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Amidst the Rubble of Highlights
It was a night full of highlights. The stories and beverages were flowing at Meron's last night as golfers, Blogoteers, jocks, ex-jocks and local dignitaries gathered to celebrate the past, present and future at the Carver's annual December meeting.
As promised, I took a cab and when I arrived at 5:35pm the place was already abuzz. The $100 seats were already taken and the line of dignitaries there to greet me was impressive. The Donald and Old-Timer and Skip and Jim and Dr. Mike had prime seats for the event. The Carver greeted me with a hug and surprise sign he had procured which said, "Merry Christmas, Noooooooorth Country!" I'll tell you, the Carver has connections!
It was an impressive group of Blogoteers who gathered to rehash old blogs and suggest new ones. Kern, all the way from Albany, was one of my happy surprises. Later, his Dad Al arrived, making them one of the top Father-Son combos in attendance, along with Dr. Mike and his soccer coach son Chris.
Craig Mathews, Common Council and Black Friday observer extraordinaire, arrived early and stayed late. Retired telephone man Bill Penders was at his best, and then Vin Scully arrived. Word about this special event had obviously permeated the community. The Irelands, the Mercurios, the Ravilles, the Barnes, the Bainbridges, the Lefebvres all added to the festivities.
Skip and the Old-Timer, the Clam Masters, took time to further educate me about clams. They got some good laughs at my misguided mahogany clam boiling endeavors. Now equipped with a pro-style steamer and much more knowledge, I will soon be able to issue a clam-blog update.
Throughout the night, Blogoteer identities were questioned and two of the more popular queries were: "Who is Tom-a-Hawk?" and "Do you know Rubble?" The return of Tom-a-Hawk, who was in attendance last night, has added spice to the corps of Blogoteers. Early word is that the Altona supervisor is offering a reward for his identity!
And Rubble was rumored to be in the crowd, as well. The betting line suggests that Rubble is an alias for a Blogoteer working under another name. Rubble remains the biggest mystery at "On the Sly." I'm considering a reward for his identity!
Saratoga Court was well-represented: the Flynns perhaps outnumbered all families, and neighbor Floyd, wearing his new souvenir collectors item Coca-Cola jacket, was in attendance. Of course, the Mayor of Saratoga Court, Gary Lucas, made a stop, along with Saratoga Court's First Lady, Bonnie Lucas. Bonnie was seated with Kay, a charming lady with a beautiful smile. It was wonderful to meet her for the second time in my life.
I was happy to talk with Steve Lorry, who, back in the mid-Sixties, was one of Mount Assumption Institute's great athletes. He was a lefty and I usually swung and missed at his fastballs or curves. He and Al Beaubriand were the two toughest pitchers for this lefty batter.
By the time Goose arrived at 7:30pm, Meron's was packed elbow-to-elbow. He was pretty excited to be greeted by the Mayor himself, along with Old-Timer. You can bet that today Goose will be telling everyone within earshot about how much fun he had at the event.
I had a great time talking with Tom and Mary Sears, while we waited for County Treasurer Joe Giroux and his wife Carol to arrive. I guess Joe had to do some extra calculating what with that new county tax increase. But when he did arrive at 8:25pm, we had fun remembering our Our Lady of Victory Academy classmates from back in '66.
A night like this gives birth to many blog ideas, so it's a good thing I brought my notebook and pen. During the night, the name "Foxy Flynn" was born and that combo could lead to very richer lives for two lucky North Country residents. However, into the night the handwriting got a little shaky, not something that would have met the approval of Sister Genevieve or Sister Bernadette.
The night also gave birth to a few great ideas for my "Fox on the Run" television show. Perhaps the best would feature a two-on-two benefit basketball game. Let's get the best couples from around the North Country and have some hoop competitions. I'd put my money on a couple of PHS grads, Joey Cardany and Kristen Moore, who both rank among the school's leaders in scoring. What other basketball couples might be out there?
Another highlight of the night was a lively discussion between the Donald and a spokesman for the Town of Plattsburgh. As the conversation topics jumped from energy-saving light bulbs to Route 3 to sidewalk shoveling, the voices raised and the finger-pointing increased. Craig Mathews served as moderator. What a "Fox on the Run" show that would have made!
Much later into the evening Goose and I decided to call it a night. I was exhausted. It takes a lot of energy having so much fun and talking. We left Meron's with plans to call a cab for Saratoga Court. However, for some reason, two lovely ladies decided moments later to also leave. They had VIP parking right by the front door.
Goose and I, neither of us very shy at this point, asked the ladies if we might bum a ride to Saratoga Court, just a few blocks away. They smiled -- a good sign! -- and agreed. The highpoint of the night, however, occured when they stopped in front of my house. The vehicle doors were locked! And the beautiful driver couldn't unlock them. Or she didn't want to!
Here we were on a dark street, late at night, locked in a vehicle with two lovely ladies. Was it all a ploy on their part? I hopefully said, "Goose, our reputations precede us! We are trapped back here!"
"They probably heard about the Gagnon boys!" added Goose.
But just when Goose and I were basking in the sudden glory of being alone with these two beauties, the driver got out and opened the door from the outside. Darn!
The Carver has done it again! For the fifth time in a row he's managed to pack a place with dignitaries, friends, storytellers, and North Country what-have-yous and create a great funfest! The Blogoteers were happy to be a part of it.
My many pages of notes will be put to good use in the blogs ahead.
Comments
Foxy,
Speaking of escorts...
What kind of car were Goose and you in that “the driver got out and opened the door from the outside?" To the best of my knowledge, police vehicles are routinely equipped in this manner.
You were so enthralled by all the happenings at the Blogoteer reunion that you failed to realize or share with your constituents that you were driven home by two of Plattsburgh's Finest.
In light of recent exploits on Prospect Ave., I would have figured you would have recognized the interior of such a vehicle?
Kern
(Foxy's note: But, Kern, Goose reassures me that these ladies were not in any kind of uniform!)
Posted by: Kern | December 11, 2007 9:38 AM
Police escorts!!!??? Giuliani in the 'Burgh?
Posted by: j | December 11, 2007 8:08 AM
Foxy and other bloggeteers,
Thank you all for leaving messages about the wonderful time you all had. Although I couldn't be there, reading your stories made it fun for me anyway.
If you plan to get together again in the summer months, please notify all of us out here as soon as possible. I'll start saving my extra pennies. No one there will know me but that will make it all the more fun. (grin)
(Foxy's note: I will definitely meet with The Carver, the Ultimate Party-Guy, and begin the wheels turning for a reunion this summer. Maybe it could all start at the end of Saratoga Court, with an afternoon BBQ, and then perhaps The Donald could arrange for a police escort over to Meron's in the early evening.)
Posted by: Kathy | December 10, 2007 9:55 PM
Well, the dust has settled a bit from Friday evening and the comments I have read are genuine and insightful. A great evening was had by all!
Where to begin? Skip "Jack Lalanne" Zatonski lectured to the mayor to lose a few pounds and get on a program. This will begin in January 2008. Lefty Lorry cried foul at the new snow removal charges passed by the Common Council. He vowed to help all his neighbors with snow removal as he offered Marcy's shoveling services while he will shovel in front of Woodstock's. Councilor "Canine" Calnon is already scoping out new doggy parks for 2008. Saratoga Court Mayor Gary Lucas has a new jeep. Why does it seem everyone who retires buys a new vehicle?
Kern and Old Timer controlled the corner well. Kern's Dad, Al, handled the social pressure very well. Willie Watson was ready for a marathon. The old officiating stories were thoroughly enjoyed by Sal and Johnny Carp. Lightbulb Man, Johnny Ireland, regaled the mayor. Bet he doesn't dare talk to Bernie Bassett like that! Of course, Johnny doesn't get much from the Town anyway!
Of course, we had the O'Connor twins, Mike and Mike, talking about old times and friends. Can't figure out why one twin has hair and one doesn't!
Craig Matthews worked the room like a pro. This political pundit's stock is rising as a 'Kingmaker" in political circles. Rumor is Hillary's campaign has called him for advice. Heard Craig is off soon to New Hampshire to go diner to diner with his Junior NYS Senator for the primary.
Goose Gagnon showed up looking like John Travolta. After reading he and his brother's late night exploits, can you say Disco Fever!
And speaking of the Ponytailed One, Foxy Gagnon was one great ambassador! He welcomed everyone, jotted down notes, and listened intently to all the conversations. The mayor's future may be in jeopardy!
And finally, Carver. What can we say? Poor Beth is going to heaven! Promoting fun and friendship -- while skinning you in cards, craps, and golf--is his expertise. Once again, Carv, a great time!
I had a great time speaking with so many nice people. The strength of the North Country is its people. That is why events like these are special. Time to lock in a date for summer. Better let the First Lady of the 4th Ward, Gracie, know soon!
Scotty and Janel did a fantastic job, too!
(Foxy's note: Great follow-up report, The Donald! Hope our paths cross soon. You sure had fun in one of those $100 seats!)
Posted by: The Donald | December 10, 2007 7:41 PM
Greetings, Everyone!
Well, it was definitely worth the trip. When I first arrived I saw some familiar faces, but their names, as with many beautiful ladies early in my life, escaped me. Craig and Carver were there to break the ice. We shared some laughs about the blog and discussed what surprises may be in store for the evening.
Craig and I have about 60 friends, co-workers and other acquaintances in common. How the heck we never met until Friday, I’ll never know. Thanks for the company, Craig. I look forward to seeing you again and sharing some more stories.
It was great hearing all the old Plattsburgh sports history from Mr. Mercurio. There is a man with an amazing ability to recollect the most obscure facts about single moments in North Country sport folklore. Great stuff.
I felt a little intimidated in a room full of the “who’s who” of Plattsburgh - The Mayor, Rubble, Old-timer, Skip, and so many others. I’m glad my dad came to my aid and was able to inform me who many of the attendees were. Ah ha, I too, now have some inside information to use at a later, more appropriate time!
It was great to hear Skip talk about his travels and golf game. We reminisced about some former teachers and exploits of Plattsburgh High. We definitely determined that steaming was the best way to fix clams other than eating them raw.
I really was flattered by the Mayor’s compliments and amazed by his keen recognition skills and knowledge. All that law enforcement training really paid off in his political career! I’m jealous of all the locals getting light bulbs for Christmas.
And ultimately, it was the boisterous hello, and firm hug, from the Host of Honor that made my night and trip well worth the time. I thank you, Foxy, for allowing me to perpetuate my growing up in the North Country and share in all the wonderful experiences of others, especially those I got to meet at Meron’s.
Thanks for your wonderful hospitality, Grace. It was great seeing you.
Count me in this summer and December 5th of next year!
(Foxy's note: I was very happy to see you, Kern ... and your Dad as well. I know where to find him on Friday! Hope we can get together at a Tri City Valleycats game this summer.)
Posted by: Kern | December 10, 2007 5:33 PM
Well Foxy ..sure was quite a crowd! It's taken a few days to recover, but I'm alive and well.
Thanks to everyone for making it such a great night.. Special thanks to Merideth "O" and Gracie for their fine work in organizing the many varieties of snacks!
It was great to see you all, especially nice to finally meet KERN...and as always Mr Matthews was at the top of his game with his wit and humor....RUBBLE was in rare form but as usual a little tight with a buck!
Old Timer, Skip and The Donald handled (as always, their "Sargent at Arms" duties wonderfully...It was great to have the lovely Kay Stafford stop in!
Tom-a-Hawk was on his best behavior, thought he might bring "W" with him?
It was a nice gathering of "Foxes" "Mounties" "Johnnies" and "Hornets" and even a few "Indians" stopped in. Think most Eras were covered spanning back over at least 5 decades!...We'll have to pull something together over the summer so we can lure some of the "out of Town" bloggers to the burgh... Mark your calenders for next year's party slated for December 5th! Thanks again to all who attended ! It was certainly a fun time had by all!
(Foxy's note: And special thanks to The Carver, who bought many a brew for many a Blogoteer. Somehow I think I went home with more money in my pocket than when I arrived!)
Posted by: The Carver | December 10, 2007 7:59 AM
Got hung up most of the night in the darn round-a-bout. Next thing you know there will be a toll booth on the thing. New GPS could not provide me with the needed support . I suspect this merry go round was purposely put in to keep the elderly out of the city. Finally got out and worked on the snowblower so I can save myself from the city slammer. Another attempt on council's part to drive poor elderly out of town. Who can pay for snow shoveling of sidewalks and the taxes. Was hoping to at least go see some downtown artwork at the old Federal Building but guess that isn't going to happen either. Wanted to go look at all the nice lights on the tree that Mayor Danny wanted to cut down but I guess the city has gone dark. Did get an invitation to get a free lightbulb from Mayor Donnie. That should help make for a nice Christmas.
Glad to hear that there might be a reward for my true identity and not a bounty. Keep up the great work.
Posted by: rubble | December 9, 2007 6:09 PM
Foxy I am so sorry I missed it. . .again! One week later and I would have been able to buy you a drink! I will be home on the 13th. I am introducing a special little lady to the North Country family! Hope I get to see you this time around!
(Foxy's note: Kelly, your CD is in my car stereo right now! Great to hear from you. How about a "Fox on the Run" interview to let the North Country know how you are doing??? Some morning around 10am -- would be fun! By the way, even though you're a week late, you can still buy me a drink!)
Posted by: Kelly MIller | December 9, 2007 2:44 PM
As the song goes, “Oh What A Night”. Unfortunately for me, I had to wear a wire for the counter-blogger task force in restitution for my recent indiscretion in Altona. Infiltrating the blogger group was no easy task, but I uncovered some disturbing and decadent scenarios on Friday evening. The night started off with the alpha-blogger offering me free postings for life if I’d give up the identity of my compatriot, Rubble. Shortly after I viewed Forest and W entering the men’s (or was it the women’s) room together, a strange site indeed. I was then offered, by two prominent politicians, a free fixing of a recent ticket, but declined the offer to take the high road and represent myself in court. I surmised it was an attempt to undermine my political aspirations. I overheard two guards from the 60’s telling of a Christmas tree heist they were involved in and an all male skating escapade in another country. To top things off, The Old Timer had made a quick exit to escape the tale of how he and his brother were ejected from the Y league for life and I witnessed a guard and a teacher talking about “reading the menu, but not ordering the main course.” I think they go to the same barber or barberette. I tried on several passes to goose Goose, but he had strategically placed himself in a corner against a wall reminiscent of the gunslingers in those old western movies. The ultimate insult occurred when an OLVA grad of 1966 couldn’t recall who the valedictorian of his high school class was, but knew it wasn’t him. There was a catholic school grad drinking marguerites at the bar, a mayor, a dentist, a senator’s wife, a treasurer, an alderman, the list goes on. For sure, it was an eclectic group at the gathering and the stories flowed with embellishments all night long. Cheers was alive & well at Meron’s on Friday and all was caught on tape. I didn’t see any firemen at the party, they must have all been working, or avoiding the mayor and I noticed no smokers near the doors or openly displayed tatts, quite a welcomed observation. I’d advise all those who did attend to lay low for the near future. I tell you this as my debt to society has been lifted and I must now enter the blogger witness protection program, I expect Art V, Bullet, The Donald, J, Carver, and numerous others are already familiar with this group. I’ll most likely be going back into the mountains I’ve spent the last year in..…..TBI
Posted by: Tom-A-Hawk | December 9, 2007 8:43 AM
Foxy; Like Fred Forkey stated we need one of these parties to happen in July or August! My term District Deputy with the Elks ends July 8th,2008! Why not make it a weekend affair! Arnie's Pizza, Michigan Hot Dogs, Adult Beverages flowing all weekend! Have a gala dinner some where! A place to party after the dinner! Wow I'm Ready!!!! It sure sounded like everybody had a great time Friday at Meron's!
Sorry I missed it! Lenny
Posted by: Lenny Smallacombe | December 9, 2007 7:54 AM
Gee, Foxy, looks like I missed a good one. The Fox and the Goose were being entertained by some of the north country's finest folks. Skip, the Old Timer, The Donald, the Mercurio's, The Bainbridges, Gary and Bonnie Lucas, Steve Lorry and, I assume the Flynn was Mike. Have another one of these in the snowless months and I'll be there in a heartbeat. It's parties like this that really make me miss the Burg. Probably see most of you sooner than later.
(Foxy's note: Yes, Fred, it was a great party! We'll have to find an excuse to do it again this summer.)
Posted by: Fred Forkey | December 8, 2007 6:49 PM
Foxy,
A great time was had by one and all. Upon my arrival I was warmly greeted by The Carver. He, Vin Scully, and I immediately tried to pick out who Rubble was.
I got to meet Kern for the first time. What a great guy he is. I particularly enjoyed a story from his childhood. In his teens, Kern thought about being a race car driver and would actually practice on city streets. It was only through the divine intervention of one of Plattsburgh's finest and his father, that he changed his mind and got into law enforcement.
Foxy, your arrival electrified the crowd. Doing your best Joe LoTemplio impersonation you had your notepad and were feverishly scribbling down loads of information. Like Joe, you wanted to get your "misquotes" right.
I was regaled by Sal Mercurio with his tales of officiating many local sporting events over the years. Sal even gave technical fouls to The Carver and Joe Cardany. Later in the evening, Sal and his son Scott demonstrated for all in attendance, the Mercurio Sandwich with the help of one of the nice young ladies in attendance.
Arriving fashionably late was The Goose. He was looking quite dapper all decked out as if he just posed for the cover of GQ Magazine. Is It Just Me or did all the young ladies start gravitating to The Goose? Seemed like they were always hovering close to him.
I got to spend some time with The Donald. He knew EVERYBODY who walked in the door and it was a pleasure meeting all of them.The more I see of him, The Donald reminds me more and more of Senator Stafford. Just like The Senator, The Donald spoke with everyone and listened to their concerns. A true public servant.
We were joined from time to time by Jim Calnon. Throughout the evening Jim was dutifully following the orders of his Commander In Chief Gracie. From her undisclosed location, orders to restock the bar were followed with great precision by Councilor Calnon.
At many points in the evening I got to speak with Five Team John Ireland. Or should I say, listen to Five Team John. I think the best way to describe John is this. Picture the Energizer Bunny with a crew cut. He was all over the bar discussing many topics, baseball, football, politics, his children, his granddaughter. However, his biggest topic was light bulbs. Go figure.
I'm looking forward to the next gathering.
Craig Mathews
(Foxy's note: Thanks for filling in the spots I missed, Craig. Just like at the Common Council meetings, you were very focused on all the goings-on. Sure sorry I missed that Mercurio Sandwich. Maybe Sal and Banger were the top Father-Son duo after all!)
Posted by: Craig Mathews | December 8, 2007 11:41 AM