My Picture Part II

I'm still working on a new photo for Miles Around but admit it probably will be a while before that finally becomes reality.

But just for a change, how about the above depiction of what I used to look like back in 1976? There are only a few minor changes except for the mustache which is still the original, albeit a “tad” darker. The “stash” has been washed daily, shampooed weekly and trimmed whenever needed or convenient, but has been standard equipment even longer than the life of that photo.

Believe it or not I was 32 years old then, wore a tie to work and didn't quite tip the scales over 140 pounds. The height hasn't change, at least to any real noticeable amount.

So pholks until, and if, I get a new photo or drawing I will continue to stay with the regular photo which is only about 16 years old. And I really do appreciate the majority of the comments so many you made in recent days about my explanation in the last Around. Even the ones saying it must have been doctored because I never really looked as good in real life. Just remember pholks, I appreciate all your comments and I seldom harbor ill feelings very long. I can take ribbing and I can hand it out. And, I take notes.

SPEAKING OF PICTURES, the oil painting by Three Rivers resident Bill Clark of his interpretation of “The Shack” a New York Times best seller guy-meets-God novel has proven quite a popular local art treasure.

Clark, who worked for the Tulare County Agriculture Commissioner's office for more than 30 years, 15 as assistant commissioner, is a multi-faceted artist who continues to exercise his many talents. But his heart and soul inspired painting of his impression of “The Shack” is something extra special, he says. The feeling appears to be mutual by those who have seen it, heard him relate to it or who have purchased copies he had made to raise funds for the Three Rivers Presbyterian Church and St. Anthony's Retreat.

Clark and his work were also featured at a two-day event at St. Anthony's entitled “Wisdom From the Shack.”

Clark, who has read the book by William Paul Young five times, says “My life has changed in many ways because of my studies of the 'Shack'. The book is read all over the world causing different feelings.”

“The Shack” is the story of a man whose youngest daughter was adducted during a family vacation and evidence indicates she may have been brutally murdered in an abandoned cabin-like building deep in the Oregon wilderness. Four years later the father, Mackenzie Allen Philips, receives a suspicious note apparently send by God urging him to return to the “Shack.”

The novel, which details Philips's life changing experiences, has raised questions, debate, study and controversy throughout the theological world.

Says Clark, “I was told to read the book by our Presbyterian minister. It is so good for your well being and understanding. I decided to do an oil painting of what I saw in the story of the 'Shack.'”

Bill Clark and his wife, Carol, have a variety of interests especially in creative endeavors. Carol loves to design and create jewelry and combined with her “people skills” honed during a long real estate career continues to market her creations.

Bill is truly a man for all seasons whose talents cover many venues. He loves to work with leather, having made numerous custom saddles, wallets, belts and assorted art work. He paints in just about every media including oils, water, acrylic and others. He also writes poetry and is eager to pursue having selected works published.

Knowing Bill and Carol Clark I'll bet that will happen.