CLARK BARS
My daughter, Sue, brought me a bunch of Clark Bars this evening. Sue has a heck of a memory! She remembered the story of my boyhood. The fact that I’ve probably told it so many times may have helped her recall!
I guess there’s no harm in repeating it. I’m sure that some of you probably aren’t familiar with it.
When I was 10 and eleven, (back in 1928-9), I delivered newspapers for the Hillsdale (MI) Daily News. I delivered papers every day except Sunday. I made sure that my customers received it - rain/snow or shine. Fortunately, it was an afternoon paper, rather than an early morning edition. I would pick up my papers at the paper- printing plant after school during the school year, or on a summer afternoon. I can still hear the roar of the presses, and smell the paper, ink and oil, from the hot presses. I can’t remember how I got the papers at the plant. They must have been bundled by route number. If the weather was nice I would fold the individual papers as I walked from house to house. But, if it was raining or snowing - or just plain freezing - I would sit on the floor of the plant and fold most of them. The paper only had four pages so folding was very easy. I would fold the paper so that it was a third as wide. Then, I would insert the bottom into the top - ending up with a nice compact little square package. They were easy to pack into my bag and easy to throw on to the porches. When it was freezing cold in the winter, I hated to leave the warm and cozy building.
I eventually saved $25 from my earnings, and bought my first, and only, bike - a 26 inch- wheel Hawthorne. I used the bike to deliver the papers, whenever the weather permitted. I had to fold al the papers before I left the plant. I probably had a hundred customers. So, my paper bag was stuffed full when I started. I would place the full bag on top of the handle bars, and head out.
When walking, it was easier to launch the folded paper on to the porch. I got pretty skilled side-arming the papers on to the porches. But, the arc (similar to a moving Frisbee) was pretty tricky, and hard to learn. But, if windy, when walking, or riding my bike, it was pretty hard to hit the target. When sailing the paper you had to “lead” - throw ahead of the porch, with the wind/motion affect. I would like to see the mathematical equation for the trajectory. While a few of my errant tosses ended up on the roof of the porches, I never remember breaking a window. Compared to today’s newspaper delivery service (or no service), in the bushes or gutter, I gave my customers very good service. One advantage that I had, I didn’t have to put the papers in a plastic sleeve during inclement weather.
The paper cost 15 cents a week. I don’t remember, but I probably received two cents of this. I collected on Saturday mornings. With the money, the customer would hand me their card, and I would punch out the date with my paper punch. There are always the “cheats” and “skinflints”.
One old guy would always ask if I had change for a “twenty” - for a 15 cent payment! (This was during the Great Depression). He knew that I didn’t. After hearing the same question for a couple of weeks, I realized that I was a slow learner. The next Saturday, not only did I “collect” from him last, but I carried some additional change. When he popped the question, I called his bluff. I answered, “I sure do!” He was a little flustered! I cooled my heels for quite a while, as he scrambled to find the “Twenty”.
After I finished my collecting, I took all the change to the bank, and changed it into bills. In 1928-9, the Bills were very large (as were the wallets). Gold was still legal then, and I can remember having small denominations of those pieces. When the banks closed, because of a “run” on them during the depression, the Government ordered everyone to turn in their gold pieces. Of course, I respected “authority” and complied. Today, they would be very valuable - not only as an antique, but with gold going for over $1,000 an ounce. Today, I realize that the governments’ order was like today’s warnings not to remove the tags on mattresses and pillows! I settled with the paper and what money left was mine!
After nearly two pages of manuscript, I still haven’t mentioned “Clark Bars”. I had to walk about four blocks from the printing building before I started my paper route. It started downtown at Broad Street and included all of Bacon Street - both sides - eastward to the city limits. This distance was about two miles. The route probably included 100 customers. At the City Limits, Bacon street made a 45 degree jog to the right ,and became Bacon Road. At the City limits was a small hot dog stand called “The Limits” (that figures). A man and his wife ran the shop. In the summer, when I handed them the paper, they gave me a Clark Bar - cost 5 cents. Instead of getting tired of the candy bar, I got hooked on them. They became my favorite. In the winter, they would give me a hot dog. It was the best ones that I’ve ever had. I can still taste them - especially the onions - after 70 years!
D.L. Clark founded his candy company in 1886. Clark came to America from Ireland in 1873 at the age of 8. His education consisted of only one year in grade school. Like me, he sold newspapers at the age of nine. At age twelve, he went to Business College at night, and worked during the day. Clark founded his candy company in 1886.
He introduced his Clark bar by shipping them to the troops overseas during World War One. Their popularity continued with the general population after the war. Clark died in 1939 at the age of 75. In 1955, the Clark family sold the company to Beatrice Foods. It operated the company until 1983. After numerous sales of the company, New England Confectionary Company (NECCO) now owns the company.
I hadn’t seen a Clark bar in many years. I assumed that they were extinct, and I missed my Clark Bar “fix’. I am glad that Sue remembered, and thought of me.
Back to my paper route:
At Christmas, most of my customers remembered me with gifts of homemade cookies, fruit cake , candy or they gave me money. So, I must have done something right.
Today, I really appreciate my newsboy experience. I am glad that my parents went along with it and didn’t intervene. I do believe that my experience helped to mold my philosophy of life, and I’m thankful for that.
Long live the Clark Bar!
RCL
10/22/09.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
ACCEPTANCE
ACCEPTANCE
My daughter Joan, joined me for lunch yesterday, here at Quail Creek. We had an interesting conversation about her upcoming Workshop at Stockbridge. She will teach, and demonstrate, how to make skin-care products and candles.
After lunch, we went over to the Laurel Creek Health Center to attend a Care- Plan Conference, on Marie’s status at the skilled nursing facility.
Besides Joan and I, the following facility representatives were there:
Toni - Case Manager
Suzanne - Social Worker
Debbie - Dining Services Dietician
Debra - Activities Coordinator.
The Staff presented their comments relating to Marie’s status, and Joan and I mentioned our concerns and suggestions. While saddened, we were not surprised with the gloomy news.
After the half-hour conference, Joan and I walked over to Station 3 to visit Marie, my Wife, and Joan’s Mother. Upon leaving Marie’s room, I experienced my usual sadness, and I fought off tears. Joan was quiet, so I glanced over at her, and she was teary-eyed, apparently experiencing my same emotion. I am sure that the information, that we just heard in the meeting, contributed to our sad feelings.
This was not the first time that I have experienced this sad emotion. It is a usual feeling each time that I leave Marie. While I have tried to define, and understand it, I have come up empty. Our feeling of “loss’ and sadness, flies in the face of Marie getting optimum care at the facility. (I expect this, when we are paying $230 a day for it!)
The paradox is that I see others in the facility - certainly, some worse off than Marie, I don’t relate to them as I do to Marie, of course. It is probably because I am recalling all the happy memories of 65 years of our being together - a very happy and fruitful marriage. I remember how vibrant she used to be, and what a pleasure to be with. But, it doesn’t dull the pain. I want this same setting again. I don’t have the same feeling for the others.
I see them as very fortunate to have such “tender loving care!”
Why am I experiencing this sadness? Probably, because I am facing reality, and haven’t come to grips with it. I want to “fix” her, and I can’t. I am helpless. It is not to be. While many of us are out- living our life expectancy, it can be at a trade-off! More extended years with chronic health problems.
I have read Elisabeth Kubler Ross’ “Death and Dying,” and thought that I had reconciled her Fifth Rule for Grieving - “Acceptance”. Apparently not. Marie’s Neurologist has diagnosed her with Alzheimer Dementia. This is irreversible. While I know this, I still grieve. The MRI of Marie’s brain showed a loss of 50 percent of the cells in her frontal cortex.
On a much lighter note:-
Later yesterday afternoon, Joan and Manny joined me for Bocce Ball and golf. Our Bocce team showed up at three o’clock per schedule, but a “No Show” for our opponents. Their “forfeit” was an easy win for us. Joan and Manny had dropped by to watch me play. So it wasn’t a total loss, I suggested that the three of us play. They agreed. It was their first try at Bocce Ball, and they were very competitive, as they usually are.
After throwing a few balls, we went over to the putting green. We putted around the nine holes, and I enjoyed that, too.
RCL - 10/22/09.
My daughter Joan, joined me for lunch yesterday, here at Quail Creek. We had an interesting conversation about her upcoming Workshop at Stockbridge. She will teach, and demonstrate, how to make skin-care products and candles.
After lunch, we went over to the Laurel Creek Health Center to attend a Care- Plan Conference, on Marie’s status at the skilled nursing facility.
Besides Joan and I, the following facility representatives were there:
Toni - Case Manager
Suzanne - Social Worker
Debbie - Dining Services Dietician
Debra - Activities Coordinator.
The Staff presented their comments relating to Marie’s status, and Joan and I mentioned our concerns and suggestions. While saddened, we were not surprised with the gloomy news.
After the half-hour conference, Joan and I walked over to Station 3 to visit Marie, my Wife, and Joan’s Mother. Upon leaving Marie’s room, I experienced my usual sadness, and I fought off tears. Joan was quiet, so I glanced over at her, and she was teary-eyed, apparently experiencing my same emotion. I am sure that the information, that we just heard in the meeting, contributed to our sad feelings.
This was not the first time that I have experienced this sad emotion. It is a usual feeling each time that I leave Marie. While I have tried to define, and understand it, I have come up empty. Our feeling of “loss’ and sadness, flies in the face of Marie getting optimum care at the facility. (I expect this, when we are paying $230 a day for it!)
The paradox is that I see others in the facility - certainly, some worse off than Marie, I don’t relate to them as I do to Marie, of course. It is probably because I am recalling all the happy memories of 65 years of our being together - a very happy and fruitful marriage. I remember how vibrant she used to be, and what a pleasure to be with. But, it doesn’t dull the pain. I want this same setting again. I don’t have the same feeling for the others.
I see them as very fortunate to have such “tender loving care!”
Why am I experiencing this sadness? Probably, because I am facing reality, and haven’t come to grips with it. I want to “fix” her, and I can’t. I am helpless. It is not to be. While many of us are out- living our life expectancy, it can be at a trade-off! More extended years with chronic health problems.
I have read Elisabeth Kubler Ross’ “Death and Dying,” and thought that I had reconciled her Fifth Rule for Grieving - “Acceptance”. Apparently not. Marie’s Neurologist has diagnosed her with Alzheimer Dementia. This is irreversible. While I know this, I still grieve. The MRI of Marie’s brain showed a loss of 50 percent of the cells in her frontal cortex.
On a much lighter note:-
Later yesterday afternoon, Joan and Manny joined me for Bocce Ball and golf. Our Bocce team showed up at three o’clock per schedule, but a “No Show” for our opponents. Their “forfeit” was an easy win for us. Joan and Manny had dropped by to watch me play. So it wasn’t a total loss, I suggested that the three of us play. They agreed. It was their first try at Bocce Ball, and they were very competitive, as they usually are.
After throwing a few balls, we went over to the putting green. We putted around the nine holes, and I enjoyed that, too.
RCL - 10/22/09.
KNOW SOMETHING!
Lately, I am getting a lot of junk mail! Subjects - “Pre-need Funerals” and also “Pre-paid Cremation”. They have got me wondering, if someone knows something that I am not aware of?
RCL
RCL
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
SOCIAL SECURITY
SOCIAL SECURITY
Yesterday, I received a letter from Bob, a friend, who works in the Glen Cove -Safeway store in Vallejo. He wrote that he opted for early retirement Social Security payments. He will continue working. Bob is in a good situation, as he is currently working part-time. He can earn up to $12,000 (2005) dollars a year, before a penalty. After this amount, he will be penalized $1 of benefits for every $2 he earns. His current Benefit is 75% of the Benefit he would have received at age 66, However, the amount of his benefit will be the same over time!
He also mentioned Leo, another friend in the same store, who is 65 and still working. Leo is collecting his full Social Security Benefit, and has no earnings restriction penalty. Had Leo waited until he was 70 before filing, he would have earned additional Social Security credits. Beyond the age of 70, there is no additional increase in Benefits.
Bob’s letter got me reflecting back on my Social Security decision in 1983. I retired on February 1 - prior to being 65 in November. I took a 5% hit from full eligibility, for this nine month shortfall. Even though it was a small decision to take “Early Retirement”, it is was still a decision. Deciding whether to retire early, or work until the legislated-fully vested Social Security age, is one of the biggest financial decisions people will face in their lifetime. It is a “crap-shoot”. There are so many variables and unknowns that you have to consider:-for instance, - will you reach, or exceed, your life expectancy? We are living longer than we were projected to live at birth. This increased longevity has come at a cost - in more chronic -health problems. Also, you have to consider the source for your genes. Were your parents and grandparents long-lived? What was their medical history? Another variable:- How much do you travel on the busy California freeways? Your exposure to all of the goofy - weaving - texting-drivers can be dangerous to your health, and reduce your longevity!
I think that the general consensus is that it is more prudent to file early for Social security - even though you will be receiving smaller monthly payments (these will be “fixed”), for a longer period of time. You are betting that you will beat the Governments’ actuarial by living longer than they calculated. A “no brainer” for taking early Social security payments would be to shelter investments having high returns. You would use your Social Security income rather than cash in your high quality investments. In this recessionary era, this situation would be highly unlikely - unless you have invested in a Ponzi scheme!
I got side-tracked, Back to my decision to retire a little early. The winter season of 1982-3 was particularly rainy. Too, the stress from my commute to San Francisco from Vallejo was bothering me. The travel times to and from, had almost doubled in the 14 years of commuting (1969-1983). Even though I commuted by a charter -Greyhound Bus, it was wearing.
While on the subject of Social Security: - The Social Security Act was signed into law in 1935 by president Franklin Roosevelt. It has been amended through the years. The program is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It is amazing to me, that the fund is still solvent - and is predicted to remain so for many more years - even with the earl “Boomers” joining the ranks. The program is a “Social Insurance”, even though some high-wage earners pay more into the system than they receive back. The system is “pseudo-scientific.” It is based on statistical probabilities (actuarials), and these assumptions change over time. It is based on averages, and no one is “average”. “Life Expectancies” are increasing with each generation. Yet, all-in-all, the Benefits are a God-send to great number of people. For some, it is their major source of income. This is outside of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. While SSI is managed by SSA, the SSI funds are not part of the Social Security taxes.
Good luck, one and all, on your decision making!
RCL
October 20, 2009.
Yesterday, I received a letter from Bob, a friend, who works in the Glen Cove -Safeway store in Vallejo. He wrote that he opted for early retirement Social Security payments. He will continue working. Bob is in a good situation, as he is currently working part-time. He can earn up to $12,000 (2005) dollars a year, before a penalty. After this amount, he will be penalized $1 of benefits for every $2 he earns. His current Benefit is 75% of the Benefit he would have received at age 66, However, the amount of his benefit will be the same over time!
He also mentioned Leo, another friend in the same store, who is 65 and still working. Leo is collecting his full Social Security Benefit, and has no earnings restriction penalty. Had Leo waited until he was 70 before filing, he would have earned additional Social Security credits. Beyond the age of 70, there is no additional increase in Benefits.
Bob’s letter got me reflecting back on my Social Security decision in 1983. I retired on February 1 - prior to being 65 in November. I took a 5% hit from full eligibility, for this nine month shortfall. Even though it was a small decision to take “Early Retirement”, it is was still a decision. Deciding whether to retire early, or work until the legislated-fully vested Social Security age, is one of the biggest financial decisions people will face in their lifetime. It is a “crap-shoot”. There are so many variables and unknowns that you have to consider:-for instance, - will you reach, or exceed, your life expectancy? We are living longer than we were projected to live at birth. This increased longevity has come at a cost - in more chronic -health problems. Also, you have to consider the source for your genes. Were your parents and grandparents long-lived? What was their medical history? Another variable:- How much do you travel on the busy California freeways? Your exposure to all of the goofy - weaving - texting-drivers can be dangerous to your health, and reduce your longevity!
I think that the general consensus is that it is more prudent to file early for Social security - even though you will be receiving smaller monthly payments (these will be “fixed”), for a longer period of time. You are betting that you will beat the Governments’ actuarial by living longer than they calculated. A “no brainer” for taking early Social security payments would be to shelter investments having high returns. You would use your Social Security income rather than cash in your high quality investments. In this recessionary era, this situation would be highly unlikely - unless you have invested in a Ponzi scheme!
I got side-tracked, Back to my decision to retire a little early. The winter season of 1982-3 was particularly rainy. Too, the stress from my commute to San Francisco from Vallejo was bothering me. The travel times to and from, had almost doubled in the 14 years of commuting (1969-1983). Even though I commuted by a charter -Greyhound Bus, it was wearing.
While on the subject of Social Security: - The Social Security Act was signed into law in 1935 by president Franklin Roosevelt. It has been amended through the years. The program is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It is amazing to me, that the fund is still solvent - and is predicted to remain so for many more years - even with the earl “Boomers” joining the ranks. The program is a “Social Insurance”, even though some high-wage earners pay more into the system than they receive back. The system is “pseudo-scientific.” It is based on statistical probabilities (actuarials), and these assumptions change over time. It is based on averages, and no one is “average”. “Life Expectancies” are increasing with each generation. Yet, all-in-all, the Benefits are a God-send to great number of people. For some, it is their major source of income. This is outside of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. While SSI is managed by SSA, the SSI funds are not part of the Social Security taxes.
Good luck, one and all, on your decision making!
RCL
October 20, 2009.
Monday, October 19, 2009
BRIDGE GAME
BRIDGE GAME
I played bridge last Wednesday (October 14). I am enjoying playing bridge, even though I don’t seem to get many good hands. One needs a few good cards to even play defense. I know that the “law of averages” kicks in, but am wondering over what time span?
You can’t use a bidding system because you have a different partner at each of the three tables. I guess it could be done, but you would need tremendous recall, when you might play with any of twenty different people, who might have various bidding conventions.
We do have some interesting conversations though. At one table, George was my partner, I like him as a person, and I enjoy him as a partner. He is an interesting guy. I would like to know more about his background. When George bids, he’s inconsistent. He likes to “wing it”. (Sometimes, it works out.) You still don’t know if his bid describes his holdings. If his partnership goes “set”, and his partner questions his bidding, he answers, “I wanted to tell you what cards I had!” He likes to cross-trump (who doesn’t?), and the corollary, he doesn’t like “No Trump” bids. He gets confused as to “whose lead?”; “whose trick?” and “whose deal?” But, George is 95! These memory lapses aren’t peculiar to George, for we all utter these words at various times! He still drives, and is very generous in offering people rides. He returned recently from a ten day cruise to Alaska!
George is living across the street in the Paradise Valley - Independent Living complex. He looked at Quail Creek, an Assisted Living facility (where I live), but it didn’t take him long to nix the idea of changing his residence. He is getting twice the space for half of the Q.C. monthly fee. Too, he insists on someone making his bed each day - probably a throwback to his military experience, when he was “in charge” of making his bed!
George goes out for breakfast each morning. He is a connoisseur on where to eat breakfast. He said that he gets up early and doesn’t want to wait for the Café’ to open.
At the third, and last table, we had an interesting conversation. Dorothy mentioned that Betty was off on her 22 day cruise aboard the Queen Mary 2 ($11,000!). George mentioned that he had taken a cruise on it too. He said that They boarded it At Fort Lauderdale, and sailed around Cape Horn to San Francisco - 34 days! He said that there were 3,000 passengers and a crew of 2,000!
Then, Jim said that he was aboard the original Queen Mary during WWII, when it had been converted to a troop carrier - with 15,000 men aboard! He was the purser - in charge of the $85,000 “petty cash” fund - primarily for per diem - $5/day/man. Jim mentioned that the government was tight with money. I guess so!
An aside: Jim’s tale got me to thinking about my experience on a Troop Ship in 1943. I was returning to the States after flying 50 missions as a bombardier on a B-17 Flying fortress. The ship was “The Empress of Scotland” before the troop-ship conversion. I caught the ship in Casablanca. We spent seven days zigzagging every so often - just short of the time that It would take for a German U-Boat to aim and fire a torpedo at us. (We were unescorted). We could outrun the subs with our 30 knots. There were twelve of us officers in the former stateroom. We were served meals in the dining room - which was very nice. Even with the fast speed, due to changing course so many times, it took us eight days to reach Newport News.
Then, Dorothy mentioned that her brother won $30,000 playing poker on a troop ship during the war, She recalled a childhood memory:- She and her brother would visit a neighboring farm. They liked to help with the chores - like picking vegetables, gathering eggs and so forth. The farmer agreed to teach them how to farm. One day when they returned home, her brother was carrying a chicken. When they arrived home, their mother asked him where he got the chicken? Her brother told his mother, “It followed him home!”
We were the last of the three tables to finish for the day. I wonder why?
RCL - 10/17/09.
I played bridge last Wednesday (October 14). I am enjoying playing bridge, even though I don’t seem to get many good hands. One needs a few good cards to even play defense. I know that the “law of averages” kicks in, but am wondering over what time span?
You can’t use a bidding system because you have a different partner at each of the three tables. I guess it could be done, but you would need tremendous recall, when you might play with any of twenty different people, who might have various bidding conventions.
We do have some interesting conversations though. At one table, George was my partner, I like him as a person, and I enjoy him as a partner. He is an interesting guy. I would like to know more about his background. When George bids, he’s inconsistent. He likes to “wing it”. (Sometimes, it works out.) You still don’t know if his bid describes his holdings. If his partnership goes “set”, and his partner questions his bidding, he answers, “I wanted to tell you what cards I had!” He likes to cross-trump (who doesn’t?), and the corollary, he doesn’t like “No Trump” bids. He gets confused as to “whose lead?”; “whose trick?” and “whose deal?” But, George is 95! These memory lapses aren’t peculiar to George, for we all utter these words at various times! He still drives, and is very generous in offering people rides. He returned recently from a ten day cruise to Alaska!
George is living across the street in the Paradise Valley - Independent Living complex. He looked at Quail Creek, an Assisted Living facility (where I live), but it didn’t take him long to nix the idea of changing his residence. He is getting twice the space for half of the Q.C. monthly fee. Too, he insists on someone making his bed each day - probably a throwback to his military experience, when he was “in charge” of making his bed!
George goes out for breakfast each morning. He is a connoisseur on where to eat breakfast. He said that he gets up early and doesn’t want to wait for the Café’ to open.
At the third, and last table, we had an interesting conversation. Dorothy mentioned that Betty was off on her 22 day cruise aboard the Queen Mary 2 ($11,000!). George mentioned that he had taken a cruise on it too. He said that They boarded it At Fort Lauderdale, and sailed around Cape Horn to San Francisco - 34 days! He said that there were 3,000 passengers and a crew of 2,000!
Then, Jim said that he was aboard the original Queen Mary during WWII, when it had been converted to a troop carrier - with 15,000 men aboard! He was the purser - in charge of the $85,000 “petty cash” fund - primarily for per diem - $5/day/man. Jim mentioned that the government was tight with money. I guess so!
An aside: Jim’s tale got me to thinking about my experience on a Troop Ship in 1943. I was returning to the States after flying 50 missions as a bombardier on a B-17 Flying fortress. The ship was “The Empress of Scotland” before the troop-ship conversion. I caught the ship in Casablanca. We spent seven days zigzagging every so often - just short of the time that It would take for a German U-Boat to aim and fire a torpedo at us. (We were unescorted). We could outrun the subs with our 30 knots. There were twelve of us officers in the former stateroom. We were served meals in the dining room - which was very nice. Even with the fast speed, due to changing course so many times, it took us eight days to reach Newport News.
Then, Dorothy mentioned that her brother won $30,000 playing poker on a troop ship during the war, She recalled a childhood memory:- She and her brother would visit a neighboring farm. They liked to help with the chores - like picking vegetables, gathering eggs and so forth. The farmer agreed to teach them how to farm. One day when they returned home, her brother was carrying a chicken. When they arrived home, their mother asked him where he got the chicken? Her brother told his mother, “It followed him home!”
We were the last of the three tables to finish for the day. I wonder why?
RCL - 10/17/09.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
TOURO UNIVERSITY
TOURO UNIVERSITY
I had an interesting experience today. Bunny, a friend of Reva’s, and a teacher at Touro University in Vallejo, asked me if students of hers could interview me, and do a physical exam. I agreed, feeling that if I could contribute anything to the medical field, I was certainly willing to do so.
Locally, Touro University has two campuses on Mare Island and one in Vallejo. The school specializes in the medical field - a College of Osteopathic Medicine; a College of Health Sciences and a College of Education.
Bunny introduced me to my student - interviewers, Brian and Kevin, and we were off to our Quail Creek first floor Family Room. I enjoyed their youthful enthusiasm and dedication to the protocol that they had prepared. I respect them for treating me the same demeanor that they would show with a much younger patient. I feel honored to be an interviewee.
I admire them for choosing a field of work where there will be much need - with 70 million “Boomers” in the pipeline for medical care. Too, it is a sacrifice - a very costly career, with many years of difficult study.
Their medical interrogation was a rewarding experience. (I particularly liked his question, “Are you sexually active?”). My recalling of my medical history reminded me of what a wonderful “being” the human body is. I am always amazed, by what little concern for their health, that “abusers” have.
Their physical check-up reminded me that it isn’t too late to pay attention to what is going on in my body. The session lasted longer than I expected - two and a half hours! But it was time well spent, and I am glad that I had the experience.
I wish Brian and Kevin well in their future careers. The world will be a better place with their contributions.
Ray L’Amoreaux
October 15, 2009.
I had an interesting experience today. Bunny, a friend of Reva’s, and a teacher at Touro University in Vallejo, asked me if students of hers could interview me, and do a physical exam. I agreed, feeling that if I could contribute anything to the medical field, I was certainly willing to do so.
Locally, Touro University has two campuses on Mare Island and one in Vallejo. The school specializes in the medical field - a College of Osteopathic Medicine; a College of Health Sciences and a College of Education.
Bunny introduced me to my student - interviewers, Brian and Kevin, and we were off to our Quail Creek first floor Family Room. I enjoyed their youthful enthusiasm and dedication to the protocol that they had prepared. I respect them for treating me the same demeanor that they would show with a much younger patient. I feel honored to be an interviewee.
I admire them for choosing a field of work where there will be much need - with 70 million “Boomers” in the pipeline for medical care. Too, it is a sacrifice - a very costly career, with many years of difficult study.
Their medical interrogation was a rewarding experience. (I particularly liked his question, “Are you sexually active?”). My recalling of my medical history reminded me of what a wonderful “being” the human body is. I am always amazed, by what little concern for their health, that “abusers” have.
Their physical check-up reminded me that it isn’t too late to pay attention to what is going on in my body. The session lasted longer than I expected - two and a half hours! But it was time well spent, and I am glad that I had the experience.
I wish Brian and Kevin well in their future careers. The world will be a better place with their contributions.
Ray L’Amoreaux
October 15, 2009.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
SAN DIEGO
SAN DIEGO
It is Thursday, September 17, 2009, and I am headed down to San Diego to attend the wedding of my oldest grand daughter, Melissa, and her fiancé` Ryan. Mary and Greg have picked up Sue, and they swing by Quail Creek and get me. Greg loads my suit case, and carry-on, into the spacious trunk of his Toyota, and we are off to the Sacramento Airport. I am sure that they are leaving sooner than they do when I’m not with them. They know how nervous I am about catching my flight. I missed a flight once when traveling on business. I promised myself that I would never miss another one. I didn’t want to go through that helpless feeling again. My theory is - “I’d rather sit “relaxed” at the airport than sit “tensed” at home, waiting to leave.
We arrive in plenty of time and I am relieved. Greg parked the car when while we joined the Disney-lie snake line to check in with our luggage. It took us less than an hour to check in and go through the Security Check. I had a new experience. This is my introduction to the Sacramento Airport. The Southwest “coordinator” checked me out on the computer, at the counter, to get my “boarding pass”. Nice to learn something new at this late stage! We stopped in the snack area as we had plenty of time until boarding.
Sue got me a pre-boarding pass. She was allowed to board with me. It worked out well, because she was able to “hold” two seats for Mary and Greg (no reserved seating on Southwest. They board by A, B and C groups. Your assignment is “first come first served”, when obtaining the boarding passes.
It was a scenic flight down - first over land and then along the coast into San Diego. We had a good view of Hetch-Hetchy reservoir - the source of San Francisco’s water supply, It is located at the North end of Yosemite Park. There was a big battle before it was constructed. Big business won over the environmentalists. John Muir must still be shaking his fist on High!
After picking up our luggage at the Southwest carousel, we took the Hertz shuttle to their office off -airport. The car renters used to be in the terminals, with the cars parked just outside. Check-in was very convenient and fast. Cheaper off-site. Let the customer scramble! Although it is nice of them to provide the shuttle bus!
Sue, Greg and I cooled our heels outside, across the street from the Hertz check-in office. Mary was inside, in line, inching up to the counter for an hour, for the privilege of renting one of their vehicles. She finally was awarded a four-door black Honda. While standing outside, Greg spotted Steadman - Oprah’s sidekick. He was boarding (hurriedly) a Hertz shuttle (heading back to Chicago?) Greg mentioned it. Sue really got excited! She wanted to run over and get his auto graph! Greg and I talked her out of it. He was probably the real thing, because Joan and Manny saw him in bound the day before, after they arrived in San Diego.
I was surprised at the roomy trunk of the Honda. Greg skillfully fit all of our luggage in, and still could close the trunk without leaning on the door. Greg drove us to the waterfront where we had a nice lunch at the Fish Market. I was really impressed with the Bob Hope sculptures that Greg pointed out in front of the restaurant.
After lunch, Greg drove us to the Radisson Hotel on the North end of San Diego. (11520 West Bernardo Court). Sue and I shared Room 216. I really enjoyed our three night stay there. There was a restaurant below us, so it was very convenient. It was strange to see Joan and Manny, Melissa, Michelle and Brittney in a setting different than in Fairfield.
This evening, Thursday, Ryan’s stepmother, Jeannette and dad, Bill, graciously hosted the Rehearsal Dinner at Romano’s Macaroni Grill. So, I got to meet them, and Ryan’s mom, Janice, and his brother, Andy. I also got to meet Ryan’s relatives and friends. Some of the relatives came from Rochester, New York - including Janice’s mother (Ryan’s grandmother), Angie. I enjoyed a very pleasant evening.
On Friday, Greg was very gracious in driving us all over the San Diego area - including beautiful La Jolla, where his sister Flo lives. He is very familiar with the local area and was an excellent Tour Guide! I was really impressed with the nice beaches, and the beautiful homes.
Thanks to cell phones, we all - Mary, Greg, Sue, Joan. Manny, Melissa, Michelle and Brittney and I, were able to meet up at the Urbane Café’ for lunch. Joan and Manny treated all of us! It was very nice of them, and I enjoyed sharing lunch.
Melissa sat next to me, and shared the philosophy on the inside of her Honest Ade - Orange Mango drink - label. - “The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade, you do not expect to sit” - Nelson Henderson. We volunteered on what exactly we thought the quote meant.
Friday evening, the family ate in the hotel. Mary and Greg “treated.” It was a very enjoyable evening.
Saturday was a very busy “flower day.” Everyone (but me) pitched in and took over one of the rooms. They made the flower arrangements and the
button Aires and corsages. They did a professional job - consuming most of the day,
The Wedding took place at the Bernardo Winery not too far from the hotel. Melissa and Ryan made all the arrangements, and they did a very thorough and professional job. The ceremony took place at five in the afternoon, and was held outside in a very nice garden setting. Being late afternoon, it had cooled off a little.
Joy officiated, and performed an interesting and spiritual ceremony. Manny escorted Melissa, and I escorted Joan. Melissa’s sisters. Michelle and Brittney were bridesmaids. Tory, Ryan’s lifelong friend and his brother Andy were Groomsmen. (Tory’s mother, and Ryan’s mother, delivered their sons at about the same time.) After a delicious dinner and Wedding Cake, there was dancing.
Joan drove Sue and I to the San Diego Airport on Sunday for our return flight to Sacramento. I sure appreciated her help. We checked our suitcases inside, and went through Security. While waiting for Flight 1493 to board, Sue got a sandwich, which we split. While sitting there, I noticed this older man walking by. He was limping, and I wondered if the heavy weight of the bag was causing it. Sue and I pre-boarded. Soon, the old guy came hobbling on board and stopped at the row ahead of us. He had the gall to ask Sue to put his heavy bag up in the bin. He said that he had a bad back! (Why didn’t the dummy check it?) I told Sue to forget it - or she would have a bad back. It takes all kinds. No wonder older people are stereotyped!
The flight back to Sacramento was uneventful. Walking in the jet way, I belatedly wondered what altitude we were flying. She went back and asked the pilot, and he said 38,000 feet (- odd altitude Southbound, and even Northbound.).Tom was very thoughtful, an met us at the Southwest “Arrival” area. This was my first time to see the very nice Sacramento Airport.
RCL - 10/10/09.
It is Thursday, September 17, 2009, and I am headed down to San Diego to attend the wedding of my oldest grand daughter, Melissa, and her fiancé` Ryan. Mary and Greg have picked up Sue, and they swing by Quail Creek and get me. Greg loads my suit case, and carry-on, into the spacious trunk of his Toyota, and we are off to the Sacramento Airport. I am sure that they are leaving sooner than they do when I’m not with them. They know how nervous I am about catching my flight. I missed a flight once when traveling on business. I promised myself that I would never miss another one. I didn’t want to go through that helpless feeling again. My theory is - “I’d rather sit “relaxed” at the airport than sit “tensed” at home, waiting to leave.
We arrive in plenty of time and I am relieved. Greg parked the car when while we joined the Disney-lie snake line to check in with our luggage. It took us less than an hour to check in and go through the Security Check. I had a new experience. This is my introduction to the Sacramento Airport. The Southwest “coordinator” checked me out on the computer, at the counter, to get my “boarding pass”. Nice to learn something new at this late stage! We stopped in the snack area as we had plenty of time until boarding.
Sue got me a pre-boarding pass. She was allowed to board with me. It worked out well, because she was able to “hold” two seats for Mary and Greg (no reserved seating on Southwest. They board by A, B and C groups. Your assignment is “first come first served”, when obtaining the boarding passes.
It was a scenic flight down - first over land and then along the coast into San Diego. We had a good view of Hetch-Hetchy reservoir - the source of San Francisco’s water supply, It is located at the North end of Yosemite Park. There was a big battle before it was constructed. Big business won over the environmentalists. John Muir must still be shaking his fist on High!
After picking up our luggage at the Southwest carousel, we took the Hertz shuttle to their office off -airport. The car renters used to be in the terminals, with the cars parked just outside. Check-in was very convenient and fast. Cheaper off-site. Let the customer scramble! Although it is nice of them to provide the shuttle bus!
Sue, Greg and I cooled our heels outside, across the street from the Hertz check-in office. Mary was inside, in line, inching up to the counter for an hour, for the privilege of renting one of their vehicles. She finally was awarded a four-door black Honda. While standing outside, Greg spotted Steadman - Oprah’s sidekick. He was boarding (hurriedly) a Hertz shuttle (heading back to Chicago?) Greg mentioned it. Sue really got excited! She wanted to run over and get his auto graph! Greg and I talked her out of it. He was probably the real thing, because Joan and Manny saw him in bound the day before, after they arrived in San Diego.
I was surprised at the roomy trunk of the Honda. Greg skillfully fit all of our luggage in, and still could close the trunk without leaning on the door. Greg drove us to the waterfront where we had a nice lunch at the Fish Market. I was really impressed with the Bob Hope sculptures that Greg pointed out in front of the restaurant.
After lunch, Greg drove us to the Radisson Hotel on the North end of San Diego. (11520 West Bernardo Court). Sue and I shared Room 216. I really enjoyed our three night stay there. There was a restaurant below us, so it was very convenient. It was strange to see Joan and Manny, Melissa, Michelle and Brittney in a setting different than in Fairfield.
This evening, Thursday, Ryan’s stepmother, Jeannette and dad, Bill, graciously hosted the Rehearsal Dinner at Romano’s Macaroni Grill. So, I got to meet them, and Ryan’s mom, Janice, and his brother, Andy. I also got to meet Ryan’s relatives and friends. Some of the relatives came from Rochester, New York - including Janice’s mother (Ryan’s grandmother), Angie. I enjoyed a very pleasant evening.
On Friday, Greg was very gracious in driving us all over the San Diego area - including beautiful La Jolla, where his sister Flo lives. He is very familiar with the local area and was an excellent Tour Guide! I was really impressed with the nice beaches, and the beautiful homes.
Thanks to cell phones, we all - Mary, Greg, Sue, Joan. Manny, Melissa, Michelle and Brittney and I, were able to meet up at the Urbane Café’ for lunch. Joan and Manny treated all of us! It was very nice of them, and I enjoyed sharing lunch.
Melissa sat next to me, and shared the philosophy on the inside of her Honest Ade - Orange Mango drink - label. - “The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade, you do not expect to sit” - Nelson Henderson. We volunteered on what exactly we thought the quote meant.
Friday evening, the family ate in the hotel. Mary and Greg “treated.” It was a very enjoyable evening.
Saturday was a very busy “flower day.” Everyone (but me) pitched in and took over one of the rooms. They made the flower arrangements and the
button Aires and corsages. They did a professional job - consuming most of the day,
The Wedding took place at the Bernardo Winery not too far from the hotel. Melissa and Ryan made all the arrangements, and they did a very thorough and professional job. The ceremony took place at five in the afternoon, and was held outside in a very nice garden setting. Being late afternoon, it had cooled off a little.
Joy officiated, and performed an interesting and spiritual ceremony. Manny escorted Melissa, and I escorted Joan. Melissa’s sisters. Michelle and Brittney were bridesmaids. Tory, Ryan’s lifelong friend and his brother Andy were Groomsmen. (Tory’s mother, and Ryan’s mother, delivered their sons at about the same time.) After a delicious dinner and Wedding Cake, there was dancing.
Joan drove Sue and I to the San Diego Airport on Sunday for our return flight to Sacramento. I sure appreciated her help. We checked our suitcases inside, and went through Security. While waiting for Flight 1493 to board, Sue got a sandwich, which we split. While sitting there, I noticed this older man walking by. He was limping, and I wondered if the heavy weight of the bag was causing it. Sue and I pre-boarded. Soon, the old guy came hobbling on board and stopped at the row ahead of us. He had the gall to ask Sue to put his heavy bag up in the bin. He said that he had a bad back! (Why didn’t the dummy check it?) I told Sue to forget it - or she would have a bad back. It takes all kinds. No wonder older people are stereotyped!
The flight back to Sacramento was uneventful. Walking in the jet way, I belatedly wondered what altitude we were flying. She went back and asked the pilot, and he said 38,000 feet (- odd altitude Southbound, and even Northbound.).Tom was very thoughtful, an met us at the Southwest “Arrival” area. This was my first time to see the very nice Sacramento Airport.
RCL - 10/10/09.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
BETTER or WORSE?
BETTER or WORSE?
It is raining hard today! I am thankful. We need the water. It hasn’t rained here for six months! The reservoirs need to be re-supplied! It is also very windy! While the area is usually windy - 10-20 knot breezes - blowing in from the Golden Gate - up through our Delta region. - gusts today, on the three main bridges in the area, are forecast to peak between 40 and 60 mph. I am giving the weather report because it leads in to my subject matter.
I have been visiting my wife, Marie, once a day. This is no big deal because she is only a five minute walk away. For many months, I tried seeing her twice a day. This got to be a little “much” for both of us. Since cutting the visits down, she seems to be happier to see me, and I am glad to see her.
In deciding whether to forego my visit today, because of the foul weather, I had a flash back to nearly 65 years ago. When I answered “…….for better, or worse,…..”, with “Yes”, I never thought much about that which I was agreeing. Nor, have I ever analyzed my “agreement” since. But, today. I wondered if “worse” included “bad weather?” What say you?
RCL - 10/13/09.
It is raining hard today! I am thankful. We need the water. It hasn’t rained here for six months! The reservoirs need to be re-supplied! It is also very windy! While the area is usually windy - 10-20 knot breezes - blowing in from the Golden Gate - up through our Delta region. - gusts today, on the three main bridges in the area, are forecast to peak between 40 and 60 mph. I am giving the weather report because it leads in to my subject matter.
I have been visiting my wife, Marie, once a day. This is no big deal because she is only a five minute walk away. For many months, I tried seeing her twice a day. This got to be a little “much” for both of us. Since cutting the visits down, she seems to be happier to see me, and I am glad to see her.
In deciding whether to forego my visit today, because of the foul weather, I had a flash back to nearly 65 years ago. When I answered “…….for better, or worse,…..”, with “Yes”, I never thought much about that which I was agreeing. Nor, have I ever analyzed my “agreement” since. But, today. I wondered if “worse” included “bad weather?” What say you?
RCL - 10/13/09.
Monday, October 12, 2009
COLUMBUS DAY
COLUMBUS DAY
Today is October 12, 2009 - Columbus Day. Christopher Columbus arrived in the Americas on October 12, 1492 - 517 years ago! October 12 became a federal holiday in 1934. In 1971, the legal holiday was assigned to the second Monday in October - the same day that Canada celebrates their Thanksgiving. The day is not a legal holiday in Hawaii, Nevada and South Dakota. To honor the day - and Columbus - I stood our flag in our hall way/entrance way.
Today, Columbus Day is quite controversial. While the Italian-Americans “honor” the day, our Native Americans do not. Generally, the day is losing it’s popularity. There is a “push” to do away with it, and trade the Holiday for the Friday after Thanksgiving, New Year’s Eve or such other time. According to an article in the Wall Street Journal, 22 states don’t give their employees the day off. Let the parades begin!
I took a shower this morning after breakfast. The showers here at Quail Creek are very interesting to say the least. The shower head is attached to flexible tubing. I chose not to have a shower curtain. But my decision puts a lot of pressure on me to keep the manual spray within the confine of the tile walls. Just in case, I mis-spray, I place a large bath towel on the floor next to the base of the shower. I have become pretty skilled in the past year and a half. I would be comfortable with taking a shower sans towel.
This afternoon, I played bridge. I contributed my $1 to the pot. During play, someone handed me a dollar. So it was a “wash.” The dollar was my “reward” for being “booby’ last week. (the “prize” is the return of your dollar- entrance fee.)We had three tables - 12 players. I ended the day playing at a table with three other men! This is the first time that has happened. There were five men in all today, and seven women playing. The quality of play is about the same, between the genders.
A good thing we are not scheduled to play Bocce tomorrow. The weatherman is predicting lots of rain (2-3 inches - not much compared to the Philippines and Texas, lately). The weather specialists are predicting another dry winter for us. If it happens, it will be the third one in a row. With an estimated population of 38 million people in California, someone had better get “cracking” on nuclear de-salination of the nearby Pacific. In 1950, a limited supply of fresh water was supposed to limit the population growth in California to twenty million people. But, in the ensuing 50 years, the population has almost doubled.
I debated whether to watch the Phillies and Rockies play baseball tonight, or watch Monday Night Football, between Miami and the New York Jets. I ended up “blogging” instead.
RCL - 10/12/09.
Today is October 12, 2009 - Columbus Day. Christopher Columbus arrived in the Americas on October 12, 1492 - 517 years ago! October 12 became a federal holiday in 1934. In 1971, the legal holiday was assigned to the second Monday in October - the same day that Canada celebrates their Thanksgiving. The day is not a legal holiday in Hawaii, Nevada and South Dakota. To honor the day - and Columbus - I stood our flag in our hall way/entrance way.
Today, Columbus Day is quite controversial. While the Italian-Americans “honor” the day, our Native Americans do not. Generally, the day is losing it’s popularity. There is a “push” to do away with it, and trade the Holiday for the Friday after Thanksgiving, New Year’s Eve or such other time. According to an article in the Wall Street Journal, 22 states don’t give their employees the day off. Let the parades begin!
I took a shower this morning after breakfast. The showers here at Quail Creek are very interesting to say the least. The shower head is attached to flexible tubing. I chose not to have a shower curtain. But my decision puts a lot of pressure on me to keep the manual spray within the confine of the tile walls. Just in case, I mis-spray, I place a large bath towel on the floor next to the base of the shower. I have become pretty skilled in the past year and a half. I would be comfortable with taking a shower sans towel.
This afternoon, I played bridge. I contributed my $1 to the pot. During play, someone handed me a dollar. So it was a “wash.” The dollar was my “reward” for being “booby’ last week. (the “prize” is the return of your dollar- entrance fee.)We had three tables - 12 players. I ended the day playing at a table with three other men! This is the first time that has happened. There were five men in all today, and seven women playing. The quality of play is about the same, between the genders.
A good thing we are not scheduled to play Bocce tomorrow. The weatherman is predicting lots of rain (2-3 inches - not much compared to the Philippines and Texas, lately). The weather specialists are predicting another dry winter for us. If it happens, it will be the third one in a row. With an estimated population of 38 million people in California, someone had better get “cracking” on nuclear de-salination of the nearby Pacific. In 1950, a limited supply of fresh water was supposed to limit the population growth in California to twenty million people. But, in the ensuing 50 years, the population has almost doubled.
I debated whether to watch the Phillies and Rockies play baseball tonight, or watch Monday Night Football, between Miami and the New York Jets. I ended up “blogging” instead.
RCL - 10/12/09.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
DISNEY MUSEUM
Disney Museum
Today is Wednesday, October 6, 2009. We are heading for the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco. Besides Kelli and Tony, there are six residents, and a staff CNA on the Quail Creek mini bus. We depart at 9:30. It is a great day for a ride to a great city!
The evergreen trees around here certainly look healthy. They are a deep green color. An orange Syar -cement truck is unloading concrete at the new Michael Campos Drive, Three other trucks are standing by waiting to dump their loads. I notice the trucks because my son-in-law Tom drives for Syar. We were passing too fast to check if I saw him, so just waved as we passed by, This road will be very nice, when it is completed. It is a short cut to get from the freeway to Paradise Valley.
It’s a nice day for an “outing”. It is a cool crisp morning, with the forecasted temperature running up to 78 degrees this afternoon. We can expect cooler weather in San Francisco - especially in the area of the Golden Gate bridge. It is “smoggy” in the valleys.
The California Highway Patrol is busy early today. We passed three different “Stops” along the way to Vallejo (15 miles). There are quite a few trucks in the Westbound -Weigh & Inspect Station - a good sign. A highway sign reads: Vallejo - 14
San Francisco - 44
From the top of Hunter Hill, above Vallejo, I get a good view of Six Flags Park and Mt. Tamalpaius in Marin County some 40 miles away. The silent roller coaster structures stand out. They look lonely with the Six Flags Park closed. It seems strange that I don’t see any golfers on the Par 3 nine hole golf course in Vallejo. The course sits on the infield of the Fairgrounds race track. Perhaps it has been closed , the City of Vallejo having declared bankruptcy. We are passing the California Maritime Academy. It has been enlarged quite a bit since it became part of the California State College system a few years ago. A Chevron Station alongside the freeway is advertising gas at $3.18.
A Chrysler convertible - top down - charges on to the freeway. Oh nostalgia! My thoughts go back to my beautiful 1941 Chevrolet convertible - maroon - black top - red leather upholstery - white side walls, with rear fender skirts! What a beauty!
There are a lot of sound walls along the freeway. I remember when they were built - not that long ago. Yet, long enough so that they are covered with climbing vines. Certainly a lot better that the graffiti! The City is very hazy when viewed from the Golden Gate Fields area. I still miss the wooden sculptures in the mud flats, adjacent to the Bay Bridge area.
The water of the Bay is very clean and blue now. It didn’t used to be that way. Tony by-passes long lines of cars, waiting to pay their bridge tolls, by taking a Ride Pool/ Bus only express lane. He probably saved us ten minutes! The Bay Bridge has been a workhorse for more than 70 tears! 40 million toll payers used the bridge last year - paying $43 million in tolls! I would think that the State Auditor would be interested in these statistics. It averages just over a dollar a vehicle. How can that be with $4 tolls and multiple- axle vehicles even paying higher tolls? The new East Span, which will be complete in 2013 will cost over an estimated six BILLION dollars! Go figure!
I get the usual beautiful panoramic view of San Francisco from the upper deck of the bridge. The Larkspur ferry is just leaving the Ferry Building dock.
Tony drives across the downtown streets, from Market to Lombard Streets, using Mission and Van Ness. He takes a left on to Lombard Street. This is a very interesting street! “A Doggie Day Care Center”; (I’ve seen everything now!); A Motor Inn squeezed between two buildings; “Home Plate” - Breakfasts; a “Pet Hospital”; “Marina Motel”; apartment buildings and houses, with garages underneath. I wonder how many of these people have cars? And, if they do - and garage them - how do they ever get their car in, and out of the garage, with the traffic on this busy street? We pass the “Palace of Fine Arts” building, which houses the “Exploratorium“.
We pass close to Fort Scott - a Coast Artillery unit during WWII. I thought of Ray Odum, and his wife, Jean. I usually eat at the same table with them. During our meals, they often speak of Fort Scott,. Ray was stationed there when they met in San Francisco. I almost feel like I was stationed at Fort Scott, too. But, it was an Army base. Jean and Ray are a very interesting couple. They will be married for 69 years on November 23! Their married life was similar to Marie’s and mine. They met on a blind date in San Francisco in 1940. Ray was transferred to Ft. Lewis (WA) to join a Coast artillery unit. After about a seven month courtship, they got married at Fort Lewis. She was 19 and Ray was 26. In ten days, his unit shipped out to Anchorage. Ray asked if his “bride” could join him? He was told that if he could find quarters for her, she could join him. He found a room right away, and sent for her. Before her arrival, he found a house. She often complains about cooking on the coal stove and heating the house with a pot-belly stove.
We pass near Crissy Field, which is now an environmental education center. Tony turns in to the Presidio area. This is a huge area - almost 1500 acres. This is two and a third square miles! (Tony could have used the GPS system to locate the Museum building). We arrived at the Museum at 11:00.
The Presidio is prime property! (Uncle Sam is very good at “Selection”). The commercial interests would have liked to have gotten their hands on this piece of real estate! The National Park Service controls the area, and manages 20 percent, (the coastal area)while The Presidio Trust manages the other 80 percent interior area. Congress mandated that the Presidio Trust be self sufficient by 2013. The Presidio is a National Historic Landmark,
George Lucas’ has a new facility, (Digital Arts Center), located in a portion of the former Letterman Hospital. This facility replaces his Lucas Arts headquarters in San Rafael.
They did a great job in restoring and converting an attractive long red brick building to house the new “Walt Disney Family Museum”. Today, is only the seventh day of operation. This is a huge facility. There are ten permanent galleries spread out over the First and Second Floors. There is a Theatre and Learning Center on the Lower Level. They also have a small Café and Store on the First Floor. Admission to the Museum is $20 for Adults ($15 for Seniors). There is an additional $10 charge for admission to the Theatre on the Lower Level.
The ten permanent Galleries are arranged in Chronological order following Walt Disney’s life and career. You start out viewing exhibits of Disney’s early childhood and early years. Then, the Galleries follow his career through to the end of his life on December 15, 1966 - from drawing cartoons, to the production of animations for television and the theatre.
My favorite exhibit was that of “Disneyland”, a very large model of the facility, including a model railroad running around the perimeter of the Park. Disneyland was opened to the public on July 18, 1955.
While Walt was in on the vision and planning of Disney World and Epcot Center, he died before they were built and operational. Disneyworld opened in Orlando on October 1, 1971, with the adjoining Epcot Center opening on October 1, 1982.
I spent over an hour walking, hurriedly, through all of the Exhibits. But, I barely scratched the surface. I read very little of the voluminous written material, used only a very few of the listening devices and watching the videos or I would need another couple of sessions to take in all of it. It was quite a thrilling surprise when - between Exhibit areas - directly ahead of me was a spectacular view of the Golden Gate Bridge - through a huge glassed area! It was a fantastic experience.
We had lunch together in the café‘. Then,- a quick trip through the Museum Store, and we left for Fairfield at 1:45.
Tony decided to go back by a different route, which made our ride that much more enjoyable. We departed the Presidio on to Doyle Drive which led us on to the Golden gate Bridge. What a surprise! The South Tower area was socked in. It was eerie to see the oncoming cars with their headlights on. Visibility was probably down to 50 yards! I was surprised to see so many walkers and bicyclists on the bridge.
It was interesting - the North Tower of the bridge was in the clear. At the “Lookout” at one o’clock above, was a long line of people - with camera at the ready - either taking pictures of the bridge and/or the San Francisco skyline. We enter the Waldo Tunnel with the rainbow archway. What a spectacular bird’s eye view of Sausalito down below. It is really a nice city.
Now, I have a good close-up view of Mt.Tam. There is a seaplane docked in Tiburon. Now, we are passing a “Pumpkin Patch” - Halloween’ is not far away! We are passing through Corte Madera. We are still traveling on 101N. We pass by Larkspur, and it’s Ferry Terminal. We are nearing San Rafael and the Exit to San Quentin. A little further and I can see one of their large buildings.
We are passing through San Rafael. There are a Infiniti and a BMW dealer to the right. This is Marin County! We pas the Marin County Civic Center and the County Fairgrounds. A roadside sign - “Hamilton Field”. This always bring back a strong memory. I went overseas from here in 1945 in a C-54 troop carrier. I ended up with the 345th Bomb group flying B-25’s off Ie Shima - five miles off Okinawa - in the Ryukus Islands.
We leave Highway 101, and merge on to Highway 37. We pass Black Point where they used to hold the Shakespearean festivals. It must be high tide as the slough is lapping at the side of the road. We are now back in Solano County. I see a heron wading in the water alongside.
We pass the intersection of 37 and 121. A left turn will take you past the popular Infineon Raceway, where they hold the NASCAR races.
As we approach Mare Island the water along side is red! Strange! Could there still be some contamination from war usage of the base? As we climb the bridge over the Napa River, the northern docks are empty. Not too many years ago, there were a few submarines berthed there - either waiting to be repaired, or in storage.
We arrive back at Quail Creek at 3:00. Tony tells me that our trip covered 117 miles. It was a long and tiring day, but most worthwhile. I would recommend a visit to the Disney Museum.
RCL - 10/8/09.
Today is Wednesday, October 6, 2009. We are heading for the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco. Besides Kelli and Tony, there are six residents, and a staff CNA on the Quail Creek mini bus. We depart at 9:30. It is a great day for a ride to a great city!
The evergreen trees around here certainly look healthy. They are a deep green color. An orange Syar -cement truck is unloading concrete at the new Michael Campos Drive, Three other trucks are standing by waiting to dump their loads. I notice the trucks because my son-in-law Tom drives for Syar. We were passing too fast to check if I saw him, so just waved as we passed by, This road will be very nice, when it is completed. It is a short cut to get from the freeway to Paradise Valley.
It’s a nice day for an “outing”. It is a cool crisp morning, with the forecasted temperature running up to 78 degrees this afternoon. We can expect cooler weather in San Francisco - especially in the area of the Golden Gate bridge. It is “smoggy” in the valleys.
The California Highway Patrol is busy early today. We passed three different “Stops” along the way to Vallejo (15 miles). There are quite a few trucks in the Westbound -Weigh & Inspect Station - a good sign. A highway sign reads: Vallejo - 14
San Francisco - 44
From the top of Hunter Hill, above Vallejo, I get a good view of Six Flags Park and Mt. Tamalpaius in Marin County some 40 miles away. The silent roller coaster structures stand out. They look lonely with the Six Flags Park closed. It seems strange that I don’t see any golfers on the Par 3 nine hole golf course in Vallejo. The course sits on the infield of the Fairgrounds race track. Perhaps it has been closed , the City of Vallejo having declared bankruptcy. We are passing the California Maritime Academy. It has been enlarged quite a bit since it became part of the California State College system a few years ago. A Chevron Station alongside the freeway is advertising gas at $3.18.
A Chrysler convertible - top down - charges on to the freeway. Oh nostalgia! My thoughts go back to my beautiful 1941 Chevrolet convertible - maroon - black top - red leather upholstery - white side walls, with rear fender skirts! What a beauty!
There are a lot of sound walls along the freeway. I remember when they were built - not that long ago. Yet, long enough so that they are covered with climbing vines. Certainly a lot better that the graffiti! The City is very hazy when viewed from the Golden Gate Fields area. I still miss the wooden sculptures in the mud flats, adjacent to the Bay Bridge area.
The water of the Bay is very clean and blue now. It didn’t used to be that way. Tony by-passes long lines of cars, waiting to pay their bridge tolls, by taking a Ride Pool/ Bus only express lane. He probably saved us ten minutes! The Bay Bridge has been a workhorse for more than 70 tears! 40 million toll payers used the bridge last year - paying $43 million in tolls! I would think that the State Auditor would be interested in these statistics. It averages just over a dollar a vehicle. How can that be with $4 tolls and multiple- axle vehicles even paying higher tolls? The new East Span, which will be complete in 2013 will cost over an estimated six BILLION dollars! Go figure!
I get the usual beautiful panoramic view of San Francisco from the upper deck of the bridge. The Larkspur ferry is just leaving the Ferry Building dock.
Tony drives across the downtown streets, from Market to Lombard Streets, using Mission and Van Ness. He takes a left on to Lombard Street. This is a very interesting street! “A Doggie Day Care Center”; (I’ve seen everything now!); A Motor Inn squeezed between two buildings; “Home Plate” - Breakfasts; a “Pet Hospital”; “Marina Motel”; apartment buildings and houses, with garages underneath. I wonder how many of these people have cars? And, if they do - and garage them - how do they ever get their car in, and out of the garage, with the traffic on this busy street? We pass the “Palace of Fine Arts” building, which houses the “Exploratorium“.
We pass close to Fort Scott - a Coast Artillery unit during WWII. I thought of Ray Odum, and his wife, Jean. I usually eat at the same table with them. During our meals, they often speak of Fort Scott,. Ray was stationed there when they met in San Francisco. I almost feel like I was stationed at Fort Scott, too. But, it was an Army base. Jean and Ray are a very interesting couple. They will be married for 69 years on November 23! Their married life was similar to Marie’s and mine. They met on a blind date in San Francisco in 1940. Ray was transferred to Ft. Lewis (WA) to join a Coast artillery unit. After about a seven month courtship, they got married at Fort Lewis. She was 19 and Ray was 26. In ten days, his unit shipped out to Anchorage. Ray asked if his “bride” could join him? He was told that if he could find quarters for her, she could join him. He found a room right away, and sent for her. Before her arrival, he found a house. She often complains about cooking on the coal stove and heating the house with a pot-belly stove.
We pass near Crissy Field, which is now an environmental education center. Tony turns in to the Presidio area. This is a huge area - almost 1500 acres. This is two and a third square miles! (Tony could have used the GPS system to locate the Museum building). We arrived at the Museum at 11:00.
The Presidio is prime property! (Uncle Sam is very good at “Selection”). The commercial interests would have liked to have gotten their hands on this piece of real estate! The National Park Service controls the area, and manages 20 percent, (the coastal area)while The Presidio Trust manages the other 80 percent interior area. Congress mandated that the Presidio Trust be self sufficient by 2013. The Presidio is a National Historic Landmark,
George Lucas’ has a new facility, (Digital Arts Center), located in a portion of the former Letterman Hospital. This facility replaces his Lucas Arts headquarters in San Rafael.
They did a great job in restoring and converting an attractive long red brick building to house the new “Walt Disney Family Museum”. Today, is only the seventh day of operation. This is a huge facility. There are ten permanent galleries spread out over the First and Second Floors. There is a Theatre and Learning Center on the Lower Level. They also have a small Café and Store on the First Floor. Admission to the Museum is $20 for Adults ($15 for Seniors). There is an additional $10 charge for admission to the Theatre on the Lower Level.
The ten permanent Galleries are arranged in Chronological order following Walt Disney’s life and career. You start out viewing exhibits of Disney’s early childhood and early years. Then, the Galleries follow his career through to the end of his life on December 15, 1966 - from drawing cartoons, to the production of animations for television and the theatre.
My favorite exhibit was that of “Disneyland”, a very large model of the facility, including a model railroad running around the perimeter of the Park. Disneyland was opened to the public on July 18, 1955.
While Walt was in on the vision and planning of Disney World and Epcot Center, he died before they were built and operational. Disneyworld opened in Orlando on October 1, 1971, with the adjoining Epcot Center opening on October 1, 1982.
I spent over an hour walking, hurriedly, through all of the Exhibits. But, I barely scratched the surface. I read very little of the voluminous written material, used only a very few of the listening devices and watching the videos or I would need another couple of sessions to take in all of it. It was quite a thrilling surprise when - between Exhibit areas - directly ahead of me was a spectacular view of the Golden Gate Bridge - through a huge glassed area! It was a fantastic experience.
We had lunch together in the café‘. Then,- a quick trip through the Museum Store, and we left for Fairfield at 1:45.
Tony decided to go back by a different route, which made our ride that much more enjoyable. We departed the Presidio on to Doyle Drive which led us on to the Golden gate Bridge. What a surprise! The South Tower area was socked in. It was eerie to see the oncoming cars with their headlights on. Visibility was probably down to 50 yards! I was surprised to see so many walkers and bicyclists on the bridge.
It was interesting - the North Tower of the bridge was in the clear. At the “Lookout” at one o’clock above, was a long line of people - with camera at the ready - either taking pictures of the bridge and/or the San Francisco skyline. We enter the Waldo Tunnel with the rainbow archway. What a spectacular bird’s eye view of Sausalito down below. It is really a nice city.
Now, I have a good close-up view of Mt.Tam. There is a seaplane docked in Tiburon. Now, we are passing a “Pumpkin Patch” - Halloween’ is not far away! We are passing through Corte Madera. We are still traveling on 101N. We pass by Larkspur, and it’s Ferry Terminal. We are nearing San Rafael and the Exit to San Quentin. A little further and I can see one of their large buildings.
We are passing through San Rafael. There are a Infiniti and a BMW dealer to the right. This is Marin County! We pas the Marin County Civic Center and the County Fairgrounds. A roadside sign - “Hamilton Field”. This always bring back a strong memory. I went overseas from here in 1945 in a C-54 troop carrier. I ended up with the 345th Bomb group flying B-25’s off Ie Shima - five miles off Okinawa - in the Ryukus Islands.
We leave Highway 101, and merge on to Highway 37. We pass Black Point where they used to hold the Shakespearean festivals. It must be high tide as the slough is lapping at the side of the road. We are now back in Solano County. I see a heron wading in the water alongside.
We pass the intersection of 37 and 121. A left turn will take you past the popular Infineon Raceway, where they hold the NASCAR races.
As we approach Mare Island the water along side is red! Strange! Could there still be some contamination from war usage of the base? As we climb the bridge over the Napa River, the northern docks are empty. Not too many years ago, there were a few submarines berthed there - either waiting to be repaired, or in storage.
We arrive back at Quail Creek at 3:00. Tony tells me that our trip covered 117 miles. It was a long and tiring day, but most worthwhile. I would recommend a visit to the Disney Museum.
RCL - 10/8/09.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
MOON SONGS
MOON SONGS.
Steve Barkhurst, with his Yamaha keyboard, was here this afternoon to entertain us. He usually is scheduled on the first Thursday of the month, rather than on a Sunday afternoon. I had planned on watching the 49er - St. Louis Rams football game. I like music and I like sports. So, those associated genes had a tug of war, and my music genes pulled my sports genes over the neutral line.
Steve fills the hour with his great music and singing. He makes it more interesting by encouraging us to sing along with him on certain numbers.
Each month he chooses a theme. For October, he selected “Moon” songs because of the Harvest Moon occurring the last of this month. Steve said that there are more than 20,000 songs with “Moon” in the title, or in the words. I have listed Steve’s program, below:
He started off with “It’s Only a Paper Moon.” This is one of my favorite songs. It was written in 1933, when I was a sophomore on high school. Harold Arlen wrote the music and the lyrics were written by E.Y. Harburg and Billy Rose. The band played the song at all of our Berea High School dances, It brought back happy memories of Dody and I dancing cheek to cheek to the melody.
Next was “Carolina Moon.”. It was written by Joe Burke and Benny Davis in 1928. It has survived the challenge of time!
“Allegheny Moon” ,written Al Hoffman and Dick Manning. It was published in 1956. Patti Page was it’s most popular singer.
“By the Light of the Silvery Moon” - written by Gus Edwards and Edward Madden (lyrics), and published in 1909.
“I’m So Lonesome I could Cry”, written by Hank Williams with the lyrics by Marty Robbins. It was released on January 1, 1969.
“Moonlight Becomes You” was composed by Johnny Van Heusen, with the lyrics by Johnny Burke for the 1942 film, “Road to Morocco”;
“That’s Amore” was written in 1952 by Harry Warren, with the words by Jack Brooks. It was a hit by Dean Martin in 1953.
“Blue Moon” - Richard Rogers wrote the music and Lorenz Hart wrote the lyrics, in 1934. (This is another song that Dody and I l liked, and danced to.)
Then, Steve played and sang, “Don’t Fence Me In” The music is by Cole Porter and the lyrics by Robert Fletcher and Cole Porter. They wrote it in 1934. The last time that I heard this tune - before today- was on my trip to the Western Parks, recently. Our Tour Director played it on the bus’ sound system,
“Roll Out the Barrel” is also known as “The Beer Barrel Polka.” It was composed by a Czech musician in 1927. The song became very popular during WWII. The polka became famous around the world, with many different countries translating the words and making claims of authorship.
“Heart and Soul”, with the music written by Hoagy Carmichael, and the lyrics by Frank Loesser. The song was published in 1938. This is another one of my favorites. I was living in Ypsilanti, Michigan at the time, and driving to Ann Arbor to my job. I had a 1931 Ford Model A coupe. (Ibought it in 1937 for $165.00. I paid extra to have a radio installed. I heard this tune many times while driving to and from work. I worked at International Research in Ann Arbor. I was paid 25 cents an hour to help assemble Argus cameras and Kadette table radios. I worked nights ,Saturdays and Sundays at straight time. There was no overtime premium pay at that time.
“Moonlight Bay” - the music was written by Percy Wenrich, and the lyrics by Edward Madden. The song was published in 1912. “Moonlight Bay” was a popular song for Barbershop Quartets.
Then, Steve played a medley of songs: -
“Moonlight Sonata” (Beethoven);
“Fly Me to the Moon” was written and composed by Bart Howard. And first recorded in 1954.
“Moon River”. The music was composed by Henry Mancini, and the lyrics were written by Johnny Mercer, in 1961
“Moonglow” was first recorded in 1933. The music was written by Will Hudson, and the words by
Eddie Delange.
“How High the Moon” was published in 1940. The music was by Morgan Lewis and the words by Nancy Hamilton.
Steve continued, with ?Moonlight in Vermont“. This is a smooth song. It is the unofficial state song of Vermont - a very pretty state - especially in the Fall/Winter seasons. The song was written by John Blackburn and Karl Suessdorf, and published in 1943. I was in North Africa at the time. It has been recorded by many musical artists.
Steve’s next to the last tune - dedicated to “Moons”, was the traditional “Shine on Harvest Moon”. The music was written by Nora Bayes and the lyrics by Jack Norworth. It was published over a 100 years ago, in 1908! A melody can’t be all bad when the first two lines of the second verse are:
“I can’t see why a boy should sigh, when by his side
Is the girl he loves so true,,,,,”
I always look forward to Steve signing off, by playing and singing, “All of Me.” Not because I am bored, but because it is one of my very favorite songs. “All of Me” is a catchy tune, and I find I’m humming it to myself afterwards! When I hear it, my foot starts tapping, and I wish that I was out on the dance floor with Marie.
The music was written by Gerald Marks, and the lyrics by Seymour Simons, in 1931. I was in the 8th grade, at St. Mary’s grade school in Berea, Ohio, at the time. The song has been recorded by many famous artists in the last 78 years. My favorite singer of it was Frank Sinatra.
The hour ended all too soon.
Ray L’Amoreaux 10/4/09.
Steve Barkhurst, with his Yamaha keyboard, was here this afternoon to entertain us. He usually is scheduled on the first Thursday of the month, rather than on a Sunday afternoon. I had planned on watching the 49er - St. Louis Rams football game. I like music and I like sports. So, those associated genes had a tug of war, and my music genes pulled my sports genes over the neutral line.
Steve fills the hour with his great music and singing. He makes it more interesting by encouraging us to sing along with him on certain numbers.
Each month he chooses a theme. For October, he selected “Moon” songs because of the Harvest Moon occurring the last of this month. Steve said that there are more than 20,000 songs with “Moon” in the title, or in the words. I have listed Steve’s program, below:
He started off with “It’s Only a Paper Moon.” This is one of my favorite songs. It was written in 1933, when I was a sophomore on high school. Harold Arlen wrote the music and the lyrics were written by E.Y. Harburg and Billy Rose. The band played the song at all of our Berea High School dances, It brought back happy memories of Dody and I dancing cheek to cheek to the melody.
Next was “Carolina Moon.”. It was written by Joe Burke and Benny Davis in 1928. It has survived the challenge of time!
“Allegheny Moon” ,written Al Hoffman and Dick Manning. It was published in 1956. Patti Page was it’s most popular singer.
“By the Light of the Silvery Moon” - written by Gus Edwards and Edward Madden (lyrics), and published in 1909.
“I’m So Lonesome I could Cry”, written by Hank Williams with the lyrics by Marty Robbins. It was released on January 1, 1969.
“Moonlight Becomes You” was composed by Johnny Van Heusen, with the lyrics by Johnny Burke for the 1942 film, “Road to Morocco”;
“That’s Amore” was written in 1952 by Harry Warren, with the words by Jack Brooks. It was a hit by Dean Martin in 1953.
“Blue Moon” - Richard Rogers wrote the music and Lorenz Hart wrote the lyrics, in 1934. (This is another song that Dody and I l liked, and danced to.)
Then, Steve played and sang, “Don’t Fence Me In” The music is by Cole Porter and the lyrics by Robert Fletcher and Cole Porter. They wrote it in 1934. The last time that I heard this tune - before today- was on my trip to the Western Parks, recently. Our Tour Director played it on the bus’ sound system,
“Roll Out the Barrel” is also known as “The Beer Barrel Polka.” It was composed by a Czech musician in 1927. The song became very popular during WWII. The polka became famous around the world, with many different countries translating the words and making claims of authorship.
“Heart and Soul”, with the music written by Hoagy Carmichael, and the lyrics by Frank Loesser. The song was published in 1938. This is another one of my favorites. I was living in Ypsilanti, Michigan at the time, and driving to Ann Arbor to my job. I had a 1931 Ford Model A coupe. (Ibought it in 1937 for $165.00. I paid extra to have a radio installed. I heard this tune many times while driving to and from work. I worked at International Research in Ann Arbor. I was paid 25 cents an hour to help assemble Argus cameras and Kadette table radios. I worked nights ,Saturdays and Sundays at straight time. There was no overtime premium pay at that time.
“Moonlight Bay” - the music was written by Percy Wenrich, and the lyrics by Edward Madden. The song was published in 1912. “Moonlight Bay” was a popular song for Barbershop Quartets.
Then, Steve played a medley of songs: -
“Moonlight Sonata” (Beethoven);
“Fly Me to the Moon” was written and composed by Bart Howard. And first recorded in 1954.
“Moon River”. The music was composed by Henry Mancini, and the lyrics were written by Johnny Mercer, in 1961
“Moonglow” was first recorded in 1933. The music was written by Will Hudson, and the words by
Eddie Delange.
“How High the Moon” was published in 1940. The music was by Morgan Lewis and the words by Nancy Hamilton.
Steve continued, with ?Moonlight in Vermont“. This is a smooth song. It is the unofficial state song of Vermont - a very pretty state - especially in the Fall/Winter seasons. The song was written by John Blackburn and Karl Suessdorf, and published in 1943. I was in North Africa at the time. It has been recorded by many musical artists.
Steve’s next to the last tune - dedicated to “Moons”, was the traditional “Shine on Harvest Moon”. The music was written by Nora Bayes and the lyrics by Jack Norworth. It was published over a 100 years ago, in 1908! A melody can’t be all bad when the first two lines of the second verse are:
“I can’t see why a boy should sigh, when by his side
Is the girl he loves so true,,,,,”
I always look forward to Steve signing off, by playing and singing, “All of Me.” Not because I am bored, but because it is one of my very favorite songs. “All of Me” is a catchy tune, and I find I’m humming it to myself afterwards! When I hear it, my foot starts tapping, and I wish that I was out on the dance floor with Marie.
The music was written by Gerald Marks, and the lyrics by Seymour Simons, in 1931. I was in the 8th grade, at St. Mary’s grade school in Berea, Ohio, at the time. The song has been recorded by many famous artists in the last 78 years. My favorite singer of it was Frank Sinatra.
The hour ended all too soon.
Ray L’Amoreaux 10/4/09.
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