A Couple of Things… Gloria Steinem

Posted on September 3, 2026 by A Couple of Things by Pam Baumgardner

Gloria Steinem past away September 2, 2026 at age 92. To live a life to better conditions for others is a life to celebrate. Taking a look at her Wikipedia page, and watching all the news coverage, I will be forever in awe of her accomplishments. I remember reading Ms. Magazine and following her career. I volunteered in the 70s for my local chapter of NOW in no small part trying to live up to her example.
We’ve all seen changes for the better over the decades and changes for the worse. I’m grateful the younger generation joins in to help to fight the battles yet to be won. As with all people I admire, especially those who set such a great example for others, I don’t weep for the loss of this iconic woman, but rather celebrate the life and choices she made to help others and improve conditions for all.

Taken from Steinem’s speech in 1971, Address to the Women of America, she said:

“This is no simple reform. It really is a revolution. Sex and race because they are easy and visible differences have been the primary ways of organizing human beings into superior and inferior groups and into the cheap labor on which this system still depends. We are talking about a society in which there will be no roles other than those chosen or those earned. We are really talking about humanism.”

My friend Linda Le Brock once met Gloria so I asked her for her thoughts:

“When I was around 18 years old, Gloria Steinem came to speak at the local college. My mom got tickets for us both to attend. My mom, raised by a single mom of six during the depression, understood the importance of women’s equality.

“Gloria was erudite, witty, passionate and preternaturally cool.

“In 2014, a dear colleague, Marybeth Carty, invited me to a private reception held for Gloria Steinem. She spoke of the importance that each generation must expand feminism to include the most marginalized.

“After her talk, we stood in a receiving line and got to meet and get photos with her. I was introduced as publisher of the Business Times. She exclaimed, ‘Oh I was a publisher too!’ I couldn’t believe it. Here she was VERY generously comparing me, the publisher of a local business journal to being the co-founder (along with Dorothy Pittman Hughes) and publisher of Ms. Magazine! I was speechless. I just stammered thank you, and she gave me a little hug. I watched as she graciously met, and uplifted in some way, every woman there. The room was electric.

“Thank you, Gloria for everything. And thank you, mama.” – Linda Le Brock

Headlines describing Steinem:

“World Famous Feminist Leader” – People
“Feminist Icon and Ms. Magazine Trailblazer” – USA Today
“Fierce Feminist Trailblazer” – NBC News
“Trailblazing Journalist and Activist” – NPR
“Personification of the Feminist Movement” – NYTimes
“Feminist Icon and Founder Ms. Magazine” – CNN

Gloria Steinem quotes:

“Imagine we are linked not ranked.”
“The truth will set you free, but first it will piss you off!”
“Once we give up searching for approval we often find it easier to earn respect.”
“Decisions are best made by the people affected by them.”
“A feminist is anyone who recognizes the equality and full humanity of women and men.”

Thank you Gloria!

A Couple of Things…

Posted on August 31, 2026 by A Couple of Things by Pam Baumgardner

1. The nearby Ojai Playhouse offers free movie tickets (trusting people will spend money at the concession stand) and I saw there was going to be a screening of Linda Perry’s documentary, “Let it Die Here.” I couldn’t pass this up especially since Perry and the director, Don Hardy Jr. would be conducting a Q&A afterwards. The film originally came out in 2024. If you’re not familiar with Perry, then hopefully you are with 4 Non Blondes and their iconic song, “What’s Up.” The song still gives me chills to this day. I was moved by her story and cried several times by her profound vulnerability shared in the film. I highly recommend it. #TissuesRequired
Also…I was the first to ask questions.

By the way, Linda Perry is a prolific songwriter and producer having worked with Dolly Parton, Christina Aguilera, Brandi Carlile, Kate Hudson, all shown in the film. Dolly said something along the line that that working with Perry felt like a momentous occasion, akin to collaborating with Elvis. And it is noteworthy that the song made popular by Christina Aguilera, “Beautiful,” was written by Linda Perry.

I am beautiful no matter what they say
Words can’t bring me down
I am beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can’t bring me down, oh no
So don’t you bring me down today

2. Everyone’s a comedian. #SillyVandalism

3. Speaking of a sense of humor, my Alexa (with a male British accent) has taken to responding with an, “Aye Aye Captain” when I ask for a lamp to be turned off. #SillyAlexa

4. Living at the beach is a charmed life…that is until the neighbor behind you has a short-term rental and the visitors are laughing it up having a great old time at 2:00 am Monday morning!! #NotCool

However, during this latest heatwave, there’s nothing like dropping everything, and dashing down the lane to the beach to jump in the ocean to cool down! #LoveItSoMuch #WorthIt

5. Not gonna lie, I’m feeling pretty good about myself! #ExceptionalCredit

6. We lost Dolly, then Tim. I know celebrities have agreed to die in threes, so I’m holding my breath for the next one…though one could argue Hayden Panettiere was the first in a run of 10 days.
There has been a ton of coverage on the incredible life of Dolly Parton, she was one of those people who deserve all the accolades sent her way. A true treasure. I was going to say National treasure, but did you see England’s changing of the guard tribute? OMG!!! Check it out:

I do have to say I have a little bit more connection with Tim Curry as I saw him in concert in the 70s in support of his album, Fearless. I’m sure I still have it in my album rack. He was such a charismatic performer. Of course my first introduction to him was his role as Dr. Frank-n-Furter in Rocky Horror Picture Show. We use to go to Hollywood to see midnight showings of it where the audience sang along and some dressed up and acted out different parts.
But then I had the opportunity in college to take a school trip to New York City to see several plays. Well that was the year Tim Curry played Mozart along with Ian McKellen as Salieri in the Broadway play, Amadeus. I believe the year was 1981. It was such an amazing play. Quick set up: You enter the theater where the curtain is up, but the stage isn’t lit, but you can see a chair with a rumpled blanket on it, center stage. Everyone comes in and takes their seat, and while the lights in the audience go down, the lights on the stage go up, and the spotlight hits the chair where Ian McKellen had been sitting the entire time!!! He starts his dialogue with his disdain for Mozart while trying to hide his jealously for his clearly more talented rival. The movie was good, but I’ll never forget that play!
Curry had a paralyzing stroke in 2012 and never fully recovered and had to use a wheelchair ever since. In recent years he continued to do voice over work and did interviews and his mood appeared uplifting.

“I’ve had the time of my life revisiting my favorite memories over the past couple of years,” Curry told PEOPLE in April prior to publication. Referencing one of Frank-N-Furter’s most famous lines, he added, “I’m shivering with anticipation to share them with you.” (see full article)

photo of construction crew kitten wearing hard hat

7. Could this be any cuter?!!! A construction crew found the lost kitten caught in heavy equipment and recused it. See full story from KTLA below:

8. I was a little worried that I might doze off while catching a tribute band for all things Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young called Deja Vu. So I had no alcohol prior, and instead had an Arnold Palmer (ice tea and lemonade). Boy was I wrong. The fully plugged-in band was on fire rockin’ the venue, the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center. I had never been to this venue before, but the staff was super nice and helpful and the room only has 78 seats which includes a balcony, so no seat has a bad view. I didn’t need to worry about that as I had a single seat in the third row.

Yes, the band was fabulous, and yes people did have minimal conversations during the performance, but my latest gripe is cologne. Ack!!! Stinky stuff. If you ever wonder if you have too much cologne (men) or perfume (women) on, the answer is going to be YES!!!

9. From my favorite quotes file: “Life is too important to be taken seriously.” – Oscar Wilde

Thanks for reading!

A Couple of Things…

Posted on August 23, 2026 by A Couple of Things by Pam Baumgardner

1. I recently took another trip up north. This time the destination was Graham, Washington for a baby shower. You know this has to be special to travel 1,116 miles…for a baby shower. Also, if you know me, it has to be special for me to attend ANY baby shower. Well it’s my dearest friend Linda’s son and wife’s first baby.

I’ll be honest, I wasn’t 100% thrilled about going as I just went to Portland last month, but I’m so happy I did because I had a blast! For starters, we flew up to Portland out Santa Barbara which is a fuckin’ cakewalk. Then Linda’s sister, Candy picked us up and took us to her home where I finally got to meet her husband Morris. It was as if we had all been friends for years, no topic was taboo. Great food, drink and conversation!

Candy drove us the next day up to Graham, Washington where we spent a couple nights at a local Comfort Inn. and while the motel was clean and safe, the neighborhood not so much. Tip to the wise, GoogleMap your destination and use the street view to get a lay of the land.

photo at baby shower — Left to right: Mama to be Isabella, Linda, Candy, me with proud papa above, Nicolas

Nicolas tuning his sitar. — Nicolas did a performance for us on his sitar, totally self taught. It was beautiful. I wish I could share the video here.

It was great to catch up with Linda’s family and the baby shower turned out to be delightful. I was dreading the games, but they were short and not embarrassing at all; well at least not for me. During baby charades, I picked (slips of paper out of a bag), “baby’s first steps” which everyone got right away. Then Morris walked in just in time and we basically coerced him into playing and he picked “giving birth.” Yeah, you get the picture. He was a good sport about it, I’ll give him that!

While leaving Graham, WA, I took this photo of Mt. Rainer.

We arrived back in Portland Sunday afternoon and my daughter Sydney and mate, Nate came for dinner which was the icing on the cake! #AwesomeTrip

2. I found an article about the best and worst place to place your cat’s litter box and that reminded me of one of the perks of being pregnant, other than bringing a new life into existence, is that someone else needs to clean out the litter box.

Vets say this is the worst place to put your cat’s litter box

Pregnant women should avoid cleaning litter boxes primarily due to the risk of toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that can have serious health implications for both the mother and the unborn child.

Toxoplasmosis is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which can be found in cat feces.

3. My good friend Maggie brought up a very good point recently about our mutual friend Carlos. He’s quite adept at being a Wingman but exceptional when it comes to being a Cockblocker when required. #WorthHisWeightInGold

4. Have you ever wondered what is the best sleep position? Well you can read this article I found on MSN.com. I looked it up after having a conversation with Morris (#1 above) who is a retired doctor who specialized in migraines. He mentioned that if you sleep on your left side, it help with your brain. The article backs this up. ““If you’re lying on your left side, it may actually be better for clearing the waste product in our brain,” he says [Dr. John Saito]. This is called the glymphatic system, a brain’s specialized waste clearance network that washes away harmful metabolic byproducts, including proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease, while we sleep.

I tend to start on my left, but it’s a crap shoot after I fall asleep.

5. I just heard the Los Angeles Lakers are being sold again for a record $12.5 billion, just 14 months after it was bought for $10 billion. I guess the NBA Board of Governors must still approve the sale (next meeting in September), but tell me this, doesn’t this sound like house flipping. And who will pay the price? Yep, the fans.

6. Speaking of basketball. I’ve started back with regular visits to my chiropractor earlier this month and he was determined to get me back on the court. He asked if I was still shooting and I told him no because I haven’t been able to hit a three-pointer since my knee replacement (10 years ago now!). He started working on my hips, knees, ankles and feet. I’m back on the court and first things first as I’m working on the muscle memories of just making a basket and little by little gaining more distance. We’ll see and you know I’ll report when it happens!

7. I’ve been taking full advantage of the summer weather here at the beach. Inland it’s a heatwave, at the beach…it’s just beautiful. Got Maggie out for a ride up the coast, and Linda out kayaking in the Channel Islands. One works your legs, the other your arms.

8. There are a number of tribute bands I enjoy and some I tolerate; however, you will never ever see me at an ABBA tribute band show. #PersonalChoice #TrueDat

9. Who the hell has seen the movie, The Drama? I need someone to discuss it with. You can see it on HBO Max. #CommentBelow

By the way, I no longer envision Edward Cullen when I see a Robert Pattinson movie. #ThankGod

9. The Hollywood Reporter reports “National Treasure 3” is finally real and the director confirmed they have a script. (see article)

I don’t know why I’ve seen the original and #2 so many times. I guess I find them ridiculously fun!

From my favorite quotes file: “Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohn

A Couple of Things… Farewell Sweet Jackie

Posted on August 10, 2026 by A Couple of Things by Pam Baumgardner

I’m terribly sad to report the worst case scenario for Jackie (Patient 26-519). On Monday, August 10, 2026, the Ojai Raptor Center’s official message started with…”It is with profound sadness that we share that Patient 26-519 passed away in the early hours of this morning, following more than three weeks of intensive medical care.” They also said their team is heartbroken as is all the followers of the Big Bear Eagle Cam. (Facebook) Their message continued with more details giving a better understanding of what happened, but after all is said and done, it is an extremely bittersweet moment losing this magnificent bald eagle as Jackie and Shadow made a huge impact on the lives of so many people who adored watching the Big Bear Eagle cam the last few years. We witnessed Jackie and Shadow lay their eggs and we waited for the eaglets to emerge. We saw how both parents kept them safe and provided fresh fish from the lake to feed on, and then we watched as their offspring left the nest.

It’s been a privilege to watch in real time wildlife in the real world as oppose to the zoo or wildlife refuge.

While Jackie’s passing is heartbreaking, we are reminded it is the circle of life. I find comfort that while Jackie could have been left to drown in the lake or worse, succumb to another attack, she was rescued by kind humans. She was fed and kept safe while the Ojai Raptor Center did their absolute best to treat her.

Also, never forget, the popularity of these eagles helped to raise the $10 million required to purchase the land at Big Bear Lake so developers couldn’t build on it. It will now be preserved for future generations of eagles to come.

I know I’ve shared the YouTube link before, but here it is again. Do note, the nest is empty for the season. Hopefully Shadow will return with a new mate this winter. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4-L2nfGcuE

#SoarFreeJackie #RestEasyJackie

A Couple of Things…

Posted on August 3, 2026 by A Couple of Things by Pam Baumgardner

1. Another year older, another year wiser…well maybe not, time will tell. The birthday dinner this year was share with my good friend Eve Mimiaga who is also a Leo, but her birthday isn’t until August 3. We had a delightful time and then while most went home, Carlos, Maggie and myself went out for a night of dancing (sorry no photography or video allowed for that!).

2. The Ventura County Fair opened this past week. The night before day one, I was invited for what they call a “Fair Tasting” event, so you know, they offered up a bunch of deep fried food and crap you wouldn’t normally eat. It was super fun and they even ran the Ferris wheel for all attendees for free.

3. While Jackie the Eagle continues treatment at the Ojai Raptor Center, other good news was revealed. Earlier this year, the non-profit organization, San Bernardino Mountains Land Trust had launched a grassroots fundraising campaign to raise $10 million by July 31, 2026, to save Moon Camp from development. They raised just about half the funds required when a gift from Anna and Greg Brockman (co-founder and president of Open AI) donated $5.5 million. Now the 63 acres will remain undisturbed forest and the planned luxury housing development of 50 homes is axed.
The SBMLT can now purchase the property and have remaining funds to cover closing costs, taxes, legal fees and maintain the land.

4. Issues with bugs? Avoid introducing toxins in your home and try this out.
Homemade roach/ant spray
2 cups of vinegar, distilled
2 cups of water
3 tablespoon dishwashing liquid
3 tablespoons table salt
Spray Bottle
Mix ingredients together, add to a spray bottle; shake well before spraying each time.
Source: https://www.hometalk.com/diy/outdoor/pest-repeller/homemade-roach-spray-good-for-ants-and-other-bugs-too-43527424

5. I’ve always been a lover of radio since I was a little girl. The sense of community and music I loved was always a source of endless joy. Radio, whether it be AM or FM, has changed over the decades with most people opting for paid music services such as Sirius…but not me. I love local radio. This mime explains it all:

My own career in radio in the 80s and 90s was not just about music that people loved, but it was about being a part of the community. #MissItDearly

6. While watching previews before seeing The Odyssey, my friend Mr. Mimiaga noted the upcoming scary movie, “Other Mommy” staring Jessica Chastain, should be “Other Mother” because that would rhythm. #TrueDat #MissedOpportunity

7. So yes, I saw The Odyssey. My main concern was the length of the movie vs the size of my bladder. I took a per-emptive tinkle and I did just fine. I will avoid spoiler alerts, so must the basics. With the movie just under three hours I was delighted to find I never almost dozed off as the pace kept me engaged. I was impressed by the acting by such a stellar cast. I did not see it on an IMAX screen, but did pay the extra $3 dollars for XD (Xtreme Digital) at the local Cinemark in Oxnard and it was fabulous. I will definitely watch it again when it comes available on streaming services. #Worthy #OscarBuzz

8. I had a conversation with male friend about how I’ve never been a fan of movies such as Troy, Braveheart, Black Hawk Down, 300, Gladiator, and I guess I need to include Lord of the Rings (I tried watching it several times and always fell asleep within 15 minutes; the same can be said for 2001: A Space Odyssey).
But there are testosterone driven movies such as Fight Club, The Accountant, and now The Odyssey which I do love. #GoFigure

9. One more side note…Though I haven’t yet read The Odyssey, I felt I’d seen a lot of the supernatural events previously. It turns out the same themes and monsters in a mythical land were used in the 1958 fantasy film, 7th Voyage of Sinbad. It used to run on TV weekend afternoons and I’d be fascinated by it as a child.

From my favorite quotes file: “The main reason women are crazy, is that men are stupid.” – George Carlin.

A Couple of Things…

Posted on July 25, 2026 by A Couple of Things by Pam Baumgardner

1. I took in a matinee to see Toy Story 5. As expected, it was delightful, and I had a chuckle or two hearing little kids talk back to the big screen. Sydney did that when she was a wee tot when I took her to see Barney’s Great Adventure in 1998. Barney is a purple dinosaur and about as geeky and sweet as you can get when it comes to children’s programming. On the big screen Barney is searching for an something (off to the side of the set) as he put his hand above his eyes and the kids in the audience (including Sydney) were screaming, “It’s over there, Barney!!!”
In any case, Toy Story 5 was sweet, but for adults without kids, you might want to wait for it to come out on a streaming platform.
I do admit how sweet it was that everyone stayed to listen to the Taylor Swift song at the end. I did not.
Next up, The Odyssey.

Fake sign at Taco Bell — Relax, I’m sure this is a joke 😉

2. After hearing for weeks about the Cyclospora outbreak causing explosive diarrhea, it was finally tracked back to lettuce which Taco Bell used from Taylor Farms. The outbreak to date was traced back to nine states: Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania.
Of course, the supplier could have shipped said contaminated lettuce to other restaurants. To be honest, I’ve always thought Taco Bell’s lettuce tasted odd.

I’m a fan of their Crunchwrap Supreme made with black beans. I will order without lettuce moving forward. I hear the enchirito is back. By the way, did you know you can ask for such add ons such as pico de gallo, purple cabbage, rice, onion and cilantro blend? Check out their on-line menu:
https://www.tacobell.com/food/specialties/enchirito

3. I was recently doing research for https://venturarocks.com/ calendar of events when I saw that Stanley Simmons is playing the Ventura Music Hall next month. The name sound familiar? Turns out it the sons of Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons. I figure I saw their pops play several times in the 70s, I might as check them out and see they’re chips off the old blocks. But alas…two days later, the show was cancelled/postponed. #Standby

4. Things took a horrible turn with the Big Bear Valley Eagles when one of the parents, Jackie, was seen on video being attacked by other eagles (out of towners). Shortly after, an eagle was filmed being scooped out of the lake, clearly in distress. Eventually taken to the Ojai Raptor Center (I love these guys, same organization where I was gifted an owl release), Jackie is good hands. The bad news, she is on the critical list as she is experiencing severe anemia and inflammation affecting the kidneys. The good news, she had the condition before the eagle attack which proved she was strong enough to fend off the attack. She is alert and eating, but only time will tell. #FingersCrossed #PrayForJackie #SendPositveVibes

5. Sending congratulations to Spain for winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup beating Argentina 1-0 after extra-time. The World Cup happens every four years. The Women’s will be next year and from what I understand in 2023, Spain beat England 1-0 in the final game.
https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/womens/womensworldcup/australia-new-zealand2023

6. Am I the only one who has trouble getting a doctor appointment, and then once I get it (typically weeks if not months out), I get a call to reschedule it? WTF????

7. Okay, looks like I’ll be getting my hair done more often now! This is Mouse, and he enjoys sitting on your lap while you get your hair cut.

He and his sister had a run of the place which is to say they make their rounds apparently monitoring to make sure everyone behaves themselves.

Brilliant!

8. Stuart Fails to Save the Universe is the name of the show, and if you ask me, the title needs “Spoil Alert” ahead of it. It’s streaming on HBO Max, spinoff of The Big Bang Theory. I saw the first episode and I’m not quite sold on it, but will give it a few more episodes.

9. KTLA Saturday morning news, reported that the TSA reminds us that to help the stress of layovers, hammocks are allowed in the terminals. The reporters quipped it sounded like an April Fool’s joke. I couldn’t agree more so I search online and it’s certainly a story circulating. I found this article, but just google TSA & Hammock and a whole bunch of stories can be found: https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/tsa-reminds-travelers-that-this-item-used-for-naps-is-allowed/ar-AA28xN5Y

10. From my favorite quotes file: “Every man dies, not every man really lives.” – William Wallace

(William Wallace was a Scottish knight and national hero who led the resistance against English rule during the First War of Scottish Independence)

Thanks for listening!

A Couple of Things…

Posted on July 19, 2026 by A Couple of Things by Pam Baumgardner

Road trip to Portland, Oregon

The last time I saw my daughter, Sydney Rose, was last summer when she brought her new beau, Nate, to visit here in Ventura. They stayed a week and it was fabulous. As you may remember, my daughter earned her Masters degree in Food Science earlier this year from Oregon State, and she recently landed a new job up in Portland (where said beau also lives). She invited me to visit her new place before other roommates moved in. She didn’t have to ask twice.

With a lot of time on my hands, I decided to road trip it and take my time. Also I learned it is much cheaper to fly than drive…but you live and learn and I got to visit several friends and check out new places.

Redding, California: Sundial Bridge

I left on a Thursday with a schedule overnight stay in Redding, California. I was told by my good friend Maggie, that the Sundial Bridge is worthy of a visit and it was! Apparently the giant sundial is set for the Summer Solstice when its shadow moves 1 foot per minute between 11 am and 3pm. Otherwise, it’s non functional, but pretty to look at. That pylon at the end (the sundial) is 217 feet high and requires a red, aircraft-warning light. The floor is translucent, but not see-through. It allows light to reach the water to protect salmon during spawning season.

Shasta Caverns

The next day I planned to leave Redding for Medford but it was only a two and half hour drive and I had four hours between check out time in Redding (11 am) and check in time in Medford (3 pm). While I was driving through the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, I kept seeing signs for the Shasta Caverns, so I thought I’d check that out. Now while it’s a national natural landmark, it’s privately owned and the crew were all super friendly. I asked how long the tour was and I was told two hours which included a thirty minute boat ride across the lake and a shuttle ride up the mountain to the entrance. I was sold.

The tour inside was fascinating but a bit grueling as at one point you had to climb over 85 steps, none of which were standard sized stairs. But with the weather outside almost 100 degrees, the coolness inside was a welcomed reprieve. The caverns are constantly 58 degrees Fahrenheit with a high humidity level of 90 to 95% which raises the temperature to about 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. I super appreciative that I don’t get claustrophobic because there were some tight quarters at times. But it was very educational (I took geology at Ventura Collage ten years ago, and put what little knowledge I retained to good use) and the folks on my tour were very nice. I chatted up several couples (from Seattle, Nevada and Colorado) and I met a single young man who was scouting property nearby to purchase. He ended up grasping my hand and helping me up the final stairs after returning to home base. I was sincerely grateful.

Medford, Oregon

With the caverns behind, I arrived in Medford around 4 pm and scheduled dinner with Sydney’s best friend Eli. I took a rideshare to the restaurant knowing wine would be involved. At one point, another waitress came by and set an appetizer on our table and left. We looked at each other knowing we didn’t order it. So I caught the waitress’s eye and motioned her back to the table and told her we didn’t order the deep friend mozzarella sticks. She apologized and picked them up, so I quickly told her Eli already licked them. We all laughed and she asked if we wanted them because regardless of whether they were licked or not, they would have to throw them away. So we opted for the free appetizer.
A little over three hours and a bottle and a half of wine, we said our goodbyes. Sorry to say I forgot to get a photo of us…perhaps the wine played a hand in that.

Side note: There was a fire about 15 miles from my hotel. Looked scary, but the wind dissipated overnight and it wasn’t a threat.

Portland, Oregon

On Saturday, I arrived at the house Sydney is renting early afternoon and we quickly caught up. We decided to catch a movie (not Toy Story 5) and Sydney thought I would enjoy Backrooms. It’s received a lot of online chatter and has had a long run in theaters because of it. It’s a small production indie film which came from a viral creepypasta which expanded on a web series. And yes, “creepypasta” is a real word defined as a genre of short horror stories shared online.
That being said, I still don’t quite know what happened. I don’t know if anyone can clearly explain it. IMDB says, “The film blends psychological horror with science fiction, emphasizing atmosphere and the feeling of being trapped in a nonsensical space.”

The film leaves you with an ambiguous understanding at the ending and from I understand, one can spend hours going down the rabbit hole of fan theories. #I’mGood

Portland with Sydney and Nate

We caught up with Nate on Sunday and got lunch then spent hours thrift shopping, one of Nate’s favorite past times. Sydney needed a TV stand and after a handful of stores we finally found one she absolutely loved. Nate then brought up the subject of a spa he is a member of and which Sydney goes with him several times a week and asked if I would be interested in visiting it. He also said it’s clothing optional and promised both he and Sydney would be in swimsuits (which normally they are “in the buff”). We did and it was quite relaxing between the wet sauna, dry sauna, lounging spaces, jacuzzi and ice plunge tubs. I did not opt for the latter, but everything else was great.
We then headed out for Wings, beer and fries. Nate is wonderful and the two of them are cute as buttons.

Roseburg, Oregon

I left Sydney early Monday and headed to Roseburg for a visit with Loree Pryce. We met a number of years ago when she worked at City Hall in the same Engineering division as me. She’s a big lover of live music so we had that in common right away. She bought property off the beaten path in Roseburg. I was put up in her RV parked outside.

We took about a mile walk to the Umpqua River and took a quick dip as temperatures were in the 90s. I thought the water would be freezing, but it was very comfortable.
After dinner, we had some wine and relaxed in her hot tub in the back.
Next time I hope to spend more time to explore Roseburg.

Sacramento, California

It was boiling hot by the time I arrived in the state capital on Tuesday. Flags were at half staff in honor of the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham, a big proponent of “he who shall not be named.” I ventured out long enough to walk up the street to get dinner at a local Mexican restaurant. One of my long-standing rules is to eat local cuisine rather than chain restaurants like Applebees. I do have to admit several of the ones I choose smelt of septic tanks.

I got a good enough night’s rest and left for home. Google Maps said six hours, but it turned out to be a bit more because there was a crash on the Tejon Pass adding an hour delay. Signs recommended turning off air conditioning because of the high grade and 100+ temperature. To add insult to injury, Google Maps gave me the warning of a crash ahead after the last place to stop for water and/or a bathroom break.

But I made it home with lots of happy memories, but next time I’m flying!

A Couple of Things…

Posted on July 7, 2026 by A Couple of Things by Pam Baumgardner

1. A few blogs ago I shared about how I detach my camera from my desktop computer and that I would cover the lens on my laptop to avoid any possible malware spying called camfecting or camhacking. I was checking my texts recently when I broke out in a cold sweat and realized my phone also has a camera, and after a quick search, yes, the commie rat bastards can also spy via your phone’s len.
And while Norton wants to sell you their anti-virus software, they do provide tips on what to look for on their blog (click here).
My tip, never leave the camera in “selfie” mode.

2. Sunday, June 28, one of the Big Bear eaglets, Sandy, accidentally fell from the nest. I saw a video showing the fall where the eaglet landed on a lower branch and then one of the parents quickly arrived to monitor the situation to make sure she is protected and fed. It was reported Sandy took flight to a nearby tree so she is fine.

The next day, the second eaglet, Luna, took flight to a nearby branch, where one of the parents kept tabs.

The eaglets return to the nest nightly for now. See story: https://youtu.be/6sKl7bQ_JNc?si=pvl3qw3yXW9UBq9N

Nature is brilliant!

3. As I’m sure with everyone who saw the report, I’m extremely sad to learn that actor Danny Glover was given an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. If you check out his resume of films and television, you can’t deny he had a full life and has been one of our most prolific actors with over 200 credited roles. Some of my favorites are Death at a Funeral, the Royal Tenenbaums, Angels in the Outfield, the Color Purple, and of course the Lethal Weapon series. IMDB.com has a career retrospective you can watch. I was surprised to see he was in the movie Saw. Too scary for me.

I wouldn’t wish this disease on anyone.

4. The Fourth of July was a hoot. The City of Ventura held a fireworks show on Friday, July 3 atop the downtown parking garage. The actual holiday featured their annual Pushem/Pullen parade which I contend is the only parade with more people in it than watching it, followed by the Downtown Holiday Street Fair. Both days brought thousands of people downtown.

5. I went kayaking in the Channel Islands Harbor with Maggie. Saw a dozen or so sea lions lounging in the sun, tons of birds including a Blue Heron and a very large pelican whom I called you’re majesty as we paddled by.

6. I’ll admit I caught a bit of the World Cup fever until “He who won’t be named” intervened. I thought it would have been classy for the red tagged USA player, Balogun, to still not play even though FIFA overturned the penalty. But alas, he did. Some call it Karma, others say USA just didn’t play with heart; regardless, they lost to Belgium.

Side note: the FIFA World Cup trophy is made of solid gold and is kept at the FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich, Switzerland but leaves for special occasions. Wikipedia states, “Only a selected few are officially allowed to touch the trophy with bare hands, including players and managers who have won the competition, heads of state, and FIFA officials.”

7. I’m excited to see The Odyssey when it comes out which I’ll try to see on an IMAX screen. Meanwhile I guess I’ll take in Toy Story 5. #CravingPopcorn

8. I’ll be visiting my daughter in Portland soon. Stories to follow!

9. From my favorite quotes file: “Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson

A Couple of Things…

Posted on June 28, 2026 by A Couple of Things by Pam Baumgardner

1. Why do people make wishes at 11:11? They have two chances every single day, 365 days a year.
Google says:
* Cultural Significance: Many cultures associate 11:11 with good luck and positive energy.
* Numerology: The number 11 is often seen as a master number, symbolizing intuition and enlightenment.
* Mindfulness Moment: Wishing at 11:11 serves as a reminder to pause and reflect on one’s desires.
* Collective Belief: The shared practice creates a sense of community among those who participate.
* Spiritual Connection: Some believe it’s a time when the universe is more receptive to their intentions.
* Habitual Ritual: For many, it has become a fun and lighthearted tradition to make a wish at this time.

Pam says:
* It’s poppycock
* It’s bull puckey
* It’s malarkey
* It’s bullcrap
* But then again…It’s better safe than sorry

2. This week, JR Richards (original lead singer for Dishwalla) played an intimate show at an Italian restaurant in Moorpark, CA, called Carrara’s. It was a solo acoustic on either guitar or keyboards and he absolutely nailed it! He has such a beautiful voice, so well preserved after all these years.
I interviewed JR in 2002 for Buzzine Magazine. The interview was conducted after a photo shoot in Santa Barbara in JR’s car. He remembered the interview when I asked him to sign my copy.

3. I try to keep my opinion to myself when it comes to art whether it be in the form of paintings, music, jewelry, etc… But while walking past a booth at an Arts and Crafts fair recently, I really had to bear down and work on keeping my face composed (showing no opinion whatsoever) as the paintings were truly…”not my cup of tea.” I couldn’t help but glance around to see if others had the same opinion, but as the booth was devoid of shoppers, I guess I wasn’t the only one.

I still believe putting down an artist is evil. So I keep my opinions to myself…or to a close network of friends 😉

4. In one of my recent posts, I wrote about an article regarding women over a certain age should stop doing or wearing. Well I found one entitled, “10 Outdated Things That People Over 60 Should NEVER Have in their Homes.” Yes the “never” was in all caps. It was a blog written by Julia Guerra.
A few of the items were a matter of opinion, but others make sense for our aging community such as
* Bathroom tripping hazards
* Stairs without proper handrails
* Low-slung sofas sectionals
But other items regarding bulking entertainment centers, or formal dining spaces or holding on to relics from your children’s bedroom should continue to be a matter of choice.

5. May I make a recommendation if you subscribe to HBO Max? The series is called Rooster staring Steve Carell. HBO says, “…the new comedy series focuses on the complicated relationship between a successful author and his daughter.” So cleverly written, directed and the actors are spot on. I can’t praise it enough!
See more…

6. While on a recent phone call with a close friend, I told her to guess what I was doing, specifying it was something I really hated. She guessed group texting. I laughed and said, something I hate almost as much…clothes shopping.

7. Have you ever seen the Weiniemobile out in the wild? I did once in the late 80s driving down the Conejo grade in Camarillo, CA.

I spotted it, took a double take, and thought, “Am I trippin’?” I wondered if this was finally the flashback I was warned about over fifty years ago.

According to the Oscar Mayer official website, you can track it, and even invite it to your next party though they don’t specify how much that would be.

It seems that every January, Heinz (parent company) offers applications to recent college graduations for a one-year employment to drive one of their six Weiniemobiles on cross-country road trips attending hundreds of events. Saddens me that it’s open to only recent college grads and not to recent retirees because that sounds like a bucket list item to me.

8. I saw that comedian, Anthony Jeselnik, was performing at a nearby comedy club in the Collection in Oxnard, so I snagged a couple of tickets and we took in an early show. No topic was off limits though I cringed at a lot of his off-color humor. I mean it was reeeally REALLY dark. It kinda delights me he hasn’t been “Cancelled” yet! Good for him!!

9. While doing research for a new dutch oven for my sourdough baking journey, the image above was one of the several photos advertising the product. Just who do you think is their target audience? It has to be either straight male sourdough bakers, or lesbians. Am I wrong? Or just maybe…the ad suggests if you buy this product you will be as attractive as the woman shaping the sourdough. #FoodForThought

10. From my favorite quotes file: “I love a Hebrew National hot dog with an ice cold Corona – no lime. If the phone rings, I won’t answer until I’m done.” – Maya Angelou

A Couple of Things…

Posted on June 19, 2026 by A Couple of Things by Pam Baumgardner

So…I started a “A Couple of Things” Facebook page. Please follow!
https://www.facebook.com/ACoupleofThings

And if you’re on Instagram, I’m there too, but guess what? You can’t add a clickable link on the posts…so that sucks. But follow anyways: @acoupleofthings.us

2. As you may, or may not know, I adopted two senior pups about six months before the pandemic hit. It was perfect timing. I did my best to give them their best lives thinking I’d have one maybe two years with each of them. Barnie lived three years longer and Missy nearly six years, I called her my super senior pup. I won’t lie, while I miss them something terrible, it’s nice to not have to be home to feed and/or walk them a couple times a day. They only thing I have to rush home to feed is my sourdough starter.

That being said, I can’t help but linger over posts about dogs needing adoption. I prefer smaller dogs under 15 pounds for a number of reasons such as easy to carry up and down the stairs if necessary (and it was necessary for both the senior pups at one point), plus they eat less which means less poop to clean up. After Barnie and Missy, I thought I would continue to adopt seniors…but I’m allowed to change my mind as long as they’re scrappy. All four of the dogs below are available for adoption, all under 15 pounds. All are potty trained (Fonzi is working on it), they all are social with other dogs, cats and people, and they all walk well on a leash. I kinda feel like Piper is in the lead.
Thoughts???

photo of dog — Piper – 2 1/2 years old.
Yorkie Poodle mix

I did get to spend some time with this little fluffball at a music event last night. She’s just a couple of months old and she would soon fall asleep inside my jacket. #NotMyDog

3. Recently I caught Steven Spielberg’s latest film, Disclosure Day. Emily Blunt was amazing. My friend Steve declared Blunt a national treasure, and when I reminded him that she’s British, we agreed to upgrade her as a global treasure. I read an article that Blunt turned down Spielberg’s offer to use AI for that weird clicky noise she makes while doing a weather broadcast. No spoil alert needed, it’s in all the advertisements and previews for the movie. #Props4Emily

Regarding AI and specifically ChatGPT for writers, Microsoft’s Copilot has this to say, “ChatGPT is not recommended for writing because it lacks true creativity, personal voice, and nuanced understanding, often producing formulaic or robotic content.

So trust me, I will never use ChatGPT for my writing, but I do research a lot using Google and it’s generated answers now called Copilot search. I like to give credit where credit is deserved, and I link to the original source when possible.

4. I’ve always enjoyed watching the camaraderie between the Obamas and George W. Bush and his wife Laura. (See People Magazine article) I never realized Bush had such a great sense of humor until I saw the viral memo below. Conservatives do have a sense of humor! #WhoKnew

5. And on that note…Congratulations to our former president, Barrack Obama on the opening of his new presidential center which opened this week in Chicago. It seems my invitation must have gotten lost in the mail. Regardless, if I ever do visit the windy city, I will not miss visiting this one.

6. To cover or not to cover, that is the question. Do you cover the camera on your computer when you’re not using it? I use to when I worked on a laptop, but I now use my desktop and it’s an attachable camera that remains in the drawer when not in use.
The webcam cyberattack is known as “camfecting” which is a person maliciously gains access to your device. It’s real and it does happen. One article explains why attackers target webcams: “The motivations for these attacks are varied and alarming. They range from corporate espionage, where competitors seek to steal proprietary information discussed in meetings, to blackmail schemes where attackers record compromising footage. In many cases, it is simply invasive voyeurism.” (website)

Hence, my public service announcement: “Cover your camera!”

7. Does everyone have a “The one who got away” story?

8. It’s Father’s Day weekend, 2026, and of course I can’t help but think of my dad. All those hours spent flying homemade kites, playing in the water at Huntington Beach and building sand castles together, Daddy Daughter dances, racing slot cars, vacations, giving me my first car (1967 VW bug), and of course listening to music at home, in the car, at concerts and at jazz clubs. His love for music and his favorite pets were only surpassed by his love for friends and especially family.
I created a blog in his honor leading up to his passing so he could reminisce with me over what a great life he had. Gilbert R Sanchez |
Happy Father’s Day Dad!!! Miss you so much!

9. From my favorite quotes file, “Any fool can have a child. That doesn’t make you a father. It’s the courage to raise a child that makes you a father.” – Barack Obama

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