Labor Day II

We took Dasher down to Skate Creek near the cabin.

Labor Day Weekend Getaway

Deb and I and our friends, Marjie and Rick, rented a cabin in Packwood, WA over the weekend.  Packwood is an unincorporated town not far from Mt. Rainier in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.  The A-framed cabin is pictured at the top.  Inside the skis are a permanent set-up near the stairs.  Deb and I stayed upstairs.   We frequently saw Elk wondering through town (third picture).
Every Labor Day and Memorial Day weekend, Packwood has a huge weekend long flea. market. (bottom picture)  The cabin, located at 144 Alpine, is located within easy walking distance of the town.

Scully calls Aaron's historic 715th home run

One of the greatest televised sports moments of all time.

Wall Street - Bud Fox Meets Gordon Gekko

He was cast as a villain, but did we all secretly admire him?  My guess is that his persona helped make The Apprentice with Donald Trump popular.  Fictional tycoon Gordon Gekko meets young stockbroker Bud Fox in the 1987 movie, Wall Street.

Goodell's Suspension Of Brady Overturned

A federal court has overturned the 4 game suspension of New England  Patriot quarterback for allegedly conspiring to alter game balls.  This is a move that could have a chilling effect on how professional sport leagues meat out future suspensions.  Federal District Court  Judge Richard Berman determined that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell had delivered a much too harsh penalty. Of course, my feeling is that if Brady or any other player, no matter what team they played for, was accused of alter equipment, harsh discipline should be in order.  Of course, when all is said and done, neither Brady, nor Goodell will be viewed well in history. 
Goodell has been a punching bag for the sports media for years, even though it looks like his motivation seems to be noble.  Goodell has said that the NFL will appeal.
 

Dasher Brings The Paper

Dasher's mission is to keep me informed on the goings on in the world.  Every morning, he brings in the Seattle Times.

Vin Scully To Broadcast Dodger Games In 2016

His longevity is legendary, Vin Scully, in 2016. will spend one more season in the Los Angeles Dodger broadcast booth.  Scully will be entering his 67th year with the time.  He is a living link to baseball history.  When he began, probably many of Babe Ruth teammates were still active, of course, that was the American League and the Vin's team was in the National.  He has probably called every pitch of Sandy Koufax, Don Drysdale, and Fernando Valenzuala (while Fernando was with the Dodgers). Jackie Robinson was still in the early stages of his career when Scully started and the Dodgers had not won a single world series at that time.  People born after Scully started have grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Scully started when the Dodgers were in Brooklyn and has been with them every year that they have played in LA. 
In addition to being there a long time, Scully is good, Ken Levine talks about what Scully brings to the booth here.

Cabo San Lucas

From July, a video I took on our trip to Cabo...

M's Fire GM

Mariners report General Manager Jack Zdureincik has been fired.

Trip To Seaside IV--Cannon Beach

Down the road from Seaside,  Cannon Beach is the more relaxed town.  It has no arcades, but instead art galleries and book stores.

Trip To Seaside III

We stayed at the Shiloh Inn at the Seaside Turnaround.  Our room was unique in that it had a stairway to a "viewing room" allowing us to see the surf.

Trip To Seaside II

A Seaside memory is the lifeguard tower, which is up every summer.  You can see it in the background in the top picture.  This was taken from the turnaround at the end of Broadway.  Generally during the course of the day, the lifeguard will drive up and down the beach. 
Bottom picture, a sand mermaid, sculpted north of  the turnaround just down from the Prom.

Trip To Seaside--Astoria

We stopped for lunch in historical Astoria Oregon, a fishing town located where the Columbia River runs into the Pacific Ocean. We had lunch at outside at the "Baked Alaska" on the waterfront.  We also rode the street car which runs back and forth on the waterfront.  Astoria is named after fur trapper John Jacob Astor.  It is 16 miles from Seaside.

Comemorative Bench

This bench now sits on the Prom in Seaside Oregon, just south of the turnaround.  Seaside was our vacation spot growing up.  About 18 years ago, I brought my wife down who in turn, introduced it to her family (who were originally from the East Coast).  They fell in love with the place and have returned every year.  Along the Prom, there are benches with plaques honoring many of the families that have lived and vacationed in the oceanside town.  My wife's grandmother's (Lillian "GG" Eldridge) wish was to be remembered with such a bench.  She is alive and doing fine, and will soon get to visit and see the bench.  The bench also mentions my in-laws.
Thank you to my cousins Barbara and Laurie, who posted this picture along with a couple others on their visit.

Morning Radio Host Jane Shannon

Seatac Media blog announced that former KIRO morning host Jane Shannon died suddenly.    No details were provided but there were multiple tributes on her facebook page.  It's a sad loss for the area.

State Mourns Fallen Firefighters

 

Three firefighters killed in a vehicle crash yesterday while fighting wildfires in the Methow Valley have been identified.Tom Zbyszewski 20, Andrew Zajac 26,(shown above) and Richard Wheeler 31.  A fourth firefighter, Daniel Lyon 26. is in critical condition in Harborview, according to KING 5 TV. 
KIRO FM Afternoon Host Don O'Neil and Ron Upshaw have established a gofundme page to help the families of the firefighters.  Wild fires continue burning throughout Central and Eastern Washington threatening property and lives.
Flags are flying half staff at the Space Needle and other area public building to honor the three fallen heroes,

Yvonne Craig Made An Impact

She played Batgirl for one season 47  years ago, but viewers remember Yvonne Craig.  Craig's character was created for what became the last season of Batman.  A former ballerina, Craig did her own stunts.  She would also play a memorable character on Star Trek. 
Craig died Monday in Pacific Palisades after a two year battle with cancer.  She was 78.

Vern Fonk Historic Commercial Reel

A tribute to Rob Thielke.....

Vern Fonk Pitchman Dies

Rob Thielke, whose ads for high risk insurance company Vern Fonk ran alongside commercials for bail bondsman and used car lots, has died of cancer.  Thielke, whose face was much better known than his name, was thought by many to be "Vern Fonk".  He was known for his maniacal behavior in ads that singlehandedly made the company a household name.  To say the ads were of questionable taste would be wrong, the ads had no taste, but it was clear that Thielke was creative and a master of physical comedy.  He also had insurance chops, I have just found out that in 2013, Thielke had been named president of Vern Fonk Insurance.  Reports say, Thielke's ads will continue to run as that is what his family has said that he would want.

The Man From Uncle Film Brings Back 1960s Chic

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I enjoyed The Man From Uncle because it took me back to my childhood.  The mid 1960s had America embroiled in the Cold War, a figurative chess match between the US and the Soviet Union.  The space program was in full swing, it was the jet age and America loved spies.  James Bond movies were big, there was "I Spy", The Avengers, Secret Agent Man, and the Man From Uncle.  I really didn't watch many episodes of the Man From Uncle, but it was a widely popular show with suspense and international intrigue. 
I believe that this movie brought back that sense that was in the period that we were always in danger and these men with unique skills would protect us.
  The movie teams two spies an  American Napoleon Solo and a Russian Ilya Kuryakin, who respect but don't trust each other, but form an uneasy alliance for a common goal,   In this case, too find a scientist who has a recipe for a bomb that can blow up the world. 
The movie has all the elements of a spy movie, European travel, fast cars, fast car chases, and beautiful women.  Although the numbers for this movie were reported to be disappointing, I'm hoping they do decide to film a sequel.

Rocking Pine Lake

Local Rock band Hall Pass performed last Thursday at Pine Lake.  Over the summer, local music can be heard on Thursdays as part of the Concerts In The Park series.   Pine Lake Park is in Sammamish.

Maple Valley Les Schwab Comes Through

Last Saturday, I pulled up at the Les Schwab in Maple Valley.  The tire pressure light on the dashboard had been on for a week. I had thought that it was a matter of putting a little air in the tires or maybe the light was on by mistake.  I stopped by at 1:30 in the afternoon and got immediate service.  I was told though that they needed to take a look at the tire.  I was starting to get nervous, because I had a Bat Mitzvah to attend in Bellevue, a 40 minute drive at 5:00.  Deb was already in Bellevue, working at the store and had not planned to come home before the service.
I asked if they could have it done by 3:30 and they said it would be tough because Saturday afternoons were so busy.  I went to the front desk and told them about my situation, they said they could do it.  While they were working on the tire, I took Dasher for a walk on the trail behind the store.  A few minutes after I returned to the store, the tire was repaired.  Right around 2:45 or so, plenty of time to get ready and go to the service in Bellevue.  On top of that, there was NO CHARGE since I had bought my tires at Les Schwab in Bellevue a couple years earlier.  Upon leaving, I understand why Les Schwab rules the tire business in the Northwest.

The Greats Of Seattle Radio

A photo of the 2015 version of the OFC (old farts club).  A select group of Seattle radio talent (mostly from KJR) meet annually.  Thank you to Jaynie Jones for this picture.  Burl Barer is in a red shirt in the back row center.  Pat O'Day is 4th from the right in the front row. 

Iwakuma Throws No No

Hisashi Iwakuma today threw the 5th no-hitter in Mariner history, blanking the Baltimore Orioles 3-0.  Iwakuma, much like the M's has been having a disappointing year.  He spent several weeks on  the disabled list.  The M's, who seem to be slowly improving, have just won their 4th series in a row.

What is this Color?

My cousin Lee and brother Tod are Red-Green color blind.   In this video, Lee tries special sunglasses which allow him to see colors, that he couldn't before.  His reaction is interesting.  From Lee Goldberg blog.

Sunday At The Ballpark

Nelson Cruz comes up to bat, Sunday as we watched the Mariners play Texas at Safeco.  Cruz would later hit a home run,  as the M's would win 4-2  Felix Hernandez, although not as his sharpest was  able to get his 14th win.  Seattle's Jesus Montero also had a 2 run blast.

Frank Gifford, Sportscaster and NFL Hall of Famer, Dies at 84

Frank Gifford, whom our generation knows as a football commentator, but had a career in the 50s and early 60s as a running back for the New York Giants has died.  I remember Gifford presenting game highlights for CBS when I first watched NFL football in the late 60s.  When ABC started Monday Night Football in the early 70s, Gifford joined the crew in the second season, replacing  Keith Jackson.  Gifford had a smooth delivery and Hollywood looks.  Gifford played for USC in college.  His wife Kathy Lee is a co host on the Today Show.

Frank Gifford

CNN reports  the death of former New York Giant Great  and Monday  Night  Football  personality Frank Gifford at 84.

Bernie Sanders leaves Westlake Rally

A protest at Westlake Park prevented Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders from speaking, the fact that protesters disrupted someone who may be sympathetic to their cause, suggest that the 2016 presidential campaign will be the ugliest of all time.  This is sad on many levels because people want candidates to campaign and have rallies where they can shake candidates hands, but when things like this happen, it makes it impossible.

Stewart Calls It Good!

The Daily Show
Daily Show Full Episodes,  More Daily Show Videos,  Comedy Central Full Episodes

A great departure from one of the great comedians of our time, Jon Stewart closes out a long run on the Daily Show.

SI Baseball Writer-Commentator Has Washington Ties

Jay Jaffe is a writer for Sports Illustrated, a frequent guest on the MLB Network, and the blogger behind Futility Infielder, one of baseball's oldest blogs.  His Grandparents lived in Walla Walla and were members of our temple.  Jay's grandfather Bernie was a doctor at the Veteran's Hospital, Bernie's wife Clara had also practiced medicine. Jay contacted me on the internet many years ago, remembering our family and his go back a long way. 

Howard Schultz Tossing Latte In Ring?

News sources including the Seattle Times, have run stories about the possibility of Starbucks Howard Schultz entering the presidential race as a Democrat.  There is really no rhyme or reason for Schultz to consider this, while the Starbucks brand is nationally known, I don't believe that Schultz is.  
In the Seattle area where he is well known, Schultz is widely blamed for selling the Super Sonics to out of town interests, leading to the loss of NBA basketball in the area.  For the people who don't like sports, they may remember that Schultz wanted the legislature to approve funds to remodel the Key Arena, during a recession that was devastating to our state. 
Of course, Schultz had brought Starbucks back to life when he reassumed the CEO position, but good businessmen do not always make good politicians.

Dasher Beats The Heat

Last Thursday Dasher escaped the 90 degree heat by taking a dip in Lake Wilderness. The geese in the background were not too pleased, as Dasher took their spot.  Lake Wilderness is located in the center of Maple Valley.  It's park is the city's primary recreation spot.

Wilson To Sign With the Seahawks

King5 TV has reported that Russell Wilson will sign a four-year extension with the Seattle Seahawks

Walla Walla Area Suffers From Fire

At one time, the nation's largest wild fire, reports are that the Blue Creek fire east of Walla Walla is over 70 per cent contained.  The fire, which started July 20th, is reported to have destroyed one home and to have caused evacuations.  11 people are reported to have been injured in the blaze which is reported to have been caused by man.  The fire is in the Blue Creek-Klicker Mountain area, Klicker Mountain is named after a family that has farmed wheat and fruit in the area for generations.  Firefighters from across the nation have lauded the community for it's support with restaurants like Mr. Ed's providing community sponsored free meals for them.

Mariners execute a 3-6-2 triple play

Mariners looked for a minute last weekend like they could turn the corner on the season, taking two of three from the Toronto Blue Jays.  Here is a very rare triple play they pulled off Sunday.

Legendary Seattle Writer Ann Rule

Seattle True Crime Writer Ann Rule has died after suffering from heart related problems.  Rule wrote over 30 true crime book including "The Stranger Beside Me"  An account of the murderous crimes of Ted Bundy, with whom she had worked with at a Seattle Suicide Hotline.  Perhaps the greatest true crime writer of all time, my guess is that she was an inspiration to my Cousin Burl Barer, himself a writer in the genre.
A former Seattle police officer, Rule was 83.

Congrats To Randy Johnson

Randy Johnson, who threw the Mariner's First No-Hitter, and was it's first 20 game winner, has been inducted into the Baseball Hall Of Fame.  Johnson retired with a 130-74 record and a 3.42 ERA.

Sly and the Family Stone Hot Fun In The Summertime - 1969

Another great song of the season
e as Draft

Ken Levine Writes Dick Van Dyke

Last Monday, comedy writer and popular blogger Ken Levine undertook a unique project.  He posted in 4 successive days, a script for an episode of the 1960s comedy Dick Van Dyke show that he would have written.  In other words, a fantasy episode.  It was written as if it were the early 60s when the show took place.  I was really impressed and entertained with how the episode turned out.  To see for yourself, click here    Actual shows that Levine has written for are MASH, Frasier, and Cheers.

Seattle Storm's Sue Bird To Start WNBA All Star Game

Sue Bird, who has helped the Seattle Storm win 2 WNBA championships, will start in the league's 2015 All Star Game. From my standpoint, Bird embodies every you would want in a professional athlete, she has played for Seattle her entire career, she is an Olympic Gold Medal winner and when she does get attention, it's for what she does on the court.
Bird has played for the Storm for 14 years.

New Lincecum Bobblehead

I got a new Tim Lincecum bobble head from the Giant Hurler's dad, Chris.  Chris is a frequent customer at The UPS Store in Crossroads in Bellevue.  Tim Lincecum is a two time Cy Young Award winner, a three time World Series champion and has so far, pitched 2 no hitters.

Old Walla Walla Radio Remembered 15

More from Walla Walla DJ Dave "Rockin" Cochran....

My Favorite Birthday Present

I received many fantastic presents on my birthday last Sunday, my favorite is this yet to be hung picture of the Beatles appearing on the Ed Sullivan Show, an historic moment for both the show and the group.  My wife was able to put a bid in on it at a silent auction at a Maple Valley wine bar.  The proceeds went to charity.

Seattle Pioneer Radio Voice Jaynie Dillon Jones

One of Seattle's first female radio hosts is Jaynie Dillon Jones. She was the first woman to be on air at KOMO-AM.  Jones is a native of the Walla Walla area.  She was kind enough to share her broadcast work.  Jaynie's brother, Dan Tory, also had a fine broadcasting career in the Walla Walla valley.  More on Jaynie here.  Tap the arrow to hear her airwork.

Summer in the City - Lovin' Spoonful

A song that is very appropriate......

More Cabo

More photos from our trip to Mexico, for the most part, I'll let them speak for themselves,  Top picture was taken from our resort, The Playa Grande. The 2nd one was taken at the One And Only Palmellia.  Third was the view from our 20th anniversary dinner at Cocina Del Mar.  Bottom picture was taken from The Office.

Veep Season 4: Episode #5 Clip #3: Amy's Moment (HBO)

My favorite show.  This scene from last season was one of the best played moments in the series history.  With a new producer taking over the show and new dynamics coming into play, it's hard to really predict the direction of next season.

The Job--Another Great Beach Read!

For the third summer in a row, I read the latest novel from Lee Goldberg and Janet Evanovich, The Job.  The chemistry between the two protagonists, Kate O'Hare and Nicolas Fox is so great, you wonder if they reflect the two authors.   With all characters developed in the two previous novels, this one jumps right in to the action.  This time, the two must hunt down a ruthless drug lord.  As clichéd as that may sound, the twists and turns along way will keep you on the edge of your seat. This book also has the ruthless sidekick to beat all other ruthless sidekicks.  The Job is available on Amazon.  The first two books in this series were The Heist and The Chase.

Old Walla Walla Radio Remembered Part 14

Walla Walla teens needed to get a "Hi Fi Card" to be eligible to win a 6 pack of Coke on the nightly local contest, "The Hi Fi Show."  Each night, the DJ would explain how to acquire the card, usually a trip to the KTEL studio "high atop the Book Nook Building".  Native Walla Wallan Jaynie Jones, who carved out an outstanding radio career in Seattle provided this.
When I got my card, in the early 70s, it had a number.   Eventually the station vacated the Book Nook and moved their offices and studio to the transmitter site at 2nd and Tieton.

Barers Of Maple Valley Return From Cabo

 

Deb and I celebrated our 20th anniversary in Cabo San Lucas in Mexico.  We stayed at the beautiful Playa Grande resort (middle and bottom pictures).  We toured the town, swam at the beach, snorkeled, and enjoyed the food. The top picture was taken at a restaurant known simply as "The Office", it was right on the beach and in spite of it's name, offered great Mexican food and entertainment.  I may post more pictures soon. 

Raider Great Ken Stabler Dies

Ken Stabler, the quarterback who lead the Oakland Raiders to their first Super Bowl has died of cancer.  The free spirited Stabler, was an All American at Alabama.  He was drafted by the Raiders but was a third string quarterback behind Daryl Lamonica and George Blanda.  He finally played in 1970.  Stabler was nicknamed "the Snake".  His lifestyle was flamboyant, much like another Alabama quarterback who was previously drafted into the AFL, Joe Namath.  After a falling out with Raider owner Al Davis, Stabler was traded to the Houston Oilers

Bud Namack Out As Voice Of Cougs

Bud Namack will no longer be the voice of Washington State Cougar Athletics,  according to several news sources.  Namack has been voice of the Cougar football for the last few seasons and the voice of Cougar Basketball since 1993.  IMG College has announced that Matt Chazanow, a manager for the college network will take over the play by play duties.  No reason has been stated for the change.

Mungo Jerry - In The Summertime ORIGINAL 1970

A fun summertime song since 1970.  I'll try to kind up with more to celebrate the season.

20th Anniversary

Mike and Debra Barer, July 8th, 1995!

Happy 4th Of July!

Barers Of Maple Valley Thanks You!

Thank you everyone for your warm thoughts, cards, prayers, facebook comments.  Thank you to everyone who came to the service yesterday, the Best Western in Walla Walla.  The Herring Funeral Home, and Rabbi Hahn (sp) for being with us during this tiime of need.