Happy Birthday, Scott

Yesterday, the Houston Texans beat the Los Angeles Chargers to advance in the NFL playoffs. Somewhere in Florida, my brother-in-law Scott must have celebrated.  Today, he gets to celebrate again, as it is his birthday.

Scott became a Texans fan when the family lived in Houston for several years. We had a lot of fun (and great seats) at Texans games (who can forget Pittman?). Since the Bears are dismal, I thin Scott still cheers for the Texans.

I celebrate Scott from chilly Chicago. I've known him more than 40 years. He's not just a brother-in-law, he's the brother I never had (no offense to my two great sisters). I can't even begin to thank him for all he's done, but more important what he is. I hope he knows how much I appreciate him.

Happy birthday, Scott. Cheers!

Happy Birthday Scott

Today is the birthday of my brother-in-law Scott. He is in Florida and I hope he is celebrating big, because after the last few months, he really deserves it. We lost my father a couple month ago, after a two month stay in rehab/the hospital. Through that period, Scott was also dealing with the failing health of his mom, yet he still was a huge help to our family.

Dealing with one parent figure dying is tough enough, yet Scott dealt with two. In an even sadder note, Scott's mom passed on the day of my dad's funeral. So there he was helping all at my dad's funeral, all the while knowing his mom just passed. That's incredibly tough.

Then a week later, we were all back for Joan's funeral. Although it was a sad event, Scott made it a celebration of Joan's life. It was a beautiful service, followed by a luncheon. There were plenty of tears, but lots of laughter. It is exactly what Joan would have loved.

She was full of life to the end. A real spitfire. 

I hope Scott has a great birthday. I hope it is the start of a great year for Scott and all of us. Happy birthday, Pork!

Happy Birthday Scott

Today is my brother-in-law Scott's birthday. I'm sure he is celebrating somewhere in the warmth of Florida, while I salute him from Frigid Chicago.

Not just a brother-in-law, he's a friend, mentor, brother and occasional antagonist. We've had so many good times over the 40 years I've known him. From great trips to Las Vegas to simple stuff like watching bad game shows or enduring Chicago sports teams, it's always fun. I can't thank him enough for all he's done for me, including tolerating me.

Today, I picture Scott with little Teddy, his youngest grandchild. I don't know how time flew so fast, but I appreciate the years with Scott.

Enjoy the sunshine, buddy. Happy birthday to you!

Scott and Teddy in Tinley Park, IL-December 2022.

Friend Encounters: Robin Roberts and Scott and Jean

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

A couple weeks before my recent New York trip, my sister and her husband stopped in New York during a longer trip. While staying in Times Square, they met broadcaster Robin Roberts of Good Morning America. Once again, Jean and Scott beat me on this one. I have never met Roberts.

Roberts rose to fame on ESPN starting in 1990. Her resume is impressive. She was with ESPN for 15 years, was elected to the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame for her contributions, was the first woman of color and the first openly LGBT woman to host Jeopardy! and celebrated 20 years on GMA in mid-2022, among other achievements. More importantly, she is a breast cancer survivor. Roberts is an inspiration to all.

It was a bit of good timing and a bit of patience that allowed Jean and Scott to get the pic with Roberts. Jean gave me all the info I needd to try to get a similar picture with Roberts when I was in New York. Although I was staying close enough, I had a meeting which prevented me from being out there.

Years ago, Jean and Scott saw Howie Schwab of ESPN. Now they got Roberts. One can only wonder who is next for them?

I appreciate Jean sharing the picture, even though I am envious I don't have one. Still, I can experience it vicariously through them.

Scott, Jean and Robin Roberts in New York, NY-September 2022.

Happy Birthday, Scott

Today I celebrate the birthday of my brother-in-law Scott. There's less of him to celebrate, but the svelte Scott will celebrate like always.

After so many years of writing this blog, what else can I say about Scott? While I have hundreds of stories about him (some I couldn't write here), sometimes the best approach is a simple one. 

I have known him for more than 35 years. He's been a mentor, friend, brother and more. He's also occasionally my tormentor, but that's part of the fun. I give it back to him (almost) as good.

While I celebrate his birthday from afar, as he is whooping it up in Florida, I also express my appreciation for him. I look forward to many more fun times.

Happy birthday, Pork! Enjoy your day.

Abby, Scott and Sam in Tinley Park, IL-December 2021.

Happy Birthday Scott!

Today is my brother-in-law Scott Parker's birthday. It is the one day a year I do not take any shots at him.

Over the years of these tributes, I have called Scott a BIL, mentor, friend, brother and more. A couple years back, he also added grandpa to his lengthy resume. It's a role fit perfectly for him.

It's odd seeing him (or my sister) as a grandparent. Weren't we just all in our 20s?

Yet there he is. Grandpa Scott. Delaney is one lucky little girl. Actually, I am lucky, too.

I am sure you are enjoying your day in the Florida sunshine, but I am saluting you from frigid Chicago. Happy birthday, Scott! 

Scott and Delaney in Watervliet, MI-February 2019.

Happy Birthday Scott

I will poke and compete with Scott Parker almost any day, but today is his birthday and I'll give him his props.

It's hard to believe all of the fun we've had over all the years. It's even hard to believe how many years it's been. It's over 36 years now.

My brother-in-law by title, Scott is much more like my brother. He has helped me and supported me in far too many ways to list. He wouldn't keep score anyway, but I am forever grateful for everything. Mostly, I am just grateful for his friendship.

Despite beinga White Sox fan, Scott enjoyed the Cubs World Series run of 2016. Scott, Jean and I watched an exciting playoff game in Las Vegas and Scott was cheering for the Cubs (as odd and disturbing as that was).

Scott (and Jean) have played host so many times in Florida and Michigan. They always make everyone feel welcome, but one of the real highlights is Scott's grilling. Grillmaster Pork has quite a way around the grill. My mouth waters just thinking about his meals.

I am sure he will be celebrating in Florida (and I am so jealous as I freeze in Chicago), but I toast him from here. Happy birthday Pork! Enjoy your day!

Scott, Jean and me in Florida-February 2018.

Happy Birthday Scott!

Today, my brother-in-law Scott's birthday. I am sure he is celebrating somewhere warmer, but I send my birthday wishes from icy Chicago.

I remember the first time I saw Scott. It's hard to believe that was over 35 years ago (we were both just infants).

Over the years, Scott has been a friend, mentor, betting-nemesis and a brother. He invited me on his Canada fishing trip in 1995, when I was at a low point and the time up there really cleared my head. It was just one of many times Scott has helped me in one way or another. He even organized my move a couple years ago, easing my stress level immensely.

Of course, one of our favorite stories is when he tricked the usher (and Jimmy Wynn) into thinking Jimmy had agreed to meet us after his tv work at Minute Maid Park. That was inspired genius.

I haven't even mentioned his killer turkey burgers and frozen drinks. I have had far too many (but never enough) of those treats courtesy of Scott.

Happy birthday, Pork. I hope it's a great one!

Scott and Jean Parker and me in Las Vegas, NV-May 2017.

Billy Joel at Wrigley Field 2018

Despite being a big Billy Joel fan, my first Billy concert happened almost by accident. In the pre-internet days, info wasn't readily available everywhere. I learned about his tour for "The Bridge" as I walked by Rose Records downtown Chicago. Tickets just went on sale and I decided to go in and get a pair. I think they were about $20.

Fast forward to early this year, when another Wrigley Field concert was announced. The September date worried me a bit because of the potential weather issues, but that wouldn't stop me from attending. Billy would be 69 at concert time and you never know when he will stop touring.

My sister Jean and brother-in-law Scott agreed to join me. Although not huge fans, they enjoy concerts and I was glad to go with them, especially since I would be intruding on their 33rd anniversary.

My early weather concerns were realized, as rain was predicted for the day. We endured some rain early on through mid-afternoon. We ate lunch and did a little bar-hopping, hoping for the storm to pass, which it did by late afternoon.

Billy opened with "Big Shot" and closed with "You May Be Right," as the 4th encore song. All told, Billy and the band romped through 26 songs, with Billy getting a short rerst as two band members took the lead twice.

Crystal Taliefero took the lead on "Respect," as an homage to the recently deceased Aretha Franklin. A long-time favorite of mine, Crystal took center stage and rocked the house.

Later in the show, Mike DelGuidice showed his operatic abilities with a powerful rendition of "Nessun dorma." DelGuidice, who fronts Big Shot, a Billy cover band, has an amazing vocal range.

Billy isn't the dame raw performer that I first saw back in 1986, but he is just as enjoyable. His edgy energy has been replaced with polished showmanship. He has transitioned nicely in his older years.

This was my 12th Billy show and I will keep going as long as he keeps returning. I especially enjoyed seeing it with Jean and Scott. Sharing these experiences makes for great memories. I really appreciate them letting me join their anniversary weekend.

I wrote more about the night for Global Traveler at The Piano Man Plays Wrigley Field. It was the most read piece on GT's site, mostly thanks to DelGuidice sharing it on social media, for hich I am grateful.

Scott, Jean and me in Chicago, IL-September 2018.

Happy Birthday Jean!

Today my sister Jean celebrates her birthday.  As always, I celebrate her here and hope she has a great day.

I can never say enough good things about Jean, nor thank her enough for her unwavering support, love and help.  She always does the little things, like making sure there is plenty of Coke for my visits, but she also does the big things.  Never was this more evident than last February.

I had a fairly intense nose and throat surgery to lessen my sleep apnea attacks.  Jean flew in from Florida, put me up in her house and spent a week nursing me back to health.  I couldn't have done it without her and I dare say, it was actually fun being together.

Of course, it isn't just what she does for me which makes her great.  It's who she is.

Whether together or by phone or text, we share laughs and gripes, good times and bad.  She's a sster, but more importantly, she's a friend.

Happy birthday, Jean.  I love and appreciate you immensely!

Jean and Scott Parker in Lemont, IL-September 2017.

Happy Birthday Scott!!

Today I celebrate the birthday of my brother-in-law Scott.  Although he is in Florida, while I am freezing in Chicago, I will still send him my best wishes for a great birthday!

Scott has been a mentor, advisor, friend and brother to me.  He's always willing to help, but he's also always up to beat me at anything.  (At least I own one bowling victory over him).

Last year, Jean and Scott graciously opened their Florida place to my dad and me and we attended a couple Spring Training games while we were there.  One of the coolest parts for me was standing on the field with Scott before a Minnesota Twins game.  Scott's not into chasing celebrities like I am, yet he joined me as we tried to get interviews with the players and coaches.  One of the most memorable was On the Beat With Minnesota Twins Coach Stew Cliburn.

The Twins did not have names on their backs, but I recognized Cliburn.  I should say I recognized "a" Cliburn.  The problem was the Twins had the Cliburn twins as coaches.  I was able to get the interview with Stew, but it remains a funny moment to me.

I am certain Scott will be celebrating with Jean somewhere.  I'll be joining them in Florida soon, but for now, thank you for everything, but mostly for being a friend.  Happy birthday to Scott (from frigid Chicago)!

Scott Parker and me in Fort Myers, FL-March 2017.

Happy Birthday Scott

The man they call "Pork" is celebrating his birthday today.  I raise a toast to my brother-in-law Scott.

I've known Scott for 30+ years.  Over those years, we have experienced a lot of fun, sometimes on the same side, sometimes not, but always fun.  Recently in Las Vegas, we were on the same side, cheering for the Chicago Cubs, as they advanced to the World Series.  It was disturbing and cool seeing Scott acknowledge the Cubs for once in his life.

We also met "Jennifer Lopez."  I like to refer to this picture as SPark, JLo and JWro.  Of course, I also like to think I actually met Jennifer Lopez.  Take it for what it's worth folks.

Anyway, back to the birthday boy.  Scott has been like a brother to me and I appreciate him, all he has done and all we have done.  Even when we are on opposite sides (maybe even more so), it is always interesting because of the bond.  He really is a great guy and I must give him his props once a year.  Tomorrow, I will go back to competing with him at everything, but today he deserves the spotlight.

Happy birthday Pork.  I hope it's fantastic for you.

Scott, "Jennifer Lopez" and me in Las Vegas, NV-October 2016.

Cubs Fan Scott in Las Vegas?

My latest trip to Las Vegas started with a suggestion from my nephew Matt.  His parents (especially Scott) quickly jumped on board and I followed.  Unfortunately, Matt ended up not being able to do the trip.  Still, Scott, Jean and I made the "difficult" decision to go anyway.

It was a great trip.  It's always fun getting away, especially with family.  Vegas is always a great backdrop for entertaining times.

It was also an odd trip, as the Cubs were in the playoffs and Scott was cheering for the men in blue.  Scott is a diehard lifelong White Sox fan, but even he could not resist this Cubs team which is so likeable.

I have to applaud him for his class in supporting the rival Cubs.  He jumped on the Cubs bandwagon midway through this magical season and he stayed on it.  He did not cheer against them, to preserve the White Sox as the last baseball champs in Chicago, like other Sox fans.

As much fun as it is to cheer on opposite sides, having the three of us cheering together was really cool.  On the night before the trip, at their place, we watched as the Cubs seeming broke out of their playoff slump to explode on the Los Angeles Dodgers.  In Vegas, we watched as they beat the Dodgers to advance to the World Series.

Of course, we also had lots of other fun in Vegas.  It's always fun with Jean and Scott and I appreciate tagging along.  Go Cubs!

Jean and Scott Parker and me in Las Vegas, NV-October 2016.

Happy Birthday Scott

Where did the years go?  I was still in high school when I first met Scott.  Despite his 80's mustache, I liked him right from the start, although I couldn't really let him know that.  Our good-natured competitive pettiness dictated that we be on opposite side of just about everything.

We've been through a lot in 30+ years.  I will forever be grateful for a fishing trip to Canada which really helped me through a tough time.  Times like that create lifetime bonds.

At my nephew's recent wedding, I reflected on many things throughout the weekend.  As Scott and I hoisted a drink together, I thought of how I really appreciate him.  He's not just my sister's husband.  He's my friend (a friend I still want to crush in every bet, but a very good friend either way).

Happy birthday Pork.  Thanks for being like a brother.

Scott Parker and me in Lemont, IL-October 2015.

What Happens in Las Vegas...

My friends and I have made baseball trips since 2001.  This year, we were undecided on our destination until my brother-in-law Scott put together a Las Vegas trip for my nephew Matt's bachelor party.

The Boys of Summer left a day early, flew into Phoenix and saw the Diamondbacks defeat the San Francisco Giants.  On Thursday, we drove to Las Vegas and met up with the rest as the celebration began.

This was a trip of a lifetime.  The "Boys" include Chuck, Jason, JayHawk, Jim and me.  The rest included Louie, Scott, Matt, Kyle, Marty, Tom, Dave and Michael.  That is a baker's dozen of good friends and family.  Just getting that many guys together in Vegas was amazing.  The time we had out there was unforgettable.

Major kudos go to Scott for organizing everything.  The planning and effort he put into this was off the charts.  The food was delicious and everything else was highly enjoyable.  Things could not have run smoother.

For me, it is never about what we do, but more about doing it with great people.  I am blessed to have such a wonderful family and several awesome friends.  During the trip, we all interacted with everyone at some point or another.  It was just a seamless, fun experience start to finish.

I also have to mention a friend I made at the California while playing Pai Gow.  I have no idea if she will read this.  I did shamelessly give her my business card (but only when she doubted I was actually "Johngy").  I had a blast that night, even though she punched me and may or may not have "lied" to me several times.

You need to grab these moments when you can.  Trips like this, with friends like these, do not come along often.  I am not always a happy guy, but I have learned to really soak in these moments.

Thanks to everyone who contributed.  Next stop...Matt's wedding.

Everyone in Las Vegas, NV-September 2015.

Happy Birthday Scott

Every other day of the year, I throw barbs at Scott, my brother-in-law.  Today, I take it easy on him, because it is his birthday.

Despite our competitiveness, I have to admit we have a lot of fun.  Scott has always been there for me and I appreciate him immensely.

Last summer, we even united to make a ridiculously tasty blueberry-peach pie.  We usually are pitted against each other, but for some reason, we teamed up for the pie challenge.  It's amazing what that type of teamwork produced.

Don't get me wrong though, we quickly reverted back to our usual oneupsmanship.  I don't think the pie was even finished before we started our usual trash talk.

I digress though.  Today is Scott's day.  Happy birthday to Scott.  Enjoy your day.

Scott Parker and me in Coloma, MI-August 2014.

I Was Not in This Alone

My Marathon plan worked.  Early in my training, I put my goal on Facebook and announced that I was not alone in my Marathon comeback.  My goal was that putting it out there like that would hold me accountable, almost force me to train hard to finish the Marathon.

Never was my FB catchphrase more accurate than on Marathon weekend.  The outpouring of well wishes via texts, FB messages, videos, pictures, calls etc. overwhelmed me.  I took all of that support with me as I plodded along the 26.2 mile course.

Speaking of that course, several members of my family and friends busted their butts and met me at many spots along the way.  Seeing these familiar faces and hearing them encourage me helped me block out the pain and move onward.

Having this sort of support is very powerful.  It is uplifting and moving.  It is the greatest feeling in the world.  Yes, it is even better than the feeling of crossing that Finish Line.  However, crossing that Finish Line with them there is just the best.

I can never express my gratitude and love enough.  At least I am publicly putting it out here and telling the world that I have the best friends and family.

I was not alone in this...and I am never alone!  Love you all.

Nancy, Kyle, me, Lou, Sam, Scott and Jean in Chicago, IL-October 2014.

Friendly Encounters: Scott Parker Birthday Edition

This is a regular series about my friends who have met celebrities.  Since today is Scott's birthday, he gets feature today.

I have known Scott for about 30 years now (which is probably about 28 too long for Scott).  Over the years, we have battled and bet over just about everything.  Can that pettiness have forged a strong relationship?

Well, I am not sure if the pettiness was the main factor, but I do know that Scott is like a brother to me.  Competition can make a brotherhood.  Look at Eli and Peyton Manning.  Oh wait, they are already brothers.

We have fished together in Canada, gambled together in Las Vegas, cheered for the Astros, Texans, Rockets and Aeros in Houston and much more.  Of course, we have also cheered against each other in too many other sporting events to mention.

Speaking of Las Vegas, Scott and I ran across "Alan" on the strip.  He might not have been a dead ringer for Zach Galifianakis, but I give him points for having the baby with him.  I always applaud the extra effort.

Anyway, I had a great time with Scott and the rest on this Vegas trip, just like I always do.  I have a great family and I am glad Scott is part of it.

Happy birthday, Pork.  Thanks for being a great friend.

Me with Alan and Scott Parker in Las Vegas, NV-March 2013.

Friendly Encounters: Scott and Jean Parker Meet the Christmas M&M

This is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

What better way to start Christmas week than with a festive M&M in Las Veags.  Thanks to Jean and Scott, we have the opportunity.
Some may say Scott would go to Vegas just for this picture to give me for the site.  I really could not argue that point, but in this case, I know they went for other Vegas fun stuff.
Did I hear PaiGow?  I am sure they heard it several times.
It really doesn't matter to me why they went to Vegas.  Actually, it doesn't matter to Scott either...just as long as he goes to Vegas.  What matters is that while there, they thought of me and got the picture when the opportunity arose.
That is the essence of Friendly Encounters.  That is also the essence of great people like Jean and Scott.  Do they ever tire of trying to get fun celebrity pictures for me?  I would never know, because they always seem eager to help me.
They are great family and I love them dearly.  I love the picture, too.  Few things scream festive more than Vegas, a beer and a big holiday M&M.
Thanks guys!

Scott, the Christmas M&M and Jean Parker in Las Vegas, NV-November 2013.

Happy Birthday Scott

The picture below represents something very near and dear.  Over the years, it has given me great happiness.  It has always been there for me.
I am talking about a great sandwich from Kenny & Ziggy's in Houston.  I have been there many times and have always walked away satiated.  We weighed the sandwich once and I believe it came in over one pound.  That is one pound of delicious freshness.  It is ridiculously tasty and filling.
Also in the picture is my brother-in-law Scott.  Much like the sandwich, Scott weighs in at over one pound.  Also like the sandwich, over the years, Scott has always been there for me.  For a few years, I could only see both in Houston, but Scott (and the family) have moved back.  I couldn't ask for more from a sandwich or a brother-in-law.
Why am I comparing Scott to a sandwich?  Honestly, if I just wrote nice things about Scott, he would either think I am crazy or turning soft (as soft as that tasty bread of a Kenny & Ziggy's sandwich).
In all seriousness, Scott is a great guy and has been like a brother.  He has helped me too many times to count.
Today is his birthday and I hope he has a great one (as great as a sandwich from Kenny & Ziggy's).
Happy birthday Scott (and don't think I have gone soft...I will still bet against anything you want).

Scott Parker at Kenny & Ziggy's in Houston, TX-Summer 2012.