“Using this photo (below) as inspiration, write a short story, flash fiction, scene, poem; anything, really; even just a caption for the photograph. Either put it (or a link to it) in a comment or email it to me at keithchanning@gmail.com before 6pm next Sunday (if you aren’t sure what the time is where I live, this link will tell you). If you post it on your own blog or site, a link to this page would be appreciated, but please do also mention it in a comment here.
Go on. You know you want to. Let your creativity and imagination soar. I shall display the entries next Monday.”
Today marks the anniversary of the first major league baseball all-star game. It was held in Comiskey Park in Chicago on July 6th, 1933. For all you baseball lovers who have not been able to enjoy the game since the pandemic started, please come along to this fateful day. Don’t forget to take this list with you since it may help you from making a time travel faux pas that could result in a tear in the time continuum.
Top Ten Things Not to Do at the First MLB All-Star Game in 1933.
10 If you go, do not complain about the choice of players. If you do, at best, you’ll be ignored. At worst, you’ll be overheard by Arch Ward, the sportswriter for the Chicago Tribune, who organized the event. (The problem with your complaint, Linwood is the players were selected by the fans from fifty cities across the country. Arch Ward set the whole thing up, including fan voting, and if looks could kill, you would be on a cold slab right now.)
9 If you go, do not ask Tiny the WWF champ if he can get an autograph of some of the players for you. If you do, at best, Tiny will be busy signing autographs himself. At worst, Tiny has been standing around for hours, and no one has asked for his autograph. (You must understand, Livingston, Tiny is the first client to ever be expelled from the self-worth seminar as a hopeless case. This was not a good time to ask for a favor. Go ahead and ask Tiny if he wouldn’t mind not standing on your foot. I know his breath is hot but you could at least ask.)
8 If you go, do not ask about the National League uniforms. If you do, at best, no one will know what you are talking about. At worst, they will wonder why you are asking. (You see, Llwyd only you know that except for this first all-star game all the players show up in their home team uniforms. So seeing the National League in specially made gray uniforms and navy blue caps was a surprise. )
7 If you go, do not wonder aloud how many of the players present will end up in the baseball hall of fame. If you do, at best, the person hearing you will think you are drunk. At worst, you will be wondering aloud to Kenesaw Mountain Landis, the commissioner of baseball. (Landis will, of course, tell you immediately to mind your own business, Lochlann. For the sake of history, the answer to your question is twenty of the 36 players have been inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Better look out, Landis is talking to Babe Ruth and pointing at you.)
6 If you go, do not ask for a box seat. If you do, at best, the ticket agent will ask for your reservation. At worst, you’ll be told that the box seats are for celebrities and the rich only. (The box seat costs $1.65, Lootah. Not too many could pay that kind of money during the depression. That would be $31.36 in 2020.)
5 If you go, do not complain about your Cracker Jack prize. If you do, at best, the concession person will give you sympathy. At worst, the stadium manager will toss you out. (In 1933, Loren the Cracker Jack company switched the prize selection to almost exclusively toys. The outside of the box is marked “Toy inside.” There are no rings or other household items in the box any longer. The Stadium manager threatened to toss the third person who complained. The second just walked away.)
4 If you go, do not forget to get a program. If you do, at best, there will be one on the ground. At worst, you’ll miss out on the opportunity to have such stars as Babe Ruth, Lefty Grove, Jimmy Foxx, Lou Gehrig, Al Simmons, and Joe Cronin sign your program. (Not to mention even unsigned the original program goes for $379.00, Loring)
3 If you go, do not ask where you can get an autographed ball. If you do, at best, no one will know. At worst, Arch Ward will wonder how you found out about the balls. (Before the game Arch had sixty balls autographed by the players, and then he gifted them to special friends of major league baseball. He is now wondering how you found out, Lothair. That ball is for sale today at $14,999.00)
2 If you go, do not mention that the all-star game is an annual event called “Midsummer Classic.” If you do, at best folks will think the sun got to you. At worst, Arch Ward will think you are trying to steal his idea. (I think I would tread lightly around Arch, Loughlin. He seems rather sensitive about his event. I don’t think it is an accident that he is talking to that big security guard and looking over here.)
1 If you go, don’t forget to congratulate the winners. If you do, at best no one will notice. At worse, the American league will think you are a sore loser. (The American League won the first all-star game 4 to 2 in front of 47, 595 fans. I’m sure they would appreciate your congratulations, Lowell.)
Today on our walk around the neighborhood, we are going to see things that are in front yards. Okay, not so exciting, but maybe you’ll see something that you will like. Get your mask since the Saharan dust is still here. If you’d rather stay, help yourself to the sangria and crostinis.
Our first item is a wind thingy. When the wind blows, those butterflies spin in opposite directions. Yes, it is turning so a little blurry.
We are at the purple house, and in their front yard is a metal cactus surrounded by pinwheels. Fun stuff.
Here is a statement of the beliefs of the folks in this home.
A happy event announcement in this front yard.
Looks like a comfortable sitting place. Why the front yard? It could be a case of FOMO. My guess is Fido joins the couch crowd too.
Another wind thingy. This one rotates on its axis.
A deer family in the front yard of this house.
A classic Mid Century Modern lawnchair.
Can’t tell you what this is. Driftwood rocks and a Texas state paver.
I had to get a shot of this magnificent pink crape myrtle.
I thought this was a cute Fourth of July display. Twiggy loves this strip of lawn.
Uh-oh. A dumpster in the front yard isn’t always the best of news. We’ll have to see if it is a remodel or a repair.
It is early voting time in Texas, so there are a few campaign signs. Too bad, Jennifer can’t help with those weeds in the gravel.
There you have it. Let’s get back and see if there are any sangria and crostinis left. Thanks for walking with me today. I hope you have a great week.
Happy Fourth of July. I hope you have a safe one, and remember the strength of our democracy is in our individual effort to remain free.
Here is a shot of my flag flying today.
Old Glory
Now to the Stream of Consciousness Prompt. Here is Linda Hill to explain the prompt. “Your Friday prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday is “toss.” Use it any way you’d like. Enjoy!” If you would like to join us and enjoy as well, visit Linda’s blog and read how easy it is. Here is the link.
“It’s Friday, Little One.” “Yes, and time for a ruckus.”
Another Friday is here, and I hope it means you will get some time off. For many Friday is the day off in celebration of the Fourth of July tomorrow. That will mean a long three day weekend. Of course, we who are still locked up have no idea what a three day weekend feels like.
Texas is slowly going backward in a rush to open. Bars that have 51% of their revenue have been shuttered. Also, all the parks in our county have been closed. The authorities are trying to keep people from gathering over the holiday. Most firework shows have been canceled for the same reason.
I saw with interest that the beaches at my old home have been closed to vehicular traffic, including golf carts. The hours have been cut as well, so there is no camping. It means if you want to go to the beach this year you have to walk in with all your stuff. I think a lot of folks will take a rain check on that.
I have started to format my WIP and will get the cover design work done. It does not appear that there is agent interest, which is fine. Once done, I will self publish.
Today’s JohnKu discusses the idea of being self-sufficient. I hope everyone has a great holiday weekend.
“For the last time, Little One. It’s Wednesday.” “Okay, I get it. When is it Friday?” “Next year.” “Oh.”
It is Wednesday Story Day again, and last week we were witness to a deal struck between Nikola Stanković and Larry, whereby Stanković would give Larry some information on illegal activities that Lazar Popovic is doing. Larry would then arrest Popovic, removing he and Andrew’s concern about Popovic having them shot. In return, Nikola Stanković would be free to control the state of Nevada. The Lieutenant seemed to be ignoring the whole conversation, but Larry knew he was just setting up a deniable plausibly situation. So now, Nikola Stanković has given Larry the information to go ahead and get a warrant for Popovic’s arrest. Larry, Andrew, and the Lieutenant and ten SWAT team members are closing in on a warehouse where Popovic is supposedly directing a shipment of drugs to the East Coast. I think we better join the team, so we don’t miss anything.
“Okay, so Larry and Andrew, I think you two ought to stay out here. I don’t want you to get hurt. These guys aren’t going to give up easily. Our intel says these are not nice people.”
“I understand your concern, lieutenant, but speaking for myself, I want to go in with you.”
“Same here, Lieutenant.”
“Too bad I don’t have a liability release form here I would make you both sign it.”
“That’s pretty funny. So, how’s this going down?”
“Our tactical guys will go through the door and hit the group with some stun grenades. Hopefully, no one will feel like shooting.”
“We want Popovic alive. I have a few questions for him.”
“If all goes well, we will have everyone alive, and you can ask all the questions you want.”
“Sounds good. When do we start?”
“Let me raise the team. Team black. Radio check. Good, all present. We are going to execute the plan on my mark. We want everyone alive and safe, so be careful. Alright, we will commence in one minute. Stand by. Black leader out. You two will stay behind me agreed?”
“Yes, boss.”
“Good. We are ready. Black team, on my mark three two one, execute, execute, execute.”
“Holy crap, Larry, we are really doing this?”
“You had a chance to boogie.”
“You know I wouldn’t do that.”
“You two knock it off and stay with me.”
“Yes, boss.”
“The tactical team is inside, and the grenades have been deployed. Let’s go.”
“Right behind you.”
“The reports are good. We have ten suspects and no shots fired. I think you have all your witnesses.”
“Did we get Popovic?”
“We are here. Let’s find out. Okay, everyone. Keep your hands on your heads. which one of you is Lazar Popovic.”
“I am Lazar Popovic. What is the meaning of this outrage?”
“You and your team are under arrest on suspicion of transporting illegal drugs. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for you. Do you understand the rights I have just read to you? With these rights in mind, do you wish to speak to me?”
“Yes, I do. What the hell is going on here?”
“I just told you.”
“Drugs? I don’t know anything about drugs. I’m an honest businessman. This is my distribution center, and I would like you all to leave.”
“Sorry, Lazar. We can’t do that. We have a warrant to search the place.”
“For these so-called drugs?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Okay, then. I will need to have my lawyer with me before I say more.”
“That is your right, sir. Please put your hands behind you.”
“You are going to cuff me then?”
“Yes, sir. We are also going to restrain your team.”
“Everyone be quiet. I have a lawyer coming.”
“Did you call him already?”
“No. Can I make the call?”
“Of course.”
“You. Are the nicest cop. Who are these guys in baggy suits?”
“Two associates from Boston.”
“Yeah, they look like out of towners for sure. I’ll just be a minute. My phone is in my pocket. I would like to get it.”
“Let me help you. Here it is. Make the call, then I’ll cuff you.”
“Using this photo (below) as inspiration, write a short story, flash fiction, scene, poem; anything, really; even just a caption for the photograph. Either put it (or a link to it) in a comment or email it to me at keithchanning@gmail.com before 6pm next Sunday (if you aren’t sure what the time is where I live, this link will tell you). If you post it on your own blog or site, a link to this page would be appreciated, but please do also mention it in a comment here.
Go on. You know you want to. Let your creativity and imagination soar. I shall display the entries next Monday.”
“Well, that’s crazy. No one sends a dog through the post.”
“It looks like that’s exactly what happened.”
“Get the poor fellow a drink. He must be thirsty.”
“Water?”
“No, you idiot. Get him a big glass of whiskey. Maybe what he doesn’t finish you can have.”
“A woman after my own heart.”
“Of course, water.”
“Yes, I’m going.”
“Oh, poor puppy. I can’t imagine who would do this to you.”
“Look on the return address.”
“Huh?”
“Here’s the water. I put it in a bowl. I said, look at the return address. That will tell us who sent this beautiful puppy.”
“Don’t start with a ‘beautiful puppy.’ This dog’s not staying.”
“Aw, look at his eyes. Look how much he appreciates the water.”
“My foot is down.”
“He seems to be a pure-bred Jack Russell too.”
“So, where did he come from?”
“Let me see. Ah, yes, here it is. The return address is—Wait a minute. This box says it was mailed from London. That would be impossible.”
“So, what does the return address say?”
“It is from the Reliable Battery Company in London.”
“Why would they mail a dog?”
“I think we have been tricked. Look here the mailing address has been ripped off. This box was placed on our porch by someone local. Someone who used a box that they received batteries in. This poor thing is unwanted.”
“I have to wonder about the length of time that it took to figure that out.”
“Okay, so I thought it came in the post. What about the dog.”
“I’ll give it some of last night’s meat. Then it has to go.”
“Where?”
“To the vet. We need to get a check-up and some real dog food.”
Today marks the 407th anniversary of the burning of the Globe Theater in 1613. If you want to travel back to that time, you better take this list so you won’t inadvertently make a mistake that could cause a tear in the time continuum.
Top Ten Things Not to Do at the Burning of the Globe Theater in 1613.
10 If you go, do not mention that it would not be a significant loss. If you do, at best it will be to someone who doesn’t speak English. At worst, You might be overheard by William Shakespeare himself. (Nice going, Leodegraunce. You wonder why William is so livid? All his plays make their debut at the Globe. Now he will have no venue for performances. Yes, he is getting a pitchfork, and I don’t think he intends to fork hay.)
9 If you go, do not try to tell Tiny the WWF champ how to put out a fire. If you do, at best, he will be too busy to hear you. At worst, Tiny has never been too good at receiving criticism. (You see, Leone. Tiny was left on a doorstep when he was 21, and he hasn’t gotten over the rejection. Oh, I see he is trying a new chokehold on you. Blue is not your color, trust me.)
8 If you go, do not offer to call 911. If you do, at best, you’ll be misunderstood. At worst, Will asks you what 911 is. (As you recognize your mistake Leonidas, Will is getting more agitated as another timber falls into the pyre. Sooner or later he’s going to take it out you. I see him over there with poor Yorick’s skull. He is giving you the stinkeye.)
7 If you go, do not ask if the building was insured. If you do, at best you’ll be talking to an actor who knows nothing. At worst, you’ll mention it to one of the Lord Chamberlin’s Men. (The Lord Chamberlins Men is Willaim Shakespeare’s acting company, Leron. The guy you asked was the one who was supposed to buy insurance but forgot. I think he wants to kill you.)
6 If you go, don’t suggest that maybe plays could be given in the town square. If you do, at best you’ll ask one of the sweepers. At worst, you will ask one of Will’s actors James Burbage. (The actor named James Burbage was the one who had the idea to build a theater in the first place, Lethe. In 1574 the Common Council of London decided to tax performances in public places. So James built his own theater to avoid the tax. When his lease ran out, the timbers from James’s place were used to create the Globe. This was one way to avoid being taxed for using public land for performances. Now James is whispering to Will and there is that look again.)
5 If you go, do not suggest a smaller theater next time. If you do, at best, you’ll make the suggestion to the bartender. At worst, Will will overhear you. (The globe could seat 1000 and have standing room for another 1000, Liander. The folks that stood paid a penny to get in. The people that sat paid 6 pence. Now, if you figure a loaf of bread cost a penny then, On one performance to show you his take, Will could buy 7000 loaves. You think he would want a smaller venue? In fact, he is heading this way looking a little cross.)
4 If you go, do not suggest having hot food at the next theater. If you do, at best, you are talking to a firefighter. At worst, your suggestion of having a flambe duck on the menu will be overheard by Will. (I think you will agree, Lichas, anything connected to fire will cause Will to become unglued. I think he might be ready to toss you out.)
3 If you go, do not suggest that the first play in the new theater be Henry VIII. If you do, at best, the person you are talking to has long stopped listening to you. At worst, you’ll make this suggestion to the producer of the last performance of Henry VIII. (You wonder why he has turned pale, Linc. It was a faulty cannon shot during the production of Henry VIII, which started a fire in the beams and thatching. I think you better get going. He is going to recover very soon and might want to smite you.)
2 If you go, do not tell anyone that a new theater will be built and opened in only a year. If you do, at best you won’t be believed. At worst, Shakespeare will want to know how you came to have that information. (Now you are in a fine kettle of fish, Linden. How are you going to explain your time travel status? I think I would try to convince Will that you are a magician and just disappear.)
1 If you go, do not agree with anyone who calls the theater a den of sin. If you do, at best, Will doesn’t find out. At worst, those folks you agreed with are Puritans. (They have used your opinion as one more vote, Lindsay, and were successful in shutting down the Globe Theater in 1642 along with every other theater in London.)
When we all have been quarantined as long as we have the subject material for a Views feature starts to get a little thin. This week I noticed several swings and playthings hanging in people’s yards. These things spoke to me of more staying at home as opposed to going to parks. You are welcome to come along or stay right here. If you decide to pass. on the walk, help yourself to a margarita and keep the social distance.
Here is a whole jungle gym kind of set up. Hard to see, but there are rings and pull-up bars. Has a “Go outside and play” vibe.
Although not hanging here is a soccer net and real-live players.
A cute little baby swing.
A very common swing. In a sweet cool spot.
Nothing is hanging on the crape myrtles. I just thought they looked beautiful in the Saharan Dust filled day.
The look of a classic swing is in front of a cottage.
Another swing. Hard to see, but there is one on the porch too.
Yup. Swing.
I had to laugh at the Uncle Sam hanging from a pole. An early Fourth of July item.
Now we are talking—a hammock under the trees.
A swing, kiddie car, and lots of washed-out sidewalk chalk dust. Yup playtime place.
Well, that’s it. I hope you had a nice walk. You have earned your margarita. I’m paring those with chips and mango salsa. Can you say “Über home?”
