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Foxy's Unforgettable Characters - The Intro
After I write a blog I always go directly to the Press Repubican website and read what I've just posted, to double-check for writing errors; it's an old habit from writing essays in high school and college. That's where I have to look at my picture and read that I'm a "pundit, raconteur and general character." It's the "general character" part that I've been thinking about. Oh, I've heard people say sometimes, "Foxy, you are quite a character" after I've said something stupid or made somebody laugh. And Paul Dingman used to refer to me with the comment, "There's not enough mustard to put on that hot dog!"
But I'm just wondering what is a "general character"? I've come across several people in my lifetime who are certainly memorable for one reason or another. People who are memorable characters because of the way they acted, the way they talked, the way they looked. I don't mean people like my Dad or Mr. John Flynn, my high school coach, or Monsignor Brisson, who was probably a saint living on Earth over at the Our Lady of Victory rectory. These three and others are memorable and had a profound effect upon me as I grew up.
I guess what I'm talking about are people around Plattsburgh who were a little "over the edge," who were willing to go "above and beyond" in their ways of life. People who in some ways were "bigger than life." As you can see, what I'm trying to put my finger on is someone who is hard to define. I'm making a list of my "Ten Most Unforgettable Characters" -- people I've known in my lifetime, who, for whatever reasons, made me shake my head and say, "What a character!" In a good way!
Do you know what I'm talking about? Do you have someone in mind? Before I list my "Top Ten Most Unforgettable Plattsburgh characters" I invite my fellow bloggers to toss in their ideas. Maybe you and I will match up. Anyone in mind?
Tomorrow: the first five of my "Ten Unforgettable Characters."
Comments
who could ever forget mike finnigan, he led every parade that plattsburgh ever had in his day. he was his own character.
Posted by: Cricket Terry | June 8, 2006 7:38 PM
Foxy Hi, about Pete the Window Washer. He used to keep the downtown windows sparkling clean.
Posted by: Bob A | June 4, 2006 8:17 AM
i was only in plattsburgh for 3 1/2 years but Ralph "Bromo" Steltzer that owned the Sunoco station on South Catherine always impressed me ... quick humor and always a joke to tell...
(Foxy's note: That gas station was my Dad's regular stop to "fill 'er up." I remember Ralph Steltzer from the days when they cleaned your windshield and checked the oil!)
Posted by: bill glasscock | June 3, 2006 11:41 AM
As an aside to the pick by Rick K. In the 50's "The Old Soldier" would pick up a few players from town and take us to Montreal to play teams at the YMHA. Joe learned that he should always bring his own ref. Pickles filled this role often which lead to many more stories. ALL TRUE
Posted by: The Old Timer | June 3, 2006 9:28 AM
Looking back over my misspent youth in Plattsburgh many names came to mind as to whom would be a "Local Character". One name kept returning because of so many rememberances. It seemed he was everywhere. In high school I remember him as a top zebra. This was more true when he worked with his favorite partner, Shorty. While they were both excellent officials, they had a flair for the game that set them apart. Pickles Proctor stood out wherever he would be. He managed and played local town baseball teams for years. A good ballplayer in his own right, he added a zest and feeling for the game itself, no matter which role he filled. In the after game meetings at the Knight Tavern he would lead the livliest discussions (arguments to some) with all around. Many of his jokes were directed at himself and he had many great ones. Some of the best came out of his experiences in minor league ball. Pickles had only one card trick but it was priceless. Many the time he was called on to perform this trick all over the north country. One of the more examples of this came in Ticondaroga after a baseball game, but that is another story. Everyone knew "Pickles" and I think "Pickles" knew everyone. A true character of our area whose good nature, zest for life and a love of people spanned at least 4 decades.
(Foxy's note: Thanks for the great memories, Old Timer!)
Posted by: The Old Timer | June 3, 2006 9:21 AM
Fox, you and I both know your brother Goose is a great character! The goose is loose!
(Foxy's note: Benway -- interesting pick! Sometimes the answer is right under our nose!)
Posted by: Bryan Benway | June 2, 2006 1:14 PM
Who could possibly forget "Pickles Proctor" Definately one of a kind!!
(Foxy's note: Good one, Randy! Thanks!)
Posted by: Randy Vaughn | June 2, 2006 12:17 PM
No list would be complete without Bill Frandino and Danny Adams!
(Foxy's note: Great ones, The Donald! Thanks for the contribution.)
Posted by: The Donald | June 2, 2006 10:17 AM
No list of Unforgettable Plattsburgh Characters would be complete without I guy I worked with at WEAV "The Old Soldier" Joe Bornstein, a great guy with always a great tale to tell.
(Foxy's note: Great pick by Rick! I agree 100%.)
Posted by: Rick K | June 2, 2006 8:28 AM