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Articles by Don Mathis
Adolescent Interests Become Adult Endeavors
When I was about 15, I began to tinker around with electronics. I changed the needle on the record player Dad gave me. Mom was pleased that I could rewire lamps. My friend George Bell (a ham radio operator) showed me how to salvage and re-use old switches and speakers for experiments. I created a master power switch for my Radio Shack monaural reel-to-reel recorder and I taped every song played by WINX Radio in the mid-60s.
On turning 75
First and foremost, mymother andfather not only gave me their genes, they gave me dozens ofmorals andmaxims to live by and to pass along.Mom andDad grew up in Arkansas during America’s Great Depression so I absorbedtheir habits of thrift; to conserve utilities, to not waste food, to make do with what was available, to repair and to reuse. Love of family andrespect for others were other values I inherited.
Banned in Boston: Watch Out for Walt Whitman
Librarians across the county are mobilizing to oppose book banning. The 2025 film The Librarians shows public servants fighting a national battle against right-wing groups looking to ban books and curb free expression. A children’s book by Veronica Arreola has become one of the most banned books in America. J Is For Justice!: An Activism Alphabet is among the most banned in school districts nationwide.
For the soldiers who came back too soon
(Specialist Braden Long and others; so long) How does a small North Texas town grieve for its native son? Front-page news and letters in the daily paper are run. Friends call the soldier's family to see what can be done. Cards and expressions of sympathy are sent to the next of kin. People reach out to help as they would do for a friend. A realization is gained of what it means to be an American.
Produce, as Well as People, Can Immigrate
Immigration is a hot topic across the continent. But for all the political outrage it stirs, there is a hypocrisy we do not talk about enough: people who may relish the cuisine from Mexico often deplore the people and culture from south of the border. That contradiction matters. More than 50% of our country’s fruit and vegetables come from Mexico, and many ingredients that now feel ordinary on American tables once arrived as something unfamiliar.
National Organization for Women, 60 Years On
With surprisingly little media attention, the National Organization for Women (NOW) celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2026. Liberationists of 1966 wanted justice for all. They spoke out against the notion that men should be the sole breadwinner of the family. They wanted men to share in housework and caring for the kids.
A tribute to Augie Meyers (May 31, 1940 – March 7, 2026)
(L-R) Augie Meyers signs an autograph as Don Mathis looks on. - 1984 Hey, Augie, “Que Paso?” You know you’re our favorite vato! You play that Tex-Mex with a lot of soul. And you can rock that Rocking Roll. Your keyboard sound defined a generation.
On Presidents Day
We are a nation of immigrants. “We are the children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren of the ones who wanted a better life, the driven ones, the ones who woke up at night hearing that voice telling them that life in that place called America could be better.” –Mitt Romney Our attitude towards immigration reflects our faith in the American ideal. “We have always believed it possible for men and women who start at the bottom to rise as far as the talent and energy allow.
I am the ghost of Stan Lee (A biography by Don Mathis)
Durant, Oklahoma -- The Texoma Comic Con comes to the Choctaw Event Center in Durant, OK, February 21-22. To commemorate the event, North Texas e-News publishes this exclusive bio of Stan the Man, American comic book writer, editor, publisher, and producer. People say I died in November 2018, but as long as people remember the Fantastic Four, Spider-Man, Hulk, Thor, Black Panther, and the X-Men, I will be around.
Rock & Roll Heaven; 2025 Edition
Last week, we listened to the holiday hits of dozens of singers and songwriters who died in 2025. This week, we remember other stars (age of death in parenthesis) who passed away this year. It is the evening of the year, and we recall Marianne Faithfull (78) “As Tears Go By.” Others may remember Snowy Fleet (85), the drumming force behind The Easybeats, with “Friday on My Mind.” Harry Elston (86) of The Friends of Distinction enjoyed “Grazing In the Grass” in 1968.
Rock & Roll Heaven; 2025 Edition
Last week, we listened to the holiday hits of dozens of singers and songwriters who died in 2025. This week, we remember other stars (age of death in parenthesis) who passed away this year. It is the evening of the year, and we recallMarianne Faithfull (78) As Tears Go By. Others may rememberSnowy Fleet, the drumming force behind The Easybeats, with Friday on My Mind. Harry Elston (86) ofThe Friends of Distinction enjoyed Grazing In the Grass in 1968.
Christmas Compilation From the Late Stars of 2025
During the holidays, I like to listen to Christmas songs. Also, at this time of year I reflect on the stars who recently passed away. Here are some wintertime tunes from some of the musicians who died in 2025 (age of death in parenthesis). Wayne Osmond (74) headed up the Osmond Brothers, famous for teenybopper tunes in the 70s like “One Bad Apple.” Let’s listen to some yuletide carols starting with “The Christmas Song” by the Osmonds.
Christmas compilation from the late stars of 2025
During the holidays, I like to listen to Christmas songs. Also, at this time of year I reflect on the stars who recently passed away. Here are some wintertime tunes from some of the musicians who died in 2025 (age of death in parenthesis). Wayne Osmond (74) headed up the Osmond Brothers, famous for teenybopper tunes in the 70s like “One Bad Apple.” Let’s listen to some yuletide carols starting with “The Christmas Song” by the Osmonds.
I Should Have Known I Was in Trouble When the Restroom Lights Came On
If the light comes on by itself, it’s liable to go off by itself. That’s the way it is with new-fangled technology. I looked for a coat rack or bookshelf. I would think that the designer of a business establishment would have foreseen the need for such furnishings. I guess not; I parked my briefcase on the floor. I took my seat on to do my business. But before I could finish, the lights went out. I guess the motion sensor detected no movement and shut itself off to conserve energy.
Migrating Ideas
“We are the children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren of the ones who wanted a better life, the driven ones, the ones who woke up at night hearing that voice telling them that life in that place called America could be better.” – Mitt Romney This is what history teaches us – if we can only learn. “Once I thought to write a history of the immigrants in America.
Within the past two days...
Four were shot inLouisiana. Eight were shot inNorth Carolina. Four more shot inNC again. Ten folks were shot inMichigan. Bullets inNew Orleans hit four. Texasvictims add seven more. So many deaths from gun violence. The GOP gives us silence.
A salute to Capt. Arellano
Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15-October 15, a time to recognize contributions to our country by Hispanic Americans.Navy Day, October 27, honors all military personnel who served in the United States Navy. Here is an homage toMarion Frederic Ramirez de Arellano, an intrepid submarine commander of World War II. Captain Arellano was said to be the youngest submarine commander in World War II – but he was definitely the first Hispanic to hold that position.
Juan Mejía - A Centennial Tribute
In 1925, Calvin Coolidge took office as president, F. Scott Fitzgerald published The Great Gatsby, the Scopes trial was in the daily news, and Chrysler started producing cars. The Jazz Age continued throughout the Roaring Twenties as New York pulled ahead of London to become the largest city in the world. Mexico was in the midst of the Cristero War in 1925.
Paper boy
September 4 wasNational Newspaper Carrier Day – a time to remember the paper boys who delivered the news in the early morning hours and the heat of summer afternoons.Labor Day is celebrated this week as well – a time to recognize the men and women whose labor built this country. To commemorate, Don Mathis reminisces about his first job back in the early 1960s. In seventh grade, I delivered the San Antonio Light, the afternoon newspaper, up and down the streets of Terrell Hills, a nearby suburb.
Remembering the End of WWII — by Don Mathis
World War II ended 80 years ago with the armistice of 14 August 1945 (Victory Over Japan Day). Two weeks later, the formal surrender was signed on 2 September 1945. But for some holdouts in the Pacific, the struggle continued. Japanese Lieutenant Hiroo Onoda was the last soldier in the Philippines to lay down his arms. He was finally convinced in 1974 that the war was over and he began a life worth living.
Remembering Will Rogers - compiled by Don Mathis - North Texas e-News
The world cried on an August day 90 years ago. That was the day Will Rogers (November 4, 1879 – August 15, 1935) died in a plane crash in Alaska. “Oklahoma’s Favorite Son” was born a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, east of Oologah in Indian Territory. His life included stints on stage and screen, as a cowboy humorist, newspaper columnist, and social commentator. Don Mathis recently obtained an exclusive interview with the ghost of Will Rogers about love and politics.
Periods of Possession
Call it a Period of Possession; don’t call it Visitation. Although a noncustodial parent may just get to see the child of divorce on the first, third, and fifth weekend of each month, we should abhor the word, Visitation. The Texas Family Code does not mention Visitation. It is called a Period of Possession – and the custodial parent will have hers and the noncustodial parent will have his. Some may think ‘possession’ refers to the child, but the term refers to the period of time.
What did your dad tell you?
The third Sunday in June is Fatherís Day in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and many other countries. But fathers are important in the lives of their children every day. Don Mathis has collected some proverbs from papas around the world and invites you to answer this question: What did your dad tell you? Help ever, hurt never. Donít trust anyone that says ďtrust me.Ē Use the proper tool for the job. Donít put it down. Put it away. Before you sit, check for toilet paper.
Flag Day in Washington, D.C.
Flag Day, June 14, commemorates the date in 1777 when the United States approved the design for its first national flag. What better way to celebrate than with a visit to Washington, D.C. A cigar-chomping character, dressed up like a five-star general, greets visitors to theWWII Memorial. The day of my visit, an Honor Guard composed of service men and women from the five branches of military showed respect for the symbols of our country.
Devil's Dictionary, 2025 Revision
DEVIL’S DICTIONARY, 2025 REVISION The original Devil’s Dictionary, written by American journalist Ambrose Bierce in the early 20th century, is a satirical glossary consisting of common words followed by humorous and cynical definitions. The following addendum is assembled by Don & Matthew Mathis, inspired by a digital creation from Jennifer Elizabeth.
Rick Derringer moves to Rock & Roll Heaven
Rock icon Rick Derringer died May 26, 2025. Famous for hits like “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” and “Hang on Sloopy,” Derringer produced and promoted many other musicians. North Texas e-News columnist Don Mathis interviewed him ten years ago for a San Antonio concert. Here are his notes. Don Mathis: Rick Derringer, cool name. How did you get it? Rick Derringer: I was born Ricky Zehringer, but that was hard for people to pronounce, even harder for them to remember.
A time to speak
First They Cameis the poetic form of a 1946 post-war confessional by the German Lutheran pastor Martin Niemöller (1892–1984). His words speak of the silent complicity of German intellectuals and clergy following the Nazis’ rise to power and systematical purging of their chosen targets. In the words of Pastor Niemöller: First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out— Because I was not a socialist.
Garden Girl
May is Gifts from the Garden Month and to celebrate, thistles a blooming romance that’s worth a trillium dollars (and I’m not just pollen your leg). If you have the thyme, say “Aloe” to Rose (she doesn’t moss around) and Lily (she’s one in a melon) and the ferniest story all clover the world. Please romaine calm and don’t give away the ending (chili out, mums the word). And, last bud not leaf, it’s OK if you laugh, just don’t wet your plants.
Oklahoma City terrorist attack, 30 years ago
You pass through the portal and squint against the sun, the time, forever, 9:01. A twin portal stands on the other side of the street forever reading, 9:03. In between is the minute that never should have been in 1995, April 19. A pool for reflection, inches shallow, infinitely deep in its sorrow. Walkways to nowhere, no destination, lead anyone, quickly, to quiet contemplation. The power of the empty chair - think of those who are not there at the dinner table, the office -- those we miss.
Life under the rabbit ears
Public Television Day is celebrated on April 7 because the first long-distance public TV broadcast was transmitted on that date in 1927. The Howdy Doody Show & Clarabell the Clown, Shari Lewis and Lamb Chop, Captain Kangaroo and Mr. Green Jeans, and the whole crew in the Mickey Mouse Club were great in black and white – but my brother Jeff and I wanted color television! And we wanted Daddy to get an outdoor antenna, the little rabbit ears on top of the TV got too much static.
First They Came...
First They Came is the poetic form of a 1946 post-war confessional by the German Lutheran pastor Martin Niemöller (1892–1984). His words speak of the silent complicity of German intellectuals and clergy following the Nazis’ rise to power and systematical purging of their chosen targets. In the words of Pastor Niemöller: First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out— Because I was not a socialist.
What happened to the tribes?
What happened to the tribesmen sold as slaves from 1650 Ireland? To rid the island of the heathen, the Governor brother and his Cromwell King shipped thousands of men - and even more women and children - to markets of the West Indian. One slaver, wanting only daughters, got a letter from Henry of the Uprighte Harte: "I think it mighte be of like advantage to your affaires there, and to ours heer, if you should thinke fitt we sende 2,000 young boys from 12 to 14 to the place aforementioned.
Thoughts on a Lifetime of Love
Everybody knows that February 14 is Valentine’s Day. But many are not aware that February 15 is Singles Awareness Day. It is a good time to consider the factors that can create a healthy relationship. Thoughts on a Lifetime of Love – by Don Mathis • It takes two to tango. If one of the partners quits, the dance is over. • Mutual respect is essential as is a spirit of sacrifice. • There can be no scorecard for who is owed a favor.
Ode to Bois d'Arc – by Don Mathis
The Osage Orange is a lowly tree. French explorers called this wood 'bo dark.' Natives of the 16th century used many parts of the wood and bark. This 'wood of the bow' served well in war. Bows and war clubs were used on the Plains. Tannin from bark could help cure leather. Ropes were twisted for use or exchange. Dye from the roots yielded a yellow. It's used to make uniforms khaki. And it was a creative fellow who used it for fence in the prairie.
Four Years With the 46th President
Four Years With the 46th President – by Don Mathis Joe Biden’s term as Chief Executive is almost finished. It is time to take a look at what he accomplished. and helped millions of people get a COVID vaccination. and provided college debt relief for many Americans. His Inflation Reduction Act did several things: and ensured big corporations pay their share of tax. his relief put up to $1,400 in each taxpayer’s pocket. while creating six million jobs across the nation.
Life Under the Rabbit Ears
The established November 21 as World Television Day in recognition of the mpact TV has on society. Life Under the Rabbit Ears – by Don Mathis The Howdy Doody Show with Clarabell the Clown, Shari Lewis and Lamb Chop, Captain Kangaroo and Mr. Green Jeans, and the whole crew in the Mickey Mouse Club were great in black and white – but my brother Jeff and I wanted color television! And we wanted Daddy to get an outdoor antenna, the little rabbit ears on top of the TV got too much static.
Sergeant First Class Mathis
Most every American knows thatVeterans Day is November 11. But few may realize that November isMilitary Family Month, a time to remember the commitment and dedication that spouses and children make. The sacrifices of these families make it possible for our military to remain organized and strong. A reader offers a salute to the soldier in his family. Sergeant First Class Mathis Daddy retired from the Army in 1963; I was 12.
Write Where You Want to Be: Natural High
Write Where You Want to Be National Day on Writing is October 20, a day to acknowledge the significance of writing as a crucial skill and as a form of art. This special day encourages everyone to appreciate and engage in writing activities. Write On! Natural High – by Don Mathis I write when I like. Lay down my pen, pick it up again. Write to my son or congressman or fire a letter to the editor. Mail it and then forget. Until another idea compels me to scamper for paper.
Ways to Work It at Work
Labor Day is Monday, September 2, 2024. Ways to Work It at Work – by Don Mathis Don’t discuss politics or religion (unless you work at a campaign HQ or a church). If someone asks you to do something, if you can’t say “Hell Yes,” say “Hell No.” Sometimes it is better to let someone else take the credit for your good idea. Ask for help when you don’t know how to do a job or the task is too large. Every once in a while, buy a treat for your coworkers for no reason.
Ex-Girlfriend Day
Ex-Girlfriend Day August 2 is National Ex-Girlfriend Day; a time to acknowledge the transformative power of relationships, even after they have ended. It is a day to reflect on past love, to appreciate the lessons learned, and maybe even learn something about yourself. What Do You Say? – by Don Mathis Once, when this woman I had eyes on began to look at me with those same sort of eyes, we had the talk. The talk when both of you know that it is imminent that you’re about to become intimate.
Father’s Day Acrostic
In Acrostic poems, the first letters of each line are aligned vertically to form a word. Father’s Day Acrostic – by Don Mathis Fathers are fun – and serious too! And you learn more from them than you do at school. Think of all the good times you’ve had. How would it be without your dad? Everything would be harder with no mentor for growth. Reflect on the man who loves you the most. Soon will come the day for you to fill his shoes. Do you think your dad would accept an excuse?
D.A.D: An acrostic Father’s Day tribute
D-A-D Acrostic Dictums: An acrostic is generally a poem or phrase in which the first letters spell out a word. It is Father’s Day. How many of these old sayings apply to you? How many apply to your dad? Acrostics below were created by Don Mathis; axioms were written by children and fathers across history. Deft and Difficult To become a father is not hard; to be a father is, however. – Wilhelm Busch Doesn’t And Does A child does not need to be parented. He needs to be mothered and fathered.
Graduation Blast-Off
High school students across the country will begin celebrating commencement in May. It may be just a few steps across the stage to receive their diploma, but it’s a great leap into the days that come. And then comes the aloneness of space for the parents left behind. Graduation Blast-Off – by Don Mathis Back before you were around, I watched you on the sonogram and felt like I was on the countdown to the launch of a space program. A newborn’s milestones come fast, first teeth are not meant to last.
National Military Brats Day Celebrates the Dependents of Those Who Serve
National Military Brats Day Celebrates the Dependents of Those Who Serve – by Don Mathis National Military Brats Day, April 30, honors the children of our Armed Forces. It caps the end of April, the . Dependents of military personnel have a different upbringing than most of society. These kids were raised in a family that moved every few years; few have what we would call a home town.
Harry Nilsson & Kurt Cobain; gone for 30 years
We are coming up on April 5, the 30th anniversary of the death ofKurt Cobain, lead singer for the grunge band, Nirvana. Harry Nilsson died January 15, 1994, just three months before Cobain pulled the plug, yet Nilsson's death scarcely caused a blip in the media radar. This is unfortunate because Nilsson's career was much more far-reaching than Cobain's. Nilsson's music transcended gender and generations. Nilsson's music was the soundtrack for many movies; indeed, the soundtrack for an era.
The Gospel according to Don Mathis
Long ago, a poet-king (David, Psalms 139:14) told us we are "fearfully and wonderfully made." I know I am. Each of us is unique. I want to talk about someone who is most unique, and very wonderfully made. John the Elder talks about his birth in one of his books (Revelations 12:4): “...The dragon stood in front of the woman who was going to have a child, to devour her child as soon as it was born." This is not the familiar nativity scene in a manger that we're all so used to.
The Dominant One
The Dominant One – Don Mathis Doormat lies on floor. Foot walks on it, dirtying Doormat’s face with shoe mud. Doormat takes it, supports Foot. Foot is dependent on Doormat’s support, becomes used to Doormat always there. Until one day, Doormat turns over a new life. The footfalls arrive but Foot falls, heels over head, hard, hitting floor. Doormat is gone – and is blamed for Foot’s downfall. Who is the dominant one?
Johnny Loves Vivian
A Houston paper said Vivian asked San Antonio officials to let her have it. She offered to have a replica made; the City said no. Rumors circulated that she begged the City to allow her to have just the cedar plank with the carvings, promising to return it in her will after she died. Instead, the City removed the bench from the River Walk and put it in storage for nine years. Too late for Vivian – she died in 2005. In 2013, the City gifted the bench to theWitte Museum.
Barbados A to Z
Barbados, known for their sunshine and warm weather, is a great destination year-round. But February is the best with low humidity, hot days, and balmy evenings. Take a look at this abecedarium and let’s take a cruise! Barbados A to Z – Don Mathis Atlantic – Sunrise over the ocean is cool and grey. Bajan Boat – Best way to see the sunset on the same day. Caribbean island music is hot, Hot, HOT! Dinner at Sam Lord’s Castle is quite a lot. Exotic plants abound as far as the eye can see.
Beating up the Beatles
Nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah. (Are you tired of this yet?) Nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah. (Want some more?) Nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah – Hey Jude! If you were a child of the 60s, you probably heard this every time you turned on the radio, every time you got into a car, when you got back home, and the refrain seemed like it went on forever. It's not that I hate the Beatles; I just don't think they deserve the pedestal where most people put them.
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