Joey Z's Speak Easy

WEEKEND WISHES

2012-02-10T09:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday Guys and Dolls:

Joey Z stopping by to wish you all a great Friday and a fab weekend, don’t you just love that word “FAB.” Today is “UMBRELLA DAY” and if it’s not raining where you live forgetta bout it. We have a few holidays to raise glasses to this weekend so let’s check them out.

WORLD MARRIAGE DAY – Love and Marriage, Love and Marriage go together like a horse and carriage. Everybody should be like the Bundy’s yeah right half the world would be divorced. Let marriage ring out with delight and happiness. If you are in love and with the right partner for you, do it. Amen from Joey Z.

WHITE T-SHIRT DAY – I remember those days of wearing white t-shirts and blue jeans with Ked’s black sneakers. On hot days in Florida I wear my white athletic shirts. Someone told me I was wearing a wife beater shirt, I’d rather prefer they call it a Stanley Kowalski t-shirt.

DON’T CRY OVER SPILLED MILK DAY – I’m sure we have all cried from that saying. It’s true there are things not under our control so try to make the best and be happy. I’m still waiting to win the Power Ball, don’t let me cry no more. Pay up.

Last but not least let’s say "HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO HONEST ABE LINCOLN” born on February 12, 1809.

Have a great weekend and be careful out there.

JOSIE'S WINGS AND PIZZA REVIEW

2012-02-09T13:49:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon Speakies:

Just wanted to stop by and tell you visitors or locals about a new pizza place Roe and I tried. Josie's Wings and Pizza located at 1225 South Hiawassee Road and Raleigh St. in Metrowest Orlando. The drive was worth it, we shared an order of wings medium heat which were plenty hot enough. Now for you Jersey folks or Trenton folks they make an upside-down pizza. To us it sounded like a Trenton Tomato Pie and came pretty close. Cheese on the bottom with the tomato sauce swirled on top. Nice light crispy crust. Their menu is extensive and everything we saw coming out of the kitchen looked good with nice portions.

Give the place a try while in town.

MAKE MINE A BLT (BAGEL, LOX AND TOOTHACHE)

2012-02-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Thursday Guys and Dolls:

A painful holiday we celebrate this day, “TOOTHACHE DAY.” You’ve heard that song “There is Nothing Like a Dame” well there is nothing more painful than a toothache. I’m sure we’ve all had them once in our lives. I remember being scared stiff of dentists when I was a wee one. As my adult teeth were trying to break the gum my baby teeth would not fall out. My Mother took me to a Polish dentist on Brunswick Ave. who looked more like a construction worker than a dentist. As he started to probe around, I bolted out of that chair and ran all the way home with Mom chasing me down. There was no way he was going to work in my mouth with that ancient equipment he had. Finally we found a great dentist who gassed me up and pulled all those teeth. My Grandmother had a quick fire relief for a toothache. She would pour whiskey into a shot glass and tell you to put it in your mouth and hold it against the tooth until you could not stand the burn of the booze. Sometimes your mouth would be numb for a half-hour but the pain was gone. Today’s technology has really changed so don’t fear going to the dentist, just go and get rid of the pain for good.

Today is also “BAGELS AND LOX DAY.” I worked with a very nice Jewish gentleman once and was invited over to his house one Sunday for a brunch. That day I was introduced to lox a very salty, thin sliced salmon but on a bagel it was delicious. My buddy at work Johnny A. loves his lox when he and his wife are cruising, he creates it like a hoagie sandwich. There was a bakery in Trenton called Kramer’s who made the best bagels ever. People lined up around midnight on Saturday to start purchasing them by the bag full. There was nothing like a Kramer’s hot bagel and crème cheese. Well I don’t have a bagel to enjoy this morning with coffee but if you have a chance sneak out and grab some for you and your co-workers and enjoy.

Have a great day Guys and Dolls.

FLYING HIGH NOW

2012-02-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Hump Day Speakies:

Go Fly a Kite, that’s not meant to be sarcastic today is “GO FLY A KITE DAY.” Kites have really become a work of art today, back in my youth a kite was 2 sticks, one piece of paper and you buying a roll of string and hoping the thing would fly high. I remember my first kite, my Dad took me over to the Farmer’s Market parking lot and we let that baby go only for it to get caught on a telephone pole. Hoping my kite would break free the wind broke it apart and took it to kite heaven. I think that was my one and only kite. I remember when we moved here my sons got a kite and I can still see Roe running up and down the back portion of our land and getting the baby up and flying she did a great job. So if you have a little guy or doll, pick up a cheap kite and have some fun today.

The Boy Scouts of America were founded this date in 1910. A great organization as my son was a member of the Boy Scouts. He really enjoyed his scouting days which even included a trip to England. It’s a great learning tool and character builder for a young boy.

Here’s one “LAUGH AND GROW RICH DAY.” I say let me get rich and then I’ll laugh. It’s probably a true saying laughter makes your life richer which is good advice. We need to laugh more with all the troubles that surround us these days. So belt out a few good laughs and make it contagious to others.

Molasses Bar Day – Take this day along with Granola Bar Day and dedicate it to the squirrels and birds of the world. Yeah, Yeah it’s a healthy snack with all that fiber and other stuff but you can break your teeth trying to bite into one. My substitute for a Molasses Bar is a Slim Jim.

Have a great day gang and be careful out there.

JERKS OVERBOARD TODAY

2012-02-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday Guys and Dolls:

Old Joey Z is back and ready for some holiday celebrations. Let’s see what we can celebrate today and of course with a few comments from yours truly.

SEND A CARD TO YOUR FRIENDS DAY – There is not much fun you can make about this holiday. A nice thought so go ahead and do it but tell them you are sorry because they won’t get the card in time.

WAVE YOUR FINGERS AT YOUR NEIGHBOR DAY – I know what finger I would like to wave at some of mine and I’m sure you are too. Let’s do today we have the official right.

DUMP YOUR SIGNIFICANT JERK DAY – Well I can’t dump Roe, I love her but I’m sure at times she would love to dump me. For me personally there are some politicians and governors I would like to drop-kick over a cliff. Abusive parents or those women with boyfriends who abuse the little ones could be placed on a plane and released over the Grand Canyon or the Pacific Ocean, parachute not included. You have plenty of choices my Speakies only if it were true to do legally.

And for you food lovers today is “FETTUCINE ALFREDO DAY.” I’ve eaten Fettucine Alfredo several times with sausage and also with shrimp. I’m more a fan of red sauce with Marinara being my all around favorite. It’s a good night to take your Doll out for a nice Italian dinner and maybe have Fettucine Alfredo.

Have a great day Guys and Dolls.

GROUNDHOGS AND BOTTLE CAPS AND SADNESS

2012-02-02T09:30:00.000-05:00

NEWS FLASH - Joey Z reporting live from Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. That great prognosticator of weather Punxsutawney Phil emerged from his burrow his morning and saw his shadow meaning 6 more weeks of winter weather. Well it’s going to be 80 degrees in Florida today so for all those winter loving folks enjoy the weather.

A great invention was patented this date the “Bottle Cap” but with the bottle cap one also needed a church key to open the cap or if a key was not available the metal fender of a car would do nicely. We use to crack those coke bottle caps off in a snap on a fender or any metal object that had an edge available. Memories of the good old days, a bottle of coke, pack of cigs, matches and a church key.

If you are a fan of fruit, Kiwi is number one today. The Kiwi is the edible berry of a cultivar group of the woody vine Actinidia deliciosa. Kiwifruit is about the size of an egg, has a fibrous dull brown-green skin and bright green or golden flesh with tiny black edible seeds. The fruit has a soft texture and sweet flavor. I never had kiwi till I moved to Florida and if you never tried kiwi please do it’s very refreshing.

I want to also wish you a great weekend and a good start to the new week. I’ll see you on Tuesday as I have other priorities to take care of. Tomorrow is a day of remembrance called “THE DAY THE MUSIC DIED.” On February 3, 1959, a small plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa claimed the lives of Rock and Roll pioneers: Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson. A true tragedy in Rock and Roll history. Please enjoy the songs I picked out by those three talented musicians.

Enjoy the Super Bowl on Sunday, may your team win, mine is not in it. Please be careful out there and don’t drink and drive.

WORK NAKED; EAT BAKED ALASKA

2012-02-01T09:30:00.000-05:00

Happy February Speakies:

Well Guys and Dolls it is February the month of the Groundhog. Will Phil see his shadow or not, will there be six more weeks of winter or will spring weather be on its way? Tomorrow we will know with a live report by Joey Z from Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.

Today we celebrate “WORK NAKED DAY”; can you imagine the work that would be accomplished if everyone came to work in the buff? The idea of this holiday is that if you work from home go naked or wear clothing if you like. Today is your option so have fun doing it.

February is also “NATIONAL HOT BREAKFAST MONTH.” In fact we are planning a hot breakfast for everyone at work today. Make sure those little ones enjoy a nice hot breakfast before they set off for school. Eggs and toast, cream of wheat or a nice bowl of hot oatmeal will fill their tummies and get them off to a great start on a cold winter’s day.

Here’s a holiday for all you cruisers to enjoy “BAKED ALASKA DAY.” A gala dessert festival on cruise ships, when the lights go off and the waiters parade the flaming Baked Alaska around the dining room before delivering it to your table. What is Baked Alaska it is a dessert made of ice cream placed in a pie dish lined with slices of sponge cake or pudding and topped with meringue. The dessert is then placed in a hot oven for just long enough to firm the meringue. The meringue serves as an insulator and the short cooking time prevents the heat from getting through to the ice cream. It is said the name Baked Alaska was given to the dessert at Delmonico’s Restaurant 1876 to honor the recent acquired American territory.

Have a great day Guys and Dolls.

HERE'S THE PITCH, A BRUSSEL SPROUT BALL ONE

2012-01-31T09:00:00.000-05:00

Good Tuesday Morning Guys and Dolls:

If you want to raise your glasses today let’s have a Brandy Alexander because you guessed it “BRANDY ALEXANDER DAY.” This cocktail is a sweet brandy based one consisting of cognac and crème de cacao. Legend has it was created at the time of the wedding of Princess Mary and Viscount Lascelles, in London, in 1922. Another version claims that the drink could be named after the Russian tsar Alexander II. Who really cares have one and celebrate the holiday.

We also celebrate the following:

BACKWARDS DAY – Do we walk backwards or just do everything backwards today? Just have fun doing backwards things all day long.

EAT BRUSSEL SPROUTS TODAY – I felt sick every time I looked or smelled them. I finally gave them a try a few years ago. Now they only make me half sick, I can eat some but I limit my amount. Little green cabbages from space.

JACKIE ROBINSON’S BIRTHDAY – I saw the story of his break through into baseball in the movie “The Jackie Robinson Story” when I was young and through the years have seen it several times on TMC or ESPN. It’s a moving story of man struggling to prove his ability to play professional baseball being blocked by racism not only from the fans but team members. It stars the real Jackie Robinson and if it is ever on I suggest watching it.

Have a great day gang and as always thanks for stopping by.

EXIT STAGE RIGHT FOR ME

2012-01-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday Speakies:

“HEAVENS TO MURGATROYD” and who can forget “EXIT STAGE LEFT.” You guessed it’s Snagglepuss that Hanna-Barbera mountain lion made its debut back in 1959. He first appeared in several episodes of the Quick Draw McGraw Show and later became a regular on the Yogi Bear Show. Yes I remember him well; we need those kinds of cartoons back to make you laugh. Today is also “Bubble Wrap Day” that plastic sheet filled with little bubble pockets just made for popping. My sons had a ball with that stuff and so did Dad. Here’s a good one to play on a friend, if you get the large size bubbles, put one under a friends tire and when they back up POW.

Here is a good one to celebrate today and I’m sure we all had a fun message that we placed on the good old answering machine. So celebrate with me today “INSANE ANSWERING MACHINE MESSAGE DAY.” If you haven’t done it in years and still have that type of machine come up with a good one and record it.

I’d like to wish Happy Birthdays and Anniversaries to all my Guys and Dolls celebrating theirs today. Well Monday work is a calling so I wish you all a pleasant day and evening. Have fun and be careful.

WEEKEND WISHES

2012-01-27T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday Guys and Dolls:

The weekend is nearing, the weather is great down here and I’m looking forward to some relaxation this weekend. We have some holidays to take a look at so let’s begin with today.

PUNCH THE CLOCK DAY – I don’t punch a clock at work and the only clock I’m sure most of us would like to sock is the good old alarm clock.

THOMAS CRAPPER DAY – Was a plumber who founded the Thomas Crapper & Co. in London. Tommy did not invent the flush toilet; he did increase the popularity and developed with some important inventions for the toilet. He was famous for the quality of his work and products.

Over the weekend raise your mugs to:

DAISY DAY – The flower or those shorts?

NATIONAL BLUEBERRY PANCAKE DAY – I have to have pancakes on my next cruise. I haven’t had pancakes in years.

NATIONAL KAZOO DAY – Love that crazy little instrument, it’s the only one I could ever play.

CARNATION DAY – Roe’s favorite they last the longest in a vase.

Have a great weekend, see you soon.

PEANUT BRITTLE AND GEORGE

2012-01-26T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Thursday Speakies:

Good to be back but then there are too many things one has to catch up on. Today is “CLASHING CLOTHES DAY” I guess that’s the one you wear a striped shirt with plaid pants or better yet to get a true sense of fashion enjoy one of those Wal*Mart e-mails that get passed along with those zombies from another planet dressed in their glory. It is also “PEANUT BRITTLE DAY” that sugar covered piece of glass with the nuts inside. Maybe one piece for me every two years but not a favorite of mine. So put on some clashing clothes, grab some peanut brittle and enjoy the day.

On my blog site I have a MixPod Playlist that contains some funny opening videos that I like to start the Blog off with, followed by the music I love. I’m a big fan of the late George Carlin and I found two short out takes of his that I put on this site for you to enjoy. Now George to me knew politics, people, parents and the world to a tee and spoke the truth. The man should have been president but he enlightened people through his shows and concerts. To say George is a potty mouth is true, but I’m going to play some of his takes on my blog for you to be the judge. If the language offends you shut your sound off, if not enjoy his wisdom.

I have to get moving today so I’ll be back on Friday with my weekend wishes. Have a great day and as always thank you for stopping by and reading. Comments are always welcomed.

JUST TO LET YOU KNOW

2012-01-23T15:18:00.000-05:00

HI SPEAKIES:

JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW I HAVE A BUSY SCHEDULE THE NEXT FEW DAYS SO NO POSTS FROM ME. HAVE FUN OUT THERE AND BE CAREFUL. I'LL BE BACK.

DON'T FORGET YOUR SPOUSE AND PIE

2012-01-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday Morning Speakies:

If I did not wish you all a Happy Monday, you would not have a Happy Day. Consider me a ray of sunshine from the South. Hope all you football fans enjoyed the games over the weekend and if your team won congrats from Joey Z. Let’s take a peek at some holidays we celebrate today.

COMPLIMENT DAY – Sounds like a nice holiday to celebrate. With all the negativity and rage in this country today a compliment would be a change of pace. A simple you look lovely today to your wife or girlfriend would really make her day. A job well done to a fellow employee or student surely would make their day. Give it a try; I promise it does not hurt. “Roe, you are looking lovelier every day.”

SPOUSE DAY – Here’s a day for each Guy and Doll to take advantage of. Just make it special for your spouse. We can call this holiday a double header, you do something special for her and she does the same for you. Like that idea.

MEASURE YOUR FEET DAY – I remember going into shoe stores and looking at the different styles of shoes. After choosing the pair you would like to try on, out would pop that salesman removing your shoe and measuring your foot with that metal shoe thing, confirming that you wear a size 9. Bring back that kind of service I say and don’t forget to throw in that shoe horn. In my younger days it was made of metal.

PIE DAY – A dessert favorite of mine. Favorite of course is apple followed by blueberry, lemon, pumpkin, Boston Crème pie and chocolate. Roe makes some great impossible pies that are delicious hint, hint. I still crave those Tasty Kake pies from up North; I know I ate a Tasty Kake practically every day growing up.

Take advantage of all these holidays today, enjoy them and be safe.

MAKE MINE CHEDDAR AND THROW IN PEPPERONI

2012-01-20T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday Guys and Dolls:

The weekend is near and as usual I wish you all a great one. Championship football games are on tab and I’ll try to catch those on the tube. Here is my pet TV peeve “REALITY SHOWS”, yes those shows that make no sense in my opinion. How many can one really watch during the week? For instance we have The Bachelor, The Bachelorette combine them and call it “LOVE ISLAND FREE FOR ALL.” “SURVIVOR ISLAND” take the contestants give them some guns, limited supply of food and water, drop them off at some remote animal infested jungle island and the one who comes out alive first wins. I know those are strange ideas but what the hell. Mark the words of Joey Z one day on TV you will see the real life “RUNNING MAN REALITY SHOW.” I’ll stick to watching the History Channel to learn knowledge.

Today we also celebrate “CHEESE DAY.” Cheese is one of Joey Z’s favorite snack foods. Give me a nice slice of Sharp White Cheddar and a piece of Pepperoni and I’m sitting pretty. Some of my other favorites any kind of cheddar, Swiss, Monterey Jack, Gouda and one that I have acquired a taste for Provolone. So enjoy some cheese this weekend while watching those games.

We are also celebrating “SQUIRREL APPRECIATION DAY” along with “GRANOLA BAR DAY.” Here’s how we can truly appreciate the squirrels today, give them all the granola bars they can eat, that stuff is for squirrels anyway. Have a great weekend.

TO MY GRANDSON TODAY

2012-01-19T09:42:00.001-05:00

HEY WOODY-BUZZ:

WHEN YOU COME HOME TODAY, REST AND TAKE IT EASY. I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH AND HOPE YOU ARE FEELING BETTER.

LOVE,
POP-POP

WEAR HAT, SING OUT WITH SOMEONE AND BREW

2012-01-19T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Thursday Guys and Dolls:

There are a few things I want you to do today and I’ll explain why later.

1. Wear a Hat.

2. Sing Out.

3. Brew.

4. Find Someone.

These are the holidays we celebrate today. First of all it is “NATIONAL HAT DAY” and I’m sure you gents and ladies up North are wearing yours today. I liked wearing hats when I was growing up. Remember when you were a kid and had those hats that came with the ear flaps that snapped on top. How about those wool caps you pulled down over your ears on a cold winter’s day or doing a snowball fight. I had a beret I liked wearing along with a British racing cap and of course the fancy dress hat. Now if I wear a hat it’s a baseball cap to go fishing or working outdoors.

SING OUT LOUD DAY – I find myself singing out loud at my desk, not real loud I don’t want anyone calling the guys with the white jackets on me. Bathroom singing is great getting a song in your head and can’t stop singing it? How about this one you have the whole house to yourself; the oldies or whatever music you like is playing and there you are singing like you are at Carnegie Hall. So sing out loud today and enjoy it.

BREW A POTION DAY – Unless you are a certified witch or warlock I would strongly advise you not to. Just make a wish for the things you want.

FIND A NEW FRIEND DAY – You never know a stranger you meet along the way today could become a good friend. Be kind to everyone today and maybe a new friend you will find.

As far as food goes today it’s “POPCORN DAY.” I have to crave popcorn before I have it. Hot buttered is my favorite. Have a great day Guys and Dolls and be careful out there.

DON'T DUCK HISTORY

2012-01-18T09:30:00.000-05:00

Hump Day is Here Guys and Dolls:

For all those visiting the Sunshine State on vacation, I hope you are all having a great time. It’s not the 80 degree weather but let’s face it you are not freezing those butts off either.

We do have a different kind of food holiday today. It is “PEKING DUCK DAY” that famous duck dish from Beijing that has been made since the imperial era of China. Peking Duck is known for the thin, crisp skin, with the real versions of the dish serving mostly the skin and little meat, sliced in front of the diners by a cook. These ducks are bred especially for the dish and are slaughtered after 65 days and are seasoned before being roasted in a closed oven or hung oven. The duck is eaten with pancakes, onions and hoisin sauce or a sweet bean sauce. I had Peking Duck made by a friend a long time ago and it was excellent. I’ve eaten regular duck once on a cruise and found it to be too greasy to enjoy.

Now for a little look back in history for today. Remember Moms and Dads retain this material in case those little ones pop those questions to you.

1535 – Francisco Pizarro founds Lima, Peru.

1733 – 1st polar bear exhibited in America, Boston, Ma.

1795 – Captain Cook discovers the Hawaiian Islands.

1943 – Jews in the Warsaw Ghetto begin to resist the Nazis.

1943 – The Soviet Army breaks the long resistance of the Nazi siege of Leningrad.

1948 – Ted Mack’s Original Amateur Hour premieres on DuMont.

1964 – Plans for the World Trade Center in NYC are announced.

1967 – Albert DeSalvo (The Boston Strangler) sentenced to life in the pen.

1991 – Eastern Airlines goes out of business. The Wings of Man no longer operate; I flew Eastern a great deal while in the service.

Enough knowledge for today. Have a great day and a wonderful evening Guys and Dolls, see you soon.

HAVE SOME RUM, READ A BOOK, HAVE SOME RUM

2012-01-17T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday Morning Speakies:

If you had the day off yesterday like Joey Z, I hope you had a great fun day. I was looking at the holidays today, zippo the only good one is “HOT BUTTERED RUM DAY.” Sounds like a good drink to have on a cold winter’s night. I loved going to Del Rio’s on Hamilton Ave. in Trenton in the evening, enjoying a nice cocktail and a good steak sandwich basket. They had a giant fire place that kept the room nice and cozy. Of course like everything else its history. We have not done any history lessons in a long time so I think it is time to sharpen your minds. Let’s see what happened on this date. I just checked it out, most of the births, deaths and stuff that happened is boring. I’ll find something else later to build your IQ’s. Here are some monthly national January holidays.

BALD EAGLE WATCH – now we have plenty of wetlands in Florida with an abundance of eagles, I’ve never seen an Eagle in 21 years of living here. Hawks yes, Eagles no. You’ll be the first to know when I spot one.

NATIONAL BOOK MONTH – Buy and read mine. Amen. Just kidding if you are an avid reader or want to become one this is the month to give you the incentive to start. As for me my books have to have pictures to look at.

For those planning to visit this week, temperatures will be in the 70’s, lows in the 50’s. Enjoy your vacation. I’m calling it quits for today, have a great evening and enjoy that Hot Buttered Rum.

WITAMY BONNIE

2012-01-14T09:16:00.000-05:00

I WOULD LIKE TO SAY A BIG WELCOME OR AS THEY SAY IN POLISH WITAMY TO A FRIEND I WORKED WITH YEARS AGO. YES BONNIE IT IS YOU. HOPING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ENJOY EVERY MINUTE OF YOUR FLORIDA VACATION.

2012-01-13T09:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday Speakies:

The weekend is drawing closer and I wish you all a great one. Good weekend to watch those NFL playoff games or do anything you choose. Monday is a holiday for me. Monday honors Dr. Martin Luther King to me a man who tried to bring men of all color together, may he rest in peace. I think I will take a break from writing that day.

Over the weekend we celebrate the following holidays:

BLAME SOMEBODY ELSE DAY – That never worked for me I always got caught in a lie and I would have to confess up. Just call me Honest Joey Z; George Washington would be proud of me I guess.

PENGUIN AWARENESS DAY – Penguins are a group of aquatic, flightless birds living in the southern hemisphere. They are adapted for life in the water and on land. Most of them feed on krill, fish, squid and other forms of sea life. To me they will always be my little tuxedo birds.

Here’s a holiday I can’t stand “DRESS UP YOUR PET DAY.” Dogs and cats are what they are and don’t need some silly outfit on like sunglasses, hats, skirts, tee-shirts, boots or whatever else their owners believe makes them cute. Okay I can’t be that cruel, I’ll allow sweaters for those little pups.

Have a great weekend and I’ll see you on Tuesday.

GUARD THOSE KIDDIES;GIVE OUT THEM PILLS

2012-01-12T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Thursday Guys and Dolls:

On this second week of January we pay honor to those brave men and women who are there in sun, rain, snow and freezing temperatures to protect our little ones. I’m talking SCHOOL CROSSING GUARDS. Stand up and raise your glasses and give a mighty cheer for the services they provide. I say give them all a raise they desire it. They risk their own lives stepping out in traffic to cross the little tykes safely and truly deserve the recognition of this honor. Maybe stop and bring them a hot cup of coffee to enjoy. Down here in Florida we have more than our share of idiots who have driver’s licenses. A friend of ours is a crossing guard and told us of one bozo the troopers pulled over going 45 when the 20 mile per hour lights were flashing. A little advise from Joey Z make the guard’s job easier, slow down and watch out for the kids.

Today is also “NATIONAL PHARMICIST DAY” those great dispensers of pills and advice. Most of the pharmacies down here are of the national chain variety, the food stores or the big chains Wal*Mart, Targets etc. I’m sure in the small towns one may find a family owned business which I personally miss the most. Growing up in my neighborhood I remember having Harbourt’s Drug Store, later changing to Scott Taylors. There was a small hole in the wall drug store called Brunswick Drugs; it was a hangout with a cool soda fountain and a place to have that secret cigarette. There was another drug store on the corner of Brunswick and Pine St right across from the fire station. I can’t remember the name, I want to say Rexall but I’m sure my reader the “Skipster” will come through with the right name. I can’t go on without naming Episcopo’s Pharmacy on Liberty and Chambers St. a great family owned pharmacy and the great service they provided when we lived in the Villa Park area.

So much for today, have a great and safe day.

MILK, PALS AND PUDDLES

2012-01-11T09:09:00.000-05:00

Happy Hump Day Speakies:

Rain and colder weather is expected to greet Florida today. Joey Z prefers the warmer weather because this bouncing back between warm and cold is not the greatest for respiratory problems of which do not favor me. Enough of my bitching let’s see what’s going on today. Today is “MILK DAY” and make sure your kiddies are getting their share, white or chocolate doesn’t matter as long as they are sucking up that Vitamin D. Now don’t forget to make them that good old hot chocolate in the evening and throw in a Tasty Kake for good measure.

Today is also “SECRET PAL DAY” a strange holiday; one could have a secret love or a crush on someone or a pal no one knows about. So if you have a secret pal enjoy the friendship and the day. P.S. on this one, if it’s more than just a Secret Pal don’t let the wife or hubby find out.

Here is a good one for today “STEP IN A PUDDLE AND SPLASH YOUR FRIEND.” Who didn’t do that as a kid I know I did and with great joy. Riding your bike and splashing people was another way and being on a bike you had a chance to get-away faster. Riding home from work on this certain four lane road, I encounter on a weekly basis a group of bicycle riders. You know the type cute little tight pants and jerseys with that helmet usually bright green or yellow, speeding along and not staying in the large bike lane that was provided for their safety. Instead of splashing water, I want to equip my car with that spring loaded boxing glove popping them off as I drive by. The Three Stooges would be proud.

Have a great day Guys and Dolls and splash somebody if it’s raining where you live today or hit them with a snowball.

GRUEL TIME KIDDIES

2012-01-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday Guys and Dolls:

Here we are on a Tuesday morning celebrating “PECULIAR PEOPLE DAY.” This is a day to honor uniquely different people. I am talking about the un-ordinary, the extraordinary, unusual, strange, oddballs that walk the earth every day among us. These characteristics can be seen as good or bad, so today look for the good over the bad in your acquaintances. Chances being we will find something peculiar in ourselves today.

January is also “NATIONAL OATMEAL MONTH.” Hot oatmeal for breakfast on a cold winter’s morning as a kid was my favorite. It was easier when I was young I did not have to make it, Mom did and she made it with milk not hot water like they do today. Certain things have to be made with milk oatmeal is one and the other is hot chocolate. So Moms and Dads if you have time make those little tykes of yours a hot breakfast of oatmeal before they face that 4 block walk to school like Joey Z had to do in his younger days.

In olden days when knights were bold oatmeal was alive and kicking however it was called “GRUEL.” It was found cooking all day in a black cauldron and it was a preparation often made from millet, hemp or barley and in times of real trouble chestnuts or acorns. Yes, Speakies gruel was poverty food in those days. Oatmeal now is just not for breakfast, one can make cookies and even oatmeal bread to enjoy. So my Guys and Dolls get on the oatmeal train this month and enjoy.

Have a great day and I’ll see you soon.

HELLO BERNIE AND LEON

2012-01-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

Good Monday Morning Speakies:

Making a quick stop today and hoping you all had a great weekend. Joey Z has a busy schedule today but I always try to make time for my Guys and Dolls and try to provide them with valuable information. Take for instance, January is National Polka Month so for all you Polka nuts grab your partner, put on some Polka music and go to town. When I was a kid in Trenton, NJ we had two famous Polka radio shows. Leon Fornel and the one my mother always listened to was Bernie Kosnoski. I can still hear the music playing as Mom or Granny made Sunday dinner at their houses. One always heard that great Polka sound at all those weddings we attended with our parents growing up. Take for instance your cousin was getting married the whole family was invited in those days, the adults dancing the Polka and us kids running around and even doing our own version of the Polka. Good memories.

Today is also “NATIONAL CLEAN OFF YOUR DESK DAY.” Now be good Speakies, get that work to be done off your desk and maybe you can just relax a little today and enjoy this holiday. I have to run but have a great day and evening and if you are a big college football fan watch the LSU vs. Alabama game tonight.

WE THREE KINGS OF ORIENT ARE

2012-01-06T09:03:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday Guys and Dolls:

The first weekend of the New Year is approaching and after all that holiday celebration and being back to work and school I’m sure we are all looking forward to it. Today we celebrate the Epiphany the visitation to the Christ child by the three Magi named Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar. They were Kings from the East, a group of distinguished foreigners who visited after his birth, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. They are regular figures in traditional accounts of the nativity celebrations of Christmas and are an important part of the Christian tradition. When I was in grammar school and served as an altar boy we would accompany the priest of our parish in blessings of the homes in which the initials of the Magi were written above the door. It was a nice tradition and I hope it still continues today in my old neighborhood.

Over the weekend we celebrate Pepe Le Pew’s birthday, I hated that cartoon and that skunk; I would have loved to see Tom and Jerry kick his butt. It is also Fruitcake Toss Day. I have never been a fan of fruitcake so I say “Toss it if you want to.”

Sunday is Bubble Bath Day, a good day for all you Dolls to soak in those soothing bubbles and hot water and let your minds drift far away. For the little ones it’s just another way to wet the entire floor. Well I’m finished for today, it is tough to write the first week back but I’ll get in the groove shortly. Have a great weekend and be careful out there.

WAKE UP U.S. - DON'T FORGET THE BIRDS

2012-01-05T09:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Thursday Guys and Dolls:

Let’s check out some more monthly holidays celebrated in January.

Poverty in America Month – a few weeks ago I saw a clip from a news channel show the day our troops were withdrawn from Iraq. Over 4,000 American lives were lost, 32,000 wounded and thousands upon thousands of Iraq citizens killed. The total cost of that war was in the upper billions. Profits were made by war contractors and the lobbyists pushing their support for those companies. The ironic thing was on that withdrawal date Iraqi citizens were burning our flag and the new government making agreements to merge a pact with Iran, what a crock of sh_ _ and a waste of life and money. Let’s face it haven’t we learned anything from Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and that other conflict in Afghanistan. All we are doing is losing more lives and draining our economy to do what, fill the pockets of companies profiting from those wars and the lobbyist who drum up their business. Take that money; invest it in jobs roads, bridges and other needs for Americans who are suffering from lack of work, food and medical care. Does it take a brain surgeon to figure this all out? That’s Joey Z’s opinion on Poverty Month.

It’s also National Bird Day – I feel sorry for our fine feathered friends in the winter. If I have stale bread, donuts, cereal or anything I think birds like to eat, out I go the back of our property and provide them with a good meal. So don’t forget our little friends in the upcoming cold months.

National Whipped Cream Day is celebrated on this date. Whipped cream on Pumpkin Pie or pudding is my favorite. My sons always loved shooting it straight from the can into their mouths. I’ll let you decide where you like your whipped cream to go.

Have a great day Speakies, talk to you soon.

SOUP ME AND SAY THANKS

2012-01-04T09:02:00.001-05:00

First Hump Day of the Year Speakies:

And let me tell you there are plenty more to come this year. I hope you all are back in the swing of things so let’s check some stuff out for today. There are lots of monthly celebrations in January so let’s check some out.

NATIONAL SOUP MONTH – I love soup for lunch being it’s easy to heat up in the microwave at work. There is one drawback that I have to watch and that is the sodium count in those cans so it is becoming difficult to choose the right lunch to eat. Now I’m going to name my favorite kinds of soups, homemade of course. Chicken noodle with fresh pieces of shredded chicken, carrots and that good broth that Roe puts together. Roe loved my Mom’s Pea Soup; she had everything in there with a good pea broth, nice and thick almost like a stew. Tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich on a cold night can’t be beat. Potato soup warms me tummy on those chilly days and another favorite is that Italian Pasta e Fagioli. Roe and I differ on the temperatures of soup, she likes hers warm and ready to eat, mine has to be hot. How could I have forgotten this favorite sodium filled soup, French Onion is a real treat for me. Let’s move on to another topic, I’m craving French Onion soup right now.

NATIONAL THANK YOU MONTH – A habit that seems to be disappearing recently in my view. I’ve noticed when driving I signal the other driver to go and not even a simple wave of the hand. Opening a door for someone is a hit and miss with a Thank You. I was raised to say Thank You always when someone did you a favor, open a door or gave you a gift. So take a little advice from Joey Z and start practicing saying Thanks and start to teach those little ones too.

Have a great day and be careful out there.

IF SOMEONE TRIES TO SELL YOU THIS, BEWARE

2012-01-03T09:12:00.000-05:00

Good Tuesday Morning, Jan. 3, 2012

Well Speakies we are in a new year and Joey Z wishes nothing but the best for all of you this year. Yesterday was considered a holiday due to New Year’s Day falling on Sunday. We missed a few holidays that I would like to mention:

Swiss Cheese Day – I like Swiss cheese on a nice torpedo roll with roast beef and a cup of hot au jus sauce for dipping, my kind of sandwich. It was also Science Fiction Day, now you all know I love those old Sci-Fi movies and I’ll be watching them as long as they come on the tube. Now let’s see what is happening for today.

Birthday of the Brooklyn Bridge – Now for the man who designed the bridge was John Augustus Roebling, a German born American civil engineer who was famous for his wire rope suspension bridge designs one in particular was the Brooklyn Bridge. A proud part to write about was that Roebling moved to Trenton, NJ and built a large industrial complex for wire production. His plant inspired the motto on Trenton’s Lower Trenton Bridge, “TRENTON MAKES, THE WORLD TAKES.”

It is also National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day and to me Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries are the best, especially the dark chocolate kind. I have to stop talking about sweets now, I’m sure most of us had our share over the holidays. Well it’s back to work for the most of us so let’s get started and I hope you all have a great day.

A DAY OF HONOR FINALLY

2012-01-01T12:00:00.001-05:00

Hey Speakies Guess What?

Besides being New Year’s Day it is also are you ready for this Z DAY. It is day to give recognition to all persons and places whose names begin with the letter Z. So all you Speakies along with Joey Z have two reasons to celebrate today. So if you are a Zachary, Zeke, Zazzo or you live in Zanesville have an extra glass of Spumante today and raise your glass high to us ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ's.

HAPPY NEW YEAR, GET THE HAIR OF THE DOG READY

2012-01-01T10:05:00.000-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR GUYS AND DOLLS:

Well its January 1, 2012 and most of you I’m sure spent last night welcoming the New Year in with a bang. Hope you are not paying the price right now, but if you are I suggest a little hair of the dog to cure that hangover. How true the hair of the dog is, today’s food holiday is “BLOODY MARY DAY.” A Bloody Mary is a cocktail containing vodka, tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce or Tabasco sauce. One can also use horseradish and garnishes of celery, olives, black pepper, cayenne pepper, lemon juice or celery salt. When I have one I just order a Bloody Mary and how they make it, I’ll drink it. Some drink aficionados believe the drink was named after Queen Mary I of England, some believe it was named after Mary Pickford the actress and some a waitress named Mary who worked at a Chicago bar called the Bucket of Blood.

Being its New Year’s Day and recovery is required, pour yourself a Bloody Mary, relax and watch all the college bowl games on the TV today. Plenty to talk about in the New Year so enjoy the day and I’ll see you soon.

A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR'S WISH TO ALL OF YOU

2011-12-31T13:00:00.001-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR GUYS AND DOLLS:

WELL GANG ITS NEW YEAR’S EVE, HAVE A GREAT TIME CELEBRATING BUT BE CAREFUL OUT THERE. FROM JOEY Z, I WISH YOU ALL HEALTH, HAPPINESS AND ALL THE GOOD THINGS LIFE BRINGS TO YOU NEXT YEAR. THANKS FOR STOPPING BY THE BLOG ITS FUN WRITING FOR YOU ALL.

HOPE YOU HAD A GREAT CHRISTMAS

2011-12-27T09:55:00.000-05:00

SPEAKIES: JUST ANOTHER QUICK STOP, HOPING YOU ALL HAD A GREAT CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY. ROE AND I REALLY ENJOYED OUR CHRISTMAS WITH OUR FAMILY. CATCH YOU LATER THIS WEEK, JOEY Z IS STILL RESTING.

MERRY CHRISTMAS GUYS AND DOLLS

2011-12-24T09:15:00.005-05:00

WELL IT'S CHRISTMAS EVE AND I'M STOPPING BY TO WISH ALL MY READERS A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS WITH ALL THE BLESSINGS FROM ABOVE. ENJOY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH THE ONES YOU LOVE AND MAY ALL YOUR CHRISTMAS WISHES COME TRUE.

A QUICK STOP

2011-12-23T11:53:00.001-05:00

CHRISTMAS IS ALMOST HERE, THANKS TO ALL MY SPEAKIES FOR STOPPING BY AND READING MY POSTS. TO ALL MY GUYS AND DOLLS A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS. MORE WISHES OVER THE WEEKEND.

THANK YOU GRANDPOP AND GRANDMOM

2011-12-23T09:07:00.001-05:00

Wesolych Swiat Bozego Narodzenia!

Guys and Dolls wishing you a “Merry Christmas” in Polish. I told you last week I wanted to write about how Polish people celebrate the beloved holiday and as I remember it growing up both at my grandparent’s and my parent’s homes. Among the Polish people the most beloved of traditional festivities is that which takes place on Christmas Eve. On Christmas Eve the dinner or Wigilia is served. This was the favorite part of Christmas for my grandfather; he spent all day preparing the set up while my grandmother did all the cooking and last minute baking. A large foldup table was placed in the dining room and covered with a white table cloth in memory of the Christ child in the manger. In Poland a thin layer of hay is also placed under the table cloth in memory of him. I can still remember the smells coming from the kitchen and my grandfather waiting for 5:30 p.m. to come for all the family to arrive. I was off from school and usually stayed there because my parents worked and I helped as much as I could with the set up without getting in the way.

I still see my grandfather dressed to a tee, he always wore neat slacks, a nice shirt and tie and a vested sweater, I’d call gramps a dapper gentleman, which he truly was along with being a kind and gentle man, I really loved him and my grandmother. I’m sorry Roe and my sons never met him he died of a heart attack when I was in the 8th grade. Grandma hurried and changed to a better dress other than the house dress she wore cooking all day and finally they both sat down for a brief rest (probably five minutes).

The family finally arrived Mom and Dad and my Uncle Ed and Aunt Louise. My mom had a brother who died and another who was a real loner and finally disappeared off the face of the earth. They both were remembered fondly by everyone at Christmas Eve with a prayer. The presents were placed under the tree and the family gathered around the table or sneaked into the kitchen to see what was cooking. Finally the food was placed on that big table but before sitting down everyone broke the traditional wafer or Oplatek and exchanged good wishes for health, wealth and happiness in the New Year. The Oplatek is a thin wafer similar to Catholic Holy Communion with stamped figures of Jesus, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Holy Angels. In Poland according to myth in no case must there be an odd number of guests at the table, otherwise it is said that some of the guests would not live to see another Christmas. Personally we never believed in that one.

At that time the Christmas Eve meal was strictly meatless. The menu usually would include a soup, my grandfather had to have beet soup instead of mushroom, but granny made them both to please everyone. We had sledzie (pickled herring), fried fish usually flounder or cod, pierogi, kapusta (cabbage) and grandma made her famous French fries instead of boiled potatoes. For dessert there was babka, cookies, candies and nuts. All this was topped off with coffee, hot tea and blackberry brandy and rockin rye. After dinner the dishes were washed and I waited to open my presents from Grandpa and Grandma and my Uncle and Aunt.

The topper for my grandfather was attending Midnight Mass or as it is called in Polish Pasterka, which means the Shepherds Watch. The church was beautifully decorated as it was a Polish parish with hundreds of Poinsettias. Listening to the Polish Carols or koledy sung by the choir was beautiful to listen to and when mass started all the lights were turned off and candles held by everyone while more songs and a brief procession occurred before mass.

When my grandfather passed away, my mom carried on the tradition of Christmas Eve dinner at our house, the meal basically the same but some of the spirit lost without grandpa being there, but yet enjoyed and shared with those you love.

Christmas Day for me was spent at home playing with all my new stuff and if any of the relatives wanted to come over they could, I was not moving, this was my day. I hoped you enjoyed reading about a Polish Christmas Eve and later this week I’ll tell you about how Roe and I spent our Christmas Day.

MEMORIES OF TOYS FROM SANTA

2011-12-19T09:14:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday Speakies:

I know Mondays are not usually one of our favorite days of the week but with Christmas only 6 days away these Mondays of the holiday season seem like a Friday to me. Today we will be talking toys and I mean the memories of the toys you received from Mom and Dad (as alias Santa Claus). I have to put on my thinking cap and try to remember my favorites so let’s go back in time as I remember mine.

One of my favorites was a Daisy Air Rifle; of course my parent made sure Santa brought me the one model that does not shoot BB’s. It was still one of my all-time Christmas favorites. I still remember going outside that morning and popping off those air rifle sounds and spooking all the dogs on my block.

Once I received a trumpet not a real expensive one but I had to try it out and I woke up the whole house that morning. Not a very good start for a Christmas morning for Mom and Dad.

My machine gun, it included a stand, along with a cartridge containing 100 plastic bullets. It had a handle you turned like an old Gatlin gun and those bullets would fly out like the real thing. I found that gun in my parent’s basement when my boys were little and they had a chance to enjoy it too.

I had a train set I received when I was very little and I believed it belonged to my Uncle Ed. It was an American Flyer from 1938 and I’m proud to say I still have it. My dad nailed down the tracks on plywood and our tree was always in the middle. We built a small station with all those plastic village things you see that make up the scenery. I enjoyed hours of watching it go around making that engine sound and seeing the smoke coming out of the stack. I checked it out recently and it seem I would only need to replace rubber portions near the wheels and a new gear box. Great simple memories. I guess there were more toys I enjoyed but these stick in my mind today. If you have any memories send me a comment, it doesn’t hurt to write. Last year I wrote a post on remembering Christmas Eve and the Polish traditions we shared, I going to post that again probably on Christmas Eve for you to read once again. I going to take these last two weeks of December off to rest from writing but I will be back to wish all you Guys and Dolls a special Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, so enjoy the music as you read.

TOYS, TOYS, TOYS

2011-12-16T09:23:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday Guys and Dolls:

It’s Friday, December 16 and today is “STUPID TOY DAY.” I really haven’t purchased that many toys lately, except the ones for our grandkids and they are not really stupid, cars, dolls, Toy Story stuff etc. I’m sure there are lots of stupid toys out there so I say sell them. Let’s go back to my childhood days and maybe yours to see what kind of stupid toys we had. Here’s a few that I remember:

Silly Putty – came in a plastic egg shell, you could press it on the comics and it would pick up the picture. Roll it in ball shape and bounce it around the house, praying you would not break you mom’s favorite vase.

The Slinky – a spring device, put it on the top of the stairs, give it a push and watch it flip end over end to the landing. You could hold it in your hands and flip it back and forth. A simply amazing toy.

Ant Farms – give the little critters some sugar water daily and watch them do their thing, thrilling as Sea Monkeys.

Mr. Potato Head – with this guy we had to use the real stuff.

The Hula Hoop – the perfect hip and waist reducer or who can swing it around your waist the longest.

Dick Tracy 2 Way Wrist Radios – a must for all want-to-be Junior Detectives.

Well enough for stupid toys, have a great weekend and Monday we will talk more toys you’ll see what I mean.

WHAT NO TIES THIS YEAR?

2011-12-15T09:07:00.000-05:00

Happy December 15th Speakies:

Christmas my Guys and Dolls is only 10 days away and I’m sure everyone is busy trying to finalize all their plans all I can say is good luck. Today is “LEMON CUPCAKE DAY.” Lemon is not one of my favorite flavors as a cupcake. Give me those old time chocolate or vanilla cupcakes. I used to love Tasty Kake chocolate cupcakes and recently found them here at our local grocery store along with the cream filled ones.

In December we also celebrate “SAFE TOYS AND GIFT MONTH.” When I was a kid we never heard anything about toys not being safe, we just played with them even if they broke. Hey Mom do you have any glue was our battle cry. I guess in today’s world with all the toys being made all over the world and with all the small pieces one does have to be careful. In a blink of the eye the little ones could injure themselves quickly so please choose the correct toys according to the ages of the children you buy for. Make it a safe Christmas Guys and Dolls for the ones you love.

December is also “NATIONAL TIE MONTH” you know those things that choke you and you can’t wait to take them off. We have regular ties, bow ties, bolo ties and western ties that’s what I call those bow ties with the long tails. Fashion always changes, skinny ties, medium width ties and the super wide ties. We use to hold an ugly tie contest here at work once a year and you should have seen the monstrosities that marched by on parade. Well I’ll see you tomorrow as we will be nearing the weekend.

YABBA YABBA DABBA SAID THE MONKEY

2011-12-14T09:27:00.001-05:00

Happy December 14th Guys and Dolls:

With the holidays comes all kinds of traditional ethnic dishes, the Polish and the Italian heritages enjoy all kinds of fish on Christmas Eve. Roe makes her fish stew for us, it consists of flounder or cod, shrimp, scallops and mussels in a rich broth with tasty seasonings, and I look forward to it every year. I guess you can say it is based on a food holiday we celebrate today “BOUILLABAISSE DAY.” Bouillabaisse is a seafood soup made with various kinds of fish, shellfish and vegetables, flavored with herbs and spices. It is a traditional fish stew that originated in the port city of Marseille, France. This local stew usually contains fish like sea robin, conger, bream, mullet, hake, mussels, crabs and at times langoustines. Vegetables include leeks, onions, tomatoes, celery and potatoes. You also throw in a couple slices of that crusty French bread for the dipping. Well that takes care of fish stew for today.

Today is also “MONKEY DAY” I really couldn’t care less. The only monkeys I ever liked were the Sea Monkeys who I bought one day and they never lived that long to tell. Little kids like monkeys at the zoo and stuff so if you live near a zoo stop by and make their day.

Tomorrow is Thursday and Christmas is coming closer to us all. Have a great day and evening and stew it up tonight.

THE CANDY MAN CAN

2011-12-13T09:09:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday Speakies:

December 13th is here and the time keeps on flying by. I hope all your shopping and holiday preparations are coming along on schedule or near schedule. Everyone is busy during the holiday season making preparations for dinners, shopping and awaiting that favorite part of the holidays the arrival of relatives. Therefore on a sweeter note let’s talk candy. Yes Christmas candy those little treats that are laid out every year and never disappear until they melt or stick together and are ready for the trash. I’m going to name some of the candies I remember as a child and even today, send me yours, don’t be shy.

Candy Canes – Those striped peppermint favored suckers you get every year from somebody. Sorry Joey Z was never a fan of candy canes. I’d smashed them in little pieces and ate some if I had indigestion only.

BOXES OF CHOCOLATES – I had my favorite pickings when I was young. First all the nut ones, second came the cherry filled, next the solid chocolate, leave the caramels to the rest of the folks. I even snuck them out of the second layer when I could get away with it.

HARD TACKS – Now come on you remember those, often they came in a fancy glass container with a lid. Some were square, some long, bright colors and stripes, some had fillings other were just solid. Your mother placed them gently on the coffee table in the living room and hoped the guests who visited would have some, maybe take some home, she might have even slipped the little ones who came some in their pockets of course in a little bag so their mommies and daddies never knew. You know those candies and they do bring back memories.

MODERN CHRISTMAS CANDY – Roe and I love Cello Chocolate covered cherries, but we are putting an end to them this year. Have to watch the sugar intake and besides I found 4 still in a glass bowl in the refrigerator. Now a days we have Christmas M&M’s, Hershey’s Kisses, mints wrapped up in Christmas decor and other assorted sweets. Go ahead and treat yourself buy some Christmas candies and recall your childhood days. For now have a great day and be careful out there.

A GIFT FOR ANYTIME OF THE YEAR

2011-12-12T16:34:00.005-05:00

HELLO SPEAKIES: IF YOU NEED A LAST MINUTE CHRISTMAS GIFT OR A GIFT YOU GIVE GIVE ALL YEAR LONG CHECK OUT THIS BLOG SITE:

BIB-D-DEE BY ROELEN http://bib-a-dee.blogspot.com/

GROWN UP BIBS FOR THOSE EVENING DINNERS OUT OR EVEN AROUND THE HOUSE. US GUYS GRAB A NAPKIN STICK IT DOWN THE TOP OF SHIRT AND DIG IN. LADIES NEED TWO NAPKINS ONE FOR LAP AND ONE TO HOLD WHILE SIPPING THAT SOUP OR PUTTING THAT MACARONI WITH THE SAUCE DRIPPING ALL OVER THE PLATE AND TRYING TO GET IT IN HER MOUTH. BELIEVE ME JOEY Z ENDORSES THIS PRODUCT 100%. CHECK IT OUT AND PUT IN AN ORDER.

A QUICK STOP BY

2011-12-12T13:43:00.003-05:00

HELLO SPEAKIES:

HOPE ALL YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ARE WORKING OUT. JUST STOPPING BY TO TELL YOU TO ENJOY THE CHRISTMAS MUSIC BEING PLAYED. OF COURSE WE ALWAYS HAVE TO HAVE A FUNNY FIRST FEATURE. SO ENJOY.

TALKING CHRISTMAS STUFF

2011-12-12T09:18:00.000-05:00

Happy December 12 Speakies:

Let’s start talking Christmas stuff today and what a better way to start off with is the traditional Christmas flowering plant called the Poinsettia. In fact today is “POINSETTIA DAY.” The Poinsettias are very popular decorations in homes, churches, offices and are practically available in any grocery, drug or major chain stores. The Poinsettia is a species of flowering plant native to Mexico and Central America. It is named after Joel Roberts Poinsett, who was the first US Minister to Mexico and brought the plant to the US in 1825. There are over one hundred varieties of Poinsettias available. I tried for several years to keep some of my plants alive outside and so far I have that may see Christmas no guarantees though.

Speaking of Christmas plants Roe and I have a Christmas cactus for several years, last year it was not looking good but I have been feeding it a mixture of Epsom salt and water and it has rebounded fairly well. I’m hoping to see some flowers popping out shortly.

There are so many Christmas things to talk about so I’m going to rack my grey matter to bring up some topics and memories for us to discuss. Today is also a favorite holiday dessert its that fruity ambrosia. So if you are a fan of ambrosia make some today or run down to your favorite deli and pick some up to enjoy. I want all you Guys and Dolls to have a great day and evening and remember to be good because Santa is coming soon.

BETTER START WRITING

2011-12-09T09:16:00.002-05:00

Happy Friday Guys and Dolls:

Well gang another weekend is almost here, we just have to get through today which really is the best work day of the week – FRIDAY !!!! I bet the air is getting nippy up North and the chestnuts are roasting on an open fire. Today we do celebrate a couple of holidays. The first one being “CHRISTMAS CARD DAY.” I remember when I was a young lad we received Christmas cards from everyone; the mailbox was full each day. My mother spent hours writing out cards, checking off the names from her list and licking all those stamps. Roe did the same thing keeping a yearly account of who sent us cards and who did not. This Christmas card stuff is not an easy task for the Dolls when they are busy writing out the wishes stay away. Just a little advice from Joey Z.

Our second holiday is “PASTRY DAY.” I love pastries for breakfast with a cup of coffee. I still recall all those fresh pastries from Servus Bakery on Brunswick Ave. They had apple, cheese, cherry, prune and more, I can still see them today calling my name. Here’s what you do tonight, write out some cards, eat some pastries and have a cup of hot coffee or hot chocolate to relax. Have a great weekend Speakies, see you soon.

KEEP THE BRAIN SHARP DAY

2011-12-08T09:09:00.000-05:00

Happy Thursday Speakies:

Well the kiddies will be having their Christmas vacation soon so I thought I’d give you a little history lesson today to keep you sharp over the holiday season. So let’s jump right in and see who came into the world, left the world and stuff that happened.

I SEE THE LIGHT MOMMA:

1765 – Eli Whitney – invented the cotton gin.
1894 – James Thurber – humorist.
1899 – James “Pigmeat” Jarrett – pianist, what a middle name.
1907 – Frank Faylen – Dobie Gillis’ father, also starred in various WWII movies.
1911 – Lee J. Cobb – great actor, Twelve Angry Men, On the Waterfront.
1925 – Sammy Davis Jr. – Mr. Entertainment.
1936 – David Carradine – actor Kung Fu also known as the Grasshopper.
1943 – Jim Morrison – singer, lit his fire to many times.
1952 – Sam Kinison – comedian, “SAY IT, SAY IT.”

UP OR DOWNSVILLE TODAY:

0644 – Omar I, 2nd Kalief of Islam, murdered thing never change.
1978 – Golda Meir – Israel’s PM.
1982 – Marty Robbins – country singer “El Paso.”
1983 – Slim Pickins – western actor, Blazing Saddles.

STUFF:

Not a lot of interesting things happened today, but here we go.
1776 – George Washington’s retreating army crosses the Delaware River from NJ. Don’t worry fans the Hessians get theirs back on Christmas Day in Trenton.
1863 – Abe Lincoln announces plan for Reconstruction of the South. Cries heard “THE SOUTH SHALL RISE AGAIN.”
1941 – US and Britain declare war on Japan.
1946 – Army Rocket Plane XS-1 makes first powered flight.
1952 – 1st TV acknowledgement of pregnancy (I Love Lucy Show).
1966 – Yankees trade Roger Maris to Cardinals.

Have a great day Guys and Dolls and remember only 17 more days till Christmas.

70 YEARS AGO TODAY

2011-12-07T09:05:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Guys and Dolls:

Today marks the 70th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor in the Hawaiian Islands and the start of World War II. Please take a moment to say a brief prayer in remembrance of all the lives lost that day and in the entire war.

Today we also celebrate “TEACHER APPRECIATION DAY.” When Joey Z went to school we had nuns who had rulers so you better have appreciated them or your knuckles would turn red really fast. Teaching is tough profession especially in today’s world, not only are they under paid but the schools lack the supplies needed to provide a top notch education. If you know a teacher show your appreciation to them today with thanks for a job well done.

Today is also “COTTON CANDY DAY”; you know that sticky stuff you buy at fair or on the boardwalk at the Jersey shore. Light, airy and full of sugar it sticks to your kids faces like walking into a spider’s web. I tried cotton candy a few times but just by picking some off and immediately putting it in my mouth, the secret is small pieces. The machine-spun cotton candy was invented in 1897 by a dentist named William Morrison and a confectioner John C. Wharton and introduced at the 1904 World’s Fair as “Fairy Floss.” Nice side business for a dentist, sell candy and fix those cavities. If you are a cotton candy freak, have some today.

Speakies have a great day and be careful out there.

GOOD SAINT NICK

2011-12-06T09:07:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Guys and Dolls:

Well another Tuesday is upon us and I’m hoping your day has started on the right foot, so grab a cup of coffee and read my babble. Let’s see what holidays we can raise our mugs to today.

PAWNBROKER’S DAY and ST. NICHOLAS DAY – A strange combination of holidays, Joey Z has placed before you. There is a correlation between the two holidays, as you know St. Nicholas was a Christian Bishop whom Santa Claus in based. St. Nicholas is the Patron Saint of school children, bankers and traditionally, pawnbrokers. Through his great acts of kindness and generosity, St. Nicholas became the patron saint of seafarers, young women, falsely accused people, endangered travelers, farmers, merchants and pawnbrokers. The pawnbrokers and bankers in northern Italy, who looked to St. Nicholas as their patron, would hang three golden balls above the doors of their shops in tribute. St. Nicholas’ relics are enshrined in the Basilica of S. Nicola, Bari., Italy.

PUT YOUR OWN SHOES ON DAY – Now Speakies this is the day to start teaching those little ones how to tie their sneakers. I know it’s not an easy task but all us parents went through it even Roe helped teaching our granddaughter how to tie her shoes. Just show patience as they will learn quicker and don’t forget that little hug and kiss.

Have a great day Guys and Dolls, be careful out there with all those shopping crowds and remember only 19 days till Christmas.

WELCOME KOCHI AND LAGOS SPEAKIES

2011-12-05T09:32:00.003-05:00

I WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME TWO NEW SPEAKIES WHO STOPPED BY THE SITE OVER THE WEEKEND.

WELCOME TO LAGOS - A PORT CITY IN NIGERIA AND KOCHI KERALA - A PORT CITY ON THE WEST COAST OF INDIA ON THE ARABIAN SEA.

WELCOME ONCE AGAIN.

FUN IN THE TUB BUT DON'T WEAR YOUR JEANS

2011-12-05T09:05:00.000-05:00

Good Monday Morning Guys and Dolls:

Hope you all had a great weekend and got started on putting up those decorations or going out to check on Christmas trees. With the holidays coming up there’s one thing we don’t want happening, catching the flu or a cold. This week is “NATIONAL WASHING HANDS WEEK”, one sure way of protecting yourself from the germs of others. Now I’m not telling you to go crazy like Monk or Howie Mandel but washing our hands is one sure way to fight the spread of germs. So do it!

It’s “BLUE JEANS DAY”, those stiff when you first buy them pants. As you wear them the softer they become like a second pair of skin. There are so many makes, styles you just can’t keep up with all the latest and I really don’t want to. I remember wearing them as a kid, bottoms rolled up, leather tag on the waist line, white or colored tee-shirt and your favorite high-top sneakers in black or white. I remember when I was in the service I had two roommates and we each purchased the same pair of jeans and made a promise as long as we were together we would never wash those jeans. They lasted 3 years without a wash; of course we only wore them in the evenings around the barracks.

“BATH TUB FUN DAY” is the next celebration today. Kids love tubs I know because I was one. Nice hot water, your boats or submarines, play a little, wash up and you felt great on a Saturday. Just watch those little ones and never leave them alone. Now for you adults out there, make your own fun in the tub tonight. Have a great day and a warm and wet night.

WEEKEND WISHES, COATS AND LITTLE GREEN MEN

2011-12-02T09:16:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday December 2, Speakies:

Our first weekend is coming up in the month of December and Joey Z stopping by to wish you all a great one and a nice peaceful Friday. Two holidays today to speak of the first being “COATS FOR KIDS DAY.” I guess most of us took it for granted that our parents would purchase our coats and it would be a done deal. I was one of those fortunate kids that never knew the meaning of not having a coat to keep me warm and did the same for my boys. Ask yourself a question how many kids out there won’t be that fortunate? If your community has a Coats for Kids Day help those in need in this holiday season your heart will grow a little larger.

For our second holiday we celebrate “SCIENCE FICTION DAY.” By now you all know I love my 1950’s B-Rated Science Fiction Movies. Invaders from Mars, The Thing, This Island Earth, The Day the Earth Stood Still and many others. Give me those ray guns, flying saucers, little green men, mutants, screaming women and spaceships blasting off with attached strings. I love them all, so check for them on your local TV stations today or go out and rent some. Dark lights, popcorn and holding your Doll tight, oh what a night.

Have a great weekend all, see you soon.

THE MONTH OF MEMORIES

2011-12-01T09:02:00.000-05:00

Welcome Speakies to December:

Here we are starting the last month of the year December 2011. The year has flown by and one of my favorite holidays is approaching like light speed. You can say it I’m a kid at heart I love the Christmas season with all the outdoor decorations, lighted Christmas trees, the Christmas scents and all the excitement that goes with it. I still recall my childhood days, shopping the various stores downtown, going in and out to keep warm, the Salvage Army bells ringing, kids going up to see Santa, the smell of hot peanuts coming from the Planter’s Peanut Shop and carrying all those packages and getting on the bus to go home. I remember Christmas Eve’s at my grandparent’s house and all the great Polish food, going to Midnight Mass and waking up on Christmas Day to see what Santa brought me. I’m sure each of you has your own special memories of December and Christmas. My happiest holiday memories are that of Roe and our sons when they were little and seeing all the innocence of Christmas relived by them and now my grandchildren and the joy of the holidays in their hearts and eyes. December is a beautiful month no matter where you live as long as you hold the true meaning of Christmas always in your hearts.

Today is “NATIONAL PIE DAY.” I would have to say my favorite pie is the good old fashion Apple Pie. I don’t like it loaded with tons of hard apples; a nice regular crust with soft apples is the pie for me. I also favor blueberry, lemon meringue, chocolate and of course good old pumpkin pie.

I think there are plenty of holiday memories to share and if you would like please send me yours using the comments available to all. Have a great day.

BYE BYE NOVEMBER

2011-11-30T09:30:00.000-05:00

The Last Hump Day in November:

Well Speakies the last day of November is here with tomorrow marking the beginning of December and big holidays on their way. These months are flying by and sometimes I wish they would slow them down a little but I have no control over the hands of time. Today we celebrate “PLAY HOOKY DAY” and “FEEL WELL DAY.” I have one theory on those holidays; if we play hooky from work you can bet we’ll all feel great. That’s all there is to say about that.

It is also “NATIONAL MOUSSE DAY.” Mousse is a dessert made with eggs and cream. It is cooked in a mold similar to that of pate, which is why many people mix up the two French desserts. Pate is heavy with mousse texture much lighter. This texture is achieved by adding more cream and egg whites or by beating the ingredients to add air into the mixture. There you go Guys and Dolls a little background information on mousse. Back when I was a kid chocolate pudding was our mousse. My mother use to make a dessert for my dad that was light like mousse it was called Whip and Chill, never more to be located on the shelves of grocery stores.

Tomorrow I have to start planning some Christmas music for my blog to get the holiday spirit going. In the meantime have a great day and a wonderful evening.

SO IT IS WRITTEN; SO LET IT BE DONE

2011-11-29T09:10:00.000-05:00

Good Tuesday Morning Guys and Dolls:

I thought I would give you a day of Paraprosdokians today to you can say witty or sarcastic things to the people you run into. For those of you who forgot what Paraprosdokians are: it is a figure of speech which the latter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected in a way that causes the reader or listener to reframe or reinterpret the first part. Now do you understand? Let’s have fun.

THE LAST THING I WANT TO DO IS HURT YOU. BUT IT’S STILL ON MY LIST.

WE NEVER REALLY GROW UP, WE ONLY LEARN HOW TO ACT IN PUBLIC.

WAR DOES NOT DETERMINE WHO IS RIGHT, ONLY WHO IS LEFT.

WOMEN WILL NEVER BE EQUAL TO MEN UNTIL THEY CAN WALK DOWN THE STREET WITH A BALD HEAD AND A BEER GUT AND STILL THINK THEY ARE SEXY.

BEHIND EVERY SUCCESSFUL MAN IS HIS WOMAN. BEHIND THE FALL OF A SUCCESSFUL MAN IS USUALLY ANOTHER WOMAN.

CHANGE IS INEVITABLE, EXCEPT FROM A VENDING MACHINE.

GOING TO CHURCH DOESN’T MAKE YOU A CHRISTIAN ANY MORE THAN STANDING IN A GARAGE MAKES YOU A CAR. - I LOVE THAT ONE; SO TRUE IN TODAY’S CONSTANT SHOVE IT DOWN YOUR THROAT CONVERSATIVE CHRISTIAN THINKING.

I USED TO BE INDECISIVE. NOW I’M NOT SURE.

AND FINALLY – I ALWAYS TAKE LIFE WITH A GRAIN OF SALT, PLUS A SLICE OF LEMON AND A SHOT OF TEQUILA.

HAVE A GREAT DAY GANG.

MARS, MAIZES AND ME

2011-11-28T09:13:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Speakies:

Hoping you all had a great Thanksgiving holiday with lots of fun and plenty to eat. Now that Thanksgiving is over Christmas is just around the corner and that means getting those decorations out and fighting with the lights that seem always to get tangled. We can leave that for another day’s discussion. We have three unusual holidays today which we can raise our glasses to.

MAKE YOUR OWN HEAD DAY – I kind of like the head I have, sometimes I wish I had more sense, but I have to use what I was given. Actually it’s a day for you to get creative by drawing head shapes and faces almost like putting on a mask once you have drawn your new head. So get creative and enjoy this one.

RED PLANET DAY – Mars the Red Planet, I loved those old 1950’s science fiction movies about Mars. Let’s see we had The Invaders from Mars, The Red Planet Mars, Devil Girl from Mars and The Angry Red Planet just to name a few. Now I’m going to be a little sarcastic with those who keep saying we need more space exploration. We spend billions of dollars to find out if there is or ever were life on Mars. We can’t handle life on this planet so save some money and help humanity here.

MAIZE DAY – Here’s my idea on how to celebrate this one. Draw yourself a new head, blindfold your eyes and walk around your house and see if you walk into anything. That would be A-MAIZING.

It’s also French Toast Day, have some from breakfast and have a great day.

EAT, BUT MARK THE WORDS

2011-11-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

A Little Poem to Enjoy this Day:

THE NIGHT AFTER

'Twas the night after Thanksgiving I just couldn't sleep,
I tried counting backwards, I tried counting sheep.
The leftovers beckoned - The dark meat and white,
But I fought the temptation with all my might.

Tossing and turning with anticipation,
The thought of a snack was infatuation.
So, I raced to the kitchen, flung open the door,
And gazed at the fridge, full of goodies galore.

I gobbled up turkey and buttered potatoes,
Pickles and carrots, beans and tomatoes.
I felt myself swelling so plump and so round,
'Til all of a sudden, I rose off the ground.

I crashed through the ceiling, floating into the sky,
With a mouthful of pudding and a handful of pie.
But, I managed to yell as I soared past the trees......
Happy eating to all - Pass the cranberries, please.

May your stuffing be tasty, may your turkey be plumb,
May your 'taters "N gravy have narry a lump.
May your yams be delicious, may your pies take the prize,
May your holiday dinner stay off of your thighs.

THANKSGIVING WISHES TO ALL

2011-11-23T09:01:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready Speakies:

Thanksgiving is a day away and I’m sure everyone is busy with the last minute grocery shopping, picking up relatives or friends at the airports or maybe just you and your family ready to go and visit grandma’s house. Joey Z is just stopping by to wish my Guys and Dolls a very blessed and Happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy the festivities of the holiday in every sense and have a great time.

I will be posting a poem that will show on Thanksgiving Day for you to enjoy and chuckle. I’ll be taking the rest of the week off to enjoy the holidays with my family. Once again a Very Happy Thanksgiving to you all.

THE AROMA IS TAKING ME AWAY

2011-11-22T09:24:00.001-05:00

Happy Tuesday Guys and Dolls:

Turkey Day is getting closer and we are celebrating Thanksgiving at our office today with our annual Thanksgiving Luncheon. I am starting to enjoy the aromas coming from the break room area and ready to dig in and eat. I still have a few hours to go so let’s talk about some holidays we will be celebrating in the coming days prior to Thanksgiving.

Today is “CRANBERRY RELISH DAY” – I have never eaten cranberry relish, the only cranberry product I’ve had is cranberry sauce which I enjoy over the holidays or with chicken once or twice a year. I guess you can call me the hot dog relish kind of guy.

Tomorrow we are going nuts for it is “CASHEW DAY”, my favorite nut of all times. Cashews served hot and salted nothing can’t beat a nut like that in Joey Z’s book. I know I keep bringing this up but I still recall the Planter’s Peanut Store back home growing up and the smell of roasted cashews. Mr. Peanut if you exist bring me a bag soon. We also celebrate “BUY NOTHING DAY”; this is a good idea for a holiday because on Black Friday you will be spending mucho money. That’s right the holiday shopping season starts but I stay away from the stores on that day.

My mind right now is on food so I’m going to break room and see what’s cooking. Have a great day.

IF YOU STUFF ME, I'LL SAY HELLO

2011-11-21T09:21:00.000-05:00

Good Monday Morning Speakies:

Welcome to what Joey Z calls “Turkey Week” with all those preparations being made to enjoy that delicious meal served on Thanksgiving Day. I love the day’s right before the holiday itself, like the night before Thanksgiving and the day before Christmas. I guess it’s the anticipation of the celebration I enjoy more than the day itself. Well today is “STUFFING DAY”, you know that good stuff inside that bird. I’m a picky stuffing sort of guy, I like my stuffing moist made with bread, ground sausage, celery and all those great spices that will give you heartburn later. You can keep that cornbread stuffing, too dry for me, but if it’s your favorite well all I can say is eat and enjoy. We will probably do some turkey talking later this week; however here is a little sandwich treat when that hunger pang hits you on Thanksgiving night. Grab a small dinner roll, I prefer those little torpedo rolls or as they call them down here Chicago rolls; cut that baby open, lay down some turkey, topped with stuffing, top with gravy sit back and chomp down. Good eating.

Today we also celebrate “WORLD HELLO DAY.” I’ll make my contribution right now “HELLO ALL MY SPEAKIES AND HELLO WORLD.” The real object is to say hello to ten people this day. By us greeting each other, the message is for world leaders to use communication rather than force to settle disagreements. I love to see that but reality always rears its ugly head in one way or the other. Maybe one day all the hate for each other will end and the world will say Hello and Thanks to us.

Have a great day and evening and start thinking stuffing.

VICHYSSOISE OR PEANUT BUTTER?

2011-11-18T09:09:00.003-05:00

Happy Friday Guys and Dolls:

Today is “VICHYSSOISE DAY”, cold soup to those who love it. My soup has to be hot, not even luke warm. Vichyssoise is a thick soup made of leeks, onions, potatoes, cream and chicken stock. It is traditionally eaten cold but can be heated up. Sounds like potato soup but you can skip the leeks and chicken stock for me. It was said to be made famous by Louis Diat a chef at the Ritz-Carlton in New York City. So if you are a fan of cold soup, enjoy a bowl tonight or at lunch today.

I know there are plenty fans of this next observance for November is also “NATIONAL PEANUT BUTTER MONTH.” Peanut butter the favorite sandwich of every kid at heart. Honestly I haven’t had a peanut butter or peanut butter and jelly sandwich since I was a kid and never ate that many of them. I guess I was a bologna sandwich kid. The way I enjoyed peanut butter more was on Ritz Crackers or celery sticks. My son and daughter-in-law were recently in Southern California celebrating their first wedding anniversary and told me of an unusual sandwich that my son really enjoyed. There is this restaurant called Slater’s 50/50 that serves wild burger combinations. My son had a burger with peanut butter, strawberry jam and topped with bacon. He said the combination was so strange but absolutely delicious and one of the best burgers he ever had. I guess one can truly say peanut butter is not only for jelly anymore.

So today Speakies be a kid at heart, make yourself and your loved ones some peanut butter or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and enjoy. Have a great day and a wonderful evening, enjoy the weekend but be careful. See you soon.

THE AROMA OF IT ALL

2011-11-17T09:19:00.001-05:00

Happy Thursday Speakies:

Well another Thursday is upon us and on this day, we celebrate “TAKE A HIKE DAY” and “REMEMBRANCE DAY.” Remembrance Day is celebrated in various countries in regards to World War I and the fallen soldiers; it is also referred to as “Poppy Day.” Take a Hike is in regards to exercise, walking, hiking, and all that good stuff to make you stronger. To me I’d rather use it as telling someone to take a hike bud. So go around all day today and tell everybody take a hike.

Today in foodville is celebrated, “HOMEMADE BREAD DAY.” I remember the days of homemade bread, my Mother and Grandmother baking bread several times a year mostly over holidays. I can still smell the bread baking, plain bobkas and raisin bread turning a golden brown in the oven and then coming out to rest and cooling on the kitchen table. I would be waiting there for either Mom or Granny to come with a knife and cut me a nice piece of bread, spread some butter on it and for me to chomp down and enjoy. I think every nationality has their favorite breads to bake for the Polish it was what we call bobkas or regular loaves either plain or with raisins. So no matter what nationality you are have some bread today and enjoy the memories.

Have a great day and evening Guys and Dolls.

BRING BACK THOSE 15 CENT BURGERS

2011-11-16T09:03:00.000-05:00

Happy Wednesday Guys and Dolls:

I was checking out some food holidays for the month and today we celebrate “FAST FOOD DAY.” You know what that is eating all that stuff that’s not good for you or your kids; I call it Make You Fatty Food. What were some of the early fast food places? From my home town I remember Pix it was similar to the early McDonald’s with cheeseburgers, hamburgers and fries and I think the most expensive item was 25 cents that was in the early 60’s. McDonalds came next; we had Gino’s on South Broad Street, Burger King of course and KFC. I’m sure there are plenty more today so send me the names of your early favorites. Joey Z’s opinion on it will make you fat is if you eat and enjoy in moderation all will be fine. There is too much interference today in what we do, eat, say and look like. Tell these soothsayers of eating doom, cop-a-walk and get a burger and fries.

We also celebrate “NATIONAL RAISIN BREAD MONTH.” I like raisin bread and have it in the morning at work with coffee. There is nothing special about raisin bread to me, I like the taste of the raisins with the butter and a cup of coffee makes it a healthy breakfast in my mind at least. I really would prefer a nice crispy round hard roll the kind I use to eat on Sunday mornings from the Jewish deli down the street oh well. If you are a fan of raisin bread go ahead and eat some today or pick-up a loaf at your favorite grocery or bakery.

Have a great day Guys and Dolls and a wonderful evening.

DO YOU LIKE BATS?

2011-11-15T09:27:00.001-05:00

Speakies:

If you like bats, I have a vacation for you. Head out to New Mexico and visit the Carlsbad Caverns National Park. It includes 116 caves, some of the largest in North America. There are a variety of tours from self-guided to crawling through narrow passages. The park also offers great scenery, camping and hiking, of which Joey Z does none. The one thing you can't miss is the daily bat exodus in the summer months. Each day at sunset, nearly 400,000 Mexican bats exit the caverns to feed at night. If you are heading out West consider a stop at Carlsbad Caverns.

P.S. Tell Batman Joey Z says Hello.

CLEAN UP, CLEAN UP

2011-11-14T09:19:00.001-05:00

Good Monday Morning Speakies:

Hoping you all enjoyed the weekend and ready to start a brand new week. Like I promised we will get into that pizza thing later on but first an important holiday today to celebrate. It is “CLEAN OUT THE REFRIGERATOR DAY” a day I’m sure all of us love so much. All those packages, containers, bottles, lunch meat, cheese and mystery food that we have to identify before it goes or is saved. Questions and more question that need answering, when did I make this or how long has this been in the back or my favorite what is it? If you are planning to clean out your refrigerator or as I call it the icebox, today is the day to do it.

We also honor Guacamole today that favorite dip of Californian’s. I tried it last year for the first time at work we had nachos, salsa and someone made homemade guacamole and it was very good. Tonight I suggest you Speakies enjoy the same perhaps with a glass of Sangria or a tangy Margarita.

Now back to that Pizza with the Works Holiday I mentioned on Friday. I was never a big fan of all that loaded stuff on a pizza, I’m usually a one or two toppings type of guy. When I was in the service a couple of guys from Jersey opened a pizza joint outside of the back gate called Snoopy’s Pizza. These guys were recently discharged and planned to live in the area. It was a pretty neat joint with picnic benches, draft beers, jukebox and sawdust on the floor. My roomy and I had a friend named Chaz a Polish guy who was a real character. One night we went out for a pizza and Chaz ordered a pizza with the works which must have had 12 or more toppings. When the guys delivered the pie, his comment was “I’m glad you are eating this thing.” Imagine a regular pizza loaded down and making it look like a deep dish pie. Like I said I’m a one or two topping guy. My favorites are pepperoni, pepperoni and onion (really good had that one at Nino’s), crumbled sausage and once in a while anchovies.

Enough for today, have a great one Guys and Dolls.

THANK YOU VETERANS

2011-11-11T09:25:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday Speakies:

Wishing all my Guys and Dolls a very Happy Friday and hopes for a great weekend. I would like to take this time to wish all my Guys and Dolls, that also includes Joey Z who served in the military a special thanks on “VETERANS’ DAY.” Veterans’ Day is an annual and federal holiday devoted to military veterans. It is also observed as Armistice Day falling on November 11, the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. The war was declared over at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of November in 1918. So to all you Vets enjoy your day.

The food holiday today is “NATIONAL SUNDAE DAY.” I can still remember those Walk-Away Sundaes at the Burg Diary on Home Ave. That was one tasty ice cream delight and I also remember the cherry parfaits at the Parfait House on Route 33 in Mercerville were one of my favorites. I know the diary is gone but not sure if the Parfait House is still there. There is another food holiday this weekend that caught my eye “PIZZA WITH THE WORKS”; we will discuss that one in more detail next week. Have a great weekend and enjoy.

THIS IS SHORT AND SWEET AND BEWARE

2011-11-10T09:17:00.003-05:00

THIS IS GOING TO BE SWEET AND SHORT SPEAKIES:

TODAY IS "LUNG CANCER AWARENESS DAY" AND "VANILLA CUPCAKE DAY."
MY ADVICE IS STOP SMOKING TODAY AND EAT A CUPCAKE INSTEAD. HAVE A GREAT DAY AND LISTEN TO JOEY Z.

A MID-ATLANTIC TREAT

2011-11-09T09:17:00.000-05:00

Happy Hump Day Speakies:

Not very much happening today except for a food favorite of the Mid-Atlantic States. I know it is a favorite of my reader Skip and I’ve also enjoyed this delicacy originally made famous by the Pennsylvania Dutch. Are you ready, for it is “SCRAPPLE DAY.” What is Scrapple you say? You know what goes in hot dogs that are not 100% beef well scrapple is a tradition of mush of pork scraps and trimmings combined with cornmeal, flour and spices. This combination is made into a semi-solid loaf and the slices are pan fried before serving.

Scrapple is typically made from all hog, such as the head, heart, liver and other goodies which are boiled with any bones and even the entire head to make the broth. Once cooked all the bones and fat is discarded and the balance is made into the loaf. People call it “everything but the oink.” Normally scrapple is eaten as a breakfast meat, served with potatoes, eggs and toast. That’s the way I always had mine. In Philly it is sometimes fried, mashed with fried eggs, horseradish and ketchup. No thank you for me. Some manufacturers are now making scrapple out of beef, chicken and turkey but one has to have the original to say “I’ve eaten scrapple.”

I would also like to wish all my Guys and Dolls celebrating their birthdays and anniversaries today a very happy and wonderful day to you all. Well I will see you tomorrow and remember Pigs don’t fly.

I'LL TAKE ONE AFTER READING THOSE LAWS

2011-11-08T09:14:00.002-05:00

A Good Tuesday Morning Speakies:

Glad to see you all are wide awake and ready to go, so grab that cup of coffee and start to read. There were no significant holidays to get excited about today but a very special potion was developed this date. The “HARVEY WALLBANGER”, was reported to be invented this date in 1952 by a world champion mixologist Duke Antone. Legend has it was named after a Manhattan Beach surfer who was a regular at Duke’s Blackwatch Bar on Sunset Strip. The Wallbanger is a cocktail made with vodka, Galliano and orange juice. There you have a little cocktail history.

I think we all can use a few chuckles today so here are some more of Joey Z’s Dumb State Laws:

Alaska – In Fairbanks, it is illegal to feed alcoholic beverages to a moose.

Arizona – In Tucson, it is illegal for women to wear pants. – I’m for that.

California – Women may not drive wearing a house coat.

Idaho – You may not fish on a camel’s back. – That idea never crossed my mind.

Indiana – Monkeys are forbidden to smoke cigarettes in South Bend.

Kansas – Prohibits shooting rabbits from a motorboat. – Okay.

Louisiana – It is illegal to rob a bank and then shoot the teller with a water pistol.

Minnesota – It is illegal to tease skunks. – I think that’s a pretty safe law.

Ohio – It is illegal to fish for whales on Sunday. – The only whale you are going to find in Ohio is if it fell off a truck on the interstate.

Texas – It is illegal to shoot a buffalo from the second story of a hotel.

There you go Guys and Dolls some laws to ponder about. Have a great day.

WELCOME NEW SPEAKIE

2011-11-07T12:52:00.003-05:00

JUST STOPPING BY TO SAY HELLO AND WELCOME ANOTHER NEW SPEAKIE FROM VILA VELHA ESPIRITO SANTO. VILA VELHA IS A COASTAL TOWN IN ESPIRITO SANTO, BRAZIL. IT LIES ACROSS FROM VITORIA, THE STATE CAPITAL, POPULATION APPROX. 396,323.

SHOW SOME KINDNESS THIS WEEK

2011-11-07T09:19:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday Speakies:

Well here we are into the second week of November and before you know it we will be sitting at the Thanksgiving table after watching the Macy’s Day Parade. Time is really flying and as time goes by we celebrate a nice holiday during the second week of November. It is “Random Act of Kindness” week. I first heard of this last year when Roe started to receive and send small packages of scrapbooking items to various scrappers she knows. The girls called it Random Acts of Kindness. Maybe you know someone who is down and could use a little cheer me up this week. Maybe a visit, a phone call or a small gift will mean a great deal to someone.

Yesterday I forgot a food holiday “NACHO’S DAY” so we can celebrate that one today after work with a frosty mug of Corona or Dos Equis. I like my nachos with either the cheese sauce or the picante, topped with shredded lettuce, tomatoes and hot peppers; you can also throw in some black olives. I’m making myself hungry and better stop it right now.

Today is also “HUG A BEAR DAY.” The only bear I would hug would be a stuffed Teddy Bear or a hot momma dressed in a bear cave woman suit. Maybe pick up a stuffed bear for that little one at home today and make it a special Bear Day. Have a great day Guys and Dolls.

WELCOME NEW SPEAKIE

2011-11-04T10:25:00.002-04:00

Speakies: We have a new Guy or Doll who visited Joey Z a few hours ago from Boa Esperanca which is a municipality located in the Brazilian state of Espirito Santo. Welcome and may you return to read more.

WEEKEND WISHES ALL

2011-11-04T09:32:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday Speakies:

You can never tell if I’m going to chat for a while or just make it a quick stop to say have a great weekend. There is a neat holiday to celebrate today “CANDY DAY.” I’m not a big fan of today’s candy or as they call it now nostalgic candy. Give me the old penny candy to choose from and I’m happy. I’m not really a big candy eater but lately I’ve had cravings for certain sweets, like Root Beer Barrels and Life Savers. Now I do enjoy a good piece of chocolate now and then. There were so many penny type candies that I enjoyed it’s hard to name them all. Let me know your favorites.

This weekend we also celebrate “GUY FAWKES NIGHT.” It is also known as Guy Fawkes Day and Bonfire Night an annual celebration held in Great Britain. On November 5, 1605, Guy Fawkes who was a member of the Gunpowder Plot was caught guarding explosives beneath the House of Lords and arrested. It was later celebrated as a day and evening of thanksgiving with bonfires lit around London that King James I had survived the attempt on his life. So there you have some knowledge for your grey matter.

Have a great weekend; enjoy the football games or whatever you are going to do. See you soon.

HONORING HOUSEWIFE DOLLS TODAY

2011-11-03T09:05:00.000-04:00

Happy Thursday Guys and Dolls:

Do all my Speakies know what comfort is? Today we are talking “SLEEP COMFORT DAY.” My sleep comfort day consists of a nice afternoon nap on my chair with my feet up, windows open with the breeze blowing across my body and me without a care for about 2 hours. I can only enjoy that now over the weekend but in a few months Joey Z will be retired and hoping to enjoy that daily. Roe has comfort as she has an adjustable bed which she truly enjoys.

This is the next important day we celebrate today. Joey Z’s Blog pays honor to “HOUSEWIFE DAY.” My thanks goes out to all those wives who stay at home taking care of the little ones, doing the cleaning, shopping, running the kiddies here and there, cooking and still trying to look good for you Guys when you come home. Now listen I want you to give your Doll an extra hug and kiss when you come home for all she does and it would not hurt to pick up some flowers or take her out to dinner tonight. Remember she is also your lover. I have to say thanks to Roe, she stayed home with our boys when they were little and guided them to become great guys today. Love you Honey.

It’s food time; today we honor “THE SANDWICH.” There are so many sandwiches you can’t name them all, but I’m going to list my favorites right now:

BLT
TUNA ON TOAST WITH TOMATO
ITALIAN HOT DOGS, ALSO ITALIAN SAUSAGE WITH PEPPERS AND ONIONS

PHILLY CHEESE STEAK
PORK ROLL AND CHEESE
FRENCH DIP
BURGERS AND DOGS

MEATLOAF ON A HARD ROLL WITH MUSTARD

I could go on and on but you but catch my drift. Enjoy your favorite sandwich for lunch. Have a great day and don’t forget that Doll of yours tonight.

SOULS, WHEELS AND EGGS

2011-11-02T09:18:00.001-04:00

Happy Wednesday Guys and Dolls:

Yesterday we honored all the Saints, today we remember the dead in celebrating “All Souls Day” in the Roman Catholic calendar. In Mexico it is called “ El Dia de los Muertos” the Day of the Dead. In honor let’s all remember our dear ones who we have lost. Here are a few holidays to celebrate today as well:

NAME YOUR CAR DAY – I’ve always called mine Baby. Words were spoken like “Don’t fail me now Baby” or “Come on Baby Start.” I’m sure you all have said words similar like that to your auto. I also sure at times you have uttered these words “You Piece of S- - - You Better Start.” If you haven’t named your car do it today. Do me one favor don’t call your car “CHRISTINE.”

LOOK FOR CIRCLES DAY – Every day I look at the circles under my eyes and they tell me Joey Z you are getting older. We have no corn fields around my area so I can’t look for crop circles. Have fun today searching for the circles you love.

DEVILED EGG DAY – Love them every time there is a party with celery sticks, carrots, dip you may find a tray of deviled eggs. If I see them I’m there eating what I can and going back for seconds and thirds. You can have those carrot and celery sticks, cauliflower bulbs and Blue Cheese dip, just hand me over those deviled eggs.

Have a Happy Hump Day Guys and Dolls and be careful out there.

WELCOME TO NOVEMBER

2011-11-01T09:19:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesday Speakies:

Welcome to November, I remember as a kid we always had this day off after Halloween to celebrate All Saints Day. This month we also celebrate two major holidays, Veteran’s Day and Thanksgiving with all that turkey and stuff. In this first week of November we celebrate “Split Pea Soup Week.” I have to say and Roe will agree my mother made the ultimate pea soup; everything was in there except the kitchen sink. The broth was nice and creamy with peas, carrots, potatoes, ham and little elbow macaroni thrown in. I remember she always kept a ham bone after the ham was gone and also used that for extra flavoring.

As far as today goes we celebrate “National Author’s Day” and I must say I will honor today for I am a published author. By the way information on how to purchase my book is on my Blog cover. It was hard to write my book but fun, I admire those authors like Stephen King whose mind comes up with ideas for great books.

All right Guys get ready for this holiday “Men Make Dinner Day.” That leaves me out for tonight, unless Roe wants scrambled eggs, bacon and toast. I always wanted to cook but I know I would make a mess. I’m very proud of my sons who both cook and are very good. Keep up the good work boys and I give all that credit to Roe. To save face tonight if you are not going to cook, maybe a little take-out to bring home or take that Doll of yours out to dinner.

The food of the day is “French Fried Clams.” I remember those fried clams that Howard Johnson’s Restaurant served your plate was filled with those little suckers. I use to order those every time I went there. As far as regular clams go I tried to eat them several times but they were too chewy. Now I loved Clam’s Casino at Crecco’s Restaurant in the Chambersburg section of Trenton. They were slightly chopped, breaded, topped with bacon and other spices and just plain delicious. So Guys and Doll have your clams tonight and a great evening to all.

POST FROM THE HAUNTED SPEAK EASY

2011-10-31T09:07:00.000-04:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN GUYS AND DOLLS:

Here’s hoping you all survived those weekend Halloween parties if you had or was invited to one. Today is the day for the little ones to get dressed and get their treats. I still remember getting dressed up on Halloween for grammar school; we always had a party in the afternoon. Candy treats sure have changed since I was a kid. I remember getting those waxed candy corns and pumpkins wrapped up in a napkin with ribbon. I hated candy corn and all those other waxed treats. If you were lucky you would wind up with a few of the big bars or maybe even some change. Quarters were always nice to have.

After Roe and I got married we threw an annual Halloween Party at our house. It was always themed and I remember one year it being “Circus” and I went as the Fat Lady, Roe still has photos of me playing Twister in the kitchen with my big derriere saying hello to the camera. Those were fun times and great memories.

As far as tonight goes, keep an eye on those little ones, watch where they go and the treats they receive. To all you drivers out there, take it down a notch today and tonight, I hate to see anyone get hurt. Most of all have a great day and a wonderful Halloween evening filled with fun. If you like caramel apples today is the day to have one; it is Caramel Apple Day.

WEEKEND WISHES EARLY

2011-10-27T09:06:00.000-04:00

Good Thursday Morning Speakies:

I will be relaxing tomorrow, so I’m wishing you all a great Thursday, Friday and weekend today. Not much happening in the ways of history and holidays today, but we do have one we can celebrate:

GROUCHY CO-WORKER DAY – Don’t ask me why we would like to celebrate this holiday but what the hell raise a beer and give a cheer.

Next week is Halloween and those little goblins will be coming around so stock up on that candy this weekend and to all have a great one.

PAY ATTENTION AND LEARN

2011-10-26T09:09:00.000-04:00

Happy Hump Day Guys and Dolls:

With no serious holidays today, it’s time for a history lesson to sharpen that grey matter. Of course I will be throwing in my personal views on those who were born, died and stuff that happened on this date.

SEES THE LIGHT FOR THE FIRST TIME:

1879 – Leon Trotsky – Russian revolutionist. You be Comrade.
1910 – John Cardinal Krol – Former Archbishop of Philadelphia. He tried to bless those sports fans but had no success.
1914 – Jackie Coogan – Uncle Fester.
1917 – Felix the Cat – That dirty cartoon Cat.
1946 – Pat Sajak – That Wheel of Fortune guy.
1947 – Jaclyn Smith – One of the Original Charlie’s Angels.
1947 – Hilary Clinton – Ex-President Clinton’s main squeeze.
1954 – Lauren Tewes – Julie of the Love Boat TV show.
1962 – Cary Elwes – Actor from Glory and the Princess Bride. Reminds me of Douglas Fairbanks Jr.

BYE BYE CRUEL WORLD:

1909 – Prince Ito of Japan – Assassinated by a Korean after eating the last spring roll.
1984 – Sue Randall – She was Miss Landers on Leave it to Beaver. I never had a teacher look that good.
1991 – Lori Rae Matthews – She was crushed to death by an artist’s 485 lb. umbrella – I guess one can say she got covered.

STUFF FOR TODAY:

1825 – The Erie Canal opens.
1881 – Shootout at the OK Corral in Tombstone, AZ, Wyatt and the boys win, Dr. Holliday buys the bar a round.
1941 – US Savings Bonds go on sale.
1942 – US Carrier Hornet sunk in Battle of Santa Cruz Islands.
1949 – Prez. Truman raises the minimum wage from 40 cents to 75 cents an hour. Good move Prez.
1951 – Rocky Marciano beats Joe Louis at MSG.
1958 – PanAm flies the 1st transatlantic jet trip NY to Paris; I bet that was a first class flight even in tourist section.
1972 – Guided tours of Alcatraz by the Park Service begin.
1988 – Donald Trump bills Mike Tyson $2 Million for 4 month advisory service, Mike starts thinking he likes ears as a snack.

And I leave you with this thought: YOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN SOMETHING STUPID.

PRAISE THE GREASE TODAY

2011-10-25T09:07:00.000-04:00

Good Tuesday Morning Speakies:

Get ready to slide today and I don’t mean on sleds, water slides or any of those fun things. I’m talking food sliding for today is “GREASY FOODS DAY.” All those foods that are not good for you in excess or like me on a daily basis. Joey Z is talking the cream of the crop greasy foods here, comfort food that’s it, good old comfort food. I’m making a list with my comments and I want you to send me your favorite greasy delights. Here we go:

French Fries – hot and crispy with ketchup. The ones on the boardwalk at Seaside were some of the best; eat a few and you had to wipe your fingers.

Pepperoni pizza – pick up that slice baby, fold it in half and just watch the greasy oil slide down to the tip and hit the plate. Take that first bite and wipe your mouth you are in pizza heaven.

Pork Roll – fried up a little burn around the edges on a nice roll with cheese and spicy mustard.

Scrapple – God’s King of Grease, everything goes in it but who cares its great with eggs, potatoes and toast.

Bacon – nice and crisp, pick it up and feel the snap in your mouth. Can you say BLT?

White Castle Burgers – I call them nature’s own laxative.

Cheeseburger – right off the grill put it on a bun and see the grease stain, bite into it and the juices just drip down your chin.

Italian Sausage Sandwich – of course with peppers and onions, a true treat.

Polish Kielbasa – the Filet Mignon to us Polaks, add some horseradish and take us to the promised land.

Well those are some of my favorites, send me yours, don’t be shy you can make a comment on this blog about any subject I write about. Have a Greasy Day.

ENJOY SOUR - DON'T BE ONE

2011-10-24T09:18:00.000-04:00

Good Monday Morning Guys and Dolls:

Are we all fresh and ready to start the work week off with a bang? To quote a great comedy act on TV “HOMEY DON’T PLAY THAT.” Let’s face it Monday mornings are not a favorite of us working stiffs until the day we retire and don’t hear that old alarm clock ringing away. What a great day for one of the holidays we celebrate today; it is “SOUR DAY.” The kind of Sour Day we celebrate can be about sour candy, sour drinks, sour fruit or sour people. We have enough of sour people in this country and I would rather not talk about the joy they spread among us. I’d rather talk about sour gummy candies, Whiskey Sours, lemons and limes. So if you are a Guy or Doll who enjoys the good sour things in life enjoy the day. If you are one of the sour people hope you don’t dry up and rot away.

Today is also “NATIONAL BOLOGNA DAY.’’ To me bologna is a thin slice of a hot dog they taste the same to me. In fact I enjoyed a bologna sandwich last week with mustard on a nice torpedo roll. When I was a kid think every one of us ate a bologna sandwich a week for a school lunch. I remember the Oscar Mayer Wiener Truck parked across the street from Stacy’s Meat Market in South Trenton giving away samples of their products and a miniature truck whistle. Those were good old days. People have their favorite bolognas and ways of eating it fried with eggs, on a sandwich or even rolled up plain. So bologna fans have some today and enjoy.

I wish you all a great day and see you soon.

HISSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

2011-10-21T09:06:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday Speakies:

AHHH the start of the weekend is but hours away and as usual making my quick stop to wish you all a great one. There are a few holidays to raise your mugs to this weekend.

REPTILE AWARENESS DAY – I can tell you a true story that happened to Joey Z back in May of this year. Coming from my car in the parking lot at work to the main entrance, I opened the door not looking as usual when something caught the corner of my eye. It did not look like the regular snakes I usually see, this one was a 4 foot Diamondback Rattler and I’m lucky I did not feel it’s fangs go in me. That is a picture of the big guy you see.

MOLE DAY – This is a holiday celebrated among chemists on October 23, between 6:02 a.m. and 6:02 p.m., making the date 6:02 10/23 in the American style of writing dates. It’s also the scientific formula which defines the number of particles in one mole of substance. So chemists raise your glasses high to Mole Day.

Have a great weekend all. By the way to all my Speakies who have Mother-In-Laws, you got it we honor her today. Listen to the little song in her honor.

HOUSEHOLD HINTS FROM JOEY Z

2011-10-20T12:43:00.002-04:00

HEY SPEAKIES:

JOEY Z TALKING VINEGAR THIS AFTERNOON. OPEN DRAINS AND FRESHEN UP THAT GARBAGE DISPOSAL AND THIS IS HOW.

CLEAR A CLOGGED DRAIN WITH OUT THOSE CHEMICALS. DUMP ABOUT 3/4 CUP OF BAKING SODA DOWN THE DRAIN AND CHASE IT WITH 1/2 CUP OF WHITE VINEGAR. PLUG UP THE DRAIN AND LEAVE IT FOR 30 MINUTES. THEN RINSE IT DOWN WITH A POT OR KETTLE OF BOILING WATER. DO THE SAME WITH THE GARBAGE DISPOSAL, YOU CAN ALSO MAKE VINEGAR ICE CUBES AND HAVE THAT OLD DISPOSAL CLEANED AND THE BLADES SHARPENED AT THE SAME TIME.

IT'S CORN POPPING NIGHT

2011-10-20T09:19:00.000-04:00

Happy Thursday Guys and Dolls:

I want all of you to know I searched all my sources for any history lessons that could be learned today and believe me nothing really struck me to write about. One Happy Birthday for today goes out to Mickey Mantle the Yankee great. Happy Birthday to all my Guys and Dolls celebrating theirs today.

This month we do celebrate “POPCORN MONTH”, you know that stuff you share with your date at the movies or at home on the couch. My popcorn has to be loaded with butter and salt however lately the salt is a goner. Forget the caramel popcorn never cared for it. Roe bought Kettle corn which is pretty good and features a little different taste. I remember being a kid I use to go down to Willets which was our local 5 &10 cent store but they carried everything in the world you would need to survive. They had one of those popcorn machines that had little white bags and you would deposit a dime put the bag over the spout and out came the hot popcorn. Here was another great treat for us kids back then “Jiffy Pop.” I call it popcorn in a frying pan; you would rub the pan over the stove top burner until the magical aluminum top started to blow up like a balloon. I stood there like a deer in the headlights waiting for the foil to pop open and fill the kitchen full of hot popcorn. The foil got bigger and the popping stopped only to discover there were a lot of burned kernels instead of hot popcorn. The microwave popcorn of today truly tops that of the old frying pan.

Gather the family together tonight and make it an old popcorn popping night, add a good movie and you have a nice family or romantic evening. Have a great evening Speakies whatever you do.

GIVE IT A THOUGHT TODAY

2011-10-19T09:07:00.001-04:00

Happy Hump Day Speakies:

There is a holiday today, which most of us have never celebrated. We may have pondered the idea and I’m sure most of us have given it a lot of thought. Today is “LOOK BACK ON YOUR LIFE DAY.” That’s a heavy order to perform, looking back on the things you did or did not do or what if I had another chance to do it over again. As far as I go I have a bunch of things I wish I had done. To say I’m sorry when I did not, say I love you to Roe and my Boys give them a hug and kiss before I left to go out. Spend more time with my boys growing up instead of my own self-interests, I guess I could go on but you all get the drift. It’s a day to ponder and maybe change your ways, give it a try it may be the best new holiday you’ll ever celebrate.

October is also “TOMATO MONTH.” Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad. I love tomatoes and surely do miss those Jersey Beefsteaks and the old Trenton Farmers Market on Spruce St. Heading down the Jersey Shore one would always run into those roadside stands filled with real Jersey tomatoes and other great vegetables and fruits fresh from the Garden State. I tried one year to grow some tomatoes down here the cherry variety came out good but the insects got the big boys. Mostly all of the tomatoes in the stores are imported and just don’t have the taste of a Jersey grown.

Have a wonderful day Guys and Dolls and as a reminder do a little thinking and maybe changing the ways a little. See you soon.

HISTORY AND CAKE; YOU CAN HAVE BOTH

2011-10-18T09:23:00.000-04:00

HAPPY TUESDAY GUYS AND DOLLS:

Let’s wake up those brain cells today with a little who was born, kicked the bucket and happening stuff on this date.

CAME OUT SCREAMING:

1889 – Fannie Hurst – Novelist, get her mixed up with the candy lady Fannie May. 1915 – Victor Sen Yung – Good old cook from Bonanza Hop Sing and of Charlie Chan fame.
1922 – Little Orphan Annie made her debut in the funnies.
1926 – Chuck Berry – Rock and Roll man.
1928 – Keith Jackson – Sportscaster, “We got a barn burner going here.”
1933 – Peter Boyle – Actor, movie Joe (a 1970 film very good one), most famous for Everybody Loves Raymond.
1939 – Harvey Lee Oswald – JFK assassin, Joey Z still thinks it was all a cover-up.

KICKED THE BUCKET – NOBODY FAMOUS TO ME.

STUFF:
1776 – A NY bar was decorated with a bird tail, one customer orders a cocktail – I don’t know if that a real fact or not.
1873 – Columbia, Princeton, Rutgers and Yale set rules for college football – Go Tigers.
1922 – The BBC is born.
1924 – Notre Dame beats Army 13-7; the running backs are dubbed “The Four Horsemen.”
1954 – Hurricane Hazel hits the US. I remember old Hazel.
1968 – Circus Circus opens in Vegas.
1977 – Reggie Jackson smacks 3 consecutive homers and Yanks win their 21st series.

That’s enough stuff, now for food. Today is “NATIONAL CHOCOLATE CUPCAKE DAY.” A favorite of this writer, I like them with icing or not. Nothing like a fresh baked cupcake sitting on the stovetop and filling the kitchen air with pure delight. I do miss those Tasty Kake chocolate cupcakes and their cream-filled ones too. Have fun today Speakies and be careful out there.

ON TOP OF SPAGHETTI

2011-10-17T09:15:00.000-04:00

Good Morning Speakies:

Hope you all had a great weekend and ready to start a brand new week. Should we do a history lesson today or talk food. Food it is and all I can say is “ITS GOOD TO BE THE KING.” We honor PASTA today and it is also National Pasta Month. What is pasta you ask? Pasta is a staple food of traditional Italian cuisine and now worldwide served. The word pasta first attested in English in 1874, comes from the Italian name pasta which in fact comes from the Latin word pasta meaning dough or pastry cake. There are two types of pasta dried and fresh. Dried pasta is made without eggs and has a two year storage life. Fresh pasta will keep for only a few days in the refrigerator. There’s a little on brain matter concerning pasta or as most Italian from Trenton call it macaroni.

Let’s see what kind of pasta or macaroni Joey Z favors. I’m a fan of regular spaghetti; you can say old number 9 with some Marinara sauce serve it and all will be fine. Some of my other favorites include Farfalle, Gnocchi, Fettuccine, Linguine, Angel Hair and Penne pasta. I like different types of sauces with the above but all in all Marinara sauce is my favorite. You need some good meat sauce to go along with certain pasta. Staples like meatballs and Italian sausage can complete the other types for a great tasting dish. To really top it off a nice glass of Italian red wine.

Like I said it’s Monday and I’d better let you get back to work. Have a great day, see you soon.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SKIP

2011-10-17T08:26:00.001-04:00

HAVE TO SAY A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ONE OF MY READERS "THE SKIPSTER." STOLAT !

WHO LOVES YOU BABY

2011-10-14T09:28:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday Speakies:

Making my quick usual stop to wish you all a good Friday and a fun weekend. Today is “BALD IS BEAUTIFUL DAY” and that always reminds me of Telly, “Who Loves You Baby.” Give that beautiful guy another lollipop he was great in so many films and in the series Kojak. Yul Brynner is another great bald actor, I liked, played both good and bad guy.

Today is also “CHOCOLATE COVERED INSECT DAY.” All I can say is that once I tried chocolate covered ants. Tasted like rice crispies and that’s all I’m saying. So Speakies have a great weekend, enjoy and I’ll see you all soon.

JOEY Z PRESENTS "PARAPROSDOKIANS"

2011-10-13T12:31:00.003-04:00

JOEY Z'S SPEAK EASY IS PROUD TO PRESENT "PARAPROSDOKIANS." I can hear it out there what in the hell is that? Allow me to explain, a paraprosdokian is a figure of speech in which the latter half of a sentence or phrase is surprising that it causes the reader to reframe or reinterpret the first part. It's popular among comedians and satirists. I will giving you these from time to time so here is the first Joey Z Paraprosdokian:

THE EVENING NEWS IS WHERE THEY BEGIN WITH "GOOD EVENING", AND THEN PROCEED TO TELL YOU WHY IT ISN'T.

EGGS AND BEER WILL MAKE YOU TOOT MORE

2011-10-13T09:13:00.000-04:00

HAPPY THURSDAY GUYS AND DOLLS:

I hope you all had a pleasant evening and ready to start a brand new day. Get ready today for it is “TRAIN YOUR BRAIN DAY.” And now Joey Z is going to fill you in with some history to retain in your grey matter for future passing to those little tykes should they ask.

1775 – Continental Congress orders construction of a naval fleet.
1860 – First aerial photo taken in the US from a balloon in Boston. – Trying to find those lost lobster pots.
1944 – US 1st Army begins the Battle of Aachen in Germany.
1947 – Kukla, Fran and Ollie premiers on the tube – I remember them.
1960 – Pirates Bill Mazeroski’s bottom of the ninth homer beats them Yankees in game 7 of the World Series. Saw that one on TV.
1963 – “Beatlemania” starts after the Beatles appear at the Palladium.
1981 – Vice President Hosni Mubarak elected president of Egypt – I bet he was sorry he took that job.
1982 – The OIC restores 2 gold medals from the 1912 Olympics to Jim Thorpe. That’s it from brain stuff today.

Today is also “World Egg Day.” I like eggs scrambled, over medium, hard boiled or a nice omelet with ham, cheese, peppers and onions. So if you are a fan of eggs let’s eat them up today. In this second week of October it is also “American Beer Week.” I was never a big fan of beer, but I grew a taste for it over the years. I’m not a fan of dark heavy beers; I guess one can call me a pilsner man. I loved those little green 8oz bottles of Rolling Rock Beer but cannot find them down here. I’m fan of the old time beers, Schlitz, Ballantine and Piels Brothers Beer with those guys Bert and Harry Piel. I’m afraid they no longer exist but I hold a dear spot in my heart for them. So today Guys and Dolls drink a few brews, eat some hard boiled eggs with them, but keep the air clean inside and break wind outside. Have a good one.

WELCOME CALI AND AUCKLAND SPEAKIES

2011-10-13T08:45:00.000-04:00

Good Morning Speakies:

I would like to extend a warm Joey Z welcome to two new Speakies. One is from Cali del Cauca in Columbia. Cali is known in Columbia as the capital of fiestas, street partying, dancing and salsa as Cali’s Salsa Clubs are among the most famous in the entire continent. My second Speakie hails from Auckland, New Zealand. Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and as you fly into major airport which is most visitors’ first view of the country the scenery is spectacular.

Once again a warm Joey Z welcome.

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

2011-10-12T09:24:00.000-04:00

Happy Hump Day All:

Welcome to another Hump Day and the original Columbus Day. I remember celebrating holidays on their exact dates, not this if it falls on a Saturday or a Sunday you get this day off. No complaints from me, I like the system while I’m still working. There are a few holidays to poke fun at today so let’s get started.

SCREAM DAY – Go ahead and be a Jamie Lee Curtis today, scream all you like. I can just picture people all over the world just screaming to let out frustrations or just for the hell of it. So let them rip today Speakies.

DISCOVERY DAY IN THE BAHAMAS – The Bahamas are right off the coast of Florida and you can choose most any island for a vacation get-a-way. They were discovered by Columbus in 1492. Commonwealth of the Bahamas is a nation consisting of 29 islands, 661 cays and 2,387 islets or rocks. The land area is approx. 5,382 square miles with an estimated population of 330,000. Roe and I took several cruises and made stops in Nassau, Freeport and Grand Cayman islands. I really liked Grand Cayman; they had a nice shopping area near the pier and plenty of nice shops all over town. The water is a crystal clear blue with nice white sandy beaches. It is also the home of some great off-shore accounts in banking and I suspect some money laundering goes on too.

As far as food holidays go, October is the National Month of Country Ham. So for all of you Guys and Dolls who dig country ham, have a slice for breakfast, lunch or dinner today. For Joey Z, I still prefer my good old Krakus Polish Ham. In fact I found it the other day at the Publix deli. Have to try some next visit, but watch the salt intake. That’s it for today, have a great day and be careful out there.

PULASKI, PIZZA AND PEEVES

2011-10-11T09:16:00.000-04:00

Good Tuesday Morning Speakies:

I’m in the honoring mood today as well as you should be. For today we honor that great Polish hero of the Revolutionary War, General Kazimierz Pulaski. Yes for today in the USA is General Pulaski Memorial Day. The holiday is held every year on October 11 by Presidential Proclamation to remember his death from wounds suffered at the Siege of Savannah in October of 1779. So raise up that Polish flag, grab a kielbasa sandwich and a cold Zywiec beer and give a salute to General Kazimierz Pulaski.

Now for our second holiday, drum roll please for today we honor and eat “SAUSAGE PIZZA DAY.” I have a few toppings that I enjoy on a pizza anchovies, pepperoni and onions and of course our boys the sausage. As far as the sausage goes and I have to ask before I order one is it the sliced or the crumbled sausage? I prefer crumbled sausage on my pizza; I find it covers the whole area of the pie and not placed around like pepperoni slices. Roe and I did find a good pizza place here in Central Florida; the owner is from NY and makes a good pie. You know the kind I mean, pick up a slice, fold it in half and hear it crack and the oil starts to drip down. That’s eating for me. The name of the place is Popa D’s; try it if you plan to visit. My heart still remains true to the Trenton tomato pie places like DeLorenzo’s and Papa’s but until they open down here, old Papa D’s is on target for me.

In this second week of October it is also “PET PEEVE WEEK.” If you have any pet peeves, send them to Joey Z as a comment and I will post them on my site. Leave out the political crap, I don’t care about your sex life and just keep it clean. See you soon.

COLUMBUS SAILED THE OCEAN BLUE

2011-10-10T09:05:00.000-04:00

Good Monday Morning Speakies:

Hoping you all had a great weekend and for those Speakies off today because of Columbus Day you sure are lucky stiffs, so enjoy the day off. For a little grey matter knowledge Columbus Day first became an official state holiday in Colorado in 1906 and became a federal holiday in 1937.

On this second week of October we celebrate some holidays, but I would like to mention only a few. It’s “SPACE WEEK”, people always ask you what did you take up in school, my answer was SPACE, baroom boom. I have my views on Space, down here plenty of complaints about closing the various programs at the Kennedy Space Center. Here is my view we went to the Moon in the 60’s, haven’t gone anywhere else except to fix and deliver supplies to the space station, it is now the year 2011. If the space program was to expand to visit other planets we should have been there by now. With the failure of so many launch delays it sure cost us tax payers tons of money, besides that if there are beings out there, they don’t want us up there screwing their world up like we did ours. Amen to that.

NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH WEEK – I’m all for providing each child with a good hot meal for lunch, down here some schools even provide a nice hot breakfast to start the kiddies day. I remember my grammar school days; I usually went home for lunch being I lived only 2 blocks away. If I had lunch in school it was usually a packed lunch, but on Fridays the Polish women in the cafeteria whipped up the most delicious mac and cheese with touches of crushed tomatoes. My mom got the recipe from one the ladies she knew and made it for us at home. Roe has since mastered the dish as my boys were always big mac and cheese fans.

That’s enough of me yakking for now, have a great day and as always be careful out there.

WIN ONE FOR JOEY Z

2011-10-07T09:29:00.001-04:00

ALL I CAN SAY FOR TONIGHT IS

GO PHILLIES !!!!!!!

WEEKEND WISHES ALL

2011-10-07T09:19:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday Speakies:

Just stopping by for a fast best of weekend wishes to you all. Hope you all enjoy the baseball playoffs, college and pro football games this weekend and may your favorite teams win. There is one holiday you may want to celebrate and that is “DESSERT DAY.” If you are a big fan of desserts enjoy them this weekend. Be careful out there and have a good time.

I'LL TAKE MINE WITH THE BEANS

2011-10-06T09:07:00.000-04:00

Happy Thursday Guys and Dolls:

I told you Speakies there were some great foods to celebrate in October and today we honor CHILI a favorite dish of mine. I hate to brag but Roe makes up a mean batch of chili and what can be better on a cold winter’s day than spicy chili. Now a little chili history for that grey matter of yours. Chili con carne better known simply as chili is a spicy stew. It comes from the Spanish which means translated “chili pepper with meat.” Traditional versions are made with chili peppers, garlic, onions, and other spices with chopped or ground beef. Beans and tomatoes are also used. Bean less chili is used on hotdogs, cheese fries and I guess anything else you want to top it with. Some people like bean less chili just the way it is.

I checked famous birthdays today and for me it was a big zilch. We have to stop and remember Henry Calvin today. I can see the look on your faces who is Henry Calvin? He played Sgt. Garcia that chubby, funny Mexican soldier on the TV series Zorro.

Rest in peace Sgt. Garcia. Z

Did you know that in 1683, 13 German families arrived in what is present day Philadelphia. Soft pretzels, great bread and rolls would be rolling down the assembly line shortly. Germans made great sausages also; I wonder when the Italians started coming over? What a match it would be sausage and sauce on a nice roll with slices of garden grown peppers and onions.

I have to pay honor to one more holiday today, “PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT DAY.” Thanks to them for helping you when the doctors are not available or too busy to see you. Keep up the good work and thanks for the prescriptions.

Have a great day Speakies and remember tomorrow is FRIDAY.

MORE FOR ME, THANK YOU.

2011-10-05T09:05:00.000-04:00

Happy Hump Day Guys and Dolls:

Forgive me fellow Seafood Lover Speakies, I missed a food holiday that occurred on Sunday, it was “SCALLOP DAY.” One of my favorite seafood items, Bay or Sea Scallops I will eat them both. Roe makes some great scallop dinners, my favorite is one is made with butter and olive oil; the scallops are covered in her secret breading and lightly pan fried. I don’t even need a side dish to go along with my meal however a veggie is served for a more healthier and balanced meal. I could eat scallops anytime, so today is our day get out and feast of those little treasures from the bay and seas.

Today is also “SMILE DAY” and “DO SOMETHING NICE.” You can kill two birds with one stone with these holidays. Do something nice for someone you love or a person in need, see him or her smile and it will warm your heart and make you smile too. In today’s world we need more smiles than frowns.

There are a lot of holidays to celebrate this month both daily and food, so I’ll be bringing you more real soon. Have a great Hump Day and a Hump Evening, heh, heh, heh. Oh you bad boy Joey Z.

TO MY TEAM

2011-10-04T10:36:00.001-04:00

GO PHILLIES TODAY

PEPPERS, TACOS AND BALLOONS TODAY

2011-10-04T09:08:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesdays Speakies:

Hope you all are having a good start this morning and Happy Birthday and Anniversary to my Guys and Dolls celebrating theirs today. All right lets jump right into food. In this first week of October we celebrate “NATIONAL PICKLED PEPPERS WEEK.” I love my peppers, those yellow, green and red bell peppers used to make steak and sausage sandwiches. Good munching peppers like the sweet Banana Peppers, Cherry Peppers (sweet or hot) and those Pepperoncini peppers. In salads I like to use the hot and sweet cut peppers in a jar, adds just the right flavor to your greens. So if you are a pepper freak like me start munching today. Forget the pickled eggs in a jar on the bar.

There are a couple of holidays to celebrate today:

BALLOONS AROUND THE WORLD DAY – I say go out to one of your local grocery stores or party supply places buy a helium filled balloon and let it go, can you imagine if everyone did that, that surely would be balloons around the world. Were you one of those evil kids that broke little kids balloons with a pin or the kid that had to break all the balloons after a party? Come on confess up, well Joey Z was a good buy and never did that. Me thinks.

NATIONAL TACO DAY – I keep bring up food that I love but this kid has to watch his sodium intake as I’ve had a buildup of fluid on my lungs, so some of my favorite food treats will have to disappear only now enjoyed as a passing memory. I’m not here to talk about me, its tacos whether you like them soft shell or hard shell today is the day to eat them. When I ate tacos, I liked mine filled with ground beef, lettuce and tomato and topped with medium sauce, sometimes hot sauce that depended on my mood. We have to say thanks to the guy or doll who invented that hard taco shell that’s wider and stands up so you can pack more ingredients in it.

Enough for today, have a great day and I’ll see you tomorrow.

GET YOUR PRETZELS HERE, HOT PRETZELS HERE

2011-10-03T09:04:00.000-04:00

HAPPY OCTOBER SPEAKIES:

Welcome to October, well it’s not the first of the month but we are here and let’s see what’s kicking. Zodiac signs are Libra and Scorpio and the birthstone is an Opal. So far this month we missed Fire Pup Day, Farm Animals Day and the opening of Walt Disney World in Florida. No funny holidays that interest me today, but there is one of great importance and that is Child Health Day. Parents it is up to you to make sure your children receive the most updated care regarding their health, regular checkups, shots and that special touch of love. I’ll be keeping an eye on you so don’t fail me.

October is “NATIONAL PRETZEL MONTH”, one of my favorite snacks or should I say they were. Joey Z has to cut his salt intake so this kid is going to be limited. We are still going to talk about pretzels. My truly favorite is the soft pretzel with a side of mustard to dip. Roe likes the soft pretzels also but with a mild cheese sauce for her dipping pleasure. We had soft pretzels available at my grammar school. They were those good old Philly style pretzels never hot but as a kid you didn’t care it was the snack itself that mattered. When you were in Philly for a ball game, a soft pretzel was a must to have. There was another favorite of mine and I know it was one of Skips also those thin, salted Reisman pretzels sticks that came in a 3 X 5 box good for a quick snack on the run. Pretzel rods were a favorite as a kid, sold for 2 cents apiece and I spent a whole dime for five. Little corner stores had everything in those days. So no matter what pretzel is your favorite enjoy some today.

I forgot today is National Caramel Custard Day, I’m not crazy for Caramel of any kind but regular custard is fine. If you are a Caramel kind of Guy or Doll today is your day. Have a great day and see you soon.