Too Hot!  Too Late? – Part 2

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Allen Mesch

Climate Change Chemistry

Long before the recent events, I understood the science behind global climate change. We are creating a manmade disaster by continuing to burn fossil fuels. Call it the dinosaurs’ revenge, even though fossil fuels trace their origin to tiny organisms.

Carbon is the common element in fossil fuels. When fossil fuels are burned, they produce carbon dioxide gas and water. Both carbon dioxide and water are greenhouse gases.

 So put on your science hats for a little basic chemistry.

The carbon atoms [C] combine with oxygen [O2] to produce carbon dioxide [CO2].

For example,

Coal                                                                     C + O2 → CO2

Natural Gas (Methane)                            CH4  2O2 → CO2 + 2H2O

Gasoline (Ethanol)                                     C2H5OH + 3O2 → 2CO2 + 3H2O

The numbers in front of the molecules of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water are used to make sure there are an equal number of carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen atoms on both sides of the chemical reaction. Another way of looking at the chemistry is to note that burning a single molecule of ethanol (gasoline) produces three times the amount of carbon dioxide as burning coal.

Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that creates a blanket in the atmosphere to hold in heat.

According to Wikipedia, greenhouse gases are the gases in the atmosphere that trap heat, raising the surface temperature of Earth. Unlike other gases, greenhouse gases absorb the radiation that the Earth emits, resulting in the greenhouse effect. The Earth is warmed by sunlight, causing its surface to radiate heat, which is then mostly absorbed by greenhouse gases. Without greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, the average temperature of Earth’s surface would be about 0°F rather than the present average of 59°F.

The five most abundant greenhouse gases in Earth’s atmosphere, listed in decreasing order of presence, are: water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone.  Water vapor causes about half of the greenhouse effect. [1]

Burning natural gas to heat your home and using gasoline to fuel your car or truck will produce water vapor as shown in the above equations. Gasoline combustion produces twice as much water as does burning natural gas.

[1] “Greenhouse gas,” Wikipedia, Greenhouse gas – Wikipedia

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Too Hot!  Too Late? – Part 1

Posted on July 28, 2025 by Allen Mesch

Climate Change is Coming to Your Neighborhood.

In case you missed it, the effects of global climate change are becoming increasingly apparent. In Texas, we are mourning the loss of lives to the flooding in “Flood Alley.” Flooding and weather-related events are occurring throughout the United States. Sharks are attacking swimmers on both coasts. Temperatures are rising around the nation. Wildfires and floods are destroying lives. This is due to global warming or climate change.

According to Katharine Hayhoe, chief scientist at The Nature Conservancy and a professor at Texas Tech University, the biggest way climate change is affecting individuals and putting people at risk is “by supersizing extreme weather events, by making them bigger or stronger or more dangerous or more frequent or even harder to predict than they used to be.”[1]

Let me share some of my background with you so you can appreciate where I am coming from. I had a nearly fifty-year career in the oil and gas industry. I worked on interesting projects around the world. I managed assignments in all of the major functions of the petroleum industry. I gave talks on the Organization of Petroleum Producing Countries (OPEC). I ran the Maguire Energy Institute at SMU for five years. I founded PetroStrategies, Inc. to provide strategic consulting services and present classes on various parts of the industry. With this background, you would think that I don’t believe in climate change.

Well, you’re wrong. I believe in the science behind climate change and global warming and have been warning people for over thirty years about the coming disaster.

In the next few posts, I will be discussing the science behind global warming and its impact on people.

[1] “Climate Change Linked to Floods,” The Dallas Morning News, July 17, 2025, pp. 1A & 8, retrieved July 23, 2025.

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Chump Change

Posted on July 7, 2025 by Allen Mesch

Our prayers go out to the many families devastated by the horrible flooding on the Comal River. The loss of life, especially children, is heart wrenching..

In response to this catastrophe, the NFL, the Houston Texans, and the Dallas Cowboys have managed to scrape together $1.5 million in aid. Wow! That’s $500 thousand each. Nothing from the Astros, Rangers, Mavericks, Rockets, Stars, Aeros, or Wings. The $1.5 million is chump change and an insult to Texas families affected by the flood.

However, that western New York football team, the Buffalo Bills, has donated $50 million to the relief efforts. That’s ten times the amount contributed by “your Dallas Cowboys,” or shall we call them by their new name, “your Dallas cheapskates?”

Please pray for those affected by the flood and contribute to relief efforts.

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The Ten Commandments

Posted on July 6, 2025 by Allen Mesch

With many state legislatures ordering the Ten Commandments to be displayed in classrooms, I thought it would be appropriate to review the Commandments and assess how the behavior of our society and the state lawmakers enacting the legislation would be evaluated.

As you may know, the Bible tells us that Moses received the commandments from God. Moses was leading the Hebrew slaves out of Egypt to freedom in a new land. The principles have served as a benchmark for Jews and were later adopted by Christians.

Here are the Commandments with my observations on whether we obey them.

  1. You shall have no other gods before Me. This Commandment declares that I am the supreme God, and you should not worship any other deities.

Society: Do we worship God, or do we worship money?

Politicians: Politicians often invoke their religion when it benefits them in their pursuit of an election.

Scorecard: Society 0; Politicians 0

2. You shall not make for yourself a carved image. Even good things can become idols if we are not careful. Ministry, hobbies, charity work, or family can usurp the rightful place only God should hold in our lives. When we emotionally rely on anything other than our relationship with Him to validate us, we are breaking the second commandment.

Society: We are guilty of breaking this Commandment. Many people do good things to help others, but often with the goal of earning a spot in heaven.

Politicians: These folks are the worst. They crave a form of immortality by having a statue in their honor, naming a military base or ship after themselves, or having their name attached to a law.

Scorecard: Society 0; Politicians 0

3. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.

Society: This is a no-brainer! We swear all the time using God’s name.

Politicians: To woo Christian voters, politicians often wrap themselves in a Bible they have not read.

Scorecard: Society 0; Politicians 0

4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.

Society: Yes, we attend synagogue on Saturday and church on Sunday, then stop by Walmart, Home Depot, and/or Lowe’s to make purchases. I don’t think this is what God intended.

Politicians: Only if it doesn’t interfere with a golf game, a fundraising event, or

Scorecard: Society 0; Politicians 0

5. Honor your father and your mother.

Society: Only when we want something like money, a car, or

Politicians: They trade on their parents’ names and accomplishments to further their political goals.

Scorecard: Society 0; Politicians 0

6. You shall not murder.

Society: We recognize murder as a crime. However, people quickly resort to violence. They make excuses for their actions and, when all is lost, they plead for a reduced sentence.

Politicians: Murder has always been the province of rulers. They turn people into soldiers and order them to kill their enemies. The politician can kill masses of people in the guise of national defense or weapons of mass destruction.

Scorecard: Society 0; Politicians 0

7. You shall not commit adultery.

Society: Adultery is a worldwide phenomenon. The bonds of marriage are set aside when passion replaces honor and respect.

Politicians: Of course, they commit adultery. To that sin, they use their power and position to satisfy their lust. They figure that they can wiggle out of any situation. Check out the history of United States presidents.

Scorecard: Society 0; Politicians 0

8. You shall not steal.

Society: We steal all of the time. We cheat on tests (stealing grades), cheat on income taxes (stealing money from the government), and cheat on ideas (stealing ideas from others and taking credit for them).

Politicians: In the United States, our legislators have misused Social Security funds for years. They did this under the hope that people would not live long enough to collect. Legislators, this is stealing from the public.

 Scorecard: Society 0; Politicians 0

9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. “Bearing false witness” means intentionally lying about a person, thing, or event, or spreading false rumors. The phrase also relates to the moral law of always telling the truth and reflects God’s glory.

Society: We have become pretty good at lying. We call it making excuses.

Politicians: Presidents, governors, mayors, and legislators have made lying an inherent trait.

Scorecard: Society 0; Politicians 0

10. You shall not covet.

Society: To desire wrongfully, inordinately, or without due regard for the rights of others, or to choose another’s property. Coveting is a global phenomenon. We want a new car like our neighbors. We want a rich husband or a trophy wife. We behave as if we are the only person in the world. Coveting is all we do.

Politicians: They covet power and will lie and cheat to obtain and hold it..

Scorecard: Society 0; Politicians 0

Well, I’m surprised and disappointed in our performance. I wish I had some ideas on how to get us to obey the Ten Commandments. God has to be angry with us. Perhaps he will order nature to harm us. Maybe he is already doing this.

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What is a GG?

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Allen Mesch

Yes, what exactly is a GG? Is it a Giant Giraffe? Is it a Grand Geyser? Maybe it’s a Glamorous Girl or a Goofy Guy?

These and other questions about GG are answered in my first children’s book, What is a GG?

Please see What is a GG? in Amazon books.

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We Are Better Than This – Part 9

Posted on April 30, 2025 by Allen Mesch

This will be my last post on this topic.

For many of you who have visited my site, this announcement may gather a “so what.” In the past 8 posts, I have tried to raise awareness of political issues in Washington and Austin. The response has been underwhelming. I have recorded 68 views for my posts, with 21 being the highest number for one post. This is disappointing in light of my 768 LinkedIn contacts and 125 Facebook friends.

I hope this disinterest is a result of being flooded with political news and not because of indifference.

I will still fight to preserve American democracy, freedom, and place in the world.

I wish you well. God bless America.

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We Are Better Than This – Part 8

Posted on April 22, 2025 by Allen Mesch

In my latest political post, I have a couple of thoughts concerning the role of political parties and the impact of White House actions on Americans.

Is it Time for New Political Parties?

The political party representing conservatives seems to have lost its moral compass. Its members have largely rubber-stamped White House initiatives. Political candidates vying for elective office have come to the man on the throne in Washington begging for his support. They seek his highness’s blessing in coming primary contests. They refuse to listen to the voters, and one Conservative leader has suggested they cancel town hall meetings. They feel they are above us, know better than the poor peasants in their kingdoms, and fail to consider the impact of their actions on their members and all Americans. The three monkeys come to mind.

The other party, the unworthy opposition liberals have also lost their compass, don’t know which direction the sun rises, and provide as much protection as a champion fighter’s sparing opponent. They have lost their message, creditability, and constituency. They can’t find their way out of a room with one open door.

With this political mess, is it time for new political parties? Most definitely, YES! You may have heard about the Whig Party in your high school American history class. Of course, with the government interference in education you may not have learned about its demise and the rise of the Republican Party. This was Lincoln’s party, not the current cohort of conservatives. The liberal party also seems out of touch with American voters. There is a rumor that they may replace the donkey with a lamb.

Like a witch’s brew, the conditions are perfect for new parties. A conservative party that focuses on constitutional issues, respects the American public, and reduces the heavy-handed concentration of power at the state and national levels. A liberal party that is fiscally responsive, develops grassroots leadership, champions minorities with action not empty promises, and encourages Americans to be great.

Wait for It

Some Americans refuse to recognize the impact that Washington’s decisions are making on their lives. Of course, most of us realize that tariffs will increase our costs for almost everything. However, other issues will have a profound impact on our lives.

  • The FDA will no longer inspect food. This will put our health at risk. Food poisoning may become an everyday issue. Do you grow your own food? Maybe you should start a garden.
  • The Consumer Protection Agency has laid off thousands of workers. Be prepared for more faulty products as manufacturers cut costs to increase profits.
  • The government is the only one laying off workers. The ripple effect will reach all sectors of the economy. It’s time to update your resume, obtain new skills, and increase your emergency savings.
  • The government has cut funding for many programs, resulting in layoffs in charitable organizations and community social services.
  • College students should say farewell to their friends from abroad with visas, This will harm friendships and decrease the ability of American university graduates to function in a global economy.
  • Retirement may become an illusion, something only the rich can experience. You should postpone retirement and work as long as possible. Unfortunately, you make too much money and cost-cutting layoffs will hit you first.

Please see the complete list of “We Are Better Than This” commentaries.

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We Are Better Than This – Part 7

Posted on April 15, 2025 by Allen Mesch

What’s going on in Washington? The tariffs are on, then they’re off, then they’re on again, then they’re off—high tariffs on China, except for electronics. Who are the president’s economic advisors? Is it Larry, Moe, Curly, or all three?

Government by impulse is dangerous. What is the long-term strategy? What trade concessions is the United States looking for? Please explain it to me, because “Make America Great Again” doesn’t seem to be working. Government employees are out of work, and their former agencies are disappearing. The measles epidemic in Texas is increasing while health care is being run by someone who opposes vaccination. A U.S. citizen is wrongly deported to a South American country, and the nation’s president refuses to allow him to return home.

Someone tell the president that there are no mulligans or do-overs in government. Running the country is not a game.

This man has his finger on the button, but his health is great, and he is fit for office. At least that’s what his medical team of Dr. See No Evil, Dr. Hear No Evil, and Dr. Say No Evil has determined.

And amid this executive chaos, the Conservative legislators applaud his actions and pander to his dwindling number of supporters. Then there is the unworthy opposition that acts like a deer blinded by headlights. Of course, both political parties are united in one area. They both ask for money.

Well, it looks like someone got out of bed on the wrong side, or maybe he has overdosed on caffeine. My apologies for my blogging rant.

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We Are Better Than This – Part 6

Posted on April 7, 2025 by Allen Mesch

We are better than this, or are we?

What’s happening in Texas is disturbing. Perhaps “disturbing” is too mild a word. Maybe frightening would be better.

Here are several examples of what’s wrong in the Lone Star State:

  1. Ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs statewide. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are organizational frameworks that aim to promote the fair treatment and full participation of all individuals, particularly those who have historically been underrepresented or marginalized due to their identity or disability. We live in a diverse state. What is wrong with helping our people who have suffered? What is wrong with creating a better understanding of different ethnicities, disabilities, and religious beliefs?
  2.  Attacking the LGBTQ+ community. Why can’t we let people with different sexual preferences live in peace? They deserve our kindness, understanding, and respect, not our hate.
  3. Investigating a religious group that wants to build a faith-based community.
  4. Creating a voucher system for private schools for wealthy families at the expense of public schools.
  5. Helping to deport Latinos who came to America in search of a better and safer life.
  6. Doing little to fight a rising measles epidemic
  7. Using state funds to pay for the defense of a state employee charged with violating whistleblower provisions.

Please consider my criticisms as counsel to a misbehaving child.

I love Texas and her bluebonnets, blue skies, BBQ, football, Tex-Mex restaurants, beaches, and natural beauty.

However, we are better than this, and we must do better to keep the Lone Star State shining.

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The Traitor

Posted on March 31, 2025 by Allen Mesch

The Traitor begins after Dr. Russell Conrad returns from the Middle East to Dallas. The Traitor is the sequel to The Analyst.

His actions at the conference raise concerns. President Omar Sanjar’s National Security Council members questioned Conrad’s communications with Israeli Mossad agent David Abraham. Some advisers view the Southern Methodist University professor as a traitor. The Council recommends bringing Conrad to Washington for questioning to resolve their concerns.

Terrorists attack the FBI agents when they are taking Conrad to Dallas Love Field for the trip to Washington. An elderly woman, armed with a Uzi, saves Conrad, and the two escape in a car. This begins a car chase through South Texas as Conrad and the woman try to flee to Mexico.

At the same time, a terrorist team under orders from the Iranian government organizes an attack on the United States’ economy. They plan to destroy petroleum refineries in Texas and place the blame on Israel.

Conrad learns of the terrorist plans at a rest stop. Afterwards, he meets with a college friend and his motorcycle buddies. After a quick discussion, Conrad’s escape plans are abandoned, and the SMU professor enlists the bikers’ help in stopping the saboteurs’ schemes.

Please read The Traitor.

The Traitor is available on Amazon.

Please read The Analyst.

The Analyst is available on Amazon.

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