Warm and pleasant greetings to all. We hope you enjoyed a wonderful Father’s Day Sunday. Hope this week is going well with you. Summertime particularly reminds us of being safe, especially outdoors.
We have to keep in mind the heat, bugs, playground, fireworks, water and bicycling. And, too, there are skateboards, boating, grilling, picnics and all. Some children are playing outside with all their energy. Particularly where there’s a smooth ground surface, children are operating skateboards, scooters and bicycles or whatever with rollers.
Of course, the child claims the area and thinks less about it. I drove behind a child several yards the other day. He never looked at his surroundings. Was I itching to kindly speak with him! I decided to listen to my inner voice and keep my ongoing pace. The point or three I would have given him would help keep him safe. So, be on careful watch as you see children at play.
Also be aware of the hot temperatures inside vehicles. Never leave a child, elderly person or pet alone inside a vehicle for any length of time. You cannot take that chance!
Don’t forget to take insulated bags to transport refrigerated groceries during the summer months, especially if you are traveling several miles. We hope everyone stays mindful of the summer heat and practices safety skills while enjoying the summer outdoors.
How about enjoying some rich heritage of Black music and its influence on pop culture, gospel and jazz?
The legacy of Black artists is shaping our sounding track. I listened to the interview that Leslie T. Grover, Managing Editor at PushBlack Organization, had with the famous Blues legend Chris Thomas King. I didn’t know anything about him. Chris is an American musician and artist. He sings, plays piano and guitar. Chris is the son of a Louisiana bluesman and club owner. Chris began playing guitar at the age of 7 in his father’s blues club and began touring with the finest musicians — Buddy Guy and B.B. King when he was a teenager. Chris King is based in New Orleans. So much for Chris. For a moment, I began giving attention to other legendary blues, gospel and jazz musicians.
I always wanted to learn guitar music, but a piano was in our house with no one playing. I always like finding a tune while carefully finding the right keys. I could not bang the piano. It was not a toy. My sister and I eventually started music lessons. Guess the piano was for decoration, because it looked rich, and matched the furniture.
Growing up was mostly guitar music and mostly quartet singing everywhere. In church it was piano or voice only, acappella. We should appreciate those around us who have the musical ability to entertain or use as spiritual gifts. My family is musically inclined, as several siblings play different instruments.
Our family sang to welcome visitors in our home, at church and other community programs. Most people enjoy some type of music. What is yours? Now my favorite music is progressive jazz!
