RAIL ENTHUSIASTS COMING TO TOWN MAY 20
A bunch of Railroad Motorcars, sometimes called “Speeders,” will be seen in Greenfield on the morning of Sunday, May 20 as railroad enthusiasts from all over converge on our “Greene Countrie Towne.”
I happened to see some of these unusual railroad motorcars in town a few years ago and wondered what was going on. This time I’ll be better prepared when the excursionists visit.
City Manager Betty Bishop tipped me off about the impending visit, and she forwarded a pdf version of a brochure sent by Dave Verzi of NARCOA (the North American Rail Car Operators Association) which answers many of the questions that always seem to be asked when the unique vehicles are loaded onto the rails.
Verzi offered the following comments about the trip to Greenfield:
“Specific to the Greenfield Railroad we appreciate being able to operate on Ohio rail lines and appreciate the history behind them, such as the Greenfield line which was the former Baltimore & Ohio Railroad - St Louis main line.While most of our attendees are local we have folks traveling (from) 5 other states as well. We are planning for 21 cars on Sunday, though that number can yet vary.
“The Greenfield  line lends itself to our travels in that it is in good condition for our travels, has several historic depots, scenic bridges and accessible amenities along the route, such as being able to stop for a meal in New Vienna.
“As with all our travels, rail lines access areas only available to the narrow railroad right of way, and there not encumbered by the usual highway clutter. We can truly see the countryside, or city side as the case may be. Our NARCOA hosting Affiliate, Ohio Valley Railcars, has been hosting excursions for the benefit of NARCOA members since the mid 1990's and has traveled on many miles of Ohio and surrounding states railroads. Ohio Valley Railcars is a non profit 501(c)7 organization established by NARCOA coordinators to host motorcar excursions in our region.”
Click below to check out the informative brochure and enjoy photos of the Railroad Motorcars heading down scenic byways.
RAILROAD MOTORCAR BROCHURE

NARCOA website:
http://www.narcoa.org/

CAREER TRIPLE CROWN FOR LARRY BIRD
MVP, Coach of the Year and now NBA Executive of the Year -- is there anything Larry Bird can’t do? Oh, he’s a Hall of Famer too...
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/pacers-larry-bird-nba-executive-180548406--nba.html;_ylt=At4DL0BeZqYt5KbdZXL6St85nYcB


THE SCOOP ON FARMERS MARKET
Times-Gazette staff writer Angela Shepherd has the scoop on changes taking place at the Greenfield Farmers Market this summer:
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&ArticleID=184730

FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WITHIN REACH?
Anti-aging gene therapy may be closer than you think! This report says scientists have extended the life span of mice up to 24% with a single gene therapy treatment. How will this affect my retirement age?
http://www.slate.com/blogs/trending/2012/05/15/new_gene_therapy_treatment_increases_mice_lifespan_24_percent.html

DISABLED TROOPS HELPED BY ‘LT. DAN’
Gary Sinise portrayed “Lt. Dan” in the movie “Forrest Gump” and became a star with his memorable performance as a soldier who loses both legs in Vietnam. I happened to catch a report on “60 Minutes” Sunday night describing how Sinise spends most of his weekends playing in a band and helping to raise money for disabled vets. Sinise, now a featured actor on “CSI: NY,” remains humble and devoted to his public service efforts. If you didn’t see the report, you can read or watch it at the links below.
Story:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18560_162-57433129/disabled-troops-inspire-gary-sinise-to-give-back/?tag=contentMain;cbsCarousel
Video:
http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7408416n&tag=re1.galleries

STRANGE DAYS INDEED!
Gary Abernathy has hit some nails on the proverbial head with his latest editorial offering. Strange days have found us, and he’s not talking about the song by the Doors. If you don’t have time to read the whole thing, at least read the last few paragraphs which provide food for thought:
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=382&ArticleID=184720

SIMON & GARFUNKEL’S ‘BOOKENDS’
A young NPR intern is asked to review a classic album she’s never heard before. Great album; interesting concept! Do you remember “Bookends”? Read Jenna Strucko’s report and hear the title track here:
http://www.npr.org/blogs/allsongs/2012/05/14/152036574/youve-never-heard-simon-and-garfunkels-bookends

BASS LEGEND DONALD ‘DUCK’ DUNN DIES IN TOKYO
I got to hear “Duck” Dunn and Booker T. Jones backing up Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young in Columbus about a decade ago. Dunn’s bass lines can be heard on a plethora of hits from Stax Records and other sessions down through the years. The pipe-smoking bassist can also be seen in “The Blues Brothers,” Dan Akroyd and John Belushi’s tribute to blues, soul music and car crashes. So many icons from the 1960s and ‘70s are leaving us. Here’s more about the man who helped create the “Memphis Sound”:
http://www.npr.org/2012/05/13/152641778/bass-legend-duck-dunn-70-dies-in-tokyo

http://www.npr.org/blogs/therecord/2012/05/14/152678702/duck-dunn-stax-bassist-remembered-in-memphis


NEW JUST THINKING!
Greg Roberts has been thinking about FEAR. Read it at the link below... if you dare!
http://www.coffeyweb.com/just-thinking.html

GOLF OUTING!
Thanks to son Wade and Benny Zickafoose, I was able to play in the Strokes for Strokes golf tournament at Buckeye Hills on May 10. The weather was perfect, and while our golf games were less than great, we still had a wonderful time at the beautiful Buckeye Hills Country Club and helped raise money for a good cause (the AGMC Rehabilitation Unit). Benny and Wade shot pretty well and I did the best that I could. Even with mulligans and the privilege of teeing off from the senior tees, I wasn’t much help but I certainly enjoyed the fellowship with my teammates and all the others who showed up to support the Adena Health System. Some photos from the outing have turned up on the Buckeye Hills website:
http://www.buckeyehillsgolf.com/

GREENFIELD IS LOOKING BETTER!
Volunteers from several organizations, including Y-Gradale and Cub Scout Pack 190, were on hand Saturday morning pulling up weeds, planting and cleaning up the community as part of Greenfield Beautification Week. While I don’t fancy myself a gardener, I pitched in for an hour or two and experienced the wisdom of the saying, “Many hands make light work.” Thanks to everyone to participated. Greenfield looks better!
I’ve posted some photos on the new PHOTOS PAGE of this website.

COMMUNITY YARD SALE
Ron Dudley also has planned a Community Yard Sale for June 8-9. For more info read the article in the Times-Gazette:
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?Search=1&ArticleID=184647&SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&S=1

COUNTY COURT ACCEPTING CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS

The Highland County Court in Greenfield is now accepting credit card payments as a convenience to the public. Traffic tickets and minor misdemeanor citations can be paid online by visiting www.greenfieldohtickets.com and entering the required information, including the ticket number or citation number, so that the money is applied to the proper case.
If there are questions about the amount due, of if someone wishes to make a payment on older cases, the clerk’s office can be contacted at 937-981-2139.
The court has a waiver schedule for many traffic offenses and most minor misdemeanors, and a call to the clerk’s office is the easiest way to confirm the waiver amount. If the full amount is not paid, a guilty waiver cannot be accepted and the Defendant is to appear in court.
In order for payments to be applied to older cases, the Defendant needs to provide identifying information so that the money is applied to the proper person and case(s).
There is also an 800 number that allows credit card payments to be made by phone: 1-800-701-8560.
Many courts around the country use the nCourt system. There is no cost to the courts using the system; the person making the payment is charged a convenience fee.

DANNY THOMPSON
Saw a nice article online about the late printer, civic leader, sports fan and all-around good guy, Danny Thompson:
http://www.highlandcountypress.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=73&ArticleID=12966

JOSH HAMILTON FACTS & FIGURES
A lot of interesting stuff regarding Josh Hamilton’s four-home run game on May 8 has been dredged up by sports writers. Below are some examples, plus a link where you can watch highlights of the former Cincinnati Red’s big game.
There have been 21 perfect games in MLB history, but just 16 players have hit four homers in a game. The last one prior to Josh Hamilton’s feat was by Carlos Delgado in 2003. This year marks the first time a perfect game and four-homer game have been recorded in the same season.
Hamilton went 5-for-5 on the night, and had the same baserunner (Elvis Andrus) each time he homered. Hamilton finished with 18 total bases (he also had a double).
Hamilton’s home run trots were timed by ever-watchful statisticians, and his fastest time around the bases was on his fourth trip (20.75 seconds). Is anything NOT measured in this day and age?
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/josh-hamilton-hits-four-home-runs-against-orioles-022651734.html
Josh Hamilton grew up in North Carolina and played ball with my cousins. He’s in an interesting position these days, trying to negotiate a new contract on the strength of a .400-plus batting average and 14 home runs. He also has a history of drug addiction and injury. How would you like to be the Rangers’ general manager in dealing with this situation?
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/josh-hamilton-s-record-tying-four-home-runs-add-intrigue-to-renewed-contract-talks-with-rangers.html;_ylt=Aqezd6ht4Cjod8yeNTTQloM5nYcB

‘TWO BETTYS” HELP GES
Not too many years ago the “Gang of Nine” helped Greenfield by keeping youth sports leagues alive at the advent of a dreadful recession. Many others have pitched in to help the community in various ways, including Greenfield’s “Two Bettys,” City Manager Betty Bishop and council member Betty Jackman.
The Bettys donated several hours of labor for a good cause May 8 when they served as guest waitresses/servers at Calhoun’s on Jefferson. A portion of the proceeds from the evening will be donated to Greenfield Energy Solutions (GES), a committee dedicated to helping people save on energy costs. The volunteers took a brief break during their busy evening to pose for a photo with restaurant patrons Dr. Rich Sapienza and his wife Barbara.
Dianna and I had the pleasure of dining with the Sapienzas and enjoyed a wide-ranging discussion, even touching upon the "Three-Second Rule" (see below), but not invoking it.
One of the goals of GES is to conduct energy audits of homes in and around Greenfield to help residents save on their utility bills. GES Chairman Sam Bowers, who was present at the restaurant for the event, is full of ideas that can help us all keep some extra change in our pockets  when it comes time to pay bills.
It’s nice to see events like these put on occasionally by Calhoun’s with the help of various well-known local personalities. Patrons enjoyed excellent food while helping a good cause.

SCIENTISTS RESEARCH THE 'THREE-SECOND RULE'
Ever dropped food on the floor or ground and called out “Three-Second Rule” before grabbing and eating it? Me neither, but I have practiced the more lenient and quite similar “Five-Second Rule.” Now researchers, perhaps suffering from a shortage of things to test, are scrutinizing the Three-Second Rule with scientific instruments and principles. While I was not surprised that many foods acquired lots of bacteria in just three seconds, the scientists found some foods that did surprisingly well when on the floor for just a short time. Among them: sliced ham, dry cookies, even toast with jelly (if the toast landed jelly side up).
Isn't science amazing?
Watch the report here:
http://gma.yahoo.com/video/wellness-29137617/scientists-test-three-second-rule-29204503.html


ABOUT THAT RECORD COLLECTION…
I think most of us Baby Boomers have a record collection of some kind, yet the majority no longer has a working turntable. I know of a nice collection of classic rock and pop – even a little bit of country – from back in the day gathering dust in the basement. A music teacher once borrowed a bunch of my old albums to show off to kids from the CD generation. I think I even have a working record player, but these days most of my listening is via the ubiquitous mp3 format.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed reading Nancy Dean’s piece, “The Record Collection,” at Chapman’s General Store. Maybe you will too:
http://lechap.com/?p=4369#more-4369


WOMEN’S HALL OF FAME SEEKING NOMINEES
The Highland County Women's Hall of Fame committee is seeking nominations of outstanding women for induction into the Women's Hall of Fame. The deadline for submission of nominations is June 30.
This event has taken place for over 30 years and has honored a variety of exceptional women. This year's inductees will be honored at a dinner on Tuesday, August 28 at the Ponderosa Banquet Center.
Completed nomination forms should be sent to: Highland County Women's Hall of Fame Committee, P.O. Box 303, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133, no later than June 30.
I’m proud to be the son of Hall of Famer Thelma Coffey and to know many of the members of this group. Perhaps someone you know or love should be considered for induction in the Highland County Women’s Hall of Fame. There’s still time to work on that nomination form!
More details:
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&ArticleID=184593

RORY REMEMBERS GOOBER
If you are/were a fan of “The Andy Griffith Show” or “Hee Haw” you probably remember George “Goober” Lindsey. Rory Ryan does, and what he has written is worth reading:
http://www.highlandcountypress.com/main.asp?SectionID=4&SubSectionID=83&ArticleID=12934

TRACTOR CLUB
Hats off to the Greenfield Tractor Club for a nice event Saturday afternoon in the parking lot between Stevens Hardware and Greenfield Chiropractic. Dianna and I stumbled on the event by accident and enjoyed the pork tenderloin sandwiches, checking out the vintage tractors and watching a bit of the kiddie tractor pull. Greenfield seemed to be buzzing Saturday. I hope the trend continues!

VJ DAY, 1945 IN HONOLULU
Sole Blog Reader found this nice home movie that was posted online by Richard Sullivan, whose father was there on August 14, 1945. The images captured show some of the spontaneous celebrations as soldiers and civilians took to the streets to celebrate the end of a long and deadly war and contemplate the future. Nice job, Sole.
The email Sole sent included these comments by an earlier forwarder: “Great video of a Spontaneous Victory Parade in Honolulu in 1945. Take a look at this video-absolutely fabulous! Notice the cars and jeeps, youth. The guys in khaki or gray shirts and black ties are Navy officers or chiefs. The rest are Army or Marine. How young they all were to do what they did. This guy really captured a moment in history! (You can listen to Jimmy Durante singing "I'll be Seeing You" in the background, too) This is a super video of a time past - we need to remember and be THANKFUL. Check out the color fidelity. It's not bad for 1945. Nothing will ever compare with Kodachrome film.”
Here’s the link:
http://vimeo.com/5645171

FRESH CRABS AND BOAT PEOPLE FRIENDS
I enjoyed Larry Chapman’s account of sharing fresh crabs and fellowship with some Vietnamese-Americans who came to the U.S. to follow their dreams. Nice way to celebrate your birthday, Larry!
http://lechap.com/?p=4409


CELEBRITY WAITRESSES & CALHOUN’S WILL HELP GES ON MAY 8
Betty Bishop and Betty Jackman will be "celebrity waitresses" at Calhoun's on Jefferson" on Tuesday evening May 8, 2012 from 4:30 - 8:30 p.m.  A portion of all proceeds will go to the Greenfield Energy Solutions project through the Greenfield Foundation.  The goal of this committee is to reach out
to all citizens of Greenfield, offering them ideas to conserve energy, and to reach over 150 of those households by September. “Come one! Come all! Enjoy a meal and at the same time support your local community,” encourages Sam Bowers, chairman of Greenfield Energy Solutions. “Hope you all can make it!”


CITY BUILDING BEING PAINTED
Due to the repair and painting of the front of Greenfield City Hall, the front doors will be unusable Friday, May 4 from 8:00 a.m. through Monday, May 7, according to City Manager Betty Bishop. “Please use the door on the west side of the building to enter through the council room to get to all offices, the elevators, and the police department.  Thank you for your cooperation and we urge all citizens to clean up, paint up, and spruce up your properties as we try to get Greenfield cleaner and more beautiful than ever.  Thank you for being so understanding,” Bishop said.


MAJOR LEAGUE HISTORY!
Never before have two starting Major League pitchers faced each other on their respective birthdays! It happened Thursday as the Chicago Cubs’ Ryan Dempster, celebrating his 35th birthday, opposed the Cincinnati Reds’ Homer Bailey, who turned 26. As it turned out, neither pitcher got the decision, but the Reds prevailed with a 4-3 win in 10 innings.
I remember a game five or six years ago where two 300-game winners faced each other, which has to be pretty rare occasion. I think the pitchers were Roger Clemens and Greg Maddux. Currently I don’t think there are any active 300-game winners, so I consider that a rare event indeed. It’s surprising to me that a dual birthday matchup hasn’t occurred before now, since every starting pitcher -- even the lousy ones -- celebrates a birthday at some point in the year. I’ll have to trust the statisticians on that one.
I checked further on the battle of 300-game winners, and it was on April 29, 2005 that Maddux bested Clemens for his 306th win in the first National League matchup of 300-game winners in 113 years. I guess that is a pretty rare event! In the American League, right hander Don Sutton of the then-California Angels defeated the Minnesota Twins and one of the all-time great southpaws, Steve Carlton, in another battle featuring members of the 300 Club.
Here’s an account of the Reds’ historic Birthday Battle:
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/reds-rally-vs-marmol-beat-194726042--mlb.html

BEACH BOYS GOING ON 50 YEARS!
The band known for its harmonies has had some distinctly unharmonious relationships over the years, but the Beach Boys are still performing as they celebrate their 50th anniversary in the music biz. A couple of the Boys who focused on writing songs about surfing have admitted that they never actually tried it. No matter, it’s the music that counts! And none other than Paul McCartney once called “God Only Knows” the best song ever written. Now this band of 70-year-olds is touring for the first time in 20 years. FYI, the Beach Boys will be at Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati on June 12.
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-3445_162-57423831/the-beach-boys-back-catching-another-wave/?tag=cbsnewsSectionsArea.2

http://www.thebeachboys.com/

GOLF CAN BE A DANGEROUS SPORT!
Golfers, at least in some states, face danger near the water hazards! A report I saw Wednesday indicated an elderly golfer was nearly dragged into the water and drowned by a nine-foot alligator! I’ve not seen any gators at Buckeye Hills, however, so hopefully I won’t have to worry about attacks when I participate in the Strokes for Strokes tourney May 10 at Buckeye Hills. Out-of-control tee shots may be another story!
If you’re interested in playing in the golf outing May 10, here’s some information:
STROKES FOR STROKES
About that alligator:
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/golf-devil-ball-golf/gator-bites-golfer-215012198.html
 
 
OPERATION LIGHT UP GREENFIELD
Christmas in Greenfield is going to be amazing this year, thanks to some local members of the community. Jay “Pokey” Post, master of sound and lighting, has offered to light up City Hall and put the whole thing to music! Jennifer Lowe is heading up a group that is excited to make this a Christmas like no other for the children of the Greenfield area, but your help is needed.
According to a flyer distributed by the group, this will only happen if everyone pitches in. “We are asking for donations of Christmas lights and any decorations you may have that you are not using. There is a donation drop off box for lights set up on the first floor of City Hall by the pop machine.”
In addition, monetary donations are being accepted at the Home Building and Loan Company. Thanks to the Greenfield Foundation, donations are tax-deductible and can be made out to The Greenfield Foundation with a notation that the money is for “Operation Light Up City Hall.”
More details are available in the flyer provided:

OPERATION LIGHT UP CITY HALL

Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/192663700832697/

COOPERATIVE DOLPHINS
Dolphins and humans cooperate to create a fishing utopia of sorts:
http://news.yahoo.com/dolphins-help-fishermen-catch-fish-231158650.html
 
 
CLASSY GESTURE
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers offered a contract to a paralyzed player to honor his “character, spirit and perseverance.”
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/bucs-sign-paralyzed-dt-legrand-135236465--nfl.html;_ylt=Ai_UExwqez03xJeogVWB2EY5nYcB
 

GREENFIELD PROJECT PIX
Greenfield City Manager Betty Bishop has provided some additional photos of the wastewater treatment plant project that’s underway just outside of town. The massive project is scheduled for completion in September. Total flow at the plant in 2011 was 68.561 million gallons!
More photos can be found at the Greenfield website:
http://www.greenfieldohio.net

MORE ABOUT ROBIN BROWN & VETS SERVICE COMMISSION
Meredith Creek has served up a nice profile on new Highland County Veterans Service Commission Director Robin Brown and her staff at:
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&ArticleID=184557

WIT & WISDOM
Children are a great comfort in your old age - and they help you reach it faster, too. - Lionel Kauffman

Here's to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes... the ones who see things differently -- they're not fond of rules... You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but the only thing you can't do is ignore them because they change things... they push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do. - Steve Jobs

The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There's also a negative side. - Hunter S. Thompson

I can't listen to that much Wagner. I start getting the urge to conquer Poland. - Woody Allen


SLOW AND LOW MENU
If you’ll remember, I wrote about a visit to Slow and Low Barbecue recently and said I would post a menu. I’ve been a little busy and a lot distracted, but with this post I intend to follow through.
For those unfamiliar with Slow & Low, it’s located at 1468 N. High St. in Hillsboro, pretty much across the street from TSC. Pretty good eats if you like barbecue!
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MENU


WHO ‘NAILED’ THE NFL DRAFT?
The experts always give credit to teams like the Patriots and Eagles. But what about the Cincinnati Bengals? Are they really on the list of draft-savvy teams? Read on:
http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/09000d5d828be147/article/patriots-eagles-nail-2012-nfl-draft-jury-out-on-browns-rams?module=HP11_content_stream


ATTENTION VETERANS!
Thursday, May 10 is an important date for Highland County veterans, as the first annual Veterans Outreach is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Veterans Service office, located at 135 N. High St., Hillsboro.
Linda Ellis tipped me off about this open house and sent along a pdf file that can be accessed by clicking HERE -- or call the Veterans Service Commission at 937-393-8686 for more information.
Linda said the open house is in conjunction with the distribution of flags to be placed at veterans’ gravesites.
By chance I have met Robin Brown, who staffs the Veterans Service Commission office in Hillsboro, and I found her to be quite helpful. We were checking on behalf of a relative who is a veteran. Robin, a retired Marine, pointed us to the Highland County Recorder’s office where we quickly obtained a DD-214 from Dick Counter containing the necessary service information on the individual. Subsequently an application was made for VA assistance, and a response came back in timely fashion.
It’s good to meet caring individuals like Robin who devote their time and energy to looking after the needs of our military veterans!
Here’s a link to an article that might be helpful as well:
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?Search=1&ArticleID=184390&SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&S=1

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MAY 12
The Highland County Special Olympics is just around the corner, and once again the event will take place in Greenfield at the McClain sports complex. The Special Olympics is scheduled Saturday, May 12 beginning at 9 a.m.
Each year this has proved to be an extremely gratifying event for the participants and those many volunteers who make the Special Olympics possible.
More details:
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&ArticleID=184482

RETURN OF DEBTORS’ PRISONS?
This is a scary thought when, as financial counselor Dave Ramsey says, “normal is broke.” This piece also offers some tips for paying down debts without going to jail:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/jailed-for--280--the-return-of-debtors--prisons.html
A snippet of Dave Ramsey’s philosophy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GivE2ok9QU


CHRISTIAN CENTER GROUNDBREAKING
The Greenfield Area Christian Center conducted a groundbreaking ceremony April 24 for a new facility at 912 N. Fifth St., Greenfield.
Katy Farber and Ellie Zint spoke about the subject at the Greenfield Rotary meeting last week and I scanned an information sheet and pledge card, which I’ve posted here.
GACC INFO SHEET
GACC PLEDGE CARD
The news media are also providing some nice coverage on the project. Here’s a link to a recent article:
http://www.highlandcountypress.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=74&ArticleID=12676

STUFF THE FACEBOOK GENERATION WON’T BUY
Here’s an interesting look at products a younger generation than mine values – and others that appear to be shunned:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/eight-products-the-facebook-generation-will-not-buy.html

‘ADMIRAL IRWIN’ VISITS GREENFIELD
Versatile storyteller Danny Long appeared at the Greenfield Historical Society Tea April 22 as Rear Admiral Noble Irwin and very ably told the story of the young man from Sugar Run (just outside of Greenfield) who rose through the ranks in the U.S. Navy to achieve many honors while serving his country. A full house was present at the Konneker Education Center, 245 South St. for the tea.
Long explained how Irwin was involved in the Brazilian Revolution, the Spanish-American War, the Boxer Rebellion and other conflicts, including World War I when as the first director of Naval Aviation, he increased the number of naval aviators from 100 to more than 20,000. Irwin himself took the flight training, and became the oldest man in the Army or Navy to earn his flying wings.
In addition to his service at sea, Noble Irwin also attained a reputation on the football field and was known as "Bull" Irwin for his gridiron prowess. He participated in the first Army vs. Navy football game and later served as athletic director for the U.S. Naval Academy.
Irwin was born in 1896 and died in 1937. Following his death, the U.S. destroyer USS Irwin was named in his honor.
Congratulations to the Greenfield Historical Society for putting on these teas for the past four years. Previous subjects have been the McClains, the Pattersons and the Waddells.
I can’t wait to find out who will be featured at the tea in 2013!
More on Rear Admiral Irwin:
http://www.greenfieldhistoricalsociety.org/noble-irwin-summary.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noble_Edward_Irwin

CHAPMAN ON LEVON HELM, LARRY CAMPBELL
Received the following note from Larry Chapman concerning my recent post about Levon Helm and Larry Campbell:
“I have a couple of DVDs of the Midnight Ramble and since it was held just a stone's throw from where an aunt lives I always planned on making the trip. Not to be, however. I've seen Larry Campbell perform on TV along with Levon several times. He also did a hour special on a PBS program couple of years ago. Another regular that performed with Helm over the years was a fantastic blues harp player named Little Sammy Davis. Davis is still alive but took sick several years ago and is no longer able to perform. Alexis P. Sutter, who I first saw perform on the Don Imus show, was also a regular at the Ramble. She appears at many blues festivals and my son and I heard her at Cincinnati in 2010. Levon had lots of friends and fellow musicians and all will miss his smile!”
Larry Chapman is a real blues aficionado and I’m not surprised he was familiar with these talented but not-exactly-famous musicians. Thanks Larry.
More musings from Larry and others who love to write can be found at:
www.lechap.com

LEVON HELM & 2 DEGREES OF SEPARATION
Like Todd Rundgren (see below), Levon Helm is a musical legend but far from a famous name to most who will read this. The drummer and frequent lead singer in the Band passed away April 19 at the age of 71 after several years of battling cancer. The New York Times said that “Mr. Helm was the American linchpin of the otherwise Canadian group that became Bob Dylan’s backup band and then the Band.” After backing Dylan, the Band hit it big in 1968 with “Music From Big Pink” that featured Helm’s unique vocals on “The Weight” and “Up on Cripple Creek.”  Later the Band was featured in Martin Scorsese’s documentary about their farewell concert, entitled “The Last Waltz.”
After the Band broke up, Helm continued performing and recording as a solo artist with excursions into rootsy country and folk-inflected rock such as the 2008 Grammy winning album “Dirt Farmer” (best traditional folk album) and a follow-up entitled “Electric Dirt.” He also acted a bit, including a role in the 1980 film, “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” as Loretta Lynn’s father, and was renowned for his Midnight Ramble programs from his home in Woodstock, NY.
I never met Levon Helm or heard him play live, but I sort of made a connection in April when Dianna and I attended a concert by Larry Campbell and his wife, Teresa Williams, at the Fur Peace Ranch below Athens. Larry and Teresa put on a great show, and it turns out that Campbell is not only a great guitarist and singer, but also a record producer. Among his credits as producer are Levon Helm’s “Dirt Farmer” and “Electric Dirt” and another fine album, “River of Time” by Fur Peace Ranch owner Jorma Kaukonen (once a member of the Jefferson Airplane).
Campbell’s credits are many, including stints with the Grateful Dead and Bob Dylan where he has displayed his prowess on multiple instruments.
One of the highlights at the show April 14 was when Campbell and his wife were joined on stage by guitarist Happy Traum (who was giving a guitar clinic at the Fur Peace Ranch) and Jorma Kaukonen for several numbers. I managed to get this photo and was glad that my friend who has season tickets was unable to be there that night and offered them to the Coffeys.
So that’s my rambling tale about my Kevin Bacon-like degrees of separation from or connection with Levon Helm and other great musicians who aren’t necessarily household names.
Levon Helm info:
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/20/arts/music/levon-helm-drummer-and-singer-dies-at-71.html?_r=1
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levon_Helm

Larry Campbell:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larry_Campbell_%28musician%29

Jorma Kaukonen:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jorma_Kaukonen

Happy Traum:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Happy_Traum

Degrees of separation:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Degrees_of_separation

TODD RUNDGREN, LITTLE-KNOWN ROCK LEGEND
Dave Shoemaker has come up with a nice treatise on the legendary -- but largely unknown -- rock and pop singer, bandleader and producer, Todd Rundgren. You can read it at Chapman’s General Store:
http://lechap.com/?p=4202#more-4202

HALL OF FAME PASSOVER LIST
While Shoe touts Rundgren for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, I might mention here that only two of the three bands sometimes mentioned as the “Holy Trinity” of hard rock are in the Hall of Fame. While Led Zeppelin was inducted years ago, and Black Sabbath was taken in during the past decade, members of one of the great hard rock bands, Deep Purple, will have to wait at least another year for that fateful call. The list of Hall of Fame omissions is rather amazing, as this article points out:
http://www.cleveland.com/music/index.ssf/2010/12/rock_and_roll_hall_of_fame_snu.html
Who's in (and yes, the Who are in but the Guess Who aren't):
http://rockhall.com/inductees/alphabetical/


FARMERS MARKET 2012
Some changes are afoot for the Greenfield Farmers Market this year. The sessions will take place on Thursdays beginning May 31, and at a new location as well: the green space east of the Greenfield City Hall building. Hours will be from 4-7 p.m.
Ellie Zint, Anne Byars and others working on the project are also hoping to have some live music on hand this year, so if you’re a musician and want to help bring some ambiance to the farmers market this summer, please contact Ellie or Anne for details.
The changes sound exciting, and I’m looking forward to the end of May when the 2012 edition of the Greenfield Farmers Market kicks off!


CONGRATS DR. STEVE!
The Edward Lee McClain Alumni Association has announced that Dr. Stephen Dane Iseman will be the first inductee into its Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony is scheduled at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 24 at the annual Academic Excellence Awards Ceremony.
Congratulations to Dr. Steve! For more information click on the link below:
http://www.highlandcountypress.com/main.asp?Search=1&ArticleID=12544&SectionID=2&SubSectionID=73&S=1


MEGA DAIRY FARM!
Sole Blog Reader forwarded this link to a HUGE dairy farm in Indiana where people come in on buses for field trips to see 35,000 head of cattle being fed, giving birth, and being milked!
www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJRy82i8e5Q&feature=email


MIKE WALLACE MEMORIES
“60 Minutes” said goodbye to Mike Wallace on Sunday with some great clips and memories from those who knew him well. In case you missed it, fear not -- lots of Mike Wallace stuff is included on the CBS website:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18560_162-57414330/saying-farewell-to-the-extraordinary-mike-wallace/?tag=contentMain;cbsCarousel


DIAMOND GRILL MEMORIES
I enjoyed reading Larry Chapman’s thoughts about the Diamond Grill. I had no idea that the back bar from this iconic onetime Greenfield establishment eventually wound up in German Village at a place called Diebel’s Bier Garten that I have visited on a few occasions over the years. As happens even with legendary German pubs, Diebel’s is gone but that location is now home to the Barcelona restaurant, a fine place to eat in the Columbus area. Apparently that bar from Greenfield still is in place at the Barcelona! Nice investigative work, Larry!
http://lechap.com/?p=4285#more-4285


ROD PIAZZA & THE MIGHTY FLYERS
Caught these guys on PBS recently and they got my attention. A blues quartet without a bassist -- but the lady on keyboards and the guitarist take care of that! And Rod Piazza is a powerful vocalist and harmonica player in the tradition of Otis Spann. I wonder if Larry Chapman knows about this group from the West Coast. For a listen, visit the band’s website and click on the little jukebox icon near top right, or look on the left for video clips.
http://www.themightyflyers.com/index2.htm

BROWDER NETS FOLLOW-UP
I received some follow-up comments about the Browder Life Saving Nets from my mother, Thelma Coffey -- the real historian in our family:
“The nets may be written about in one of my Prof. Harris books (“A Greene Countrie Towne” or “Hometown Chronicles” by F.R. Harris).  And I know Ned Woodmansee did do some type of nets that Larry Chapman mentioned.”

Thanks Mom! Somewhere I have one of those Greene Countrie Towne Festival souvenir booklets from the 1985 that summarizes the information available to me at the time, mainly from the F.R. Harris books. I helped edit the booklet at the behest of Steve Weaver, who was festival chairman at the time (we both worked for Greenfield Printing at the time). I am still looking for my copy of the souvenir program, but am happy that I scanned some of the articles from that publication and stored them on my computer. I’ve posted a pdf version of the article that mentions Bill Shimp, Ned Woodmansee and the rise and fall of the Life Saving Nets.
READ THE PDF VERSION OF ARTICLE

MORE ABOUT LIFE SAVING NETS
Larry Chapman commented about my recent post concerning the Browder Life Saving Net once manufactured in Greenfield, and offered a query about another name he associates with a similar product:
“Ron, in the 1940s and 50s was the Woodmansee family somehow involved with the manufacturer of the fire safety net? I seem to recall a small one-story building next to the post office where these devices were being made and a fellow named Ned Woodmansee owning it. Possibly one of your readers can remember back that far.”
Larry, I’ll post this for reader comments. I think it’s all connected, but my memory is a bit murky. An article I found online indicates that Mr. Browder sold his patents to the Corey-Patterson Company in 1907, and I think that company produced products into the latter part of the 20th century. In fact, my family has some relatives by the name of Shimp (my uncle was named Wade Shimp Coffey) and I seem to remember that a man named Shimp ran that company next to the post office that you referenced.
A quick Google search yielded several nuggets about the Browder Life Saving Net and some interesting photos as well. A San Francisco Fire Department posting circa 1939 indicated that a one-quarter fold Browde Life Saving Machine cost $215.
Here are some links:
http://my.firefighternation.com/forum/topics/fire-department-safety-nets-did-they-go-away-and-why?page=3&commentId=889755%3AComment%3A6011948&x=1#889755Comment6011948

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Life_net


RECEPTION FOR BRENDA LOSEY
There will be a Meet the Candidate reception and fundraiser for Brenda Losey, who is running for Highland County Commissioner, on Wednesday, April 25 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Yellow Rose Bed and Breakfast, 305 S. Washington St. in Greenfield.  “Please join us for refreshments and a silent auction.  Everyone is invited,” the candidate said.

THE SHROUD OF TURIN
Saw a very interesting report Sunday on CBS “Sunday Morning” about the Shroud of Turin, which many believe to be the burial cloth of Jesus. A new book, “The Sign” by art historian Thomas de Wesselow supports the theory that the burial cloth is authentic. Yet, in my view, he and the dean of the Yale Divinity School have somehow managed to miss the point entirely by concluding that the shroud itself was mistaken for the risen Christ.
Watch for yourself at the link below:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-3445_162-57410982/controversial-new-theories-on-the-shroud-of-turin/?tag=strip

BIKE TRAIL ON FACEBOOK!
Some local folks were exploring the Greenfield bike trail over the weekend and talking about what a nice trail it is. Next thing you know, their daughter, now a resident of Chicago, whipped together a Facebook page about the Greenfield bike trail!
It’s amazing what a smart phone can do in the hands of a tech-savvy person! The creator of the page is Laura Hayes, daughter of Larry and Cindy Hayes of Greenfield.
Soon more people will know about the beautiful biking, walking and running trail in Greenfield. Just visit Facebook and search for “Greenfield Bike Trail,” or click on the link below. (And be sure to “like” it!)
http://www.facebook.com/GreenfieldBikeTrail

IS HIGHLAND COUNTY HEALTHY?
Did you know that Highland County ranks only 76th out of Ohio’s 88 counties in health rankings? However, our health commissioner questions some of the information used to determine these rankings. Read more at the link below and draw your own conclusions:
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&ArticleID=184209&TM=25017.35

BROWDER LIFE SAVING NET
Jeff Gilliland has provided readers with a nice article about this amazing device once produced in Greenfield. I like the picture with it, but noticed something unusual about the gazes of the firemen as one of their own was “falling” into the net -- all but one of the men holding the net were looking into the camera when the photo was taken! I guess this is an example of early marketing savvy! Nevertheless, it’s a nice photo (the newspaper's version is better than the one I have) and Jeff’s article is filled with factual information about this little-known chapter in Greenfield history.
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?Search=1&ArticleID=184235&SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&S=1

ULTIMATE TREADMILL FAILS COLLECTION
After watching these clips of treadmill disaster I’m kind of glad our old treadmill gave up the ghost years ago:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ivX8kjlCfc&feature=player_embedded

SNAKEHEADS ON MARYLAND BOUNTY LIST
These snakeheads sound like nasty fish. Don’t know if they are in Ohio, but they sound tenacious enough to be westward bound.
http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/maryland-offering-200-gift-cards-dead-snakehead-fish-163943568.html

FLING BARN SCHEDULE LOADED
Saturday I got a call from someone requesting information about the Fling Barn south of Hillsboro, where a band called Chuck Brisbin and the Tuna Project is scheduled to appear Saturday, April 14. The caller said they are a collection of fine musicians from the Greater Cincinnati area who play a wide variety of blues and rock music. I told her the Fling Barn is a great venue to enjoy such a show.
In fact, just a day or two before we were in the mood for barbecue and stopped at the Slow and Low barbecue joint in Hillsboro, which provides the tasty food often served at the Fling Barn. We enjoyed the food and were given cards detailing the musical schedule for the rest of the spring, summer and fall -- it's loaded!
I'll try to post a menu for Slow and Low here in the near future. In the meantime, here are some links relating to the Fling Barn (where a full schedule can be found) and Chuck Brisbin and the Tuna Project (click on th "LIVE" link to hear some musical samples):
http://www.flingbarn.com/
http://www.thetunaproject.com/Home.htm

86-YEAR-OLD ON PARALLEL BARS!
Seeing is believing! This lady may be 86, but she’s obviously familiar with the parallel bars so I don’t think she just took up gymnastics as a hobby. It’s nice to see an octogenarian with this kind of get up and go!
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/olympics-fourth-place-medal/86-old-performs-parallel-bars-routine-164528695.html

SHEEP PEN CEMETERY
Linda Ellis, who has done so much for area genealogists with her documentation of burial sites and historical information, has produced an updated listing for the Sheep Pen Cemetery, also known as the Gustin or Limes Cemetery. It straddles the Highland and Fayette County line along the New Martinsburg Pike.
“I recently learned that one of the veterans, Pvt. Joseph Daugherty, was actually buried at Vicksburg National Cemetery” Linda said. “The marker for him at Sheep Pen (quite unreadable today) is thus a cenotaph for him, however, the inscription for his daughter who died young, Eliza Ellen Daughtery, is also on the same stone.  I also added a photograph of Pvt. Joseph Daugherty's Vicksburg grave marker that was recently taken by a great-great niece who visited the gravesite.” 
Linda added that “both Joseph Daugherty, and Samuel Crooks who was buried at Sheep Pen Cemetery, were Civil War veterans who served in Fayette County regiments. There are other veterans on the list as well.”
Thanks for all your hard work, Linda. To see her updated information click HERE. 

2-YEAR-OLD PUTS ON DANCE MOVES
After watching his parents practice and perform, this little fellow decides to show his stuff to “Jailhouse Rock.” Thanks to Jim Fenner for sending along the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wt824D1Bqg&feature=share

IS SUGAR TOXIC?
Here’s an interesting report from “60 Minutes”. I Confess I watched it while eating ice cream, but I’m thinking it’s time to cut back on sugar, including all the “hidden sugars” in the foods we eat and drink:
http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7403942n&tag=contentBody;storyMediaBox

HAPPENINGS IN THE HILLS
The Spring 2012 edition of Happenings in the Hills has been published, and David and Janny Brizius were kind enough to send me a copy. Click on the photo at left to view the pdf version, and don’t forget to visit their website:
www.magicwaterstheatre.com

MAGIC WATERS NEW WEBSITE
David “Boonie” and Janny Brizius have launched a new website, www.magicwaterstheatre.com, and while it’s still being developed I thought I should mention it. I’ve added it to the LINKS page for your convenience.
While they are planning the 2012 schedule for Magic Waters Theatre, Boonie and Janny are also making preparations for the 57th (!!!) annual edition of C.A.M.P., scheduled Aug. 5-11 at Tar Hollow. This annual event fills up fast, so it’s a good idea to get signed up real soon. See more details at:
www.magicwaterstheatre.com

BUCKEYE HILLS CALENDAR OF EVENTS
The warmer weather means lots of activities around the tri-county area, and popular country club Buckeye Hills has announced a number of golf outings and other events for the spring and summer months, available for viewing now on the Events page. Here’s a link to the Buckeye Hills website:
http://www.buckeyehillsgolf.com/

ELECTRIC AGGREGATION Q & A
Greenfield City Manager Betty Bishop and her staff continue to receive calls and queries concerning electric aggregation, and as a public service provided some Q & A for those who still have questions or want to get into – or out of -- the program.

Betty started with more of a comment:
Now DP&L has sent out letters telling people that they have switched to AEP and because people either didn’t get the AEP letter or they threw it away thinking it was junk mail, we are getting calls all over again. If I only had a nickel for every time someone told me they shouldn't had thrown it out.

Q: The staff asked, do you want us to pass these calls onto you again or is there another phone number they should call to cancel this change?
A: Have the resident call AEP Retail toll-free at 1-877-726-0211 and tell them that they would like to opt-out of the Village of Greenfield aggregation program.

Q: Also what happens when the 2 years is up?
A: We would put it out for bid to suppliers and again negotiate the best price and terms.

Q: Will there be another deal made with AEP or will they just be able to charge whatever they want?
A: There is no guarantee that it would be AEP Retail again. Many times the current supplier will offer the best price and times for the sheer fact that they want to retain the business, but another supplier would have the opportunity to come in and present a better offer which AEP Retail may or may not be able to match. Every resident has a choice to stay in the program or not. A resident called me on Friday and said that Border Energy called her with an offer of 6.99 cents per kWh. She was wise to the pricing out there and knew that the Greenfield program of 6.49 cents was a great one.

Thank you for your time. - Betty Bishop

OFFICERS TRUST IN THEIR K-9s!
Nice article in the Highland County Press describes the working relationship between several police officers and their dogs, or K-9 units:
http://www.highlandcountypress.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=20&ArticleID=12156

SANDRA MCNEIL PARTY
Many people stopped by the Home Building and Loan Company Saturday morning to wish Sandra McNeil well in retirement, and thank her for all she has done on behalf of the community. While she’s no longer working, Sandra plans to continue to be active in good works activities on behalf of the community. While we were there, Jim Jones asked a group of us to pose for a photo with Sandra. He graciously took one with my camera as well. Thanks Jim, and good luck Sandra!

FACE BLINDNESS
It would be strange not to be able to identify the faces of close friends, or even family members, and yet many have this affliction according to a report on CBS “60 Minutes”. Also, some people never seem to forget a face. Watch this interesting report here:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18560_162-57399118/face-blindness-when-everyone-is-a-stranger/?tag=contentMain;cbsCarousel

BODYGUARDING BECK
Even if you don’t know who the rock artist Beck is, I think you’ll get a kick out of Dave Shoemaker’s account of his stint as Beck’s bodyguard. Dave is a frequent contributor to Chapman’s General Store, an apparent music junkie, and would be my first choice for a teammate in a music trivia contest.
Speaking of Dave Shoemaker, he and his wife once appeared at a Dumbfounded gig at Jerry’s Pizza West in Chillicothe. Full disclosure: I don’t think they came specifically to hear Dumbfounded, but they were there nevertheless.
http://lechap.com/?p=3618

WILLIAM SHATNER’S WORLD
William Shatner, known to millions as Captain James T. Kirk of “Star Trek,” has enjoyed a long and successful career on stage, screen and television. One of my favorite latter-day Shatner roles was that of idiosyncratic attorney Denny Crane on “Boston Legal.” Now in his 80s and still going strong, Shatner’s latest project is a nationwide tour of his one-man show, “Shatner’s World: We Just Live in It.” You can read some of his observations on life, or listen to an interesting interview, by clicking on the link below:
http://www.npr.org/2012/03/06/147735025/in-shatners-world-stories-about-acting-loss-life


THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION?
Sunday night I watched an interesting segment about education that may change everything! Bill Gates is a believer in Khan Academy. To see the report from “60 Minutes” click on the link below:
http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7401696n&tag=contentBody;storyMediaBox

SCOL TO WELCOME TWO NEW SCHOOLS
The South Central Ohio League continues to evolve. Here’s a report indicating that Chillicothe and Wilmington have been invited to join the venerable athletic conference as Madison-Plains and London prepare to depart.
http://highlandcountypress.com/main.asp?SectionID=3&SubSectionID=21&ArticleID=12043

COMMUNITY SURVEY
I’m trying to help get the word out about a community survey designed to help in the development of  ideas to better meet the needs of the area. Several people emailed the information to me, including Rose Fisher Merkowitz of OSU Extension.
There are several ways to take the survey. One is by going online to the link offered. Those who use smartphones for just about everything can do so by scanning a QR Tag (similar to a bar code) that appears in the pdf version of the letter. Links to both are offered below Rose’s note:

Dear County Resident,
We are conducting a survey in your community, and we information that will help inform community leaders about ways to better meet the needs of the residents in the county.
Please visit the online survey at experiences. The survey should take about 25 minutes to complete, and voluntary. You may quit the survey at any time, without penalty. The survey is completely anonymous.
You can also take the survey on your smartphone. Thank you for your help!
Click here to take the survey on your smart phone:
Sincerely,
Rose Fisher Merkowitz
Ohio State University Extension

Take the survey online:
http://go.osu.edu/countyfirst

Pdf version of the letter that contains the QR Tag for smartphone use:
SURVEY LETTER


CHRYSLER CEO DECLINES PAY FOR 2011
Nice gesture, even if he makes more than $4 million from Fiat SpA. Maybe they should throw Clint Eastwood a few million for his cool “Halftime in America” commercial aired during the Super Bowl! Whatever the case, it seems Chrysler is making a nice comeback.
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/chrysler-ceo-declines-2011-pay-003654935.html
Clint:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFAiqxm1FDA
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/06/clint-eastwood-on-chrysler-super-bowl-commercial-not-affiliated-obama_n_1258701.html


SIMS NAMED TOP INSTRUCTOR
Sharon Sims of Wilmington College and Sims Family Golf Center has been recognized as a top teaching professional. Congratulations to Sharon for being named by the U.S. Kids Foundation as one of the top 100 golf instructors in the country.
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=3&SubSectionID=380&ArticleID=183768

CHAPMAN ON BEER
While I don’t always agree with his views on politics, I find that Larry Chapman has redeeming qualities when it comes to opinions on food, music, and beer. In his travels on land and sea, Larry has sampled many beers and knows what he likes and what just doesn’t click with him. Here’s where you can explore his thoughts on the brewer’s art:
http://lechap.com/?p=3387

OVERLOOKED & ESSENTIAL GUITAR SOLOS FROM THE 1970S
Alex Skolnick, a monster guitarist who records under his own name and has toured with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, knows a lot about music and I respect his opinions on guitar matters. In an article for Guitar Player magazine, he outlines 10 overlooked but essential guitar solos from the 1970s:
http://www.guitarplayer.com/Default.aspx?tabid=259&EntryId=711


HORNEY'S BARBEQUE
And after a long absence, Dianna and I found ourselves at Horney’s Barbeque in Washington C.H. recently. Steve and Vickie Horney are two of the nicest people you could ever want to meet, and they know a thing or two about Texas-style barbecue! They gave me an updated menu, which can be see by clicking HERE.

PACEMAKERS, BABY MONITORS CAN BE HACKED
What next? Your brain? Don’t laugh -- it may be hackable!
http://www.tecca.com/news/2011/08/11/5-things-you-probably-didnt-know-could-be-hacked/

DIRTY CAR ART
This “da Vinci of Dust” eschews canvas for dirty glass as he creates amazing artwork on dirty cars!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1wfWPtjxMA&feature=relmfu

IDLE FREQUENCY
Son Colin’s group is off and running. Thought you might want to see the new website and hear the songs:
http://www.idlefreq.com/

COFFEY MEETS FORMER BENGAL
Our son Colin Coffey gave me a call Saturday and asked if I’d received his email. We were out of town and had not seen it, so he told me that former Cincinnati Bengal Chinedum Ndukwe had been at the recording studio where Colin works to do a voice-over for an NFL Films project.
Ndukwe, a safety who played for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, was drafted by the Bengals and played for Cincinnati from 2007-10. He spent part of last season with the Oakland Raiders and is now a free agent recovering from a knee injury. Perhaps Cincinnati is back on his radar.
Colin was impressed with what a nice guy Ndukwe seemed to be. He has done a lot of charity work and established a foundation while with the Bengals.
More info:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinedum_Ndukwe

GLEN CAMPBELL ON FINAL TOUR
The Rhinestone Cowboy has Alzheimer’s, but that hasn’t stopped him from a lengthy farewell tour. The Alzheimer's Association says Campbell's decision to continue performing is unprecedented, but it’s possible with the help of three of his children being in the band, and the use of Teleprompters to keep him on task. I enjoyed his performance on the Grammys last week, and found this interesting story about Campbell online:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-3445_162-57376147/glen-campbells-final-tour/?tag=contentMain;contentBody
Glen’s website:
http://glencampbellmusic.com/
Poignant title track of Glen’s final album, “Ghost on the Canvas”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7kw5zXVFVQ


CLASS OF 1967 REUNION
That most amazing of MHS classes is planning a reunion June 30. Details can be seen on the CLASS OF 1967 page on this website.

ATHEISTS DON’T HAVE NO SONGS
Leave it to Steve Martin to write a song comparing the songbooks of believers and atheists:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wogta8alHiU&feature=related

MOODY BLUEGRASS
Say what? Driving in my car one day I heard a cool version of the Moody Blues’ “Tuesday Afternoon” on 104.1 FM, complete with all the signature notes usually played on orchestral instruments, only this time played in bluegrass style with stringed instruements like Bill Monroe and his band might have used. The vocals had some very nice harmonies. This compelled me to search the Internet for the source of this classic 1960s and ‘70s music performed in a new way. I finally located a group called Moody Bluegrass, which has done two albums of Moody Blues material. I’m not sure this is the group I heard, but then how many Moody Blues bluegrass cover bands could there be? To me, the Moody Blues were one of the under-appreciated groups of the era, a feeling confirmed after I purchased a box set a few years ago. Even their live stuff sounds great! However, for a nice change of pace, it’s a mind-bending trip to hear the material done bluegrass style! The guy behind this seems to be John Cowan, a former member of the New Grass Revival, who has done lots of other projects including a stint as bassist with the Doobie Brothers. The link below is to a medley of Moody Blues tunes, done bluegrass style (the real music doesn't start until about 30 seconds into the thing). Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Autut5ADu1s

_IDLE FREQUENCY NEW SINGLE!
Our son Colin Coffey (left) is part of a dynamic duo known as Idle Frequency. He does the engineering and plays many of the instruments, while his friend Colin Scott handles the vocals and adds some guitar. The group has just released its first single, “Only After Dark” on Lick Records, and it’s available from iTunes for just 99 cents. Just thought you should know!
You can give it a listen and watch the official video on Idle Frequency’s Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/idlefrequency
For iTunes visit:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/only-after-dark-single/id498988877