Saturday 9: Money

Saturday 9: Money (That's What I Want) 1959

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This lyrics mention "the birds and bees." Who told you about the facts of life?

A. I really don't remember. I don't recall having a conversation with my mother. It may have been my grandmother, and then just whatever I learned in school. 

 

2) Barrett Strong sings that love won't pay the bills. How do you handle bill paying? Do you set aside one day a month to take care of all your bills, or do you pay each one as it comes in? What's your system?

A. I usually pay them twice a month. When the bills come in, I write the date they are due on the outside of the envelope and put them in a special mail holder so I can see them. When I have several due before the 15th, I pay them. Then I pay the ones due at the end of the month. By the way, I can remember when I had 30 days to pay my electric bill. Now they give you two weeks. I suspect that was a deregulation change.

 

3) He refers to dollar bills as "lean greens." Can you think of any other euphemisms for money?

A. Greenbacks. Cash. Moolah.

4) April is tax time, so money is top-of-mind for us all. Do you do your own taxes, or do you seek the help of a professional?

A. I do an elaborate accounting of everything and then take that to the professional.

5) On this week's song, Barrett does a solid job on the vocals, and he handles the keyboards well. In addition to performing, he was a talented songwriter. One of his most popular compositions was "I Heard It Through the Grapevine," a song about a lover who listened to gossip and got some useful information. Have you ever been the subject of gossip? If yes, was there any truth to the rumor?

A. I imagine have been the subject of gossip many times. But I cannot think of anything specific at the moment. However, as a semi-public figure when I was a news reporter, I suspect I was fair game for various things.

 

6) He worked with Motown and its sister label, Tamla, for years, but when they moved their offices from Detroit to LA, he quit. Have you ever relocated for your career?

A. I have never relocated for my career.

7) In 1959, when "Money" was popular, Huckleberry Hound was a hit with young TV viewers in 1959. What was your favorite cartoon when you were a kid?

A. I loved Bugs Bunny. But I also liked Scooby Doo, Johnny Quest, and many others.

8) While children were enjoying daytime cartoons, their parents were discovering The Twilight Zone, which also premiered in 1959. Decades later, it's still being rerun on cable and streaming services. Are you a fan?

A. I watch it when I catch it on, which is infrequently. I doubt I have seen every episode.

 

9) Random question: Right now, would you prefer to grab a snack or take a nap?

A. Right now, I would probably prefer a snack.

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Saturday 9: Heart Like a Truck

Saturday 9: Heart Like a Truck (2022)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

 

1) In this week's song, Lainey Wilson longs to hit the open road. What do you yearn for this morning?

A. Peaceful resolution of a family matter.  

2) She says her heart runs on dreams and gasoline. What fuels you?

A. This is a hard question. My dreams and desires have been stomped on such much that I have mostly given up. I get up to take care of my husband and our home, and to try to be a good wife to him, so I guess my love for my fellow is what fuels me.

3) Lainey sings that her heart has been "drug through the mud." The correct past tense of "drag" is "dragged," but in parts of our country, "drug" is sometimes used. Can you think of any other grammatically incorrect song lyrics?

A. I can't get no satisfaction.

4) She tells us her truck could benefit from being dusted off and shined up. Could your vehicle use a little TLC?

A. My car could use a wash, yes.

5) Before making it big in country music, Lainey supported herself by doing odd jobs, including appearing as a Hannah Montana impersonator for kids' parties. What's the most unusual job you've held?

A. I don't know that any of my jobs were unusual. Being a news reporter is out of the 9-to-5 realm, but when I was working it wasn't an unusual job to have. In the future I think it won't exist as a job at all.

 

6) In addition to singing, Lainey has acted, appearing in 5 episodes of the series Yellowstone. Are you a fan of the show?

A. I watched a few episodes of season 1 of Yellowstone and found it too violent for me to handle.

 

7) She loves Southern comfort food like mac and cheese and biscuits and gravy. What's on the menu at your place this weekend?

A. Pork chops, if I can cook them so they are edible.

 

8) In 2022, when this song was on the charts, Queen Elizabeth II died at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. Have you ever been to Scotland?

A. I have never been to Scotland in this lifetime. According to my mother, when I was about three, I started telling her about a castle in Scotland where I lived and died. It scared her so much she made me stop talking about it. Apparently, I was a scullery maid who met a violent end.

 

9) Random question – Let's pretend you're back in kindergarten. Which of these would young you prefer: a toy kitchen set, kid-sized gardening tools, or a mini trampoline?

A. I would prefer the kid-sized gardening tools. I used to enjoy gardening when I was young and my bones didn't hurt so much.

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Saturday 9: Can't We Talk It Over

Saturday 9: Can't We Talk It Over (1950)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, The Andrews Sisters plead for verbal communication.  Is there someone you'd like to engage in a heart-to-heart conversation?

A. Yes, but I don't think doing it here on my blog would do much good.

 

2) They want to sit together for this talk. Think about the most recent personal conversation you had. Was it in person, over the phone, or via Zoom?

A. The most recent conversation I had was in person with my husband. Before that I had a text conversation, then a phone call from my husband. I haven't used Zoom since January, when I visited with my doctor when I was ill.

 

3) This week's tune was written by Victor Young. He was prolific, earning 22 Oscar nominations in 18 years. (His one win came after his sudden death at age 57.) Think about your friends and family. Who is the most active, productive person you know?

A. I think my brother has earned the title of most active, productive person I know at this moment. There are runner-ups, but he is definitely the winner.

 

4) The lyrics were written by Ned Washington, who is perhaps best remembered for "When You Wish Upon a Star" from Disney's Pinocchio. Do you believe, like Jiminy Cricket, that dreams come true?

A. I do not believe that dreams come true. Since most of my dreams are nightmares, that is probably a good thing. If you are talking about hopes or goals, sometimes they come true with work and a little luck.

 

5) This week's song is performed by The Andrews Sisters -- LaVerne, Maxine and Patty. Do you have siblings? If yes, are you the oldest, the middle child, or the baby?

A. I am the oldest of two children.

6) With more than 80 million records sold, the Andrews Sisters remain one of the most successful female vocal groups of all time. Name another girl group.

A. Heart. The Supremes. Blondie. 

 

7) In 1950, the year "Can't We Talk It Over" was released, we were introduced to the Peanuts comic strip. Without looking it up, do you know who created Peanuts?

A. Charles Shultz created Peanuts, and no, I did not have to look it up.

 

8) In 1950, most suitcases were hard sided rectangles, with no wheels and a small handle at the top. They came in colors like tan, copper, green and blue. What does your luggage look like?

A. I have soft-sided luggage with wheels and many pockets. It has been used so seldom that it probably needs replaced because it has dry-rotted. I haven't seen it in years. It's in the back of the closet.

9) Random question: Who was the last person to phone you? Did you pick up, or did it go to voice mail?

A. The last person to phone me was a solicitor who wanted to speak to my husband about farm crops for some survey. I picked it up. I could have answered his questions, probably, but didn't offer up the information, and hubs wasn't home.

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Saturday 9: Photograph

Saturday 9: Photograph (1973)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Ringo stumbles upon a photograph that reminds him of a lost love. Are there any photos displayed in the room you're in right now?

A. I have a calendar with a picture of yellow flowers on it, a copy of a painting by Van Gogh, a photograph I took of a flower with a honeybee in it, another picture I took of a sunrise over the Peaks of Otter, and a signed picture of Bonnie Raitt and another autographed by Charlie Sheen. I won those somehow over the Internet back in the 1990s and they have been in my office ever since. I don't particularly like Charlie Sheen, but I do like Bonnie Raitt.

2) While there are approximately 180 published songs credited to Lennon-McCartney, this is the only song written by Harrison-Starr. When you think of Ringo's old band, the Beatles, what's the first song that comes to mind?

A. "She's Leaving Home" from the Sergeant Pepper Lonely Heart's Club Band album.

 

3) George and Ringo wrote this song while on a yacht in the South of France. They, and their wives, had just attended Mick Jagger's wedding to Bianca in Saint Tropez and decided to take a little holiday together. What are your vacation plans for 2025?

A. I have no vacation plans for 2025.

 

4) At 5'8, Ringo was the shortest Beatle and the only one with blue eyes. How tall are you? What's your eye color?

A. I have about 5'2" tall and my eyes are hazel. They generally have a blue tint to them because I wear a lot of blue.

5) Ringo gave his first wife, Maureen, a one-of-a-kind birthday gift. Frank Sinatra recorded "The Lady Is a Tramp" with special lyrics, written just for her. Do you have anything that's personalized? (It could be a monogram on a scarf, it doesn't have to be as cool as a gift from Frank Sinatra.)

A. I have my press pass from long ago.

6) Ringo appeared as Mr. Conductor on Thomas the Tank Engine. He recorded the narration for the entire first season in just a week. Tell us what you did last week.

A. I went to the grocery store twice, I worried constantly, I did umpteen loads of laundry, fixed dinner every night, talked on the phone with friends, read a lot of news, and cried when no one was around.

7) As a boy in Liverpool, Ringo loved watching American westerns. Do you like cowboy movies/shows?

A. Not particularly. 

 

8) In 1973, when this song was a hit, former President Lyndon Johnson died. Who was President when you were a kid?

A. Kennedy was killed when I was 6 months old, so then Johnson, then Nixon. I vaguely remember Watergate. I remember Ford being president, and I was a senior in high school the day Ronald Reagan was shot.

 

9) Random question: When you woke up this morning, did you know the day and date (before looking at your phone)?

A. The day and date wasn't the first thing on my mind, but yes, I knew what the day and date was. I never look at my phone for that information. That's why I have a calendar and a clock hanging on my wall. Yes, I am old school.

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Saturday 9: Southside Irish

Saturday 9: Southside Irish (1984)

Not familiar with this week's song? Hear it here.

 

1. This week's song was chosen because it's something of an anthem in Chicagoland around St. Patrick's Day. Can you name another song that makes you think of St. Patrick's Day or Ireland?

A. O Danny Boy.

 

2. The Irish Choir sings that the "craic" is always best among the Windy City Irish. "Craic" is Irish for "fun" and "high spirits." Are you planning anything fun this weekend?

A. No. We are supposed to have severe bad weather. It's hunker down time.

3. They tell us that their fathers came over from Mayo, Cork and Donegal. Where did your ancestors hail from?

A. My ancestors are mostly European. My father's family has always said they came from Ireland, but my brother's DNA test thing says we're mostly from England.

4. The lyrics mention the rivalry between Chicago's two baseball teams. As Spring Training 2025 draws to a close, how do you feel about your baseball team's chances this season?

A. I don't have a baseball team.

 

5. The Chicago River is dyed green in celebration of St. Patrick's Day. Does your community do anything to special for the holiday?

A. There is a parade in the nearby city. As far as I know, that's it.

 

6. While this week's song focuses on the Irish population of Chicago, it's not the U.S. city with the highest percentage of citizens of Irish ancestry. According to the 2020 census, Boston is #1. Have you ever been to Boston?

A. I have never been to Boston.

7. On Monday, which is St. Patrick's Day, do you plan to wear green?

A. If I remember, I will wear green.

8. Clovers are a recognized symbol of St. Patrick's Day, and a four-leaf clover is believed to bring good luck. Have you ever seen a four-leaf clover?

A. I used to find them all the time in the yard, but I seem to have lost the knack for seeing them.

9. Black coffee with whiskey and whipped cream is Irish Coffee. What's your standard coffee order?

A. I don't drink coffee.

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Saturday 9: I Can Love Like That

Saturday 9: I Can Love You Like That (1995)

  

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This week's song is about a girl who grew up on the fairy tale Cinderella. The online teaching platform study.com says Cinderella has been remained popular for centuries because the moral is that kindness is a virtue that will be rewarded. As an adult, do you still believe that's true?

A. I would like to think it is true, but experience tells me otherwise. The mean, the greedy, the corrupt - their karma never comes around.

2) This girl also likes romantic movies. Think of your favorite screen couple. Did they live happily ever after?

A. I'm having trouble coming up with a favorite screen couple. The Von Trapps ended up happily ever after, I guess, from The Sound of Music.

3) While "I Can Love You Like That" was a Top Ten hit here, it reached #1 in the Canada and Zimbabwe. Could you find Zimbabwe on a globe?

A. Probably not without a lot of looking around.

4) The members of this week's group, All-4-One, hail from Mojave, California. July and August are the hottest months in Mojave, when the afternoon temperature hovers between 87º and 97º and often climbs to 100º+. Do you thrive or melt in hot weather?

A. I dislike weather extremes. I like it about 68 or 70 degrees with little wind.

5) After having several hits in the 1990s, All-4-One saw their popularity wane in the new millennium. While they never disbanded – and will be touring throughout 2025 – the members have pursued separate interests. For example, co-founder Delious Kennedy started a YouTube channel featuring interviews with celebrities from the 80s and 90s. Do you spend a lot of time on YouTube? If yes, what do you watch?

A. At the moment, I watch Jackie & Shadow, the eagles in California, feed their young (which is a little bloody and gory, so beware. They are predator birds, after all.). Sometimes I watch the Liberal Redneck, sometimes I watch music videos, sometimes guitar playing videos.

6) In 1995, when this week's song was popular, Michael Jordan "unretired" and returned to the Chicago Bulls. Tell us about a decision you wish you could undo.

A. I wish I had never quit my job in 1984. I was working as a legal secretary, and I left for stupid reasons, and I shouldn't have done that. If I'd stayed with it, we'd have been better off financially. I'd probably never have been a writer and never finished college, but I think it would have been the better route, in hindsight.

7) 1995 saw Pierce Brosnan as James Bond in GoldenEye. 007 was also played by Sean Connery, David Niven, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, and Daniel Craig. Do you have a favorite Bond?

A. Sean Connery is my favorite Bond. The others are all imposters.

8) One of McDonald's best-selling 1995 Happy Meals featured The Power Rangers. 30 years later, those Happy Meal action figures are still available on eBay. Have you recently purchased anything on eBay?

A. I last purchased something on eBay just after Christmas.

9) Random question – Which compliment would please you the most: to be smart, great looking, or likeable?

A. I would like to be complimented on all three, but if I must choose one, then I will be smart.

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Saturday 9: My Blue Heaven

Saturday 9: My Blue Heaven (1955)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) The music for "My Blue Heaven" was written by Walter Donaldson. Mr. Donaldson was a gifted piano player who used his talent to entertain the troops on leave during WWI. What's something you're naturally good at?

A. I'm good at music. I can pick up instruments fairly easily (with the exception of woodwinds and brass these days, my asthma can't handle those). If I can get Twinkle Twinkle Little Star out of something, I can play it.

2) The lyrics were written by George Whiting. He began his career on stage as a song-and-dance man. While touring, he met and fell in love with another singer on the bill. They went on to marry and have three daughters. Have you ever engaged in a workplace romance?

A. I have never engaged in a workplace romance. I have been assaulted at a workplace, but I don't think that counts.

3) In this song, Doris Day sings about a cozy home. Look around the room you're in. What makes it cozy?

A. Since I am in my office, I'm not sure one would call it cozy. It needs a good "heave ho" of all of my old records and things from when I was a news reporter. But the rest of the house is cozy. I decorate with earth tones - browns, off white, greens, with an occasional blue tossed in. We have an open concept living area (we called it a great room in 1987, when the house was built), so we're fashionable in that, I guess. 

4) For four consecutive years, Doris was the most popular film actress in the world, with fans flocking to theaters to see her. Is there an actor or actress whose presence in a movie or TV show makes you say to yourself, "I want to see that?"

A. I used to watch most things that had Sandra Bullock in them. I also was a big fan of Kate Jackson so I watched Charlie's Angels and The Scarecrow and Mrs. King. But now there aren't too many actors or actresses I follow. Lots of times I like them in one role but not in others. Orlando Bloom, for example, is great in Lord of the Rings, but I haven't cared much for him in other roles.

5) For all her film and music success, she found herself broke in the late 1960s. Her husband had mismanaged her fortune, something she didn't discover until after his sudden death. Do you know how much is in your checking account right now? (We're not asking the amount; just whether you know.)

A. I know how much money I have almost right down to the penny.

6) Away from performing, Doris' passion was animal welfare. At one point she shared her home with more than a dozen dogs and went on to establish the Doris Day Animal Foundation. Do any pets share your home?

A. Pets do not live in my house. My husband says the house is for people, the barn is for animals. But we only have cows so that is ok. Cows belong in the barn.

7) In 1955, when this song was a hit, cars came with AM radios, but they were pretty unsophisticated by today's standards. The car needed to be on and "warmed up" a bit before the signal was picked up and that signal could easily be lost if you were bouncing over rough terrain. Today most new cars come with Bluetooth so you can enjoy infotainment through your phone. Do you listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks, etc., as you drive?

A. I like to listen to audiobooks. I listen to them all the time, like when I'm folding clothes or doing other chores, and especially when I'm driving.

8) Also in 1955, the first McDonald's opened. Does your community have a McDonald's?

A. There is a McDonald's at the interstate that runs through the county. It's been there at least 30 years and I've probably eaten there 5 times. I have never been a fan.

9) Random question: How long have you known your newest friend?

A. Hmm. I guess about six years. Her name is Aila. I haven't seen her since before the pandemic, but we talk on the phone. She moved out of the area and so we don't see each other much. But before she left Botetourt, we had lunch about once a month.

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Saturday 9: Flowers

Saturday 9: Flowers (2023)
   
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.
 
1) In this song, Miley Cyrus sings about gold as though it represents the best. Do you more often wear gold or silver?

A. I tend to wear white gold or silver. My watch is always a mix of silver and gold.
 
2) She also sings the praises of buying herself flowers. Are there any cut flowers in your home right now?

A. I never have cut flowers in the house. I am allergic.
 
3) She tells us she's going to paint her nails cherry red. Do you handle your own mani/pedi, do you go to a salon, or do you just let your nails go natural?

A. My nails "go natural," in that I keep them trimmed very short. I don't wear any polish.

4) In 2019, Miley had vocal cord surgery, and her recovery required her to go weeks without uttering a sound. Would it be difficult for you to keep your lips zipped for a week?

A. I expect I would find it difficult to be quiet for a week.

5) Dolly Parton is Miley's godmother, and Miley singles Dolly out as the one who taught her "how to treat people well." Tell us about someone who was a positive influence on you.

A. My friend Cathy is a wonderful role model. She's true to her faith in word and deed.

6) She is a massive Elvis fan and swoons every time she watches Blue Hawaii because he professes his love for Maile, pronounced "Miley." What movie have you watched many times?

A. Under the Tuscan Sun (and you thought I was going to say Lord of the Rings, didn't you).
 
7) In 2023, when "Flowers" was released, actor Sir Michael Gambon died. Though he distinguished himself performing Shakespeare with the Royal National Theater, he is best known for playing Dumbledore in several Harry Potter movies. Who is your favorite Harry Potter character?

A. I am partial to Hermione in the Harry Potter franchise, although I think her ending was messed up. I do not believe she would have married Ronald Weasly.

8) 2023 was a busy year for England's Royal Family, with the crowning of King Charles III and the publication of Prince Harry's memoir, Spare. Do you have a favorite among the Windsors?

A. I do not do much royal family watching, so I have no favorite.

9) Random question: Do your siblings have children? If yes, are you close to them?

A. My brother has a stepson and two children. I am not particularly close to any of them, which I think is unfortunate, but it is what it is. I have a better relationship with my husband's sister's children.

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Saturday 9: Cupid

Saturday 9: Cupid (1961)

 

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

 

1) In this song, Sam Cooke enlists the help of Cupid, the Roman god of love, to help him get a girl. In Greek mythology, the god of love and lust has a different name. Do you know what it is?

A. Eros, I think. I am disturbed that I am not sure because I once was a whiz at Greek mythology, about 50 years ago.

 

2) Sam Cooke was inducted as a charter member into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The museum and hall are located in Cleveland, OH. Cleveland is proud of the six major museums featured on its website. When did you most recently visit a museum?

A. I visited the local history museum last. It was months ago.

3) Sam went to Wendall Phillips Academy, the same Chicago high school Nat King Cole attended. Can your high school claim any noteworthy alums?

A. Nobody comes to mind.

4) "Cupid" was released in 1961. One of the major news stories of that year was the death of Ernest Hemingway. Have you read any of his works?

A. I have, but it has been a long time (like college). 

  

Since February 14 was Valentine's Day...

 

5) Sweethearts, those small heart-shaped candies printed with messages like "Be Mine" and "Kiss Me," are top sellers this time of year. Did you enjoy them as a child? Do you enjoy them now?

A. I always liked them and would eat a box of them, but I haven't been in the store to buy any.

 

6) While Valentine's Day is popular in Mexico, it's celebrated a bit differently than it is here. For our neighbors to the south, it's a day for love and friendship, with no distinction between romantic, familial or platonic love. Do you tell your friends you love them? Or do you reserve "I love you" for your partner and family?

A. I tell my friends I love them. I don't think it's something you shouldn't say if you feel it.

7) In Poland, Valentine's Day, or Walentynki, is often celebrated with a gift of "tea and sweets" -- a tin of black tea paired with candy. Do you more often drink tea or coffee?

A. I never drank coffee. I used to drink tea.

 

8) One of London's top accounting firms did a study and reports that in England, Valentine's Day is a 52%/48% affair. 52% of the participants planned on buying at least one card or gift, while 48% did not expect to spend anything on Valentine's Day. This year, were you one of the 52% or the 48%?

A. I was one of the 48%, but my husband was one of the 52%. Since I'd been sick and then we had ice and snow, I was not able to get out to purchase him anything.

9) A similar study in Rome showed that today's young lovers would prefer to share a romantic experience on Valentine's Day – a stroll through the gardens of Villa Borghese was a popular choice – than exchange gifts. Would you rather do something memorable for Valentine's Day or receive something you can retain as a keepsake?

A. I would just as soon not do anything at all, to be honest. It's a made-up holiday.

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Saturday 9: But Beautiful

Saturday 9: But Beautiful (1947)

   

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

 

1) The lyrics encourage us to take a chance on love. What's something you've done recently that took you outside your comfort zone? How did it turn out?

A. I made phone calls to my congress people. I do not like to do this; it makes me very uncomfortable. Even using a script, I did not manage it well. In fact, I told one of my senators to "grow a pair" and do something to stop the steal. It has gotten a little easier with successive calls, but it is not at all something I am comfortable doing.

 

2) Bing Crosby introduced "But Beautiful" in the 1947 film, Road to Rio. Name another movie song that became a hit.

A. Hopelessly Devoted to You, by Olivia Newton John, from Grease.

 

3) Bing's leading lady in Road to Rio was Dorothy Lamour. When she was a teenager, she worked as an elevator operator. With the advent of user-operated/push-button elevators, few elevator operator jobs remain. What's another job that was once commonplace, but has virtually disappeared?

A. Secretary. I don't know of anyone who is a secretary anymore.

 

4) Road to Rio was one of seven Road movies Bing Crosby and Bob Hope made together. They were one the most financially successful comedy teams in history. What movie or TV show always makes you laugh?

A. We watch reruns of The Big Bang Theory a lot.

5) Crosby's given name was Harry but he acquired the nickname "Bing" because as a kid he was a fan of a comic strip character named "Bingo." As a child, did you read the newspaper?

A. I began reading the newspaper when I was four years old, and I still read the newspaper. I'm not sure I understand it any better at 61 than I did at 4.

 

6) His 1942 version of "White Christmas" is still one of the best-selling records of all time. He was a movie star, nominated three times for the Oscar, winning once. Can you name another performer who has been successful both acting and singing?

A. Dolly Parton.

7) Bing loved golf and enjoyed traveling the world, playing at different courses. If today you were to receive an airline ticket to any city in the world, what destination would you choose? What would you be certain to see/do there?

A. I would go to Paris. I have been there once, when I was a teenager, and I would love to go back to the Louvre and see the magnificent art there again. I also would like to tour the countryside and see the repairs to Notre Dame.

8) In 1947, when "But Beautiful" was a hit, Farrah Fawcett was born. She became famous for her bathing suit poster, her blonde hair, and a 70s TV show. Without looking it up, do you know the name of that television series?

A. Charlie's Angels. It also starred Jacquelyn Smith and Kate Jackson. Kate Jackson was my favorite.

9) Random question -- Are you someone who makes things happen, or someone things happen to?

A. When I worked for the newspaper, I made a lot of things happen that no one knew about. I liked to do it quietly. Now that I mostly just stay at home, I guess I am someone things happen to.

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Saturday 9: Rikki, Don't Lose That Number

Saturday 9: Rikki, Don't Lose That Number (1974)

   

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

 

 

1) In this song, a man asks a girl to spend more time with him and suggests they go out for a ride together. Do you ever take a leisurely drive, just for relaxation and pleasure? Or do you always have a destination in mind when you get behind the wheel?

A. Occasionally I take a drive to nowhere, but not often. I did it more when I was a teenager than after I married. I usually have a destination now.

 

2) He repeatedly suggests that she could have a change of heart. What's something you've changed your mind about recently?

A. I used to think there had to be a bottom low. Now I think there is no bottom.

3) This week's featured artists are the duo Steely Dan. They earned the reputation as perfectionists, requiring take after take in the studio until they got their sound just right. Do you consider yourself a perfectionist? Or do you more often find that "good enough is good enough?"

A. I tend to be a perfectionist. Sometimes I finally say, "OK, this is good enough," but more often than not, I am still trying to get it right, whatever that is.

 

4) The Rikki of the title is a writer/poet who met Steely Dan's Donald Fagan when they were both students at Bard College. He had a crush on her and gave her his number, which she refused to call because she was married. She went on to teach in the English Department at the University of Denver, where her students would probably be surprised to learn she was the inspiration for a famous song. Is there something we would be surprised to learn about you?

A. Yes, but I am not going to tell you what it is. There are reasons why you don't know it already.

5) Another woman who played a role in Steely Dan's success is Barbra Streisand. She recorded one of their early songs, "I Mean to Shine," for her 1971 album, Barbra Joan Streisand. It was her thirteenth album and though 13 is often considered unlucky, it reached #11 on the Billboard charts and was certified as a gold record. Do you have a lucky number?

A. I do not have a lucky number, although if I were to choose one, I think I'd choose the number 8, because if you place it on its side, it is the infinity symbol.

 

6) In 1974, when this song was a hit, The Magic 8 Ball was still a top-seller at toy stores. It retailed for just $1.99 and promised that all you had to do was gaze at it, concentrate, and wait to learn your fate ... "if you dare!" If you could get an answer to one question about the future, what would you ask?

A. "Will everything be OK?"

7) Also in 1974, Good Times premiered, and the character JJ (played by Jimmy Walker) became a sensation with the catchphrase "Dy-no-mite!" What's another phrase that is forever connected to a TV character?

A. "Live long and prosper." - Spock from Star Trek.

8) 1974 was the year Barry Manilow became a household name with his first major hit, "Mandy." Do you have a favorite Barry Manilow song?

A. I actually like Barry Manilow. Mandy was one of the first songs I learned on the guitar. But I think I Write the Songs may be my favorite.

9) Random question: Imagine a beautiful little church on a hillside. Quiet, with stained glass and lovely pews. Well-maintained grounds with plenty of parking nearby. Seats 150. Perfect for a wedding ... or a funeral, because it's located in a cemetery. Would you consider getting married at a cemetery?

A. I would. I wanted to be married in the woods wearing blue jeans, but that didn't happen. A cemetery would be just as good.

 

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

Saturday 9: Summer Song

Saturday 9: A Summer Song (1964)

   

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

 

1) Are you enjoying winter? Or do you daydream about summer?

A. I am not enjoying winter. I have been sick most of January and I am not a fan of the cold weather. I don't like the extreme heat of summer, either, but I can deal with that better than these cold, brittle windy days.

 

2) In this week's song, trees sway in the breeze. Is it windy where you are today?

A. It is fairly calm as I write this.

3) There's rain outside their window. Have you more recently seen rain or snow?

A. We have had snow. We are still in a drought even if the government won't acknowledge it.

4) This week's artists are the duo Chad and Jeremy. As a teen, Chad Stuart was very versatile in the arts. While he enjoyed drawing, he showed real promise in music and won a scholarship to London's Central School of Speech and Drama. When you were a teenager, what were your best classes? 

A. English, history, civics/government. I made As in all of my classes except Phys ed, including Algebra and Trig, wherein I loved my teacher, but I did not consider them my best classes. 

5) Between 1965 and 1966, Chad and Jeremy played British pop stars on a variety of American TV shows, including The Dick Van Dyke Show, The Patty Duke Show, and Batman. Which of those series do you remember?

A. Nah nah nah nah nah nah nah nah nah nah nah nah Batman!

 

6) While those TV appearances were good for the duo's record sales, they sowed the seeds of dissent between the friends. Jeremy Clyde realized he enjoyed acting far more than music and began threatening to leave the act. Chad finally got tired of dissuading him. Between Jeremy's dramatic aspirations and contract disputes, they broke up. Later they both admitted they regretted the split, but as Chad said, "we were just kids." Is there an old friend you've drifted away from but miss?

A. There are many people I no longer know whom I miss sometimes, but they don't seem to miss me, so I try not to think about them. The people who are important in my life are here.

7) In 1964, when "A Summer Song" was popular, the #1 movie in the country was Mary Poppins. Have you seen it?

A. I have seen Mary Poppins.

8) One of the biggest news stories of 1964 was Elizabeth Taylor's wedding to Richard Burton. The bride wore yellow, with yellow and white flowers in her hair. The groom wore a dark suit, red tie and yellow boutonniere. What did you wear last time you got dressed up?

A. The last time I dressed up I wore blue pants and a nice top. That's about as dressed up as I get.

9) Random question: When you're in the backseat, do you wear a seatbelt?

A. I do not sit in the backseat because I get carsick, but if I did, I would wear a seatbelt.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

Saturday 9: Careless Whisper

Saturday 9: Careless Whisper (1985)

    

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

 

 

1) In this week's song, George Michael sings that, when it comes to relationships, "there's no comfort in the truth." Have you ever learned something about a friend, lover or relative that you wish you didn't know?

A. OMG yes. I learned something about my dearest friend not less than a month after she died that I wish I had never, ever learned. Because I loved her, I will not repeat it. But I sure wish I didn't know it.

2) Though this was the top song of 1985, George wrote it years before, when he was still working as a dj at a restaurant outside London. He recalled the moment the sax solo popped into his head. It was while he was on the bus on his way to work. If you go to work, how do you get there (car, bus, train, etc.)? If you don't work outside the home, tell us about a trip you make regularly.

A. I regularly go to the grocery store. I drive by car, in my Toyota Camry, and it takes me as long to drive to the store as it does to get the groceries, then I drive back and put them away. It's exciting!

 

3) The video for this song was very expensive. It was filmed on location all around Miami, including the luxury Grove Towers Condominiums, but then much of it had to be reshot because George didn't like his hair. Are you having a good hair day today?

A. I could use a cut but I've been sick for two weeks and still am sick, so I don't look for that to be happening soon.

4) 1985 was a big year for George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley. As Wham! they had three songs on the charts and became the first Western pop music act to tour China. Have you ever visited China? Would you like to go?

A. I have not visited China. It would be an interesting place to visit, if I had a good tour guide and/or group to go with. I would prefer to have gone when I was younger, though.

 

5) When he wasn't working, George was a creature of habit. For example, he never tired of Cocoa Puffs for breakfast and roast chicken for Sunday dinner. Is there a menu item you find yourself eating again and again?

A. I eat a mix of plain Cheerios and Honey Nut Cheerios for breakfast almost every day. The calories are the same, but the carbs are lower that way. I do not eat my cereal with milk or anything; I eat it dry. We also eat a lot of "chicken and a vegetable" for dinner.

6) George enjoyed living quietly in Highgate, North London. It wasn't until after his death that his neighbors learned he was the "anonymous resident" who had been funding Highgate's Fair in the Square for years. Held in June each year, The Fair is known for its dog show, arts and crafts booths, music and food. Tell us about one of your community's annual events.

A. They have a festival in Fincastle in September every year. It used to be a huge affair - the streets so clogged with vendors and buyers that you could scarcely move. Thousands of people. Then it started dwindling, died off for a few years, and was resurrected into a much smaller venue than it used to be. It's actually kind of pitiful now, but maybe that's only because I had to go to it every year for years to take photos for the newspaper and have the memories of what it used to be lodged into my eye.

 

7) According to Car and Driver, when "Careless Whisper" was popular, so was the Chevy Cavalier, a compact car. Nearly 40 years later, the vehicle landscape is very different. There are fewer compacts sold and last year, the most popular Chevy was the Silverado, a light duty truck. Do you drive a car, a truck, or an SUV?

A. I drive a car. My husband has a truck.

8) Also in 1985, Bill Shoemaker's earnings reached $100 million, making him the world's most successful jockey. Do you follow horse racing?

A. I watch the Triple Crown races sometimes, but it is not something I make a point of doing. I liked the movie Secretariat.

9) Random question -- In which race would you do better: the Iditarod, with sled dogs in Nome, or speeding in a race car at the Indy 500?

A. When I was younger, my husband (and other members of my family) used to call me "AJ" as in AJ Foyt, so I guess the Indy 500. I used to have a very heavy foot where the gas was concerned, but I am older now and don't drive quite so fast and recklessly as I once did.

Sometimes when I write the answers to these questions, I wonder where that woman has gone.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however.