[Debbie]

Greetings and salutations from the 2nd windy city, Palmdale, California. We attended Mark Tallent's Memorial Service today and, as befitting any event here in the High Desert, the wind blew at 15 knots and the dust fluttered about, but the Memorial was beautiful nonetheless. Many of Mark's fellow drag racing friends, as well as family members and friends of the family, were in attendence. With large screen t.v's on either side of the podium, showing a series of pictures from Mark's life events, and music to set the tone, there was hardly a dry-eye 'in the house'. Thank You to whoever thought of putting all the boxes of kleenex on all of the tables - that was very kind of you...you knew that many tears would be flowing! Art Peterson of "Racers for Christ" gave a wonderful and heartfelt sermon, and many of Mark's friends and family gave speeches, read poems, or said a few words about their friendship and fond memories of Mark.

All of the tasty food items, beverages and treats made the event a nice commemoration of Mark's life and friendship. I am so proud of everyone who had a part in this amazing Memorial. Whether it was to help set up, food preparation, give a speech, or simply be in attendance, your love for Mark and his family was felt and we were all very touched. Fresh tears flowed when Mark's son, Scott, started up Mark's Mustang and let it idle for several minutes. My heart raced every time he reved up the engine. I know that Mark was smilling down on us and I truly felt his presence as we all gathered around his car to pay tribute.

Thank you everyone for helping make the transition into the healing process, for helping ease the pain, knowing that Mark will live on in each and every one of us, in the love we have for him and his family, and the friendships that we made. God bless you all, and Angels all around.

Debbie Calvert