I guess it boils down that my wife was unfaithful. When I came home from Walter Reed, she was pregnant with another man's child. Friends and associates realized I was walking the edge and got me here as quickly as possible. Being here has been therapeutic."
Alana put her hand to his cheek. "If you get to feeling down, I'll hold your hand until you feel better again."
"I'd like that."
They were interrupted by Cam bringing Alana's pizza over.
"You forgot your pizza!"
"Thanks Cam!"
Alana looked at Ben. "I'll share with you."
"In that case I'll get the drinks. What'll you have?"
"I'd like a beer."
Ben soon returned with two ales and they began to eat. Cam went over to Siobhan's table. Nodding toward Ben and Alana. "First down!"
Siobhan looked at Cal. "You might as well get another cabin set up."
Cal turned around and looked over to where Ben and Alana were sitting and groaned.
"I'll call Sam tomorrow. I'm going to have to grade another street!"
Ben and Alana were one of the last couples to finish. They got up and helped clean everything up.
"Ugh!" Alana groaned. "After that, I'm going to have to take a walk!" She wrapped herself around Ben's right arm. Join me?"
"It would be a pleasure."
Siobhan watched as they walked out into the night.
"You'd better hurry with the cabin!" Said Siobhan, grinning.
"In the morning, in the morning!" Cal replied, moaning.
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