After staying up all night, packing and repacking our checked suitcases, Groome came early to pick us up.
In a panic, I raced around our house, trying to make sure I had everything. When we got on the Lindsay Creek Bypass to get to the Groome office off Fortson Road, I realized I didn't have my glasses. I called my sister Nancy, and she brought them to me. Thank goodness she was still at our house.
We got on the road around 6 a.m. and got to the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport with plenty of time to check our luggage, go to our concourse and relax. Well, the line was long getting through security. Fortunately, the line moved quickly.
I had so much stuff in my carry-on baggage that I held up the line. I let a few folks go through before I started going through the gate. And then I realized I still had my shoes on!
Then I had my little bag.
We had a laugh when we all regrouped. Cheryl had forgotten to take off her shoes. I told her not to worry. I forgot, too.
Then our long day got longer. We ate breakfast, then went to our gate. Where we waited again. The Delta agent said there were some mechanical problems and that they were working to fix them.
They let us board about 10:30 a.m., just about 15 minutes after our plane should have left the airport.
We waited on the plane for more than two hours. They kept making announcements that mechanics were working to fix the problem. Something about maybe a short in the circuitry. Then it was the computer chip not working.
Finally, they told us to leave the plane. And take everything with us. One of the flight attendants said we'd have a different plane taking us to Tokyo,
As we left the plane a Delta rep handed us each a $7 meal voucher.
By the tine we all met at the gate to eat lunch, Cheryl, who was the last one to arrive, said the flight was going to take off at 4:30 p.m. That's more than six hours after our flight was supposed to leave.
About an hour later, they made the announcement that the flight was canceled, and for us to go to the information desk. We hot-footed it over there, head of most of the big rush.
We still had to wait a good half-hour.
But we got a flight tomorrow. We leave at 7 a.m. There's a lay-over in Los Angeles at 11:40 a.m. and then we arrive at Narita International Airport at something like 3 p.m.
So we lose a day, actually we lose two days. My brother asked since we're missing time in Japan, could we change our return day. We were told that it's just one day. That's not worth the effort.
They gave us $21 in meal vouchers, a room at the Hyatt Place in East Point, a toiletry kit with a Delta T-shirt and telephone calling cards so we can get in touch with our relatives in Japan to let them know we are NOT coming Tuesday.
We were all Mr. and Ms. Grumpypants, but we were pleasantly surprised by the room. The restaurant? Not so much. It's more of a cafeteria.
So we're kicking back and relaxing. I'm sure we'll all fall asleep easily and quickly tonight. But we're in for another early morning tomorrow.
And if you're wondering about my babies, Chipper, Piiko and Pookie Belle, they are not happy. Nancy said Pookie was so scared that she peed in the vet's office. Pookie and Piiko were crying and whining when she left. Chipper was barking, until someone took off his collar and he was fine.
I hope they're not that angry that they're not getting to spend time in Alabama with Trish. But I just couldn't afford it.
I know they'll be very angry with me when I get back.
But they're dogs and they'll get over it. I hope!
And I'm also hoping that things will go more smoothly tonorrow and we get to Tokyo safe and sound.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Slowly, but surely
OK, every time I turn on this laptop, I'm figuring out what to do. Tonight, I figured out how to retrieve my e-mail at work from a remote location.
There's got to be another way to delete the unwanted e-mails, though. Again, I'll figure that out.
I'm a procrastinator and I waited until the last minute to buy a new camera. I found just the one I wanted at Wal-mart.
As I was waiting for the clerk to finish helping another customer, I know she saw me waiting for her. I looked away for a minute and she was gone.
I went to the next department and the guy said the department was closed and because he didn't work there, he didn't have the key to open the case to help me.
So much for customer service.
Oh, well.
I guess I'll get one in Tokyo.
There's got to be another way to delete the unwanted e-mails, though. Again, I'll figure that out.
I'm a procrastinator and I waited until the last minute to buy a new camera. I found just the one I wanted at Wal-mart.
As I was waiting for the clerk to finish helping another customer, I know she saw me waiting for her. I looked away for a minute and she was gone.
I went to the next department and the guy said the department was closed and because he didn't work there, he didn't have the key to open the case to help me.
So much for customer service.
Oh, well.
I guess I'll get one in Tokyo.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
I'm online! Woo hoo!
After two visits to the new Apple store on Veterans Parkway and to the Alltel store, also on Veterans, the very nice men at both stores helped me with my first personal computer.
After all these years of working on a Mac at home, I finally bought a laptop. Why a laptop? I need one to go to Japan and blog from there.
At least I hope I can figure out how to post my writing, photos and videos.
Maybe I should have done this a month ago so I could practice.
But anyone who knows me knows that I procrastinate.
This time, perhaps I should not have.
But the man at the Apple store said there is a brand-new Apple store in the Ginza district of Tokyo. Knowing the Ginza, which is also known as the Rodeo Drive or Park Avenue of Japan, whatever I need will probably be way expensive. Most likely too expensive for me.
Oh, well. One day I'll learn not o dawdle.
I got a call this morning from Louise Smith, who used to be our Food Editor. She was laughing as she said I finally made it on the front page. She was, of course, talking about the photo of me on Friday's front page.
If you go to our Web site and look at the gallery of photos about our adventures with the pressroom fire, there's a shot of me standing on a pallet, while stuffing papers into the plastic bags. My sister, Dorothy, left me a voice mail saying I really looked like a midget.
Only sisters can be that cruel!
Now that I know that I can at least write on my blog, we'll see if I can post photos and videos.
After all these years of working on a Mac at home, I finally bought a laptop. Why a laptop? I need one to go to Japan and blog from there.
At least I hope I can figure out how to post my writing, photos and videos.
Maybe I should have done this a month ago so I could practice.
But anyone who knows me knows that I procrastinate.
This time, perhaps I should not have.
But the man at the Apple store said there is a brand-new Apple store in the Ginza district of Tokyo. Knowing the Ginza, which is also known as the Rodeo Drive or Park Avenue of Japan, whatever I need will probably be way expensive. Most likely too expensive for me.
Oh, well. One day I'll learn not o dawdle.
I got a call this morning from Louise Smith, who used to be our Food Editor. She was laughing as she said I finally made it on the front page. She was, of course, talking about the photo of me on Friday's front page.
If you go to our Web site and look at the gallery of photos about our adventures with the pressroom fire, there's a shot of me standing on a pallet, while stuffing papers into the plastic bags. My sister, Dorothy, left me a voice mail saying I really looked like a midget.
Only sisters can be that cruel!
Now that I know that I can at least write on my blog, we'll see if I can post photos and videos.
Trying to go on a long trip is crazy time
I had to come in today to meet with the teen writers of The Buzz.
I've always loved working with young people. Many years ago, I worked as the Ledger-Enquirer's liaison between the teenagers and the Boy Scouts when we sponsored an Explorer Post. I met some of the best young people in town during those years. Later, I was the adviser for the teen page where they wrote for and about kids their age.
For one reason or another, we dropped the association with the Boy Scouts and we dropped the teen page.
A couple of years ago, The Buzz began, but for economic reasons, we dropped the teen page again.
Then Carmen Williams, who wrote for The Buzz, wanted to start it again. But this time online.
What a great idea!
Today, I met with about a dozen kids from Columbus and Phenix City. They talked about the stories they are going to write in the coming weeks.
If you want to join the online Buzz, there's another meeting next Saturday (May 24) here at the Ledger-Enquirer, 17 W. 12th St., at 1 p.m. It will last one hour.
I will be out-of-town for three weeks, and Sonya Sorich, the other adviser, is going to California for her sister's high school graduation. But Chuck Williams will be there to help the kids along.
Chuck is Carmen's father, but don't let that stop you from coming.
To get ready for my trip, I bought my very first laptop. Of course, I know nothing about getting started. I mean, everything here is done for me.
I've been going all over town, trying to get everything ready so I can e-mail stories back here and do my blogging.
I hope I get it all straightened out today.
Actually, I have no choice. I have to!
Wish me luck that I'll get online.
I've always loved working with young people. Many years ago, I worked as the Ledger-Enquirer's liaison between the teenagers and the Boy Scouts when we sponsored an Explorer Post. I met some of the best young people in town during those years. Later, I was the adviser for the teen page where they wrote for and about kids their age.
For one reason or another, we dropped the association with the Boy Scouts and we dropped the teen page.
A couple of years ago, The Buzz began, but for economic reasons, we dropped the teen page again.
Then Carmen Williams, who wrote for The Buzz, wanted to start it again. But this time online.
What a great idea!
Today, I met with about a dozen kids from Columbus and Phenix City. They talked about the stories they are going to write in the coming weeks.
If you want to join the online Buzz, there's another meeting next Saturday (May 24) here at the Ledger-Enquirer, 17 W. 12th St., at 1 p.m. It will last one hour.
I will be out-of-town for three weeks, and Sonya Sorich, the other adviser, is going to California for her sister's high school graduation. But Chuck Williams will be there to help the kids along.
Chuck is Carmen's father, but don't let that stop you from coming.
To get ready for my trip, I bought my very first laptop. Of course, I know nothing about getting started. I mean, everything here is done for me.
I've been going all over town, trying to get everything ready so I can e-mail stories back here and do my blogging.
I hope I get it all straightened out today.
Actually, I have no choice. I have to!
Wish me luck that I'll get online.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
What a day, what a day!
As you've probably found out by now, we had a fire in the pressroom last night and we couldn't deliver our newspapers in time this morning.
So I got a call from my editor, telling me to report to our loading dock at 11 a.m. It wasn't the loading dock in our building, but at our distribution center, which I never ever knew existed.
Once I got there, I was given a route and 165 newspapers.
I then had to insert the To Do section and advertising sections into our newspapers. Then had to double bag them because it was going to rain.
After I did a bundle, I knew I would be in trouble later on. These tables were meant for much taller people than me.
I found a pallet, which made the task much easer.
John Kelly, our circulation director, did a double take when he could actually see me over the partition. Then he looked under the table and saw that I was standing on a pallet!
After I loaded my car, I took off down the road.
Piece of cake, I thought.
Oh, no.
I've lived in Columbus almost 40 years and I've never been in some of these neighborhoods.
They were very nice neighborhoods, but I really was lost.
I managed to deliver more than half of my papers, but it was getting close to 5:30 p.m. and I was going to meet my brother and his wife for dinner and then go see "Greater Tuna."
So I got back to the newspaper, soaked to the skin, hungry, thirsty and very, very tired. And pretty much Ms. Grumpypants. Tnat's the Features Department code word for someone who's not too nice to be around. Sometimes it's Mr. Grumpypants. Today, I was Ms. Grumpypants.
Oh, and I dumped the rest of the papers on some poor guy's desk down in circulation.
I thought the professionals could deliver the rest.
I now have a great respect for these men and women who deliver our newspapers. I mean some of these houses had no addresses on the house or the mail box. I don't know how they do it.
It was raining, I had to walk from door to door throwing papers on people's porches.
Some of the people stuck their heads out when I came near their doors. They were so nice.
All of them recognized me and asked why I was doing this. I told them it was important for all of us to get the newspapers into their hands. One of them said he appreciated the first-class service! He didn't expect me to show up at his door.
OK. I wrote this last night, but it didn't get posted for one reason or another. But as you can see, I was the cover girl for once in my life!
So I got a call from my editor, telling me to report to our loading dock at 11 a.m. It wasn't the loading dock in our building, but at our distribution center, which I never ever knew existed.
Once I got there, I was given a route and 165 newspapers.
I then had to insert the To Do section and advertising sections into our newspapers. Then had to double bag them because it was going to rain.
After I did a bundle, I knew I would be in trouble later on. These tables were meant for much taller people than me.
I found a pallet, which made the task much easer.
John Kelly, our circulation director, did a double take when he could actually see me over the partition. Then he looked under the table and saw that I was standing on a pallet!
After I loaded my car, I took off down the road.
Piece of cake, I thought.
Oh, no.
I've lived in Columbus almost 40 years and I've never been in some of these neighborhoods.
They were very nice neighborhoods, but I really was lost.
I managed to deliver more than half of my papers, but it was getting close to 5:30 p.m. and I was going to meet my brother and his wife for dinner and then go see "Greater Tuna."
So I got back to the newspaper, soaked to the skin, hungry, thirsty and very, very tired. And pretty much Ms. Grumpypants. Tnat's the Features Department code word for someone who's not too nice to be around. Sometimes it's Mr. Grumpypants. Today, I was Ms. Grumpypants.
Oh, and I dumped the rest of the papers on some poor guy's desk down in circulation.
I thought the professionals could deliver the rest.
I now have a great respect for these men and women who deliver our newspapers. I mean some of these houses had no addresses on the house or the mail box. I don't know how they do it.
It was raining, I had to walk from door to door throwing papers on people's porches.
Some of the people stuck their heads out when I came near their doors. They were so nice.
All of them recognized me and asked why I was doing this. I told them it was important for all of us to get the newspapers into their hands. One of them said he appreciated the first-class service! He didn't expect me to show up at his door.
OK. I wrote this last night, but it didn't get posted for one reason or another. But as you can see, I was the cover girl for once in my life!
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
DWTS
OK, so Marisa Jaret Winokur was cut last night.
My sister is very sad. She said not enough chubby girls voted for her.
Frankly, I'm surprised she made it this far, but she was truly getting better and better every week.
I've always said if for some reason I did the show, I'd want Maksim to be my partner.
I think I'd rather have Tony. After all, he was lifting her and everything. I weigh less than she does, so imagine what moves I could make! But then, I'm 20 years older than her, so maybe it would even out.
I still think Jason will win, but he's got to do a little more work to win the judges over.
Unfortunately, we'll be in Japan next week, so we'll miss the whole ending of the season. I'll keep up online.
My sister is very sad. She said not enough chubby girls voted for her.
Frankly, I'm surprised she made it this far, but she was truly getting better and better every week.
I've always said if for some reason I did the show, I'd want Maksim to be my partner.
I think I'd rather have Tony. After all, he was lifting her and everything. I weigh less than she does, so imagine what moves I could make! But then, I'm 20 years older than her, so maybe it would even out.
I still think Jason will win, but he's got to do a little more work to win the judges over.
Unfortunately, we'll be in Japan next week, so we'll miss the whole ending of the season. I'll keep up online.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Adventure Girl Sandra
A young friend of mine, Colby Cardin, called me Adventure Girl Sandra after he found out that I'd gone sky-diving.
At the time, he was an outdoor guide and I asked him about hang-gliding. That's when he came up with that name.
Now, I'm adventurous to a point.
I figured I was sky-diving with an instructor. It's kind of strange to be hooked up to a man I'd never seen before in my life. And he had my life in his hands. But it was the most exhilarating thing I'd ever done.
So I thought about hang-gliding. But after I thought about it, it sounded a whole lot more dangerous than jumping out of a plane with a stranger strapped to my back.
I dropped that little project.
A few months ago, I met Scott Goodknight.
He teachers firewalking.
Again, no thank you.
Scott does good things, though, with his firewalking.
He's doing a Firewalk for Childhood Cancer Tour, and is kicking it off at 7 p.m. Monday at the Mediterranean Café on Sidney Simons Blvd
It's all-you-can-eat Mediterranean-style cuisine for $20. Kids eat for $5.
The proceeds go to the Firewalk for Childhood Cancer Tour Fund
Scott will show a short film about firewalking and how the tour will help raise funds for childhood cancer research. After the film, Becky Paul, the grandmother of a cancer patient will speak. He had done a firewalk for Chloe Shiver last month, and raised a good bit of money for the family to pay medical bills.
For tickets or more information call 706-320-9111 or go to www.fearintoaction.com
At the time, he was an outdoor guide and I asked him about hang-gliding. That's when he came up with that name.
Now, I'm adventurous to a point.
I figured I was sky-diving with an instructor. It's kind of strange to be hooked up to a man I'd never seen before in my life. And he had my life in his hands. But it was the most exhilarating thing I'd ever done.
So I thought about hang-gliding. But after I thought about it, it sounded a whole lot more dangerous than jumping out of a plane with a stranger strapped to my back.
I dropped that little project.
A few months ago, I met Scott Goodknight.
He teachers firewalking.
Again, no thank you.
Scott does good things, though, with his firewalking.
He's doing a Firewalk for Childhood Cancer Tour, and is kicking it off at 7 p.m. Monday at the Mediterranean Café on Sidney Simons Blvd
It's all-you-can-eat Mediterranean-style cuisine for $20. Kids eat for $5.
The proceeds go to the Firewalk for Childhood Cancer Tour Fund
Scott will show a short film about firewalking and how the tour will help raise funds for childhood cancer research. After the film, Becky Paul, the grandmother of a cancer patient will speak. He had done a firewalk for Chloe Shiver last month, and raised a good bit of money for the family to pay medical bills.
For tickets or more information call 706-320-9111 or go to www.fearintoaction.com
Monday, May 12, 2008
The Buzz
I've always enjoyed working with teenagers, especially those who want to become journalists.
But even 15 years ago, I asked if they really wanted to become journalists. Today, the way the industry is changing, I still ask them if this is what they want to do.
The last time we had teenagers writing their own section was at least two years ago, with The Buzz.
Carmen Williams, whom I've known since she was an infant, came to love newspapers through her parents. Both parents are journalists. Mandy still writes a column for us, even though she "retired" some years back. Chuck is a senior writer here.
Carmen is now a junior at Columbus High School, and used to write for The Buzz. She wanted to start it again, though this time, as an online newspaper written for, by and about teenagers.
I think it's a great idea.
If you're in high school and want to write for The Buzz, there will be an organizational meeting at 1 p.m. Saturday here in the newsroom. So if you want to participate, come on down!
Carmen will be very glad to see you.
So will I.
But even 15 years ago, I asked if they really wanted to become journalists. Today, the way the industry is changing, I still ask them if this is what they want to do.
The last time we had teenagers writing their own section was at least two years ago, with The Buzz.
Carmen Williams, whom I've known since she was an infant, came to love newspapers through her parents. Both parents are journalists. Mandy still writes a column for us, even though she "retired" some years back. Chuck is a senior writer here.
Carmen is now a junior at Columbus High School, and used to write for The Buzz. She wanted to start it again, though this time, as an online newspaper written for, by and about teenagers.
I think it's a great idea.
If you're in high school and want to write for The Buzz, there will be an organizational meeting at 1 p.m. Saturday here in the newsroom. So if you want to participate, come on down!
Carmen will be very glad to see you.
So will I.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Three top divas to hit Atlanta later this year
It seems this week was a big one for Philips Arena in Atlanta. Philips will be the scene of three really big concerts this winter.
I told you about the Madonna concert yesterday.
Now, Tina Turner will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Nov. 9. Tickets are $59.50-$152, and go on sale at 10 a.m. May 19.
Then, Madonna brings her "Sweet & Sticky" tour on Nov. 24. A time hasn't been set yet. Tickets are $55-$350, and go on sale at 10 a.m. May 31.
Already announced was the return of Celine Dion at 8 p.m. Jan. 17. Tickets are $49.50-$187, and already are on sale.
Call 706-494-8330 to charge tickets or go to www.ticketmaster.com Or you can go to the Columbus Civic Center box office or to any area Publix grocery store.
I told you about the Madonna concert yesterday.
Now, Tina Turner will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Nov. 9. Tickets are $59.50-$152, and go on sale at 10 a.m. May 19.
Then, Madonna brings her "Sweet & Sticky" tour on Nov. 24. A time hasn't been set yet. Tickets are $55-$350, and go on sale at 10 a.m. May 31.
Already announced was the return of Celine Dion at 8 p.m. Jan. 17. Tickets are $49.50-$187, and already are on sale.
Call 706-494-8330 to charge tickets or go to www.ticketmaster.com Or you can go to the Columbus Civic Center box office or to any area Publix grocery store.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Bulletin! Bulletin! At least for Madonna fans
I can't stand Madonna, but I know some people who are Madonna freaks. I won't name names, but one night, I was at a Madonna party. I didn't realize it when I got there, but it was the first night of one of those HBO concert specials.
A bunch of them were circled on the floor around the television set, dissecting the costumes, wigs and dance moves. Every now and then, one or more of them would get up to try one of those dance moves.
I sat back in awe. I'd never seen anything like that.
Anyway, Madonna returns to Atlanta's Philips Arena on Nov. 24. Tickets go on sale May 31. Tickets will be $55-$350.
So if you want to sit close, save your money. Otherwise, a less expensive seat will still get you in the door. You can see everything on stage on those huge TV screens.
They'll go on sale through Ticketmaster. Remember that local outlets are in Publix grocery stores and at the Columbus Civic Center. Also, remember that the ticket outlets are cash-only. Or you can go to www.ticketmaster.com to charge tickets. Or call 706-494-8330.
A bunch of them were circled on the floor around the television set, dissecting the costumes, wigs and dance moves. Every now and then, one or more of them would get up to try one of those dance moves.
I sat back in awe. I'd never seen anything like that.
Anyway, Madonna returns to Atlanta's Philips Arena on Nov. 24. Tickets go on sale May 31. Tickets will be $55-$350.
So if you want to sit close, save your money. Otherwise, a less expensive seat will still get you in the door. You can see everything on stage on those huge TV screens.
They'll go on sale through Ticketmaster. Remember that local outlets are in Publix grocery stores and at the Columbus Civic Center. Also, remember that the ticket outlets are cash-only. Or you can go to www.ticketmaster.com to charge tickets. Or call 706-494-8330.
The Page One Awards
I have been involved in one way or another in the Page One Awards ever since it began. Last night was the 33rd ceremony honoring the top high school students and teachers in the area.
For me professionally, it's the best night of the year.
In the newsroom only Jenny Chandler and I have taken part in the awards show since the beginning now that Richard Hyatt retired. He was replaced this year by Tim Chitwood.
I've helped find judges. I've helped register students for their judging. I've been a judge. I've helped with registration the night of the ceremony. I've been the onstage wrangler, helping students get to where they're supposed to be. And I've been an onstage presenter.
I have missed only three actual ceremonies because of vacations. Once, I was in Florida, another time I was in Japan and the last time, in 2005, I was in Las Vegas. But even those years, I helped on judging day.
It's just the best night. The students are nervous and then when they win, they're so excited. One night, the girl who won in her category, was crying with joy. She said the money will help her go to college.
My friend Oz Roberts was a Page One nominee in art. He's now Aflac's second vice president in charge of special events. He's also the company's photo chief.
Every year, he complains to me that he'd like to be a judge but no one calls him. I told him he had to be in town to be able to judge! Maybe one year he can do that.
One of my favorite memories was the year that Chin Wang was a nominee. I worked with a lot of teenagers back in those days when we had a teen section and sponsored the Boy Scouts Explorer program for aspiring journalists. Chin was one of the kids who worked on the teen section. The ceremony was still in the Three Arts Theatre. She and her friend, Nami (I can't remember her last name) were in the lobby when I said good night to them. Nami was a nominee in the Foreign Language category.
I went on the after-party.
About 15 minutes after I got there, Lawrence Smith, who was the photo chief back then and organized Page One with Debbie King, walks in with Chin and Nami.
He asked me, "Do you know these girls?"
I said, "Of course."
Lawrence then said, "They're yours."
Huh?
Chin told me that Nami's parents thought that Chin's parents would take her home. Chin's parents thought Nami's parents would take her home. Both sets of parents left.
Lawrence, who was the last person at the theater, found them wandering around. And if you know that area, it's not a place for young girls at 10 p.m.
He asked them if someone would take them home. They said that I would!
Chin and Nami stayed and schmoozed with all of my colleagues and they were the hit of the party.
Of course, I took them home.
We don't have the after-party any more. Instead, we have a luncheon for the Ledger-Enquirer volunteers later in the month.
Like I said, it's the best night of the year for me.
Last night's ceremony was great. It was the first for our publisher, Valerie Canepa. She did a fantastic job! It was, as I said, Tim's first time as the "voice" of the show, and he did a great job, too.
But I miss Richard.
For several years, I wore a kimono for Page One. My sister would drop me off and Richard would drive me home. Believe me, it's difficult to drive a car wearing an obi.
One year, my mother asked Richard if he were hungry. Right. Richard not hungry? Never happens. She fixed him a dish that's often fixed for breakfast in Japan and he absolutely loved it. He asked for the recipe, which my mother gave him. Richard has told me that he still fixes it now and then.
For 33 years, I've had memories like these. And they'll last forever.
I'll see you there next year.
For me professionally, it's the best night of the year.
In the newsroom only Jenny Chandler and I have taken part in the awards show since the beginning now that Richard Hyatt retired. He was replaced this year by Tim Chitwood.
I've helped find judges. I've helped register students for their judging. I've been a judge. I've helped with registration the night of the ceremony. I've been the onstage wrangler, helping students get to where they're supposed to be. And I've been an onstage presenter.
I have missed only three actual ceremonies because of vacations. Once, I was in Florida, another time I was in Japan and the last time, in 2005, I was in Las Vegas. But even those years, I helped on judging day.
It's just the best night. The students are nervous and then when they win, they're so excited. One night, the girl who won in her category, was crying with joy. She said the money will help her go to college.
My friend Oz Roberts was a Page One nominee in art. He's now Aflac's second vice president in charge of special events. He's also the company's photo chief.
Every year, he complains to me that he'd like to be a judge but no one calls him. I told him he had to be in town to be able to judge! Maybe one year he can do that.
One of my favorite memories was the year that Chin Wang was a nominee. I worked with a lot of teenagers back in those days when we had a teen section and sponsored the Boy Scouts Explorer program for aspiring journalists. Chin was one of the kids who worked on the teen section. The ceremony was still in the Three Arts Theatre. She and her friend, Nami (I can't remember her last name) were in the lobby when I said good night to them. Nami was a nominee in the Foreign Language category.
I went on the after-party.
About 15 minutes after I got there, Lawrence Smith, who was the photo chief back then and organized Page One with Debbie King, walks in with Chin and Nami.
He asked me, "Do you know these girls?"
I said, "Of course."
Lawrence then said, "They're yours."
Huh?
Chin told me that Nami's parents thought that Chin's parents would take her home. Chin's parents thought Nami's parents would take her home. Both sets of parents left.
Lawrence, who was the last person at the theater, found them wandering around. And if you know that area, it's not a place for young girls at 10 p.m.
He asked them if someone would take them home. They said that I would!
Chin and Nami stayed and schmoozed with all of my colleagues and they were the hit of the party.
Of course, I took them home.
We don't have the after-party any more. Instead, we have a luncheon for the Ledger-Enquirer volunteers later in the month.
Like I said, it's the best night of the year for me.
Last night's ceremony was great. It was the first for our publisher, Valerie Canepa. She did a fantastic job! It was, as I said, Tim's first time as the "voice" of the show, and he did a great job, too.
But I miss Richard.
For several years, I wore a kimono for Page One. My sister would drop me off and Richard would drive me home. Believe me, it's difficult to drive a car wearing an obi.
One year, my mother asked Richard if he were hungry. Right. Richard not hungry? Never happens. She fixed him a dish that's often fixed for breakfast in Japan and he absolutely loved it. He asked for the recipe, which my mother gave him. Richard has told me that he still fixes it now and then.
For 33 years, I've had memories like these. And they'll last forever.
I'll see you there next year.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
The Springer Opera House adjusts 2008-09 season
As I go through menopause, it seems like a lot of other women in town are in the same situation.
How do I know this?
When the Springer Opera House announced its 2008-09 season, "Menopause, the Musical," was going to open the Studio II Series, season renewals went sky high.
Because of that, it is being moved to Mainstage.
Right now, the Springer is just taking renewals for season tickets. Wait 'til it opens up for new season ticket holders.
"It became clear that we might sell out 'Menopause' six months ahead of time if it stayed in Foley Hall," said Paul Pierce, the Springer's artistic director. "Of course, we want to make this hit show available to everyone who wants to see it so we had to make this decision now or it would be too late. We knew that 'Menopause' was going to be big. We just didn't know it would be this big."
So "Menopause" opens the season in September with "Stand By Your Man" opening in Foley. Well, kind of. Because the Tammy Wynette musical is too big for Foley, Pierce found another Wynette-related musical, "Why, Baby Why? The Music of George Jones and Tammy Wynette."
Here's the revised season:
MAINSTAGE SERIES
Menopause, the Musical: Sept. 18-21 and Sept. 25-28
Father of the Bride: Oct. 16-18, Oct. 23-26 and Oct. 30-Nov. 1
Hamlet: Jan. 22-24, Jan. 29-Feb. 1 and Feb. 5-7
Big River: March 5-7, March 12-15 and March 19-21
Red, White and Tuna: April 30-May 16
STUDIO II SERIES
Why, Baby, Why? The Music of George Jones and Tammy Wynette: Nov. 6-9 and Nov. 13-15
Charm School: April 16-19 and April 23-25
HOLIDAY SHOWS
Peter Pan: Nov. 28-Dec. 23
A Tuna Christmas: Dec. 4-23
Call 706-327-3688 for more information.
How do I know this?
When the Springer Opera House announced its 2008-09 season, "Menopause, the Musical," was going to open the Studio II Series, season renewals went sky high.
Because of that, it is being moved to Mainstage.
Right now, the Springer is just taking renewals for season tickets. Wait 'til it opens up for new season ticket holders.
"It became clear that we might sell out 'Menopause' six months ahead of time if it stayed in Foley Hall," said Paul Pierce, the Springer's artistic director. "Of course, we want to make this hit show available to everyone who wants to see it so we had to make this decision now or it would be too late. We knew that 'Menopause' was going to be big. We just didn't know it would be this big."
So "Menopause" opens the season in September with "Stand By Your Man" opening in Foley. Well, kind of. Because the Tammy Wynette musical is too big for Foley, Pierce found another Wynette-related musical, "Why, Baby Why? The Music of George Jones and Tammy Wynette."
Here's the revised season:
MAINSTAGE SERIES
Menopause, the Musical: Sept. 18-21 and Sept. 25-28
Father of the Bride: Oct. 16-18, Oct. 23-26 and Oct. 30-Nov. 1
Hamlet: Jan. 22-24, Jan. 29-Feb. 1 and Feb. 5-7
Big River: March 5-7, March 12-15 and March 19-21
Red, White and Tuna: April 30-May 16
STUDIO II SERIES
Why, Baby, Why? The Music of George Jones and Tammy Wynette: Nov. 6-9 and Nov. 13-15
Charm School: April 16-19 and April 23-25
HOLIDAY SHOWS
Peter Pan: Nov. 28-Dec. 23
A Tuna Christmas: Dec. 4-23
Call 706-327-3688 for more information.
DWTS
Poor Mario was booted off "Dancing with the Stars" last night.
And I really liked his jive. The judges didn't. And apparently, either did the fans.
I thought Marisa Jaret Winokur would be the one leaving the dance floor.
But my sister Dorothy crowed, "Fat girls unite!"
I think she has a point there.
There are more of us who are curvy like Marisa than svelte like professional dancer Edyta.
But I'm convinced there was a mess-up and she got my body!
And I really liked his jive. The judges didn't. And apparently, either did the fans.
I thought Marisa Jaret Winokur would be the one leaving the dance floor.
But my sister Dorothy crowed, "Fat girls unite!"
I think she has a point there.
There are more of us who are curvy like Marisa than svelte like professional dancer Edyta.
But I'm convinced there was a mess-up and she got my body!
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Counting down the days
It's really getting down the wire now. I've got less than a week before we leave for Japan.
I've gotten Piiko and Pookie Belle spayed. I think that's the correct term for fixing girl dogs! Chipper has to get his shots tomorrow. They'll be ready for boarding at Trish James' farm. I really don't know what they'll do because they've never been away from one of us before. I know when the girls spent the night last night at the vet's, they cried as they were taken away. This morning, they just clung to me when I picked them up.
Of course, I might be crying as I leave them with Trish. I'll know they'll be in good hands.
I think we've got all our shopping done.
Fred announced that what he's wearing is what he's taking. He was wearing a Georgia Bulldogs shirt, shorts and tennis shoes. I surely hope Cheryl packs for him.
We'll have a packing party Sunday night for all of our checked bags. After Sunday, it's either being carried on the plane or left behind.
I think I'm more stressed out for this trip than the other two I took.
Probably because there are seven of us going, instead of just me and my mother.
Like I said, we'll see if we're still talking to each other when we get back!
The countdown continues!
I've gotten Piiko and Pookie Belle spayed. I think that's the correct term for fixing girl dogs! Chipper has to get his shots tomorrow. They'll be ready for boarding at Trish James' farm. I really don't know what they'll do because they've never been away from one of us before. I know when the girls spent the night last night at the vet's, they cried as they were taken away. This morning, they just clung to me when I picked them up.
Of course, I might be crying as I leave them with Trish. I'll know they'll be in good hands.
I think we've got all our shopping done.
Fred announced that what he's wearing is what he's taking. He was wearing a Georgia Bulldogs shirt, shorts and tennis shoes. I surely hope Cheryl packs for him.
We'll have a packing party Sunday night for all of our checked bags. After Sunday, it's either being carried on the plane or left behind.
I think I'm more stressed out for this trip than the other two I took.
Probably because there are seven of us going, instead of just me and my mother.
Like I said, we'll see if we're still talking to each other when we get back!
The countdown continues!
Monday, May 5, 2008
Strawberries!
Two weeks ago, after I judged the Georgia Strawberry Festival's cook-off in Reynolds, Ga., my sister Nancy and I walked around the festival grounds.
On the way back to the car, I stopped and bought 5 lbs. of strawberries.
When I got home, I cleaned then and we ate almost a pound in one sitting.
They were so good.
I went to the grocery store the other night and bought some more.
They could not compare to the ones we had in Reynolds. The ones in the store are shipped from somewhere. They were as pretty as the ones we bought here, but they tasted like nothing. I ended up dipping them in condensed milk. I know, not too healthy!
I just got off the phone with Libby Bond, the woman who runs the cook-off. She said the strawberries are just off their peak, but they're still good. She said this year's crop have been the best she's tasted in a long time.
Libby also said they'll still have strawberries until about the first week of June.
So this weekend, you might want to go to Reynolds and buy some strawberries.
You're gonna love 'em!
On the way back to the car, I stopped and bought 5 lbs. of strawberries.
When I got home, I cleaned then and we ate almost a pound in one sitting.
They were so good.
I went to the grocery store the other night and bought some more.
They could not compare to the ones we had in Reynolds. The ones in the store are shipped from somewhere. They were as pretty as the ones we bought here, but they tasted like nothing. I ended up dipping them in condensed milk. I know, not too healthy!
I just got off the phone with Libby Bond, the woman who runs the cook-off. She said the strawberries are just off their peak, but they're still good. She said this year's crop have been the best she's tasted in a long time.
Libby also said they'll still have strawberries until about the first week of June.
So this weekend, you might want to go to Reynolds and buy some strawberries.
You're gonna love 'em!
Friday, May 2, 2008
Music in the Library
Last year, with the help of the Columbus State University Schwob School of Music, The Columbus Public Library began what became a popular series called "Sonatas and Tea."
The series will be at 3 p.m. May 9, May 16, May 23 and May 30 in the library at 3000 Macon Road.
You may bring your favorite teacup. The library will provide tea and other light refreshments.
Kristen Hansen, associate professor of horn at the Schwob School, will perform works by Telemann, Beethoven, Rheinberger, Hindemith and Pilss.
"Kristen Hansen is a wonderful teacher and musician," said Alice Budge, president of the Muscogee County Friends of Libraries."Her sessions are interactive, informative and lively. Come see and hear for yourself."
Each concert features a sonata from a noted musical period:
May 9: "In The Baroque," features Telemann's "Sonata a tre" for horn, recorder and continuo
May 16: "In The Classical," features Beethoven's "Sonata in F for Horn and Piano."
May 23: "In The Romantic," features Rheinberger's "Sonata in E-flat."
May 30: "In The Modern," features Hindemith's "Sonata in F" and Pilss' "Sonata-allegro."
The concerts are free.
Call 706-243-2669.
The series will be at 3 p.m. May 9, May 16, May 23 and May 30 in the library at 3000 Macon Road.
You may bring your favorite teacup. The library will provide tea and other light refreshments.
Kristen Hansen, associate professor of horn at the Schwob School, will perform works by Telemann, Beethoven, Rheinberger, Hindemith and Pilss.
"Kristen Hansen is a wonderful teacher and musician," said Alice Budge, president of the Muscogee County Friends of Libraries."Her sessions are interactive, informative and lively. Come see and hear for yourself."
Each concert features a sonata from a noted musical period:
May 9: "In The Baroque," features Telemann's "Sonata a tre" for horn, recorder and continuo
May 16: "In The Classical," features Beethoven's "Sonata in F for Horn and Piano."
May 23: "In The Romantic," features Rheinberger's "Sonata in E-flat."
May 30: "In The Modern," features Hindemith's "Sonata in F" and Pilss' "Sonata-allegro."
The concerts are free.
Call 706-243-2669.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
The RiverCenter for the Performing Arts announces its 2008-09 season
The 2008-09 RiverCenter for the Performing Arts season has everything from opera and ballet to a jazz big band and Gilbert & Sullivan operetta to the Neville Brothers and Natalie Cole.
"I think it's a great season . . . that's if everything falls into place," said executive director Enoch Morris with a laugh. "Things like this come together like a great, big crossword puzzle."
I think it's a great season, too.
The Variety Series includes pop/jazz singer Cole with the ever-popular Mannheim Steamroller's Christmas show and Ricky Skaggs' Skaggs Family Christmas. Returning from the 2004-05 season are the Ten Tenors, the Australian singing group that blends classic opera arias with popular songs.
I had tickets that concert, but for some reason, I couldn't go. I sent one of my sisters with my mother. They both loved it.
Another big-name group coming in the Variety Series are the Neville Brothers and Dr. John. Both the Nevilles and Dr. John are quintessential New Orleans musical acts.
The new series is called "The Edge Series," and offers a different take on familiar musical genres. Opening that series is a Latin jazz group Tiempo Libre on Oct. 4, followed by a "Stomp"-like act called Scarp Arts Music. Then a modern dance company, "Ronald K. Brown Evidence" and the Mingus Big Band fill out that series.
"That's what gets you very excited," Morris said of the modern dance company. "It's not the big pop singers that you know bring in masses of people. It's the fun, artistic events. Those are the things that get me jazzed."
He's been working with Shirantha Beddage, the director of jazz studies in the Columbus State University Schwob School of Music, to bring back the CSU Jazz Festival. The Mingus Big Band will anchor that festival.
Paul Vander Gheynst, the retired director of jazz studies at CSU, used to do a huge jazz festival back in the 1980s. It's great news to hear that it's coming back.
Here's the information on the season.
SERIES AND TICKET INFORMATION
All shows are at 7:30 p.m. in the Bill Heard Theatre, except for Cantus Columbus Christmas, which is in Legacy Hall. The Knology Discovery Series start at 7 p.m. Season tickets will go on sale in June. Single tickets go on sale in August.
VARIETY SERIES
An evening with Natalie Cole: Oct. 18
L.A. Theatre Works: Recreating Orson Welles' radio broadcast of H.G. Wells' "War of the Worlds" and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Lost World," Nov. 1
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas: Nov. 22
A Skaggs Family Christmas: Dec. 5
The Neville Brothers and Dr. John: Feb. 26
Matt Dusk: March 6
The Ten Tenors: A return engagement by the Australian singers, May 19
Season subscription: $214-$280
CLASSICS SERIES
Pirates of Penzance: By the Gilbert & Sullivan Players, Nov. 14
The Irish Tenors: Dec. 6
Cantus Columbus Christmas: Dec. 22
Aida: By Teatro Lirico d'Europa, Jan. 31
Estonian National Symphony Orchestra: March 12
Don Quixote: By the Russian National Ballet Theatre, April 14
Season subscription: $191-$220
KNOLOGY DISCOVERY SERIES
The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley: Oct. 30
Seussical: Nov. 21
Junie B. Jones: March 19
Bob the Builder: April 28
Season subscription: $44-$74
THE EDGE SERIES
Tiempo Libre: Oct. 4
Scrap Arts Music: Oct. 28
Ronald K. Brown/Evidence, One Shot: Feb. 17
Mingus Big Band: April 3
Season subscription: $99
SPOTLIGHT SPECIALS
Kenny Loggins: Sept. 18
Drumline: Jan. 30
Season subscription: None; single tickets only
Box office: 706-256-3612.
"I think it's a great season . . . that's if everything falls into place," said executive director Enoch Morris with a laugh. "Things like this come together like a great, big crossword puzzle."
I think it's a great season, too.
The Variety Series includes pop/jazz singer Cole with the ever-popular Mannheim Steamroller's Christmas show and Ricky Skaggs' Skaggs Family Christmas. Returning from the 2004-05 season are the Ten Tenors, the Australian singing group that blends classic opera arias with popular songs.
I had tickets that concert, but for some reason, I couldn't go. I sent one of my sisters with my mother. They both loved it.
Another big-name group coming in the Variety Series are the Neville Brothers and Dr. John. Both the Nevilles and Dr. John are quintessential New Orleans musical acts.
The new series is called "The Edge Series," and offers a different take on familiar musical genres. Opening that series is a Latin jazz group Tiempo Libre on Oct. 4, followed by a "Stomp"-like act called Scarp Arts Music. Then a modern dance company, "Ronald K. Brown Evidence" and the Mingus Big Band fill out that series.
"That's what gets you very excited," Morris said of the modern dance company. "It's not the big pop singers that you know bring in masses of people. It's the fun, artistic events. Those are the things that get me jazzed."
He's been working with Shirantha Beddage, the director of jazz studies in the Columbus State University Schwob School of Music, to bring back the CSU Jazz Festival. The Mingus Big Band will anchor that festival.
Paul Vander Gheynst, the retired director of jazz studies at CSU, used to do a huge jazz festival back in the 1980s. It's great news to hear that it's coming back.
Here's the information on the season.
SERIES AND TICKET INFORMATION
All shows are at 7:30 p.m. in the Bill Heard Theatre, except for Cantus Columbus Christmas, which is in Legacy Hall. The Knology Discovery Series start at 7 p.m. Season tickets will go on sale in June. Single tickets go on sale in August.
VARIETY SERIES
An evening with Natalie Cole: Oct. 18
L.A. Theatre Works: Recreating Orson Welles' radio broadcast of H.G. Wells' "War of the Worlds" and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Lost World," Nov. 1
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas: Nov. 22
A Skaggs Family Christmas: Dec. 5
The Neville Brothers and Dr. John: Feb. 26
Matt Dusk: March 6
The Ten Tenors: A return engagement by the Australian singers, May 19
Season subscription: $214-$280
CLASSICS SERIES
Pirates of Penzance: By the Gilbert & Sullivan Players, Nov. 14
The Irish Tenors: Dec. 6
Cantus Columbus Christmas: Dec. 22
Aida: By Teatro Lirico d'Europa, Jan. 31
Estonian National Symphony Orchestra: March 12
Don Quixote: By the Russian National Ballet Theatre, April 14
Season subscription: $191-$220
KNOLOGY DISCOVERY SERIES
The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley: Oct. 30
Seussical: Nov. 21
Junie B. Jones: March 19
Bob the Builder: April 28
Season subscription: $44-$74
THE EDGE SERIES
Tiempo Libre: Oct. 4
Scrap Arts Music: Oct. 28
Ronald K. Brown/Evidence, One Shot: Feb. 17
Mingus Big Band: April 3
Season subscription: $99
SPOTLIGHT SPECIALS
Kenny Loggins: Sept. 18
Drumline: Jan. 30
Season subscription: None; single tickets only
Box office: 706-256-3612.
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