Of course, Vin Scully is best known for his baseball work. This is from Opening Day, 2009 (a day in which he also threw out the first pitch, to Joe Torre, of all people). I don't have any play-by-play for you as the colossal morons at Major League Baseball figure that would keep them from earning an extra fifty cents or so if people like me put their blessed videos on blogs, so you'll have to settle for Scully's opening comments and such.
That is, until the meanies at MLB find out.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Vin Scully...Football Broadcaster
Yep, the title says it all. People forget that Vin Scully actually broadcast football for many years. In fact, his first play-by-play assignment was a Maryland-Boston University game at Fenway Park in 1949. His performance led to eventually becoming the a member of Dodgers' staff in 1950.
These are his final moments calling football - the magical NFC Championship featuring the Cowboys and 49ers. Hank Stram is his partner on this day, and it would be the final time that Vin would work for CBS. Scully had worked the early part of the 1981 season with rookie broadcaster John Madden, who would then move on to work with Pat Summerall. CBS liked that pairing, thus scheduling them for Super Bowl XVI. Scully and Stram became the number two team and did the NFC Championship.
Magical. Scully goes a full half-minute before he says a word. Funny note - during our call of the Gades/Staten Island Yankees game the other night, Geoff Brault orchestrated for quiet in the booth during the key moments in the eighth inning. I had to chuckle to myself (and John Spang would appreciate this). I learned a long time ago never to ramble on after a big play. Listen to our call of this past season's FCIAC hockey championship. On the big goals, and after time had run out, John said nothing. He knew to let the moment speak.
Sean Kilkelly does the same thing.
From whom did I learn this?
Scully, of course.
While I'm throwing such rare goodies on here, check this one out, where Elizabeth Montgomery summons our great man to join her in a promo for the 1967 Tournament of Roses Parade.
I can't embed it (spoil sports), so check it out here.
These are his final moments calling football - the magical NFC Championship featuring the Cowboys and 49ers. Hank Stram is his partner on this day, and it would be the final time that Vin would work for CBS. Scully had worked the early part of the 1981 season with rookie broadcaster John Madden, who would then move on to work with Pat Summerall. CBS liked that pairing, thus scheduling them for Super Bowl XVI. Scully and Stram became the number two team and did the NFC Championship.
Magical. Scully goes a full half-minute before he says a word. Funny note - during our call of the Gades/Staten Island Yankees game the other night, Geoff Brault orchestrated for quiet in the booth during the key moments in the eighth inning. I had to chuckle to myself (and John Spang would appreciate this). I learned a long time ago never to ramble on after a big play. Listen to our call of this past season's FCIAC hockey championship. On the big goals, and after time had run out, John said nothing. He knew to let the moment speak.
Sean Kilkelly does the same thing.
From whom did I learn this?
Scully, of course.
While I'm throwing such rare goodies on here, check this one out, where Elizabeth Montgomery summons our great man to join her in a promo for the 1967 Tournament of Roses Parade.
I can't embed it (spoil sports), so check it out here.
So Begins the Scully Tributes and Flashbacks
With the announcement that Vin Scully will likely be stepping down following the 2010 season, I felt like scouring the 'net for some video of the Master.
I found a dandy. Scully hosted an eponymous talk show in the early 70's, as well as a game show. The game, "It Takes Two" ran from 1969-1970. This episode, in two parts, is from 1970.
Gotta love the NBC Peacock opening, right? Here's part two:
I found a dandy. Scully hosted an eponymous talk show in the early 70's, as well as a game show. The game, "It Takes Two" ran from 1969-1970. This episode, in two parts, is from 1970.
Gotta love the NBC Peacock opening, right? Here's part two:
All Star Roll Call
Found this tonight. The Yankee Stadium (1923-2008) Bleacher Creatures didn't do roll call for everyone at the All-Star Game in '08. Instead, they paid tribute to three people
That's right - Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, and Bobby Murcer, who had just passed away.
Pretty cool.
OK, the "Boston Sucks" stuff is kind of stupid, but I will say that there were Red Sox in the building that night. Yet they're on the American League team!
For Facebookers, head over to the blog...
That's right - Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, and Bobby Murcer, who had just passed away.
Pretty cool.
OK, the "Boston Sucks" stuff is kind of stupid, but I will say that there were Red Sox in the building that night. Yet they're on the American League team!
For Facebookers, head over to the blog...
Scully's Done After 2010?
It's looking like Vin Scully has set a timetable for his retirement. The Dodgers' voice since 1950, when they were still in Brooklyn, Scully says that he thinks he will be back in 2010 and walk away after the season.
Bill Plaschke in the LA Times has all the details.
2011 will just not feel right if this is true.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Congratulations to an Old Friend
Dave Rothenberg joined WGCH and our old sister station WVIP in 1999 as a Studio Operator, and worked with me on WVIP's "High School Football Game of the Week." He served as our Studio Host in 2000 on Greenwich High School football broadcasts and occasionally worked with me as an analyst for a game here and there.
Since then he's done well, working at various places, most recently in Raleigh, North Carolina co-hosting a morning sports talk show. Now he can add the title of football analyst at Campbell University.
Congratulations, Dave! Just don't forget about your old friends in the northeast...
Since then he's done well, working at various places, most recently in Raleigh, North Carolina co-hosting a morning sports talk show. Now he can add the title of football analyst at Campbell University.
Congratulations, Dave! Just don't forget about your old friends in the northeast...
Linkage
I'm not going to get into the whole Omar Minaya mess here. Plus I don't need the cries of "concentrate on your own team." It's kind of my job to comment on it and I think the whole thing was handled horribly - the first time I've ever given in and written "LOL" anywhere - but I'll leave it to others, like Deadspin. Adam Rubin responds here.
I'll add this - Rubin wanted a job eventually (if you haven't noticed, the newspaper biz is a little troubled). Nothing wrong with that. Michael Kay was a writer and would do anything to get the Yankees play-by-play job. He got it. Well-played.
What Omar did was bad. If he did it on his own then he needs to be dealt with severely. If it came from Jeff Wilpon, then it's just sad.
Wait, there's more. Omar kind of apologized (Deadspin again).
As for my team, they're in first place, two and half games ahead of another team. They beat the Rays last night in St. Pete. And furthermore, Pete Abraham says fans should be proud of them for more than their stellar play of late.
Neil Best reports that the Islanders dumped their radio team, sadly. Not only is the newspaper industry struggling, the electronic media has its own struggles. Looks like I picked a bad lifetime to be in radio.
Killer Cam (don't know why ~F.O.X.~ calls Sean Kilkelly this but it's funny) has some ideas for the new hosts of Monday Night Raw. I wonder if I could do it...
Oh, and Wade Boggs wants his number retired. Um...isn't that a little, how do I say this, tacky? If you're the Red Sox, don't you then say, "Gee, Wade, it's kind of an honor and we'd like to bestow it on you without you asking like a petulant kid?"
I'll add this - Rubin wanted a job eventually (if you haven't noticed, the newspaper biz is a little troubled). Nothing wrong with that. Michael Kay was a writer and would do anything to get the Yankees play-by-play job. He got it. Well-played.
What Omar did was bad. If he did it on his own then he needs to be dealt with severely. If it came from Jeff Wilpon, then it's just sad.
Wait, there's more. Omar kind of apologized (Deadspin again).
As for my team, they're in first place, two and half games ahead of another team. They beat the Rays last night in St. Pete. And furthermore, Pete Abraham says fans should be proud of them for more than their stellar play of late.
Neil Best reports that the Islanders dumped their radio team, sadly. Not only is the newspaper industry struggling, the electronic media has its own struggles. Looks like I picked a bad lifetime to be in radio.
Killer Cam (don't know why ~F.O.X.~ calls Sean Kilkelly this but it's funny) has some ideas for the new hosts of Monday Night Raw. I wonder if I could do it...
Oh, and Wade Boggs wants his number retired. Um...isn't that a little, how do I say this, tacky? If you're the Red Sox, don't you then say, "Gee, Wade, it's kind of an honor and we'd like to bestow it on you without you asking like a petulant kid?"
Monday, July 27, 2009
Checking In
I'm here - fear not (like you were losing sleep over it anyway).
Should be a busy week, starting today with "The Press Box" at 2:00 PM Eastern. As soon as the show is over, I'll be heading up to Dutchess Stadium to call the Hudson Valley Renegades/Staten Island Yankees tilt. Game time is just after 7:00 PM.
I was going to go to Staten Island on Tuesday night, but I'm not. On the plus side, it saves me the gas and tolls but on the down side, it's one more game that I won't do. *Sigh*
We're off to Maryland on Friday, to call the Gades and Aberdeen IronBirds Friday and Saturday nights.
"The Press Box" can be heard here. The Renegades are here.
I'm can't even begin to tell you how awful this story is. Wrong way drivers seem to get on the Taconic several times per year - I saw one a long time ago but they quickly turned around. But those who commented on the story are...well...sad.
While on the subject of hideously sad stories, Jon from R-VA, USA sent along this one. You didn't know the person, nor did I. But I met her for all of about one minute a month or so back. Jon and his coworkers at CarMax are very sad about it, and the office isn't exactly peppy today.
You just know, especially when she was the first face you saw in the building, that everybody loved her.
Remind me one day to write about the many annoying choices that childrens' TV has to offer. Start with "Dora", "The Wiggles", and "Barney" and we'll go from there.
Things are well in Yankees-land. That's all I have to say about that.
It's finally hot and humid in New York. Just sayin'.
The old blogaroonie picks up new readers on occasion, largely thanks to Facebook. That is mostly a good thing, but it does shine a spotlight on things as well. It's part of the deal.
I do owe you a Dave Matthews Band review (or should I say, a review of that night). It's partially written. I just need to fill in some details. We need to check in with "Linkage" and "Off the Bench" as well.
That's all for now though.
Should be a busy week, starting today with "The Press Box" at 2:00 PM Eastern. As soon as the show is over, I'll be heading up to Dutchess Stadium to call the Hudson Valley Renegades/Staten Island Yankees tilt. Game time is just after 7:00 PM.
I was going to go to Staten Island on Tuesday night, but I'm not. On the plus side, it saves me the gas and tolls but on the down side, it's one more game that I won't do. *Sigh*
We're off to Maryland on Friday, to call the Gades and Aberdeen IronBirds Friday and Saturday nights.
"The Press Box" can be heard here. The Renegades are here.
I'm can't even begin to tell you how awful this story is. Wrong way drivers seem to get on the Taconic several times per year - I saw one a long time ago but they quickly turned around. But those who commented on the story are...well...sad.
While on the subject of hideously sad stories, Jon from R-VA, USA sent along this one. You didn't know the person, nor did I. But I met her for all of about one minute a month or so back. Jon and his coworkers at CarMax are very sad about it, and the office isn't exactly peppy today.
You just know, especially when she was the first face you saw in the building, that everybody loved her.
Remind me one day to write about the many annoying choices that childrens' TV has to offer. Start with "Dora", "The Wiggles", and "Barney" and we'll go from there.
Things are well in Yankees-land. That's all I have to say about that.
It's finally hot and humid in New York. Just sayin'.
The old blogaroonie picks up new readers on occasion, largely thanks to Facebook. That is mostly a good thing, but it does shine a spotlight on things as well. It's part of the deal.
I do owe you a Dave Matthews Band review (or should I say, a review of that night). It's partially written. I just need to fill in some details. We need to check in with "Linkage" and "Off the Bench" as well.
That's all for now though.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Perfection!
While driving back from Greenwich today, I heard Mike Francesa say that Mark Buehrle was perfect through seven.
Soon my phone began to buzz, as my cousin Kris asked if I knew what was going on.
I got to watch the ninth inning, including an amazing catch by DeWayne Wise. I'd post it but the dopes at Major League Baseball, headed up by chief clown commissioner Bud Selig, have already removed videos from YouTube and so on.
Shockingly, the final outs are still online. For now.
The call comes courtesy of Ken "Hawk" Harrelson (who has a website dedicated to getting him fired).
Guess he was excited.
Soon my phone began to buzz, as my cousin Kris asked if I knew what was going on.
I got to watch the ninth inning, including an amazing catch by DeWayne Wise. I'd post it but the dopes at Major League Baseball, headed up by chief clown commissioner Bud Selig, have already removed videos from YouTube and so on.
Shockingly, the final outs are still online. For now.
The call comes courtesy of Ken "Hawk" Harrelson (who has a website dedicated to getting him fired).
Guess he was excited.
Sitting, Waiting, Wishing
A little Jack Johnson for you. I was sitting outside the Dave Matthews Band concert last night at Jones Beach when somebody mentioned Johnson. I still like his music and goodness knows I've lived this song.
Consider this your trip to Rule 55 land! Pay one Price (P.O.P.) for admission!
Consider this your trip to Rule 55 land! Pay one Price (P.O.P.) for admission!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Linkage
On a morning in which the Yankees are squarely tied for first, one thing I didn't need to read was that Ben Roethlisberger has been accused of sex assault in lawsuit.
Red Sox owner John Henry is tweeting and feels the need to take shots at the Yankees. Shame - I used to like John Henry. I said "used to." Now I'm starting to think that he's just an asshat and that the rest of Red Sox Nation isn't much better.
It's a pity. I used to have a lot of respect for Sox fans.
Notre vs. Army at Yankee Stadium? Yeah, I'm interested. Ooo, "Deadspin", ever the quip machine. "Bronx Bellagio!" My sides. Can't stop laughing.
If I was pledging at Alhpa Beta Chuckles.
Boy do I agree with this. "The Game" is a classic album (and when I say "album", in this case, I mean the record, LP, 33 and a third). I own it in that format. Yes I know it doesn't rock the way their earlier work does and it's more pop (read: hits) driven but it was one of the finest efforts in the transition from 70's (disco/punk) to 80's (new wave).
And I will get further abused by ~F.O.X.~ and Matt Hamilton for my age again, as I was brutalized for my McCartney talk on yesterday's "Press Box." They've both fired (a la Chris Russo) by the way.
I'll go on record and did so on yesterday's "Press Box." I like Erin Andrews. I think she's talented and gets it - she's an "uber babe" but she's cool and smart about it all. This "peephole video" though is just wrong and I hope the person that did it is dealt with appropriately - which is not for me to decide. Apparently the NY Post (home of upstanding reporters) decided to post some sample images with spots "blacked out." Wow - just wow. Bob's Blitz takes them to task.
Full disclosure - you can go from Bob's Blitz to the Post to see the questionable images. Just sayin'.
I also said this on the show yesterday. Michael Vick deserves a second chance (Thanks, Tim Parry). He has "paid his debt to society" (one Facebook denizen had an issue with the use of that term), and now it's time for the NFL to let him back. From there, the teams can decide if they want to take the chance on him. Then the court of public opinion gets their say.
It's kind of how the world works.
Red Sox owner John Henry is tweeting and feels the need to take shots at the Yankees. Shame - I used to like John Henry. I said "used to." Now I'm starting to think that he's just an asshat and that the rest of Red Sox Nation isn't much better.
It's a pity. I used to have a lot of respect for Sox fans.
Notre vs. Army at Yankee Stadium? Yeah, I'm interested. Ooo, "Deadspin", ever the quip machine. "Bronx Bellagio!" My sides. Can't stop laughing.
If I was pledging at Alhpa Beta Chuckles.
Boy do I agree with this. "The Game" is a classic album (and when I say "album", in this case, I mean the record, LP, 33 and a third). I own it in that format. Yes I know it doesn't rock the way their earlier work does and it's more pop (read: hits) driven but it was one of the finest efforts in the transition from 70's (disco/punk) to 80's (new wave).
And I will get further abused by ~F.O.X.~ and Matt Hamilton for my age again, as I was brutalized for my McCartney talk on yesterday's "Press Box." They've both fired (a la Chris Russo) by the way.
I'll go on record and did so on yesterday's "Press Box." I like Erin Andrews. I think she's talented and gets it - she's an "uber babe" but she's cool and smart about it all. This "peephole video" though is just wrong and I hope the person that did it is dealt with appropriately - which is not for me to decide. Apparently the NY Post (home of upstanding reporters) decided to post some sample images with spots "blacked out." Wow - just wow. Bob's Blitz takes them to task.
Full disclosure - you can go from Bob's Blitz to the Post to see the questionable images. Just sayin'.
I also said this on the show yesterday. Michael Vick deserves a second chance (Thanks, Tim Parry). He has "paid his debt to society" (one Facebook denizen had an issue with the use of that term), and now it's time for the NFL to let him back. From there, the teams can decide if they want to take the chance on him. Then the court of public opinion gets their say.
It's kind of how the world works.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Things That I Loathe
Fellow Mahopac High School graduate and top-notch writer Jeff Pearlman recently posted a list things that he truly dislikes and asked his readers to do the same.
Of course he asked
Anyway, let's have at it, shall we?
The Mets. Mets fans (I'm generalizing). Overly obnoxious Red Sox fans (and I'm finding they're more prevalent than ever). Stereotypical Yankees fans (didn't think I'd say it, did ya?). Cowboys fans. Lakers fans (not Jack, of course). Those who attend any sporting event without taking note of it actually being a sporting event. Smokers. Drivers who don't signal. Left lane hogs. The Lord of the Rings trilogy (nobody has sat me down to watch them so the opinion holds). Interstate 84 northeast of Hartford, CT. The Delaware Turnpike toll booth (FOUR DOLLARS?). Dumb broadcasters (too many to list). Broadcasters with shtick (Scott, Berman, Sterling, Cohen, etc). Those who have been given so much at a young age and don't get it. People who overall don't get it. People who have something to say about everything. My own insecurities and shyness. When Sean is fresh. Small-mindedness. People who are too far to the left or too far to the right. Partisan politics. Chuck Schumer (representing all politicians). The overall presidency of George W. Bush (and Jimmy Carter, for that matter). This dumb-ass war (what is it good for?). Loneliness. Lack of communication. Meetings. Sean's homework. Lawyers (not all, of course). UB40. Most current music (and lot of music from the past also). Reality television. Uncertainty. Computer problems. Job layoffs. Obnoxious know-it-all's in the office (at any level). New Year's Eve (think I just need the right person). The lack of freedom we've experienced since 9/11 (just let me take a backpack into the event). Watermelon. Fruits. Vegetables. Doctors bills (is it covered by insurance or not?). Car problems. Sitting in traffic.
Wondering and waiting.
Guess that's a good start. I might add more one day.
Of course he asked
as long as it doesn’t include, “The writing of Jeff Pearlman”and while I don't loathe his writings, I do occasionally loathe his opinions. That's the beauty of it, of course.
Anyway, let's have at it, shall we?
The Mets. Mets fans (I'm generalizing). Overly obnoxious Red Sox fans (and I'm finding they're more prevalent than ever). Stereotypical Yankees fans (didn't think I'd say it, did ya?). Cowboys fans. Lakers fans (not Jack, of course). Those who attend any sporting event without taking note of it actually being a sporting event. Smokers. Drivers who don't signal. Left lane hogs. The Lord of the Rings trilogy (nobody has sat me down to watch them so the opinion holds). Interstate 84 northeast of Hartford, CT. The Delaware Turnpike toll booth (FOUR DOLLARS?). Dumb broadcasters (too many to list). Broadcasters with shtick (Scott, Berman, Sterling, Cohen, etc). Those who have been given so much at a young age and don't get it. People who overall don't get it. People who have something to say about everything. My own insecurities and shyness. When Sean is fresh. Small-mindedness. People who are too far to the left or too far to the right. Partisan politics. Chuck Schumer (representing all politicians). The overall presidency of George W. Bush (and Jimmy Carter, for that matter). This dumb-ass war (what is it good for?). Loneliness. Lack of communication. Meetings. Sean's homework. Lawyers (not all, of course). UB40. Most current music (and lot of music from the past also). Reality television. Uncertainty. Computer problems. Job layoffs. Obnoxious know-it-all's in the office (at any level). New Year's Eve (think I just need the right person). The lack of freedom we've experienced since 9/11 (just let me take a backpack into the event). Watermelon. Fruits. Vegetables. Doctors bills (is it covered by insurance or not?). Car problems. Sitting in traffic.
Wondering and waiting.
Guess that's a good start. I might add more one day.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Is This The Corner? (McCartney Part II)
A concert. A gathering of many people for the singular purpose of, generally, letting loose and rocking out.
Also a possible dividing line.
The last concert I went to was The Police at Madison Square Garden, back in August of 2007. At the time, I had hoped it was a turning point - where Sandi and I would get back on track. It seemed like it at that moment as we had a long hard talk about life and were on the same page.
I later found out it was an act. Two weeks later, the real madness began and I began to hear the nasty "D" word.
Divorce. I don't think I've ever been able to write that here in a personal sense.
Yet even before The Police concert, it had been a long and winding road. The road got dicier after.
I haven't come here to knock anyone, nor is this meant to be too deeply personal. I've left out so many details because it's not necessary or prudent. It was bad - really bad, but they're life lessons now.
And I'd like to believe yesterday, July 18, 2009 was an important day.
It began with reading the reviews of Paul McCartney's show at Citi Field and the idea that maybe I could score a ticket. Of course, that leads to the money question, but after talking with my sister, we both decided we not only should go, we needed to go.
With that resolved, I stopped by my old bowling co-captains (Mahopac, '87) house. Rob was having a BBQ and asked me to come over. I was glad to, and was so pleased to see Meredith, Rich, and other friends, old and new. It's not easy to stay in touch with the mates from school, but that's why Facebook is awesome.
While there, I took a phone call and had a long chat with a new friend. Names aren't important (protecting the innocent) but suffice to say I feel fine (yep, Beatles reference). There's promise in the air of new experiences.
From there, I hustled to Greenwich to meet my sister. Ten years my senior, she was always a companion and, along with my brother and parents, had an influence on my musical tastes. If only the middle Adams sibling could have come along - the three of us rocking out to The Beatles tunes that they raised me on.
I can still remember Laura playing their music in her room and getting me to sing those higher notes that we all love: "How could I dance with another...OOOOOOOO...when I saw her standing there." I couldn't have been much older than five.
Traffic stunk (damn you, non-EZ Pass users) but that gave us time to chat in the car. Parking also stunk (THIRTY BUCKS?) and the lot was brutal to get out of (glad I'm not a Mets fan). Oh we hit it on the way home too (concert's letting out - let's do construction!). We'll laugh about it, of course.
The show was emotional for me. Paul McCartney - I mean, a freaking BEATLE! - was playing live several hundred feet in front of me. He was doing some of my favorite songs ("Live and Let Die", "Helter Skelter") but really he could have played "Drive My Car" (the opening number) and said, "Rob Adams, in section 515, row 2, seat 1, carry on now. You have to leave." It would have been OK, because I would have seen a Beatle play a Bealtes tune.
He was paying tribute to his past - and our past.
I was drinking it all up. I felt free, and completely unburdened. Things that could have - would have - annoyed me simply didn't. We had a couple of girls a few rows up who screamed...all...night. Might have been acceptable in 1965, but it bugged some in 2009. I know that would have really bothered me at one time. Not tonight; not anymore. Let them scream.
Even when Citi Field posted the Mets score at the end of the show "Mets 5, Braves 1", I just rolled my eyes and laughed. It's their building. Whatever.
My mind wandered. "Why she had to go? I don't know. She wouldn't say." It hit me square in the chest, not because "I long for yesterday" but that simple question: "Why."
It's a chapter that is closed. Over, and moving on. There will be other "she's" in the future if I want. You've all told me that.
I wished for Sean to be there. As my siblings taught me, I have taught Sean the love of The Beatles also (and his mom gets credit also). There were rumors that Ringo might be there. He didn't but what if he did come out and Sean had been there? It would have been too much. I've called Sean "Ringo" for years and he has a stuffed polar bear of the same name. I've often used the song "Two of Us" from Let It Be as metaphor for Sean and I.
Sean's not quite ready for a concert but there were others in that age range there.
It took me until "Live and Let Die" to let loose and start rocking. Oh I had been toe-tapping all along, but now I was singing along, as I should have been. "Hey Jude" is emotional because of the line "The movement you need is on your shoulder." Paul wrote the song, but John wrote that line and Paul always said it moved him, and thus me. Plus that was the number one song in the world the day I was born.
By "Day Tripper" I was ready to stand - not dance - but rock a little. Our section just wasn't like that. That's OK.
I want to believe in the significance of 7/18/09. I want to believe that the beginning of the end of Rob version 1 was at that Police concert and that the beginning of Rob 2.0 was last night at Citi Field (of all places). Yeah I know, there's still much to do - job, finalize divorce, house, setbacks and pitfalls everywhere - but that maybe with all that happened yesterday, the long and winding road has finally led me to a door.
It's time to go through.
Also a possible dividing line.
The last concert I went to was The Police at Madison Square Garden, back in August of 2007. At the time, I had hoped it was a turning point - where Sandi and I would get back on track. It seemed like it at that moment as we had a long hard talk about life and were on the same page.
I later found out it was an act. Two weeks later, the real madness began and I began to hear the nasty "D" word.
Divorce. I don't think I've ever been able to write that here in a personal sense.
Yet even before The Police concert, it had been a long and winding road. The road got dicier after.
I haven't come here to knock anyone, nor is this meant to be too deeply personal. I've left out so many details because it's not necessary or prudent. It was bad - really bad, but they're life lessons now.
And I'd like to believe yesterday, July 18, 2009 was an important day.
It began with reading the reviews of Paul McCartney's show at Citi Field and the idea that maybe I could score a ticket. Of course, that leads to the money question, but after talking with my sister, we both decided we not only should go, we needed to go.
With that resolved, I stopped by my old bowling co-captains (Mahopac, '87) house. Rob was having a BBQ and asked me to come over. I was glad to, and was so pleased to see Meredith, Rich, and other friends, old and new. It's not easy to stay in touch with the mates from school, but that's why Facebook is awesome.
While there, I took a phone call and had a long chat with a new friend. Names aren't important (protecting the innocent) but suffice to say I feel fine (yep, Beatles reference). There's promise in the air of new experiences.
From there, I hustled to Greenwich to meet my sister. Ten years my senior, she was always a companion and, along with my brother and parents, had an influence on my musical tastes. If only the middle Adams sibling could have come along - the three of us rocking out to The Beatles tunes that they raised me on.
I can still remember Laura playing their music in her room and getting me to sing those higher notes that we all love: "How could I dance with another...OOOOOOOO...when I saw her standing there." I couldn't have been much older than five.
Traffic stunk (damn you, non-EZ Pass users) but that gave us time to chat in the car. Parking also stunk (THIRTY BUCKS?) and the lot was brutal to get out of (glad I'm not a Mets fan). Oh we hit it on the way home too (concert's letting out - let's do construction!). We'll laugh about it, of course.
The show was emotional for me. Paul McCartney - I mean, a freaking BEATLE! - was playing live several hundred feet in front of me. He was doing some of my favorite songs ("Live and Let Die", "Helter Skelter") but really he could have played "Drive My Car" (the opening number) and said, "Rob Adams, in section 515, row 2, seat 1, carry on now. You have to leave." It would have been OK, because I would have seen a Beatle play a Bealtes tune.
He was paying tribute to his past - and our past.
I was drinking it all up. I felt free, and completely unburdened. Things that could have - would have - annoyed me simply didn't. We had a couple of girls a few rows up who screamed...all...night. Might have been acceptable in 1965, but it bugged some in 2009. I know that would have really bothered me at one time. Not tonight; not anymore. Let them scream.
Even when Citi Field posted the Mets score at the end of the show "Mets 5, Braves 1", I just rolled my eyes and laughed. It's their building. Whatever.
My mind wandered. "Why she had to go? I don't know. She wouldn't say." It hit me square in the chest, not because "I long for yesterday" but that simple question: "Why."
It's a chapter that is closed. Over, and moving on. There will be other "she's" in the future if I want. You've all told me that.
I wished for Sean to be there. As my siblings taught me, I have taught Sean the love of The Beatles also (and his mom gets credit also). There were rumors that Ringo might be there. He didn't but what if he did come out and Sean had been there? It would have been too much. I've called Sean "Ringo" for years and he has a stuffed polar bear of the same name. I've often used the song "Two of Us" from Let It Be as metaphor for Sean and I.
Sean's not quite ready for a concert but there were others in that age range there.
It took me until "Live and Let Die" to let loose and start rocking. Oh I had been toe-tapping all along, but now I was singing along, as I should have been. "Hey Jude" is emotional because of the line "The movement you need is on your shoulder." Paul wrote the song, but John wrote that line and Paul always said it moved him, and thus me. Plus that was the number one song in the world the day I was born.
By "Day Tripper" I was ready to stand - not dance - but rock a little. Our section just wasn't like that. That's OK.
I want to believe in the significance of 7/18/09. I want to believe that the beginning of the end of Rob version 1 was at that Police concert and that the beginning of Rob 2.0 was last night at Citi Field (of all places). Yeah I know, there's still much to do - job, finalize divorce, house, setbacks and pitfalls everywhere - but that maybe with all that happened yesterday, the long and winding road has finally led me to a door.
It's time to go through.
Paul McCartney at Citi Field
Needless to say, it was an amazing experience. On my checklist of life was always "see a Beatle in conncert."
Check.
A concert to me, is always first and foremost about the music. It's not about the effects (which Paul doesn't need but does) but things like crowd energy add to the experience.
The crowd at Citi Field - from the very young to the senior - seemed to need to find their place (they would). Macca did the same set list as he did Friday night without any guest experiences (rumored - Eric Clapton, Ringo, Bruce Springsteen) but, really, how could that detract?
Let us review the set list:
Drive My Car
Jet
Only Mama Knows
Flaming Pie
Got To Get You Into My Life
Let Me Roll It/Purple Haze
Highway
The Long and Winding Road
My Love
Blackbird
Here Today
Dance Tonight
Calico Skies
Mrs. Vanderbilt
Eleanor Rigby
Sing the Changes
Band on the Run
Back in the U.S.S.R.
I’m Down
Something
I’ve Got a Feeling
Paperback Writer
A Day in the Life/Give Peace a Chance
Let It Be
Live and Let Die
Hey Jude
ENCORES: Day Tripper
Lady Madonna
I Saw Her Standing There
Yesterday
Helter Skelter
Get Back
Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band/The End
OK, where to start? I'll leave the personal stuff until another time. Let this be (hey, where have I heard this before?) completely about the music and the show.
Any Beatles tune was simply amazing - period. McCartney's tribute to George Harrison, with photos in the background was stunning. Paul opened the song on ukulele - one that George gave him - and took the song to an amazingly emotional place. This was one of two tributes paid to deceased Beatles, as Paul did "Here Today", his ode to John Lennon.
Of course, they also did Lennon's "Give Peace a Chance", one of several sing-alongs during the show. I know some didn't but hey even I couldn't resist letting loose on everything from "Live and Let Die" until the end of the show. It's almost required that one sing "Hey Jude."
McCartney's band deserves a large amount of praise and I would name check them if I could find their names. Wow - what a group. They had great energy and were super-tight, as if they had the spirit of the older stuff in their veins. They did a great job exchanging vocals on "I've Got a Feeling" from the largely unappreciated "Let It Be" album.
UPDATE: Thanks to Darren DeVivo for filling in the names:
His band, which has been at his side for almost ten years now, was incredible. They feature keyboardist and vocalist Paul “Wix” Wickens, who has been with Paul for around twenty years now, lead guitarist Rusty Anderson, guitarist, bassist and vocalist Brian Ray, as well drumming powerhouse and vocalist, Abe Laboriel, Jr.The background screen offers several different motifs - like the George tribute during "Something." I especially enjoyed the use of the video from The Beatles Rock Band during "Got To Get You Into My Life" (though it was not specifically an ad for the game, but the smarter fan knew it was). I got a kick out of it and subliminally, it made me want the game even more. There were other offerings like that as well, jumping into the past and adding a spectacle for the eye.
The stories that McCartney told, while tough to hear at times and rehashed, were nice touches. Paul can play the crowd - such as spotting a poster that said "Will you marry me, Paul?" He gave a one-word answer: "No." This might have been obnoxious from another artist but was quite cheeky from Sir Paul. The same can be said of his talking about "Yesterday" being recorded 3000 times and how the song came to be.
He is still the cute Beatle, after all.
From the solo Macca catalog (and other efforts like "The Fireman"), the songs played nicely and were familiar (some vaguely). "My Love", never a favorite, took on a new life and was part of a quieter set which also offered "Blackbird."
The show had been just kind of enjoyable - nothing to fuss about - until the opening chords of "Band on the Run" were played. Now he had us and the party had begun. Never had I seen a stadium dance like this and Citi Field, New Shea, Ebbets, whatever - was rocking. "I'm Down" showed off that, at 67, he can still wail a good rocker. "Live and Let Die" was a thrill, along with "Helter Skelter" - two personal faves. "Day Tripper" soared. "I Saw Her Standing There" still grabs and to me, has transcended eras in a way that I can't explain.
Even the quiet songs - which I don't think play well in large arena - came off well because we all knew them. For "Yesterday", there were 45,000 background vocals.
What songs did I miss hearing? Only "Maybe I'm Amazed" was missing from his solo work. From The Beatles - wow - "Penny Lane", "Hello Goodbye", maybe some John Lennon tunes like "Help."
No, I think the selection was fine.
Small complaints - lights on in many parts of the stadium - safety, I get it. Tough to hear McCartney talk from our seats. Minor; no big deal. Our seats, by the way, directly behind home plate in section 515 (top deck), two rows up, on the aisle. The band was small, but video screens took care of that.
Just a note - there were a few sections with open seats, and I only bring that up to let you know that if you're anything like me, and have always wanted to see a Beatle, then go online and look for tickets for the show on Tuesday night. You won't be disappointed. You will relive your childhood and/or make new memories.
Make sure to bring somebody who will appreciate it. I did and it was amazing.
McCartney=Great...Rob=Tired
Just got home from the Paul McCartney show at Citi Field. Much to say (might take two posts). I was very deep in thought and philosophical during the show.
I might explain.
I might not.
Quite a day, this Saturday, July 18, 2009 was.
I'm being vague. I need sleep. So I shall.
Oh, there were highlights. Lots of them. No surprises and no special guests.
I had a good time and a good day - BBQ with old friends, a long talk with an important person, and a great concert with my sister. I'll sign for that.
And we sat in traffic - lots of it.
More details at another time.
I might explain.
I might not.
Quite a day, this Saturday, July 18, 2009 was.
I'm being vague. I need sleep. So I shall.
Oh, there were highlights. Lots of them. No surprises and no special guests.
I had a good time and a good day - BBQ with old friends, a long talk with an important person, and a great concert with my sister. I'll sign for that.
And we sat in traffic - lots of it.
More details at another time.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Subliminal Messages
If you heard the end of yesterday's edition of "The Press Box" (and I KNOW YOU ALL DID), you heard a caller, "Sean", offer thoughts regarding baseball.
I expected him to combat the comments of Matt Hamilton, praising the offseason moves of the New York Rangers, but he didn't.
Anyway, after Sean dashed off the phone in his usual manner, I decided to have some fun. I said (roughly paraphrasing), "Make sure to listen to the "Sean Kilkelly Show", debuting Sunday night at six on Blog Talk Radio."
Sean's official announcement is here. Sean has been kind enough to ask me to join him occasionally. That will be fun.
His show will be a continuation of his blog and I think you can expect good stuff. Witty, smart commentary, with a heavy dose of common sense and good farts.
If you're new to this blog, don't ask. Sean knows what it means.
In other "Linkage/Off The Bench" news:
I mentioned this on yesterday's show - the Lehigh Valley IronPigs wore tuxedo uniforms. This article from Benjamin Hill explains why, with more pictures.
Last year an unnamed friend/blogger/Giants fan spoke of how he was so happy the Jints drafted Eli Manning and not Ben Roethlisberger. Then Plaxico Burress disappeared and so did Eli's accuracy and the 2008 Giants' season. Oh, and Big Ben won a second Super Bowl ring - with a crazy fourth-quarter drive to seal it. Behind The Steel Curtain compares the two. Edge=Roethlisberger.
I've been consistent. I wanted Big Ben in the 'Burgh on draft day. Bought a jersey days later. I still like him.
You know my attachment to the road. So have you ever jumped in the car with no idea where to go - you just drive? Well "Swan Fungus" did so in California and posted the results on WFMU's Beware of the Blog.
I expected him to combat the comments of Matt Hamilton, praising the offseason moves of the New York Rangers, but he didn't.
Anyway, after Sean dashed off the phone in his usual manner, I decided to have some fun. I said (roughly paraphrasing), "Make sure to listen to the "Sean Kilkelly Show", debuting Sunday night at six on Blog Talk Radio."
Sean's official announcement is here. Sean has been kind enough to ask me to join him occasionally. That will be fun.
His show will be a continuation of his blog and I think you can expect good stuff. Witty, smart commentary, with a heavy dose of common sense and good farts.
If you're new to this blog, don't ask. Sean knows what it means.
In other "Linkage/Off The Bench" news:
I mentioned this on yesterday's show - the Lehigh Valley IronPigs wore tuxedo uniforms. This article from Benjamin Hill explains why, with more pictures.
Last year an unnamed friend/blogger/Giants fan spoke of how he was so happy the Jints drafted Eli Manning and not Ben Roethlisberger. Then Plaxico Burress disappeared and so did Eli's accuracy and the 2008 Giants' season. Oh, and Big Ben won a second Super Bowl ring - with a crazy fourth-quarter drive to seal it. Behind The Steel Curtain compares the two. Edge=Roethlisberger.
I've been consistent. I wanted Big Ben in the 'Burgh on draft day. Bought a jersey days later. I still like him.
You know my attachment to the road. So have you ever jumped in the car with no idea where to go - you just drive? Well "Swan Fungus" did so in California and posted the results on WFMU's Beware of the Blog.
Macca Rocks the Citi
Guess who hit a home run at Citi Field last night?
Hah - you're funny. The Mets weren't home and they don't hit home runs.
The correct answer is the guy who helped rock Shea in 1965 with a little ol' band called The Beatles.
Paul McCartney.
OK, Sir Paul McCartney. Whatever
Check out the setlist, courtesy of Glenn Gamboa at Newsday:
SETLIST: Drive My Car / Jet / Only Mama Knows / Flaming Pie / Got To Get You Into My Life / Let Me Roll It/Purple Haze / Highway / The Long and Winding Road / My Love / Blackbird / Here Today / Dance Tonight / Calico Skies / Mrs. Vanderbilt / Eleanor Rigby / Sing the Changes / Band on the Run / Back in the U.S.S.R. / I’m Down / Something / I’ve Got a Feeling / Paperback Writer / A Day in the Life/Give Peace a Chance / Let It Be / Live and Let Die / Hey Jude // ENCORES: Day Tripper / Lady Madonna / I Saw Her Standing There (with Billy Joel) / Yesterday / Helter Skelter / Get Back / Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band/The End
I like this mix, that blends his solo work (including Wings) with that other band. A little Billy Joel sprinkled in, on "I Saw Her Standing There", doesn't hurt either.
There's another show tonight and one more on Tuesday before he goes to Landover, MD and eventually to Fenway Park for two shows. I hope he's OK with that, as he's a big Yankees fan.
This is a true statement.
MAJOR UPDATE: There are still tickets available for tonight's show and I just bought one. A review will follow.
Hah - you're funny. The Mets weren't home and they don't hit home runs.
The correct answer is the guy who helped rock Shea in 1965 with a little ol' band called The Beatles.
Paul McCartney.
OK, Sir Paul McCartney. Whatever
Check out the setlist, courtesy of Glenn Gamboa at Newsday:
SETLIST: Drive My Car / Jet / Only Mama Knows / Flaming Pie / Got To Get You Into My Life / Let Me Roll It/Purple Haze / Highway / The Long and Winding Road / My Love / Blackbird / Here Today / Dance Tonight / Calico Skies / Mrs. Vanderbilt / Eleanor Rigby / Sing the Changes / Band on the Run / Back in the U.S.S.R. / I’m Down / Something / I’ve Got a Feeling / Paperback Writer / A Day in the Life/Give Peace a Chance / Let It Be / Live and Let Die / Hey Jude // ENCORES: Day Tripper / Lady Madonna / I Saw Her Standing There (with Billy Joel) / Yesterday / Helter Skelter / Get Back / Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band/The End
I like this mix, that blends his solo work (including Wings) with that other band. A little Billy Joel sprinkled in, on "I Saw Her Standing There", doesn't hurt either.
There's another show tonight and one more on Tuesday before he goes to Landover, MD and eventually to Fenway Park for two shows. I hope he's OK with that, as he's a big Yankees fan.
This is a true statement.
MAJOR UPDATE: There are still tickets available for tonight's show and I just bought one. A review will follow.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Cronkite on JFK and the Moon Landing
If you don't want to watch the whole thing, skip to the 4:55 point, and watch. Cronkite is handed a bulletin and doesn't bat an eye as he puts his glasses on, reads the "flash", takes a very pregnant pause of a breath, and carries on.
So much more available online! Hit YouTube and have some fun.
This is when man landed on the moon - 40 years ago. The fun starts at about 7:20.
And That's the Way it Was
Walter Cronkite has died.
Let's see the media give this the "Jacko" treatment. Let's see a star-studded orgasm/funeral at Staples Center.
You won't. Nor should you. "Uncle Walter" wouldn't want it that way.
Sure, he was a liberal and had a touch of a bias. And since when is that a problem, especially in the media?
Go back and look. JFK dies - Cronkite reports and coughs away a sob. Apollo 11 hits the moon - Walter looks on in amazement.
You've seen them and you know it. You have no idea what Huntley and Brinkley on NBC or anybody on ABC said at any of those landmark moments (unless you're a geek like me). You know Cronkite because you've seen it.
We've all seen it.
He was your friend, your relative, your "most trusted man in America."
The media and the world lost an icon tonight. Try to learn a few things about him and give your brain a break from the idiocy of the Michael Jackson death.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
From The Earth To The Moon
(Photo: Ralph Morse, LIFE)
The most famous space journey of them all - Apollo 11 - launched on this day in 1969. A cool website has been built to follow the mission as it happened (and can be relived after it's over).
Sean and I watched the liftoff just after 9:30 this morning and we both stood there amazed.
You can see it all here.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
The All-Star Pregame Show...
Or, look, FOX is involved, so we must all be baffled by it!
The annual midsummer classic is underway in St. Louis, where they never boo anyone...oh, wait, did I hear them boo the Cubs' Ted Lilly? So then they're not immune to being jerks like the rest of us?!
They're just nice jerks.
Overall, nice job by St. Loo fans. They even gave nice ovations to Mo, Jeter, Tex, and Mr. Torre (who of course played in St. Louis but is better known for managing some New York team and is now in La-La Land). By the way, I think this is the first time that Joe and Derek have been on the same field since the end of 2007.
I love player intros, first pitch ceremonies, and such pomp and circumstance. Last year, at Yankee Stadium, they went a whole different route in the pregame - a very unique way of fusing the past and present. For a year, it was awesome. I was pleased to see them go back to the standard foul line routine, yet even FOX can mess this up.
Used to be, said PA announcer would intone, "please welcome the (YEAR) (LEAGUE) All-Stars", and said stars would trot out to their respective base line. That, of course, would take probably thirty or so seconds away from FOX...which is the length of one more commercial, or a promo for a dumb show starring Michael Strahan.
And why can't the house announcer be the PA? Have we just simply decided that it's Joe Buck's world? By the way, I have defended Mr. Buck in the past but it's become obvious that he wants to be Johnny Carson and Pat Summerall (or Jack Buck, of course) and broadcast the NFL. The TV network voice of baseball seems to be clearly telling us that he only wants to dabble in the national pastime. OK then, why not let Joe call a playoff series in the fall, move, say, Jon Miller in, take Dan Shulman off the radio call of baseball, and slide me into the radio booth?
Just trying to do right by the country, that's all.
I wrote the following on Facebook tonight, after some careful consideration.
(excuse me while I try not to laugh)
Look, it was nice. I like the effort of MLB Go Beyond, to recognize volunteerism and such, but I thought the whole thing seemed contrived.
Remember Fenway Park, 1999? I do, and it was awesome - the outpouring of support for Ted Williams, riding in on a golf cart, and the players' spontaneous reaction to seeing him. Loved it. That's baseball, kids.
Last year, Yankee Stadium. The old players and the current. The past and the present. What wasn't to like?
But this, with the video, the Presidents, the heroes on the field and then the players coming to meet them...it all seemed so..something.
Are we good? OK, CUE THE STREAMERS!
Of course, FOX then cut to commercial (gotta pay those bills in this economy). Maybe that set me off.
Now, back to reality. Sheryl Crow (did she really do the National Anthem two years in a row?) was great, and rather, how shall I say this?...fetching.
Then the cool part, with Cards legends Bruce Sutter, Bob Gibson, Ozzie Smith, Lou Brock (ouch, Cubs fans), and Red Schoendienst on the field. Then the really cool moment, as Stan Musial rode in on a special cart (complete with Cardinals logo), and gave the first-pitch ball off to President Barack Obama.
Oh, before we get to the President. Did anyone else notice that the Cardinals' legends weren't wearing identical red blazers? I mean, what was the point?
This, friends, is not a political moment. It was cool.
The President was just your casual, average baseball fan, in jeans, sneakers (or tennis shoes, your choice) and...gasp...a White Sox jacket.
Good thing it wasn't a Cubs jacket. Could have been a problem.
The President strode to the mound, with all the cool, cockiness, and joy of an excited kid, and fired...
A strike? A ball? To the screen? Who knows, because FOX blew the shot!
For the love of the game!
So baseball tried too hard. It's all good. We play ball and the President goes to the booth to kibitz with Joe Buck and Tim McCarver (which was also kind of fun). Buck asked the Pres to stay and he kind of said "no" in a nice, Midwestern-sort of way.
And Sean watched the ceremonies with me, along with the start of the game. Why? Because it's baseball, and it screams "father-son moment." For the record, he booed the Mets and Sox players, and cheered wildly for the Yankees.
It's cool here in New York, yet it's All-Star Tuesday night. Go figure.
The annual midsummer classic is underway in St. Louis, where they never boo anyone...oh, wait, did I hear them boo the Cubs' Ted Lilly? So then they're not immune to being jerks like the rest of us?!
They're just nice jerks.
Overall, nice job by St. Loo fans. They even gave nice ovations to Mo, Jeter, Tex, and Mr. Torre (who of course played in St. Louis but is better known for managing some New York team and is now in La-La Land). By the way, I think this is the first time that Joe and Derek have been on the same field since the end of 2007.
I love player intros, first pitch ceremonies, and such pomp and circumstance. Last year, at Yankee Stadium, they went a whole different route in the pregame - a very unique way of fusing the past and present. For a year, it was awesome. I was pleased to see them go back to the standard foul line routine, yet even FOX can mess this up.
Used to be, said PA announcer would intone, "please welcome the (YEAR) (LEAGUE) All-Stars", and said stars would trot out to their respective base line. That, of course, would take probably thirty or so seconds away from FOX...which is the length of one more commercial, or a promo for a dumb show starring Michael Strahan.
And why can't the house announcer be the PA? Have we just simply decided that it's Joe Buck's world? By the way, I have defended Mr. Buck in the past but it's become obvious that he wants to be Johnny Carson and Pat Summerall (or Jack Buck, of course) and broadcast the NFL. The TV network voice of baseball seems to be clearly telling us that he only wants to dabble in the national pastime. OK then, why not let Joe call a playoff series in the fall, move, say, Jon Miller in, take Dan Shulman off the radio call of baseball, and slide me into the radio booth?
Just trying to do right by the country, that's all.
I wrote the following on Facebook tonight, after some careful consideration.
Rob Adams will be the dissenting vote. Baseball probably tried too hard tonight (though the President's first pitch was fine).I'm sure all the PC'ers are ticked with me now. "HEY! How can you say that? That video montage was bee-yoot-iful!"
(excuse me while I try not to laugh)
Look, it was nice. I like the effort of MLB Go Beyond, to recognize volunteerism and such, but I thought the whole thing seemed contrived.
Remember Fenway Park, 1999? I do, and it was awesome - the outpouring of support for Ted Williams, riding in on a golf cart, and the players' spontaneous reaction to seeing him. Loved it. That's baseball, kids.
Last year, Yankee Stadium. The old players and the current. The past and the present. What wasn't to like?
But this, with the video, the Presidents, the heroes on the field and then the players coming to meet them...it all seemed so..something.
Are we good? OK, CUE THE STREAMERS!
Of course, FOX then cut to commercial (gotta pay those bills in this economy). Maybe that set me off.
Now, back to reality. Sheryl Crow (did she really do the National Anthem two years in a row?) was great, and rather, how shall I say this?...fetching.
Then the cool part, with Cards legends Bruce Sutter, Bob Gibson, Ozzie Smith, Lou Brock (ouch, Cubs fans), and Red Schoendienst on the field. Then the really cool moment, as Stan Musial rode in on a special cart (complete with Cardinals logo), and gave the first-pitch ball off to President Barack Obama.
Oh, before we get to the President. Did anyone else notice that the Cardinals' legends weren't wearing identical red blazers? I mean, what was the point?
This, friends, is not a political moment. It was cool.
The President was just your casual, average baseball fan, in jeans, sneakers (or tennis shoes, your choice) and...gasp...a White Sox jacket.
Good thing it wasn't a Cubs jacket. Could have been a problem.
The President strode to the mound, with all the cool, cockiness, and joy of an excited kid, and fired...
A strike? A ball? To the screen? Who knows, because FOX blew the shot!
For the love of the game!
So baseball tried too hard. It's all good. We play ball and the President goes to the booth to kibitz with Joe Buck and Tim McCarver (which was also kind of fun). Buck asked the Pres to stay and he kind of said "no" in a nice, Midwestern-sort of way.
And Sean watched the ceremonies with me, along with the start of the game. Why? Because it's baseball, and it screams "father-son moment." For the record, he booed the Mets and Sox players, and cheered wildly for the Yankees.
It's cool here in New York, yet it's All-Star Tuesday night. Go figure.
The End of the Rest Area?
Fellow Facebooker David Backlin posted a link to a story about the impending demise of the roadside rest area. For our readers here, I wanted to share that link - here.
The rest area has long been a chance to stretch the legs, grab some maps, visit the loo, and get back on the road. In some places (especially the Turnpike-types), one could grab a meal or visit a convenience store. In a pinch, souvenirs could even be had.
The opportunity to collect some local flavor was abundant, depending on the location. Those "mini mall" types with the restaurants and convenience stores also tend to have a "lowest common denominator" quality about them, or are overrun with fairly annoying folks.
Or both.
Yet the appeal of being able to stop, without having to exit the road (especially those tolls roads like the New Jersey Turnpike) can't be excused. For me, it's maps, bathroom, maybe fuel, and back on the road! No overpriced grub for me.
Still, it's the smaller rest area, and better the WELCOME CENTER that scream "AMERICANA!" to me. For instance, the North Carolina Welcome Center on I-95 south is literally at the border. As I recall, it felt like the state line was on the highway ramp (could be an exaggeration). Out of the car, it seemed like being in a new world after approximately 175 miles of Virginia.
Even on our recent trip to Richmond, two rest areas were on my list of stops - one (the "Chesapeake House") on I-95 in Maryland the other is a Virginia Welcome Center near Fredericksburg, VA. In each case, the goal was the rest room and some more maps for the collection. In Virginia, I spied several groups enjoying a picnic lunch. That's not something I've ever done, but more power to them.
I'll grant you, some of these places are scary. Take almost any rest area in New York that's not on the Thruway. No, I'm serious. Please take it. Burn it. Get rid of it. Those places are cesspools - smelly and dark and...well?...dangerous. The stories are quite legendary and in some places, truthful.
So here we are - the past being put out to pasture. The rest area is heading towards "Mom and Pop Store" status. The Wawa's (by the way, a way cool place to fill up and grab a drink or sandwich) and other mini-marts, along with McDonald's and their typeare taking have taken over. The maps and brochures will find their way there (if they haven't already) and then they'll be phased out by this - the internet.
It's called progress, I guess. Nothing to see here. Move along...
The rest area has long been a chance to stretch the legs, grab some maps, visit the loo, and get back on the road. In some places (especially the Turnpike-types), one could grab a meal or visit a convenience store. In a pinch, souvenirs could even be had.
The opportunity to collect some local flavor was abundant, depending on the location. Those "mini mall" types with the restaurants and convenience stores also tend to have a "lowest common denominator" quality about them, or are overrun with fairly annoying folks.
Or both.
Yet the appeal of being able to stop, without having to exit the road (especially those tolls roads like the New Jersey Turnpike) can't be excused. For me, it's maps, bathroom, maybe fuel, and back on the road! No overpriced grub for me.
Still, it's the smaller rest area, and better the WELCOME CENTER that scream "AMERICANA!" to me. For instance, the North Carolina Welcome Center on I-95 south is literally at the border. As I recall, it felt like the state line was on the highway ramp (could be an exaggeration). Out of the car, it seemed like being in a new world after approximately 175 miles of Virginia.
Even on our recent trip to Richmond, two rest areas were on my list of stops - one (the "Chesapeake House") on I-95 in Maryland the other is a Virginia Welcome Center near Fredericksburg, VA. In each case, the goal was the rest room and some more maps for the collection. In Virginia, I spied several groups enjoying a picnic lunch. That's not something I've ever done, but more power to them.
I'll grant you, some of these places are scary. Take almost any rest area in New York that's not on the Thruway. No, I'm serious. Please take it. Burn it. Get rid of it. Those places are cesspools - smelly and dark and...well?...dangerous. The stories are quite legendary and in some places, truthful.
So here we are - the past being put out to pasture. The rest area is heading towards "Mom and Pop Store" status. The Wawa's (by the way, a way cool place to fill up and grab a drink or sandwich) and other mini-marts, along with McDonald's and their type
It's called progress, I guess. Nothing to see here. Move along...
Monday, July 13, 2009
Linky Dinks
From the "Hey, life's a bitch" department, have a look at how things have been going for former Cleveland Brown Bernie Kosar.
My friend and former WGCH colleague, Amy Beth Arkawy, is blogging away now. Ah the old days, where afternoon drive meant a "modicum of respect", and I wasn't broke, and WGCH sports was a very busy place.
Just different. That's all.
Derek Jeter dropped a ball in Anaheim this past weekend. I think he's entitled, and it didn't cost the Yankees the game (they did a good enough job in each game over the weekend to "F" things up). Anyway, I just can't let the Luis Castillo thing go. Plus it's another chance to show "Met Fans Acting Dumb." Soooo...cue the music!
I love it! "Put it in the books!" He's quoting Metsy broadcaster Howie Rose's game-winning call. Funny, for such good broadcasters (Rose and Gary Cohen), they both have some really stupid cliches that they use. Not necessary.
At all.
Again, don't get all "John Sterling sucks" on me. Not comparing, and not worth explaining again.
I'm enduring the home run derby. I tried to get Sean into it. It worked for a little while. We talked a little bit about the Cardinals, Stan the Man Musial, and so on. He was excited to see Erin Andrews interview Derek Jeter (OK, he liked seeing Derek Jeter...he hasn't quite picked up on Ms. Andrews yet).
My friend and former WGCH colleague, Amy Beth Arkawy, is blogging away now. Ah the old days, where afternoon drive meant a "modicum of respect", and I wasn't broke, and WGCH sports was a very busy place.
Just different. That's all.
Derek Jeter dropped a ball in Anaheim this past weekend. I think he's entitled, and it didn't cost the Yankees the game (they did a good enough job in each game over the weekend to "F" things up). Anyway, I just can't let the Luis Castillo thing go. Plus it's another chance to show "Met Fans Acting Dumb." Soooo...cue the music!
I love it! "Put it in the books!" He's quoting Metsy broadcaster Howie Rose's game-winning call. Funny, for such good broadcasters (Rose and Gary Cohen), they both have some really stupid cliches that they use. Not necessary.
At all.
Again, don't get all "John Sterling sucks" on me. Not comparing, and not worth explaining again.
I'm enduring the home run derby. I tried to get Sean into it. It worked for a little while. We talked a little bit about the Cardinals, Stan the Man Musial, and so on. He was excited to see Erin Andrews interview Derek Jeter (OK, he liked seeing Derek Jeter...he hasn't quite picked up on Ms. Andrews yet).
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Pedroia Out; Pena In
One of the spoils of managing the All-Star Game is that you can pick almost whomever you wish, so long as Major League Baseball goes along with it.
Dustin Pedroia has bowed out of the midsummer classic to be with his pregnant wife. That's cool, and I'm sure we can all respect that.
But replace Pedroia with Carlos Pena?
Great - Pena leads the AL with 24 home runs - that's cool. But he's hitting .230!
I have this love/not-so-much-love thing with the All-Star Game. This reminds me why I feel this way.
Hit .230 and you're an All-Star? What's next?
Dustin Pedroia has bowed out of the midsummer classic to be with his pregnant wife. That's cool, and I'm sure we can all respect that.
But replace Pedroia with Carlos Pena?
Great - Pena leads the AL with 24 home runs - that's cool. But he's hitting .230!
I have this love/not-so-much-love thing with the All-Star Game. This reminds me why I feel this way.
Hit .230 and you're an All-Star? What's next?
On The "Edge"
I'll be appearing on "The Edge Radio Show" tonight to convince my friend, show host John Aita, to check out the new stadiums in New York.
"The Edge Radio Show" airs Sunday nights from 11 PM to 12 Midnight on stations all over the country, including WHAN 1430 AM in Richmond, VA, my very own WGCH in Greenwich, and WVNJ 1160 AM in New York.
Can't think of any reason why I would be mentioning that I'll be appearing on a station in Richmond...
Anyway, the show is on the Lifestyle Talk Radio Network (you might have heard of them).
"The Edge Radio Show" airs Sunday nights from 11 PM to 12 Midnight on stations all over the country, including WHAN 1430 AM in Richmond, VA, my very own WGCH in Greenwich, and WVNJ 1160 AM in New York.
Can't think of any reason why I would be mentioning that I'll be appearing on a station in Richmond...
Anyway, the show is on the Lifestyle Talk Radio Network (you might have heard of them).
Friday, July 10, 2009
The View From the Booth
This is what it looks like on the field at Dutchess Stadium right now (5:30 PM). Game time is 7:05, and our pregame comes your way via www.hvrenegades.com
. The Gades take on the Aberdeen IronBirds tonight. Geoff Brault and I will call all the action. So I've got that going for me...which is nice.
A Highlight Call
I was part of the broadcast for the Renegades' win against Staten Island on Wednesday night and earned myself a spot on the team website.
Go here, and scroll down to listen to my scintillating call of Tyler Bortnick's double-play that brought home the Gades' first run.
Hardly my best work but not something I'll lose sleep over.
I'm back in the booth tonight, as the Gades host the Aberdeen IronBirds. You can listen live at www.hvrenegades.com.
Go here, and scroll down to listen to my scintillating call of Tyler Bortnick's double-play that brought home the Gades' first run.
Hardly my best work but not something I'll lose sleep over.
I'm back in the booth tonight, as the Gades host the Aberdeen IronBirds. You can listen live at www.hvrenegades.com.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Oh Yes It's Ladies Night
Yankees assistant general manager Jean Afterman shakes hands with Hudson Valley's Bennett Davis after throwing out the first pitch. (Danny Wild/MLB.com)
So "Ball-less Baseball" has come and gone in Hudson Valley. The promotion drew attention from Deadspin, got them a sternly-worded letter from Dutchess County, and - ultimately - the team clarified things so no one got their shorts in a bundle.
Bottom line - those who didn't attend (and we won't know how many people were there because the team did not report the attendance) missed a one-run game, won by the Gades, 3-2.
Incidentally, I'm supposed to have a highlight on the team's website of the game-tying hit. As of this morning, it wasn't there. Sigh.
Minor League Baseball recaps things.
OK, now my take. I walked around the ballpark to take things in. There seemed to be a good atmosphere (and a lot of attractive females, giggity giggity) and plenty of guys came in and went to their seats. Others participated in the "volunteer men's lounge." I think it would have been cool to hang out there.
Why did it have to get so out of hand? It was meant to be fun, and it turned into people getting crazed over - ultimately - nothing, especially after the team amended the promotion.
Anyway, I had a nice night.
Geoff Brault and I met with Jean Afterman, the Yankees Ass't. VP before the game and I really enjoyed speaking with her. I descibed myself as being "smitten" with her on the air, and I was. She was cool - a little debauched, fesity, fun, and fully prepared to throw out the first pitch in a dress and high heels. She actually wanted to do it in a cocktail dress and pumps!
Plus she showed me her 2003 American League Championship ring!
There's no doubt the promotion changed in theory. Ultimately, I saw almost nobody dress in drag (other than the "flower lady" but that's been going on for years). My family was supposed to be there to watch great-niece Liz's cheerleading team, but the cheerleaders backed out due to the promotion.
It all seemed to be much-ado-about-nothing.
In the end, it was just baseball.
The Linkeroos
It's Wednesday. My 18 month-old niece just woke me up. I'm tired.
Here are some links.
The Yankees find new and exciting ways to irritate fans. I was at this game on Monday, wanted a keyring, and got nothing. Now I know why.
Speaking of Monday's game, there's no doubt that the Yankees had their chances to win. They blew it - doing nothing with runners in scoring position, and Andy Pettitte was, simply put, disappointing. The umpiring was dreadful - you know it's bad when Derek Jeter argues - and they blew a few calls.
Let's just say I thought the Michael Jackson farewell was a joke, ridiculous, over-the-top, and unnecessary, considering the financial problems in California. Let me also add that the way the media treated this whole affair makes it another low point for the industry I love. Wall-to-wall coverage by all networks? Somewhere Mother Teresa is rolling. Stuck in the 80's does their thing here.
Chuck Costello says that Fordham will be playing a home games in a different house. Now if they'd just let me call their games.
Here are some links.
The Yankees find new and exciting ways to irritate fans. I was at this game on Monday, wanted a keyring, and got nothing. Now I know why.
Speaking of Monday's game, there's no doubt that the Yankees had their chances to win. They blew it - doing nothing with runners in scoring position, and Andy Pettitte was, simply put, disappointing. The umpiring was dreadful - you know it's bad when Derek Jeter argues - and they blew a few calls.
Let's just say I thought the Michael Jackson farewell was a joke, ridiculous, over-the-top, and unnecessary, considering the financial problems in California. Let me also add that the way the media treated this whole affair makes it another low point for the industry I love. Wall-to-wall coverage by all networks? Somewhere Mother Teresa is rolling. Stuck in the 80's does their thing here.
Chuck Costello says that Fordham will be playing a home games in a different house. Now if they'd just let me call their games.
Monday, July 06, 2009
I'm Wicked Psyched to Be Here
Love...this...commercial
Enjoy your Monday. Chuck Costello is on "Press Box" duty. I'll be in The Bronx.
Enjoy your Monday. Chuck Costello is on "Press Box" duty. I'll be in The Bronx.
Sunday, July 05, 2009
The Mother of All Road Picture Uploads
Finally, after dragging my feet because things weren't done to my normal standards, I uploaded over 800 road pictures dating back to May, 2008. In the end, I accepted that things can't always be perfect, and I'll hope to add descriptions and other stuff at another time, but at least I got them online for those who enjoy such things.
There are several pictures that I like - anything where I got out of the car and took a closeup is pretty much OK (like the one above, from Richmond). Some that I took while driving are not bad either - it's not like I set the shot or anything because I am - like I said - driving. Others that picked up a glare or are blurry don't make me happy but I'll keep the,
I know - I've heard a black towel on the dashboard will resolve the glare. I just don't have one. Whatever.
So peruse if you want, or don't if you don't want. Your call.
They're here.
The Richmond photos are there, as are the multiple trips to Bucks County, PA. Also included are some of the baseball trips (Aberdeen, Oneonta, Brooklyn, Yankee Stadium, Reading, and even Farmington, CT where I went to a Greenwich playoff game) along with my end-to-end drive along NY Route 52.
Lots to waste your time on. I hope you enjoy them.
Saturday, July 04, 2009
A Great Fourth of July
While the day was great, we start with a sad note from our crazy world. Steve McNair, the former Titans (and Oilers) and Ravens quarterback who helped lead Tennessee to a nearly miraculous finish in Super Bowl XXXIV has died at the age of 37 of a gunshot wound.
Personally, I had a nice day. I mowed the lawn (that is a good thing), enjoyed some baseball (Yankees won, Sox and Mets lost), and spent some quality time with family (minus Sean). Then I watched the fireworks in Lake Carmel.
While I missed Sean, it is what it is. I'm not sure I can say more than that.
I had a rant written here, about silly behavior by silly Americans. I mixed in "American Woman" with Sarah Palin (believe it or not, they're not the same). I've whacked what I wrote. It seems unnecessary and would bring on bouts of small-mindedness. So I'm going everyone just sit around and feel all special and stuff.
Whatever floats your boat, as the saying goes.
The Yankees did a really good job with the Lou Gehrig tribute. Incidentally, I didn't like the 4-ALS patch, but that's a small concern.
I'm watching Dave Righetti's no-hitter on YES right now. It was July 5, 1983, and I didn't see a single pitch that day. We didn't have SportsChannel, so I turned the radio to check the score and got the news - kind of reminiscent of how I missed all of David Wells' perfect game in 1998. I was in Las Veags working at a convention and found out when I got back to my hotel room.
As for that day in 1983, there were only 41,000 people in the great Stadium. Don Mattingly wore number 46. It was also the third time that a Yankee had no-hit the Red Sox. George Mogridge did so in 1917, Allie Reynolds in 1951, and Righetti in '83. The Bombers have no-hit the Indians three times (Monte Pearson - 1938, Reynolds - 1951, Jim Abbott - 1992).
Just some useless trivia for you.
OK, as I finish, it's officially July 5th. You know what that means.
Happy Birthday, Huey Lewis!
Personally, I had a nice day. I mowed the lawn (that is a good thing), enjoyed some baseball (Yankees won, Sox and Mets lost), and spent some quality time with family (minus Sean). Then I watched the fireworks in Lake Carmel.
While I missed Sean, it is what it is. I'm not sure I can say more than that.
I had a rant written here, about silly behavior by silly Americans. I mixed in "American Woman" with Sarah Palin (believe it or not, they're not the same). I've whacked what I wrote. It seems unnecessary and would bring on bouts of small-mindedness. So I'm going everyone just sit around and feel all special and stuff.
Whatever floats your boat, as the saying goes.
The Yankees did a really good job with the Lou Gehrig tribute. Incidentally, I didn't like the 4-ALS patch, but that's a small concern.
I'm watching Dave Righetti's no-hitter on YES right now. It was July 5, 1983, and I didn't see a single pitch that day. We didn't have SportsChannel, so I turned the radio to check the score and got the news - kind of reminiscent of how I missed all of David Wells' perfect game in 1998. I was in Las Veags working at a convention and found out when I got back to my hotel room.
As for that day in 1983, there were only 41,000 people in the great Stadium. Don Mattingly wore number 46. It was also the third time that a Yankee had no-hit the Red Sox. George Mogridge did so in 1917, Allie Reynolds in 1951, and Righetti in '83. The Bombers have no-hit the Indians three times (Monte Pearson - 1938, Reynolds - 1951, Jim Abbott - 1992).
Just some useless trivia for you.
OK, as I finish, it's officially July 5th. You know what that means.
Happy Birthday, Huey Lewis!
Friday, July 03, 2009
Taking The Fun Out of the Ballgame
My cousin and I attended today's Yankees/Jays tilt in The Bronx (Bombers won, 4-2). Part of our plan was to get to the Stadium early enough to catch batting practice and visit Monument Park.
Good luck with that.
The line for MonumentPark Cave was so long that we stood no chance. So be it.
We settled in down the left field line for BP. Within 10 minutes, the announcement was made that we would have to return to our seats.
First pitch was still over an hour away.
This is another sign of the continued proof of the team not getting it. They are so horribly out of touch with their fans, and the blame, in my estimation, lays in part with the Steinbrenner's, but mostly with the keystone combo of Randy Levine and Lonn Trost. It's amazing that they still have jobs.
I'll spare you another long-winded diatribe about the Yankees and Yankee Stadium. Let me bottom-line it for you. When it gets right down to it, I have to admit - and have said so for some time - that I would consider giving up my tickets. The effort isn't always worth it and I'm not sure how much fun I'm having anymore. There is so much wrong - the YMCA, the annoying Subway Fan Marquee voice, the guy who likes like the Kevin from "The Wonder Years" doing highlights on the big screen, and the girl who sounds like Karen from "Will and Grace" who did something besides be annoying.
And don't get me started on Steiner Sports and the bastardization of memorabilia. They had a sign for the press dining room - no mention of the Yankees, no logo. Kris asked how much it was (it would be perfect for me, no?) and the answer was $480. The sign was no bigger than a standard sheet of paper.
Again, I said I'd spare you, so I will, but I leave you with this:
The Yankees wearing red hats? It might be time for Bud Selig - or one of his marketing stooges - to go as well.
Good luck with that.
The line for Monument
We settled in down the left field line for BP. Within 10 minutes, the announcement was made that we would have to return to our seats.
First pitch was still over an hour away.
This is another sign of the continued proof of the team not getting it. They are so horribly out of touch with their fans, and the blame, in my estimation, lays in part with the Steinbrenner's, but mostly with the keystone combo of Randy Levine and Lonn Trost. It's amazing that they still have jobs.
I'll spare you another long-winded diatribe about the Yankees and Yankee Stadium. Let me bottom-line it for you. When it gets right down to it, I have to admit - and have said so for some time - that I would consider giving up my tickets. The effort isn't always worth it and I'm not sure how much fun I'm having anymore. There is so much wrong - the YMCA, the annoying Subway Fan Marquee voice, the guy who likes like the Kevin from "The Wonder Years" doing highlights on the big screen, and the girl who sounds like Karen from "Will and Grace" who did something besides be annoying.
And don't get me started on Steiner Sports and the bastardization of memorabilia. They had a sign for the press dining room - no mention of the Yankees, no logo. Kris asked how much it was (it would be perfect for me, no?) and the answer was $480. The sign was no bigger than a standard sheet of paper.
Again, I said I'd spare you, so I will, but I leave you with this:
The Yankees wearing red hats? It might be time for Bud Selig - or one of his marketing stooges - to go as well.
Lou Gehrig - Still a Hero
Tomorrow, baseball will honor the 70th anniversary of one of its watershed moments. The argument can be made that this is the single most significant non-game event. For it was on July 4, 1939, between games of a Yankees/Senators doubleheader at Yankee Stadium that Lou Gehrig made his famous speech.
For my money, there is no better unrehearsed, completely off the cuff speech. This came from the heart and is still emotional to hear.
There's just one problem. No full audio or video exists. Go ahead, search for it. I'll wait.
(waiting)
There is footage of his first few words, his last couple of lines, but not the entire text. Of course, we have the oft-repeated line,
"Today, I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the Earth."As for the rest of the text, go ahead and search. Check several sites and you'll see that we don't even agree on that! For instance, at LouGehrig.com, they start like this:
"Fans, for the past two weeks you have been reading about the bad break I got."WRONG! Watch what little video exists. The speech begins,
"For the past two weeks you've been reading about the bad break."For the love of the Iron Horse, can we at least get it right on "his" own site?!
This is video from Ken Burns' Baseball. While the series has many errors, it seems to do well with this.
I implore you - sports fan or not - to take a moment and read about Lou Gehrig. I especially recommend that you check this out from ESPN, which has collected letters from Gehrig, his wife Eleanor, and his doctor, written over the final two years of Lou's life. They are heartbreaking in that a devoted wife will do anything to keep her husband's spirit up. The doctor agrees with the plan.
Gehrig would hold on for two years, dying on June 2, 1941, just 17 days shy of his 38th birthday.
The letters are sad, inspiring, and at times humorous, but most of all, very emotional.
Let's be clear. Henry Louis Gehrig was our sports' greatest first baseman - of that I think we can agree. He left the game with 493 home runs at the age of 35 in 1939 - second only to Babe Ruth. When talk of "greatest players" come up, his name should always be part of the conversation.
But with the way he faced the end of his career, and the end of his life, Gehrig became an even bigger icon. Kids should know about him (and mine does - perhaps more than Ruth, DiMaggio, or Mantle). Everyday people should recognize this brave, decent human being and know his story. It seemed to be a great life but it doesn't have a pleasant ending. It does however, say a lot about how to live a life and face adversity.
I met a new friend over the past week who is not a baseball fan. I hope by reading this, maybe an interest in learning more about the game will come.
Watch and read the ESPN piece. I think you - even the Yankee haters - will be moved.
For more on "Lou Gehrig's Disease", please visit the ALS Association.
Happy 3rd of July
This might be my favorite picture of Sean from our trip to Richmond (and Washington). It makes me miss him even more - and I don't expect to see him before Monday.
Hug your kids - you just never know what is next.
I'm off to the Yankees/Blue Jays game at the Stadium.
Thursday, July 02, 2009
1984's Cringe-Inducing Tunes
There are some years that have been truly great for music, and I think 1984 stands tall among them. That Jackson guy was still riding high with Thriller, Bruce and E Street were Born in the USA, U2 had The Unforgettable Fire, and what else? Oh yeah, a little ol' band out of the San Francisco area had a rather large, awesome record called Sports.
They say the band's name was Huey Lewis and the News. Never heard of them.
I digress.
What, then, were the songs in 1984 that made you sick? The dreadful, painful, Haysooz-Cristo-I'm-going-to-put-my-fist-through-the-freaking-radio tunes?
The peeps at Stuck in the 80's are building their list.
Some of the comments would indicate they disagree with my assessment of Huey Lewis' greatness, but that would also indicate they lack taste.
So there. Nanny nanny billy goats.
Wow - I looked at the list of the Top 100 hits and, oh merciful musical god there is a lot of dribble.
- When Doves Cry, Prince (repetitive, just like I heard it over and over on the radio)
- Let's Hear It For The Boy, Deniece Williams (yikes)
- Dancing In The Dark, Bruce Springsteen (I know, it's shocking. Probably my least favorite Bruce song. By far)
- Girls Just Want To Have Fun, Cyndi Lauper (Ugh. Pure ugh)
- Joanna, Kool and The Gang (from "Jungle Boogie" to this?)
- I Just Called To Say I Love You, Stevie Wonder (Officially the point that Stevie jumped the shark)
- I Can Dream About You, Dan Hartman (yawn)
- The Warrior, Scandal (25 years later, I still hate this freaking song, except for one...little...thing. Paul O'Neill.)
- To All The Girls I've Loved Before, Julio Iglesias and Willie Nelson (vomit-inducing)
- Islands In The Stream, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton (purely god-awful)
- Breakdance, Irene Cara ("Fame?" "Flashdance?" I don't even remember this song, but it's Irene Cara. That's enough.)
- Think Of Laura, Christopher Cross (Oh...myGod)
- Yah Mo B There, James Ingram and Michael McDonald (Make...it...stop!)
- Anything on the list by Lionel Richie (and you know the next time I do a breakfast and baseball trip, Tim Parry and Jason Intrieri will make sure that they play all Lionel, all the time. Oh I'll never live this down.)
Seems like I picked a lot (and there are more), but 1984 is probably my single favorite year in music. It's the year in which I think I came of age in terms of my own taste.
They say the band's name was Huey Lewis and the News. Never heard of them.
I digress.
What, then, were the songs in 1984 that made you sick? The dreadful, painful, Haysooz-Cristo-I'm-going-to-put-my-fist-through-the-freaking-radio tunes?
The peeps at Stuck in the 80's are building their list.
Some of the comments would indicate they disagree with my assessment of Huey Lewis' greatness, but that would also indicate they lack taste.
So there. Nanny nanny billy goats.
Wow - I looked at the list of the Top 100 hits and, oh merciful musical god there is a lot of dribble.
- When Doves Cry, Prince (repetitive, just like I heard it over and over on the radio)
- Let's Hear It For The Boy, Deniece Williams (yikes)
- Dancing In The Dark, Bruce Springsteen (I know, it's shocking. Probably my least favorite Bruce song. By far)
- Girls Just Want To Have Fun, Cyndi Lauper (Ugh. Pure ugh)
- Joanna, Kool and The Gang (from "Jungle Boogie" to this?)
- I Just Called To Say I Love You, Stevie Wonder (Officially the point that Stevie jumped the shark)
- I Can Dream About You, Dan Hartman (yawn)
- The Warrior, Scandal (25 years later, I still hate this freaking song, except for one...little...thing. Paul O'Neill.)
- To All The Girls I've Loved Before, Julio Iglesias and Willie Nelson (vomit-inducing)
- Islands In The Stream, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton (purely god-awful)
- Breakdance, Irene Cara ("Fame?" "Flashdance?" I don't even remember this song, but it's Irene Cara. That's enough.)
- Think Of Laura, Christopher Cross (Oh...myGod)
- Yah Mo B There, James Ingram and Michael McDonald (Make...it...stop!)
- Anything on the list by Lionel Richie (and you know the next time I do a breakfast and baseball trip, Tim Parry and Jason Intrieri will make sure that they play all Lionel, all the time. Oh I'll never live this down.)
Seems like I picked a lot (and there are more), but 1984 is probably my single favorite year in music. It's the year in which I think I came of age in terms of my own taste.
A Scully Classic
I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Vin Scully, the greatest of all sports broadcasters, made his greatest call on September 9, 1965 when he called Sandy Koufax's perfect game.
The text is here. The audio is here.
Yet tonight, I discovered another Scully gem. This happened on June 30, 1959 and you have to hear it (or read it) to believe it. It's roughly 30 seconds of actual game audio, and eight minutes of a good old-fashioned rhubarb. The audio and text are here.
Boys and girls - you wanna be a broadcaster? Listen and learn, my friends. This is how it should be done.
The text is here. The audio is here.
Yet tonight, I discovered another Scully gem. This happened on June 30, 1959 and you have to hear it (or read it) to believe it. It's roughly 30 seconds of actual game audio, and eight minutes of a good old-fashioned rhubarb. The audio and text are here.
Boys and girls - you wanna be a broadcaster? Listen and learn, my friends. This is how it should be done.
Road Pictures Coming...Eventually
First, gaze to your right at the new profile picture. Assuming it hasn't changed by the time you read this, it is a self-portrait, taken on Belle Isle in Richmond. A little Gades love doesn't hurt, right?
By the way, I'm glad I didn't make the trek to Dutchess Stadium tonight. No game due to bad field conditions. They tried so hard last night. Doubleheader tomorrow. I probably won't make it. sigh.
So the picture above was taken just before the entrance to the Fort McHenry Tunnel in Baltimore on Interstate 95. The font on the sign is called Clearview and is not super-dee-duper popular in the road enthusiast world. As such, I don't think I'll be changing the Exit 55 picture just yet.
I have about 800 (!) pictures that will be coming aboard soon, but I'm sort of particular about the process, making sure that I've written descriptions and cataloged everything. I think - for the first time - I will put them on the Flickr site and add the notes later on. Honestly, it's getting re-goll-dang-diculous and it's time to load them.
Incidentally, 800 pictures is nothing for some, such as my friend Doug Kerr, who loads 800 per day (or at least it seems like that).
More Linkage!
This staying-late-at-the-Gades-game-with-nothing-to-do-deal is really benefiting you - the loyal readers of "Dé salida a cincuenta y cinco" (that's Exit 55 in Spanish, according to Babel Fish.
You know I'm wacky when I'm doing that.
Anyway, have some reading material.
Jack Clark hates the Mets - always has, always will. Especially those '86 clowns. I especially enjoyed the comments on Gary "LOOK AT ME" Carter.
Let us examine - Cardinals: one World Series win in three tries in the 80's (won in '82, lost in '85 when they should have won, and lost in '87). Mets: One Series win ('86 and yeah, they should have lost and a playoff appearance in '88).
For the record, Jack the Ripper didn't win a World Series. Still, he brings this priceless nugget about Carter:
Something about going through a difficult split made me appreciate this.
I can actually hear the Vermont Lake Monsters dugout chatter and cheering as they just brought in three on a bases-clearing double. That should just about do it from here at "The Dutch" (Sean Ford always hated that).
I can also clearly hear traffic on Interstate 84.
Another run just scored. 8-2, Vermont.
One more link for you. Benjamin Hill does a fine job noting the many great promotions in baseball. He writes a blog. It's here.
And we're done here at Dutchess Stadium. Vermont beats the Renegades 8-2. See ya.
You know I'm wacky when I'm doing that.
Anyway, have some reading material.
Jack Clark hates the Mets - always has, always will. Especially those '86 clowns. I especially enjoyed the comments on Gary "LOOK AT ME" Carter.
Let us examine - Cardinals: one World Series win in three tries in the 80's (won in '82, lost in '85 when they should have won, and lost in '87). Mets: One Series win ('86 and yeah, they should have lost and a playoff appearance in '88).
For the record, Jack the Ripper didn't win a World Series. Still, he brings this priceless nugget about Carter:
He talked his way more into the Hall of Fame than actually deserving it.Since it's in vogue, have some more silly Michael Jackson items.
Something about going through a difficult split made me appreciate this.
I can actually hear the Vermont Lake Monsters dugout chatter and cheering as they just brought in three on a bases-clearing double. That should just about do it from here at "The Dutch" (Sean Ford always hated that).
I can also clearly hear traffic on Interstate 84.
Another run just scored. 8-2, Vermont.
One more link for you. Benjamin Hill does a fine job noting the many great promotions in baseball. He writes a blog. It's here.
And we're done here at Dutchess Stadium. Vermont beats the Renegades 8-2. See ya.
After Midnight
I'm still at the Gades game. They're trailing Vermont, 4-2 in the top of the 8th.
It's 12:14 AM.
I'm not good in these circumstances - spots where I want to be on the air and am not for one reason or another. I can hear the guys in the booth calling the game and I'm adding nothing to the night. In other words, I'm useless.
In these spots I'm not really a fan, but more of an observer. I can't say I'm a reporter right now, as I have nobody to report for. So I wrote on the blog a few times, and even - GASP! - left the booth to go buy a dog and a pretzel - for two bucks!
The Gades did right by their fans tonight. They can use their ticket stub for a free ticket to one of several games. Nice touch after a long rain delay.
I think we're down to barely 200 fans left. Those are cool people.
Or nuts. Your choice.
It's not so few that I can count them, so I won't. You can hear all the conversations within the ballpark - from Geoff and Matt on the air, to Zolz two doors down in the PA booth, to on-field chatter. It's strange.
The natives here are getting restless, and a tad obnoxious (that's the exception though).
The cleaning staff has actually begun to pick up the garbage, while the game is still going on.
It's now the bottom of the eighth and the Gades have the tying run at the plate. Somebody predicted that "something" would happen tonight - a walk-off home run, a big comeback, a 17 inning marathon. Something. We'll see.
It's 12:14 AM.
I'm not good in these circumstances - spots where I want to be on the air and am not for one reason or another. I can hear the guys in the booth calling the game and I'm adding nothing to the night. In other words, I'm useless.
In these spots I'm not really a fan, but more of an observer. I can't say I'm a reporter right now, as I have nobody to report for. So I wrote on the blog a few times, and even - GASP! - left the booth to go buy a dog and a pretzel - for two bucks!
The Gades did right by their fans tonight. They can use their ticket stub for a free ticket to one of several games. Nice touch after a long rain delay.
I think we're down to barely 200 fans left. Those are cool people.
Or nuts. Your choice.
It's not so few that I can count them, so I won't. You can hear all the conversations within the ballpark - from Geoff and Matt on the air, to Zolz two doors down in the PA booth, to on-field chatter. It's strange.
The natives here are getting restless, and a tad obnoxious (that's the exception though).
The cleaning staff has actually begun to pick up the garbage, while the game is still going on.
It's now the bottom of the eighth and the Gades have the tying run at the plate. Somebody predicted that "something" would happen tonight - a walk-off home run, a big comeback, a 17 inning marathon. Something. We'll see.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Finally Playing Baseball
I'm enjoying the action between the Renegades and Lake Monsters from the visitors' radio booth at Dutchess Stadium. The Lake Monsters don't do all of their road games, but do cover all of their home games.
Not for me to opine.
I thought I'd be strolling with a wireless mic tonight, but that's not happening. So be it. It's baseball, and I'm here. So I'm happy.
I don't know what condition the field is in, but so far, so good. No score, and we're heading to the fourth. They actually shot the post-game fireworks off before the game tonight. A slight haze is still hanging over the field, and the delightful smell of sulfur hangs in the air, but no harm.
The Gades have a player named Burt Reynolds. Just thought I'd offer that up.
I was going to do a mock broadcast tonight to occupy myself and make some demo audio but alas things didn't come together. Maybe tomorrow night. Maybe not.
The Gades will be hosting a special promotion called "Ball-less Baseball" next Tuesday. You can read about here on Jane Heller's blog, and also read some of the comments, which were quite interesting. I will offer this - my great-niece will be doing a pre-game presentation. Because of the "Ball-less" promotion, my brother (her grandfather) will technically not be allowed in until the fifth inning.
I'm scheduled to call that game.
You can see the dilemma, I'm sure.
Not for me to opine.
I thought I'd be strolling with a wireless mic tonight, but that's not happening. So be it. It's baseball, and I'm here. So I'm happy.
I don't know what condition the field is in, but so far, so good. No score, and we're heading to the fourth. They actually shot the post-game fireworks off before the game tonight. A slight haze is still hanging over the field, and the delightful smell of sulfur hangs in the air, but no harm.
The Gades have a player named Burt Reynolds. Just thought I'd offer that up.
I was going to do a mock broadcast tonight to occupy myself and make some demo audio but alas things didn't come together. Maybe tomorrow night. Maybe not.
The Gades will be hosting a special promotion called "Ball-less Baseball" next Tuesday. You can read about here on Jane Heller's blog, and also read some of the comments, which were quite interesting. I will offer this - my great-niece will be doing a pre-game presentation. Because of the "Ball-less" promotion, my brother (her grandfather) will technically not be allowed in until the fifth inning.
I'm scheduled to call that game.
You can see the dilemma, I'm sure.
NO MAS!
Hello from soaking wet Dutchess Stadium. I think we'll get the game in tonight against the Vermont Lake Monsters but yikes, this thunderstorm is impressive. Still heads groundskeeper Tom Hubmaster does an...um...masterful job with the field.
I won't be calling the game tonight with Geoff but if things work out, I will join the 'cast via a wireless mic from parts unknown at "The Dutch."
UPDATE: Things might not work out. Whatever. I like baseball.
Oh, and former Gades voice Sean Ford sends his best. I talked to him the other day and he was as gracious as ever - encouraging me to get as many game broadcasts in as possible.
OK, so why does this post say "NO MAS?" It has nothing to do with the weather (believe it or not).
It's because...it has struck again.
Celebrity death number...I've lost count!
Karl Malden, come on up!
The Streets of San Francisco are a little darker tonight. By the way, Malden was great in "Patton."
I won't be calling the game tonight with Geoff but if things work out, I will join the 'cast via a wireless mic from parts unknown at "The Dutch."
UPDATE: Things might not work out. Whatever. I like baseball.
Oh, and former Gades voice Sean Ford sends his best. I talked to him the other day and he was as gracious as ever - encouraging me to get as many game broadcasts in as possible.
OK, so why does this post say "NO MAS?" It has nothing to do with the weather (believe it or not).
It's because...it has struck again.
Celebrity death number...I've lost count!
Karl Malden, come on up!
The Streets of San Francisco are a little darker tonight. By the way, Malden was great in "Patton."
Richmond (and Washington) in Pictures
The pictures are up from Richmond. Of course, these are the non-road pictures. I took most of them but Sean took several as well. This is Milk Dud (the Second) at the Lincoln Memorial.
OK, Now This is Just Getting Ridiculous!
The list grows.
Alexis Arguello
If you have a clue about boxing (of which I have a slight one) then you know the name. A top fighter during his day.
According to his Wikipedia page:
Alexis Arguello
If you have a clue about boxing (of which I have a slight one) then you know the name. A top fighter during his day.
According to his Wikipedia page:
The world-wide three times champion of boxing and mayor of Managua, Alexis Argüello, died around 1:45 AM local time on July 1st after he shot himself through the heart according to a report from Channel 8, National Television.
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