Grace Ryan...

Tuesday morning I awoke to Laura telling me over the phone "Dad, are you awake and ready? You have a granddaughter on the way and her name is Grace Ryan." Not ashamed to admit...this guy cried. There is no training school or online preparation classes available to be fully prepared for such beautiful words. So many of us have had our fingers crossed, good wishes spoken and serious prayers for some time in hopes that Laura and Pat's attempts to bring a little one into this world would be granted. It's still a work in progress with Grace's expected arrival to be in early May, but this week we learned Laura and Pat will have a little girl along with her given name. The fact that they chose to include Ryan is beyond special and speaks to the bond Laura and Ry have shared from Day One.

In 1978 I was the one that was dialing the phone to inform my folks the news of Laura's arrival and that my Mom's wish for a granddaughter was finally answered...she cried. I, on the other end of the phone at the time understood, at least I thought I did...however, not until thirty one years later did I really fully understand.

Five more months and we all can wrap our arms around our little Grace Ryan Clouse.

:)

Family, friends, deer and dolphins...

This past weekend this dad had the sheer joy of sharing it with his daughter. Laura flew out for a long weekend and we made the most of her short visit. A native Californian, Laura set out to fill our days with an itinerary that covered visits to Old Town Temecula for Pete's birthday celebration on Friday evening with his car club compadres. Saturday was filled with a trip to Hollywood and cherished time with Reuben, Joyce and family. Sunday was set aside for a nice getaway to Catalina Island. Monday we revisited the neighborhood that Laura grew up in topped off with a lunch visit with her best friend from childhood Rachel and her family. Tuesday meant the weekend was over and her return to Michigan. I was bummed but grateful that not only was I so happy for her visit but to know she enjoyed her time spent with new and old friends along with our family that loves her so much.

Jackie Lee...

This guy likes to incorporate one's middle name when addressing someone I know well. So is the case with Jackie Lee Campbell. I met Jackie over thirty years ago when we worked together (I made a career guest appearance at Caltech). Ever since then I am fortunate to call Jackie, her husband Richard and their beautiful family my friends. All during our friendship shared in Southern California I was not aware of Jackie's artistic talents. Only years after they moved to Colorado in 2000 did Richard share with me Jackie's success and recognition she has gained for her art. That is typical of the young lady from Boron, California...yes, there actually is a town in the California desert known historically on laundry room shelves for it's twenty mule teams (Borax). Jackie doesn't draw attention to herself, she's known by all those that come in contact as one of the kindest and most caring individuals on earth, with her loved ones coming first in everything she does.

Jackie works in most mediums and as you can see she delivers memorable results whether they be wildlife, landscapes, floral or modern. You can visit her web site to learn more of her work and teaching career at: http://campbellscreativeart.com/info.htm

I miss my friends that have moved to Colorado, I miss our other mutual Caltech friends, the Merediths', who now call North Carolina home. If I were afforded the chance to be selfish I would have both as next door neighbors on each side of me and life would be very good! Colorado or North Carolina, I'm still blessed to have them as friends.

Oh, that middle name thing... Jackie nicknamed my daughter Laura soon after her birth as "Laura Lou". To this day, thirty years later, it has stuck.

Jackie, beautiful work from a beautiful individual and friend.

When TV was innocent...

Gordon Arthur Kelly was born July 17 1912 in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada. We know him today as Art Linkletter. Art is a Canadian-American radio and television personality and the former host of two of the longest-running shows in United States broadcast history: House Party, which ran on CBS radio and television for 25 years, and People are Funny, on NBC radio-TV for 19 years. Linkletter was famous for interviewing children on House Party and Kids Say the Darnest Things, which led to a successful series of books quoting children.

Some of you are old enough to remember as a child watching these shows. Take a moment to click on the link to revist some memorable visits that Linkletter enjoyed with the kids. It's a guaranteed smile.

http://carolynspreciousmemories.com/Videos/kids_artlinkletter.html

Color it "Farmer's Market"...

Farmers' markets are one of the oldest forms of direct marketing by small farmers. Growers from the area and beyond gather weekly on Saturday mornings in Old Town Temecula to sell their produce directly to the public. In the last decade they have become a favorite marketing method for many farmers throughout the United States, and a weekly ritual for us the shopper. You can find creative artwork, baked goods and most anything grown, whether that be produce, plants and more. A stroll through the market for me this morning allowed me to capture the colors of the venue. I hope you enjoy the palette.

Santa Barbara sunset...

OctoMom at her best...

OctoMom Giving Birth - Video

In the spirit of St. Patrick's Day...

There goes the neighborhood....

The following article appeared in our local North County Times this past week. Now fellas, when it comes to the arresting officers, you gotta have a heart here. How in the world can you slap the cuffs on that poor slob at age ninety two?! ha Geez...give it up for ol' Hughie!

LAKE ELSINORE ---- Eight people were arrested this week after allegedly soliciting sex acts for money from undercover deputies, a sheriff's sergeant said Thursday. The Wednesday sting took place in the area of Main Street and Library Avenue between noon and 5 p.m., Sgt. Michael Yates said. During the five hours, the sergeant said, deputies arrested Lake Elsinore residents Hugh Brown, 92; William Bridges, 48; Johnny Fuentes, 23; Francisco Alcala Nuno, 37; and Che Coye, 37. Also arrested were Gerald Grippo, 42, of Murrieta; Arthur Pereida, 38, of Quail Valley; and Rodger Williamson, 35, of Wildomar, Yates said. All the men were booked at the Southwest Detention Center on suspicion of solicitation for prostitution, jail records show. Their vehicles were towed and stored.

Harlee is happy now...

...her partner-in-crime, Granny, has returned home from successful hip and wrist surgery.

Welcome home Granny!

"Sound" advice...

PUT YOUR CAR KEYS BESIDE YOUR BED AT NIGHT

Tell your spouse, your children, your neighbors, your parents, your Dr's office, the check-out girl at the market, everyone you run across.

Put your car keys beside your bed at night. If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies.

This tip came from a neighborhood watch coordinator. Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think of this: it's a security alarm system that you probably already have and requires no installation. Test it. It will go off from most everywhere inside your house and will keep honking until your battery runs down or until you reset it with the button on the key fob chain. It works if you park in your driveway or garage. If your car alarm goes off when someone is trying to break into your house, odds are the burglar won't stick around... After a few seconds all the neighbors will be looking out their windows to see who is out there and sure enough the criminal won't want that. Remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot. The alarm can work the same way there...This is something that should really be shared with everyone. Maybe it could save a life or a sexual abuse crime.

Send this to everyone you know because I think it is fantastic. Would also be useful for any emergency, such as a heart attack, where you can't reach a phone. The elderly should carry their car keys with them in case they fall outside and others can't hear them. He can activate the car alarm and then they will know there's a problem.

Thanks to Frosty for sharing this information!

Spring...

...is showing it's face early in Temecula.

Through the years...

Laura Ruthann and Ryan Christopher

:)

Old Town...above and below eye level.

A stroll along the western walkways of Temecula's Old Town district this morning afforded this ones' eye a combination of various weathered wood designs along with this abstract greenprint provided courtesy of a store owner's garden hose.

Wins and losses...

I met the man during the Floridian spring of 1977. When you are introduced to Joe Garvey you don't easily forget the moment. His smile is quickly trumped by the strength and sincerity of his handshake. Joe, and his wife Millie, were a main stay at Dodgertown during that time since their son Steve wore the uniform number six for the Dodgers.

Joe Garvey's son was instrumental in my years with the Dodgers. He contributed in making my role as team photographer a memorable experience, whether that be his presence on or off the field. Joe's son welcomed my family into his home. We shared many a laugh together and I listened when he would offer up counsel over the years. He was a magnet of popularity by the fans. It was obvious that Joe taught his son well. Joe taught him how to separate celebrity status and personal consideration. For instance, it was Joe's son that asked me for my mother's phone number so that he could call her and wish her well the night before her cancer surgery. He called my mom, he called her from our Yankee Stadium visiting clubhouse a few minutes prior to his introduction to the baselines of a nationally televised World Series game. After the game I thanked him. Number six knew the importance of parents.

Many people already know the story that Joe Garvey drove the team bus for the Dodgers during spring training. Joe always politely displayed his pride in his son. Years after leaving the Dodgers I was attending a minor league game in Lake Elsinore, CA. Fate would have it, the smiling usher manning the third base section was none other than Joe Garvey. We shared laughs and good memories that evening. I learned that several years prior, he and Millie moved west to be closer to number six and his family. I can't tell you who won or lost the game that evening, however, I can say I went home with a smile having reconnected with an old friend.

Steve spent eighteen years in the major leagues and experienced many highs and lows when it came to baseball wins and losses. This past week he endured the toughest of all losses...the passing of his dad, Joe.

Steve Garvey will always be known as a successful major league first baseman. Those of us that know Steve personally also appreciate his career accomplishments but more importantly, we realize number six was truly blessed with a Hall of Fame dad.

The Lady in Red...

Much like a broken clock that finds itself correct "twice a day", Southern California car aficionados look forward to the "twice a year" Temecula Rod Run. The spring version is only a few weeks away. You can expect to find some amazing automobiles in attendance. One such set of wheels is the 1953 Ford Sunliner featured here. Owned and restored by Gerry Gamet of Murrieta, CA this particular red lady will be amongst hundreds on display March 13th and 14th. The time is "twice as right" to enjoy a great show!

Cars, Cars, Cars...

March 13th and 14th, 2009

Know that feeling...

...of finding a twenty dollar bill in a pocket of an old winter coat? That's what it was like for me recently to reconnect with some of my former high school classmates on Facebook. One in particular, Ed Healy, a former Little League teammate of mine I have learned has gone on to practice his dream. Ed, known to his 106.5 rock listeners in Charlotte, NC as "The Wizard", can be heard on Sunday mornings hosting his rock radio gig. It's been 14 years, over 600 shows and 31,000 songs played by "The Wizard", yet, he jokes that just maybe one of these days he'll get it right. One listen to his show and I'm sure you'll agree with me that not only did he get it right...he's nailed it. He had the good sense not to be a cloned version of Casey Kasem, Howard Stern or Rick Dees...for that, we're grateful.

As a kid I grew up listening to WABC's Cousin Brucie out of New York City. Am I the only one that allowed a dream or two to occupy my head with a fantasy of managing the airwaves with my choice of songs one day? Ed not only wanted that same dream but he walked the talk and obtained it. Combined with the confidence he brings to this audio table...the voice, the demeanor and cross section of songs makes listening to his show well...time well spent.

I must say for those of us that grew up with Ed, is the nice feeling, even better than finding that twenty...to see one of the "good guys" discover happiness in their life, family and trade. Some of us can say we knew you even "back when"...behind the Wizard's curtain! Nice going Ed, you've done Woodbridge, NJ proud!

http://www.1065.com/pages/thewizard.html

Late afternoon light...

In my opinion a most special image involving Minute Maid Park and the Houston Astros pre-game batting practice. A scene that many a fan denies themselves by not arriving early to a game. Pulling together all the elements and recognizing the impact of that light makes this one of my most favorite...especially since the eye behind the lens belongs to my son, Ryan.

Nice going Ry...show up your old man, eh?!

:)

Kids of Summer...

My guess is that the score was 23-0 with the Giants on the short end. Given the Norman Rockwell feel to the image and the expressions of the youngsters and their coach in the background, you have to believe the only antidote to this defeat would be a post-game hot dog and root beer at the local Stewarts' Hot Dog drive-in.

This image was actually captured by my Dad back in 1955, enhanced by the bells and whistles of Photoshop. The individuals were teammates of my brother Pete who's role on that team was to deliver the ball from the mound.

Little League has always provided a fertile ground for imitating heroes and nurturing future dreams...mine was to be the next Mickey Mantle, my brother's intent was to be Pete Kee. He carried the confidence and swagger to support the results he delivered. His pitching skills dominated Little League and the succeeding leagues there after. His high school play drew the attention of major league scouts representing the Chicago White Sox, Milwaukee Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers. As fate would have it, a knee injury sustained while running sprints in the outfield days prior to accepting an offer vanished all interest by the clubs. Myself, having been exposed to the attitude and skills displayed in the majors, feel to this day I have no doubt my brother would have left his signature in the game at a big league level.

Growing up in New Jersey our Little League system was a grassroots, community-oriented program that was available for any kid that wanted to participate. Fortunately for those rules, despite my lack of talent for the game I was handed a uniform. Even though I was always the last one that my teammates would like to see at bat in a crucial moment I still took away from those years a lifetime of great memories. Because in the end...it was all just about fun. Whether we lost or won we couldn't wait for the next game in order to kick up some dust.

A few years ago while visiting my home town I couldn't resist a trip back to the old ball field. Even though it was in the winter, I felt the need to walk out to the pitcher's rubber, same mound, same field that Pete once owned. Although that root beer stand is long gone, whether it's year '55 or '05 ...it can't get any better than that.

Ever since kindergarten...

...valentines have come and gone through our lives. However, God in his wisdom, grants us with daughters that will always own our hearts.

Happy Valentines' Day Laura

Rainy Days and Monday...

Time to call out the rain plows.

Our temperatures are a frigid 49 degrees, rain for the past three days, wind advisory till late afternoon...am I feeling any sympathy from anyone back East....not sensing it.

Today
49° 32°
Tue
58° 32°
Wed
62° 38°
Thu
61° 35°

Open letter to Alex Rodriguez...

I have reposted Fred Claire's MLB.com's baseball column dealing with A-Rod, roids and it's continued impact on the game. I have known Fred for over thirty years from when he first hired me on as the Dodger photographer. We have remained friends ever since and as added value, SuiteCaptures business associates.

His take on the A-Rod dilemma is exceptional but consistent with the man's value system...of which I have learned much from over these years. Regardless of whether or not you're a sports fan, there is a message for us all in the following words:

Dear Alex:

I wanted to write to you because I know this is a confusing and disturbing time for you. I'm sure you are having a number of conversations with your agent, Scott Boras, and with representatives of the MLB Players Association. I hope you also are talking to your family and your most trusted advisors.You are in the center of a storm with the story by Sports Illustrated that you tested positive for the use of two anabolic steroids in 2003.I know everyone in the world, particularly members of the news media, is telling you what you should do and how you should respond to your current crisis. I know my voice is just one more in this swirling parade of opinions, but I did spend 30 years as an executive in Major League Baseball and I have spent a lifetime caring about our great game.

Alex, here is what you face -- the next words you speak about the charges you used steroids will determine your legacy in baseball and, indeed, your life.
I hope you have listened to your agent, your union and all of your trusted friends and advisors. At this time, however, you have control and it is up to you to respond and to set the course for your future. Listen very carefully to what you hear from your own heart and your own soul. This is not a time for a crafted statement from your agent or from the union on your behalf. This is a time for you, Alex, to step forward and take full control. It is your career. It is your life.

Simply stated, you need to step forward and tell everything you recall about your involvement, or lack of involvement, with steroids. I know you have addressed questions on this subject previously. I know that each time, you have denied having used steroids, human growth hormone or any other performance-enhancing substance. The difference is the questions didn't come at a time when you personally have been linked to a positive test. This time you have been linked. This is different.
Sure, it's difficult to come forward and say you haven't been truthful in the past when facing these questions. However, the truth is your best and only true course.
If it sounds like I'm jumping to a conclusion and presuming guilt, I'm not.
If you have never used a performance-enhancing substance, say so and say so in a loud and clear manner. Whatever you do, don't respond in the manner you did last week when approached by a Sports Illustrated reporter. Don't respond to the charge of the 2003 positive test by saying "You'll have to talk to the union." If you were going to be consistent with past statements, you should have replied "I've never used any performance-enhancing substance. If there is a positive test that is associated with my name, you will have to talk to the union or to Major League Baseball." Alex, you either have used or you haven't used a performance-enhancing substance during your time in professional baseball. Whatever the case may be, state it in your own words and state it so that everyone understands.

The tests in 2003 were supposed to be confidential in every manner and the results carried no punishment. You and every player involved has every right to be upset that some of the results have apparently been made public. That wasn't part of the deal, but don't attempt to use this issue as any sort of a shield. The union and MLB can battle on how the tests in 2003 were handled. That is their point to debate. Don't let yourself be a part of any cross-fire.

If you choose not to step forward and address these charges, you will travel the road of Mark McGwire and move in the opposite direction of your ultimate goal of the Hall of Fame. If you make a statement that comes under suspicion, you might find yourself in the company of Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens. It's true you won't be making your statement in front of a grand jury or a Congressional panel, but you will be making your statement before the Court of Public Opinion. The sentence for failing to tell the truth is unforgiving in all of these cases. You can start your meeting with the news media by stating, "Look, I'm going to tell you everything I know about any and all charges that I have used performance-enhancing substances. When I'm finished, you can ask me any questions you care to about the charges as they relate to me." I suppose it could turn out to be a rough session, Alex, but you can put this chapter of your career behind you and move on. In doing so, you would help the sport itself move past what has become known as the "Steroid Era."

You are a star player and you have a lot of years to play. You want to be looked upon as someone who was not only a great player but as someone who was willing to step forward when many hid behind a curtain. You won't need an agent or a team of lawyers standing beside you. This is about you and about the fans who care about the game.

A tricky ground ball is headed your way, Alex. Make the right play.

Sincerely,

Fred Claire

Everyones' "Granny"...

Anyone that has been blessed to have crossed paths with Cathy's mom, Helen, realizes that their life is a little brighter as a result. Helen, known to all of us as "Granny", experienced a fall yesterday and as a result she will undergo surgery today to mend her hip and wrist. For the rest of us without broken heart coverage...we're on our own.

You see, this Granny however is Jersey tough and determined. We're all confident that this won't keep our matriarch down very long. In her unselfish mind and spirit, she has a spring garden to prepare, meals to cook for her loved ones and her beloved canine partner-in-crime, Harlee, waiting for her to return home. For once, against her predictable resistance I'm sure, it's time for us to wait on and cater to our one and only Granny.

For those of you that haven't had the pleasure of knowing Granny yet... it could be best described as having fresh baked toll house cookies without the chips...you're simply missing out.

Get well soon Granny, we love you.

A "passing" thought...

Milton Parker, owner of the famed Carnegie Deli passed away this past week at age 90.

The deli, considered by many to be the best in the world, is located in mid Manhattan. Walking into that deli with Lasorda leading the way it was though he had Charlton Heston powers navigating the crowded isles. There are two New York addresses that one can take pride in having their photographs on display at some point...one is 25 Main Street, Cooperstown, the other being 854 Seventh Ave. at 55th Street...both iconic locations in their own right.

Whether it be photos on display for a Fernandomania exhibit or 8x10 Dodger glossies hung amongst the likes of an autographed Henny Youngman or Mayor Rudy...I've accomplished both and it's a kick.

:)

Strike two!

American League umpire Jim McKean.

Friar's roast...

...as if I didn't have my hands full juggling major league egos at the time I took on the Friars Club of Beverly Hills as an account during the 70's and 80's. I must admit it was fun and a kick in the pants to associate with legends of the entertainment industry. One of my favorite images that I recently came across is this one of Don Rickles, now eighty two years young, roasting the late Milton Berle on an evening that the Friars honored Uncle Miltie with a Life Achievement Award dinner.

Sorry...

...but Phillip saw his shadow this morning, you know the rest.

A few more...

Steve Yeager WS home run...Dodger Stadium...metal cleats...playing in the dirt...Beantown's favorite 8...major league cowhide..."old school" excellence from Mr. Brock and the patented corkscrew swing of Mr. October.