FAMILY GUY... Jim's son Mike posted this 3 years ago... STANNER... "Stanner" is a word created by Archbishop Molloy High School. Before modern-day Molloy was built in Briarwood, Queens, the school was named St. Ann's Academy. The students were known as "St. Ann-ers," a nickname which, over time, simply became "Stanners." All of Molloy's students, current and alumni, are known as Stanners. [Source] Keeping our high school b-ball rivalry...:). I went to Power. SOURCE COURTER... "Buffalo girls won’t you come out tonight..." Readers: Jim met Deb at Buffalo State College where he was studying electrical engineering...She was from nearby Tonawanda and studied Education then social work....Together, they raised two music making sons: Mike and Glenn. Bruce Springsteen - Buffalo Gals (The Seeger Sessions) (01:14) A version for another of your loves...the great outdoors... Buffalo Gals - Country Campfire Secrets (02:14) ENGINEER...A way to "make money"... Jim signed on with a nearby 200-year old paper making outfit - CRANE - that happened to also manufacturer U.S. currency. CRANE: 200 years of American, Handmade Stationery [from the next article] Explore the history and significance behind symbols commonly found on money. Pyramids and eagles have been on various forms of currency for centuries – but what do they really represent? Join this episode’s hosts as they take a closer look at the $1 and $20 bill. Discovering the meaning behind symbols on these banknotes may provide you with a deeper understanding of the hopes and ideals of American founding fathers. Reader: Have handy a $1 and $20 bill. Symbols and Signs of the Time - USCurrency.gov (06:57) Podcast 20 Hidden Messages in Old American Currency - Newsbreak [from this article] #15: The Green Ink Mystery Why green? In the 19th century, green ink was hard to reproduce and resistant to chemical changes. It symbolized stability and trust. Over time, the “greenback” itself became slang for money. But the choice of color carries symbolic weight too: envy, greed, and the eternal association of green with wealth and mystery. HOW MUCH STUFF IS ENOUGH??? That last sentence leads us further..to a favorite music maker... You'll need Spotify to listen...Lyrics follow... Enough - Kevin Griffin (02:51) ENOUGH By Kevin Griffin and Wes Nisker Enough, enough, we got enough stuff x4 I got a SUV, DVD, HD-TV Laptop, hiphop, diamond studded flip-flops Prozac, Xanax, no-carb candy snacks My cellphone ringtone’s a symphony by Beethoven Enough, etc Video, stereo, vacation in Guantanamo Microwave, electric shave, a thousand ways to help me save Internet, virtual pets, a 90 inch TV set Credit card, bodyguard, a hundred acre backyard Enough, enough WE GOT ENOUGH To sink a ship WE GOT ENOUGH To make your backbone slip WE GOT ENOUGH Don’t need anymore WE GOT ENOUGH We bought the whole store Xbox, punk rocks, refrigerator that talks iPod, hot rod, summer house on Cape Cod Pokemon, Spiderman, drugs that make me Superman Hot tub, back rub, pet Tibetan tiger cub Enough, enough Source Pink Floyd - Money (Animated Promo Video) (01:00) Former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman adds his take... I say money, money, money, money Money, money, money, money Money, money, money, money Take a chance off me, it depends upon you, boy Can't, can't get enough Can't get enough of that stuff We can't get enough, get enough of that stuff We can't get enough We can't, can't, can't, can't, can't get enough Can't get enough of that stuff We can't get enough, get enough of that stuff Ooh, that's tough Source Bill Wyman - Stuff (Can't Get Enough) (Official HD Music Video) (03:24) Janis Joplin - Mercedes-Benz (clip) (03:48) Despite her anti-commercialism message, Mercedes used her song in a1995 ad: 1995 Janis Joplin "Mercedes Benz" TV commercial for Mercedes (00:34) GRANDPA JIM'S "REVERSE ENGINEERING" for... ...Teaching Bennett... The Toy Eater - a poem by Shel Silverstein (00:54) LIFE'S PHILOSOPHY...à la Rev. Jim Jim Ignatowski Philosophy (00:50) I can relate to this episode... See, I was a taxi driver (first as a gypsy in South Jamaica: OL8-6200 "Buzz--Car" "We're not YELLOW...We go anywhere" and later for a medallion outfit) AND I worked for the DMV in New York and then California giving road tests. The form asked, "Eyes"...and as Jim starts filling in his answer, Elaine tells him, "Don't write 2"... Jim Takes His Driver's Test - Taxi (01:54) #music #humor #JimDuffy #DebDuffy #MikeDuffy #GlennDuffy #Buffalo #engineer #BuffaloStateUniversity #FamilyGuy #ArchbishopMolloyHighSchool #Stanner #PowerMemorialAcademy #BruceSpringsteen #Crane #stuff #KevinGriffin #PinkFloyd #BillWyman #JanisJoplin #Mercedes #ShelSilverstein #Taxi #ReverendJim

READERS: This is a draft idea for a musical oral history of our town: West Hempstead, NY. Three of the organizers met yesterday (4/8/25) to kick it off...More to come... READERS: In the meantime, please contact me if you have any "tales of tunes around town" AND are interested in sharing them. For example, our Island Garden Arena hosted several popular acts and it would be great if you caught any and shared your experiences here. ttittmann@icloud.com READERS: If you're game, you could also add your comments on the applicable Island Garden Arena shows listed on sites like setlist.fm SETLIST (post topics) ORAL HISTORY PROJECT IDEAS CREATIVE CORNER ISLAND GARDEN ARENA (1957-1973) THE ILLUSION - from West Hempstead & Franklin Square 1969: SUMMER OF LOVE OTHER IDEAS FOR ADDS... ORAL HISTORY PROJECT IDEAS Include Creative Corner, WH Library, WH High School... Assign roles for technical support: shooting/editing oral history video footage Interview Harry Baldino, Creative Corner's founder Interview Danny Finkelstein about earlier live music at the Witches Brew Coffee House Go to West Hempstead Library and see what they have Gather residents stories about their experiences in the 1969 Summer of Love that included partying at Woodstock and "walking on the moon" with Neil Armstrong Hold an Opening Night…or afternoon at the library where we present our findings as a way to ask the community to share their own stories via a new Oral History of West Hempstead Music project. When I mentioned this project to my wife Eileen she said she saw the Dave Clark Five at Island Garden. She went with a high school friend who, as she says, “was obsessed with all things British.” CREATIVE CORNER WEBSITE: FACEBOOK: Check here first for the latest info about events, open mike nights and band performances - like this gig: In the following March 2022 article that includes a series of short videos, owner Harry Baldino talks about why he opened this multifaceted arts center that includes musical offerings. Community Spotlight: Creative Corner a staple in West Hempstead - West Hempstead Echo The next article includes testimonies from people on how Creative Corner has helped foster their artistic interests. [from the article linked below] As the lights go down at Creative Corner, an art center in West Hempstead, the amps are put up. Every Monday, the center holds their Open Mic Night where residents of the community are welcome to enjoy an evening of music, creative expression and fun. Acts that showcase people of all ages and range from budding talent to professional come and share a quick set, whether it be a cover or something new and unique. Owner Harry Baldino opened Creative Corner in 2014. What began as a spur of the moment endeavor, Baldino said, has since grown into an encouraging and supportive creative outlet, especially for younger members of the community. His daughter and Creative Corner’s manager, Nichole Baldino, added that although the Open Mic Night is their staple, they primarily give lessons in music and art. “It’s unique, because it’s an open place without private cubicles, unlike typical music schools.” she said. “It makes it so we’re all learning together.” An outlet for young talent in West Hempstead - LI Herald Creative Corner 482 Hempstead Ave. West Hempstead, NY 11552 I went to my first Creative Corner jam after being invited by Ryan Closs – a local musician - who went to West Hempstead High School with our son John. All musicians – instrumental and vocal - are invited and whoever shows up determines the evening’s musical menu. Lotsa fun! ISLAND GARDEN ARENA (1957-1973) Source The Island Garden Arena was a 5,200-seat arena in West Hempstead, New York. It was built in 1957 by Arnold "Whitey" Carlson, a descendant of Swedish immigrants. Carlson's grandfather was Henrik Carlson, a noted San Diego sculptor who was the Foreign Art Director for the San Diego Exposition (now Balboa Park). Over the years, many concert acts such as Cream, the Dave Clark Five, Tiny Tim, Louis Armstrong, The Byrds, Sly and the Family Stone, The Dave Brubeck Quartet and Bob Dylan performed at the venue. In addition to concerts, the Island Garden Arena has also hosted boxing matches, professional wrestling, circuses, rodeos, stamp shows, midget car racing, and boat shows. SOURCE Additional performers at Island Garden Arena listed at setlist.fm include: Ten Wheel Drive, Family, Al Kooper, Savoy Brown, Jeff Beck Group, Mountain, Blood, Sweat and Tears, Procol Harum, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Chambers Brothers, The Statler Brothers, June Carter Cash, Johnny Cash, Joan Baez and Duke Ellington and His Orchestra. Image source Bob Dylan's Feb. 26, 1966 setlist March 7, 1969 Source Feb. 26, 1965 (Setlist - includes a download link for all 27 songs) March 1, 1969 Source Here's one that wasn't listed in the earlier articles: June 12, 1970 (Source) Island Garden Wikipedia Island Garden Arena West Hempstead Concert Setlists (1958-1969) There aren't any photos or videos of the DC Five at Island Garden, so here's a clip from The Ed Sullivan Show The Dave Clark - Five Bits And Pieces 1964 (Ed Sullivan Show HQ) (02:05) THE ILLUSION - from West Hempstead & Franklin Square On 10/6/25 I met Al by Riesterer’s Bakery and he talked about them.and how they came from West Hempstead and Franklin Square. THE ILLUSION Inducted into the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame - LI Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (2023) [From the article] The Illusion; the band largely credited with kicking the door open (paving the way for so many Long Island entertainers), was recently inducted to the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) and performed on stage for the first time in fifty-one years. The original Illusion band members from West Hempstead and Franklin Square (Western Nassau) include John Vinci, Mike Maniscalco, Rich Cerniglia, Chuck Alder and Mike Ricciardella, who are now inducted into the history and family of Long Island’s musicians & entertainers. During a time when it was considered inconceivable for record executives (and concert promoters alike) to give a band from Long Island the time of day, The Illusion came on to the scene. A force to be reckoned with, wowing crowds with outrageous stage shows, custom-made clothes, seemingly untouchable musicianship, and five-part harmonies. Captivating audiences, The Illusion would draw thousands of fans to every show. The Illusion is largely credited with being ground-breaking in the rock music genre influencing other bands and most notably legendary musician Jimi Hendrix at the time with their performance style and psychedelic outfits. They first met Hendrix by chance at a recording studio very early in his career and they went on to become friends and frequently played together at the Steve Pauls’ Scene Club and opened for Hendrix in Boston Gardens. Alder said they didn’t really think about making history at that time, it was just something they did. “Nobody was dressing like that, nobody was moving around on stage doing a show, getting the audience participation, that was all new, Alder recalls. “I think before us it was called “rock and roll” and after us, it was called “rock” we dropped the “roll” there was no rolling tonight, it was just rock and that’s the way I like it.” "See the moon at midnight..." The Illusion - Did You See Her Eyes (Live audio Leone's 1969) (03:04) 1969: SUMMER OF LOVE Let's collect peoples' stories about that amazing summer when 500,000 people partied at Woodstock and an Earthling did the first "Moon Walk"...years before MJ did his version in Billie Jean. More to come... ​ OTHER IDEAS FOR ADDS... I copied this next section from my website and just updated the appropriate links to 2026. “Summer’s here and the time is right for dancing in the streets...” PASSED...West Hempstead Summer 2021 Music and Food Festival Sunday July 25 3-7 PM Cherry Valley Shopping Center West Hempstead, NY (490-510 Hempstead Tkpe) Sponsors: West Hempstead Chamber of Commerce & Cherry Valley Center 2026... 2026 Town of Hempstead Summer Concert Series – FREE!!! (your soul...) Calendar of events - show times to follow Nassau County Summer 2026 Free Concerts & Movies County Website For Deadheads and those that wish they were... Half Step Band Website You’ll see the upcoming events, then, if you dare, press “Enter” to journey “Furthur”...) They have gigs booked on July 26, 29, Aug. 6 & 8, Sep. 6 (at the beach...where they’ll be “playing in the sand”) For more fun and adventure, check out my post: Curious about the Grateful Dead but not willing to take a WHOLE step? Take a HALF STEP... #music #humor #WestHempstead #HarryBaldino #BrianBarry #KarlReisterer #ReisterersBakery #CreativeCorner #WestHempsteadHistoricalSociety #RichKarlson #WestHempsteadPublicLibrary #WestHempsteadHighSchool #IslandGardenArena #DaveClarkFive #EdSullivanShow #WestHempsteadEcho #LIHerald #WitchesBrewCoffeeHouse #DannyFinkelstein

FIRST TRAIN... ALL ABOARD...for the Promised Land...where the music of the Grateful Dead plays all the time...right on time...and "you don't need no baggage you just climb on board..." This is a hastily drafted post as the Half Step train is due at the Malverne LIRR station at 2:00 PM. That said, I'll be adding to it after today's show departs the station... See, I wanted to make a QR code for this post for the engineer's hat I made (also hastily)... Later, at the Malverne Fall Street Festival with my friend Brian...I'm so glad the monkey held on for this photo...Otherwise, we'd have to let the viewers decide who was the monkey... "Hey, tOM, watch your speed!" Monkey and the Engineer - Barton Hills Choir (02:47) 4 year old sings "monkey and the engineer" (01:43) Grateful Dead - Monkey And The Engineer - 10/31/1980 - Radio City Music Hall (03:39) Alternative Musical DEADucation for your little engineers Rock and Roll Playhouse The Rock and Roll Playhouse's Music of The Grateful Dead for Kids :: Brooklyn Bowl :: 11/11/18 (1:03:04) Barton Hills Choir --BHC website --BHC YouTube channel 22 Best Songs about Trains and Locomotives Vinyl Community V226: Tracks and Trains Songs By The Grateful Dead (10:08) Monkey Minds Remember this early version... Well, even more important - as it's an essential predecessor to ALL the others...is this ONE... Our thoughts lead to and fuel our actions... The Monkey steals the show...and the train... Get on your Marx...Get Clouseau... Monkey Business (1931) Trailer (02:21) The Marx Brothers "Monkey Business" (1931) Full Movie!! (1:08:18) on YouTube Inspector Clouseau and the Seeing-eye Minkey (03:00) Now for some serious Monkey business... hey HEY We’re The Monkees! (Hindu [Hanuman] version) (02:29) Reader: There's more monkey business coming...stay tuned...in... 9/6/26 Here it is... SECOND TRAIN... Videographer even includes my namesake - THOMAS - son John and I watched a lot of this TV show. Check out who were two of the conductors: ...and we built many wonder-filled contraptions with these bricks... The Monkey and the Engineer - JS KIM (02:50) Clever way to end this musical trip: EXTRA STATIONS... Jethro Tull - Locomotive Breath (Rockpop In Concert, July 10th 1982) (05:51) #music #humor #HalfStepBand #GratefulDead #BartonHillsChoir #RockAndRollPlayhouse #MarxBrothers #CaseyJones #PinkPanther

This is simply a tasty way to share good food and good tunes...It began recently when I assisted Eileen in preparing a noontime breakfast of French toast using Rieisterer's Bakery's delicious challah bread. As her apprentice chef, I learned that the most important tip is to be sure the bread gets the right amount of moisture - a sweet spot between too dry and too soggy. To accomplish this she recommended holding the bread with my hands and feeling its moisture content. "Food is a carrier for the sauce" That's a motto of mine applied here: Slices and pan "scraps"...YUM!!! To add even more sweetness, Eileen included two kinds of vintage. The green ones are a treat: organic cotton candy variety. As a shopper, she's a great forager. Restaurant Tip: Uncle Bacala's in Garden City Park is a family favorite. We went there for Eileen's May 28th birthday. I had the BEST ever lobster bisque soup. One of their customs is offering guests cotton candy at the end of the feast. Afternoon Delight This is a favorite pick me up on Monday and Tuesday afternoons - when Witches Brew is closed. I use a variety of tasty nut milk creamers to turn it into a latte... Here's another in their offerings: FYI - BREWMASTER DANNY at Witches Brew crafts a great cold brew! Song Break... Afternoon Delight - Starland Vocal Band (1976) Garden Party Song Break... "You can't please everybody...so you got to please yourself" Rick Nelson - Garden Party (Live) (03:39) Imagine... IMAGINE. (Ultimate Mix, 2020) - John Lennon & The Plastic Ono Band (with the Flux Fiddlers) HD (03:53) I kept the pillow in our kitchen shot above, so I could share another place that's been helping me make it through the day...In my blog, I have several posts about this imaginative space and the mindful folks who offer helpful services, including great musical offerings... Garden City's Center for Spiritual Imagination... The Center for Spiritual Imagination Earlier in 2026, I participated in a their 4-month online contemplative version of the wisdom of the 12 Steps. I must have been ready student because I learned several very helpful things about my thinking and resulting behavior. 12 Steps for Contemplatives TASTY TUNE TOPPINGS... As I was beginning to mix the breakfast ingredients, these tunes started popping onto my mental jukebox... BEACH BOYS Wild Honey 1967 HQ (02:40) A friend helps collect and bottle local honey on the grounds of the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Garden City: In nearby Bellmore, the Episcopal Church of St. Francis also offers honey and other organic produce. Produce for all at the Garden at St. Francis Honey and Pollinator Ministry With the help of Master Bee Keeper Carl Flatow, The Garden maintains three honeybee hives. Our hives are a part of the symbiotic relationships we encourage in the garden. We plant with intention to provide our pollinators with flowers and plants they can consume at every stage of their life cycle. Our bees then provide us with hyper-local, pesticide-free honey. We are currently offering our honey for $20 per one pound bottle. Glass bottles are encouraged to be returned to the Church to be recycled. Please contact gardenstfrancis@gmail.com or call 516-679-1184 to place your order and to arrange a pickup time. Pollinator Garden: local Girl Scout Julia Amon planted a pollinator garden for her Gold Award Project. Her final presentation can be found here. Brian, I'm dedicating these next two to you and Erica... Neil Young - Cinnamon Girl (from Berlin) - (03:38) The Rolling Stones - Brown Sugar (Live) - OFFICIAL (03:32) "GYM" CLASS Rockstar fitness routine: Could you survive Mick Jagger’s brutal workout? - Fox News SECOND BREAKFAST... Beginning with a little humor...to nourish us for more adventures... Lord of the rings fellowship of the ring what second breakfast HD (00:46) Yesterday, Eileen served up another delicious course... The toppings are part of the fun...Here's how maple syrup is collected... Maple Syrup Song (01:23) As it was our last pieces of Riesterer's challah bread, I headed off to replenish our supply. #music #humor #challah #ReisterersBakery #Eileen #grapes #CottonCandy #UncleBacalas #WitchesBrew #CalifiaFarms #ColdBrew #coffee #StarlightVocalBand #RickNelson #NeilYoung #JohnLennon #YokoOno #CenterForSpiritualImagination #GardenCity #SaintFrancisEpiscopalChurch #Bellmore #MapleSyrup #LOTR #LordOfTheRings #MickJagger #gym

SETLIST "We come from the land of the ice and snow..." Geomagnetic Solar Storms... "Between the moon and sun this life is never done..." Red Moon Rising "Lightning is striking again..." Bioluminescent Waves Steal Your Face: Shimmering skies...Glowing waves...Cosmic lightning... Moondance Lunar See in nearby Garden City Cathedral... If you're in a hurry, just pause to listen to 2 odes to light... Curawaka - Aurora Boreal (Official Music Video) (05:52) Trevor Hall - MOON / SUN (Official Music Video) (04:03) We come from the land of the ice and snow... Thanks, Led Zeppelin, for the title... {video description] Captured in the days surrounding Curawaka's magical Aurora Spirit Retreats in Arctic Norway, the official video for 'Aurora Boreal' encapsulates the very essence of the song itself. Written as an ode to the majesty of the Northern Lights by band member Tavo Vazquez, it was born just after his first trip to the far North of Norway and experience with the dancing sky. Besides the ice and mountains, the frozen rivers and vast fjords, amongst the whales and eagles, the bears and wolves, this wild land inspires something deep within the heart of those who walk upon it. We hope this song tells you the tales of the experience, as it was intended to. Curawaka - Aurora Boreal (Official Music Video) (05:52) [from their About page] Curawaka has spent years living with, and learning from, indigenous tribes all over the globe. Vocalist Anna Bariyani sings in seven languages, including Hatcha Kuin, Yawanawa, Sami, Spanish, Portuguese, English and her mother tongue, Norwegian. With a global fanbase and millions of streams, Curawaka is one of the most captivating acts in the rising world of conscious and cross-cultural music. Blending powerful vocals, traditional instruments, and deep ceremonial rhythms, their sound bridges ancient indigenous traditions with contemporary world music — creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Formed by artists from Norway, Mexico, and Argentina, Curawaka brings a rich cultural tapestry to the stage. Led by vocalist and songwriter Anna Bariyani, Curawaka’s breakthrough album Call of the Wild introduced fan-favorite anthems like Noku Mana, Te Nande, and He Yama Yo, earning the group international acclaim across conscious social movements as well as global music stages. Their long-awaited follow-up album, Dreamtime (2023), expands their sonic palette with lush arrangements and collaborations from across the globe — solidifying their place as pioneers in the genre. Their newest release OLOKUN (2025) continues their signature fusion of spiritual depth and musical mastery, calling upon sacred feminine forces of the sea to bring healing and balance to the world. New music is set to be released in 2026. Geomagnetic Solar Storms... What If a Massive Solar Storm Hit Earth Today? ☀️⚡😱 (00:21) Next is more scientific... Sun news: Auroras to pair with the eclipse tonight? - EarthSky "Between the moon and sun this life is never done..." Trevor Hall - MOON / SUN (Official Music Video) (04:03) "Moon / Sun" Here we go again, creation Clap now for the jubilation Look at all that light you making Send it out no reservation Like a river we let it flow Still hot like a volcano Mother Earth still got my soul In the hot, in the cold, in the rain, in the snow Hey lo! Wish on a butterfly wing Take that crown, put it on that king Sing like a child - no care for opinion Real love across our dominion Oh so bountiful! Pull it back and let it go Like ocean wave, we're powerful Constellation, magical So, this love still holds true Now what you gonna do? I won't give up on you I won't give up on you Between the moon and sun This life is never done I won't give up on you I won't give up on you I won't give up on you Send up send up send up my love I won't give up on you I stand up, gotta put my hands up Fruit down straw like Mauna Kea In the ocean, holy motion Ride that flow - I'll see you later In the park of Shangri-la I see my ma She's standing holy, all those colors filled with glory Open up and hear this story: Oh, this love still holds true Now what you gonna do? I won't give up on you I won't give up on you Between the moon and sun This life is never done I won't give up on you I won't give up on you This love still holds true Now what you gonna do? I won't give up on you I won't give up on you Between the moon and sun This life is never done I won't give up on you I won't give up on you I will follow you I will follow you I will follow, follow, follow you I will follow you Red Moon Rising On the evening of August 27, our moon will offer us a 96% hiding act... When the Eclipse Happens Worldwide — Timeline Lunar eclipses can be visible from everywhere on the night side of the Earth, if the sky is clear. From some places the entire eclipse will be visible, while in other areas the Moon will rise or set during the eclipse. Eclipse Stages Worldwide UTC Time Local Time in New York* Visible in New York Penumbral Eclipse begins Aug 28 at 01:23:58 Aug 27 at 9:23:58 pm Yes Partial Eclipse begins Aug 28 at 02:33:54 Aug 27 at 10:33:54 pm Yes Maximum Eclipse Aug 28 at 04:12:53 Aug 28 at 12:12:53 am Yes Partial Eclipse ends Aug 28 at 05:51:59 Aug 28 at 1:51:59 am Yes Penumbral Eclipse ends Aug 28 at 07:01:47 Aug 28 at 3:01:47 am Yes * The Moon is above the horizon during this eclipse, so with good weather conditions in New York, the entire eclipse is visible. Source Deep partial lunar eclipse overnight tonight! - EarthSky "Lightning is striking again..." Thanks, Lou Christie, for the title... For most of today (August 27), my area has experienced periods of thunder and lightning...So, not sure if the sky's will present their cosmic displays...This is my main reason for creating this virtual display... Lightning Striking Tree in 4K - Tree Catches on Fire !!! (01:27) The Science of Lightning | National Geographic (02:38) PERSONAL STORY: In our surfing years, me and my brother Mike went down to Rockaway Beach one evening to check the surf. A storm was brewing (wind makes good waves). As we're looking I felt a tingling on my scalp. Looking over at Mike, I saw that his curly hair was standing straight up. I yelled, "Let's get out of here!" As we ran off the boardwalk to the safety of our VW Buses, lightning stuck the very spot we're we had been... Bioluminescent Waves... PERSONAL STORY: In the summer of 1969, on our first expedition to Southern California, me and my friends got to enjoy this seaside light show. We stayed up all night. What was cool was the sand was filled with the glowing algae...so our feet glowed as we walked... Bioluminescent waves: Surfers ride glowing waters off San Clemente, San Diego coasts | ABC7 (01:31) Shimmering skies...Glowing waves...Cosmic lightning... The Story Behind the Grateful Dead “Steal Your Face” Logo - Extra Chill After Hours Dance Club... Red Moon - Dreamer (05:22) The choreography in that video inspired this classic: Moondance by Van Morrison with lyrics (04:36) Lunar See in nearby Garden City Cathedral... READERS: This first of two posts presents the details of the Cathedral's imaginative offerings. The second contains my reflections...observations...lots of music, humor, mindFULL & mindless musings about the lives we share here on "the third rock from the Sun"... There's a link at the end... inSPIREd April Lunar See at Historic Garden City Cathedral: MOON as Sacred Mirror - April 2025 #music #AuroraBorealis #Curawaka #GeomagneticStorms #TrevorHall #BloodMoon #LunarEclipse #lightning #LouChristie #RedTide #bioluminescence #GratefulDead #RedMoon #VanMorrison

Act I - Streetfighter covered Rolling Stones Thursday 7 PM Manorhaven Beach Park Next stop on the musical express is Thursday at 7 pm at Manorhaven Beach Park. Streetfighter will be creating their own British Invasion with a show that features a video history of the Stones. They've been performing since 1978. If you’re gonna spend any time sitting, bring a chair! You Can't Always Get What You Want CLICK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1Ij5kX4dCU Let's Spend the Night Together CLICK: https://youtu.be/WLQ2lFevgHg?si=s6gzidJsNPYmX-4H Brown Sugar CLICK: https://youtu.be/Cwd15wTEbuc Lil Stoner...Keepin' the music playing... Streetfighter Rolling Through the Decades Promo They've been rolling since 1978... Rolling Through the Decades is a high-energy, multimedia concert experience that brings the music and legacy of The Rolling Stones to life like never before. Performed live by Streetfighter, America’s longest-running Rolling Stones tribute band, the show combines a powerhouse on-stage performance with a cinematic video presentation that carries the audience through each era of the Stones’ history — from the British Invasion and Mod years, through the psychedelic late ’60s, the grit of the 1970s, and into the modern stadium era. Rather than simply recreating the songs, Rolling Through the Decades tells the story behind the music, using custom visuals, historic footage, and era-specific imagery synced to every performance. The result is an immersive journey through six decades of rock and roll that feels part concert, part film, and entirely unforgettable. Streetfighter Rolling Through the Decades Promo (02:50) And from their online presence...Lots more there... Facebook page Start Me Up - Streetfighter - a Tribute to the Rolling Stones (03:21) Act II - Stones vs Deadheads…and more… This next link includes “biased” mention of times at parties in our 20’s where Stoners & Deadheads would battle for control of the record player… The next story includes some hot clips of Jagger and Company at the 1968 Rock 'n Roll Circus...A carnival that included lots of stars like John and Yoko and one significant underworld celeb... While he is NOT Tattoo...the setting could be on a Fantasy Island... Who'll roll away the Stones? Why the Dead, of course! *** (4/3/24) BONUS: The Rolling Stones songs that the Grateful Dead added to their sets [Complete article at 2nd link] "There is a wonderfully strange moment during the documentary Long Strange Trip where both The Rolling Stones and the Grateful Dead are at the same airport. From the looks of it, this is Let It Bleed-era Stones and Aoxomoxoa-era Dead, probably somewhere around 1969. There’s even a brief chat between Jerry Garcia and Mick Jagger, one of the stranger instances of worlds colliding." "Finally, ‘The Last Time’ found a permanent place in the Grateful Dead’s setlist during the 1990s. Even though it’s universally seen as a Rolling Stones original, ‘The Last Time’ interpolates quite a bit of the traditional gospel song ‘This May Be the Last Time’. The song’s signature guitar riff is all Stones, however, and the Dead were clearly paying tribute to the Brits when they covered it 70 times over the course of four years in some of their final live treks." As you watch, notice all the black balloons floating by the stage... ..."Paint it Black"... This one partially obscures the right side of Phil's face and his 6-string... Another to Bobby's left...See the light on its top... Grateful Dead 3 29 93 The Last Time (06:27) The Rolling Stones songs that the Grateful Dead added to their sets - Far Out Magazine #music #humor #Streetfighter #RollingStones #ManorhavenBeachPark #GratefulDead #MickJagger #RocknRollCircus #JohnLennon

LIVE FILM PRESENTATION 8/14/26 1 PM EAST MEADOW LIBRARY Friday August 14 the 1927 silent film Metropolis with live music accompaniment by Mister Christopher Peters! 1pm East Meadow library. Unique one time only screening. Don't miss it! Please register. A confirmation email will be sent to you. Keith J. Crocker Cinematic Seminars BACKGROUND TO DYSTOPIAN BOOKS & FILMS 7-minute animated summary of George Orwell and his books helps us understand dystopian literature and films like Fritz Langs' Metropolis. Link ORIGINAL 1927 SILENT FILM Trailer Full Movie Modern Music Alternative Version from 1984 Giorgio Moroder's digitally restored (1984) with original soundtrack by Freddie Mercury, Pat Benatar, Jon Anderson, Cycle V, Bonnie Tyler, Lover Boy, Bille Squier and Adam Ant. Tip: Watch this 1 hr 19 minute 1984 version to better understand the original 1927 silent version. Trailer "The Shift Change" - I selected this scene from the beginning of the film. Full Movie PINK FLOYD'S MACHINE WORLD Welcome, my son, welcome to the machine Where have you been? It's alright we know where you've been Welcome my son, welcome to the machine What did you dream It's alright we told you what to dream Pink Floyd - Welcome to the Machine (1975) (07:30) 1984 1984 (1984) Original Trailer [HD] (2:20) THE MATRIX: BUDDHIST AWAKENING TO REALITY Core Buddhist parallels The film’s central metaphor — the “red pill” vs. “blue pill” — mirrors the Buddhist distinction between Relative Truth (the world of appearances, maya) and Absolute Truth (emptiness, śūnyatā). The “blue pill” keeps Neo (and the viewer) in the illusion of a false reality, while the “red pill” points toward the true nature of reality. Source THE MATRIX Trailer (1999) | Classic Trailer (02:54) IF YOU DON'T SUPPORT BIG BROTHER...YOU'D BE BETTER OFF DEAD The kids start hearing the truth in the music and leave to begin making changes... Kids start throwing their paint ball "stones" Grateful Dead - Throwing Stones (Official Music Video) (04:38) Throwing Stones Grateful Dead Picture a bright blue ball just spinning, spinning free Dizzy with eternity Paint it with a skin of sky, brush in some clouds and sea Call it home for you and me A peaceful place, or so it looks from space A closer look reveals the human race Full of hope, full of grace is the human face But afraid we may lay our home to waste There's a fear down here we can't forget Hasn't got a name just yet Always awake, always around Singing, "Ashes, ashes all fall down" (ashes, ashes all fall down) Now watch as the ball revolves and the nighttime falls And again the hunt begins, and again the bloodwind calls By and by again, the morning sun will rise The darkness never goes from some mens eyes, ooh no It strolls the sidewalks, and it rolls the streets It's taking turf, dividing up meat Nightmare spook, piece of heat It's you and me, you and me Hey, Flashblade in ghetto night Rudies looking for a fight Rat Cat Alley, roll them bones Need that cash to feed that jones And the politicians throwing stones Singing, "Ashes, ashes all fall down" (ashes, ashes all fall down) Commissars and pin-striped bosses roll the dice Any way they fall, guess who gets to pay the price Money green, the proletarian gray Selling guns instead of food today So the kids, they dance, they shake their bones And the politicians throwing stones Singing, "Ashes, ashes all fall down" (ashes, ashes all fall down) Heartless powers try to tell us what to think If the spirit's sleeping, then the flesh is ink, yeah History's page will be neatly carved in stone The future's here, we are it, we are on our own On our own, on our own, on our own If the game is lost, we're all the same No one left to place or take the blame We will leave this place an empty stone Well, that shinning ball blue We can call our home So the kids, they dance, they shake their bones And the politicians are throwing stones Singing, "Ashes, ashes all fall down" (ashes, ashes all fall down) Shooting powders back and forth Singing, "Black goes south and white comes north And the whole world full of petty wars" Singing, "I got mine and you got yours" And the current fashions set the pace Lose your step, fall out of grace And the radical, he rant and rage Singing, "Someone got to turn the page" And the rich man in his summer home Singing, "Just leave well enough alone" But his pants are down, his cover's blown And the politicians throwing stones So the kids, they dance, they shake their bones 'Cause it's all too clear, we're on our own Singing, "Ashes, ashes all fall down Ashes, ashes, all fall down" Picture a bright blue ball just spinning, spinning free It's dizzy, the possibilities Ashes, ashes, all fall down (ashes, ashes, all fall down) Ashes, ashes, all fall down (ashes, ashes, all fall down) Ashes, ashes, all fall down (ashes, ashes, all fall down) Ashes, ashes, all fall down (ashes, ashes, all fall down) All fall down (ashes, ashes, all fall down) All fall down (ashes, ashes, all fall down) Singing, "Ashes, ashes, all fall down (ashes, ashes, all fall down) All fall down (ashes, ashes, all fall down) All fall down! (ashes, ashes, all fall down) Singing, "Ashes, ashes, all fall down" Ashes, ashes, all fall down Ashes, ashes, all fall down (Ashes, ashes, all fall down) FOOTNOTE ALSO FROM GERMANY Today, when my podiatrist asked me what I was up to and I mentioned this post, he recommended this artist. Metropolis - Kraftwerk (06:01) If you're into this genre, check out other songs from this still-performing group. From a YouTube listener: @StefanKruel 9 months ago (edited) Inspired by Fritz Lang's classic German silent film “Metropolis” from 1927, the album deals with topics such as space travel, robots, and the big city as a technology-dominated world as sterile and futuristic as possible. The album creates an unsurpassably impersonal atmosphere that, not least because of its simple yet immortal melodies, nevertheless gets under your skin more deeply than probably 99% of the electronic music that was to follow this album. So it's hardly surprising that bands as diverse as Rammstein, Depeche Mode, and David Bowie cite KRAFTWERK as their inspirational idols. For anyone even remotely interested in electronically generated music, “The Man-Machine” is an absolute must-listen, at least once. The re-release of the album with the legendary cover photo is highly recommended: completely remastered, “The Man-Machine” (only the English version of the album, which was originally released in both languages, has been re-released) sounds more powerful, modern, and smoother than ever. And while with other records from other genres one might argue whether removing noise and crackling robs an album of its flair or adds to its quality, here it is undeniable that this re-release fully follows the artist's intention, as the elimination of such disturbances leads to an even more perfect, mechanically sterile overall picture. SILENT SCREAM I'm caught up in your expectations You try to make me live your dream But I'm causing you so much frustration You wanted me to show more interest To always keep a big bright smile Be that pinky little perfect princess But I'm not that type of child And the storm is rising inside of me Don't you feel that our worlds collide? It's getting harder to breathe It hurts deep inside Just let me be Who I am It's what you really need to understand And I hope so hard for the pain to go away And it's torturing me But I can't break free So I cry and cry but just won't get it out The silent scream Anna Blue- Silent Scream (Official Music Video) (03:40) Big “Sister” Confronting Big Brother Janis Joplin & Big Brother - Ball and Chain (Live at Woodstock Music & Art Fair, 1969) (05:23) The Robots demanded more space to tell their side of the story... I Robot #KeithCrocker #Metropolis #FritzLang #GiorgioMoroder #GeorgeOrwell #dystopian #FreddyMercury #PatBenatar #JonAnderson #CycleV #BonnieTyler #LoverBoy #BillieSquire #AdamAnt #PinkFloyd #TheMachine #1984 #TheMatrix #Neo #GratefulDead #AnnaBlue #BigBrotherandtheHoldingCompany #JanisJoplin #Kraftwerk #robots

This evolved from a post - Giving Voice to the Silent Screams against the Tyranny in Metropolis - that included robotic figures. It included music including the German electronic band Kraftwerk's "Metropolis" offering - but the post needed more "space" to further develop the robot theme. Kraftwerk KRAFTWERK - THE ROBOTS live Forum Karlín in Prague 15.07. 2026 (07:42) Leave it to the groundbreaking German electronic band Kraftwerk to set the tone about robots in the mid-20th century. While the group is still together today, touring around the world and sharing their love of programmed tunes, they were something altogether new when they first hit the scene in the 70s. Bringing a dry, electronic sensibility to music, they sang often about highway systems and machines, including robots. It’s just their thing. Source Styx Styx - Mr. Roboto (Official Video) (05:34) The 1983 concept album by Styx, Kilroy Was Here, is all about robots. In fact, the most famous song on the LP is called “Mr. Roboto”, and it’s all about someone who is part-man and part-machine. It’s a catchy track that somehow takes you into the past and makes you think about the future. That’s a neat magic trick! During an era when futuristic movies were all the rage, that sensibility seeped into the popular music, too. First and foremost with Styx. Source Flaming Lips Robots...Disguised as playful stuffed animals...With the fight scene at a local sushi bar... The Flaming Lips - Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots Pt. 1 [Official Music Video] (03:39) I, Robot - Official Trailer [HD] (02:26) FILMS Robots become fed up with being people's tools. A rebellion starts which is initially successful until the humans build technology to subdue them. Look who's their spokesperson... The Electric State (2025) Opening Scene - The Robots Rebel Against The Humans Movie Clip 4K UHD (03:14) This scene captured my imagination... The Electric State Movie Clip - Sneak Peek (2025) (02:08) Malt shop in the sky... THE JETSONS (2027) Live Action Trailer | Jim Carrey, Amy Adams | Concept Trailer (02:08) The Jetsons: Live Action Movie (2026) – First Trailer | Jim Carrey & Anne Hathaway | Concept Trailer (01:41) Step into the future with The Jetsons: Live Action Movie (2026) — a dazzling reimagining of the classic animated series brought to life in stunning cinematic realism. Set in a floating sky metropolis above the clouds, this concept trailer redefines retro-futurism with breathtaking visuals and emotional depth. Jim Carrey stars as George Jetson, a loving yet overworked father trying to balance family life and futuristic chaos. Anne Hathaway plays Jane Jetson, elegant and strong-willed, the heart of the Jetson family. Timothée Chalamet appears as Elroy Jetson, the young genius inventor full of curiosity, while Elle Fanning portrays Judy Jetson, stylish, confident, and ready to take on the future. Joining them are Rosie the Robot — the loyal, witty household assistant voiced with charm and humor — and Astro the dog, the beloved family pet whose mischief brings warmth and laughter to the high-tech world above the clouds. Together, they remind us that even in a future of flying cars and AI, family is what keeps the world spinning. HAPPY ENDING...Because the music never stopped... Dancing Grateful Dead Robots (02:18) #music #humor #space #robots #Kraftwork #Metropolis #Styx #FlamingLips #IRobot #TheJetsons #TheElectricState #GratefulDead

"O'er the land of the free And the home of the brave" FLA@SF: Grateful Dead perform national anthem - MLB (02:34) U. S. Blues... I'm Uncle Sam, that's who I am Been hiding out in a rock and roll band Grateful Dead - U.S. Blues (Studio Version) (04:39) Another masterpiece by video creator LongStrangeTrip!!! [from the creator] "The first part of the video is a short film I found called '200.' It was made to be some sort of trippy propaganda in 1975 and was put out by the US Gov't Information Agency (1) for the bicentennial. Vincent Collins (2) did the animations for that video. I put the rest at the end together." My adds: LongStrangeTrip replaced the original rocking music with "U.S. Blues." (1) United States Information Agency (USIA) - see link for info (2) Vincent Collins - see Grokipedia link for more about this psychedelic animator Wave that flag... Uncle Jerry!!! Life is like a cosmic pinball video game...isn't it? The next video opens with footage from the Grateful Dead Movie - images that include an interstellar video game and player. Grateful Dead - Opening Sequence / U.S. Blues (Winterland 10/74) (11:00) Bi-Centennial Blues 200 - 1975 National Archives [from the article and video] "200 is an award-winning animated United States Information Agency (USIA) film celebrating the U.S. Bicentennial. The short three and a half minute film, set to an energetic jazz-rock score, involves, according to filmmaker Vince Collins, 'every animatable symbol, image or icon of the USA.'” 200 - U. S. National Archives YouTube (03:22) Can we win war games today? Just watched this film that includes segments with Matthew Broderick playing advanced video games...that get him someplace he's not supposed to be. Let's see what the WOPR super computer gives us for an answer to who will win a global thermonuclear war... SPOILER ALERT: Don't watch if you plan to see it. Wargames Ending (05:56) The Half Step flag is NEVER at half mast... Half Step = Musical Health Care... US BLUES covered by the Grateful Dead Tribute Band “HALF STEP” (05:05) Half Step Independence Day Schedule: July 3 & 5, 2026 Half Step Schedule Half Stepping in a Garden City Cathedral... He's got the whole world in his hand... One of the night's participants captured this Stealie in the ceiling's architecture: Link to post #FlagDay #GratefulDead #baseball #UncleSam #VincentCollins #UnitedStatesInformationAgency #WargamesMovie #MatthewBroderick #GratefulDeadMovie #HalfStepBand #CathedralOfTheIncarnation #NuclearWar

Ukulele Buddhism Buddhist Ukulele Songs - Kusala's Urban Dharma 06:03) --[from the story] This clip is part of a presentation by the UCLA Buddhist Association at a University Religious Conference event (4-15-2010) called, 'Soul Cafe'... I followed their talk with some Buddhist music on my Ukulele a 'Kelii' mahogany soprano. [My adds] At that time, he wasn't able to find many so he got an idea to put his own words about the practices to popular songs people already knew. "Spin well, sweet Dharma wheel, coming for to wake me up Spin well, sweet Dharma wheel, coming for to wake me up" He was also teaching young children about Buddhist precepts - how to live your life in a skillful way. He knew they didn't like to chant nor to memorize so he put the 5 precepts into a song. Urban Dharma - Buddhism in America Do Buddhists Celebrate Birthdays? [from the article - click link to learn more] In a recent discussion on social platforms, people pondered whether Buddhists celebrate birthdays. The conversation revealed a mix of beliefs and practices, especially across different cultural backgrounds. Interestingly, not all followers adhere to the same customs. While many People celebrate, others, like a Vietnamese Buddhist, mentioned their family's preference against the tradition for unknown reasons. The significance of birthdays among Buddhists has evolved, and now many see them as a chance to gather with family and share joy, akin to other cultural celebrations. Do Buddhists Celebrate Birthdays? | Exploring Cultural Variations - MysteryLores (May 16, 2026) An Engineer's Journey to Buddhism [from the article] Through our discussion, we delved into many topics. Tenzin Laksum provided profound insights into the concept of emptiness. He explained emptiness is an absence of independent existence, everything is interdependent and constantly changing. So, why is this important? He elucidated that the most challenging difficulty we are facing today is a mental problem. We have strong desires, fixed ideas, ego-clinging and selfishness. These are the causes of our unhappiness and difficulties in our daily life. Understanding the interconnectedness and interdependence of everything helps us lose our ego-clinging and strong self-cherishing tendencies. [Source: next link] An engineer’s journey to Buddhism (includes a 15-minute podcast interview) Daily Practices for the Roads of Life... As we learn and practice how to live more mindfully and compassionately...We and all the people we interact with experience this renewal... Here's an article about how one musician helped another bring a song to life. YES, it includes a ukulele - played by the young man who composed the lyrics: Skylar Lam. Jazz Musician Francis Wong Helps Turn Teen’s Lyrics Into a Gatha - Buddhist Churches of America FYI - Gathas are mindfulness verses that help us dwell in the present moment and live with awareness. [Source: Thich Nhat Hanh] Here's the finished song from a link in the above article: Storms and Peace | BCA 125th Commemorative Service 2024 (03:56) “In the swirling of the storm Recite the Nembutsu And become my lantern in the darkness” Click here to learn more about the Nembutsu - including the Amida Buddha or Buddha of infinite light. More tunes for waking up... Kevin Griffin Spotify (free listen with the app) I found him through my 12 Steps recovery practice. Here's his "Wake Up" number - same wisdom provided by Kusala's homemade song mentioned at the beginning of this post. Wake Up link (nice rocking beat) Kevin Griffin Spotify (free listen with the app) Rock & Roll (Kirtan* Roll) - Krishna Das With his energetic musicianship, this guy makes waking up fun. A few years ago, I participated in one of his joyful gigs in NYC. Krishna Das traveled to India in 1970, sat with Neem Karoli Baba alongside Ram Dass, and has devoted every decade since to sharing that love through kirtan. [Source] *With roots in the Vedic anukirtana tradition, a kirtan is a call-and-response or antiphonal style song or chant, set to music, wherein multiple singers recite the names of a deity, describe a legend, express loving devotion to a deity, or discuss spiritual ideas.[6] It may include dancing or direct expression of bhavas (emotive states) by the singer.[6] Many kirtan performances are structured to engage the audience where they either repeat the chant,[7] or reply to the call of the singer.[8][9][10] [Wikipedia] Documentary on Krishna Das: One Track Heart Official Trailer #1 (2013) - Yoga Chant Documentary HD (02:40) For our hearts... Heart as Wide as the World - Krishna Das (06:09) For our soles (not a typo) Let's go out dancin'... Krishna Das was born a Long Island Jewish kid interested in music and psychedelics...finds Eastern spirituality and in this next video is playing in a NYC Christian church WITHOUT changing any lyrics but with the addition of a harmonium and other Eastern instruments... [Source: Bio] Jesus On The Mainline - Krishna Das Live! Songs With Lyrics (07:24) #TomK #birthday #Buddhism #engineer #ukulele #KusalaBhikshu #dharma #gatha #SkylarLam #TenzinLaksam #FrancisWong #Nembutsu #KevinGriffin #LaughingBuddha #kirtan #KrishnaDas #RamDass

This is one of two posts with photos from John's 2025 adventures in the Orient and beyond. This next link will return you to the main story... Let’s follow our SON: a China Cat Sunfollower… NOTE: These dated photos are from the Emei Mountain summit. Wikipedia September 8 September 9 September10 Sacred Monkey Business Photos and video taken during the climb up Mount Emei. 5/25/26: More to follow #JohnTittmann #China #adventure #EmeiMountain

This is one of two posts from John's 2025 adventures in the Orient and beyond. This next link will return you to the main story... Let’s follow our SON: a China Cat Sunfollower… NOTE: Captions for these photos will be added when John returns from his third stop: Ibiza. September 14: Samye Chimpu September 15: Drak Yangdzong Cave September 17: Lake Namtso September 18-19: Lhasa September 19: Lhasa #JohnTittmann #Tibet #adventures