Aunt’s & Uncle’s

Besides leaving the lovely confines of the Sunset Park area of Brooklyn, basically overnight, when I was attending P.S. 169 as a third grader, I had no idea that separation from long-time friends would occur because of a zoning issue. This reality came to fruition while attending Pershing Junior High School where I discovered that based upon my address (or something as simple as habituating on the other side of the street) attending New Utrecht High School with all my friends was not in the cards because unlike the powers that be who utilize tactics to benefit cause, there were no caucus members in my corner to assist in ignoring this supreme ruling, hence a major decision was to be made. With no offense to those who are attending or graduated Fort Hamilton, I knew that destination was not going to be part of the journey of starting the real world.

For those who know me, I have consistently employed the game of baseball for life metaphors because I genuinely believe it encompasses almost every encountered situation. Growing up as a New York Mets’ fan, I was enamored with who was supposed to be a sworn enemy in Derek Jeter. Say what you will but my belief is that he made everyone around him better because the commitment to excellence excelled to the point where becoming the weakest link could easily be fulfilled if your effort slacked in any way shape or form. Thanks to students (and friends) like Kevin, Chris, Jose, Michelle, and others, I was surrounded by extreme aptitude, which made me a better student who desperately wanted to remain in their scholastic orbit. Their presence solidified the only choice in my mind that I would try to push myself to take the examination to be included in what was deemed as the “prestigious three,” the Bronx School of Science, Stuyvesant, and Brooklyn Tech. And if I am not mistaken, this was the chronological order that existed during the early 1980’s.

After failing to make the grade for the freshman class, I went back to hit the books to take another swing (You, see?!) and I cracked the top three for the grand walk into Brooklyn Tech when I became a sophomore. All of the other aforementioned classmates ventured into the hallways of Stuyvesant, for what I assume has been an extremely successful career in whatever they pursued and can picture them already retired, living the dream. And right off the bat, I encountered chemistry, which did not register, so the fear of striking out with the courses loaded instantly became reality. Doubt crept in and without any hometown coaches for support, the threat of being “sent back to the minors” engulfed my existence.

Through the door enters my aunt Mary. For those who do not know her, think of the nicest people you have ever met and times that by infinity. Based on a recommendation by my uncle Gary, the plan was to stay the weekend at their apartment in the Bronx and she would be able to make the necessary adjustments for me to get back into the lineup. At first, I was hesitant because I thought it would be next to impossible to make me see that curve ball in only two days of work. Desperate, I took the offer because at that point, the game had entered the top of the fourth inning and I needed to ensure more than just a passing grade, which was 65% when I attended high school.

Unbelievably all I had to do was point her to the chapters in the book that we had covered up until that time and she worked her magic. I do not recall exactly how she was able to “make things click” but by the time I left that Sunday, there was a reaction of some sort because there was a physical and chemical change in my brain that was ignited by Mary. For the rest of the semester, I could not wait to go to chemistry class, and I was one point away from perfection when I took the NYC Regents exam in June 1981.  Obviously, this is a special memory that I have held for my aunt but ever since the time she married into our family in 1978, it has been nothing but a blessing. Earlier this month, her and Gary were extremely hospitable as my bride, and I were guests in their beautiful home. And I am not just talking about the physical attributes.

My uncle Gary has been in my life and tells me all the time that he can remember the day I was born. Here is a person that I idolized while growing up (his brother, my dad, remains my hero) and there are also certain instances that remain engrained in the memory bank. Remember that my brother and I would spend our summers up in Otisville, N.Y. with our dad’s parents as well as my uncle for most of the decade of the 1970’s. My summer friends were just as special as my “forty-sixth street” buddies and almost every afternoon there was a gathering of the locals, where the cream of the crop would choose sides to engage in a friendly game of softball. Naturally, Gary was one of the captains as we would play across the street from the house in a parking lot for the local Presbyterian church and we used chalk (just like we did in Brooklyn) to diagram the bases.

I believe I was on first base when there was a single and I immediately tried to get to third. Sliding feet first into the make-believe bag, all of a sudden, I felt a violent smack to my face by a huge glove with the ball intact as my head smacked down to the ground. Next thing I see is Gary flying over to protect his nephew as he started to wail on Ronnie as the scuffle turned into a loud disagreement and the game ended at that moment as the Steven’s brothers headed back up Orchard Street, while Gary comforted me on the walk across the street. Even though there are only eight years that separate us, he is someone that I have always looked up to as a mentor and his guidance throughout my life has been immeasurable.

“Get out of the kitchen, I am going to clean it along with the bathroom.” Those were the last words that we heard before the door was locked behind us in the dead of winter, while we prepared to throw the football around in the cul-de-sac outside of my aunt and uncle’s house. Johnny and I were trying to teach Graig, who was around eleven years old, how to play football with me stuffing the line, while blanketing him on his every move. It was brutally cold but going outside was what we did back then, no matter how hot or cold it was. Recognizing that he was still young, we knew we had to get back into the house but our knocks on the front door fell on deaf ears as my dad had already given us notification that cleansing was under way but this time around, I thought the unbearable temperatures would encourage compassion. Our clattering teeth did not make a difference as we bolted to the entrance of our cousin’s house. My shoulder was thrust backwards because the one day out of the year, it was stunningly locked. We had not noticed that none of their cars were parked in the driveway or street. Where could they have gone? Oh, that is right, my mother went with Gayle to Mary’s baby shower in upstate New York and of course, John, had been at work for at least three hours. I believe it was at least another hour when my dad finally opened the door and allowed us entry as we all looked at the ten tiles that he cleaned on the floor. This is what kept us locked out in the freezing cold?

Sure enough, that evening I felt that “scratchiness” in the back of my throat and knew that I would soon be in the depths of an extreme cold or flu. Two days later, I could barely move and my “sick moaning” (my bride dislikes those noises) began but of course, my dad had gone to work, while my mother did not have a driver’s license. The night before I begged my dad to take me to the doctor, but he said work could not be missed and “besides, it’s just a cold.” With nowhere else to turn, I dressed and went over to my aunt’s home. As I emerged at the top step, she saw me and knew something was wrong. “Gayle, can you please take me to the emergency room?” I knew that I should have went to the doctor but we had just moved to Staten Island and my last visit to a medical professional had been at Brooklyn Tech in the tenth grade when I had to sign up for the Selective Service System (otherwise known as your “SSS” number, which I found out during a background investigation where I mistakenly started to give the agent my social security number. “I said your SSS number!”). My aunt had come to my rescue, and I was forever grateful.

Gayle, like her mother, loves me as if I were her son and gifted me with endless haircuts at her home when I was growing up, with the only fare required was the “sixty-five” cents to take a NYC bus from deep in Bay Ridge over the Verrazano to Port Richmond. It was always worth the trip because she is an expert hairstylist. For decades she cooked the tastiest dishes each on every Christmas Eve, with classic Norwegian delicacies as well as wonderful Italian food for the entire family, with minimal assistance by anyone else. Since Jane’s passing, I feel like she has been my beautiful surrogate. Thank you, Gayle, for being you.

After making believe that I was going to get “coffee for the guys” on my last day at Western Beef on that hot Fourth of July, while also taking the order of the scary guy with the trench coat and fedora, before tearing across Atlantic Avenue through six lanes of traffic to head down Pacific street for the long trek to Coney Island to soak in at least half of that day on the beach; I avoided seeing my uncle John because I assumed he “hated” me for walking out on him after four years of invaluable tutelage that helped shape my destination into a “white collar” career. The last out of the inning was made and as I was running in from centerfield, I noticed him on our sidelines once I stepped on second base. Paralyzed with fear, I thought about running far behind the opposing centerfielder, way out of “fair territory,” but I knew this day of reckoning was to come, so I made my approach with my hand extended while offering up an apology. He tossed aside my hand while giving me a bear hug and said not to worry about such things because he knew that I was going elsewhere and informed me that I was one of his best workers. As such, he did not want to see me leave and tried to soak up as much as he could before having to train somebody else from scratch.

I have written about John numerous times on this blog and the crazy stories at Omaha Beef so I do not want to repeat myself, but I will echo my appreciation for his guidance as I was making the transition to a young adult from a “wet behind the ears” teenager who forever changed my life with his love. My experience working alongside him made me realize how much he sacrificed for his family because performing at a high level the way he did, inside a freezer for most of his professional career, was not easy. As I watched these gentlemen put aside the daily aches and pains to put food on the table and a roof over the heads of loved ones, it became apparent that I wanted a different path but the work ethic that I witnessed has remained engrained in my system to this day. Forever grateful.

Today is National Aunt & Uncle’s Day and in honor of the aforementioned relatives, I have decided to make this week’s setlist a combination of songs about family and love, with tunes that may have these words in the title or in a verse or chorus. In addition, you know I will find other ways to work tunes into this list. (Enjoy!) 

1— “Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey” by Paul McCartney— “We’re so sorry… Uncle Albert… we’re so sorry if we’ve caused you any pain.” Put John’s name in there and that is exactly how I felt after bailing on him on my last day ever working with him. I remember as a kid hearing this song all the time during the summer and my favorite part is when the tune picks up tempo at the 2:18 mark, as well as the “heads across the water… heads across the sky.” This sounds like it could have been on the Beatles “Sgt. Pepper” album, no? “Butterfly… butterfly?” This will forever remind me of Otisville and Gary was there to help us enjoy those great summers.

2— “Family Affair” by Sly & The Family Stone— Speaking of Otisville, I can remember when my uncle, Alan, from my mother’s side of the family married Chris and the entire family spent the weekend at “Ma & Pop’s” house. Unfortunately, I did not have too much interaction with Alan but what I do remember of him, he seemed like a gentle soul, who appeared to be extremely calm and according to Gary, he was an incredible athlete. Anyway, I recall everyone getting ready for the big day while there were only two bathrooms for more than eight adults and at least four children. The hustle and bustle were intense as we all scrambled to look our best. It truly was a family affair as my parents were in attendance as well as our aunts, uncles, and grandparents. From what I recall, it was a beautiful day, and a good time was had by all. Sly & the Family Stone have to be considered one of the all-time greatest bands ever.

3— “Long Tall Sally”—by Little Richard– This was the only song that I could swing in the word “Aunt” as this tune depicts the story of an uncle maybe “stepping out” on his wife to enjoy the company of Miss long tall Sally. “… well, I saw Uncle John with bald-head Sally… he saw Aunt Mary comin’… and he ducked back in the alley, oh baby… yeah baby, woo, baby… having me some fun tonight, yeah…” As I am writing this week’s post, I could hear my aunt Carol screaming all the way from heaven to include her in a memory. My most wonderful memories of my mother’s sister were when she would stay over our house in Ringwood when we were first married, and we would drive everywhere to experience northern New Jersey. One time when we were young, Doug, Rich and I slept over her house. That morning for breakfast, we walked into the dining room and saw a gigantic pancake- think of the ones that John Candy made in his infamous role as “Uncle Buck.” Miss and love you, Carol!

4— “Uncle Salty”—by Aerosmith– I remember as a kid growing up on 46^th street, there were two albums that each kid on the block thought was the coolest ever made. “Roundabout” by Yes and “Toys in the Attic” by Aerosmith. After the title track on side one, this exceedingly smooth tune would make me close my eyes and just drift off listening to Steven’s slick vocals. The musicianship is stellar and seems to remain in the background until the 2:05 mark where I assume it is Joe’s sweet guitar solo takes over. I think it is a safe assumption that we may all have an uncle in the family that may be a little “salty.”  

5— “We Are Family”— by Sister Sledge- I am writing this from the Dallas Fort Worth Airport on our way back from the “pink bubble” as Dallas TX will now become “Mary Kay Land” for the next two weeks as the remarkable “sixtieth” anniversary will be celebrated at their annual seminar at the Kay Bailey convention center. This tune is the theme song for the Hulsman area, which consists of the most beautiful ladies, inside and out. Folks, attending this celebration is astounding because being from the “corporate” world, I have never experienced the unity that this company inhabits as there is always someone there to pick you up, if needed, and talk about reveling in each other’s successes? Even I come back re-energized! Imagine each one of your co-workers being family? That is how it is at the great Mary Kay company. 

6— “Family Affair”- by Mary J. Blige– During our time in Dallas one of the many conversations centered around our “favorite singers” of all-time (guess who started that?). As Kayla thought long and hard, we went around the table as I named Sam Cooke, Patsy Cline, and Karen Carpenter as my favorites. Then all of a sudden, Kayla cited Mary as her ultimate female singer. Excellent choice! This tune is one of the ultimate party songs as everyone usually hits the dance floor. Crank this one up!

7— “Family of Man”- by Three Dog Night-Amazingly, this band is still touring as one form or another and during the 1970’s they ruled the radio airwaves with “hit after hit.” Their recipe was consistent as their grooves were delicious filled with sing-along choruses that were impossible to get out of your head. Admittedly, I know that the endings of their tunes seem to go on forever but that was the thing back in the 1970’s (see most of George Harrison’s catalog during that time, the songs never ended). There has to be at least one song by Three Dog Night in your library, no? If not, please do not tell me.  

8— “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”- by Warrant-I finally signed up with Sirius satellite as “they” sucked me in when I purchased a new Subaru and it was solely due to wanting to reconnect with Howard Stern again but the other bright side, is that I have discovered the “Hair Nation” channel (I believe it is channel 39) and this “oft-criticized” band is on it all the time. For those of age, this tune ruled the MTV airwaves for months, if not years, as the blistering riff behind the imagery still resonates with me today. Yes, “Cherry Pie” was their Achilles heel and sadly caused Mr. Lane to go down an extremely lonely path. But I will never shy away from the fact that I love this type of music. “… they didn’t see me and Tom in the tree… neither one believin’ what the other could see… “I am not sure how this does not get you psyched because I am air-guitaring away while wishing I could have sung those lines just like Jani.

9—” Welcome to the Family”- by Little Big Town– I know that my grandfather made it tough for my uncle John when he proposed to my aunt Gayle and the remembrances are legendary but maybe during that time, it had to be tough. I remember when Mary was welcomed to the family, it was a fantastic addition, because she is angelic with the patience of a saint. And now I see her great big smile as Stella has lit up her world, as well as Gary. It is amazing to think that they are now grandparents. Both of their children and the respective brides are the cream of the crop as they are the friendliest people I have ever met.

10— “Thrill of It”- by Robert Randolph & The Family Band– Okay I am not sure if I have utilized this song in the past but since it is fantastic, I decided to go with “family” in the name of the title of the band. Taken from “Colorblind” this is my most favorite on this solid album. If Robert & his family ever come around to your town, please attend because you will have a blast as you will be dancing in the aisles. Listen to his guitar work on this track, flawless.

11— “Distance”- by Mammoth WVH-It is hard to believe that Wolfie is thirty-two years old, and I love the fact that he is his own musician that makes some “kick-a**” tunes. There is a reason that his band have been tapped to open for some of the biggest bands this world has ever known. I cannot wait to see Mammoth as they will kick-off the two-day concert that will be headlined by Metallica in early August at Metlife Stadium. Pantera, Ice Nine Kills and Five Finger Death Punch round out this massive historical tour. Folks, Mr. Van Halen plays all the instruments on his studio albums. Extremely impressive offspring.

12— “Not Enough”- by Van Halen-Wolfie’s uncle was part of one of the most incredible bands this world has ever seen or heard. Alex has to be considered an elite drummer in the world of hard rock music and his brother was no slouch on the guitar. This song is dedicated to Brian as I know how much this track means to him and that picture with the members of Van Halen will forever be etched in his heart (and mine). Rock on my friend!

13— “Hold On”- by Wilson Phillips-Carnie & Wendy are the nieces of Carl & Dennis Wilson who carried on the family tradition of creating wonderful music through the melodic meshing of their beautiful voices. This unit went on to have a terrific career and I believe they are still touring.  

14— “Don’t Worry Baby”- by Beach Boys-I know my dad thinks that they ruined rock and roll but I respectfully disagree as I believe they expanded the genre with their astounding harmonizing vocals. This most likely lands in my top ten for the boys from California and their “surfer” sound. Brian Wilson is in the same echelon as the Beatles, and we all know that he pushed them to do “Sgt. Peppers” after releasing the infamous, “Pet Sounds.” I do not know why but I can picture a nice dinner party as the participants enter the living room with a fireplace to listen to this incredible song. Let it take you to that happy place.

15— “Learn How to Love (Live)” by Tedeschi Trucks Band-Derek Trucks is the nephew of Butch Trucks (one of the founding members of the Allman Brothers, who passed away in 2017) and talk about a family gene pool? Folks, I implore you to see the Tedeschi Trucks Band in concert to witness one of the greatest living guitarists this planet has ever heard. In addition, Susan is a phenomenal singer who plays a mean guitar as well. This “family” band consists of superb musicians that force each to be on their game, which elevates their live shows to a level where you might just walk away and say- “that was the best concert I have ever seen.”

16— “Dreams”- by Allman Brothers-Butch was an integral part of a legendary band whose music will live on in infamy. Folks, this is one of the utmost songs ever written in the history of music and I believe this is Gregg’s masterpiece. It is hard to fathom that this is on their first album but like other geniuses, we are forever indebted to their breathtaking talents. Please, take my advice, listen, let this tune sink in and stay with it because once it does, you will keep coming back for more. I bow on my hands and knees to this phenomenal song.

17— “Shot in the Dark”- by AC/DC-Stevie Young filled in on rhythm guitar after his uncle, Malcolm, had to leave the band he loved, to deal with his health. Unfortunately, the world lost one of the greatest guitarists that was part of the engine that kept AC/DC reigning the world for decades. For some reason, I do not think they are done- my gut tells me there is at least one more tour in the tank. Please tell me that you are in if that occurs. All hail AC/DC!

18— “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)”- by AC/DC-The year was 1981 and the world was mine at the tender age of sixteen. This was the album that solidified my indoctrination, where I knew that I was under their spell and would follow them to the ends of the universe. There is an argument to be made that this could be the best song of the 1980’s and I recognize that is a bold statement. Of course, by now you have all heard the story where Johnny fell asleep at one of their concerts and was awoken by the cannon shots. I took my youngest to his first concert with dad as we both covered our ears because we were right behind the massive cannons. When I worked at Omaha Beef, I would switch the radio station to WNEW-FM as my uncle John would feint that he was sticking a needle in his arm because he thought you had to be high to listen to this music. My other uncle Gary shakes his head in disappointment and amusement that I still listen to the “same crap that I did when I was eleven.” Oh well, crank this way up!!

19— “Reminiscing”- by Little River Band– Okay, this is totally out of left field (you see, baseball, again) but this tune has nothing to do with family, aunts, uncles and has no members that have nieces or nephews who are part of a power group. Nope, I feel like reminiscing about my aunts and uncles. As I sit here and reflect on all the years spent with these special family members, I am forever indebted to them. So, thank you, Gayle, John, Mary, Gary, Carol, and Alan for all that you have done since I was born to help in the making of the person I am today. Love to you all!

FLYING

“We have been up here for a while; I do not think there is enough fuel, so this plane better land soon.”

For the first twenty years of my time on this planet, the main means of transportation were my feet, followed closely by the NYC public transportation system with the subway narrowly edging out the Eighth Avenue and 49^th street buses. (The summer rides to Coney Island put the train over the top). Owning a vehicle actually came after my inaugural flight, which occurred in 1987 when I boarded a plane bound for Dallas, Texas. Now, for many of you reading this who were not reared in Brooklyn N.Y., there probably is a lot of head scratching going on because the “norm” for most is at least one trip in the air to destinations such as Disney, either in Florida or California, especially before you entered middle school. However, for those who were raised in Brooklyn, the biggest excursions may have been to Upstate New York to visit “the country,” but that was by dad’s multi-colored station wagon whereby sitting “backwards” looking at the rear window while in transit was the highlight of that car. Even trips to Manhattan, which can be made in less than thirty minutes from Sunset Park, were considered “long-distance.” Unknown territory could be just a couple of blocks or avenues in either direction whereby you had no familiarity and the only reason to make the trek was because a friend lived nearby, or you were just passing through.

When Porgie said that he was leaving the lovely confines of Brooklyn to live in Fort Worth Texas, I knew that overcoming my fear of flying would come soon after his exit. To make matters worse, I went solo because I could not get a flight with the rest of the Fagan’s. The trek was not memorable, meaning there was no tranquilizer needed, nor any unforeseen discharge like the one time I went fishing with my dad, so I recognized that future flights were in the cards. And I believe it was the following year when we all boarded the same flight. As Ronnie went to put something in the overhead compartment, something slipped and fell forward knocking the toupee towards the gentleman’s eyes, while he was speaking to a female companion. He quickly apologized to the person, but the intense embarrassment was felt by everyone who witnessed the accident and as such this guy was not in a position of acceptance. Constant turning around to deliver dirty looks was anticipated but he had no idea what was to come if the displeasure continued because an apology was already conveyed.

After about an hours’ time, normalcy returned, the “confrontation” was eventually diffused but I knew that the gentleman’s response was not appropriate, and the feeling of a funny revenge was being cooked up by one of the Fagan’s. Unbeknownst to me, Richie had gone into the restroom and retrieved a disposable menstrual product. When the plane landed, while each were waiting for the row ahead to exit, he suddenly goes over to the man, quickly pats his back while attaching it to the jacket and extends the same hand to say, “no hard feelings.” The smiles were abundant, and a sense of calmness was in the air. That is until Debbie sees what is stuck on his back and practically faints as everyone, including the pilot, saw him leave the plane with a piece of memorabilia that added to his embarrassment and frustration because by the time he probably realized, we were long gone.

Once I arrived at MBIA in 1999, client visits were included on the docket which meant that I would log more hours in the air but that did not alleviate my neurosis, especially on “take-offs” or “landings.” On one particular trip to Calabasas (for those involved, you know who we visited) I was pleasantly surprised because the launch was uneventful while the majority of the approximate six-hour journey was filled with nothing but blue skies. But then unexpectedly came dark gray in a moment’s notice as the plane began its descent to eventually land in California. The change was dramatic to the point where I could see (and feel) the raindrops pelting the same window that was just allowing the golden rays of sunshine to soothe the blood flow throughout my body. For the next twenty minutes, there was no noise coming from anyone, including the pilots, as the plane began to shake like it had just squeezed into the longest car wash ever, hitting every brush while being blasted by what seemed like buckets of water over every orifice of this titanium death trap.

By this time, I am squirming in my seat in full prayer mode and for anyone who is a “frequent flyer” the phase of “circling over the runway” began as each minute that went by was longer than when I was on that fishing boat with my dad when I spent eight hours listening to 1010 WINS radio. One could tell just by looking at me that I was not well, but the passenger adjacent did not “read the room” and blurted out the aforementioned statement. I immediately informed him to not speak to me ever again because what he said added to the distress. As the airplane was approaching the blacktop, I gazed out the window and saw the top of the trees bent over like an upside down “U” while the rain appeared to be life size lightning strikes.

Needless to say, I was out of my mind to the point where I did not even try to gage if the pilot graduated from the U.S. Airforce or Navy. Years prior my nervousness shined through but the person next to me recognized while trying to engage in conversation as I learned that if a pilot attended the Airforce, the landings were typically smooth. And if there is a “bounce” then it could be assumed that it was a Navy cadet because they were used to “touching down” on moving ships. When the plane arrived at LAX, the pilot apologized for the rough end to the flight but that is expected when one flies through “El Nino.” When Anthony and I were about to leave the taxi, where I warned the driver if he kept slamming on the brakes he might have a new hair conditioner, he says “Errol, see you in thirty minutes for dinner?” I looked at him like he was weird as I politely declined and notified him that I was going directly to bed. “But it’s only five-thirty?” He knew I was serious as I did not respond because if I were not on solid ground for at least the next eight hours, he would have been the only representative from MBIA. 

When I went back to S&P in 2005, the mortgage market had exploded to the point where our work-life was the equivalent to “controlled chaos” because when I had left in 1999 the credit process was a lot simpler because the volume was manageable. Think of the “Tech” industry taking off during the pandemic whereby the Amazons and Microsoft’s of the world became overloaded with on-line orders, it could not keep up.  Anyway, that is a story for another day but what did occur were more trips to issuers and servicers to ensure we were familiar with their origination and collection platforms. On this one particular trip to California there was a layover at DFW, and we were taking American Airlines, so I checked with Tommy to see if we could meet at the gate before the next flight took us back to LaGuardia.

When we landed in Dallas I was excited to see Tommy because his family “adopted” me like I was one of theirs since I had been a teenager and introducing Steve to him was going to be fun because I was going to let him know that this was one of the best softball players that I ever had the privilege to play with, as well as all of his brothers. Unbeknownst to me, Steve had gone into the restroom to change out of his suit. As he emerged, I cringed because he left his dress shirt on, and it was hanging over blue sweatpants, along with a pair of flipflops. (If you ever encounter me in a store with sweatpants or flipflops, please call for immediate medical attention). Trying to move Tommy down to the next gate, he follows as I have no choice but to make the introductions. It was a bit awkward, but we board the second leg and as we approach LGA the pilot had warned the passengers that there was a “nor’easter” running through the northeast.

Again, I am now part of the circle as I can see all the snow and ice pelting the plane while I return to a fetal position with prayers that this human is able to land this huge monstrosity onto the ground safely. In what felt like an eternity, there was an announcement that the ground crew was having trouble keeping up with the heavy wintry mix and that it would focus on maintaining at least one clean runway. As we continued to fly around Queens N.Y. the additional wait added at least 70 minutes to our overall touchdown but that was not even a concern for me as the only outcome I was thinking about was survival. The lead aviator comes on the intercom and informs us that we actually were running out of fuel, so the towers decided to allow us to land while sending some to JFK. While descending, one can see the dense precipitation from the window as it appears we are headed for the water, but that one lane had “blacktop.” With a bounce, I said “Navy” while one could feel the tires sludge through the icy mixture as I prayed that there would be no skidding. Finally, the plane pulls into our assigned spot as the seatbelt sign goes off while everyone is looking for an immediate release. Walking down the pathway being the happiest person in the world, I extended my hand to the pilot to thank him for saving our lives, while he nodded in appreciation. “Why are you thanking him, we were in the air for an additional sixty minutes.” I looked at him with such surprise as he said “Errol, I take way more trips than you and this is unacceptable.” To this day, I will always be appreciative of the crew that landed a plane in the middle of a nor’easter.

Last Rocktober, my bride and I were on a flight back to LGA after visiting friends for a wonderful reunion. It was non-eventful for the most part until the landing. After flying over the Whitestone bridge, I am squinting at the screen in front of me because it was displaying the entire trip. The altitude numbers are decreasing slowly, indicating that this should be an “Airforce” landing because it felt “normal” but as the ground approached, it appeared that our speed was at a level where a smooth docking was not possible. And I was right, because as soon as the wheels hit the ground, I could see those altitude numbers start to climb again. Wait, what just happened? We are now ascending towards the sky in what took less than twenty seconds. The plane is now flying away from the airport as my bride, and I were looking at each other like we had seen a ghost. After approximately fifteen minutes, without a word spoken by any member of the crew, the descent occurs as we wonder if this mishap will happen again. But this time, I could feel the wheels grip the ground while knowing we were safe, but the apprehension was real and as it turns out, I have not returned to LaGuardia since that trip. While exiting, my wife stops to ask the aviator what had happened, and his response was “we wanted to see if you were paying attention.” Knowing that she was in no mood for the joke (which I thought was extremely unprofessional) I took both of my hands and positioned them on her shoulders to point in the direction of a quick exit before she could say anything.

In honor of today being National Flight Attendants Day, this week’s setlist will focus on songs or artists that deal with flying and could contain various words or sentiments in the title or the body of a tune, about the love or fear of participating in the safest (but scariest) form of transportation. (Enjoy!)

1— “Come Fly With Me” by Frank Sinatra— What better way to start a list than with the Chairman of the Board? In my opinion, he sings this song extremely well as one can tell that he is aware of every note that he is projecting, especially when he says – “Occ – A- Pull- Co Bay.” Frank has to be considered as one of the greatest singers of all-time and there is an argument that he is in the top five. I keep hearing rumors that the person now in charge of the TV cable channel “TCM” is going to forever change the format and that scares me because I was just getting into these classic movies. Frank has been part of my education and not for nothing, his acting skills were also top notch. (see “High Society”)

2— “The Letter”—by The Boxtops– “Give me a ticket for an aeroplane… ain’t got time to take a fast train… lonely days are gone… I’m going home… my baby just wrote me a letter.” Do you remember this track? So good and it is actually less than two minutes long. Love the noise of the plane towards the end of the tune. Classic.  

3— “Fly Like an Eagle”—by Steve Miller– It does not matter how many times you hear this song as soon as the opening guitar licks are played, we are all in- hook, line, and sinker. “Time keeps on slippin’, slippin’, slippin’ into the future.” And then later on the best part- “I want to fly like an eagle… to the sea… fly like an eagle… let my spirit carry me… I want to fly like an eagle… ‘til I’m free… right through the revolution…” I have to admit that I do bird watch (maybe another sign of getting older?) and whenever that eagle circles around our house, it is an amazing sight. Back in 2009, when John signed me aboard the sales side of S&P (before we were gutted in 2010) I went up to the front of the restaurant and sang this song to all my new colleagues, doing my best karaoke imitation of Mr. Miller. Yep, thanks to Sue who brought me up to the forefront at a structured finance conference to sing a duet with her, my fear dissipated after that moment, she called my bluff and there was no way I could go against my word.  

4— “Learning to Fly”— by Foo Fighters- This song is extremely special to me because when we moved to the Nutmeg state, I was out of my mind that we left Ringwood and just like when a kid is pulled from their home, I had to start all over again to make friends. Since we moved at the end of the summer, I knew that softball was nine months away because there were no fall leagues that I was aware of so my bride, my children, and music assisted in the adaptation. I will forever remember the kids and I running around the living room table with our arms extended, while making believe we were flying as mom was looking on from the foyer. I can picture the smiles on their faces, and they were Foo fans at the ages of four and two years old.

5— “If I Could Fly”- by Joe Satriani-My apologies if I have utilized this song on a past setlist (or maybe more than one) and I know I could have gone with any tune from “Flying in a Blue Dream,” (which I absolutely love) but this composition is beyond stupendous. I think it has to sit in his top ten songs of all-time because the flow and the groove is exceedingly delicious. When he blasts off at the 2:55 mark with his solo, I know it is only going to get better and when it is still going strong at 4:25, you will ask yourself the following question- “Joe, where have you been all my life?” I use this track all the time on my walks around town and I know it is usually at the top of songs listened to on my I-tunes library.  

6— “Fly By Night”- by RUSH-Recently I watched Dan Rather interview Geddy on AXIS television and despite being about seven years old, it was one of his best performances because the questions he asked were the same that I would have wanted to ask. I will never understand how anyone cannot like at least one song from this unbelievably talented threesome from Canada. My bride says it is his voice that turns her away and maybe it is an acquired taste. But I cannot digest that people would turn away from this incredible song. Oh well, for the brethren, there has never been a bad RUSH album.

7— “Learning to Fly”- by Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers-I hope those who are reading this had a chance to see Tom in concert when he was with us. Seeing him perform this tune live was an absolute dream come true. Speaking of dreams coming true, last week, thanks to Andy, I was able to shag fly balls at Yankee stadium and actually take batting practice, although there is nothing to talk about there. What a day! It is something that I will remember forever. Thanks Andy! The chorus is beyond addictive for this track, no? I love that “chh… chh” noise throughout.  

8—” Eagles Fly”- by Sammy Hagar– If Sammy would just stop talking for five minutes, I could go back and dive into his catalog because I loved him when he was in Van Halen, while also loving “Heavy Metal,” along with his other classics. I believe Eddie is actually on this track as Sammy did a solo album while with VH and this was done before the bad breakup. Believe me, ask my bride, the downstairs cave in Ringwood was filled with many days/nights with me on stage making believe I was Mr. Hagar as the music was blasting across the street. Sammy, maybe you do not need to comment on everything about Mr. Roth or Alex. Let it go.  

9— “Flight to Nowhere”- by Tesla– Ahh “The Great Radio Controversy.” Those were the days. I was deeply immersed in the world of Tesla and there was no way out, but I did not need the exit, I dove deeper into their songs as it became part of my fabric. I acknowledge that this is a “deep cut” and am not expecting the “general public” to dive into this because I believe most will skip right over it but for the brethren, let this take you back to the glory days. “I’m on a flight to nowhere… going down… I’m getting nowhere fast… going down…”

10— “Night Flight”- by The Mighty Led Zeppelin-I still stand by the statement that “Physical Graffiti” is the ultimate album that the Mighty Zeppelin ever crafted and believe me I realize how incredible their catalog remains to this day. I have Gary to thank as he would play this track extremely loud while my mother would encourage him to turn it up. This starts off side four, which is my favorite, and I think I could have listened to those five songs more than any other album. The groove in this tune is off the charts and I love John’s drumming.

11— “Fly Away”- by Lenny Kravitz-The opening riff grips you right away and takes you to the sky. “Oh I want to get away… I want to fly away… yeah, yeah, yeah.” I love the way Lenny accentuates the “Oh.” I saw him perform this live at Madison Square Garden when he was the headliner. Yes, folks, that’s right Lenny sold out MSG. The entire audience flew away that night! Crank this one way up! “Yeah!”

12— “Sky Pilot”- by Eric Burdon & The Animals-For those born after 1986, you probably never heard of this song but for those of age, this is a protest song that was recorded in 1968 and reflects the opinions of the Animals. I am not taking sides and the focus here, as always, is about the music, which I think is extremely good but admit that it is hard to push the images aside.

13— “(Wish I Could Fly Like) Superman”- by The Kinks-Just over the past week, Rich sent this song to Johnny and me, while praising this underappreciated tune. When I replied that I love the album that it appears (“Low Budget”), he said that it will forever remind him of me. Folks, if you search for the Kinks best albums this one doesn’t even appear, it is like that it has fallen off the face of the earth but please heed my advice, if you are going back in time to “discover” the Kinks, this has to be included. Maybe not at the top but it needs to be heard and appreciated.  

14— “Stressed Out”- by Twenty-One Pilots-Realizing that this could have been included in the “Getting Old” setlist, I have decided to use it here because the name of the band includes “pilot” and one can easily get “stressed out” on a flight. There was one business trip I made to the West Coast and the return journey was to Newark Airport. As the plane started to descend, we hit a pocket of high winds and before you know it, I felt like the “rubber pencil” that someone showed you when you were a kid by shaking it with their thumb and pointer fingers. Gripping the metal handles of both seats, I started to feel queasy and just closed my eyes. I do not know how it feels when “The Cyclone” roller coaster comes to a stop, but I believe it might have been close and then the gentleman next to me asked me if I was okay. “Yes, why do you ask?” His eyes looked down at my hands as they looked like leaches wrapped around the handles and he knew he could not get up until I unattached them. At first, nothing happened as I never in a million years thought that fingers could actually clutch something so hard that they would not come “unglued.” Slowly, each started to move again. Cool song with an important message!

15— “Airplanes”- by B.o.B. (feat. Haley Williams)-It is hard to believe that this song came out thirteen years ago. Of course, it was my youngest who introduced this to me and I loved the groove from the moment I heard it. “I could really use a wish right now.” Don’t we all feel the same way?

16— “Too Cool Queenie”- by Stone Temple Pilots-Sticking with the “Pilots” for the name of a band, this unheralded unit deserves its spot in the rock and roll hall of fame. I decided to go with an extremely cool song from the unappreciated “Shangri-La Dee Da” album instead of the usual material. It is still hard to believe that Mr. Scott Weiland has been gone for nearly eight years already and when you listen to him sing this track, you have to realize his talents. I feel for the DeLeo brothers, but they are still rocking! “She would always crash the party!”

17— “Firebird Fly”- by Little Big Town-When “A Place to Land” was released in late 2007, this is where I jumped headfirst into this incredible foursome, who have the best harmonizing vocals since the Mama’s & Papa’s or The Beach Boys. This “jam” is rocking, while the chorus is infectious and before you know it, you are hitting rewind. Thank you, Karen, Kimberly, Jimi and Phillip for your gift, it is much appreciated.   

18— “Sky High”- by Jigsaw– Call it “bubble gum” but you know I love sweetness, and this was played on A.M. radio for years. I have a ton of “seventies one-hit wonders” in my library and I am sure that there is now a station on Sirius for this kind of music because if I found “Hair Nation,” you can find these types of songs. Go explore!  

19— “Scare Easy”- by Mudcrutch -I believe this was the first band that Tom Petty was the leader or had childhood friends playing alongside him before he broke out with the Torpedo’s. Despite the chorus that states that he does not scare easy, I am the opposite when I fly. Case in point, I was leaving O’Hare to head to Westchester Airport, so you know the plane was small. I had always heard that if there were thunder clouds with lightning in the air, everyone would remain grounded. But not this time, as we took off, I looked over to the guy next to me and said, “I thought planes never flew into a thunderstorm?” He looked back at me and replied, “That is what I have been told my entire life.” We both looked like we were in a racing car as both of us slid in our seats and battled the craziness for about twenty minutes. Once we came out of that hole, it was smooth sailing the rest of the way.

20— “Leaving on a Jet Plane”- by Peter, Paul, & Mary– “All my bags are packed… I’m ready to go… I’m standing here outside your door… hate to wake you up to say goodbye.” I love this song; I can remember putting this on a New Year’s Eve play list and everyone looked at me like “Really?!” (Wait that was last week) I always drift off into my own world as I sing along with the late Mary Travers, who lived in Redding CT for most of her adult life. Sometimes in life we have to leave on a jet plane and many times there are tears that fall because loved ones are moving away across America or even further. Those moments can be tough because we want to hold on to those we love and “never let go.” But those special friends are only a plane ride away, so put aside your fear of flying and let love take you there.

I wanted to say “Thank You” to all the flight attendants around the world. We all have seen what they have endured over the past five years, and they deserve our best.

REALLY?!

When I went to Brooklyn Tech high school in the Fort Greene section from 1980 through 1983, the landscape was exceptionally different from where the tremendous mall now resides as well as the Barclays Center, which seems to have landed from outer space and dropped on top of about five streets near Atlantic Avenue. Across the street from Brooklyn’s version of “The Garden” was an empty lot littered with any type of garbage you could think of and one sole structure. That building was called Omaha Beef before transitioning to Western Beef.

Thanks to my uncle John, who hired me to work there on Saturday’s during those same years spent at Tech as he took me under his wing, while not only providing a paycheck but more importantly, life lessons that helped shape the person that I am today. Arriving promptly at “five thirty” in the morning, this former warehouse turned supermarket was mainly concrete, along with square stone floor tiles that sat inside the freezer, which were separated by “single spaghetti straps” from the top of the entrance to the upper part of your boot. Once you stepped inside, you had better be layered with clothes because it was extremely cold, while your feet became familiar with the sawdust that covered the entire floor just like an early morning snow. A row of “bandsaws” was lined up parallel to each other inside the manufactured glass coverings equipped with “cut-out circles” that served as windows for the customers to place their orders to the energetic butchers that were eager to start their long day.

Part of my responsibilities included replenishing the several types of beef and pork, which were tightly packed into square or rectangular cardboard boxes. The main objective for my hiring was to maintain cleanliness around each of the butcher’s station so that they could serve as many customers as possible, which was beneficial to the store owner, the worker, and me. (Tips were handed to me by each gentleman at the end of that Saturday). Hustle was the name of the game and performing at an elevated level was expected, while a couple of mishaps were allowed in the beginning but were frowned upon after about a month of working there. The amount of “eye-rolling” was too numerous to count when I first learned how to navigate the “pallet jack.” Like anything else, others make it look exceedingly easy because they have been doing it for a while. Sliding the two long metal pieces into the wood was simple enough, even lifting the pile was not that difficult, but to maneuver it onto an elevator that never was level with the concrete floor was another story.

I can remember Richie becoming frustrated with me while saying “Papi, let me show you one more time” while he ate an egg and cheese sandwich with his left hand as it slid in just like those professional bowlers who spin a sixteen-pound ball onto the floor with no noise as my jaw hit the floor. How did he do that? After a month’s time, I was also eating a sandwich with one hand while using the right to drive this jack all around the store, while standing on top of it, so much fun. The production line is set, and I play the “hand-off guy” on the second floor as my job is to take the pallets to their respective slots inside the freezer. Well, this one stack of oxtails was the biggest I had ever encountered and despite the tightest wrapping one had ever seen, the boxes were not neatly aligned as it looked like someone who was wrapped in cellophane trying to push their legs and arms out in all different directions. I knew there was no way that I was going to get this delivery into the room and by that time I was an expert with the “pallet jack.”

“Errol, what is the hold up, c’mon we have a lot more stuff” is what I heard through the hollow elevator shaft. “John, this pile will not get through the door.” After trying at least fifteen times by backing up and moving forward, it was no use, this mass was not making it to its destination. Frustrated by the backed-up assembly line, my uncle takes the wheel. He performs the same movements that I previously did, but to no avail. All of a sudden, he directs the jack straight into the door and begins pounding the entrance. Think back to the days when you were playing the child’s game, “Don’t Break the Ice,” as your competitor knocks one of the square cubes to the table.  We all hear the cellophane rip off and then the top level of boxes falls to the floor. Despite the clearing, it still does not fit through, so he continues to crash the machine against the walls and door until every box was off the pallet. (Think back to the same game as either you or your adversary becomes totally frustrated and eliminates all the cubes in a continuous whacking until the red man in the chair is laying on top of the rubble). “Now it fits! Pick all the boxes up and let’s get back to work!” exclaimed my uncle. “Really?!”

After graduating high school, my employment in the supermarket arena continued but this time much closer to home when I joined “Dan’s,” which was located right down my old block, “forty-sixth” street on Eighth Avenue. I started off on the floor ensuring that all the paper goods were at the forefront, and it became difficult when the little ones would walk down the aisle with their hands extended because they were at eye level with the bottom level, while either knocking the rolls to the middle of the floor or to the back of the shelf. While mom was not looking, I would take my pointer and middle fingers, place them under each eye, then lift them to point in the direction of the toddler or grammar school child to let them know they were being watched. Seeking diversification, I volunteered to be transferred to the frozen food aisle and it turned out to be the best section in the store because once I became familiar with the inventory needs, it was something that I could control all by myself. Eventually, I worked the “deli” until I began my career at S&P in July 1987.

Back in the 1980’s there were no cameras or video to monitor the customers and we, the workers, became the eyes of the store. Remember, I never confronted but my keen vision and fast legs kept Pete busy as he would meet the thieves by the exit before they were able to escape. For whatever reason, Sundays became the “burglary de jour” and after numerous events, I asked to be left off the schedule on the second day of the weekend, despite the opportunity to be paid “time and a half.” I believe the incident that triggered this request occurred on a Sunday, but I could be mistaken. Anyway, for some reason I was in the small office, which usually required a key because all of the money collected was deposited inside a fortified safe with a combination needed to open. As I stood there talking to Mary, I think someone knocked on the door and when it opened, there was a dude with a “shot gun” pointed at us. Knowing that there was no one there that could protect us (and remember there were no cell phones), the only thing in my mind was to oblige to the demands to open the safe. As Mary is turning the lock from left to right even, I noticed that it was taking longer than expected. Knowing that everyone’s nerves were at an all-time high, including the intruder, I assumed that was the reason for the delay. But suddenly I realized that she was stalling because by that time the entire store knew we were being robbed. The last thing I remember was staring at her while my eyes were saying “Really?!”

When I joined the New Fairfield Lions almost a decade ago, I had to keep telling myself that representation is of the utmost responsibility because one’s actions could leave a stain on the club that could negatively affect membership, especially if word spreads amongst the town. And believe me, all is known at the local bakery store. On a separate note, the owner of the goodie shop wanted to know when I needed the birthday cake I was ordering, and my response was the next day. “Really?! You had 364 days to order it and you come today?” I responded by stating that I wanted two cakes, one for tomorrow and the other for next year. “Don’t be a wise guy.” Anyhow, when you deal with the general public, it can be a little difficult to not make a face or to bluntly say “really?!”

About five years ago at our annual summer Carnival that we host during the third week in July, there are hundreds of children running around with cotton candy, ice cream or other treats while the numerous rides await the endless smiles from grandparents as I am the disc jockey as well as the cashier to this wonderful “small town” event that elicits visions of wonderful childhood memories for the adults. The tent sells the classic cheeseburgers, chicken fingers, hot dogs and other basic “summer foods,” along with various liquid refreshments, none containing alcohol. As I stood near the register, a man approaches and asks how much a beer costs. Trying not to laugh, I look at him and politely inform him that no such beverage is anywhere on the premises. Barraging me with endless questioning on why there would not be alcoholic beverages for the adults. I then ask him to look around at the clientele (families with baby strollers, etc.) and he would not stop complaining. Finally, my face told the story as I looked at him and my eyes again said “really?!”

I believe New Fairfield is one of two towns in the state of Connecticut that hold a parade on the 4^th of July and the preparation for our Lions group to host is detailed. Planning begins during the spring as notations are sent out to those groups who want to participate in the march along Route 37 and ends at Memorial Park near the town hall. Floats are assembled and the classic cars sign up early to display their distinctive vintages. Permits are required and the club arranges those. There is more to the process than I am alluding to, but the point is that we cannot plan this a week before because each party needs to know where to line up prior to the start of the parade. On a side note, I have been the “DJ” the past few years and last year while talking to Reggie, I had a Taylor Swift song because “Swifties” are everywhere, so I assumed her music would be acceptable to the local towns people. Well, a gentleman walked by, and we all knew that he was a veteran. Before we had a chance to thank him for his service, he loudly and forcefully displayed his displeasure for the song choice. “What kind of crap music is this to play on America’s birthday?” Really?! Did you have to be that nasty? I quickly apologized and changed the song. Anyway, last week as we were arranging the parade, there was a gentleman who was driving really slow in our direction. Knowing that he required assistance, we stopped as he asked us if he could put his classic car in the parade. We responded by inquiring if he had received the documentation which was sent out months in advance because every float and organization was in the process of assembling. And it probably was not feasible at this stage to include him because the parade was to begin in less than an hour.  “Yes, I did but I have been busy.” Really?!

Today’s setlist will relate to moments in your life where you are left speechless, confused, and want to say “Really?!” or “Are you kidding me?” (Enjoy!)

1— “Is She Really Going Out with Him?” by Joe Jackson— “… Pretty women out walking with gorillas down my street… from my window, I’m staring while my coffee goes cold…” I would not use the word that Joe uses but I remember how I used to ask that question all the time as I would see girls with guys where I could never comprehend the attraction. And believe me, I knew I was shy, maybe immature in certain ways, but I knew that I was better than “that guy.” Joe Jackson was a star ladies and gentlemen in 1979! He released two albums that year and everywhere you turned, he had a song on the radio. And of course, he is the answer the question I usually ask everyone I meet- “Who did you see while attending your first concert ever?” This is one of his best efforts and always make me think back while saying “Really?!”

2— “What a Surprise”—by Johnny Maestro & The Crests– My dad has informed me that I need to go “deeper into the 1950’s” and I chuckled because as you probably can tell, I try to perform a cross-section of songs in various genres or periods of time. Hoping that this tune covers the “deep cut,” and it definitely fits the theme because Johnny depicts a story of how he saw his girlfriend with his best buddy. If that does not make you want to say “really?!,” then I give up. LOL. But in the end, it was Johnny’s girlfriend who was throwing him a surprise party.

3— “Does Anyone Really Know What Time It Is?”— by Chicago- Okay so I am going with “really” in the title of the song and this classic from Chicago does make you scratch your while wondering why no one knows what time it is. During the 1970’s this unit created some of the best music this world has ever heard. Speaking of not knowing the time, am I the only one who scratches their head at the same folks that arrive late for mass each week? Why not either set the clock back a little earlier or leave fifteen minutes in advance of the normal time, which makes the arrival tardy? My bride always tells me to mind my own matters and to not let what others do affect me. Anyway, this band is still touring with their endless catalog, I guarantee there is at least one song that you will love.

4— “Dazed and Confused”- by The Mighty Led Zeppelin-This could be the ultimate song that depicts what I have written about for this week’s post. Sometimes I am dazed and confused at the things that go on all around us. The continual denying of global warming probably sits at the top of my list, and I am not an expert by any means but when I was a kid the lead stories on the world news each night did not begin with the weather. The storms are gaining strength by the minute and this high humidity will only get worse, but I will get off my soapbox. Despite the fact that we all have heard this track a zillion times, it is beyond stupendous, especially if you have not heard it in a while.

5— “Blow Up the Outside World”- by Soundgarden-Okay this is a real stretch but here goes, when you are flabbergasted or amazed at what you hear or see, that situation can blow you away… hence blow. Recognizing that this is one of the most depressing songs ever written, the hook here blows me away and I can never stop listening. I remember when “Down on the Upside” was released in 1996, I was a full-blown freak of a fan, and this band was actually the closer at the Lollapalooza tour rolled into Downing Stadium at Randall’s Island in July 1996. They went on after Metallica and not many bands can say or do that. Despite the fact that this album was created in the vein of “Superunknown” I loved it and never wanted to see them split up. As I mentioned about two months ago, the management of Soundgarden should inform the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to take their name out of contention because the damage has been done. They had a chance to deservedly put them in while Mr. Cornell was still with us. Now closer to a decade later than five years, they are still fumbling with their tired excuses or promises. Not having Soundgarden in the hall could be the biggest insult ever. Who had a voice like Chris? Who created a landmark album that will stand the test of all-time? Okay I will say it again- “Really?!”

6— “Thunderstruck”- by AC/DC-Sometimes I am thunderstruck by what I hear or see, and I can recall when I worked in Dan’s supermarket, the store manager, Pete, would always put me in charge of the exit door after he would close the entrance because he knew no one would ever get in. And each night there was this guy who would come every night right when we would close. At first, I asked him if he was running from work and the store was closing too early for his schedule. When he informed me that he lived with his parents and there were no scheduling conflicts, I would ignore him as he pressed his face against the glass window while tapping it to beg for me to let him in. As my head moved west to east, while my face asked “really?!” and after a two-week period, the message was received, and he would come into the store at least thirty minutes prior to closing.

7— “Shock Me”- by KISS-In my world, another word for “really” is “shock” and what better song than the first time Ace ever did vocals on a KISS album (Love Gun). Despite being the author of many KISS classics, Mr. Frehley finally had the courage to get behind the microphone for their sixth studio album. He played in my backyard this past Sunday, but I did not attend. Rumor on the street is that Ace and Peter recently turned down the opportunity to appear on stage with KISS for the last two shows at Madison Square Garden in December. By now you all know which camp I sit in but recognize what both original members added, including this impressive tune, which has to land in their top ten songs of all-time.

8—” Shock”- by Tesla– Taken from the title song from their eighth studio album released in March 2019 and despite the grumblings, this body of work is good. Yes, it was produced by Phil Collen and of course it has that Def Leppard feel. First off Phil is one of the lead guitarists of Leppard and second, Tesla has been tied to Def Leppard since the 1980’s. Like I have written in the past, the complainers cannot have it both ways, you can’t be psyched that Phil is producing but when it is not like the other Tesla albums, there should be no criticisms. Yes, even I am amazed (another word for “really”) that I was able to keep the streak of Tesla songs in this week’s set list. Crank it up!

9— “Amazing”- by Aerosmith– I know Grace is cringing with this selection because this is the “power ballad” Aerosmith and not the rocking blues band that she holds dear to her heart but by now you all know I am all in on “sappy.” And to boot I have selected the orchestral version. “… you have to learn to crawl… before you learn to walk… but I just couldn’t listen to all that righteous talk… oh well I was out on the street… just trying to survive… scratchin to stay… alive…” I love those lines the best. Sad to see that the upcoming tour will be their last. There is an argument that this unit from Boston could be the best American band ever, if not, they land in the top ten. Joe’s guitar solo towards the end of the track is righteous.

10— “What a Surprise”- by Pointer Sisters-What an addictive groove in this tune as you can close your eyes and sing along with the sisters. There is a bit of “hip hop” in the verses, almost like they are rapping, which adds to the overall vibe of the song. I think this is one of the ultimate tracks to listen to on your boom box at the beach. These days I can actually sit in a beach chair and chill but back in the Coney Island times of being a teenager, we never had a chair- just a towel- that served as a seat as well as for drying off. Last week, my aunt and uncle were gracious enough to allow our family to spend time at his house in Cape Cod. As I sat there on the beach, all the memories of when we as a family would spend time at the bay in Brewster came roaring back. I treasure those moments. “What a surprise.” Finger snapping good!

11— “You Really Got a Hold on Me”- by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles-Even though it does not fit the theme, the word “really” is in the title, so I am going with it. Besides, it is Smokey and one can never go wrong with a Mr. Robinson song. For those who know me, I tend to ask questions to get the conversation going and one of them is “if you were to have dinner with three people, living or deceased, who would they be?” Well, if I extended that to five or ten, Smokey would be added to the list because he has seen and been through it all. I say he could do a “Springsteen on Broadway” type of performance and I would be there for that!

12— “Maybe I’m Amazed”- by Paul & Linda McCartney-When I hear Paul’s voice in the beginning of this song it is a bit sad because one thinks back to the love of his life, Linda. With no offense to any other partner Paul has had, there is no one like Linda. I know Paul receives a lot of criticism because he wrote “silly love songs” but the world will always need them. And if this is considered one of them, I am all in because this is one of his greatest tunes ever crafted. With help from Linda, it does not get much better.

13— “Amazing”- by Seal-This is a song that I wish I wrote and could sing because it is a wonderful composition that has an infectious groove. I really feel like I am being lifted into the clouds when I hear it and can picture flying high above the ground while singing “isn’t it amazing.” I am not sure what ever happened to Seal but hopefully he is in a good place.

14— “I Really Got the Feeling”- by Dolly Parton-Each time I hear Dolly, I think of my mother and that is always a good thing. I believe I was either thirteen or fourteen when I purchased my first gift for her with my own paper route money and felt so good to give her “Here You Come Again” album that was released in 1977. It is hard to fathom that Dolly is still performing all these years later, at an elevated level I might add and her “rock” album (loaded with a ton of rock royalty) will be released in November. This may be one of her lesser-known songs, but it is extremely sweet on the ears.

15— “Baby, What a Big Surprise”- by Chicago-Okay I recognize that I have already included a Chicago tune, but this is a “power ballad.”  “… right before my very eyes… I thought you were only faking it…” This tune is impossible to not sing along to as you will be mimicking Peter but probably won’t be able to hit the high notes like he could. I also think that this is another summer song because I remember it being played on WABC- AM radio in the late 1970’s all the time. Have you heard that automakers are trying to eliminate AM radio and do not want to install them into their cars anymore? Actually BMW, Mazda, Volkswagen, Volvo, and Tesla have already removed AM radio from their cars. The argument is that AM radio causes electromagnetic interference with electric motors, which makes the sound “staticky” over the airwaves. I still listen to AM radio for news and sports but realize that there are “sister” FM stations available for the consumer. (I.E., “92.3 FM KROC” is now the FM sister station of 1010 WINS radio)

16— “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight”- by England Dan Seals & John Ford Coley– Talk about AM radio, this was played incessantly on both radio formats during the 1970’s and is one of my all-time favorite songs. I never knew what they were saying when the chorus came in- “…I’m not talking about movin’ in…”  Sounded like millennium or something like that. This tune is like comfort food, the more, the better.

17— “I’m Amazed”- by My Morning Jacket -I’m amazed on how time has flown (I know I did that a few weeks back) because it felt like yesterday that our family would jump in the minivan on our annual summer trek up to Cape Cod with the album- “Evil Urges”- always included in the rotation. There is an awesome guitar solo that begins at the 2:44 mark that will blow you away (using all the puns) and also as the tune closes out. Even though I have written about the tales that “amaze” or “confuse” or “make me wonder” I return to the wise words that my bride has gifted me- sometimes you have to put yourself in the shoes of another and the most important part- do not pass judgment. Believe me, I know it is hard but maybe we will all be amazed when we are one.

Embarrassing Moments

“No Mom I do not want to take my bathing suit off.” As we were all packing up to leave Jones Beach after spending what we considered to be the most wonderful day because the only other time where experiencing grandiose waves was on our living room floor while watching those national surfing competitions on television that were either in California or Hawaii. “There is too much sand and you cannot sit in those trunks on the long ride home. Besides, you do not want to bring the beach into the car, do you?”

Begrudgingly, while covering myself with a towel, I slip them off in one fell swoop and hand them to my mother. Feeling extremely vulnerable as I nervously look around to see if anyone around us knows that I am now in my birthday suit as I watch Liz and my mother laughingly throw my swimming trunks back to each other, while dipping it into the water to clear off the soot. Suddenly, a wave pounds the both of them and the undertow took my shorts far out into the Atlantic Ocean. Emerging from the water, they acted like they were sorrowful but just like those times where uncontrollable laughter takes over as they both said, “you have a towel, and we are only going to the car.”

For those of age, during the “mid-to-late seventies” streaking had become a National Pastime where major league baseball games were unexpectedly interrupted by someone that would run across the field with just their sneakers on, which created an uncomfortable situation for those in charge of what usually turned into a football tackle for the takedown. Being a pre-teen where imitation is a way of life, I even participated during a summer day in Otisville while we were spraying each other with the hose. But on that day even my sneakers were off as I emerged from the back of the house not realizing that we had visitors, and you know they came out of nowhere because I was lightning fast. Thank goodness that I did not know them well because it left a scar.

Here was another situation where I was “all natural” and now had to take the long walk to the car. For those who have never been to Jones Beach in Long Island N.Y. the parking lots are miles from the sand. Of course, I was the only one out of at least seven of us that had a towel wrapped around my stomach down to my ankles, while everyone else was dressed. Talk about being embarrassed?

While playing football in the Pershing school yard in February 1979, I was summoned to return home because mom went into labor. Blazing up 49^th street I did not know exactly what was wrong, but I even recognized that something was amiss because it was still winter, and the baby wasn’t expected until spring. I assume lupus was the cause for the premature delivery whereby our brother, Graig, weighed a little less than four pounds and spent weeks in an incubator before arriving home about the same time he was predicted to come into the world. He became my life as I watched over him as much as our dog, Heidi, who you remember would lay underneath his crib and would only let immediate family near him. As he grew into a toddler, I would take him on endless journeys around the neighborhood and based on our appearance together, most assumed the title of dad belonged to me.

On this one excursion, we made our way to fifth avenue to pick up items for mom and I knew the “Five and Dime,” or Woolworth’s, would be a stop for a delicious summer treat. Trying to balance him on the red spiral chair proved to be difficult as our server put down the white paper placemats along with silverware in front of our spots at the counter. As I looked up, the woman’s appearance was something that I would describe as being at an unhealthy weight, but to a five-year-old, well, his vocabulary was a bit different. Puzzled, he turned his head like a dog that lost his or her bone, while loudly and undiplomatically seeking a response to the question of why. Turning beat red because she zoomed right in on me, I quickly apologized while at the same time placing our order of soda ice cream floats, as she turned her back in a fury.

Rotating to my little brother, I inform him that we cannot ask a person such a question and to please refrain from seeking further inquiries. Daggers were thrown my way as she paced back and forth attending to the other customers while I kept his vision on me, along with engaging conversation so as to avoid another disaster. The ice cream soda pops are placed one at a time in front of us, beginning with me. As I salivated, I took my eye off the ball and as soon as she placed it in front of Graig, he repeats the same question. Embarrassed tremendously, I took money out of my pocket and placed it in front of the uneaten tasty treats. Almost tripping over my feet because the need to exit was overwhelming as I picked him up and ran through the exit onto the fifth avenue sidewalk. Any future visits were met with me covering my eyes to view through the window to see if she was on duty, if so, we just kept walking.

In June 2005, I made the fateful decision to leave MBIA despite the incredible affection that I held for my colleagues as well as the work that we performed because I will never forget the overwhelming sense of achievement that occurred when an issuer finally accepted one of the bids that we submitted. In baseball terms, I probably was “Oh for twenty” by the time I lined a single into centerfield as all the prior strike, ground, and pop outs disappeared once the banker called me to inform us that we would be the “seat cushion” for the issuer that needed insurance. We were finally the bond insurer of choice. Of course, it was not “prime rib” but at times I felt that the upper echelon needed to be reminded that seasoning the cheeseburgers was our specialty and we made sure that no one came down with food poisoning.

In a calculated twist of fate, our top chef was removed and replaced by the food inspector, who was now tasked with bringing in diverse types of burgers but the only thing on his menu was kobe beef. And for those television historians like me, think when Oscar and Felix switched personalities, Mr. Madison became the “neat freak,” while Mr. Unger portrayed an incredible slob. Slowly over time, it became apparent that filet mignon was the only choice on the menu and the crowd who loved those “greasy burgers” looked elsewhere. When I suggested “rib eye” to the menu, that was even turned away. But by that time, I had found a new home in the gym whereby those folks became family and at least I had something to look forward to when I entered the King Street compound. Realizing that sentimentality was not going to pay the bills, I received a phone call from my friend, Scott, who asked if I wanted to come back home to S&P and I jumped on it.

While gathering in one of the beautiful conference rooms inside the complex, I wondered if I was making the right decision because the mortgage market was riding a wave of euphoria where if an applicant contained a pulse, the loan was administered. But the decision was made and as people made their way into the room to wish me good luck, I was already shying away from the spotlight. There were niceties spoken and gifts given. As I opened one of the presents, I had no idea what it was but being the respectful person that my parents raised, I thanked them all, while placing it alongside the other bequests. All of a sudden, I hear the following- “he does not even know what it is. Mr. Music has no clue.” Turning beat red, I feinted that I did recognize but to no avail. “That’s an I-pod, Errol!” Even then I had no idea what it was. As the table burst into laughter, I sat there in embarrassment, but it was not hurtful because I laugh at myself all the time.

Fast forward to 2018, I could not wait to make the wonderful trip out to Chicago to meet with my Midwest family members as I loved to visit the windy city. Spending time at a “luxurious” hotel as well as attending the S&P office beside the mothership in New York, is something that I adored. In one of our “fun events” the teams were divided into two sides as we adorned all these cool costumes. I believe each of us was given a card with instructions to act out what was presented with the first team to call out the correct answer would be given a specific number of points. As the host passed me the card, I wondered aloud to myself about how I was going to be able to present to the group because I found the task to be extremely strange. Okay, I stood there and made believe that I was cleaning my teeth. As I stood there in the middle of everyone, I could see blank faces, which made me a bit uncomfortable. Not knowing what else to do, I mimicked again that I was flossing my mouth. All of a sudden, someone said- “Oh, I know what he is doing, he is flossing his teeth.” As everyone started to laugh out loudly, I suddenly realized that the “floss” was a dance move.

Today’s playlist will deal with various kinds of situations where embarrassment settles in. (Enjoy!)

1— “Right Place, Wrong Time” by Dr. John—How great is this song? It has to be an embarrassing situation if you are in the right place but the wrong time, no? I heard an interview with Malcolm John Rebennack Jr. on the Howard Stern show, and I wanted it to continue for a long time because his stories were extremely entertaining. Dr. John marched to the beat of his own drum and never changed for anyone. His catalog is endless, go explore. Such a shame he passed away in 2019, but he leaves behind a legacy that is impressive. I remember this tune being played incessantly on the radio from 1973 through 1975.

2— “Fool in the Rain”—by The Mighty Led Zeppelin– Before you ask or scratch your head, see the following lyrics- “… when I’m breathless I’ll run ‘til I drop, hey!… And the thoughts of a fool’s kind of careless… I’m just a fool waiting on the wrong block, oh yeah…” I would say that Mr. Plant was embarrassed that he missed his date because he was on the wrong street, right? I know what I am about to say may be “sac-religious”, but I would tend to put this track in the top twenty songs that the Mighty Led Zep ever recorded. Robert’s vocals are nothing short of spectacular behind the machine of Jimmy, John Paul and John, which many consider to being the most accomplished musicians this universe has ever seen (or heard).

3— “I’m Living in Shame”— by Diana Ross & The Supremes- Talk about someone being embarrassed by their family, especially a mother. The words that strike me the most are the following- “… I was always so afraid for my uptown friends to see her… afraid one day when I was grown, that, that I would be her…” But then later on Diana rescinds her shame as she laments- “… won’t you forgive me, Mom?… for all the wrong I’ve done… I know you’ve done your best… mama, I miss you…” Brings tears to the eyes. I think some of us have had that feeling at some point in our lives but at the end of the day you realize that mom did all she could do to make your life better.

4— “Shame”- by Evelyn “Champagne” King-Sometimes I wonder if as a parent or a child if I have ever embarrassed my family or have brought shame to anyone of them. How cool is this song? As a teenager and “early twenty,” this song was blasting out everywhere- at the disco’s or out of Johnny-Boy’s shiny car as he was all about image because the right arm never moved while the sunglasses were intact as he strolled around the neighborhood, letting everyone around him know that he was “too cool.” This tune has to be considered one of the ultimate disco songs ever, right?

5— “Secrets”- by Van Halen-Okay I am taking some liberties here but sometimes secrets can be embarrassing, hence the reason for it appearing on the list. I know that “Diver Down” is typically frowned upon because of the numerous covers but yet, I can listen from top to bottom without skipping over one song. This lesser-known classic was played throughout the 1980’s on the “classic rock” radio format as it highlights Van Halen’s ability to change things up. Diamond Dave’s vocals are stupendous as well as Eddie’s solo at the 2:18 mark. Miss him all the time, thanks Eddie for your gift.

6—” Shame, Shame, Shame”- by Aerosmith– I remember leaving the MBIA complex on that Tuesday March 30, 2004, to ride to the nearest record store to purchase “Honkin’ on Bobo” and once I slipped the CD into my Honda Civic, I lost it. I knew from the first song that the boys from Boston can play the blues. I apologize if I have used this track in the past, but it is too infectious to leave off this list.

7— “What a Shame”- by Tesla– I love it! I keep finding ways to add Tesla to the weekly update as this may be a bit different from the stories that I mentioned above but sometimes shame or embarrassment is caused by the actions or naivety of your friends or family (in my opinion) that you find hard to digest. “… I know you think you’re always right, and just because, you’ve got God in your life…but he don’t appreciate the way you lied… he can’t believe how hard you tried… to take me down, to take it all, hanging around, and making sure I fall… then say it was me to blame, and I was, for trusting someone like you anyways…” Folks, believe me when I tell you that “Into the Now” is one of the best efforts by this Sacramento unit. The past few days were spent at my uncle’s home and my oldest son took liberties with the Tesla name by insinuating that Joan Jett is more popular than Tesla. Never! Like I have stated many times- Tesla Rules! (For some reason Spotify does not have “Into the Now” so I substituted “Time to Rock”).

8— “Secrets”- by One Republic-Staying with the embarrassing aspect of keeping secrets, this tune is beyond fantastic as I would state that this is their most popular song to date that they have recorded.  Love the sound of what I assume is a stand-up cello with the wand that starts off this infectious groove and once the drums come in, it takes the song to the moon.

9— “What A Shame”- by Shinedown-It is hard to believe that “The Sound of Madness” is now fifteen years old and it scares me how fast time has gone by. (Wait, that was last week’s topic). I recently read that Brent Smith stated that this track was one of his most sacred songs on this landmark album and is also one of my ultimate Shinedown tracks ever. Staying with the “shame” theme, I realize that this tune is not about embarrassment but more related to shame than a world that would not let “somebody be who they be,” for lack of a better phrase. Folks, please listen to Brent’s vocals at the 3:18 mark and tell me this is not grandiose? If this does not send chills down your spine, then I give up. “The Sound of Madness” is their “Sgt. Pepper’s.” I think I have listened to this album more than any in my lifetime, I love Shinedown with all my heart!

10— “Forever Shamed”- by Godsmack-I know, it seems that each week I have songs by Tesla, Shinedown, and Godsmack in each setlist but it is not intentional. Each week, I start off with the story and then try to find songs in my catalog that relate to the theme. It is purely coincidental that these three bands seem to infiltrate the system. When “The Oracle” was released in 2005, I was already knee deep into Godsmack but this album cemented them into their catalog as I could not stop listening to this body of work. “Ha, Ha!!” I know many find Sully to be an “off-putting” personality, but the man can sing, and his enthusiasm is infectious. \m/ \m/

11— “Secrets”- by Tears for Fears-They just landed at Madison Square Garden last week and from what I have read, the show was fantastic. I was on the fence as it was a Monday night but now am kicking myself for not attending. This unit has a lot of songs that you do not realize how many you know, case in point.  

12— “Ain’t That a Shame”- by John Lennon-I know my dad is punching the screen and there is no way that I am suggesting that John’s rendition is better than the original by Fats Domino, but this tune is “groove-ishly delicious.” At the end of the day, John loved rock and roll. I will not say that he loved it more than Yoko but after her and his children, this type of music fit him perfectly. Listen to this and tell me this is not pure rock and roll.

13— “Shame, Shame”- by Foo Fighters-C’mon, I defy all the critics out there who claim that the Foo Fighters have not made a good album since “Wasting Light,” sans “But Here We Are.” There is no way that anyone can say that this song is not good, I will not hear it, I’m sorry. Listen to Taylor on the drums as his brother Dave does a masterful job on vocals. The groove is a knockout. All complaints will not be heard.

14— “Secret”- by Maroon 5– It is hard to believe that this band created “Songs About Jane” as their evolution changed the trajectory down a totally different path. Folks, their musicianship is top notch, and it is evident on their debut album as each song is fantastic. I remember when I presented this body of work to Megan, who at the time, was the Spin instructor at MBIA before Chris and she was blown away by the entire production. Adam is an excellent singer.

15— “Hide Your Heart”- by KISS -Believe it or not but KISS added this tune to the “End of the Road” tour during 2019 and 2020. This is from their fifteenth studio album – “Hot in the Shade”- released in 1989 with Eric Carr on drums and Bruce Kulick on lead guitar. It is the longest body of work in their catalog, and this is a lesser-known hit but worthy of a position at a concert. A few weeks back, I was able to hang out with John Corabi (The Dead Daisies) as he signed autographs for his fan base while Winger was taking the stage. He informed me that him and Bruce are like “oil & water” as they formed the band “Union” in the 1990’s. He also stated that he never knows where the line is as he seems to always cross it. (His words). Kulick and Carr kept KISS alive after Peter and Ace messed it up for themselves.  Oh, by the way, sometimes when we are embarrassed, we hide things.  

16— “You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away”- by Eddie Vedder– I absolutely love the Beatles version but again decided to switch it up this week with the masterful take by Mr. Vedder. Listen, you all know that I am puzzled by the lack of respect for Soundgarden and take it out on Pearl Jam, but I recognize the talents they employ, especially Mr. Vedder.  This is taken from one of my all-time favorite movies – “I am Sam” – with Sean Penn and Dakota Fanning. I can watch that film all day long and Eddie’s love of the Beatles shines through in this amazing rendition of this classic. I am not embarrassed to let you know that I also cry every time I watch that amazing movie. Sometimes in life we encounter embarrassing moments but I believe it will make you more secure in yourself, think of it as “growing pains.”