Ivanna Trump.--Donald Trump's First Wife

It has been reported that Ivanna Trump, the ex wife is former president Donald Trump has died.  She was 73. She was the mother of Trump's three oldest children, Donald Jr, Ivanka, and Eric.

Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial II

The Japanese American Exclusion Memorial invites visitors to put themselves in the place of the Japanese Americans of that time period.

Top picture is the dock where the residents would be shipped away.

Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial

We spent time yesterday at the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial .  It commemorates when Japanese Americans were taken from the community and nationwide and shipped to "Relocation Centers".  The quote above was from Henry McLemore a San Francisco Examiner sports columnist (like that is a valuable profession) who supported the so-called relocation.  

Summer Trip Across The Sound

Deb and I both had a day off today so we took a trip to Bainbridge Island. 

At the top is the Congregational Church downtown on the island.  The bottom, which most of you would know, is Seattle from the ferry coming home.

More on the trip later.

Summer Moon

From the in nearby Patrick's Faire, we enjoyed this beautiful Moon 

Santana Hits Two Homeruns--Mariners Win 8th Straight

 Carlos Santana, whom the Mariners recently acquired from Kansas City, hit two homers and lead the team to its eighth victory in a row yesterday (July 10th) over the Toronto Blue Jays.  

The Mariners had to come from behind twice, but the balls seem to be bouncing their way lately, an example was when Mariner Sam Haggerty grounded into what looked like a routine double play. With the bases loaded, after getting the lead runner out, the ball went through the webbing of Toronto first baseman Vladimir Guerrero's glove.  No runs scored, but Julio Rodriguez who it was just announced, was picked for this year's All-Star Game, followed up with a 2 run single.

Live Music At Snoqualmie Event

Watched the band, Dynamite Supreme at Sipfest, a Rotary event in Snoqualmie, Washington, about 20 miles from Maple Valley.

Jody Allen Says Seahawk Sale Not Imminent

 Jody Allen, the sister of the late Seahawk owner Paul Allen and chair of the Seattle Seahawks, the Portland Trail Blazers, and trustee of the Paul G Trust has issued a statement saying that neither the Seahawks nor the Trail Blazers are up for sale at this team, nor has there been any negotiations to that end. 

Of course, the possible sale of a team can cause restlessness amongst the fan base and especially  among Seahawk fans, where the Ken Behring regime, pretty much threw "cold water" on a rabid fans base.  

There had been talk about sale of the team since it was there was talk that Paul Allen's assets were to be liquidated.  When a report got out that Nike chair Phil Knight was interesting in buying the Blazers, concerns mounted about the Hawks.

Allen did say that sales of both teams could be down the road as the estate of the Microsoft billionaire is getting settled.

Celebrating 27 Wonderful Years

 

We got married in Seattle July 8th, 1995.

Actor James Caan dies at 82

One of the great actors of our time, James Caan has passed on. Caan played the lead role in Brian's Song, my favorite movie.  It was a special movie, because a few years earlier, I watched Brian Piccolo fill in for legendary running back Gayle Sayers for the Chicago Bears.  

Caan is better known for his role in the Godfather.  He also appeared in many other unforgettable roles.

May his memory be a blessing!

Mitch Levy Interviews Controversial Ex Football Coach On Podcast

 

Seattle area sports podcaster Mitch Levy bagged a huge guest on his latest (July 5th, 20022) podcast, Mitch Unfiltered.  The former Sport Radio KJR morning host interviewed former Bremerton High School Football coach Joe Kennedy. 

 Kennedy whose contract was not renewed by the Bremerton school district after refusing to stop leading his team in prayer after games, won his case in front of the United States Supreme Court, not long after the body overturned Roe V Wade.

Levy, who is Jewish, invited listeners at the beginning of the podcast to weigh in by emailing through his web site or on Twitter.

In an interview that is neither hostile nor overly accommodating, Levy interviewed the coach, with Kennedy's attorney, Jeremy Dys, butting in at several points.  

I myself found Mr. Kennedy a little less than credible during the process.  

To hear the interview click here , the actual interview is at one hour, 12 minutes into the podcast. To give your feedback click here  or go to his Twitter page.

Two Legendary Coaches From LA Pac 8 Universities

 

When I began following college sports in the mid to late 1960s, two legendary coaches, both named "John" were in the middle of continuing dynasties.  Both for LA Pac 8 (currently 12) teams. 

UCLA's John Wooden (above) was known as the Wizard Of Westwood (the LA neighborhood that boasts the school), a cerebral coach, who rarely changed his expression, Wooden led the Bruins to 10 NCAA championships in 12 years.    Two of his great players are Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (Lew Alcindor) and Bill Walton. 

USC's John McKay (lower picture) captured 8 conference titles, with 5 Rose Bowl wins.  McKay also had 4 national titles.  His marquee players included OJ Simpson and Mike Garrett.  Another USC legend, Marcus Allen, would play for John Robinson, who took over the program after McKay moved on to the NFL. 

Throughout the decades, UCLA would be the basketball team to beat and USC would be known for its football.  Almost like there was a sign on the LA freeway, basketball players this way, football players, that way. 

Of course, Seattle Seahawk coach Pete Carroll is widely credited for restoring USC's football dynasty. 

Now, we have learned that both LA schools are leaving the Pac 12.  For a WSU fan like myself, there is an air of uncertainty of what will happen next.  

Tragedy On The Fourth

 We mourn the 6 people whose lives were lost to a shooter in Highland Park, Illinois.

Fun On July 3rd

We watched horse racing and stayed for the fireworks show at Emerald Downs in Auburn on the evening before the 4th.

Happy 4th Of July

 

4th Of July With Seattle Radio Icon Pat O'Day

Have a Happy 4th Of July!

Heather Bosch Of KIRO News Radio Wins Two Gracie Awards

 Veteran KIRO Radio reporter Heather Bosch accepted two Gracie Awards for her work in the Seattle radio.  According to KIRO's My Northwest website, the awards recognize "exemplary programming by women, for women, and about women in all facets of media and entertainment."

Bosch won for Best Soft Radio Feature on the first rehearsal on the first in person rehearsal of the Seattle women's choir since COVID restrictions and Best Public Service Announcement, covering Gold Star Moms.  

Heather had been a reporter and fill in anchor for CBS Radio, but eventually returned to the area and her old station. 

A Beautiful July Sunset

We couldn't help be but notice the lovely sky as we walked Dasher last night.

USC And UCLA Leaving Pac 12

Bad news for Pac 12 as basketball legend UCLA and Football legend USC are leaving the conference to join the Big 10.

Happy Canada Day To Friends Up North

 July 1st is Canada Day!

Former Meadows aide Cassidy Hutchinson testifies during Jan. 6 hearing —...

This testimony, by an aid to President Trump while being questioned by a Republican congresswoman who was daughter of former VP Dick Cheney, could possibly be a game changer in the investigation of the uprising on January 6th

Jesse Winker Interview Goes Hilariously Wrong

Jesse Winker, who got had turned out to be the winning hit for the Mariners against the Orioles last night (June 29th 2022), is a funny guy.  Above is an interview from back in Spring Training. 

The Danny Bonaduce Story--Seattle Radio Star On GMA

Danny Bonaduce is reported back to his morning job after missing a good deal of time away from the mike.  ABC's morning show Good Morning America did the segment above on the former child  star. Thank you to your pals at Puget Sound Media for finding this vid.  If the video doesn't play, click here

First Black Quarterback Marlin Briscoe Dies

 When I began watching Pro Football in the late 1960s, African-American quarterbacks were not rare, they were, until 1968, non-existent.  

Marlin Briscoe, in1968, became the first American Professional African-American quarterback after being drafted as a cornerback.  He would start 5 games that year and was runner-up for Rookie Of  The Year in the AFL.

Briscoe asked and received his release the next year when he found out he would not compete for the Broncos starting quarterback position.  He would go on to play for the Buffalo Bills as a wide receiver. Brisco would continue his career as a wide receiver with several other teams, including the Miami Dolphins, with whom he won 2 Super Bowls including the team's unbeaten season in 1972. 

Briscoe died Monday (June 27th, 2022), reportedly of pneumonia.  

Fight Breaks Out At Mariners-Angels Game

This melee was over by the time I started watching.  The Seattle Mariners were unable to sweep the Angels losing 2-1.  A bench clearing brawl took place after Mariner Jessie Winker was hit by a pitch.  

Saturday Afternoon Entertainment In Maple Valley

Lucia Flores-Wiseman entertained at Maple Valley Farmer's Market.  I put a couple bucks in her guitar case and suddenly, a whole string of people did the same.  

Roe V Wade Overturned By Supreme Court

 It was announced today that the Supreme Court of the United States has overturned Roe Vs Wade. 

Summer Breeze - Seals & Croft #1 Hit(1972)

Happy Friday!  With Summer kicking in, finally, it's time to share this post.  I love this song, and this video is the best that I've seen, so, I post it annually.

Local Artist To Perform At Maple Valley Farmers Market

 Lucia Flores-Wiseman, a local singer will perform this Saturday (June 25th, 2022) 11am-1pm at the Maple Valley Farmers' Market according to her Facebook page.   Flores-Wiseman performed at Tahoma High in 2018 when she was invited to the stage by Maple Valley favorite daughter Brandi Carlile.

According to her website, Flores-Wiseman "blends Americana coffee house, indie, folk, and jazz to create a sound that is distinctively her own."

The Maple Valley Farmers' Market is located at 25719 Maple Valley-Black Diamond Road Southeast. 

More Of The Mountain

I couldn't resist taking this picture yesterday of the Mountain peeking out from the street leading to our cul-de-sac.

The Mountain Was Out

The weather we have been waiting for arrived yesterday. I snapped this picture of Mount Rainier at Druids Glen Golf Course.

Goldberg Movieland Novel Out

 Lee Goldberg has announced his new work, Movieland is out.  On his latest blogpost, Goldberg said the book is fiction but based on a real series of murders in Malibu Creek Park., where residents and townspeople are not necessarily believing that the police have been totally forthcoming the facts. 

This is part of Goldberg's Eve Ronin series of books. This will be the first of that series that I will read. 

I'm looking forward to diving into this book for a good summer read.   You can order your copy by clicking here.

Sandy Koufax Statue Ceremony Recap

A monumental event in baseball history, a statue of former Dodger pitcher Sandy Koufax, one of the greatest baseball players of all-time, is unveiled at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.   

Recognizing Juneteenth

 It took place yesterday, but the holiday celebrating freedom is being observed as a federal holiday today (June 20th, 2022).

Happy Father's Day

 Father's Days began in this state.

Happy 80th Paul McCartney

 Probably the world's most popular musician, Paul McCartney turns 80 today (June 18th, 2022),

Seattle Will Host World Cup Soccer

 Seattle has been chosen as one of 11 cities to host World Cup Soccer in 2026.  The decision is definitely a victory for our region. The games will be played at Lumen Field, home of the Seahawks and Sounders. 

Clear Evening In Maple Valley

Even though it isn't here officially, this is the sky I associate with summer.

Sue Bird To Call It Quits

ESPN just announced that Seattle Storm superstar Sue Bird will retire at the end of this season 

Woodinville High School Graduation Clip Class of 2022.

I had forgotten that I had taken this video until yesterday.  Here is a snipped from Tuesday's (June 14th, 2022) commencement for Woodinville High School.  

Wa-Hi ASB Officers From 1975-76

Wa-Hi ASB officers, I found this while looking for a different picture. 

President Mike Clark is in front, along with Lisa Greenville, Secretary, Vice President Mike Cline and Treasurer Erin Walsh.

All very cool 

At the graduation ceremony, Clark, during his speech, took out his acoustical guitar and sang a song that he composed. 

Their pictures were inside the Royal Blue yearbook.

Sadly, both Mike's have since passed away.

The Graduate

 My nephew, Connor and Me at the 2022 Woodinville High Commencement at Pop Keeney Stadium.  He is headed for Eastern Washington University, where hopefully, we will celebrate an even bigger graduation in four years.  

Congratulations Connor!

Congratulations Connor!

 My youngest nephew graduates from Woodinville High School today!

Summer Is Here?

There is a reason that it's nicknamed "Junuary". We had to put on heavy coats to walk the dog.

Disclaimer:  this may not be the latest forecast, but it sure feels like it. 

In Loving Memory of Jim Seals RIP

In memory of Jim Seals, whose music with Seals and Crofts always moved me.

City Of Kent Buys Out Ex-Chief Kammerzell

 According to the Seattle Times, The City of Kent has decided to buy out the contract of former assistant police chief Derek Kamerzell for 1.5 million dollars.    Kammerzell was said to have posted a Nazi rank symbol above his office door.  

A two week suspension without pay angered the community and a second attempt to discipline Kammerzell brought about litigation from Kammerzell's union attorneys, which could have possibly resulted in Kammerzell winning his job back with backpay returned. 

The city's buyout, though unsavory on so many levels, will give it a chance to move past this ugly chapter. 

Update On Seattle DJ Bonaduce

 Good news from our friends at Puget Sound Media!  

Danny Bonaduce, the longtime KZOK morning man, who took a leave of absence due to an undisclosed illness is reported to be responding well to medical treatment.  The article says that Bonaduce has been active in the community and has even traveled out of state.

The article went on to say that Bonaduce could be returning to his radio show "real soon."

Maple Valley Flyover

This plane circles the area daily during the late Spring and Summer.

With fuel prices where they are, it must not be cheap.

Jim Seals of Seals & Crofts Dead at 80

I'm sorry to hear about this, I loved the music of Seals and Crofts.  My favorite songs from the duo were Summer Breeze And Diamond Girl. 

I continue to post Summer Breeze on the blog at the beginning of every summer.  There were others and they are mentioned in the video above. 

After 16 Consecutive Wins, We Say Farewell to Ryan Long | JEOPARDY!

I'm sorry to see Ryan Long finally lost on Jeopardy! after an amazing 16 wins.  He really fell behind in the first round and never quite recovered. 

A ride share driver out of Philadelphia, he was one of the most likable and relatable of the recent multiple winners.

The Mamas & the Papas perform "California Dreamin'" at the 1998 Hall of ...

This song was a real staple of the 60s.  The Mamas And The Papas, minus the late Cass Elliott doing California Dreamin'

Traffic Reporter Taylor On Mitch Levy Podcast

 Former KIRO TV traffic reporter Tracy Taylor is interviewed on Mitch Unfiltered, the podcast of former KJR Sports Radio morning host, Mitch Levy.  Taylor's long Seattle career began on Mitch's program many, many years ago.  She left to pursue a TV career and the rest is history. 

Tracy and I have become pretty good friends as I have featured the ups and downs of her career on this blog.

You can hear Mitch's podcast this week by clicking here.

Abbagraphs--Knowing Me Knowing You. Snoqualmie Casino June 4th 2022

ABBAgraphs is a 6 person Seattle based band paying tribute to the 70s and 80s Swedish hitmaking machine, ABBA.

They have been a featured headline act for The Swedish Club, Kirkland Uncorked, and Fremont Oktoberfest.

Name Of The Game Abbagraphs Snoqualmie Casino

We watched the Abba tribute band, Abbagraphs at Snoqualmie Casino last night (Saturday, June 4th).  Everyone had a fun time.  

Great Britain Celebrates Queen's Long Reign In Platinum Jubilee.

 The British are celebrating 70 of Queen Elizabeth.  I'm 64 nearly 65 and Elizabeth has been the Queen of Great Britain during my entire life.  The Queen has not been attending due to her health.

The celebration is known as the Platinum Jubilee. 

Visit Maple Valley & Black Diamond Washington

Great video on the city that I call home.

Two Northwest Capitals--Salem And Olympia

 Both Washington and Oregon's capitals are what could be considered "drive by" cities.  Both are similar distances south of each state's largest and best known city.   Both share names with products that you may find at a supermarket.  Salem is a brand of cigarettes, while Olympia shares its name with a brand of beer.  Neither town is particularly well known outside of the region.

I began to wonder about similarities and differences in the towns several years ago, after touring the capitol in Olympia.  First off, Olympia Beer started in the greater Olympia area, whereas Salem Cigarettes probably gets its name from Winston-Salem, North Carolina which has long been the hometown of its parent company.  Salem is three times as large as Olympia.   

I found this post from a blog that really points out the differences and similarities between Oympia and Salem that you can check out by clicking here.

From what I gathered from the article, Salem has more of a "family" vibe, whereas Olympia is maybe edgier, artsy, and singles oriented. 

Both states are bordered on the East by Idaho, where its capital is probably its best known city and largest city, Boise.

Review--Top Gun Maverick No Spoilers

Like my other favorite 1980s movie Wall Street, it took over 30 years for a sequel to this iconic feature.  Unlike the Wall Street sequel, Money Never Sleeps, this one will not disappoint.  

Even with a plot with holes big enough to fly an F-14 through,  the movie does have a way of grabbing you.  It has edge of the seat do or die flying that left me gasping.  

Goose's son, who was a toddler in the original, is, of course, now a fighter pilot.  The movie jibes into Val Kilmer's struggle with cancer as Iceman, Maverick's Top Gun rival is seen as an ailing admiral.  Penny Benjamin, mentioned in the original in passing as a Maverick love conquest, emerges as a character.  

I would recommend this picture for all fans of summer "popcorn" movies. 

Memorial Day