Dear President Trump – Congratulations on your decisive win. Early this morning, I read a statement by NBC writer Jonathan Allen, who stated you are “The most polarizing figure in modern American politics…” He went on to say that you “now preside over a nation deeply driven by social, racial, cultural and economic hostilities,” which […]
This and That – Two Cathedrals. Two Gifts.
Thought for the day: One cathedral is man’s gift to God. The other cathedral is God’s gift to man. One shows our love for the Father. The other shows His love for us. Have you thanked Him today for His love? Will you share it today with someone who might need a word of encouragement, […]
The Sunday Sermonette – Suffering + Prayer = Friendship.
The Sunday Sermonette. Suffering + Prayer = Friendship. I was at the gym last week, running nowhere on the treadmill, lickety split! The telly was on, and as I raced along, I could not help but be saddened by the news reports coming out of Israel and the Gaza Strip. In war, children and the […]
This and That – Galatoires? The Chimneys Restaurant?
Greetings! Succulent shrimp and corn bisque. Melt-in-your-mouth beef tenderloin. Luscious Italian green beans. Delicious Alice Spring Chicken. Grilled asparagus wrapped in tasty bacon. Buttery yeast rolls. Warm apple cake with caramel sauce. Hot, homemade pecan pie with ice cream. And vintage southern table wine…intoxicatingly sweet, sweet tea. Gulfport’s Chimneys Restaurant? Galatoire’s in New Orleans? Nope! […]
This and That – An Invincible Summer!
“My dears, in the midst of hate, I found there was, within me, an invincible love. In the midst of tears, I found there was, within me, an invincible smile. In the midst of chaos, I found there was, within me, an invincible calm. I realized, through it all, that…In the midst of winter, I […]
This and That – RIPPER—THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER SICKER.
“Monday, August 6, 1888, was a bank holiday, and London was a carnival of wondrous things to do for as little as pennies if one could spare a few.” Thus begins one of my much-loved books about one of my favorite historical characters. I was 17 years old when I first checked out a book […]
The Friday Funnies – Oh! Woe is me!
Oh! Woe is me! I’m so bored. I get no kick from champagne. Mere alcohol doesn’t thrill me at all. I get no kick from cocaine; it bores me just the same. I get no kick from an ocean cruise; it gives me the seasick blues. Alas, I get no kick from a standing ovation; […]
The Sunday Sermonette – A Mansion Over The Hilltop.
In the spring of 1965, Dad, Mom, and I loaded up the family Comet, with its cat-eye taillights, and headed north to Jackson. We tuned left onto the Natchez Trace Parkway and motored west and back in time to Natchez, Mississippi. Its annual Spring Pilgrimage awaited us with its magnificent, anti-bellum mansions that lay ensconced […]
This and That – Tis the Season for Mr. Scrooge.
Meanwhile, in other news! It appears Center Stage is resurrecting this old chestnut, along with the old nut who portrays mean ol’ Mr. Scrooge. Rumor has it that this production is a bit avant-garde, with five actors portraying all the other characters in Dickens’ classic story. They portray other things too, like… well…you’ll just have […]
The Friday Funnies – The Latest Designer Toilet Seat.
In other news: Here’s the latest Designer Toilet Seat from the Paris Interior Designer’s Showcase. It’s for your guest bathroom and is for those guests you really don’t like but must invite to be polite. () With the Holidays coming up, watch where you sit. () Big hug, y’all!
This and That – The Clock in the Monteleone Hotel.
Greetings! What a fun, cold, windy day it was to be in the city. It was quiet in the Quarter, but, alas, there was not seat one to be had at the Carousel Bar or the rooms around it. So, I took my place beside the great clock in the lobby of the Monteleone Hotel […]
This and That – Happy Halloween from An Old Stiff.
Happy Halloween! For your perusal, I post a snap of moi in all my deathly splendor. The year was 1974. The place – the cobweb-infested attic of Ross Hall on the campus of William Carey University, back in the day before Baptists lost their sense of humor. (LOL!) My co-heart in horror was Mary Jane […]
THE FRIDAY FUNNIES – Fun Times at the Project Lounge.
What a night! Two femme fatales, Count Dracula, and a lunatic. We fit right in with the Project’s regulars. As you traverse the day, remember: life’s not always easy. Sometimes, being silly with friends is the best therapy! Later Silly Gaters! (Originally published October 29, 2021)
This and That – Shoney’s Big Boy and Russell “P” Potter.
Greetings! I just love eating at Shoney’s! And I love knowing famous people like Shoney’s Big Boy mascot. Big hug, y’all! (Originally published October 28, 2023)
The Sunday Sermonette – There’s Good News Tonight!
The first years of World War II went badly for the Allies. London was decimated by the Blitz. Singapore and the Philippines fell to the Japanese. One by one, European countries were crushed by the Nazi onslaught. And America was attacked at Pearl Harbor. The war’s death toll grew. The days looked dark. […]
The Friday Funnies – Renfield’s Halloween Poem.
It’s ooky spooky in the asylum at night. Crazy ol’ Renfield might give you a fright. He’ll jump on your back, you’ll be in a bind. If you’re not careful, who knows what you’ll find. You might see things like hairy black bats, You might see things like silky black cats. At every quick turn, […]
Dispatches from Home: The Coastal Theater Loses an Icon, but Heaven Gains One.
“I’m Hothouse Rose, from God knows where…” The opening lyrics to one of Cole Poter’s lesser-known songs drifted through the air. The song may not have been famous, but the lady singing it was. Over the years, she had entertained countless audiences at Gulfport Little Theater and was one of the theater’s favorite actresses, leaving […]
Dispatches from Home – A Chasing of the Wind Book Review.
Another review of A Chasing of the Wind, by Carol Szymanski, Fine Arts Chairman, Duchesne Academy, Houston, TX. “This weekend, I read A Chasing of the Wind. Move over Faulkner, Williams, Welty, and Grisham—Mississippi has a new Southern writer. I give it TWO thumbs up! When you finish, you will feel like you really know […]
Dispatches from Home – I Hate Hamlet…Not Really!
Greetings! Need a good time filled with knee-slapping, belly-aching laughter, a hilarious script, and a fantastic cast? Then you don’t want to miss Biloxi Little Theatre’s production of “I Hate Hamlet!” I laughed ’til I was hoarse. Ryan Reinike and Boyce Deaton are a talented team. If they are paired in a drama, as in […]
This and That – A Hug a Day Keeps the Fears Away.
So, who are you going to hug today? Whoever it is, your hug will make them feel better. When I hug you, I love hearing your beating heart. Big hug, y’all! (Orginally published October 25, 023)
The Friday Funnies – A Pie in Your Face.
These boys have been creating Stooge-tacular comedy since the 1930s. Because why frown when you can nyuk-nyuk-nyuk your way through life’s absurdity? Life’s hard these days, my friends. Look for the funny side of it and stay away from that which ain’t…or…I’ll throw a pie in your face. 😂 Big hug, y’all! 🥰
This and That – Terror on the Coast!
Oh! By gosh! By golly! It’s not yet time for mistletoe and holly, but it is time for things that go bump in the night! What a fun time I had last night at Terror on the Coast. The cast and crew were out in force doing what they do best…scarring you to death! The […]
This and That – Ten Years of Center Stage Shows.
(Originally published October 23, 2021)
The Friday Funnies – Oscar Wilde and Snakes!
I’m an old-fashioned kind of guy–women and children first or ladies first–get the picture? But when someone screams, “There’s a huge snake in the hallway just outside your office door!” It’s every fool for himself. Don’t be the snake in someone’s life. Remember what Oscar Wilde once said, “Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, […]
This and That – Robert Frost and a Snowy Evening.
Good morning! So, how many promises do you need to keep, and how many miles do you have to go before you sleep? Make this day count. It won’t ever come your way again. Have a great day, my friends. Big hug. (Originally published October 22, 2022)
This and That – DRACULA Opens Tonight!
Greetings! It’s Opening Night for Center Stage’s DRACULA! Kudos to a great cast and crew, set designer, and director. Please make your reservations to see this show, which will entertain and send a chill or two down your spine. The guy playing Renfield is a bit out of control, but to quote Dracula, “Lunatics are […]
The Friday Funnies! A Hot Mess at Four!
Yeah, I know! I’m cute. It’s my 4th birthday. I’ve got on a cool shirt and Vitalis in my hair. But I can’t hold it any longer…I think I’m gonna toot. Come on now, laugh with this cute little boy. Remember: As birthday cake is to the body, so is laughter to the soul. Later […]
This and That – The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.
Greetings! If you are my age or older, I highly suggest you watch “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” if you haven’t already. I just did. And what a delight it was! It’s most uplifting, too. As Sonny says, “Everything will be all right in the end…if it’s not all right, then it’s not yet the […]
The Friday Funnies- Miss Lucy and Renfield!
“Miss Lucy!” Renfield said with a doleful sigh. “I’ll never screech and scream again IF…” With demented eyes, he paused and looked around the room. “Dr. Seward, I’ll never eat flies and spiders again IF…” His heart tightening with fear, Renfield glared at young Harker. “You’ll never have to shoo away that evil bat again […]
The Sunday Sermonette – A Tale of Two Plumbs.
While shopping at Rouses last week, I spotted plums in the Produce Department. They were the last of the summer plums and were ripening fast. I filled a bag with them, their sweet ripeness temping my senses. That sweetness triggered a memory from days gone by. I’ve often written about my summers spent in the […]
Dispatches from Home – Acorns and The Edgewater Gulf Hotel.
Greetings! As a child in the 1950s, Mom, Dad, and I frequently ate lunch in the dining room of the Edgewater Gulf Hotel after church. After lunch, they would sit in comfy lawn chairs while I romped and played under the cathedral of oaks that graced the manicured lawn. In the fall, the grounds were […]
This and That – Dining at the Chimneys Restaurant in Gulfport, Mississippi.
Greetings! One of my most enjoyable pleasures is dining with friends. Thank you, Ned, for the conversation, most of which should follow us to the grave. Mum’s the word. 😉 I include Colton in the “mum’s department” as well. He was most intrigued with our remembrances of times past and Coastal luminaries who […]
This and That – Brunch with Two Lovely Ladies!
Greetings! A fun time with two lovely ladies during brunch at Biloxi’s Toasted Yoke! When I count my blessings, I count y’all twice. Big hug, y’all.
This and That – Fall Down South!
Fall! It is one of my favorite times of the year, especially down South! After the blistering, oven of summer, the crisp cool mornings and lush cool nights are a welcomed relief! It is also a time filled with the languorous beauty of brilliant-colored leaves, a sky of crystal blue, and Monarch butterflies that flutter […]
The Friday Funnies – The Full Moon and Me!
Help and double Help! So last night I’m minding my own business and suddenly, my toes and fingers gnarled up. Hair started sprouting on my head. (No complaints about that! ) I started baying at the moon. And in the back of my mind, an old gypsy woman kept repeating, “The vay you valked vas […]
Dispatches from Home – The New Orleans’ Saenger Theater Update.
Greetings! The Times-Picayune posted an article about the Hard Rock Casino collapse. It included this about the Saenger: “Impact of a possible fall: If the cranes fall, it would likely cause major destruction to the area near Rampart and Canal streets because of the size and weight of the cranes. Both cranes are about 270 […]
This and That – A Night Out With Dear Friends!
Boo! Got the privilege of having an evening snack and drinks at Mary Mahoney’s with Blanche DuBose of Laurel Mississippi and Stella Kowalski of New Orleans, along with The Chet Landry of WLOX, who is my Assitant Director for WATP’s upcoming production of Tennessee Williams’ classic Southern Gothic play, “A Streetcar Named Desire.” A Fun. […]
The Sunday Sermonette – God’s Song!
Have you ever heard a song that sticks in your mind, and you go singing it throughout the day? Hopefully, it puts a smile on your face and a skip in your step. But there’s an inner song, deep within your soul, that God composed just for you. Today, ask Him to hum its tune […]
This and That – Where Oh Where Did The Time Go?
Greetings! Forty-six years ago! Where oh where did the time go? To my young friends, enjoy the golden days of your youth. Time races by. And one day, like me, you’ll wonder where it went. But as the days, months, and years pass, keep the memories of those golden days safe in an old trunk […]
This and That – Throwback Thursday, The Bachelor Party!
While cleaning out an old trunk in the attic, I found this. In faded ink, these words were written: “Wow! What a Bachelor’s Party. Never tell our wives what fun we had. Always remember watering the flowers, the fire-ant dance, and throwing up in the ice chest.” It appears that everyone signed the back of […]
The Friday Funnies. – Bad-Boy Louie and the Bat!
This younger generation…I just don’t know what to think of them. I showed Bad-Boy Louie the bat from Gulfport Little Theater’s 1984 production of DRACULA, and he almost passed out. He’s such a wuss. But then he threw a rubber snake at me, and I peed in my pants. Don’t know who the bigger wuss […]
Dispatches from Home – Dear Lillian Gish.
Greetings! Dear Miss Gish lived to be 99. Apparently, her life’s philosophy worked. Smart lady from Hollywood’s Golden Age. Follies Of God · “I made a decision very early in my life that I was going to be happy and successful–a winner at things. I wasn’t going to be defeated by slights and trivialities. I have always […]
Dispatches from Home – Luxury, Steam, and a Pleasant Crossing.
“It’s hard to believe they are gone. The piers are still there. The bon voyage baskets, piled high with impractical fruits and jellies, still line the shelves of the gourmet shops. In midtown Manhattan, there’s even a postcard still for sale, showing the Queen Elizabeth, Mauretania, a Sylvania-class Cunarder, the America and the Independence lying […]
THE FRIDAY FUNNIES – Where’s the Toilet Plunger?
When you’re up to your armpits in toilet paper, it’s hard to remember where you hid the toilet plunger. Don’t forget: to make mistakes is human; to stumble is commonplace, but to be able to laugh at yourself that’s maturity. How’s your maturity level? Giggle and laugh today. That’s an order! Later Gaters Who Follow […]
The Sunday Sermonette – R.E.S.P.E.C.T.
R. – Reverse someone’s disrespect for you with respect for them. E. – Everyone deserves respect, whether in agreement or not. S. – Saying I respect you and doing so are two different things. P. – Persistently strive to be respectful of others. E. – Earning respect is more advantageous than demanding it. C. – […]
This and That – Thought for the Day…Details.
Many years ago, I coined a phrase that I often remind myself of: It is the attention to detail that sets one above mediocrity. Oft times, when I’ve finished a project, I reflect on just that—the details. Should I have added this or that? Should I have asked for help? Should I have accepted that […]
The Friday Funnies – A Nightmare and Louie!
“Last night, I dreamt I went to Manderley again.” Oops! Wrong dream! () Last night, I dreamt I was flying; clocks and time meant nothing as I strove to become the wanna-be studly shadow that floated above me. Alas, disaster! During my imaginary flight, the bed collapsed due to my twisted contortions. I tumbled out […]
This and That – A Sweet Potato Vine and “A Streetcar Named Desire.”
Here’s the morning question: Where can I find a large, organic sweet potato? The only ones they have at Ye Ole Rouses are very, very small. The non-organic sweet potatoes are spayed with something to keep them from sprouting. I want to start growing a sweet potato vine to use as set dressing for WATP’s […]
That and That – It’s A Wonderful World.
Greetings! What a fun time we had Saturday afternoon watching “A Wonderful World” at the Saenger in New Orleans. The music, the costumes, the set, and the actors and actresses were breathtaking. When they all went to tap dancing, I thought I was going to jump out of my seat and hit the stage with […]
THE SUNDAY SERMONETTE – Pushin’ and Draggin’.
Long ago, my sweet Granny from D’Lo told me, “Andy, what ain’t pushin’ you forward is draggin’ you down.” In life, who or what is either pushing you up the mountain or dragging you into the valley? Ponder this and go forth. (Originally published August 21, 2022)
THE SUNDAY SERMONETE – I’m Sorry.
Apologies for callous words and hurtful actions are never easy. But until the words – I’m sorry – are spoken, the process of reconciliation cannot begin. Ponder this and go forth. (Originally published October 9, 2024)
Dispatches from Home – Pray for Florida’s Citizens! ALL of Them!
Greetings! This statement was posted on a former friend’s FB page, former being the operative word. This is a prime example of one of the many things wrong with our dear county. With the swirling rain demon approaching Florida and its terrified citizens, the only thing we, as American Citizens, should be doing is praying […]
Dispatches from Home – A Reality Check.
When it comes to acting, there are times when I find it easier to direct my energy toward the mundane than to practice the intellectual discipline and imagination that acting requires. As I sit learning lines for the upcoming production of “Scrooge The Musical,” the demons of doubt dance in my mind. They whisper […]
This and That – Slow Down and Avoid Embarrassment!
NOTE TO SELF: Slow down and concentrate when getting dressed! Remember to put your clothes on in this order: underwear, short pants (in summer), shirt, and shoes. That way, when you dash off to Rouses for a bit of grocery shopping, you won’t get out of your car and realize you’re bereft of your short […]
Dispatches from Home – September 1, 1985, A Great Discovery!
Mornin’ Y’all! Thirty-three years ago, we were battening down the hatches, awaiting the arrival of Hurricane Elena. She made landfall on September 2 as a Category 3 hurricane, sashaying up Gulfport’s 25th Avenue with pounding wind and thick rain. Because the Coast had other things on its mind, we missed the announcement of one of […]
This and That – Thought for the Day!
Draining the swamp of alligators doesn’t matter a flip if you fill it back up with crocodiles. Food for thought? Later Thinking Gaters or Crocs, as the case might be. (Originally published September 6, 2018)
Dispatches from Home – Wise Words.
“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo. “So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” Poignant movie dialogue for […]
This and That – A Cure for Baldness.
ATTENTION: A NEW REMEDY FOR BALDNESS AND THINNING HAIR. Create a poultice comprised of these ingredients in equal parts: alum, vinegar, and lemon juice. Vigorously rub said mixture into your scalp three times daily. No, it doesn’t regrow your hair. But in reducing the circumference of your head, this mixture allows what little bit of […]
This and That – Family Reunion – The Musical.
THROWBACK THURSDAY—”Family Reunion” was a hilarious musical written by the amazingly talented Kitty and Neil Stallings! What a fun show it was. Thanks to the amazing talents of the director, David Delk, and his sterling cast and crew, it was an audience pleaser—sold-out performances every night. As Bob Hope sings, ” Thanks for the memory…” […]
This and That – A New Morning of a New Week!
Good morning! As this new week unfolds before you, take time to take a quiet walk down a quiet path, if not literally, then figuratively. Take time to thank the Good Master for being your anchor in a world gone mad. Hold onto him…he’s holding on to you. Later Clutching Gaters! (Originally published October 8, […]
The Friday Funnies – The Outhouse of Life!
Ain’t life unpredictable at times! There you are, sitting and minding your own business, when BOOM, something happens to take away your peaceful, enjoyable day. Don’t let that happen to you today. Remember: Life always offers you a second chance…it’s called tomorrow. Later Looking-Forward-To-A-Great-Day Gaters! (Orginally published October 8, 2021)
The Friday Funnies – A Lost Meteorite and An Old Coot!
Meanwhile, in other news, it appears this old coot has lost more than his meteorite. His mind, perhaps? Did he not have a hairbrush to brush that thinning mop before going on the air? As you go through the day, try and look your best…it will make you feel better about yourself. Later Looking-Good Gaters! […]
Dispatches from Home – Horror and Death on the Day before Valentine’s Day.
“As a student in the 1960s, I knew only the legend of Dresden because it was just about all that was ever printed. Like so many others of my age, I had learned of the city’s destruction principally through a work of fiction: Kurt Vonnegut’s acidly surreal masterpiece, “Slaughterhouse-Five.” Frederick Taylor, author of “Dresden–Tuesday, February […]
This and That – EnterFear: The Next Wave! A Movie Premiere!
Good morning! What a fun night was had by all at the premiere of EnterFear: The Next Wave at Biloxi’s Premiere Lux Theater. Thanks to Tim Wall and Ryan Reinike for expanding my “movie career.” Strange seeing and hearing yourself on the silver screen. Mercy me! That’s all I needed…seeing my big nose get even […]
The Friday Funnies – A Good Book and Classical Art.
A good book and classical art. What more could a person ask for? Remember: Try and laugh while walking along life’s bumpy pathway. You have a choice—either you laugh or you cry. But Honey! Crying gives me a headache, a runny nose, and bloodshot eyes. Makes me look like I’ve been on a three-day drunk. […]
The Sunday Sermonette – A Rare Perfume.
In the mid-sixties, my Dad went to Chicago to visit his Father. While they were having breakfast in the dining room of the hotel where my Grandfather lived, they noticed an elderly woman just outside the dining room window struggling with some packages. Suddenly, she tottered and fell to the sidewalk. It […]
Dispatches from Home – Anne Frank’s Diary.
Good evening! Anne’s always been a fascination to me. She epitomizes the loss of an entire generation of Jewish teenagers in the Holocaust, who might have gone on to cure cancer, or write a world-famous novel, or paint a lasting image in oils. But her dreams, like the dreams of millions of Jews and Gentiles […]
The Friday Funnies – A Walk Down Memory Lane.
While wading through a slew of boxes filled with old papers and ring binders, I found my old KNS Publicity Folder from the early 90s. Its yellowing pages and envelopes packed with aging snaps brought a smile. Remembering all my friends who had entertained me over the years with their stage antics made me giggle. […]
This and That – Which One?
Good morning! For you philosophical types, here’s the burning question of the day: As we age, which is of greater importance, wisdom or intelligence? I’m getting ready for church, a comforting place to be in a world crumbling into madness. Later Contemplating Gaters! (Originally published October 4, 2020)
Dispatches from Home – Mr. Scrooge. The Old Teaching The New.
“Just think, young man,” Mr. Scrooge said with a sparkle in his eyes. “In an hour, this old theater will be packed to the balcony. “I’m scared,” said the young man with fear in his eyes. “My child, don’t be,” Mr. Scrooge said. “We rehearsed; we know our songs and our blocking. Just do what […]
This and That – A Streetcar Name Desire and Mo.
Greetings! Dear Mo as Stella in WATP’s production of “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Love this snap of her, such a lovely setting, so evocative. Big hug, ya’ll. (Originally published October 4, 2023)
Dispatches from Home – The Hand of God.
Morin’ Y’all! Ever endured a traumatic experience? Sudden loss of your job, home, or someone you love? Ever sat in the darkness of that loss, wondering where to go or who to turn to? Many will only turn to God when they are stumbling in the darkness, falling to their knees, begging for help and […]
This and That – Louie, Me and Fall!
Good morning everyone! What a lovely, cool morning it is. Even Bad-boy Louie is feelin’ it. Please start the week with a smile on your face and a song in your heart…try and end it that way too. Later Smiling Gaters! (Originally published October 3, 2022)
THE FRIDAY FUNNIES – Fashionable Nerds.
For you youngsters (anyone under 45 ) who have wondered what hairstyles fashionable Nerds wore in the 1960s, here’s your answer. SNAP 1 – This nerdy Fashionista sports the Swooped-Back-With-One-Curl look. Pomade was a must. He augmented his look with oversized glasses in an effort to mask the freckles splashed across his face. A clip-on […]
This and That – National Son’s Day!
National Son’s Day! Well, ain’t nobody left but me, so I’ll wish myself a Happy Son’s Day. Later Gaters…who are Sons. (Originally published September 29, 2019)
Dispatches from Home – A Leap into Madness!
“This book explores the origins, manifestations, and treatment of Vaslav Nijinsky’s madness. The successful first half of his life has become legendary, but his breakdowns and terrible decline have never been fully described.” Thus begins Peter Ostwald’s powerfully evocative book about the life and times of one of the most successful performing artists of the […]
This and That – The Hourglass of Time.
Good morning on this crisp, cool morning. There are times I wish I could pour molasses into the hourglass of time. Big hug to all. (Originally published September 29, 2022.)
The Friday Funnies – Grandfather’s Ostrich.
For those of you who say I’m behind the times, let the record show the Kalbergs have always been on the cutting edge of technology. For evidence, I present a snap of my grandfather, Frank August Kalberg, Sr., and a lady friend of unknown origin. He told me the ostrich’s name was Silvester, who, on […]
The Sunday Sermonette – A Firm Foundation.
The Temple Mount’s Southern Wall, the Great Pyramid, the Parthenon, Norte Dame Cathedral, and the Lincoln Memorial—what do these monuments have in common? They each began with a cornerstone. This stone guaranteed the alignment of the edifices of these magnificent buildings. Since days of old, builders have used cornerstones in their building projects. It […]
Dispatches from Home – The – of Life.
For those of us who were privileged to know Dr. Bobby Perry, you know what a gentle but powerful man of God he was. His obituary was filled with his many lifelong accomplishments, as he took the gifts that God had given him, using them to bring folks from all walks of life to a […]
This and That – Mississippi Gulf Coast Theater.
The Coastal theater scene has been H-O-T HOT for several months now. First, it was Center Stages summer musical “Godspell.” Then it was “Xanadu,” produced by The Walter Anderson Theatre Project. Biloxi’s Little Theater’s production of “A Chorus Line” soon followed. And last, but certainly not least, was tonight’s production of “The Manchurian Candidate,” at […]
Dispatches from Home – The Ocean Liner Exhibition Has Sailed.
Greetings, Dear Ones! Thankfully, what took four weeks to create only took a mere three days to dismantle. The Ocean Liner Exhibition was a lifetime dream! A massive THANK YOU to those who made that dream come true. What would life be without dreams? Right? A big THANK YOU to all those who came to […]
Dispatches from Home – Good Memories!
Mornin’ Y’all! My dear friend, Janie Steel Walters, sent me this little happy via the morning post. As I age, I’ve found that a sense of humor-being able to laugh at yourself and your foibles-is worth its weight in gold. Gold may pass away, as will your youth, but the memory of a good laugh […]
This and That – Old Cemeteries.
Good afternoon on this lovely Sunday afternoon – I love old cemeteries with their amazing tombstones. This touching, lifelike statue is located in the Crystal Springs Cemetery in Crystal Springs MS. It honors Benson Mott Lockwood. Without a doubt, dear Mr. Lockwood loved his old dog. If I was going to have a pet, it […]
This and That – Peter Pan!
“Peter Pan” at Perkinston Community College 1992
The Sunday Sermonette – Ugly.
Don’t let the ugly in others kill the beauty in you because Life’s too short to dance with “ugly” people. Ponder this and go forth. (Originally published September 25, 2022)
Thank and That – Lend Me a Soprano!
Greetings! With apologies to Cole Porter, let me just say, “Another closin’, another show!” But what a show it was! Thank you, Center Stage, and the Cast, Crew, and Director of “Lend Me a Soprano” for a hilarious romp into the world of Grand Opera, with its bellowing sopranos, high-strung husbands, overbearing mothers, miscast lovers, […]
This and That – Good Afternoon From Edinburgh!
It’s a cold, blustery day, Christopher Robin. The past and present swirl all around me. From ancient St. Giles Cathedral, where the Queen lay in state, to numerous woolen shops selling everything from cashmere scarves and men’s and women’s kilts to long johns in every color. (No, don’t ask. I didn’t purchase either of […]
The Friday Funnies! Bell Peppers. Van Gogh. And A Dream
The Friday Funnies! Oh! My! Was it the stuffed bell peppers? That Sichuan spicy hot pot? Or was it the large bowl of shrimp creole? Whatever it was, I awoke last night from a horrible nightmare! I was trapped in a Van Gogh painting with no way out. Then I found out the painting was […]
The Sunday Sermonette – One Nest. Two Thoughts.
Several months ago, I trimmed Mom’s sixty-year-old nandina. With my trusty shears, I slashed away with all my might. Imagine my horror when cleaning up my mess, I saw a bird’s nest in the pile of branches. I picked it up. Thankfully, no eggs or baby birds were nestled within the woven architecture of […]
This and that – Good Morning On The Train To Edinburgh.
As we bid farewell to Merry ole England, I can’t help but enjoy the journey through the picturesque countryside. As the train whizzes through it, I’ve noticed one thing that both sides of the pond have in common: graffiti. Although most of it is gang-related, I can look past the gangs and enjoy the talent […]
This and that – Called out in Church!
Yikes! Called out in church this morning by my pastor, Dr. Jimmy Stewart. I was totally taken by surprise, to say the least. Someone asked me why I was not more “theatrical’? My reply? I’m not an improv actor. LOL! Sunday morning church…a good place to be. Some of y’all should try it sometime. (Big […]
Dispatches from Home – A Chorus Line.
ONE SINGULAR SENSATION! That’s my take on Friday night’s performance of Biloxi Little Theater’s production of “A Chorus Line.” A glittered top hat off to the gifted director, Aaron Lind, and his brilliantly talented cast and crew. Their months of “blood, sweat, and tears” paid off, as was evident by the audience’s reaction to this […]
This and That – Good morning on the train to Durham…I hope.
There was some snafu with our tickets. As the train steamed out of the station, we discovered we were on the wrong train. The conductress was none too pleased when she radioed to the engineer to stop the train. She herded us out like cattle, almost pushing us and our luggage onto the platform. There […]
This and That – Good morning from York.
We’re watching the Queen’s funeral on the telly from our hotel room in York’s Park Inn by Radisson. It’s somewhat surreal watching it all. Two weeks ago we were simply tourists taking in Westminster Abbey’s ancient grandeur. Today from the Abbey, we watch as mourners, as does much of the world. Sam and I are […]
This and That – Good morning on the train to York!
I’m sitting here in the gently rocking train carriage, watching the English countryside float by. In vast fields of new morn barley, wind turbines twirl. Flocks of blackbirds scratch the ground for their lunch, as fuzzy sheep meander in another field, also looking for their lunch. Overhead, cotton-candy clouds hold up the sky, the air […]
The Friday Funnies! Rumors! Rumors!
Whatever rumors you’ve heard about this fellow with crafty eyes and a snarky smile, please note that they are false, and the accusations are biased and unfounded. He’s innocent of all charges. Any pictures of him that you might see at your local Post Office have been put there by ne’er-do-wells intent on fanning the […]
The Sunday Sermonette – The Old Hymns Say It Best.
In times of spiritual light or darkness, I need thee. In times of wealth or poverty, I need thee. In times of sickness or health, I need thee. In times of war or peace, I need thee. In times of political turmoil or political tranquility, I need thee. In times of disbelief or belief, I […]
Dispatches from Home – The Color Purple!
The final performance of a play, especially a musical, is always bittersweet. There is a touch of happiness and sadness as the curtain closes and the stage lights dim. The glue that held the play together—rehearsals, set building, costume fittings, lighting, and sound—dissolves, and the cast and crew return to the real world. […]
This and That – Life’s Wounds!
Thought for the Day! I don’t know who needs to read this but please remember: Life’s wounds—death, divorce, betrayal, gossip, severed relationships, hateful boss, etc.—will never heal until you stop scratching the scab. Big hug y’all! (Originally published September 16, 2023)