As mentioned in my previous blog (ANOTHER MOVE?), rumors continued to circulate in the rumor mill re changes on the horizon. Armed with this information, dear wife and I talked again. This time I was more positive that my job situation could change, thus making the Washington offer more attractive.
The new job would be a major change for me in that I would no longer be in a line position but have a staff job, which would be somewhat of a relief. No more quotas to make, no need for the right people to hire, no worries about the people I occasionally had to fire (always a gut-wrenching decision for me), and so on.
Armed with all of these points, "we" decided that NOW was the time to move, so I called my manager with my decision. He called Washington and the deed was done. I then made a two-hour trip to Washington, met with my new bosses (2), and went over what they expected of me. I discovered that this was a brand new job, which meant to me that there was the opportunity to make a real "go" of it. I signed off and floated home on Cloud Nine as it were. Whoopie!
There was a small snag in moving quickly into the job. Dear wife and I had bought tickets for our first-ever trip to Europe. No problem, said my new bosses, go and enjoy, and we will see you when you return.
Soooooo, off to Europe we went, enjoyed it fully, and then came home to a new job, another house move and new friends.
More, later.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
ANOTHER MOVE
Early one spring morning, while at my desk in Harrisburg, I received a call from my district manager telling me that I was getting visitors from our Washington, D..C. regional office. They wanted some information about my office's relationship with the Pennsylvania state government.
Sure enough, two days later E_____and D_____ arrived. I spent some time explaining our government connections, and then took them on a visit of the State Department of Transportation where I knew the management group. They took me to lunch, thanked me, and left. It was a very pleasant visit.
Two days later I discovered the real purpose of their visit. My manager called me and told me that the visitors wanted to offer me a job in their Washington office. I was floored! I had so settled into the Harrisburg area that I fully expected to eventually retire there. I had one week to respond to the offer.
When I broke the news to dear wife, her response was quite negative, as was expected, for she loved the Harrisburg area as much as I did. I assured her that we would "talk it out" before I made a decision. Two days later I got the first in a number of rumors that some REALLY BIG moves were being contemplated by the Company. One of these rumors had to do with the closing of some branches. Although I felt that state capitols were safe, I felt quite uneasy about what I had heard.
More, later.
Sure enough, two days later E_____and D_____ arrived. I spent some time explaining our government connections, and then took them on a visit of the State Department of Transportation where I knew the management group. They took me to lunch, thanked me, and left. It was a very pleasant visit.
Two days later I discovered the real purpose of their visit. My manager called me and told me that the visitors wanted to offer me a job in their Washington office. I was floored! I had so settled into the Harrisburg area that I fully expected to eventually retire there. I had one week to respond to the offer.
When I broke the news to dear wife, her response was quite negative, as was expected, for she loved the Harrisburg area as much as I did. I assured her that we would "talk it out" before I made a decision. Two days later I got the first in a number of rumors that some REALLY BIG moves were being contemplated by the Company. One of these rumors had to do with the closing of some branches. Although I felt that state capitols were safe, I felt quite uneasy about what I had heard.
More, later.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
THE BEAUTIFUL HILLS OF PENNSYLVANIA
Living in Pennsylvania's central area was a pleasure. The beautiful topography, so different from the flatlands of Delaware and New Jersey, was delightful to behold. It seemed that the air was more pure, the seasons of the year more clearly defined, and the people were different from those of my previous associations; they were more friendly and more open to conversations.
I experienced the difference during my first November. About the second week of the month, I came into the office on a Monday morning, as usual. However, as the day wore on, it seemed to me that there was less activity than usual. I casually mentioned this to my secretary, and she said,"That's because some of the men are on their off." I guess I looked puzzled and she repeated her statement. I said, E____, I don't know what you mean." "Oh," she said, "It's hunting season (bear and deer), and about half of the staff is taking vacation to tramp in the woods right now." The branch supervisors had neglected to mention this to me, assuming that I knew about it.
While I was in Harrisburg, it was my pleasure to be in contact with numerous company representatives who represented other product lines. These men would come into the office to do some telephoning, or just to talk about business. We had a lot of camaraderie because we enjoyed so much working for the same company.
More,, later.
I experienced the difference during my first November. About the second week of the month, I came into the office on a Monday morning, as usual. However, as the day wore on, it seemed to me that there was less activity than usual. I casually mentioned this to my secretary, and she said,"That's because some of the men are on their off." I guess I looked puzzled and she repeated her statement. I said, E____, I don't know what you mean." "Oh," she said, "It's hunting season (bear and deer), and about half of the staff is taking vacation to tramp in the woods right now." The branch supervisors had neglected to mention this to me, assuming that I knew about it.
While I was in Harrisburg, it was my pleasure to be in contact with numerous company representatives who represented other product lines. These men would come into the office to do some telephoning, or just to talk about business. We had a lot of camaraderie because we enjoyed so much working for the same company.
More,, later.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
TRANSFER TIME
It seems that we barely got acclimated to Delaware and environs when I got the news that I was being transferred to the larger Harrisburg, Pennsylvania branch. Wow!
I began commuting from Wilmington to Harrisburg by train on Monday mornings, came home on Wednesday evenings, back to Harrisburg on Thursday morning and home, late, on Friday.
Dear wife and I took a different tack on housing in the Harrisburg area. We looked at partially-built "spec" houses that could be re-configured to meet our needs. We ended up in the suburb of Camp Hill, with a beautiful home that backed up to cornfields that were inhabited by deer, foxes and geese.
The Harrisburg branch covered fourteen counties in central Pennsylvania. The "hot spots" for business were the state government and Pennsylvania State University. During the six years I spent in the area, I ws twice awarded a President's Cup for outstanding performances. This meant week -long trips to a ranch in Santa Barbara, California, where golfing, horseback riding and plenty of food and drink - mostly drink, were available.
One year there was a disaster caused by the flooding Susquehanna River over its banks and into our offices. I was able to convince the Company to re-locate to higher ground. There I had the pleasure of leading a ribbon-cutting ceremony to our new building, which icluded a message from Pennsylvania's Secretary of State. It was a heady time.
More, later.
I began commuting from Wilmington to Harrisburg by train on Monday mornings, came home on Wednesday evenings, back to Harrisburg on Thursday morning and home, late, on Friday.
Dear wife and I took a different tack on housing in the Harrisburg area. We looked at partially-built "spec" houses that could be re-configured to meet our needs. We ended up in the suburb of Camp Hill, with a beautiful home that backed up to cornfields that were inhabited by deer, foxes and geese.
The Harrisburg branch covered fourteen counties in central Pennsylvania. The "hot spots" for business were the state government and Pennsylvania State University. During the six years I spent in the area, I ws twice awarded a President's Cup for outstanding performances. This meant week -long trips to a ranch in Santa Barbara, California, where golfing, horseback riding and plenty of food and drink - mostly drink, were available.
One year there was a disaster caused by the flooding Susquehanna River over its banks and into our offices. I was able to convince the Company to re-locate to higher ground. There I had the pleasure of leading a ribbon-cutting ceremony to our new building, which icluded a message from Pennsylvania's Secretary of State. It was a heady time.
More, later.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
ANOTHER UPWARD MOVE
After two years as the 3M Wilmington branch sales supervisor, I was promoted to branch manager. Manager status was an important position in our company and I felt proud to be at that level.
With the promotion, a family move was approved, so dear wife, Ruth, began house hunting in Wilmington. It didn't take her long to find a brand new house, a larger house and lot than our current one, with a small stream running at the foot of the property. SOLD!
The question now was how long would it take us to sell our New Jersey home? It was accomplished in record time. The Anderson Family, sans dear daughter who was away at school, moved excitedly into Delaware. Dear son opted to spend his senior year in a Wilmington high school. Oh, yes, the dog and cats came along!
It was a relief to drive one mile to the office instead of 35 miles which I had previously traveled. It also made my time as a manager more efficient, as I could cultivate our key accounts in Delaware - such as the DuPont and Hercules Powder Companies and the Dover Air Force Base.
One year after our move, dear son was accepted for study at the University of Delaware. Another family highlight.
More, later.
With the promotion, a family move was approved, so dear wife, Ruth, began house hunting in Wilmington. It didn't take her long to find a brand new house, a larger house and lot than our current one, with a small stream running at the foot of the property. SOLD!
The question now was how long would it take us to sell our New Jersey home? It was accomplished in record time. The Anderson Family, sans dear daughter who was away at school, moved excitedly into Delaware. Dear son opted to spend his senior year in a Wilmington high school. Oh, yes, the dog and cats came along!
It was a relief to drive one mile to the office instead of 35 miles which I had previously traveled. It also made my time as a manager more efficient, as I could cultivate our key accounts in Delaware - such as the DuPont and Hercules Powder Companies and the Dover Air Force Base.
One year after our move, dear son was accepted for study at the University of Delaware. Another family highlight.
More, later.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
A MOVE UP
During my seventh year in the Philadelphia area, I was selected for a promotion to a sales supervisory position at the Wilmington, Delaware branch of the 3M Company.
SO. . . I hit the road, traveling 35 miles a day from my New Jersey home to Wilmington, or directly to a territory to work with a salesman, that being my primary function in the job. The Wilmington branch territory included all of the state of Delaware plus five counties in southern New Jersey. It was an lot of ground to cover, but I was equal to the task.
The territory had some "hot spots," a description that defined "good for business" areas. They were Wilmington, Dover (the state capitol) with its huge air force base, and Atlantic City, the cream of the seashore area. Dover Air Force base was and is a huge complex. Its main fleet consists of the C47 cargo planes used for carrying personnel and equipment. Often, I would have the opportunity to see a plane being loaded with tanks and armored trucks that drove right into its cargo space.
What do I remember most about those years? One moment stands out. I was assisting a salesman making a demonstration in a dental office in Atlantic City, when news came over the office radio of the assassination of President Kennedy; end of demo and visit.
More, later.
SO. . . I hit the road, traveling 35 miles a day from my New Jersey home to Wilmington, or directly to a territory to work with a salesman, that being my primary function in the job. The Wilmington branch territory included all of the state of Delaware plus five counties in southern New Jersey. It was an lot of ground to cover, but I was equal to the task.
The territory had some "hot spots," a description that defined "good for business" areas. They were Wilmington, Dover (the state capitol) with its huge air force base, and Atlantic City, the cream of the seashore area. Dover Air Force base was and is a huge complex. Its main fleet consists of the C47 cargo planes used for carrying personnel and equipment. Often, I would have the opportunity to see a plane being loaded with tanks and armored trucks that drove right into its cargo space.
What do I remember most about those years? One moment stands out. I was assisting a salesman making a demonstration in a dental office in Atlantic City, when news came over the office radio of the assassination of President Kennedy; end of demo and visit.
More, later.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
SEASHORE FUN
In my previous blog (FAMILY VACATIONS) I wrote about vacation time in Surf City, N. J.
Surf City is, to my mind, an ideal family resort - small enough to be avoided by large building projects, yet complete enough for family enjoyment.
What did we do during our month-long times there? Of course, the ocean beckoned, as it always did. Yet, we were located closer to the bay and its safe-swimming beach. While I was working, the family used the bay. On weekends, we used the ocean beach and its challenges of very large waves and often tidewater that could be dangerous. I was fully aware of this and protected the family accordingly.
What else could we do? There was usually a carnival on the island, which meant weekend rides for the children, followed by cotton candy and ice cream treats. We attended a small Baptist church where a vacation Bible school was held and our children attended.
I enjoyed clamming. With a dollar permit in hand, and in the other hand, a basket fitted inside a car tire tube, I would wade into the bay until about chest high, feel for clams with my toes, then duck under to dislodge them and put them into the basket. This is the way that Native Americans clammed many years before, using reeds for the flotation device. Nothing, absolutely nothing is better than a clam chowder made with fresh-from-the-water-clams. Wow!
More, later.
Surf City is, to my mind, an ideal family resort - small enough to be avoided by large building projects, yet complete enough for family enjoyment.
What did we do during our month-long times there? Of course, the ocean beckoned, as it always did. Yet, we were located closer to the bay and its safe-swimming beach. While I was working, the family used the bay. On weekends, we used the ocean beach and its challenges of very large waves and often tidewater that could be dangerous. I was fully aware of this and protected the family accordingly.
What else could we do? There was usually a carnival on the island, which meant weekend rides for the children, followed by cotton candy and ice cream treats. We attended a small Baptist church where a vacation Bible school was held and our children attended.
I enjoyed clamming. With a dollar permit in hand, and in the other hand, a basket fitted inside a car tire tube, I would wade into the bay until about chest high, feel for clams with my toes, then duck under to dislodge them and put them into the basket. This is the way that Native Americans clammed many years before, using reeds for the flotation device. Nothing, absolutely nothing is better than a clam chowder made with fresh-from-the-water-clams. Wow!
More, later.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
FAMILY VACATIONS
When I changed to my copier job we were able to plan family vacations - the primary one being time at the New Jersey seashore.
A family in our church had a house in Surf City, New Jersey. As you might imagine, from its name, it was a seashore resort, located about sixty miles from our home. The first floor of the house was a garage, the second floor, a very large apartment, and the third floor, the owner's apartment. We began to make plans to rent the second floor apartment for one month during the summer - usually in July. The house was located one block from the bay and about three blocks from the ocean, a site that I considered ideal for our family's use.
So, on the first of July, in 1957, off to the beach we went, in our car, loaded with family, a dog and a bowl of goldfish. Once settled in, we luxuriated in the steady, cool breezes from either the ocean or the bay, and set about enjoying ourselves.
Because I was trying to establish myself in the copier business, I did not take a vacation for the first four years, but was satisfied with weekends and occasionally a Wednesday overnight with the family.
The house-owners drove to the shore every Wednesday evening for an overnight refresher and I traveled with them, returning to work early on Thursday mornings.
More, later.
A family in our church had a house in Surf City, New Jersey. As you might imagine, from its name, it was a seashore resort, located about sixty miles from our home. The first floor of the house was a garage, the second floor, a very large apartment, and the third floor, the owner's apartment. We began to make plans to rent the second floor apartment for one month during the summer - usually in July. The house was located one block from the bay and about three blocks from the ocean, a site that I considered ideal for our family's use.
So, on the first of July, in 1957, off to the beach we went, in our car, loaded with family, a dog and a bowl of goldfish. Once settled in, we luxuriated in the steady, cool breezes from either the ocean or the bay, and set about enjoying ourselves.
Because I was trying to establish myself in the copier business, I did not take a vacation for the first four years, but was satisfied with weekends and occasionally a Wednesday overnight with the family.
The house-owners drove to the shore every Wednesday evening for an overnight refresher and I traveled with them, returning to work early on Thursday mornings.
More, later.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
THE ANIMAL-HAPPY FAMILY
We were a busy family after my job change. I was active in our church, dear son was a Cub Scout (with me as committee chairman), and we enjoyed the usual birthday parties and family holiday-times.
One Christmas we got our first family pet, a collie pup that we named Holly. She was a dear dog, very protective of the children, and we had her for many years. It was a sad day for us when she died.
Along the way, we became "cat people" (ugh). We had a number of cats (whose names escape me). At one of my job transfer times we ended up in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, sans pets. However, it didn't take long for that to change. A new family moved into the block from Pittsburgh with a brand new litter of kittens. Dear wife and dear daughter went to "have a look" and returned with TWO KITTENS (having just one kitten would make it lonely). They were promptly named TAR (coal black) and MARMALADE (the color of the famous jam), and they were with us for years!!!
At my next job transfer, dear son drove the two drugged cats to our new location , in McLean, Virginia. Marmalade "kicked the bucket," but Tar refused to follow her.
While Dear Wife and I left Virginia for Wisconsin, we left Tar with a neighbor. For all I know, he might still be enjoying life on their back veranda.
More, later.
One Christmas we got our first family pet, a collie pup that we named Holly. She was a dear dog, very protective of the children, and we had her for many years. It was a sad day for us when she died.
Along the way, we became "cat people" (ugh). We had a number of cats (whose names escape me). At one of my job transfer times we ended up in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, sans pets. However, it didn't take long for that to change. A new family moved into the block from Pittsburgh with a brand new litter of kittens. Dear wife and dear daughter went to "have a look" and returned with TWO KITTENS (having just one kitten would make it lonely). They were promptly named TAR (coal black) and MARMALADE (the color of the famous jam), and they were with us for years!!!
At my next job transfer, dear son drove the two drugged cats to our new location , in McLean, Virginia. Marmalade "kicked the bucket," but Tar refused to follow her.
While Dear Wife and I left Virginia for Wisconsin, we left Tar with a neighbor. For all I know, he might still be enjoying life on their back veranda.
More, later.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
FAMILY CHANGES
Having made the leap to the international company, my income changed dramatically, which made for a lot of happy campers on Linden Avenue in Collingswood, New Jersey.
Six months into the job, the company compensation plan changed, and for the better. The monthly draw was changed to a monthly salary plus commissions. On the first day of the month I received a salary check for $400.00, and on the 15th of the month, commissions earned from the previous month's sales. My dear wife was VERY HAPPY with the security that the salary check gave us. So much so, that her end-of-the-day greeting was, "Hello dear, how did it go today?" (translation : did you make any sales today?) as she was totaling the probable amount of next month's commission check!! There was no more scraping for a few dollars near the end of any month.
Another change was our ablilty to grow our bank savings acount, knowing that in a few years, dear daughter would be trotting off to college and we would be gladly paying for her education.
It was during those early years that we bought our first good car, an almost-new nine passenger Mercury station wagon. It had faux wooden-appearing side panels in brown, and the rest of the car was a cream color.
I bought a VERY USED Plymouth four-foor sedan for $125.00 and that was my work car.
More, later.
Six months into the job, the company compensation plan changed, and for the better. The monthly draw was changed to a monthly salary plus commissions. On the first day of the month I received a salary check for $400.00, and on the 15th of the month, commissions earned from the previous month's sales. My dear wife was VERY HAPPY with the security that the salary check gave us. So much so, that her end-of-the-day greeting was, "Hello dear, how did it go today?" (translation : did you make any sales today?) as she was totaling the probable amount of next month's commission check!! There was no more scraping for a few dollars near the end of any month.
Another change was our ablilty to grow our bank savings acount, knowing that in a few years, dear daughter would be trotting off to college and we would be gladly paying for her education.
It was during those early years that we bought our first good car, an almost-new nine passenger Mercury station wagon. It had faux wooden-appearing side panels in brown, and the rest of the car was a cream color.
I bought a VERY USED Plymouth four-foor sedan for $125.00 and that was my work car.
More, later.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
MY VERY OWN TERRITORY
There were a number of things about my new job/company that were first class.
The first plus was to have my exclusive sales territory. Wow! No one could sell in there but me. The territory included a large portion of downtown Philadelphia and a very large portion of Southern New jersey that included five counties and the city of Camden. The cities would demand most of my time because of the concentration of prospects. Less time would be spent in the rural counties because of fewer prospects, but required critical planning because of time spent traveling between towns.
The second plus was the amount of training I received. Every week there was a training meeting, usually in the evening, at which time each salesman was involved in role-playing, taking turns playing Mr. Prospect to the calling salesman. It was lots of fun and at the same time, a learning experience.
The third plus was my compensation plan, which was a challenging one. It consisted of a monthly draw of $400.00 against commission. If your commission for the month totaled $300.00, you owed the company the difference which you were expected to make up the following month. This was the incentive to increase your calls per month, knowing that the more calls you made, the better your chances for sales.
More, later.
The first plus was to have my exclusive sales territory. Wow! No one could sell in there but me. The territory included a large portion of downtown Philadelphia and a very large portion of Southern New jersey that included five counties and the city of Camden. The cities would demand most of my time because of the concentration of prospects. Less time would be spent in the rural counties because of fewer prospects, but required critical planning because of time spent traveling between towns.
The second plus was the amount of training I received. Every week there was a training meeting, usually in the evening, at which time each salesman was involved in role-playing, taking turns playing Mr. Prospect to the calling salesman. It was lots of fun and at the same time, a learning experience.
The third plus was my compensation plan, which was a challenging one. It consisted of a monthly draw of $400.00 against commission. If your commission for the month totaled $300.00, you owed the company the difference which you were expected to make up the following month. This was the incentive to increase your calls per month, knowing that the more calls you made, the better your chances for sales.
More, later.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
FINAL JOB CHANGE
My final (and sixth) job change happened in an unusual way.
Realizing the need for a change, I began perusing the newspaper employment sections , looking for just the right move because I was in my thirties, but still employable to most companies.
One day I saw an ad for an office copier salesman. Wow! I had the experience gained selling the E.K. copiers, plus this offered an opportunity to see a copier line that was completely unique in the business world. It was an all-electric copier, which meant that there were no messy chemicals involved. Wow, again.
I made a phone call, had an interview, and said,"this is for me." After a discussion with my dear wife, who was reluctant to see me change, she changed her mind when I mentioned the 25 percent pay increase. Once again, with some reluctance, I gave my notice to the camera company and moved to another downtown office.
My new employer was an international company with a fine reputation and they did things the right way. My first week was spent in New York City, traveling with experienced salesmen. It was the right way to get started. While I was in New York City, I got a call from my new manager saying that he had sold two copiers for me in my territory. I knew then that I had made the right move.
More, later.
Realizing the need for a change, I began perusing the newspaper employment sections , looking for just the right move because I was in my thirties, but still employable to most companies.
One day I saw an ad for an office copier salesman. Wow! I had the experience gained selling the E.K. copiers, plus this offered an opportunity to see a copier line that was completely unique in the business world. It was an all-electric copier, which meant that there were no messy chemicals involved. Wow, again.
I made a phone call, had an interview, and said,"this is for me." After a discussion with my dear wife, who was reluctant to see me change, she changed her mind when I mentioned the 25 percent pay increase. Once again, with some reluctance, I gave my notice to the camera company and moved to another downtown office.
My new employer was an international company with a fine reputation and they did things the right way. My first week was spent in New York City, traveling with experienced salesmen. It was the right way to get started. While I was in New York City, I got a call from my new manager saying that he had sold two copiers for me in my territory. I knew then that I had made the right move.
More, later.
Friday, September 17, 2010
SMILE FOR THE CAMERA
An interesting feature to my new job was the opportunity to gain some sales experience, and it happened this way.
When my office work was caught up I would spend time at the company's retail counter watching what took place. Eventually, I found myself selling non-technical items (film, flashbulbs and inexpensive cameras), and enjoying it very much.
In my second year on the job, the firm began to expand its product lines to out-of-the-store prospects. The major additions were projectors to the education market, commercial Polaroid equipment and office photo copiers. My boss wanted me to try selling the latter two product lines, releasing me from day-to-day office responsibilities. I was happy to oblige, and soon found myself enjoying immensely the "outside" work.
One big advantage of this outside selling was the training I received from the company representatives of these products, in particular, the Eastman Kodak Company and its photocopier line. One of the representatives, Ed____, was the catalyst for motivating me to succeed.
Once again I found myself pondering my job status. There were no promotion possibilities in this family-run business, and I received no extra commissions for these sales. With a daughter nearing college age I knew that I needed more money. Was it time for me to seek other employment? Read my next blog to find out what happened.
More, later.
When my office work was caught up I would spend time at the company's retail counter watching what took place. Eventually, I found myself selling non-technical items (film, flashbulbs and inexpensive cameras), and enjoying it very much.
In my second year on the job, the firm began to expand its product lines to out-of-the-store prospects. The major additions were projectors to the education market, commercial Polaroid equipment and office photo copiers. My boss wanted me to try selling the latter two product lines, releasing me from day-to-day office responsibilities. I was happy to oblige, and soon found myself enjoying immensely the "outside" work.
One big advantage of this outside selling was the training I received from the company representatives of these products, in particular, the Eastman Kodak Company and its photocopier line. One of the representatives, Ed____, was the catalyst for motivating me to succeed.
Once again I found myself pondering my job status. There were no promotion possibilities in this family-run business, and I received no extra commissions for these sales. With a daughter nearing college age I knew that I needed more money. Was it time for me to seek other employment? Read my next blog to find out what happened.
More, later.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
CIGARS (Part II)
I found my new job very interesting, particularly in my relatiomship with the fifteen retail cigar salesmen. They were a friendly lot given to much joking with each other and with the eight office staff. The office manager, Mr. B______, a veteran in the business, was very thorough in the way he directed the office, and very patient with me as he taught me the business from the ground up, as they say.
My primary job, as assistant office manager, was inventory control. I had to balance, on a daily basis, the number of cigars carried by each salesman (beginning number, less sales for the day, and ending balance on each panel truck) add to this total the number of cigars in the warehouse, and come up with the total by physical counting. Exacting work, but quite interesting.
I had this job for about three and a half years. In addition to taking inventory, I wrote monthly reports to the general sales office and directed the office staff when Mr. B_____ was absent.
The one drawback to the job was financial. The yearly raise was miniscule and was reflected in my take-home pay, which just about covered our expenses. I decided to look around for another opportunity and found it!!
In the church we attended was a man my age whose father had a retail camera store in downtown Philadelphia. O____ told me one day that the company needed an office manager to give some relief to his dad, at the store. Once I got the details and found the pay to be fifty percent more than my current job, I took the leap, although it meant working for half day on Saturdays. I left the cigar companyy with some regrets (isn't it always so?), but was anxious to "run the show" in this new venture.
The camera company was quite small personnel-wise, but a growing business. The atmoshphere was relaxed and friendly, and I thrived in it.
More, later.
My primary job, as assistant office manager, was inventory control. I had to balance, on a daily basis, the number of cigars carried by each salesman (beginning number, less sales for the day, and ending balance on each panel truck) add to this total the number of cigars in the warehouse, and come up with the total by physical counting. Exacting work, but quite interesting.
I had this job for about three and a half years. In addition to taking inventory, I wrote monthly reports to the general sales office and directed the office staff when Mr. B_____ was absent.
The one drawback to the job was financial. The yearly raise was miniscule and was reflected in my take-home pay, which just about covered our expenses. I decided to look around for another opportunity and found it!!
In the church we attended was a man my age whose father had a retail camera store in downtown Philadelphia. O____ told me one day that the company needed an office manager to give some relief to his dad, at the store. Once I got the details and found the pay to be fifty percent more than my current job, I took the leap, although it meant working for half day on Saturdays. I left the cigar companyy with some regrets (isn't it always so?), but was anxious to "run the show" in this new venture.
The camera company was quite small personnel-wise, but a growing business. The atmoshphere was relaxed and friendly, and I thrived in it.
More, later.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
CIGARS, CIGARETTES, TIPARELLOS
I got off to a slow start in my "cigar" job. This was my first experience of working in a general office atmosphere, and I had a lot to learn.
My boss on the job was Frank____________. Frank had been with the company for quite some time and knew the cigar business. His title was National Marketing Manager and he was responsible for opening new markets, primarily in the eastern part of the country.
Much of my job was statistical. I had to research the retail cigar business through different media channels and write up reports about what I had found. Occasionally I travelled with Frank to areas outside of Philadelphia to conduct surveys looking for wholesalers with whom we could make arrangements for them to distribute our products to their retailers, and if so, make contractural arrangements to do business together.
The national sales office staff was small in number. It consisted of the general sales manager, his assistant, two office secretaries, Frank and myself. The women were somewhat standoffish in regards to me, and no friendship could be developed. The lead woman was the G.M.'s secretary and very proud of her poisition. Woe betide any of us who crossed her path. She would hustle into the boss's office to complain, and the accused was on the carpet..
My lack of experience made the job difficult. I had to depend on Frank for direction almost daily and that was wearing on the two of us. There were days when I had little, or nothing to do and that also made things difficult.
About a year and half into the job, I heard of an opening in the retail branch which was located on the first floor of the same building. With Frank's permission, I applied and was accepted. Ah, the freedom from boredom and into activity - what a break.
More, later.
My boss on the job was Frank____________. Frank had been with the company for quite some time and knew the cigar business. His title was National Marketing Manager and he was responsible for opening new markets, primarily in the eastern part of the country.
Much of my job was statistical. I had to research the retail cigar business through different media channels and write up reports about what I had found. Occasionally I travelled with Frank to areas outside of Philadelphia to conduct surveys looking for wholesalers with whom we could make arrangements for them to distribute our products to their retailers, and if so, make contractural arrangements to do business together.
The national sales office staff was small in number. It consisted of the general sales manager, his assistant, two office secretaries, Frank and myself. The women were somewhat standoffish in regards to me, and no friendship could be developed. The lead woman was the G.M.'s secretary and very proud of her poisition. Woe betide any of us who crossed her path. She would hustle into the boss's office to complain, and the accused was on the carpet..
My lack of experience made the job difficult. I had to depend on Frank for direction almost daily and that was wearing on the two of us. There were days when I had little, or nothing to do and that also made things difficult.
About a year and half into the job, I heard of an opening in the retail branch which was located on the first floor of the same building. With Frank's permission, I applied and was accepted. Ah, the freedom from boredom and into activity - what a break.
More, later.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
THE JOB MARKET
My Campbell Soup employment, beginning in May, 1946, was a pick-up from two prewar jobs. My first job, after high school, was as a delivery man for as stationer's company. My second job was at the shipyard. Now I was beginning job number three (see blog SOUPS ON)
My soup job was as an assistant machine operator on a labeling machine. The main responsibility was to remove jammed cans without losing a finger or two. It must have been O.K., because I still have my original ten fingers! I knew that once the canning season was over I would probably be unemployed, so I was busy looking for the next opportunity. As it happened, the opportunity came looking for me, and here is how it happened.
My late sister-in-law worked in the national office of a cigar company. She learned that the sales office was looking for an administrative assistant, no experiencee necessary. With my permission, she placed my name in as an applicant.
The applicant had to have one significant qualification; he had to be Protestant, that's right, Protestant! The owners of the company were Jewish, and the sales department was mainly Roman Catholic. The owners said that a Protestant was needed to "balance" the department. I got the job. Can you imagine a company in today's business world having that kind of a requirement?
Ruth and I hurried to buy a suit (my first, ever), which seemed to be made of burlap, because every third day the pants had to be pressed to maintain a crease. Whew!
More, later.
My soup job was as an assistant machine operator on a labeling machine. The main responsibility was to remove jammed cans without losing a finger or two. It must have been O.K., because I still have my original ten fingers! I knew that once the canning season was over I would probably be unemployed, so I was busy looking for the next opportunity. As it happened, the opportunity came looking for me, and here is how it happened.
My late sister-in-law worked in the national office of a cigar company. She learned that the sales office was looking for an administrative assistant, no experiencee necessary. With my permission, she placed my name in as an applicant.
The applicant had to have one significant qualification; he had to be Protestant, that's right, Protestant! The owners of the company were Jewish, and the sales department was mainly Roman Catholic. The owners said that a Protestant was needed to "balance" the department. I got the job. Can you imagine a company in today's business world having that kind of a requirement?
Ruth and I hurried to buy a suit (my first, ever), which seemed to be made of burlap, because every third day the pants had to be pressed to maintain a crease. Whew!
More, later.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
CIVILIAN LIVING
Becoming a civilian on December 26, 1945, took a bit of adjusting, that's for sure.
The first two changes had to do with employment and moving my family into our New Jersey home. It didn't take long to discover that my former shipyard job was kaput! Evidently there would not be any shipbuilding for a long time.
We had been able to rent our home during the war years (that kept our mortgage payments on schedule), so it was a matter of notifying the tenant of their need to move, clean the house once it was vacant, and then move back in. What a pleasure that was!
Early on, the government had established an unemployment plan to assist returning veterans into transition that I was now experiencing. It was called the 52/20 Club, which meant that you could receive twenty dollars a week for fifty-two weeks, or until employed. I promptly joined the Club and enjoyed the benefits until May of 1946 when I was employed by the Campbell Soup Company (see blog SOUPS ON). That four-month period was the only time in my work history that I was unemployed.
In retrospect, this period was good for our family. I adjusted to civilian life, Ruth and I adjusted to being together, and baby daughter adjusted to having a real-life daddy.
More, later.
The first two changes had to do with employment and moving my family into our New Jersey home. It didn't take long to discover that my former shipyard job was kaput! Evidently there would not be any shipbuilding for a long time.
We had been able to rent our home during the war years (that kept our mortgage payments on schedule), so it was a matter of notifying the tenant of their need to move, clean the house once it was vacant, and then move back in. What a pleasure that was!
Early on, the government had established an unemployment plan to assist returning veterans into transition that I was now experiencing. It was called the 52/20 Club, which meant that you could receive twenty dollars a week for fifty-two weeks, or until employed. I promptly joined the Club and enjoyed the benefits until May of 1946 when I was employed by the Campbell Soup Company (see blog SOUPS ON). That four-month period was the only time in my work history that I was unemployed.
In retrospect, this period was good for our family. I adjusted to civilian life, Ruth and I adjusted to being together, and baby daughter adjusted to having a real-life daddy.
More, later.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
MORE DRASTIC CHANGES
I happened to be on radio watch when two important messages came over the airwaves.
The first message, on April 15, 1945, announced the death of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The crew was in shock as we had not known anything about his deteriorating physical condition.
The second message, on May 8, 1945, announced the end of the war in Europe. The news brought lots of cheers from the crew, with dancing and jumping around the decks. We would soon be homeward bound, we thought. No way!! Our ship was assigned a weather-watch station halfway between Iceland and Greenland, and there we stayed until mid-November.
Back in Washington, D. C., the armed forces were putting together a POINT ELIGIBILITY SYSTEM for honorably discharged personnel. Your points included months of service, months on overseas duty, points for children you had under the age of 18, and points for commendations. I was eligible for discharge while on board ship, but getting to Norfolk was too long a swim!
I mid-November, the ship headed for Norfolk at FLANK SPEED. It was time to go home!
On December 20th, I entrained for home. I would be home for my first Christmas since 1941.
On December 26th, I reported to the Coast Guard District Office in Philadelphia to receive my discharge papers. I was "invited" to consider re-enlistment, but I said, "no thanks" and headed home as a civilian. Wow!
More, later.
The first message, on April 15, 1945, announced the death of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The crew was in shock as we had not known anything about his deteriorating physical condition.
The second message, on May 8, 1945, announced the end of the war in Europe. The news brought lots of cheers from the crew, with dancing and jumping around the decks. We would soon be homeward bound, we thought. No way!! Our ship was assigned a weather-watch station halfway between Iceland and Greenland, and there we stayed until mid-November.
Back in Washington, D. C., the armed forces were putting together a POINT ELIGIBILITY SYSTEM for honorably discharged personnel. Your points included months of service, months on overseas duty, points for children you had under the age of 18, and points for commendations. I was eligible for discharge while on board ship, but getting to Norfolk was too long a swim!
I mid-November, the ship headed for Norfolk at FLANK SPEED. It was time to go home!
On December 20th, I entrained for home. I would be home for my first Christmas since 1941.
On December 26th, I reported to the Coast Guard District Office in Philadelphia to receive my discharge papers. I was "invited" to consider re-enlistment, but I said, "no thanks" and headed home as a civilian. Wow!
More, later.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
SHIP LIFE
Daily life on shipboard was routine, broken only by General Quarters alarms signifying German submarine presence below, as I wrote in my blog ASSIGNMENT.
The radio room personnel were on a four hour duty, followed by an eight hour off schedule. That meant we could "hit the sack," unless assigned extra duty jobs. Often we were quizzed by our chief petty officer regarding the technical aspects of radio equipment and its operation.
However, when in port and the radio silenced, we radiomen joined the deck crew in housecleaning, including shining the brass, which was everywhere. No matter how hard we rubbed, the chief bosun was never satisfied. Relief came in the form of shore liberty, which gave us an opportunity to eat restaurant food and drink beer. Interestingly enough, whenever we first had liberty, we didn't head for a glass of beer, but for glasses of COLD MILK. The beer came later.
On our first return trip to Norfolk, it happened to be at Thanksgiving time. The captain invited guests to join him for a turkey dinner aboard ship. Unfortunately, the crew ate all of the turkey, and the guests had to be fed otherwise. The captain WAS SO MAD that he had the quarantine flag flown and liberty was cancelled for two days. THE JERK!
More, later
Comments to henryjoy423@yahoo.com
The radio room personnel were on a four hour duty, followed by an eight hour off schedule. That meant we could "hit the sack," unless assigned extra duty jobs. Often we were quizzed by our chief petty officer regarding the technical aspects of radio equipment and its operation.
However, when in port and the radio silenced, we radiomen joined the deck crew in housecleaning, including shining the brass, which was everywhere. No matter how hard we rubbed, the chief bosun was never satisfied. Relief came in the form of shore liberty, which gave us an opportunity to eat restaurant food and drink beer. Interestingly enough, whenever we first had liberty, we didn't head for a glass of beer, but for glasses of COLD MILK. The beer came later.
On our first return trip to Norfolk, it happened to be at Thanksgiving time. The captain invited guests to join him for a turkey dinner aboard ship. Unfortunately, the crew ate all of the turkey, and the guests had to be fed otherwise. The captain WAS SO MAD that he had the quarantine flag flown and liberty was cancelled for two days. THE JERK!
More, later
Comments to henryjoy423@yahoo.com
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
TRAVELOUGE
Once our ship assignment was made, the ship's movement and locations were top secret. That made writing home somewhat creative because each letter was read by our communications officer. If there was even a hint as to our whereabouts, it was deleted by the officer before mailing.
The first time we passed Gibraltar, going into the Mediterranean Sea, I wrote to Ruth and asked her to check our Prudential insurance book because on its cover was a picture of the Rock. Somehow, it passed the censor and Ruth knew where I was. Clever, huh?
When we were in the Med, the convoy protection went to British ships and we headed for the Port of Oran, in Algeria. There we would have about five days for re-stocking, and some liberty before heading north to Norfolk. The return trip was much quicker because the merchants were empty, except for those carrying German prisoners.
I didn't like Oran. It was a dirty city, full of dirty people, with prostitution the main business. The most interesting sight to me was to see naval ships belonging to the Free French, scuttled in the harbor to avoid their capture by the Germans.
Norfolk was always a welcome sight, even though its residents posted signs on their lawns, reading DOGS AND SAILORS KEEP OFF THE GRASS!
More, later.
The first time we passed Gibraltar, going into the Mediterranean Sea, I wrote to Ruth and asked her to check our Prudential insurance book because on its cover was a picture of the Rock. Somehow, it passed the censor and Ruth knew where I was. Clever, huh?
When we were in the Med, the convoy protection went to British ships and we headed for the Port of Oran, in Algeria. There we would have about five days for re-stocking, and some liberty before heading north to Norfolk. The return trip was much quicker because the merchants were empty, except for those carrying German prisoners.
I didn't like Oran. It was a dirty city, full of dirty people, with prostitution the main business. The most interesting sight to me was to see naval ships belonging to the Free French, scuttled in the harbor to avoid their capture by the Germans.
Norfolk was always a welcome sight, even though its residents posted signs on their lawns, reading DOGS AND SAILORS KEEP OFF THE GRASS!
More, later.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
ASSIGNMENT
It wasn't until we arrived in our home port (see previous blog), that we learned of our assignment - that of convoy duty, protecting merchant ships heading for Europe, from attack by German submarines. The importance of this didn't begin to "sink in" until we began seeing 100 plus merchant ships forming in Norfolk harbor for the crossing.
The time of departure came and it wasn't until we were well underway that I realized, "hey, there is nothing around us but water, I hope we make it."
The most unusual thing happening to me while adjusting to being at sea, was odd periods of sickness. I say odd, because every time the ship left port I had to lose the latest meal I had eaten. After that, no matter how rough the waters became, I had no sickness problems. In fact, I loved the rough seas - so much so that when off duty in the radio shack, I would be on deck looking at the water and at the merchant ships.
My General Quarters (GQ) station was the emergency radio room, below deck and aft. If the alarm sounded (meaning sonar picking up submarine sounds), I would grab my life preserver and head for my station. If we were attacked and hit, it was my responsibility to transmit that information to the fleet commodore. I never really thought about the precariousness of my position, although I later realized that if we had been hit, I would not have made it out of there alive.
More, later.
The time of departure came and it wasn't until we were well underway that I realized, "hey, there is nothing around us but water, I hope we make it."
The most unusual thing happening to me while adjusting to being at sea, was odd periods of sickness. I say odd, because every time the ship left port I had to lose the latest meal I had eaten. After that, no matter how rough the waters became, I had no sickness problems. In fact, I loved the rough seas - so much so that when off duty in the radio shack, I would be on deck looking at the water and at the merchant ships.
My General Quarters (GQ) station was the emergency radio room, below deck and aft. If the alarm sounded (meaning sonar picking up submarine sounds), I would grab my life preserver and head for my station. If we were attacked and hit, it was my responsibility to transmit that information to the fleet commodore. I never really thought about the precariousness of my position, although I later realized that if we had been hit, I would not have made it out of there alive.
More, later.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
ON THE MOVE
The week we were to leave Hatteras Island (see blog BOOT CAMP), an explosion at sea indicated German submarine activity. Sure enough, three days later dead bodies began to hit the beach.
This was my first encounter with death outside of family funerals. The bodies, wearing life jackets, were frozen stiff and covered with sand - a gruesome sight.
From Hatteras I was transferred to radio school at Atlantic City, New Jersey. What a break! Now, I'll be able to get home. Not a chance. My only visit, albeit a memorable one, was a weekend visit to see Ruth and our baby daughter, who was born on March 12, 1943. Wow!
After six weeks of radio training, I graduated as a Radioman Third Class (RM3C), and was sent to the Coast Guard station in Brooklyn, New York, where a ship's crew was forming. Three weeks later we entrained to New Orleans, Louisiana, where the newly-built ship was waiting for us. After some dockside training, the ship headed for its shakedown cruise (testing in every area), in the Gulf of Mexico. It was a VERY STORMY THREE DAYS, which meant that I spent most of my time on deck, sleeping under gun mounts, because every time I tried to go below to eat, the smell of the food made me "about face."
The crew and the ship passed the tests and we headed north for Norfolk, Virginia, which was to be our home port.
More, later.
This was my first encounter with death outside of family funerals. The bodies, wearing life jackets, were frozen stiff and covered with sand - a gruesome sight.
From Hatteras I was transferred to radio school at Atlantic City, New Jersey. What a break! Now, I'll be able to get home. Not a chance. My only visit, albeit a memorable one, was a weekend visit to see Ruth and our baby daughter, who was born on March 12, 1943. Wow!
After six weeks of radio training, I graduated as a Radioman Third Class (RM3C), and was sent to the Coast Guard station in Brooklyn, New York, where a ship's crew was forming. Three weeks later we entrained to New Orleans, Louisiana, where the newly-built ship was waiting for us. After some dockside training, the ship headed for its shakedown cruise (testing in every area), in the Gulf of Mexico. It was a VERY STORMY THREE DAYS, which meant that I spent most of my time on deck, sleeping under gun mounts, because every time I tried to go below to eat, the smell of the food made me "about face."
The crew and the ship passed the tests and we headed north for Norfolk, Virginia, which was to be our home port.
More, later.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
BOOT CAMP
Moving into the military world was a very different experience.
I am not sure how the description "boot" came into being. Maybe it was the implied threats by the drilling instructors that we would be booted (kicked) out of the sack, booted for messing up the cadence while marching, booted to assignments for disciplinary reasons (mess duty).
I can recall that at our first "fall-in," the instructor asked if there were any engineers in the squad. Those who raised their hands were assigned to duty in the mess hall, engineering (preparing) the food. That warned the rest of us to be aware of what we answered.
I enjoyed marching, even if it was at 5 a.m., in the darkness and under the stars. Most of the squad was able to march in cadence, but invariably, there would be one or two poor souls who couldn't do it, and they would drive the instructors crazy!
In December, Ruth and her sister came from Philadelphia by train for her one and only visit. When Ruth saw my shaved head all she could do was cry!
The six-week boot camp went quickly. From there I was shipped to Hatteras Island, North Carolina, in a holding pattern until February. While there, we were assigned lookout duty at the top of the Hatteras Lighthouse, to watch for ship explosions at sea (German submarine action) and reporting same to headquarters.
More, later.
I am not sure how the description "boot" came into being. Maybe it was the implied threats by the drilling instructors that we would be booted (kicked) out of the sack, booted for messing up the cadence while marching, booted to assignments for disciplinary reasons (mess duty).
I can recall that at our first "fall-in," the instructor asked if there were any engineers in the squad. Those who raised their hands were assigned to duty in the mess hall, engineering (preparing) the food. That warned the rest of us to be aware of what we answered.
I enjoyed marching, even if it was at 5 a.m., in the darkness and under the stars. Most of the squad was able to march in cadence, but invariably, there would be one or two poor souls who couldn't do it, and they would drive the instructors crazy!
In December, Ruth and her sister came from Philadelphia by train for her one and only visit. When Ruth saw my shaved head all she could do was cry!
The six-week boot camp went quickly. From there I was shipped to Hatteras Island, North Carolina, in a holding pattern until February. While there, we were assigned lookout duty at the top of the Hatteras Lighthouse, to watch for ship explosions at sea (German submarine action) and reporting same to headquarters.
More, later.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
DRASTIC CHANGES
With the onset of World War II, conditions changed drastically in our lives. Employment rose to new heights in the shipyard. Security became a major factor, and the pace of work quickened.
The latter condition affected me considerably. Every two weeks I changed shifts, starting with the day shift, from 8a.m. to 4p.m. Then, I went from 4p.m. until midnight, and finally , the "dog shift," from midnight until 8a.m.
The "dog shift" was the toughest one in which to adjust. I tried to get some sleep until about 11p.m. Invariably, we overslept - to be awakened by the sound of a horn blowing from the car pool.
The two biggest changes came in July. Number One change was a letter from President Roosevelt, inviting me to join the Army. This was a big surprise to me because I thought I would be deferred since I was working in the defense industry. Number Two surprise was an announcement from Ruth that she was pregnant. Wow!
I had a friend who had joined the Coast Guard, so I did the same, with the hope that I could be stationed reasonably close to my pregnant wife. Besides I didn't think I would look good in khaki.
The first week in November, Ruth and our household goods moved in with her parents. The following week, accompanied by a sobbing wife and a flag-waving mother, I was on a train for Baltimore, Maryland.
More, later.
The latter condition affected me considerably. Every two weeks I changed shifts, starting with the day shift, from 8a.m. to 4p.m. Then, I went from 4p.m. until midnight, and finally , the "dog shift," from midnight until 8a.m.
The "dog shift" was the toughest one in which to adjust. I tried to get some sleep until about 11p.m. Invariably, we overslept - to be awakened by the sound of a horn blowing from the car pool.
The two biggest changes came in July. Number One change was a letter from President Roosevelt, inviting me to join the Army. This was a big surprise to me because I thought I would be deferred since I was working in the defense industry. Number Two surprise was an announcement from Ruth that she was pregnant. Wow!
I had a friend who had joined the Coast Guard, so I did the same, with the hope that I could be stationed reasonably close to my pregnant wife. Besides I didn't think I would look good in khaki.
The first week in November, Ruth and our household goods moved in with her parents. The following week, accompanied by a sobbing wife and a flag-waving mother, I was on a train for Baltimore, Maryland.
More, later.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
OUR FIRST CHRISTMAS
December 23, 1941, was the first Christmas in our new home. Although it was a happy time for us, celebrations throughout the country were muted because of what happened at Pearl Harbor on the 7th.
News about Pearl Harbor came to our attention as we were having Sunday dinner with friends at a local restaurant. It seemed so far away and so unrelated to us that we kept on eating, without comment. Little did we know how it would affect us in the months ahead.
Getting back to holiday time, our first tree had to be small because we had a small house. Our living room had a sofa, a chair, a table and two lamps. Where would we put the tree? The solution was to put it in our bedroom, which had a window that fronted onto the street. Combining ornaments from both families, plus our purchases, made for a beautifully decorated tree.
I wish I could remember our gift exchanges on that day. No doubt I bought Ruth some clothing, a tradition that I followed all of our married lives.
Of course, we spent time with each of our families, returning home, loaded with gifts. It was the beginning of years of happy holidays.
More, later.
News about Pearl Harbor came to our attention as we were having Sunday dinner with friends at a local restaurant. It seemed so far away and so unrelated to us that we kept on eating, without comment. Little did we know how it would affect us in the months ahead.
Getting back to holiday time, our first tree had to be small because we had a small house. Our living room had a sofa, a chair, a table and two lamps. Where would we put the tree? The solution was to put it in our bedroom, which had a window that fronted onto the street. Combining ornaments from both families, plus our purchases, made for a beautifully decorated tree.
I wish I could remember our gift exchanges on that day. No doubt I bought Ruth some clothing, a tradition that I followed all of our married lives.
Of course, we spent time with each of our families, returning home, loaded with gifts. It was the beginning of years of happy holidays.
More, later.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
FINDING OUR LOVE NEST
It was time to separate ourselves from Ruth's parents' hospitality by deciding where we would live, so house-hunting became the priority.
We "roamed" the area, starting in West Philadelphia, then to Northeast Philadelphia and, finally to New Jersey. The major factor was to be somewhat near my work, so we eventually found THE place in the town of Oaklyn, New Jersey, about a twenty minute ride to the shipyard.
The house was about three years old and ready for immediate occupancy. It had five rooms which included a living room, dining room, kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom. It also had a floored attic and a usable basement. The lot was 45 feet by 110 feet. There was no garage, but that was o.k., because we didn't have a car.
The next steps were to furnish the home. Ruth and her mother went to the J.B VanSciver Furniture Company in Camden, the most reputable home furnishings company in the area and made on-the-spot decisions. The choices were made easier by the gift of a complete dining room set from Ruth's parents. Wow!
Early in November, we moved into our love nest. With movers and Ruth's parents gone, Ruth prepared her first-ever dinner and it was delicious.
More, later.
We "roamed" the area, starting in West Philadelphia, then to Northeast Philadelphia and, finally to New Jersey. The major factor was to be somewhat near my work, so we eventually found THE place in the town of Oaklyn, New Jersey, about a twenty minute ride to the shipyard.
The house was about three years old and ready for immediate occupancy. It had five rooms which included a living room, dining room, kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom. It also had a floored attic and a usable basement. The lot was 45 feet by 110 feet. There was no garage, but that was o.k., because we didn't have a car.
The next steps were to furnish the home. Ruth and her mother went to the J.B VanSciver Furniture Company in Camden, the most reputable home furnishings company in the area and made on-the-spot decisions. The choices were made easier by the gift of a complete dining room set from Ruth's parents. Wow!
Early in November, we moved into our love nest. With movers and Ruth's parents gone, Ruth prepared her first-ever dinner and it was delicious.
More, later.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
SIGHTSEEING AND MORE
Ruth and I spent the next two days sightseeing in the Big Apple, before moving, by train, to our honeymoon location, Mountain Lake House, in the Pennsylvania Pocono Mountains.
The Pocono Resorts billed themselves as honeymoon havens and our choice certainly lived up to those claims. We swam, played tennis, hiked, ate, and ate some more. As a result, we arrived home somewhat heftier than before.
While at M.L.H., we met a couple celebrating their fifth wedding anniversary, and we became instant friends. Mike and Sarah lived in Brooklyn, near his place of employment, the Bush Terminals, where Mike was the general manager of an olive-packing company.
At the end of the week, we went back to NYC for more sightseeing and an evening with Mike and Sarah, where we enjoyed a delicious Italian-style dinner.
At the end of the second week, it was time to go home, to return to reality of back to the job and planning our future. The job was important, for we arrived home with about $5.00 cash. So the need for funds was basic.
The next Monday, I headed for work, a difficult adjustment after two weeks of having fun. On the agenda were house-hunting, furnishings and the like. Busy! Busy! Busy!
More, later.
The Pocono Resorts billed themselves as honeymoon havens and our choice certainly lived up to those claims. We swam, played tennis, hiked, ate, and ate some more. As a result, we arrived home somewhat heftier than before.
While at M.L.H., we met a couple celebrating their fifth wedding anniversary, and we became instant friends. Mike and Sarah lived in Brooklyn, near his place of employment, the Bush Terminals, where Mike was the general manager of an olive-packing company.
At the end of the week, we went back to NYC for more sightseeing and an evening with Mike and Sarah, where we enjoyed a delicious Italian-style dinner.
At the end of the second week, it was time to go home, to return to reality of back to the job and planning our future. The job was important, for we arrived home with about $5.00 cash. So the need for funds was basic.
The next Monday, I headed for work, a difficult adjustment after two weeks of having fun. On the agenda were house-hunting, furnishings and the like. Busy! Busy! Busy!
More, later.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
THE BIG DAY AND THE BIG APPLE
The nine-month waiting period until September 13th is a blur in my memory. The only thing for which I was responsible was planning our honeymoon, no easy task for a guy who had never traveled outside of his home turf except by car to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (see blog, SOMETHING IS BURNING), but I was game to give it my best shot.
Our wedding was at 2:00 p.m., followed by a reception at the bride's home. Ruth's sister, Grace and my cousin, Jack were maid of honor and best man, respectively. The wedding went off without a hitch, although some of the people attending were not sure who was getting married, as the pastor addressed us as Henry and Helen, rather than Harry and Ruth!
After a crowded time at the reception, we headed for North Philadelphia train station with family in tow. Into the train we went, found our seats and sank back, exhausted. The porter put the three suitcases up on the rack, looked at the fifty cents I gave him, and gently reminded me that the usual tip was fifty cents a bag. How was an inexperienced, young man like me to know that?
We arrived in NYC at 8:00 p.m. and took a cab to the hotel. The cab driver looked at the $1.00 tip I gave him and kept his hand out until I upped the ante.
Good night.
More, later.
Our wedding was at 2:00 p.m., followed by a reception at the bride's home. Ruth's sister, Grace and my cousin, Jack were maid of honor and best man, respectively. The wedding went off without a hitch, although some of the people attending were not sure who was getting married, as the pastor addressed us as Henry and Helen, rather than Harry and Ruth!
After a crowded time at the reception, we headed for North Philadelphia train station with family in tow. Into the train we went, found our seats and sank back, exhausted. The porter put the three suitcases up on the rack, looked at the fifty cents I gave him, and gently reminded me that the usual tip was fifty cents a bag. How was an inexperienced, young man like me to know that?
We arrived in NYC at 8:00 p.m. and took a cab to the hotel. The cab driver looked at the $1.00 tip I gave him and kept his hand out until I upped the ante.
Good night.
More, later.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
COME HELL OR HIGH WATER (OR SNOW)
Does that title mean what I think it means; i.e., no matter the obstacle, the objective is going to be met.
On February 13, 1941, the Philadelphia area was hit with a very heavy snowstorm. Bad news! I had promised my beloved that I would visit her on Valentines Day. What was a guy to do?
I did what any red-blooded fiance would do. I put a pair of socks, some pajamas, and a box of candy in a bag and headed for Philadelphia, thankful that the the New Jersey buses were running.
When I reached downtown Philadelphia, the situation was different. NO PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AT ALL! It took me three car thumbings to reach Girard Avenue, the transfer point. No cars! No trolleys! No nothing! It was eerie. Suddenly a large tractor-trailer truck appeared. He stopped and offered me a lift. Unbelieveably, he was going right to Ruth's house. What a break!
Ruth was sitting at the front window, waiting for me inspite of her family's warning that I couldn't possibly make it. When I jumped out of the truck in front of the house, she was so happy that all she could do was cry.
More, later.
P.S. The dry clothes came in handy and the candy was delicious.
On February 13, 1941, the Philadelphia area was hit with a very heavy snowstorm. Bad news! I had promised my beloved that I would visit her on Valentines Day. What was a guy to do?
I did what any red-blooded fiance would do. I put a pair of socks, some pajamas, and a box of candy in a bag and headed for Philadelphia, thankful that the the New Jersey buses were running.
When I reached downtown Philadelphia, the situation was different. NO PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AT ALL! It took me three car thumbings to reach Girard Avenue, the transfer point. No cars! No trolleys! No nothing! It was eerie. Suddenly a large tractor-trailer truck appeared. He stopped and offered me a lift. Unbelieveably, he was going right to Ruth's house. What a break!
Ruth was sitting at the front window, waiting for me inspite of her family's warning that I couldn't possibly make it. When I jumped out of the truck in front of the house, she was so happy that all she could do was cry.
More, later.
P.S. The dry clothes came in handy and the candy was delicious.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
FOLLOW-UP
Early in 1940, my parents and I had a number of talks about my relationship with Ruth. They reminded me that I wasn't yet 20 years of age, and that I needed to concentrate on my budding shipyard career. I assured them that my time with her was nothing more than a good friendship.
The friendship began to grow deeper as the year went on, especially during weekends we spent together at a YMCA singles camp with sports-oriented programs. The four of us: Ruth, Jack and Maureen grew much closer as friends. That fall, I came to the conclusion that we were meant for each other.
So, that December, at a favorite Lovers Lane parking spot, I proposed and was accepted. Whoopee! We then travelled to give the good news to her parents (I had already prepped them) - and then to my parents.
Later that month, Ruth and I made a visit to Jewelers Row, in Philadelphia, to select a ring. When that was done, I plunked down $125.00, in cash and the ring was hers. On Christmas Eve, we showed the ring to our families.
September 13, 1941, was the date set for our wedding.
More, later.
P.S. Shortly thereafter, Jack and Maureen took the same steps.
The friendship began to grow deeper as the year went on, especially during weekends we spent together at a YMCA singles camp with sports-oriented programs. The four of us: Ruth, Jack and Maureen grew much closer as friends. That fall, I came to the conclusion that we were meant for each other.
So, that December, at a favorite Lovers Lane parking spot, I proposed and was accepted. Whoopee! We then travelled to give the good news to her parents (I had already prepped them) - and then to my parents.
Later that month, Ruth and I made a visit to Jewelers Row, in Philadelphia, to select a ring. When that was done, I plunked down $125.00, in cash and the ring was hers. On Christmas Eve, we showed the ring to our families.
September 13, 1941, was the date set for our wedding.
More, later.
P.S. Shortly thereafter, Jack and Maureen took the same steps.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
A BLIND DATE
The month of June, 1939, was an important time in my life.
One evening, I got a call from my friend Maureen. She had a friend visiting from Philadelphia, and needed a date for her. Would I oblige? Of course I would be glad to help my school buddy. Maureen and I had been friends for years with a sort of brother/sister relationship (she had no siblings) and I always enjoyed being with her.
Saturday night arrived and I was at Maureen's on time, properly dressed (jacket and tie). Her boyfriend, Jack, (another buddy of mine) was already there. Shortly, Maureen and her friend, Ruth, came down the stairs and I stood up to be introduced.* We spent the evening dancing, followed by late-night burgers. I invited Ruth to attend church with me the following morning and she agreed. When we arrived, my mother greeted Ruth with, "So, you are the young woman who kept my son out so late last night!"
On Sunday evening, we three drove Ruth to her home in northeast Philadelphia, where I met her family and, promised to call her soon.
More, later.
*Ruth told me later that she was so impressed that I stood to be introduced.
One evening, I got a call from my friend Maureen. She had a friend visiting from Philadelphia, and needed a date for her. Would I oblige? Of course I would be glad to help my school buddy. Maureen and I had been friends for years with a sort of brother/sister relationship (she had no siblings) and I always enjoyed being with her.
Saturday night arrived and I was at Maureen's on time, properly dressed (jacket and tie). Her boyfriend, Jack, (another buddy of mine) was already there. Shortly, Maureen and her friend, Ruth, came down the stairs and I stood up to be introduced.* We spent the evening dancing, followed by late-night burgers. I invited Ruth to attend church with me the following morning and she agreed. When we arrived, my mother greeted Ruth with, "So, you are the young woman who kept my son out so late last night!"
On Sunday evening, we three drove Ruth to her home in northeast Philadelphia, where I met her family and, promised to call her soon.
More, later.
*Ruth told me later that she was so impressed that I stood to be introduced.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
SHALL WE DANCE?
I had just learned to dance for the school prom, and that kindled interest in improving my skills on the dance floor.
In our area there were two dance halls that were open to the public on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings. The music was provided by local musicians playing BIG BAND STYLE TUNES. So, with my friend Gus, we tried to make the rounds on as many nights as we could afford to do so ($2.00 per night), danced until the doors closed at 11:00 p.m. . . . and headed home, sans dates.
The dance halls were lots of clean fun. You could treat a partner to a soft drink, or two, thus impressing her to no end, but without any further involvement. Jitterbugging was verboten, because of the crowd size, but we did it anyway, until a bouncer-type person broke it up with a smile and a "no, no."
Jitterbugging, in its mildest form is still a popular dance style. At any function you attend today, where dancing is included, you will see people of all ages doing their version of the "bug." Even in RETIREMENT VILLAGES, you will see couples in their 80s and 90s having a swinging good time.
During the summer months Dear Wife and I frequently do some Saturday night dancing in a nearby state park pavilion, with jitterbugging, AND the polka (my favorite) going strong.
More, later.
In our area there were two dance halls that were open to the public on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings. The music was provided by local musicians playing BIG BAND STYLE TUNES. So, with my friend Gus, we tried to make the rounds on as many nights as we could afford to do so ($2.00 per night), danced until the doors closed at 11:00 p.m. . . . and headed home, sans dates.
The dance halls were lots of clean fun. You could treat a partner to a soft drink, or two, thus impressing her to no end, but without any further involvement. Jitterbugging was verboten, because of the crowd size, but we did it anyway, until a bouncer-type person broke it up with a smile and a "no, no."
Jitterbugging, in its mildest form is still a popular dance style. At any function you attend today, where dancing is included, you will see people of all ages doing their version of the "bug." Even in RETIREMENT VILLAGES, you will see couples in their 80s and 90s having a swinging good time.
During the summer months Dear Wife and I frequently do some Saturday night dancing in a nearby state park pavilion, with jitterbugging, AND the polka (my favorite) going strong.
More, later.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
GIRLS! GIRLS! GIRLS!
At about age 16, I discovered that those giggling, talkative people were somewhat different, in an attractive way, and that they were called girls.
By this time my family was in regular attendance at a nearby church where there were PLENTY of girls, so I put aside my baseball glove and became involved. My first "friend" was Ann - skinny and talkative. "Friend" number two was Charlotte - considerably quieter than number one, thank goodness.
Helen, a school "friend," was number three. Graduation and prom time were approaching, so I finally got enough courage to ask Helen to be my prom date. To my surprise, she said "yes" (I found out later that she was mad at her boyfriend and decided to spite him by saying "yes" to the first person who asked her, and I was that lucky one).
I convinced my dad that our old jalopy, a Model A Ford, was not spiffy enough for this important time in my life, so he got a friend to offer his almost-new Chrysler for the occasion. Wow!
All went well with my plans to impress Helen. Unfortunately, they went no further, for as the prom ended at midnight, a VERY DEEP FOG settled into the area (I could only see about 20 feet in front of the car), so my joyriding was out of the question. I took Helen home, and got a peck on the cheek for my efforts, and thus ended my adventure.
More, later.
P.S Helen married the guy.
By this time my family was in regular attendance at a nearby church where there were PLENTY of girls, so I put aside my baseball glove and became involved. My first "friend" was Ann - skinny and talkative. "Friend" number two was Charlotte - considerably quieter than number one, thank goodness.
Helen, a school "friend," was number three. Graduation and prom time were approaching, so I finally got enough courage to ask Helen to be my prom date. To my surprise, she said "yes" (I found out later that she was mad at her boyfriend and decided to spite him by saying "yes" to the first person who asked her, and I was that lucky one).
I convinced my dad that our old jalopy, a Model A Ford, was not spiffy enough for this important time in my life, so he got a friend to offer his almost-new Chrysler for the occasion. Wow!
All went well with my plans to impress Helen. Unfortunately, they went no further, for as the prom ended at midnight, a VERY DEEP FOG settled into the area (I could only see about 20 feet in front of the car), so my joyriding was out of the question. I took Helen home, and got a peck on the cheek for my efforts, and thus ended my adventure.
More, later.
P.S Helen married the guy.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
I'TS ANNIVERSARY TIME
Yep, it was one year ago that I broadcast my first blog (REMEMBERING THE PAST). This is my 53rd blog - WOW!
I had no idea that I would be able to draw on so many past experiences. It has been a real bonus for me, personally, to remember each one as it is printed.
However, it is time to move on. I'll continue blogging with stories about late teens and early adulthood. STAY TUNED.
More, later.
I had no idea that I would be able to draw on so many past experiences. It has been a real bonus for me, personally, to remember each one as it is printed.
However, it is time to move on. I'll continue blogging with stories about late teens and early adulthood. STAY TUNED.
More, later.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
FORE! FORE! FORE!
As you might suspect, this blog is about golf and the adventures of my high school golf team.
When the announcement was made in school that a golf team was being formed, it didn't interest me at all, UNTIL, my mother reminded me that my Uncle Charles was a retired golfer and that he might loan me his clubs (having clubs was a team requirement). My interest grew, I got the clubs, and was on the team!
Picture this pitiful scene: eight kids from our school with a mishmash of clubs (mine were wooden shaft) and no golfing attire, meeting other kids from suburban schools with matched sets of clubs, golf shoes and other golfing attire. On top of that, our only experience was infrequent practices on range trips.
I can clearly recall our very first match when I had to instruct my playing partner, Barney, on club selection for every shot and how to score his game. We didn't even win one hole. I was soooooo glad when that match was over. Our optimistic golfing coach, Mr._____, tried to cheer us on, telling us that we would improve every week (we didn't). During my two years on the team, we never won a match, but I enjoyed the experience.
What pluses were there, if any? Lots of fresh air and a show of school spirit. Go, Orange and Black!!
More, later.
When the announcement was made in school that a golf team was being formed, it didn't interest me at all, UNTIL, my mother reminded me that my Uncle Charles was a retired golfer and that he might loan me his clubs (having clubs was a team requirement). My interest grew, I got the clubs, and was on the team!
Picture this pitiful scene: eight kids from our school with a mishmash of clubs (mine were wooden shaft) and no golfing attire, meeting other kids from suburban schools with matched sets of clubs, golf shoes and other golfing attire. On top of that, our only experience was infrequent practices on range trips.
I can clearly recall our very first match when I had to instruct my playing partner, Barney, on club selection for every shot and how to score his game. We didn't even win one hole. I was soooooo glad when that match was over. Our optimistic golfing coach, Mr._____, tried to cheer us on, telling us that we would improve every week (we didn't). During my two years on the team, we never won a match, but I enjoyed the experience.
What pluses were there, if any? Lots of fresh air and a show of school spirit. Go, Orange and Black!!
More, later.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
ENGINEER JOE
When I was a youngster the word CONFERENCE was not in my vocabulary, unknown , that is, until my Uncle Joe gave meaning to it.
My mother's sister, Ellen, was married to Uncle Joe. He was a railroad engineer for the Pennsylvania Railroad, with responsibility for hauling freight (mostly coal) out of Pittsburgh, Pa., where he and the family lived.
Every April, for as long as I can remember, Uncle attended a trainman's conference in Philadelphia. During those times he stayed with us to reduce the cost of the conference. I remember his genial manner and Irish wit.
I have always been interested in trains, sparked, I believe, by those early-day "seashore excursions" (MICKEY-MINNIE-PLUTO blog). Included in this interest is a funny family story that you will enjoy.
When my late mother-in-law's uncle came from Detroit for his yearly visit, they went sightseeing. On one particular visit, they attended the Ben Franklin Museum, in Philadelphia. In the museum basement was a mammoth railroad engine with a sign inviting people to step up into the cab. Inside the cab was a further sign marked "push," so Uncle complied. THE ENGINE BEGAN TO MOVE FORWARD, my mother-in-law screamed, and Uncle jumped out of the cab. After moving forward about ten feet, the engine reversed to its starting position --a very realistic part of the exhibit to say the least.
So, dear readers, be selective in your pushing of buttons.
More, later.
My mother's sister, Ellen, was married to Uncle Joe. He was a railroad engineer for the Pennsylvania Railroad, with responsibility for hauling freight (mostly coal) out of Pittsburgh, Pa., where he and the family lived.
Every April, for as long as I can remember, Uncle attended a trainman's conference in Philadelphia. During those times he stayed with us to reduce the cost of the conference. I remember his genial manner and Irish wit.
I have always been interested in trains, sparked, I believe, by those early-day "seashore excursions" (MICKEY-MINNIE-PLUTO blog). Included in this interest is a funny family story that you will enjoy.
When my late mother-in-law's uncle came from Detroit for his yearly visit, they went sightseeing. On one particular visit, they attended the Ben Franklin Museum, in Philadelphia. In the museum basement was a mammoth railroad engine with a sign inviting people to step up into the cab. Inside the cab was a further sign marked "push," so Uncle complied. THE ENGINE BEGAN TO MOVE FORWARD, my mother-in-law screamed, and Uncle jumped out of the cab. After moving forward about ten feet, the engine reversed to its starting position --a very realistic part of the exhibit to say the least.
So, dear readers, be selective in your pushing of buttons.
More, later.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
1920
The year 1920 was a year of beginnings, beginnings that included me. The truth will out, I'm in my ninetieth year!!
A number of significant events took place that year, as follows:
BASEBALL - Babe Ruth was sold by the Red Sox to the Yankees for $100,000, plus a $385,000 loan. Don't you suppose the Sox always regretted that sale as they watched THE HOUSE THAT RUTH BUILT become baseball's eternally-dominating team?
PROHIBITION - The 18th amendment that moved the liquor industry underground to the "speakeasy movement," and spawned people like Al Capone and his ilk.
VOTING - This was the year that my mother was able to vote for the first time. My parents always voted, no matter the importance of the ballot, and I have followed their example. In their retirement years they were poll-workers, earning what my mother called "pin money."
FOOTBALL - The American Pro Football League (later to become the National Football League), was formed in Canton, Ohio. Can you believe that the entrance fee was $100.00 for each of the twelve teams?
AIR FLIGHTS - The first commercial air flight was from Havana, Cuba, to Key West, Florida. I didn't have a plane ride until I was 34 years old, but in my later years, made up for that with plenty of business traveling.
THE TEST - Herman Rorsacheck invented the inkblot test, a personality and intelligence test interpreted by ink blots, to reveal intellectual and emotional factors. I could have benefited from such testing.
More, later.
A number of significant events took place that year, as follows:
BASEBALL - Babe Ruth was sold by the Red Sox to the Yankees for $100,000, plus a $385,000 loan. Don't you suppose the Sox always regretted that sale as they watched THE HOUSE THAT RUTH BUILT become baseball's eternally-dominating team?
PROHIBITION - The 18th amendment that moved the liquor industry underground to the "speakeasy movement," and spawned people like Al Capone and his ilk.
VOTING - This was the year that my mother was able to vote for the first time. My parents always voted, no matter the importance of the ballot, and I have followed their example. In their retirement years they were poll-workers, earning what my mother called "pin money."
FOOTBALL - The American Pro Football League (later to become the National Football League), was formed in Canton, Ohio. Can you believe that the entrance fee was $100.00 for each of the twelve teams?
AIR FLIGHTS - The first commercial air flight was from Havana, Cuba, to Key West, Florida. I didn't have a plane ride until I was 34 years old, but in my later years, made up for that with plenty of business traveling.
THE TEST - Herman Rorsacheck invented the inkblot test, a personality and intelligence test interpreted by ink blots, to reveal intellectual and emotional factors. I could have benefited from such testing.
More, later.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
A JAUNTING WE WILL GO
Jaunting car: a two-wheeled, horse-drawn cart, with two long benches facing outward (Webster).
Today is St. Patrick's Day - worldwide. A day for the wearing of Ireland's green, in honor of its patron saint. Green is the color of Ireland, as you may know, if you have visited the "old sod," as Dear Wife and I have done several times. Not only are you surrounded with green hills and fauna, but also with friendly people and entrancing history.
Jaunting cars are no longer in use, but when I was a youngster, I knew about them because of calendars. Every year we received a calendar from my Irish grandfather and it would have one of three themes: a jaunting car, a shamrock, or an Irish cottage with a thatched roof and a group of the smiling Irish in each scene.
In honor of the occasion my mother would serve dinner of corned beef and cabbage, with a side dish of potatoes (of course), and green beans or peas. For dessert we would have green lime Jello and green-decorated cookies.
Erin go bragh.
More, later.
Today is St. Patrick's Day - worldwide. A day for the wearing of Ireland's green, in honor of its patron saint. Green is the color of Ireland, as you may know, if you have visited the "old sod," as Dear Wife and I have done several times. Not only are you surrounded with green hills and fauna, but also with friendly people and entrancing history.
Jaunting cars are no longer in use, but when I was a youngster, I knew about them because of calendars. Every year we received a calendar from my Irish grandfather and it would have one of three themes: a jaunting car, a shamrock, or an Irish cottage with a thatched roof and a group of the smiling Irish in each scene.
In honor of the occasion my mother would serve dinner of corned beef and cabbage, with a side dish of potatoes (of course), and green beans or peas. For dessert we would have green lime Jello and green-decorated cookies.
Erin go bragh.
More, later.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
THE TASTE IS IN THE PUDDING
During a recent dinner visit to a friend's house, the genial host announced that he was going to make rice pudding. That remark triggered memories.
My mother made three puddings that were family favorites: rice, tapioca and vanilla. My favorite was vanilla pudding, served with applesauce.
Puddings during the Great Depression days were easy to make and the fixings were inexpensive to buy. Mom's rice pudding included raisins and it was topped with cinnamon. Yummy! It is still an acceptable home dessert today, but in most restaurants it cannot be found - not glamorous enough I suppose. However, you will find it in the Mom & Pop eating places.
Tapioca is a different story. I have not seen it on restaurant menus for years. Perhaps it's because people view it as my sister did, with an "Ugh, those things look like fish eyes!" Nevertheless, it was downed quickly at our table.
Vanilla pudding topped with applesauce is oh sooooo good. If we were fortunate, some of Mom's cookies were included.
Speaking of applesauce, I think it is a food-for-all-ages. My great-grandchildren love it and so does their great-grandfather - slathered on top of some vanilla ice cream, that too, is oh sooooo good.
When you see your family ingesting applesauce with gusto, you will know that it is a good choice.
More, later.
My mother made three puddings that were family favorites: rice, tapioca and vanilla. My favorite was vanilla pudding, served with applesauce.
Puddings during the Great Depression days were easy to make and the fixings were inexpensive to buy. Mom's rice pudding included raisins and it was topped with cinnamon. Yummy! It is still an acceptable home dessert today, but in most restaurants it cannot be found - not glamorous enough I suppose. However, you will find it in the Mom & Pop eating places.
Tapioca is a different story. I have not seen it on restaurant menus for years. Perhaps it's because people view it as my sister did, with an "Ugh, those things look like fish eyes!" Nevertheless, it was downed quickly at our table.
Vanilla pudding topped with applesauce is oh sooooo good. If we were fortunate, some of Mom's cookies were included.
Speaking of applesauce, I think it is a food-for-all-ages. My great-grandchildren love it and so does their great-grandfather - slathered on top of some vanilla ice cream, that too, is oh sooooo good.
When you see your family ingesting applesauce with gusto, you will know that it is a good choice.
More, later.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
THE FAMILY PET
"Let's all sing like the birdies sing, tweet-tweet-tweet-tweet-tweet." Does that give you a clue about the pet to be described? Just writing about this pet makes me smile.
When I improved my employment status from that of a delivery man to a shipyard worker (blog : A Presidential Smile), my income quadrupled. Suddenly, it seemed that I had more money than I could handle. Not exactly. Mom got half of my paycheck, a quarter went into a savings account, and the balance was mine to spend as I pleased.
Outside the shipyard gates there was always a bevy of vendors. On Fridays I would buy my mother some flowers. One Friday, however, I went all out and brought home a caged canary. My startled mother, once over her surprise, became excitedly happy about this gift. It soon became a family favorite. We enjoyed the bird for about two years when, suddenly, it died. My mother was saddened, but didn't want a replacement because the cycle would repeat itself.
During the Great Depression years, I don't recall a plethora of household pets such as we have today. I suppose that was because we didn't have the money for their upkeep.
I think we missed something in having a mostly petless household.
More, later.
When I improved my employment status from that of a delivery man to a shipyard worker (blog : A Presidential Smile), my income quadrupled. Suddenly, it seemed that I had more money than I could handle. Not exactly. Mom got half of my paycheck, a quarter went into a savings account, and the balance was mine to spend as I pleased.
Outside the shipyard gates there was always a bevy of vendors. On Fridays I would buy my mother some flowers. One Friday, however, I went all out and brought home a caged canary. My startled mother, once over her surprise, became excitedly happy about this gift. It soon became a family favorite. We enjoyed the bird for about two years when, suddenly, it died. My mother was saddened, but didn't want a replacement because the cycle would repeat itself.
During the Great Depression years, I don't recall a plethora of household pets such as we have today. I suppose that was because we didn't have the money for their upkeep.
I think we missed something in having a mostly petless household.
More, later.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
CENSUS TIME
The American public's first notice of me was in the 1920 census.
It is census time again (2010), as our country begins its every-ten-year count. A recent newspaper ad was publishing the need for census takers and support staff. I debated with myself as to whether or not I should apply. The "not" won out as I determined that a guy my age wouldn't have the strength to go door-to-door seeking information.
The census is a valuable government tool. Not only does it set their standards for government regulations and appropriations, it is a must for seeking information on family roots. Finding some facts, previously unknown, made me want to seek more data.
When Dear Wife and I first visited Ireland, in 1988, I determined to search the roots of the Madden family. We visited the church in Balinasloe, County Galway, where my great-grandparents, John and Elizabeth (Connor) were married - what a thrill! We were put in touch with a local "personality," Matty Glaney by name, but Matty couldn't offer much help. "Too many Maddens here, both dead and live," he said.
John and Elizabeth came to America in the 1860s where my grandmother Mary was born. The question I seek to answer is just where that took place. So far, not much luck, but I will continue to search.
So, dear readers, respond to the census-taker when he or she shows in your area. You certainly will want to be a "vital statistic" in the land of the free.
More, later.
It is census time again (2010), as our country begins its every-ten-year count. A recent newspaper ad was publishing the need for census takers and support staff. I debated with myself as to whether or not I should apply. The "not" won out as I determined that a guy my age wouldn't have the strength to go door-to-door seeking information.
The census is a valuable government tool. Not only does it set their standards for government regulations and appropriations, it is a must for seeking information on family roots. Finding some facts, previously unknown, made me want to seek more data.
When Dear Wife and I first visited Ireland, in 1988, I determined to search the roots of the Madden family. We visited the church in Balinasloe, County Galway, where my great-grandparents, John and Elizabeth (Connor) were married - what a thrill! We were put in touch with a local "personality," Matty Glaney by name, but Matty couldn't offer much help. "Too many Maddens here, both dead and live," he said.
John and Elizabeth came to America in the 1860s where my grandmother Mary was born. The question I seek to answer is just where that took place. So far, not much luck, but I will continue to search.
So, dear readers, respond to the census-taker when he or she shows in your area. You certainly will want to be a "vital statistic" in the land of the free.
More, later.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
WOODMAN, WOODMAN, SPARE THAT TREE
A familiar line? I think it continues with "chop not a single bough."
What brings this to mind is the birthday of our first president, George Washington and the myth of his chopping down a cherry tree and confessing to the same.
When I was a youngster, the birthdays of presidents Abraham Lincoln and Washington were school holidays. Preceding each holiday there was a school play depicting each president's life. For President Lincoln, it was usually about his honesty as a storekeeper. For President Washington it was the tree myth or the Crossing of the Delaware. I'm not sure how school children today observe these days, or if they do so at all. The merger of the two dates now as one federal holiday seems to diminish interest in the history.
At home, Mother always had a cherry pie for dinner dessert and we each received a gift of a tube-shaped cardboard axe filled with cherry candies. It was a small gift, but it was always received with delight.
Another event that always took place in our neighborhood on February 22nd (it had nothing to do with President George), was in the home of my friend Joe. His family dismantled their CHRISTMAS TREE! Why they had it in that place for so long, I don't know (neither did Joe), and I'm sure it wasn't because they were a Polish family. However, it's a secret that will be locked away forever!
More, later.
What brings this to mind is the birthday of our first president, George Washington and the myth of his chopping down a cherry tree and confessing to the same.
When I was a youngster, the birthdays of presidents Abraham Lincoln and Washington were school holidays. Preceding each holiday there was a school play depicting each president's life. For President Lincoln, it was usually about his honesty as a storekeeper. For President Washington it was the tree myth or the Crossing of the Delaware. I'm not sure how school children today observe these days, or if they do so at all. The merger of the two dates now as one federal holiday seems to diminish interest in the history.
At home, Mother always had a cherry pie for dinner dessert and we each received a gift of a tube-shaped cardboard axe filled with cherry candies. It was a small gift, but it was always received with delight.
Another event that always took place in our neighborhood on February 22nd (it had nothing to do with President George), was in the home of my friend Joe. His family dismantled their CHRISTMAS TREE! Why they had it in that place for so long, I don't know (neither did Joe), and I'm sure it wasn't because they were a Polish family. However, it's a secret that will be locked away forever!
More, later.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
BE MY VALENTINE
February 14th is a magic day for many people, a "day of the heart," you might say.
The day, in memory of a Christian martyr, originated with Pope Gelasius I, in 496A.D.. It became associated with romantic love during the High Middle Ages, when courtly love flourished. It reached new heights of popularity in Great Britain during the 19th century. In 1847, Esther Howland, of Worcester, Massachusetts, developed a successful business with hand-made valentine cards based on the British model.
When I was a school-aged youngster, giving valentines to classmates was an exciting event. The unsigned comic valentines were not about love (heaven forbid!), but humorous renditions pointing out idiosyncrasies, with emphasis on the physical, eg; Looking too pudgy? Lose that fat! A readhead? Shave your head! Freckles? Hide them with shoe whitener! The valentines were on an 8 x 11 sheet of paper and cost a penny each. What a deal! Most of the recipients enjoyed the fun, but there was an occasional hurt shown (mostly by girls).
The U.S. Greeting Card Association estimates that approximately ONE BILLION valentines are sent worldwide each year, the second largest card-sending holiday of the year, after Christmas.
So, dear readers, there is no excuse for not sending valentine greetings just because you are traveling, for they can be found in most countries of the world.
More, later.
The day, in memory of a Christian martyr, originated with Pope Gelasius I, in 496A.D.. It became associated with romantic love during the High Middle Ages, when courtly love flourished. It reached new heights of popularity in Great Britain during the 19th century. In 1847, Esther Howland, of Worcester, Massachusetts, developed a successful business with hand-made valentine cards based on the British model.
When I was a school-aged youngster, giving valentines to classmates was an exciting event. The unsigned comic valentines were not about love (heaven forbid!), but humorous renditions pointing out idiosyncrasies, with emphasis on the physical, eg; Looking too pudgy? Lose that fat! A readhead? Shave your head! Freckles? Hide them with shoe whitener! The valentines were on an 8 x 11 sheet of paper and cost a penny each. What a deal! Most of the recipients enjoyed the fun, but there was an occasional hurt shown (mostly by girls).
The U.S. Greeting Card Association estimates that approximately ONE BILLION valentines are sent worldwide each year, the second largest card-sending holiday of the year, after Christmas.
So, dear readers, there is no excuse for not sending valentine greetings just because you are traveling, for they can be found in most countries of the world.
More, later.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
GONE FISHING
A recent picture in our newspaper shows a solitary fisherman ice fishing. That triggered my memory bank once again.
Fishing has been a favorite sport of mine, beginning with my teenage years, and I have my Uncle Charles to thank for introducing it to me.
Uncle Charles was a childless widower when he met my mother's sister Sarah. They eventually married but were childless. As I reflect on our warm relationship, I think he may have considered me the grandson he never had. Until he died we enjoyed each other to the fullest.
Uncle's outdoor passion was fishing and he was good, real good at catching fish when others around him went home with empty buckets. It made no difference the time of year, or of the day's weather, he was ready to cast out and "reel one in!"
Some of our best times were winter fishing. What, you say, winter fishing in New Jersey? Yep. Not far from our homes was a series of lakes that did not freeze over, and they were our targets. I can still recall standing with him and casting our lines for a HUGH pickerel (he always thought BIG when it came to fish) ! He was so patient while teaching me the art, and so happy when I reeled one in.
Nothing beats sitting in a quiet fishing spot and allowing the rest of the world to go on its hectic, messy way.
More, later.
Fishing has been a favorite sport of mine, beginning with my teenage years, and I have my Uncle Charles to thank for introducing it to me.
Uncle Charles was a childless widower when he met my mother's sister Sarah. They eventually married but were childless. As I reflect on our warm relationship, I think he may have considered me the grandson he never had. Until he died we enjoyed each other to the fullest.
Uncle's outdoor passion was fishing and he was good, real good at catching fish when others around him went home with empty buckets. It made no difference the time of year, or of the day's weather, he was ready to cast out and "reel one in!"
Some of our best times were winter fishing. What, you say, winter fishing in New Jersey? Yep. Not far from our homes was a series of lakes that did not freeze over, and they were our targets. I can still recall standing with him and casting our lines for a HUGH pickerel (he always thought BIG when it came to fish) ! He was so patient while teaching me the art, and so happy when I reeled one in.
Nothing beats sitting in a quiet fishing spot and allowing the rest of the world to go on its hectic, messy way.
More, later.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
SPUDS
A familiar word, no doubt. No? A spud is a potato (Webster), and it is my favorite vegetable.
Recently, Dear Daughter and I were lunching and I spied POTATO SOUP on the menu. "That's for me," I said, speaking as one well-acquainted with the item.
My mother had two family favorite soups: potato (my favorite), and vegetable beef, both well-suited for Great Depression menus. Her potato soup contained potatoes, onions, green peppers and whole milk. The vegetable soup contained beef and a slew of veggies, heavy on the onions and tomatoes. Both were tummy-filling dishes for perpetually-hungry kids.
It seems to me that in today's "Foodie World," the spud doesn't get the recognition it deserves as a healthy choice food. Perhaps too many people think of it only as a fast-food French fry. That's regrettable, because it is a real nutritious bargain.
It's a bargain because it offers the advantage of low calories (100 per medium size), almost no fat, and a good source of dietary fiber. This same-sized potato contains Vitamin C (50%), Vitamin B-6 (20%), and Potassium (21%), needed for good health.
The potato is also our most popular vegetable. The average American consumes 126 pounds of potatoes per year.
So, dear friends, when it's "chow-down time," order your spuds boiled, baked, scalloped, or in soup and you'll glow with health.
More, later.
Recently, Dear Daughter and I were lunching and I spied POTATO SOUP on the menu. "That's for me," I said, speaking as one well-acquainted with the item.
My mother had two family favorite soups: potato (my favorite), and vegetable beef, both well-suited for Great Depression menus. Her potato soup contained potatoes, onions, green peppers and whole milk. The vegetable soup contained beef and a slew of veggies, heavy on the onions and tomatoes. Both were tummy-filling dishes for perpetually-hungry kids.
It seems to me that in today's "Foodie World," the spud doesn't get the recognition it deserves as a healthy choice food. Perhaps too many people think of it only as a fast-food French fry. That's regrettable, because it is a real nutritious bargain.
It's a bargain because it offers the advantage of low calories (100 per medium size), almost no fat, and a good source of dietary fiber. This same-sized potato contains Vitamin C (50%), Vitamin B-6 (20%), and Potassium (21%), needed for good health.
The potato is also our most popular vegetable. The average American consumes 126 pounds of potatoes per year.
So, dear friends, when it's "chow-down time," order your spuds boiled, baked, scalloped, or in soup and you'll glow with health.
More, later.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
WHAT WAS HER (HIS) NAME?
Recently, while Dear Wife and I were dining out, a small boy in an adjacent booth pointed across the room and shouted, "There's my first grade teacher!" That started a conversation between us about the teachers we had, their names and the schools we attended.
I was amazed that Dear Wife could name many of her teachers, beginning with the first grade and on through high school. And how many could yours truly name? Few, very few, indeed.
I can think of one major reason that she could and I could not. She loved school, (she proved that by becoming a teacher), while I barely tolerated it. I could name just three teachers in the elementary schools I attended, none in junior high and four in my high school. Give me a plus for remembering an elementary principal by name.
I have always been interested in people's names, particularly ones that seemed unusual (they called her Austin because she was born in the Texas state capitol).
My extended family gave their children names popular in their time, but called them other names. Henry was called HARRY, Jane was called ELEANOR, Agnes was called JANE (Jeanie in Ireland), William was called BUBBA, Lester was called DUKE, and Marie was called TOSSIE. Go figure.
What's in a name? Just about whatever suits your purpose, I suppose.
More, later.
I was amazed that Dear Wife could name many of her teachers, beginning with the first grade and on through high school. And how many could yours truly name? Few, very few, indeed.
I can think of one major reason that she could and I could not. She loved school, (she proved that by becoming a teacher), while I barely tolerated it. I could name just three teachers in the elementary schools I attended, none in junior high and four in my high school. Give me a plus for remembering an elementary principal by name.
I have always been interested in people's names, particularly ones that seemed unusual (they called her Austin because she was born in the Texas state capitol).
My extended family gave their children names popular in their time, but called them other names. Henry was called HARRY, Jane was called ELEANOR, Agnes was called JANE (Jeanie in Ireland), William was called BUBBA, Lester was called DUKE, and Marie was called TOSSIE. Go figure.
What's in a name? Just about whatever suits your purpose, I suppose.
More, later.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
IS YOUR DORSAL LATERAL PREFRONTAL CORTEX WORKING?
There is a plethora of articles written these days about the actions of 16-year-old drivers on our highways.
In a previous blog (SOMETHING IS BURNING), I mentioned getting a New Jersey driver's license at age 16. At age 18, I had a serious accident. Evidently the D.L.P.C. portion of my brain was still in its maturing process, which takes place in teenagers between the ages of 16 into their 20s.
With teenagers in mind, a well-known insurance company (the "hands" people) is urging the public to support a bill before Congress (HR 1895) that would create a NATIONAL GRADUATE DRIVER'S LICENSE law, which would require mandatory training with accompanying restrictions for 16-year-old drivers. This would supposedly reduce the current statistic percentage for this age (examples: failure to yield and driving too closely).
Speaking of laws, the state of New Jersey has passed a similar law, raising its driving age from 16 to 17. The result? A 40 % drop in highway fatalities. Wow!
In today's world, when you consider the added dangers of cell phone use and texting while driving, something that teenagers copy from adults, any action to protect them, and us, would be welcomed.
More, later.
In a previous blog (SOMETHING IS BURNING), I mentioned getting a New Jersey driver's license at age 16. At age 18, I had a serious accident. Evidently the D.L.P.C. portion of my brain was still in its maturing process, which takes place in teenagers between the ages of 16 into their 20s.
With teenagers in mind, a well-known insurance company (the "hands" people) is urging the public to support a bill before Congress (HR 1895) that would create a NATIONAL GRADUATE DRIVER'S LICENSE law, which would require mandatory training with accompanying restrictions for 16-year-old drivers. This would supposedly reduce the current statistic percentage for this age (examples: failure to yield and driving too closely).
Speaking of laws, the state of New Jersey has passed a similar law, raising its driving age from 16 to 17. The result? A 40 % drop in highway fatalities. Wow!
In today's world, when you consider the added dangers of cell phone use and texting while driving, something that teenagers copy from adults, any action to protect them, and us, would be welcomed.
More, later.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
THE BEST BREAKFAST FOOD IN THE LAND
Does the title sound familiar? If I added JACK ARMSTRONG NEVER TIRES OF THEM AND NEITHER WILL YOU, would you recognize the radio jingle advertising Wheaties? That radio jingle was invented by the General Mills Corporation in 1926. First used in the Twin Cities (Mn) area, it so boosted sales that it was introduced nationally and sales soared.
The design of a jingle had to be short, with a simple verse and melody, made easy to remember. Here is one that I have never forgotten:
SOCKS! SOCKS!
The design of a jingle had to be short, with a simple verse and melody, made easy to remember. Here is one that I have never forgotten:
SOCKS! SOCKS!
HERE WE ARE UPON THE AIR
BILLY JONES AND ERNIE HARE
WE'RE THE INTERWOVEN PAIR
BILLY JONES AND ERNIE HARE
WE'RE THE INTERWOVEN PAIR
I had no idea what interwoven pairs were, but the people who bought them knew and it was a huge success.
Wheaties became my favorite cereal in the 1930s when the BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS series was introduced. Every sports-minded boy wanted these sports pictures on his bedroom wall. The Yankees Lou Gehrig was the first athlete pictured on a Wheaties box.
Would it surprise you to know that another famous person had a "Wheaties connection?" As a sports announcer, President Ronald Reagan was named the MOST POPULAR WHEATIES ANNOUNCER IN THE NATION. He won an all-expense trip to the Chicago Cubs training camp in California. While there, he took a screen test - the rest is history.
More, later.
Wheaties became my favorite cereal in the 1930s when the BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS series was introduced. Every sports-minded boy wanted these sports pictures on his bedroom wall. The Yankees Lou Gehrig was the first athlete pictured on a Wheaties box.
Would it surprise you to know that another famous person had a "Wheaties connection?" As a sports announcer, President Ronald Reagan was named the MOST POPULAR WHEATIES ANNOUNCER IN THE NATION. He won an all-expense trip to the Chicago Cubs training camp in California. While there, he took a screen test - the rest is history.
More, later.
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