pappy's paradise plus

2011-12-12T21:32:00.000-05:00

Happy Holidays!

This year I'll let the newly weds, my daughter, Amelia and her husband, Todd entertain you with their Holiday Cheer.

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

2011-10-25T12:59:00.002-04:00

P L A Y W R I TING:
Build That Play!

Forest D. Feighner

FOREWORD

Can playwriting be taught? The skilled storyteller weaves together intrigue, suspense, and discovery with clear and imaginative language. Audiences find interest in well-developed characters, astonishing events, new locations, and stimulating times. The storyteller charms the audience throughout the entire action. Stories without end or purpose get boring and turn people away from the art. As crafts capable of holding an audience spellbound, drama and theatre can be taught.

This text is intended for the beginning playwright.

Playwriting is a craft as well as a form of artistic expression. Within the technical skills of any craft, there are fundamental artistic principles, such as unity, harmony, and balance. Artistic perspective fits within the framework of theory put into practice. In fact, aesthetic value is a part of the theory.
Perceiving order out of chaos and creating balance out of inequity are integral parts of the beauty of drama. Developing the dramatic imagination in creating engaging visions of mankind's place in the universe is a high calling. Drama engages in, answers, and then asks again for a new generation the fundamental questions: Who am I? What is the purpose of life? Where are we? Whom do you seek? What is the nature of creation? Why are we here? These questions should not be reserved only for scientific inquiry. Drama can provide enlightenment while giving truthful reflection of the times. By bringing wisdom, drama becomes radiantly entertaining.
Playwriting provides entertainment. Every night in theatres from Broadway houses to San Francisco studios, in community theatres, high school auditoriums, and college performance centers across the country, professionals and amateurs are creating drama. Visions of faraway places, romantic encounters, adventure, intrigue, familiar faces, and imaginative beings tantalize the observer's imagination and make one ponder their meaning. Watching fights, dances, acrobatics, and all manner of human movement strikes us as interesting, especially when given a dramatic purpose. The skillful playwright uses cultural perplexity as fuel for entertainment.
These WebPages will focus on the one-act play of about thirty minutes. The exercises in these WebPages have been classroom and production proven. Plays written in my playwriting class have been produced as part of Dramatic Activities of Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and entered as participating productions in the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival.
My students have used each of the WebPages's Tasks as a step in the process of writing the one-act play. Completion of one Task leads to the next and by the end of a fifteen-week semester, students complete the crafting of a thirty-minute one-act play.

Schedule of Tasks.
Requirements for Play.
Table of Contents
Playwright's Resources and References can be found at http://www.erie.net/%7Efeighner/theatre.html

Back to Playwriting

Schedule of Tasks | Requirements for Play | Table of Contents

Back to Prof. Feighner's Home Page

Copyright c 1999 Forest Delano Feighner, EUP.
designed by Forest Dean Feighner, 1999
for Playwriting: Build that Play!

Musical Terms

2011-08-23T09:42:00.001-04:00

Anyone who has played piano or an instrument in a school band has encountered musical terms, such as allegro (a fast tempo), A tempo (original tempo), or Dolce (sweetly). With the exception of certain composers, Musical terms are usually in a foreign language, notably Italian. Unfortunately, most high school and even college musicians don’t know a foreign language. Thus, they must interpret the foreign words found in music and learn to apply the interpretation at a glance while they read notes.

Lists and dictionaries are available. Many music folders for bands have a small list of frequently used musical terms, but it is surprising to see how many amateur players, even after years of experience, don’t understand terms like Da capo (D.C.), or Dal Segno (D.S.). D.C. means “Repeat from beginning or From the beginning,” whereas D.S. means “Repeat from sign or From the sign.” Obviously, players who don’t know what these terms mean will soon be lost in the music.

A recent discussion of a less well known term, “lusingando” has prompted me to wonder once again why musical terms are not translated in American sheet music. Learned and skilled musicians interpreted “lusingando” variously as haltingly or hesitantly, coaxing, flattering, and singing, just to name a few of the offered suggestions. A Virginia Tech online musical dictionary defines the word: “A directive to perform a certain passage of a composition in a coaxing, caressing, flattering, or alluring style.” Thus, even will informed musicians can have variances of opinions about musical terms. When the guides to interpretation are misunderstood they serve instead as hindrances. As is the written word, written music is intended to illuminate readers. Notes do this even better, perhaps, than words. Why then should the clarifying terms be left to bafflement?

Matt Damon Defends Teachers

2011-08-03T13:17:00.002-04:00

Normally, I steer clear of politics, but since teaching, teachers, and acting are dear to me, I am posting this interview.

The Case of the Hummingbird Feeder

2011-07-08T15:39:00.007-04:00

Every morning, while the coffee is brewing, I stand at the kitchen window to stretch while observing the sky and our backyard. A birdseed box and a hummingbird feeder stand a few feet from our window. Usually two or three mourning doves or a pair of cardinals, or a blue jay will be in the seed box.
This morning something else drew my attention. The hummingbird feeder was on the ground with the false flower perch pulled from the bottle of nectar. We get deer in the yard, and they will go for a lap of nectar, but any number of other animals also enjoy sweets. So, we were unsure what pulled down the bottom of the feeder or unscrewed it from its bottle.

Three nights in a row, even with less nectar in the feeder, the critter came in to feed on our hummingbirds’ food. One morning I looked out the window at 4:00 a.m., and the feeder was still intact. My wife came out a half-hour later and it was down once again. Daybreak seemed to be the time for the culprit to feed. Once again, deer came to mind, since dawn is a favorite time for them to be on the move.

Curiosity and guessing can only last so long, then these twin mind games must eventually give way to knowledge. To satisfy our inquisitiveness, we bought a wildlife camera, or as the trade calls them: a trail camera. We hoped to catch the creature in the act.

The first night, being inexperienced, I used the camera’s default settings, continuous shooting night and day for still images. I placed the camera at about twenty feet away on shepherd poles holding hanging baskets of purple flowers. The following morning, I eagerly viewed the images caught by the wildlife camera. The daytime photos showed bird after bird coming to the seedbox, but the distance was too far and the angle too low for any significant captures. The night images showed two purple frames--nothing. Now, I was uncertain. Was the flash on? If so, did the default use regular flash or infrared? I needed to set the camera myself.

The next night, I moved the camera to fifteen feet and adjusted the angle for a more direct shot of the hummingbird feeder. I set the camera for still images with regular flash for night shots and used the default setting of two minute delay. Next morning, the images I viewed were clear and numerous throughout day and night, but showed nothing other than our house and the feeders. Something was triggering the camera, but it was gone by the time the camera snapped a shot. More adjustments were required.

I reset the camera for night only using video with infrared light and adjusted the delay time to thirty seconds. If this didn’t work, I didn’t know what I would do. At dusk I walked in front of the camera to make sure it was triggered and that the infrared light came on. It did. I anxiously awaited the next morning.

Patience prevailed. The masked bandit was revealed. Through-out the night, the robber of hummingbird nectar made ten appearances on the wildlife video.

At first he merely tipped the feeder to pour nectar on the ground that he could slurp up. As the evening wore on, more effort was needed, until at the end, he pulled the bottom off the feeder, climbed the shepherd pole and started licking the bottle like a babe in arms.

Once finished, the masked bandit walked off without as much as a tip or a thank you. He was already looking for his next source of desert, but it’s not going to be in our backyard.

Well, the masked bandit turned out to be a fat, healthy looking raccoon. I have imbedded a couple of the videos captured by our backyard wildlife camera. Hope you enjoy watching the raccoon go leisurely about his feeding, with only an occasion stop to listen for a perceived hint of trouble.

Indiana University Marching Hundred

2011-07-01T14:28:00.009-04:00

Surfing the web the other night I came across a video of the Indiana University Marching 100 from November 19, 1955. I played clarinet in this band. The game was at Memorial Stadium against IU’s great rival Purdue University, ah yes, I do remember the Golden Girl from Purdue. Anyway, it was quite a treat seeing this video and recalling moments from those days. I knew we were a great marching band, but I never saw how we looked from the stadium, until I saw this video posted on YouTube. My how times have changed.

In 1955, only men played in the Marching Hundred. As I recall there was a first that year in using women as baton twirlers. As a Music Major I was required to be in the band, although I would probably have joined regardless. I liked being part of the activity of the university, and especially playing in the band. I also played in a volunteer pep band for Hoosier basketball games. We had two uniforms: a new one--the one you see in the video, and an older one, with a cool cape, we used for the pep band.

Our entrance into Memorial Stadium can be seen in the video, but not as clearly as I remember. Herald trumpeters lined the top row as the band quick stepped down the aisles onto the playing field. After a spectacular beginning, we maintained a lively pace with dance steps and precise formulations that transformed into pictograms that required dedicated rehearsal. Some of the results can be seen in both the pre-game and half-time shows. There is no sound, but I can still hear the strains of “Indiana, My Indiana.”

Among the memorable moments for me was playing at Ohio State before a crowd of 80,000 people, and at Notre Dame during its glory years. A special moment for me came at Notre Dame as I started marching out on the field. I heard my name called from the stands. Our neighbor from across the street, a high school classmate, was attending ND and his father was a grad. When I turned to the stands, I saw my classmate’s mother and father, smiling and waving. I had great respect for them, and their recognition made me proud.

I enjoyed the Saturday morning preparations on campus. Cool, crisp, Fall days at Indiana University brought excitement to the air as alumni gathered, students were out for a break from studying, Big 10 Football was about to be played, and I knew many of the players on the team. Most of all, I loved being a part of the collegiate atmosphere by playing in the Marching Hundred.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-08T20:04:00.002-05:00

Working and Life

2010-01-13T18:44:00.001-05:00

When I was working, I thought that work was my life, and in many respects it was. My mother told me that even things I enjoyed doing would eventually become work. She was right. Nonetheless, that was a good way to go for many years.

Now, I’m retired. I’ve learned, work was not my life, but the means to start living my life for the remaining years. Fortunately, my work has allowed me to enjoy an active retirement that includes doing things I didn’t have the time to do when I was working and to do things for other less fortunate people. When you retire you realize that your identity is not who you are as a worker, but that worker is the person who makes a life for you, your family, your community, and is also the person who allows you to discover who you really are.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T11:37:00.001-05:00

Playing for Christmas Concert, originally uploaded by pappy65.

Peace on Earth
Goodwill Toward All

December Calender 2009

2009-12-02T20:03:00.001-05:00

December Calender 2009, originally uploaded by pappy65.

Merry Christmas!

2009 November Calender

2009-11-08T19:08:00.001-05:00

2009 November Calender, originally uploaded by pappy65.

Women's LaCrosse

2009-10-19T12:42:00.003-04:00

Women's LaCrosse, originally uploaded by pappy65.

A new sport at Edinboro University is women's LaCrosse. Saturday was damp and brisk, but the spirit of these young women was not dampened. In the above picture, EUP is setting up an attack on goal.

Rain

2009-10-15T10:57:00.001-04:00

I sit reading a magazine called "The Sun." The section I’m reading is called “Readers Write.” In this issue of "The Sun" the subject for the readers to write about is rain. As I sit reading about rain in "The Sun," it is raining. So, I stop to write about rain myself, and to take a picture of the rain.

Autumn Leaves

2009-10-10T18:22:00.001-04:00

Autumn Leaves, originally uploaded by pappy65.

We took a walk today. Saw the sky change from grey to blue, and walked past the playing fields of young people, from the little gridders to the college frisbe games. My wife spotted this mundane sign of fall and stopped to photograph one of life's wonders.

Funny Mating Rite

2009-10-05T18:27:00.002-04:00

Saw this on the BBC. Very funny!

October Calendar 2009

2009-10-01T22:03:00.001-04:00

October Calendar 2009, originally uploaded by pappy65.

First Day of Fall

2009-09-22T17:05:00.002-04:00

Wildflower, originally uploaded by pappy65.

Today is another beautiful first day of Fall. The picture remines me of a walk taken four years ago. Seems like only yesterday. Time passes on, but remains much the same in these days that are the Fall of my life.

Edinboro Football

2009-09-14T15:07:00.002-04:00

Saturday, September 12, offered a beautiful late summer afternoon, perfect for a football game. The Edinboro Fighting Scots defeated C. W. Post 31 to 23 in a come from behind victory that turned into a see-saw contest with Edinboro able to go ahead in the fourth quarter and grind out the final minutes for a victory.

An entertaining half-time show featured some well played music by the Edinboro University Marching Band and graceful moves by the dance team.

Nine Eleven Zero One

2009-09-10T14:26:00.005-04:00

9/11/01, most of us remember where we were and what we were doing when we first heard about the suicidal attacks by Al-Qaeda on the United States. Although, at first, we may not have understood what was happening.

On September 11, 2001, I was working in my office when a colleague came in to say a plane had just crashed into the Twin Towers. My first response was matter-of-fact. Hadn’t small planes crashed into large buildings before causing fire and falling debris, but no deaths? My nonchalant attitude prompted him to say, “No, this is serious.”

Without a TV, I used my computer to get the latest news, and the grim reality of airliners intentionally crashing into the World Trade Center, with an aftermath of death, falling and burning bodies, and crumpling buildings slowly sank in. To amplify my horror and concern one of my sons returned on the Tenth from leaving my other son in Manhattan to look for work, who knew, perhaps at the World Trade Center. Communication was difficult and we didn’t know where he was. Not until a day later did we know he was safe.

Like most Americans, I wanted swift and just action. For a time, it seemed as though it might happen, but slowly we became fearful, misdirected, and lost sight of our goals. A fog of confusion dimmed our clarity of purpose and denial set in.

Now, eight years later, I’ve retired, had a heart attack, started wintering in Florida, two of my children have graduated from college and started working. A crippling recession has caused declining wealth, unemployment, and homelessness. Ignorant pundits babble about health care for the sake of crippling a president, and incidentally a country. Celebrity misdeeds and death cry for our attention and crowd our airwaves. Young people die, but we barely acknowledge their sacrifice. 9/11, a day of terror, still stings the heart and mind of our countrymen and disunites our populace. 9/11, a day to remember, so that we can rightly and justly put it in the past. Meanwhile, wars smolder on the backburner of our concern.

September Calendar 2009

2009-09-04T11:03:00.001-04:00

September Calendar 2009, originally uploaded by pappy65.

Early September and Labor Day weekend ushers in the end of Summer with hints of Fall. The weather has been beautiful and we've enjoyed backyard cookouts, tennis, and gatherings with friends. The shifting shadows of late Summer have brought cooler evenings and cheerful, sometimes foggy, mornings. There is peace in the air along with the bustlings of increased activities as school begins, vacations end, and the summer residents prepare to head South.

Something, Anything

2009-08-30T19:59:00.003-04:00

I've been wanting to get back to writing the blog, but have been too lazy and unmotivated to be thoughtful and articulate. Unfortunately, I'm still in that mode, but if I don't start...,well you know.

I've looked in on twitter the last couple of days and done some searches to see what makes this popular site tick. The revelation is that the normally hidden thoughts of people that now shout out their mundane, but previously hidden thoughts give the lie to the notion that still waters run deep. Apparently, people are in a hurry to let us know that nothing much is on their mind, and probably never will be. Not that I'm any better, mind you, but, at least, I haven't (until now) proclaimed it with such resounding volume.

While, I'm about it I'll reveal one of my new pet peeves...the word "appalled" as when people write letters to the editor and begin by saying, "I'm appalled that (fill in the blank)." A few bucks for a thesaurus is in order; for instance, "I'm amazed that no one has noticed...," or "I'm in awe of the mendacity of people," or "I'm horrified by the injustice of ....;" or people could realize that the best way to write is to describe your issue in a way that will describe how appalled you are.

So, perhaps I should have started this return to the blog with this sentence, "I'm dismayed by the apparent lack of thought in the tweets on twitter."

My First Take on Obama’s Inaugural Address

2009-01-25T18:24:00.003-05:00

President Obama addressed the legitimate concerns of us who suffered through the Bush administration’s lowering of the esteem of Americans in the world while creating the worst of times at home. Obama reminded us of our own responsibility to the future, by recalling our history. Our history has fought for freedom, equality, and the pursuit of happiness. We have honored disagreement and cherished justice, education, and morality. We worked hard and were inventive. We created a better life style for many people and offered the same opportunity for others, but somehow, we as a nation, lost sight of our history, our integrity and our ingenuity. I think Obama’s address reminded us of our greatness and challenged us to bring our best to our current problems. Don’t expect handouts and easy solutions. Roll up your sleeves and go to work.

Inaugural Quartet’s Cold Performance

2009-01-24T11:34:00.001-05:00

My impression of the quartet of Perlman, Yo-Yo Ma, McGill, and Montero playing Williams was that they performed live despite the cold, but according to this New York Times article, the performance was synced. With the havoc the bitter cold can have on performers and their instruments, it is understandable, if a minor disappointment, to know that their freezing perfection was due to being prerecorded. At least, now we know they are very good actors as well as musicians.

The Times article also has a beautiful video of the performance.

Inauguration Quartet

2009-01-20T13:24:00.001-05:00

The Inauguration Quartet

From soft sounds to tumultuous joy, the music began with the quiet Coplanesque strains of John Williams’ “Air and Simple Gifts.” The vibrant cello of Yo Yo Ma and the sweet strings of Itzhak Perlman’s violin found full voice and intertwined; they were joined by a quiet, sonorous woodwind phrase that repeated and built from the clarinet of Anthony McGill. The three instruments were joined in joyous harmony by the piano of Gabriela Montero. Just as Copland’s music captured the nation’s character and geographical expanse, Williams’ music brought this historical heritage to the present. The unifying emotion of his composition was captured by this enthusiastic quartet playing as a complete ensemble, listening and responding to each other with admiration.

After all of the discussion about the brutal weather and the delicate wooden instruments and how the performers would deal with the elements, it appears as though the violin, cello, and clarinet were wooden and not carbon or rubber. The musicians brought all their best stuff, from musicality to instruments.

Williams’ and the inaugural quartet presented a musical gem to emphasize the speech of Barack Obama as he became President of the United States of America.

Here is an imperfect video.

Winter Lights

2009-01-11T08:37:00.004-05:00

Went out last night shortly after sunset in hopes of taking a picture of the moon. News reports said we'd see the largest full moon of the year. However, the sky was still full of clouds and light snow.
Here's a shot of the end of our driveway instead.

We've had a long, snowy winter that actually began in Fall. The first of our deep snows came in early November, and we've only seen green grass for short periods of less than a day. The cold, the snow, and the short days have been building cabin fever, or as it's called these days, SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). The Christmas season brings a cheer to the heart and mind, but after New Years, the festivity slowly turns SAD.
We've been keeping our lights up longer to help keep a touch of cheer during this wintry time of year.

Greeleyville Mystery

2009-01-05T20:28:00.005-05:00

A very sad story out of Greeleyville, South Carolina today. A woman’s body was found in the children’s playground by a bus driver early in the morning. The driver notified the janitor who called 911.

Due to the quick action of the bus driver and janitor, most of the children had no knowledge of what happened. Not until much later in the day was the woman identified and the mystery partially resolved. Stories about the event may be read here and here. By these accounts the woman did not die by violent means. An autopsy will reveal the manner of death and she has been identified, so the mystery of why she died may also be discovered.

Nonetheless, the young woman's strange death made for an unsettling day for Greeleyville Elementary.

2008-12-31T12:18:00.002-05:00

December 2008 148, originally uploaded by pappy65.

Edinboro Sports Dome 3

2008-12-27T18:50:00.008-05:00

Here are a couple of pictures of the Edinboro Sports Dome from different angles. The second picture shows the attached building, that will, I assume, be used as an entrance. Click on the photos to see a larger version that gives a better idea of the magnitude of this dome.

As an Athletic Center, the dome will be used for track, soccer, lacrosse, football, and other sports. Some of us hope tennis will be one of the sports able to use the dome. In addition, campus events such as Graduation will be held in this heated and air-conditioned structure. The dome's usefulness will probably makeup for this dreary looking white elephant,er, dome.

Santa and Reindeer

2008-12-22T19:55:00.004-05:00

Santa and raindeer, originally uploaded by pappy65.

A very Merry Christmas and a most Happy New Year!

Clarinetist to Perform for Obama's Inauguration

2008-12-21T10:36:00.007-05:00

The clarinet world is abuzz about the selection of Anthony McGill to play at Barack Obama’s Presidential Inauguration. McGill is principal clarinetist for the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. McGill’s relative lack of name recognition has some clarinetists wondering why he was chosen for this honor. An African-American, McGill will be part of a quartet made up of Itzhak Perlman, an Israeli-American and internationally recognized violinist; Yo-Yo Ma, a Chinese-American who is one of the world’s most renowned cellists; and Gabriela Montero a gifted pianist who was born in Caracas, Venezuela. The composer and arranger for the work that will be performed by this unique quartet is John Williams, perhaps America’s greatest living composer. McGill is in excellent company.

Diversity seems to be one of the hallmarks of this quartet, aside from the obvious musical gifts of each individual. Perlman is Jewish and disabled, Yo-Yo Ma is a Chinese-American, Montero is a Latin American woman, and McGill is a black man. John Williams has not only written two symphonies and a cello concerto for Yo-Yo Ma, he has written the music for popular films from Star Wars to Harry Potter, and he conducted America’s orchestra, the Boston Pops. A better example of the diversity of the United States could hardly be found in a classical quartet of such talent.

Just as the musicians are diverse, the instrumentation of violin, cello, piano, and clarinet is unusual for a quartet. However, instrumentalists and instruments should meld together in harmonious accord. McGill, an accomplished chamber musician, has performed in concert with Yo-Yo Ma. Montero is not only an accomplished interpreter of classic compositions, she is also highly regarded for her skills as an improviser. These two relatively unknown, but highly acclaimed, musicians will perform with the renowned Perlman and Yo-Yo Ma to create a musicians dream team playing an original work by a great American composer.

The quartets appearance will follow the Oath of Office administered to Vice President-elect Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and precede the Oath of Office administered to President-elect Barack H. Obama.

If there is a political statement in all of this it is that 21st century America is ready in all of it’s diversity to create and appreciate unique music for a new era.

Edinboro Sports Dome 2

2008-12-21T07:16:00.003-05:00

T The Edinboro University Sports Dome is now up. This picture shows the dome nearly inflated. No other structure has changed the campus view as dramatically. Notice, for instance, that McComb Fieldhouse is not visible.

Edinboro Sports Dome

2008-12-11T13:53:00.001-05:00

Edinboro Sports Dome, originally uploaded by pappy65.

The Edinboro University Dome, an athletic complex, is in the final stage of construction and the first stage of positioning the inflatable dome.

Broadway Billboard

2008-12-11T11:51:00.003-05:00

Broadway Billboard, originally uploaded by pappy65.

As an old drama teacher, I couldn't resist using the Broadway Billboard and our Nutcracker to make a holiday greeting.

Used a flirkr toy

Death: Being and Not Being

2008-12-02T10:49:00.007-05:00

Mozart wrote the Requiem (at least the part he was able to complete) on his deathbed. He died young, but his life's work has remained ageless. Even the rumors surrounding his death remain vibrant. Mozart has achieved a type of immortality, yet his corporal body and essential self is no more. He met our inevitable end.

Religion has offered hope to many in the form of an afterlife. At a recent Memorial Service I attended, the speaker depicted the type of heaven I'd appreciate. In his Heaven we return to our most beautiful state and no longer suffer pain, crippling, or any other malady, and we will be greeted by our most beloved ones who have already passed on to Heavenly life. The reward for our earthly suffering and good works will be eternal bliss.

Faith and belief are critical to heavenly reward. Yet, in our day of evangelical extremism, factious Christianity, Islamic jihad, and irrational defense of god's will, it is difficult to have faith and belief in the God(s) of World Religions, after all, He seems at war with himself.

If God wants us all to be saved, why would He create diverse major religions with further divisive sub categories, with each claiming to be the one true religion? The claim that God acts in mysterious ways is not good enough.

Furthermore, why create an afterlife pictured much as we know material existence, but honed to a paradise unrealized on earth? Heaven is hope that the irrational suffering humans undergo will be erased, and that eternity will be joyful. Death becomes desirable.

Existentialism, following the irrationality of the Second World War, held a view that god, for all practical purposes, was dead. Hope of life beyond this worldly sphere also died.

What is the truth? Is there life after death? If so, what is it like? The ancient depictions of Heaven no longer ring with truth or self-evidence. The modern depiction of a self created Hell on Earth, is self-evident, but contains little hope or an imaginative, yet realistic, depiction of afterlife. Modernity leaves us with Being and Non-Being.

Shakespeare's Hamlet contemplated Being or Not Being, and gave us rational fear of death, “What dreams may come when we have shuffled off this mortal coil?” While worms crawl about our skull, our soul may be caught in an eternal nightmare. This is an undesirable death.

Well, we can say with certainty that our body will decay and become part of the earth and, thereby, continue within the framework of this vast, unknown universal body called the cosmos, to live. That great lives and souls such as Mozart and Shakespeare will continue to live in the hearts and minds of people as long as our civilization exists. That we, for good or ill, will be remembered by our friends and family, and, hopefully, some of the best of our nature will nurture our children and be passed on to their children, and their children's children. Our body's will rot, but our lives do impact the future. Neither desirable nor undesirable, Death is inevitable.

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-26T10:20:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving 2008, originally uploaded by pappy65.

Made the Thanksgiving photo for last year, but it still works. I put the wrong date in last year!

I am once again looking forward to our family gathering. My daughter will be traveling the farthest. She is coming in from South Carolina. May she have a safe journey, and may we all be thankful for what we have, especially good health, a warm home, and family.

Gudgeonville Bridge Arson

2008-11-13T10:26:00.009-05:00

A picturesque piece of history in nearby Girard, Pa, was set on fire early last Saturday morning. A covered bridge built in 1837 was destroyed by unknown arsonists in 2008. The Gudgeonville Bridge had a colorful history, a romantic past, and a troubled present, but now it is ashes and charred timber.

In an area like Northwestern Pennsylvania it became essential to have bridges for farmers, merchants, and travelers to cross the numerous creeks and streams. In the early nineteenth century hardwood was plentiful, so wood was a relatively inexpensive and available material for bridge construction. Wooden bridges last much longer if they are covered with sides and a roof, additions especially helpful in the ice and snow of our area. Moreover, the cover of the bridge could serve travelers during a storm, and it is said that horses shied from crossing open bridges above streams.

Back in 1855 a Kentuckian traveling the area with mule and wagon was selling goods in Girard. His business completed, he wanted to take his wagon of merchandise to Meadville. He was given directions that would take him over a portion of Elk Creek that was an adjunct part of the Erie Canal. The Kentuckian traveler and his mule, Gudgeon, had to cross the creek over a steep outcropping of shale known as the Devil’s Elbow near an unnamed settlement. But as fate would have it, just as the homesick mule was about to step onto the bridge, Dan Rice, the famous clown, and his circus were returning home to Girard for the winter. On board a barge, the calliope player struck up the rapturous strains of, “My Old Kentucky Home.” Upon hearing the sudden and cacophonic sounds of the calliope playing a tune in homage of his home state, Gudgeon bolted and collapsed. The old mule died on the bridge.

The Kentucky traveler saddened by the loss of his friend and mule buried his faithful companion near the bridge and placed sign’s at either end of the bridge proclaiming, “Gudgeon’s Bridge.” And thus is how the area became known as Gudgeonville.

An era ends.

Trip to Greeleyville

2008-11-07T03:16:00.011-05:00

My wife and I recently returned from a 12 day trip to visit our daughter in Greeleyville, South Carolina, where she is now living. So, it was with some interest that we observed the location of less than 500 inhabitants.

Fortunately, for us, in the late afternoon of the day we arrived, Greeleyville was alive with the annual Homecoming Parade. Main street was lined with nearly every citizen of the community watching the parade consisting of floats nicely decorated by a local company, marching units, small bands, loud drums, and cars with local queens and kings riding on the hoods, waving in a majestic manner. The Greeleyville High School Band consisted of approximately five instrumentalists and a drum line. In fact, for most of the bands that participated, the drum line and high stepping marchers were the chief features. The crowd was enthusiastic about the local entertainment, and true to small town tradition, candy thrown from the vehicles was a favorite of the children. Food vendors featured roast pig, chicken, and hot dogs.

On Saturday we took a trip to Kingstree, capitol of Williamsburg County, for a Pig Pickin’ Festival. Pig pickin‘, for the uninitiated, is a pig roast. The festival featured row after row of roasting pigs and secret methods of cooking them. We favored those cooked over Black Oak. A carnival atmosphere prevailed with rides and booths, but the main attraction was food, and nearly everyone we saw was eating.

Cotton fields are plentiful. The tobacco crop was recently harvested. Rows of pine trees guard the fields. I enjoyed seeing the Southern Oak resplendent in Spanish moss, a truly southern touch. When we went to nearly Lake Marion, a reservoir that makes the largest lake in South Carolina, I learned the secret of catching large “cats,” catfish being a local favorite of fishermen.

Southern hospitality is still alive and well. The people we met were friendly. Twice as we were on our daily walk on little traveled Burgess Rd., guys in pickup trucks asked if we needed a ride to town, and nearly everyone who passed gave us a sociable wave.

I am happy to know that my daughter is living in a pleasant, friendly community.

Vote Tuesday, November 4, 2008

2008-10-31T14:37:00.001-04:00

Back when I was in a high school typing class, there were certain sentences that we had to practice. One statement was, “The quick brown fox jumped over the fence;” another, more memorable, quote was, “Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country.” In these more politically volatile times, it would be better to say, “Now is the time for all good citizens to vote.”

So no matter who you support, be one of the good citizens who gets out and votes. It always astonishes me how few people actually vote, and thereby a minority of people have the greatest say in who acts for us. In this year’s election I’ll be voting for, among others, a state representative, a state senator, a vice-president, and a president. I’d rather have my vote go toward the person who I think will best act in a way I would If I were in their shoes.

Above all else, let’s vote for people who will support the best aspects of this great society of ours and especially the Constitution of the United States.

Seems I Made the News

2008-10-31T14:09:00.001-04:00

Edinboro Fighting Scot Statue

2008-10-18T20:33:00.004-04:00

Why haven't we seen the statue of the Edinboro Fighting Scot? Inquiring minds want to know.

Edinboro Homecoming: The Parade

2008-10-04T16:07:00.005-04:00

As reported previously, the annual homecoming parade had a new route this year. My wife and I walked to the greens behind McComb Fieldhouse for the President’s Brunch on the Lawn. As usual we greeted old friends and acquaintances and enjoyed a brunch of sweet roles, fruit, and scrambled eggs. Fortunately, the day was perfect for the event, sunny, with a touch of Autumn after the first frost of the season. Following brunch, we walked to the west side of Mallory Lake and sat on a bench facing the lake that has a full panoramic view of the campus and parade route. A small, single engine plane circled overhead straining for a view of the event, and looking for attention. People lined the campus loop at predictable spots: the corners and turns, next to the bridge over the campus stream, and in front of favorite buildings. A good crowd was on hand.

The parade started and it was fascinating to watch from a distance with an observer’s vantage point. The Color Guard led the event follow by the president’s vehicle, and the Edinboro University Marching Band. The roar of the Zem Zem motorcycles was missing, but the acrobatic antics of the girl’s gymnastic class doing cartwheels down the street was fascinating to watch. Soon, the cars with homecoming king and queen appeared, the alumni band showed their stuff, the comic book themed floats appeared, the General McLane Band dazzled, and the parade carried on with color and noise.

Before the parade ended, we decided to walk downtown along the old parade route to see how much different things were. The quiet emptiness was startling to one used to the crowded byways, but most unusual was the lack of business at the bars and the noticeably un-rowdy streets.

The community got what they wanted, less cost and responsibility. Downtown, the merchants will probably still do a good day’s business. As for Edinboro University, the spacious and beautiful campus became the focus of the event. Alumni will have their say, but my guess is that this was the first of many campus loop parades to come.

My Paul Newman Story

2008-10-02T12:51:00.003-04:00

Back in 1969 during a low period of my life, I decided to have an “On the Road,” get away to think things through. I stopped in Indianapolis to see an old friend, who happened to be the doctor for the Indianapolis Speedway. He told me that Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward were filming a movie at the Speedway and asked if I'd like to watch. Of course, I did. He loaned me his little red Triumph sports car and gave me his gatepass. I drove out to the Speedway, crossed the original brickyard and arrived at Gasoline Alley, where they were doing the day's shooting. The set was a garage built for the movie, but added as an extention to a row of garages in what makes up Gasoline Alley.

While standing around watching the camera preparations for a scene to be shot, I met a young reporter for a national news magazine, Time, as I recall, who was doing a feature on the film. We watched the crews work and the supporting actors primp for their roles. Finally, Paul Newman arrived, did a few takes, and the Director had what he wanted for the garage scene.

Then, the reporter and I were asked if we'd like to be in a scene. Well, of course we would. We were given jackets to dress the part of garage mechanics and our task was basically to walk down Gasoline Alley behind Paul Newman. We were more or less movable scenery. Meanwhile, we had the opportunity to chat with the actor, who was still very much in his prime, but he seemed entirely approachable and unassuming. Again, after a few takes the scene was finished, as was the days shooting.

Then, we were asked if we'd like to watch the dailies Dailies are films of the previous days shooting, and are viewed at the end of the next day's shoot. Paul Newman was particularly interested in watching the dailies, because the footage was of him driving on the big oval for the first time. Fortunately, Newman liked to drink a beer at the end of the day, so brew was on had for the half dozen or so of us, including Paul, who watched him race around the speedway.

I've never been comfortable with the idea of intruding in the lives of celebrities, so it was especially nice to have an opportunity to share some time with an actor I admired. He was quietly gracious and, I think, appreciative of having people around him who weren't demanding.

Here is a video trailer of Winning. Oh, by the way, I ended up on the cutting room floor.

2008-09-06T20:16:00.000-04:00

Edinboro Homecoming

2008-08-28T13:44:00.003-04:00

One of the great events of each year in Edinboro is EUP's Homecoming parade and football game. This year, for the first time since I've been here, the parade will not wind it's way through the Boro, but will travel the campus loop instead. It will be interesting to see how this break with tradition will go over with people who love to celebrate in town. I was looking forward to participating in the parade as part of the Zem Zem Brass Band, however, the Shriners have cancelled their participation in the parade. In any event, the activities will be a lot closer to home for us. A schedule of homecoming events is here.

And, for the first time, the university has a you tube announcement that can be seen by clicking here.

Amelia Leaving

2008-08-16T11:43:00.007-04:00

My daughter is leaving today,
setting out on her first real life adventure. She has taken a job teaching physical education at Greeleyville Elementary School in Greeleyville, South Carolina. My wife and I are understandably sad about seeing her leave,
but we are proud and happy that she has found a career track job just three months after her graduation from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. She had offers of positions in social service that were nearby. However, she trained to be a teacher, and that is what she wants to be! I know she will do a great job for the children at Greeleyville Elementary.

The Taste of Summer

2008-08-10T12:34:00.002-04:00

We ate our first home grown, vine ripened, tomato of the season for lunch today. As my son said, “You can't buy that kind of taste in the store.” Tomatoes are one of my favorite fruits/vegetables; however, I've grown quite weary of those “plastic” tasting hot house tomatoes we get most of the year and the questionably ripened early season tomatoes that are shipped in from the South.
This year, with the additional fear of tainted tomatoes carrying salmonella, I've made it a point to avoid tomatoes until the two plants in our garden started producing. All I can say is, “The wait has been worth it!”

2008-07-31T14:27:00.001-04:00

Driving 55

2008-07-19T14:39:00.004-04:00

When driving 55 was first introduced in the 70s, I supported the idea. However, driving long trips soon became a physical and mental drain, with no accompanying feeling of gain from mileage or dollars spent. Perhaps, the rationing of gas used during WWII is a better way of making people feel like they are contributing to a solution. Both ideas detract attention from the real problem of finding alternative sources of energy and more efficient methods of transportation. Driving 55 turned out to be a bad idea, and now it's even a worse idea.

The automobile has shaped our lives in innumerable ways. We live miles away from our jobs, shop in strip malls that necessitate driving, and drive to recreational areas and entertainment venues. Our communities have sprawled from small neighborhoods where you could walk to work or downtown stores to metropolitan areas; that means more minutes and hours in the car. We spend too much time commuting and driving now. More time spent in travel isn’t the answer to our problems.

Adjusting the speed limit doesn’t address the oil and automotive issues that everyone has known about for decades. For those who think sacrifice caused by industrial mismanagement and corporate greed is healthy, let them drive at 55 and feel superior to the rest of us. Meanwhile, let’s demand significant research, promote the use of creative imagination, and once more encourage inventive minds to find better alternatives to oil, gasoline engines, and urban sprawl.

2008-07-07T15:16:00.000-04:00

Graduation 2008

2008-05-31T16:46:00.003-04:00

My daughter, Amelia, graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health and Physical Education from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. As an Emeritus faculty member, I requested that I be included in the graduation ceremony. I'm quite proud of her, she truly represents what it means to be a dedicated student, so it was with considerable happiness that I was able to don my academic gown and celebrate my daughter’s success.

I was at the beginning of the columns leading into McComb Fieldhouse, and I embraced her as she entered. Inside I was seated in the third row on the aisle, and embraced and congratulated her as she left the stage with her diploma. One of the young faculty members next to me said that seeing me embrace my daughter as she entered Commencement almost made her cry. I could only respond, "Me too." A Dean who observed me embrace her after she received her diploma told me that it was the best part of the ceremony for him.

The photo was taken in our backyard after Commencement during our celebration of the event. We are all quite happy for her.

Catching Up

2008-05-23T08:22:00.002-04:00

Been a long time since my last blog post, so I’ll do a little catching up. First of all, for those who have been concerned about my health, I’m doing great. My 71st birthday just passed and I’ve renewed my resolve to enjoy everyday of my life for what’s it worth, ups and downs. I don’t always succeed in appreciating the small pains and frustrations of daily existence, but I’m making headway in gaining a larger perspective. Why not, at my age you realize how quickly time flies and that the precious days ahead are dwindling to a few.

I’m proud of my daughter who graduated, Cum Laude, this Spring from Edinboro University. Her Commencement ceremony featured a short video clip of each graduate as she or he came to the platform to accept their diploma. On one screen behind the platform of dignitaries was a screen featuring a close up of the graduate announcing their name and major study; on another screen, the graduate was seen as they received their diploma and the congratulations of the university President. This multi-media event actually added to the celebratory nature of graduating from college.

My wife and I once again wintered in Boca Raton, Florida, a location we have grow to appreciate more each year, as we have made more friends and Boca has become our winter home. The most significant activity for me is playing clarinet in The Gold Coast Band at Boynton Beach.

The Gold Coast Band is a community band that cheerfully accepts snowbirds and watches it’s sections swell in size each winter, only to have them dwindle again in May. However, they have what must be one of the most entertaining concerts of the year after most of us have gone. During the season, each concert features one or two medleys of big band hits or old standards, and these numbers are gathered together to create a “Senior Prom.” The seniors, in this case, are the golden aged members of the Gold Coast, who remember the songs from their youth. The audience’s chairs are placed along the walls and the floor is open for dancing. A very nice finale to the season, but one I have yet to participate in.

There is much more to tell, but I’ll save these stories for another day, this post being long enough as it is. I hope your life is as pleasant as mine in Pappy’s Paradise.

2008-01-17T19:34:00.001-05:00

Fresh Snow

2008-01-06T20:23:00.000-05:00

Now that the political debates are hitting third gear, it’s worth understanding that we as a nation wouldn’t be arguing about the division in this country if most people in our society were content and able to say without burden that they truly have the freedom to pursue happiness.

An untraveled landscape, previously explored, but ready for new steps.

Christmas Mosaic

2007-12-23T19:49:00.001-05:00

Christmas Mosaic, originally uploaded by pappy65.

The holiday approaches and all the preparations are ending. Now the anticipation begins. May all have a very Merry Christmas and realize the spirit of the holiday.

Merry Christmas 2007

2007-12-14T13:48:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas 2007, originally uploaded by pappy65.

2007-11-15T11:53:00.000-05:00

Recent Edinboro Musical Events

On Sunday, November 11, the Concert Band of Northwest Pennsylvania under the direction of John Fleming played a Veteran's Day concert at Hirt Auditorium in the Blasco Library on the Bayfront in Erie, Pa. The concert honored veterans by featuring music from the time of the Revolutionary War to the present. Highlights were a trumpet solo by Bill Fairgraves and a musical homage to the heroes and heroines of flight 9/11 93, Flight of Valor, by James Swearingen Despite a rainy evening, the concert was well attended by an extremely appreciative audience. The Concert Band of Northwest Pennsylvania is made up of excellent area musicians and is a cultural diamond about to celebrate its twenty-fifth anniversary.

Last night, at Louis C. Cole Auditorium, on the campus of Edinboro University, the Erie Philharmonic Orchestra presented a Mostly Mozart concert. Howard Lyon played a well received Mozart Violin Concerto #3 in G. Patrick Jones, an outstanding saxophonist, performed William Alexander's Saxophone Concerto. Composer Alexander is an Edinboro Faculty Emeritus and former Chair of the Department of Music. The final solo of the evening was by Christopher Rapier who played Mozart's Horn Concerto #4. It was definitely a treat to hear the Erie Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Guest Conductor Victor Yampolsky.

New Green Computer

2007-11-03T17:49:00.000-04:00

Well, friends, I have purchased a new computer for less than $200.00. It's an everex gPC purchased at WalMart. The computer has no Windows or Vista of any of the usual pc software you expect on a new computer. Also, the computer comes without a monitor.

What is does have is gOS, "an alternative operating system that uses Google toolbar and its applications" including the online document maker I'm writing in now. I'll send this post to the blog from my doc.

Using an old monitor, I've been giving the computer and new OS a test drive and the results are fine. I'm using firefox. I'm still new to the whole package and have yet to learn the system's limitations. I'll report later on what I learn.

But think about it, a new green computer for under $200! I new challenge to the world of microsoft.

Bill of Rights: Amendment IV

2007-10-30T20:35:00.000-04:00

The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.

The purpose of Amendment IV is clearly stated as a right of the people to be free of unreasonable searches and seizures. A citizen may not be searched, nor may their houses be searched, nor their papers and belongings be searched without a warrant. A warrant will not be issued without: (1) probable cause. Arresting authorities must have support showing that the person has committed a crime and is hiding evidence of the crime, (2) that witnesses swear under oath to know that the evidence is being held by the person, or hidden in the house, or revealed within the paper or other belongings of the suspected citizen; or that there is credible substantiating evidence of the crime. Furthermore the warrant must describe where the search is to take place and identify the person or objects to be searched.

In summary, a citizen should be free from being searched unless a warrant is issued for a search that contains clear certainty, corroborated by witnesses under oath or substantiating evidence, that the suspected citizen is withholding proof of a crime, where the confirming evidence is contained, and what may be searched.

Among other things Amendment Four protects citizens from random searches conducted without cause or carried out merely because of suspicion, and it protects citizens from having evidence planted upon them, or in their houses, or papers, or personal effects. Furthermore, the fourth amendment protects citizens from being singled out and searched because of prejudice, profiling, and circumstantial evidence.

In recent years, the president and the current administration has been willing, after taking their oath to uphold The Constitution of The United States of America, to break the spirit and the letter of the fourth amendment under the pretext of national security. Ironically, breaking the amendment undermines our Constitution while giving Terrorists both opportunity and conditions for those who want to destroy the greatest possibility for freedom on earth.

People who think giving up our privacy to preserve our country is the thing to do, don’t understand the fundamental purpose of a government designed to uphold freedom, nor the natural rights of men and women. Terrorist win when we give away our freedoms.

Heart Attack: Rehab 3

2007-10-07T11:16:00.000-04:00

Last Monday I had my first visit with Dr. Paul Kang after leaving Hamet Hospital in July. The results were very encouraging. Just previous to this visit I completed cardiac rehab, in half the allotted time, and returned to playing tennis. During a vigorous tennis match, my average heart rate was 105, the top of my target zone, and included a twenty minute cool down. My highest heart rate was 230. I asked Dr. Kang if this was OK for me, and he inquired about symptoms, including palpitations. I had none and felt fine. He concluded that I have an excellent tolerance for physical exercise.

In addition, my cholesterol numbers were 150 total cholesterol with excellent “bad” and “good” cholesterol numbers. Dr. Kang said, “I couldn’t have written them down any better.” My wife and I were very happy to know that the dietary changes and exercise we’ve been doing, supported by Crestor, my cholesterol medication, have done the job!
As luck would have it, I was immediately put to the test. Friday I played in a tennis tournament to raise funds for an Edinboro University Sociology scholarship. I played three hard-fought sets in unseasonably high 83 degree October sunshine. Early the next morning I arose to play clarinet for the Zem Zem Band at an Autumn Leaves Festival in Clarion, Pennsylvania. Two full days of activity tested my tolerance. I was tired and somewhat stressed at the end of Saturday, but a good night’s sleep and a forty minute walk around campus have returned my good spirits.

At this point, I can say I feel as good as new, if not better. My biggest problems are mental, with slight cases of psychosomatic symptoms and occasional bouts with stress. The biggest change that has occurred is I feel less like an invalid and more like a normal person. I believe that the more I can put my heart attack to the back of my mind and view the present in clear, appreciative focus, the better off I’ll be.

I have an important Echocardiogram coming up on October 16. Hopefully I’ll learn that the pumping power of my heart has improved.

The Bill of Rights: Amendment III

2007-09-13T14:29:00.000-04:00

“No soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.”

One of the “Intolerable Acts” imposed upon American Colonists by the British Parliament and King George III in response to the Boston Tea Party was the Quartering Act. The Quartering Act gave royal governors the power to quarter (billet) red coats in any town and house they chose without permission of the owner. Imagine having your house and property taken over by soldiers who are ostensibly living in your home to protect you, but in reality are being used by the government to coerce citizens into abject compliance and obedience. True to the American spirit, the Quartering Act and the other Intolerable Acts, of the Boston Port Act and the Massachusetts Government and Administration of Justice Acts, ignited the colonists’ impulse for self-government.

The third amendment of the Bill of Rights recognizes the oppressive nature of quartering soldiers in a home without consent of the owners during times of peace, and only through prescribed laws during the time of war. With our current National Guard, Reserves, and military forts and bases it is difficult to imagine a modern day “quartering act.” However, soldiers did commandeer civilian homes during the civil war and such things can happen without cause. We should retain the protection of the third amendment if for no other reason than as a reminder of our desire for liberty.

The Black Crook: William Wheatley

2007-09-06T12:23:00.000-04:00

First in a weekly series of articles describing the people and events that brought forth a little known landmark in theatre history: America's First Musical: The Black Crook.©Forest Feighner 2005

"Beautiful bare-legged girls hanging in flower baskets; others stretched in groups on great sea shells; others clustered around fluted columns; others in all possible attitudes; girls - nothing but a wilderness of girls - stacked up, pile on pile, away aloft to the dome of the theatre, diminishing in size and clothing, . . . The whole tableau resplendent with columns, scrolls, and a vast ornamental work, wrought in gold, silver and brilliant colors - all lit up with gorgeous theatrical fires…" gushed Mark Twain in reporting his New York experience to his San Francisco readers. He described The Black Crook, the first American musical, then in the middle of a long run, having opened September 12, 1866. Since then, shows such as Showboat, Porgy and Bess, Oklahoma!, Westside Story, and A Chorus Line have established the American musical as a true and unique contribution to world culture.

William Wheatley (1816-1876)

William Wheatley, 50 when he achieved his greatest success, The Black Crook, dressed in dark fashionable clothes. A long frock coat covered a vest with watch chain, every bit the gentleman from his high collar and ascot tie with stick pin to his shinny shoes. His fashionably long hair, dark, and curly, gave him an artistic aspect along with his full, slightly unkempt, moustache. True to his actor's good looks, Wheatley spoke with perfect diction and rolled his rrrrs to give his voice dramatic affect. William Winter, who didn't much care for him said, "His bearing was pompous, yet urbane." In his appearance and manners Wheatley was picturesque. The very embodiment of both an artistic innovator and a businessman, Wheatley was a true theatrical entrepreneur.

Born in the proverbial actor's trunk in 1816 into a theatrical family, William Wheatley's mother and father were both actors. He first trod the boards at the age of 10. In October, 1826, Master Wheatley had a rare opportunity. Just one month earlier, in September, William Charles Macready, a star English actor, "sailed for America, and opened at the Park Theatre, New York, Oct.2, as Virginius." He needed a child to play young Albert in his forthcoming production of William Tell. Wheatley opened in the part on October 13. The child's performance impressed the famed actor, who praised his talent and asked "his parents to let him accompany him on his starring tour through the States, for the express purpose of personating the character of Albert." Following his first remarkable success, young William next made a strong impression starring in the popular play Tom Thumb. By the time he was eleven, Wheatley's life as an actor was assured.

However, acting became work rather than play and twice he temporarily retired from the stage. In 1849, the actor became disgusted with his profession, "He had labored in it long and hard, and rather than waste more of his years and energy upon labor so unrenumerative, resolved to leave it."

William Winter, the Tribune's critic, assessed Wheatley's acting,

"The parts in which he was best were showy, romantic, and pictorial. His Captain Absolute was a perfect embodiment. He was admirable in Claude Melnotte and in Doricout. His acting did not inspire affectionate interest, and it may be doubted whether any performance that he gave is remembered by any person with delight. . . . His influence upon the Stage was at times good, but it was neither deep, comprehensive, nor permanent. He was not a great actor, . . . "

Joseph Whitton expressed a different opinion:

"While he lived, the Stage knew but few better actors than William Wheatley, and since his time it has known but few so good. In 'juvenile' parts he was always acceptable, but 'light comedy' was the field better fitted for the show of his
ability. In such characters as 'Rover,' 'Young Rapid,' 'Bob Handy' . . .. and the 'Copper Captain". . . he had no peer--with the possible exception of James E. Murdoch."

Wheatley was a competent and popular actor, but unlike popular actors such as Edwin Forrest, he was unrewarded financially. Unwilling to continue suffering for his art, his interests turned elsewhere. He worked for a year on Wall Street. Then, he and Whitton opened The American Hotel in Virgin Bay, Nicaragua.

After an initial success, the hotel ventured turned unprofitable and Wheatley returned to the states to make his fortune. Naturally, he turned to what he knew best, the theatre. However, he did not return solely to act, but also to theatrical management, stage production, and, eventually, prosperity.

In the Spring of 1862, after an acting engagement at Niblo's Garden, he leased the theatre and started full-time management of all of the theatre's productions. A step that would lead him to the greatest triumph of his life.

Heart Attack: Rehab 2

2007-08-31T14:39:00.000-04:00

A progress report.

When I walked into the Cardiac Fitness Center the other day, I was shocked to see an overweight man in his Sixties sitting in the waiting room happily munching a fast-food hamburger. Obviously, he dismissed the message his cardiologist gave him about a low-animal fat diet. While his action was extreme, many of my fellow patients at the rehab center are repeat heart attack victims who didn’t follow their doctor’s orders. For me, their errors are my inspiration to succeed.

Routine is the name of the cardiac fitness game. Upon entering the center, the first thing you do is sign-in and report your weight; current blood pressure; whether you’ve taken your meds; and how you feel, such as good, fair, or poor. Then you pick up and attach a heart monitor to your body, and record your monitor number, so the cardiac fitness staff can track you during exercise.

Three therapists and a dietician are available to seven of us, three women and four men, while we exercise. One therapists keeps constant surveillance of our heart rate, so we don’t exceed our target heart rate . The other two nurses help us with the machines, keep an eye on our condition, and answer questions we have about our therapy. Part of their routine is to take our blood-pressure during exercise, as well as before, and after a cool down period when we finish. Constant monitoring of our heart-rate and blood pressure helps the staff determine appropriate levels of exercise for us.

During my seventh day at Hamot Cardiac Fitness Center, I achieved new levels of difficulty for my exercise routine. My first exercise is on a stationary bike. After a five minute warm-up at 35 rpms. I increase my speed to 50 rpms for an additional fifteen minutes. Biking is the most taxing of my exercises, and I like to do it first. Blood pressure rises during exercise, and the bike gets my blood pressure and heart-rate pumped. Each outpatient exercises at a pace suitable to his or her condition.

After the exercise bike, the treadmill is next. Initially, I walked at a 2.2 mph pace. Now, my pace is 2.8 mph on a 3% incline. I walk for 20 minutes. My final exercise is ten minutes on a NuStep, a recumbent cross-training machine operated with legs and arms to work all the major muscle groups.

Overall, I’m currently doing fifty (50) minutes of cardiovascular exercise at a heart target rate compatible to my age and heart’s strength. My goal is to strengthen my heart’s pumping ability measured as an “Ejection Factor” (EF). A normal EF is 55. Through systolic failure my EF became 35. Heart muscle damage cannot be repaired, but I can improve my EF to above 40%. As a practical goal, I want to once again be able to play tennis at a high level for my age.

Heart Healthy Cheese Stuffed Chicken & Spaghetti

2007-08-28T11:30:00.000-04:00

My wife came up with this recipe for a tasty dinner due to my low animal fat diet. However anyone would enjoy “Cheese Stuffed Chicken and Spaghetti,” a heart healthy dinner served with Montepulciano D'Abruzzo wine.

3/4 teaspoon oregano
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves or(1/2 teaspoon dried thyme )
I ½ tablespoons fresh chopped basil or(3/4 teaspoon dried sweet basil)1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

4 boneless chicken breast fillets (approximately 4 ounces each), skinned, all visible fat removed, or use already thin-sliced chicken breasts

4 ounces low-fat cottage cheese, drained

2 ounces grated part-skim mozzarella cheese
2 cups Prego Traditional Healthy Heart spaghetti sauce

In a small bowl, combine oregano, thyme, basil and pepper. Stir to mix well. Set aside.

Meanwhile, rinse chicken and pat dry. Place in a plastic bag and pound to 1/4-inch thickness. Set aside. If using thin-sliced breasts, pounding is unnecessary.

Combine spice mixture with cottage cheese. Spoon mixture onto centers of chicken breasts, leaving a 1/2-inch edge all around. From narrow end, roll each breast jellyroll fashion.

Spray skillet with non-fat spray and preheat over medium heat about I or 2 minutes.Arrange chicken rolls in skillet seam-side up. Cook about 15/20minutes, then gently turn chicken breast over so seams are on the bottom. Pour 2 cups Prego spaghetti sauce over chicken. Cover skillet and cook another 15/20 minutes, or until chicken is tender. During last 5 minutes, sprinkle with grated mozzarella cheese.

Serve on whole grain spaghetti . Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Adapted from a recipe for Chicken Manicotti from American Heart Association Cookbook, 5th Edition

The Bill of Rights: Amendment II

2007-08-25T12:39:00.000-04:00

“Amendment II

A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.”

One of the great images of the revolutionary war is that of the Minute Man, a farmer, or any colonial citizen opposed to King George and the Red Coats. The Minute Man was ready in a moment’s notice to stop his work, run for his musket, and engage in the battle for freedom. The Minute Man represents an individual’s right to fight for a new government by taking up arms to oppose unfair, oppressive, and uncaring authority. The image of a farmer’s revolution sprang to life on April 19, 1775 at the Lexington, Concord Bridge when the Minute Men fired upon the red coats and a skirmish ensued The colonist’s strong statement for self-government was immortalized by Ralph Waldo Emerson in his poem, The Concord Hymn. The first stanza reads:

By the rude bridge that arched the flood,

Their flag to April's breeze unfurled;

Here once the embattled farmers stood;

And fired the shot heard round the world.

With less poetry, but with greater legality, the framer’s of our Constitution immortalized the Minute Man and the free citizen with “the right of the people to keep and bear arms, . . .” Moreover, the second amendment states that the right to bear arms shall not be denied (infringed).

Citizens have a right to fight for fair, equal, and representative self-government along with the right to have weapons. Amendment II is a precious right that must not be abolished.

However, there is a disparity between the Minute Man and the automatic weapon wielding criminal. We have a large, rapidly expanding population, and our popular culture, as seen on television, at the movies, and in video games, is a reflection of our societal condoning of violence. Criticism of the second amendment has focused on controlling crime, especially murder, without proper regard for the fundamental meaning of the amendment. In turn, the NRA opposes efforts at gun control without enough concern for the lives that are being lost to violence with guns. We need ways to monitor our use of weapons, so that innocent lives may be spared from violent crime. The challenge to those who cherish our second amendment right is to find a creative solution that eliminates killing school children with guns, while protecting our fundament right to bear arms.

Boodlies

2007-08-23T20:00:00.000-04:00

A classic rock group, The Boodlies, is hitting the Erie/Edinboro area with great rhythm and high energy lyrical leads. If you like classic rock in the style of Led Zeppelin, and you like listening to music that makes you want to stand up and dance, then follow the Boodlies.

Erie is famous for Train, but there is a high quality garage band renaissance going on that is reminiscence of Mo-town and Chi-town in the late Sixties, when this style of driving psychedelic rock was revolutionary. The Boodlies have recreated this style and make it their own. Classic Rock is as alive now as it was back in the days of The Fillmore. This is no dead head resurrection this is the real thing. These guys are alive and can play! Take it from somebody who’s been there.

Caught The Boodlies at the Fox and Hound. Their fans are young, hip, and dynamic and they mirror the group.

Boost the Boodlies.

The Birthday Girl

2007-08-23T10:44:00.000-04:00

Today is my beautiful wife’s birthday!

We picked up at the Bagel shop, and breakfasted while enjoying the view of Lake Edinboro from the beach at Lakeside.

I’m lucky to have such a wonderful wife and mother to my children.

Happy Birthday!

Heart Attack: Rehab

2007-08-20T13:35:00.000-04:00

Three and a half weeks ago I was released from Hamot Hospital after suffering a heart attack. My doctor told me at that time that I should be able to return to normal activities, including tennis, in six weeks. This is a progress report.

My rehabilitation has centered on four basic areas: (1) a daily weigh-in, (2) a low-animal fat & low sodium diet, (3) taking my medications, and (4) a gradual return to physical activity. The hospital has provided some educational guides for me including a “Heart Owner’s Manual: Your Personal Guide to a Healthy Heart,” and “Strong Hearts: An Educational Guide for Heart Failure Patients.” While I was in the hospital I received healthy heart education and dietary guidelines. All of this information has helped me understand and follow four basic areas for rehabilitating my heart and my life.

The principal reason for weighing myself each day is to be alert to the possibility of congestive heart failure (CHF). An indicator is a sudden weight gain of two pounds over my weight as I left the hospital. My weight the morning after returning home was 203. Today, after a little Saturday night celebration, it is 200. I have been as low as 198. So, far my weight is doing fine.

Since I had a clot in my left ventricle, the hospital emphasized the importance of following a low animal fat diet. In addition, the “Strong Hearts” book recommends a low sodium diet. Fortunately for me, the transition to a heart-healthy diet has been reasonably easy. Partly because of changes my wife introduced to our diet over the years, and partly because of her devoted effort to prepare food that meets my guidelines and tastes great. Another help is that we both enjoy a variety of foods and like fish. When eating out or choosing food it is easy to make mistakes, especially by eating foods that are too high in sodium, a hidden ingredient in most prepared foods. It’s important to read the Nutrition Facts on pre-packaged foods and choose wisely. Learning the foods to avoid and the foods that are recommended eases the decision making process. I’m still learning, but for the most part I’ve been able to follow my low animal fat-low sodium diet.

I’ve established a routine for taking my medications and have yet to forget. My medications include asprin as a preventive measure; Plavix to prevent blood clots; metoprolol for myocardial infarction; Crestor, for cholesterol; and a blood pressure medication. Within a week I developed a cough from taking the ace inhibitor, Altace. My family physician changed my blood pressure medicine to Diovan, an ARB, two weeks ago and my cough is nearly gone. I cough only occasionally, and this is a great relief to me because coughing is a symptom of congestive heart failure. Now I know my cough was a side effect of the ACE inhibitor. The cough was also constantly annoying and made some of my activities more difficult, especially playing the clarinet. I take my blood pressure daily and have achieved a desirable range. My medications are doing their job.

In addition to the basic three steps to survival of diet, medications, and weigh-ins, I’ve started exercising. On the day after leaving the hospital I took a slow, twelve-minute walk. I gradually increased the tempo, length, and time of my walk. Today I walked three miles. Last Wednesday, three weeks to the day after leaving the hospital, I started therapy at the Hamot Cardiac Fitness Center.

“A medically supervised, insurance based, monitored exercise program designed to restore one’s strength and stamina. Walking, biking, strength training and education on heart risk factor reduction are offered. Physician referral required.”

A monitored exercise program restores my confidence that I’m progressing at an appropriate pace. I’ve started doing more chores around the house and yard, and I’m gradually returning to normal activities.

My rehabilitation appears to be progressing according to plan. I’ve been fortunate in my health care from the time I left my front porch with the medics dispatched from our 911call through my restoration at Hamot Hospital, one of the best hospitals in the nation for cardiac treatment, to my wife’s loving care at home. Half of the people who have a heart attack, such as the one I experienced, die. The care I received has already extended my life, and by following the “doctor’s orders,“ I will have more good years to come.

The Bill of Rights: Amendment I

2007-08-18T15:13:00.000-04:00

The first in a series

"Amendment I

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

Constitutional scholars, politicians, lobbyists, and lawyers will tell us what “Amendment I” means, but we should all read, understand, and interpret the entirety of the Bill of Rights for ourselves. With this in mind, I’ve decided to put forth my own understanding of each amendment, starting with the first.

The first amendment says a lot, perhaps, too much for a single amendment given the great significance of every part. However, each component makes sense as part of a comprehensive whole concerned with thought, communication, and the law. To me, the words and meaning of the amendment are straight forward and should need no interpretation, but, alas, nearly every section of the first amendment has come under attack in recent years. My understanding of the first amendment is as follows.

First, congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion. In it’s simplest terms, this means that their will not be, by law, an official national religion, ether in general, such as Christian, Jewish, or Muslim, or specifically, such as The Episcopal Church or The Baptist Church, of The Catholic Church, or any church you can name. Further, the lack of establishing a national church, is linked with the thought that congress shall make no law “prohibiting the free exercise thereof,” meaning you may freely practice your faith, even if is not shared by the majority. Therefore, one individual has just as much “right” to worship according to his religious beliefs as anyone else does. So, if you are Jewish, you have the same right to your religious beliefs as a Catholic, and so forth. Furthermore, by not establishing a national religion and by further allowing the free practice of religious thought, even the belief that religion is irrational is protected, and an individual has the “right” to be an atheist. Therefore we each have the right to be Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, Mormon, Baptist, Lutheran, Methodist, Atheist, etc, without fear of having the practice of our religion denied, or by being subjected to a religion of the majority.

Government sponsorship of Faith Based and Community Initiatives are attempts to make laws that establish religion, in incremental amounts, and, as such, are against our First Amendment Right to be free of religious government. The First Amendment is sound in conception and clear in language. As citizens we must guard against politicians who take advantage of our faith to obscure their purpose of establishing a national religion, even if it seems a harmless charitable service asking us to love our neighbors. There are government programs that can and do offer the same service. As individuals we are free to practice the religion of our choice. Let us keep this precious right.

Congress shall make no laws abridging our freedom of speech. Certainly, this part of the First Amendment is equally clear, although modern interpretation has tended to obscure our important right to express our thoughts regarding political issues. Our Founding Fathers had just freed a new nation from the tyranny of a King, and understood the importance of being able to speak their minds about government without fear of reprisal. As citizens we have a “right” to express our opposition to laws that appear to be against the best interests of ourselves and of our country, or to speak up for those we believe will best serve us as a nation. Furthermore, our freedom to speak is extended to our “press.” (media) so that our opposition or support may receive widespread circulation and discussion.

Governmental wiretapping, listening in on private conversations, and reading private emails are examples of abridging freedom of speech. The Patriot Act reads, in part, as follows: “Title II: Enhanced Surveillance Procedures - Amends the Federal criminal code to authorize the interception of wire, oral, and electronic communications for the production of evidence of: (1) specified chemical weapons or terrorism offenses; and (2) computer fraud and abuse.” True patriots will note that such acts are against our “Amendment I” rights. Those who attempt to muzzle our right to speak and write about the issues that are meaningful to us, diminish our freedom of speech as guaranteed by the First Amendment.

Finally, we have the right to peacefully assemble and let injustices be known and to petition the government to redress our grievances. We have the right to protest and petition for change to make our laws fair and equal. The Civil Rights movement led by Martin Luther King is an excellent example of this right put into practice.

All in all, the First Amendment protects our right to think freely, without religious or political constraint, and to freely express our thoughts without fear of governmental reprisal. Moreover, when we have found inequity, and others are in agreement, we may assemble as a group to express our concern and to request that fundamental wrongs be addressed and made right.

The First Amendment stands first in our minds and our hearts as a right worth fighting for and a right that goes toward making the United States of America the greatest country on earth. Let’s keep it that way.

Wind Turbines

2007-07-31T11:03:00.000-04:00

Wind Turbines are not the final answer to our long-term fossil energy problems, but they do offer an encouraging alternative that can lessen dependence on non-renewable resources and offer a cleaner, healthier environment.

The initial cost of the mechanisms and its installation is high, but that cost is balanced by low priced maintenance.

The negative environmental impact has to do with issues like visual appearance, noise, and bat and bird mortality. Each of these issues has been dealt with, resulting in less noise and fewer birds and bats dieing by running into the blades. Visually, the appearance of wind turbines depends on the eye of the beholder. If you like windmills, they don’t bother you; if you don’t like them, they do. They are certainly no more of an eye sore than the giant electrical power poles we now have.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services has developed guidelines minimizing the impact on wildlife, and the service usually gets involved with the intention of following environmental guidelines when wind turbines are being installed on public lands. Once installed, there is little impact on fish or wildlife at all.

According to the Wind Energy Environmental Impact Statement, “in 1990, California's wind power plants offset the emission of more than 2.5 billion pounds of carbon dioxide, and 15 million pounds of other pollutants that would have otherwise been produced. It would take a forest of 90 million to 175 million trees to provide the same air quality.”

The good far outweighs the bad environmental impact. The cost is at worse equivalent. If the windmills are situated at a reasonable distance, noise is minimal, or no worse than what already exists in most communities. Farms are a good location for windmills, because they don’t disturb sheep or cattle and can provide some income for the farmer. While windmills won’t become the answer to urban electrical problems, small cities and towns can benefit from their use, and feel secure in the knowledge that they’re getting electricity from a renewable source while improving the environment.

Heart Attack

2007-07-28T08:44:00.000-04:00

Pappy recent suffered a heart attack, and is now home recovering.
He feels fortunate to have had excellent care from the moment the medics arrived at his front porch to his exit from the hospital.

A five frame visual story of Pappy's heart attack is on a flickr group he administrates.

The Beer Can Muskie Lure

2007-07-11T10:13:00.000-04:00

One evening, Pappy was sittin’ around with some of his fishin’ buddies and began to explain his idea of the beer-can muskie lure. The idea came to him while observing muskies exploding out of the water to hit floating beer cans.

“The first problem one faces with the beer can muskie lure,” says Pappy, “is to make sure the beer can is empty.”

All nod knowingly in agreement.

“Once this is achieved, attach the hooks with small metal screws, then glue to seal the can and further secure the hooks. A similar procedure is used to cover the tab hole with a small aluminum disk with an eyehook for attaching line. The beer cans that I saw muskie hit appeared to be Budweiser, so that would be a reliable place to start. I think the LaBlatt Blue is fine color worth experimentation. Rolling Rock green is another possibility. After working with the primary colors further experimentation will be forthcoming.”

Fishin’ Magic laughingly says, “I’ve got a suggestion! Use the Bud cans for the "everyday" muskie; Maybe some trendy import brands for the "upper crust" muskies, and of coarse you'll need some Old Milwaukee cans for the "low rent" muskies. Oh, and you’d better call the patent office before some one steals your idea!”

Pappy replies, “Good idea, Magic. Now here’s the way to fish this lure: Wait until dark and then take the beer can with attached green meanie line out in a boat and throw it overboard with a casualness that would make the WCO want to arrest you for littering. Then row to shore while spooling out your line and set your pole high so as to keep as much line off the water as possible. Go home and get a good night's sleep. In the morning creep down to the lake's edge, hide in the bushes and watch your empty beer can float and bob. By now a few muskie have been attracted to the beer can's colors and have picked up the scent. The next think you know, a muskie strikes! Carefully pickup your pole, allowing the muskie to run with the line while savoring the lingering scent of beer. Then, when he’s goood and satisfied, set the hook! Now, the fight is on.

Everyone, chuckles in satisfaction, then they head off to start in making beer can muskie lures

7/07/07

2007-07-07T10:23:00.000-04:00

Will this be your lucky day?

The Fourth of July!

2007-07-02T20:05:00.001-04:00

Americas Greatest Celebration of Freedom and Independence!

2007-06-24T18:36:00.000-04:00

Mr. Toad Went a Travlin'

2007-06-21T19:36:00.000-04:00

Our froggy friend, known as Mr. Toad, has gone a travlin'. Once again, Mr. Toad appeared in my wife's flower basket. Despite my suggestions that Mr. Toad was only looking for a nice place to hide out during the day light hours, my wife thought it was time for Toady to move on. To the extent that she believed this, she drove him over to new more suburban area, Mallory Lake.

Hope Mr. Toad likes his new home.

Mr. Toad

2007-06-18T14:05:00.000-04:00

A loud chirp, almost plaintive, alerted me as I stepped out onto our front porch. Just the day before, my wife found a toad in the flower basket mounted by our front door.
We released the toad into a ditch. Could this be another toad? Or, was it a bird in the evergreen next to the porch where the robins hatched their eggs and raised their young?

A little detective work led to the discovery of Mr. Toad, once again in the flower basket,
and once again released. This time, my son carefully hand carried him to one of our flower gardens.

As my wife went out to water the plants, she found Mr. Toad in the basket again this morning.
Other than water, flowers, and ants,
not sure why he keeps coming back.

Father's Day

2007-06-17T11:43:00.000-04:00

My father was a quiet man. Although he offered few words, he had a hardy recognizable laugh. The most advice he ever gave me was when I got on the bus to join the Army. His counsel, “Don’t volunteer.” Meaning, if a Sergeant is looking for a volunteer, don’t. His only other recommendation was, keep a good credit rating. Both suggestions have served me well.

In other ways, he quietly supported my interests. He came to band concerts and took me to solo contests.

Didn’t tell me what direction to take my life. Also, although I did play basketball and football, not well, but I was on the team. He never attended a game. His favorite pass time was fishing; he passed on to me his passion for the simple pleasures of patience, being in nature, and taking pleasure in the catch.

More can be said, but that’s enough to honor a well remembered father on his day.

Mother Made

2007-06-12T14:35:00.000-04:00

One of the privileges of age is thinking backwards in time to days now long gone that were once a vividly important present. What once seemed commonplace, we now recognize as unique. Such a time is represented in the memories I have of my childhood neighborhood. There were boys and girls I played with everyday and who were the center of my social life, that I haven’t seen in many years, as most were not members of my high school graduating class. My neighborhood gang doesn’t have a periodical reunion.

Recalling some of the games we played is a pleasure. In our yard was an old gnarled box elder tree, thick in trunk with humps and bumps, that made a perfect home base for games of hide and seek. Our gangs favorite version of hide and seek was “Mother Made.”

The person who was “it” leaned against the tree with their forearm covering their eyes while all the others gather round “its” back. One person drew a continuous circle with his or her finger on ’it’s back and slowly recited, “Mother made a chocolate pie, and someone stuck their finger in it.” At that point, one of the gang would stick their finger in the middle of the imaginary pie on “its” back. “It” would then have to guess who was the guilty person. If “it guessed correctly, whoever stuck a finger in the pie was “it.” If “it” was wrong, he or she was still “it.”

At that point, whoever was now “it.” had to again lean against the tree on their forearm with eyes closed and count to one hundred, while everybody else ran off and hid.

“It” could venture off of home base while searching for the others, but needed to return to the base before the person he or she spied. So, while venturing out to seek the others, when “it” saw someone hiding “it” called out the person‘s name, “ I spy Johnny!“ Then they both ran as fast as they could back to home. If the hider returned first, that person was home free. If the seeker returned home first, “it” said, “One, two, three on Johnny!” Then, Johnny was “it,” and all of the others could return. In fact, they were called in by yelling, “Ally, Ally, Outs-in-free! The gang all returned home free to start play all over again.

“Mother Made,” was a great game to play in the twilight hours of a summer evening when we children had the run of the neighborhood.

Tellahveeshion

2007-06-10T17:24:00.000-04:00

Could I waken in the morning
Not caring what Paris Hilton
Did last night?
Or, what she might do today?
Yes, my life’s not that boring.
Why then, do the airwaves feel that
I crave to know her flight or
Fright? While they mock
Their own coverage and
Blame her because she’s rich
And yells, “Mom!” when
Dragged in jail.
Who wouldn’t? Woeful TV
Get a better coverage for me.

Bike Ride

2007-06-08T17:50:00.000-04:00

I bought a new camera Sunday. My old one still takes pictures, but the LCD screen doesn’t work. You can check online to see how much it costs to repair your camera….price $111. Called Wal-Mart to see how much a bottom of the line camera went for, and found one that seemed comparable for $99.00. Bought the camera, then took a bike ride to take some pictures.

Started across campus and stopped at Mallory Lake. Took a picture of the lake and fountain (why they put a fountain in this lake I’ll never understand), and

captured some Canadian Geese swimming in formation.

Peddled over to the old side of campus and took a photo of the base of a new sculpture that will appear in front of the art building.
You can see Memorial Auditorium in the background.

Biked toward town and met a couple of my old colleagues, one riding his bike in the opposite direction, and another sitting on his porch, studying the score for “The Full Monty.” He’s playing in the pit orchestra for the Erie Playhouse. I’d like to post their pictures here, but haven’t yet asked them for permission.

Rode downtown past the funeral home, where I saw a sad sight, a funeral for one of two young children who drowned in a farm pool while their babysitter slept. You might have heard about this tragedy on the national news. Cars were parked everywhere. The funeral for the child was the largest turn-out for a memorial service I’ve seen in our small town.

Biked home to count my blessings and be thankful that I’ve not had to bury any of my children.

Pappy's Pet Peeves Revisited

2007-06-02T09:33:00.000-04:00

The following was originally posted on my old blog. Once more for your consideration, I offer my pet peeves; this time with annotation.

Normally we try to look on the sunny side of life’s events to find the inherent joy of our unique experience as human beings. However, even pappy’s patience can be tried upon occasion, so he’s decided to create a feature disclosing his pep peeves. Pappy’s pet peeves will appear periodically until he runs out of peeves. Hopefully, this will be soon.

1. Hypocrites. We’ve taken notice of religious hypocrites for a long time. The kind of person you see in a prominent pew on Sunday morning after spending a week treating his neighbors in unchristian ways. Lately, the political hypocrite is arousing pappy’s ire. The political hypocrite comes in all shades and hues and is not a leader, but the worst kind of follower. I mean the person who bends in the blustery winds to find favor for himself or his party without concern for the common good.

The 2008 Presidential race started out early this year, so we have to be alert to smiling faces, hand shakes, and poll followers.

2. The Know-it all. Persons who know what’s best for everybody and try to control our lives are know-it-alls. We find the know-it-alls on television, talk radio and on the streets. These people believe that they’ve discovered the one true path to spiritual, political, social, or economical enlightenment. The know-it-all wants you and everybody else to behave in his or her prescribed manner. We could use a lot fewer know-it-alls. Present company excused.

Television now boasts more punditry than news, and many viewers can't seem to separate one from the other.

3. Too Many Laws. When you read the Ten Commandments, you realize how few laws we really need to keep everyone in line. Don’t kill; don’t steal, and don’t betray people are laws at the top of my list. We have too many laws with too many interpretations to be a truly free people. If we could govern ourselves with kindness, tolerance, and understanding we’d be well on the way toward fewer laws.

Guess we need to vote for more legislators who don't know the way to the state and federal capitols, oh, we did!

After reading my pet peeves, I realize I’m guilty. Upon occasion, without provocation, I’m hypocritical. And, of course, I think there ought to be laws against things I don’t like. Finally, just writing all this stuff makes me a know-it-all. Turns out I’m my own pet peeve!

Some things never change.
.

Deana Mosaic in Purple

2007-05-26T21:40:00.000-04:00

A Memorial Day Symbol

2007-05-24T15:24:00.000-04:00

Memorial Day is a good time to spend a few moments remembering loved ones and the men and women who have served our country.

Got an interesting reminder of this today. Next to our piano are shelves that hold memorabilia and family collectibles. For instance, on one top shelf is an old kewpie doll in the shape of a Drum Majorette that I won at the Lake County, Indiana, Fair about fifty years ago. On one of the bottom shelves there's an old Kodak Box camera and a "modern" art deco clock that dates back to at least the 1930s. This afternoon when I walked in the house, my wife showed me where the shelf and all of its contents fell.

Miraculously, the Kodak seems none the worse for wear, and the clock, that hasn't kept time for twenty or more years, started ticking and is now showing the correct time! The old clock was in my boyhood home, and serves, now more than ever, as a reminder of those wonderful times and my loving parents.

A Plus

2007-05-20T15:58:00.000-04:00

Decided to add a word (plus) to the title of my blog. One reason for the addition is to enable people searching for some of the frequently read stories or items in pappy’s paradise to distinguish the old and unavailable from the new, pappy’s paradise plus. Doing a search still brings up the old site, but leads to a cannot display webpage. I plan on republishing some of the favorite stories, such as The Black Crook: America’s First Musical, and hope that reader’s will find what they want at “pappy’s paradise plus.”

Also, I hope to add some features, that will bring a “plus” to pappy’s paradise. For instance, you can watch some excellent clarinet videos or visit some interesting blogs. More items will be added in the future, so come on back to “pappy’s paradise plus” for stories, photos, videos, and other features.

Technorati

2007-05-19T11:55:00.000-04:00

Technorati Profile

On Turning Seventy

2007-05-18T12:19:00.000-04:00

Whoever thought I'd live to see

The diminishing of the bird's and bees?

Avian flu and like disease,

Poisoning lawns and cutting trees.

. . . . . . . . . . .

Oh, how sad it is to enter my Seventies,

And see fewer robins and chickadees.

. . . . . . . . . . .

Went down to the lake today,

Caught two largemouth bass.

Nice sized they were; fun to play.

Pulled them up to the Spring green grass,

Then put them back to swim away.

Once Again

2007-05-17T22:43:00.000-04:00

After a few years of writing a fairly successful blog with wordpress,
my blog failed because of hosting problems. I'm now trying a new version of blogspot. This present post is experimental, a test drive to see how everything works, and to discover if this new pappy's paradise will meet my blogging needs.

Here is a picture taken in February at Red Reef Park in Boca Raton, Florida My wife is
standing on the boardwalk that weaves past the Atlantic Ocean on one side and a nine hole golf course on the other.

Thanks for reading this small experiment. Look for posts of greater interest in the future.