Gary Strachan – "Write" Said Fred
Whimsical observations from deep within an erratic mind
It’s actor Sir Tom Courtney’s 78th birthday today. Born in Hull in the East Riding of Yorkshire, the knight of the realm’s critically acclaimed first appearance on that day won him the following rave reviews:-. “A superb entrance! ****” – Reighton Gap Courier. “A rousing first appearance. His strong projection bodes well for his future... Continue Reading →
Recently, I visited York to see my son Jonny on his off day. It's always a fillip to catch up with the lad who calls me dad. He calls me some less flattering things as well, but it's best they remain within the family. We took in lunch in one of York’s many fine eateries.... Continue Reading →
It was one of the funniest scenes in arguably the best loved British comedy in the last three decades. A lovable imbecile sat in a café with his mates, basking in the glory of his recent award for saving his employers (the local council) money by using the same broom for 20 years. On cross... Continue Reading →
"Marge, don't discourage the boy. Weaseling out of things is important to learn. It's what separates us from the animals…… Except the weasels." The sage like words of Homer J Simpson, penned by Matt Groening and his team of writers for an episode of the inimitable comedy The Simpsons. Why have I just quoted one... Continue Reading →
It’s February 13th today. Not a notable day as such, unless it’s your birthday or you win tonight’s lottery, or perhaps are a scientist who during the day discovers the chemical element plumium. If today had been a Friday it would have assumed an altogether high profile in the psyche of the superstitious. Individuals who subscribe... Continue Reading →
In the Suessdorf/Blackburn song ‘Moonlight in Vermont’, the writers paint a picture of the New England state as a hypnotising, romantic, snow covered location with Alpine forest lined highways and mountainous ski trails. The song is considered an unofficial state song of Vermont and is frequently played as the first dance song at Vermont wedding... Continue Reading →
Yesterday afternoon I drove a friend (who for the purposes of anonymity I shall call Dr X) to a day care clinic. I volunteered my chauffeuring services as he was scheduled to undergo a minor medical procedure which would render him unable to drive. The clinic is a relatively new building providing a clean, light,... Continue Reading →
Yesterday, Storm Imogen ravaged parts of England and Wales. Seeing the devastation caused by Immy on the TV news, made me ponder as to who actually names these storms. After extensive research (3 minutes on google), I found out that the Met Office and Met Eireann use an alphabetical list of monikers chosen by the... Continue Reading →
The late American actor/musician Jack Lemmon was born on this day in 1925. Born John Uhler Lemmon III in a suburb of Boston, Massachusetts, he was the only child of John Uhler Lemmon Jr and his wife Mildred. His father was president of a doughnut company and his mother wasn’t. The number 8 figured highly... Continue Reading →