My Jewish Baseball All-Star Team

When I lived in Philadelphia, I toured a large part of the city.  One museum I never toured was the Jewish-American Museum.  In downtown Philly one time, I saw an advertisement promoting Jewish baseball players.  Interest piqued, I walked in.  I learned most of the exhibit cost far more money than I wanted to pay, yet on the first floor was some free displays.  I told the woman I would look around the first floor & if I was still interested, I would pay for the full exhibit.  Although I fibbed, I enjoyed the first-floor display.  One part of that was an interactive screen where you could choose your Jewish MLB All-Star Team.  Curious, I chose my team, & the lineup is displayed below.  The only player I have never heard of is Louis Brower, although I presume Thelma Eisen played in the all-girls league highlighted in A League of Their Own.  As a baseball fan, I would gladly take this lineup.

Leadoff: Hank Greenberg, 1B for Detroit Tigers
2^nd: Ian Kinsler, 2B for Detroit Tigers
3^rd: Kevin Youkilis, 3B for Boston Red Sox
4^th: Brad Ausmus, C for Houston Astros
5^th: Thelma Eisen, OF for Grand Rapids Chicks
6^th: Sam Fuld, OF for Chicago Cubs
7^th: Shawn Green, OF for Los Angeles Dodgers
8^th: Sandy Koufax, P for Los Angeles Dodgers
9^th: Louis Brower, SS for Oklahoma City Indians

Like Leonard & Penny, beer & TV shows are more similar than you think

This week begins the fall TV schedule. Two of my TV shows, The Odd Couple & Duck Dynasty, ended recently, & while I was prepared to begin watching Last Man Standing, ABC axed it. TV shows are like beer. Ignore the critics; there is no right or wrong one. They are all different tastes, from different places, & available at different times. Some you enjoy more than others, yet they are an inseparable part of American culture. Some people dislike Friends, a classic American sitcom, & some dislike Bud Light. Personally, I never cared for How I Met Your Mother or Everybody Loves Raymond. While Leinenkugel rapidly gains fans, there remain skeptics. Below I will tell y’all which shows I watch & give you my opinion about each of them. So, sit back, grab a snack, & keep reading.

Tuesdays consist of three hours being watched or recorded via DVR. I began watching NCIS when I moved to Philly because a coworker enjoyed watching it. Thanks to USA Network & living in Kensington, I successfully binged many episodes, & thus I learned the timeline & history of the show, despite starting with Season 13. When I returned home, Dad joined me in watching, & on occasion Mom watches also. While Season 14 saw the addition of three new fulltime characters & Season 15 marks the departure of Jennifer Esposito & the addition of Maria Bello, NCIS continually captivates audiences. My only concern with the show is not about its stamina; the change of actors provided fresh blood to show. Instead, I worry the show added too many new characters. Keep in mind the fact the show must have some crime or significant storyline, so the agents are at the forefront. This pushes Ducky, Jimmy Palmer, Abby, & Director Vance to the background. If I were in charge, the show would not have replaced Esposito fulltime. Instead, create a character such as Ned Dorneget, a supporting agent, & use them in an episode or so. Or, incorporate Fornell, Tony DiNozzo Sr., & Delilah McGee, especially now that the McGees will welcome a baby into the world. Another option would be to focus on families & friends, such as Vance’s children, Jimmy’s family, McGee’s sister, Mike Franks’ family, or Gibbs’ therapist or doctor played by Jon Cryer. Each of those characters can add a different element to each episode, allowing viewers the opportunity to see the reactions of our beloved characters, such as a Gibbs head slap when Torres doubts Fornell or Abby working with Gibbs’ therapist to help him come out of his shell. Esposito’s departure could have led to more screen time for each character with longer secondary storylines. Not to belittle Maria Bello but such a large fulltime cast reduces the spotlight in an hour-long show.

At 9 pm Central premiers NCIS: New Orleans. The series debuted with NCIS Season 13, so I have seen every episode. Although last season featured several long story arcs, I am glad they all came to an end. One question mark for the show will be the fallout from Dwayne Prides’ actions. Yes, he saved the city, but he went rogue, & there should be repercussions. Personally, I would appoint Chris LaSalle as the lead agent, & allow that time for Pride to mentor Sebastian, spend time with his daughter, & enjoy life. Too often he is overwhelmed with responsibility. For LaSalle, it could be a neat growth moment, where he leans on Sonja Percy & Tammy Gregorio for support in being the team lead in The Big Easy. I look forward to how the show grows in its fourth season. Back in the land of reality, when my family & I went on our last cruise, our port city in the US was New Orleans, & so on our return day, we walked to where the main character Dwayne Pride’s bar is based, Dad & I took a picture, & we shared a drink there. Upon my return home from Philly, I successfully hooked Dad into watching both shows with me, & he loves the NCIS: New Orleans theme song so much it is now his ringtone. For you curious folks, it is “Boom Boom” by Big Head Todd & the Monsters, admittedly quite catchy.

In between the two naval shows stars Michael Weatherly, formerly known as Tony DiNozzo but now winning juries as Dr. Jason Bull in Bull. Fresh off its first season, there are some areas for improvement, but all in all a solid show, which again Dad & I tuned into weekly. There are two avenues the show should explore. First, while Dr. Bull is outstanding at his job, he is not perfect, & if he lost a case, it certainly would be neat to see his reaction corresponding to how his team picks up the pieces. Perhaps the team falters for a bit, maybe they accept the loss as a part of the judicial system, or instead they strive to learn from their loss. The other option for the show, & these two could work together, is to have a case over the course of at least two episodes. Each case featured a new opposition to Dr. Bull & his team. Allow viewers the opportunity to see the adjustments the opposition makes in a court appeal, or create a large-scale case where information continues to be discovered, only for that information to be the dagger to the heart for Bull’s case. Either way, I look forward to the way Dr. Bull views people, the storylines are captivating, & I enjoy the chemistry of Dr. Bull’s team.

Next up is Chicago PD. Yes, the show bears the name of the major city about 30 minutes away from me, but I did not start watching this show from day one. No, I do not remember when I started watching alongside Mom & Dad. Thankfully, USA Network announced it will air reruns of the show, so over time I shall catch up. Like NCIS, this cast may be too large, but the show does not feature nearly as predominate secondary storylines. The biggest challenge is screen time for all characters. For Trudy Platt, that may be an issue because there no longer is a fulltime beat police officer; all other fulltime characters work in Intelligence. Fortunately, the show makes up for by brilliantly handling issues relevant to the city such as distrust of police, shootings, robberies, & teenagers involved more in shady dealings than in school, etc. The crossover between Chicago Fire, Chicago PD, & Chicago Justice last season was phenomenal. Rather than three separate shows dealing with one storyline, it was a three-hour episode containing characters from all three shows.

My last TV love is The Big Bang Theory. Without revealing spoilers, last season’s finale left fans with a massive cliffhanger. Last season also showed the growth of each character in significant ways. Penny & Leonard married in front of their families & friends, Bernadette & Howard became parents, Raj stopped relying on his parents’ money, & Sheldon & Amy are now living together. Several seasons ago, when Sheldon left aboard a train, the show gained an opportunity to truly develop characters. Unfortunately, I felt the show stunted that growth, allowing Sheldon to continue to act childish & everyone accepted his behavior. This approach harmed the Hofstadter’s relationship & delayed the maturation of Amy & Sheldon’s relationship. While Amy attempted to move on, Penny & Leonard bicker & are not the couple I grew fond of. Last season finally took a turn in the right direction. My main issue with Sheldon is his arrogance over the others & their acceptance. Amy broke up with him because of his refusal to change, but the others, outside of perhaps Bernadette, still allow him to criticize them. Hopefully the development from the season finale will continue Sheldon’s maturity.

Additionally, Leonard & Penny need to change. He continually comments he does not deserve her & she accepts that. Neither are perfect, but their strengths balance their weaknesses. He is loving, compassionate, & willing to grow with her. She loves him for who he is & knows he keeps her on the mature path. They complete each other. On a minor note, it would be nice for Stuart to have a thriving comic book store & more of a storyline than simply mooching off the Wolowitzs. Lastly, Raj needs to continue to live on his own finances. As the show is often compared to Friends, I see Raj as the Joey of the show. Forever single, but an outstanding friend. Like Joey, he will not be the star of his career field, but an accomplishment for Raj affects Sheldon as their two fields are similar. Finally, compliments to the show for its terrific minor characters. Everyone’s parents, Barry Kripke, the famed Stephen Hawking, Bert, Leslie Winkle, & even Ramona Nowitzki provide interesting insights into the characters. Who does not love the hilarious Kripke voice, the Christian Mrs. Cooper, the deadpan Dr. Mrs. Hofstadter, & the friendly aloof Bert? They continue to add comedy, allowing the regular cast serious moments. The 90’s are known for Friends, the 2010’s will be known for The Big Bang Theory.

When I turned 21, I loved Yuengling. Later I discovered my love of Redd’s Apple Ale. I dislike Miller & will drink Coors if nothing else is available. My relationship with TV shows is similar. I loved Duck Dynasty. I now love NCIS & its counterpart NCIS: New Orleans. Mom is to TV for me as Coors is to alcohol. I will enjoy both if they are available. I look forward to the premiere of Young Sheldon much like I anticipated the taste of Redd’s Green Apple Ale. As I walk down the beer aisle at Meijer, I see numerous new beers. While my wallet is light, I will keep an eye open & an ear listening to find my next delicious drink. Who knows what show I will stumble upon next? Until then, you know my thoughts about my favorite TV shows. What are yours?

That darn wristband

As my watch is currently not working, I have one item on my wrist. It is my camouflage wristband. It says, “So others may live Douglas Fortune.” Even with the lack of sunlight, there is still a tan line on my arm from it. The only time I take it off is when I am at work. As with many other things in my life, there is a story behind it. It was first semester of my freshman year during finals week. On Sunday or Monday, I received a phone call saying Douglas was in the hospital, but he would be ok. At some point in the week, I received another call where I learned things were not going well & that I should pray for him. Friday came & I was done with one semester of college! Papa had driven through massive snowstorm in Louisville area, my phone was not working right, & little did I know things were not going well at all. Papa arrived upset, both at my lack of communication & about Douglas’ health. He told me things were going horribly for Douglas. We drove home & first words Mom said to me I will never forget. Douglas passed away. What a start to Christmas Break. We talked about it, but I was in shock. Why would God take someone so young away? We went to his memorial service in Milwaukee & we were given those wristbands. I put mine on right away. Although service honored Douglas in a top-notch manner, I was in shock. Douglas was close to me in age, he was a kind loving fellow, he was healthy, bright, and smart as he had a future with wind turbines like ones on I65 between West Lafayette & Indy. Why did he receive call to heaven? After service, other things happened, Christmas Break concluded, & back to UD came I. Still wearing that wristband. At first Marycrest Mass, I spoke with David Weickert about Douglas. I never received an answer of, “Why did Douglas die?” I kept wearing that wristband. Now, it reminds me of Douglas yes but something else as well. To quote Hitch, “Begin each day as if it were on purpose.” It reminds me that life is beautiful. It is ALWAYS worth living. It is precious. Additionally, each day holds possibility to be a good day. So, when I get off work at Marycrest, what is first thing I put on? That darn wristband

I fished my bike out of the lake

One of my favorite summer activities is to go for a bike ride. Countless times Papa & I rode our bikes together. Whether we flew down the hills in Colorado, rode to lunch at Taco Bell, or dodged traffic on our way to Zarlengo’s, our rides usually are eventful. Among all our rides, two stand out, & both times, I got wet. This writing discusses a particular ride in Gobles.

After breakfast one morning, Papa & I went for a ride somewhere. On our return to the Brandywine, we turned left to Public Access for our customary dip the front tire in the lake stop. Although we previously dipped our bikes front tires in the lake many times, little did I know this instance would be different. As we approached the incline, Papa told me to slow down. I pedaled backwards; nothing happened. I pedaled backwards faster yet the bike did not stop. In the blink of an eye, I rode the whole bike into the lake! Papa, incredulous of what just happened, asked, “Are you alright? Why didn’t you stop? Did you lose the bike?” I responded, “I’m soaked & surprised but I’m fine. I pedaled backwards. I do not know why it did not stop. While I’m not on the bike, I feel it (Public Access initial depth is not deep).” Unfortunately, while I felt it, I could not pull it out by simply bending down into the water. One plunge underwater later & the bike & I surfaced.

Luckily, I did not lose my glasses in this whole endeavor. As we inspected if the bike received any damage, Papa realized the root of my brake failure. This bike had handlebar brakes; pedaling backwards would not stop the bike! Obviously, I never rode a bike with hand brakes before. How I successfully stopped before remains a mystery. Fortunately, the only change to the bike was its dryness. Both the bike & I were soaked. Thankfully, the temperature was rising, the sun was out, & the distance between Public Access & the cottage was not far. Getting back on our bikes, Papa & I finished our ride back. When we arrived, Mom saw us & immediately asked why my red shorts were dripping wet. Upon coming closer, she saw how wet the bike & I were, & Papa & I laughed. After hearing my explanation, Mom shook her head with a look of “Awww jeez.” I went inside, dried off, changed, hung my wet clothes on the clothesline, & placed the bike in a sunny spot to dry. Every time Papa & I dipped our front tires into the lake afterwards, Papa & I chuckle about that memory. I have successfully braked every time since then. On Brandywine Lake, most people swim, tube, waterski, drink, talk, etc. I fished my bike out of the lake.

Thank you, Duck Dynasty

Today is the series finale of Duck Dynasty. I pen this note as a thank you to the Robertson clan. For the last five years, Duck Dynasty redefined a successful reality show. Duck Dynasty episodes are set-up scenes, but the responses & actions are not scripted. Although the Robertsons are not perfect, & they will be the first to tell you, they have a three-word mantra to describe themselves: faith family ducks. They are a tight-knit Christian family who will not financially suffer or lose sleep without cameras in their faces. I began watching the show when I was in college, & A&E aired it seemingly every night. Thank you Duck Dynasty for being my college year’s binge-watch TV show.

Thank you Duck Dynasty for laughter. Almost every episode causes me to laugh, & & sometimes I rewind episodes just for the laughter. Whether it was Si, the brothers together, the husbands & wives moments, or the general situation, laughter ensued. I recall so many scenes with fondness. To name a few, the guys teaching Sadie to drive, Jase & his wedding ring, Sadie & the search for the perfect dress, Phil & Miss Kay looking for a new turtle, & Phil, Jase, Martin, & Godwin trying to dismantle the beaver dam. The episodes I greatly enjoy I need more than two hands to count. Outside of my three favorite episodes, three other episodes that immediately come to mind are cooling off at the redneck water park, the search for a vehicle for John Luke, & Jase running Duck Commander for the day. Thank you Duck Dynasty for a much-needed laugh.

Thank you Duck Dynasty for love. Love not only of family & friends, but also of life in general. There is a reason I am wearing a Happy Happy Happy t-shirt. Love of life came when the family celebrated July 4 with a massive fireworks display & Si choked up when honored for his military service. When Miss Kay & Phil renewed their vows, everybody worked together to celebrate. Love was evident, not just between Miss Kay & Phil, but also Alan returned to officiate the wedding, Mountain Man built the arbor, & Si distracted Miss Kay & Phil for the day. When Jase & Reed planned romantic gestures for their significant others, they not only displayed love for their women, but also each other. Jase loved Reed’s commitment to a perfect proposal, & upon reflecting on his own proposal, Jase realized he could have been more romantic. Rather than simply congratulate his son, Jase planned a welcome home party & then proposed to Missy, thanking her for all her love in their marriage thus far. When Reed returned home from Nashville for his album release party, his van needed many repairs. Proud of their sons’ accomplishments & wanting to see him continue in his journey, Missy & Jase paid for the repairs, demonstrating the love they have for their son. Lastly, in most episodes, someone laughs at themselves. For example, Willie & Jase laugh after their burger cook-off results in two terribly cooked burgers. You have to love yourself in order to laugh at yourself. Thank you Duck Dynasty for the love, of self, family, friends, & God.

Love of God is derived from faith. At the end of each episode, the family gathers around a table to eat together, but first someone leads them in prayer. For most people, this occurs in homes daily. Sit down for dinner, pray, & eat. In my family, we say a traditional prayer. Each episode ends with a slightly different prayer, usually thanking God for blessing them in some way relevant to the episode. Aside from watching Duck Dynasty in college, I was a member of Chi Rho. My senior year I became vice-president & sometimes led the group in prayer. Duck Dynasty taught me how to pray freestyle. In addition to Chi Rho prayer, my freestyle praying, learned from Duck Dynasty, became a part of my daily life. Two episodes featured weddings of Robertson children. For both John Luke & Reed, their respective fathers officiated. Each planned what they would say as a marital challenge for their sons. Willie described marriage as a house; Jase described it as a journey. Both metaphors convey the same message. Grow together with God. Thank you Duck Dynasty for prayer and teaching me how to freestyle pray.

The last thank you I want to make is for my three favorite episodes. The first one is duck season eve. The episode clearly hit all three parts of the Robertson mantra. The men’s excitement about duck hunting season revealed the TV show did not change them; they were going hunting! Jase’s eloquence in speaking about duck hunting reminded viewers the Robertsons are rednecks. I laugh when Si attempted to shoot the snake, I love how Miss Kay persuaded Phil to shower, & it is hilarious watching the men decide to head inside the RV with Willie rather than roughing it with Jase. To cap off the episode, the fellas awake to a Phil Robertson style alarm clock, gunshots.

The second episode is the family reunion before Mia undergoes surgery. Everybody helped, complete with Phil & Jep taking city slicker Gordon duck hunting, but not before soaking him with mud & dressing him in a disgusting camouflage jacket. Everyone, especially referee Si, enjoyed the wrestling scene. Mia’s prayer made the mood serious, but everyone prayed for her. The last scene brings a tear to anyone’s eyes. Mia going into surgery, the faces of Jase & Missy, & everybody waiting is something relevant for many people. The song, “Angel Child,” sung by Missy, is one of my all-time favorites. If you have listened to the song, you certainly agree. If you have not, I sincerely encourage you to do so. The album cover again brings joy to peoples’ hearts as it is such a beautiful picture of father & daughter.

The last episode I dearly love is when the Robertsons go to Hawaii. Before they leave for Hawaii, I crack up at Jase convincing Willie to take a vacation. Couple that with Si wiping barbecue sauce off his beard & then Willie & Korie revealing the vacation to everyone & the audience has already enjoyed the episode. The episode shows the family’s reaction to being out of Louisiana. Phil enjoys himself by watching the Bourne movies, only for Miss Kay to coax him into getting a massage, which he thoroughly enjoys. Watching Willie, Jase, Si, & Sadie surfing is hilarious; I would follow Si’s lead & enjoy lying on the surfboard rather than falling time after time. When the brothers & Si go on the segways & two of them fall, it is very relatable. Lastly, when they jump off a structure into the ocean, it was great to see Willie be playful & take the leap of faith into the ocean. In most episodes, there would be some conflict; here everyone simply enjoyed vacation. Thank you Duck Dynasty for many great moments, especially my three favorite episodes.

Thank you Duck Dynasty for being a show I looked forward to watching Wednesday nights. Yes, I own two Duck Dynasty t-shirts, a Duck Dynasty long sleeve t-shirt, a Duck Dynasty hat, the Robertson Christmas album, Missy’s song “Angel Child,” & Reed’s CD. I am a Duck Dynasty fan & will cherish watching the episodes. To their credit, after five years, the Robertsons made a successful TV show without changing themselves. While I will not cry after the finale, I will certainly miss the show. The best way to say goodbye is I’m happy happy happy to say thank you Duck Dynasty.