GSF Alumni Fall 2010 Newsletter

It's finally fall in the energy capital, which one can tell because the Christmas decorations are going up on Post Oak Blvd and in Highland Village; a sure sign that the annual orgy of materialism is about to begin. Your Blogmaster has emerged from summer hiding and is once again emulating Ernie Els on the links, although with much less effect than the master himself. In other words, there is no threat whatsoever to anyone on the PGA Champions Tour, or anyone sporting a 15 handicap or better for that matter.

We have quite a few new correspondents, so here are our usual reminders in abbreviated form. You can contribute by writing to us at gsfalumni@gmail.com. You can comment on any post using the Comment tool at the bottom of each post. A current directory of the alumni is to be found in the sidebar to the right of the posts. Important note: due to technical difficulties at Blogspot, we have been unable to update the directory for this issue; so a PDF of the directory will be sent with the mail announcing this issue of the newsletter. You've just got to love new technology; every time you think you've got it nailed, something blows up. Never mind; we'll get it fixed in due course.

Ruminations

After all the hoopla of the mid-term elections, US energy policy is still twisting in the wind. Word now is that due to environmental reviews, the semi-annual lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico may be delayed to mid-2011. And of course getting an offshore drilling permit remains akin to winning the lottery. Meantime, the land drillers and their service companies in the US are quite giddy with the onset of shalemania. Except, of course, for the fact that the EPA is now investigating as to whether they are ruining everyone's groundwater. However, it's nice for a change to hear stories of farmers who are pocketing six figure royalty checks if they happen to be sitting on top of one of the aforementioned shale deposits. Just like the good old days.

To be fair, the green folks are having their own travails. The ethanol tax credit is about to expire, Ms. Boxer of California has ensured that the Mojave desert will never have one solar panel in it while she lives and breathes, the coast off Hyannisport remains blissfully wind-turbine free, and the latest estimate to hook up what good stuff does get done to the grid is somewhere north of 100 billion dollars. Now, we're all for green energy and conservation -really- but we're also just a little concerned about keeping the place running for the next 20 years while all of this comes together. As rational as this might seem, our political establishment seems to have a hard time grasping the concept.

A Close Call in Nigeria

Several of our collegues were kidnapped and at least one injured in a rebel assault on the High Island VII off Nigeria on November 8th. The hostages were freed unharmed in an apparently dramatic Nigerian JST rescue on November 17th, which we were immensely glad and grateful to hear. But boy, if you need a reminder as to exactly how dangerous certain parts of the planet are, there you have it.

The Business of the Tribe

The tribe has actually been quite busy this fall.

Christie Watt and beau Yoni Sade tied the knot on October 30 at a lovely ceremony at the Houstonian. An entire generation of hopeful suitors is grieving. A change of name has obviously resulted: you can now contact Christie at christiesade@yahoo.com. As might be expected, a major local alumni reunion accompanied the event, which involved considerable merriment. Very nice to see so many members of the tribe in one place.

Speaking of reunions, Kyna Agerton reports that the ladies of the tribe had a large dinner gathering of their own on November 18 at Pappasito's in west Houston. There were 42 of them, give or take a few. Not sure who the prime instigators were here, but we wish they would put something together for the gents as well. We apparently can't organize our way out of a paper sack on our own. Kyna and Myriam Touchard have the incriminating photos.

Long Khuu and longtime friend Huyen Dao took their vows on October 9, which was followed by a gigantic traditional  feast at Kim Son. We very much regretted missing this chance to gain even more weight than we already have this year, but it was apparently a great success.

Andrew and Susan Tietz have returned from the wilds of the Far East and are busily doing what we all like to do best - homebuilding. It always sounds so great in concept. Andrew continues to work for Noble along with quite a contingent from the tribe.

Speaking of the Far East, Trevor Howard has reported in from Singapore, where he works for Premium Drilling. He invites any and all of the tribe who might happen by to come see him. Jim Long is also in Singapore; we hope that he is holding our spot at the Raffles Bar until we can return to claim it.

Harry Swanston, a well known Aggie, has announced that he has set up shop on - get this - Longhorn Parkway in Austin. There are apparently very good reasons for this, but the potential for ribbing is endless.

Meantime, Paul Law is moving to Paso Robles, CA; he claims that this is to get closer to family, but we suspect that it's to get as close as possible to the 200 or so wineries that have sprung up in mid-California. His partly restored Boss 302 Mustang will make the trip; we are anxiously awaiting news of its completion.

Jeff Shepard, with his usual efficiency, is actually nearing completion of his own homebuilding project in Reynolds Plantation, GA. This means that anyone who wants to see Jeff and wife Trisha in the near future had best do it right now, or you'll be connecting through Atlanta to do it. An embarrassingly excessive going away party is definitely called for.

A few of the tribe are moving about: Alan Breed is now at Ocean Rig, and Kevin Skipworth is now at Anadarko. Kyna Anderson is on contract with Wilson Supply downtown.

In the way of new retirees, Jay Stiles has announced that he is hanging them up and heading for the Hill Country. Your faithful Blogmaster officially retired on October 1, although I'm continuing to do governance  and management consulting with my company Half Moon Solutions. Got to pay for that vacation house!

Necrology

Now for the sad news. As always our sympathies go out to the families of the departed.

Old friend Carter Newton passed away in Houston on August 31. Carter was a well beloved friend to many Global Mariners and was instrumental in promoting and mentoring the careers of many of us. A great loss.

Carl Cole reports that his brother, Stuart Cole, passed away in Houston on September 30. Stuart was a long time storekeeper for Global Marine and GSF.

To Sum Up

While there are some glimmerings of hope on the economic front in Houston and elsewhere, remember that a lot of our friends and fellow alumni have had a very hard time of it for the last few years.

We have a tremendous network - use it! If you know someone who needs a job or just needs some help, do what you can and let other alumni know when they might be able to help. When you do succeed, let others know so that they can find you. We're in it together, and collectively are much stronger than any one individual.

OK! Ya'll have a wonderful holiday season, which we hope finds you happy and comfortable in the company of your families and loved ones. We'll be back with our Winter report in early 2011. Do write about your holiday doings.

Your faithful Blogmaster and Associates

GSF Alumni Summer 2010 Newsletter

Well, the world is still turning and the season we love to hate in Houston is in full swing. It's mighty steamy in the energy captial (or, as persons of certain proclivities seem to think of it, the blister on the devil's toe) at the moment, so much so that your Blogmaster has been driven right off the golf course after several tentative adventures earlier in the season. That imitation of Ernie Els which we like to do when no one is watching will have to wait (no one does Tiger any more, for better or for worse).

Our usual reminders for first time visitors or those who have simply forgotten in a haze of seafood denial. You can contribute by writing to us at gsfalumni@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can add your own info or comment on any post by using the Comment tool at the bottom of each post. A current directory of the alumni is to be found in the sidebar to the right of the posts, which everyone seems to find useful. If you'd like to update your information, use the Alumni Information Form in the sidebar and mail it to us at the address above. You'll also find other useful links under Hot Links. If you wish to be updated instantaneously with our various ramblings, you can Follow the blog from the link at the bottom of the sidebar.

You can also find us on Facebook as SeahorseStampede. So there's no reason to be shy...

Ruminations

Is it us, or can the Gulf Coast just not catch a break? It's beginning to look like a lost decade down here. In years past we were reminded by Mother Nature in no uncertain terms as to the weaknesses of our geographical preferences; this year, we have had a man-made disaster which is shaking us to our roots and imperiling our livelihoods and our lifestyles in ways that we could not have imagined. And this in the context of a national recession the likes of which has not been seen in many years.

We are a tenacious and resourceful bunch. If left to determine our own fates we are sure that we will get back to doing what we do best, which is building sound futures for ourselves and our children, being responsible and generous citizens, and serving as one of the country's great engines of prosperity. Not to mention enjoying life with a certain savoir that that is not completely understood but which is recognized as unique throughout the world.

Speaking of steamy, the upcoming US mid-term elections are shaping up to be extraordinarily contentious. It's not just us. Our Australian cousins will be making some difficult electoral choices in just a few days, while our British friends are pondering the outcomes of their May elections and what the economic and social future will hold. Now, we don't get into politics in this space for reasons of both impartiality and common sense. But we would reiterate a common truth - no matter where you live - that if you are not making an impact by participating in the process and contibuting what you can to your causes of choice, then you're missing a great opportunity to be heard. All you need do is to speak your mind and to vote.

Life Does Go On...

Moving on to the business of the tribe, Doug Freede let us know that he has gone to work for the South Texas Project Nuclear Operating Company in their Compensation and Benefits department. You can reach him at 361.972.8602 or dafreede@stpegs.com. See? That wasn't hard.

Old friend Connie Abbs has left Houston to begin a two-state residency in Wisconsin and Arizona. We really can't wish her well enough - one of our originals. Address info to follow from our special correspondent. Sherry Richard has hung up her spurs (corporately, certainly not literally) as has Keith Watts, a prolific rig mover and world tourist.

Matt and Lindsey Ewers announced the arrival of Adley Elisabeth Ewers on Father's Day. James and Rebecca Stegall are anticipating twins in early 2011, perpetuating a well known GSF mini-dynasty.

Upcoming nuptuals: Christie Watt and beau Yoni Sade, Long Khuu and Huyen Dao, both cermonies planned for October. Wise choice of dates, ya'll. Perhaps it will be in the low 90's by then. Now that you've been outed, you'll just have to go through with it...

CallOuts

From Matt Ewers: The Oilfield Helping Hands will be holding a 5-Stand Sporting Clays Tournament on September 25, 2010 to benefit the families of the Deepwater Horizon. Two websites that will assist you with questions regarding the event, registration, donations, and submitting sponsorships follow. Do support this worthy cause.

http://www.facebook.com/l/041b3BMemc979I0ktgOQ3L_yZkg;www.deepwaterhorizonbenefit.org

http://www.facebook.com/l/041b3RREvINmb3bEAuoj0N6_CCw;www.oilfieldhelpinghands.org

From Bob Labbe: Saudi Aramco is looking for certified accountants to work in Saudi Arabia. Very lucrative compensation and benefits. Bob has the Aramco contact for potential openings. Contact him at robertlabbe@att.net for details.

Necrology

Linda Rowe reports that John McGarrity died on May 16, 2010 after an extended illness. No other information was available at press time. The heartfelt regrets of the tribe go out to his family and friends.

To Sum Up

We don't need to remind you that in times like these, it's never been more important to be there for each other. We hold the bonds that cannot be broken except by time and distance, and then only if we let them fade away.

Do write. Otherwise we'll have to start making stuff up about ya'll, which would never be as interesting as the truth.

Your faithful Blogmaster and associates

GSF Alumni Spring 2010 Newsletter

Here, somewhat tardily due to various events large and small, is the second edition of the GSF Alumni newsletter. It's just barely still Spring, judging from the rising temperatures in our home base of Houston; but still Spring nonetheless, so we don't feel entirely remiss in publishing so late in the season.

A few reminders. To contribute, contact us at gsfalumni@gmail.com. Note that we have updated the GSF Alumni Information file according the best information available as of April 2010; you can access this file through the GSF Alumni Information link in the right hand column of the blog. The Alumni Information file has turned into a really fabulous resource, and we heartily encourage you to use it to find friends and colleagues with whom you are not otherwise connected and to see where your friends are living and working. We would also note that there are yet many blanks in the file, voluntary or otherwise. If you'd like to update your information use the GSF Alumni Information Form immediately below it and forward to the Gmail address above.

We've made a few changes to the sidebar. We found that we were a very poor job service since we simply could not keep track of the opportunities available and when they were filled and by whom, and so have abandoned that feature. We've added some excellent industry and social job sites in their place, which we encourage you to use. If anyone has a link that they would like add, please do let us know. Also, don't forget that if you become a Follower of the blog, you'll receive updates automatically. On to business, then.

Deepwater Horizon

We have few remaining words to describe what occurred to the Deepwater Horizon on April 20, 2010, as most of them have already been said. So, we have instead included a photo of what she looked like in all her glory. Few people think of drilling rigs as beautiful, but then we do.

Most people don't understand that operating these things is in the nature of rocket science. Mistakes were undoubtedly made, and unfortunate sequences of events undoubtedly occurred in the course of her loss. But we, the Alumni, lost comrades in arms, co-workers or friends in the disaster and the outpouring of sentiment from the community as a whole has been extraordinarily kind. The names and images of our lost comrades are provided at http://www.deepwaterhorizoncondolences.com/. If you have not already done so, please visit, leave a note of condolence, and remember as has been said by many: " There but for the grace of God go I". What happens next is quite unimaginable for both the industry and the our friends in the coastal towns of Louisiana and elsewhere where they live when they are not working at sea. Only time will tell.

Happier News

Steve Morrison of ADTI has become engaged to Cindy Elmendorf Harrington. Christie Watt now of Noble has become engaged to a handsome devil that we somehow failed to identify on her Facebook posting but we are sure, since she is taken so much time to go about it, that he is quite the item. A whole generation of potential suitors is mourning. Roger Hunt, now of Northern Offshore, and Liz Capritto have tied the knot; this not being surprising as Liz has always been an expert at tying up Roger's loose ends as we all know from our GSF days. Carrie Tanner reports that she is officially playing permanent hooky and has run off to Dripping Springs with Ken Vanway to begin a new life.

There are so many new babies being reported that the GSF-Transocean merger can only be compared to the great New York brownout of the 1980's, which was followed by a gigantic local baby boom. They're popping up like mushrooms. You'll have to check your Facebook pages; too many to mention.

Recent Movements and Retirements

Drew Baker, Loretta Carpenter and Darlene Dawson have popped up at Frontier. Kyna Agerton is working for Steverson. Dave Faure has moved over to Rowan. Joanne Snyder is at Hercules. As for retirements, Andy Anderson and Tom Williams have hung up their spurs; Charles Keaton reports a retirement as well. Pat Norton has spent her last day at Transocean (bless her heart, the most helpful individual). Jeff Shepard is building his house at Reynolds Plantation in Georgia and threatens to leave by December. John Donahoe is already in Asheville NC and reports black bears in his back yard, though he has not provided the requested webcam. Colin Murphy reports a lousy winter on the island (which island?) which we can't seem to locate but seems to be somewhere near the UK. Complaining that it was too dangerous to drive. Colin, are you nuts? You were dangerous to drive with 25 years ago. I know from personal experience.

All, don't forget to consult the GSF Alumni Information link. Otherwise you can't keep track of everyone. It's like herding cats. And please, please do update your info or we'll lose track.

GSF Memorabila Craze Sets In

Speaking of Mr. Murphy, he is desperately seeking photos of the Glomar Grand Banks and the Biscay I to complete a collection. He apparently has Global Marine room, which is an honorable thing. I'd suggest contacting Milton Bade, who has a collection of Global Marine News going back to 1972. There is a great deal of noise about Global Marine rugs (or carpets if you like). Apparently George Rowe has two and Janet Kidd has one, perhaps the last surviving examples. Bob Rose has a GM flag that George gave to him years ago. Charles Streidel is widely regarded as having the largest collection of Global Marine memorabilia existing. Yours truly will happily provide a collection of GM rig mugs which comprises about half of the old fleet to the first requester; no room in the condominium (no garage means constant parsing; otherwise, the views of the Houston skyline are very nice and no gardening, roofing, pest control, mowing, security systems, and no mosquitoes, thank God).

The Summer League

I almost hesitate to bring this up, but does anyone want to try to revive the Summer Golf League? This was an informal golf league which typically snuck in twilight play before either boss or spouse objected. Will base a decision purely on responses. Since some of us work, some of us work sporadically, and some not at all this might be a logistical nightmare; but yours truly is asked the question constantly. Yours truly will be happy to organize but will not score or handicap, being feeble in mind and anxious to avoid more paperwork that I've already got. Respond directly to ecollinsii@earthlink.net if you're feeling frisky.

Miscellany

Mini reunions in the Houston area have been constantly suggested (a full Stampede probably being out of the question unless someone feels like organizing it) but only our good friend Brenda Hethcoat of Zionsbank has done anything about it. Are we going to do this or not? Step up! Someone pick a place (warn them in advance) and we'll be there.

Check out Roy Goodwin's tattoo snaps on Facebook. Talk about a loyalist! He's got the logo tattooed over his heart. Bless you, Roy, but let's stop there shall we? Bye the bye, the Alumni Facebook pages are so full of stuff that it makes your head hurt.

You can find Terry Liscano at terryliscano0519@yahoo.com.

The question was raised earlier, who did George Watson fire most often? Carl Cole seems to hold the record at somewhere around 50 times, per Bill Watson (thankfully no relation).

Necrology

Last but not least, the sad bit in addition to our lost friends on the DWH.

Marvin Schindler died on December 23, 2009 in Bellville, TX. Donations to the Gideons are requested. Marvin was smart, ornery and occasionally incredibly funny. A real tribute to the way of the oil patch.

Dick Black died on April 17, 2010 in Lafayette. Sam Ricord (ripcord156@aol.com) has details for all concerned.

To Sum Up

It's been a time of great sadness as of late and also a great time of change. Our alumni, as yours truly predicted, are spreading all over the industry and indeed around the globe. All the more reason to keep up, and keep close. As Walter Cronkite said, "Life is not an interview". Be good to each other and do let us know what you are up to. Forgive us if we miss anyone; there are now 380 folks on our Gmail distribution lists. Just fess up, and we'll take care of it.

Your faithful Alumni Blogmaster and associates.