Continued from August 27th.
11. SHE'S LIKE THE WIND-- PATRICK SWAYZE-- three weeks #3, Feb.-March 1993 (from "Dirty Dancing"-- Sure do miss him.
12. AXEL F-- HAROLD FALTERMEYER-- three weeks #3, June 1985-- from "Beverly Hills Cop."
13. I'M GONNA BE (500 MILES)-- PROCLAIMERS-- one week #3, August 1993-- one of my favorites. How can you NOT sing along. Liked it in "How I Met Your Mother."
14. HOW BIZARRE-- OMC-- six weeks #4, July-Aug. 1997. Another favorite of mine.
15. MY BODY-- LSG-- four weeks #4, Dec. 1997
16. TURN ME ON-- KEVIN LYTTLE-- two weeks #4, August 2004
17. ONE OF US-- JOAN OSBORNE-- two weeks #4, Feb. 1996-- An interesting concept.
18. GANGSTA LEAN-- D.R.S.-- two weeks #4, Nov. 1993
19. HEART AND SOUL-- T'PAU-- one week #4, Aug. 1987
20. SAVE TONIGHT-- EAGLE-EYE CHERRY-- one week #5, Jan. 1999
21. GET HERE-- OLETA ADAMS-- one week #5, March 1991
22. HEAVEN HELP ME-- DEON ESTUS-- one week #5, April 1989
There were some of these songs that I can't recall.
Remember, It's better to Have One Hit Than No Hits Like Me. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: Sometimes I'll watch a movie that I watched when I was younger and suddenly realize that I had no idea what the heck was going on when I first saw it.
Being an account of some things I'm interested in, what I'm doing, and reflections on my past, especially music.
Listen to this man. Seven years of college, you know. Trying to reason with 2020 and, now, 2022.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Senioritis Strikes
Not to say I'm getting old or anything...BUT!
WHO STOLE MY WALLET
Yesterday, when I got up, I had a scare where I thought I had lost my wallet somewhere the day before.
When I put on my short pants, there was no familiar impression from the wallet. I reached back and it wasn't there, nor was it on the other side (not likely as the shorts only have one back pocket on the right.
I was starting to panic when I realized I had the shorts on backwards. There the wallet was in front. After I turned them around, the wallet was where it needed to be. Everything was at it should be.
WHO STOLE MY CAR
Even more embarrassing was something that happened before I left for North Carolina.
After seeing "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" I went to Subway in Fox Lake intending to try the new pulled pork sandwich. After I got it, I walked out to the car and put the key in, or should I say, tried to put the key in.
I was driving the new 2011 Malibu and that key would not go in. I also have the key to the old 2003 Malibu, so even tried that one. It still wouldn't open. Then I noticed some scratches by the lock and proceeded to try to rub them off, all the while wondering why those keys wouldn't open the car.
That's when I heard a voice, looked up and saw a woman at the door of the Subway store saying that I wouldn't be able to get into that car because it was hers. That's when I looked closer at the car. Same color, but an import. She said she would be happy to trade cars if I wanted. I apologized and said I'd keep the one I had, then walked over a few spaces to the correct car.
And, the key went right in.
I sure would have been embarrassed if I had gotten arrested for trying to steal that car. What were you arrested for? Stupidity.
In my defense, though, it was the same color and I don't drive the 2011 that often.
Well, That's My Excuse and I'm Sticking to It. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: How many of you like the All-State commercial where Mayhem is the GPS and tells the driver to turn and causes an accident?
WHO STOLE MY WALLET
Yesterday, when I got up, I had a scare where I thought I had lost my wallet somewhere the day before.
When I put on my short pants, there was no familiar impression from the wallet. I reached back and it wasn't there, nor was it on the other side (not likely as the shorts only have one back pocket on the right.
I was starting to panic when I realized I had the shorts on backwards. There the wallet was in front. After I turned them around, the wallet was where it needed to be. Everything was at it should be.
WHO STOLE MY CAR
Even more embarrassing was something that happened before I left for North Carolina.
After seeing "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" I went to Subway in Fox Lake intending to try the new pulled pork sandwich. After I got it, I walked out to the car and put the key in, or should I say, tried to put the key in.
I was driving the new 2011 Malibu and that key would not go in. I also have the key to the old 2003 Malibu, so even tried that one. It still wouldn't open. Then I noticed some scratches by the lock and proceeded to try to rub them off, all the while wondering why those keys wouldn't open the car.
That's when I heard a voice, looked up and saw a woman at the door of the Subway store saying that I wouldn't be able to get into that car because it was hers. That's when I looked closer at the car. Same color, but an import. She said she would be happy to trade cars if I wanted. I apologized and said I'd keep the one I had, then walked over a few spaces to the correct car.
And, the key went right in.
I sure would have been embarrassed if I had gotten arrested for trying to steal that car. What were you arrested for? Stupidity.
In my defense, though, it was the same color and I don't drive the 2011 that often.
Well, That's My Excuse and I'm Sticking to It. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: How many of you like the All-State commercial where Mayhem is the GPS and tells the driver to turn and causes an accident?
Monday, August 29, 2011
Back Home Again
Aug. 24th-- Wed.-- Arrived O'Hare and caught bus to Brat Stop in Kenosha. Tommy's in Spring Grove for pizza and buck beers.
Aug. 25th-- Thurs.-- Our 38th Anniversary (Why I REALLY REALLY had to get back by today. Boating. Donovan's Reef.
Aug. 26th-- Fri.-- Cut grass, boating, Gasoline Alley on Grasslake.
Aug. 27th-- Sat.-- Boating, Captain's Quarters on Fox Lake for Selective Recall Band (80s music, even played "Video Killed the Radio Star").
Aug. 28th-- Sun.-- Enjoyed the deck and gazebo and did a little yard work. Captain's Quarters for the band Soda from 3-7. Fire on the Strand.
The Way to Unwind After a Vacation. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: How many of you actually talk to your GPS? Liz does.
Aug. 25th-- Thurs.-- Our 38th Anniversary (Why I REALLY REALLY had to get back by today. Boating. Donovan's Reef.
Aug. 26th-- Fri.-- Cut grass, boating, Gasoline Alley on Grasslake.
Aug. 27th-- Sat.-- Boating, Captain's Quarters on Fox Lake for Selective Recall Band (80s music, even played "Video Killed the Radio Star").
Aug. 28th-- Sun.-- Enjoyed the deck and gazebo and did a little yard work. Captain's Quarters for the band Soda from 3-7. Fire on the Strand.
The Way to Unwind After a Vacation. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: How many of you actually talk to your GPS? Liz does.
Down in North Carolina: Wednesday, Aug. 24th: Gettin' the Hell Out of Topsail
Sat out by the beach for a couple hours. Absolutely beautiful day, even with ol' Irene approaching the US coast. Lots (well, for Topsail Beach) of people out on the beach. If you're looking for uncrowded beaches, this is where you want to come.
Did some last minute anti-hurricane work at Graham's place and then at Mom's (more dadburn shutters).
After a lunch of left-overs from last night's feast at the Smokehouse in Holly Ridge, I was off for the Wilmington (ILM) Aitport. I took US-17 all the way past I-40 to Castle Hayne Road and then a few miles to the airport, much easier than the Wilmington traffic hassle.
Checked the Mazda 6 in at Thrifty Car Rental. If I ever were to buy a "foreign" car, this would be it. I really like the design.
They even have rocking chairs in the small airport, which was a training field name Bluethenthal during World War II (Wilmington wants to be America's first World War II city because of all the stuff that happened there during it (see my history blog.)
Nice and small also. Relaxing, if you can do that at an airport.
Flying Home. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: We call our GPS, the English-speaking gal, either Sally or Nancy, depending upon which name comes to mind first.
Did some last minute anti-hurricane work at Graham's place and then at Mom's (more dadburn shutters).
After a lunch of left-overs from last night's feast at the Smokehouse in Holly Ridge, I was off for the Wilmington (ILM) Aitport. I took US-17 all the way past I-40 to Castle Hayne Road and then a few miles to the airport, much easier than the Wilmington traffic hassle.
Checked the Mazda 6 in at Thrifty Car Rental. If I ever were to buy a "foreign" car, this would be it. I really like the design.
They even have rocking chairs in the small airport, which was a training field name Bluethenthal during World War II (Wilmington wants to be America's first World War II city because of all the stuff that happened there during it (see my history blog.)
Nice and small also. Relaxing, if you can do that at an airport.
Flying Home. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: We call our GPS, the English-speaking gal, either Sally or Nancy, depending upon which name comes to mind first.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
The Top One-Hit Wonders That Cracked the Top Five 1985-2010-- Part 1
Deejays always like to make fun of groups or singers who only have one big hit in their career. They almost sound like they're laughing when they say their names.
I don't. I sure would rather have one big thing that people remember me by than nothing. Plus, look at all those bands who never even have one. Last night, I was listening to the Beau Brummels, a 60s band best known for "Laugh, Laugh." That was a great one, but they had a lot of other good ones as well.
From the July 11th Chart Watch by Paul Grein. These songs are ranked according to the Billboard Hot 100 Charts, starting with "One-Hit Wonders" who got to #1.
1. BAD DAY-- DANIEL POWTER-- #1 for 5 weeks, April-May 2006
2. USA FOR AFRICA-- #1 for 4 weeks, April-May 1985
3. DON'T WORRY, BE HAPPY-- BOBBY McFERRIN-- #1 for 2 weeks, September-October 1988. (Rats, I've got that dumb song in my head now. I'll probably be humming it all day!!)
4. BUTTERFLY-- CRAZY TOWN-- #1 for 2 weeks, March 2001
5. HOW DO YOU TALK TO AN ANGEL-- THE HEIGHTS-- #1 for 2 weeks, November 2002
6. MIAMI VICE THEME-- JAN HAMMER-- #1 for 1 week, November 1992
7. LOVEFOOL-- CARDIGANS-- #2 for 8 weeks, March-April 1997
8. PARTY LIKE A ROCK STAR-- SHOP BOYZ-- #2 for 6 weeks, June-July 2007
9. TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE HEART-- NICKI FRENCH-- #2 for one week, June 1995
10. CRUSH-- JENNIFER PAGE-- four weeks at #3, September 1993
Those groups only reaching #2 remind me of Creedence Clearwater Revival who had a whole bunch of songs get to #2, but never any to the top spot.
More to Come. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: By the way, how many of you have names for your GPS speaker?
I don't. I sure would rather have one big thing that people remember me by than nothing. Plus, look at all those bands who never even have one. Last night, I was listening to the Beau Brummels, a 60s band best known for "Laugh, Laugh." That was a great one, but they had a lot of other good ones as well.
From the July 11th Chart Watch by Paul Grein. These songs are ranked according to the Billboard Hot 100 Charts, starting with "One-Hit Wonders" who got to #1.
1. BAD DAY-- DANIEL POWTER-- #1 for 5 weeks, April-May 2006
2. USA FOR AFRICA-- #1 for 4 weeks, April-May 1985
3. DON'T WORRY, BE HAPPY-- BOBBY McFERRIN-- #1 for 2 weeks, September-October 1988. (Rats, I've got that dumb song in my head now. I'll probably be humming it all day!!)
4. BUTTERFLY-- CRAZY TOWN-- #1 for 2 weeks, March 2001
5. HOW DO YOU TALK TO AN ANGEL-- THE HEIGHTS-- #1 for 2 weeks, November 2002
6. MIAMI VICE THEME-- JAN HAMMER-- #1 for 1 week, November 1992
7. LOVEFOOL-- CARDIGANS-- #2 for 8 weeks, March-April 1997
8. PARTY LIKE A ROCK STAR-- SHOP BOYZ-- #2 for 6 weeks, June-July 2007
9. TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE HEART-- NICKI FRENCH-- #2 for one week, June 1995
10. CRUSH-- JENNIFER PAGE-- four weeks at #3, September 1993
Those groups only reaching #2 remind me of Creedence Clearwater Revival who had a whole bunch of songs get to #2, but never any to the top spot.
More to Come. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: By the way, how many of you have names for your GPS speaker?
JSS: Hurricane Time Back Home-- Pretty Nice Here
JSS-- Just Some Stuff
1. HURRICANE TIME BACK HOME-- Just called Mom in Goldsboro, North Carolina, (around 100 miles from the coast) who said she just lost electricity. It is windy and raining, but she's seen much worse, including hurricanes Fran and Floyd as well as Hazel back in 1954.
2. PRETTY NICE HERE-- Here in northeast Illinois, (about a 1000 miles from Goldsboro) we have a beautiful day with sunny skies, light breezes and temps in the 80s. We'll be going out boating for our breakfast at McDonald's in a little bit. Tough life, but I'm just the guy to do it.
After a float, figuring on doing some yard work and later meeting friends at Captain's to listen to a band from 7 to 9.
3. GAS GOUGE CONTINUES-- Gas here in Spring Grove at $3.95 and $3.90 in Fox Lake, Illinois. It jumped 20 cents earlier this week due to a gas line problem. The GRBs decided it was time to make some money.
Of course, with Hurricane Irene, gas prices will be going up even more as more GRBs make some profit off others hardships.
I need to fill up the '85 Firebird, which unfortunately uses premium, so that will be at least $4.15 or more. But, I haven't put any gas in it since I took it out of storage back in June, so can't complain.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I wish Google maps had an "Avoid Ghetto" routing option. Same with GPS.
1. HURRICANE TIME BACK HOME-- Just called Mom in Goldsboro, North Carolina, (around 100 miles from the coast) who said she just lost electricity. It is windy and raining, but she's seen much worse, including hurricanes Fran and Floyd as well as Hazel back in 1954.
2. PRETTY NICE HERE-- Here in northeast Illinois, (about a 1000 miles from Goldsboro) we have a beautiful day with sunny skies, light breezes and temps in the 80s. We'll be going out boating for our breakfast at McDonald's in a little bit. Tough life, but I'm just the guy to do it.
After a float, figuring on doing some yard work and later meeting friends at Captain's to listen to a band from 7 to 9.
3. GAS GOUGE CONTINUES-- Gas here in Spring Grove at $3.95 and $3.90 in Fox Lake, Illinois. It jumped 20 cents earlier this week due to a gas line problem. The GRBs decided it was time to make some money.
Of course, with Hurricane Irene, gas prices will be going up even more as more GRBs make some profit off others hardships.
I need to fill up the '85 Firebird, which unfortunately uses premium, so that will be at least $4.15 or more. But, I haven't put any gas in it since I took it out of storage back in June, so can't complain.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I wish Google maps had an "Avoid Ghetto" routing option. Same with GPS.
Friday, August 26, 2011
It's a Gas!!
From the June 19th Chicago Tribune.
Around here, we all know it. We pay more for gas than anybody in the country.
Of course, the main factor in the price of gas at the pump is the price of a barrel of oil. The Axis of Evil (Big Oil, Speculators and Oil-producing Countries) have worked together to get the prices to their current levels. They make more money taking it out of our pockets.
In Chicago and area surrounding it, this is further made worse by the taxes and fees placed on it by ALL LEVELS of government.
Then, there is that annual kick up in price due to mandatory reformulated gas which causes a temporary shortage in the spring.
The United States imports more than half its oil and our two biggest importers are Mexico and Canada!! This really surprised me. Our two neighbors are getting rich off us!! And, of course, those who own the oil in our country are getting very rich as well.
Mexico should be sending some of this new money to the US to care for all there nationals who are here and getting free benefits.
I will have some gas tables on my history blog showing the five states with highest fuel taxes and five lowest as well as a breakdown. http://cootershistorything.blogspot.com.
It's Enough to Make You Want to Drink. --RoadDog
Still Not Funny.
Around here, we all know it. We pay more for gas than anybody in the country.
Of course, the main factor in the price of gas at the pump is the price of a barrel of oil. The Axis of Evil (Big Oil, Speculators and Oil-producing Countries) have worked together to get the prices to their current levels. They make more money taking it out of our pockets.
In Chicago and area surrounding it, this is further made worse by the taxes and fees placed on it by ALL LEVELS of government.
Then, there is that annual kick up in price due to mandatory reformulated gas which causes a temporary shortage in the spring.
The United States imports more than half its oil and our two biggest importers are Mexico and Canada!! This really surprised me. Our two neighbors are getting rich off us!! And, of course, those who own the oil in our country are getting very rich as well.
Mexico should be sending some of this new money to the US to care for all there nationals who are here and getting free benefits.
I will have some gas tables on my history blog showing the five states with highest fuel taxes and five lowest as well as a breakdown. http://cootershistorything.blogspot.com.
It's Enough to Make You Want to Drink. --RoadDog
Still Not Funny.
It's Them, Not Me: Gas Gouge Again!!
While in North Carolina, I got used to $3.58 gas in the Wilmington area. Gas in Wisconsin by the I-94 exit in Kenosha was $3.67.
Then, we got back to good ol' Illinois and yesterday I saw gas in Fox Lake at $3.90!!
It had been $3.70 until a few days ago, then jumped twenty cents overnight. A friend said it had something to do with a broken pipe somewhere. Then, someone decided there was dough to be made and raised the price like that.
It went up in minutes, but will take months to drop back down, still more money to be made.
I tell you, we really have to do something about these guys.
By the way, anything over $2.50 is TOO MUCH.
Hey guys, there is a hurricane threatening. Still more money to put in your pockets.
I Really Don't Like These Guys. --RoadDog
NOT FUNNY!!
Then, we got back to good ol' Illinois and yesterday I saw gas in Fox Lake at $3.90!!
It had been $3.70 until a few days ago, then jumped twenty cents overnight. A friend said it had something to do with a broken pipe somewhere. Then, someone decided there was dough to be made and raised the price like that.
It went up in minutes, but will take months to drop back down, still more money to be made.
I tell you, we really have to do something about these guys.
By the way, anything over $2.50 is TOO MUCH.
Hey guys, there is a hurricane threatening. Still more money to put in your pockets.
I Really Don't Like These Guys. --RoadDog
NOT FUNNY!!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Sorry, No 25 Cent Leinies and Free Hot Dogs for This Anniversary
Today marks Liz and my 38th wedding anniversary (and I counted to make sure). This was one big reason I came back from North Carolina yesterday. Not to have done so would have been too horrible to imagine.
We plan on going boating and later to Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, for NTN and our anniversary champagne.
Liz still remembers our 25th anniversary when we went to the Lily Lake Resort in Wisconsin and feasted on free hot dogs and 25 cent Leinenkugel drafts. I never let spending money get in the way of a good observance. I'll probably never live it down either as she told all her friends.
Instead of the dogs and Leinie, we'll have to settle for $3 Italian beefs and buck pints at Donovan's.
Who Says I'm Not Moving Up (to the East Side in a Deluxe Apartment....) --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet that on given Friday or Saturday night, more kisses begin with a Miller Lite than with one of their diamonds. This is kind of appropriate for this blog entry.
We plan on going boating and later to Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, for NTN and our anniversary champagne.
Liz still remembers our 25th anniversary when we went to the Lily Lake Resort in Wisconsin and feasted on free hot dogs and 25 cent Leinenkugel drafts. I never let spending money get in the way of a good observance. I'll probably never live it down either as she told all her friends.
Instead of the dogs and Leinie, we'll have to settle for $3 Italian beefs and buck pints at Donovan's.
Who Says I'm Not Moving Up (to the East Side in a Deluxe Apartment....) --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet that on given Friday or Saturday night, more kisses begin with a Miller Lite than with one of their diamonds. This is kind of appropriate for this blog entry.
Down in North Carolina: Tuesday-- Hurricane Prepping and Eating
TUESDAY, AUGUST 23rd
Ended up with pinched hands, sore fingers and sore toes from closing those lousy hurricane shutters. I'm sure one of the condos had never ever closed theirs, which made it even more fun.
Mom and I went to Holly Ridge, about 12 miles away from Topsail (pronounced Topsul) Beach and drove around looking for remnants of World War II Camp Davis which in 1943 had 113,000 soldiers, but no trace is up by the road. Mom says a lot of chimneys are set back in the forest that now covers the base.
Had a great senior dinner at the Smokehouse Restaurant on US-17. For $7 I got a huge order of Carolina-style bbq and two sides. Mom had a likewise piled-high plate of Calabash-style shrimp for $9.
Back at the beach place, showed Mom how to get on the internet so probably will have to start watching what I write.
The Weather Channel is going nuts with their Hurricane Irene coverage. Hurricanes=big bucks for them. They already have a guy at Wilmington getting ready to stand out in the storm.
Of course, I've already had as much of Irene as I care to have.
Goodnight Irene and Go Somewhere Else, Hopefully Out to Sea. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I think the freezer should have a light as well.
Ended up with pinched hands, sore fingers and sore toes from closing those lousy hurricane shutters. I'm sure one of the condos had never ever closed theirs, which made it even more fun.
Mom and I went to Holly Ridge, about 12 miles away from Topsail (pronounced Topsul) Beach and drove around looking for remnants of World War II Camp Davis which in 1943 had 113,000 soldiers, but no trace is up by the road. Mom says a lot of chimneys are set back in the forest that now covers the base.
Had a great senior dinner at the Smokehouse Restaurant on US-17. For $7 I got a huge order of Carolina-style bbq and two sides. Mom had a likewise piled-high plate of Calabash-style shrimp for $9.
Back at the beach place, showed Mom how to get on the internet so probably will have to start watching what I write.
The Weather Channel is going nuts with their Hurricane Irene coverage. Hurricanes=big bucks for them. They already have a guy at Wilmington getting ready to stand out in the storm.
Of course, I've already had as much of Irene as I care to have.
Goodnight Irene and Go Somewhere Else, Hopefully Out to Sea. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I think the freezer should have a light as well.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Down in North Carolina: Monday and Tuesday
MONDAY-- AUGUST 22nd
Enjoyed the beach and then went to the Missiles and More Museum in Topsail Beach. We got caught in a big rainstorm and had to wait in the IGA parking lot before having a delicious pizza at Max's.
Some big time flooding on the way back. Starting to hear about Hurricane Irene which might hit Topsail Beach by Sunday.
Enjoyed the sunset from the beach.
TUESDAY-- AUGUST 23rd
Enjoyed the beach again. Spent a lot of time moving outdoor furniture inside at three of the other townhomes here at the Topsail Arms as it looks more likely that the hurricane will hit here. The Weather Channel finally got the hurricane it so desperately wanted.
I have decided that I REALLY DON'T LIKE putting up the storm shutters. I had to do it on three townhomes and still have Mom's to do.
The next door neighbors asked Mom if she had felt an earthquake and she blamed it on me. I was making a lot of noise trying to get those durn storm shutters up.
Found out a short time later that there actually had been an earthquake in Virginia and that is what they had felt. I felt nothing, but was probably kicking those doggone shutters in place.
This Week Sure Went Fast. --RoadDog
Enjoyed the beach and then went to the Missiles and More Museum in Topsail Beach. We got caught in a big rainstorm and had to wait in the IGA parking lot before having a delicious pizza at Max's.
Some big time flooding on the way back. Starting to hear about Hurricane Irene which might hit Topsail Beach by Sunday.
Enjoyed the sunset from the beach.
TUESDAY-- AUGUST 23rd
Enjoyed the beach again. Spent a lot of time moving outdoor furniture inside at three of the other townhomes here at the Topsail Arms as it looks more likely that the hurricane will hit here. The Weather Channel finally got the hurricane it so desperately wanted.
I have decided that I REALLY DON'T LIKE putting up the storm shutters. I had to do it on three townhomes and still have Mom's to do.
The next door neighbors asked Mom if she had felt an earthquake and she blamed it on me. I was making a lot of noise trying to get those durn storm shutters up.
Found out a short time later that there actually had been an earthquake in Virginia and that is what they had felt. I felt nothing, but was probably kicking those doggone shutters in place.
This Week Sure Went Fast. --RoadDog
Monday, August 22, 2011
Down in North Carolina-- Saturday and Sunday
SATURDAY, AUGUST 20th
Enjoyed the beach, just across Ocean Drive. We are on what is called The Second Row, meaning the second row of places from the ocean. If the ocean keeps coming in, soon, we might be "in the front row" as Bob Uecker likes to say.
Ate a delicious seafood dinner at the Breezeway Inn in Topsail Beach with flounder, shrimp and scallops. The hushpuppies are the best I've ever had.
Later, Bob, Judy and I took a walk down by New Topsail Inlet at the south end of the island.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 21st
Attended church service at the Emma Anderson Memorial Chapel, unique in that they don't have a regular preacher. but a new one every week. They invite area clergy to speak. In return, they get a cottage for the week.
The associate pastor at Mom's church in Goldsboro, NC, gave the sermon today. I told him it had better be good since I'd come all the way from Illinois to hear it.
Later, I did some shopping and bought a 7-pack of cassette tapes. When I got back, I recorded some Beach Music shows.
Just About Time for a Beach Walk. --RoadDog
Enjoyed the beach, just across Ocean Drive. We are on what is called The Second Row, meaning the second row of places from the ocean. If the ocean keeps coming in, soon, we might be "in the front row" as Bob Uecker likes to say.
Ate a delicious seafood dinner at the Breezeway Inn in Topsail Beach with flounder, shrimp and scallops. The hushpuppies are the best I've ever had.
Later, Bob, Judy and I took a walk down by New Topsail Inlet at the south end of the island.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 21st
Attended church service at the Emma Anderson Memorial Chapel, unique in that they don't have a regular preacher. but a new one every week. They invite area clergy to speak. In return, they get a cottage for the week.
The associate pastor at Mom's church in Goldsboro, NC, gave the sermon today. I told him it had better be good since I'd come all the way from Illinois to hear it.
Later, I did some shopping and bought a 7-pack of cassette tapes. When I got back, I recorded some Beach Music shows.
Just About Time for a Beach Walk. --RoadDog
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Down in North Carolina-- Thursday and Friday
I'm sitting out of the front porch, watching the Atlantic Ocean rolling into the shore just over the dunes here at Topsail Beach, NC.
Even, better, I'm in the shade and we have a nice breeze blowing by.
THURSDAY-- I was planning on a beach walk, but we had some mean-looking clouds offshore. It did rain and fartber south, at Carolina Beach, they had several waterspouts, sea tornadoes.
We had to stick around while the local cable company came out to work on out internet access.
FRIDAY-- I went to Fort Fisher, got some great Britt's Donuts at Carolina Beach, had a seagull try to zero in on me, got together with my brother and his wife and had a feast over at Julian's.
Tough Job. Somebody's Got to Do It. --RoadDog
Even, better, I'm in the shade and we have a nice breeze blowing by.
THURSDAY-- I was planning on a beach walk, but we had some mean-looking clouds offshore. It did rain and fartber south, at Carolina Beach, they had several waterspouts, sea tornadoes.
We had to stick around while the local cable company came out to work on out internet access.
FRIDAY-- I went to Fort Fisher, got some great Britt's Donuts at Carolina Beach, had a seagull try to zero in on me, got together with my brother and his wife and had a feast over at Julian's.
Tough Job. Somebody's Got to Do It. --RoadDog
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Down in North Carolina
Arrived here at Topsail Beach yesterday after taking a bus from the Brat Stop in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to O'Hare Airport in Chicago and flying American Airlines to Wilmington, North Carolina, renting a car from Thrifty Rental and getting lost in the city for awhile.Lots and lots of traffic and red light photo cameras in the city.Drove US-17 to NC-50 to Topsail Beach.
Mom had bought bbq and fried chicken from Smithfield's in Warsaw and we had that for dinner last night. Mmmmmm, Carolina barbecue, nothing could be finer.
A bit of rain here this morning. Hope to get out for a walk on the beach in a bit.
Good to Be Back. --RoadDog
Mom had bought bbq and fried chicken from Smithfield's in Warsaw and we had that for dinner last night. Mmmmmm, Carolina barbecue, nothing could be finer.
A bit of rain here this morning. Hope to get out for a walk on the beach in a bit.
Good to Be Back. --RoadDog
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Going to North Carolina
In a few hours, I'll be heading to the airport for a flight to Wilmington, North Carolina, to spend time at Mom's condo in Topsail Beach. Hoping to get some serious beach time and seafood.
We're planning a get-together for my brother's 58th birthday as well as a trip to Carolina Beach and the NC coast south of the Cape Fear River down to Calabash, on the SC border. Now, if you want to talk about real good seafood, this be the place.
Of course, while there, I plan to listen to as much Beach Music as I can.
Mom says she is having trouble with her laptop, so this might be the last post for a while.
The Beach and Me. Sounds Like a Plan. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I keep some people's numbers in my phone just to know not to answer when they call.
We're planning a get-together for my brother's 58th birthday as well as a trip to Carolina Beach and the NC coast south of the Cape Fear River down to Calabash, on the SC border. Now, if you want to talk about real good seafood, this be the place.
Of course, while there, I plan to listen to as much Beach Music as I can.
Mom says she is having trouble with her laptop, so this might be the last post for a while.
The Beach and Me. Sounds Like a Plan. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I keep some people's numbers in my phone just to know not to answer when they call.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
JSS: The Sealcoater Cometh-- Old Farts-- Half Way There
JSS-- Just Some Stuff
1. THE SEALCOATER COMETH-- Yesterday, we saw that two other neighbors on our street had sealcoating done as well as two on another street. They were done by the folks we had to ours this past Wednesday, Reliable Sealcoating.
Guess we started something. Stopped on the way out and they said they had gotten twenty homes in our subdivision. Perhaps I should ask for a cut.
2. OLD FARTS-- Boated over to El Puerto on Nippersink Lake yesterday and met up with about twenty retired Round Lake teachers, including two who were starting their first year of the bliss.
Enjoyed renewing old acquaintances out on the deck. Jim M. had taught with me before becoming Liz's principal and later a superintendent of a small nearby district. Jim S. worked with me and has been retired since 1994, the oldest retiree there. Barb B. and Bill E. both are new-retirees. Ruth K. worked with me and retired a year before me.
3. HALF WAY THERE-- Yesterday's boating expedition was our 20th for the season. We're still hoping for 40. Here's hoping Liz takes it out a couple times while I'm gone to North Carolina this next week.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone I wanted to impress the whole day.
1. THE SEALCOATER COMETH-- Yesterday, we saw that two other neighbors on our street had sealcoating done as well as two on another street. They were done by the folks we had to ours this past Wednesday, Reliable Sealcoating.
Guess we started something. Stopped on the way out and they said they had gotten twenty homes in our subdivision. Perhaps I should ask for a cut.
2. OLD FARTS-- Boated over to El Puerto on Nippersink Lake yesterday and met up with about twenty retired Round Lake teachers, including two who were starting their first year of the bliss.
Enjoyed renewing old acquaintances out on the deck. Jim M. had taught with me before becoming Liz's principal and later a superintendent of a small nearby district. Jim S. worked with me and has been retired since 1994, the oldest retiree there. Barb B. and Bill E. both are new-retirees. Ruth K. worked with me and retired a year before me.
3. HALF WAY THERE-- Yesterday's boating expedition was our 20th for the season. We're still hoping for 40. Here's hoping Liz takes it out a couple times while I'm gone to North Carolina this next week.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone I wanted to impress the whole day.
What Were You Doing July 31, 1971?-- Part 7
Coming back from commercial break, Stroud plays a song that was also out on the date. This gives you even more music from the time trip back.
MAYBE TOMORROW-- JACKSON FIVE-- (Definitely not a favorite of mine.)
YA DIG-- JAMES GANG-- From their Thirds album.
RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS-- CARPENTERS-- Karen and Richard Carpenter with one of their million-sellers.
HERE COMES THAT RAINY DAY FEELING AGAIN--FORTUNES-- A British Invasion group. (The deejay at Captain's Quarters almost always plays this as the first song when coming back on during a band break.)
WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET-- DRAMATICS-- From Philadelphia.
DON'T PULL YOUR LOVE-- HAMILTON, JOE FRANK & REYNOLDS-- The record the Grass Roots turned down. (Perhaps they shouldn't have.)
Part 4 of Stroud's trip back will be Sunday, September 4th from 7 to 10 am, CSDT. Give it a listen at www.wdrv.com.
Been a Great Trip. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: I hate it when I miss a call on the last ring. But when I call back, it rings nine times before going to voice mail. What did you do when I didn't answer, drop the phone and run away?
MAYBE TOMORROW-- JACKSON FIVE-- (Definitely not a favorite of mine.)
YA DIG-- JAMES GANG-- From their Thirds album.
RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS-- CARPENTERS-- Karen and Richard Carpenter with one of their million-sellers.
HERE COMES THAT RAINY DAY FEELING AGAIN--FORTUNES-- A British Invasion group. (The deejay at Captain's Quarters almost always plays this as the first song when coming back on during a band break.)
WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET-- DRAMATICS-- From Philadelphia.
DON'T PULL YOUR LOVE-- HAMILTON, JOE FRANK & REYNOLDS-- The record the Grass Roots turned down. (Perhaps they shouldn't have.)
Part 4 of Stroud's trip back will be Sunday, September 4th from 7 to 10 am, CSDT. Give it a listen at www.wdrv.com.
Been a Great Trip. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: I hate it when I miss a call on the last ring. But when I call back, it rings nine times before going to voice mail. What did you do when I didn't answer, drop the phone and run away?
What Were You Doing July 31, 1971?-- Part 6
Why, 40 years ago I hadn't even started teaching yet. At the time I was a fresh-scrubbed, essentially hairless guy in Virginia trying to avoid the drill instructors as much as possible and learning that "Forced Hikes or Marches" were even worse than PT. Running them would have been MUCH easier.
Continuing with Bob Stroud's Rock and Roll Roots salute to the Summer of 1971, Part 3.
THE STORY IN YOUR EYES-- MOODY BLUES-- They had just released their new album, Every Good Boy Deserves Favour.
NEVERENDING SONG OF LOVE-- DELANEY & BONNIE-- In the Top Ten.
LOVE THE ONE YOU'RE WITH-- STEVE STILLS-- Earlier in the year we had gotten it from Stephen Stills. Brand new and debuting on Chicago charts.
MOONSHADOW-- CAT STEVENS-- From Teaser and the Firecat. (This past week, I was looking out the window at night, and with the full moon and no clouds, I sure could see you-know-what.)
SOONER OR LATER-- GRASS ROOTS-- From the late-great Rob Grill (who died a couple months ago.)
HIGH TIME WE WENT-- JOE COCKER-- current release. (Still can't sing.)
MOTHER FREEDOM-- BREAD-- brand new. (Not always schmaltzy ballads.)
WON'T GET FOOLED AGAIN-- WHO--This was issued as a single mix before the album came out, a couple weeks away. The 45 was an edit of the eight-minute song from Who's Next. Making its debut on the Chicago radio charts.
HOW CAN YOU MEND A BROKEN HEART-- BEE GEES-- If you're listening to the Summer of '71, you've got your songs, you've got your albums that just scream that summer. This is one of those songs for me, maybe because it was actually number one on this date, forty years ago. (I liked their 60s stuff better, especially when I was trying to figure out if they were the Beatles in disguise.)
Wait, There's More. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: "Do not machine wash or tumble dry" means I will never wash this-ever. (How do you turn on the machine anyway?)
Continuing with Bob Stroud's Rock and Roll Roots salute to the Summer of 1971, Part 3.
THE STORY IN YOUR EYES-- MOODY BLUES-- They had just released their new album, Every Good Boy Deserves Favour.
NEVERENDING SONG OF LOVE-- DELANEY & BONNIE-- In the Top Ten.
LOVE THE ONE YOU'RE WITH-- STEVE STILLS-- Earlier in the year we had gotten it from Stephen Stills. Brand new and debuting on Chicago charts.
MOONSHADOW-- CAT STEVENS-- From Teaser and the Firecat. (This past week, I was looking out the window at night, and with the full moon and no clouds, I sure could see you-know-what.)
SOONER OR LATER-- GRASS ROOTS-- From the late-great Rob Grill (who died a couple months ago.)
HIGH TIME WE WENT-- JOE COCKER-- current release. (Still can't sing.)
MOTHER FREEDOM-- BREAD-- brand new. (Not always schmaltzy ballads.)
WON'T GET FOOLED AGAIN-- WHO--This was issued as a single mix before the album came out, a couple weeks away. The 45 was an edit of the eight-minute song from Who's Next. Making its debut on the Chicago radio charts.
HOW CAN YOU MEND A BROKEN HEART-- BEE GEES-- If you're listening to the Summer of '71, you've got your songs, you've got your albums that just scream that summer. This is one of those songs for me, maybe because it was actually number one on this date, forty years ago. (I liked their 60s stuff better, especially when I was trying to figure out if they were the Beatles in disguise.)
Wait, There's More. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: "Do not machine wash or tumble dry" means I will never wash this-ever. (How do you turn on the machine anyway?)
Monday, August 15, 2011
My Sixth Year of "Re-taarrdment"
The Round Lake teachers went back to school today, officially starting my sixth year of retirement!! Hard to believe I've had five full years already. Where does the time go.
I thought the last ten years of teaching went fast, but the last five since I retired in 2006 REALLY flew by.
A newly retired Round Lake teacher has put together a little gathering of other "retarred" Round Lakers at El Puerto for noon. We'll be there. Good to see old faces.
I Highly Recommend It. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: I'm always slightly terrified when I exit Word and it asks me if I want to make any changes to my ten-page research paper. What if I accidentally hit delete? (You didn't have to worry about that with a typewriter.)
I thought the last ten years of teaching went fast, but the last five since I retired in 2006 REALLY flew by.
A newly retired Round Lake teacher has put together a little gathering of other "retarred" Round Lakers at El Puerto for noon. We'll be there. Good to see old faces.
I Highly Recommend It. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: I'm always slightly terrified when I exit Word and it asks me if I want to make any changes to my ten-page research paper. What if I accidentally hit delete? (You didn't have to worry about that with a typewriter.)
What Were You Doing July 31, 1971?-- Part 5
That was 40 years ago. if you remember it, you're getting ___.
WALK AWAY-- JAMES GANG-- Another power trio (so was the previous group played, grand Funk Railroad) that was big in its day. From their Thirds album. "Let's vote the singer Joe Walsh for President!)
YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND-- JAMES TAYLOR-- originally the song appeared on Carole King's Tapestry album. A month later on his new album Mudslide Slim and the Blue Horizon.
NATHAN JONES-- SUPREMES-- one of their final hits. (Diana has left the group.)
DRAGGIN' THE LINE-- TOMMY JAMES-- In the Top Ten.
LIAR-- THREE DOG NIGHT-- (This was my second Marine Corps song. The guy who said i was going to have a good time was a "LIAR!!" This song and "Country Roads" sure take me back. Glad Bob played them.)
BEGINNING-- CHICAGO-- A song that was two years old and in the Top Ten. From their first album.
FUNKY NASSAU-- BEGINNING OF THE END-- One-Hit Wonder. (My friend Coz also heard the show and likes to try to stump me on a jukebox Name That Tune. Hey Coz, I listened to the show also.)
MANDOLIN WIND-- ROD STEWART-- From his current album, Every Picture Tells a Story, one of THE ALBUMS of the Summer of '71.
SIGNS-- FIVE MAN ELECTRICAL BAND-- Brand new on your radio. (I tried this on karaoke once. I won't do it again. Wasn't pretty at all.)
RESURRECTION SHUFFLE-- ASHTON, GARDNER & DYKE-- Trio out of the UK. This single made its debut on Chicago charts this week. One of my favorites from the era. (Mine, too, Bob.)
A Couple More Entries to Come. Take Me Home, Liar. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection again. (Well, I don't know about you, but I'm still stuck on good old VHS.)
WALK AWAY-- JAMES GANG-- Another power trio (so was the previous group played, grand Funk Railroad) that was big in its day. From their Thirds album. "Let's vote the singer Joe Walsh for President!)
YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND-- JAMES TAYLOR-- originally the song appeared on Carole King's Tapestry album. A month later on his new album Mudslide Slim and the Blue Horizon.
NATHAN JONES-- SUPREMES-- one of their final hits. (Diana has left the group.)
DRAGGIN' THE LINE-- TOMMY JAMES-- In the Top Ten.
LIAR-- THREE DOG NIGHT-- (This was my second Marine Corps song. The guy who said i was going to have a good time was a "LIAR!!" This song and "Country Roads" sure take me back. Glad Bob played them.)
BEGINNING-- CHICAGO-- A song that was two years old and in the Top Ten. From their first album.
FUNKY NASSAU-- BEGINNING OF THE END-- One-Hit Wonder. (My friend Coz also heard the show and likes to try to stump me on a jukebox Name That Tune. Hey Coz, I listened to the show also.)
MANDOLIN WIND-- ROD STEWART-- From his current album, Every Picture Tells a Story, one of THE ALBUMS of the Summer of '71.
SIGNS-- FIVE MAN ELECTRICAL BAND-- Brand new on your radio. (I tried this on karaoke once. I won't do it again. Wasn't pretty at all.)
RESURRECTION SHUFFLE-- ASHTON, GARDNER & DYKE-- Trio out of the UK. This single made its debut on Chicago charts this week. One of my favorites from the era. (Mine, too, Bob.)
A Couple More Entries to Come. Take Me Home, Liar. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection again. (Well, I don't know about you, but I'm still stuck on good old VHS.)
What Were You Doing July 31, 1971-- Part 4
Great Time, great Songs. Thanks, Bob.
THE WASP (TEXAS RADIO AND THE BIG BEAT-- DOORS-- From L.A. Woman
I JUST WANT TO CELEBRATE-- RARE EARTH-- this one was hit-bound. (Blue-eyed Motown?)
(TAKE ME HOME) COUNTRY ROADS-- JOHN DENVER-- (One of my two songs that were constantly in my head at Quantico. Hey, take me home.)
HAD ME A REAL GOOD TIME-- FACES-- From the album released in the spring of 1971, Long Player, featuring a brand new front man by the name of Rod Stewart. (Was he really that shy that he hid behind the speakers when he first performed? I'd say that if he did, he overcame it.)
DON'T TRY TO LAY NO BOOGIE-WOOGIE ON THE KING OF ROCK AND ROLL-- LONG JOHN BALDRY-- from his album It Ain't Easy. Side one was produced by Rod Stewart. Side two produced by Elton John. (A real different kind of a song.)
UNCLE ALBERT/ADMIRAL HALSEY-- PAUL McCARTNEY-- the first week of the single debut on Chicago charts from his album Ram.
BACKSEAT OF MY CAR-- PAUL McCARTNEY-- close out his Ram album.
WILD HORSES-- ROLLING STONES-- The second single released from Sticky Fingers. (Not you atypical Stones song.)
GIMME SHELTER-- GRAND FUNK RAILROAD-- From their Survivor album. Their version of a Stones classic. (I had never heard this before. I could tell it wasn't the Rolling Stones, but who were they?)
Coming Up, My Second Marine Corps "Song." --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you're just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day. (Well, now that I'm retired, I know the feeling EVERYDAY.)
THE WASP (TEXAS RADIO AND THE BIG BEAT-- DOORS-- From L.A. Woman
I JUST WANT TO CELEBRATE-- RARE EARTH-- this one was hit-bound. (Blue-eyed Motown?)
(TAKE ME HOME) COUNTRY ROADS-- JOHN DENVER-- (One of my two songs that were constantly in my head at Quantico. Hey, take me home.)
HAD ME A REAL GOOD TIME-- FACES-- From the album released in the spring of 1971, Long Player, featuring a brand new front man by the name of Rod Stewart. (Was he really that shy that he hid behind the speakers when he first performed? I'd say that if he did, he overcame it.)
DON'T TRY TO LAY NO BOOGIE-WOOGIE ON THE KING OF ROCK AND ROLL-- LONG JOHN BALDRY-- from his album It Ain't Easy. Side one was produced by Rod Stewart. Side two produced by Elton John. (A real different kind of a song.)
UNCLE ALBERT/ADMIRAL HALSEY-- PAUL McCARTNEY-- the first week of the single debut on Chicago charts from his album Ram.
BACKSEAT OF MY CAR-- PAUL McCARTNEY-- close out his Ram album.
WILD HORSES-- ROLLING STONES-- The second single released from Sticky Fingers. (Not you atypical Stones song.)
GIMME SHELTER-- GRAND FUNK RAILROAD-- From their Survivor album. Their version of a Stones classic. (I had never heard this before. I could tell it wasn't the Rolling Stones, but who were they?)
Coming Up, My Second Marine Corps "Song." --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you're just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day. (Well, now that I'm retired, I know the feeling EVERYDAY.)
Another Good Weekend Here on the Chain
No boating, though, because of storms coming through Friday and Saturday and a definite threat on Sunday. We're still trying to get to the target 40 times out on the boat for the season. Since we didn't start until July, it's kind of a press job.
We love boating, but definitely not in the rain.
FRIDAY, August 12th-- Enjoyed the buck bottles at Gasoline Alley overlooking Grasslake.
SATURDAY, August 13th-- Late getting to the Legion picnic in Fox Lake because of a particularly nasty storm that came roaring through about noon (probably the same one that caused all the damage at the Indiana State Fair). The picnic had been moved inside. But later, skies cleared and we went out to the pavilion and enjoyed the view of Nippersink Lake and the free beer until we floated the kegs.
Ended up doing karaoke until 9:30. I even sang quite a few songs.
SUNDAY, August 14th-- Enjoyed the gazebo and then we drove to Johnsburg, Illinois, where we attended St. John's Parishfest, something we do every year because Liz's childhood friend, Mike, is in the band New Odyssey who play every year (one of the three members loves in Johnsburg and Mike's cousin was one time a priest at the church).
It had threatened to rain all morning, but cleared up and we had a great day to have it. Really good food and $1.50 beers. New Odyssey features 30 instruments which they play throughout the show. And, on one Beatle medley, they play all of them. They also have numerous skits that make this one band you really want to see if you get a chance.
Plus, one of Liz's girlfriends from back in Chicago came out.
Good Weekend. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: Bad decisions make good stories.
We love boating, but definitely not in the rain.
FRIDAY, August 12th-- Enjoyed the buck bottles at Gasoline Alley overlooking Grasslake.
SATURDAY, August 13th-- Late getting to the Legion picnic in Fox Lake because of a particularly nasty storm that came roaring through about noon (probably the same one that caused all the damage at the Indiana State Fair). The picnic had been moved inside. But later, skies cleared and we went out to the pavilion and enjoyed the view of Nippersink Lake and the free beer until we floated the kegs.
Ended up doing karaoke until 9:30. I even sang quite a few songs.
SUNDAY, August 14th-- Enjoyed the gazebo and then we drove to Johnsburg, Illinois, where we attended St. John's Parishfest, something we do every year because Liz's childhood friend, Mike, is in the band New Odyssey who play every year (one of the three members loves in Johnsburg and Mike's cousin was one time a priest at the church).
It had threatened to rain all morning, but cleared up and we had a great day to have it. Really good food and $1.50 beers. New Odyssey features 30 instruments which they play throughout the show. And, on one Beatle medley, they play all of them. They also have numerous skits that make this one band you really want to see if you get a chance.
Plus, one of Liz's girlfriends from back in Chicago came out.
Good Weekend. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: Bad decisions make good stories.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
What Were You Doing July 31, 1971?-- Part 3
The songs Bob Stroud played July 31st to mark the 40th anniversary of the Summer of 1971. Could it be that many years ago? Someone's getting pretty old.
You'd be hearing these songs on WLS or WCFL in the Chicago area or they'd be on you stereo as Lps or Singles.
Stroud's comments after the song. My comments in parentheses.
SWEET HITCHHIKER-- CCR-- new single from the group. (My all-time favorite group id I had to pick one from the era.
WATCHING THE RIVER FLOW-- BOB DYLAN-- Not available on any album at this point in time.
SMILING FACES-- UNDISPUTED TRUTH-- new tune by a new group from Motown.
IT'S TOO LATE-- CAROLE KING-- A month ago, on Part 2, this was the #1 single in town. Evidently, it is not anymore. We'll tell you what the new #1 is at the end of the show today. (That Tapestry album by her still is one of my favorites.)
GET IT ON-- CHASE-- (Great horn band, great song. Easy to dance to. I'd give it a 9.)
LOCOMOTIVE BREATH-- JETHRO TULL-- From side 2 of Aqualung. (One of the great guitar intros ever. Can you hum it?
Do You Remember Any of These? --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of tired.
You'd be hearing these songs on WLS or WCFL in the Chicago area or they'd be on you stereo as Lps or Singles.
Stroud's comments after the song. My comments in parentheses.
SWEET HITCHHIKER-- CCR-- new single from the group. (My all-time favorite group id I had to pick one from the era.
WATCHING THE RIVER FLOW-- BOB DYLAN-- Not available on any album at this point in time.
SMILING FACES-- UNDISPUTED TRUTH-- new tune by a new group from Motown.
IT'S TOO LATE-- CAROLE KING-- A month ago, on Part 2, this was the #1 single in town. Evidently, it is not anymore. We'll tell you what the new #1 is at the end of the show today. (That Tapestry album by her still is one of my favorites.)
GET IT ON-- CHASE-- (Great horn band, great song. Easy to dance to. I'd give it a 9.)
LOCOMOTIVE BREATH-- JETHRO TULL-- From side 2 of Aqualung. (One of the great guitar intros ever. Can you hum it?
Do You Remember Any of These? --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of tired.
What Were You Doing July 31, 1971?-- Part 2
Continued from August 5th.
I was going to avoid the draft by signing up for the Marines. At this time, I was hairless and in Quantico, Virginia, learning to be all I could be. I tell you, I was not cut out for the military life, especially in the first three weeks. After that, I started to get a handle on it.
I had never fired anything more powerful than a bb gun before and that M-14 was a real experience. The kick wasn't so bad, but no one ever told me that the barrel got hot after firing ten rounds. So, there's good old me sitting on the bench behind the firing line and propping the barrel up against my neck. I didn't do THAT again.
I really hated that rifle, always call it a rifle. Calling it a gun put you through a whole sergeant-instructor litany. Not only did we have to clean it and field strip it, but when we went on those "forced hikes" the strap ate into my shoulder. I kept thinking about pitching it away, but the thought of arriving back at the base camp without that piece of weaponry was so unappealing, I kept it.
There Was Actually Some Music Associated with the Date. Next. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: Also, obituaries would be more interesting if they included some information about the person's life, not just a list of relatives.
I was going to avoid the draft by signing up for the Marines. At this time, I was hairless and in Quantico, Virginia, learning to be all I could be. I tell you, I was not cut out for the military life, especially in the first three weeks. After that, I started to get a handle on it.
I had never fired anything more powerful than a bb gun before and that M-14 was a real experience. The kick wasn't so bad, but no one ever told me that the barrel got hot after firing ten rounds. So, there's good old me sitting on the bench behind the firing line and propping the barrel up against my neck. I didn't do THAT again.
I really hated that rifle, always call it a rifle. Calling it a gun put you through a whole sergeant-instructor litany. Not only did we have to clean it and field strip it, but when we went on those "forced hikes" the strap ate into my shoulder. I kept thinking about pitching it away, but the thought of arriving back at the base camp without that piece of weaponry was so unappealing, I kept it.
There Was Actually Some Music Associated with the Date. Next. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: Also, obituaries would be more interesting if they included some information about the person's life, not just a list of relatives.
Wednesday on the Chain of Lakes
After the sealcoat guy and gal left, we drove the old Malibu and '85 Firebird over to Dependable Auto on Grasslake Road and dropped it off to get the brake problem fixed.
Then on to the tiki bar at Electric Harbor again, this time for the $2 Johnsonville brat and fries and $3 frozen drinks. Today, the tike bar was completely open as the winds had really subsided. I managed to down a mudslide and a mango daiquiri without brain freeze.
Then went boating with the Kellehers and visited the newest place on the Chain Crawl, Fairmont Shores. Sat out on the deck overlooking Fox Lake, but doubt we'll be back often as they charged $3 for a pint, but at least it was a full pour, none of that 3 ounces of foam that is getting so popular.
Put the boat up and joined the Usual Suspects at Castaways on Pistakee Lake for 40 cent jumbo wings, $1 drafts and Jim Seig playing out on the deck on an absolutely great evening, something that we've had few of this summer. The place was really jumping and everyone having a good time. Glenn even decided not to go to his car club meeting because he was having so much fun.
Now, That Was a Really Good Day. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.
Then on to the tiki bar at Electric Harbor again, this time for the $2 Johnsonville brat and fries and $3 frozen drinks. Today, the tike bar was completely open as the winds had really subsided. I managed to down a mudslide and a mango daiquiri without brain freeze.
Then went boating with the Kellehers and visited the newest place on the Chain Crawl, Fairmont Shores. Sat out on the deck overlooking Fox Lake, but doubt we'll be back often as they charged $3 for a pint, but at least it was a full pour, none of that 3 ounces of foam that is getting so popular.
Put the boat up and joined the Usual Suspects at Castaways on Pistakee Lake for 40 cent jumbo wings, $1 drafts and Jim Seig playing out on the deck on an absolutely great evening, something that we've had few of this summer. The place was really jumping and everyone having a good time. Glenn even decided not to go to his car club meeting because he was having so much fun.
Now, That Was a Really Good Day. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.
Good Timing for the Sealcoat Guy
Wednesday, Liz came out to the sunroom and said that somebody was at the front door. It turned out to be a woman offering sealcoating. Perfect timing as I was going to start calling around for estimates. It has been at least five years (and probably more) since I last had a coat applied and I definitely needed it.
I had even called one place late last fall, but it was too late to do it. When she came back with a $125 estimate I asked when they could do it. Right now.
So Liz and I moved the vehicles and they did quite a bit of prep work before starting. I could not have done it for that price.
Sure looks good now.
Told them to come back in three years, I'll have a job for them.
My "New" Black driveway. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: MapQuest really needs to start their directions at #5. I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood. Warning, don't spill hot coffee on your lap.
I had even called one place late last fall, but it was too late to do it. When she came back with a $125 estimate I asked when they could do it. Right now.
So Liz and I moved the vehicles and they did quite a bit of prep work before starting. I could not have done it for that price.
Sure looks good now.
Told them to come back in three years, I'll have a job for them.
My "New" Black driveway. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: MapQuest really needs to start their directions at #5. I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood. Warning, don't spill hot coffee on your lap.
JSS: Grass Clippings-- The Poinsettia and the Honeylocust-- The Cubs' Good, Bad and Ugly
JSS-- Just Some Stuff
1. GRASS CLIPPINGS-- Yesterday, I was able to get across the street to my neighbor who was bagging his grass clippings and asked for them. I am a big fan of clippings as they make great mulch then break down to enrich the earth. Unfortunately, my lawn tractor has a mulcher, also good, but doesn't provide the clippings.
2. THE POINSETTIA AND THE HONEYLOCUST-- I have a poinsettia plant from two years ago that bloomed this winter. I've never had one do that before. It is now back out on the front porch and looking good.
I have a young sunburst honeylocust coming up in the front yard which I have been cutting around. I like "volunteers" but right now have no idea where to put it. I have to start planning on cutting back on my plants as it is getting too hard to keep up with them.
3. THE CUBS' GOOD, BAD AND UGLY-- It was another Carlos Zambrano implosion and he walked off yesterday. That's the bad and ugly. The guy just can't be a man.
However, on Wednesday, the 10th, the Cubs unveiled a statue of #10, Ron Santo, a man who exhibits all the best there is in baseball and being a person, Hall of Fame or no. That's the GOOD.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: With so much texting these days (I've never done it), was learning to write and spell necessary?
1. GRASS CLIPPINGS-- Yesterday, I was able to get across the street to my neighbor who was bagging his grass clippings and asked for them. I am a big fan of clippings as they make great mulch then break down to enrich the earth. Unfortunately, my lawn tractor has a mulcher, also good, but doesn't provide the clippings.
2. THE POINSETTIA AND THE HONEYLOCUST-- I have a poinsettia plant from two years ago that bloomed this winter. I've never had one do that before. It is now back out on the front porch and looking good.
I have a young sunburst honeylocust coming up in the front yard which I have been cutting around. I like "volunteers" but right now have no idea where to put it. I have to start planning on cutting back on my plants as it is getting too hard to keep up with them.
3. THE CUBS' GOOD, BAD AND UGLY-- It was another Carlos Zambrano implosion and he walked off yesterday. That's the bad and ugly. The guy just can't be a man.
However, on Wednesday, the 10th, the Cubs unveiled a statue of #10, Ron Santo, a man who exhibits all the best there is in baseball and being a person, Hall of Fame or no. That's the GOOD.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: With so much texting these days (I've never done it), was learning to write and spell necessary?
Friday, August 12, 2011
A Bit 'O History for Me Today
This morning, I drove into Round Lake and had breakfast with my old teacher team mate Terri. We worked together for about 24 years. She has four more years to go before retiring. I find it very had to believe that I have been retired for a full five years now. Where does the time fly by to?
She has been back at Magee Middle School in Round Lake where I taught my first 31 years. I was "forced" to leave for my final two years when they closed Magee.
We met at Richard's Chicken on Rollins Road which has been there since at least 1977. Great food and I live their Richard's omelet.
After some shopping, i went to the new Magee Middle School as it prepares to open next week. They were having sixth grade orientation and quite a few of the teachers I used to work with were there. This new building is something else. Had I still been teaching when it reopened, I would have done anything I had to to go back.
My whole team was told to go back. I would have gone even if that meant leaving my team. The district did a great job on the new building.
Afterwards, I went to the Round Lake Ace Hardware, which at one time was the largest Ace Hardware store in the US, and it probably still is. Unfortunately, the high prices and opening of a Home Depot and Menard's about five miles away has really hurt business. When we lived in Round Lake Beach, we went there often.
We live in RLB for 17 years.
A Real Trip Back. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: Was learning cursive really necessary.
She has been back at Magee Middle School in Round Lake where I taught my first 31 years. I was "forced" to leave for my final two years when they closed Magee.
We met at Richard's Chicken on Rollins Road which has been there since at least 1977. Great food and I live their Richard's omelet.
After some shopping, i went to the new Magee Middle School as it prepares to open next week. They were having sixth grade orientation and quite a few of the teachers I used to work with were there. This new building is something else. Had I still been teaching when it reopened, I would have done anything I had to to go back.
My whole team was told to go back. I would have gone even if that meant leaving my team. The district did a great job on the new building.
Afterwards, I went to the Round Lake Ace Hardware, which at one time was the largest Ace Hardware store in the US, and it probably still is. Unfortunately, the high prices and opening of a Home Depot and Menard's about five miles away has really hurt business. When we lived in Round Lake Beach, we went there often.
We live in RLB for 17 years.
A Real Trip Back. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: Was learning cursive really necessary.
JSIS: D.B. Cooper-- This Bud's for You-- Dieting Can Make Your Brain Eat Itself
JSIS-- Just Some Interesting Stuff
1. D.B. Cooper-- D.B. Cooper's niece is cooperating with FBI and reports that the man survived his jump out of the plane with $200,000 cash back in 1971, died in 1991. his real name was Lynnj Doyle Cooper. About time she came forward.
2. THIS BUD'S FOR YOU-- Anheuser-Busch has a new can design for the nation's second best-selling beer (Bud Light is first). The old red, white and blue design has been replaced with a red, white and gold one.
3. DIETING CAN MAKE YOUR BRAIN EAT ITSELF-- I had to use the whole headline. It was just too good to pass up. A new report says that dieting can cause certain brain cells to eat bits of themselves.
So, Go Ahead and Eat That Big Mac Or Whopper. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: How in the world do you fold a fitted sheet?
From the August 4th and 5th Chicago Tribune.
1. D.B. Cooper-- D.B. Cooper's niece is cooperating with FBI and reports that the man survived his jump out of the plane with $200,000 cash back in 1971, died in 1991. his real name was Lynnj Doyle Cooper. About time she came forward.
2. THIS BUD'S FOR YOU-- Anheuser-Busch has a new can design for the nation's second best-selling beer (Bud Light is first). The old red, white and blue design has been replaced with a red, white and gold one.
3. DIETING CAN MAKE YOUR BRAIN EAT ITSELF-- I had to use the whole headline. It was just too good to pass up. A new report says that dieting can cause certain brain cells to eat bits of themselves.
So, Go Ahead and Eat That Big Mac Or Whopper. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: How in the world do you fold a fitted sheet?
From the August 4th and 5th Chicago Tribune.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
How to Enjoy the Local Area and Not Make BO Richer
These last three days, we stayed close to home again...but had a real good time doing it.
MONDAY, AUGUST 8th-- I got some boat floating in before the storms arrived in the afternoon. A boat float is good because we turn off the engine, float, read and listen to the radio. Saves gas and I sure enjoy it.
Met Sue and Paul returning from Sturgis in their RV and trailer pulling a motorcycle and had half-price pizza at the Dill Pickle in Spring Grove on US-12. I'd never had a reuben pizza before. I recommend it.
The 50 cent drafts at the Legion on Nippersink Lake.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 9th-- Boated with friends Kevin and Kelly over to the tiki bar at Electric Harbor on the east shore of Fox Lake for $2 cheeseburger and fries. Met a World War II veteran who served on LSTs, Landing Ship Tanks, or, as the vets called them, Large, Slow-Moving Targets. Some great stories. See my history blog at http://cootershistorything.blogspot.com.
With all this rain, the poor lawn tractor sure was doing some chugging.
Met friends at Fire Wood on Il-120 in McHenry for 50 cent drafts and 50 cent tacos. This is our Bears home for the Usual Suspects on Sunday afternoons. Bought the new Luke Bryan CD at Best Buy and had a few more at the Twisted Moose on Il-31.
Stayin' Home and Enjoyin' It. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: There is a great need for a sarcasm font.
MONDAY, AUGUST 8th-- I got some boat floating in before the storms arrived in the afternoon. A boat float is good because we turn off the engine, float, read and listen to the radio. Saves gas and I sure enjoy it.
Met Sue and Paul returning from Sturgis in their RV and trailer pulling a motorcycle and had half-price pizza at the Dill Pickle in Spring Grove on US-12. I'd never had a reuben pizza before. I recommend it.
The 50 cent drafts at the Legion on Nippersink Lake.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 9th-- Boated with friends Kevin and Kelly over to the tiki bar at Electric Harbor on the east shore of Fox Lake for $2 cheeseburger and fries. Met a World War II veteran who served on LSTs, Landing Ship Tanks, or, as the vets called them, Large, Slow-Moving Targets. Some great stories. See my history blog at http://cootershistorything.blogspot.com.
With all this rain, the poor lawn tractor sure was doing some chugging.
Met friends at Fire Wood on Il-120 in McHenry for 50 cent drafts and 50 cent tacos. This is our Bears home for the Usual Suspects on Sunday afternoons. Bought the new Luke Bryan CD at Best Buy and had a few more at the Twisted Moose on Il-31.
Stayin' Home and Enjoyin' It. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: There is a great need for a sarcasm font.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Things to Worry About at the Check-Out Line
From the July 17th Diamond Lil comic strip by Brett Koth.
I couldn't help but chuckle at this strip as it sums up my experiences waiting to pay for my purchases at stores.
Two guys are waiting in line with their carts.
FRAME 1 Man 2: Looking disgusted "Who is taking so long up there?
FRAME 2 Man 1: "Lillian Bilious. She can't find her discount card."
FRAME 3 Man 1: "...and she's pulling out coupons. A whole wad of them."
FRAME 4 Man 1: Every frame, man 2 looks madder and madder. Man 1: "She's handing them to the cashier one at a time..."
FRAME 5 Man 1: "Uh-oh." Man 2: "What?"
FRAME 6 Man 1: "She's going to write a check." Man 2: "AAAGGH!"
When I get up to the check out lines, its a gamble as to which line you get into. The longest is not always the fastest. You never know. And I especially hate it when someone, quite often me, has something with no price on it.
AAAGGH!! --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when i was younger.
My Feeling Exactly. --RoadDog
I couldn't help but chuckle at this strip as it sums up my experiences waiting to pay for my purchases at stores.
Two guys are waiting in line with their carts.
FRAME 1 Man 2: Looking disgusted "Who is taking so long up there?
FRAME 2 Man 1: "Lillian Bilious. She can't find her discount card."
FRAME 3 Man 1: "...and she's pulling out coupons. A whole wad of them."
FRAME 4 Man 1: Every frame, man 2 looks madder and madder. Man 1: "She's handing them to the cashier one at a time..."
FRAME 5 Man 1: "Uh-oh." Man 2: "What?"
FRAME 6 Man 1: "She's going to write a check." Man 2: "AAAGGH!"
When I get up to the check out lines, its a gamble as to which line you get into. The longest is not always the fastest. You never know. And I especially hate it when someone, quite often me, has something with no price on it.
AAAGGH!! --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when i was younger.
My Feeling Exactly. --RoadDog
It's Them, Not Me: Let's Call 'Em What They Really Are-- Gamblers, Not Investors
From the August 10th Chicago Tribune "Roller coaster turns up" by Don Lee and Tom Petruno.
"...on a day when Wall Street went on a wild ride....The central bank did its best to soothe jittery investors...."
We all know how the stock market has been going down and up tremendously the last week, dropping 674 points Monday and rebounding 430 yesterday.
And this because "investors" are worried about the economy.
Notice how I put the word "investors" in the sentence. Investors is not a correct term anymore. A more justifiable word would be "gamblers." These folk are doing no more than sitting at a poker table and "gambling" not only with their money, but even worse, with everyone's life and future in the country.
And, let's face it, they are gambling with our country's future. And all just to make a huge amount of money by producing nothing. And they don't have to worry if they mess up because the government will bail them out.
There was a time when investing meant you put your faith in a company's ability to grow and with that made a reasonable profit. Now "investors" put their money down not so much for the company but in the hopes that other "investors" will do so as well and huge profits will be realized.
Everything is in the short term, not the long haul.
Time has come to overhaul Wall Street significantly or even do away with it along with all commodities and futures.
A Bad Road We're Headed Down.
STILL NOT FUNNY.
"...on a day when Wall Street went on a wild ride....The central bank did its best to soothe jittery investors...."
We all know how the stock market has been going down and up tremendously the last week, dropping 674 points Monday and rebounding 430 yesterday.
And this because "investors" are worried about the economy.
Notice how I put the word "investors" in the sentence. Investors is not a correct term anymore. A more justifiable word would be "gamblers." These folk are doing no more than sitting at a poker table and "gambling" not only with their money, but even worse, with everyone's life and future in the country.
And, let's face it, they are gambling with our country's future. And all just to make a huge amount of money by producing nothing. And they don't have to worry if they mess up because the government will bail them out.
There was a time when investing meant you put your faith in a company's ability to grow and with that made a reasonable profit. Now "investors" put their money down not so much for the company but in the hopes that other "investors" will do so as well and huge profits will be realized.
Everything is in the short term, not the long haul.
Time has come to overhaul Wall Street significantly or even do away with it along with all commodities and futures.
A Bad Road We're Headed Down.
STILL NOT FUNNY.
It's Them, Not Me: Feds Keeping Interest Rates Low
Troubling stories on front page of today's Chicago Tribune about the country's economic woes what with the debt ceiling being raised, the nutty stock market, unemployment and all the other problems.
One statement from the Federal Reserve had their intention of keep short-term interest rates near zero for at least two more years. This will be great for the GRBs (corporations, investors and investment bankers) who got us into this mess through their greed.
Not so great for poor yokels like myself who do not "play" the stock market, spend beyond our means and rely on Certificates of Deposit for most of our investments.
The interest rates on CDs are a joke! Mostly less than 1%. If this keeps up, we'll have to start paying banks to keep our money.
The Time's Coming. --RoadDog
NOT FUNNY.
One statement from the Federal Reserve had their intention of keep short-term interest rates near zero for at least two more years. This will be great for the GRBs (corporations, investors and investment bankers) who got us into this mess through their greed.
Not so great for poor yokels like myself who do not "play" the stock market, spend beyond our means and rely on Certificates of Deposit for most of our investments.
The interest rates on CDs are a joke! Mostly less than 1%. If this keeps up, we'll have to start paying banks to keep our money.
The Time's Coming. --RoadDog
NOT FUNNY.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
On Obama and Boehner-- Part 2
ROUTE TO CONGRESS:
Obama-- Elected to Senate after Republican opponent was involved in sex scandal (the Jack Ryan divorce files). (Then there was Ryan's last name and the former governor.)
Roehner-- Elected to House after republican opponent was involved in a sex scandal (the Donald "Buzz" Lukens affair).
PARENTING:
Obama-- Father to two daughters.
Boehner-- Father to two daughters.
SMOKER:
Obama-- Former (In February, his wife said he quit last year.)
Boehner-- Current (He was spotted smoking last month but says he might quit someday.)
More To the Both of Them Than Meets the Eye. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: Nothing sucks more than the moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.
Obama-- Elected to Senate after Republican opponent was involved in sex scandal (the Jack Ryan divorce files). (Then there was Ryan's last name and the former governor.)
Roehner-- Elected to House after republican opponent was involved in a sex scandal (the Donald "Buzz" Lukens affair).
PARENTING:
Obama-- Father to two daughters.
Boehner-- Father to two daughters.
SMOKER:
Obama-- Former (In February, his wife said he quit last year.)
Boehner-- Current (He was spotted smoking last month but says he might quit someday.)
More To the Both of Them Than Meets the Eye. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTH: Nothing sucks more than the moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.
On Boehner and Obama-- Part 1
The July 27th Chicago Tribune had a funny comparison of House Speaker John Boehner and President Barack Obama as they squared off on the debt thing, comparing the two in seven areas.
SURNAME CHALLENGED:
Obama-- Even TV people have referred to him as Osama. (I have unintentionally done so several times. Some of my friends do it on purpose.)
Boehner-- Many pronounce his last name incorrectly the way it would appear to be with a silent 'h." Actually pronounced "BAY-ner."
SPORTS:
Obama-- Former high school athlete (basketball) who likes golf.
Boehner-- Former high school athlete (football) who likes golf.
DESCENT:
Obama-- Part Irish (all black according to his tax return).
Boehner-- Part Irish
PERSON OF COLOR:
Obama-- First African-American president. (No white parentage according to his tax return.)
Boehner-- Known for his deep tan. Obama once joked about him, "He's a person of color, although not a color that appears in the natural world." (Had a non-black said that, it would have been considered a racist remark.)
Some More Comparisons to Come. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history when you die.
SURNAME CHALLENGED:
Obama-- Even TV people have referred to him as Osama. (I have unintentionally done so several times. Some of my friends do it on purpose.)
Boehner-- Many pronounce his last name incorrectly the way it would appear to be with a silent 'h." Actually pronounced "BAY-ner."
SPORTS:
Obama-- Former high school athlete (basketball) who likes golf.
Boehner-- Former high school athlete (football) who likes golf.
DESCENT:
Obama-- Part Irish (all black according to his tax return).
Boehner-- Part Irish
PERSON OF COLOR:
Obama-- First African-American president. (No white parentage according to his tax return.)
Boehner-- Known for his deep tan. Obama once joked about him, "He's a person of color, although not a color that appears in the natural world." (Had a non-black said that, it would have been considered a racist remark.)
Some More Comparisons to Come. --RoadDog
UNIVERSAL TRUTHS: I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history when you die.
Monday, August 8, 2011
It's Them, Not Me: Shoulda Been Front Page
How come the only mention of Big Oil's second quarter profits that I saw was a small blurb on the third page of the Chicago Tribune.
Is there some sort of a conspiracy to keep it secret?
It should have been front page in huge headlines:
EXXON-MOBIL REAPS $10.7 BILLION PROFIT
And that's just for second quarter. And we know where they're getting the money from.
And now, they are working hard to keep our gas at these exorbitant prices.
No Fan of Big Oil. --RoadDog
Is there some sort of a conspiracy to keep it secret?
It should have been front page in huge headlines:
EXXON-MOBIL REAPS $10.7 BILLION PROFIT
And that's just for second quarter. And we know where they're getting the money from.
And now, they are working hard to keep our gas at these exorbitant prices.
No Fan of Big Oil. --RoadDog
JSS: MTV Redux-- Tried Not To-- Cuttin' Grass
JSS-- Just Some Stuff
1. MTV REDUX-- OK, I just spent some time watching some of the music videos from the first ten played by MTV on its first day, August 1, 1981. Unfortunately, all but three can't be viewed on the MTV RIP Music Blog by Shawn Amos, but I sure did enjpy the Buggles, Pretenders, Benatar and Rundgren clips. I want my OLD MTV back.
2. TRIED NOT TO-- I went to Walgreen's with the intention of getting some deoderant and the back-to-school sales GOT ME. And I had sworn not to buy anything this year. Oh, well. Not to Be.
The 9 cent highlighters and 5 memo books for a buck overcame me.
3. CUTTIN' GRASS-- I was getting used to not cutting the grass with the mini drought we had in late June and early July. Then, we went from one of the driest Julys to the wettest in a week and a half. Now, I have to cut the stuff every four or five days. That just makes those GRBs at Big Oil richer. I really hate that.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
THE LAST GROANER UNTIL I FIND SOME OTHERS: How are a Texas tornado and an Alabama divorce the same? Somebody's gonna lose a trailer.
Hey, I'm Southron! I'd be offended but am laughing too hard.
1. MTV REDUX-- OK, I just spent some time watching some of the music videos from the first ten played by MTV on its first day, August 1, 1981. Unfortunately, all but three can't be viewed on the MTV RIP Music Blog by Shawn Amos, but I sure did enjpy the Buggles, Pretenders, Benatar and Rundgren clips. I want my OLD MTV back.
2. TRIED NOT TO-- I went to Walgreen's with the intention of getting some deoderant and the back-to-school sales GOT ME. And I had sworn not to buy anything this year. Oh, well. Not to Be.
The 9 cent highlighters and 5 memo books for a buck overcame me.
3. CUTTIN' GRASS-- I was getting used to not cutting the grass with the mini drought we had in late June and early July. Then, we went from one of the driest Julys to the wettest in a week and a half. Now, I have to cut the stuff every four or five days. That just makes those GRBs at Big Oil richer. I really hate that.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
THE LAST GROANER UNTIL I FIND SOME OTHERS: How are a Texas tornado and an Alabama divorce the same? Somebody's gonna lose a trailer.
Hey, I'm Southron! I'd be offended but am laughing too hard.
And, the Date Was August 1, 1981: Debut of MTV
Last Monday marked the 30th anniversary of MTV, that great source of music videos that was sort of a touchstone of the eighties for many folks, including me when we finally got around to getting cable TV in 1982 (that's when cable came to Round Lake, Illinois).
I immediately liked MTV and watched it a whole lot. I kept thinking that this would have been a great thing to have back in the 60s and 70s, when you only rarely had the opportunity to see your favorite performers.
Imagine being able to see them 24-hours-a-day!!!
I came across an article dated August 2, 2011 in Music Blogs by Shawn Amos. He listed the first ten videos played by the station and had a place where you could see those videos.
In case you're wondering what they are:
1. VIDEO KILLED THE RADIO STAR-- Buggles
2. YOU BETTER RUN-- Pat Benatar
3. SHE WON'T DANCE-- Rod Stewart
4. YOU BETTER YOU BET-- Who
5. LITTLE SUZI'S ON THE UP-- Ph.D
6. WE DON'T TALK ANYMORE-- Cliff Richard
7. BRASS IN POCKET-- Pretenders
8. TIME HEALS-- Todd Rundgren
9. TAKE IT ON THE RUN-- REO Speedwagon
10. ROCKIN' THE PARADISE-- Styx
Then, of course, we had that Dire Straits song and the Old Beav and Butt Show.
I Want My "OLD" MTV Back!!! --RoaadDog
GROANER: What's the difference between a bad golfer and a bad skydiver? A bad golfer goes Whack, DANG! A bad skydiver goes Dang, Whack!!
That was bad.
I immediately liked MTV and watched it a whole lot. I kept thinking that this would have been a great thing to have back in the 60s and 70s, when you only rarely had the opportunity to see your favorite performers.
Imagine being able to see them 24-hours-a-day!!!
I came across an article dated August 2, 2011 in Music Blogs by Shawn Amos. He listed the first ten videos played by the station and had a place where you could see those videos.
In case you're wondering what they are:
1. VIDEO KILLED THE RADIO STAR-- Buggles
2. YOU BETTER RUN-- Pat Benatar
3. SHE WON'T DANCE-- Rod Stewart
4. YOU BETTER YOU BET-- Who
5. LITTLE SUZI'S ON THE UP-- Ph.D
6. WE DON'T TALK ANYMORE-- Cliff Richard
7. BRASS IN POCKET-- Pretenders
8. TIME HEALS-- Todd Rundgren
9. TAKE IT ON THE RUN-- REO Speedwagon
10. ROCKIN' THE PARADISE-- Styx
Then, of course, we had that Dire Straits song and the Old Beav and Butt Show.
I Want My "OLD" MTV Back!!! --RoaadDog
GROANER: What's the difference between a bad golfer and a bad skydiver? A bad golfer goes Whack, DANG! A bad skydiver goes Dang, Whack!!
That was bad.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
A Weekend Planner
THURSDAY: Went boating, saw a bald eagle, finished the Chain Crawl bars, had great 25 cent wings and shrimp at the Lodge in Antioch and saw the band Class of '68. They played you-know-what.
FRIDAY: We had great breakfasts at the Dill Pickle in Spring Grove. I especially like their Mediterranean omelet with mushrooms, feta cheese and spinach.
Worked in the yard and met the Usual Suspects at Gasoline Alley on Grasslake with that view of the lake, Blarney Ripoff and buck bottles. Ran into Tony and Madeline there who used to own the Whitetail bar and restaurant on US-12 in Fox Lake.
I tried to have a Fire on the Strand, but the mosquitoes were ravenous.
TODAY: Would like to go boating, but overcast and it rained last night and is supposed to rain some more.
Lake Villa is having their town festival complete with water fights, food and music. Captain's Quarters has a band starting at 7 pm. Fox Lake is having Venetian Night with decorated boats, a block party and fireworks.
SUNDAY: Rain predicted, but would like to go boating. The band Cover Story playing at Captain's.
Staying Home More and Enjoying It. --RoadDog
GROANER: This one is R-E-A-L Bad. What kind of coffee was served on the Titanic? Are you ready? Sanka.
FRIDAY: We had great breakfasts at the Dill Pickle in Spring Grove. I especially like their Mediterranean omelet with mushrooms, feta cheese and spinach.
Worked in the yard and met the Usual Suspects at Gasoline Alley on Grasslake with that view of the lake, Blarney Ripoff and buck bottles. Ran into Tony and Madeline there who used to own the Whitetail bar and restaurant on US-12 in Fox Lake.
I tried to have a Fire on the Strand, but the mosquitoes were ravenous.
TODAY: Would like to go boating, but overcast and it rained last night and is supposed to rain some more.
Lake Villa is having their town festival complete with water fights, food and music. Captain's Quarters has a band starting at 7 pm. Fox Lake is having Venetian Night with decorated boats, a block party and fireworks.
SUNDAY: Rain predicted, but would like to go boating. The band Cover Story playing at Captain's.
Staying Home More and Enjoying It. --RoadDog
GROANER: This one is R-E-A-L Bad. What kind of coffee was served on the Titanic? Are you ready? Sanka.
If I Went, I Would See...
If I were to go to that Lollapalooza thing in Grant Park, I would have to see these groups based on their names. If I like a particular group name, I will make an effort to see them.
FRIDAY:
Grace Potter & the Nocturnals
TAB the band
Mountain Goats
Ratatat
Big Bang Boom
Feed Me
The Bloody Beetroots Death Crew 77
The Naked and Famous
SATURDAY:
Death from Above 1979
My Morning Jacket
J Roddy Walston and The Business
Deftones
Maps & Atlases (Hey, I taught georgraphy for 33 years.)
The Chain Gang of 1974
The Pretty Wreckless
Chuckle
The Glitch Mob
Walk the Moon
Fitz & The Tantrums
SUNDAY:
Noah & The Whale
Deadmaus5
Gold Motel
Rival Schools
Cage the Elephant
Dale Earnhart Jr. Jr.
The Pains of Being Pure at Heart
Ryan Bingham & The Dead Horses
With names like this, you've just got to check them out.
Like Lolla You. --RoadDog
GROANER: Why don't blind people like to sky dive? Because it scares the dog.
FRIDAY:
Grace Potter & the Nocturnals
TAB the band
Mountain Goats
Ratatat
Big Bang Boom
Feed Me
The Bloody Beetroots Death Crew 77
The Naked and Famous
SATURDAY:
Death from Above 1979
My Morning Jacket
J Roddy Walston and The Business
Deftones
Maps & Atlases (Hey, I taught georgraphy for 33 years.)
The Chain Gang of 1974
The Pretty Wreckless
Chuckle
The Glitch Mob
Walk the Moon
Fitz & The Tantrums
SUNDAY:
Noah & The Whale
Deadmaus5
Gold Motel
Rival Schools
Cage the Elephant
Dale Earnhart Jr. Jr.
The Pains of Being Pure at Heart
Ryan Bingham & The Dead Horses
With names like this, you've just got to check them out.
Like Lolla You. --RoadDog
GROANER: Why don't blind people like to sky dive? Because it scares the dog.
I Ain't Lollapalooza No More
I reckon when you hit 60, you get to the point you lose your connection to rock and music a little. I certainly have. I even gave up my subscription to Rolling Stone Magazine more years ago than I can remember.
This weekend, starting yesterday, Lollapalooza is playing in Chicago's Grant Park. I'm not going. Never have gone. Doubt that I ever will.
Yesterday, the Chicago Tribune ran a list of all acts. I hadn't heard of most of them.
Here is a list of groups I've even ever heard of:
FRIDAY:
Coldplay-- Rock still lives.
SATURDAY:
Cee Lo Green-- How can you miss that song you hear all over the place, "Forget You' or is it "F___ You?"
Eminem-- I even have one of his CDs.
Big Audio Dynamite
SUNDAY:
Flogging Molly-- I've really gotten to like this group and have about four of their CDs.
The Cars-- Why not?
Arctic Monkeys-- I've heard of one of their songs.
Foo Fighters-- Good music, good name.
So, that's seven performers out of more than 130.
Guess I'm Slipping. --RoadDog
GROANER: Why do gorillas have big nostrils? Because they have big fingers. (And, you're suggesting...?)
This weekend, starting yesterday, Lollapalooza is playing in Chicago's Grant Park. I'm not going. Never have gone. Doubt that I ever will.
Yesterday, the Chicago Tribune ran a list of all acts. I hadn't heard of most of them.
Here is a list of groups I've even ever heard of:
FRIDAY:
Coldplay-- Rock still lives.
SATURDAY:
Cee Lo Green-- How can you miss that song you hear all over the place, "Forget You' or is it "F___ You?"
Eminem-- I even have one of his CDs.
Big Audio Dynamite
SUNDAY:
Flogging Molly-- I've really gotten to like this group and have about four of their CDs.
The Cars-- Why not?
Arctic Monkeys-- I've heard of one of their songs.
Foo Fighters-- Good music, good name.
So, that's seven performers out of more than 130.
Guess I'm Slipping. --RoadDog
GROANER: Why do gorillas have big nostrils? Because they have big fingers. (And, you're suggesting...?)
Friday, August 5, 2011
What Were You Doing July 31, 1971?-- Part 1
This past Sunday, Bob Stroud did part 3 of his annual salute to summer forty years ago on his Rock and Roll Roots show on WDRV in Chicago. He almost slipped it by me as I was expecting it this coming weekend, but we had those five Sundays this past month.
Again, these songs REALLY took me back, and that summer I was going through one of the roughest and hardest times of my life in the form of the United States Marine Corps. Since it didn't appear that the Vietnam War was EVER going to end, it started when I was in junior high and was still going strong as I was preparing to be a junior at the University of Georgia, I had decided that I might as well beat Uncle Sam to it and sign up to be an officer before I got drafted when I graduated. My draft lottery number was 22 and I was definitely going to Vietnam, regardless.
I was against the war because I thought we weren't trying to win it. And I had no intention to go to jail or leave the country and that war just was NOT GOING TO END.
As such, I signed up for the Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Class. I was to go to six weeks basic training between sophomore and junior years and then another six weeks the following summer. Upon college graduation, I would be commissioned a second lieutenant, go to six months of training and then to Vietnam.
I figured if I was going, I might as well go as an officer.
Six Fun-Filled Weeks at Q-Town Coming Up next. --RoadDog
GROANER: Where do you find a dog with no legs? Right where you left him.
Again, these songs REALLY took me back, and that summer I was going through one of the roughest and hardest times of my life in the form of the United States Marine Corps. Since it didn't appear that the Vietnam War was EVER going to end, it started when I was in junior high and was still going strong as I was preparing to be a junior at the University of Georgia, I had decided that I might as well beat Uncle Sam to it and sign up to be an officer before I got drafted when I graduated. My draft lottery number was 22 and I was definitely going to Vietnam, regardless.
I was against the war because I thought we weren't trying to win it. And I had no intention to go to jail or leave the country and that war just was NOT GOING TO END.
As such, I signed up for the Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Class. I was to go to six weeks basic training between sophomore and junior years and then another six weeks the following summer. Upon college graduation, I would be commissioned a second lieutenant, go to six months of training and then to Vietnam.
I figured if I was going, I might as well go as an officer.
Six Fun-Filled Weeks at Q-Town Coming Up next. --RoadDog
GROANER: Where do you find a dog with no legs? Right where you left him.
When the Comics Play My Life
Enjoyed the July 27th Blondie comic strip.
Blondie and Dagwood are in bed and they are reading books.
FRAME 1-- Dagwood: "This is the most exciting book I've seen in years."
Blondie: "Really...?"
FRAME 2-- Blondie: "Three nights in a row you've fallen asleep before you've turned the first page."
FRAME 3-- Dagwood: "Yes, that's true...but I read the blurbs on the back cover."
If there is a way to get me to fall asleep faster than to crack open a book I sure would like to know it. I've been reading a book on the Beatles' 100 Greatest songs for several months now.
I'm also falling asleep through an interesting book about the USS Bunker Hill and the Kamikaze pilot who crashed into it.
I usually make it through one song (usually 2-3 pages), before it's bedtime for Bonzo.
Both are really good books. But, I just can't stay awake.
Nighty-Night. --RoadDog
GROANER: What's the difference between roast beef and pea soup? Anyone can roast beef. (Took me awhile to get this one...I think.)
Blondie and Dagwood are in bed and they are reading books.
FRAME 1-- Dagwood: "This is the most exciting book I've seen in years."
Blondie: "Really...?"
FRAME 2-- Blondie: "Three nights in a row you've fallen asleep before you've turned the first page."
FRAME 3-- Dagwood: "Yes, that's true...but I read the blurbs on the back cover."
If there is a way to get me to fall asleep faster than to crack open a book I sure would like to know it. I've been reading a book on the Beatles' 100 Greatest songs for several months now.
I'm also falling asleep through an interesting book about the USS Bunker Hill and the Kamikaze pilot who crashed into it.
I usually make it through one song (usually 2-3 pages), before it's bedtime for Bonzo.
Both are really good books. But, I just can't stay awake.
Nighty-Night. --RoadDog
GROANER: What's the difference between roast beef and pea soup? Anyone can roast beef. (Took me awhile to get this one...I think.)
As the Sox Skid Hits Six
About seven days ago, I was thinking maybe the White Sox had finally turned the corner and would make a run at first in the sorry AL Central when they had finally gotten back to .500 and had gotten rid of one of their four overpaid, lousy players, Teahan.
They had just beaten the Red Sox, a good team. Then the Red Sox won the next two and another good team, the Yankees came in and swept four games. Now, the Sox go on the road for a quick three more losses to the Sox-killer Twins, a team the Sox just can't find many ways to beat.
And, we still have three essentially worthless players getting paid big bucks to play poorly: Rios, Peavey and worst of all, Dunn. Time to just eat their enormous salaries, sit them down and bring up rookies and prepare for next year.
Also time to re-evaluate General Manager Williams who brought in these four under performers.
Well, At Least the Cubs Have Started to Play Baseball. --RoadDog
GROANER: The White Sox
They had just beaten the Red Sox, a good team. Then the Red Sox won the next two and another good team, the Yankees came in and swept four games. Now, the Sox go on the road for a quick three more losses to the Sox-killer Twins, a team the Sox just can't find many ways to beat.
And, we still have three essentially worthless players getting paid big bucks to play poorly: Rios, Peavey and worst of all, Dunn. Time to just eat their enormous salaries, sit them down and bring up rookies and prepare for next year.
Also time to re-evaluate General Manager Williams who brought in these four under performers.
Well, At Least the Cubs Have Started to Play Baseball. --RoadDog
GROANER: The White Sox
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Goodbye Amy Winehouse
September 14, 1983-July 23, 2011.
We hardly got to know her, but I did buy her Back to Black CD which I am listening to right now. I first became aware of her a few years back and then saw two of her performances and, wow, they took me right back to soul music back in the 60s and 70s. She was retro with a new sound.
I especially liked "Rehab," "You Know I'm No Good," "Back to Black" which really reminds me of the Supremes and "Tears Dry on Their Own."
She was known for her mix of musical genres of R&B, soul and jazz. But, unfortunately had huge drug and alcohol problems as well as self-destructive behavior. I see now that there is thought that she died from quitting alcohol. That would be great irony.
She died at age 27 and joins that list of Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin of ones we lost way too young.
Too bad. I Would Have Liked to See What She Was Capable Of.
We hardly got to know her, but I did buy her Back to Black CD which I am listening to right now. I first became aware of her a few years back and then saw two of her performances and, wow, they took me right back to soul music back in the 60s and 70s. She was retro with a new sound.
I especially liked "Rehab," "You Know I'm No Good," "Back to Black" which really reminds me of the Supremes and "Tears Dry on Their Own."
She was known for her mix of musical genres of R&B, soul and jazz. But, unfortunately had huge drug and alcohol problems as well as self-destructive behavior. I see now that there is thought that she died from quitting alcohol. That would be great irony.
She died at age 27 and joins that list of Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin of ones we lost way too young.
Too bad. I Would Have Liked to See What She Was Capable Of.
Paul McCartney's Playlist: Wrigley Field July 31st-- Part 2
11. The Long and Winding Road-- B
12. Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five-- W
13. Let 'Em In-- W
14. Maybe I'm Amazed
15. I've Just seen a Face-- B
16. I Will-- B
17. Bluebird-- B
18. here Today-- *
19. Dance Tonight-- *
20. Mrs. Vanderbilt-- W *
21. Eleanor Rigby-- B
22. Something-- B
23. Band on the Run-- W
24. Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da-- B
25. Back in the USSR-- B
26. I've Got a Feeling-- B
27. A Day in the Life-- B
28. Give Peace a Chance-- John Lennon
29. Let It Be-- B
30. Live and Let Die-- W
31. Hey Jude-- B
ENCORE
32. Lady Madonna-- B
33. Daytripper-- B
34. Get Back-- B
SECOND ENCORE
35. Yestreday-- B
36. Helter Skelter-- B
37. Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight/The End-- B
Quite a Show!! --RoadDog
GROANER: What lies at the bottom of the ocean and twitches? A nervous wreck.
12. Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five-- W
13. Let 'Em In-- W
14. Maybe I'm Amazed
15. I've Just seen a Face-- B
16. I Will-- B
17. Bluebird-- B
18. here Today-- *
19. Dance Tonight-- *
20. Mrs. Vanderbilt-- W *
21. Eleanor Rigby-- B
22. Something-- B
23. Band on the Run-- W
24. Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da-- B
25. Back in the USSR-- B
26. I've Got a Feeling-- B
27. A Day in the Life-- B
28. Give Peace a Chance-- John Lennon
29. Let It Be-- B
30. Live and Let Die-- W
31. Hey Jude-- B
ENCORE
32. Lady Madonna-- B
33. Daytripper-- B
34. Get Back-- B
SECOND ENCORE
35. Yestreday-- B
36. Helter Skelter-- B
37. Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight/The End-- B
Quite a Show!! --RoadDog
GROANER: What lies at the bottom of the ocean and twitches? A nervous wreck.
Paul McCartney's Playlist: Wrigley Field July 31st-- Part 1
You know me and how I can't resist lists. From the August 1st Chicago tribune.
The high ticket prices and the fact it was in rip-off city, Chicago, kept us from going. Plus, the last time I saw him on SNL, his voice was horrible. Yesterday, I talked with a friend who went who said his voice was great. After looking at these songs, I'd have to say perhaps we should have forked over the dough. This is a nice slice of musical history.
The letter "B" means Beatle song. "W" means Wings. An asterisk (*) means a song I'm not familiar with.
1. Hello, Goodbye-- B
2. Junior's Farm-- W
3. All My Loving-- B
4. Jet-- W
5. Drive My Car-- B
6. Sing the Changes-- Fireman *
7. The Night Before-- B
8. Let Me Roll It-- W *
9. Foxy Lady-- Jimi Hendrix
10. Paperback Writer-- B
More to Come. --RoadDog
GROANER: What do you get when you cross a snowman with a vampire? Frostbite.
The high ticket prices and the fact it was in rip-off city, Chicago, kept us from going. Plus, the last time I saw him on SNL, his voice was horrible. Yesterday, I talked with a friend who went who said his voice was great. After looking at these songs, I'd have to say perhaps we should have forked over the dough. This is a nice slice of musical history.
The letter "B" means Beatle song. "W" means Wings. An asterisk (*) means a song I'm not familiar with.
1. Hello, Goodbye-- B
2. Junior's Farm-- W
3. All My Loving-- B
4. Jet-- W
5. Drive My Car-- B
6. Sing the Changes-- Fireman *
7. The Night Before-- B
8. Let Me Roll It-- W *
9. Foxy Lady-- Jimi Hendrix
10. Paperback Writer-- B
More to Come. --RoadDog
GROANER: What do you get when you cross a snowman with a vampire? Frostbite.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
JSIS: Bees and Butterflies-- Trees That Take Heat
JSIS-- Just Some Interesting Stuff.
1. BEES AND BUTTERFLIES-- The July 31st Chicago tribune had an article "Giving native pollinators a fighting chance" by Kathy Van Mullekom. There is a new book out about protecting butterflies and bees.
Across the world there is much worry about the huge drops in both populations, a bad indicator as to the health of planet Earth. The book suggests planting lots and lots of flowers, which I do. Also use as many native species as possible, which I also do.
And, I have lots of both, including a lot of the fattest bumblebees ever.
2. TREES THAT TAKE HEAT-- The July 31st Chicago Tribune had a short article on trees that can take summer heat. Two of them were cottoneaster and honey locusts due to small leaves. I have both plants in my yard. Probably five cottoneasters and four honey locusts (two skyliner and two sunbursts).
They definitely handle heat and drought well. My trees that don't handle it well are the river birch and paper birch which I keep watered during droughts.
Taking car Out in the Garden. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do you get from pampered cows? Spoiled milk. (I get plenty of that by taking too long to drink it.)
1. BEES AND BUTTERFLIES-- The July 31st Chicago tribune had an article "Giving native pollinators a fighting chance" by Kathy Van Mullekom. There is a new book out about protecting butterflies and bees.
Across the world there is much worry about the huge drops in both populations, a bad indicator as to the health of planet Earth. The book suggests planting lots and lots of flowers, which I do. Also use as many native species as possible, which I also do.
And, I have lots of both, including a lot of the fattest bumblebees ever.
2. TREES THAT TAKE HEAT-- The July 31st Chicago Tribune had a short article on trees that can take summer heat. Two of them were cottoneaster and honey locusts due to small leaves. I have both plants in my yard. Probably five cottoneasters and four honey locusts (two skyliner and two sunbursts).
They definitely handle heat and drought well. My trees that don't handle it well are the river birch and paper birch which I keep watered during droughts.
Taking car Out in the Garden. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do you get from pampered cows? Spoiled milk. (I get plenty of that by taking too long to drink it.)
Every Bloomin' THing: Early August
The poor crabapple trees are fast losing their leaves for a second summer in a row because of all the rain in the spring. Japanese beetles nowhere near as bad as in the past. However, the crabgrass is having a bumper crop.
More rain last night in a storm, but no trees are limbs down.
The yard a mass of yellow as the blackeyed susans take center stage and there are a lot of them. Also blooming: purple coneflowers, mums, daylillies, coreopsis, gladifora, blue salvia, hostas, yarrow and some kind of a tall yellow flower.
The yard is a blaze of color from one end to the other.
Hey, i Like It. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do you call four bullfighters in quicksand? Quatro Cinco. (I don't get it.)
More rain last night in a storm, but no trees are limbs down.
The yard a mass of yellow as the blackeyed susans take center stage and there are a lot of them. Also blooming: purple coneflowers, mums, daylillies, coreopsis, gladifora, blue salvia, hostas, yarrow and some kind of a tall yellow flower.
The yard is a blaze of color from one end to the other.
Hey, i Like It. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do you call four bullfighters in quicksand? Quatro Cinco. (I don't get it.)
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
How to Beat Blooming Big Oil, Well Maybe
Good ol' Exxon-Mobil posted a $10.7 billion profit for the second quarter and I sure believe them when they say it has nothing to do with these real high gas prices.
One way to flip them the bird is to stay close to home and drive as little as possible. We've been doing just that with our last major vacation being the end of April, early May.
Of course, having a boat and the great Chain of Lakes close by doesn't hurt either.
The last several days:
THURSDAY, JULY 28TH-- Cubs-Brewers game in Milwaukee.
FRIDAY, JULY 29TH-- Boating to dinner at Captain's Quarters (full slab ribs for $10), saw the eagles, Hidden Point Bar and El Puerto Mexican restaurant and bar.
SATURDAY, JULY 30TH-- Boating for breakfast at McDonald's. Steitz's bar, Port of Blarney bar, Terry Spizzeri playing music inside, Captain's Quarters and Chicago Rev Up band.
SUNDAY, JULY 31ST-- Thirsty Turtle bar, Choppers bar, Steve's bar, Captain's Quarters, R Gang band.
MONDAY, AUGUST 1ST-- 92-East bar, boating, Blarney Island bar, Mineola bar, American Legion.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 2ND-- Granny's Diner, Donovan's Reef bar.
Stayin' Home and Enjoying It. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do you call Santa's helpers? Sunordinate Clauses.
One way to flip them the bird is to stay close to home and drive as little as possible. We've been doing just that with our last major vacation being the end of April, early May.
Of course, having a boat and the great Chain of Lakes close by doesn't hurt either.
The last several days:
THURSDAY, JULY 28TH-- Cubs-Brewers game in Milwaukee.
FRIDAY, JULY 29TH-- Boating to dinner at Captain's Quarters (full slab ribs for $10), saw the eagles, Hidden Point Bar and El Puerto Mexican restaurant and bar.
SATURDAY, JULY 30TH-- Boating for breakfast at McDonald's. Steitz's bar, Port of Blarney bar, Terry Spizzeri playing music inside, Captain's Quarters and Chicago Rev Up band.
SUNDAY, JULY 31ST-- Thirsty Turtle bar, Choppers bar, Steve's bar, Captain's Quarters, R Gang band.
MONDAY, AUGUST 1ST-- 92-East bar, boating, Blarney Island bar, Mineola bar, American Legion.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 2ND-- Granny's Diner, Donovan's Reef bar.
Stayin' Home and Enjoying It. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do you call Santa's helpers? Sunordinate Clauses.
Another Storm and Beat-Down Heat
I'm beginning to think Uncle Al Gore has something with all this global warming stuff. we have certainly been having some bad weather this summer.
First, winter lingered well into spring and it wasn't until July that the weather got nice. Then, we had a drought, a "derecho," and then massive amounts of rains. What started out as one of the driest Julys on record, ended up as the wettest.
We even lost a small tree to the derecho.
Then, we had a stretch of five days with some of the hottest periods ever. For the last seven days, it got hot again with days over 90 degrees and humidity at 90+%. I can handle hot and humidity as long as we have a breeze and that was a big problem. We are at one of the highest places in Illinois and usually always have a wind, but not now.
We just had a mean little storm pass through. We were "forced" to remain at Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, (too hot to go boating) and have another round. Looks like we'll be having different rounds of storms coming through the rest of the night.
About Time to Get Squared Away. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do you call cheese that isn't yours? Nacho cheese.
First, winter lingered well into spring and it wasn't until July that the weather got nice. Then, we had a drought, a "derecho," and then massive amounts of rains. What started out as one of the driest Julys on record, ended up as the wettest.
We even lost a small tree to the derecho.
Then, we had a stretch of five days with some of the hottest periods ever. For the last seven days, it got hot again with days over 90 degrees and humidity at 90+%. I can handle hot and humidity as long as we have a breeze and that was a big problem. We are at one of the highest places in Illinois and usually always have a wind, but not now.
We just had a mean little storm pass through. We were "forced" to remain at Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, (too hot to go boating) and have another round. Looks like we'll be having different rounds of storms coming through the rest of the night.
About Time to Get Squared Away. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do you call cheese that isn't yours? Nacho cheese.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Number One Songs This Date: August 1, 2011-- Part 2
Some More #1s:
1970 (THEY LONG TO BE) CLOSE TO YOU-- Carpenters
1969 IN THE YEAR 2525 (EXORDIUM & TERMINUS)-- Zager & Evans-- (Never knew about the parentheses.)
1968 HELLO, I LOVE YOU-- Doors-- (Always reminds me of Honey Hill in Wauconda, Illinois, where the night crew at Burger King in Palatine would go every afternoon.)
1967 LIGHT MY FIRE-- Doors-- (First of two years straight with a #1 this date.)
1966 WILD THING-- Troggs-- ("You make my heart sing!")
1965 I'M HENRY VIII-- Herman's Hermits
1964 A HARD DAY'S NIGHT-- Beatles-- (From the movie of the same name.)
1963 SO MUCH IN LOVE-- Tymes-- (Great Beach Music!)
1962 ROSES ARE RED-- Bobby Vinton
1961 TOSSIN' AND TURNIN'-- Bobby Lewis
1960 I'M SORRY-- Brenda Lee
1951 COME ON-A MY HOUSE-- Rosemary Clooney
1941 DADDY-- Sammy Kaye-- (Swing and Sway with Sammy Kaye.)
1931 AT YOUR COMMAND-- Bing Crosby
1921 CHERIE-- Paul Whiteman
1911 I'M FALLING IN LOVE WITH SOMEONE-- John McCormack
1901 "JIM LAWSON'S HORSE TRADE WITH DEACON WITHERSPOON"-- Cal Stewart-- (Hunh?)
I Boppa Yer head You Come On-A My House. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do you call a boomerang that doesn't work? A stick.
1970 (THEY LONG TO BE) CLOSE TO YOU-- Carpenters
1969 IN THE YEAR 2525 (EXORDIUM & TERMINUS)-- Zager & Evans-- (Never knew about the parentheses.)
1968 HELLO, I LOVE YOU-- Doors-- (Always reminds me of Honey Hill in Wauconda, Illinois, where the night crew at Burger King in Palatine would go every afternoon.)
1967 LIGHT MY FIRE-- Doors-- (First of two years straight with a #1 this date.)
1966 WILD THING-- Troggs-- ("You make my heart sing!")
1965 I'M HENRY VIII-- Herman's Hermits
1964 A HARD DAY'S NIGHT-- Beatles-- (From the movie of the same name.)
1963 SO MUCH IN LOVE-- Tymes-- (Great Beach Music!)
1962 ROSES ARE RED-- Bobby Vinton
1961 TOSSIN' AND TURNIN'-- Bobby Lewis
1960 I'M SORRY-- Brenda Lee
1951 COME ON-A MY HOUSE-- Rosemary Clooney
1941 DADDY-- Sammy Kaye-- (Swing and Sway with Sammy Kaye.)
1931 AT YOUR COMMAND-- Bing Crosby
1921 CHERIE-- Paul Whiteman
1911 I'M FALLING IN LOVE WITH SOMEONE-- John McCormack
1901 "JIM LAWSON'S HORSE TRADE WITH DEACON WITHERSPOON"-- Cal Stewart-- (Hunh?)
I Boppa Yer head You Come On-A My House. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do you call a boomerang that doesn't work? A stick.
Number One Songs This Date: August 1, 2011-- Part 1
OK, it's the first of the month, time to take a look back at the Number One Songs This Date going back to 1901, 110 years ago.
Thanks to Josh Hosler at www.joshhosler.biz/NumberOneinHistory/SelectMinth.htm.
2011 PARTY ROCK ANTHEM-- LMFAO (Hunh?)
2001 BOOTYLICIOUS-- Destiny's Child
1991 (EVERYTHING I DO) I DO FOR YOU-- Bryan Adams
1881 JESSIE'S GIRL-- Rick Springfield (not Springsteen)
1980 MAGIC-- Olivia Newton-John
1979 BAD GIRLS-- Donna Summer
1978 MISS YOU-- Rolling Stones
1977 I JUST WANT TO BE YOUR EVERYTHING-- Andy Gibb
1976 DON'T GO BREAKING MY HEART-- Elton John & Kiki Dee
1975 ONE OF THESE NIGHTS-- Eagles
1974 ANNIE'S SONG-- John Denver
1973 THE MORNING AFTER-- Maureen McGovern (Ever get a sinking feeling?)
1972 ALONE AGAIN (NATURALLY)-- Gilbert O'Sullivan
1971 HOW CAN I MEND A BROKEN HEART-- Bee Gees
I Remember 1991 to the Bottom. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do Eskimos get from sitting on the ice too long? Polaroids.
Thanks to Josh Hosler at www.joshhosler.biz/NumberOneinHistory/SelectMinth.htm.
2011 PARTY ROCK ANTHEM-- LMFAO (Hunh?)
2001 BOOTYLICIOUS-- Destiny's Child
1991 (EVERYTHING I DO) I DO FOR YOU-- Bryan Adams
1881 JESSIE'S GIRL-- Rick Springfield (not Springsteen)
1980 MAGIC-- Olivia Newton-John
1979 BAD GIRLS-- Donna Summer
1978 MISS YOU-- Rolling Stones
1977 I JUST WANT TO BE YOUR EVERYTHING-- Andy Gibb
1976 DON'T GO BREAKING MY HEART-- Elton John & Kiki Dee
1975 ONE OF THESE NIGHTS-- Eagles
1974 ANNIE'S SONG-- John Denver
1973 THE MORNING AFTER-- Maureen McGovern (Ever get a sinking feeling?)
1972 ALONE AGAIN (NATURALLY)-- Gilbert O'Sullivan
1971 HOW CAN I MEND A BROKEN HEART-- Bee Gees
I Remember 1991 to the Bottom. --RoadDog
GROANERS: What do Eskimos get from sitting on the ice too long? Polaroids.
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