One could be made exclusively for the memory of Joe "Red" Simpson

A CUPPA JOE ("RED" SIMPSON)

 

The Marbled Halls of the Cal

 

1977 -- Bakersfield Memorial Day Parade

 

Amazed I was to find these photos and others on the 'net. In bygone days I was the turntable operator for Santa Fe Railroad in Bakersfield and these roundhouse photos are from that 1970s era. Fred Wells was the head honcho in the main office down the tracks. Many great memories from those overall-wearing days.

Bakersfield, where 100 degree summer days last 30 days or more in succession. The Plunge was a welcome swimming pool on South Union Avenue. I don't remember there being a café nearby. I can imagine a sign inside the café warning: SWIM, THEN EAT -- DON'T EAT THEN SWIM. AVOID STOMACH CRAMPS.

 Attention Nashville! This is not progress.....

Replacing the Hermitage Cafe with something called Mr. J's, described as a "West-Coast Burgers" eatery? Maybe if it was West Coast like in In-N-Out Burgers. Maybe. But this is akin to leveling the Brown Derby in Hollywood for Vinnie's Spaghetti Joint. Money, I know, I get it. Still, it's Nashville's loss.

 Cliff Urseth, my intrepid publisher at the Daily Independent in Ridgecrest, Calif., where I held the Sports Editor slot. He's younger here than how I remember him then. Write on, Cliff, wherever you may be.