Willie Dixon Birthday July 1 ... Most Underrated?

Willie Dixon was born on July 1, 1915. I believe there is a good case to be made that he is among the most underrated people in American music history. He wrote some of the greatest songs in the history of music: “Hoochie Coochie Man,” “I’m Ready,” “Back Door Man,” “Spoonful,” “I Ain’t Superstitious,” “Little Red Rooster,” “Wang Dang Doodle,” and “My Babe,” among many others. He was the producer for The Muddy Waters Blues Band, perhaps the greatest band of all time. He also produced Howlin' Wolf. He played bass with Chuck Berry. There are many other examples of Dixon's greatness. He is the blues.

Old Glory! Flag Day, June 14 ... Betsy Ross Did US Proud

Old Glory! Flag Day is June 14, and it is also the birthday of the U.S. Army. In celebration, I am posting this photo of Betsy Ross showing off what will come to be known as "Old Glory" to George Washington. This is from the Library of Congress. It is a painting by Percy Moran. He painted it about 1917.

Old Glory - this painting is titled "The Birth of Old Glory"

Peace Officer Memorial Day is May 15

Peace Officer Memorial Day is May 15. It is a day to remember the sacrifice police officers make each and every day keeping us safe.

In this year's proclamation, President Obama said:

We owe a profound debt to all those who have worn the badge, and to the families whose care enables them to serve with courage and pride.  When the unthinkable happens and officers give their lives or are seriously injured in the line of duty, we have an obligation to give their loved ones the support they deserve.  During Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week, we recall the selflessness of our law enforcement officers and their families, and we honor all those who devote their lives to forging a stronger, safer America.  Let us reflect on their invaluable contributions as we enjoy the peace they bring to our communities, and let us vow that their service will never be taken for granted.

...

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 15, 2012, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 13 through May 19, 2012, as Police Week.  I call upon all Americans to observe these events with appropriate ceremonies and activities.  I also call on Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, officials of the other territories subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day.  I further encourage all Americans to display the flag at half staff from their homes and businesses on that day.

Roy Orbison born 76 years ago today

Roy Orbison ... happy birthday! I hope that you're Uptown.

Dallas Cowboys Yesterday & Today - Another Inside Spread

Here is another inside spread from Dallas Cowboys Yesterday & Today. This was one of the best books I ever was able to edit. This is the bio of Roger Staubach, better known as "Captain America." Roger was a Cincinnati boy. One of his coaches at Purcell High School was Bob Krueger, who later was the dean of discipline at LaSalle High School when I was going there. I had occasion to meet with Mr. Krueger on a few occasions. I imagine Roger's interactions with Bob went better than did mine.

Brat Stop, Here We Come

Just talked to my travelin' partner, Mr. Doug, about our annual trip up to the Brewers Park in Milwaukee. We do it every year. And, of course, along the way, we always make a stop at the Brat Stop. It just doesn't get much better. I am ready to go right now.

Dallas Cowboys Yesterday & Today - Cover

Dallas Cowboys Yesterday & Today is a book that I edited. Here is a shot of the cover of the book.