Recent trip: New York to Ohio for a family reunion
Favorite moment: Sitting out in the yard at night, listening to stories
Most interesting souvenir: an Amish baby doll with no face
Favorite travel outfit: Red leather suits. Always,
In-flight movie: I once cried a little bit at a romantic movie with Hugh Grant and Sandra Bullock. Some might say it was the altitude, but I beg to differ
Travel wish: I would like to be crated and sedated like a dog.
This show is unforgettable for me. A perfect cast and emotional undercurrents that stayed with you.
A crush as a kid on Peggy Lipton led me to pick this one! I have her biography to read as well.
Linda Evans co-starred with Steve McQueen in his second-to-last film, "Tom Horn".
Riding bikes side by side in the center lane? A little "bwa-ha-ha"! Not in Arizona anyway. Eric Estrada today laughs at himself, which is a good thing! I laugh at myself too!
"St. Elsewhere". The beautiful and haunting theme written by Dave Grusin fit like a glove with this well acted series about underdogs in a South Boston Hospital. A favorite of my late Cousin, so I included it. Nice memories. She liked Howie Mandell's work in this series.
Jack Lord spinning around and staring into the camera! That was "cool" in the 70's. Jack was a personal friend of Elvis Presley, and if you get a copy of the unedited 1973 "Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite Concert" CD, Elvis mentions that Jack Lord is in the audience.
Of course, I had to include this for Monkee Fans!
Ah, yes. Marilu Henner! What?... You thought I tuned in for Judd Hirsch?
Born John Elroy Sanford, Redd Foxx took the name "Fred Sanford" from his late brother. Today, Demond Wilson is a minister.
It is impossible to imagine anyone else BUT Tony Randall and Jack Klugman in these roles. My Florida broadcasting buddy Doug Miles interviewed Jack on his radio show!
FRIDAY MOVIE SUGGESTION NIGHT PRESENTS: "FOR YOUR EYES ONLY"!
Good Morning! You are in for a special treat. Today marks the very first time that MMC (Manning Movie Classics producers of "Friday Movie Suggestion Night") has decided to bring you a James Bond movie of unparalleled "Class". And that of course is my opinion of Roger Moore as my personal favorite Bond in his fifth outing as 007.FOR YOUR EYES ONLY is one of those Summertime movies that just fits. It followed the well-received but shall we say...overproduced MOONRAKER?Yes, and as I prepare our Martini's you'll findthat Cubby Broccoli does a mid-course correction here and reels in Bond closer to Ian Flemings' vision. For example, we learn that Bond was married and widowed as he shows a side of himself never before seen during a visit to the cemetery. Action fans unite! I've brought you a suitable car chase here, and I will say it...a ski chase that exceedsON HER MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE! There. I've said it. Moore is forever a Class Act from our dear friends "Across the Pond" and this film shows that he is not merely a comedic 007, but he can be a serious one too. This is a well paced story that invites you (and I, of course) to escape any doldrums that might inflict upon our Summer Season! Should you need proof, the lovely and talented Carole Bouquet is here with a risk that I'd personally like to see more of in movie making on the heels of a huge success from it's predecessor. John Glen makes his Bond directorial debut and must receive Kudos for getting it right. Oh, uh...one final story worth telling.
A Cincinnati AM Radio station D.J. preceded Sheena Easton's great Theme Song performance by inviting listeners to phone in and opine whether they liked the song or not. Capeesh? Now you know why I left Cincinnati. Let's get to The Cast: Roger Moore is "Bond....James Bond"; Carole Bouquet is Melina Havelock; Topol is played by Milos Columbo; Lynn-Holly-Johnson is Bibi Dahl; Julian Glover is "Aristotle" Kristanos (Bwahaha!); Cassandra Harris is Countess Lisl von Schlaf; JillBennett is Jacoba Brink; Lois Maxwell is Miss Moneypenny!; Desmond Llewellyn is "Q"!; Written by: Ian Fleming; Directed by John Glen; Screenplay by Richard Maibaum and Michael G. Wilson, with original music by Bill Conti. But before I leave, we have...
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Another "first" for "Friday Movie Suggestion Night"! We'd like to recognize the talents of Uncredited "Girls at the Pool"!!!They are: Koko, Alison Worth, Viva, Chai Lee, Tula, Lalla Dean, Lizzie Warville and Evelyn Drogue (need I say it?): FOR YOUR EYES ONLY...
___ And now as I stand: I recall, "Shaken, not stirred". (Even if it "bruises" the drink!) Cheers!
Gloria Loring sang: You take the good You take the bad You take them both And there you have The facts of life The facts of life
Billy Joel sang: Got a call from an old friend We used to be real close Said he couldn't go on the American way Closed the shop, sold the house Bought a ticket to the West Coast Now he gives them a stand-up routine in L.A.
Johnny Mathis & Denise Williams sang: I bet we been together for a million years, And I bet we'll be together for a million more.
Oh, It's like I started breathing on the night we kissed, And I can't remember what I ever did before.
What would we do baby, Without Us? What would we do baby, Without Us?
And there ain't no nothing we can't love each other through.
What would we do baby, Without Us?
Sha la la la.
WKRP IN CINCINNATI
Steve Carlisle sang: Baby, if you've ever wondered, Wondered whatever became of me, I'm living on the air in Cincinnati, Cincinnati, WKRP.
Got kind of tired packing and unpacking, Town to town and up and down the dial Maybe you and me were never meant to be, But baby think of me once in awhile.
I'm at WKRP in Cincinnati..
THE JEFFERSONS
Ja'net DuBois sang: Well we're movin on up, To the east side.
To a deluxe apartment in the sky. Movin on up, To the east side. We finally got a piece of the pie.
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HEY, FRIDAY WE'LL END WITH
TV INSTRUMENTAL THEME SONGS (Yeah, it'll be cool!)
Sonny Curtis sang: "Who can turn the world on with her smile? Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile? Well it's you girl, and you should know it With each glance and every little movement you show it Love is all around, no need to waste it You can have a town, why don't you take it You're gonna make it after all You're gonna make it after all
The Courtship of Eddie's Father
Harry Nilsson sang:People let me tell you 'bout my best friend, He's a warm hearted person who'll love me till the end. People let me tell you bout my best friend, He's a one boy cuddly toy, my up, my down, my pride and joy.
The Love Boat
Jack Jones sang: Love, exciting and new Come aboard, we're expecting you on a Love Boat Soon we'll be making another run A Love Boat, promises something for everyone Set a course for adventure, Your mind on a new romance. Love won't hurt anymore It's an open smile on a friendly shore. Yes LOVE! It's LOVE!
The Addams Family
The Starlite Singers sang: They're creepy and they're kooky, Mysterious and spooky, They're all together ooky, The Addams Family.
Their house is a museum Where people come to see 'em They really are a scream The Addams Family.
(Neat) (Sweet) (Petite)
So get a witches shawl on A broomstick you can crawl on We're gonna pay a call on The Addams Family.
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My Thanks to Blogger for ruining most of Tuesday with their technical "issues". Otherwise, check these out on You Tube!
Okay, it's time for an easy "coming of age" Blog Post with lots of pictures (and if you're not careful, you might remember one or two vocalists who sang the TV Theme Songs!). Pretty cool, huh? Yeah, me too! Let's get started. Above:David Cassidy sang the set up opener song for THE PARTRIDGE FAMILY (the story was actually based on the real-life group THE COWSILLS) with Shirley Jones (and studio musicians and singers handled the rest): "Hello world, there's a song that we're singin' / c'mon get happy..." Susan Dey (the hottie) and the other kids pulled a "Britney Spears" and lip-synched for the show's four-year run. Yeah, I know. I'm still giggling at Danny Bonaduce's faked finger work as the family's bass player. I know he defends this on his Los Angeles radio show but, NEXT!..
THE BRADY BUNCH kids handled the vocal chores with: "Here's the story / of a lovely lady..." The late Robert Reed must have been taking the photo here, since he's not in it. Or, it could have been the day that he blew a gasket over a script line that read, "I smell strawberries". He yelled that strawberries don't have a smell and stormed off the set. Bwahaha! NEXT!..
"Boy the way Glenn Miller played / songs that made The Hit Parade / guys like us we had it made / those were the days..." This song was written and performed by the late Carroll O'Connor (whom I miss) and Jean Stapleton. NEXT!..
Who could forget Sammy Davis, Jr.with: "Don't go to bed, with no price on your head / No, no, don't do it / Don't do the crime, if you can't do the time, yeah, don't do it / And keep your eye on the sparrow / When the going gets narrow!".... I know, I know. The Robert Blake case. Please! (how are we doing so far, people?)...NEXT!...
Then Nell Carter sang the opener on "Gimme A Break"!..."Gimme a break I sure deserve it / It's time I made it to the top / Gimme a break I’m looking forward / Get behind me pull out every stop / I want a happy ending / I'm tried of pretending / Won't let em get the best of me / Wo wo wo wo..." NEXT!...
The late Eddie Albert sang:"Green Acres is the place to be / farm livin' is the life for me / land spreadin' out so far and wide / keep Manhattan just give that countryside / Eva Gabor's turn!: "New York is where I'd rather stay / I get allergic smelling hay / I just adore a penthouse view / dah-ling I love you but give me Park Avenue..." Enough already? No?... Good. NEXT!...
Al Jarreau wrote and sang these lyrics for Cybil Shepard and Bruce Willis in "Moonlighting": "We'll walk by night / We'll fly by day / Moonlighting strangers / Who just met on the way". (Oh, yeah. Am I bitter that Amy Grant married Vince Gill and not me?) NEXT!...
One of the coolest singers and guitarists around, Jose Feliciano sang: "Chico / don't be discouraged / The Man he ain't so hard to understand". Jose needs to do a concert here in Phoenix! Many of you don't know he does a mean version of The Stones' "Start Me Up". Hell of a performer! NEXT!...
Last one for today: This one is going to hurt a little, but hey! It's necessary, okay? Dave Grusin (one of my all time jazz favorites) and Andrew Bergman wrote the music and lyrics, but it was the late Donny Hathaway who sang this one: "Lady Godiva was a freedom rider / She didn't care if the whole world looked /Joan of Arc with the Lord to guide her /She was a sister who really cooked / Isadora was the first bra-burner / And you're glad she showed up (Oh yeah) / And when the country was falling apart Betsy Ross got it all sewed up / and then there's Maude..." Woo Hoo!
Remember my Blog Update (See my June 12th, 2008 BLOG) about 7 year-old Gunner Gillespie and the two NBC Television newscasts featuring an interview with his Mother Janna? Well, 3 year-old Trevor Tredaway (See my May 29, 2008 BLOG) has arrived safe and sound here in Phoenix with his parents Melinda and Todd and his little sister Morgan. Like Gunner, he too will begin his own promising alternative treatment for a cancerous infiltrating astrocytoma, which is a cancerous brain tumor.
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Both of these children and their parents are incurring huge financial costs. I am healthy and I have been blessed with insurance. These children are not well and their treatments are shamefully not covered by any insurance company. On Tuesday, Trevor will start receiving supplements, and he will receive poly-mva through his I.V. He will have treatments 4 days per week, according to his Mother, Melinda. Treatments are prescribed 4 weeks at a time. So, after the first 4 weeks, doctors will re-evaluate and determine if Trevor needs an additional 4 weeks of treatment, similar to Gunners tenure. The first four weeks will cost the children's parents $31,000. If Trevor needs another four weeks of treatments, as Gunner has required, the parents are facing between $60,000 and $65,000 in medical bills. Please, go back and read the Blogs I have previously posted and if you are in a position to help financially, donations may be sent to:
The Trevor Tredaway Fund Citizens Federal Credit Union P.O.Box 51070 Midland , TX 79710
The Gunner Gillespie Fund Community Financial Services Bank (CFSB) PO Box 467 Benton, KY 42025
FRIDAY MOVIE SUGGESTION NIGHT PRESENTS: "BAREFOOT IN THE PARK"!
Barefoot in the Park
Note: Ordinarily, I post this feature on Thursdays. However, due to a hectic week I've been very delayed. In fact, I make it a monthly habit to visit all of the Bloggers on my Blogroll. A friend once asked me , "God ! How do you find time to do that?" My answer was and is: "I do the alphabet from A thru L one day, then L thru Z the next!" Well, I made it through "L", then work assignments took over. So, you guys who are in the "L-Z" category can expect me to stop over this weekend! No need to vacuum or dust the furniture. I like to keep it real! Now onto the movie...
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Among the actresses that I wish would take on projects on the big screen are Sondra Locke, and Peggy Lipton. Jane Fonda (please, no political rants here) stated last year that she was quite happy in Atlanta, Georgia where she is away from the West Hollywood scene. So, in essence she is finished with movies and one has to understand and respect the decisions of an artist who has been acting as long as Jane Fonda or Robert Redford. Three years ago in an interview I dug up, Fonda revealed that she fell head over heels in love with Redford during this movie and others (They also worked on THE CHASE and THE ELECTRIC HORSEMAN--the latter was previously featured on FMSN). Fonda was married to Roger Vadim and later Tom Hayden during this period. Here's what Jane said about Robert Redford: "There's something about Bob that's impossible not to fall in love with. I was smitten. I couldn't wait to get to work, wouldn't even get mad when he was his habitual one or two hours late. He never knew it, of course. Nothing ever happened between us except that we always had a good time together", she said.
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BAREFOOT IN THE PARK is a perfect film for Summer! It was adapted by writer Neil Simon and directed by Gene Saks. The tag for this 1967 film when it debuted was: Wake up! Make love! Fall over laughing!!! So, there ya go. I took care of everything here, right? But, of course! Here's the plot: Newlyweds Paul Bratter and Corie Bratter just got married and are on "Cloud 9" after a high-spirited wedding reception at New York's Plaza Hotel. Reality begins to set in when they move into an apartment building populated by eccentrics. It has a hole in the skylight that leaks throughout the movie (to those of you, who like me, have had slum lords in the past: Welcome to the club!). Oh, I should mention that there is no heat, and the Fonda and Redford characters have to WALK up five flights to get to their door! Redford plays a stuffy conservative who takes a "the glass is half-empty" view of life. Fonda plays a sexy, fun-loving woman who regards everything as an adventure in life! The two realize they have some major differences. Before long, they go at arguing with each other, but this is comical! The brilliant Neil Simon adapted this story from the Broadway stage, and followed up a year later with Jack Lemon and Walter Matheau in THE ODD COUPLE. But wait! What about the pain in the neck Mother-In-Law? Mildred Natwick plays this role perfectly along with a middle-aged Charles Boyer who is...what else? A shameless flirt! Joy turns to anguish and the whole story becomes comic relief from the summer heat. Many call this film classic, "Neil Simon comedy at its best". However, Simon once said, "You can't go on making 'Barefoot in the Park' forever". Okay, here are the players: Robert Redford is up and coming lawyer Paul Bratter; Jane Fonda is his sexy wife Corie Bratter; Charles Boyer is (get this name--I love funny names) Victor Velasco; Mildred Natwick is Mother-In-Law Ethel Banks; Herb Edelman is Harry Pepper; Mabel Albertson is Harriet and an Uncredited Doris Roberts from the TV sit-com "Everybody Loves Raymond" is the hotel maid. At the 1968 Academy Awards, Mildred Natwick was Nominated for Best Actress in a Supporting Film.
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The reason for the French movie poster? It looked better. Trust me and...
Yeah, it's a little empty today in the theater. We've been replacing burned out light bulbs, sweeping the floors, removing a few cobwebs and restocking the concession stand for tomorrow. See ya then!
As promised (and I always keep my promises) I thought that it would be fun to randomly think of just "5" personalities I'd like to feature on "THE INTERVIEW" and make a note explaining my choices. Of course, there are more people I'd love to interview! But let's start here and have some fun.
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While in Chicago on a business trip, I waited to meet fellow blogger and Comedian Andy Martello at The Hard Rock Cafe. I had a salad and a drink at the bar. Immediately in front of me were three vertically stacked TV screens. Suddenly, live concert footage began to roll and I took note of an attractive lead singer playing a Fender Telecaster electric guitar. She was perspiring a bit and her eyeliner was a bit runny, but she caught my attention. There was only one problem. I couldn't come up with her name that afternoon to save my life! But wait. It gets worse! You know you're stressed when you similarly recognize but can't name the opening strains ofthe hit song "Back On The Chain Gang". Thankfully there were no psychics in the restaurant that afternoon or they would have heard me screaming my private thoughts: "C'mon, moron! THINK! You've seen this girl before! WHO IS SHE!" God, I felt pathetic. So, when the performance by The Pretenders ended, the bartender heard my confession and granted me the name of the girl who somehow made it out of Akron, Ohio (I know, can you believe it?) and eventually became famous after years of paying dues in bands in the U.S. and the U.K. So, you think I could come up with some interesting questions for Chrissie Hynde? Better believe it!
Raquel Welch
As a kid, one of the coolest Moms on the street I grew up on in Cincinnati, Ohio (it's okay, I survived it) drove my best buddy and me to (the now defunct) Globe Records store where plain clothes police detectives regularly raided the place for allegedly selling drugs. All we knew as kids was that a lot of great looking "older girls" from the local high school walked in and curiously disappeared in the back of the store through the Black Light Poster Room. We each spent two-dollars on a huge poster of Raquel Welch. We're talking door length here, folks. Yes, Raquel was naked but her long hair covered up everything in that black and white poster. My mother was horrified when she discovered it taking up three fourths of the back of my bedroom door! I had to "get rid of it". So, I gave it to my oldest brother. Today, I'm still convinced I could go to the mat with Charlie Rose on a fascinating interview--or should I say "Fantastic Voyage" (start Googling). I've always been fascinated with this sex symbol of the 70's, 80's, 90's and Today. At least I could remember her name!
Paul Newman
Paul Newman has been a Hero of mine for as long as I can remember. From the age of 6, I began a love affair with automobiles and like Paul, I later came to love watching car races on television. I challenge anyone to name a movie character Paul has created that wasn't just amazing in films ranging from "Cool Hand Luke" to "Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid" to "The Verdict" and "Nobody's Fool". I love Paul's commitment to children facing serious illness and I support his labor of love, "The Hole In The Wall Gang Camp" each year. Paul is as passionate about his open wheel car racing team in C.A.R.T. as he is in donating millions of dollars for more than two decades from sales of his grocery brand of Salad Dressings and Pasta Sauces under the "Newman's Own" brand label. When Larry King asked Paul what his first thoughts were upon seeing his wife and actress Joanne Woodward for the first time, Paul paused and said quietly, "I think I'd like to keep that one to myself. That's very personal to me". Class all the way!
Neile McQueen Toffel (aka Neile Adams)
Next March, McQueenonline will be linking to my Annual Blogsite feature "The Steve McQueen Film Festival". This is a labor of love for me and this year, 6,941 bloggers stopped by to check out my salute to "The King of Cool". While no interview is ever certain due to scheduling conflicts and more, I have a request in to Neile McQueen Toffel's agent to consider allowing me the privilege of welcoming Neile to "THE INTERVIEW" as my Special Guest. A family friend loaned me the VHS movie featuring Neile called "This Could Be The Night" and it tickled me. I just knew this lady had a sense of humor. But aside from being married to Steve McQueen, Neile today remains an amazing singer, dancer and sparkling personality whose own life story is captivating and unforgettable. I loved reading her book. She is a Classy Lady, so let's keep our finger's crossed!
Robert Redford
My first recollection of seeing a Robert Redford film on the big screen was the movie "Jeremiah Johnson". His razor-sharp instincts are a trademark of every single film role he has accepted from "Barefoot in the Park" with Jane Fonda, to "All the President's Men" with Dustin Hoffman, his directorial turn in "Ordinary People" (with Mary Tyler Moore and Donald Sutherland), "Legal Eagles" with Debra Winger and "The Milagro Bean Field War". This dedicated environmentalist has no airs about his celebrity, and his Annual Sundance Film Festival continues to inspire and support the very best in Independent Film. We'd have much to talk about, I assure you!
Florette "Flo" Vassall became a dear friend of mine by association. At a memorial service in New York City's Saint Agnus Church in August, 1999 for my dear friend and mentor Marty Shugrue, (CEO of Pan Am, Eastern Airlines and Continental Airlines) a lovely lady named Ruth Estwick introduced herself and we wound up becoming good friends as we sat together during the jam packed service. As it turned out, Ruth's late husband Earl Estwick became one of the first black executives in the airline industry at Pan Am serving as Special Assistant to another late Pan Am CEO, Najeeb Halaby, Father of Jordan's Queen Noor. Today. "The Earl S. Estwick Memorial Fund" helps disadvantaged youth of all backgrounds go to school and achieve their scholastic dreams. After I returned to Texas, Ruth recounted our meeting to her friend Florette Vassall.
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Flo was married to the late ABC Producer Sydney Vassall (a Co-Producer of "Concentration" with host Hugh Downs, and "The Today Show"). Unknown to me, she was seated on the other side of the church during the service I attended! Flo is an Executive Producer, Actress, Fashion Model, and Television personality in the Manhattan area. Our friendship ensued by initially by e-mail, and later telephone before Florette and I finally met in-person a full 7 years later in 2005. Flo had just returned to JFK Airport on a flight from Germany when she discovered that I was attending the 30th Reunion of Pan Am's "Last Flight Out" of Vietnam in Washington. The Reunion was coordinated by former Pan Am executive Al Topping at the Hyatt Hotel in Crystal City, Virginia near the Capitol. Although exhausted, Flo traveled to the event just to meet me, and I finally hugged this great friend! She is also the Founder and Executive Producer of the Annual EVVY Awards for fashion and public service. This foundation is dedicated to supporting the educational pursuit of children as well! Many of you will remember Florette as the grieving Grandmother in the Counting Crowes Video of "Big Yellow Taxi" shown endlessly on MTV!! She is also Host of her own TV program on the Manhattan Neighborhood Network (MNN) and BCAT (Brooklyn Cable Access Network). A lovely lady to interview, I have always wished her friend Barbara Walters of "The View" mightinvite Flo on as a Guest. (That's just a suggestion Barbara!). Now that I've managed to embarrass Flo, this brings us to our mutual Pan Am friend, Al Topping...
Al Topping, American Hero!
Al Topping was Pan Am's Station Manager in Saigon during the Vietnam War. When it became apparent that the country was falling to North Vietnam Communist troops, Al organized a daring rescue to evacuate Pan Am personnel and their families. In all 426 people were jammed inside a Pan Am Boeing 747 jet aircraft designed to hold 375 people. That aircraft flew into Saigon--literally into a firestorm with an all-volunteer crew of pilots and flight attendants who risked their lives. Later, Al received many commendations from Washington, Pan Am and many other agencies for his heroism in saving so many lives. He remained with Pan Am to the end serving only two weeks in his newly promoted position as Vice President of Corporate Communications. And it was Al who worked a dreadful shift at Miami International Airport the night of Pan Am's unfortunate shut down. An NBC Television movie was made in 1990 featuring James Earl Jones as Al Topping and the late Dr. Hang S. Ngor, M.D. ("The Killing Fields") and the late Richard Crenna retelling Al's story. In 2005, Al organized a reunion of all Pan Am personnel, and many of the orphaned South Vietnamese family's who were on the Boeing 747 evacuation flight. I interviewed Al Topping in Airways magazine then here on "THE INTERVIEW". Al is also board member and Director of both The Pan Am Historical Foundation and Miami AWARE (an acronym for "Airmen Worried About Remaining Employed"), the latter is a non-profit organization established in 1973. Al is a wonderful friend and a true American Hero! Next up is author Kathryn "Kat" Magendie.
Kat Magendie, Author
I've been so fortunate to meet in-person Bloggers Deni Bonet of New York, Bud Buckley of Venice, Florida, Andy Martello of Las Vegas, Nevada, Tricia Weight of Atlanta, Georgia and Kathryn Magendie whom everyone calls "Kat". She lives high in the mountains of North Carolina where she works as a full-time author (and is she GREAT!). Her Blog, "Howl On My Mountain" is charming and filled with wonderful essays, poems and short stories. She has inspired and mentored many up and coming writers and I am proud to call her my dear friend. Kat's writing is so rich in texture that anything she composes is literally "hard to put down" once you begin reading it! The serenity of living with her husband "Good Man Roger" (a fine actor and voiceover artist) in the mountains of North Carolina has added immeasurably to her works. Her site is listed on my Blogroll. So, go over and have a look around Kat's Mountain!
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Colonel Frank Borman, ex-NASA Astronaut & Airline Executive
Colonel Frank Borman, Commander Gemini IV and Apollo 8, and former Chairman, President and CEO of Eastern Airlines, Inc.
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Colonel Frank Borman is an American Legend. Born in Gary, Indiana on March 14, 1928 his family later moved to Tucson, Arizona. A romance with airplanes at the age of 15 led to a career as an Air Force officer from 1950 to 1970. During that period, Borman earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Science and Aeronautical Engineering, and worked as a test pilot and an Assistant Professor of Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics at West Point Military Academy. He was tapped by NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) during the Administration of President Kennedy to help pilot the then-fledgling space exploration program. In 1965, Borman served as Commander of Gemini 7--the first-ever space rendevoux with Gemini 6A. Two years later, his leadership proved invaluable as one of the investigative team members of the tragic Apollo 1 launch pad fire that killed fellow astronauts Virgil "Gus" Grissom, Roger Chaffee, and Ed White. Frank Borman eventually helped lead the team responsible for the exhaustive redesign of the Apollo spacecraft and its safety systems. On Christmas Eve, 1968 Borman made history as the Commander of Apollo 8--the first manned lunar orbital mission. The television broadcast from Apollo 8's spacecraft hear throughout the world that night saw Borman and his colleagues Bill Lovell and Jim Anders alternately reading from the Book of Genesis in an emotional "Good Night" to "the people of the Good Earth". I still weep along with images of managers in NASA's Mission Control Center overcome with emotion as well! This man is as the late Marty Shugrue once told me "a genuine American Hero" and I second that!
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It was my deep Honor to be chosen as the first American journalist to begranted an interview with Colonel Borman in 16 years! He told me flat out "I read your letter and decided that you were the man to do it". The tapes of this interview, along with a separate interview I conducted with another great American, Martin R. Shugrue, Jr. is housed at The Smithsonian Museum's Permanent Oral Lecture Series , Division of Flight in Washington, D.C. In a twist of fate, Marty helped organize the Air to Sea Rescue of Apollo 8 in 1968 as a Naval Commander. Four years after Frank retired from his role at Eastern Airlines following the sale of Eastern to Texas Air Corporation, Marty Shugrue was appointed Trustee to replace TXI's senior manager, Frank Lorenzo. Marty joked to Frank: "Colonel, if I knew then what I know now I just might have left you in that damn ocean!" This was a joke and it did not concern Frank Borman as much as it did the events at Eastern after Frank retired and both men were true friends.
Andy Martello, Comedian, Las Vegas, Nevada
Andy Martello has been a Comedian with 23 years of experience who does stand-up, swallows fire, juggles bowling balls and spins plates. He’s a Featured Entertainer at State Fairs, Corporate Events, and Schools. Most recently, Andy appeared in a national TV commercial against cigarette smoking. Andy drove his car for over an hour to meet me at The House of Blues in downtown Chicago, where he lived at the time. He graduated from The Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Clown College in Venice, Florida. I first heard about Andy while visiting Singer/Songwriter Bud Buckley in Venice, Florida. Bud and his wife Cathy met Andy in Chicago and I was so captivated by how funny this guy sounded that I made a note in my Calendar Book to check out Andy Martello’s website. After contacting Andy, I discovered we had some things in common. We both love Comedy and Music. We are huge fans of Grand Funk Railroad. And we have both trained in Improvisational Comedy (I appeared in Columbus, Ohio with an ensemble cast). Plus we enjoy helping others who have far too much “reality” in their lives to take time out to decompress. Andy is an extraordinary friend who now resides in Las Vegas. Watch for this rising star! Next up...Sondra Harris...
Author
Sondra Harris aka "Golfwidow" from the Award-Winning Blog Golfwidow's Ministry of Silly Walkswas among the first bloggers I ever encountered. If there exists a person with a more wicked sense of humor and sharp wit covering subjects from people, music, fashion, history, science, beers, morons, present day human behavior and otherwise unscripted fun that seems to happen wherever they go, then that person sadly remains undiscovered. Funny enough, Golfwidows Ministry of Silly Walksfrom its very title led me to assume (a dangerous practice--never assume) that she arrived here in the U.S. from a two-story flat conveniently located within a stones throw of 10 Downing Street, where it is easy to conceive Golfwidow throwing open her second story window and shouting something to former Prime Minister Tony Blair as he disembarked from his Limo to begin his day at work. A prospect that would at the very least draw a smile from Tony if not make him fall down laughing on the sidewalk! All kidding aside, Sondra is an exceptionally gifted writer who can take an ordinary thought and turn it into humor that is so side-splitting, you never want your visit to her Blogsite to end! Rest assure, however, because Sondra posts regularly and you can also go there to order a copy of her book as I have! Read it!!!!
Bud Buckley, Singer/Songwriter
Drop by Singer/Songwriter Bud Buckley's blogsite and meet a man who has inspired hundreds of children in New York grade schools who regard this beloved teacher so highly that to this day, they remain in touch with him as adults! Why? Because Bud really has a heart when it comes to living life to the fullest and encouraging others that their dreams can and must come true; Bud not only "talks the talk, he walk's the walk". After he and his lovely wife Cathy--herself a gifted photographer and also a teacher---tired of shoveling snow in New York, they relocated to Venice, Florida. Bud teaches guitar from his new recording studio at home, and is a favorite performer at venues in and around Venice. Recently, his popularity has begun to be all the buzz in the United Kingdom where I strongly suspect British Airways will seize the opportunity to fly Bud in for a performance of his number one CD hit, "Let Me Go". It has remained Number 1 on the music charts and as Bud encourages, "It's never too late" to pick up the guitar and follow ones dreams. What began as a classroom challenge to return to the guitar conditional on his students turning in good grades has become a full time career now for Bud in the music industry. Bud's newest CD is appropriately titled, "it's about time" and features our dear friend--the lovely and totally amazing Electric Violinist/Singer/Songwriter, Deni Bonet (a future Guest whom I can't wait to feature here on--what else?-- "THE INTERVIEW")!
Marty Shugrue, Airline Executive (1940-1999)
Visionary Airline Executive Martin R. Shugrue, Jr. was bigger than life. When he entered a room, it was with "electrified" with boldness and confidence. When he spoke to you, he looked at you directly in the eye and quickly sized you up. For some reason, he liked me and we became friends from 1990 through his untimely death as a young man in 1999. A brilliant entrepreneur who understood all facets of commercial aviation, Marty earned a BA degree in Economics from the prestigious Providence College. He then became a Naval Aviator and Commander flying the McDonnell Douglas A-4 jet fighter aircraft for 6 years. Following his Honorable Discharge, like many young men, he traveled to New York and joined the prestigious Pan American World Airways where he became both a Flight Engineer and a Pilot on the majestic 4 engine Boeing 707--an aircraft that literally thrust the United States Airline industry into "the jet age". An indefatigable man and a born Leader, Shugrue was furloughed from his Pilot position in the early 1970's as Pan Am's fortunes began to flounder. He turned his circumstances around, however, by joining Pan Am's Management Training Program and he brought to Pan Am the sharp intuition and talent to help fix what was ailing the complicated company and it's mosaic of subsidiaries built by the legendary titan Juan Trippe. Over 20 years, Shugrue ascended Pan Am's bloated infrastructure to become Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer. He left Pan Am to assume the helm of Continental Airlines before he was appointed as Trustee of Eastern Airlines. On July 26, 1990 David Letterman spoofed Marty on his "Top Ten List":
Top 10 Reasons to Fly Eastern
10. Likelihood of getting killed by Eastern plane is same whether you're in it or not. 9. Endorsed by the Suicide Doctor. 8. No delays because of lengthy pre-flight safety checklists. 7. Pilots point out interesting landmarks when they're not yelling, "Mayday!" 6. If you don't, Marty Shugrue will make more of those stupid commercials. 5. Eastern aircraft always get emergency landing priority. 4. Emotional greetings from loved ones even after the most routine flight. 3. Statistically safer than marrying Jerry Lee Lewis. 2. Passengers encouraged to tinker. 1. Because you're feeling lucky.
At the end of the skit, Letterman looked into the camera lens and said "I love you Marty." Shugrue, who possessed a great sense of humor responded with a letter stating, "I love you too, Dave". The Gulf War simply ended any chance for Eastern's survival despite measurable progress and it ceased operations in 1991. By 1995, the estate was reorganized and Shugrue moved on to his dream of resurrecting Pan Am. It had all of the touches of "Class", just as Marty Shugrue did. He is dearly missed.
At Eastern Airlines Building 16, Miami, Florida
Coincidentally, this venue is where Alison Kraus + Union Station recorded her 2002 Double Live CD--at The Palace Theater in Louisville, Kentucky.
David M. Bailey, Singer/Songwriter __
In late January of 2007, I snuck into an Oncology Awards dinner with the full knowledge of my dear friend David M. Bailey and for the first time we actually shook hands and met after his concert. David has been featured on national television programs including CBS' "60 Minutes", and his neurosurgeon is the same physician who recently operated on Senator Edward Kennedy. My very first Guest on "THE INTERVIEW", Keri Kennedy is responsible for introducing David to me and of course, I was tremendously humbled when David accepted an invitation to be interviewed here on my website. David's story is one of remarkable resolve to embrace the Good Lord, abandon the corporate world and pick up his guitar at the suggestion of his wife after a fatal diagnosis with cancer was beaten back. Today, David tours worldwide with his acoustic guitar, his mellow and peaceful nature and his message of Faith, world peace and living in the moment right here/right now as we help one another. I cherish David's friendship and you can follow David's tour schedule on my Blogroll!
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Hon. Denny Shane, Federal Judge, Entrepreneur, Renaissance Man!
I call my this man "Denny". But The White House regards him as The Honorable Judge Denny Shane. From paper boy, to becoming a lawyer and a Philadelphia Federal Judge, Denny has met every President from John. F. Kennedy to Ronald Reagan and had a warm personal friendship with President Richard Nixon. The latter revealed a side of President Nixon few of us ever knew. He was compassionate and his BLOG: "My Anything But Normal Life"ran from the sublime to the ridiculous in comedic proportions. From hysterical pranks in the military service, to Denny's relationship by mail with a Russian woman known to all of us as "Olga". We were treated to his enjoyment of the television show, "Dancing with the Stars" (and his subsequent crush over Playboy Playmate Kelly Monaco) to his posts about every political idiot, stupid law or some talentless person reaping millions. From an artistic fascination ranging from Modigliani, Mario Lanza, Stonehenge and his comedic adventures visiting The Vatican to a video Denny posted that my own mother remembers: Denny's young daughter performing a Mexican dance on stage. He is something else! His wit, his heart and common sense is funny and refreshing. A massive stroke has--for now--sidelined this man who is a friend to thousands of us. I know that medicine is always developing new inroads, and I pray that one day this will allow Denny to return to his beloved Blogging.
My First Guest on "THE INTERVIEW" Keri Kennedy, Cancer Philanthropist
In 2001, Keri's husband Keith undertook medical tests for serious neurological symptoms. In April of that year two MRI's revealed a brain tumor that was surgically removed from Keith's right temporal lobe. As Keith recovered at home, Keri heard about the "Relay For Life" taking place in her hometown and thought it would be very life affirming to become involved. This has played an enormous role in Keri's life as a devoted volunteer and a tireless fund raiser for cancer patients. "That's how we got started", said Keri. "You have to watch out for that Relay For Life fever, though It's pretty addicting. The celebration of hope atmosphere can get under your skin and make you want to hold on to that". It was through the generosity of Keri's networking that I was introduced to Singer/Songwiter David M. Bailey. In my next post, I'll share some of the people on my "Wish List" for "THE INTERVIEW"!
__ My Sincere Thanks to all of my past Guests and to all of you for reading this Anniversary look back on my feature, "THE INTERVIEW". -----Michael
My friend Joseph Pentangelo of cable television's "Animal Precinct"
Today is the 4th Anniversary of my Blog Page. It was my good friend Violinist/Singer/Songwriter Deni Bonet ("Last Girl On Earth") who nudged me to open a Blog Page, and I am forever grateful to her. Among the features I've created, "THE INTERVIEW" has been quite unique. So let's go back and visit the people who have been my Guests!
Annemarie Lucas, Supervisory Special Investigator for Humane Law Enforcement ASPCA, New York City
Annemarie Lucas is so cool! She loyally stayed in touch with me for almost 1 year trying to find the time for a visit as she balanced her travel internationally for the cable television program "Animal Precinct". I found her to be a beautiful soul with a big heart. When she felt as if she was keeping me waiting too long, she asked her colleague Joseph Pentangeloto pass along her answers and share some of his own experience too. Annemarie grew up in Connecticut where she has always had a love for animals and always wished that there were "animal police" to protect them from being harmed and to ensure that all of their rights were being protected. She began her career as a volunteer in a local animal shelter. While reading an article in ASPCA Animal Watch magazine, she learned that careers in humane law enforcement existed and realized that she had finally found her calling.
"The most gratifying part of my job is rescuing animals from a bad situation and eventually seeing them placed into loving homes. People have to be held accountable for being cruel to animals. That is where I step in—to make them accountable". she said.
Annemarie has received training by both the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and is a state certified instructor in the field of law enforcement. She lives with her four rescued cats named Shaney, Benny, Mako and Cody, and her four dogs named Phoebe, Sasha, Tess and Ace. Heres' her colleague Joe...
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Joseph Pentangelo (see photo above): "I was a detective in the New York City Police Department for many years, and one of my assignments in the NYPD for 12 of those years was as a mounted police officer, so my experience with animals is varied both in types of animals and how I interacted with them. I had always been interested in a career as a person who helps animals, so when I retired from the police department, I applied for the position and was lucky enough to get the job", he said. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit with Joe.
After a 20-year career with the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in the Mounted Unit and as a NYPD spokesperson, Joe joined the ASPCA in May 2001.
In his spare time, he uses his law enforcement expertise as an actor playing similar roles. He has been acting for 15 years and has appeared in such television shows as Law & Order.
Currently, Agent Pentangelo lives in Staten Island, New York, with his wife, two sons and three dogs. The rescue and adoption of Cain, one of Joe's dogs, was featured on an episode of Animal Precinct. Onto my next Guest, Glen Langdon...
Mohave Airport, California
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In the Winter of 2002, I was still a news anchor with CBS Radio in the Southwest. The November 2006 issue of Airways Magazine (that I shamelessly promote here on my Blogsite) contains my article,"The Estate of Eastern Airlines". The piece draws heavily from my 4-year investigation into the aftermath of the airline's complicated dismantling. I had interviewed Individual Trustee of The Eastern Secured Liquidation Trust, Glen Langdon. Because Glen was amused that ANYONE would find his work interesting and the fact that he is not a Hollywood celebrity or a Rock Star, it took me 4 years to convince him that he had a story to share. Indeed, he has an unusual job. Glen handled the task of resolving claims and lawsuits and eventually selling off the remnants of Eastern Airlines (a fixture in American commercial aviation from 1928-1991) aka The ESLT--or "Eastern Secured Liquidation Trust" for the benefit of the airline's bond holders. Glen revealed a dangerous story that could have been turned into a script for a Bruce Willis "Die Hard" movie sequel! He had scheduled a meeting with the president of Servivensa, a Caracas, Venezuela carrier that was leasing some former Eastern Airlines aircraft. Glen's plane landed and old fashioned air stairs were rolled up to the plane with two burley men dressed in identical mob-type suits sporting identical sunglasses with a limousine with the rear door open. They virtually threw Glen in the back door and sped off burning rubber and traveling at 120 miles per hour down a boulevard that was notorious for American businessmen to become assassinated. The meeting with the President of Servivensa (now defunct) went well. But afterwards Glen was led to an isolated cell block and locked inside for almost 90 minutes. He thought death was near when a woman who resembled a model from Maxim magazine opened the door and in perfect fluent English told Glen he better run to his plane before he missed it! Dry? Hardly.
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Glenn Bishop in performance on the stage of the "Not For Kids Only" show at "A Taste of Chicago".Glenn is performing an opening trick called "The Hydrostatic Glass".
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You could search the world over and not find a Magician who is kinder and more down to earth than Glenn Bishop. His blogsite is an undiscovered gem that is refreshing, but a of bloggers out there sadly miss the boat by not stopping by. Glenn "makes time" in a world that is so busy and convoluted with phonies seeking their "15 minutes of fame". Well, I've got some news for you. Glen is in show business for the long run! And his kindness for people comes before any profit. I have never seen anyone who is Glenn's equal. He is really one of the good guys in this universe and I was privileged both to interview Glenn and to call him a cherished friend.
My profound thoughts and prayers are with Tim Russert's family at this very difficult time. This is such a blow to the broadcasting industry. A man struck down in his prime who had the Integrity to redefine the word "Dialogue" without partisan considerations. He is already missed. God Bless him.
Dear Friends: My old employer NBC News came through with two reports on 7 year-old Gunner Gillespie and his family. I have really been enjoying getting to know each and every member of their family over outings, lunches and dinners. Just under 300 "lurkers" stopped by to read my last post on Gunner. This is a truly remarkable and loving family! Gus and Janna are both high school teachers and they hail from Kentucky. They need your prayers and financial support (if you are able to help). Your love and concern is deeply appreciated by Gus, Janna 7year-old Gunner and his 5 year-old sister Garlynn. These two children are just so precious, and I am really blessed to share their journey to Gunner's full health! You can CLICK ON the NBC story above to watch the video of Gunner and see Janna's interview. I had to smile when I saw Gunner holding the large Pan Am 747 aircraft I inflated for him at the hospital. Thank You Deni Bonetfor the gift!ALL: Pass the love around! And let's cross our fingers for The Arizona Republic newspaper to do a print story! My broadcasting colleague Melissa Gonzalo here in Phoenix filed the following report and I wanted to share it with each of you! ----Michael
We first brought you the story of seven-year-old Gunner Gillespie fighting for his life on Sunday. Gunner suffers from a rare brain tumor. His parents brought him here from Kentucky three weeks ago to seek a different kind of treatment at Envita Natural Medical Center in North Scottsdale, after doctors told them there was nothing else they could do for him right now.
Gunner suffered a setback over the weekend. He was admitted to Phoenix Children's Hospital Friday after he started getting new symptoms, such as not being able to move his hand and his face began to droop. His MRI scan showed no noticeable tumor growth and his symptoms went away. Gunner was discharged from the hospital. "There was a center and they were pretty sure that that's cell death, so when i hear that I feel pretty good about that," said Janna.
Wednesday Gunner was back at Envita getting treatment. "He's doing much better," said Gunner's mom Janna. "We're definitely seeing a little bit of the old Gunner back." Gunner has been receiving treatment at Envita for threee weeks. "It's a blend of natural anti-oxidants that your body makes," said Dr. Garrett Wdowin. "It's antioxidants, vitamins in a solution that we IV to him," said Dr. Wdowin. "It's all natural."
Dr. Wdowin said at Envita they still work with traditional medicine doctors to fight cancer, offering a new approach to patients left with few options. For now, the Gillespies said they're going to stick with the natural treatment. Gunner is also receiving steroid treatment from his traditional doctor. "We still feel very confident and led to be here, so as of right now, we're sticking this out," said Janna.
Envita's treatments are not currently FDA approved for the treatment of cancer. If you would like to keep up with Gunner's progress, go to the Find it Fast section of 12news.azcentral.com and click Links on 12. There you will find a link to Gunner Gillespie's website.
There is no way for me to fully prepare you for the film you are about to see. It has been largely forgotten by 21st Century audiences. So, given the brutal nature of the entertainment industry today and stories of broken lives, this is my answer to the network garbage on TMZ and the public's unending fascination over Paris Hilton and Britney Spears. This film is the other side of life and I've decided that it's time for people to start remembering what real love is, what it means to see compassion on the big screen, and how a real story is written. Furthermore, if ever there was a movie filmed to bring HOPE to a world that desperately needs it now more than ever, this is the film to watch!
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On the day Jackie Gleason died, it was revealed that GIGOTwas the pride of his life; it was the most favorite film he had ever acted in. This is NOT the Jackie Gleason many of you are familiar with. It IS in fact, the man beneath the surface of the last CBS "60 Minutes" interview with Jackie Gleason shortly before his death. And aside from re-runs of "The Honeymooners" and the notorious stories of Gleason as a hard-living, womanizer on Miami Beach, this film reveals the living core of the complicated Actor, Director, Dancer, Writer, Comedian and Producer who truly earned the title of "The Great One". In 1962, Jackie Gleason and co-writer John Patrick ("Teahouse of the August Moon"), A.J. Russell and Frank Tashlin had finished a script that Jackie had hoped his friend Orson Welles would direct and Paddy Chayefsky would pen. However, 20th Century Fox (and many others) virtually blacklisted Welles as an over-blown talent who would potentially delay and outstrip the budget. For his part, Chayefsky (who later wrote the film "Network") was simply not interested. In a surprise move, Actor/Dancer Gene Kelley was recruited to direct and filming commenced in Paris, France. The result was a Masterpiece of Cinema. Briefly...
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Gigot is the story of a mute Frenchman leading a hand-to-mouth existence as a janitor of an apartment building in the Montmartre district of Paris in the 1920's. He is the target of emotional and physical abuse by main stream society. However, he is beloved by the local children and by animals, whom he feeds often. His dismal existence is unexpectedly transformed one evening when he returns home to find a prostitute named Collette (Katherine Kath) and her young daughter Nicole (Diane Gardner) sitting in his doorway trying to keep dry from the rain. Gigot lets them in to his apartment and befriends the pair. Collette is very suspicious of Gigot, however her young daughter warms to him immediately. Over time, Collette subjects Gigot to cruelty and rejection. The film's ending will shock you!
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NOT TO BE MISSED: The scene where Gleason delivers a stunning pantomime inside a church with Nicole present in a difficult struggle to answer her question about the story of Christ. This is THE most demanding acting scene I have personally witnessed and it should be shown in Master Class level of Acting. The Cast: Jackie Gleason is Gigot; Katherine Kath is Collette; Gabrielle Dorziatis Madame Brigitte; Jean Lefebvre is Gaston; Jacques Marin is Jean; Albert Rémyis Alphonse; Yvonne Constant is Lucille Duval; Germaine Delbat is Madame Greuze; Albert Dinanis the Bistro proprietor; Diane Gardner is Nicole; Franck Villard is Pierre; Camille Guérini is the Priest; RenéHavardis Albert; Louis Falavigna is Monsieur Duval; Jean Michaud is Gendarme; Richard Francoeur is the Baker; Paula Dehellyis the Baker's wife and Jack Ary is Blade. I have waited for the right time to suggest this film. Two years have passed and now is the hour.
My Blog was not working correctly over the past 24 hours. But whatever bug came in, obviously crawled back out and thing are back to normal.!
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I find this interesting: On April 19th, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss opened a Spring tour that continues into Summer with the release of their CD "Raising Sand". Producer T. Bone Burnett, whom I last saw on the Roy Orbison video "A Black and White Night" (and featured on "Friday Movie Suggestion Night") is also playing guitar on this tour and I found this comment cool. "I haven't done this since Rolling Thunder (Bob Dylan's 1975-76 road revue with Joan Baez and friends). But I could not pass up a chance to work with two singers this good", he said. As the story goes, he went about choosing the Set List of Led Zeppelin songs that the duo both loved such as "When the Levee Breaks" and "Battle of Evermore". "That song has the same darkness you find in bluegrass, in the murder ballads. There is something in that darkness that Alison understands. She has that in her soul. She and Robert are both soul singers", said Burnett.
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What concerts have you seen so far this summer, or intend to?
Brief Blog here, which is truthfully what most of us prefer over long-winded polemics. This Blogsite is for me simply a labor of love. I have (foolishly perhaps) eliminated roughly 200 previous posts from my history roster for a number of artistic considerations; I endeavor to accept the advice of a dear friend of mine given to me 2 summers ago about keeping my blog posts brief. And I Cherish her input! So, on this epic occasion of posting my 1,000th Blog, I submit the following (and I'll be as brief as I possibly can!).
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Last week, a Lebanese man e-mailed me (from Lebanon) and remarked that I was a "Legend". Further, he implored upon me to send him an autographed photo. My Mother was still visiting me from the Mid-West and after I read the e-mail aloud to her during breakfast we had a good hearted laugh at the thought of me as a "Legend" (and with no disrespect to the sender, assuming he was genuine). Truly, I mean how would you feel? Later it dawned on me that I still have a Christmas card taped to my door from CNN that was mistakenly addressed to a frequent Guest on "Larry King Live", Father Michael Manning. Then, there's the possibility the man from Lebanon might have believed I was related to football great Peyton Manning. Nope. Anyway, I thanked the sender and responded that I would mail off a signed photo, then managed to lose his e-mail address in Lebanon. I don't know what embarrassed me more. Losing his address or receiving his inaccurate compliment! In either event, re-send your e-mail and address my friend, and I'll have a signed photo off to you. But it has no resale value. Really! :D)
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When anyone looks me up at www.michaelmanning.tv and visits my Bio Page, Photo Pages, my Videotaped Interview, "Friday Movie Suggestion Night", "The Annual Steve McQueen Film Festival", my occasional feature "THE INTERVIEW", and everything that happens around here in between, I have but one hope. And that is to share my passion for Living, Loving, and Learning. And so dear friends, on the occasion of my 1,000th Blog Post I have selected a You Tube about Eva Cassidy that sums up what matters most. In the spirit of Life: I hope you enjoy watching it and here's a Toast to the next 1,000 Blogs!
God Bless, and Have a Great Week! ___ remembering a fellow broadcaster Jim McKay (1921-2008) ABC Sports
Gunner Gillespie (age 7): "I think I can...I think I can!" __________
Dear Bloggers and Friends: In his short life, 7-year old Gunner Gillespie has overcome many obstacles. This is a wonderful little boy I've come to know personally, along with his 5 year-old sister Garlynn and both Gus and Janna's wonderful parents. They are both school teachers. Last November 30th, Gunner was diagnosed with an inoperable Diffuse Pontine Glioma. In plain English, this is a cancerous tumor in Gunner's brain stem, so it cannot be biopsied or surgically treated. Gunner's Mother, Janna is committed to getting the word out to other parents and we hope the local media here in Arizona responds to my plea. I've been both a news reporter and an anchor, so I know that the power of the Media can so positively reach hundreds of thousands of people with loving hearts to come together.
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Pontine Glioma usually affects children ages 4-10. On average, 160-200 cases are diagnosed annually. I blogged about Gunner Gillespie back on 5/12. This morning, Gunner is facing serious challenges. He has a mountain to move, and I believe with my full heart---with all of it---that we can collectively surround this family with our encouragement and help Gunner move that mountain once and for all! Please, please pray for this fine young man! I realize many of you have read about this subject here before. But whatever Faith you ascribe to, this terrific family really needs your Prayers, your Love, your Supportiveness, your Positive Thoughts, your Meditations, Shout-Outs or financial help. An artistic rendering of a train Gunner drew in Kindergarten with the inscription "I think I can...I think I can!" soon became the logo for a T-shirt and basketball teams in Southern Illinois and Western Kentucky heard about Gunner's story, and purchased innumerable shirts for warm up practice while taking up Gunner's battle cry! If you have ever loved anyone in your life, go to Gunner's website at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/gunnergillespie where you can keep up on Gunner's progress, leave an encouraging note to Gus and Janna and more. It's time for a miracle and for this little boy to have a shot at a healthy life. But to accomplish this, he needs our involvement in a major way. I hope this short Blog post will convince you to become involved and for my fellow Arizona Journalists, News Reporters and News Anchors to help me get the word out.
Submitted By: Alice Pollard, Arlington Heights, IL Her Early Days: “I'm not sure where her story begins,” says Alice, “but she was found living in an alley and was having a hard time hunting for food.” How They Met: “I saw her at Kay’s Shelter in Arlington Heights. She was three or four years old, weighed four pounds and looked like she'd been through a war.”
First Diva Moment:“At the shelter she didn't want anyone touching her, but she allowed me to pick her up. I haven’t put her down since.”
Hobbies: “Sleeping through the day in the warm kitchen and standing on the counter meowing until she gets fed!”
Payback Time:“We’ve been together for 17 ? years and she really has been through thick and thin with me. Now that we’re both a lot older, it’s nice to be able to give her the all the spoiling she needs!”
Meet Cassie, age 16 ___
Submitted By: Jenna Barbee, Moseley, VA __
First Impressions: “There were several tiny kittens available—but I knew right away that I had to have the one older kitten cowering in the back, the one who seemed unwanted, like an outsider.”How She Got Her Name: “Cassie is short for ‘Casserole,’ since she has so many beautiful calico colors.”
How She Maintains Her Youth: “We live on a lot of land and she loves climbing trees. When I come home from school, she comes running up to greet me before I can even get out of my car.” Why Mom Loves Her: “We grew up together—I’m now 22 and she’s 16. My life would've been so empty without her. Cassie has been a blessing to our family!”
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Good Morning! Have you heard of the title of that movie, "A Tale of Two Cities"? Well, I have a new subject title: "A Tale of Two Cats"! As I do each and every June, I'm back to remind you that June is "Adopt a Shelter Cat Month"! Only this year, we turn the spotlight on Elderly Cats... "who've retired into luxurious windowsill lounging, reminiscing over their lifetime of cat-napping and chasing felt mousies" (crank up Tony Bennett singing "The Good Life"!). Need a shelter location in your city? No worries! Contact ASPCA by scrolling down the right hand margin of my Blogsite until you see their logo and then simply "Click On" the logo. You will find a shelter close to you quickly. Consider an older cat. Aside from being a delight, they are each excitedly awaiting a good home and a loving person to love them! Maybe today would be a good time to visit!
Denny Shane of "My Anything But Normal Life" Blogsite _____
My thanks to Denny's daughter Joanne for providing the following information to hundreds of bloggers who like myself, love and miss Denny Shane at "My Anything But Normal Life" blogsite.
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Last August, (as I previously reported) Denny suffered a massive stroke and has thus far been on hiatus from his wildly popular Blog. He is terribly missed by so many of us. However, I am excited to bring you the following news. If you wish to send a card to Denny: please address your card to:
Denny Shane
c/o Darlene Pekula
20 Bala Court
Turnersville, NJ 08012
For personal friends of Denny who are in New Jersey and wish to visit him, please contact:
Innova
c/o Denny Shane Room 208 B
1511 Clements Bridge Road
Deptford, NJ 08096
__ Denny: You are NEVER forgotten! Keep Healing and Come Back Soon.
"FRIDAY MOVIE SUGGESTION NIGHT' PRESENTS: THE AFRICAN QUEEN!
The film you are about to see was written and produced with a tough athletic-type prose most people would associate with an Ernest Hemingway novel. However, tough-minded director John Huston ("The Maltese Falcon" and "Key Largo") brings to life the 1935 C.S. Forester novel, THE AFRICAN QUEEN. The book was adapted by Houston, James Agee, Peter Viertel, and John Collier. As for the story itself...
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Set in the colonial German Eastern Africa (Tanzania) in 1914, Humphrey Bogart is Charlie Allnut, a hard-drinking river boat Captain who makes a living ferrying supplies to villagers, including Reverend Samuel Sayer's mission and his Christian missionary sister Rose (Katherine Hepburn). After refusing to evacuate the area, despite Allnut's warnings that Germans imperial troops are coming, their worst fears are realized after the Germans arrive and level the church before beating Reverend Sayer to death. Rose Sayer then enlists Allnut to help her escape with his dilapidated steam engine boat. A man with only a modest education, Allnut (Humphrey Bogart) is mis-matched with the snooty, highly educated Rose to make up pair of personalities that would become Dr. Neil Clark Warren's worst nightmare. (Warren is the founder of e-harmony dot com).
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The duo assume a mutual dislike of one another immediately and disagree on virtually everything. With this tension, made worse from their constant bickering, enduring rough waters, leeches, crocodiles, evading German soldiers, and facing yet deeper hardships fate takes an unexpected turn. The film is a combination of adventure and a quest for Sayer to avenge her brother's death by aiding the British war effort as they steam up the Ulana and square off with a German ship that dwarfs "The African Queen" named "The Louisa".
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This film was the subject of Hepburns book, "The Making of the African Queen: Or How I Went to Africa With Bogart, Bacall and Huston and Almost Lost My Mind". Indeed, the filming proved to be very hard on the crew with abominable conditions. "The African Queen" earned Humphrey Bogart his only Oscar Award as Best Actor with a Nomination for Hepburn as Best Actress. The Cast: Humphrey Bogart is Charlie Allut; Katherine Hepburn is Rose Sayer; Robert Morley is Rev. Samuel Sayer; Peter Bull is the Captain of "The Louisa"; with Theodore Bickel as First Officer.
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As a footnote, the film's tagline is "The greatest adventure a man ever lived...with a woman!"
What can I add except to say that this a real Rock and Roll Band! I'll be sparse this week due to family in town, but I have a few blogs I'll post. I hope you enjoy this one.
Good Morning, All!
And please keep 7-year-old Gunner Gilespie (See My Blog of 5/12/08) and 3 year-old Trevor Tredaway (See My Blog of 5/29/08) in your thoughts and prayers as they move forward with cancer treatment.
New Kids on the Block is a band I barely recall, to be honest about it. Evidently, they paved the road for acts like The Backstreet Boys and NSYNC and alternately opened for teen singer, Tiffany; then later when her fortunes assumed a sad "revolving door" routine --so to speak--Tiffany began opening for New Kids on the Block! "We're not going to butcher any of the old songs", says New Kid Joey McIntire. They are coming here to Phoenix for a run through of their 80's hits. No, I won't be there. But hey, it's not bad when you can leave the music scene after generating sales of 70 million albums, become millionaires and then come back for fun. Why not?
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Last night, I took in an art gallery of paintings by one of my favorite guitarists , Ronnie Wood , of The RollingStones. YOW! You better be rich if you are thinking about buying his paintings. But they are quite extraordinary. Oh, before I forget. I was mesmerized by The Who's performance of TOMMY at The Isle of WrightFestival in 1970--which was playing on a large flat screen TV in the Gallery. The store clerk noticed I was caught up in it all and he cranked up the volume for me and I can't believe I stood there for substantially the entire DVD performance. We exchanged guitar talk, as this guy apparently saw the latest lineup of The Who live here recently with Zak Starkey (yes, as in Ringo's son) on drums and Pino Palladino, (I assume) on bass. I could be wrong about Pino because we got all wrapped up speaking about a local 11 year old kid who is a guitar genius and I said, "Puts us both to shame, doesn't it", and he agreed. But I digress. An amazing painter: Ronnie Wood! Cheers to all for shorter Blog posts and "Ciao for now"!
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Listening to: The Stones "Voodoo Lounge" and "A Bigger Bang"!
Basically, I'm a Public Relations Consultant with a background in Broadcast News. I've worked as a Reporter and Anchor with PBS, ABC, CBS & NBC affiliates and in Cable Television. I'm active in Radio & Television Commercials, Guest Speaking engagements and I enjoy writing, music and sports.
