books
Worm, Edel Rodriguez A look into the life of Edel Rodriguez from escaping Cuba as a child, to a career as an international artist, to becoming an outspoken critic of the re-emergence of extremist American politics.
The Only One Left, Riley Sager Lizzie Borden has nothing on these folks. An intense, involved journey to discover who did it and WHY they did it?
In the Form of a Question, Amy Schneider an inside look into the life of the first trans Jeopardy champion. Honest reflections on a wild life journey.
Night Watch, Jayne Anne Phillips a deep dive into the post Civil War world. Intense and complicated.
An Evil Heart, Linda Castillo Sometimes a person’s loved ones are the last to know—or at least the last to acknowledge—a fault or weakness. page 198
music
Some lesser known albums that I have cherished over the years (all released before I was 20):
The Family That Plays Together, Spirit (1968) It was hard to decide which Spirit album to pick. My favorite group during my teen years. I hope this might get you started on a new listening journey. Fav: I Got a Line On You
Happy Trails, Quicksilver Messenger Service (1969) Pulsing blues tinged rock from 60’s San Francisco scene. I have no idea how many I played this in my bedroom on my GE Wildcat (just like the one at the top of the page) during high school. Fav: Who Do You Love (suite)
John B. Sebastian, John Sebastian (1970) Through beautiful folky, roots Sebastian, founding member of the Lovin’ Spoonful, helps as rock transitions from the 60’s to the 70’s. Don’t miss the list of guest artists. Fav: How Have You Been?
One Night Stand, Noel Paul Stookey (1973) Live recording from Carnegie Hall of a magical evening with Stookey, Paul from Peter, Paul and Mary, and friends. Fav: One Note Melody
viewing
Lessons in Chemistry Let’s be honest I want a dog like Six-Thirty, okay, I really want Six-Thirty. Feminism, racism, neurodivergence, science versus faith, suicide, predestination and a few other major life and cultural issues viewed in a context of the 1950’s.
People who don't ask questions have blind faith. And blind faith is the furthest thing from faith. Reverend Wakely, episode 5
American Symphony music might be able to save our troubled souls, and Jon Batiste is ready to show us how.
Even in life, if you're too comfortable you don't evolve. Jon Batiste
We both see survival as it's own creative act. Sulekia Jaouad
Trevor Noah: Where Was I My dad died in 1997. How I wish we could watch this one together. He would have found the ending perfect.
Killers of the Flower Moon finally saw it. Good on numerous levels. Still not sure we are learning the depth of injustice that undergirds our daily life and comforts.
Flora and Son A heartwarming story about music helping to bridge a strained relationship between a mother and her son.
NYAD What can you do? It appears to depend on how serious about doing something.
Maestro Honestly, I found it flat. So much opportunity, so little delivered.
pods
The Kids of Rutherford County A disturbing look into the juvenile justice(?) system in this county just outside of Nashville. Justice has not been achieved until it is truly justice for all, especially children. Thanks Mike.
the final Pete Carroll Show...this has been a month of seismic shock for Pac NW sports. Go to 16:30 to hear Pete talk about the culture he created and supports and how it is rooted in teaching and learning. Gold!
It's not always how well you teach. It's how well they learn. Pete
How will January 5th shape the 2024 election? Face it, this is a presidential election year. The politics will be annoying and unprecedented. January 6 needs to be understood and guide our choices.
Mary Chapin Carpenter on owing the process, personalizing mistreatment and weathering rejection. This closes with an email from Mary Chapin Carpenter that is sage advice for all going into 2024.
random (f)acts
Here’s a link to my recent piece: why do I Substack?
2023 was the first year in my near 70 years that I did not set foot in my home state of Oregon. I’m a bit sad about that one.
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