Cards and cigars. John loved both. So everyday when I visited after closing the Gift Shop I would meet him at the nurse's station. He would have a smoke, almost crying like a baby when the nurse was late with his match.
"Want to turn over a few?" he always asked after his smoke, raising his bushy white eyebrows , holding up a pack of cards.
Then we headed for the day room for some cards. John ordered a few residents ,who were either sitting in their wheelchairs or laying their head on the round tables. to "Beat it."
Cards were a bright spot for the old man. Finally having someone to play with was big for him.
He taught me how to play Pinochle- or at least I thought it was Pinochle. One afternoon a nurse was watching our game and asked what we were playing.
"Pinochle..Why?"I replied.
"That's not Pinochle," she said, giggling. "I have no clue what you're playing."
As it turned out, neither did we.
Seems like John got confused and taught me versions of Pinochle, Rummy and Whist, all rolled into one. The blind leading the blind. It didn't matter. We were having fun, which was the main objective of our games.
When John caught pneumonia the following winter I visited him in the hospital. I brought him a box of his favorite cigars and a brand new deck of cards.
"We will save these for when you get back," I encouraged as he lay in bed, hardly able to talk.
"My buddy," was all he said, recognizing me through misty eyes.
The nurses at the nursing home had informed me that on the days I couldn't make it in, John would lament about where I was and when I was coming back. He looked forward to my visits more than I knew.
John never made it back. He died that night. Out of the hundreds of residents I would meet down the road ,I never forgot John. He was the first resident I spent time with, the first who touched my heart, as he touched mine. He gave me a purpose and showed me that I could really make a difference in someones life by a friendly hello, a visit and taking the time to listen and to care.
John didn't know it but he had a major impact on my future.
Wheelchair Willie was one of my best friends on the CB radio. He was involved in a car accident several years earlier which left him paralyzed from the waist down. He was a young, husky guy, cut down in his prime when he totaled his car on a rain-slicked highway. "Me and a tree had an argument," he surmised. "The tree won."
He went through the usual stages of denial and anger before finding acceptance. Once he did there was no stopping Willie. Hell on wheels, literally.
I always thought it would be tougher to adjust to a new disability. Willie had a taste of able-bodied life, which I never had, but I was used to my life, whereas he needed to suddenly adjust.
I remember visiting a close friend back in those days. His name was Matt and he was a lot like Willie- a party-guy, heavy into drinking and having a good time on weekends. A good-looking young guy in his late twenties, could have any girl he wanted, living life to its fullest. My Mom was long-time friends with his mother so that's how we knew each other.
Matt dove off a diving board one summer at a public swimming pool. He noticed a little girl below him in the water. It all happened in a split-second. He twisted his body to avoid hitting her and ended up hitting his head on the edge of the concrete pool, breaking his neck. Paralyzed from the neck down for life.
One moment a healthy, robust guy with everything to live for- the next a quadriplegic. It's true that having a disability is one club that anyone can join at any time.
Now everything had to be done for him. Feeding, bathing, toileting, dressing. His mother took care of her only child. I used to visit him when I could, talking, listening to music, encouraging and trying to provide a source of understanding.
But no matter how hard anyone tried Matt was shrouded with depression, which was understandable. But acceptance was not possible for Matt. He wouldn't allow it. He gave up.
At age 28 Matt stopped eating and let go. Complications - bedsores, pneumonia and losing his will to live- did him in.
In a way I was lucky. I knew God had plans for me. I just didn't know what they were back then. Often I felt like Matt and wanted to give up. But I never did. Maybe it was my parents. Yet I could see how easy it would've been to lose faith.
Willie was a guy who didn't sulk with his new lifestyle. It had to be like a nightmare you can't awake from but he never complained about it. He was everything I wanted to be. He was a true role model for someone like me. He drove a specially-equipped, revved up green van with a hydraulic lift and hand controls to drive. With his other car, a beat-up Chevy, he just climbed into the driver's seat, throwing his folded up chair into the back seat and took off.
He was going to college to become a Social Worker. He was independent, unlike me. He wasn't above getting under his van to fix it or plopping out of his chair to the dirty ground to garden. He reminded me of everything I was missing in life- shooting pool, wheelchair basketball, picking up girls. He showed me that I was limiting myself by thinking I was handicapped. He didn't preach, he simply showed me by living . Challenge or not, my life could be so much better than it was.
In many ways I wanted to be like Willie but in some other ways I was afraid. Like when Willie strapped himself in his chair and used himself as a human bobsled to plow down a snowy hill. I did have brittle bones, after all.
I admired his fierce determination and will to enjoy life. He came so close to death when he had his accident. It took that brush with death to make him live life to it's fullest. What did he have to lose?
Willie knew how much I loved working at the nursing home. He put the idea in my head that I could actually get paid doing what I loved to do.
I had no clue what Social Work was or what a Social Worker did. I did some research about the field- the academic qualifications, the salary. I needed to earn my college degree, at least a Bachelor's degree. That's four years of school. A Master's degree would give me more options, but one step at a time.
Did I really want to invest the time, the money, and the dedication it would take? Did I have it in me, both the smarts and the desire?
It just so happened the current Social Worker at the nursing home was a young guy ( a rare thing, as I would find out). I asked Jack for his advice, the first time I expressed this crazy idea to anyone.
"You'll never make a lot of money in Social Work, he replied honestly. "But some things are just more important than money."
Great advice. Plus, to my surprise, he didn't laugh at my crazy dream.
After the Penn debacle an intense desire and determination was burning inside me to prove to everyone , myself included, that I wasn't a failure, a loser or a quitter. God gave me a reasonably good mind. Why not use it? I had so much more to give.
I wanted to prove so many people wrong, wanted to make Mom proud for sticking with me, wanted to make Dad proud too.
I also wanted to show Vocational Rehabilitation I could do it. When I expressed my plan to them they were leery. I once threw away a great career and a promising future. Would I do it again? Why should they invest their faith and money in me again?
I did need help with grants and loans. I was making peanuts at the nursing home helping out . I needed my disability benefits and was limited to what I could earn. How could I afford school without help? I couldn't. What about the cost of textbooks and gas to travel back and forth to school/?
I took that hard first step to independence. I applied for every grant and student loan I could find. Huge amounts of red tape and paperwork. Vocational Rehab saw I was serious this time and agreed to help me.
One of the toughest steps was just saying I was going to do it. I needed to try, after settling into a comfort zone of doing nothing with my life for so long. So when I brought up the idea of college to Mom and others, it surprised many people. There were doubts as well as encouragement from family and friends. I'm sure many thought I wouldn't stick with it anyway.
Mom, always supportive and protective, didn't want me to get hurt again. But she reluctantly agreed. I wasn't sure if she even had total faith in me. but I was glad to have her blessing. Maybe she knew, deep down inside, this was the first step to independence, and, in a motherly way, even though she wanted the best for me, she was just as scared as I was to let go.
There was one main difference between college now and Penn. This time I wanted it so bad. The idea of becoming a Social Worker and helping others in need was perfect. I already knew what a difference I was making in someone's life, as I had with John and the rest of the residents I helped at the Manor
Earning a degree and getting a good job would give me the respect and dignity I craved. A degree would change my life and make others look at me in a different light. It would give me the self-confidence I needed to excel in all aspects of life down the road.I would make more money and could afford more things in life for me and Mom.
So I went for it.
Tuesday, April 30, 2019
PHILLIES TRIVIA
Who holds the record for most pinch-hits in a season.
Answer: Greg Dobbs ( 22 in 2008).
Answer: Greg Dobbs ( 22 in 2008).
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- APRIL 30
MLB Consecutive Games Played List
1. Cal Ripkin Jr. - 2,632
2. Lou Gehrig- 2,130
3. Everett Scott- 1,307
4. Steve Garvey- 1,207
5. Miguel Tejada- 1,152
6. Billy Williams- 1,117
7. Joe Sewell- 1,103
8. Stan Musial- 895
1. Cal Ripkin Jr. - 2,632
2. Lou Gehrig- 2,130
3. Everett Scott- 1,307
4. Steve Garvey- 1,207
5. Miguel Tejada- 1,152
6. Billy Williams- 1,117
7. Joe Sewell- 1,103
8. Stan Musial- 895
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- SIXERS, EAGLES, PHILLIES
-The Sixers tied up their playoff series with Toronto, 1-1. Jimmy butler again came up big in the fourth quarter, scoring 13 points in the final quarter. Now Philadelphia has home court advantage with the series coming to the Wells Fargo Center on Thursday.
Joel Embiid only scored 12 points last night. He was a game time decision because he was sick before the game with stomach problems. Apparently he ate junk food recently which didn't agree with him. Embiid is young but if he wants a long career he may need to start eating better. Where is Pat Croce when we need him?
Coach Brett Brown made the needed adjustments, especially defensively. He may be saving his job in this series.
- The Eagles picked up the fifth year option on Carson Wentz. There's no doubt, especially after letting Nick Foles walk, the Birds want to keep Wentz long term, but before they commit to a big contract they want to see how healthy he is. So I wouldn't expect a contract extension until the season begins or even after.
I liked the Eagles' draft but not sure I would've drafted a quarterback in the fifth round. Why not a safety or linebacker, positions of need and positions they did not address earlier in the draft.
- The Phillies start a brief two game series with the Tigers tonight. Vince Valasquez starts. The Phils are two games ahead in National League East , the only team in the division with a record over .500.
Joel Embiid only scored 12 points last night. He was a game time decision because he was sick before the game with stomach problems. Apparently he ate junk food recently which didn't agree with him. Embiid is young but if he wants a long career he may need to start eating better. Where is Pat Croce when we need him?
Coach Brett Brown made the needed adjustments, especially defensively. He may be saving his job in this series.
- The Eagles picked up the fifth year option on Carson Wentz. There's no doubt, especially after letting Nick Foles walk, the Birds want to keep Wentz long term, but before they commit to a big contract they want to see how healthy he is. So I wouldn't expect a contract extension until the season begins or even after.
I liked the Eagles' draft but not sure I would've drafted a quarterback in the fifth round. Why not a safety or linebacker, positions of need and positions they did not address earlier in the draft.
- The Phillies start a brief two game series with the Tigers tonight. Vince Valasquez starts. The Phils are two games ahead in National League East , the only team in the division with a record over .500.
Monday, April 29, 2019
PHILLIES PHODDER
Nice to see Zach Eflin get back on track and pitch a rare complete game on Sunday afternoon at Citizens Bank Park. The Phillies took 3 of 4 from the lowly Marlins,have now won three in a row and remain in first place in National League East by 1 1/2 games over the Mets.
Andrew McCuthen got his 800th RBI and his 800th walk in Sunday's game. He has turned out to be a valuable addition to the team, bringing stability to the lineup and the clubhouse. I can see him being a manager someday.
Playing Nick Williams more in left field has paid off as he had two more hits. McCuthen in center field doesn't hurt you. When Herrera comes back, Gabe Kapler said he will "play the best lineup." Hopefully that means sitting Odubel down a lot more when he isn't producing or when he gets lazy on the bases or in the field.
Cesar Hernandez continues to suck at second base. He is misplaying pop-ups, letting ground balls get under his glove, you name it. It's odd because, if nothing else, Hernandez has been a sold, if not spectacular, fielder. Scott Kingery should come off the injured List in a week or so and should play more. Hernandez can be the utility guy.
Bryce Harper continues to strike out but as long as he keeps producing with homers and RBIs, I don't mind so much. Just his presence in the batting order changes everything.
Two games against the Tigers this week. Detroit hasn't played in Philadelphia since 2007. Then the division-rival Nationals return next weekend. They took 2 out of 3 when they were in earlier in April. Then the Phils go on a road trip to hot St. Louis and bad Kansas City before returning home to face the Milwaukee Brewers.
Dollar Dog night at the Bank tomorrow night. 39.00-plus attended the Phanatic's birthday on a chilly Sunday afternoon. Can't wait to see the crowds when the weather gets warmer this summer, especially if the club stays in first place.
Andrew McCuthen got his 800th RBI and his 800th walk in Sunday's game. He has turned out to be a valuable addition to the team, bringing stability to the lineup and the clubhouse. I can see him being a manager someday.
Playing Nick Williams more in left field has paid off as he had two more hits. McCuthen in center field doesn't hurt you. When Herrera comes back, Gabe Kapler said he will "play the best lineup." Hopefully that means sitting Odubel down a lot more when he isn't producing or when he gets lazy on the bases or in the field.
Cesar Hernandez continues to suck at second base. He is misplaying pop-ups, letting ground balls get under his glove, you name it. It's odd because, if nothing else, Hernandez has been a sold, if not spectacular, fielder. Scott Kingery should come off the injured List in a week or so and should play more. Hernandez can be the utility guy.
Bryce Harper continues to strike out but as long as he keeps producing with homers and RBIs, I don't mind so much. Just his presence in the batting order changes everything.
Two games against the Tigers this week. Detroit hasn't played in Philadelphia since 2007. Then the division-rival Nationals return next weekend. They took 2 out of 3 when they were in earlier in April. Then the Phils go on a road trip to hot St. Louis and bad Kansas City before returning home to face the Milwaukee Brewers.
Dollar Dog night at the Bank tomorrow night. 39.00-plus attended the Phanatic's birthday on a chilly Sunday afternoon. Can't wait to see the crowds when the weather gets warmer this summer, especially if the club stays in first place.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- APRIL 29
Hair me out
25 years ago today Jimmy Johnson resigned as coach of the two-time defending champion Dallas Cowboys after disputes with owner Jerry Jones became public. Jones replaced Johnson with former Oklahoma Sooner coach Barry Switzer.
25 years ago today Jimmy Johnson resigned as coach of the two-time defending champion Dallas Cowboys after disputes with owner Jerry Jones became public. Jones replaced Johnson with former Oklahoma Sooner coach Barry Switzer.
BASEBALL TRIVIA
Team History
Rank the Mets' starting pitchers by best earned run average in a season.
A. Jerry Koosman
B. David Cone
C. Tom Seaver
D. Dwight Gooden
Answer: 1-D (1.53 in 1985); 2-C ( 1.76 in 1971); 3-A and C ( 2.08 Koosman in 1968 and Seaver in 1973); 4-B ( 2.22 in 1988).
Rank the Mets' starting pitchers by best earned run average in a season.
A. Jerry Koosman
B. David Cone
C. Tom Seaver
D. Dwight Gooden
Answer: 1-D (1.53 in 1985); 2-C ( 1.76 in 1971); 3-A and C ( 2.08 Koosman in 1968 and Seaver in 1973); 4-B ( 2.22 in 1988).
IDOL CHATTER- TOP 6
It was Queen night on American Idol. I like Beatles night better but Queen music is also great. The classic rock band is hot since the movie Bohemian Rhapsody hit it big. Nice to see Adam Lambert again. Hard to believe he win Idol when he competed but he was runner-up and has a successful career as Queen's new front man.
The documentary on Queen and Lambert is on ABC at 8 pm. tonight. Can't wait to see. It couldn't have been easy to be the replacement for an icon such as Freddie Mercury. Queen is selling out it's tour now. They come to the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia in August.
Back to Idol. Let's start with the two people who were eliminated last night...
Walker- Sang "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" last night. He has been a gawky, geeky guy, but he had a nice voice with an old-fashioned heart. I compared him to a young Barry Manilow. I'm not surprised he is gone. He was awkward again last night but an upbeat song like that, but at least he had the guts to go out of his box ( which are ballads).
Alyssa- She was expected to go. Saved twice already, it was obvious that America didn't like her for some reason. She's good, and went farther this year but she's only 17 and she just isn't star material. "The Sauce" as they called her, is cooked.
The judges didn't not use their only save, preferring to keep it for the next two weeks. I'm sure they will use it to save Alejandro, who is their favorite. Speaking of which..
Alejandro-
He is awful last night. He sang "Under Pressure" and totally changed the arrangement. He tried to make into a slower ballad to suit his high voice. It was terrible I could hardly hear him or understand the words. Even his duet ( it was also "Movie Duets" night, where contestants were paired up to sing a movie theme song) sucked, as he and Walker tried to duet on "Mrs. Robinson," the classic Simon & Garfunkel tune from the movie "The Graduate."
I really expected America to hate his performances. Maybe he made the Top 6 but was 5th on the total list? Anyway, he surprisingly made the cut. However if he doesn't pick up his game he will be gone-unless the judges save him.
Alejandro is a good musician ( but not as great as the judges have swooned over him). but he is turning into a one-trick pony. He won't win it all.
Wade- He forgot the lyrics again last night, a cardinal sin, when he tried to growl out "We Are The Champions." He should've been booted out. He even looked amazed when he made it to the Top 6. He is hardly the best singer and his duet with Aylessa was weird. He can't win either and was exposed again on Sunday night.
Laine- He's a favorite with the girls. He opened up a little with his rendition of "Fat Bottomed Girls" but he's still a too slick Elvis wannabe. He reminds me of a Vegas entertainer not an Idol. His duet with Laci, was nice but hardly overwhelming.
Laci- I still don't get it. She has a low, smokey voice and she seems to be gasping for air every time she sings. She is not the "belter" that Madison is. I just don't think she is that good, but America must like her to keep her in. I doubt she will win in the end. Is she a country singer? A folk singer? She is sweet and sincere but not the best singer.
Madison- She belted out "The Show Must Go On," which may have been over the top, but the song itself is over the top. Even with a loud song like that, Madison never screams and is under control. She definitely can win and I think she will at least make the top two. Her duet with Jeremiah was great. They harmonized well together, and I couldn't help but feel we will see these two again in a few weeks, battling for the crown.
Jeremiah- I wanted him to finally do something upbeat, not another ballad, but he choose "Who Wants To Live Forever." Let's face it- he's got the best voice, is a showman, and will probably win it all. His parents finally attended the show, and it was an emotional reunion backstage as he warmly hugged his mother. The camera cut away before he and his father interacted ( which I wanted to see).
Only a few weeks left . Idol must be returning next season as they are already promoting their summer auditions. They haven't talked about these current contestants going on a summer tour, like usual, even though they claim these are the best singers they have ever had. I wonder if the same judges will return?
Speaking of the judges, they are getting paid millions of dollars each season ( Katy makes $25 mil; Lionel and Luke make $12 mil), yet they can't bring themselves to be honest or critical. I'm not saying be nasty like Simon sometimes was (I miss his refreshing honesty). Just lay it out. America is not stupid. We know if a singer sucked or not. Don't be so nice!
The documentary on Queen and Lambert is on ABC at 8 pm. tonight. Can't wait to see. It couldn't have been easy to be the replacement for an icon such as Freddie Mercury. Queen is selling out it's tour now. They come to the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia in August.
Back to Idol. Let's start with the two people who were eliminated last night...
Walker- Sang "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" last night. He has been a gawky, geeky guy, but he had a nice voice with an old-fashioned heart. I compared him to a young Barry Manilow. I'm not surprised he is gone. He was awkward again last night but an upbeat song like that, but at least he had the guts to go out of his box ( which are ballads).
Alyssa- She was expected to go. Saved twice already, it was obvious that America didn't like her for some reason. She's good, and went farther this year but she's only 17 and she just isn't star material. "The Sauce" as they called her, is cooked.
The judges didn't not use their only save, preferring to keep it for the next two weeks. I'm sure they will use it to save Alejandro, who is their favorite. Speaking of which..
Alejandro-
He is awful last night. He sang "Under Pressure" and totally changed the arrangement. He tried to make into a slower ballad to suit his high voice. It was terrible I could hardly hear him or understand the words. Even his duet ( it was also "Movie Duets" night, where contestants were paired up to sing a movie theme song) sucked, as he and Walker tried to duet on "Mrs. Robinson," the classic Simon & Garfunkel tune from the movie "The Graduate."
I really expected America to hate his performances. Maybe he made the Top 6 but was 5th on the total list? Anyway, he surprisingly made the cut. However if he doesn't pick up his game he will be gone-unless the judges save him.
Alejandro is a good musician ( but not as great as the judges have swooned over him). but he is turning into a one-trick pony. He won't win it all.
Wade- He forgot the lyrics again last night, a cardinal sin, when he tried to growl out "We Are The Champions." He should've been booted out. He even looked amazed when he made it to the Top 6. He is hardly the best singer and his duet with Aylessa was weird. He can't win either and was exposed again on Sunday night.
Laine- He's a favorite with the girls. He opened up a little with his rendition of "Fat Bottomed Girls" but he's still a too slick Elvis wannabe. He reminds me of a Vegas entertainer not an Idol. His duet with Laci, was nice but hardly overwhelming.
Laci- I still don't get it. She has a low, smokey voice and she seems to be gasping for air every time she sings. She is not the "belter" that Madison is. I just don't think she is that good, but America must like her to keep her in. I doubt she will win in the end. Is she a country singer? A folk singer? She is sweet and sincere but not the best singer.
Madison- She belted out "The Show Must Go On," which may have been over the top, but the song itself is over the top. Even with a loud song like that, Madison never screams and is under control. She definitely can win and I think she will at least make the top two. Her duet with Jeremiah was great. They harmonized well together, and I couldn't help but feel we will see these two again in a few weeks, battling for the crown.
Jeremiah- I wanted him to finally do something upbeat, not another ballad, but he choose "Who Wants To Live Forever." Let's face it- he's got the best voice, is a showman, and will probably win it all. His parents finally attended the show, and it was an emotional reunion backstage as he warmly hugged his mother. The camera cut away before he and his father interacted ( which I wanted to see).
Only a few weeks left . Idol must be returning next season as they are already promoting their summer auditions. They haven't talked about these current contestants going on a summer tour, like usual, even though they claim these are the best singers they have ever had. I wonder if the same judges will return?
Speaking of the judges, they are getting paid millions of dollars each season ( Katy makes $25 mil; Lionel and Luke make $12 mil), yet they can't bring themselves to be honest or critical. I'm not saying be nasty like Simon sometimes was (I miss his refreshing honesty). Just lay it out. America is not stupid. We know if a singer sucked or not. Don't be so nice!
Sunday, April 28, 2019
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, EAGLES, SIXERS
- The Phillies almost did something they haven't done since 1901- blow a nine-run lead. Up 10-1 in the sixth inning, Miami scored eight straight run in the next three innings to slice the lead to 10-9.
Before he left the game, started Jake Arrieta surrendered a few runs in the sixth. Jose Alvarez, who sucks, came into the game and put more fuel on the fire. Siranthony Dominguez, who is a waste anymore, gave up a pair of run in the eighth, proceeded by deLos Santos, who got rocked for two runs in the seventh.
That led to Hector Neris, who escaped the ninth with a pair of strikeouts and got the save, but not before more drama.
Craig Kimbel, where are you?
Rhys Hoskins blasted a long two-run homer in the bottom of the eighth to give the Phils some insurance. They won it 12-9 and increased their lead in NL East to 1 1/2 games, as everyone else in the division lost.
It's great that the hitters broke out early, then they shut down late and the shaky bullpen almost blew it.
Shortstop Jean Segua was back last night, then proceeded to get beaned in the helmet by a pitch ans was taken out of the game for precaution. No concussion.
The Phils try to take three of four with a win today behind struggling Zach Eflin.
- The Eagles came away with five new players from the NFL draft. They sorely missed their third round pick they traded to the Lions during the season for WR Golden Tate. They only drafted one defensive player, and they barely missed drafting North Dakota State's quarterback Easton Stick ( he went one pick ahead), taking a Northwestern QB instead.
They needed an upgrade on the offensive line with Dillard, and if Sanders turns into another version of Shady McCoy, this draft will be great. Time will tell.
- As expected, the Sixers got beat up in Toronto, losing Game 1 of their playoff series. Game 2 is Monday night in Toronto. Under Coach Brett Brown the 76ers will not win a championship. He didn't make the necessary adjustments needed during the game.
The players again looked disinterested. no one can guard the great Kawhi Leonard, who scored 45 points. Te Raptors have won 22 of the last 25 games vs Philadelphia. Will that suddenly change overnight?
Before he left the game, started Jake Arrieta surrendered a few runs in the sixth. Jose Alvarez, who sucks, came into the game and put more fuel on the fire. Siranthony Dominguez, who is a waste anymore, gave up a pair of run in the eighth, proceeded by deLos Santos, who got rocked for two runs in the seventh.
That led to Hector Neris, who escaped the ninth with a pair of strikeouts and got the save, but not before more drama.
Craig Kimbel, where are you?
Rhys Hoskins blasted a long two-run homer in the bottom of the eighth to give the Phils some insurance. They won it 12-9 and increased their lead in NL East to 1 1/2 games, as everyone else in the division lost.
It's great that the hitters broke out early, then they shut down late and the shaky bullpen almost blew it.
Shortstop Jean Segua was back last night, then proceeded to get beaned in the helmet by a pitch ans was taken out of the game for precaution. No concussion.
The Phils try to take three of four with a win today behind struggling Zach Eflin.
- The Eagles came away with five new players from the NFL draft. They sorely missed their third round pick they traded to the Lions during the season for WR Golden Tate. They only drafted one defensive player, and they barely missed drafting North Dakota State's quarterback Easton Stick ( he went one pick ahead), taking a Northwestern QB instead.
They needed an upgrade on the offensive line with Dillard, and if Sanders turns into another version of Shady McCoy, this draft will be great. Time will tell.
- As expected, the Sixers got beat up in Toronto, losing Game 1 of their playoff series. Game 2 is Monday night in Toronto. Under Coach Brett Brown the 76ers will not win a championship. He didn't make the necessary adjustments needed during the game.
The players again looked disinterested. no one can guard the great Kawhi Leonard, who scored 45 points. Te Raptors have won 22 of the last 25 games vs Philadelphia. Will that suddenly change overnight?
Saturday, April 27, 2019
MY LIFE WITH BRITTLE BONES-15
There was a nursing home called Phoenixville Manor just a block away from our new house. I noticed an article in the local paper looking for volunteers. I had never been in a nursing home before. I didn't know what to expect yet I applied. I wasn't doing anything else, and instead of sitting around all day, doing nothing, it was something to keep me busy. That little voice inside, which guided me many times over the years, told me to visit the nursing home. So I did.
I worked in the Gift Shop and ended up volunteering for several years. I still hadn't decided what I wanted to do with my life so I had time to think and hope that something came my way.
The Gift Shop was a fun place to work because I got to meet many of the residents who drifted in doing the day to browse or buy small items, like candy bars. It gave the residents some independence to shop on their own.
One couple that came in daily was Bill and Dolly. Both were always dressed to the gills, like two figurines on top of a wedding cake. Bill was normally decked out in a suit, tie and fedora hat, Dolly generally wore a dress, heels and necklace. They were both short, in their 80s and cute. All dressed up with no place to go, other than up and down the halls.
Bill thought we had worked together in another life. He sat on the sofa in the middle of the shop and chatted about our days working for the Pennsylvania Railroad. Dolly patiently waited for him to finish his conversation, then off they went again, holding each other under the arm, slowly pacing down the hallway. Dolly occasionally whacked Bill over the head with her handbag for no apparent reason, which didn't seem to faze him.
I learned that I could easily talk to older people and enjoyed it, and they seemed to like me too. Maybe they trusted me because I was willing to listen, or maybe they looked at my disability differently then most of the world. They seemed to trust me, like I had a clue what they may be going through.
I soon became a fixture at the nursing home, not only volunteering in the Gift Shop, but doing part-time odd jobs, such as making posters for the Activities Department, putting my past art skills to good use. I must have made thousands of posters and signs over the years.
I had a purpose in life now. I couldn't wait to get up in the morning and wheel the block to the nursing home. I was making friends there and people needed me, which made me feel good.
During the summer I was assigned to spend time with John. He was a friendly elderly gentleman, most likely in his nineties, always dressed in western garb, a string tie and vest, always in brown. He grew up in Philadelphia, hardly the Old West. For some reason he often neighed like a horse between sentences., out of pain or habit or both.
He reminded me of Grandpa from the classic movie "The Grapes of Wrath."
The Social Worker and Activities Director thought it would be a good idea for me to visit John for an hour or so after I closed the Gift Shop at 3:00. John had a family but they rarely visited him. He was lonely and could use a friend. He felt forgotten. Staff became like surrogate families for residents who never saw a familiar family face other than on Christmas.
John and I became quick pals.I met him for the first time sitting in his wheelchair at the second floor nursing station., head in hands ( which I soon learned was a regular pose for John), dozing off as he waited for a cigar.
I hated to wake him up but after a few taps on the shoulder he lifted his head, befuddled, mumbling, "Who the hell..." before spotting me, his thin, wispy white hair a little messed up. I shook his hand, introduced myself, and he eyed me suspiciously with his sharp blue eyes, wondering what a "young fella' like me wanted with a forgotten old guy like him." What did I want?
We started talking about anything and everything: the weather, sports, anything to break the ice and find some common ground. John enjoyed to reminisce, so I allowed him to do most of the talking. Listening turned out to be a valuable tool down the road as I learned that most residents really wanted someone just to listen to them.
John was proud to show me his grainy, yellow photos that he kept in his pocket and under a leg, photos of himself as a young man, his wife, his children, old cars, old clothes. nothing current. Everything was from the past.
He laughed at himself, musing 'Didn't I look good back then?"
"I grew up in Philadelphia when Broad Street was a prairie," he said, laughing in that nanny goat way of his. He stared at those memories for minutes , perhaps wishing he could transport his quickly aging, fragile body through the photos and return to his youth and better days.
It was fascinating to gaze at the styles of clothing, the different kinds of automobiles and old houses. John's memories and stories were fun to listen to, even though he tended to repeat himself often, and he insisted on staring at the same pictures each time I visited.
Maybe it was closure, a way of validating his life. I imagined everything he had seen in life, all the history this guy saw and lived through. He reminded me of my late Uncle Henry. I was a captive audience again, but I really did enjoy his reflections and appreciated our chats maybe as much as he did.
"My daughter!" he would suddenly exclaim. 'What a great girl. " His words faded off like the fading photos.. It had to be so painful to know she didn't visit anymore.I could relate to his loneliness. We had more in common then he imagined.
I worked in the Gift Shop and ended up volunteering for several years. I still hadn't decided what I wanted to do with my life so I had time to think and hope that something came my way.
The Gift Shop was a fun place to work because I got to meet many of the residents who drifted in doing the day to browse or buy small items, like candy bars. It gave the residents some independence to shop on their own.
One couple that came in daily was Bill and Dolly. Both were always dressed to the gills, like two figurines on top of a wedding cake. Bill was normally decked out in a suit, tie and fedora hat, Dolly generally wore a dress, heels and necklace. They were both short, in their 80s and cute. All dressed up with no place to go, other than up and down the halls.
Bill thought we had worked together in another life. He sat on the sofa in the middle of the shop and chatted about our days working for the Pennsylvania Railroad. Dolly patiently waited for him to finish his conversation, then off they went again, holding each other under the arm, slowly pacing down the hallway. Dolly occasionally whacked Bill over the head with her handbag for no apparent reason, which didn't seem to faze him.
I learned that I could easily talk to older people and enjoyed it, and they seemed to like me too. Maybe they trusted me because I was willing to listen, or maybe they looked at my disability differently then most of the world. They seemed to trust me, like I had a clue what they may be going through.
I soon became a fixture at the nursing home, not only volunteering in the Gift Shop, but doing part-time odd jobs, such as making posters for the Activities Department, putting my past art skills to good use. I must have made thousands of posters and signs over the years.
I had a purpose in life now. I couldn't wait to get up in the morning and wheel the block to the nursing home. I was making friends there and people needed me, which made me feel good.
During the summer I was assigned to spend time with John. He was a friendly elderly gentleman, most likely in his nineties, always dressed in western garb, a string tie and vest, always in brown. He grew up in Philadelphia, hardly the Old West. For some reason he often neighed like a horse between sentences., out of pain or habit or both.
He reminded me of Grandpa from the classic movie "The Grapes of Wrath."
The Social Worker and Activities Director thought it would be a good idea for me to visit John for an hour or so after I closed the Gift Shop at 3:00. John had a family but they rarely visited him. He was lonely and could use a friend. He felt forgotten. Staff became like surrogate families for residents who never saw a familiar family face other than on Christmas.
John and I became quick pals.I met him for the first time sitting in his wheelchair at the second floor nursing station., head in hands ( which I soon learned was a regular pose for John), dozing off as he waited for a cigar.
I hated to wake him up but after a few taps on the shoulder he lifted his head, befuddled, mumbling, "Who the hell..." before spotting me, his thin, wispy white hair a little messed up. I shook his hand, introduced myself, and he eyed me suspiciously with his sharp blue eyes, wondering what a "young fella' like me wanted with a forgotten old guy like him." What did I want?
We started talking about anything and everything: the weather, sports, anything to break the ice and find some common ground. John enjoyed to reminisce, so I allowed him to do most of the talking. Listening turned out to be a valuable tool down the road as I learned that most residents really wanted someone just to listen to them.
John was proud to show me his grainy, yellow photos that he kept in his pocket and under a leg, photos of himself as a young man, his wife, his children, old cars, old clothes. nothing current. Everything was from the past.
He laughed at himself, musing 'Didn't I look good back then?"
"I grew up in Philadelphia when Broad Street was a prairie," he said, laughing in that nanny goat way of his. He stared at those memories for minutes , perhaps wishing he could transport his quickly aging, fragile body through the photos and return to his youth and better days.
It was fascinating to gaze at the styles of clothing, the different kinds of automobiles and old houses. John's memories and stories were fun to listen to, even though he tended to repeat himself often, and he insisted on staring at the same pictures each time I visited.
Maybe it was closure, a way of validating his life. I imagined everything he had seen in life, all the history this guy saw and lived through. He reminded me of my late Uncle Henry. I was a captive audience again, but I really did enjoy his reflections and appreciated our chats maybe as much as he did.
"My daughter!" he would suddenly exclaim. 'What a great girl. " His words faded off like the fading photos.. It had to be so painful to know she didn't visit anymore.I could relate to his loneliness. We had more in common then he imagined.
PHILLIES TRIVIA
How many times did Steve Carlton win 20 games in a season?
Answer: 5 times - 1972 (27-10), 1976 (20-7), 1977 (23-10), 1980 (24-9), 1982 (23-11)
Answer: 5 times - 1972 (27-10), 1976 (20-7), 1977 (23-10), 1980 (24-9), 1982 (23-11)
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- APRIL 27/28
2014 NFL Draft Flashback
Five years ago, this was the top 10 players drafted.
1. Texans- Jadeveon Clowney
2. Rams- Greg Robinson
3. Jaguars- Blake Bortles
4. Bills- Sammy Watkins
5. Raiders- Khalil Mack
6. Falcons- Jake Mathews
7. Buccaneers- Mike Evans
8. Browns- Justin Gilbert
9. Vikings- Anthony Barr
10. Lions- Eric Ebron
Taking Mack at No. 5 was a steal for the Raiders. Bortles at No. 3 was a bad pick for Jacksonville.
Five years ago, this was the top 10 players drafted.
1. Texans- Jadeveon Clowney
2. Rams- Greg Robinson
3. Jaguars- Blake Bortles
4. Bills- Sammy Watkins
5. Raiders- Khalil Mack
6. Falcons- Jake Mathews
7. Buccaneers- Mike Evans
8. Browns- Justin Gilbert
9. Vikings- Anthony Barr
10. Lions- Eric Ebron
Taking Mack at No. 5 was a steal for the Raiders. Bortles at No. 3 was a bad pick for Jacksonville.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, EAGLES
- Behind shutout ball form Jared Eichoff, the Phillies defeated Miami last night, 4-0. The Phils hit three homers last night- opposite field shots by Realmuto, Franco and a titanic blast by Harper into the right field upper deck. The offense is still struggling to score runs but the pitching was sterling Friday night in the victory.
Shortstop Jean Segura should be back tonight, which will solidify the team in the field and in the no.2 hole in the batting order. With Herrera and Kingery due to return soon as well, the lineup should return to its early form when the club was averaging over seven runs a game.
Jake Arrieta goes tonight vs the Marlins. Arrieta has been solid so far this early season. It's important to take the last two games from the fish. A pair of inter league games against the Tigers during mid-week, followed by next weekend vs Washington ends the current home stand.
- After selecting an offensive tackle with their first pick in the first round, the Eagles took a running back and a wide receiver in the second round last night. They are giving Carson Wentz weapons to work with. With only two more picks in this year's draft ( unless there is a trade), defense needs to be addressed in the fourth and fifth rounds. Linebacker, defensive line and safety are needs.
There was thought of drafting a quarterback in the later rounds, someone to groom as Wentz' backup. Easton Stick, QB at North Dakota State, and Wentz' heir apparent in college, would be a nice fit. The Birds have to hope no one drafts Stick and he is eligible to come into training camp as a free agent.
Shortstop Jean Segura should be back tonight, which will solidify the team in the field and in the no.2 hole in the batting order. With Herrera and Kingery due to return soon as well, the lineup should return to its early form when the club was averaging over seven runs a game.
Jake Arrieta goes tonight vs the Marlins. Arrieta has been solid so far this early season. It's important to take the last two games from the fish. A pair of inter league games against the Tigers during mid-week, followed by next weekend vs Washington ends the current home stand.
- After selecting an offensive tackle with their first pick in the first round, the Eagles took a running back and a wide receiver in the second round last night. They are giving Carson Wentz weapons to work with. With only two more picks in this year's draft ( unless there is a trade), defense needs to be addressed in the fourth and fifth rounds. Linebacker, defensive line and safety are needs.
There was thought of drafting a quarterback in the later rounds, someone to groom as Wentz' backup. Easton Stick, QB at North Dakota State, and Wentz' heir apparent in college, would be a nice fit. The Birds have to hope no one drafts Stick and he is eligible to come into training camp as a free agent.
Friday, April 26, 2019
MY LIFE WITH BRITTLE BONES-15
We started worrying about Henry when he parked his car downtown one day then forgot where he parked it. Someone called the police and they located the car and escorted Henry home. One time, instead of pulling into the driveway of a local church grounds for a card game at their hall, he drove into a field instead. He showed up that night in our driveway without his glasses. I asked him where they were and he thought he had them on.
Aunt Sue knew about these episodes of forgetfulness. Henry probably forgot even more then what he let on to her. But when he started to wander, even in the house, and lost his appetite, Sue took him to the doctor , something he hated to d.; Doctors were all "quacks" to Henry .
He was admitted to the hospital and eventually to a nursing home. Ironically, he was a resident at the same nursing home where I would later work as a social worker.
That broke my heart, seeing Henry waste away from Dementia, remembering the good times we had together over the years, reminding myself that this confusion and combativeness with staff wasn't the Uncle Henry I knew and loved.
Sue lost hope too, seeing Henry fade away, first mentally then physically. He fell and broke a hip, developed pneumonia and died on Christmas Day.
He would remember me at times when I stopped by to visit him on my breaks. He smiled with a twinkle in his eye when we talked about card games and cheese steaks in Philly. He knew the good times yet couldn't tell me what he did five minutes earlier.
When Henry died it wa like s losing my father all over again. Sue didn't last long without him. She missed his companionship, even the arguments, and she shared his fate in time, ending up in the same nursing home and dying a few years later.
An entire family gone. All the years of working at the tire plant, the beautiful home in town, everything was gone but the memories.
As a final tribute, I bought a brand new deck of cards and placed them in Henry's coat pocket as he lay in state. I scribbled the inscription on the pack: "To Uncle Henry- May you find the Royal Flush in Heaven that you never found on Earth."
After Henry was gone life wasn't as much fun. I missed him and would never forget him, and how he made my life a little more cheerful, how he always made me smile and made me feel good about myself.
It was getting harder and harder for Mom to handle my care needs, especially the stairs in our three-story house. She literally had to carry me everywhere and it was killing her. So she did a very brave, bold and bright thing: she sold the house.
We moved into a new rancher across town. She used the money she got when Dad took an early retirement prior to his death. It wasn't the full benefits he would've gotten had he survived, but half was better than nothing. It allowed Mom to purchase the one-story home. Most of my siblings were on their own by now, and without steps to contend with, both inside and out, life would be easier for both Mom and me.
Some people thought she was crazy selling the house. But Mom knew what she was doing. It was a move which would change ort lives forever.
Things always happen for a reason. If poor Dad had not passed away maybe we never would've moved. And if we didn't move, maybe my life would've turned out entirely different. Dad was looking down on us, and after the Penn fiasco I firmly believed he was guiding me every step of the way.
Without stairs I began to assert my independence. I learned how to toilet myself- no more bedpans- shower myself ( with the help of a shower chair and shower spray), and now had the freedom to push my wheelchair all around the house, even outside if I wanted. It may seem like a small thing, but I finally felt free, like I was released from a prison.
I was no longer fracturing as often and now I had new-found independence. I felt almost "normal", which was a whole new world.
Maybe sometimes we take the small but important things for granted. Pushing my chair whenever and wherever I wanted to go, even from my bedroom to the kitchen across the house, or sit outside on a summer night or wheel down the driveway to get the mail or the newspaper, felt so liberating. I began to feel better about myself, both physically and emotionally. My self-esteem and confidence grew, and I wondered where this would all lead me.
Aunt Sue knew about these episodes of forgetfulness. Henry probably forgot even more then what he let on to her. But when he started to wander, even in the house, and lost his appetite, Sue took him to the doctor , something he hated to d.; Doctors were all "quacks" to Henry .
He was admitted to the hospital and eventually to a nursing home. Ironically, he was a resident at the same nursing home where I would later work as a social worker.
That broke my heart, seeing Henry waste away from Dementia, remembering the good times we had together over the years, reminding myself that this confusion and combativeness with staff wasn't the Uncle Henry I knew and loved.
Sue lost hope too, seeing Henry fade away, first mentally then physically. He fell and broke a hip, developed pneumonia and died on Christmas Day.
He would remember me at times when I stopped by to visit him on my breaks. He smiled with a twinkle in his eye when we talked about card games and cheese steaks in Philly. He knew the good times yet couldn't tell me what he did five minutes earlier.
When Henry died it wa like s losing my father all over again. Sue didn't last long without him. She missed his companionship, even the arguments, and she shared his fate in time, ending up in the same nursing home and dying a few years later.
An entire family gone. All the years of working at the tire plant, the beautiful home in town, everything was gone but the memories.
As a final tribute, I bought a brand new deck of cards and placed them in Henry's coat pocket as he lay in state. I scribbled the inscription on the pack: "To Uncle Henry- May you find the Royal Flush in Heaven that you never found on Earth."
After Henry was gone life wasn't as much fun. I missed him and would never forget him, and how he made my life a little more cheerful, how he always made me smile and made me feel good about myself.
It was getting harder and harder for Mom to handle my care needs, especially the stairs in our three-story house. She literally had to carry me everywhere and it was killing her. So she did a very brave, bold and bright thing: she sold the house.
We moved into a new rancher across town. She used the money she got when Dad took an early retirement prior to his death. It wasn't the full benefits he would've gotten had he survived, but half was better than nothing. It allowed Mom to purchase the one-story home. Most of my siblings were on their own by now, and without steps to contend with, both inside and out, life would be easier for both Mom and me.
Some people thought she was crazy selling the house. But Mom knew what she was doing. It was a move which would change ort lives forever.
Things always happen for a reason. If poor Dad had not passed away maybe we never would've moved. And if we didn't move, maybe my life would've turned out entirely different. Dad was looking down on us, and after the Penn fiasco I firmly believed he was guiding me every step of the way.
Without stairs I began to assert my independence. I learned how to toilet myself- no more bedpans- shower myself ( with the help of a shower chair and shower spray), and now had the freedom to push my wheelchair all around the house, even outside if I wanted. It may seem like a small thing, but I finally felt free, like I was released from a prison.
I was no longer fracturing as often and now I had new-found independence. I felt almost "normal", which was a whole new world.
Maybe sometimes we take the small but important things for granted. Pushing my chair whenever and wherever I wanted to go, even from my bedroom to the kitchen across the house, or sit outside on a summer night or wheel down the driveway to get the mail or the newspaper, felt so liberating. I began to feel better about myself, both physically and emotionally. My self-esteem and confidence grew, and I wondered where this would all lead me.
PHILLIES TRIVIA
Which Phillies outfielder has the club record for most Putouts in a season?
Answer: Richie Ashburn. (538 Putouts in 1951)
Answer: Richie Ashburn. (538 Putouts in 1951)
BASEBALL TRIVIA
World Series
Name the teams that did not win four World Series in a decade.
A. Red Sox
B. Yankees
C. Giants
D. Athletics
Answer: C and D.
The Giants won three this decade, notably on even years: 2010, 2012, and 2014.
The A's won three from 1910 through 1913, and three in a row from 1972 through 1974.
The Red Sox won four times between 1912 and 1918.
The Yankees won five times in the 1930s, four times in the 1940s, and six times in the 1950s.
Baseball Birthdays
Hack Wilson
Mike Scott
Amos Otis
Sal Maglie
Name the teams that did not win four World Series in a decade.
A. Red Sox
B. Yankees
C. Giants
D. Athletics
Answer: C and D.
The Giants won three this decade, notably on even years: 2010, 2012, and 2014.
The A's won three from 1910 through 1913, and three in a row from 1972 through 1974.
The Red Sox won four times between 1912 and 1918.
The Yankees won five times in the 1930s, four times in the 1940s, and six times in the 1950s.
Baseball Birthdays
Hack Wilson
Mike Scott
Amos Otis
Sal Maglie
IN MY LIFE- CONCERT REVIEW- ROGER MCGUINN A THTE COLONAL THEATER
It was a busy night at the Colonial Theater in downtown Phoenixville on Thursday night. The new blockbuster Avengers movie was playing in one of the smaller theaters. Kids, teenagers and geeky people dressed like superheroes all converged in the lobby of the old, beautiful movie house as we waited for the 1903 main theater yo open.
Oh, yes... There happened to be a concert in town as well- the iconic Roger McGuinn.
McGuinn is best known as the leader of the classic rock/ folk 60s band, The Byrds. They were billed back then as "America's answer to The Beatles." McGuinn met The Beatles many times and hung out with them, both here in the States and in England. More on that later.
The Colonial was packed on a weeknight, on a mild spring night in late April. The crowd was mostly older, as one would suspect. Only a few empty seats were seen.
McGuinn came out, dressed all in black, and looked great for a guy who is 76 years old. He proceeded to do a two hour show by himself- no back-up band or even a duet partner- just McGuinn and his many guitars( ( from acoustic to 12-string to the Rickenbacker electric guitar).
He was in fine voice through-out, and told fascinating stories all evening, starting with how he got his first guitar, all the way to forming The Byrds.McGuinn seemed to know everyone back in the late 60s. He casually name-dropped music legends like Bobby Darin, Miles Davis, The Mamas and the Papas, Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Pete Seeger, Tom Petty, Paul McCartney, Paul Simon and more.
The show was split into two sets ( with a 15 minutes break in between). At times McGuinn would stand and play, other times he sat and did a lot of intricate guitar chords. Roger performed many folk classics from other artists ( the entire show was heavier on folk rather than rock), many traditional songs, plus iconic Byrds' music , such a s"Turn! Turn! Turn! on the twangy Rickenbacker guitar.
Although well received by the audience all night, the more familiar Byrds stuff brought the most applause and enthusiasm.
A mini-tribute to the late Tom Petty was included in the second half ( which went far quicker than Act 1. "American Girl" sounded fresh on McGuinn's guitar, his voice similar to Petty's high tone.
But the real showstopper was a great cover of "Mr. Tamborine Man." the first Bryds' single and the record that would launch them in America.
A three-song encore followed a rousing standing ovation (I'll Feel A Whole Lot better" being a highlight encore tune), followed by another extended standing ovation as McGuinn said goodnight.
Catch Roger McGuinn on tour while you can. It's an unforgettable evening of great music and storyteller. You'll feel like McGuinn is sititng in your living room, chatting and playing guitar, like an old friend.
*** out of four stars.
Oh, yes... There happened to be a concert in town as well- the iconic Roger McGuinn.
McGuinn is best known as the leader of the classic rock/ folk 60s band, The Byrds. They were billed back then as "America's answer to The Beatles." McGuinn met The Beatles many times and hung out with them, both here in the States and in England. More on that later.
The Colonial was packed on a weeknight, on a mild spring night in late April. The crowd was mostly older, as one would suspect. Only a few empty seats were seen.
McGuinn came out, dressed all in black, and looked great for a guy who is 76 years old. He proceeded to do a two hour show by himself- no back-up band or even a duet partner- just McGuinn and his many guitars( ( from acoustic to 12-string to the Rickenbacker electric guitar).
He was in fine voice through-out, and told fascinating stories all evening, starting with how he got his first guitar, all the way to forming The Byrds.McGuinn seemed to know everyone back in the late 60s. He casually name-dropped music legends like Bobby Darin, Miles Davis, The Mamas and the Papas, Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Pete Seeger, Tom Petty, Paul McCartney, Paul Simon and more.
The show was split into two sets ( with a 15 minutes break in between). At times McGuinn would stand and play, other times he sat and did a lot of intricate guitar chords. Roger performed many folk classics from other artists ( the entire show was heavier on folk rather than rock), many traditional songs, plus iconic Byrds' music , such a s"Turn! Turn! Turn! on the twangy Rickenbacker guitar.
Although well received by the audience all night, the more familiar Byrds stuff brought the most applause and enthusiasm.
A mini-tribute to the late Tom Petty was included in the second half ( which went far quicker than Act 1. "American Girl" sounded fresh on McGuinn's guitar, his voice similar to Petty's high tone.
But the real showstopper was a great cover of "Mr. Tamborine Man." the first Bryds' single and the record that would launch them in America.
A three-song encore followed a rousing standing ovation (I'll Feel A Whole Lot better" being a highlight encore tune), followed by another extended standing ovation as McGuinn said goodnight.
Catch Roger McGuinn on tour while you can. It's an unforgettable evening of great music and storyteller. You'll feel like McGuinn is sititng in your living room, chatting and playing guitar, like an old friend.
*** out of four stars.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, PHILLIES, SIXERS
- The Eagles traded up last night and selected 22nd in the NFL draft, picking offensive lineman Andre Dillard from Washington State. With tackle Jason Peters continually getting hurt and winding down on his career, it made sense for the Eagles to address the O-line with a first rounder. Dillard can play both tackle and guard, so if Peters is healthy this season but guard Barrett Brooks isn't, Dillard could conceivable step in at guard.
It's not a sexy pick, like a skilled position such as wide receiver or running back. Hopefully those positions will be addressed today or tomorrow. Defensive line is also in need, as is safety. A back-up quarterback is also on the agenda.
The trade was costly as Philly sent Baltimore a 4th and 6th round pick, plus switched first rounders, with the Ravens picking at 25th.
The Birds have a pair of second round picks tonight. They have a 4th round, a fifth round and a seventh round pick on Saturday.
WR Nelson Agholor is on the trading block and may be dealt before the weekend is over. I think that would be a mistake as Agholor has made big catches the last few seasons and remains effective as either a slot receiver or deep threat.
- The Phillies looked dead again last night, coming home and losing to lowly Miami 3-1 in 10 innings. Both Gabe Kapler and Bryce Harper took blame for the loss, which dropped the team into second place in National League East with a record of 13-12.
Kapler claimed fault for sending Hector Neris out for a second inning. Neris can't barely go one frame not two. He gave up a two-run, game-deciding homer in the 10th to the Marlins' Starling Castro. Yet his best bullpen guy, Siranthony Dominguez, only goes one inning?
Harper failed with a runner on third, one out as he popped up. He has struck out more than any batter in the National League in this young season. Harper usually gets off to fast starts but he is struggling.
The entire offense is worthless. They miss shortstop Jean Segura, who should be back Saturday night. He brings stability to the field and in the no. 2 hole. Center field is also an abyss. I never thought I would admit to missing Odulbel Herrera but I do. Aaron Altherr is 1-for-16 on the season and, before he got hurt again, Roman Quinn was a strikeout machine. It will be interesting to see which one goes when Herrera comes back. If Quinn is still on the Injured List there's no problem. Altherr is out of options and would need to be released.
Aaron Nola pitched last night and was better but still not the dominant Nola of last year. He pitched into the seventh inning. I still think he is or was hurt and is pitching his way through it.
Moving Franco into the fifth slot in the batting order hasn't worked. Before all the injuries, Franco was the most productive 8th hole hitter in the league. When Herrera, Segura and Kingery do return, Franco should immediately return to batting eighth.
Is Kapler's job in peril? I say yes. True, he is not to blame for the injuries. but the team too often looks like last year's version- poor with fundamentals and striking out too much. Even more troubling, at times they appear undisciplined and lackluster. Other than the recent Rhys Hoskins New York head-hunting incident, which momentarily sparked the club, they have looked lifeless.
The owner spent too much money on building a playoff team for this year and beyond. If the club is still floundering by Memorial Day i expect a change. Would it be third base coach Dusty Wathen taking over? Or fiery Larry Bowa? Would they bring back Pete Macannin? Is Charlie Manual too old for the job?
I'm sure GM Matt Klentak wouldn't want to eat crow and admit that hiring Kapler was a mistake. but if ownership overrules and wants a change, it's gonna happen. Let's hope it never gets that far.
- The Sixers play Game 1 of their playoff series with the Toronto Raptors Saturday night at 7:30. It's crucial the 76ers steal the first game before the series settles in. I still say Toronto in six- and Coach Brett Brown loses his job after the season is over.
It's not a sexy pick, like a skilled position such as wide receiver or running back. Hopefully those positions will be addressed today or tomorrow. Defensive line is also in need, as is safety. A back-up quarterback is also on the agenda.
The trade was costly as Philly sent Baltimore a 4th and 6th round pick, plus switched first rounders, with the Ravens picking at 25th.
The Birds have a pair of second round picks tonight. They have a 4th round, a fifth round and a seventh round pick on Saturday.
WR Nelson Agholor is on the trading block and may be dealt before the weekend is over. I think that would be a mistake as Agholor has made big catches the last few seasons and remains effective as either a slot receiver or deep threat.
- The Phillies looked dead again last night, coming home and losing to lowly Miami 3-1 in 10 innings. Both Gabe Kapler and Bryce Harper took blame for the loss, which dropped the team into second place in National League East with a record of 13-12.
Kapler claimed fault for sending Hector Neris out for a second inning. Neris can't barely go one frame not two. He gave up a two-run, game-deciding homer in the 10th to the Marlins' Starling Castro. Yet his best bullpen guy, Siranthony Dominguez, only goes one inning?
Harper failed with a runner on third, one out as he popped up. He has struck out more than any batter in the National League in this young season. Harper usually gets off to fast starts but he is struggling.
The entire offense is worthless. They miss shortstop Jean Segura, who should be back Saturday night. He brings stability to the field and in the no. 2 hole. Center field is also an abyss. I never thought I would admit to missing Odulbel Herrera but I do. Aaron Altherr is 1-for-16 on the season and, before he got hurt again, Roman Quinn was a strikeout machine. It will be interesting to see which one goes when Herrera comes back. If Quinn is still on the Injured List there's no problem. Altherr is out of options and would need to be released.
Aaron Nola pitched last night and was better but still not the dominant Nola of last year. He pitched into the seventh inning. I still think he is or was hurt and is pitching his way through it.
Moving Franco into the fifth slot in the batting order hasn't worked. Before all the injuries, Franco was the most productive 8th hole hitter in the league. When Herrera, Segura and Kingery do return, Franco should immediately return to batting eighth.
Is Kapler's job in peril? I say yes. True, he is not to blame for the injuries. but the team too often looks like last year's version- poor with fundamentals and striking out too much. Even more troubling, at times they appear undisciplined and lackluster. Other than the recent Rhys Hoskins New York head-hunting incident, which momentarily sparked the club, they have looked lifeless.
The owner spent too much money on building a playoff team for this year and beyond. If the club is still floundering by Memorial Day i expect a change. Would it be third base coach Dusty Wathen taking over? Or fiery Larry Bowa? Would they bring back Pete Macannin? Is Charlie Manual too old for the job?
I'm sure GM Matt Klentak wouldn't want to eat crow and admit that hiring Kapler was a mistake. but if ownership overrules and wants a change, it's gonna happen. Let's hope it never gets that far.
- The Sixers play Game 1 of their playoff series with the Toronto Raptors Saturday night at 7:30. It's crucial the 76ers steal the first game before the series settles in. I still say Toronto in six- and Coach Brett Brown loses his job after the season is over.
Thursday, April 25, 2019
MY LIFE WITH BRITTLE BONES-14
Henry was his best behind a Poker table. He was crafty, shrewd and liked to bluff. He played at all the local fire houses and church events, but especially ruled at his weekly late night game at the Moose Lodge hall. He could go hours without winning a hand, but at the end when the dust cleared he usually was a winner or at least broke even. When beaten by a close hand he would lean over and whisper 'I'll nail him to the cross next time."
He could be rude and forward and didn't care who was across the table from him but he was admired and respected in town, especially by the older guys who he hung with.
After playing Poker for over sixty years, several times a week, Henry claimed to never have gotten a royal flush, the highest hand in the game. The odds of getting a royal flush were high, but out of all the cards he played over the years, to never beat the odds and get that perfect hand at least once was remarkable.
He always chased that elusive royal flush, both on and off the card table. It kept him going in life.
One memorable Henry incident was the time he forget about Aunt Sue's lottery tickets. She played the same numbers every day. It was their 50th wedding anniversary, and she played 5017, which stood for 50 years and the date they were married, November 17th.
5017, every day, for years.
For some reason Henry forgot to get tickets that day of all days and guess what the daily number was that night? Unbelievably, 5017 came up straight- $5,000 down the drain. It wasn't the end of the world but pretty close to it.
Poor Henry was at a loss for words when he got home that night from fishing and Sue asked if he had the winning tickets. That little slip would haunt him for years, and whenever a disagreement would come up she would save that final jab in the argument about the infamous lottery incident.
Our fondest memories were coming home from Atlantic City and stopping at Pat's Steaks in South Philly for a tasty cheese steak at four in the morning. Henry was in his glory, chomping down a steak on the streets where "Rocky" was filmed. He grew up down the city so he was familiar with this atmosphere and soaked it up.
We took many day trips together after Dad died: to New York, to visit relatives in Jersey, or just an evening ride for ice cream in the summer. Each time I couldn't wait to spend time with Henry, He made me laugh and he was fun to be around. You never knew what he was going to say or do.. He could be embarrassing at times with his language and bad manners, but most often he was a joy to be around. The life of the party, a family event wasn't the same without Henry.
He could be rude and forward and didn't care who was across the table from him but he was admired and respected in town, especially by the older guys who he hung with.
After playing Poker for over sixty years, several times a week, Henry claimed to never have gotten a royal flush, the highest hand in the game. The odds of getting a royal flush were high, but out of all the cards he played over the years, to never beat the odds and get that perfect hand at least once was remarkable.
He always chased that elusive royal flush, both on and off the card table. It kept him going in life.
One memorable Henry incident was the time he forget about Aunt Sue's lottery tickets. She played the same numbers every day. It was their 50th wedding anniversary, and she played 5017, which stood for 50 years and the date they were married, November 17th.
5017, every day, for years.
For some reason Henry forgot to get tickets that day of all days and guess what the daily number was that night? Unbelievably, 5017 came up straight- $5,000 down the drain. It wasn't the end of the world but pretty close to it.
Poor Henry was at a loss for words when he got home that night from fishing and Sue asked if he had the winning tickets. That little slip would haunt him for years, and whenever a disagreement would come up she would save that final jab in the argument about the infamous lottery incident.
Our fondest memories were coming home from Atlantic City and stopping at Pat's Steaks in South Philly for a tasty cheese steak at four in the morning. Henry was in his glory, chomping down a steak on the streets where "Rocky" was filmed. He grew up down the city so he was familiar with this atmosphere and soaked it up.
We took many day trips together after Dad died: to New York, to visit relatives in Jersey, or just an evening ride for ice cream in the summer. Each time I couldn't wait to spend time with Henry, He made me laugh and he was fun to be around. You never knew what he was going to say or do.. He could be embarrassing at times with his language and bad manners, but most often he was a joy to be around. The life of the party, a family event wasn't the same without Henry.
Henry helped us out after Dad died. He was our handyman, and since he had a lot of free time after retirement, (when he wasn't fishing) he would stop by and fix a leaky faucet or whatever needed to be done around the house. He often dropped off a basket of fresh corn on the cob at our front door, asking nothing in return.
He took me under his wing, took me out of my doldrums, and got me out of the house I was pretty down after quititng at Penn , with no prospects or dreams in sight. . Henry, in his own clever way, knew what he was doing. Maybe he lacked formal education, only going as far as sixth grade, but he had more common sense then anyone I ever met, something people often lacked.
He liked a good football or baseball game, smoked like a chimney (the aroma of his trademark cigars lingering on his clothing, just another reason to irratate Sue). He ate bacon and eggs each morning, didn't care about cholesterol, and drank beer in moderation.
They had one son, Eddie, a drifter who rarely held down a job, on the road a lot, travelling to Las Vegas and back, making a buck wherever he could, be it selling Christmas trees over the holidays or setting up a roadside stand hawking t-shirts. He was leading the lifestyle Henry probably would've loved to lead, if he wasn't expected to be the breadwinner and family provider.
When Eddie got sick from stomach cancer and died in his fifties it took the heart and soul out of Henry and Sue. Imagine losing your only child, dying before you. Sue was always the emotional one anyway , crying often, out of sorrow and joy. She took care of her son at home until he passed, helping him with a feeding tube when he no longer could eat by mouth,
Henry was the stoic one, typical male, never showing his emotions. But after Eddie's death, Henry was noticeably quieter and restrained, like a piece of his heart was taken away. His son was a clone of Henry, both in looks and personality. Although he never showed it in front of us, people reported seeing Henry alone during the day visiting Eddie's grave, taking out a white handkerchief and weeping.
This time we were the ones consoling Henry and Sue, urging him to continue his card games, his fishing and his usual routine. But it wasn't the same and never would be.
He took me under his wing, took me out of my doldrums, and got me out of the house I was pretty down after quititng at Penn , with no prospects or dreams in sight. . Henry, in his own clever way, knew what he was doing. Maybe he lacked formal education, only going as far as sixth grade, but he had more common sense then anyone I ever met, something people often lacked.
He liked a good football or baseball game, smoked like a chimney (the aroma of his trademark cigars lingering on his clothing, just another reason to irratate Sue). He ate bacon and eggs each morning, didn't care about cholesterol, and drank beer in moderation.
They had one son, Eddie, a drifter who rarely held down a job, on the road a lot, travelling to Las Vegas and back, making a buck wherever he could, be it selling Christmas trees over the holidays or setting up a roadside stand hawking t-shirts. He was leading the lifestyle Henry probably would've loved to lead, if he wasn't expected to be the breadwinner and family provider.
When Eddie got sick from stomach cancer and died in his fifties it took the heart and soul out of Henry and Sue. Imagine losing your only child, dying before you. Sue was always the emotional one anyway , crying often, out of sorrow and joy. She took care of her son at home until he passed, helping him with a feeding tube when he no longer could eat by mouth,
Henry was the stoic one, typical male, never showing his emotions. But after Eddie's death, Henry was noticeably quieter and restrained, like a piece of his heart was taken away. His son was a clone of Henry, both in looks and personality. Although he never showed it in front of us, people reported seeing Henry alone during the day visiting Eddie's grave, taking out a white handkerchief and weeping.
This time we were the ones consoling Henry and Sue, urging him to continue his card games, his fishing and his usual routine. But it wasn't the same and never would be.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, EAGLES
- Thank you, Mets!
When goofy New York reliever Jacob Raine threw at Rhys Hoskins on Tuesday night in the ninth inning, he awakened a dead Phillies team. Philadelphia came out Wednesday night with a 6-0 victory to salvage a game in the series. The win vaulted the Phillies back into a first place tie with the Mets.
Hoskins got his revenge last night when he slugged a two-run home run in the ninth inning of Raine. Hoskins jogged around the bases in a brisk 34 seconds, enjoying the moment.
Why were the Mets stupid enough to have Raine face Hoskins again? Why did they head-hunt Hoskins in the first place/
This will probably be a feud all season long. It's great for the already intense New York- Philly rivalry. The race for the national League East division crown will most likely be competitive all summer with both the Braves and Nationals in the mix too. But the Phillies- Mets games will be even more interesting due to the Hoskins - Raine confrontations.
Vince Valasquez again pitched well, going five shutout innings. The bullpen closed out the ballgame, preserving the shutout.
The Phillies return home tonight to start a nine-game home stand with Miami. Aaron Nola hopes to finally get on track when he starts against the marlins.
Bryce Harper lined a first inning double to knock in a run but he also continues to strike out. We knew what we were getting in Harper when we signed him. Tons of strikeouts but also tons of hits, RBIs and a threat to hit a homer every time he is at the plate. Harper also effects those around him, and opposition pitchers must tread lightly up and down the lineup.
Cesar Hernandez committed yet another error last night at second base. He leads the NL in errors by a second baseman so far this season. Hopefully Scott Kingery is back from the injured List soon.
Speaking of which, shortstop Jean Segura may be able to return from the IL this weekend. Losing Segura negatively effected the team both on offense and defense. Segura's steadiness in the field and his potent back hitting No. 2 in the lineup is missed a great deal.
****************************************************************
The first round of the NFL draft is tonight in Nashville, TN. The Eagles are scheduled to pick 25th . They could trade up or move back, hoping to recoup the third round pick they traded for WR Golden Tate. They could stay at 25 and most likely take a defensive linesman, a safety or a speedy wide receiver. Running back is also a need but probably not in the first round.
As always, it should be an interesting night and fascinating three days of the draft. I think the Birds stay at 25 and take a pass rushing defensive end or tackle. There is apparently lots of depth this year in both lines so the Eagles need to get younger and so take the best defensive linesman on the board with pick 25.
With they also take a young quarterback later in the draft, maybe on Saturday. North Dakota State's Easton Stick, the heir apparent to Carson Wentz, is a logical selection as a backup QB.
When goofy New York reliever Jacob Raine threw at Rhys Hoskins on Tuesday night in the ninth inning, he awakened a dead Phillies team. Philadelphia came out Wednesday night with a 6-0 victory to salvage a game in the series. The win vaulted the Phillies back into a first place tie with the Mets.
Hoskins got his revenge last night when he slugged a two-run home run in the ninth inning of Raine. Hoskins jogged around the bases in a brisk 34 seconds, enjoying the moment.
Why were the Mets stupid enough to have Raine face Hoskins again? Why did they head-hunt Hoskins in the first place/
This will probably be a feud all season long. It's great for the already intense New York- Philly rivalry. The race for the national League East division crown will most likely be competitive all summer with both the Braves and Nationals in the mix too. But the Phillies- Mets games will be even more interesting due to the Hoskins - Raine confrontations.
Vince Valasquez again pitched well, going five shutout innings. The bullpen closed out the ballgame, preserving the shutout.
The Phillies return home tonight to start a nine-game home stand with Miami. Aaron Nola hopes to finally get on track when he starts against the marlins.
Bryce Harper lined a first inning double to knock in a run but he also continues to strike out. We knew what we were getting in Harper when we signed him. Tons of strikeouts but also tons of hits, RBIs and a threat to hit a homer every time he is at the plate. Harper also effects those around him, and opposition pitchers must tread lightly up and down the lineup.
Cesar Hernandez committed yet another error last night at second base. He leads the NL in errors by a second baseman so far this season. Hopefully Scott Kingery is back from the injured List soon.
Speaking of which, shortstop Jean Segura may be able to return from the IL this weekend. Losing Segura negatively effected the team both on offense and defense. Segura's steadiness in the field and his potent back hitting No. 2 in the lineup is missed a great deal.
****************************************************************
The first round of the NFL draft is tonight in Nashville, TN. The Eagles are scheduled to pick 25th . They could trade up or move back, hoping to recoup the third round pick they traded for WR Golden Tate. They could stay at 25 and most likely take a defensive linesman, a safety or a speedy wide receiver. Running back is also a need but probably not in the first round.
As always, it should be an interesting night and fascinating three days of the draft. I think the Birds stay at 25 and take a pass rushing defensive end or tackle. There is apparently lots of depth this year in both lines so the Eagles need to get younger and so take the best defensive linesman on the board with pick 25.
With they also take a young quarterback later in the draft, maybe on Saturday. North Dakota State's Easton Stick, the heir apparent to Carson Wentz, is a logical selection as a backup QB.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY-APRIL 25
The best NFL draft ever
In 1974, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected wide receiver Lynn Swann with the 21st pick in the first round of the NFL draft.
In the second round they opted for linebacker Jack Lambert, and chose another wide receiver, John Stallworth, in the fourth (they had traded their third round pick before the draft).
When center Mike Webster became a Steeler in round five, head coach Chuck Noll was provided a quartet that would perform in 24 Pro Bowls and four Pittsburgh championship seasons.
The rich got richer when an un-drafted defensive back Donnie Shell showed up at Noll's training camp that summer.
In 1974, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected wide receiver Lynn Swann with the 21st pick in the first round of the NFL draft.
In the second round they opted for linebacker Jack Lambert, and chose another wide receiver, John Stallworth, in the fourth (they had traded their third round pick before the draft).
When center Mike Webster became a Steeler in round five, head coach Chuck Noll was provided a quartet that would perform in 24 Pro Bowls and four Pittsburgh championship seasons.
The rich got richer when an un-drafted defensive back Donnie Shell showed up at Noll's training camp that summer.
BASEBALL TRIVIA
Awards
Name the player who didn't win three Most Valuable Player awards.
A. Miguel Cabrera
B. Stan Musial
C. Joe DiMaggio
D. Roy Campanella
Answer: A.
The Tiger's first baseman won back-to-back MVPs in 2012, when he won Triple Crown honors, and 2013, when he slugged .636, a full 30 points higher than in his Triple Crown campaign of 2012. Thereafter Cabrera's power numbers diminished.
Name the player who didn't win three Most Valuable Player awards.
A. Miguel Cabrera
B. Stan Musial
C. Joe DiMaggio
D. Roy Campanella
Answer: A.
The Tiger's first baseman won back-to-back MVPs in 2012, when he won Triple Crown honors, and 2013, when he slugged .636, a full 30 points higher than in his Triple Crown campaign of 2012. Thereafter Cabrera's power numbers diminished.
Wednesday, April 24, 2019
MY LIFE WITH BRITTLE BONES-13
After Dad died my Uncle Henry became like my second father. He had a big influence on my face and, like Dad, never treated me differently or dwelled on my disability. He and my Aunt Sue lived nearby in town. Henry was tall and thin, with dark-framed glasses and a perpetual tan. He worked for many years at a local tire plant, just like Dad. Many of our family either worked at tire plants or the local steel mill. We descended from our immigrant relatives who came to Pennsylvania looking for work in the coal mines and steel factories.
Henry's passion was gambling. He was happiest behind a card table or at the racetrack. Of course, he taught me the ins and outs of cards and the ponies.
Henry and Sue argued often, often over petty things, but that is how they lived and loved for nearly sixty years.He would tell her to "shut the hell up" ( every other word out of his mouth was "damn" or "hell", which made Henry a salty, colorful character to be around). It wasn't uncommon for him to half-jokingly threaten to "throw her in the trunk" during one of our many day trips together. But overall he was a nice guy with a heart of gold. I'm convinced they loved each other. As Sue would say, "He's like an antique. I can't get rid of him now."
Uncle Henry ( everyone had an Uncle Henry in their family at one time or another) had an opinion about everything and wasn't afraid to express it, which was kind of refreshing. He didn't mince words, and although Aunt Sue was his leash and advised him to "mind your own business," it didn't stop Henry from putting in his two cents everywhere he went.
Henry liked to play Blackjack in Atlantic City. He was good at the game but better at Poker. He held his own at the tables, told off the pit bosses when he lost, and led a fantasy Frank Sinatra type of life (his idol), or at least wanted to.
He told stories in the car about Sinatra, along with his usual hunting and fishing yarns. I was a captive audience during our excursions to Atlantic City, but I found his stories interesting, amazed how he knew all the good fishing holes around the area, or how he once stayed up in a tree for ten hours. waiting for a deer to pass by. His bad language added to the interest and humor of his stories. Mom and I laughed out loud often during our trips together.
Sometimes he told the same story twice and asked, "Did I ever tell you this one before?" Yes, but I didn't mind hearing it again, although Aunt Sue would groan in the backseat.
He literally had hundreds of stories to relate. He liked me because I was a willing listener. We all need someone to listen to us, especially when we grow older. At close to eighty Henry was eager to share his wisdom with anyone willing (or not so willing) to listen. It made his life complete, adding a sense of closure to his life. It made him feel his life wasn't wasted, that he had lived a rich, full life. So, in that respect Henry enjoyed time with me almost as much as I looked forward to seeing him too.
He focused on my abilities ( like my new found ability to play Blackjack), which was new to me. The only time he would mention my disability was in passing, almost as an afterthought, commenting to others, "Shame, isn't it/ He doesn't have any legs."
I did have legs. They were just short and stunted underneath my trousers. Why Henry always thought I didn't have legs was something I never understood but didn't bother to ask him about or correct him.
The racetrack was also a favorite hang-out of ours. Nothing like sitting outside on a warm summer evening in Brandywine, Delaware, gazing at programs, trying to pick a winner. We followed a local harness driver named Wade, and when Henry saw in the morning paper that Wade was going to ride in a race that night he called me up and asked if I "wanted to go.'
We both didn't have much money. Henry had his pension and Social Security so we were strictly $2.00 bettors. We had fun and the races were a diversion from life. We didn't often win but Henry did hit a long shot exacta once for over $2,000 ( which seemed like a million to him), but more than often we lost, lamenting in the car "We will get them next time."
We met baseball player Pete Rose at Brandywine one night ( way before he was labeled a gambler). Henry spotted him in the clubhouse while placing a bet and wasn't afraid to go up to him and asked him to say hi to me. Sure enough, after the races ended that night Henry positioned my wheelchair near the escalator close to the main exit and there was the familiar face of Pete Rose riding down with a group of people, Henry standing behind him, smiling broadly, and I could read his lips "He doesn't have legs..."
Pete stopped for a moment, shook my hand, and gave me an autographed photo. "How ya doing, buddy?" he grinned before his bodyguard whisked him out the door into the summer air.
Henry kept life exciting and fun. He went out of his way to make me smile.
Henry's passion was gambling. He was happiest behind a card table or at the racetrack. Of course, he taught me the ins and outs of cards and the ponies.
Henry and Sue argued often, often over petty things, but that is how they lived and loved for nearly sixty years.He would tell her to "shut the hell up" ( every other word out of his mouth was "damn" or "hell", which made Henry a salty, colorful character to be around). It wasn't uncommon for him to half-jokingly threaten to "throw her in the trunk" during one of our many day trips together. But overall he was a nice guy with a heart of gold. I'm convinced they loved each other. As Sue would say, "He's like an antique. I can't get rid of him now."
Uncle Henry ( everyone had an Uncle Henry in their family at one time or another) had an opinion about everything and wasn't afraid to express it, which was kind of refreshing. He didn't mince words, and although Aunt Sue was his leash and advised him to "mind your own business," it didn't stop Henry from putting in his two cents everywhere he went.
Henry liked to play Blackjack in Atlantic City. He was good at the game but better at Poker. He held his own at the tables, told off the pit bosses when he lost, and led a fantasy Frank Sinatra type of life (his idol), or at least wanted to.
He told stories in the car about Sinatra, along with his usual hunting and fishing yarns. I was a captive audience during our excursions to Atlantic City, but I found his stories interesting, amazed how he knew all the good fishing holes around the area, or how he once stayed up in a tree for ten hours. waiting for a deer to pass by. His bad language added to the interest and humor of his stories. Mom and I laughed out loud often during our trips together.
Sometimes he told the same story twice and asked, "Did I ever tell you this one before?" Yes, but I didn't mind hearing it again, although Aunt Sue would groan in the backseat.
He literally had hundreds of stories to relate. He liked me because I was a willing listener. We all need someone to listen to us, especially when we grow older. At close to eighty Henry was eager to share his wisdom with anyone willing (or not so willing) to listen. It made his life complete, adding a sense of closure to his life. It made him feel his life wasn't wasted, that he had lived a rich, full life. So, in that respect Henry enjoyed time with me almost as much as I looked forward to seeing him too.
He focused on my abilities ( like my new found ability to play Blackjack), which was new to me. The only time he would mention my disability was in passing, almost as an afterthought, commenting to others, "Shame, isn't it/ He doesn't have any legs."
I did have legs. They were just short and stunted underneath my trousers. Why Henry always thought I didn't have legs was something I never understood but didn't bother to ask him about or correct him.
The racetrack was also a favorite hang-out of ours. Nothing like sitting outside on a warm summer evening in Brandywine, Delaware, gazing at programs, trying to pick a winner. We followed a local harness driver named Wade, and when Henry saw in the morning paper that Wade was going to ride in a race that night he called me up and asked if I "wanted to go.'
We both didn't have much money. Henry had his pension and Social Security so we were strictly $2.00 bettors. We had fun and the races were a diversion from life. We didn't often win but Henry did hit a long shot exacta once for over $2,000 ( which seemed like a million to him), but more than often we lost, lamenting in the car "We will get them next time."
We met baseball player Pete Rose at Brandywine one night ( way before he was labeled a gambler). Henry spotted him in the clubhouse while placing a bet and wasn't afraid to go up to him and asked him to say hi to me. Sure enough, after the races ended that night Henry positioned my wheelchair near the escalator close to the main exit and there was the familiar face of Pete Rose riding down with a group of people, Henry standing behind him, smiling broadly, and I could read his lips "He doesn't have legs..."
Pete stopped for a moment, shook my hand, and gave me an autographed photo. "How ya doing, buddy?" he grinned before his bodyguard whisked him out the door into the summer air.
Henry kept life exciting and fun. He went out of his way to make me smile.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, SIXERS
- So much for Jake Arrieta's rant. His "pep-talk" after Monday nights' loss to the Mets had absolutely no effect on the Phillies as they slept through a 9-0 drubbing to New York.
The Phillies have lost three in a row for the first time this season. They are 12-11 after a 7-2 start. They drop to a full game behind the Mets in NL East. They are -15 on their current road trip which wraps up tonight at Citi Field.
They look like a flat, uninspired,lackluster team similar to late last season when they choked. Errors, stupid mental mistakes, striking out too much, you name it.
My question about Cesar Hernandez was answered yesterday in the Extra Innings email. the writer, Bob Brookover, likes Hernandez and stated that he wants the club to keep him, with Scott Kingery coming off the bench as a utility guy.
I don't. Kingery needs to play everyday- at his natural position at second base. It's crazy to give him the huge contract then use him as a utility player. Kingery was a Gold Glove caliber second baseman in the minor leagues. Hernandez is not the future. Kingery is.
Hernandez messed up an easy ground ball last night, which led to a run. He strayed off second base the night before and spooled a rally. He doesn't hit enough to justify his weakness on the bath paths and in the field. His sleepy play and attitude is killing the team.
Roman Quinn has a shot to earn a permanent spot on the roster. Odubel Herrera is still on the injured list. But Quinn continues to strikeout at an alarming rate and is blowing his chance.
When Herrera comes back someone needs to go. Either Quinn, Nick Williams ( who has yet to start a game this year, but Manager Gabe Kapler promises to start Williams sometime this weekend vs Miami) or the equally struggling Aaron Altherr.
I thought that pitcher Zach Eflin had turned the corner on his career when he started the season 2-0. He is now 2-3 after another poor effort last night in New York. The rotation is failing and the young , once-promising hurlers are not stepping up. Nick Pivetta is in Lehigh Valley and Vince Valasquez remains inconsistent.
Despte the fast start the Phillies were 15-8 this time last season. Is Kapler's job in jeopardy? Especially if the team not only continues to lose but looks disinterested?
Why were the Mets throwing at Rhys Hoskins with two outs in the ninth innings and with a 9-0 lead? What was the point? Waking up the listless Phillies? What didn't the players, other than Andrew McCuthen, empty the dugout to support Hoskins? The Mets came on the field, where were the Phils?
Valasquez goes tonight against the Mets in a big game. Win and the two teams are again tied for first place. Lose and the club drops two games behind New York,plus the Mets, who have dominated the Phillies since 2015 with a 51-29 record, flex their muscles and dominate again.
- As expected, The Sixers cruised by the Brooklyn Nets last night, 122-100 in game that wasn't even that close. The 76ers raced out to a 14-0 lead, led by 29 points at halftime and wrapped up the playoff series 4 games to one. they next play the tough Toronto Raptors this weekend.
The Nets played like dogs and were on vacation even before the game started. When they blew Game Four and couldn't bully their way to a much-needed win they packed it in.
The Raptors are a much deeper team and play great defense. They will have home court advantage in the series.
The real question is, if the underdog Sixers do lose to Toronto, what will happen to Coach Brett Brown? Must they defeat the Raptors and get out of the second round, as their owner requested to save Brown's job? Will extending the series to six or seven games be enough to retain Brown? Getting swept by Toronto would almost assuredly mean Brown is a goner.
Joel Embiid must play every game and remain healthy. The Sixers won't be able to get through this series without him, as they did by winning Game Three in Brooklyn. Knowing Embiid's intense desire to win I bet he will will himself to play, even if he isn't one-hundred percent.
Can the Sixers win the series against Toronto? Yes, especially with Butler and Harris getting even more familiar with the other players. But I think the inconsistency catches up with the squad and Brown's coaching is exposed again.
.I'm picking Toronto in six.
The Phillies have lost three in a row for the first time this season. They are 12-11 after a 7-2 start. They drop to a full game behind the Mets in NL East. They are -15 on their current road trip which wraps up tonight at Citi Field.
They look like a flat, uninspired,lackluster team similar to late last season when they choked. Errors, stupid mental mistakes, striking out too much, you name it.
My question about Cesar Hernandez was answered yesterday in the Extra Innings email. the writer, Bob Brookover, likes Hernandez and stated that he wants the club to keep him, with Scott Kingery coming off the bench as a utility guy.
I don't. Kingery needs to play everyday- at his natural position at second base. It's crazy to give him the huge contract then use him as a utility player. Kingery was a Gold Glove caliber second baseman in the minor leagues. Hernandez is not the future. Kingery is.
Hernandez messed up an easy ground ball last night, which led to a run. He strayed off second base the night before and spooled a rally. He doesn't hit enough to justify his weakness on the bath paths and in the field. His sleepy play and attitude is killing the team.
Roman Quinn has a shot to earn a permanent spot on the roster. Odubel Herrera is still on the injured list. But Quinn continues to strikeout at an alarming rate and is blowing his chance.
When Herrera comes back someone needs to go. Either Quinn, Nick Williams ( who has yet to start a game this year, but Manager Gabe Kapler promises to start Williams sometime this weekend vs Miami) or the equally struggling Aaron Altherr.
I thought that pitcher Zach Eflin had turned the corner on his career when he started the season 2-0. He is now 2-3 after another poor effort last night in New York. The rotation is failing and the young , once-promising hurlers are not stepping up. Nick Pivetta is in Lehigh Valley and Vince Valasquez remains inconsistent.
Despte the fast start the Phillies were 15-8 this time last season. Is Kapler's job in jeopardy? Especially if the team not only continues to lose but looks disinterested?
Why were the Mets throwing at Rhys Hoskins with two outs in the ninth innings and with a 9-0 lead? What was the point? Waking up the listless Phillies? What didn't the players, other than Andrew McCuthen, empty the dugout to support Hoskins? The Mets came on the field, where were the Phils?
Valasquez goes tonight against the Mets in a big game. Win and the two teams are again tied for first place. Lose and the club drops two games behind New York,plus the Mets, who have dominated the Phillies since 2015 with a 51-29 record, flex their muscles and dominate again.
- As expected, The Sixers cruised by the Brooklyn Nets last night, 122-100 in game that wasn't even that close. The 76ers raced out to a 14-0 lead, led by 29 points at halftime and wrapped up the playoff series 4 games to one. they next play the tough Toronto Raptors this weekend.
The Nets played like dogs and were on vacation even before the game started. When they blew Game Four and couldn't bully their way to a much-needed win they packed it in.
The Raptors are a much deeper team and play great defense. They will have home court advantage in the series.
The real question is, if the underdog Sixers do lose to Toronto, what will happen to Coach Brett Brown? Must they defeat the Raptors and get out of the second round, as their owner requested to save Brown's job? Will extending the series to six or seven games be enough to retain Brown? Getting swept by Toronto would almost assuredly mean Brown is a goner.
Joel Embiid must play every game and remain healthy. The Sixers won't be able to get through this series without him, as they did by winning Game Three in Brooklyn. Knowing Embiid's intense desire to win I bet he will will himself to play, even if he isn't one-hundred percent.
Can the Sixers win the series against Toronto? Yes, especially with Butler and Harris getting even more familiar with the other players. But I think the inconsistency catches up with the squad and Brown's coaching is exposed again.
.I'm picking Toronto in six.
PHILLIES TRIVIA
Who is the last Phillie to get 200 hits in a season?
Answer: Jimmy Rollins ( 212 hits in 2007)
Answer: Jimmy Rollins ( 212 hits in 2007)
BASEBALL TRIVIA
Baseball Quotes
"If anyone figures that out, call me."
- President George H. W. Bush, after seeing the movie Field of Dreams
Baseball Birthdays
Omar Vizquel
Chipper Jones
Carlos Beltran
Bill Singer
"If anyone figures that out, call me."
- President George H. W. Bush, after seeing the movie Field of Dreams
Baseball Birthdays
Omar Vizquel
Chipper Jones
Carlos Beltran
Bill Singer
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- APRIL 24
30 years ago in the 1989 NBA Playoffs, Michael Jordan eliminated the Cleveland Cavaliers with a Game 5 buzzer-beating, series-ending 18-foot jumper. The shot gave the Chicago Bulls a 101-100 victory.
Tuesday, April 23, 2019
MY LIFE WITH BRITTLE BONES-12
On New Year's Day, 1977 Dad got very sick, complications from his lifelong battle with diabetes. He stayed in bed over the holiday, thinking maybe it was the flu, but he wasn't getting any better. He was so ill he could'nt get out of bed to go the emergency room. I watched as the ambulance carried Dad in a stretcher down the stairs. It was the last time I would ever see him.
Three weeks later he died in Philadelphia. It was always serious when they couldn't do much at the local hospital and needed to transfer you to the city, either by ambulance or helicopter.
We got a call around 3:00 a.m. Mom thought he was getting better, the infection that had started in his foot was healing. But it turned out that he took a sudden turn for the worst, the infection spreading to other areas of his body, his major organs shutting down. Diabetes was finally winning after a long battle.
I heard the phone ring that morning, heard Mom answer and say "He died?"She had just come from the hospital hours before, planning to return soon. I heard her sobbing, then saw her at my bedroom door, checking if I was awake. I was, and asked what was going on.
"Daddy died," she said softly.
The words left me numb. I knew he was sick but..he was going to get better, wasn't he? Like all the times before. I couldn't cry. I just lay awake the rest of the night. Before I thought of what his death would mean to the future I relived all the memories.It was less painful to dream than to face reality.
We went to ballgames together. The Sunday night bowling matches. How he worked so damn hard for all those years. What a great guy he is. Hard to believe everything would stop. Death is so permanent.
How would we cope? Poor Mom was taking care of me and now had to look after everyone on her own. Two of my siblings were married and out of the house. Two more were in high school. But there was still me and my youngest brother.
It didn't seem fair. Dad was only 55. We needed him. Now what?
The day he was buried was a day never to be forgotten. On January 22, the day before the funeral, the snow had piled up to nearly a foot from a blizzard a few days earlier. Someone had shoveled a path for my wheelchair to get outside to the car. The cemetery was windy and cold, the sky a steel gray color, the trees bare and lifeless. They struggled pushing my wheelchair threw the enormous drifts of snow, at times needing to carry the chair, just to reach the grave site. A taste of the harsh reality to come.
I still couldn't cry. People thought I was putting up a brave face. Well-wishers stopped by the quiet house after the funeral. Late at night we were alone again. Dad wasn't coming back. His favorite brown recliner in the living room sat empty. He was all around us but just wasn't there. And in my room alone I finally cried.
On special occasions in the future I would feel his presence in my life. Like the day I graduated from college. Or the night the Phillies finally won the World Series. The day I was hired for my first real job. During those times he was there.
The holidays were over, the funeral was over and now it was time to return to school. I told myself I would give it another shot- for Dad. He always wanted to see me make it. I went back for him.
In February I was still failing and depressed. Without consulting anyone, even Mom, I decided to quit. Damn, I hated that word. I was not a quitter. Yet here I was, throwing away this opportunity. Would anyone understand?
Down at Penn I told Alvin and the people from Vocational Rehabilitation that I couldn't go on. I got a stern lecture from some lady on the staff, probably a guidance counselor, who took me into a back room and laid it out, how I was throwing away a great job, independence, the chance to be somebody. Did I want to go back to being labeled as "disabled?" I had much more to give.
She was right. I wish I had a back-up plan to fall back on but I didn't. I would return to a do-nothing life and an empty future.
She asked me to stick it out another few weeks. I said no. Vocational Rehab was disgusted with me.. An all-expenses paid education, which would lead to a good job, down the drain. Did I realize how many other guys in my situation would die for this chance? They reluctantly kept my case open, but I didn't hear from them for a while.
At least Mom understood. She knew how hard things were at home. Of course, she always worried about me anyway, out there in the wicked weather, alone and by myself for the very first time. To hell with the future.
In my heart I felt like I did give up. I felt like a failure and a loser, like I had let down so many people who had faith in me, especially Dad. I wondered if he understood my feelings and reasons for quitiing school. All this time, trying to please others and do the right things yet torn up inside.
A little voice inside reassured me that somehow, someway, everything would be OK. I just didn't know how.
Funny how things turn out. God and Dad had to be on my side. Even though most of my family and Vocational Rehab were disappointed in me (some silently and some outwardly), Mom always remained loyal and believed in me. Still,I was easing back into that old, comfortable role of being "disabled."
Little did I know those failures early in 1977 only served to make me stronger and more determined in time. They weren't failures after all, but triumphs. I couldn't see it then but everything happens for a reason. Like one big jigsaw puzzle, every piece would fit down the road. As always, the hardships in my life would make me stronger down the road.
Three weeks later he died in Philadelphia. It was always serious when they couldn't do much at the local hospital and needed to transfer you to the city, either by ambulance or helicopter.
We got a call around 3:00 a.m. Mom thought he was getting better, the infection that had started in his foot was healing. But it turned out that he took a sudden turn for the worst, the infection spreading to other areas of his body, his major organs shutting down. Diabetes was finally winning after a long battle.
I heard the phone ring that morning, heard Mom answer and say "He died?"She had just come from the hospital hours before, planning to return soon. I heard her sobbing, then saw her at my bedroom door, checking if I was awake. I was, and asked what was going on.
"Daddy died," she said softly.
The words left me numb. I knew he was sick but..he was going to get better, wasn't he? Like all the times before. I couldn't cry. I just lay awake the rest of the night. Before I thought of what his death would mean to the future I relived all the memories.It was less painful to dream than to face reality.
We went to ballgames together. The Sunday night bowling matches. How he worked so damn hard for all those years. What a great guy he is. Hard to believe everything would stop. Death is so permanent.
How would we cope? Poor Mom was taking care of me and now had to look after everyone on her own. Two of my siblings were married and out of the house. Two more were in high school. But there was still me and my youngest brother.
It didn't seem fair. Dad was only 55. We needed him. Now what?
The day he was buried was a day never to be forgotten. On January 22, the day before the funeral, the snow had piled up to nearly a foot from a blizzard a few days earlier. Someone had shoveled a path for my wheelchair to get outside to the car. The cemetery was windy and cold, the sky a steel gray color, the trees bare and lifeless. They struggled pushing my wheelchair threw the enormous drifts of snow, at times needing to carry the chair, just to reach the grave site. A taste of the harsh reality to come.
I still couldn't cry. People thought I was putting up a brave face. Well-wishers stopped by the quiet house after the funeral. Late at night we were alone again. Dad wasn't coming back. His favorite brown recliner in the living room sat empty. He was all around us but just wasn't there. And in my room alone I finally cried.
On special occasions in the future I would feel his presence in my life. Like the day I graduated from college. Or the night the Phillies finally won the World Series. The day I was hired for my first real job. During those times he was there.
The holidays were over, the funeral was over and now it was time to return to school. I told myself I would give it another shot- for Dad. He always wanted to see me make it. I went back for him.
In February I was still failing and depressed. Without consulting anyone, even Mom, I decided to quit. Damn, I hated that word. I was not a quitter. Yet here I was, throwing away this opportunity. Would anyone understand?
Down at Penn I told Alvin and the people from Vocational Rehabilitation that I couldn't go on. I got a stern lecture from some lady on the staff, probably a guidance counselor, who took me into a back room and laid it out, how I was throwing away a great job, independence, the chance to be somebody. Did I want to go back to being labeled as "disabled?" I had much more to give.
She was right. I wish I had a back-up plan to fall back on but I didn't. I would return to a do-nothing life and an empty future.
She asked me to stick it out another few weeks. I said no. Vocational Rehab was disgusted with me.. An all-expenses paid education, which would lead to a good job, down the drain. Did I realize how many other guys in my situation would die for this chance? They reluctantly kept my case open, but I didn't hear from them for a while.
At least Mom understood. She knew how hard things were at home. Of course, she always worried about me anyway, out there in the wicked weather, alone and by myself for the very first time. To hell with the future.
In my heart I felt like I did give up. I felt like a failure and a loser, like I had let down so many people who had faith in me, especially Dad. I wondered if he understood my feelings and reasons for quitiing school. All this time, trying to please others and do the right things yet torn up inside.
A little voice inside reassured me that somehow, someway, everything would be OK. I just didn't know how.
Funny how things turn out. God and Dad had to be on my side. Even though most of my family and Vocational Rehab were disappointed in me (some silently and some outwardly), Mom always remained loyal and believed in me. Still,I was easing back into that old, comfortable role of being "disabled."
Little did I know those failures early in 1977 only served to make me stronger and more determined in time. They weren't failures after all, but triumphs. I couldn't see it then but everything happens for a reason. Like one big jigsaw puzzle, every piece would fit down the road. As always, the hardships in my life would make me stronger down the road.
PHILLIES TRIVIA
Omly three Phillies have hit over 45 home runs in a season. Name them.
Ryan Howard, Mike Schmidt and Jim Thome.
Ryan Howard, Mike Schmidt and Jim Thome.
BASEBALL TRIVIA
Name the pitcher who surrendered Hank Aaron's first major league home run.
A. Vic Raschi
B. Lew Burdette
C. Don Newcombe
D. Joe Black
Answer:
A.
Aaron's first home run came in the top of the sixth inning off the Cardinals pitcher at Busch Stadium in St. Louis in 1954, as the Braves won 7-5 in 14 innings. Then age 35, Raschi had previously won 21 games for three consecutive seasons with the Yankees, from 1949 through 1951.
Batting sixth in the order, Aaron had three hits and drove in two runs.
A. Vic Raschi
B. Lew Burdette
C. Don Newcombe
D. Joe Black
Answer:
A.
Aaron's first home run came in the top of the sixth inning off the Cardinals pitcher at Busch Stadium in St. Louis in 1954, as the Braves won 7-5 in 14 innings. Then age 35, Raschi had previously won 21 games for three consecutive seasons with the Yankees, from 1949 through 1951.
Batting sixth in the order, Aaron had three hits and drove in two runs.
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- APRIL 23
Charlie Hustled
25 years ago former Florida State quarterback Charlie Ward became the first Heisman Trophy winner in 35 years not to be selected in the NFL draft. However, he was selected by the New York Knicks in the first round of the NBA draft.
25 years ago former Florida State quarterback Charlie Ward became the first Heisman Trophy winner in 35 years not to be selected in the NFL draft. However, he was selected by the New York Knicks in the first round of the NBA draft.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, SIXERS
- Not only did the Phillies lose to their arch-rival New York Mets, 5-1, Bryce Harper got ejected by poor home plate umpire Mark Carlson. The ump had a bad night behind the plate, missing call after call, mostly against the Phils, until Harper couldn't take it anymore and yell something from the dugout. After he was tossed Harper sprinted out of the dugout and was held back from destroying Carlson by equally furious Manager Gabe Kapler.
Harper will be fined and possibly suspended for accidentally bumping Carlson. Nothing will happen to Carlson, even though it was his fault for having a terrible night.
Meanwhile, pitcher Jake Arrieta, who pitched OK but not great, later criticized Harper for being ejected and the team in general, for coming out "flat" and "not ready to play." I like Arietta's honesty but he once again throws his teammates under the bus.
The real question is why did the Phillies look so "flat" last night? It's a big series in New York against the team breathing down your neck ( The Phillies and Mets are now tied for first place in NL East). Kapler needs to be on the hot seat soon. After getting off to a 4-0 start, the team is now 12-10 and struggling. Yes, they have injuries and the lineup isn't what it was without Segura, Kingery and even Herrera. But there's no excuse for the lack of excitement and poor defense.
With the stars that the front office has given Kapler he needs to win. Going into May , unless they pick it up, the Phillies may be hovering around .500. Their schedule has been relatively easy, front-loaded with home games. They have a four-game series this weekend with lowly Miami, the start of another nine-game home stand. They need to pick it up, starting tonight in Game Two against New York.
- Tonight at the Wells Fargo Center the Sixers can close out the Brooklyn Nets with a win. Important to wrap it up at home and wait for Toronto. Nets' punk Jerad Dudley should get booed like hell after his Game Four confrontation with Joel Embiid ( who is "probable" to play).
Harper will be fined and possibly suspended for accidentally bumping Carlson. Nothing will happen to Carlson, even though it was his fault for having a terrible night.
Meanwhile, pitcher Jake Arrieta, who pitched OK but not great, later criticized Harper for being ejected and the team in general, for coming out "flat" and "not ready to play." I like Arietta's honesty but he once again throws his teammates under the bus.
The real question is why did the Phillies look so "flat" last night? It's a big series in New York against the team breathing down your neck ( The Phillies and Mets are now tied for first place in NL East). Kapler needs to be on the hot seat soon. After getting off to a 4-0 start, the team is now 12-10 and struggling. Yes, they have injuries and the lineup isn't what it was without Segura, Kingery and even Herrera. But there's no excuse for the lack of excitement and poor defense.
With the stars that the front office has given Kapler he needs to win. Going into May , unless they pick it up, the Phillies may be hovering around .500. Their schedule has been relatively easy, front-loaded with home games. They have a four-game series this weekend with lowly Miami, the start of another nine-game home stand. They need to pick it up, starting tonight in Game Two against New York.
- Tonight at the Wells Fargo Center the Sixers can close out the Brooklyn Nets with a win. Important to wrap it up at home and wait for Toronto. Nets' punk Jerad Dudley should get booed like hell after his Game Four confrontation with Joel Embiid ( who is "probable" to play).
Monday, April 22, 2019
MY LIFE WITH BRITTLE BONES-12
Vocational Rehabilitation got involved with my case. They hooked me up with a special training program they were sponsoring with the University of Pennsylvania. The course was Computer Programming and it was funded by Vocational Rehab and the Wharton School pf Business. Not too bad to have on a resume.
Back in the mid 1970s computers were scarce compared to today. Home computers were non-existent and even many businesses were foreign to computers. But it was a growing field and they promised a good-paying job at the end of the nine-month course.
I really wasn't interested. I was more of a people-person, never liked Math, and still wasn't completely sure about my direction in life. But what did I have to lose? I couldn't say no and didn't want to be branded as a loser or as a person with a disability who could work but didn't want to. Far from it.
So, despite my reluctance, I decided to try the course.
Each day Mom drove me to a parking lot in nearby King of Prussia to meet a van with ten or so other people with disabilities from around the area. It was like being back in grade school again, but different. These guys were all ages, all older, none in my age group. I could see, and listening to their conversations in the van, they were stuck in the same rut of life as I was. This was their chance to get a good job, make decent money, get off disability and, most importantly, earn respect and independence.
Still shy, I had a hard time making friends, so most of the time I remained silent. They talked about what they would do after the course was over, yearning for the chance to prove themselves. Some wanted pretty big things, such as a handicapped-accessible van or their own apartment, while others wished for the basics such as finally having a few bucks in their pocket for a movie.
I sometimes felt like an outcast, definitely socially inept and sheltered. These guys were a notch above where I was in society. Yes, we were in the same boat regarding our future, but my classmates that I traveled with daily seemed much more independent and world-wise than me.
I was still pretty isolated when it came to social skills, being outgoing and speaking up. Even the basics, approaching others for a conversation, seeking friendship, was hard to do.
I wanted to make my family proud, especially Dad, who really encouraged my independence and this opportunity. So I hung in there for several months, hating the lessons but trying to stick with it.
Our professor also had a disability, a middle-aged gentleman named Alvin. He was brilliant at what he did, despite the fact his thin, twisted body was racked with cerebral palsy. He sat in a wheelchair, wearing a crumpled suit and tie, and lectured every day for eight hours. I hated the commute of catching the van so early in the morning, getting home late at night, studying in the evening, then having to do the same thing all over again the next day.
That was reality. Others did it and were doing it. I was trying to learn a skill that I really had no interest in, so the entire process was even more difficult.
This was my first time in the real world. Things shifted from my health to my future . A different mindset.
The course was dry. We hardly ever actually saw or used a computer for weeks. Maybe if we had real computers to learn on everything would've made sense to me. Instead we basically talked about computers, what they do, how to access them and run them, and listened to droning lectures and read boring textbooks. It wasn't connecting with me, maybe because I was stupid to the material and maybe because I really didn't care.
After several weeks we took our first exam, and, not surprisingly, I flunked it. I had never failed a test before and I was petrified, admitting to not understanding the material. I remember shaking as I took the exam, knowing the outcome ahead of time.
I hated the city, ate lunch alone, which was my fault, as my classmates headed outside in the autumn weather, checking out female students walking by.
I didn't want to be deemed a quitter. I also didn't have another plan to fall back on. I was depressed and couldn't see a way out. I continued to fail as the course slowly moved toward Thanksgiving. My family thought I was doing great and having fun, happy that my future would be stable, grateful of this chance. Little did they know the truth. I didn't want anyone to know of my failures.
No way I would make it through the entire course, and even if I did, exactly what kind of a so-called Computer Programmer would I be?
I needed the Christmas holidays of 1976 to rest, catch my breath and get my act together. I dreaded returning to school after the break .The weather had turned nasty- bitterly cold, snowy days, which didn't make things any better.
Just when I thought things couldn't get any worse they did, in a very unexpected way.
Back in the mid 1970s computers were scarce compared to today. Home computers were non-existent and even many businesses were foreign to computers. But it was a growing field and they promised a good-paying job at the end of the nine-month course.
I really wasn't interested. I was more of a people-person, never liked Math, and still wasn't completely sure about my direction in life. But what did I have to lose? I couldn't say no and didn't want to be branded as a loser or as a person with a disability who could work but didn't want to. Far from it.
So, despite my reluctance, I decided to try the course.
Each day Mom drove me to a parking lot in nearby King of Prussia to meet a van with ten or so other people with disabilities from around the area. It was like being back in grade school again, but different. These guys were all ages, all older, none in my age group. I could see, and listening to their conversations in the van, they were stuck in the same rut of life as I was. This was their chance to get a good job, make decent money, get off disability and, most importantly, earn respect and independence.
Still shy, I had a hard time making friends, so most of the time I remained silent. They talked about what they would do after the course was over, yearning for the chance to prove themselves. Some wanted pretty big things, such as a handicapped-accessible van or their own apartment, while others wished for the basics such as finally having a few bucks in their pocket for a movie.
I sometimes felt like an outcast, definitely socially inept and sheltered. These guys were a notch above where I was in society. Yes, we were in the same boat regarding our future, but my classmates that I traveled with daily seemed much more independent and world-wise than me.
I was still pretty isolated when it came to social skills, being outgoing and speaking up. Even the basics, approaching others for a conversation, seeking friendship, was hard to do.
I wanted to make my family proud, especially Dad, who really encouraged my independence and this opportunity. So I hung in there for several months, hating the lessons but trying to stick with it.
Our professor also had a disability, a middle-aged gentleman named Alvin. He was brilliant at what he did, despite the fact his thin, twisted body was racked with cerebral palsy. He sat in a wheelchair, wearing a crumpled suit and tie, and lectured every day for eight hours. I hated the commute of catching the van so early in the morning, getting home late at night, studying in the evening, then having to do the same thing all over again the next day.
That was reality. Others did it and were doing it. I was trying to learn a skill that I really had no interest in, so the entire process was even more difficult.
This was my first time in the real world. Things shifted from my health to my future . A different mindset.
The course was dry. We hardly ever actually saw or used a computer for weeks. Maybe if we had real computers to learn on everything would've made sense to me. Instead we basically talked about computers, what they do, how to access them and run them, and listened to droning lectures and read boring textbooks. It wasn't connecting with me, maybe because I was stupid to the material and maybe because I really didn't care.
After several weeks we took our first exam, and, not surprisingly, I flunked it. I had never failed a test before and I was petrified, admitting to not understanding the material. I remember shaking as I took the exam, knowing the outcome ahead of time.
I hated the city, ate lunch alone, which was my fault, as my classmates headed outside in the autumn weather, checking out female students walking by.
I didn't want to be deemed a quitter. I also didn't have another plan to fall back on. I was depressed and couldn't see a way out. I continued to fail as the course slowly moved toward Thanksgiving. My family thought I was doing great and having fun, happy that my future would be stable, grateful of this chance. Little did they know the truth. I didn't want anyone to know of my failures.
No way I would make it through the entire course, and even if I did, exactly what kind of a so-called Computer Programmer would I be?
I needed the Christmas holidays of 1976 to rest, catch my breath and get my act together. I dreaded returning to school after the break .The weather had turned nasty- bitterly cold, snowy days, which didn't make things any better.
Just when I thought things couldn't get any worse they did, in a very unexpected way.
PHILLIES TRIVIA
Which two Phillies pitchers each hit 11 home runs in their career, the most for any Philadelphia pitcher?
Answer: Larry Christenson and Rick Wise
Answer: Larry Christenson and Rick Wise
IDOL CHATTER- THE TOP 8
It was the annual Disney night on Idol last night, so of course, everything Disney ( which owns ABC) was crammed down our throats. Katie dressed up in a black Octopus outfit, while Lionel and Luke just looked like themselves. Once again, Katy craved the attention. Mickey, Minnie and Goofy were there too, and at one point Goofy was on stage with Uche, and it was hard to tell which was which.
Uhce and Demetrius were pretty easy choices to get cut last night from American Idol. I had Uche from the start, especially when he lead-off the show with a lackluster performance. Admittedly I thought Lacy would go too. I thought the other girls still in the competition, Madison and Alyssa, sang better. But America must like her blond beauty and throaty voice.
Uhce will get a job, probably on Broadway. Demetris is a good singer but he rarely smiles for some reason. Although Idol is a singing competition it's also the entire package- personality included. He didn't even smile much when his sickly mother unexpectedly showed up at Disneyland.
The judges have one save they can use for the remainder of the season, but they must all agree. They choose not to use it last night, thus letting Uche and Demetris walk away. I bet they will use it to save a favorite in the next few weeks, like a Alejandro.
I still think they final 3 will be Madison, Jeremiah, and Alejandro.
Laine is a solid singer, but his good ol' boy, Elvis-like, slick personality is getting old. Sunday night he should've lost the guitar and had more fun with the song. I noticed that he wears his hair differently off-stage than on. It's a persona he has built, brilliantly, with his clothes as well. Someone got to him. But he's far from Elvis, which will eventually bring him down.
Wade has progressed nicely form his audition days and Hollywood week, when he almost got cut for forgetting the words to :California Dreamin'" a 60s song he had never heard before. He still doesn't "look" the idol-type, with his plus-size shape and his plaid shirts, but his Meatloaf-like, gravelly voice must be hitting home with people.
Alyssa needs to step up again next week. She was saved by Katy last weekend was on the brink of elimination on Sunday. America doesn't like her and once you are branded it's tough to overcome.
Walker had a nice,simple song he did, almost accapella on the piano which lacked the "wow" factor. He won't win but he does remind me of a young Barry Manilow with his quiet, understated style and dorky looks.
Madison can belt out a song with the best of them. The judges have already compared her to Kelly Clarkson, so they obviously think she can win.
Alejandro wasn't that good last night, singing "Remember Me" from the Disney film "Coco".Since we aren't given the actual total of votes, it's hard to tell if America loves Alejandro as much as the judges or not. No doubt he is a fantastic musician but can he win? Or will America tried of his shy, nice guy, like regular Joe persona?
I still think Jeremiah will win it all, only because he has the best voice. He did a nice interpretation of "Candle On The Water" a little known, lovely tune from the movie "Pete's Dragon."He strained for the last really high note but give him credit for trying for it instead of playing it safe. He looks like a polished star, but not in a slick way. People must like his voice and his story.I just wish he would stop with the "poor me, I'm gay and my family won't accept it" bit. we know the back story, which doesn't need to be rehashed every week.
The elimination was dramatic as always, but less awkward than last week. They almost ran out of time, with the judges scrambling to decide to save someone or not, and Lionel stammering ( with the credits running over him) that they would "hold their vote" for the weeks ahead, with Uche and Demetris looking even more disappointed.
Last year's top two, the lovers Maddie and Jacob, showed up to do a nice duet but it made little sense in the scheme of things and they were quickly off. They sing well together . I have'nt heard of any solo albums by either, nor did they promote any last night, so maybe they wanted to test the waters as a duet?
Idol is on again tonight but no voting. Just clips of past performances so America can "get to know" the final 8 better. It's another waste of a night, like Duo Week. Even the judges were confused about how many weeks are left. They are chopping contestants like crazy, instead of one a week like the old Simon days. Once again it seems too rushed, like we suddenly went from Hollywood to the end in blinding speed.
They should either get rid of the worthless extra show ( like tonight) or start the season a week early and make the stretch run longer. Just as America is getting to know the kids and starting to vote, wham! It's all over until next year.
Uhce and Demetrius were pretty easy choices to get cut last night from American Idol. I had Uche from the start, especially when he lead-off the show with a lackluster performance. Admittedly I thought Lacy would go too. I thought the other girls still in the competition, Madison and Alyssa, sang better. But America must like her blond beauty and throaty voice.
Uhce will get a job, probably on Broadway. Demetris is a good singer but he rarely smiles for some reason. Although Idol is a singing competition it's also the entire package- personality included. He didn't even smile much when his sickly mother unexpectedly showed up at Disneyland.
The judges have one save they can use for the remainder of the season, but they must all agree. They choose not to use it last night, thus letting Uche and Demetris walk away. I bet they will use it to save a favorite in the next few weeks, like a Alejandro.
I still think they final 3 will be Madison, Jeremiah, and Alejandro.
Laine is a solid singer, but his good ol' boy, Elvis-like, slick personality is getting old. Sunday night he should've lost the guitar and had more fun with the song. I noticed that he wears his hair differently off-stage than on. It's a persona he has built, brilliantly, with his clothes as well. Someone got to him. But he's far from Elvis, which will eventually bring him down.
Wade has progressed nicely form his audition days and Hollywood week, when he almost got cut for forgetting the words to :California Dreamin'" a 60s song he had never heard before. He still doesn't "look" the idol-type, with his plus-size shape and his plaid shirts, but his Meatloaf-like, gravelly voice must be hitting home with people.
Alyssa needs to step up again next week. She was saved by Katy last weekend was on the brink of elimination on Sunday. America doesn't like her and once you are branded it's tough to overcome.
Walker had a nice,simple song he did, almost accapella on the piano which lacked the "wow" factor. He won't win but he does remind me of a young Barry Manilow with his quiet, understated style and dorky looks.
Madison can belt out a song with the best of them. The judges have already compared her to Kelly Clarkson, so they obviously think she can win.
Alejandro wasn't that good last night, singing "Remember Me" from the Disney film "Coco".Since we aren't given the actual total of votes, it's hard to tell if America loves Alejandro as much as the judges or not. No doubt he is a fantastic musician but can he win? Or will America tried of his shy, nice guy, like regular Joe persona?
I still think Jeremiah will win it all, only because he has the best voice. He did a nice interpretation of "Candle On The Water" a little known, lovely tune from the movie "Pete's Dragon."He strained for the last really high note but give him credit for trying for it instead of playing it safe. He looks like a polished star, but not in a slick way. People must like his voice and his story.I just wish he would stop with the "poor me, I'm gay and my family won't accept it" bit. we know the back story, which doesn't need to be rehashed every week.
The elimination was dramatic as always, but less awkward than last week. They almost ran out of time, with the judges scrambling to decide to save someone or not, and Lionel stammering ( with the credits running over him) that they would "hold their vote" for the weeks ahead, with Uche and Demetris looking even more disappointed.
Last year's top two, the lovers Maddie and Jacob, showed up to do a nice duet but it made little sense in the scheme of things and they were quickly off. They sing well together . I have'nt heard of any solo albums by either, nor did they promote any last night, so maybe they wanted to test the waters as a duet?
Idol is on again tonight but no voting. Just clips of past performances so America can "get to know" the final 8 better. It's another waste of a night, like Duo Week. Even the judges were confused about how many weeks are left. They are chopping contestants like crazy, instead of one a week like the old Simon days. Once again it seems too rushed, like we suddenly went from Hollywood to the end in blinding speed.
They should either get rid of the worthless extra show ( like tonight) or start the season a week early and make the stretch run longer. Just as America is getting to know the kids and starting to vote, wham! It's all over until next year.
BASEBALL TRIVIA
Team History
Rank the following Nationals (and their predecessors, the mOntreal Expos) by their career homers for the team.
A. Vladimir Guerrero
B. Gary Carter
C. Ryan Zimmerman
D. Andre Dawson
E. Tim Wallach
F. Bryce Harper
Answers:
1-C (251); 2-A )234); 3-D (225); 4-B ( 220); 5-E ( 204); 6-F ( 150)
Baseball Birthdays
Terry Francona
Jimmy Key
Mickey Vernon
Rank the following Nationals (and their predecessors, the mOntreal Expos) by their career homers for the team.
A. Vladimir Guerrero
B. Gary Carter
C. Ryan Zimmerman
D. Andre Dawson
E. Tim Wallach
F. Bryce Harper
Answers:
1-C (251); 2-A )234); 3-D (225); 4-B ( 220); 5-E ( 204); 6-F ( 150)
Baseball Birthdays
Terry Francona
Jimmy Key
Mickey Vernon
THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY- APRIL 22
It was on April 22, 2004 that ex-NFL player turner soldier, Pat Tillman, was killed by friendly fire in the mountains of Afghanistan. Tillman joined the U.S. Army Rangers in May of 2002 in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. After completing his fourth season in the NFL, Tillman turned down a contract offer of $3.6 million over three years from the Arizona Cardinals to enlist in the U.S. Army.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- SIXERS, PHILLIES, FLYERS, EAGLES
- Sixers with a thrilling win on Saturday in Brooklyn to take a 3-1 lead in their playoff series with the nets. Loser Chris Dudley going after Joel Embiid in the second half only served to spark the 76ers to victory. Behind all game, the brawl started by Dudley woke up Philly and the team, minus Jimmy Butler, who was ejected from the game during the ma lee, finally played together, made key shots at the end and secured the win.
On Tuesday night at home the Sixers should wrap up the series. Look for Dudley to get majorly booed. The Toronto Raptors will be next.
I love Embiid's honesty and humor. He is a true leader, and, if healthy, can lead the Sixers far. Health will be the key factor through out Embiid's career. Give him credit for playing thru pain, as he was a late-minute decision to play on Saturday.
- Bad weekend for the Phillies, losing 3 of 4 in Colorado to the Rockies. They blew Friday's game with two outs and two strikes in the 12th inning. They were lackluster on Sunday, with only one hit during most of the ballgame and playing listless baseball.
Witness Cesar Hernandez, who continued to struggle at the plate as well as wandering off a base and getting tagged out, thinking he was out when in reality he was safe.
Hernandez should've been traded long ago, to open up second base for Scott Kingery. Now the Phillies won't get nearly equal value for Hernandez. When Kingery returns from the Injured List he should play second on a regular basis. Hernandez is a nice player but he will never be an All-Star. Why is he even hittingsecond in the lineup?
Even with the 4-1 loss the Phils remain in first place in NL East by one full game over the Mets and Braves. Jake Arrieta, who has been the teams' most consistent starter, goes tonight in New York vs the Mets.
Bryce Harper continues his streak of being on-base in every Phillies game so far this young season.
- The Flyers took away the Kate Smith statue from outside the Wells Fargo Center after disgracing themselves by draping the statue in black after the recent racial controversy. Kate Smith died in the 80s and isn't around to defend herself. Times were different in 1931 when Smith sang the recordings at issue. "God Bless America' has nothing to do with those recordings, nor did Smith write those lyrics. She simply sang the songs, a young singer breaking into the business. It doesn't mean she was a racist or believed in what she was asked to sing.
Th Flyers caved into political correctness without using common sense first.
- The Eagles are preparing for the NFL Draft this weekend. ESPN reports that the team may be interested in drafting another North Dakota State quarterback, Easton Stick, to back-up fellow alumni Carson Wentz. Will they stay at 25 or trade up? I doubt if they will trade down. They have two picks in the second round, Nos 53 and 57. Defensive line, secondary and running back should be the key areas addressed.
On Tuesday night at home the Sixers should wrap up the series. Look for Dudley to get majorly booed. The Toronto Raptors will be next.
I love Embiid's honesty and humor. He is a true leader, and, if healthy, can lead the Sixers far. Health will be the key factor through out Embiid's career. Give him credit for playing thru pain, as he was a late-minute decision to play on Saturday.
- Bad weekend for the Phillies, losing 3 of 4 in Colorado to the Rockies. They blew Friday's game with two outs and two strikes in the 12th inning. They were lackluster on Sunday, with only one hit during most of the ballgame and playing listless baseball.
Witness Cesar Hernandez, who continued to struggle at the plate as well as wandering off a base and getting tagged out, thinking he was out when in reality he was safe.
Hernandez should've been traded long ago, to open up second base for Scott Kingery. Now the Phillies won't get nearly equal value for Hernandez. When Kingery returns from the Injured List he should play second on a regular basis. Hernandez is a nice player but he will never be an All-Star. Why is he even hittingsecond in the lineup?
Even with the 4-1 loss the Phils remain in first place in NL East by one full game over the Mets and Braves. Jake Arrieta, who has been the teams' most consistent starter, goes tonight in New York vs the Mets.
Bryce Harper continues his streak of being on-base in every Phillies game so far this young season.
- The Flyers took away the Kate Smith statue from outside the Wells Fargo Center after disgracing themselves by draping the statue in black after the recent racial controversy. Kate Smith died in the 80s and isn't around to defend herself. Times were different in 1931 when Smith sang the recordings at issue. "God Bless America' has nothing to do with those recordings, nor did Smith write those lyrics. She simply sang the songs, a young singer breaking into the business. It doesn't mean she was a racist or believed in what she was asked to sing.
Th Flyers caved into political correctness without using common sense first.
- The Eagles are preparing for the NFL Draft this weekend. ESPN reports that the team may be interested in drafting another North Dakota State quarterback, Easton Stick, to back-up fellow alumni Carson Wentz. Will they stay at 25 or trade up? I doubt if they will trade down. They have two picks in the second round, Nos 53 and 57. Defensive line, secondary and running back should be the key areas addressed.
Saturday, April 20, 2019
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, SIXERS ,FLYERS
-Another brutal loss by the Phillies last night in Colorado. Another 2 out, 2 strike walk-off home run by the opposition. How will the team bounce back tonight under Aaron Nola? I still think he is hurt but we will see tonight.
Nice that Bryce Harper had five hits but the lineup also left 19 runners on base. They score 10 runs in the 2st inning a few nights ago but can't get the key hit last night to break open the ballgame. Vince Valasquez pitched well, but like before, he doesn't go far enough into games. the bullpen had to throw close to six innings,way too much.
Because Siramthony Dominguez was only used for one batter Manager Gabe Kapler was forced to pitch mediocre Juan Nicosio two innings, including the fateful 12th inning. Siranthony is the their best reliever yet only pitches 1/3 of an inning?
Concern is with injuries, as hot Scott Kingery left the game with a hamstring strain and Andrew McCuthen departed with irritation of his left knee.. Both could be out a while Herrera and Robertson are already out, with Segura due to return as soon as today. Look for a Dylan Cozens to come up to fill the outfield spot.
Nice to see local product Phil Gosslin get two hits last night, filling in at shortstop after Kingey got hurt. Gosslin suddenly becomes the utility guy once Segura does return.
The Phillies have now lost their last six games at Coors Field. They need to win Saturday and Sunday to earn a split in the series vs the Rockies. They are now 11-8, tied with the Mets for 1st place in National League East.
- The Sixers play game Four this afternoon in Brooklyn. Joel Embiid will likely miss another game. I don't mind today. A loss means the series is tied, 2-2, coming back to Philadelphia. A win gives the 76ers a commanding 3-1 lead in the series. I'll be really concerned if he misses Monday night's game in Philly.
- I was tired of Kate Smith even before this recent controversy. The old "God Bless America" magic wore off a long time ago. Many fans don't even know who Kate Smith was. She is out of date.
Still, I think it's stupid to blame or accuse her of being a racist since she sang a few inappropriate songs way back in 1931. What happened 88 years ago shouldn't matter today. Times were different. it was wrong-then and now- but singing a song doesn't mean the lady believed what she was singing.
Plus what does God Bless America have to do with these other racist tunes?
In this overly sensitive time, someone had to find this out sooner or layer. But Kate Smith has been singing God Bless America for the Flyers and Yankees for years. Why now? Just because a Yankee fan did a little research, googling Smith, and writing to Yankee management?
It's one thing to stop her recording before hockey games. It's another to cover her statue with a black cloth, like she's a proven member of the KKK. I highly doubt that Kate Smith was equal to Frank Rizzo, yet Flyers management is treating her statue as so.
Nice that Bryce Harper had five hits but the lineup also left 19 runners on base. They score 10 runs in the 2st inning a few nights ago but can't get the key hit last night to break open the ballgame. Vince Valasquez pitched well, but like before, he doesn't go far enough into games. the bullpen had to throw close to six innings,way too much.
Because Siramthony Dominguez was only used for one batter Manager Gabe Kapler was forced to pitch mediocre Juan Nicosio two innings, including the fateful 12th inning. Siranthony is the their best reliever yet only pitches 1/3 of an inning?
Concern is with injuries, as hot Scott Kingery left the game with a hamstring strain and Andrew McCuthen departed with irritation of his left knee.. Both could be out a while Herrera and Robertson are already out, with Segura due to return as soon as today. Look for a Dylan Cozens to come up to fill the outfield spot.
Nice to see local product Phil Gosslin get two hits last night, filling in at shortstop after Kingey got hurt. Gosslin suddenly becomes the utility guy once Segura does return.
The Phillies have now lost their last six games at Coors Field. They need to win Saturday and Sunday to earn a split in the series vs the Rockies. They are now 11-8, tied with the Mets for 1st place in National League East.
- The Sixers play game Four this afternoon in Brooklyn. Joel Embiid will likely miss another game. I don't mind today. A loss means the series is tied, 2-2, coming back to Philadelphia. A win gives the 76ers a commanding 3-1 lead in the series. I'll be really concerned if he misses Monday night's game in Philly.
- I was tired of Kate Smith even before this recent controversy. The old "God Bless America" magic wore off a long time ago. Many fans don't even know who Kate Smith was. She is out of date.
Still, I think it's stupid to blame or accuse her of being a racist since she sang a few inappropriate songs way back in 1931. What happened 88 years ago shouldn't matter today. Times were different. it was wrong-then and now- but singing a song doesn't mean the lady believed what she was singing.
Plus what does God Bless America have to do with these other racist tunes?
In this overly sensitive time, someone had to find this out sooner or layer. But Kate Smith has been singing God Bless America for the Flyers and Yankees for years. Why now? Just because a Yankee fan did a little research, googling Smith, and writing to Yankee management?
It's one thing to stop her recording before hockey games. It's another to cover her statue with a black cloth, like she's a proven member of the KKK. I highly doubt that Kate Smith was equal to Frank Rizzo, yet Flyers management is treating her statue as so.
PHILLIES TRIVIA
What Phillie holds the record for Most Intentional Walks in a season?
Answer: Ryan Howard, 37 in 2006
Answer: Ryan Howard, 37 in 2006
BASEBALL TRIVIA
On This Day
On April 20, 1912. the Red Sox opened Fenway Park after three previous attempts were rained out. The Sox won 7-6 in 11 innings over the new York Highlanders, who would become their fiercest rival, the New York Yankees. Before a crowd of 27,000, future Hall of Famer Tris Speaker drove in the winning run.
Saturday Birthdays
Don Mattingly
Milt Wilcox
Sunday Birthdays
Ken Caminiti
Jesse Orosco
Al Bumbry
On April 20, 1912. the Red Sox opened Fenway Park after three previous attempts were rained out. The Sox won 7-6 in 11 innings over the new York Highlanders, who would become their fiercest rival, the New York Yankees. Before a crowd of 27,000, future Hall of Famer Tris Speaker drove in the winning run.
Saturday Birthdays
Don Mattingly
Milt Wilcox
Sunday Birthdays
Ken Caminiti
Jesse Orosco
Al Bumbry
Friday, April 19, 2019
MY LIFE WITH BRITTLE BONES 11
In time I got used to stares in public. Kids would stare a lot. Actually I didn't mind because kids were honest about it. They would come up to me at a mall or elsewhere in public and ask "What happened to your legs?"
All it took was a simple answer like"Oh, I broke my leg. It's getting better, thanks!", always with a smile. That satisfied their curiosity most of the time. Remarks like that were OK because kids are naturally curious. To not answer would only deepen the mystery. To answer with anger would only make them afraid of me and the next person with a disability they would encounter. Answering proved I wasn't so different after all.
Adults were worse than children regarding stares. They would stare too, then quickly look away. Anything different was best ignored. At times parents would drag the kid away, scolding"Shh! Don't ask him things like that!"
I always felt that was the wrong approach. Just because adults may have disability hang-ups didn't mean the next generation needed to feel that way.
Luckily there are more people with disabilities on TV, in the workforce and out and about. We are not so strange anymore, and usually people are nice, even offering to hold open doors.
Even people with disabilities can be prejudiced or stare at other people with disabilities. Just because I have a challenge in life doesn't mean I'm a saint or a sinner. I have feelings too.
I'll never forget when I was in junior college, talking to one of my professors about discrimination and prejudice after class one day. He was black, intelligent and friendly, and we would often chat for a few minutes.
One day he mentioned my disability and had paid great attention to how I dealt with my situation. He gave me some great advice. No matter how much he had achieved in life, all the honors and degrees he had earned, the first thing people saw when he walked down the street was the color of his skin. Unfairly, often he was judged merely by his race alone. It was his cross in life, something he could never get away from, but something which only served to make him more motivated to try even harder in life.
He told me I would need to do the same thing. No matter what I achieved, society would still judge me by my legs and my wheelchair alone. That was the first impression people would always have of me. I had to learn to make the best of it, but not to accept it. The key was turning it into a positive, allowing others into my heart to get to know the real me.
After that, each time I met prejudice in my life because I was a guy with a disability, it may me even stronger. I was even more determined than ever not to give up.
Opening up your heart, soul and mind can be a risky thing, however, as I would find out in the near future.
Meanwhile, as I began college life, other interests entered my life- school, girls, music, a job. I faded away from the C.B. radio as well. The "Leaning Tower of Pisa" antenna, famous for the way it leaned to one side on my roof, came crashing down in our backyard during a violent summer thunderstorm. That was the end of my radio days, But the radio served its purpose. They were times I would never forget, important times which helped me to grow in many ways that would mold me into the person I would become later in life.
Now that I graduated from high school, what next? I really didn't know what I wanted to do with my life. I did know that I just didn't want to sit around all day, wasting away doing nothing. Disability checks are great for those who need them but I felt I had much more to give. I always felt I was more "normal" than what people gave me credit for. I didn't want to play into society's conception that a person with a disability should just stay home and not work. By the way, don't even think about having a relationship or trying to lead a life similar to others. You are different, so you should stay away from the able-bodied world. Stay in your corner, don't bother anyone and don't make waves.
That was the attitude I was getting in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Americans with Disabilities Act wasn't even on the horizon yet, so it was still pretty much the Dark Ages for folks with a disability.
But that wasn't me. I was never one to listen to society. So I made waves.
What was my calling in life? My passion? My destiny? I came so far, surviving for a reason. Now I needed to figure that part out.
So I searched. I was always good at drawing and Art, often doodling in bed as I recovered from fractures. I thought of becoming a commercial artist, even applying for a "Draw Bambi" mail-order course, which was so popular back then.
My parents went along with whatever I wanted to try. Dad seemed to be a little more realistic than Mom in my abilities.
Soon I found the competition in Art to be very tough, and I really wasn't that talented to make a living out pf my doodling. I didn't have that burning desire to succeed just yet, so I knew it wasn't for me.
I always loved sports. I thought of becoming a sports writer. I contacted a journalist who wrote for the local newspaper. I wanted his honest opinion, which he gave me. "Well, you really have to be able to get around." I appreciated his honesty, even though it was discouraging to know that yes, I had limitations.
It was just another trickle down factor of my O.I. Like anyone at a crossroads of life, my decision about what to do with my life was confusing and a bit more of a challenged than perhaps another 18-year-old guy. I learned that I almost had to let the profession choose me, meeting my abilities and limitations. I was willing to try and had a mind-set that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to do. But reality would always get in the way. So would the visible and hidden barriers society put in my way.
All it took was a simple answer like"Oh, I broke my leg. It's getting better, thanks!", always with a smile. That satisfied their curiosity most of the time. Remarks like that were OK because kids are naturally curious. To not answer would only deepen the mystery. To answer with anger would only make them afraid of me and the next person with a disability they would encounter. Answering proved I wasn't so different after all.
Adults were worse than children regarding stares. They would stare too, then quickly look away. Anything different was best ignored. At times parents would drag the kid away, scolding"Shh! Don't ask him things like that!"
I always felt that was the wrong approach. Just because adults may have disability hang-ups didn't mean the next generation needed to feel that way.
Luckily there are more people with disabilities on TV, in the workforce and out and about. We are not so strange anymore, and usually people are nice, even offering to hold open doors.
Even people with disabilities can be prejudiced or stare at other people with disabilities. Just because I have a challenge in life doesn't mean I'm a saint or a sinner. I have feelings too.
I'll never forget when I was in junior college, talking to one of my professors about discrimination and prejudice after class one day. He was black, intelligent and friendly, and we would often chat for a few minutes.
One day he mentioned my disability and had paid great attention to how I dealt with my situation. He gave me some great advice. No matter how much he had achieved in life, all the honors and degrees he had earned, the first thing people saw when he walked down the street was the color of his skin. Unfairly, often he was judged merely by his race alone. It was his cross in life, something he could never get away from, but something which only served to make him more motivated to try even harder in life.
He told me I would need to do the same thing. No matter what I achieved, society would still judge me by my legs and my wheelchair alone. That was the first impression people would always have of me. I had to learn to make the best of it, but not to accept it. The key was turning it into a positive, allowing others into my heart to get to know the real me.
After that, each time I met prejudice in my life because I was a guy with a disability, it may me even stronger. I was even more determined than ever not to give up.
Opening up your heart, soul and mind can be a risky thing, however, as I would find out in the near future.
Meanwhile, as I began college life, other interests entered my life- school, girls, music, a job. I faded away from the C.B. radio as well. The "Leaning Tower of Pisa" antenna, famous for the way it leaned to one side on my roof, came crashing down in our backyard during a violent summer thunderstorm. That was the end of my radio days, But the radio served its purpose. They were times I would never forget, important times which helped me to grow in many ways that would mold me into the person I would become later in life.
Now that I graduated from high school, what next? I really didn't know what I wanted to do with my life. I did know that I just didn't want to sit around all day, wasting away doing nothing. Disability checks are great for those who need them but I felt I had much more to give. I always felt I was more "normal" than what people gave me credit for. I didn't want to play into society's conception that a person with a disability should just stay home and not work. By the way, don't even think about having a relationship or trying to lead a life similar to others. You are different, so you should stay away from the able-bodied world. Stay in your corner, don't bother anyone and don't make waves.
That was the attitude I was getting in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Americans with Disabilities Act wasn't even on the horizon yet, so it was still pretty much the Dark Ages for folks with a disability.
But that wasn't me. I was never one to listen to society. So I made waves.
What was my calling in life? My passion? My destiny? I came so far, surviving for a reason. Now I needed to figure that part out.
So I searched. I was always good at drawing and Art, often doodling in bed as I recovered from fractures. I thought of becoming a commercial artist, even applying for a "Draw Bambi" mail-order course, which was so popular back then.
My parents went along with whatever I wanted to try. Dad seemed to be a little more realistic than Mom in my abilities.
Soon I found the competition in Art to be very tough, and I really wasn't that talented to make a living out pf my doodling. I didn't have that burning desire to succeed just yet, so I knew it wasn't for me.
I always loved sports. I thought of becoming a sports writer. I contacted a journalist who wrote for the local newspaper. I wanted his honest opinion, which he gave me. "Well, you really have to be able to get around." I appreciated his honesty, even though it was discouraging to know that yes, I had limitations.
It was just another trickle down factor of my O.I. Like anyone at a crossroads of life, my decision about what to do with my life was confusing and a bit more of a challenged than perhaps another 18-year-old guy. I learned that I almost had to let the profession choose me, meeting my abilities and limitations. I was willing to try and had a mind-set that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to do. But reality would always get in the way. So would the visible and hidden barriers society put in my way.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- SIXERS, PHILLIES
- The much-maligned Ben Simmons was brilliant last night in Brooklyn, scoring 31 points and leading the Sixers to a victory, taking a 2-1 lead in their playoff series vs the Nets. The team learned only 15 minutes prior to game time that center Joel Embiid would not play. Give the Sixers credit for rallying without Embiid and taking the lead in the series.
I have to wonder and worry how healthy Embiid really is, missing his second game of this series. He played in game 2, when the Sixers blew out Brooklyn, but wasn't himself. Game 4 is Monday night and I wouldn't be surprised if the Sixers hold him out again, saving Embiid for Game 5 in Philadelphia.
The 76ers seem to have too much talent- with and without Embiid- to lose this series. Milwaukee, Toronto or Boston will be more of a test in round 2, when once again, Embiids' health, Simmons' desire and Brett Browns' coaching will all be questioned again.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The Phillies lost the opener of their four-game series with Colorado last night, 6-2. Zach Eflin was pitching five innings of shutout ball until surrendering a three-run homer in the 6th. J.T. Realmuto cut it to 3-2 in the top of the 7th with a two-run homer to right, but of course, lefty Jose Alvarez, a major bullpen disappointment so far, gave up a run to the Rockies, who proceeded to tack on two more. An error at shortstop by Scott Kingery opened the door for Colorado.
Kingery should be playing his natural position at second base and GM Matt Klentak needs to trade Cesar Hernandez for pitching. Defense was again key in the loss. Errors are like turnovers or penalties in football- they gave the opposition extra chances.
Amazingly, the Rockies won for the first time at home all season. They were 0-5 before last night at Coors Field.
Vince Valasquez goes for the Fightins tonight. Aaron Nola on Saturday night, a big start for Nola, who hopefully will get out of his funk, then on Sunday it';s Jared Eichoff starting his first game of the season after an impressive relief session earlier this week, throwing four shutout innings vs the Mets.
Bryce Harper is in a 2 or 14 slump lately, but I'm not worried. His presence alone in the lineup makes everything different.
Roman Quinn gets another shot at making a statement in the majors. Odubel Herrera is on the IL for 10 days with a hamstring issue. Quinn should get most, if not all of the playing time in center field.
With his speed Quinn brings something lacking in the Phillies; lineup.He batted 6th last night and went hit less. A healthy Quinn, playing good ball could make Herrera expendable down the road,. A Quinn who gets hurt again or can't handle big league pitching will slowly fade out of the Phillies' long-term plans and Herrera will become until their next center field prospect ( Adam Heasley or Mickey Moniak) is ready.
Generally a trip to Colorado is a starting or ending place to a visit to the West coast. Not so this year, as the club goes on to New York on Monday for a three-game set with the Mets in New york. The Phillies have two trips to the West Coast this season, one in late May and early June when they visit Los Angeles and San Diego, and the other later in the summer when San Francisco and Arizona are on the docket.
I have to wonder and worry how healthy Embiid really is, missing his second game of this series. He played in game 2, when the Sixers blew out Brooklyn, but wasn't himself. Game 4 is Monday night and I wouldn't be surprised if the Sixers hold him out again, saving Embiid for Game 5 in Philadelphia.
The 76ers seem to have too much talent- with and without Embiid- to lose this series. Milwaukee, Toronto or Boston will be more of a test in round 2, when once again, Embiids' health, Simmons' desire and Brett Browns' coaching will all be questioned again.
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The Phillies lost the opener of their four-game series with Colorado last night, 6-2. Zach Eflin was pitching five innings of shutout ball until surrendering a three-run homer in the 6th. J.T. Realmuto cut it to 3-2 in the top of the 7th with a two-run homer to right, but of course, lefty Jose Alvarez, a major bullpen disappointment so far, gave up a run to the Rockies, who proceeded to tack on two more. An error at shortstop by Scott Kingery opened the door for Colorado.
Kingery should be playing his natural position at second base and GM Matt Klentak needs to trade Cesar Hernandez for pitching. Defense was again key in the loss. Errors are like turnovers or penalties in football- they gave the opposition extra chances.
Amazingly, the Rockies won for the first time at home all season. They were 0-5 before last night at Coors Field.
Vince Valasquez goes for the Fightins tonight. Aaron Nola on Saturday night, a big start for Nola, who hopefully will get out of his funk, then on Sunday it';s Jared Eichoff starting his first game of the season after an impressive relief session earlier this week, throwing four shutout innings vs the Mets.
Bryce Harper is in a 2 or 14 slump lately, but I'm not worried. His presence alone in the lineup makes everything different.
Roman Quinn gets another shot at making a statement in the majors. Odubel Herrera is on the IL for 10 days with a hamstring issue. Quinn should get most, if not all of the playing time in center field.
With his speed Quinn brings something lacking in the Phillies; lineup.He batted 6th last night and went hit less. A healthy Quinn, playing good ball could make Herrera expendable down the road,. A Quinn who gets hurt again or can't handle big league pitching will slowly fade out of the Phillies' long-term plans and Herrera will become until their next center field prospect ( Adam Heasley or Mickey Moniak) is ready.
Generally a trip to Colorado is a starting or ending place to a visit to the West coast. Not so this year, as the club goes on to New York on Monday for a three-game set with the Mets in New york. The Phillies have two trips to the West Coast this season, one in late May and early June when they visit Los Angeles and San Diego, and the other later in the summer when San Francisco and Arizona are on the docket.
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