Like the three of us, Barry drove an hour each way to meet at a location convenient for us all. We learned that his father-in-law owns a restaurant, and as such, Barry admitted he knew more about the restaurant business than he did about the oil & gas business. He discussed how he came to be associated with Black Dragon, his background, what his immediate mission was – to prepare the Company data for an audit. He spoke about where was staying in Louisiana, the 45 minute commute from the hotel to BD’s Oil City office, Louisiana food fare and how he had put on 25 extra pounds during his time there, including a meal or two at Jayne Lanza’s new restaurant. He discussed his busy schedule (6AM – 1AM) EST) working for BD, as well as keeping up with his other consulting activities and obligations. He briefly spoke about an upcoming family wedding, the effects of September 11 on his personal retirement finances, future travel plans, and busy schedule. Barry commented on the local Louisiana weather being not much warmer than New England.
Despite our continual questioning, given his position, he wasn’t able to discuss ongoing, planned, or proposed activities at Black Dragon. He did clarify a few points regarding past performances by Joe Lanza. Apparently, despite a high number of criminal charges brought against him, Joe received only one conviction and that was related to income tax evasion. (I was quietly wondering if Lanza had somehow bribed the judges in each jurisdiction). Barry thought Lanza had spent his two years at a Military Base “prison.” (and here I thought all Military bases were prisons).
Barry did confirm that Rick Michael’s name does not have an “S” at the end of Michael. Neither he nor Barry will be attending the next RedChip conference. (I can imagine the pasting Rick Michael would receive if he did go - akin to kamikaze suicide, I would expect.)
We also discussed favorite ice cream places in Massachusetts, Lou’s prior stints as a singer, and a story of a drunken Irishman returning home trying not to wake his wife. There was no mention of the Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins, or Celtics.
Lunch was good. Only Lou opted for a dessert (Cheesecake, no less), but we said nothing as he graciously picked up the tab for all of us. (Thank you again, Lou.) During our lunch Barry’s wife phoned him, leading us to suspect she may be checking up on him.
Barry should really think about his image and trade his vehicle in for a real car – perhaps a Lexus LS460. HA!
In short, most of the conversation centered around Barry’s role after being asked to come in and provide some CPR for Black Dragon’s audit submission – which is happening!. (CPR, in this case, could very well mean: Chastise Persons Responsible). The audit should be completed within the next 3-4 weeks (I know, I know, how many times have we read those words - but this time they are being uttered by a man who has done the work and submitted the paperwork to the audit firm, which by the way, is not a Lanza recommended firm (not Malone and Bailout).
Happy Friday and GLTA!
AI
