My wife often accused me of being stuck in the 50's when it comes to music. I don't protest, partially because it's probably true - but,also because I'm not sure she doesn't mean the 1850's.
In truth, my humor may be stuck in the 40's. Radio comedy was big in our house growing up. It included Amos & Andy, because we were of a different generation and still naively unaware that what we were laughing at was prejudicial against an entire race of people.
Hopefully, the advent of B.E.T television clarified the assumption.
It was a different time and much of the humor those days has not translated well to that of our present generation. Listening to some of the old comedy show tapes suggests that what we found to be funny was actually kind of amateurish.
There were exceptions. When listning to an old Fibber McGee and Molly recently.I found Fibber's defense of the weather being extremely cold to be vaguely familiar. When asked how cold it was, he stated, "It is so cold that I saw the snowman down at the department store blowing on his hands."
Apparently, the writers of Johnny Carson's tonight show felt it could be updated and included the premise in his response to Ed McMahon when questioned as to explaining, "How cold is it?".
It would take too long to go into all the radio comedy shows I found amusing as a child. Needless-to-say they included comedy entertainers such as Burns & Allen, Bob Hope, Jack Benny, Fred Allen, Red Skelton, and my alltime favorite, Fibber McGee and Molly.
These were two former vaudevillians, Jim & Marian Jordan, who were also husband and wife in real life.
The humor was easy going and lacked either the dirty language or the mean comments of many of today's successful comedians.
Molly's continuos use of the line "T'aint Funny McGee" was as well known as Fibber McGee's closet that poured various items down on McGee when he attempted to open the door.
I enjoyed the sound effects almost as much as the sound of breaking glass that followed the exclamation by former Pirate broadcaster Rosey Roswell following a homerun by the Pirates, "Open the window Aunt Minnie, here it comes!" - a line all us kids adopted when playing ball over at Atlantic Avenue School's playground with the short right field.
Fibber was the main character in a show that lasted from the 30's into the 50's.
The show stood out for me as it included many characters and was the precursor of todays successful situation comedy shows. The actors who portrayed the characters, such as Harold Perry, Gale
Gordon and others survived radio and were star character performers on TV.
The premise of Fibber McGee and Molly was simple and usually took place entirely in the McGee's living room where the various characters, mostly alleged neighbors, made a regular appearance.
They included Wallace Wimple, a hen-pecked husband who was constantly dominated and battered by his never seen spouse,
Cornelia, to whom he referred as "Sweetieface" and/or his "big ol wife".
The part was played by Bill Thompson, who was also "The Old Timer" a hearing challenged senior citizen who coined the popular phrase, "That ain't the way I heared it!"
Another character actor, Richard LeGrand created the part of Ole Swenson, a Swedish-born janitor at the Elks Club and who later became Mr. Peavey on the Great Gildesleeve. Ole complained a lot that he was "joost donatin' my time." (another gem)
There was also another character referred to alternately as "Sis" and "Little girl", who was voiced by Marian Jordan. Her catchphrase was that of ending her statements with the tagline, "I betcha."
I think I liked her most because of my Grandma Sullivans neighbor and close friend up in Wilmerding, Pa., Mrs. St. Clair, who drove me nuts as a kid by insisting on ending each sentence with the utterance, "So I did" or "So, I said.".
We have been stealing jokes, comedic techniques and one-liners since the beginning of time.
Puns and the stealing of malapropism infested humor from the style of Mrs. Malaprop", a character in Sheridan's classic, "The Rivals."
were employed in the 40's and continue to be a great source of simple humor - including the popular NCIS.
The lines and sayings of the characters on FM & M became part of this nations vernacular in the same way that TV stars Milton Berle's "MAKEUP!", Gleasons,"And, awaay we go!" & "Someday Alice - right to the Moon!", and Flip Wilson's, "The Devil made me do it" stuck with generations that survived the humor of the 40's.
There were fewer of us in the 40's but we were still more than willing to highjack these catch phrases and employ them at just about any moment in time.
The idea of including homemade characters on radio was adopted by local Pittsburgh morning drive time host, Rege Cordic, who with the imagination of Bob Trow and Karl Hardman, developed such favorites as "Louie The Garbage Man", "Brunhilda", "Omicron", "Big Ube & Little Ube" and Carmen Monoxide, a champion punster.
As Junior High kids we weren't allowed to stand around the water cooler and recite lines from Cordic & Company due to the always present hall monitors - so we wandered off to the bathrooms instead.
But, guaranteed, Dad and his work cronies were probably standing around the coke machine at Beadling Motors on Wednesday mornings, repeating their favorite jokes or lines from the previous nights Texaco sponsored Berle show.
These are tough times financially and emotionally. Maybe we need to install more water coolers at work and try again to make comedy truly funny.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
THE AMAZING "SIXTH"
As a sports fan I most often attribute the term "sixth" to being a referral to "the sixth man" in basketball.
That's the guy who comes off the bench - usually early in the game -and performs so well you wonder why he's not a member of the starting five. John Havlicek, early in his career with the Boston Celtics, is a classic example.
However, the term "Sixth" may now forever be associated with last nights World Series game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Texas Rangers.
One of the quotes I read on-line today said that most of the players in the game - won in dramatic fashion by St. Louis in the bottom of the 11th- expressed a belief that this was the best Series game of all time.
Bill Mazerowski may disagree.
But, even Maz would have to admit this game was one for the ages.
It was filled with errors that heretofore were most closely associated with defensive play at either a Little League, or perhaps, Pony League play.
It was a tough call as to whom I was rooting for as the game bounced back and forth with the sloppy fielding and clutch hitting.
I was watching the "Sixth" in the living room at home after a rather long day that included one more doctors visit and an evening spent with friends.
I had ordered take-out and, despite all the advice of nutritionists, was devouring it as I watched the game.
Phyl and the Chihuahua were busy sawing logs in the back of the house. Apparently I became jealous of their comfort level while I strained to keep my eyes open. That happens to old people a lot.
But, Sony and Brighthouse to the rescue. I simply hit the record button and went on my way to join Phyl and the dog in Dreamland.
The secret to using this modern day recording trick is to avoid any news about the results of the game via next mornings newspaper.
In my case this is not difficult as I skip the local paper, and rely on my USA Today,that is conveniently delivered to our door around 3 or 4 A.M.
This is a great newspaper in my opinion.
The flip side, however, is my conclusion that they should change their motto from "The Nations Newspaper" to one that declares: "Yesterdays Sporting Results - Tomorrow".
Thus, there was no need to fear my paper would reveal the results of the game - until Monday - as they don't publish on Saturday.
So, I sat back down in my recliner this a.m. and turned on the tape.
The players were at least half right. What I was able to watch was indeed exciting, replete with the above mentioned errors and clutch hits.
What was not half-right for this old guy was the game from the bottom of the sixth on.
For, it was about that time my Brighthouse cable people who foolishly assumed a baseball game - with as many commercials as playing time - would conclude at exactly three hours - and turned off my precious recording of the event.
My congratulations to all of you baseball fans who had the stamina and will power that I sorely lacked.
Or, at the very least, had the requisite smarts that told them it might be best to also record the show subsequent to the showing of their sporting event.
Something I definitely plan to do this evening in case this old
f--t doesn't make it through the "Seventh" game either.
But, just in case - please don't call me tomorrow morning.
.
That's the guy who comes off the bench - usually early in the game -and performs so well you wonder why he's not a member of the starting five. John Havlicek, early in his career with the Boston Celtics, is a classic example.
However, the term "Sixth" may now forever be associated with last nights World Series game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Texas Rangers.
One of the quotes I read on-line today said that most of the players in the game - won in dramatic fashion by St. Louis in the bottom of the 11th- expressed a belief that this was the best Series game of all time.
Bill Mazerowski may disagree.
But, even Maz would have to admit this game was one for the ages.
It was filled with errors that heretofore were most closely associated with defensive play at either a Little League, or perhaps, Pony League play.
It was a tough call as to whom I was rooting for as the game bounced back and forth with the sloppy fielding and clutch hitting.
I was watching the "Sixth" in the living room at home after a rather long day that included one more doctors visit and an evening spent with friends.
I had ordered take-out and, despite all the advice of nutritionists, was devouring it as I watched the game.
Phyl and the Chihuahua were busy sawing logs in the back of the house. Apparently I became jealous of their comfort level while I strained to keep my eyes open. That happens to old people a lot.
But, Sony and Brighthouse to the rescue. I simply hit the record button and went on my way to join Phyl and the dog in Dreamland.
The secret to using this modern day recording trick is to avoid any news about the results of the game via next mornings newspaper.
In my case this is not difficult as I skip the local paper, and rely on my USA Today,that is conveniently delivered to our door around 3 or 4 A.M.
This is a great newspaper in my opinion.
The flip side, however, is my conclusion that they should change their motto from "The Nations Newspaper" to one that declares: "Yesterdays Sporting Results - Tomorrow".
Thus, there was no need to fear my paper would reveal the results of the game - until Monday - as they don't publish on Saturday.
So, I sat back down in my recliner this a.m. and turned on the tape.
The players were at least half right. What I was able to watch was indeed exciting, replete with the above mentioned errors and clutch hits.
What was not half-right for this old guy was the game from the bottom of the sixth on.
For, it was about that time my Brighthouse cable people who foolishly assumed a baseball game - with as many commercials as playing time - would conclude at exactly three hours - and turned off my precious recording of the event.
My congratulations to all of you baseball fans who had the stamina and will power that I sorely lacked.
Or, at the very least, had the requisite smarts that told them it might be best to also record the show subsequent to the showing of their sporting event.
Something I definitely plan to do this evening in case this old
f--t doesn't make it through the "Seventh" game either.
But, just in case - please don't call me tomorrow morning.
.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
JAZZING WITH JAMAL
Simple pleasures are often the most fun.
One of mine is music. Others include the Anna Maria beach upon which, in solitude, I have both walked and prayed late at night. The sounds of the waves can be incredibly soothing.
Another pleasure is writing this blog. It gives me an opportunity to share various parts of my life and beliefs as well as the chance to deliver some cautionary messages.
Today, let's concentrate on music - specifically the piano style of Ahmad Jamal, who grew up early on in Pittsburgh a/k/a Fritzy Jones.
I run hot and cold on listening steadily to either jazz or classical music. Both styles are in ample supply in every nook and cranny I can find to store same in our modest home. I call it "Music on Demand".
Our early decision to close in and extend our lanaii another ten feet resulted in one of the best acoustically friendly rooms in which to listen to great music.
I chose to pass on purchasing some of the more sophisticated music components out there today. I continue to rely on my ancient Sansui receiver, a couple of large (34 x 17") Advent floor speakers and a crisp Sony CD player.
In the back room - a less musically friendly location, I augment the above components via a remote switch with a couple of midsized Bose bookshelf speakers that are wired into the Sansui and mounted above eye level on a couple of storage cabinets.
This operation allows us to fulfill our desire to listen to music in a more humble manner as we sit on our small back porch or work in the yard.
I am indeed a music buff. On one of the coldest nights in Harrisburg history, Brother Jim agreed to work with me to pre-wire my three story home, crossing beams, and climbing rickety hand built ladders,in order to beat the builder who was about to start insulating same the next day. The result was an access to music in just about every room of the house.
Listening to music - particularly jazz - requires good speakers - often referred to as "usually the weakest link in your sound system".
By dint of the equipment combination above we are able to actually hear the subtle brushes of the drummer and the soft spoken melodic cleverness of an experienced bassist - electric or acoustic. We favor the latter.
My interest in jazz may have begun with my attendance at Grove City College in 1955 when Errol Garners group was performing live many of the tunes on his just released classic album "Concert By The Sea".
It was further intensified by my introduction to the various time changes of Brubeck via a guy who lived at the end of my dorm hall - and had a penchant for playing his records at top decibel volume.
This morning I was in a light classical mood. That was until our dog Bella loudly protested the opening strains from what I always thought was a great early morning mood setter - a classical collection entitled "Teatime with Tchaikovsky".
The Chihuahua strongly disagreed.
So, the music was switched to a CD on Chess records (GRD-803) entitled "Ahmads Blues" - a collection originally recorded on analog tape that was re-stored and slightly upgraded from the Ahmad Jamal's Trio 1958 appearance at the Spotlite Club in D.C.
The producers, who included musical genius Dave Grusin, wisely opted to retain the music order of the 16 songs included in the original two set performance.
Here, Ahmad's incredibly inventive piano style is strengthened by his two sidemen, Israel Crosby, once a a bass player with Fletcher Henderson, as well as the amazing drummer, Vernel Fournier, who was part of a Teddy Wilson group before joining Jamal.
Some folks find only smooth jazz to be pleasureable.
So, an early warning. Jamal may not be for everyone - particularly those that embrace only the tangential jazz sound. Ahmad has been known to stretch the box a little at times and can sound repetetive.
However, he follows a very simple principle - espoused by Dave Brubeck - who described one of the secrets of his success as: "If you state the melody in the first chorus, then people will allow you the freedom to improvise the melody."
Jamal is a master at this technique - using improvisations from other tunes - including even a few bars from the beginning of the last segment of Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture", a classical favorite.
My favorite version of the latter was at a 4th of July celebration on the Savannah Riverfront. The Savannah Orchestra's brilliant performance was magnified by the addition of both fireworks and cannons.
After first becoming a fan of the Jamal group, I would play various tunes from his fabulous album: "But Not For Me." in order to help a good friend of mine, Larry Kosanovich. Larry was just starting his jazz education and was anxious to learn more about the music form.
The object of our game was for Larry to listen - much like a "Name That Tune" contestant - in order to see how long it would take for him to correctly identify the standard that Jamal was improvising.
Larry was a "quick study" - as it was not always a simple task.
I enjoy sharing my favorite jazz tunes and performers. I introduced Brother Tom to the Ramsey Lewis Trio at The Crawford Grill, up in Pittsburgh's Hill district. We also travelled to Manhattan where we took in a couple of Buddy Greco sets at the old Basin Street East club
Tom's interest in jazz really took off and may have even become a little more adventurous than my own.
Chess records incorporated on CD much of Jamal's "But Not For Me", recorded at the Pershing. The album was on the top jazz list for about 107 weeks. The Chess CD is entitled "Ahmad Jamal At His Very Best"" (PCD-2-1244), and added a few songs from other performances.
Included in this collection are some of Jamal's "Greatest Hits" featuring "Night Mist Blues", "Surrey With The Fringe On Top", "Poinciana", "Like Someone In Love" and the album title tune.
If you're not already a "true" jazz fan, but enjoy a pleasurable but at first challenging jazz version of America's standards, you may wish to give both CD's a listen.
Now the cautionary note. Like walking and praying on a beach it's often best done in solitude.
One of mine is music. Others include the Anna Maria beach upon which, in solitude, I have both walked and prayed late at night. The sounds of the waves can be incredibly soothing.
Another pleasure is writing this blog. It gives me an opportunity to share various parts of my life and beliefs as well as the chance to deliver some cautionary messages.
Today, let's concentrate on music - specifically the piano style of Ahmad Jamal, who grew up early on in Pittsburgh a/k/a Fritzy Jones.
I run hot and cold on listening steadily to either jazz or classical music. Both styles are in ample supply in every nook and cranny I can find to store same in our modest home. I call it "Music on Demand".
Our early decision to close in and extend our lanaii another ten feet resulted in one of the best acoustically friendly rooms in which to listen to great music.
I chose to pass on purchasing some of the more sophisticated music components out there today. I continue to rely on my ancient Sansui receiver, a couple of large (34 x 17") Advent floor speakers and a crisp Sony CD player.
In the back room - a less musically friendly location, I augment the above components via a remote switch with a couple of midsized Bose bookshelf speakers that are wired into the Sansui and mounted above eye level on a couple of storage cabinets.
This operation allows us to fulfill our desire to listen to music in a more humble manner as we sit on our small back porch or work in the yard.
I am indeed a music buff. On one of the coldest nights in Harrisburg history, Brother Jim agreed to work with me to pre-wire my three story home, crossing beams, and climbing rickety hand built ladders,in order to beat the builder who was about to start insulating same the next day. The result was an access to music in just about every room of the house.
Listening to music - particularly jazz - requires good speakers - often referred to as "usually the weakest link in your sound system".
By dint of the equipment combination above we are able to actually hear the subtle brushes of the drummer and the soft spoken melodic cleverness of an experienced bassist - electric or acoustic. We favor the latter.
My interest in jazz may have begun with my attendance at Grove City College in 1955 when Errol Garners group was performing live many of the tunes on his just released classic album "Concert By The Sea".
It was further intensified by my introduction to the various time changes of Brubeck via a guy who lived at the end of my dorm hall - and had a penchant for playing his records at top decibel volume.
This morning I was in a light classical mood. That was until our dog Bella loudly protested the opening strains from what I always thought was a great early morning mood setter - a classical collection entitled "Teatime with Tchaikovsky".
The Chihuahua strongly disagreed.
So, the music was switched to a CD on Chess records (GRD-803) entitled "Ahmads Blues" - a collection originally recorded on analog tape that was re-stored and slightly upgraded from the Ahmad Jamal's Trio 1958 appearance at the Spotlite Club in D.C.
The producers, who included musical genius Dave Grusin, wisely opted to retain the music order of the 16 songs included in the original two set performance.
Here, Ahmad's incredibly inventive piano style is strengthened by his two sidemen, Israel Crosby, once a a bass player with Fletcher Henderson, as well as the amazing drummer, Vernel Fournier, who was part of a Teddy Wilson group before joining Jamal.
Some folks find only smooth jazz to be pleasureable.
So, an early warning. Jamal may not be for everyone - particularly those that embrace only the tangential jazz sound. Ahmad has been known to stretch the box a little at times and can sound repetetive.
However, he follows a very simple principle - espoused by Dave Brubeck - who described one of the secrets of his success as: "If you state the melody in the first chorus, then people will allow you the freedom to improvise the melody."
Jamal is a master at this technique - using improvisations from other tunes - including even a few bars from the beginning of the last segment of Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture", a classical favorite.
My favorite version of the latter was at a 4th of July celebration on the Savannah Riverfront. The Savannah Orchestra's brilliant performance was magnified by the addition of both fireworks and cannons.
After first becoming a fan of the Jamal group, I would play various tunes from his fabulous album: "But Not For Me." in order to help a good friend of mine, Larry Kosanovich. Larry was just starting his jazz education and was anxious to learn more about the music form.
The object of our game was for Larry to listen - much like a "Name That Tune" contestant - in order to see how long it would take for him to correctly identify the standard that Jamal was improvising.
Larry was a "quick study" - as it was not always a simple task.
I enjoy sharing my favorite jazz tunes and performers. I introduced Brother Tom to the Ramsey Lewis Trio at The Crawford Grill, up in Pittsburgh's Hill district. We also travelled to Manhattan where we took in a couple of Buddy Greco sets at the old Basin Street East club
Tom's interest in jazz really took off and may have even become a little more adventurous than my own.
Chess records incorporated on CD much of Jamal's "But Not For Me", recorded at the Pershing. The album was on the top jazz list for about 107 weeks. The Chess CD is entitled "Ahmad Jamal At His Very Best"" (PCD-2-1244), and added a few songs from other performances.
Included in this collection are some of Jamal's "Greatest Hits" featuring "Night Mist Blues", "Surrey With The Fringe On Top", "Poinciana", "Like Someone In Love" and the album title tune.
If you're not already a "true" jazz fan, but enjoy a pleasurable but at first challenging jazz version of America's standards, you may wish to give both CD's a listen.
Now the cautionary note. Like walking and praying on a beach it's often best done in solitude.
Friday, October 21, 2011
FAMILY
I'm struggling with both writers block and a lack of energy to complete a blog - now in storage.
The subject is that of comparing the concepts of predestination and free will- one that probably will not be of interest to any of this bloggers readers - but, continues to fascinate me.
Therefore, this A.M., I paused to enjoy a CD from Brother Tom. The closing notes of a Stan Kenton production now waft around my small front office as I attempt another blog about family.
Nice way to enjoy a chilly Friday morning. Retirement is great - not just for me - but my wife who is recently retired. We find a lot more time to talk about everything - and nothing.
Early last evening we were healing our wounds after helping the economy at a local Cadillac dealer to the tune of about $1600 - one more reminder of the expense side of a good 2 1/2 month vacation.
We commiserated at, of all places, Hooters - located just down the road from the Caddy dealer, a good place to enjoy some Mondavi Pinot Grigio. ("You go Mr. Getz!". Oops, was lulled away by Stan Getz's mellow version of "Early Autumn")
Wife Phyl and I discussed everything from cabbage to kings - including my lifelong disdain for sauerkraut.
Primarily though, as we often do, we talked about our five kids and their families. We recently spent 2 1/2 months with my three and their progeny of nine.
These are the grandchildren with whom we had passing sight of as they moved from place to place at whatever family affair we visited. You sort of enjoyed them in bits and pieces with a few serious discussions interspersed. A good mix.
When you haven't been around kids for so long, that was fine with us - and we do love them dearly even if we were slightly overwhelmed at times.
We admit to having looked forward to a long but enjoyable weekend with Phyl's youngest, Tad, up in Baltimore. Tad is not married and is sans kids.
Tad's hosting skills are superb and include spurts of conversation infused with periods of just sitting and saying nothing.The man certainly does enjoy cooking new recipes along side his Mom.
Ethan "the elder" son and his wife Jen, now residing in Atlanta, have honored Phyl with her only biological grandson - a great little guy who responds readily to anything that sounds like Liam - his given name.
My three - in chronological order - Bruce, Michael, and Beth have always been a delight and true gifts from God. Phyl feels similarly about her two guys.
Both are enjoying careers with good compensation and job satisfaction and are moving up the ranks in their respective professions.
Our time in Pgh gave us a long overdue opportunity to visit and, for this old guy, to watch in amazement the growth and maturity of my kids.
As always, Michael, who seems to work 8 days a week got the least of our attention. It never detracts from my appreciation of him - a truly unique guy who may not have an enemy in the world.
(Sorry, was temporarily sidetracked once more while listening to Brubeck and Desmond do their thing.)
Anyway, we spoke a lot last evening about Bruce and Patties struggles with the big C - and how amazingly they are dealing with it. This challenge and it's intensity matches the personalities and strong will of both of them.
So far the only dispute they seem to have had during Patties recouperation is how many dishes should remain unwashed in the sink.
This is not my first blog on family. I recently cited their lives, parenting styles, and conquests as my legacy in a previous blog.
I sometimes wonder what a married couple, who have not been blessed with children and grandchildren, find to talk about - with or without wine.
I know that sounds silly - and more than a little self-serving- but I also admit that this subject is often the focus of many of our conversations, and seems to serve as a foundation for a good bond.
(Oooh, got to get back to that jazz. Miles is getting it on with his smooth version of "It Never Entered My Mind" - and Lady Day is about to do her famous treatment of "God Bless the Child" - one of my favorite tunes.)
Life is good.
The subject is that of comparing the concepts of predestination and free will- one that probably will not be of interest to any of this bloggers readers - but, continues to fascinate me.
Therefore, this A.M., I paused to enjoy a CD from Brother Tom. The closing notes of a Stan Kenton production now waft around my small front office as I attempt another blog about family.
Nice way to enjoy a chilly Friday morning. Retirement is great - not just for me - but my wife who is recently retired. We find a lot more time to talk about everything - and nothing.
Early last evening we were healing our wounds after helping the economy at a local Cadillac dealer to the tune of about $1600 - one more reminder of the expense side of a good 2 1/2 month vacation.
We commiserated at, of all places, Hooters - located just down the road from the Caddy dealer, a good place to enjoy some Mondavi Pinot Grigio. ("You go Mr. Getz!". Oops, was lulled away by Stan Getz's mellow version of "Early Autumn")
Wife Phyl and I discussed everything from cabbage to kings - including my lifelong disdain for sauerkraut.
Primarily though, as we often do, we talked about our five kids and their families. We recently spent 2 1/2 months with my three and their progeny of nine.
These are the grandchildren with whom we had passing sight of as they moved from place to place at whatever family affair we visited. You sort of enjoyed them in bits and pieces with a few serious discussions interspersed. A good mix.
When you haven't been around kids for so long, that was fine with us - and we do love them dearly even if we were slightly overwhelmed at times.
We admit to having looked forward to a long but enjoyable weekend with Phyl's youngest, Tad, up in Baltimore. Tad is not married and is sans kids.
Tad's hosting skills are superb and include spurts of conversation infused with periods of just sitting and saying nothing.The man certainly does enjoy cooking new recipes along side his Mom.
Ethan "the elder" son and his wife Jen, now residing in Atlanta, have honored Phyl with her only biological grandson - a great little guy who responds readily to anything that sounds like Liam - his given name.
My three - in chronological order - Bruce, Michael, and Beth have always been a delight and true gifts from God. Phyl feels similarly about her two guys.
Both are enjoying careers with good compensation and job satisfaction and are moving up the ranks in their respective professions.
Our time in Pgh gave us a long overdue opportunity to visit and, for this old guy, to watch in amazement the growth and maturity of my kids.
As always, Michael, who seems to work 8 days a week got the least of our attention. It never detracts from my appreciation of him - a truly unique guy who may not have an enemy in the world.
(Sorry, was temporarily sidetracked once more while listening to Brubeck and Desmond do their thing.)
Anyway, we spoke a lot last evening about Bruce and Patties struggles with the big C - and how amazingly they are dealing with it. This challenge and it's intensity matches the personalities and strong will of both of them.
So far the only dispute they seem to have had during Patties recouperation is how many dishes should remain unwashed in the sink.
This is not my first blog on family. I recently cited their lives, parenting styles, and conquests as my legacy in a previous blog.
I sometimes wonder what a married couple, who have not been blessed with children and grandchildren, find to talk about - with or without wine.
I know that sounds silly - and more than a little self-serving- but I also admit that this subject is often the focus of many of our conversations, and seems to serve as a foundation for a good bond.
(Oooh, got to get back to that jazz. Miles is getting it on with his smooth version of "It Never Entered My Mind" - and Lady Day is about to do her famous treatment of "God Bless the Child" - one of my favorite tunes.)
Life is good.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
THE BRIDGE TO NOWHERE?
It's well known to any reader of this blog that one of my favorite reading sources is USA Today, a sort of "Adults Garden Of Verse."
Five days a week they run a reprise called "Across the USA" that relates in capsule form what's happening that is noteworthy in 49 States, plus DC, Guam, and Wyoming.(The government has yet to adequately prove to me that Wyoming is really a State.)
I usually start my review with the States in which I have resided - Pennsylvania & Florida - but know enough by now not to skip California if I want to read something unusual.
Yesterday, I found a couple favorites. Ironically both took place in my resident States.
Pennsylvania: New Castle:
"Brothers Benjamin Jones 24 and Alexander Jones, 25 have been charged with stealing Covert's Crossing Bridge in order to sell the metal for scrap. Police said they used a blowtorch to break up the 50-foot long by 20-foot wide bridge. They face felony charges of criminal mischief, theft, receiving stolen property and conspiracy."
Now, I'm sure all of you have by now come up with your favorite responses. But, it's my blog - so, let me go first.
A few questions.
1. How long a period of time is adequate to dismantle a 1000 square foot bridge (plus supports and railings) - and how do you become that proficient with one blowtorch?
2. Can one accurately assume that Covert's Crossing Bridge is not faced with an overwhelming amount of traffic - either pedestrian or vehicular?
3. What would take two young men - other than the eternal optimism of youth - to think they would get away with this?
4. Can you hear the conversation between two guys at the scrapyard?: "I don't know about you Emmitt, but this one piece of metal supporting a stop sign sure as hell looks like part of a bridge to me!"
5. Which end of the bridge do you start with and how do you keep it from collapsing into whatever it's positioned over?
6. If some drunk happens to stumble along midway through the disassembling, how do you explain exactly what it is you're attempting to do?: "Move along Ollie, we're just taking it in for repainting?"
7. What did the parents of the "Jones Boys" say when they heard about their sons creative endeavors?: "Look Chief, we know what they did was wrong and we told them to put that 'right back'!"
If you tried what the Jones boys did down here in our retirement community you'd have about 500 old-farts like me sitting around in lawn chairs, drinking prune juice, all ever so eager to tell you exactly what you were doing wrong.
Florida: Talahassee:
" The states reward program for citizens who report wildlife violations is expanding to include text messaging. Citizens have helped the Fish and Wild Life Conservation Commission catch thousands of violations over the past 30 years, beginning with a phone hotline, then online reporting."
Question: Which animal or fish learned how to drive and text?
The other day I saw a guy on Interstate 75 who was texting as he was driving and passing me doing about 85 mph.
I just assumed it was a Good Samaritan who was reporting his sightings of an offending Catfish to the Commission phone hotline.
You gotta love this country!
Five days a week they run a reprise called "Across the USA" that relates in capsule form what's happening that is noteworthy in 49 States, plus DC, Guam, and Wyoming.(The government has yet to adequately prove to me that Wyoming is really a State.)
I usually start my review with the States in which I have resided - Pennsylvania & Florida - but know enough by now not to skip California if I want to read something unusual.
Yesterday, I found a couple favorites. Ironically both took place in my resident States.
Pennsylvania: New Castle:
"Brothers Benjamin Jones 24 and Alexander Jones, 25 have been charged with stealing Covert's Crossing Bridge in order to sell the metal for scrap. Police said they used a blowtorch to break up the 50-foot long by 20-foot wide bridge. They face felony charges of criminal mischief, theft, receiving stolen property and conspiracy."
Now, I'm sure all of you have by now come up with your favorite responses. But, it's my blog - so, let me go first.
A few questions.
1. How long a period of time is adequate to dismantle a 1000 square foot bridge (plus supports and railings) - and how do you become that proficient with one blowtorch?
2. Can one accurately assume that Covert's Crossing Bridge is not faced with an overwhelming amount of traffic - either pedestrian or vehicular?
3. What would take two young men - other than the eternal optimism of youth - to think they would get away with this?
4. Can you hear the conversation between two guys at the scrapyard?: "I don't know about you Emmitt, but this one piece of metal supporting a stop sign sure as hell looks like part of a bridge to me!"
5. Which end of the bridge do you start with and how do you keep it from collapsing into whatever it's positioned over?
6. If some drunk happens to stumble along midway through the disassembling, how do you explain exactly what it is you're attempting to do?: "Move along Ollie, we're just taking it in for repainting?"
7. What did the parents of the "Jones Boys" say when they heard about their sons creative endeavors?: "Look Chief, we know what they did was wrong and we told them to put that 'right back'!"
If you tried what the Jones boys did down here in our retirement community you'd have about 500 old-farts like me sitting around in lawn chairs, drinking prune juice, all ever so eager to tell you exactly what you were doing wrong.
Florida: Talahassee:
" The states reward program for citizens who report wildlife violations is expanding to include text messaging. Citizens have helped the Fish and Wild Life Conservation Commission catch thousands of violations over the past 30 years, beginning with a phone hotline, then online reporting."
Question: Which animal or fish learned how to drive and text?
The other day I saw a guy on Interstate 75 who was texting as he was driving and passing me doing about 85 mph.
I just assumed it was a Good Samaritan who was reporting his sightings of an offending Catfish to the Commission phone hotline.
You gotta love this country!
Thursday, October 13, 2011
PRAYER
There is nothing really deep or intellectual regarding what follows:
I just received an e-mail from friends back in Pgh regarding the health reasons behind our inability to get together with them while up there recently. Their response when it was explained was, "We'll pray for the two of you."
The other night, before Phyl's doctor visit, I happened to mention to a religious acquaintance that we had some concerns as to her health and had a doctor's appointment.
He immediately responded, "we will pray for her". I thanked him and he revised his promise to that of "our church will pray for you."
We were receptive to one or both. I acknowledged the "power of prayer" as I believed in same when I had a very good female friend, diagnosed with Cancer, and after much prayer (incessant?) by the whole congreation - the Cancer disappeared.
Oh, I can hear the wheels grinding out there from some producing many logic based theories as to a valid scientific explanation concerning what "really" happened, starting with that of mis-diagnosis.
As religious and spiritually led as friends Pattie and Jim Radant are, I believe they would have been satisfied with any explanation -scientific or spiritual - but, as all of us at the time, would cling to their spiritual interpretation of "the power of prayer."
Is it really important in the whole scheme of things? Or, do you simply say, "belief is in the eyes of the beholder?"
Sort of a "no harm - no foul" approach.
There appears to be no real consistent consensus from the medical community - nor any way to interpret the data conclusions - or if the majority were favorably in support of prayer prior to the survey.
Quite frankly, there are just too many variables,only one of which is predisposition to a strong spiritual belief.
Another belief is not based on the power of prayer itself. It simply concludes that an increased comfort level due to the overwhelming support of people united in prayer on your behalf can boost the immune system.
We won't even attempt to analyze Uri Gellers amazing ability to "mentally"(?) bend flatware.
But, there are many non-believers who simply conclude that prayer - not unlike "magic"- is a clear demonstration that people just enjoy being "fooled" and lack interest in determining how the heck these "miracles" happened.
Having lost - a son and a grandson both named Brian - I had dissimilar opinions as to the power of prayer. My nightly prayers always included my son - but appeared to be unanswered due to his sudden and tragic death.
I tried unsuccesfully to believe and accept that it was "God's will."
In the case of my grandson, whose fate was unknown less than 24 hours after his birth - and occurred long after the death of his Uncle Brian - I tried prayer for healing.
But, from an almost agnostic approach I accompanied my prayers with what I felt was rather convincing evidence for God as to how a reprieve for young Brian would cause me to definitely clean up my act.
I was told by one person "Barry, you're the only one I know who would try to negotiate with God."
I doubt if that's true. I just saw it as an alternative approach to a desired outcome.
One of my favorite stories referenced in previous blogs is as follows.
W.C. Fields was, in this blog writers mind, an amazing comic talent, screen writer, actor and juggler. He was also an acknowledged atheist.
When William Claude was on his death bed and received a visit from Gene Fowler, who was both a friend and his biographer, Fowler was surprised to see Fields reading the Bible.
Fowler immediately asked his friend,"Bill, whats this all about?"
Fields simply replied, "Looking for loopholes, Gene - just looking for loopholes".(better in W.C. Fields dialect)
Whether he prayed or not for forgiveness following his search is unknown.
Fields was known as a curmudgeon who responded to an actor in one of his many movies, who asked:"Mr. Fields it's not clear if you like children:
Replied W.C., "Why, of course I do - I just prefer them hardboiled."
One assumes that those who knew him well would promptly respond to a question as to his chances in the after-world by simply concluding:
"He didn't have a prayer."
(Early results suggest Phyl will be fine. Our thanks to all.)
I just received an e-mail from friends back in Pgh regarding the health reasons behind our inability to get together with them while up there recently. Their response when it was explained was, "We'll pray for the two of you."
The other night, before Phyl's doctor visit, I happened to mention to a religious acquaintance that we had some concerns as to her health and had a doctor's appointment.
He immediately responded, "we will pray for her". I thanked him and he revised his promise to that of "our church will pray for you."
We were receptive to one or both. I acknowledged the "power of prayer" as I believed in same when I had a very good female friend, diagnosed with Cancer, and after much prayer (incessant?) by the whole congreation - the Cancer disappeared.
Oh, I can hear the wheels grinding out there from some producing many logic based theories as to a valid scientific explanation concerning what "really" happened, starting with that of mis-diagnosis.
As religious and spiritually led as friends Pattie and Jim Radant are, I believe they would have been satisfied with any explanation -scientific or spiritual - but, as all of us at the time, would cling to their spiritual interpretation of "the power of prayer."
Is it really important in the whole scheme of things? Or, do you simply say, "belief is in the eyes of the beholder?"
Sort of a "no harm - no foul" approach.
There appears to be no real consistent consensus from the medical community - nor any way to interpret the data conclusions - or if the majority were favorably in support of prayer prior to the survey.
Quite frankly, there are just too many variables,only one of which is predisposition to a strong spiritual belief.
Another belief is not based on the power of prayer itself. It simply concludes that an increased comfort level due to the overwhelming support of people united in prayer on your behalf can boost the immune system.
We won't even attempt to analyze Uri Gellers amazing ability to "mentally"(?) bend flatware.
But, there are many non-believers who simply conclude that prayer - not unlike "magic"- is a clear demonstration that people just enjoy being "fooled" and lack interest in determining how the heck these "miracles" happened.
Having lost - a son and a grandson both named Brian - I had dissimilar opinions as to the power of prayer. My nightly prayers always included my son - but appeared to be unanswered due to his sudden and tragic death.
I tried unsuccesfully to believe and accept that it was "God's will."
In the case of my grandson, whose fate was unknown less than 24 hours after his birth - and occurred long after the death of his Uncle Brian - I tried prayer for healing.
But, from an almost agnostic approach I accompanied my prayers with what I felt was rather convincing evidence for God as to how a reprieve for young Brian would cause me to definitely clean up my act.
I was told by one person "Barry, you're the only one I know who would try to negotiate with God."
I doubt if that's true. I just saw it as an alternative approach to a desired outcome.
One of my favorite stories referenced in previous blogs is as follows.
W.C. Fields was, in this blog writers mind, an amazing comic talent, screen writer, actor and juggler. He was also an acknowledged atheist.
When William Claude was on his death bed and received a visit from Gene Fowler, who was both a friend and his biographer, Fowler was surprised to see Fields reading the Bible.
Fowler immediately asked his friend,"Bill, whats this all about?"
Fields simply replied, "Looking for loopholes, Gene - just looking for loopholes".(better in W.C. Fields dialect)
Whether he prayed or not for forgiveness following his search is unknown.
Fields was known as a curmudgeon who responded to an actor in one of his many movies, who asked:"Mr. Fields it's not clear if you like children:
Replied W.C., "Why, of course I do - I just prefer them hardboiled."
One assumes that those who knew him well would promptly respond to a question as to his chances in the after-world by simply concluding:
"He didn't have a prayer."
(Early results suggest Phyl will be fine. Our thanks to all.)
Sunday, October 9, 2011
SO, WHAT IS THE TRUTH?
I swear I thought of this blog titled above even before deciding to catch up with my Pal Harry's most recent blogs: (http:www.harry2335.blogspot.com) I just did.
They continue to be impressive and have a consistent narative about what Harry knows to be the difference between right and wrong.
Maybe it's our age but, in our twilight years we're both addressing what we see as "the absence of truth".
Rather than seeking canonization for our beliefs, I prefer to think of it instead as a couple guys who were lucky enough to have been raised by some good people who "learned" us right.
What our parents may have lacked in material possessions they made up for by giving us a pretty solid foundation as to what was wrong and what was right.
My question is, when did it cease to matter?
At what point did having a reputation of being "shady" turn into one of being "shrewd"?
The blog title came to me after waking up at 1:30 and, unable to fall back asleep, I made the mistake of taking a bathroom break during which I read Fridays USA Today editorial page.
The editorial writer was defending BOA's decision to charge a monthly $5 debit card fee as nothing more than just the product of "capitalism."
As usual, that got my blood boiling - thus a need (in my mind) to write this blog at 3'oclock in the morning.
My thinking was not limited to the subject of the proposed BOA's $5 monthly debit card fee.
However, I asked one of their employees about this decision the other day. She defended it by saying, "that's just a media twist, because we won't be charging someone who has "X" # of dollars deposited with us."
So, one assumes that means someone who does not have "X" # of dollars deposited with them - because they don't have "X" # of dollars to deposit anywhere - should be charged a $5 a month debit card fee - as a punishment?
I'm sorry, but that logic eludes me. But, then again I have struggled with the logic of banks for a long, long time. That would be even before I got fired by one.(Not BOA)
Harry referred to "debates" in one of his recent blogs and ironically I was also thinking of using a debate as a talking point.(no pun intended)
I had a buddy, Jack Roose, who was a debater in our high school.Jack had an ability I lacked at the time (besides that of having a car and a driving license).
He could hear the debate topic and immediately think of both sides of a logical argument; for and against.
He did so with "logic" - not "lies".
What an unusual approach!
More on this subject later. I think sleep is approaching.
And, that's the truth.
They continue to be impressive and have a consistent narative about what Harry knows to be the difference between right and wrong.
Maybe it's our age but, in our twilight years we're both addressing what we see as "the absence of truth".
Rather than seeking canonization for our beliefs, I prefer to think of it instead as a couple guys who were lucky enough to have been raised by some good people who "learned" us right.
What our parents may have lacked in material possessions they made up for by giving us a pretty solid foundation as to what was wrong and what was right.
My question is, when did it cease to matter?
At what point did having a reputation of being "shady" turn into one of being "shrewd"?
The blog title came to me after waking up at 1:30 and, unable to fall back asleep, I made the mistake of taking a bathroom break during which I read Fridays USA Today editorial page.
The editorial writer was defending BOA's decision to charge a monthly $5 debit card fee as nothing more than just the product of "capitalism."
As usual, that got my blood boiling - thus a need (in my mind) to write this blog at 3'oclock in the morning.
My thinking was not limited to the subject of the proposed BOA's $5 monthly debit card fee.
However, I asked one of their employees about this decision the other day. She defended it by saying, "that's just a media twist, because we won't be charging someone who has "X" # of dollars deposited with us."
So, one assumes that means someone who does not have "X" # of dollars deposited with them - because they don't have "X" # of dollars to deposit anywhere - should be charged a $5 a month debit card fee - as a punishment?
I'm sorry, but that logic eludes me. But, then again I have struggled with the logic of banks for a long, long time. That would be even before I got fired by one.(Not BOA)
Harry referred to "debates" in one of his recent blogs and ironically I was also thinking of using a debate as a talking point.(no pun intended)
I had a buddy, Jack Roose, who was a debater in our high school.Jack had an ability I lacked at the time (besides that of having a car and a driving license).
He could hear the debate topic and immediately think of both sides of a logical argument; for and against.
He did so with "logic" - not "lies".
What an unusual approach!
More on this subject later. I think sleep is approaching.
And, that's the truth.
Friday, October 7, 2011
CHANGE - LET'S GET REAL
I:
Love saving change - the coins kind. But, my bank BOA has now
"changed" the way they will accept it.
Taught the subject of "Change" when I was employed and supported the need for change to remain competetive.Now, they have changed the Field Claim representative program, virtually eliminating
them, probably their best source of "Good Neighbor Service."
Understand change is difficult to accept by many and understand
why that is true based on my counseling background.
Detest "change" just for the sake of making a "Change". I miss
Harry, Debbie the flower lady, Norman, Rita and Arnie - folks
I learned to understand and respect in my senior community.
Struggle with "change" when it ain't broke. New Coca-Cola,
customer service(?) from folks you can't understand, etc.
"Change" impacts everybody - and I'm not talking about "the Prez".
Obama has his own problems without me attacking his so-called "change". Besides, my beloved Republican party has changed so
much I don't recognize it either.
Their only consistencey seems to be a frustrating inability to come up with a viable presidential candidate every 4 years.
Yet, at some point "change" is good. But, dammit not to my blog face page!
Returning from our extended visit to Pittsburgh it seems like I'm encountering one electronic challenge daily. It's like my possessions are in rebellion and are attacking me.
Clocks, TVs, Speakers, Phones, Lamps, Printer, Computer, Golf cart batteries. It just goes on and on.
Why can't they just stay the way I left them? Why must their demands keep changing?
Of course I have come up with a remedy in most cases - plug them in!
Now, of course, I'm certainly not suggesting that it's me who is changing - and not them.
Let's get real!
Love saving change - the coins kind. But, my bank BOA has now
"changed" the way they will accept it.
Taught the subject of "Change" when I was employed and supported the need for change to remain competetive.Now, they have changed the Field Claim representative program, virtually eliminating
them, probably their best source of "Good Neighbor Service."
Understand change is difficult to accept by many and understand
why that is true based on my counseling background.
Detest "change" just for the sake of making a "Change". I miss
Harry, Debbie the flower lady, Norman, Rita and Arnie - folks
I learned to understand and respect in my senior community.
Struggle with "change" when it ain't broke. New Coca-Cola,
customer service(?) from folks you can't understand, etc.
"Change" impacts everybody - and I'm not talking about "the Prez".
Obama has his own problems without me attacking his so-called "change". Besides, my beloved Republican party has changed so
much I don't recognize it either.
Their only consistencey seems to be a frustrating inability to come up with a viable presidential candidate every 4 years.
Yet, at some point "change" is good. But, dammit not to my blog face page!
Returning from our extended visit to Pittsburgh it seems like I'm encountering one electronic challenge daily. It's like my possessions are in rebellion and are attacking me.
Clocks, TVs, Speakers, Phones, Lamps, Printer, Computer, Golf cart batteries. It just goes on and on.
Why can't they just stay the way I left them? Why must their demands keep changing?
Of course I have come up with a remedy in most cases - plug them in!
Now, of course, I'm certainly not suggesting that it's me who is changing - and not them.
Let's get real!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)