Monday, September 14, 2020

PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, PHILLIES

 Sizing up Black Sunday in Philadelphia sports..


Eagles-


5 1/2 point favorites, the Eagles were predicted not to have much trouble with Washington. A team with no (nick)name. The former Redskin offense was porous, starting the season with second-year quarterback Dwayne Haskins. Under new coach Ron Rivera, Washington was still a work in progress.


Meanwhile, the Birds had consistentcy on their side, with Coach Doug Pederson and 5th-year QB Carson Wentz. Up 17-0 just like that, the Eagles threatened to make the season opener a blow-out. Instead it was Philly that crumbled in a disappointing and shocking 27-17 loss.


Here are some of the low-lights:_ Wentz has to know better than to throw the weak interceptions he lamely tossed. Pederson can't call those plays- sideline patterns to rookie receivers. The Washington cornerbacks jumped the routes as the wide-outs failed to fight for the ball. Worse yet, the first pick came with only over a minute left in the fiest half. Like a goal scored in the final seconds of a hockey period, the momentum immediately shifted to Washington. After a promising start, including touchdowns to tight ends Ertz and Goddard, suddenly one could feel the game slowly slipping away.


_ Questionable play-calling. Still up 17-14 in the 3rd quarter, ball on the Washington 45, 4th and 4 to go, Pederson decided to go for it. Why not punt, pin the Washington team near the goal line ( whatever happened to the coffin-kick? Instead, Wentz got sacked when Washington blitzed the Eagles' leaky , injury-riddled O-line and Washington had another short field to work with.


The only way the Eagles couldv'e lost this game was if they handed Washington the game, with turnovers and stupid plays. That's exactly what they did.


True, the Birds had tons of walking wounded for the opener. Lane Johnson and Miles Sanders were the most-missed. But the injury situation traces back to GM Howie Rossman. This team has no depth whatsoever. Instead of using that 2nd round draft pick last spring on a backup quarterback you hope never sees the field, Offensive line depth, or even a running back would've helped down in DC. What about experienced vets like WR Hopkins, or RBs Hyde or Fournette?


Washington walked away with the victory. They played decent defense, nothing spectacular. But it didn't take spectacular play to defeat the Birds on Sunday. The Eagles didn't force any turnovers. Washington played mistake-free football, while the Eagles were full of physical and mental mistakes after the 1st quarter.


Meanwhile, Dallas lost to the Rams, which was the onlt positive of the day. The Birds play those same Rams next Sunday at the Linc. For a home opener it's almost a must-win situation for the Eagles. Can't start the season 0-2. Los Angeles will be traveling cross-country and playing at 10:00 am west coast time. Hopefully Philadelphia gets some key players back for a big game next Sunday afternoon.



Phillies-


The Phils lost a doubleheader in Miami yesterday, falling to 3rd place in NL East, 4 games behind division-leading Atlanta. Injuries hit the phillies hard as well, with Rhys Hoskins and J.T. Realmuto out. Both are having MRIs today. But perhaps the most concerning injury is to star prospect Spencer Howard, who left the game with right shoulder stiffness.


Former top pitching prospect, Sixto Sanchez, faced his old organization in Game 1 on Sunday, pitching a complete game 7-inning version. Sixto is the real deal. H'es fun to watch, hitting 100 mph. on the gun several times. Along with his explsive fastball, Sanchez throws a tight slider and a heavy sinkerball. He is calm and poised on the mound. As long as he stays healthy he should be an ace for Miami for a while- at least until he hits free agency in a few years. The Marlins have a history of gromming young star players, then getitng cheap and letting them walk in free agency.


With every game Sixto hurls and adds to his early fame, the urgency to sign Realmuto grows. Letitng Realmuto go, while Sanchez blossoms into an All-Star would prove devatating to the Phillies organization. That should also signal the end of the Matt Klentek era.


Rookie Alec (Atomic) Bohm continues to tear up enemy pitching. He looks strange at third base ( too tall to play the position), but offensively Bohm seems uneffected by big league pitching. Ideally, Gohm should play first base, with Hoskins staying on at designated hitter.


The DH should become permanent in the National League. Even though the Phillies are  obly 3-9 in 7-inning games this season, I can also see the 7-inning rule going permanent too. It makes the games go quicker, with a new set of strategy. But if you're going to use 7-inning games, it shouldn't just be for doubleheaders. Why not all games/ That way, doubleheaders can be scheduled on a regular basis, giving players more days off? Two games for the price of one would be fun for fans. Like the old days.




Tuesday, August 25, 2020

I'm baaaaaccckkkk!!!!!!!

 After a long sabbatical from posting on my blog, Wheeling Around Phoenixville, I'm back- this time to stay. I took a break to finish my book, An Unbreakable Spirit. It's in the hands of an excellent editor now. A book cover is being designed, too. Hopefully I'll have a publisher soon. Can't wait for the world to see my work! Hopefully everyone will enjpy my story. In these times oh uncertainy and strife, may it inspire and be a source of hope!


I've also become more active on Twitter. Follow me at #WheelinGreg. 


But I have missed sharing my daily thoughts and memories here, especially sports. So I can't wait to express my views again. All views expressed here are my own, unless otherwise indicated. Everyone states that, so I might as well too,


I've also been busy planning my upcoming wedding with Holly. Yes, I'm getting married! Officially off the market! ( what market?) The big day is October 10. 10/10/20- easy to remember!


Planning has been a lot of fun but also of work too. Getting the rings, ordered the food, arranging for the flowers, phtographer, planning the guest list. Because of covis-19 it will be a small ceremony here at home- only 16 or so people invited, mostly family and a few close friends.  and, of course, Bud and Katie.


Hoping for a nice day on 10/10. The ceremony will be held outdoors- on our new deck ( which is being stained today). Hoping for a nice fall afternoon- sunny, cool, the Autumn leaves colorful and bright. I hate the thought of another winter just ahead, but it's been a really hot and humid summer here near Philadelphia, Pa, so the cooler weather will feel pretty refreshing compared to this crap.


Doesn't seem like football season is less than three weeks away. Everything is screwed-up with the virus. Hockey and basketball playoffs ar ehappening now, during the dogdays of summer. The Kentucky Derby is just around the corner- in September. Baseball is going on- with a shortened 60-day schedule. 


So, what's going on with my local Philly teams? The Phillies are 10-14 and trying to sort out an awful bullpen. They're hoping a few aging relievers from the American League will stabilize the 'pen. In reality, GM Matt Klentek failed to address the bullpen during the off-season. Owner Kohn middleton failed to extend his budget to include veteran relief pitchers. It's stupid, because Middleton paid $330 million for Bryce Harper, who is having an MVP-type season. Aaron Nola isn't getting any younger. Catcher J.T. Realmuto has been able to forget about his contract and loooming free agency, and has had an outstanding season. The phillies need to go for it while their window is open.


Their weak farm systen remains a problem. With a stronger minor league system, the organization wouldn't need to spend big bucks for free agents or even make frequent trades. Klentek's record of drafting has been poor. It's no wonder why the Phillies are swimming in medocrity. 


The Sixers were booted in the first round of the playoffs in a four game sweep, for the first time ever by their rival Celtics. Embarrassing.They fired Coach Brown yet kept inept GM Brand. Still no clue. get shooters! Trade Ben Simmons. He can't shoot- jumpers or free throws. He does'nt learn and is too stubborn to change.


The Flyers are in the second round of their playoffs and lost to the Islanders last night, 3-0. They haven't beaten New York all year. The Flyers always bounce back after a loss. They play again Wednesday afternoon, then again Thursday night.


Finally, the Eagles are in training camp at the Nova Care Center. Getting ready for their season opener- without fans- in a few weeks at Washington.

Saturday, April 25, 2020

NFL DRAFT EAGLES- PART 2

 It was stupid for the Philadelphia Eagles to pick Jalen Hurts, quarterback from Oklahoma,in the second round of the NFL Draft. They took Jalen Reagor in round 1, a suspect wide receiver ( instead of trading up to take stud WR CeeDee Lamb), because he was "a good fit." Yet Hurts is not a good fit.

Howie Rossman makes no sense. Or is new player personnel guy Andy Wendl making the selections? Is owner jeffrey Lurie signing off on all of these strange moves?

Picking Hurts so high is just plain stupid on many levels. You're drafting a guy who they hope won't play. If Hurts plays, it means Carson Wentz is injured.They talk of using Hurts as a "gadget player." Drafting a "gadget player" in the second round? What does drafting another QB do to Wentz' psyche? They just signed Wentz to a lucrutive contract. He was supposed to be THE man for the next ten years. Hurts will want to eventually play. Are there plans tot rade him in time? For what? A first rounder? A second rounder would be a wash.

Or are the Eagles changing directions in their plans? Are they afraid that Wentz can't ever finish a season? Are they anti- dropback quarterback now? Hurts is fast and can run. Are they now enarmored with the Jamaal Jackson-type of mobile QB?

With sports at a stand-still, this gives WIP Sports Radio so much to talk about for months, maybe years to come. The lines were fired up with mostly angry callers almost immediately after the pick was announced.

More urgently, taking Hurts at pick no. 53 meant a player who could help the Birds next season- such as another receiver, a linebacker or defensive back- is not taken. They took an under-sized linebacker from Colorado in the 3rd round.

They refused to part with pick no. 53 to move up and trade for Lamb. Instead, the evil Cowboys stole Lamb, and now have a dangerous trio of Amari Cooper, Michael Gallup and Lamb as their wide-outs. Good luck to the philly secondary, trying to cover those guys in the future!

Howie is so out of touch. Hurts - or any back-up QB- is a luxary selection but only if your other needs are met.

What does this mean for signing Joe Flacco as a back-up?  Do you trust Howie to do the right thing with the rest of the draft today?

The winner in all this is Jerry Jones, Dallas owner. He took Lamb, when he really wanted defense with the 17th pick in the 1st round. Taking Lamb was payback for the Eagles moving up a few years ago to take tE Dallas Goddard. Dallas took a good cornerback in the second round.

So, ask yourself: would you rather have Lamb or Reagor/Hurts? Do the Eagles know something we don't know/ Is Wentz hurt? Do they plan to trade Wentz? Is Hurts okay with holding a clipboard on the sidelines for several years?

Buckle up, Eagle fans! Either howie is smarter than the rest of us and this works out brilliantly or.. Howie will be fired or exhiled to the other side of the Nova Care complex..again.

Friday, April 24, 2020

NFL DRAFT -'EAGLES

Thoughts on the 1st round of the NFL Draft..

I've got the draft blues. The pick of WR Jalen Reagor wouldv'e been more acceptable if Dallas didn't steal stud WR CeeDee Lamb. GM Howie Rossman would not trade up to get Lamb. Instead he fell into the Cowboys' lap at # 17. Lamb is Dez Bryant 2.0. Is Reagor Nelson Aghalor 2.0? Seems like a bit of a reach to me.

Probably couldv'e traded down and still got Reagor around pick 28. Did Howie panic when he saw Lamb sliding? Reagor was a good pick; Lamb was a greta pick.

Seems like Lamb's father is friends with the new Eagles receiver coach. Did this play into the equation?

The key will be tonigh. The 2nd and 3rd roud picks better be special. Howei didn't want to give either up to get Lamb. Maybe Atlanta wouldn't trade out of # 16, but the birds shouldv'e traded up before that. Rumors were #11 from the Jets. Instead Howie sat pat and got Reagor.

Reagor has good speed but drops too many passes. Lamb is the more complete player. He gives Dallas yet another weapon. The trio of Amari Cooper, Robery Gallup and Lamb will punish secondaries for years.

If Reagor turns out to be a bust, Rossman will pay with his job. Owner Jeffrey lurie won't stand for it.

The Eagles should take at least one or two more receivers before the weekend is over. If the Birds were going to pass on Justin Jefferson ( who went to Minnesota with the next selection, # 22), why not take one of the stud linebackers? Both Queen and Murray were available. This draft is stocked with wide-outs. Why not get the stud linebacker then get receivers later?

So far, the draft doesn't excite me. No matter what Rossman does, it won't erase the fact that Lamb will be a Pro Bowler for many years to come..with the evil Cowboys. Dallas got their revenge llast night by taking Lamn- revenge for losing their December game ( and the NFL Eaat ) to Philly and for the Eagles taking TE Dallas Goddard over Dallas in the draft last year. 


 The overall draft was odd. Of course, with the lock-down, there were no fans involved. Comissioner Roger Goodell was stiff and wooden. Too many commercials at the very beginning. I turned off ABC for Mel Kiper on ESPN. Once into the draft, things moved smoothly.  In a way, it was refreshing not to have screaming fans and fake love by Goodell given to the selections.

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

RANDOM RUMBLES ABOUT COVID-19 & OTHER THINGS..

My random thoughts on covid-19 and much more..

- I don't go out anymore. Not to the grovhery store, nowhere. I'm lucky to have a nice, warm home to quarrentine in, but it gets stale after a while. I'm sure I'm not alone feeling this way.

It would be worse if it was warmer outside. It will be in the 70s soon. In April the flowers and dogwood trees will be in full bloom. The most beautiful time of the year! We can still go outside, just not in packs.

We had a new deck added to the back of the house. I can't wait to get outside and enjoy it. Rain is good in the spring but every day seems gray and gloomy, sort of like life now.

WIP SportsRadio is always fun to listen to. I call my friend, Steve Trevelise, overnights on weekends. WIP is needed more than ever now. It's a source of comfort in an uncertain world. Familar voices, both hosts and callers, add a relaxing tone. I watch a lot of news now, probably too much. I need a break from the depression. WIP gives me that.

I'm grateful that Holly and I haven't gotten sick yet. I feel sorry for people all around the world who are sick or have died. It's scary to see the refrigerated trucks in New York, lined up outside of hospitals, used as temporary morgues. It's like we see this in other countries, not here in America.

It's like waking up daily and living in an episode of the "Twilight Zone." I almost expect to see Rod Serling around every corner, smoking cigareet in hand, all dressed up in dark suit and tie.

How did this virus get so bad so fast? Social Distancing seems to be working. This is worse than 9/11. Covid-10 effects the entire globe, and it goes on and on. There is no end game to date. If we knew an end to this sickness and sheltering it would be better. But this can go on for months, maybe years?

The virus has made rock stars out of Gov. Cuomo and Dr Fauci. President Trump thinks he is a rock star but he's not. He crows about the ratings for his circus-like daily briefings press conferences. He purposely has them in the late afternoon to challenge the local news ans get maximum audiance. Poor Joe Biden is fighting for air time to get his views expressed. Trump's poll ratings are going up, only 2 points behind Biden. Trump's base believes he is doing a good job because he says so.

They choose to ignore that Trump downplayed the threat of the virus early in the year, when he referred to the virus as a "democratic hoax."  We have been behind the virus from the get-go. The so-called "apex" of this disease may be in two week or four weeks. no one knows for sure.

I doubt this is the extinction of the human race. I think it's just a sign from God, saying, 'Hey there, I'm still  here!"There are no weekends anymore. Every day seems the same. I'm retired, so weekends don't matter to me. But I did go out a lot, especially when the weather gets nice.

We are seeing the best and worst of humanity. People who hoard and price gauge are the worst. People who help each other, check on the elderly and care for each other are the best. Health care workers, and other essential workers are the best. Is it any solace knowing that people all ove rhte world are enduring what we are? Somewhat. But, individually, we have to endure alone.

Lonliness and wearing down emotionally are hidden issues. I feel for the elderly who are alone, separated from family. I feel for nursing home residents, who not only fear a potential death sentenc ein the virus, but are sad because they are out of touch with family and friends. They have each other ansd staff, who ar enow surrogate family.

I miss sports, especially Baseball, which should be starting up now. The real prospect of games being cancelled or postponed is real. The springtime games I looked forward to so much will not be played. I hope the summer games, especially in July with the great Mike Trout, will be okay.  I try to watch classic games on TV. Sometimes it's cool to watch famous games or individual feats once again, reliving history so to speak. But, like the very same film itself, it gets old after a while.

On a personal note, I'm shopping around my book, "An Unbreakable Spirit," hoping to hook up with an agent. So far no takers. It hets deflating after a while, but rejection is part of the game. So is money.

I can always self-publish but I don't want to just yet. It only takes one agent and one publisher to believe in the story.

I promise to blog more often. It helps me too, to vent.

proposal- blogging

Please add to proposal, at the end of Marketing ..

I also write  a daily blog called "Wheeling Around Phoenixville," which I have been writing since October  2016. I have offered free chapters for readers to check out during the writing process and I have received very favorable reaction to the story! Promoting the book on my daily blog would be essential, as readers already have a taste of my writing, and of "An Unbreakable Spirit."

Sunday, March 29, 2020

proposal changes

Competitive Analysis:

1. Finding Chika by Mitch Albom. Harper Publishing. 256 pages. Published 11/15/19.
NY Times Best Seller.

2. Angels Among Us by Jack Canfield. Chicken Soul for the Soul Publishing. 400 pages. Published 1/1/13. NY Times Best Seller.

3. Tough As They Come by Travis Mills. Convergent Books. 272 pages. Published 11/25/16. NY Times Best Seller.

4. The Promise by Rachelle Friedman. Skirt! Publishing. 229 pages. Published 5/6/14. NY Times Best Seller.

5. The Sun Still Shines by Jodi Ogill Brown. Fulfill Publishing. 256 pages. Published 11/7/15

6. Ghost Boy by Martin Pistorus. Thomas Nelson Publishing. 288 pages. Published 11/19/13. NY Times Best Seller.

7. Perfectly Imperfect by Denise Goldhammer. Amazon Publishing. 232 pages. Published 11/23/15.

8. The Unbreakable Boy by Scott Michael Levette & Susy Flory. Thomas Nelson, Inc. Publishing. Published 11/4/14.

9. Change The Moment by Michael Kiel. Amazon Publishing. 233 pages. Published 8/5/19.

10. Prognosis: A Memoir of My Brain by Sarah Vallance. Little A. Publishing.  284 pages. Published 8/1/19

11. Being Heumann by Judith Heumann. Beacon Press. 240 pages. Published 11/5/19.

Marketing Strategies:

Other than bookstores like Barnes & Noble, my story should have a strong presence on-line. Amazon.com is key. I plan to open a website to sell my book on-line. I have a major involvement on both Facebook and Twitter, which would help a great deal to promote my story.

I love to play Words with Friends, and have a regular opponent list of about 50 players. The common link is words. I've found that most of the players I interact with love to read as well. Getting out the word through Words would be of great value. tHis opens up a constant resource of new readers.

I have a really good friend who is a radio talk show host  on two major stations, one in Philadelphia and the other in New Jersey. He has read my daily blog and has promoted my work in the past. I'm sure he will promote the book a great deal. Free PR, literally reaching millions of listeners.

I know other talk show hosts in my area. Getting the word out to them would lead to more marketing opportunities.

Getting on Philadelphia TV would be an option. 6 ABC does a "Localish" segment daily, so they would be great exposure for the book.

On the personal side, word of mouth is key. Luckily, my local mayor is very on board with the book. An Unbreakable Spirit would be featured at local stores. I consider Book Signings very important. Not only to sell books but to reach readers in a personal way. Meeting readers would be essecial, since the story is very personal. I want their reactions, good and bad. I know the thrill it is for me to meet an author!

Saturday, March 28, 2020

book- breaking

(Place on page 1, at the very beginning after title China Baby)

Things break every day. Vases. Glasses. Phone screens. Your heart. Windows. A contract. Promises. Mirrors. World records. Dreams.  The list goes on and on.

Almost everyone breaks a bone at least once  in a lifetime. There are 270 bones in the human body at birth; 206 when adulthood is reached. Sooner or later you are bound to break a bone, even if it's a tiny one like your pinkie finger  or little toe. Breaking a bone is a feeling almost everyone can relate to.

I break bones. Lots of them. I can't prove it but I may have broken more bones in my life then anyone else in the world, seeing how I've had so many and have lived so long. This is my story. The story of a broken body but an unbreakable spirit.

Friday, March 27, 2020

bbok-corona

(Place on page 343, after para 2)

Like everyone else in the world, we were effected by the deadly 2020 Coronavirus outbreak. Thank God we didn't get sick. I was thinking each day of residents in nursing home everywhere, the physical  illness and suffering they endured,  plus the  fear and anxiety  they had to feel;  of the health care workers, who risked their own well-being to care for the elderly and compromised; of the families and friends who could not visit,  facing an uncertain fate of their most special loved ones. Even if I didn't know each personally, I still knew their stories so well and could relate to their plight in so many ways.

book-outbreak

(Place on page 207, after para 1)

One of my jobs during an outbreak was to keep families informed, especially when visiting was restricted. We would coordinate other ways to "visit"- such as telephone or window visits. Communication methods such as Skype didn't exist yet.  If a resident was able to use a wheelchair we would arrange for family to locate outside of a first floor window. It was both heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time, especially if an occasion such as a birthday occured during a quarrentine. Everyone loves hugs anytime but especially on your birthday. Frustrating when a family celebrated for so many years together and now could not. But we did the best we could to make it as best we could.

I was used to the possibility of residents getting really sick or dying, almost on a daily basis, when I worked in nursing homes. That was a tough part of the job, to say the least. But during an outbreak crisis it was dreaded but almost expected, that fatalities would happen. Leaving work every day I never knew who I might see again in the morning or not.

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

book- whchair

Place on page 53, after para 4

Getting a new wheelchair was always a big deal, similar to when someone got a new car. My chairs ( I always kept a spare, just in case I had a flat) were ( and still are) my lifeline. Without a chair I'm immobile. My wheelchair goes everywhere I go. So when it's time to get a new set of wheels, it is important, at least to me.

A shiny, new wheelchair was exciting to break in. From the new and improved bearings and tires to that new chair " smell," every five years or so I looked forward to test driving and finally selecting my transportation.




book- tim

Place on page 342, after para 2 ( people in need..)

Old friends are supposed to last forever. Like the Kenny Rogers/ Dolly Parton songs says, "You Can't Make Old Friends." Many of my childhood pals are gone. Many are only fond memories now. But one friend who has followed me all through my life, someone who fades away and then out of the blue reappears, is Tim.

As I wrote earlier, I first met Tim when we rode the taxi dab together back and forth to grade school. I helped to take care of his mother when she was a resident at the Manor long ago. And every few years we would lose touch, phone numbers forgotten, and then, like it was meant to be, strange circumstances would reconnect us again.

The same thing happened after I was retired. I hadn't heard from Tim in a long time. Suddenly he called me during the time we were both stuck inside, quarrentined during the terrible Corona Virus outbreak. Maybe he was lonely, or bored or scared, but it was good to hear his voice again, like always. His voice and infectious laugh had not changed. Both were reassuring to hear again.

When he visited one summer afternoon after life got back to normal, we played catch-up, reminicsing about days  fifty years ago when we would both kids. Now we both have massive music collections ( always a common bond). Tim met Holly again and both dogs for the first time. And he was fascinated by the wonders of our personal assistant, Alexa. Times really had changed.

We call each other once a week to stay in touch, chatting about life, memories, world events, the weather, anything that comes to mind. Every time we talk we are amazed  of our survival, of being on the other side of life and better off for it. There is a certain pride that we both had the determination, persistance, strength and faith to come such a long way, still unbroken. As Tim says with his familar laugh, "I can't believe we are still here!"

It's true- you can't make an old friend like Tim. We  are both  older and retired. Life is good. Now I don't fracture as much and he doesn't have as many seizures as when we were kids. Now, in our later years, we are both  enjoying life and taking it one day at a time.    We  weathered many bad  storms in our  lifetime and are still kicking to tell about it- always with  a smile.

book- Croce

Place on page 308, after para 6, ending in "be nice to others."

In 2000 my friend Pat Croce wrote a great book titled "I Feel Great and you will too!" One of my favorite parts of the book is Pat's list of his Ten Commandments of Customer Service. Social Work is people work, daily interaction with clients, residents and families. When I read his rules on customer service I realized I had been doing every one of them since I left West Chester University so long ago. I shared them with the students because I strongly believed in Pat's message to others:

1) Always use a hearty "hello" and an equally cheery "goodbye."
2) Be on a First Name Basis ( unless someone wishes to be addressed by title or Mr./Mrs./ Miss).
3) Listen, Listen, Listen.
4) Communicate Clearly.
5) Be Neat, Clean, and Fit.
6) Be Prompt And Professional.
7) Be Positive.
8) Give compliments.
9) Have Fun.
10) Do It Now! 










book- nightmare

(Place on page 7, after para 5, ending in Christmas)

When I didn't fracture while  awake or while asleep, I  had nightmares about fractures. Often I would wake up screaming, dreaming of falling. It was a terrible feeling, knowing I was falling, knowing I would break a bone, knowing it was going to hurt, knowing what would happen after- the chaos, the ambulance ride to the hospital, the cast, the pain. I couldn't stop it. The fear was overwelming. Before I hit the ground a warm flushness would  flow through my entire body. And when I hit, a leg twisted awkwardly, snapping the tibia, fibia or femur, the intense burning and agonizing  pain at the fracture sight, my life would flash before my eyes each time. Oh, no..not again.

And no matter how many times I broke a bone, it always seemed surreal. Soon reality blended into my dreams. Was this  another nightmare or was this real? And when I woke up each time it would be frightening to know if it was all a dream or if I really had another plaster cast wrapped around a broken leg. I could never get away from it.  Broken bones haunted me incessantly during my childhood.

Even later in life, when the fractures were less frequent, the nightmares continued. When I didn't fracture, I had nightmares about fracturing. I could actually feel the pain in my dreams. I'm sure I had PDST- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder- something that was never treated. Back when I was a kid  PDST wasn't taken as seriously as it is now. Maybe soldiers returning from the war were treated for stress , but not a child like me who had suffered numerous devastating events and still endured all-too-real nightmares.

book-willie

(Place on page 91, in para 1, on line 3, after "husky guy")

a St. Bernard in human form, burly and friendly,

Sunday, March 22, 2020

book- poker

Place on page 74, after  para 4

He loved the famous song by the great  Kenny Rogers, "The Gambler," often telling me so, and quoting the lyrics "You've got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em..." We used that song as our guide when we gambled together. "Know when to walk away, and when to run," when we were up big or down big at the tables. "You never count your money, when you're sitting at the table," Uncle Henry reminded me when I started stacking my chips or quarters. "There'll be time enough for countin'," he whispered, "when the dealin' is done." Like Kenny himself was playing next to me all that time.

Saturday, March 21, 2020

book- memories

(Place on page 287, after para 7 Often it would..)

We talked about so many memories we had shared: our old television sets that took three minutes to warm-up, the kind that had tubes in the back; how a trip to the gas station included getting your widshield washed for free: saving Green Stamps in a book, redeemed for items like toasters; how candy cigarettes were considered cool; the weekly visits from the Milk Man, the Bread Man, the Ice Man and the Potato Chip Man; telephone numbers with word prefixes ( ours was WE 3); black telephones that you had to dial; catching lightning bugs ( fireflies) in summer; and waking up early on Saturday mornings to watch cartoons.

Simpler times when life seemed slower and breezed along at a leisurely pace. Times we reflected upon  and cherished. Maybe those special days were long gone  with time. But the memories did bring smiles and comfort on that Sunday afternoon in early August. We knew we could never go back but that was okay. We appreciated life now, and each other, like never before.

Thursday, March 19, 2020

PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, NFL

Eagles traded for former Lions CB Darius Slay. They gave up a third and fifth rounder. Better than a second, which was what Detroit was rumored to be asking for. The Birds almost had to do the deal, especially after botching the Malcolm Jenkins situation. Slay is an upgrade in the secondary.

Hopefully Philly addresses the offense soon. Where are the weapons for Carson Wentz?

There's much more to do during this off-season. The draft is still on for late April.  Eagles still have eight draft picks in which to add depth and possibly trade up or down. Trading up in the first round for a stud wide receiver makes sense. Taking more than one fleet wide-out makes sense too. Henry Ruggs or CeeDee Lamb, with KJ Hamler in the second round would be great. Will the Eagles get it done?

So why is Jenkins back with New Orleans? He signed for $ 8 million with the Saints, not much more than what he was making with the Birds. Well, this smacks of defensive coorinator Jim Schwartz. Either egos were involved or Jenkins was not conforming to Schwartz' style of play. Jenkins wanted to stay in Philadelphia and the organization seemed willing to keep him, knowing what his leadership meant to the team and the fan base.

I'm surprised they weren't able to work out a deal. Guess both parties didn't want it bad enough. So now Jalan Mills moves to safety, a position he hasn't played since college.

Until the Eagles do more, in my opinion, they aren't as good of a team this morning then they were a few days ago, but Slay does help to close the gap a bit.


Wednesday, March 18, 2020

PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, NFL

More free agency talk..

The Eagles released safety Malcolm Jenkins yesterday. In one way, Jenkins is 32, has slowed in his coverage skills, and was willing to hold out to make more than his $7 million a year. But Jenkins is a team leader, can still play, especially on run defense ( he is like another linebacker on the field), and was the glue to the defense.

This move smacks of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. I'm not a Schwartz fan. Thus move also reminds us of brian Dawkins. It was a mistake letting Dawkins go to Denver. Is this a similar mistake? So far I'm underwelmed with the Eagles off-season. They let Jenkins go. They brought back back-up quarterback Nate Sudfeld. Even though he wasn't on the playoff roster? Plus they brought back jalen Mills. Why? He's younger but ot as good as Jenkins. They want to convert mills to safety, even though he hasn't played that position since college. The first time Mills gets burned with a touchdown pass, look out!

- The Patriots let Tom Brady walk. He promptly signed with Tampa Bay, for $30 million a year. It will be odd having Brady in the NFC. Immediately, the Bucs' Super Bowl odds ( 16-1) were better than New Englands' ( 20-1).

- Rumors are that the Texans did talk to the Eagles about star receiver D'Andre Hopkins before trading him to Arizona. Seems the Eagles thought Hopkins was "too expensive" and passed.

Hopkins is the best receiver in football. Why not get him when you have a chance? Add teo speedy wide outs in the upcoming draft, and suddenly your receiving corps is solid again.




Tuesday, March 17, 2020

PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, NFL

Free agency started yesterday, It was welcome sports news, as most sports are shut down because of the coronavirus crisis. Nice to talk sports....

- The Eagles signed former Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Javon Hargrove. It waqs a surprise, as D-Tackle isn't a pressing need. But Hargrove is a good player. The Birds like to rotate their linemen, so Hargrove should fit in nicely.

They do need to address wide receiver and cornerback, preferrably before the draft next month. I was glad they didn't waste $17 milioon on ex-Cowboy Byron Jones, who signed for 4 years with the Dolphins. He's good but not great. Trufont is going to be released this week from Atlanta. Slay is atrade possibility with Detroit. With the draft being weak at corner, addressing the secondary in free agency will be huge.

Same with wide receiver. Excellent wide-out D'Andre Hopkins was traded from Hourston to Arizona for peanuts, while the Vikings' Stefan Diggs was dealt to Buffalo. The Biills are priming themselves for a run at new england in the fall, especially with Tom Brady gone from the Patriots ( more on this later).

I fully expect Philly to get a pair of fleet receivers in the upcoming draft, but Hopkins or Diggs would brought experiencem soeed and talent to the birds' offense, giving Carson Wentz a dependable target. Robby Anderson may be a good name to remember.

- Will Nick Foles replace Tom Brady in New England. Brady walked away from the Patriots today, leaving behind a great career and 6 Super Bowl titles. The Pats  may be a perfect fit for Foles, who needs to get out of Jacksonville. New England needs a name quarterback until they can develop the next Brady. Foles is 31 and could play in New England for years.

- Looks like Dallas will keep receiver Amari Cooper. They have locked up Dak Prescott and now Cooper. I wouldn't be surprised if they try to snap another elite receiver in the draft to give Prescott another weapon.

-It looks like Cam Newton will be moving on from Carolina. The Panthers have allowed  Newton and his agent to seek a trade.

- Back-up QB Nate Sudfeld will be back with the Eagles. The Birds could still sign a veteran or draft a youngster to develop, but Sudfeld looks like to be the back-up.

Friday, March 13, 2020

book- epidemic


Place on page 204 after para 5

Thank God we never had to deal with anything like the Coronavirus of 2020. but we did have our share of outbreaks when I worked in nursing homes.

I remember one winter when the flu ran rampid. Of course, most of our resdients were elderly and compromised, so it didn't take much to  put them in jeopardy. Cases of bronchitis or pneumonia were often death sentences for those poor souls. Closing our doors, quarrenting all floors, and forbidding visitors for several weeks was common. It was heartbreaking when a loved one could not visit but the residents' safety and health had to come first.

We needed to be there every day. We soon learned the routine of washing our hands thoroughly for twenty seconds ( while singing "Happy Birthday" twice) and other sanitary measures, lessons we would continue to adhere to even after the outbreak subsided. I didn't fear getting sick as much as coming into work daily and God forbid making someone else  sick. Wearing gloves and a mask while being close to the residents was commonplace.

The oddest outbreak I saw was when bedbugs were discovered in our building. Everything had to be cleaned and several residents were quarrentined. Bug-detecting dogs were brought in to sniff down rooms, residents and employees until we got a handle on the bugs. Again, part of my job was to call families and inform them of the situation, keeping them informed of the progress and well-being of their loved one.

Easing fears with calm reassurance, being totally honest, and showing empathy and compassion were keys when helping residents and families during these days and weeks of crisis. Sometimes we had to move residents quickly from one room to another. It was never easy on anyone. I could relate to adjustmant issues. But after time, residents and families felt trust and confidence that you were doing what is best for their loved one. You have to earn such trust, and it's not easy. But during times of emergency, that's when you know who is a real leader and who isn't.




Thursday, March 12, 2020

book- Nicholson

Place on page 109, after ppara. 6)

It was later in life when I fully appreciated Dr. Nicholson's greatness. CHOP named a special research and teaching activity after him. The Nicholson Visiting Professors would bring in doctors from all over the United States to work and learn at Children's Hospital. He graduated from then Harvard College in 1925. He became orthpaedic division chief in the mid-thirties. For the next three decades. he continued to grow and develop the hospital's pediatric orthopaedic program. He was a real medical pioneer in the Philadelphia region, as well as an important physican in the United States as well as around the world.

Dr. Nicholson died in 1987. But his legacy would live on. Memories of my early childhood, and everything we experienced together, would last a lifetime .I was his "Jeffrey." I would remember him, not as a source of pain and suffering, but as a healer, someone who ultimately saved my life.

CORONA VIRUS

We are living in historic times. They will be talking about the Great Pandemic of 2020 for hundreds of years. For me, the COVID-19 virus hit home when last night most sports as we know them were either cancelled or postponed.

Luckily, no one close to me- Holly, my family, etc.. has gotten the virus yet. But they say it's like the calm before the storm. It's coming.

For me, since I'm now 63 and susecptible to pneumonia and bronchitis, I must be careful. We all should be careful. We must lead our lives, just use common sense for a while.

Hopefully this virus threat goes on for a few weeks before things get back to normal. But will anything ever be "normal" again after this?

Life will go on. The games, meaningless as they are in the big picture, will resume. But this threat from a deadly virus will linger. Questions arise. If the virus disappears with warm weather, will it return in the fall? Is this going to be the norm now in our world?

Maybe washing our hands and being very vigilente about it will be a positive out of this.

The NBA shut down last night, for the time being. The NHL and possible Major League Baseball will do the same. Sports is entertainment, an outlet from the reality of life. To take that away, let alone all the monitary issues that goes with it, is devastating to our society.

Life will eventually return to the world we know. We gace a few bumpy weeks. Everyone's savings are taking a hit, thanks to the rapidly falling stock markets.

Politically, President Trump  hung his hat on the economy. With the stock market tanking, along with  the failed government's reaction to the crisis, puts Trumps' reelection chances in jeopardy. His hope is that things are back to normal by the fall. If not, he is in trouble.

Easter and spring are just around the corner. But nothing seems to matter other than the cOVID-19 bug. It's all people are talking about. We may need a diversion. Sports may not be an opeion.

One thing that wouldn't hurt is prayer. The world is going through frightful, uncertain times. It's just an American event- we are all in this together, the entire world.

Hopefully soon I'll be able to blog again about mundane stuff like sports, music, American Idol, disability issues and other items. Until then, nothing else really matters.

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Book Proposal

Proposal for:

AN UNBREAKABLE SPIRIT

By Gregory Smith

1. One-page sell sheet-

An Unbreakable Spirit
Inspirational Autobiography
132,383 words

Tagline: An Unbreakable Spirit- My Life With Brittle Bones. "I may break bones, but broken bones cannot break me."
Back book cover paragraph:

An Unbreakable Spirit is the life story o Gregory Smith, one of the oldest survivors of Osteogenisus Imperfecti, a rare bone condition. Greg endured hundreds of broken bones as a child. His inspirational story details how he coped with his disablitiy as a child all the way to adulthood and beyond. Despite the numerous challenges and limitations, Greg became a social worker and devoted his life to helping others in need. An Unbreakable Spirit tells of one extraordinary person overcoming countless fractures with determination  and motivation to reach his goals. It is a story that will make you laugh, cry and feel. It is a story with  great heart, a story of a lifetime, a story of broken bones, broken dreams, but an unbreakable spirit.

Abbreviated bio ( author photo forthcoming).

Gregory Smith is a retired social worker, with thirty years of experience in health care facilities. Greg penned a newspaper column called Wheeling Around Phoenixville, and currently writes a daily blog about disability issues and sports. This is his first book. Greg lives in Phoenixville, Pa with his girlfriend Holly, and their two canine friends, Bud and Katie.

2. Biographical Sketch

Qualifications: I'm one of the oldest survivors of OI. I've had brittle bones all my life and have spent many of those years cruising through life in a wheelchair. Iam on Facebook and Twitter (#WheelinGreg).

3. Description of the book.

My story begins as a baby with the onset of brittle bones. That is when the fractures were so frequent, even the doctors lost count. A big part of my early years deals features my loving parents, family and friends, and the assorted heroes who helped me smile and gave me much-needed things to look forward to.  My unique school years, first in a school for kids with special needs, then later at home, using an intercom system hooked up to class, are related. So is the special relationships I begin to grow, some fleeting while others last a lifetime.

All the while the focus of my brittle bone condition is always there, in everything I do. My college years, earning a degree in social work; helping others in need, primariliy  in nursing home and hopsital settings;even finding love in relationships that, in the end, were not meant to be. My heart breaks just as easily as my bones do.

There is a special bond between a special needs child and a mother. One of the most heartbreaking parts of the book is when my mom needs nursing home care- in the very facilty where I work- to her sudden illness and death, of which I am the only one present to witness her last breath.

And yet hope abounds as life goes on. I finally find true love near the end of my story. I find peace in my heart after a lifetime of pain. And although the future is cloudy, unchartered territory with a rare disease that has no sure, I cherish  and appreciate my golden years with humor, love and comfort in my heart and soul.

Along my Forrest Gump-like  journey I meet many characters, both famous and ordinary, all special to me and my story. I share my personal insights about life as a person with a disability, both in the past sixty years up to today. And I comment on everyday and unique situations I have faced in my life, as common as being stared at in public to the frustration of a world full of inaccessibility.

The end is full of hope and wraps up my philosophy on life- I wouldn't have done it any other way.

Many personal photos are included in the book, painting vivid colors of my experiences.For example,t the reader will not only read about the early fractures but will also  see yours truly as a child in casts.

Purpose:

Shedding light on such a rare genetic affliction such as Osteogenisus Imperfeci is a big reason why I wrote this story. Hopefully the next generation will become more aware of brittle bones and OI. Also, I hope my story shows that, even in a wheelchair, with a disability, one can succeed and live a rich, fulfilled life. Never giving up and always having hope are keys.

Audience:

I believe my story is for everyone. People with a disability will relate; able-bodied people will become enlightened; health care workers will read about familar situations they face on a daily basis, especially social workers; and I think most readers will identify with family situations, and those who share a common bond- like a mother and her special needs child- will be touched by the love of such a link.

My book is unique on that it is very hard to find a first-person account of what it is like to have OI. There are plenty of medical journals and websites about brittle bones, as far as treatment is concerned. But my story may be one of the first to talk about what it feels like to constatly break bones, both physically and emotionally.

Chapter outline:

1. China Baby- The hard early years when OI first came into my life.

2. Heroes- The special people in my life who helped me survive those early years.

3. Timmy and The Box- I begin attending special needs schools, and meet others with disabilities, man of whom make lasting impressions on my life. My unique high school days using The Box.

4 .Praying for a Miracle- Our trip to Lourdes, Frace, searching for a mircle.

5. Pins- The surgical times when the doctors inserted stainless steel pins in my legs to keep them strong, only to see my body reject them each time.

6. Making Waves- Starting college-level classes, my life on C.B. Radio, finding my first real girlfriend, and reaching out to the world for the first time.

7. Tough Times Make You Stronger- The frustration of failing in school and being trapped in my disability. Plus I lose my father and the hardships it brings.

8. We All Have An Uncle Henry- Vivid portayal of my Uncle Henry, who became like my second father, and how he helped me to become more independ in life.

9. Cards and Cigars- My first experiences volunteering in a nursing home and about John, my first resdient that I grew close.

10. Going For It- Returning to school, a second chance at respect and independence, as I take the first difficult steps to becoming a social worker.For the very first time in my life, at age 28,  being in an actual classroom with other students.

11. I Made It Through The Rain- The special relationship with singer Barry Manilow, how he touched my life, and the special pen pal I met from his fan club.

12. Breaking Down Barriers- Facing discrimination for the first time. Doing things no one imagined. Not satisfied with the stereotypical "disabled" individual.

13. One Sweet Summer- When my pen pal from Norway spends the entire with my family- and the first time I fall in love.

14. Don't Ever Lose your Sense of Humor- Graduating from college and doing my internships at the local hospital and nursing home- where I first starting volunteering.

15. Barry's Buns- Further asserting my indepence, as I spend a fun and eventful night camping out with friends, waiting to meet Barry Manilow in person.

16. Social Worker- My initial exp[eriences with the title of social worker.

17. My First Real Job- At age 32, I start my first full-time job at a local clinic. I meet an old friend by surprise, witness a knife-fight in our lobby, and experience the dangers- as well as the education- of working in a city.

18. Three Wishes- The magical day meeting Barry Manilow with my pen pal.Finding out celebrities- and life- isn't always what it seems.

19. Breakable Heart- A surprising, emotional chapter where i learn my heart can break as easily as my bones.

20. My Dream Job- I begin wrking where it all started, and my special relationships with the residents I love.

21. Teddy- The one resident I will never forget, and how he changed my world and made me a better person.

22. Happy Birthday Mom-Helping my mom through heart surgery and celebrating a landmark birthday with her.

23. Rocky- To my surprise, I  suddenly need to deal with another emergency medical condition, one which I never was aware of until one fateful day.

24. New Paths to Follow- After nearly ten years I am forced to leave  the work I love, only to find a new calling.

25. Another Bad Break- OI rudely reminds me it is still in my life as I suffer a devastating fracture in my forties. Suddenly. it is like my childhood again, as I relearn to cope with a cast, rehabilitation and pain.

26. Coming Home- My mom enters a nursing home- the same facility where I work. Her goal is to come home, but will she?

27. It's Okay to Let Go-Mom suffers a stroke and I'm the only one there when she draws her final breath- the special bond of a mother and her special needs child.Our beloved dog, Louie, dies only days after her.

28. From Now On Your Name is Bud-Life without mom and Louie. I find Bud, a rescue pup who helps to save my life.

29. Is There Someone Special Out There?- Looking for love and finding it- over the internet. Finding Holly, the true love of my life.

30. Life Returns To  Dianna Drive- Holly breaths life back into my life. I have a reason to go on.

31. You'll Be Okay- Holly finds out she has a brain tumor. How she overcomes the tumor and all that goes with it.

32. It's Been A Great Life- My retirement years, with Holly, with so much to still look forward to.

33. New Beginnings- I now have a corp of new, young doctors as I face a new challenge with my OI.

34. The Hard Way Every Time- A recap of my life, and a special song which defines me.

Competitive analysis:

 Honestly, I haven't read anything similar to my story. It's a little of everything. It is a very leasurely tale, told in a way in which the reader and I have a nice chat.

Marketing strategies:

Hopefully my story will be on the internet, like Amazon.com, but also in bookstores, like barnes & Nble. With social media so easily accessed now, the possibilities are endless, from Facebook to Twitter for promotion. Althoguh travel is a challenge, I would be open to book tours, appearances ( especially on the East Coast), and numerous book signings.

Not only would I wish to promote and sell my book, I feel it's important for readers to meet me too. Since they will get to know me in my very personal story, actually meeting in person will be important.

With so many people wiuth disabilities in the news, on television and in the movies and media, it would be only natural for my story to be accepted and enjoyed. now is the time!

History of the manuscript;

I have not submitted my book to a publisher. I wish to find the right home for my story with a caring agent, who will also love what I have done and be willing to share it with others. My agent will know best where my story belongs, finding it the right home it needs.

Same chapters:

I am sending the introduction, the first chapter, as requested, and chapters two, 27, and 34.

Thank you!





Saturday, March 7, 2020

REVIEW- PETER & JEREMY AT SELLERSVILLE THEATER

I recently had the pleasure to see Peter Asher and Jeremy Clyde in concert at the Sellersville Theater. Peter was part of the 60s duo Peter and Gordon, while Jeremy was also part of a 60s duo called Chad and Jeremy. Both duos were icons. Bordon is retired from music while chad passed away a few years ago. Peter and Jeremy joined forces and have put together a fascinating two hours of great music, riveting video and photos, and interesting, fond memories.

Both were extremely funny, entertaining and likeable. The evening started with an appreciation of legendary Buddy Holly. The first song was "It Doesn't Matter Anymore." Asher revealed he admired Holly so much that he decided to wear thick glasses, in honor of the late singer.

Along with stories about their own songs, including "Yesterday's Gone," "Willow Weep For Me," and "I Go To Pieces," they did refreshing takes on cover songs during their two sets ( there was an extremely brief fifteen minute intermission). After discussing the 60s singer Marianne Faithful, who had an affair with Rolling Stone Mick Jagger, they did a nice version of "As Tears Go By" ( the first song writter by Jagger and fellow Stone Keith Richards).

Asher built a tremendous, Grammy Award-winning career as a music producer and manager, associated with such star artists like James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt and Diana Ross. Taylor was mentioned quite often. Asher talked about how he  and Taylor found the classic Carole King penned song "You've Got A Friend," which was their encore at Sellersville.

Perhaps the best memories were those of The Beatles, especially Paul McCartney. Asher shared a fascinating story of the # 1 Peter and Gordon hit, "World Without Love," which was written by McCartney. Paul lived with the Asher family for two years, while he dated Peter's beautiful red-haired sister Jane. Paul gave the song to Peter, saying that "John (Lennon) didn't  care for the song."  The song wasn't finished, so Paul retreated to his bedroom and finished 'World Without Love" in a mere eight minutes!

Classic songs like "A Summer Song" and "World Without Love" ended the second set. The sold-out crowd was on it's feet. The ovation was well-deserved as the new duo pf Peter and Jeremy gave their fans an evening full of great songs and fun stories. To top it off, both met with fans after the show in the lobby, Asher signing copies of his recent book about The Beatles, and Clyde signing cds of his solo recordings.

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

book-hollies pt 3

Place on page 33, after para 1

I would always be a social worker. And I would always believe in what started me on my journey 30 years earlier, the same belief my parents instilled in me all my life. "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" never sounded so good and still meant so much to me. The compassion that consumed my heart so long ago  would  never go away.

book- hollies part 2

Place on page 312, after para 6.

The one common link that impressed me the most, the one that meant so much to me and convinced me that Holly was a special person with a good heart, was when she told me one of her favorite songs too was "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother." That clinched it.

book- hollies

Place on page 92, after para 2

Becoming a social worker sounded like a nice idea. Helping others on need. Giving back what was given to me all my life. One could not find a nobler profession.

I always loved the song "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" by The Hollies. It's about helping others, be it professionally as a social worker, or just in one's everyday life. Lending a hand. Lifting someone up when they are down. Offering support. Making them feel better by a smile, or a kind word, or some friendly advice. Or just by being there to listen.

REVIEW- PHILLY FLOWER SHOW

We were at the Philadelphia Convention Center Monday to view this year's Philly Flower Show. The theme is Riviara Holiday. Scenes from the Italy, Spain and other countries near the Mediterranean area.

We got there after 10:00am and it was predictably crowded. But we have seen it worse. We learned not to see the displays near the enterance first, but to branch out and see displays in the middle and back of the world's largest indoor flower show. So we hung around vendors for a few hours and saw countless amazing items to view and buy.

There was a good mix of men and women at the show ( granted, more women. Refreshingly, lots of young people too). With the coronavirus outbreak we only saw one person wearing a mask.

The main displays are lovely and very realistic, with manuy courtyards, trellises and olive trees.I noted a lack of color, however. Flower color, specifically. The walls in the displays are colorful, like the homes in Italy. But too much green and not enough flower colors.

Otherwise it's a great show, like usual.

It took about four hours to slowly see everything. Once outside in the March Philadelphia sunshine, with the temperture in the 50s, it really felt like spring.

AMERICAN IDOL-WEEK 3

American Idol swung into week 3 with a few potenial winners. They didn't show enough bad performers, of which I take delight in these audition shows. There is always the set-up, which they try to pass off as spontaneous but really isn't. And, of course, there's always at least one emotional story that tugs at the heartstrings.

The potential winner i really liked was a nurse who can sing, who movd to Nashville from the Ohio area. She is pretty and can sing! She brought along her boyfriend, also a singer/songwriter from Nashville. At this stage, names come and go, but I'm sure I'll catch her in Hollywood.

If they devote a segment to your story, or even spend the time showing your audition among the hundreds, you have a pretty good shot. Remember, they already have whittled their contestants down to 24, so they can pick and choose the ones you'll see in the months to come.

The set-up was Ryan Seacrest (with camera) meeting a young girl sitting outside the audition place in Savannah, Georgia. Somehow she messed up the arrival time and was past due. Still, she waited, hoping to get lucky. Seacrest took her inside and got her a special audition. She made it to Hollywood, and that was the feel-good story of the week.

The emotional story was a girl who tried out several years ago, didn't make it, but returned. Her sister supported her then. Since the first audition the sister died in a car crash.  This time the contestant sang an emotional rendition of Michael Bolton's "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You?" Her rendition was just okay. She made it to Hollywood.

More auditions next Sunday. Hopefully they end in two weeks. Time to move on to Hollywood week.




Sunday, March 1, 2020

book- willie

(Place on page 98 after para 7)

It was true- Willie had his bad points, but deep down inside he was a good guy. I learned a lot from him, most of all how to stick up for myself. I'll never forget the time we needed to use the lone small elevator at school to get upstairs for our next class. It took forever to arrive to the first floor. When the door opened we found out why: the elevator was loaded with able-bodied students.

"What the hell?"Willie bellowed. "Ain't the stairs good enough for y'all? How did you get an elevator key anyway? Maybe me and my friend here  should just crawl up the steps on our rear ends while you jackasses ride the damn elevaor all day?"

On and on it went, as the elevator emptied. Silent, red-faced students quickly filed out and dispersed. I wanted to crawl under the nearest rock but Willie was right. And as we rode up together he glanced at me and remarked, "Sometimes you gotta speak up, Smitty. Especially when people just don't give a damn."


Saturday, February 29, 2020

book-farm

(Place on page 321, after last para.)

Inside her beautiful farmhouse, I glanced at all the memories she had gathered from her previous life. The many photos of her husband and their travels together; pictures of her reletives, both old and new; her carefully arranged and well cared for  knick-knacks and cute artifacts she had collected over the years. I smiled because they reminded me of things Mom wouldv'e done.


This  is a special lady, I told myself. She had a different life too, one she would never forget and always cherish in her heart. I didn't want her to forget . I only wanted to share her heart and her life, not be a replacement.

Parts of my past I would never forget nor wanted to. Especially memories of my parents. Life goes on and we must go on with it. The loving memories made us who we were.

Yes, it was sad to know that things wouldn't be the same. I would always miss my folks, close reletives like Uncle Henry, Aunt Sue and others. I would always miss Louie and my animal friends who were gone. And Holly would miss the people and pets who once made her life so special too.

They say when one door closes, another always opens. In time new people and pets would brighten our world. We would brighten each others' world.  No longer would we be lonely or forever sad. We both agreed our dearly departed loved ones  wouldn't want it any other way.

Friday, February 28, 2020

book- stares

(Place on page 56, after para 8..next to last para)

It seemed I got more stares than other folks in wheelchairs. I looked odd because of my short stature. People who are paralyzed may appear "normal" to the casual starer. And some disabilities could be unseen. I stuck out like a sore thumb. I was way too embarrassed to ever wear shorts, even during a blazing hot summer, so when I wore jeans I liked them to cover my feet as well as my legs. So the stares and comments went from "Why do you have tiny legs?" to "Why don't you have feet?" Adults often thought  I was an amputee, perhaps from a car accident. I was far too young to have served in the Vietnam War.

Anyway, I didn't have much of a choice but to deal with the stares. I could relate to guys like "The Elephant Man." The scars of fate one could never hide from.

My legs were useless. So why are they there, only to get stared at? I don't know. It's a question I would often ponder from childhood to old age. Not "why can't I walk?" or "why me and OI?" Instead it was always "why are my useless legs here." like a modern day Scarlett Letter for all to see?

Maybe my legs hung around (pardon the pun) for a reason? The answer would become clearer with time.

book- school

( Place on page 33, after para 2)

Some Fridays I wished school never ended. I would miss my friends until Monday. I kept busy on weekends with family activities. but no matter how tough school was ( I did have a feeling some teachers cut me some slack when it came to grades and tests, because of my situation), sometimes I couldn't wait to switch on the box at 8:00  Monday morning, just to hear those familar voices again.

They say you can't miss what you never had. I suppose that's true to an extent. But all during my high school years I did miss school activites that I knew, if fate had been kinder, I would be doing.

book- bowling

(Place on page 11, after para 6)

I looked forward to our Sunday nights at the alleys. Dad would always buy my a box of salty Bachman pretzels and a Coke before the match started. Uncle Frannie would often sit with me at a little table to watch the action. He was the cheerleader of the team, calling out encouragement, often repeating his phrases."Let's go! Let's go!" he would yell above the crashing of pins, bowling balls hitting the wood and the murmur of chatter up and down the alleys.

He had a distinct way of bowling. After he released the ball, he would creeping softly away from the line, like a cat on a hot summer pavement, clenching his fist until he saw his custom black bowling ball crashing into the left pocket, scattering pins everywhere. Bowlers had a lingo all their own, and Uncle Frannie knew the jargon. "Whoa! Whoa! It's going Jersey!" (the ball crossed over the 1 pin); "Get two!" he would instruct a teammate going for a spare: or the famous " "oh, brother!" which could be both good or bad, depending on the result.

Every fall into spring  we chased the dream of a championship season, just like our Phillies. Every year we came up short ( just like our Phillies). And after Dad passed on, I never went to the alleys again. It just would'nt be the same without him. Some 40 years later we found three of his bowling balls and a box full of his dusty trophies in the basement. Those relics of days gone by may have gathered dust over time, but my memories of all the exciting moments at the alleys with my father and my uncle would live forever.

Thursday, February 27, 2020

PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- SIXERS, PHILLIES, FLYERS, EAGLES

The Sixers' free-fall continues as their road records drops to a miserable 9-21 with a shocking loss to the lowly Cavs last night in Cleveland. Worse, center Joel Embiid went out in the first quarter with a "sprained shoulder" and never returned. The team was already without fellow All-Star Ben Simmons, who is out with a back issue.

Instead of guys like Al Hortford and Tobias Harris stepping up to fill the void, players who are getting paid tons of money, the 76ers never recovered and the unimaginable happened- losing to the second worse club in the NBA.

I get it that Jimmy Butler didn't want to return to the team ( I wonder why not?). I don't get why leader and shotter J.J. Reddick was let go. The problem is lame and clueless GM Elton Brand never really replaced Butler and Reddick with players that are even closely compretable. Add a loser head coach in Brett brown and an owner who doesn't really care abpout basketball or winning, and the Sixers have the worst front office in Philly. Easily.

If both Simmons and Embiid are out for extended periods of time, put a fork in the Sixers. They will get murdered on this upcoming West Coast road trip ( where teams like the clippers, Lakers and Kings already are laying in wait, seeking revenge for earlier losses in philadelphia). They will drop in the playoff standings and will lose home court advantage and be forced to play a superior first round playoff team.

One and done in the post season would be a major drop-off. Jobs will be lost.

The Sixers have squandered their money and collection of 1st round draft picks. They have been unwise in trades and free agent signings. they deserve to be in the mess they are in now.

The organization promoted losing for many years. The Process sucked then and sucks now. Now, thanks to bad planning, bad management, and bad luck to injuries, they are losing without really trying.

What you reap, you sow. Couldn't happen to a more worthy organization!

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The Phillies, on the other hand, continue to win in spring training, building a winning culture. Under the leadership of new skipper Joe girardi, the Phillies are overhauling thier attitudes, stress fundementals, and bringing more common sense to the field, not merely analytics.

They still need help in the rotation and in the bullpen. But I have more faith in the Phillies now than the 76ers. And if the current phillies GM can't get the job done, I trust that Phillies' ownership will replace him after this season, if need be.

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The Flyers finally have the perfect mix of talented youth and savvy veterans, all under the leadership of their bright, new coach. They have a young goalie to build their franchise around, and real hope for now and the future.

The Flyers are 1000-1 to reach the conference finals, not win the Cup. But I wouldn't put it past them on either. Not the way they are rolling now.

A big back-and-back series with the rival Rangers begans at home Friday night. At least coming away with three points would be nice.

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The Eagles' brain trust is in Indianapolis for the combines. Hopefully they are lokking for speed. Fast burners at receiver and the secondary are key. Free agency also starts in a few weeks. The Birds have cap space. Now GM Howie Rossman needs to spend the $$$ wisely to not only improve the 2020 version of the Eagles but also to 'retool" for the future.

Tuesday, February 25, 2020

book- downtown

(Place on page 18, after para 1)

Mom was a big believer in getting me outside, especially on sunny, warm days in spring and summer. She didn't want me to become a "shut-in.' So often we would take walks to Reeves Park, where we would have an ice cream cones and bask in the fresh air. For me, just getting outside whenever I could meant so much, especially since I was confined to bed quite often.

Another strolling destination was downtown Phoenixville. Shopping malls didn't exist yet in my area, so the downtown business district was bustling with shoppers all the time. I had my favorite stores and little shops, each with their own uniqueness and  memories. First  was the big department store at the corner of Main St. and Bridge St. called W.T. Grants.

 You could get anything at Grants, be it clothing to houseware. But the thing I fondly remember about grants was the delicious aroma of freshly-made popcorn as soon we entered. The term "fresh popcorn" was everywhere. including on the red and white striped boxes. And it was the best popcorn ever, something to look forward to each trip.

Charles Music Shop was where I bought all my 45s and lps back in the day. It was so much fun  to browse the record racks. Charlie always knew the kind of music I liked, and would keep me alert to new releases.

Batts Toy Store had the latest board games in their front window, and already I was making my Christmas list in summer. Seacrests Drug Store had everything, from newspapers, comic books and greeting cards, to packs of baseball cards in the spring, and real root beer floats anytime.Woolworth's ( otherwise known as the "Five and Dime store") was a prominent fixture in town.

Some of these quaint  stores were accessible to someone  in a wheelchair. Some had a step or two to negotiate.It didn't matter. Mom was always determined to make the best out of any situation. If we were out for the day she made sure I would have fun.

God bless Mom. There is a special bond between a mother and a special needs child. We couldn't be any closer. It was that way from those early days until the end.

MOVIE REVIEW- CALL OF THE WILD

*** out of 4 stars

 Disney's The Call of the Wild is in theaters nowIt is very loosely based on the classic Jack London children's book. . I saw the movie Sunday afternoon at King of Prussia. The theater was about half full but the morning show was sold-out. I later found out why: families and seniors. Area senior citizen living centers were busing their folks over by vans to see the film. It should do very well. It came in second this weeknd at the box office, raking in over $ 25 million.

If you can get past the fake dogs and a grizzled Harrison Ford, you'll love this movie. The story centers on Buck, a giant dog who lives with a retired judge and his wife. Buck is overly rambunctious, and in a matter of moments, ruins a family  outdoor party. He is stolen from his backyard, taken to cold Alaska ad sold to a dog sled company looking for canines to mush their sleeds.

Buck is actually treated pretty well as he soon becomes pack leader, carrying the mail over the wide tundra. It's hard work. But then unlucky Bucky is bought, after the dog sled mail delivery is closed down because of the new telegraph system ( the story is set around 1849).

The weirdo who buys Buck this time is a crazed lunatic in Alaska looking to seize the Gold Rush. His plan is to get out on the tundra, where no one else goes, and pan for gold.So he enlists poor Buck and his fellow mushers to pull he, his two acquaintences and their belongings across frozen, barren wasteland for a shot at fool's gold.

Only problem is, predictably, this Simon Legree-type ever feeds his dogs. Undernourished pooches don't have the strength to pull the slrigh anymore. Thus enters the welcome sight of Ford, who has bumped into Buck two previous times in the movie. He buys Buck.

Buck has a good life with the old coger, who is a widow. He reflects on his wife, his lost wife and a kid. So, to fight his ongoing depression, Ford decides to take the dog and high-tail it out of town, lookingfor gold.

Meanwhile, the same Simon legree guy tracks Ford and Buck, hoping to find out the exact location of the plentiful gold. There is death involved ( I won't spoil anything). That may be hard on little kids, otherwise the movie should be a spellbinding joy for all ages.

The Alaska scenery is breath-taking. The action sequences aer well-done and kept my interest. Yes, the animals in the film are CGI ( computer graphic images) and most of the time look pretty real. There's no way thye couldv'e gotten real animaks to do stunts in this movie.

Harrison Ford gives a nice, sentimental performance, as do all cast members. The movie is fun, exciting and well made. It held my attention for nearly two hours.

There are funny, slapstick scenes and also tearful, heartwarmig scenes. It's "A Dog's Journey," only with CGI animals. Since it appears to be doing well I wouldn't doubt some sort of sequel down the road,All in all, it was a fun way to spend a Sunday .

PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, SIXERS, FLYERS, EAGLES ASTROS

- The Phillies are undefeated so far in early spring training play. Jake Arrieta pitches today vs Minnesota. Arrieta needs to step up and be a solid No. 3 starter in the rotation. This is the final year of his contract and will probably be a free agent after the season. I expect Arrieta to pitch well this year, his contract year.

The Phils clubbed four homers Monday afternoon in their 8-7 win over Baltimore. The team is getting a good, long look at their young kids this spring. Bench jobs are open and there is good competition. Bryce Harper sees his first spring action today.

One of the nice joys of early retirement is being able to watch spring training baseball during the week. The twins, an up-and-coming squad from the American League, will be the foe today in Clearwater.

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The Sixers started strong against the Atlanta Hawks last night at home. Up 21 points at one point, the 76ers finished the half ahead 17 qand looked to cruise. Instead, the 3rd quarter closed with the oung Hawks ahead by one. Joel Embiid went off in the 4th quarter, scoring 19 of his career-high 49 points. Philly won by 17, with Tobias Harris chipping in 25. Harris was questionable to play, but during warm-ups he was a go. The Sixers went to an astounding 27-2 at home.

If only Embiid could play that way every game! Especially on the road. The teams' upcoming west coast road trip will be huge. Teams like the Clippers, Lakers and Kings will be out for revenge.

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The red-hot Flyers go for their 4th win in a row tonight at home against San Jose. The Flyers haven't beaten the Sharks since 2017. The Orange and Black seek revenge for a 7-1 thrashing they suffered in San Jose earlier this season. This is the Sharks get-away game before returning to the west coast. It's been a disasterous road trip and they may want to check out tonight early. The Flyers must get ahead early.

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Big day for the Eagles as Coach Doug Pederson and GM Howie Rossman speak from the combines in Indianapolis. Free agency  begins soon. Rumors persist that troublemaker receiver Alshon Jefferies will be cut. Will the Birds sign Cowboys wide-out Amari Cooper. Drafy a pair of speedy wide-outs this spring and suddenly the receiving corps looks better.

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The so-called "new' Phillie P{hanatic doesn't look that much different than the old. Still it's stupid they can't work something out so the Phanatic can stay the same and always be in Philadelphia.The Phanatic is an icon in town and can't be replaced!

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The cheating houston Ass-tros continue to screw up. Jose Altuve was relentlessly booed during their spring game on MOnday. He was later hit by a pitch, one of many surely to come this summer. Meanwhile, Ass-tro management confiskated any negetive signs from fans at the ballpark. The clueless baseball commissioner sits and does nothing, as if the problem will just fade away. but it won't. Houston's championship will always be tainted, along with their cheating team. 

Monday, February 24, 2020

AMERICAN IDOL- WEEK 2

Week 2 of American Idol was pretty much like the first week. Lots of great voices but no one who wowed me. A few inspirational stories, which was nice. But usually the inspirational stories don't win. They may get to Hollywood but think of past winners such as Carrie Underwood, Maddie last year and Kelly Clarkson. Great stories but Underwood, for example, was simply a country girl who could sing.

There were a few wacky auditions ( not enough for me- the bad ones are the most fun). There were obviously pre-determined set-ups: one girl was on the bubble to make it thru until Katy Perry suggested to "sing for your life." They literally went outside in downtown Savannah, Georgia, gathered a group of "strangers," and she sang. Predictably, she made it.

The "dramatic" ads all week was some sort of catastrohy concerning a fire in the Idol studio, with Perry fainting outside. Turns out it was a gas leak and the studio was evacuated. The firefighters who resonded to the 911 call contained the leak and all was well. Perry didn't really pass out or was ill- she was helped up after over-dramatically acting her part.

That buildt a little interest. But then several firefighters were gathered - still in their gear- to sing "All Night Long" with Lionel Richie. That bit of pre-conceived filler was pretty stupid.

When Idol does a feature story on a contestant, chances are pretty good they will make it to Hollywood. Otherwise, why waste the time? So it was with several performers, and, predictably, all got Golden Tickets.

For me, the best part in the 2-hour show was when a 21-year-old male cheerleader on the Philadelphia cheerleaders squad tried out. It was nice to see the Eagles get a lot of free PR. They bused in the entire cheerleading squad, and the girls looked gorgeous. After Kyle got thru, he presented all three judges with midnight green Eagles' jerseys with # 19 on the back ( why 19?).  I'm sure the Birds organization provided the expensive jerseys and travel expenses for all.

So it will be interesting to see how far Kyle gts- without his fellow cheerleaders. I really didn't know there was a male on the squad ( Channel 6 didn't cover the story). I'll have to look for Kyle next fall when football starts up again.

Auditions continue next Sunday night. With the Bachelor still going on, Idol is only once a week for now.

Sunday, February 23, 2020

REVIEW- MICKY DOLENZ IN CONCERT

I saw former Monkee icon Micky Dolenz at Sellersville Theater Saturday afternoon. incredible show!

Dolenz sounded great, especially for someone who is 74. Lots of energy, humor, fun. His sister Coo is a back-up singer. He is backed by a killer band.

As video of The Monkees played on the big screen behind him, Dolenz rolled thru the group's many hits. He opened with "I'm Not Your Steppin' Stone", easing into "That Was Then, This Is Now," and settled into the breezy 90 minute set.

Tracks like "Me & Magalena" from the recent "Good Times" album, was welcome. Coco did a nice version of Monkee Mike Nesmith's "Different Drum.' sounded as good as Linda Ronstadt ever did.

Later in the set came classics like "Last Train To Clarksville," "Pleasent Valley Sunday" and "Mary, Mary." Nice was a mix of seven Beatles songs- a medley from Sgt. Pepper, and The White Album. "Rocky Raccoon" was right on, while 'Back In The USSR" rocked.

The encore was impressive with "Gimme Some Lovin'", "I'm A Believer," "Twist and Shout," and finally, "Birthday."

Funny stories were sprinkled during the afternoon. The sold-out  crowd was on it's feet, dancing during the finale.

Despite having an evening show to do, and just coming off a enery-filled concert, Dolenz still made time to meet fans in the lobby afterwards. He signed autograpghs- for free- ( although there was merchandise for sale, like cds), took pictures and chatted a bit. He's a classy guy.

Dolenz will be doing a spring tour with Mesmith. And a new live album is due to be released in March. So, The Monkees are popular again. And if solo Dolenz comes your way down the road, you need to go and see him.

Micky Dolenz in Concert *** 1/2 ( out of four)

Saturday, February 22, 2020

PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, FLYERS, SIXERS, EAGLES

Lots going on in sports..

* The Phillies start Grapeful League play today vs the Tigers. Questions still abound with this squad. Who will fill out the back of the starting rotation? Will the bullpen implode again after the GM Klentek did little to improve the 'pen this off-season. Who plays center field and second base? Will Hoskins rebound/ Will J.T. Realmuto sign a long-term deal?

Tomorrow the team unveils the "new" Phillie Phanatic. Due to legal problms the organization is planning to introduce the made-over Phanatic on Sunday in Clearwater. Will he still be green? Overweight? Be too Gritty-ish? Still look and act lovable and not crazy?

Hopefully the Phanatic doesn't change too much. It is an icon in Philly and it would be a shame if the new Phantic turned out to be as disappointing as the Phillies' blue star caps ( which suck and look too much like the Dallas Cowboys logo).

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The hot Flyers are fun to watch, a nice mix of veterans and promising youngsters. They have played extremely well at home this season, and they entertain the Winnepeg Jets this afternoon. The Orange and Black will be seeking revenge from a thrashing they took in December in Winnepeg. Their record against the Jets is 7-2 at home in their history. The Jets play the second game of a four-game road trip. A nice Flyers' win would keep their momentum rolling.

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The inconsistent Sixers play in Milwaukee tonight in a prime-time ABC nationally-televised game. joel Embiid needs to play as well as he did in Thursday's crazy overtime win over brooklyn. He called himself "the greatest player in the world' after the game. Tonight he really does play the greatest in The Greek Freak. An explosive Bucks team, the best in the NBA, will be waiting. Ben Simmons is probable to play. Milwaukee is favored by 8 1/2 points.

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The Eagles are preparing for free agency. Rumors are that wide receiver Alshon Jeffrey is history and wants out of Philly. The Birds probably won't trade him due to his contract. If they cut him they eat dead money against their salary cap. What to do? Meanwhile rumors swirl as to who will be the back-up quarterback this season behind Carson Wentz. Will Marcus Mariota finally make his way to Philadelphia?

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Today is the 40th anniversary of the Miracle on Ice, the 1980 Americans defeating the mighty Russians. I remember the game vividly and what a fascinating story it was. The call by announcer Al Michaels ("Do you believe in miracles?..Yes!!!") is iconic and will forever remain fanous in history. The USA won the Gold Medal the next day vs Sweden.

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The new NFL PA will be voted on next week. I like the idea of more football- the 17-game schedule, more playoff teams in the mix, and the Super Bowl being played on President's Day weekend.There are problems: the uneven schedule means either one more home game or one more away game for each team. One less pre-season game is needed yet will the increased games wear on the players? More playoff teams mean more franchises in the post-season hunt and less chance of tanking by losing teams. But will more 8-8 mediocre squads still qualify for the playoffs? I'll take more meaningful football anyday, especially 6 games on Wild Card Weekend.

Friday, February 21, 2020

book-graduation

(Place on page 116, after para 4)

Guy Buford, the first African-American astronaut, was our guest speaker at graduation. "Reaching for the stars" was the message. Overcoming adversaries and discrimination were topics I could relate to. But so far we only reached the moon. The stars were the next goal . And as I shook hands with Mr. Buford, knowing what he had achieved in life, it gave me even more confidence to succeed.

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

book- favorites

(Place on page 309, after para. 3)

We shared how likes and dislikes, and found we had so much in common. My favorite actors: Tom Hanks and Michael J. Fox. Favorite actress: Meg Ryan. Favorite old-time cartoon character: Snagglepuss.  The animal I fear  the most: any  snake. The comic who could always make me laugh: Robin Williams.  Favorite food: spaghetti and chicken. Least favorite food: broccoli and brussel sprouts. Something on my bucket list: seeing the Eagles win the Super Bowl. Weird pecular trait: I don't like my food touching other food on my plate. The one thing I especially suck at doing; gift -wrapping.

Tom Hanks and snakes were shared likes from the above list. And to my delight, Holly claimed to be an excellent gift-wrapper.

On and on it went. I didn't want to jump the gun, as I had so many times in the past, but it was beginning to feel like I may have finally found  my soulmate.

book- comedy

(Place on page 231, after para 3)

I remember doing a comedy routine at the Manor one year in the late 90s  for their Spring Talent Show. Big mistake! Here was part of my "lame" jokes:

" My girlfriend broke up with me last week and stole my wheelchair. Guess who went crawling back to her?"

  Lots of groans.

"She was so mean to me..always pushing me around. I finally had to stand-up for myself but I couldn't!"

More boos.

" I always wanted to look like Christopher Reeve but this is ridiculous!"

 The crowd of residents turned hostile and started throwing tomatos at me ( just kidding).

Like I said, it can't be easy being a stand-up comic in a wheelchair!





Tuesday, February 18, 2020

book- godfather

(Place on page 107 after para. 5, which starts with "Before I found..")

In the 80s I was honored to be a godfather for the very first time.. My older brother Pat and his wife Linda had a son named Adam, and they asked me to be godfather.I left all jokes about Marlon Brando outside the church as I attended the baptism with Mom. Adam went on to be a star athlete in high school and college, later becoming a very successful  sports broadcasting celebrity in New York City. I am very proud of him!

I remember how joyous my own godfather was, and how much I looked forward to his visits. Uncle Frank lived in North Jersey where many of Mom's reletives of Slovak descent  resided. Uncle Frank made the trip from Jersey to visit a few times a year. He always had a big smile on his face, always tan, with slicked-back gray hair, and a hearty laugh.  Other than his warm personality, I most remember Uncle Frank for several reasons.

Everytime he was ready to leave for his return journey up the Jersey turnpike, he gave me a big hug and we shook hands. Inside his palm was a folded twenty dollar bill, which he slipped into my hand and smiled. For a kid, twenty bucks was a big deal, and although I loved my godfather for non-monetary reasons, I also looked forward to the cash.

Mom would make a big spaghetti dinner when she knew Uncle Frank was visiting for the day. Or perhaps it would be a meal of real ethnic  food such as pierogi or halushki.  Even a dozen donuts was okay. As long as Uncle Frank had a pot of freshly-brewed coffee nearby, as the family sat around the kitchen table and  played catch-up, he was happy.

One Easter I was in a body cast, confined to my bed. Uncle Frank sent the largest chocolate Easter Egg I ever saw. It had to be at least ten pounds, filled with jelly beans, marshmellow chicks and chocolate goodies. Uncle Frank never failed to remember birthdays, send get-well greetings, or call me when he couldn't travel. Christmas was always made special when he dropped by over the holidays, stocked with presents for everyone.

When he died from a sudden heart attack, we attended the funeral in Passaic. We arrived at the viewing early, and the aroma of carnations still fills my senses when my memory reminds me of  Uncle Frank laying so peacefully. And when his casket passed by in church, I reached out and touched the smooth wood, whispering "Thank you, Uncle Frank" for always making me happy.


PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, BASEBALL, SIXERS

- The Phillies are now in full spring training, with all players in camp. Jean Segura spoke yesterday about his loafing last season, particularly about the incident leading to Andrew McCuthen blowing out his knee and missing most of the season. Segura failed to run out a ground ball, Mccuthen got caught in a run-down and twisted his knee, tearing his ACL.

Segura has lost 14 pounds over the winter, claiming he has given up "drinking whiskey."

New manager Joe Girardi addressed his full squad, and the first topic he fcused on was hustling. Obviously he has heard of the lackadaisical attitude of some of his players. His message must have gotten through, as Segura says he will "play wherever" the phillies want him to play. Third base would be great, as Scott Kingery's best position is second base.  The plan should be Segura holds down third until rookie prospect Alec Bohm is ready, maybe mid-summer, but then what happens to Segura? Hopefully GM Klentek can trade him at the July trade deadline.

Supposedly, Jake Arrieta 'looks good" in Florida. I'll believe it when I see it. I hope it's true. The aging and disappointing Arrieta would look good as a solid # 3 pitcher in the rotation behind Nola and Wheeler.

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- The fallout continues from the Houston Ass-tros cheating scandal. To make matters worse, other than the smug players speaking in florida, and the clueless owner making a jackass out of himself, the weak baseball commissioner still refuses to strip the "stros of their World Series title. Not only should their championship be taken away, they should give back the trophy and the key players involved should be suspended.

Astrong message needs to be send to avoid future cheating and to preserve the integrity of the game. That may not happen since a strong gesture needs to come from a weak commissioner, whose legacy will be as tanished as the Houston championship.

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The Sixers crank it up again starting on Thursday. Will the tension between Joel Embiid and the fans continue/ Will the 76ers get it together and make a playoff run? Will Coach Brett Brown lose his job at the end of the season? Will either Embiid or ben Simmons, both All-Stars, be traded this summer?


Monday, February 17, 2020

AMERICAN IDOL- WEEK 1

American Idol is back for  it's 3rd season on ABC. Same judges return: Laty Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. Ryan Seacrest returns as the host. The premiere was a 2- hour show on Sunday night, Idol's normal time slot from now until mid-May.

The audition shows are some of my favorites. It's fun discovering new talent. To gear up for the new season I found Carrie Underwood's first audition back in 2008 when she won AI. Amazing to watch it now, Carrie as a naive country girl from Oklahoma, traveling to the big city of St. Louis for her audition. Then going to Hollywood was also a big deal, as she had never beem on a plane. Now she is a country music superstar, drawing massive crowds all over the world.

So, finding thenext Carrie Underwood is what makes Idol fun. But so are the losers, those either totally outragious because they seek attention and a shot to be on national television, or those who are just plain ol' lousy singers. For me, Idol doesn't show enough of the bad contestants during the early audition try-outs.

As usual, there was a good share of inspirational stories on last night's sow. my favorite was the Garabeman. The guy can sing. He has a little daughter. To pay the bills, he works on the trash truck. Guys like that I want to see do well.

At this stage of the competition names are fuzzy until we get to know the contenders better. The Garbage Man arrived at AI wearing old clothes with a baseball cap turned backwards. He had never sang in front of a crowd before, so, in a planned stunt, Seacrest took him out of the studio, across the street outside a restaurant in sunny Savannah, Georgia, where he sang for a gathering flock of people.

Missing last night was the inspirational tale of someone with a physical limitation, bucking the odds to sing for fame and money. There was a cute 16-year-old, fresh-faced girl ( as there always seems to be); a smug, arrogant young guy with riveting blue eyes, reminding one of a young Elvis, who got a talking to by Lionel; and a young guy originally from Nepal, now residing in Kansas.

A local guy made it to Hollywood. He lives outside of Philadelphia, way way of Great Britain. his family moved to the states when he was 11. Other than his boyish good looks, what gives this local contestant a chance is his British accent. He stands out in the competition because of the accent. He should go deep into the Idol competition.

I'm not a big fan of this current crop of judges. They are too nice. I miss Simon cowell and his honesty. The closest anyone came to Simon last night was Lionel, who bluntly informed the Elvis look-a-like that He didn't like the kids' voice or attitude. With these judges it's all about teaching.

Bryan still plays the country bumpkin at times. And Perry still tries too hard to be wacky and funny. Richie plays the "adult" in the room, the leader who tries to keep sanity and peace on Idol. There are still too many corny, sappy items, like the whole crew of judges praying together with a contestant, and a pre-arranged video hook-up with a the host of The Bachelor with a female contestant who is obsessed with the show.

Still, I'm looking forward to the new season of idol. Apparently voting by America will occur sooner this time around. So far, I haven't seen any contestant who knocked my socks off, a sure winner. I'm sure there will be the usual flair for the dramatic but also the unexpected and unpredictable twists and turns of any Idol season. Should be fun and I would blog on my comments the morning after each show...