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Pictures and Musings from New York City

Beatles Quiz: Program from Beatles concert at Carnegie Hall 1964: Spot the Error!

Auditioning for a Liberty Mutual Ad

Capitalism’s Answer to Anxiety and Depression in Today’s Society

Plaque on Park Avenue and 37th Street honoring Mary Lindley Murray, a Revolutionary War Hero who served tea to General Howe’s troops, delaying their pursuit of George Washington’s troops and saving the nation. Why don’t we drink tea honoring this beverage that saved the Union?

The first piano from 18th century Italy (Pianoforte, Bartolemeo Cristofori 1655-1731). Marked the beginning of the decline of the Harpsichord Industry.

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Protests: Then and Now: History Matters

Reflecting on the recent surge of protests on college campuses regarding the Israeli-Gaza conflict, I’m struck by the echoes of past demonstrations. Having been both a participant in earlier protests and now an observer of current events, I can’t help but draw on my own experiences to shed light on the similarities and profound differences between the two.

Protest movements start with a belief and idea, challenged and changed by special interests and ultimately hardened by money, mobs and weaponry.

In the 1970s, I was actively involved in protests against U.S. Foreign Policy during the Vietnam War. At that time, like many others, my understanding of the conflict was shaped by what I was taught in high school and what I saw in the media. The prevailing narrative portrayed Communist Vietnam as a dire threat to Southeast Asia and the American way of life, invoking the Domino Theory to justify U.S. intervention.

However, my perspective shifted when I entered college and was exposed to different viewpoints, particularly through the teachings of professors at New York University. They challenged the credibility of the Domino Theory, pointing to evidence that contradicted the official narrative. This newfound knowledge had profound implications, especially for those of us who were of draft age, as it exposed the true motivations behind U.S. involvement in Vietnam: financial gain for military manufacturers and the perpetuation of the military-industrial complex. 

Moreover, my involvement in protests during that time exposed me to the harsh reality of government suppression and violence. Instances like the infamous clashes in Chicago and Washington D.C.(where I had a serving of tear gas)  served as stark reminders of the lengths to which those in power would go to quell dissent.

Fast forward to today’s protests on college campuses, and I can’t help but draw parallels and differences to what is occurring now.  As a former student of USC Medical School and a prior employee at Columbia University, I know and experienced the historical Jewish influences in both institutions. Given this background, it is disquieting, witnessing the alarming rise of anti-Semitic rhetoric and the uncritical support for the Palestinian cause, often coupled with indirect endorsements of Hamas, a terrorist group defined by the U.S. and neighboring Arab nations.

This shift in discourse is puzzling, especially given the historical significance of Judaism in intellectual and collegiate life. It seems that the true history of Zionism, born out of a response to European colonialism and centuries of Jewish persecution, has been conveniently overlooked or distorted. Similarly, the violence perpetrated against Jewish communities in Palestine during British rule has been swept under the rug, along with Israel’s defensive actions against relentless attacks by neighboring Arab states.

One cannot ignore the role of financial interests in shaping these narratives. Arab states, particularly Qatar, have poured significant funds into academic institutions, influencing discourse and faculty appointments and fostering pro-Palestinian sentiments as well as funding the underground tunnels and offensive weapons used by Hamas against the State of Israel.. As a result, Israel, once seen as a beacon of hope born out of the ashes of the Holocaust, is now portrayed as an oppressive state in the eyes of many on college campuses.

Yet amidst the rhetoric and polarization, it’s important to remember the human cost of the conflict. Innocent Palestinians suffer due to their leadership’s prioritization of weaponry over education and development, while Israel faces constant threats to its existence and is forced to adopt a more conservative approach, including rejecting the two-state solution.

Ultimately, what’s needed is rational governance and a commitment to dialogue and compromise from all sides. Only then can we hope to pave the way for lasting peace in the Middle East, where the safety and well-being of all its inhabitants are prioritized above all else.

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Bison and Bullets: A Tale of Conservation at Camp Pendleton

In the tapestry of my passions, woven with threads of American history, fascination for large North American mammals, and a penchant for irony, a unique story unfolded during my visit to Camp Pendleton. It was there that I discovered the intriguing tale of the bison project, a narrative that spans decades and involves the resilience of a species nearly brought to extinction.

For decades, I have harbored a profound respect for bison. From childhood encounters at the Bronx Zoo to thrilling wildlife sightings in Yellowstone National Park, I have always been captivated by their strength and resilience. However, their journey in America has been fraught with hardship. Once roaming the Great Plains in millions, their numbers dwindled to near extinction by the late 19th century due to excessive hunting and habitat loss.

Fortunately, the 20th century witnessed a concerted effort towards bison conservation, leading to their gradual resurgence. Yet, California was not typically considered part of their natural range. This is where the story of Camp Pendleton’s bison takes an unexpected turn.

In the 1970’s the San Diego Zoo partnered with Camp Pendleton to establish a breeding program with the introduction of Adam and Eve, a pair of bison. Despite the seemingly incongruous setting of a military base, this program proved immensely successful. Over the years, the herd has flourished, with over 150 bison now roaming the hills and mesas of Camp Pendleton.

Their primary habitat lies near the artillery range, offering a stark contrast to the sounds of military exercises. As a Marine soldier and fellow golfer shared, “We often have to stop shooting practice while the bison graze through the area. They have no natural predators here, except for the occasional golf ball or shell fragment.”

This observation resonated deeply. Witnessing these majestic creatures thrive under the protection of the very institutions that once played a role in their historical decline served as a powerful reminder of our evolving relationship with nature. The story of the Camp Pendleton bison serves as a beacon for hope, reminding us that even in the midst of human activity, nature can find a way to adapt and thrive.

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“A Journey Through Israel: Reflections on Past, Present, and Hopes for Peace”

In the summer of 1972, at the age of 19, I found myself in Bror Chayill, a kibbutz in Southern Israel, tending to cows, cleaning chicken coops, and working on the floors of a ceramic factory. The kibbutz was located several miles away from the Gaza Strip, where recent unspoken atrocities had taken place. At that time, the kibbutz was a melting pot, attracting travelers from Japan, Europe, and Brazilian Jews seeking solace from the horrors of the Holocaust and embracing a multi-ethnic experience.

Among the residents were Sabras, Israeli-born natives, who had recently completed their service in the Air Force during the 1967 war when Israel was attacked by Syria, Egypt, and Jordan. A year later, a similar conflict erupted, claiming lives both in the kibbutz and beyond.

In 1999, I returned to Israel with my family and had the opportunity to explore the region with an Israeli guide named Gaddy, who had Palestinian friends. We visited various Islamic sites, including the Dome of the Rock, where a Palestinian caretaker pointed out the shared historical origins of Judaism and Islam. We also ventured into Hebron in the West Bank, dining at a Palestinian restaurant adorned with a portrait of Yasir Arafat. The owner spoke of ambitious plans for Hebron, envisioning a bustling town with hotels, casinos, and religious sites to attract millions of tourists from around the world.I calculated the short distances to Hebron from the population centers of Europe, Asia and the Middle East and the billions of people across the planet that identified with the great religions: Christianity, Islam and Judaism and nodded my head that his predictions were likely to be true. Sadly, these dreams were shattered by the eruption of the second intifada a year later, resulting in loss and suffering on both sides.

A decade after that, my son pursued medical education in Tel Aviv, and we endured tense moments during Scud missile attacks by Hamas from Gaza. By then, Hamas had solidified its control over Gaza and continued to threaten Israel, particularly the areas near Bror Chayill.

I find it ironic that Palestinians and the American Left lay claim to the moral high ground of repatriation against Jewry without acknowledging the persecution Jews have endured over two millennia. the Persian and Roman exile from Israel, the deportation of Jews from England in the 14th century, the Inquisition, murder and displacement of Jews from Spain and the Iberian Peninsula in the 15th century, the pogroms, forced servitude and murders in Russia and the Austrian-Hungarian Empire in the 18th and 19th century and the Holocaust in the 20th century. The story repeats itself ad nauseum: a minority (Jewry) confronting a majority who needs a scapegoat (i.e. reason for the Black Death in Europe in the 14th century, loss of World War I and runaway inflation in Germany in the 1920’s) who can intimidate, suppress, murder and steal their culture and physical goods without repercussion. 

 The cycle of minority persecution, scapegoating, and violence against Jews repeats throughout history, from ancient exiles to the Holocaust. It’s a sad reality that in the face of radical religious factions driven by zealotry, defense of Israel becomes a necessary course of action.

My heart aches for the innocent lives lost on both sides of this enduring conflict. As a student of history, I believe that countering religious zealotry, which seeks the annihilation of Jews, necessitates defending Israel. I remain hopeful that one day, reasonable minds will prevail, allowing Hebron to thrive as a peaceful and prosperous destination for people of all religions to enjoy.

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Use It or Lose It: Keeping Your Youthful Gait

Ah, behold the epic saga of my grandson’s adventure into bipedal glory! With all the charm of a circus performer in training, he struts his stuff at a mere 1 ½  years old. From daring steps to mind-boggling acrobatics, he’s the superstar of our grandparent galaxy. We bask in the glory of his feats, as if his milestones were gold medals, and we’re the proud fan club on the sidelines, waving oversized foam fingers.

But wait, as the years stack up like pancakes, so do the struggles at the other end of life’s conveyor belt. Enter the geriatric experience – where once-easy skills now play hide and seek with our memories. Picture me, preparing to enlighten some young medical students about the art of “falls in the elderly.” Little did I know, my own walking escapades would become the star of the show.

“Decreased proprioception,” I declaimed, feeling quite the wise sage. “Ankles that flex like uncooperative door hinges and a big toe clearance that screams ‘trip me if you dare’.” But that wasn’t the end of my aging acrobatics; oh no, there’s more. Numbness, tingling, and muscles that have taken a sabbatical joined the party, making sure my gait resembled a comedy skit more than a dignified strut.

Still, I fancied myself quite the septuagenarian athlete. Treadmill trekking, skiing (albeit a bit more ‘controlled falling’ these days), hiking, and golfing – I had a fitness arsenal that could make even a personal trainer raise an eyebrow. Then came the showdown in the Utah golfing arena. Another septuagenarian, a golfing legend in his own right, launched a golf ball into the stratosphere while mine stuttered like a reluctant rocket. My ball decided to take a scenic route through rocks and pine trees, like it was on a woodland adventure.

“Lost ball,” I mumbled in defeat, dropping another on the fairway. But behold, my fellow septuagenarian turned out to be a real-life action hero. With the agility of a mountain goat and the fearlessness of a squirrel on caffeine, he bounded up the hill, leaping over boulders and obstacles with the grace of a ballet dancer. “How do you stay so spry?” I gasped, amazed. His answer? A casual, “Oh, just thirty years on the search and rescue team in Salt Lake City.” In other words, decades of extreme skiing, hiking to the moon (or at least 10,000 feet), and kayaking through rapids that could give a roller coaster a run for its money.

Ah, let’s talk about the great divide in our mastery levels – I, the illustrious explorer of New York City sidewalks and conqueror of Florida bar stool acrobatics, and he, the daring daredevil of Wasatch Mountain’s icy slopes and altitude-extraordinaire. It’s like comparing a slightly mischievous squirrel to a high-altitude superhero with extra red blood cells for added oomph. Yes, I was grounded at sea level, while he practically lived in the clouds.

So, the big question arose – could practicing the fine art of pedestrianism in quirky situations bring back the glory days? Armed with my trusty hiking poles, I embarked on an epic quest: the Stewart Cascade Trail in Sundance, Utah. A mere 3 ½ miles, you say? A paltry 617-foot elevation gain? Well, let me regale you with tales of fallen Norway Spruce that wanted to trip me, streams that seemed to play tag with my feet, and mud that had a vendetta. Each step was a calculated gamble – like a dance with destiny. Will the limestone rock be a solid partner, can my hip flexors outsmart this tree branch’s sneak attack, should I leap like a gazelle or wade like a water buffalo through that stream?

Three hours later, I emerged – battered, not broken, weary as a sloth on a Monday morning, and feeling like a 21st-century version of Kit Carson (minus the wild frontier, plus the determination to conquer nature’s hurdles). And guess what? A few more trails later, I discovered that maneuvering stairs, sauntering on sidewalks, and even the most mundane urban escapades were suddenly a breeze. I had transformed from pavement pauper to sidewalk swashbuckler!

So here’s the grand revelation: practice, my friends, is the enchanted elixir of youth. Venture to the mountains, ponder each step like it’s a piece of a grand puzzle, and who knows? Someday you might just be the sprightly counterpart to your gravity-defying grandson. Until then, let the sidewalks tremble at the approach of your rejuvenated footsteps!

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Ode to the Hot Dog

Oh, savory delight, the humble hot dog,

A taste that transcends time, an American emblem.

In Times Square’s bustling scene, I savored you,

Nathan’s masterpiece, as I toiled on Broadway’s stage.

As a part-time employee in that bustling space,

Where documents flew and deadlines gave chase,

Amidst the chorus of keys and whirring machines,

I found solace in your presence, your flavors serene.

But it was on July 4th, in Dobbs Ferry, I recall,

My first encounter with you, a revelation, overall.

At my uncle’s house, laughter filled the air,

As I sank my teeth into a grilled Hebrew National, rare.

I listened to Mel Allen’s voice on a transistor radio,

His iconic commentary filled the air with a vibrant glow.

As the hot dog sizzled on the grill, a symphony of flavors,

His voice painted the scene, enhancing the savors.

Amidst family and friends, laughter filled the space,

The transistor radio playing, a joyful embrace.

Dobbs Ferry’s charm, the hot dog’s savory bliss,

A symphony of summer, a moment not to miss.

In the sweet voice of Mel Allen, the stadium would sway,

As he announced a Mantle home run, “going, going, gone,” he’d say.

Toasted buns, untoasted buns, a debate so grand,

A choice that divides, across this great land.

Yet, as I bit into your warmth, the bun held you close,

A perfect union, each flavor enhancing the other’s dose.

Oh, hot dog, your history we must embrace,

From street carts to ballparks, a cherished place.

A symbol of immigrants’ dreams and endeavors,

Your origins intertwined with American treasures.

From German immigrants’ humble sausages, they say,

You were born in the streets of New York, they portray.

From Coney Island’s Nathan’s to Times Square’s allure,

You’ve become a culinary icon, timeless and pure.

So, let us raise a bun, a condiment-laden cheer,

To the hot dog, beloved, let its legacy be clear.

In each bite we take, a taste of history is found,

A culinary masterpiece, forever renowned.

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Hiking the Dawn to Armstrong Trail: Where Nature Meets Tech in Perfect Harmony

My hiking boots and poles touched down on the Dawn to Armstrong Trail in Park City, Utah, my absolute favorite hiking destination! Picture a trail where snows and rains have conspired to create a floral paradise, painting the landscape with an explosion of colors. And guess what? This trail has a little something extra to offer besides Mother Nature’s charms – modern technology! So, lace up your boots, charge your devices, and join me on this tech-infused adventure through the wonders of the Dawn to Armstrong Trail.

Blooming Wildflowers: As I set foot on the trail, my eyes widened with delight. The recent snows and rains had cast a spell, and the wildflowers responded by bursting into bloom with such enthusiasm that even the most seasoned botanists would be envious. Golden Columbine, Woods’ rose, Common Pacific Pea, Sticky Geranium, Wasatch Penstemon, and Pacific Ninebark paraded their colors, turning the trail into a living tapestry. Thankfully, I had my trusty sidekick, the Picture This app, to help me identify each flower. With a snap and a click, I became a botanist extraordinaire. Move over, Fremont and Ogden!

Symphony of Bird Calls: As I ventured deeper into the trail, a delightful cacophony of bird songs enveloped me. The Yellow Warbler, Chipping Sparrow, Western Tanager, and Black-Headed Grosbeak took center stage, performing their avian concert with gusto. How did I know who was who? Well, I whipped out my virtual maestro, the Merlin Bird ID app, which analyzed their melodious tunes and provided me with front-row seats to the avian symphony. I couldn’t help but imagine President Theodore Roosevelt himself tapping his foot to the beat, although I doubt he had access to such technology back then.

Tech Guides the Way: Amidst the lush scenery and melodious serenade, I realized that staying on track was crucial. Enter AllTrails, my digital hiking guru. With its comprehensive maps, trail descriptions, and weather updates, it kept me from getting lost and even warned me about the occasional lightning risks. AllTrails had my back, ensuring I wouldn’t end up as a character in a survival reality show. So, armed with my smartphone and a good sense of humor, I embraced the harmony of nature and tech.

Conclusion: The Dawn to Armstrong Trail is a testament to the beauty of nature, but it’s also a shining example of how technology can enhance our experiences. As I strolled along, Picture This transformed me into a wildflower expert, Merlin Bird ID made me a bird whisperer, and AllTrails guided me with the wisdom of a seasoned explorer. Who knew that 19th-century explorers and President Roosevelt could be upstaged by the likes of an app?

So, dear hiker, don’t hesitate to embrace the wonders of technology while immersing yourself in the wonders of the Dawn to Armstrong Trail. Let modern-day explorers like you use apps to become botanists, ornithologists, and expert navigators. Laugh, learn, and indulge in the perfect harmony between nature and tech as you create your own unforgettable adventure on this enchanting trail. Happy hiking!

Park City
Park City
Wasatch Penstemon
Wasatch Penstemon
Woods' Rose
Woods’ Rose
Zonal Geranium
Zonal Geranium
Armstrong Trail and King Con Ski Lift
Armstrong Trail and King Con Ski Lift
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Get Healthy: Adopt a Dog

It’s time to wash those hands, dodge doggy face licks, and keep the mud out of your home!” These timeless words of 1960’s wisdom from my mother still echo in my mind, though they’ve been contested thanks to the latest scientific findings presented at Digestive Disease Week. 

Prepare yourself for a mind-boggling journey into the world of science, where living with a fluffy animal is the secret to warding off inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune issues, allergies, and even mental health problems. Get ready for a glimpse into what a health care encounter in the 21st century might just look like. Trust me, it’s going to be a wild ride!

Scene 1: Dr. Barkster’s Office

Dr. Barkster (raising an eyebrow): “Mrs. Paw-some, forget about your traditional prescriptions, because I have a prescription that will blow your mind! Say hello to the furriest remedy out there – a dog!”

Mrs. Paw-some (taken aback): “A dog? But Doctor, won’t our house turn into a hairy chaos zone?”

Dr. Barkster (grinning): “Oh, Mrs. Paw-some, let me tell you, the wonders of fur-therapy are worth every lint roller in existence! Brace yourself for the fur-filled adventure I’m about to unfold.”

Scene 2: The Immune System Superhero

Dr. Barkster (striking a superhero pose): “Imagine a furry dog as your child’s immune system superhero, ready to tackle autoimmune diseases like a true champion! Recent studies show that early exposure to furry dogs can boost the immune system’s resilience, reducing the risk of developing autoimmune issues.”

Mrs. Paw-some (excited): “So, you’re saying a furry dog can be our child’s very own shield?”

Dr. Barkster (nodding): “Exactly! By bringing a dog into your family, we’re empowering your child’s immune system, one wag at a time!”

Scene 3: The Mental Health Marvel

Dr. Barkster (putting on a detective hat): “Hold on tight, because the mental health benefits of furry dogs will blow your mind! They’re like cuddly therapists with wagging tails. They offer unconditional love, endless belly rubs, and they’re the perfect built-in antidepressants!”

Mrs. Paw-some (laughing): “So, our dog will be our very own four-legged therapist?”

Dr. Barkster (smiling): “You got it! Dogs have this incredible ability to reduce stress, anxiety, and even improve social interactions. Plus, they’ll help your child develop empathy and a sense of responsibility.”

Scene 4: Finding the Paw-fect Match

Mrs. Paw-some (curious): “But Doctor, how do we find the right furry companion for our child’s optimal health?”

Dr. Barkster (serious yet humorous): “Ah, the quest for the paw-fect match! It begins with considering your child’s personality, activity level, and your family’s lifestyle. Is your child an energetic explorer or a snuggly bookworm? Are you a family of adventure seekers or more of a cozy homebody bunch?”

Mrs. Paw-some (enthusiastically): “We’re definitely a lively bunch!”

Dr. Barkster (chuckling): “Well then, a playful and energetic breed might be just the ticket! But don’t forget, shelter dogs are often paw-some choices too, so give them a chance to wiggle their way into your hearts!”

Scene 5: The Apocryphal Algorithm for Choosing the Perfect Breed

Dr. Barkster (with a mischievous smile): “Ah, Mrs. Paw-some, I have a little secret algorithm up my sleeve that can help you choose the perfect breed based on your child’s medical needs!”

Mrs. Paw-some (intrigued): “An algorithm? How pawsitively intriguing, Doctor! Do tell!”

Dr. Barkster (clearing his throat dramatically): “Behold, the Apocryphal Algorithm for Choosing the Perfect Breed!”

Allergy Avengers: If allergies are an issue, fear not! Look for hypoallergenic breeds like Poodles, Bichon Frises, or Portuguese Water Dogs. They’ll keep the sniffles at bay while providing endless cuddles.

Anxiety Alleviators: For anxiety relief, consider breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or Golden Retrievers. Their calm and gentle nature will soothe those frazzled nerves.

ADHD Energizers: If your child has energy to spare, go for breeds like Border Collies or Australian Shepherds. These energetic bundles of fur will keep up with all the endless activities and games.

Depression Defeaters: To combat the blues, breeds like Labradors or Beagles are perfect. Their playful antics and unwavering loyalty will bring smiles and joy to even the gloomiest of days.

Dr. Barkster (waving his hands like a magician): “And voila! The Apocryphal Algorithm presents you with a list of potential breeds to consider, tailored to your child’s medical needs. But remember, this algorithm is purely apocryphal, so be sure to consult with a professional before making any decisions!”

Mrs. Paw-some (laughing): “Doctor, you truly have a flair for the theatrical! Thank you for guiding us through this fur-filled journey.”

Scene 6: The Microbiome Marvels: Dogs, Soil Bacteria, and Healthier Homes

Dr. Barkster (raising an eyebrow): “Mrs. Paw-some, brace yourself for another mind-blowing discovery! Did you know that dogs can actually change the microbiome of humans to a healthier mix?”

Mrs. Paw-some (intrigued): “Dogs and microbiomes? That’s fascinating, Doctor! How does it work?”

Dr. Barkster (excitedly): “Hold on tight! When dogs dig in the soil, they unwittingly bring soil bacteria into our homes. And here’s the kicker: when they give their human housemates a loving lick, they introduce those beneficial bacteria into our bodies!”

Scene 7: The Soil Spectrum in the Apocryphal Algorithm

Dr. Barkster (adjusting his spectacles): “Now, let’s incorporate the magnificent world of soil into our Apocryphal Algorithm! Different soil types that dogs interact with can bring diverse bacteria, offering unique health benefits.”

Rich Loamy Licks: If your dog enjoys digging in nutrient-rich, loamy soil, they might introduce beneficial bacteria associated with improved digestion and nutrient absorption. Consider breeds like Labrador Retrievers or German Shepherds, known for their earthy explorations.

Sandy Salutations: Sandy soils bring their own set of health benefits. Breeds like Dalmatians or Greyhounds, who enjoy frolicking on sandy beaches or in sandboxes, may introduce bacteria associated with skin health and reduced allergies.

Clay Kisses: If your furry friend loves digging in clay-rich soil, they might bring in bacteria associated with a stronger immune system. Breeds like Airedale Terriers or Staffordshire Bull Terriers, known for their enthusiastic digging skills, might be just the companions for a clay-inspired microbiome boost.

Peaty Pooch Pals: Dogs fond of exploring areas with peat soil can introduce bacteria associated with improved mental health and reduced inflammation. Breeds like Border Terriers or Irish Setters, who enjoy hikes in boggy areas, might be the perfect peaty pooch pals.

Dr. Barkster (with a grin): “Remember, this soil-inspired algorithm is purely fictional but showcases the fascinating connection between dogs, soil bacteria, and our health.”

Mrs. Paw-some (laughing): “Doctor, you never cease to amaze! Our furry friends truly bring the magic of nature into our homes.”

Epilogue:

Dear readers, while the soil-inspired microbiome marvels may be an intriguing concept, the love, companionship, and joy a furry dog brings into our lives are undeniable. So, embrace the pawsitivity, let your child’s health thrive, and embark on an adventure with a four-legged friend who will not only leave paw prints on your hearts but potentially beneficial soil bacteria too! And remember, if you decide to welcome a furry companion into your home, make sure to consult with a healthcare professional to find the best fit for your family and always keep those lint rollers handy!

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Timing, Tempo and Rhythm

As I sit in front of the piano with its 88 keys, I feel challenged to produce a musical tune with my novice fingers. My online instructor keeps repeating: “Timing, tempo and rhythm.” How did Mozart and Stevie Wonder manage to master these skills? As I hear the NBA playoffs on TV, I realize that timing, tempo and rhythm are essential for many aspects of life, not just music. 

Timing, tempo, and rhythm – three little words that can mean the difference between life and death. In the twisted game of existence, they’re the cogs that turn the wheels, propelling us forward or leaving us behind in a trail of dust.

In sports, timing can be the difference between winning and losing, between victory and defeat. But it’s not just about being in the right place at the right time. As basketball coach John Wooden once said, “Be quick, but don’t hurry.” It’s about knowing when to make your move, when to strike, and when to hold back. Elvin Hayes, who played for the Houston Rockets in the 1970s, was known for listening to Smokey Robinson’s “Second That Emotion” before games. Hayes believed that the song’s upbeat tempo helped him get into the right mindset for the game. The late, great Kobe Bryant listened to Jay-Z, Beethoven and Journey to syncopate his court skills. 

Timing is a key ingredient that makes the jokes of Seinfeld, Chris Rock and George Carlin hilarious and transform a sigh into a belly laugh.

Tempo, on the other hand, is the heart of music. It’s the pulse that drives the beat, the speed at which we move through life. And just like a well-crafted melody, the tempo can evoke emotions we never knew existed. The faster the beat, the more frenzied we become. The slower the tempo, the more melancholic we feel. It’s a delicate balance, and one that can be manipulated to great effect.

But rhythm is the true master of our fate. It’s the pattern that underpins everything we do, the driving force that gives us purpose and direction. Whether it’s the rhythm of our breathing or the rhythm of our footsteps, it’s the metronome that keeps us moving forward. As writer Maya Angelou once said, “Everything in the universe has a rhythm, everything dances.”

Timing, tempo and rhythm are the foundations of our existence, the elements that shape the mysterious maze of life. Whether we’re making jokes or scoring points, playing music or dealing with our feelings, it’s these three little words that can lift us up or drag us down. So let’s harness the power of timing, the core of tempo and the master of rhythm. For by doing so, we’ll find the groove that leads us to success and keep us forever young!

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Digital Monopoly and Family Bliss

Picture this:  a family vacation in Park City, Utah and ten feet of snow.The ski slopes were pristine, the views were breathtaking, the ski and snowboard turns were on point and on edge. The family was having a great time. But, what brought us even closer, was something unexpected:  a highly competitive digital Monopoly game.

Yes, you heard that right.  Monopoly! The game where players buy and sell properties, build houses and hotels, and bankrupt each other. It’s not exactly what you would call a family bonding activity, right? But it turns out capitalism can be a social glue too.

The idea of playing Monopoly came as we sat in the living room and watched the Rocky Mountain snow pile up against the silhouette of the ski lift. Siri suggested that we look into  the digital version, and four clicks later, we had the Monopoly board streaming on the big screen. At first, I was skeptical. I mean, I had played Monopoly before, and I knew how intense it could get. But the group was game, and soon enough, we were all huddled around the monitor reading how to electronically roll the dice.

The game started off pretty innocently. We all picked our favorite game pieces (I went with the top hat, of course) and started buying properties. I delegated management to my younger son,  a real-life mergers and acquisitions attorney, who parlayed our portfolio into a few monopolies. Adrianne, my older son’s girlfriend, snagged all the railroads and piled up big time currency as we repeatedly landed on her railroad holdings. 

But things really started to heat up when my older son and his girlfriend, Adrianne, started negotiating over St. James Place. He was willing to buy it from her for $200, but she wanted to sweeten the deal. She suggested he throw in a pedicure at a spa in Miami and only then she might consider the sale of St. James Place.  Introducing a real-life aspect to the game left us all in hysterics.

As the game progressed, we all became more and more invested. We started making alliances and deals in an effort to outsmart each other. The bankruptcies started to pile up and the monocled, rich Uncle Pennybags began ruthlessly deleting the accounts of the moneyless, propertyless contestants.

 As the evening turned into a late night event only two players were still solvent: Adrianne declared victory based on a Fort Knox wad of cash and hotels on Boardwalk and Park Place and her real-life pedicure appointment already secured.  My younger son and I were not ready to concede and we await the final report from our forensic accountant. 

We all had a great time playing the game. It brought us closer together and we laughed and joked the whole time. It was a reminder that sometimes, it’s the unexpected and simple activities from days gone by that bring us together.

So, next time you’re on vacation with your family, consider breaking out the virtual Monopoly board. An old-fashioned game night might just bring you closer together. And who knows, you might even get a pedicure out of it.  It worked for Adrianne.