FRIDAY MOVIE SUGGESTION NIGHT PRESENTS: "THE BANGER SISTERS" !
Summer demands a "feel-good escape" in addition to the fact that I have always had a thing for Goldie Hawn. The tag line bears repeating: "Some friendships last forever... like it or not". Yes, we are quite latein posting this film with my laptop in the repair shop. I am renting a computer to post this much in the same way that the late Orson Welles once said, "As a filmmaker, I pay myself out of my directing jobs. I subsidize my work--in other words, I'm crazy. But the fact is that the films you've seen tonight might not have been made otherwise. Or if otherwise, perhaps they might have been better, but they certainly wouldn't have been mine". HERE, HERE! Nevertheless, as I stated earlier "The Show Must Go On"! The Plot:
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Goldie Hawn and Susan Sarandon are former groupies now entering their 50's. Lavinia "Vinnie" (Sarandon) is a very uptight Phoenix housewife with a lawyer husband, two daughters who are spoiled rotten, and a calendar full of politically correct events to attend. Suzette (Hawn) remained true to their past as one-half of the notorious rocker-lovin' "Banger Sisters" who gets fired from her job on the Sunset Strip as a bartender. So, she decides this would be a good time to look up "Vinnie" decades after the "Flower Power" movement ended (and according to TV Psychiatrist Drew Pinsky, M.D. we are now paying for with the likes of Paris Hilton and Tom Cruise). But I digress...This film is fun! Suzette, for all her character flaws helps Vinnie recover a life she buried for stability and materialism; the two had hilarious after photos of every guy they knew as back stage groupies from Roger Daltry to Jim Morrison (thus the name of the movie) long before having this much fun could kill you and "anything goes" ruled. Actor Geoffrey Rush adds some interesting twists as a stifled and conflicted guy whose career aspirations aren't working. This becomes serious and exactly how this will resolve is largely placed into Suzette's hands--a girl who is hard not to love, but has spent very little time doing anything for herself over the years.
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Hawn and Sarandon bring the story along about the initial effects of Suzette's "liberating" everyone with real life sensibilities. Sarandon's real life daughter Eva Amurri steals a scene that always cracks me up when she fails her driving test---probably because I failed mine at 16. Yes, a major crisis we can all relate to, but this is side-splitting! So, all-in-all, this is a fun ride with two funny, lewd, good-time ex-groupies. Bob Doleman wrote and directed a fun, sexy and funny film that is just perfect for Summer and leaves you feeling Good with a sense of Hope.
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Cast: Goldie Hawn....Suzette; Susan Sarandon....Lavinia Kingsley; Geoffrey Rush....Harry Plummer. Eva Amurri....Ginger Kingsley; Erika Christensen....Hannah Kingsley; Robin Thomas....Raymond Kingsley. NOMINATED in 2003 for a Golden Globe Award for Goldie Hawn, "Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy".WINNER:Eva Amurri, for "Best New Young Artist Award: Best Performance in a Feature Film - Supporting Young Actress".
It's never fun when your computer hard drive crashes. But wait! The Good News is that my computer is under Warranty and I will be back here soon! Meantime, "a wink and a nod" to all who have visited. I regret not being able to respond. But I look forward to catching up with you as soon as possible. I know I'm forgetting something. Oh, yeah...
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"Friday Movie Suggestion Night" will arrive a day late as well. But we have a cool flick ready to serve up!
HELLO! What's new from here?, you ask. First off, nice of you to ask! Well, let's see... Oh, well a few notes (no pun). I've started working with my new guitar teacher. Yeah, remember I was on a waiting list? Well, it opened up. We've started working together on Sundays now in Mesa, Arizona. The weather is still in the triple-digits. Let's see, what else?...Ah! I proofed my next major magazine interview layout and that's coming up soon. Sorry, I can't spill the beans on this one (as usual) because as the competition (if you could call them that) reads here as well. Oh, you better believe they do! But I must say, we have far better articles and our photo layout (again) is dazzling, if I may be immodest! That is due, of course to our fine Editorial Crew over at Airways magazine.
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Oh yeah, while I'm on the subject of fine crews, I must acknowledge the Flight Crew over at British Airways who stay in touch with Gunner Gillespie. Allow me to say unashamedly: "Love back to all of you guys across the pond"!
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Next week, I will begin reaching out to a few local business leaders for input on a fund raiser for both Trevor TredawayandGunner Gillespie. Trust me. If you have met and hugged and spent any amount of time (as I have) around these two special children, they just stay in your heart. The way I see it, one just never knows what can be accomplished within the community until we all pull together in the same direction. It's very early on, but I will keep you updated on whatever transpires.
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Meantime, you certainly don't have to sponsor a fund raiser to say hello and share your love with Trevor Tredawayat: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/trevortredaway andGunnerGillespieat:http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/gunnergillespie. I know both families would enjoy a personal visit from all of you and the boys really get a thrill! A word of Love and Encouragement SO matters!!!
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Okay, so, we'll close out this week with a nice look at The Rolling Stones from a slightly different vantage point, while I figure out ways to enthrall you next week with my Blogging. Enjoy the weekend with Peace & Love!
Michael
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Shocking as it May Seem, I Have a Full Website & You're Always Welcome at:
FRIDAY MOVIE SUGGESTION NIGHT PRESENTS THE ROLLING STONES IN: "SHINE A LIGHT!"
Academy Award-winning filmmaker Martin Scorsese teams up with "The Worlds Greatest Rock N' Roll Band" to bring us the new DVD and Blu-Ray Disc release of July 29, 2008 in "SHINE A LIGHT"! I have screened this three times for you (a joy!). What we have here is an evolution of rocks bad boys to sheer survivors 46 years after their 1962 founding---basically as Brian Jones' band---during a brief break from touring in the fall of 2006 with a concert at Gotham’s Beacon Theater in New York City.
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If you are expecting Scorsese's ambitious “The Last Waltz” (previously featured here on FMSN) then set those expectations aside. The focus here is really on the Stones' always great performance and the durability of the boys from a then 63 year-old Jagger who takes "front and center" form running from one end of the stage to another amid screaming 20-something babes (and probably some bikers in the audience who are grandfathers by now). Who knows? You get a set list here of more than 20 numbers performed pretty much the same way they have been for more than 40 years. But somehow, it's always a fresh show! There are cut-aways of drummer Charlie Watts, guitarists Ronnie Wood and Keith Richards with long-time bassist Daryl Jones and keyboardist Chuck Leavell who adds fine electric piano fills. But Jagger is the star.
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There is some fun (and funny) interview footage from earlier decades. Key among them is a 1970's clip of former talk show host Dick Cavett asking Jagger if he could imagine doing what he does at 60. Jagger immediately replies, “Easily.” The drug busts of Mick and Keith are sort of tossed away and perhaps sadly, there is no mention of the late Brian Jones who started the band and eventually lost control of it before he was asked to leave and subsequently passed away.
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Duets include blues man Buddy Guy, and singers Jack White III and Christina Aguilera(who was truly a nice surprise here for me).
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The movie is dedicated to Atlantic Records founder Ahmet Ertegun, who took a bad fall at the recorded concert and died soon after from his injuries. Filmed with what amounts to a budget consisting of a blank check, we have Oscar-winning Cinematographer Robert Richardson ("JFK", "The Aviator") supervising a first-class camera team for 102 minutes of the best Rock N' Roll played open and loud. So, grab a DVD copy and enjoy!
Good Morning! I hope this short BLOG Post finds each of you Happy and filled with FAITH, HOPE and LOVE. Todd Rundgren has been one of my favorite rock artists and producers for years. He recorded a little known CD of covers called "faithful" and that title speaks well to those of you who follow my full Website and Blog.
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Blogging is a fantastic tool for reaching people. And on August 18th, approximately 300 people stopped by this "conspicuously inconspicuous" Blogsite of mine. They were followed yesterday by nearly that same number. I have Faith that more will follow as time permits.
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The subject of children who are facing life-threatening illness is frightening to many people. At best, it draws people into what I call "Love In Action" and at it's worst, it causes others to turn their heads and look the other way. As a trained Crisis Intervention Counselor (in my Fieldwork Practicum) and a Lay Hospital Minister who earned a degree in Psychology, I am well acquainted with both of these responses and I accept them completely. Nevertheless, I make NO apologies whatsoever for writing the truth and stating the truth. You may ask: What is the truth? Well, in the Blogs I have been writing on this website since November, 2006 involving precious children facing brain stem cancer, I can tell you that there are those who must turn away. They are not bad people. Often, they simply don't know what to do or how to respond---they just don't---and I have to accept that because as the old saw goes, "it is what it is". The children I champion are teaching each of us who choose to listen what the ever-present reality of a Purpose-Filled Life is really all about. These children personify Courage, and what that word really means. It takes only one person reading this message right now to do something positive this morning, this afternoon or later this evening to help relieve the financial burden faced by the parents of the children I have been blogging about here. May that one person...be you!
I attended this show and felt it best to let Peter Frampton sum up so many of our collective thoughts this morning. Ringo and his All Starr Band kick ass here!
Thank You for hanging in and supporting the families of Gunner Gillespie and Trevor Tredaway.
Our BLOG Post today is brief and has the NEW PHOTOS I've been promising. First off, here is a way to immediately reach out to Gunner and Trevor as they continue their journey to beat cancer. If you are able to make a donation to the boys and their families to help with their tremendous medical expenses, I'm listing two special bank accounts below that have been set up for that purpose. Second, if you have wandered onto this site and have absolutely no idea what in the world I am talking about, no worries! At the bottom of this BLOG Post I have listed the write ups that I have done on these two very special children so that you can "catch up" as your schedule permits. That is my entire message for now (so enjoy my brevity while it lasts)!
The Trevor Tredaway Fund Citizens Federal Credit Union P.O.Box 51070 Midland , TX 79710 Caringbridge Website: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/trevortredaway
The Gunner Gillespie Fund Community Financial Services Bank (CFSB) PO Box 467 Benton, KY 42025 Caringbridge Website: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/gunnergillespie
Glenn Bishop is the finest Magician you could ever book for an event, whether for 500 or 50,000. He follows a family tradition as the son of show business parents and pioneers who taught Glenn "the business". His warmth and compassion for others is but one quality that sets Glenn in a category by himself and "heads above the crowd". I managed to "book" Glenn for a Guest appearance on "THE INTERVIEW" and readers enjoyed his refreshing and optimistic take on life and an otherwise brutal industry.
Sondra Harris: A Comedienne and Writer who possesses a brilliant mind and an amazing sense of humor, it took some convincing but she appeared on "THE INTERVIEW" as my Guest. I was literally wheezing in the library of my college Alma Mater--barely able to contain myself when one of the Librarians stopped by my table to ask if she should summon an ambulance. I managed to recover sufficiently to point to the cover of Sondra's book (pictured above) and motioned that I was perfectly normal. I doubt the Librarian bought that, but when in doubt visit Golfwidow's Ministry of Silly Walks on my Blogroll.
Colonel Frank Borman:Commander of NASA's Gemini 7 mission with Jim Lovell, and Apollo 8 with Lovell and William Anders.The trio became the first humans to see the far side of the Moon with their lunar orbital flight of December 21, 1968. Having reached The Moon in three days, the men orbited ten times over a period of 20 hours during an emotional Christmas Eve television broadcast in which they read from The Book of Genesis. This mission paved the way for subsequent flights fulfilling President John F. Kennedy's goal to land a man on The Moon by the end of the decade with Apollo 11. Frank's roles as Chairman, President and CEO of Eastern Airlines saw tremendous growth and development under his leadership. He retired from Eastern in 1986. We sat down for an interview in Las Cruces, New Mexico on August 7, 2001. He is a true American Hero!
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Annemarie Lucas kept her commitment to me to appear on "THE INTERVIEW" despite her demanding professional career with the New York ASPCA and frequent Guest appearances on The Discovery Channel's "Animal Precinct". Her colleague Joseph Pentangelo(also an Actor who has appeared on TV's "Law & Order") stepped in to complete the interview with me. Special Investigator Lucas 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.Although Animal Precinct takes place in New York City, Special Investigator Lucas hopes viewers realize that animal cruelty is a problem across the country. Her mission is to raise the public's awareness. She lives with her four rescued cats named Shaney, Benny, Mako and Cody and her four dogs named Phoebe, Sasha, Tess and Ace.
Andy Martello is a very funny fellow. He is a stand up comedian living in Las Vegas who happens to perform juggling, fire-eating, plate-spinning, in addition to his work as characters for theme parties simultaneously. Just kidding. But what else can you say about a guy who drives over an hour to meet me at The Hard Rock Cafe while I am transfixed on Chrissie Hynde's video performance of "Back on the Chain Gang". I figured out it was Chrissie later. Andy's act has been seen on "Last Comic Standing", "The Bozo Show", and "Wild Chicago" with comedy sketches on The Doctor Demento Show and appearances in several online magazines.
Bud Buckley is a Singer/Songwriter who lives in Venice Beach, Florida. He is quickly developing a national and worldwide following with two CD's, "Feel My Love" and his most recent, "it's about time". I interviewed Bud twice and his optimistic outlook on teaching and making music is warm and refreshing.Denny Shane:From a newspaper delivery boy in Pennsylvania to serving as a Federal District Judge and a Guest at The White House four times, his appearance on "THE INTERVIEW" over a three-day period on my BLOG Page was an exercise in hilarity. He is a true "Renaissance Man" who left quite an impression with his comedic tales of "Olga" the Russian mail order bride and a fondness for fashion model Kelly Monaco when she appeared on TV's "Dancing with the Stars".
Marty Shugrue: A brilliant and charismatic airline visionary who rose from the positions of Flight Engineer and Pilot on the majestic Boeing 707 commercial jet transport to becoming Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of the legendary Pan American World Airways. Marty later became President of Continental Airlines and was later chosen as Bankruptcy Trustee for Eastern Airlines. Marty is unequaled. This photo was taken on May 4, 1994 during one of my first magazine interviews. We lost Marty in 1999.
Florette Vassall (far right): Actress, Writer, Producer and the Founder and Executive Director of The EVVY Cultural Interchange and The Annual EVVY Fashion Awards, this former Pan Am Customer Service Consultant has received numerous awards for her foundation's work to assist underprivileged children to stay in school and follow their dreams.
Al Topping: He began his career at United Airlines before successive positions at Pan Am led to his assignment as the airline's Station Manager in Saigon during the final years of the Vietnam War. Al's heroism in evacuating Pan Am personnel as Saigon was falling to Communist troops resulted in saving 426 lives which inspired the NBC Television movie "Last Flight Out" starring James Earl Jones as Al, with the late actors Richard Crenna and Dr. Haing S. Ngor M.D. (Academy Award Winner for Best Actor in "The Killing Fields") in 1990.
L-R:Dr. Haing S. Ngor, M.D., with Richard Crenna and James Earl Jones in a publicity still.
Kathryn Magendie is a wonderful author who resides in the mountains of North Carolina where she composes Poetry, Prose and Novels. One of the first of a handful of Bloggers whom I met for coffee twice while on the road, Kat is an inspiration to writers worldwide.
Jeanine Konopelski: She represented Canine Companions for Independence on "THE INTERVIEW" and taught us all about the unconditional Love of animals in assisting those who are physically challenged to lead productive lives. My heart was warmed by her story.
If this theater looks familiar, you probably live in Louisville, Kentucky Alison Krauss and Union Station recorded and filmed a two-day concert appearance for CD and DVD on 4th Street. It apears on Alison's CD cover and liner. And this theater also "Sold Out" to capacity when my next Guest appeared as well...
David M. Bailey: Singer/Songwriter and Cancer Survivor. He travels the globe with 17 CD releases with a message of Faith, Hope and Love to carry us through the day to day and has appeared with his remarkable story of overcoming Cancer on CBS' "60 Minutes" television news magazine.
Keri Kennedy: She was my first Guest on "THE INTERVIEW" after I learned about her role as a Cancer advocate inspired by her husband Keith's experience with brain cancer. A distance runner, Keri raises significant funding and public awareness of the need to cure cancer once and for all. She introduced me to our mutual friend David M. Bailey.
_ Visit My Complete Website at: www.michaelmanning.tv
Good Morning!My Journey with the precious children I've been blogging about here in Scottsdale continues, albeit with some additional developments. Just as The Gillespie's departed for home last week, so it is this morning that The Tredaway's and their son Trevor, age 3 and sister Morgan, age 1 are returning to Midland, Texas where Trevor will continue his cancer treatment and his parents Todd and Melinda will weigh opinions from other physicians. Last night, and Wednesday night were so meaningful for me. I was greeted at the hotel door by Trevor who immediately said "HI! Let's play with my toy train!" And so for a few hours, Trevor and Morgan sat in my lap on the floor and we each held remote controls to a train similar to Gunner's. In fact, Gunner gave Trevor a blue train car as a gift, and Trevor was so proud as he pointed this out to me! The giggling was so great for all of us; I had devised another of my famous sound effects that I used whenever the toy train was climbing a hill and Trevor was so tickled by it. He asked me how I did it!
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Later, all of us including Todd's mother and father were eager to look at my camera photos that I snapped of The Gillespie's just prior to departing Scottsdale. Everyone gathered around me as we looked at photos of Gunner, Janna and Gus with great Love and Interest. They also laughed heartedly at photos of my Mom and I cutting up at The Grand Canyon during her June visit (my Mom is a pistol!). Thank God Southwest Airlines services both areas of the country where these two families reside. I've grown to love them all as my dear friends. And so as I left The Tredaways, hugs all the way around felt so wonderful, especially from little Morgan and Trevor--who untied my tennis shoe laces because he wanted our visit to go on. I assured him I would be flying in, and Todd's father warmed my heart by telling me that I was welcomed in their home when I visited. I was so moved by their love! At the door, Trevor looked at me and spoke my first name four times with such a serious expression and a question mark. I smiled and hopefully turned that question mark into a definitive exclamation point! My friend Brian Jones has taught me that in many ways, children have the answers. In their innocence, they know when they are around someone who loves them and really means it. I reassured little Trevor I'd be flying in one weekend soon and yes, I meant it. Anyone who really knows me will tell you that once you've adopted me as a friend, you're basically stuck with me for life! And so with great laughter and sharing it is once again not a "Goodbye", but rather, a "So long for now".
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I direct my thoughts and prayers for the family's safe travel and arrival back home. I will be sure and post wonderful photos of my visits with The Gillespie's and Tredaway's here soon. In the meantime, please know your kind thoughts and prayers are so appreciated and mean so very much to these families. They need our Unconditional Love and Supportiveness at this time as they move forward "putting one foot in front of the other" each day. So often, I am reminded that it is all too easy for each of us to dismiss how important our thoughts and prayers are to others. But at one point or another, each of us will find ourselves in certain circumstances of need at a place where we are sensitized to the Love that is Strong from those around us who recognize, acknowledge and act with Love, if only to be present. Again, I can say with confidence to each of you who stop by here to visit and read that your genuine caring has meant the world to these families and their Caringbridge websites are listed on my Blogroll for you to keep up with them.
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Have a terrific weekend, everyone !
Michael
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Feel Free to Visit My Complete Website at: www.michaelmanning.tv
We live in a crazy world. Never have I seen the ego and excesses of so many adults replete with bad manner and questionable morals at my job every day, and I have to wonder what effect this is having on children who are young and forming impressions. Many believe that the moral fabric of our country is deteriorating when they see the elderly, parents and school teachers receiving the brunt of so much disrespect and emotional abuse. I acknowledge that there is far less discipline in the world today than there was even 10 years ago. However, I also see incredible sweetness in the lives of others who "live by example". Here are a few on my BLOG Page that will restore your faith in humanity.
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Air Charity Network provides an all volunteer network of aircraft pilots willing to transport children with special medical needs to cities that offer the treatment they desperately need to survive.
Brian Jones at Innocence of a Child is my newest Blogger. He and his wife Janelle lost their 10 year old daughter, Natalie 6 months ago to DIPG. Out of this heartbreaking experience, The Jone's recognized what must be done to improve a "first response" to families emotionally, medically and financially when they are faced with this difficult diagnosis. More on Brian's work ahead!...
Kathy at Brown Bag for a Cure is another young mother on a mission to raise public awareness and funding for Pediatric Brain Tumor Research.
Linda at Snoopmuph and Teresa at Life and Times of a Cool Single Mom are mothers of children with Autism, and they are raising public awareness and spirits with helping others understand the need to find a cure for Autism sooner than later!
Keri at Keri's Cafe is a distance runner who runs in charity events that raise money and awareness for Brain Cancer. She is inspired by the story of her husband Keith, who is a cancer survivor. Keri was also my very first Guest on 'THE INTERVIEW". And not only that, Keri networked me to my friend and musician David M. Bailey. Speaking of which...
David M. Bailey is another cancer survivor like Keith and today he a Christian recording artist with 17 CD's out and a worldwide touring schedule that is non-stop! His message in his songs are all about focusing positively on Faith, Hope and Love. David was also a Guest on my feature "THE INTERVIEW" and he has been featured on several national news magazines including CBS "60 Minutes" with his remarkable story. In early 2007, David arranged for me to be snuck into a side door of an Oncology Nursing event after the dinner and awards ceremony was complete. He is simply amazing in concert! In summary...
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Never let anyone tell you that you cannot survive, or that your goals are unrealistic or that your dreams are unattainable. With Faith, you can move mountains. Last night, I watched a 5 part You Tube presentation of the history of Grand Funk Railroad from Flint Michigan. These guys were my favorite band in junior high school and they still are among my favorite Top 5 touring acts today. What they endured from their meteoric rise to fame as among the first concert arena sledge-hammer rock bands who had it all, to having everything stolen from them only to rise again is simply amazing. But it can be done, my friends. Get "involved" and follow your heart!
_ Visit My Complete Website at: www.michaelmanning.tv!
FRIDAY MOVIE SUGGESTION NIGHT PROUDLY PRESENTS: "RUNNING"!
Before my left knee and left shoulder surgery, (preceding a 2004 right shoulder repair) I would rise at 5:00 AM in Texas and stretch for 15 minutes outside before jogging 5 miles. Jim Fixx was still alive and his book "Running" inspired me and three friends of mine (also fellow runners) who stopped by my apartment and picked me up on those Saturday mornings to run 10K's. Looking back, we had to be out of our minds! One of the 10K's was actually called "The Hotter Than Hell 10K" and of course we traveled to Northwest Texas to run that nasty course over bridges, on gravel roads, long stretches of blacktop, a quarter-mile over white clay (which gave us all severe sunburns), and those hills that today make me just shake my head at the memory. Yeah, we did all of that as a team and I have to laugh about one thing here. One of the guys with us was rather eccentric--good hearted--just a little crazy. Each of us would bring along something for the rest of us; one guy would bring Gatorade (usually me), another would bring banana's and the eccentric guy always brought along a tall glass bottle of wheat germ to share before the race. At the conclusion of "The Jingle Bell Run" (held of course in December--as I said, we were out of our minds)--my eccentric friend re-grouped with us near the Finish Line and said with total honesty: "Did you feel that wheat germ kick in around that last turn?" One of my friends was sympathetic towards him and managed to nod a 'Yes' without busting out laughing. I was too wiped out to even answer such nonsense at the time. I mean, really! So let's get to this movie. Why is it my pick for "Friday Movie Suggestion Night"?
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Well, with the Olympics on television, I have to smile at my timing--no pun intended. Believe me! This is a great opportunity to go back to 1979 and see a younger Michael Douglas as an actor coming into his own. His character in this film is struggling with his passion--running. However, something always seems to get in his way. He's a family man. But this time, to quote motivationalist Anthony Robbins--Douglas as Michael Andropolis "will not be denied". He is focused, committed, and obsessed with The Boston Marathon, with the Olympics and taking a shot at something larger than himself. While Douglas summed up this film by stating, "No one came", we (of course we all know who "We" are at "Friday Movie Suggestion Night") have never been influenced by the commercial success or failure of any film that "we" carefully select. The relationship with Andropolis and his love (Susan Anspach, who curiously made her own running themed film) amid this commitment to a life goal is realistic and applicable to each of us with a dream--whatever that dream may be. Andropolis is clearly under-employed (let's see a raise of hands if anyone can relate to this one!) and alienated from his children.
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Beyond chasing a dream and being devoted to what that entails, this is an intensely personal drama about survival and determination while struggling with doubts and finding a balance in life. It also shows the potential of Michael Douglas a full seven-years before his turn in the film "Wall Street". Where his character begins and ultimately winds up in this film will rattle you. It's also part of our continuing "Summer Series" on FMSN. The Cast: Michael Douglas is Michael Andropolis with Susan Anspach as Janet; Lesleh Donaldson plays Andrea Andropolis; Lawrence Dane is Coach Walker; Eugene Levy is Ritchie Rosenberg; Chuck Shamata is Howard and the late broadcasting legend Jim McKay is himself. Directed and Written by Steven Hilliard Stern.
_ ENJOY! - Visit My Complete Website at: www.michaelmanning.tv
It's been a busy Summer here at "The Flat"! I'll catch you up.
Last Wednesday night I finished up 8 months of physical therapy involving strength conditioning and we plan to phase-in a walking regimen I was forced to place on "hiatus" in early 2007. Previous to this, back in 2001, I began a "power-walking" program and built myself up to 5 miles per night, 6 nights a week. That blended in beautifully with my broadcasting schedule at the time. I worked in a very large market as a news anchor from 12 Noon to 8 PM, then changed clothes at the station and drove two miles to a beautiful four-story shopping mall with an ice skating rink inside. With two large oval laps per floor and plenty of invigorating visual scenery (many shops including a panoramic view of the ice skating rink on the Ground Floor) it was always something I looked forward to. By the end of this month, I'll be enrolled in a "Wellness Program" at the same facility I have been attending.
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Someone asked me about "the flood" in my apartment of 9 days ago. Ah, just a mere memory as the carpet cleaners finished up the last bit of the restoration yesterday while I was at work. It was a little strange to walk in from a trip to the grocery store to find my desk chair placed atop my couch, but otherwise no worries.
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Question: What does a guitarist do when Bud Buckley (who is a great music teacher in Venice, Florida) is not your neighbor? Answer: You search for a really good music teacher where you live! After speaking to several teachers, I found one to work with whose attitude and approach was in line with mine. But he is currently booked up. I am on the "backup list" hoping to replace a slot currently taken up by a person who never shows up. I've never understood this phenomenon of being a "no-show" for anyone and have often wondered how realtors put up with this level of rudeness. I guess it just makes you appreciate the nice people who DO take manners seriously! If you're a realtor, weigh in!
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On the journalism side of life, I have three projects underway for Airways magazine--one just "wrapped up" for a future issue that involved my interview with a legendary CEO. A girl who travels a great deal and reads my Blog Page e-mailed me last week asking for my take on ranking some airlines in the United States, so I'll close with that for today, since that sounded fun.
_ Low-Cost Carriers I Like
Southwest Airlines (Dallas)
Allegiant Air(Las Vegas)
AirTran Airways(Atlanta)
Legacy Airlines
Continental Airlines (Houston)
Hawaiian Airlines (Honolulu)
Regional Airlines
Republic Airways (Indianapolis)
Private Jets
NetJets
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Our "Summer Series" continues this Thursday with "Friday Movie Suggestion Night"--a feature that I started here on September 15, 2005. See you then!
_ Visit My Complete Website at: www.michaelmanning.tv
Earlier this afternoon, I was blessed to spend almost three hours sitting on the floor with Gunner as he enjoyed a bowl of chicken noodle soup, took his meds and we watched The History Channel. We discussed his new pet Frog and he showed me photos of his puppies back home in Benton, Kentucky. I earned some laughs with my impersonation of a conversation the dogs were probably having as we looked on at their photograph; this was my kooky impression of two girl puppies discussing their excitement over Gunner returning home. We both giggled. Gus and I loaded my small Honda SUV with suitcases and a friend of ours arrived with her lovely children to help us pack more items into her car to as we eventually headed to the airport. We were met there by her husband--both just amazing and gracious people --and Gunner met his pilot as two ramp workers unloaded our vehicles. And so with a sense of jubilation at returning home, this wonderful little boy and his parents whom I love and care about, are winging their way home this afternoon. They will receive a huge welcome from their small home town that has grown to embrace them with Love and Supportiveness all these months.
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While in Arizona, Gunner's story was featured on at least two television newscasts, and a ramp worker at the airport who recognized Gunner from the one of those broadcasts, picked me up in an airport vehicle so I could be taken out onto the tarmac to wave a "So long, for now" to my friends. As the plane passed by, I stood and waved and saw Gunner's small hand waving back excitedly through the window of the plane back at me. God Bless his sweet soul. They are heading home to their community where familiarity is a comfort and loving people are waiting to greet them with open and loving hearts.
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In the days ahead, treatment options and evaluations will be discussed with expert physicians. But for the next 72 hours, it will be a time for The Gillespie Family to return to a routine that was interrupted months ago. Children from his elementary school will be excited to see their dear friend home along with Gunner's teachers. I can bet you anything that Gunner's 5 year-old sister Garlynn will be smiling ear-to-ear as she attends Kindergarten class on Monday. She has her brother back. They are such a sweet team, those two. This is part of Gus and Janna's journey and it continues.
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Please keep Gus and Janna in your thoughts and prayers as they decompress from the non-stop demands of doctor and hospital visits, awaiting test results, attending consultations and simply enduring the humanity of Life in their devotion to help their son heal and be well. This is now their time to have the peace and silence to rest and rejuvenate their souls and their energy as they mark their next steps.
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Let me just close by acknowledging your many cards and letters that have arrived. Janna has read aloud your messages of Love and Support. She and Gus are deeply touched! Your thoughts, your prayers and meditations that have poured forth over the Internet have been received. I will be updating you from time to time on new fund raisers being scheduled to help Gunner with his continuing medical expenses. Love Is A Great Power! Safe journey, dear friends! See you shortly!
The past 72-hours have been filled with a mixture of emotions that come to us in our lives when we pull very hard together for someone we love to be well, to be healed and to resume life. This has been the case with Gunner Gillespie. You'll be happy to learn that Gunner was discharged from the hospital and his father Gus flew in from Kentucky to join his mother Janna. Gus' brother and sister-in-law flew in with their children the following night to come together and lend the love andsupportiveness that their family needs. I have mentioned before that in circumstances as these, it is the Mercy of others that pours forth as they "answer the call" to become caregivers from the precise center of their heart. From The Archer Family to Pastor Price and Melinda Tredaway, mother of 3 year-old Trevor (whom you've also read about here on my Blog), this special journey of healing for Gunner has brought together some of the most wonderful people I have ever met.
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Gunner looks so much better, and his energy level has improved dramatically from the evening I spent with he and Janna at the hospital. The difference is literally night and day. Now is their time to embrace and be with their family to share and to love one another.
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In the days ahead, I hope each of you will continue to keep Gunner, his little sister Garlynn, age 5, and his parents Gus and Janna in your thoughts and prayers. They are planning to return home to Kentucky soon. And waiting for them back home is a community that continues to organize fund raising events to help with Gunner's medical treatments, Gunner's classmates from elementary school who have really missed seeing him, his school teachers and yes, even his pet cats and dogs and his reptiles! I happen to think that some of the best healing comes with the comfort of being home where people and places provide a familiar and immediate level of comfort! Gunner will regrouping for a time, but he'll be back for treatments here in Phoenix, and when he returns for a visit, he will have a community of friends that have grown to laugh, love and be captivated by the humor and innocence of this remarkable little boy.
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I know that many of you are planning ideas for fund raisers across the nation. I'll be here reporting on those events consistently. And while you may be reading this post from The United Kingdom, Australia, or Asia please know that Gunner's train is growing by leaps and bounds with passengers who are choosing to become "involved". That is my definitive word for "Love In Action"!
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While I'll certainly keep you apprised from my little corner of the world, Gunner's website is where his Mom Janna blogs directly at:http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/gunnergillespie. be sure to stop over regularly. Meantime, keep the prayers, love and encouragement flowing in a powerful way.
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Note: Many times people tell me they want to help, but simply do not know how. Here's a simple suggestion whether you can send $1, $5, $10, $20 or more. A special bank fund has been established for Gunners medical expenses and this is a great initiative. While not tax-deductible, you will be helping Gunner in a big way as he continues to "move that mountain". Heres the address:
Here is a photo of the 1903 Yellow Winton Flyer that Steve McQueen had custom built for our movie feature this week, The Reivers.Like the 1958 GMC pickup truck in the background, the car was sold during the second auction of Steve's Estate held in Los Angeles in 2006 at The Petersen Car Museum. The following McQueen cars are part of my 1/18 die cast automobile collection. It's an expensive hobby, guys and a good thing I concluded it. Here are some of the 45 I have:
The 1968 Highland Green Ford Mustang GT Fastback that Steve drove in the world's most famous car chase from the film, "Bullitt".
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T driven by stunt driver Bill Hickman (with actor Paul Genge as the mafia hit man in the passenger seat). The rare 1/18 die cast model that I owned was donated to Cincinnati Children's Hospital's Ruth Lyons Children's Fund as part of my 16 car donation. I was a patient at Children's twice at ages 6 & 7 in the Intensive Care unit. Ruth Lyons, a pioneering television and radio broadcaster started the Fund in 1939. Here's how it worked. When a child was discharged, they were given a die cast model to take home with them. In 2005, I returned the favor with my 3 shopping bag donation. Do I recall my die cast vehicle upon discharge all that long ago? You bet I do! It was a shiny red Jeep pickup truck!
Avery rare die cast collectible, I acquired this rarity last Winter from a Hungarian man in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He had one copy left in his storage facility, but 3 feet of ice and snow delayed his access to the facility for 7 weeks. It was likely the last one in the country, and I mean I scoured all 50 states for this gem. Steve collected so many speeding tickets with the real-life Jaguar XK-SS that he had his drivers license revoked twice! He was fond of speeding down Mulholland Drive into Encino at dusk. So, of course while in Los Angeles for a month in early 2007, I drove my rental car--an econo-box along the same route twice. FUN!
I can't fudge here. I own a rare Black 1983 Porsche 911 Cabriolet die cast. This, however, is immediately recognizable as the 1970 Porsche 911 that Steve had at home in California, while Porsche provided a similar car for the opening driving sequences through the countryside in the film, "LeMans".
Close but no cigar: I have a 1952 Hudson Hornet convertible. But Steve selected the lesser known Hudson Wasp that he and wife Barbara called their "Sunday church car" because, well, Steve drove it to church. I have to chuckle here, because Steve's son Chad mentions during the biography film of his father, "The Essence of Cool", that Steve in his last few years would get up at 6 AM and read the Bible. On Sunday's, he'd collect Chad and they'd drive off to church. During services, Steve would point out girls in the congregation he thought Chad should get to know, and then after services were over, the two would stop at Circle K to share a 6-pack of beer on the way home! One last point about photography...actually two. On my Blogroll, you'll find some excellent photographers. Carmi Levy at Written, Inc., is not only a fine photographer, but a very good writer who thoughtfully captures the essence of life with his lens. Fleur de Lisa is another gifted photographer who uses black & white photography to great effect to transport us to another place in time. But I'd like to close here with some exciting news.
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Matt Stone is Executive Editor of Motor Trend magazine, and the author of McQueen’s Machines: The Cars and Bikes of a Hollywood Iconfeatured during our 2006 "Annual SteveMcQueen Festival"right here on this Blog site. Published on November 1, 2007, with a Foreword by Chad McQueen, this 176 page hardbound book with over 200 photos is available for $26.95 USD at 1-800-826-6600 or by accessing www.motorbooks.com. A portion of the proceeds benefits The Boys Republic, where Steve attended as a young teen. He visited the school throughout his life and spent his days talking with the boys about the lessons he learned along his own difficult life. Stay tuned...
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Updates on Gunner Gillespie to follow. He's out of the hospital!
FRIDAY MOVIE SUGGESTION NIGHT PRESENTS: "THE REIVERS"!
Our "Summer Movie Series" for "Friday Movie Suggestion Night" continues with a rare outing by Steve McQueen thatfollowed on the heels of the highly acclaimed cop thriller, "Bullitt" and "The Thomas Crown Affair". A light-hearted comedy, "THE REIVERS" is a film with a message of redemption and forgiveness.
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Looking back, Steve took quite a risk with this film. He plays a ranch hand who is basically a troublemaker with a heart who concocts a plan to "borrow" a brand new 1905 Winton Flyer automobile owned by his boss, a Mississippi grandfather and patriarch of a wealthy family. The plan is to drive off to Memphis and visit his girlfriend Corrie (played by Sharon Farrell), then return the car before the grandfather (who is out of town) realizes anything is out of the ordinary. Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning book by William Faulkner (published posthumously in 1962), McQueen underplays the role of Boon Hogganbeck with humor and grace. The road trip takes an unexpected turn when the grandfather's chauffeur, Ned (played by Rupert Crouse) becomes a stowaway. Burgess Meridith's narration in the voice of 11 year-old Lucius Priest (played by MitchVogel) recounts the trip 60 years-later as an old man. Mayhem erupts when the career of Boon's sweetheart is unveiled to the unsuspecting Lucius, and Ned trades the car for a racehorse used to gamble for prize money to release a relative from slavery. Will Geer plays the grandfather. Faulkner succeeds in what would become his final book written through the eyes of a child becoming aware of vices and virtues in what winds up to be a charming film.
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One footnote: The car used in this film had as much of a starring role as Steve! Custom fabricated for Steve's film company, Solar Productions by Calabasas, California-based Von Dutch, Steve admired the authenticity of the original 18-horsepower Winton Motor Carriage. "When he showed it to us, we all gasped. The thing was just beautiful--bright yellow, gleaming with polished brass--a perfect replica of a genuine 1905 Flyer, but with a modern power-plant under the hood", said Steve. "We needed some kick on those Southern goat trails to ram into mudholes, slam over ditches and drive flat-out on rutted roads", he said. After filming wrapped, Steve bought the car. It was sold in 1984 at The Steve McQueen Estate Auction and restored in 2000 before passing through a number of owners. In the Fall of 2006, The Petersen Automotive Museum obtained the car for its "Cars of the Stars " collection.
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The Cast: Directed by Mark Rydell;Steve McQueen is Boon Hogganbeck; plays Corrie; Sharon Farrell Ruth White is Miss Reba; Michael Constantine is Mr. Binford; Clifton James is Butch Lovemaiden; Will Geer is Boss; Rupert Crosse is Ned; Diane Ladd is Phoebe and Mitch Vogel is Lucius. Written by: Harriet Frank Jr. and Irving Ravetch.
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The Train Gunner Drew "I Think I Can...I Think I Can"...
Last night I visited with Janna and Gunner and stayed with them in the Emergency Room until they were admitted to a hospital room. Gunner had requested the movie "Nim's Island" and so after work I obtained one of only 4 copies left at a local store and took it over. He was quite happy to receive it. Also, my friend in Miami at The Pan Am Historical Foundation had shipped me a Pink night shirt for Janna that is a replica of what Pan Am Flight Attendants wore while on long trips throughout the airline's vast international network. I can say that Gunner was alert, though very tired. His MRI revealed no tumor growth, however, there have been significant changes with respect to his motor skills on his left side. Gunner loves reptiles and so he had two small stuffed animals--a bear and a chameleon with him. I brought Janna a hot chicken sand which and a a cool drink as she had nothing to eat all day. Emergency room beds are so uncomfortable, and we helped Gunner reposition himself amid the usual paging and noises outside our small room with the sliding glass door. The nurses were very attentive. Twice I politely waved off a maid so that Gunner could continue to sleep. Within a couple of hours Gunner was taken to a hospital room where the mattress and pillows are must better and I sat with him while Janna conferred with physicians in the hallway. A mutual friend of ours, Jim, drove in from Gilbert, Arizona. God Bless this wonderful man--a father of 3 children who joined us. We all held hands and prayed before allowing Janna time to make up her cot next to Gunner's bed. She will posting on Gunner's website as she is able.
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Your prayers, meditations, and tender mercies are welcomed by The Gillespie Family with open arms. They need our strength and unconditional love. From this end, Jim and I along with a friend I've yet to meet in Karen, have Janna's immediate needs covered for the time being. This morning as I post, the physicians (neurosurgeons) will be conferring with Janna and the Pastor from the church we both attend will be visiting with Janna as well. This is a precious little boy. He is sweet and considerate of others. He is perfect in every way. To those of you who are parents, I realize that you may have come here expecting a jovial if not kooky post as I'm wanton to do to keep life fun and upbeat. But this blog for me is also about Life-real Life and I will be as honest as I can be by telling you this subject must take precedence because that's where my heart is and this is where the Good Lord has led me. Take care of yourselves and the ones you love. Talk soon. Michael
Gunner Gillespie is a sweet little boy I have posted about here on my Blogsite in May, June and July. His parents Gus and Janna and their children Gunner, age 7 and his sister Garlynn, age 5 are dear friends of mine. Gunner is coping with DIPG (a Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma) which is a cancerous tumor on his brain stem. He has been having increased difficulties with his balance, as well as some vision problems. His mother, Janna took him to the hospital this evening and the doctors want to keep him overnight. They have done some tests but have not come to any definite conclusions yet. Janna will post as soon as she is able to at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/gunnergillespie. To those of you who pray, I have a special request. Please be in prayer for Gunner this evening, as he and Janna both need prayers for strength and healing. To those of you who worship differently, your sweet thoughts and tender mercies are welcomed with open arms. My love to all of you who have been readers of my Blog Page for years. I will post shortly.
Good Morning! It was a hectic weekend. On Saturday night, I returned home with sack of groceries and heard water dripping in my bathroom. It quickly became worse until a pipe burst in the wall. I phoned the emergency maintenance people and they were useless. Two hours and 14 minutes later I had the bright idea to call the Fire Department (not one of my better nights) and they managed to secure the flood waters. The on-call guy in my apartment complex was in Sedona, Arizona with his wife and kids and couldn't pick up my 6 urgent calls (cell phone signals are terrible in Sedona). So, the water extraction guy came in and ran wires three stories up to my flat then hooked up a blower. Top floors have their advantages unless you have an emergency. Today, while I'm away at work, I'm supposed to get new carpet padding, new baseboards and a carpet shampoo.
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Sunday, I ran errands, played a Fender Retro 1952' Telecaster with the Seymour Duncan hot rodded pickups, drove to Radio Shack to buy a replacement fuse for my practice amp and became sidetracked shredding 5 garbage bags of documents from my filing cabinet which is sitting sideways in my foyer (post flood). I'm posting this You Tube because its fun and I want to start you off on a cool Monday! So this is for Patti & Madison, taralynn johnson, diane j., tammi, Bud Buckley,d-man and especially Seraphine...because she's wearing cool Ramones sneakers in her Blog post today! Plus kids are going back to school and when I was in high school, this video is pretty much what I looked like in detention hall after school--which may explain why the high school counselor put her head down on her desk and cracked up laughing when I told her I was going to college. You may recall that she told me (after she recovered from the drama) that "With these grades, I seriously doubt it". Yeah...I mailed her an invitation to my Cap & Gown ceremony 9 years ago and graduated at the top of my class! Don't let anyone discourage you from your goals. Okay, let's rock!...
My strength training has really required a significant commitment of time so that I can optimize my long-term physical conditioning. This has been a top priority for me. My magazine assignments are up to date with one article "in the can" for a future issue of Airways and another in the research stage. Time spent playing my guitar has a been great comfort to me, although I have still not hired a teacher. I have set a goal of next Friday to accomplish this. So, I regret that I've been limited in my ability to visit each of your Blog Pages with the regularity I have enjoyed over the years.But I am continuing to post as time permits, and I will also continue a tradition I started 4 years ago. Namely, making it a point to visit each of the sites on my Blogroll from A through L Blogs one day, then L through Z Blogs on another day. I appreciate your patience and I look forward to my catch-up visits this weekend. All of this scheduling has involved having a look at what others are doing.
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Over the past few weeks, I've run into two girls who have been news anchors here in Phoenix, and it's been enjoyable to share and exchange information about our differing career paths. One of my colleagues is a former Miss America finalist who is a new mom. She has remained involved in the industry part-time with voice-over work, print modeling and television commercials. My other colleague hosts a monthly television variety feature as a teacher; none of us are currently involved with hard news. Career transitions in and of themselves is fascinating to me. As a Contributing Editor with Airwaysmagazine it'salways very interesting to watch guys stepping down as airline CEO's to accept posts with aviation industry-related organizations.
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Two musician friends of mine are concert promoters and tour coordinators who have worked worldwide with major rock artists. But they began as musicians and still set aside time to play. All of which leads me to conclude that navigating the world of change requires an open mind to continue to be true to our passions. See you soon!
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.
