Things That Really Burn My Butt.
1. LIGHTHOUSE-- The Chicago Harbor Lighthouse is to be transferred from the Coast Guard to the city. It was built in 1893, just in time for the Columbian Exposition. No doubt, Da Mayor will find a way to tax it, lease it, or sell the naming rights. How about the Light of Blago?
2. REAL LIFE "CHEERS"-- Boston's real life "Cheers" bartender, Eddie Doyle,66, of the Bull & Finch has become one of the latest victims of the economy's downturn thanks to all those wonderful GRBs. He worked there for 35 years. After the show's success in 1982, as many as 5,000 customers would visit a day. What would Norm and Cliff say?
3. TCF-CEO-- The TCF bank has returned the $361 million it received in bail out from the government saying it didn't really need it and don't want the additional rules and regulations that accompany it.
Their CEO, Bill Cooper said, "We never engaged in any shady things" referring to other banks. They never did any sub-prime lending either. He said he doesn't take a salary or bonuses.
Could this be a CEO we can respect?
Don't Look Back, They May Be Gaining. --RoadDog
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.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
JSS: TNW-- Ouch!!-- Cassettes-- Good Buddies
JSS-- Just Some Stuff
1. TNW-- Typical Nasty Weather-- After that great Friday we had (and even the two days before it), the weather has been pretty rotten around here. It rained hard all weekend, causing some pretty serious flooding. I even saw water rushing along the neighborhood ditches, a rare instance around here.
Then Monday was sunny, but in the low 40s. Then, it was rain and mighty thick fog Tuesday. Yesterday and today, the temp was in the 20s with a wind that just bit through you. OK, spring, enough teasing. Let's get on with it.
2. OUCH!!!-- This hurt, but yesterday, I learned that the deejay job I have had for the last ten years with the German Club annual dinner-dance is gone. The club has been getting a lot of young members and they decided they wanted to go with a young deejay as well. Mighty crummy thing to find out a week and a half before the event. Just one more example of how deejaying has passed me by. Oh well, I can head down to the south and warmth sooner now.
3. CASSETTES-- It's getting harder and harder to find cassette and cassette players. Saturday, there wasn't even one cassette recorder at the Salvation Army Thrift store. Yesterday, Wal Mart did not have any cassettes for sale. I did buy a cassette recorder at K Mart. Have to start stocking up as soon there will be none for sale.
4. GOOD BUDDIES-- Yesterday, I also got together with T. and Kip for breakfast in Grayslake. We all taught together in Round Lake. Did a lot of reminiscing.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
1. TNW-- Typical Nasty Weather-- After that great Friday we had (and even the two days before it), the weather has been pretty rotten around here. It rained hard all weekend, causing some pretty serious flooding. I even saw water rushing along the neighborhood ditches, a rare instance around here.
Then Monday was sunny, but in the low 40s. Then, it was rain and mighty thick fog Tuesday. Yesterday and today, the temp was in the 20s with a wind that just bit through you. OK, spring, enough teasing. Let's get on with it.
2. OUCH!!!-- This hurt, but yesterday, I learned that the deejay job I have had for the last ten years with the German Club annual dinner-dance is gone. The club has been getting a lot of young members and they decided they wanted to go with a young deejay as well. Mighty crummy thing to find out a week and a half before the event. Just one more example of how deejaying has passed me by. Oh well, I can head down to the south and warmth sooner now.
3. CASSETTES-- It's getting harder and harder to find cassette and cassette players. Saturday, there wasn't even one cassette recorder at the Salvation Army Thrift store. Yesterday, Wal Mart did not have any cassettes for sale. I did buy a cassette recorder at K Mart. Have to start stocking up as soon there will be none for sale.
4. GOOD BUDDIES-- Yesterday, I also got together with T. and Kip for breakfast in Grayslake. We all taught together in Round Lake. Did a lot of reminiscing.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
Just What the Economy Needed
Still on the subject of Circuit City's demise.
Just in time for these doldrums (or is it DEPRESSION), there is now 18 million square feet of retail space available in this failing real estate market.
More than 34,000 employed people back in January are now unemployed.
Seven hundred vendors are owed $625 million by Circuit City and NOT likely to get any of it.
I just have to wonder how much Circuit City's upper management (CEOs and their ilk) left with in their possession.
You Know How Many of OUR CEOs Are. --RoadDog
Just in time for these doldrums (or is it DEPRESSION), there is now 18 million square feet of retail space available in this failing real estate market.
More than 34,000 employed people back in January are now unemployed.
Seven hundred vendors are owed $625 million by Circuit City and NOT likely to get any of it.
I just have to wonder how much Circuit City's upper management (CEOs and their ilk) left with in their possession.
You Know How Many of OUR CEOs Are. --RoadDog
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Salt Gouge Hits Close to Home-- Real Close
The last several times I've gone to Val's grocery store in Johnsburg, Illinois, I have found them to be out of solar salt. I have to use it in my water softener. They were selling the 40 pound bags for $4.60.
I had found that other places selling solar salt, in those familiar blue bags, were at $5.25 and higher. I didn't think much of the price difference, figuring they were just more expensive.
Not so. Val's got a big supply of solar salt, but it now costs $5.20 as well.
I've read plenty of towns around here who are unable to get enough road salt at the prices now being charged by the salt companies, but, now here it is at my doorstep, er, in my wallet.
Thanks a Lot Salt Companies. You Should Get Together with Big Oil. --RoadDog
I had found that other places selling solar salt, in those familiar blue bags, were at $5.25 and higher. I didn't think much of the price difference, figuring they were just more expensive.
Not so. Val's got a big supply of solar salt, but it now costs $5.20 as well.
I've read plenty of towns around here who are unable to get enough road salt at the prices now being charged by the salt companies, but, now here it is at my doorstep, er, in my wallet.
Thanks a Lot Salt Companies. You Should Get Together with Big Oil. --RoadDog
Monday, March 9, 2009
Goodbye Circuit City
This past Saturday, I paid a last visit to an old friend, the Circuit City store in McHenry. I have been here many times and spent a lot of money over the years, but no more. Either Saturday or Sunday was the last day it was to be open.
I was expecting to see hundreds of people, but there weren't too many at all, perhaps thirty or forty when I was there around 2 PM. Probably because there was hardly anything left to buy. There were only three of four depleted rows of items, mostly CDs and DVDs. They had accomplished just what they had set out to do.
And most of these were rather obscure and not something I would pay full price for. But, at 10%, it was worth taking a chance. I ended buying 14 CDs for $13.36.
Only a couple of the people were wearing the uniform red polo shirts. What was management going to do, fire them for inappropriate attire. To their credit, the employees were friendly and helpful both here and at the Circuit City in Gurnee Mills that I visited a couple weeks ago.
Sure Will Miss the Good Old Red C.C.. --RoadDog
I was expecting to see hundreds of people, but there weren't too many at all, perhaps thirty or forty when I was there around 2 PM. Probably because there was hardly anything left to buy. There were only three of four depleted rows of items, mostly CDs and DVDs. They had accomplished just what they had set out to do.
And most of these were rather obscure and not something I would pay full price for. But, at 10%, it was worth taking a chance. I ended buying 14 CDs for $13.36.
Only a couple of the people were wearing the uniform red polo shirts. What was management going to do, fire them for inappropriate attire. To their credit, the employees were friendly and helpful both here and at the Circuit City in Gurnee Mills that I visited a couple weeks ago.
Sure Will Miss the Good Old Red C.C.. --RoadDog
Saturday, March 7, 2009
One Really Fine Day
Yesterday was one of those great days we occasionally get around here to remind us that summer is on its way, winter is about gone.
Temps got up to the lower 60s and we had lots of sun. Even better, Thursday's howling winds had abated significantly.
I had originally planned to go some places, but early on decided to stay home to enjoy it. Especially after I saw the 40s and rain forecast for today. And they were 100% correct. Rain, overcast and chillier.
I caught a lot of rays out OD (On Deck), did yard work of pruning and pulling up dead perennials and trimmed twigs off the branches Trov cut down last fall. I also got to meet the neighbor's behind us newest addition, a hyper beagle/pug mix puppy. Sad to hear that the economic woes are hitting them hard. He has lost his construction job. Sure hope he finds new work.
He did fight the county assessor to get his taxes reduced...and won!! That's a break for him.
I decided to burn some of the twigs and limbs out on the Grand Strand, what I call the larger of the three patios out by the gazebo. I had a great bonfire going, when the township assessor walked over and asked me about the neighbors to the east of us. Just the guy every one wants to see.
Nice guy and he said he wouldn't say anything about the fire. Burning yard waste is not allowed except for April, May, October, and November. But, I was burning it in my portable fire pit and just burning wood, something that is allowed. I've got plenty of yard waste to burn once its legal.
I had a nice smokey smell when I came in. Yard work, a bonfire and ice cold beer on the first really decent day of the year. Now, that's a great way to spend a day.
Hoping for More of These Days, and SOON. --RoadDog
Temps got up to the lower 60s and we had lots of sun. Even better, Thursday's howling winds had abated significantly.
I had originally planned to go some places, but early on decided to stay home to enjoy it. Especially after I saw the 40s and rain forecast for today. And they were 100% correct. Rain, overcast and chillier.
I caught a lot of rays out OD (On Deck), did yard work of pruning and pulling up dead perennials and trimmed twigs off the branches Trov cut down last fall. I also got to meet the neighbor's behind us newest addition, a hyper beagle/pug mix puppy. Sad to hear that the economic woes are hitting them hard. He has lost his construction job. Sure hope he finds new work.
He did fight the county assessor to get his taxes reduced...and won!! That's a break for him.
I decided to burn some of the twigs and limbs out on the Grand Strand, what I call the larger of the three patios out by the gazebo. I had a great bonfire going, when the township assessor walked over and asked me about the neighbors to the east of us. Just the guy every one wants to see.
Nice guy and he said he wouldn't say anything about the fire. Burning yard waste is not allowed except for April, May, October, and November. But, I was burning it in my portable fire pit and just burning wood, something that is allowed. I've got plenty of yard waste to burn once its legal.
I had a nice smokey smell when I came in. Yard work, a bonfire and ice cold beer on the first really decent day of the year. Now, that's a great way to spend a day.
Hoping for More of These Days, and SOON. --RoadDog
Friday, March 6, 2009
JSS: Dadburn Movie Questions-- Goodbye Record Club-- Stayin' Home-- 1967 and 1972
JSS-- Just Some Stuff
1. DADBURN MOVIE QUESTIONS-- Yesterday, we had the championship round for NTN-Buzztime at Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin. First round it was Geoluv vs. me. I was leading by a lot until the second five questions and we started getting movie questions. I had a small lead, then the last question was the male star in "Rosemary's Baby." I didn't know and Geoluv did. I lost.
I hate movie questions.
2. GOODBYE RECORD CLUB-- Yesterday, I went through my Greatest Hits CDs before ordering from BMG Music for the last time. I try not to order duplicates, but have so many, I can't remember. Well that and I don't remember very well anyway. Good thing because about half of what I was considering to order, I already had. Sure will miss going through those pages with all the offerings.
3. STAYIN' HOME-- Stayed home Wednesday and today to enjoy the excellent weather we've been having this week. I was planning on going to some stores today, but not with the sun and 60 degree temps.
4. 1967 and 1972-- This Sunday, Bob Stroud is doing a time warp back to the songs playing on your radio in Chicago back on March 8, 1967, and the same date in 1972. Definitely a show to tune in from 7 to 10 AM on the Drive 97.1 FM. It will be streaming live at www.wdrv.com.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
1. DADBURN MOVIE QUESTIONS-- Yesterday, we had the championship round for NTN-Buzztime at Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin. First round it was Geoluv vs. me. I was leading by a lot until the second five questions and we started getting movie questions. I had a small lead, then the last question was the male star in "Rosemary's Baby." I didn't know and Geoluv did. I lost.
I hate movie questions.
2. GOODBYE RECORD CLUB-- Yesterday, I went through my Greatest Hits CDs before ordering from BMG Music for the last time. I try not to order duplicates, but have so many, I can't remember. Well that and I don't remember very well anyway. Good thing because about half of what I was considering to order, I already had. Sure will miss going through those pages with all the offerings.
3. STAYIN' HOME-- Stayed home Wednesday and today to enjoy the excellent weather we've been having this week. I was planning on going to some stores today, but not with the sun and 60 degree temps.
4. 1967 and 1972-- This Sunday, Bob Stroud is doing a time warp back to the songs playing on your radio in Chicago back on March 8, 1967, and the same date in 1972. Definitely a show to tune in from 7 to 10 AM on the Drive 97.1 FM. It will be streaming live at www.wdrv.com.
Just Some Stuff. --RoadDog
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Number One Songs This Date
My wife sent me a great site awhile back, where you can find out the number one songs on any date from a long ways back. The site is run by Josh Hosler at
http://joshhosler.com.
Being a 60s person myself, these are the number ones this date for the entire decade:
1969-- EVERYDAY PEOPLE-- Sly & the Family Stone
1968-- LOVE IS BLUE-- Pauliat
1967-- LOVE Is HERE AND NOW YOU'RE GONE-- Supremes
1966-- BALLAD OF THE GREEN BERETS-- S. Sgt. Barry Sandler
1965-- MY GIRL-- Temptations
1964-- I WANT TO HOLD YOUR HAND-- Beatles
1963-- WALK LIKE A MAN-- Four Seasons
1962-- HEY BABY-- Bruce Channel
1961-- PONY TIME-- Chubby Checker
1960-- THEME FROM A SUMMER PLACE-- Percy Faith
1979 I Will Survive-- Gloria Gaynor
1959 Venus-- Frankie Avalon
1989 Lost in Your Eyes-- Debbie Gibson
1999 Angel of Mine-- Monica
2009 Right Round-- Flo Rida
1949 Cruisin' Down the River-- Blue Barrou
I sure don't remember 1999 or 2009. But then again, I'm pretty old. Favorite songs: Everyday People, My Girl, I Want to Hold Your Hand, Walk Like a Man, and Hey Baby.
Play That Song for Me. --RoadDog
http://joshhosler.com.
Being a 60s person myself, these are the number ones this date for the entire decade:
1969-- EVERYDAY PEOPLE-- Sly & the Family Stone
1968-- LOVE IS BLUE-- Pauliat
1967-- LOVE Is HERE AND NOW YOU'RE GONE-- Supremes
1966-- BALLAD OF THE GREEN BERETS-- S. Sgt. Barry Sandler
1965-- MY GIRL-- Temptations
1964-- I WANT TO HOLD YOUR HAND-- Beatles
1963-- WALK LIKE A MAN-- Four Seasons
1962-- HEY BABY-- Bruce Channel
1961-- PONY TIME-- Chubby Checker
1960-- THEME FROM A SUMMER PLACE-- Percy Faith
1979 I Will Survive-- Gloria Gaynor
1959 Venus-- Frankie Avalon
1989 Lost in Your Eyes-- Debbie Gibson
1999 Angel of Mine-- Monica
2009 Right Round-- Flo Rida
1949 Cruisin' Down the River-- Blue Barrou
I sure don't remember 1999 or 2009. But then again, I'm pretty old. Favorite songs: Everyday People, My Girl, I Want to Hold Your Hand, Walk Like a Man, and Hey Baby.
Play That Song for Me. --RoadDog
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
It's Them, Not Me: CDs-- Kids in the Mills-- Where'd the People Come From-- Is NTN Kidding?
Stuff That Burns My Butt.
1. CDS-- Well, one thing I'm NOT going to miss about the demise of CDs is the process of opening one. I didn't mind the cellophane wrapping. I really used to hate taking it off the old LPs as the cardboard covers often, really often, gave me under-the-fingernail cuts, and THOSE REALLY HURT.
What I really hate is that tape at the top with the CD name on it. That is just about impossible to take off in one piece or even twenty pieces. Then sometimes it is attached with a paste that simply will not come off.
2. KIDS IN THE MILLS-- A few weeks ago, I went to Gurnee Mills in Gurnee, Illinois. This is a huge so-called bargain mall (but not-so-bargain if you ask me). I was amazed by how many school-age kids I saw walking around with their parents. Aren't they supposed to be in school? They can't all be home-schooled, or, are they?
If they are home-schooled, I want to sign up for that. I'd just love to go on field trips to the mall or shopping instead of taking those rotten old spelling tests on Fridays.
3. WHERE'D THE PEOPLE COME FROM??-- While in Gurnee Mills, I went to one of my favorite old places, Circuit City, which is closing its doors. For years I noticed Best Buys were packed and Circuit City practically desolate (kind of like K Marts vs. Wal Marts). The line at the check out counters was about to the other side of the store. Where were all these people when Circuit City was trying to survive over Christmas?
4. IS NTN KIDDING?-- Back on the subject of NTN-Buzztime. I see in the San Diego Business Journal that the new leadership is hoping to turn fortunes around. However, the new CEO looks to be doing the CEO Leapfrog, going from one place to another in rapid succession, never a good sign.
Yesterday, shares of NTN were going for 17 CENTS!!! This past year it was at a high of 65 cents and low of 9 cents a share. You can really get more bang for your buck here.
What NTN needs to do is take care of the places they have already subscribing to their services and, take care of the folks who already play the addictive games (like me). That means better field representation.
One great idea would be to not only have national, but local or state competition stats. Make an effort to talk to regulars about what they like and don't like.
Don't look Back, They Might Be Gaining. --RoadDog
1. CDS-- Well, one thing I'm NOT going to miss about the demise of CDs is the process of opening one. I didn't mind the cellophane wrapping. I really used to hate taking it off the old LPs as the cardboard covers often, really often, gave me under-the-fingernail cuts, and THOSE REALLY HURT.
What I really hate is that tape at the top with the CD name on it. That is just about impossible to take off in one piece or even twenty pieces. Then sometimes it is attached with a paste that simply will not come off.
2. KIDS IN THE MILLS-- A few weeks ago, I went to Gurnee Mills in Gurnee, Illinois. This is a huge so-called bargain mall (but not-so-bargain if you ask me). I was amazed by how many school-age kids I saw walking around with their parents. Aren't they supposed to be in school? They can't all be home-schooled, or, are they?
If they are home-schooled, I want to sign up for that. I'd just love to go on field trips to the mall or shopping instead of taking those rotten old spelling tests on Fridays.
3. WHERE'D THE PEOPLE COME FROM??-- While in Gurnee Mills, I went to one of my favorite old places, Circuit City, which is closing its doors. For years I noticed Best Buys were packed and Circuit City practically desolate (kind of like K Marts vs. Wal Marts). The line at the check out counters was about to the other side of the store. Where were all these people when Circuit City was trying to survive over Christmas?
4. IS NTN KIDDING?-- Back on the subject of NTN-Buzztime. I see in the San Diego Business Journal that the new leadership is hoping to turn fortunes around. However, the new CEO looks to be doing the CEO Leapfrog, going from one place to another in rapid succession, never a good sign.
Yesterday, shares of NTN were going for 17 CENTS!!! This past year it was at a high of 65 cents and low of 9 cents a share. You can really get more bang for your buck here.
What NTN needs to do is take care of the places they have already subscribing to their services and, take care of the folks who already play the addictive games (like me). That means better field representation.
One great idea would be to not only have national, but local or state competition stats. Make an effort to talk to regulars about what they like and don't like.
Don't look Back, They Might Be Gaining. --RoadDog
JSS: Yardwork Again-- Entertainment Book-- 60 DEGREES!!!
JSS-- Just Some Stuff
1. YARDWORK AGAIN-- Boy, did it ever feel good to get back out and work in the yard yesterday, despite temps just in the 30s. I started clearing up flower beds of dead plants and debris and cutting twigs off the many branches Jimmy Trov cut off the trees and bushes last fall. I'll have some nice bonfires this spring and summer.
EVEN saw some daffodils pushing their way up!! Can spring be far away?
2. ENTERTAINMENT BOOK-- I broke down and bought one of those Entertainment Books a few weeks ago. It was marked down to $15 from $25. I didn't get one last year--AND SURVIVED. I don't use most of the coupons in the local area anyway, but maybe this year I will. Hard to beat a two-for-one deal, though.
3. 60 DEGRESS!!!--- Unbelievable, but I just heard that will be the temperature here in the Chicagoland area by Friday. All this Global Warming we had this last winter is surely getting to me. The old Panama City tan is starting to fade out anyway. Good time to get some serious OD (On Deck) time.
As It Goes. --RoadDog
1. YARDWORK AGAIN-- Boy, did it ever feel good to get back out and work in the yard yesterday, despite temps just in the 30s. I started clearing up flower beds of dead plants and debris and cutting twigs off the many branches Jimmy Trov cut off the trees and bushes last fall. I'll have some nice bonfires this spring and summer.
EVEN saw some daffodils pushing their way up!! Can spring be far away?
2. ENTERTAINMENT BOOK-- I broke down and bought one of those Entertainment Books a few weeks ago. It was marked down to $15 from $25. I didn't get one last year--AND SURVIVED. I don't use most of the coupons in the local area anyway, but maybe this year I will. Hard to beat a two-for-one deal, though.
3. 60 DEGRESS!!!--- Unbelievable, but I just heard that will be the temperature here in the Chicagoland area by Friday. All this Global Warming we had this last winter is surely getting to me. The old Panama City tan is starting to fade out anyway. Good time to get some serious OD (On Deck) time.
As It Goes. --RoadDog
The Surf's Top Ten Beach Songs Feb. 28th
Most mornings I listen to Billy Smith in the morning doing his show from the Surf, 94.9 FM in North Myrtle Beach, SC. Being able to listen to distant stations is a great plus for the internet.
Their latest Top Ten Beach Songs:
1. EVERYBODY NEEDS LOVE-- Gold Rush
2. HOW CAN I TELL YOU-- David Terry
3. HEAVY LOVE-- Fantastic Shakers
4. RED SHAGGIN' SHOES-- Fabulous Jellyrolls
5. I'VE GOT NOTHING TO LOSE-- Magnificents
6. LIFE IS A BEACH-- 58 West
7. HEY CUTIE-- High Tide
8. BACKSEAT BLUES-- Clint Horton
9. GIRL, I NEED YOU-- Paul Craver
10. YOUNG HEARTS-- Janet Sullivan
They do the top 40 every Saturday from 9-noon EST.
Of interest, these are quite different from the other major beach countdown by Fessa Hook. I had the top ten for that one back on February 21st.
Diggin' That Beach Sound. --RoadDog
Their latest Top Ten Beach Songs:
1. EVERYBODY NEEDS LOVE-- Gold Rush
2. HOW CAN I TELL YOU-- David Terry
3. HEAVY LOVE-- Fantastic Shakers
4. RED SHAGGIN' SHOES-- Fabulous Jellyrolls
5. I'VE GOT NOTHING TO LOSE-- Magnificents
6. LIFE IS A BEACH-- 58 West
7. HEY CUTIE-- High Tide
8. BACKSEAT BLUES-- Clint Horton
9. GIRL, I NEED YOU-- Paul Craver
10. YOUNG HEARTS-- Janet Sullivan
They do the top 40 every Saturday from 9-noon EST.
Of interest, these are quite different from the other major beach countdown by Fessa Hook. I had the top ten for that one back on February 21st.
Diggin' That Beach Sound. --RoadDog
As We Continue the Demise of My Places and Stuff
I am preparing to send in my last card to BMG Music, the sole remaining of the old mail-order music clubs. I'll miss them tremendously.
I always looked forward to the arrival of that magazine just packed with recordings. I probably joined back in high school, but really became a member back in the 70s when I was order LPs. That introductory offer of 12 or more LPs for $1.99 was just too much to resist. Even the mandatory purchases requirement was acceptable. Of course, I still and always have hated the high postage and handling charges, where they actually make their money.
Probably the biggest problem was having to send the card back in time, OR, receive that month's selection automatically. I received lots of unwanted LPs and later CDs, many of which were returned. Many times, I would go through a pile of old letters and find one or more of the cards.
LAST DAYS
There was RCA Records and Columbia House. Just a few years ago, Columbia House was bought by BMG. Now BMG is on the way of cassette tapes and VCRs. They have been pushing ever since they acquired Columbia House to get me to go "Green," (their savings on printing and postage, and, oh, yes, my stamps). I have resisted, and that is why I got the LAST MAILING last week.
How many of you have ever belonged to a record club? Any memories? How many selections did you get by forgetting to return the card?
Might as well start looking at the catalog and filling in those little squares. I'm not sure I will continue with the new thing replacing it. Plus, CDs are on their way out as well.
I'll Miss It, But What Else is New. They're Taking All My Stuff From Me. --RoadDog
I always looked forward to the arrival of that magazine just packed with recordings. I probably joined back in high school, but really became a member back in the 70s when I was order LPs. That introductory offer of 12 or more LPs for $1.99 was just too much to resist. Even the mandatory purchases requirement was acceptable. Of course, I still and always have hated the high postage and handling charges, where they actually make their money.
Probably the biggest problem was having to send the card back in time, OR, receive that month's selection automatically. I received lots of unwanted LPs and later CDs, many of which were returned. Many times, I would go through a pile of old letters and find one or more of the cards.
LAST DAYS
There was RCA Records and Columbia House. Just a few years ago, Columbia House was bought by BMG. Now BMG is on the way of cassette tapes and VCRs. They have been pushing ever since they acquired Columbia House to get me to go "Green," (their savings on printing and postage, and, oh, yes, my stamps). I have resisted, and that is why I got the LAST MAILING last week.
How many of you have ever belonged to a record club? Any memories? How many selections did you get by forgetting to return the card?
Might as well start looking at the catalog and filling in those little squares. I'm not sure I will continue with the new thing replacing it. Plus, CDs are on their way out as well.
I'll Miss It, But What Else is New. They're Taking All My Stuff From Me. --RoadDog
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Mighty Good Time for All-- Chicago Rock-- Part 3
Continuing with Bob Stroud's record release party at the Border's in Schaumburg, Illinois.Jim Peterik said this about his 1970 hit "Vehicle" which was written about a former girlfriend who wanted him to take her every where. He said to her all he was just her vehicle.
Jom Sahms, former leader of the Shadows of Knight, got up and sang their classic "Gloria." He said that he sometimes gets a question in his head and can call Bob Stroud anytime for the answer. The depth of Stroud's 60s-70s knowledge has probably never been tapped.
Then, the Cryan' Shames closed out the show. Bob Stroud took the lead vocals as he did that for several years.
I Want to Meet You
First train to California
Up On the Roof
Sugar and Spice
We were definitely enjoying these songs along with all the memories they were bringing back.
Afterwards, they had an autographing party where you got to talk to the old guys. I told Bob Stroud that I liked his show, but was having a hard time getting up at 7 AM. He said, "You're having a hard time?"
We'll Definitely Be Back Next Year. --RoadDog
Jom Sahms, former leader of the Shadows of Knight, got up and sang their classic "Gloria." He said that he sometimes gets a question in his head and can call Bob Stroud anytime for the answer. The depth of Stroud's 60s-70s knowledge has probably never been tapped.
Then, the Cryan' Shames closed out the show. Bob Stroud took the lead vocals as he did that for several years.
I Want to Meet You
First train to California
Up On the Roof
Sugar and Spice
We were definitely enjoying these songs along with all the memories they were bringing back.
Afterwards, they had an autographing party where you got to talk to the old guys. I told Bob Stroud that I liked his show, but was having a hard time getting up at 7 AM. He said, "You're having a hard time?"
We'll Definitely Be Back Next Year. --RoadDog
It's Them, Not Me: Blago's Latest-- NTN Strikes Again-- Stupid, Stupid Stock Market
Things That Burn My Butt.
1. BLAGO'S LATEST-- Just got word that former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich signed a six-figure deal for a book. Yes, he gave it to the highest bidder. Who would want to read this book?
Our state representative from the area, Jack Franks, has a bill that makes any Illinois official convicted of wrong-doing to forfeit all profits from books, movies, TV, radio, and internet projects. Franks said he and his staff have been working on it since the Gov was arrested in December. How did he know the Gov would write?
2. NTN STRIKES AGAIN-- One of my favorite past times, NTN-Buzztime, just announced that they have a new CEO. It didn't say how much he'd be earning and other goodies or signing bonus. This last year, NTN has laid off 17% of its staff and, in my opinion, taken a very nasty turn away its core players, oldsters like me. They're going after the younger folks, who have other things on the mind while at a bar.
Plus, I would be concerned with why so many places drop it, even those not going out of business.
3. STUPID, STUPID STOCK MARKET-- Big drop yesterday. Don't the stock brokers get it? If you don't sell, it WON'T DROP!!! Hey, even try buying for a change. It's like the little kid who keeps putting his hand in the fire. Stop putting it in the fire and you'll stop burning yourself.
Don't Look Back, They May Be Gaining. --RoadDog
1. BLAGO'S LATEST-- Just got word that former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich signed a six-figure deal for a book. Yes, he gave it to the highest bidder. Who would want to read this book?
Our state representative from the area, Jack Franks, has a bill that makes any Illinois official convicted of wrong-doing to forfeit all profits from books, movies, TV, radio, and internet projects. Franks said he and his staff have been working on it since the Gov was arrested in December. How did he know the Gov would write?
2. NTN STRIKES AGAIN-- One of my favorite past times, NTN-Buzztime, just announced that they have a new CEO. It didn't say how much he'd be earning and other goodies or signing bonus. This last year, NTN has laid off 17% of its staff and, in my opinion, taken a very nasty turn away its core players, oldsters like me. They're going after the younger folks, who have other things on the mind while at a bar.
Plus, I would be concerned with why so many places drop it, even those not going out of business.
3. STUPID, STUPID STOCK MARKET-- Big drop yesterday. Don't the stock brokers get it? If you don't sell, it WON'T DROP!!! Hey, even try buying for a change. It's like the little kid who keeps putting his hand in the fire. Stop putting it in the fire and you'll stop burning yourself.
Don't Look Back, They May Be Gaining. --RoadDog
Monday, March 2, 2009
As We Continue With the Demise of My Places and Stuff
Sadly, I just don't much fit into the new stuff these days.
Saturday night, we were playing the hour long NTN-Buzztime game at 8 PM, and, I sure didn't know much of the current stuff.
Hell, I still use cassette tapes when I deejay, although I do have CDs at home, but then, CDs are on their way out. Just go into any store selling them, andther are considerably fewer offered for sale. Just try to find cassettes for sale anywhere.
Then, there is the demise of VCRs and VHS tapes, which I still own and use exclusively. I have never even played a DVD at home.
NOW THIS!!
I see that two more Virgin Mega Stores in San Francisco and New York City are closing now, even though not for the downfall of CDs, but real estate values. Of 23 Megastores in 2002, there are just three left in Orlando, Denver, and Hollywood. How much longer these will be with us is probably not long.
Then, there were the great old Tower Records. No more, no more.
We still have FYE, but I'm sure not for too much longer.
Sad Times Indeed. Dadburn Downloading.--RoadDog
Saturday night, we were playing the hour long NTN-Buzztime game at 8 PM, and, I sure didn't know much of the current stuff.
Hell, I still use cassette tapes when I deejay, although I do have CDs at home, but then, CDs are on their way out. Just go into any store selling them, andther are considerably fewer offered for sale. Just try to find cassettes for sale anywhere.
Then, there is the demise of VCRs and VHS tapes, which I still own and use exclusively. I have never even played a DVD at home.
NOW THIS!!
I see that two more Virgin Mega Stores in San Francisco and New York City are closing now, even though not for the downfall of CDs, but real estate values. Of 23 Megastores in 2002, there are just three left in Orlando, Denver, and Hollywood. How much longer these will be with us is probably not long.
Then, there were the great old Tower Records. No more, no more.
We still have FYE, but I'm sure not for too much longer.
Sad Times Indeed. Dadburn Downloading.--RoadDog
Mighty Good Time for All-- Chicago Rock-- Part 2
Then, the Buckingham's performed. They had just played in Panama City last night where they opened for Herman's Hermits. They refer to selves as AHRSs--Aging Hippy Rock Stars. They have been nominated for the Rock and Roll hall of Fame in Cleveland.
Song List
Don't You Care
Hey Baby, They're Playing Our Song
Mercy, Mercy, Mercy
Reliving a Dream
Old Enough
Kind of a Drag
Then, Jim Peterik got up. He was with the groups Ides of March and Survivor. He referred to his home as "The House That Stallone Built" with the popularity of the "Eye of a Tiger" song.
Songs:
High on You
The Search is Over
Eye of the Tiger-- before singing it, Petetik said, "When I wrote this song, I had no idea that one day I'd be performing it at a Border's." (How the mighty have fallen.)
To be Continued. RoadDog
Song List
Don't You Care
Hey Baby, They're Playing Our Song
Mercy, Mercy, Mercy
Reliving a Dream
Old Enough
Kind of a Drag
Then, Jim Peterik got up. He was with the groups Ides of March and Survivor. He referred to his home as "The House That Stallone Built" with the popularity of the "Eye of a Tiger" song.
Songs:
High on You
The Search is Over
Eye of the Tiger-- before singing it, Petetik said, "When I wrote this song, I had no idea that one day I'd be performing it at a Border's." (How the mighty have fallen.)
To be Continued. RoadDog
Mighty Good Time For All-- Chicago 60s Rock-- Part 1
Back in November, Liz and I went to the Schaumburg Border's Store for the release of Bob Stroud's Rock and Roll Roots Vol. 10 party. We'll definitely be back for Vol. 11's release. We had a great time and a trip back down memory lane with lots of the guys we grew up with on the radio back in the 60sin Chicago.
Of course, our two big stations back then were both AM: WCFL and WLS. There was great music coming from the rest of the country, but Chicago had its own little thing going on with bands like New Colony Six, the Buckinghams, Shadows of Knight, and Cryan' Shames.
Everybody was here for the party. And they played for two hours. I kept a list of songs and groups.
NEW COLONY SIX
I Confess
I Love You So Much
I Will Always Think About You
Things I'd Like to Say
I Want You to Know-- Sold a million copies of this song
I later got to talk with Ray Graffia Jr, founder of the band. Of all the Chicago groups, this was my favorite.
Take Me Back to the Old Days. --RoadDog
Of course, our two big stations back then were both AM: WCFL and WLS. There was great music coming from the rest of the country, but Chicago had its own little thing going on with bands like New Colony Six, the Buckinghams, Shadows of Knight, and Cryan' Shames.
Everybody was here for the party. And they played for two hours. I kept a list of songs and groups.
NEW COLONY SIX
I Confess
I Love You So Much
I Will Always Think About You
Things I'd Like to Say
I Want You to Know-- Sold a million copies of this song
I later got to talk with Ray Graffia Jr, founder of the band. Of all the Chicago groups, this was my favorite.
Take Me Back to the Old Days. --RoadDog
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Movies and a Band
Good weekend. Friday band Saturday, I saw the movies "Taken" and "The Reader" at Fox Lake Theater. "Taken" was one of the better action movies I've seen. All I can say is don't mess with Liam 's daughter. He is the "preventer" of bad things happening.
"The Reader" was nominated for academy awards for best movie and actress. It is just the third of the five nominated movies that I have seen. Once all the nudity was over, it developed into an excellent movie.
Yesterday, we went to Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, and played NTN and watched a really great 50's-60's band called the Affects. They did an amazing array of songs, including Creedence Clearwater and Roy Orbison.
We had ten top twenty NTN finishes during the course of the night. Geocas, Alfons, Vicki, FGump, Gemini, Imotis and two others played. We also got a room for the night so didn't have to drive home. We got a good deal at $30. Since the new owners took over, they have extensively remodeled the rooms which definitely needed it.
Good Times in Cheesehead Land. Pass the Popcorn. --RoadDog
"The Reader" was nominated for academy awards for best movie and actress. It is just the third of the five nominated movies that I have seen. Once all the nudity was over, it developed into an excellent movie.
Yesterday, we went to Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, and played NTN and watched a really great 50's-60's band called the Affects. They did an amazing array of songs, including Creedence Clearwater and Roy Orbison.
We had ten top twenty NTN finishes during the course of the night. Geocas, Alfons, Vicki, FGump, Gemini, Imotis and two others played. We also got a room for the night so didn't have to drive home. We got a good deal at $30. Since the new owners took over, they have extensively remodeled the rooms which definitely needed it.
Good Times in Cheesehead Land. Pass the Popcorn. --RoadDog
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