The enclosed letter was shared with the members of a
internet group I'm a part of called "Southern Americans" by Laird Jim
Walters. It's a fine, accurate, and wonderfully expressed summation of the
goings-on of last weekend, and I think you folks deserve to read it.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Thinking that an account of the Southern Historical
Conference and
Bonnie Blue Ball might lift your spirits in this dismal age, thought
I'd tell you of the goings-ons that occurred this weekend.
Jim Walters, friend, League member, and proprietor of Caledonian
Kitchen (an award-winning producer of Haggis [a Scottish delicacy] in
Scotland, no less) and I headed down to Schertz, Texas to attend the
Conference and Ball early Friday.
Upon arriving and "recon-ing" the area, we showed up in Cibolo, Texas
(where the Southern Historical Conference kicked off) to eat
barbeque, and I tasted the finest potato salad I think I've ever
had. About 70 men, women, and children were in attendance. While
eating, we were entertained by a skit that was written by a gent from
the SCV and performed by two members of the SCV Camp. They depicted
two German-born Confederate soldiers returning from the War in
Arizona to get some food and material before returning to battle. As
Jim Walters pointed out, it was a good way to dispel the stereotype
of Germans.
After this, we heard a passionate and inspiring poetic recital of the
Bonnie Blue flag by a young lady, Miss Bonnie McDonald (but what
would you expect with a name like!). She didn't miss a beat, and was
not only inspiring to us older folks, but also riveted the attention
of the many young men in the crowd, all of whom are home-schooled.
Next, an articulate black pastor from LA, the Reverend Jesse
(the "Other Jesse" as he terms himself) Peterson, got up to talk
about "White Fear: The Enslavement of American Manhood." Also a son
of the South from a plantation, he related his struggles upon leaving
Alabama, not being able to know his real father, anger with his
mother over this, his exodus to Los Angles, and his downward spiral
and anger towards whites, and his drug use. As with the song Amazing
Grace at the pinnacle of his depth, he found Christ who set him free
from the hate of himself, his mother, and Whites. As acknowledged
sinners heard his talk, his earnestness and courage to relate his
story fell on sympatric ears. But this wasn't the only thing
courageous. He then began to identify that the root cause of his
problem was the unconnectedness with his father in particular and the
lack of moral character of Blacks in general. Obviously, not that
Blacks are inherently bad, but that their present condition isn't
conducive to being moral and that there are few moral Black leaders
in the forefront. To combat this, his ministry includes the
establishment of Brotherhood Organization of a New Destiny (BOND),
which helps Black boys grow into responsible adults, and his efforts
to convince the liberal/immoral Black leadership through
confrontational methods that their answers and visions are wrong.
Rev. Peterson has written two books, SCAM: How the Black Leadership
Exploits Black America, and From Rage to Responsibility: Black
Conservative Jesse Lee Peterson and America Today.
Rev. Peterson's talk merely confirmed what is obvious to all Whites
and Blacks, viz., the truth of not speaking one's mind is traitorous
and that one only gets the courage to speak the truth from God.
Jesse's message is to confront all those who would silence the voice
of truth (Black or White) with the truth.
I believe that Jesse's appearance and ministry at this Conference
certainly gave the clear message that all Christians are bound by the
same God to do His work. If there were any Black-haters among us,
they sure didn't make their presence know—and might well have been
convinced that we're all in a cultural, spiritual war. Fueled by
Jesse's Christ-inspired courage to take on the big dogs of Black
leadership (Jesse Jackson, Farracon (sp), et.al., will not only
benefit Blacks, but might just get us to a stage where we can all
find common ground.
On Saturday, with about 120 people in attendance and after the
invocation and welcoming by the Foundation for Christian
Alternatives, we began with a fanfare of bagpipes and the
presentation of colours by the SCV Honour Guard and the singing of
Dixie by all.
Congressman Ron Paul then gave us an update on what's happening in
the U.S. Congress and a history lesson that we are all familiar with
regarding States Rights and the Confederate Flag. One question that
I had regarding his talk was, with the exception of him, why aren't
there more statesmen anymore? One of his people told me how he can
get away with speaking the truth and standing up to the post-14th
Amendment Congress. Ron Paul already has a real job as a doctor, and
therefore he isn't there for special interests, rather he is more
interested in Constitutional integrity and solving problems. God
bless him.
My mind raced back to what allowed statesmen to spring up in the
South way back when. Among other things, it was their moral
conviction, an honour-idealised society, along with financial
independence that allowed them the freedom to speak up for rights and
liberties.
John Perry, past-SCV Division officer and author of Myth & Realities
of American Slavery, talked about the obvious. It was good for the
children and any outsiders (which weren't many), and since all have
been home schooled by Southern parents, even these kids already knew
the truth. Yet, it was a helpful reinforcement.
Breaking for dinner, there was a cannon salute and demonstration by
the Texas Lone Star Greys.
BTW, in between the talks were questions and answers. More
importantly, before each speaker was introduced, we sung a hymn from
the Southern Historical Songbook that was included in our Conference
packet. It was a wonderful way to express our gratefulness for
participating in the Conference in addition to its primary reason of
glorifying God.
I finally got to meet Reverend Dick Jones of the Presbyterian Church
in New Braunfels and SCV Commander in the area. He's the man who you
pointed out wrote the tract, Broken Faith. Fine individual and
League member to boot. More on him later.
Speaking of fine people: I adopted a couple in my heart. Don Ray and
his bride were down there. Don's a League member from the panhandle
(Channing) and an artist that works in the period of the cowboy and
the War Between the States. He is a painter and sculptor. I helped
him tote the finest sculpture of Stonewall I've ever laid my eyes
on. Jackson's on a horse. Don lent it for the Conference, which
adorned the front of the lectern. His wife is a retired high school
English teacher, glad to rid herself of what is now being taught in
school. I don't believe I can adequately convey the warmth and good
will of this couple. Have you met people that you instantly feel a
kin to and just love because of their interest and kindness? As a
business card, Don gave me a post card of a painting he'd made with
two cowboys shaking hands on horseback. The title of it is "When
Word Was Bond". Wonderful and gracious people. Wish they lived
closer. Can you imagine neighbours like them?! Heaven on earth.
I met so many others who warmed the heart and am always pleasantly
surprised since I live in that moderity that continues to be
separated by fences, air conditioning, and a lack of common values
and tradition.
The afternoon consisted of more talks. We heard again from Rev.
Jesse Peterson on the subject of Reparations to Children of Former
Slaves. You can just imagine how this issue juxtaposes with his
belief that Blacks and Whites need to take responsibility for telling
the truth.
Professor Tom Woods talk, that the War was not fueled by mere
slaveholders, was no surprise. The righteous Northerner plans on
moving to the South from New York City. He explained how he came to
see the truth about the South after Professor Genovese piqued his
interest. His talk was more fruitful by the citation of books The
Real Lincoln, What They Fought For, North Against South, The
Political Crisis of the 1850s, and The Sovereign State.
The last speaker was H.K. Edgerton who passionately provided a
summary of lessons learned on his march, his conflict with the
ignorant, and why slaves fought for the South.
Two other events of mention were the ball and a church service on the
Lord's Day. The ball was great. Great music, good call-master, and
dance. But, what gave hope was all of the young men and ladies who
participated in the dance that I thought had the elements of charm
and good-natured flirting. While many consumed alcohol—as you would
expect in a group of Christians—it was cordial, lighthearted, and
pleasant. The church service at the Presbyterian Church in New
Braunfels was not a part of the Conference, per se, but was a fitting
ending for those who could stay. Pastor Dick Jones preached God's
Word; baptized his father [sic] and Pastor Jones' grandson; and,
administered the Lord's Supper.
Oh, surprises of surprises….I won a copy of the DVD of Gods &
Generals from one of the vendors, which compelling me to buy
something from them. Got the book Christ in the Camp which I had
wanted to get for a long time but hadn't.
The novelty of this Conference was two-fold. Being with Christians,
it was refreshing that they don't give a hoot about which Southern
Organisation you belong, but aren't put off that you belong to one.
The SCV wasn't touted as the sole guardians of Southern heritage, and
the League of the South wasn't demonised as leading us down the road
toward another bloody secession. In fact, not even the host
organisation (Foundation for Christian Alternatives) was pushed.
Secondly, the presence of the Black voice, as part of God's work, was
helpful to further dispel stereotypes that possibly linger (though I
saw no evidence of it lingering among this group).
If there be any improvements to such a fine weekend, it would be
this: that we get the word out to those luke-warm Southerners who
need to see the love and support in action in a traditional Southern
community of fun, information, and fellowship. With rare exception,
I think we we're still preaching to the choir. This stuff is too
good not to share!
I also long for a Conference that allows for break-out sessions for
various levels of where Southerners are. Perhaps in the future this
can be done.
Notwithstanding, it was the best weekend I've spent in a long time,
with newly found friends.
God bless you & the South,"
Bonnie Blue Ball might lift your spirits in this dismal age, thought
I'd tell you of the goings-ons that occurred this weekend.
Jim Walters, friend, League member, and proprietor of Caledonian
Kitchen (an award-winning producer of Haggis [a Scottish delicacy] in
Scotland, no less) and I headed down to Schertz, Texas to attend the
Conference and Ball early Friday.
Upon arriving and "recon-ing" the area, we showed up in Cibolo, Texas
(where the Southern Historical Conference kicked off) to eat
barbeque, and I tasted the finest potato salad I think I've ever
had. About 70 men, women, and children were in attendance. While
eating, we were entertained by a skit that was written by a gent from
the SCV and performed by two members of the SCV Camp. They depicted
two German-born Confederate soldiers returning from the War in
Arizona to get some food and material before returning to battle. As
Jim Walters pointed out, it was a good way to dispel the stereotype
of Germans.
After this, we heard a passionate and inspiring poetic recital of the
Bonnie Blue flag by a young lady, Miss Bonnie McDonald (but what
would you expect with a name like!). She didn't miss a beat, and was
not only inspiring to us older folks, but also riveted the attention
of the many young men in the crowd, all of whom are home-schooled.
Next, an articulate black pastor from LA, the Reverend Jesse
(the "Other Jesse" as he terms himself) Peterson, got up to talk
about "White Fear: The Enslavement of American Manhood." Also a son
of the South from a plantation, he related his struggles upon leaving
Alabama, not being able to know his real father, anger with his
mother over this, his exodus to Los Angles, and his downward spiral
and anger towards whites, and his drug use. As with the song Amazing
Grace at the pinnacle of his depth, he found Christ who set him free
from the hate of himself, his mother, and Whites. As acknowledged
sinners heard his talk, his earnestness and courage to relate his
story fell on sympatric ears. But this wasn't the only thing
courageous. He then began to identify that the root cause of his
problem was the unconnectedness with his father in particular and the
lack of moral character of Blacks in general. Obviously, not that
Blacks are inherently bad, but that their present condition isn't
conducive to being moral and that there are few moral Black leaders
in the forefront. To combat this, his ministry includes the
establishment of Brotherhood Organization of a New Destiny (BOND),
which helps Black boys grow into responsible adults, and his efforts
to convince the liberal/immoral Black leadership through
confrontational methods that their answers and visions are wrong.
Rev. Peterson has written two books, SCAM: How the Black Leadership
Exploits Black America, and From Rage to Responsibility: Black
Conservative Jesse Lee Peterson and America Today.
Rev. Peterson's talk merely confirmed what is obvious to all Whites
and Blacks, viz., the truth of not speaking one's mind is traitorous
and that one only gets the courage to speak the truth from God.
Jesse's message is to confront all those who would silence the voice
of truth (Black or White) with the truth.
I believe that Jesse's appearance and ministry at this Conference
certainly gave the clear message that all Christians are bound by the
same God to do His work. If there were any Black-haters among us,
they sure didn't make their presence know—and might well have been
convinced that we're all in a cultural, spiritual war. Fueled by
Jesse's Christ-inspired courage to take on the big dogs of Black
leadership (Jesse Jackson, Farracon (sp), et.al., will not only
benefit Blacks, but might just get us to a stage where we can all
find common ground.
On Saturday, with about 120 people in attendance and after the
invocation and welcoming by the Foundation for Christian
Alternatives, we began with a fanfare of bagpipes and the
presentation of colours by the SCV Honour Guard and the singing of
Dixie by all.
Congressman Ron Paul then gave us an update on what's happening in
the U.S. Congress and a history lesson that we are all familiar with
regarding States Rights and the Confederate Flag. One question that
I had regarding his talk was, with the exception of him, why aren't
there more statesmen anymore? One of his people told me how he can
get away with speaking the truth and standing up to the post-14th
Amendment Congress. Ron Paul already has a real job as a doctor, and
therefore he isn't there for special interests, rather he is more
interested in Constitutional integrity and solving problems. God
bless him.
My mind raced back to what allowed statesmen to spring up in the
South way back when. Among other things, it was their moral
conviction, an honour-idealised society, along with financial
independence that allowed them the freedom to speak up for rights and
liberties.
John Perry, past-SCV Division officer and author of Myth & Realities
of American Slavery, talked about the obvious. It was good for the
children and any outsiders (which weren't many), and since all have
been home schooled by Southern parents, even these kids already knew
the truth. Yet, it was a helpful reinforcement.
Breaking for dinner, there was a cannon salute and demonstration by
the Texas Lone Star Greys.
BTW, in between the talks were questions and answers. More
importantly, before each speaker was introduced, we sung a hymn from
the Southern Historical Songbook that was included in our Conference
packet. It was a wonderful way to express our gratefulness for
participating in the Conference in addition to its primary reason of
glorifying God.
I finally got to meet Reverend Dick Jones of the Presbyterian Church
in New Braunfels and SCV Commander in the area. He's the man who you
pointed out wrote the tract, Broken Faith. Fine individual and
League member to boot. More on him later.
Speaking of fine people: I adopted a couple in my heart. Don Ray and
his bride were down there. Don's a League member from the panhandle
(Channing) and an artist that works in the period of the cowboy and
the War Between the States. He is a painter and sculptor. I helped
him tote the finest sculpture of Stonewall I've ever laid my eyes
on. Jackson's on a horse. Don lent it for the Conference, which
adorned the front of the lectern. His wife is a retired high school
English teacher, glad to rid herself of what is now being taught in
school. I don't believe I can adequately convey the warmth and good
will of this couple. Have you met people that you instantly feel a
kin to and just love because of their interest and kindness? As a
business card, Don gave me a post card of a painting he'd made with
two cowboys shaking hands on horseback. The title of it is "When
Word Was Bond". Wonderful and gracious people. Wish they lived
closer. Can you imagine neighbours like them?! Heaven on earth.
I met so many others who warmed the heart and am always pleasantly
surprised since I live in that moderity that continues to be
separated by fences, air conditioning, and a lack of common values
and tradition.
The afternoon consisted of more talks. We heard again from Rev.
Jesse Peterson on the subject of Reparations to Children of Former
Slaves. You can just imagine how this issue juxtaposes with his
belief that Blacks and Whites need to take responsibility for telling
the truth.
Professor Tom Woods talk, that the War was not fueled by mere
slaveholders, was no surprise. The righteous Northerner plans on
moving to the South from New York City. He explained how he came to
see the truth about the South after Professor Genovese piqued his
interest. His talk was more fruitful by the citation of books The
Real Lincoln, What They Fought For, North Against South, The
Political Crisis of the 1850s, and The Sovereign State.
The last speaker was H.K. Edgerton who passionately provided a
summary of lessons learned on his march, his conflict with the
ignorant, and why slaves fought for the South.
Two other events of mention were the ball and a church service on the
Lord's Day. The ball was great. Great music, good call-master, and
dance. But, what gave hope was all of the young men and ladies who
participated in the dance that I thought had the elements of charm
and good-natured flirting. While many consumed alcohol—as you would
expect in a group of Christians—it was cordial, lighthearted, and
pleasant. The church service at the Presbyterian Church in New
Braunfels was not a part of the Conference, per se, but was a fitting
ending for those who could stay. Pastor Dick Jones preached God's
Word; baptized his father [sic] and Pastor Jones' grandson; and,
administered the Lord's Supper.
Oh, surprises of surprises….I won a copy of the DVD of Gods &
Generals from one of the vendors, which compelling me to buy
something from them. Got the book Christ in the Camp which I had
wanted to get for a long time but hadn't.
The novelty of this Conference was two-fold. Being with Christians,
it was refreshing that they don't give a hoot about which Southern
Organisation you belong, but aren't put off that you belong to one.
The SCV wasn't touted as the sole guardians of Southern heritage, and
the League of the South wasn't demonised as leading us down the road
toward another bloody secession. In fact, not even the host
organisation (Foundation for Christian Alternatives) was pushed.
Secondly, the presence of the Black voice, as part of God's work, was
helpful to further dispel stereotypes that possibly linger (though I
saw no evidence of it lingering among this group).
If there be any improvements to such a fine weekend, it would be
this: that we get the word out to those luke-warm Southerners who
need to see the love and support in action in a traditional Southern
community of fun, information, and fellowship. With rare exception,
I think we we're still preaching to the choir. This stuff is too
good not to share!
I also long for a Conference that allows for break-out sessions for
various levels of where Southerners are. Perhaps in the future this
can be done.
Notwithstanding, it was the best weekend I've spent in a long time,
with newly found friends.
God bless you & the South,"
