Embracing Kindness and Inclusivity in Our Communities: An Open Letter to the Universe

Recently, I've had a lot weighing on my mind. While I usually try to create a blog entry daily and keep the experience positive and light, this one is a bit deeper due to a mixture of experiences. I've received negative comments on social media regarding some of my blog entries and posts, witnessed friends being bullied, and observed individuals trying to influence others through overblown he said/she said situations. All these incidents have made me reflect on the importance of kindness, inclusivity, and understanding. As the saying goes, "Blowing out someone else's candle doesn't make yours shine any brighter."

In today's world, it's more important than ever to stand up for ourselves and our beliefs while also treating others with kindness and respect. It's easy to get caught up in our own perspectives and passionate feelings, but sometimes our words and actions can unintentionally hurt others.

One thing to keep in mind is that information can often come from second or third-hand, he said/she said accounts. It's important to consider all perspectives and seek to understand the full picture before making judgments or taking sides.

Inclusivity is a wonderful goal, but true inclusivity requires efforts from all sides. It means respecting different perspectives and supporting each other, even when we don't always agree. By focusing on the positive aspects of our relationships and lifting each other up, we can create a more supportive and understanding community.

Unfortunately, jealousy and negative comments often arise when someone achieves something good for themselves. It's essential to recognize these feelings and not let them affect our interactions with others. Instead of being envious or critical, we should celebrate each other's successes and support one another's growth.

Mental illness is another important aspect to consider. It's crucial to be empathetic and understanding towards those who may be struggling with mental health issues. Offering support and resources can make a significant difference in someone's life. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health challenges, there are several resources available:

• 988 Lifeline: A 24/7 crisis line for mental health support. Call 988 to connect with a crisis counselor.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine: Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or text "HELPLINE" to 62640 for support and resources.

• Crisis Text Line: Text "REASON" to 741741 for free, confidential support 24/7.

Bullying is another issue that can have a profound impact on individuals. It's essential to create a safe and supportive environment where bullying is not tolerated. If you or someone you know is experiencing bullying, there are resources available to help:

• StopBullying.gov: Provides information on how to prevent and respond to bullying.

• National Bullying Prevention Center: Offers resources and toolkits for bullying prevention.

• KnowBullying App: A free app from SAMHSA that helps boost confidence and resilience in children and provides strategies for facing bullying.

Letting go of past grievances and learning to forgive is an important step towards personal growth and building healthier relationships. Holding onto anger and resentment can weigh us down, whereas forgiveness can free us and allow us to move forward. Being the bigger person doesn't mean ignoring the hurt but rather choosing to rise above it and focus on positive interactions. While I have done my share of bullying in the past, I've tried to make amends to those I have wronged and strive to make things right between others when possible.

Over the past few months, many of us have been working on projects aimed at bringing people together and fostering a sense of family within our communities. These efforts are not just about the projects themselves, but about creating connections and strengthening bonds among all of us.

Self-help books can also be a great resource for personal growth and understanding. Here are some highly recommended titles:

• "Atomic Habits" by James Clear: Learn how small changes can lead to remarkable results. This book is one of the top selling books where I work.

• "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz: Discover the power of personal integrity. A short but great read

• "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck" by Mark Manson: Embrace a more resilient and unapologetic approach to life. This is one of my absolute favorite books and it sells out as fast as I stock it at work.

• "Daring Greatly" by Brené Brown: Explore the courage to be vulnerable and connect with others. Her books are amazing no matter which you start with but I suggest this one first.

• "You Are a Badass" by Jen Sincero: Boost your self-confidence and achieve your goals. Because no matter what anyone thinks, you are your own priority.

Additionally, self-help groups can provide a supportive community for those seeking personal growth and understanding. Here are some groups you might find helpful:

• Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): Offers support groups for anxiety, depression, OCD, and more. I sugger from all of the above and there's no shame in reaching out for help.

• Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA): Provides support groups for bipolar disorder and depression.

• Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD): Offers support for ADHD and related challenges.

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): Provides support for eating disorders and related issues.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Connects individuals with mental illness to support groups and resources.

Let's strive to avoid negativity and bullying, and instead, embrace empathy and kindness. By doing so, we can make a big difference in our communities and in the lives of those around us.

Thank you for being open to understanding different perspectives and for your commitment to making our community/world a better place.

Take care, Adrian S. Duarté 💖

Hooray for Hollywood: The True Story of an Original GLOW Girl - From Ring to Real Life: The Heartfelt Journey of Jeanne Basone

My book reviews are typically posted on Thursdays. However, considering the significance of this book—Hooray For Hollywood by the GLOW girl Hollywood, Jeanne Basone—I've decided to make an exception. This isn't just a book review; it's also part of my Saturday GLOWcase blog series, where I highlight personalities connected to my all-time favorite show, Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (GLOW). This dual-purpose post celebrates Jeanne's amazing new release and honors the enduring legacy of GLOW.

If you were into Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (GLOW) back in the day, you definitely remember Hollywood, Jeanne Basone. She wasn’t just a pretty face—Hollywood was the very first to be cast as a GLOW girl and became one of the show’s most iconic villains. With her glamorous street girl persona and killer moves, she knew how to bring drama and excitement to the ring. Her character had the glitz of the Sunset Strip with an edge of menace that made her so intriguing to watch.

Hollywood Jeanne Basone, in Hollywood

In the ring, Hollywood was fierce. She brought a blend of charisma and athleticism to her villainous role, always keeping the audience on their toes. Her high-energy matches against the good girls were legendary, packed with intense action and loads of attitude. From the pilot episode to the unexpected final episode, Hollywood cemented her status as a top competitor and a formidable opponent.

But Jeanne's book, Hooray for Hollywood: The True Story of an Original GLOW Girl, released December 25, 2024, is so much more than just a recount of her wrestling days. It's a heartfelt and raw journey through her entire life. Jeanne dives deep into her childhood, the traumatic events she's endured, her loves and losses, her family, and growing up. She even shares her travels and her long term relationship with her incredible boyfriend, musician Ryan Spencer Cook. This book truly covers it all and gives you a genuine look into the person behind Hollywood.

This isn't just Jeanne's story—it's the story of her friends, colleagues, and family. Her perspective is inclusive and almost every detail is written from the heart, with love, no matter how painful or traumatic. As a long-time fan and friend of Jeanne, I was deeply moved by how she shared not just her life, but the lives of her friends and fans—including myself! Jeanne's ability to weave these personal anecdotes into her story makes it so relatable and touching. It's a beautiful reminder of how powerful friendships can be and the impact we can have on each other's lives.

What really stands out in this book are the memories and stories from Jeanne's friends and family. There's content written by her sisters Julie and Joelle, GLOW's head writer Steve Blance, actor Douglas Dunning (aka Sir Miles Headlock of GLOW), rock music photographer Michael Strider, and fans like William Taylor, Kim Krieger, Mike Rand, Shawn Campbell, Manny Briano, Andrew Zeranick, and myself. This collective memoir makes the book feel like a shared journey. The segments about our own friendship and history as fans were especially touching. Jeanne’s storytelling is engaging and heartfelt, making it impossible to put the book down.

The photos in the book are truly spectacular, with an amazing shot taken in the Dominican Republic by my partner, Terry. These images add so much depth to the stories, bringing the memories to life in vivid detail. It's like you’re right there, experiencing everything alongside Jeanne and her friends.

A spread from GLOW Magazine feature Hollywood

After GLOW, Hollywood didn’t just disappear. Jeanne kept wrestling on the indie circuit and dabbled in acting, stunt work, and modeling. She’s appeared in Playboy, Married with Children, Liar Liar, and countless other movies, TV shows, and magazines. Jeanne's versatility and talent have made her a multifaceted performer, showcasing her skills beyond the wrestling ring. One of her most iconic projects was playing Jane in the video game Plumbers Don't Wear Ties. Her legacy as one of GLOW’s top bad girls lives on, especially with the resurgence of interest in GLOW thanks to the Netflix series. Jeanne's journey from a glamorous villain in the ring to a multifaceted performer is a testament to her talent and determination.

Jeanne bravely addresses the bullying incidents involving certain ladies of GLOW as well as their fans, both towards Jeanne and her fans. Her candidness in setting the record straight is empowering and enlightening. Jeanne's honesty and courage in speaking out about these issues are truly inspiring. Hollywood may have been a bad girl in the ring, but she's a very good girl outside of it. Her book is not just a memoir but a powerful statement against bullying and overcoming adversity, showing that even in the face of challenges, one can rise above and make a positive impact. Her journey is a testament to resilience and the strength to stand up against unfair treatment and adversity.

Terry and I with Jeanne, on a cruise 2018

Today, Jeanne's got her hands in a lot of fires, in addition to her her own comic books and now her memoir Hooray For Hollywood, she still wrestles and makes soap for her company Hollywood Botanika. If you loved Hollywood, be sure to look her up on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and her Etsy Store https://www.etsy.com/shop/GLOWHollywoodMerch. You might also catch her at fan conventions for wrestling, comic books, and her yearly appearance at the CAC in Las Vegas. Anyone who's ever met her can attest that Hollywood is one of the most fan-friendly wrestlers you could ever meet.

Jeanne also includes beautiful tributes to the GLOW girls who have passed away, such as Matilda the Hun, Tara the Southern Belle, Sally the Farmer's Daughter, Star, Mountain Fiji, Angel, Pepper, Aunt Kitty, Big Bad Mama, Babe the Farmer's Daughter and several others. These tributes are a heartfelt and touching homage to her fellow wrestlers, preserving their legacy and the impact they had on the wrestling world.

You can purchase Hooray for Hollywood: The True Story of an Original GLOW Girl by Jeanne Basone (ISBN# 9798218566524) from various online retailers, including:

Amazon: Amazon.com

Jeanne’s official website: JeanneBasone.com

Jeanne's etsy shop: etsy.com/shop/GLOWHollywoodMerch

Hooray for Hollywood: The True Story of an Original GLOW Girl is a must-read for anyone who loves a good, candid, and truthful biography, 1980's pop culture, and professional wrestling—especially ladies wrestling. Jeanne Basone has truly outdone herself with this remarkable work, creating a book that is both entertaining and deeply moving. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone looking for an inspiring and captivating read.

Yours truly enjoying Hooray for Hollywood!

Each Saturday, I post a blog entry featuring memories of a Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling personality, including the wrestlers, crew, management, as well as fans who loved the show as kids and into adulthood.

If you would like to purchase episodes of GLOW on DVD, Blu-Ray or VHS, check out eBay for deals on NEW and media.

Time Capsule 1988: Revisiting 1988: A Year of Iconic Moments in Pop Culture and Personal Stories

A Look Back at 1988: A Year of Change and Pop Culture

1988 was one of those years that seemed packed with significant moments and cultural highlights. Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the standout details.

Cost of Living 

Median yearly income (all families): $32,191 

Minimum wage (per hour): $3.35 

College tuition: $6,725* (*Average annual cost of tuition, room and board at a four-year institution) 

Median cost of a new home: $112,500 

Postage stamp: $0.25 Gas (1 gallon): $0.90 

Gold (1 oz.): $437 Coffee (11.5 oz. can): $1.49 

Post Grape Nuts (24 oz. box): $1.99 

Coca-Cola (6 12-oz. cans): $1.79 

Movie ticket: $4.11

Politics & Population: Ronald Reagan was the U.S. president, with George H.W. Bush as the vice president. The U.S. population was around 244.5 million, while the world population was estimated at 5.1 billion.

Pop Culture Highlights: 1988 saw some notable cultural moments. 

• Wrigley Field in Chicago hosted its first night baseball game under the lights.
• At just 17, Debbie Gibson became the youngest artist to write, produce, and perform a No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 with "Foolish Beat." 
• The League of Women Voters stopped supporting presidential debates, citing concerns about the debate format. 
• An Aboriginal man planted a flag on the cliffs of Dover, claiming England for the Aborigines. 
• In Rio de Janeiro, a popular monkey received over 400,000 votes in the mayoral election due to citizen dissatisfaction with politicians. 
• Sadly, "Pistol" Pete Maravich passed away from a heart attack at age 40 after a 10-year NBA career.

Notable New Products: Some cool new products that hit the market in 1988 included:

• Calvin Klein's Obsession for Men
• Lunchables
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Action Figures

Major News Events: 

• January 26th saw the opening of "The Phantom of the Opera," the longest-running Broadway musical ever.
• On March 16th, former national security adviser John Poindexter and former National Security Council aide Oliver North were indicted on charges of conspiracy to defraud the U.S. government. 
• April 5th marked the hijacking of Kuwait Airways Flight 422 en route from Bangkok, Thailand, to Kuwait. 
• NASA scientist James Hansen testified to the U.S. Senate on June 23rd, stating that man-made global warming had begun. 
• The Iran-Iraq War ended on July 20th, with a million lives lost over nearly eight years. NASA resumed space shuttle flights with the space shuttle Discovery on September 29th, after grounding them post-Challenger disaster. 
• A wildfire in Montana expanded into Yellowstone National Park on September 30th, burning nearly 800,000 acres. 
• Finally, on November 2nd, the Morris worm, one of the first computer worms distributed via the internet, was launched from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The October 1988 to April 1989 TV season featured several top shows, including "The Cosby Show" (NBC), "Who's the Boss?" (ABC), "Roseanne" (ABC), "Murder, She Wrote" (CBS), "A Different World" (NBC), "Cheers" (NBC), "Empty Nest" (NBC), "60 Minutes" (CBS), "The Golden Girls" (NBC), and "Anything But Love" (ABC).

The 1989 Academy Awards honored films released in 1988. "Rain Man" won Best Picture, with Dustin Hoffman taking home Best Actor for his role in the film. Jodie Foster won Best Actress for her performance in "The Accused." Kevin Kline received Best Supporting Actor for "A Fish Called Wanda," and Geena Davis won Best Supporting Actress for "The Accidental Tourist." Barry Levinson was awarded Best Director for "Rain Man."

1988 saw the premieres of several iconic TV series. On January 19, "48 Hours" debuted on CBS. January 31 brought us "The Wonder Years" on ABC. February 7 marked the start of "America's Most Wanted" on FOX, which later moved to Lifetime. "In the Heat of the Night" premiered on NBC on March 6 before later transitioning to CBS. April 26 saw the debut of "China Beach" on ABC. In the fall, "Empty Nest" premiered on NBC on October 8, followed by "Roseanne" on ABC on October 18 and "Murphy Brown" on CBS on November 14.

Several beloved TV series also came to an end in 1988. "9 to 5" concluded on March 28 on ABC. "Magnum, P.I." and "Truth or Consequences" both aired their final episodes on May 1, with "Magnum, P.I." on CBS and "Truth or Consequences" in syndication. May 7 saw the end of "The Facts of Life" on NBC and "Spenser: For Hire" on ABC. "Max Headroom" wrapped up on May 12 on ABC, and "St. Elsewhere" concluded on May 25 on NBC.

Some of the most popular movies of 1988 included "Rain Man," "Who Framed Roger Rabbit," "Coming to America," "Big," and "Die Hard."

In the world of sports, 1988 saw the Los Angeles Dodgers win the World Series, while the San Francisco 49ers claimed victory in Super Bowl XXIII (determined in January 1989). The Los Angeles Lakers were the NBA Champions, and Stefan Edberg and Steffi Graf won the Wimbledon singles titles. The Kansas Jayhawks were the NCAA Basketball Champions, and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish took the NCAA Football Championship. Barry Sanders, running back for Oklahoma State, won the Heisman Trophy. Sandy Lyle won the PGA Masters Tournament, and Rick Mears took first place in the Indianapolis 500. Winning Colors was the Kentucky Derby Champion, and the Edmonton Oilers won the Stanley Cup.

Some of the top Billboard hits of 1988 included:

• "Faith" by George Michael
• "Need You Tonight" by INXS
• "Got My Mind Set on You" by George Harrison
• "Never Gonna Give You Up" by Rick Astley
• "Sweet Child o' Mine" by Guns N' Roses
• "So Emotional" by Whitney Houston
• "Heaven Is a Place on Earth" by Belinda Carlisle
• "Could've Been" by Tiffany
• "Hands to Heaven" by Breathe
• "Roll With It" by Steve Winwood
• "One More Try" by George Michael
• "Wishing Well" by Terence Trent D'Arby

In the world of books, 1988 brought us popular titles like "The Cardinal of the Kremlin" by Tom Clancy, "The Sands of Time" by Sidney Sheldon, "Zoya" by Danielle Steel, "Alaska" by James A. Michener, "The Queen of the Damned" by Anne Rice, and "One" by Richard Bach.

When it comes to toys, kids were all about the Barbie TV Game Show Set, Airless Hockey, Cricket Doll, Power Wheels Fire Truck, Gerry Giraffe Rocker, Transformers Optimus Prime, Playskool Kitchen, and the Tastybake Oven.

Popular vehicles in 1988 included the Ford F-Series pickup, Honda Accord, Ford Mustang 5.0, Chevy C-K Series pickup, Ford Escort, and Chevy Corsica.

1988 was also a year marked by the loss of many notable individuals. We said goodbye to:

• Basketball legend Pete Maravich (born June 22, 1947) on January 5
• Pappy Boyington (born January 4, 1912) on January 11
• Child actress Heather O'Rourke (born December 27, 1975) on February 1
• Richard Feynman (born May 11, 1918) passed away on February 15
• Performer Divine (born October 19, 1945) on March 7
• Musician Andy Gibb (born March 5, 1958) died on March 10
• Author Robert A. Heinlein (born July 7, 1907) passed on May 8
• Jazz musician Chet Baker (born December 23, 1929) died on May 13
• Author Louis L'Amour (born March 22, 1908) passed away on June 10
• Writer Raymond Carver (born May 25, 1938) died on August 2
• Actor Ralph Meeker (born November 21, 1920) on August 5
• Cartoonist Charles Addams (born January 7, 1912) passed on September 29
• Actor John Houseman (born September 22, 1902) on October 31
• Finally, we lost music legend Roy Orbison (born April 23, 1936) on December 6

In terms of what's on the newsstands: 

• TIME Magazine's July 4, 1988 issue focused on the Midwest suffering through its worst drought in 50 years, raising concerns about global warming. 
• People Magazine's September 12, 1988 issue crowned John F. Kennedy Jr. as the Sexiest Man Alive. 
• Vanity Fair Magazine's June 1988 issue highlighted the success of the TV series "Moonlighting" and Cybill Shepherd's return to the movies.
• MAD Magazine's March 1988 issue featured a Michael Jackson parody titled "Bad."

1988 was also the birth year for several notable individuals:

• Skrillex (January 15)
• Charlie Barnett (February 4)
• Clayton Kershaw (March 19)
• Colton Haynes (July 13)
• Zosia Mamet (February 2) 
• Stephen Curry (March 14) 
• Alicia Sixtos (May 27)
• Julianne Hough (July 20)
• Rumer Willis (August 16)
• Jeremy Lin (August 23)
• Alexa PenaVega (August 27)
• Katrina Bowden (September 19)
• Kevin Durant (September 29)
• Glen Powell (October 21)
• Emma Stone (November 6)
• Zoë Kravitz (December 1)
• Vanessa Hudgens (December 14)

A Look Back at 1988: A Personal Reflection of 1988 (This will get dark)

As I looked over many of the facts from this time capsule, it jogged my memory of a lot of personal things going on within that year. So I thought I might expand that time capsule and throw my memories and a little bit of my personal story of the year into the universe just because.

1988 was one of those years when so much happened in my already short life. My sister was a senior in high school, and I was a 7th grader at Pace Middle School. I encountered my first bully situation due to my status as an LGBT person, although I hadn’t a clue at the time that I was different from the other kids. From that bullying experience, I met my friend TK, who helped me work through some of the frustration. I struggled to play the clarinet in second year band—an instrument I hadn't chosen myself, but rather what the band director, Mr. Riggs, convinced my parents I should play.

1988 was also the year that I fell in love with the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling and professional wrestling. Though I loved listening to all of the Madonna tapes released up until that point, I was also hooked on albums like Whitney Houston's "Whitney," George Michael's "Faith," and every song by Debbie Gibson that played on the radio. My weekends often involved visits to the Skateland Skating Rink in Milton, Florida, where my dad would take me. Roller skating to tunes by Trinere, Debbie Deb, and Exposé became a mental release for me.

I experienced a significant shift in my life when the person who had been causing me harm, who lived just a few doors down, began to leave me alone. This change brought a sense of relief, though it also left me with lingering concerns about what might have happened next. It was a secret I carried with me until my 40s, when I finally felt ready to share my story.

That same year, I transitioned from Webelos to Boy Scouts, hoping for a fresh start. Unfortunately, the following year at Boy Scout camp, I faced another traumatic experience. Despite these challenges, I kept these painful memories to myself for many years, only finding the strength to open up about them later in life.

1988 was also the year that I came home from school one day to find my English Springer Spaniel, Pickles, gone. I was told that she was too aggressive towards the neighbor kid, Will McKenzie, who kept putting his hands through the fence. That wasn't her nature at all; Will was just taunting her. No matter how much I tried to convince my parents that I had seen Will tease Pickles countless times, sometimes even getting their collie and Pickles to fight for food through the fence, they wouldn't change their minds. Pickles had been given to me in the first grade after my dad had used his rifle to put my beagle, Chip, to rest due to an unfortunate rattlesnake bite in our yard. I was heartbroken. Just before Christmas, my dad took mercy upon me and let me pick out a puppy from a litter being sold at Bonnie’s Pet Grooming in Pace, Florida. I chose a black and white Cocker Spaniel with the same sort of markings as Pickles. I named her Peaches.

My review of Elphie: A Wicked Childhood" by Gregory Maguire

Gregory Maguire is back at it again with "Elphie: A Wicked Childhood," a prequel to his amazing "Wicked" series. Set to be released on March 25, 2025, this book dives into the early days of Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West.

As someone who orders books for my store, I was lucky enough to get early access to "Elphie," courtesy of HarperCollins. And let me tell you, it's a fantastic read!

"Elphie" gives us a peek into the childhood of Elphaba, who is just as intriguing as you'd imagine. Growing up with a wild mix of a free-spirited mom and a super strict dad, she faces all sorts of family drama. Plus, her green skin makes her stand out, but it's her cleverness and strong will that really make her shine.

Maguire does an awesome job of blending themes like love, loss, and the search for who you really are. Elphaba's interactions with the Animals (the talking creatures of Oz) and her rocky relationships with her siblings, Nessarose and Shell, add layers to her character that you might not have expected.

Even though "Elphie" might tug at your heartstrings, it's definitely a must-read for any "Wicked" fan. The backstory it provides really helps you understand why Elphaba becomes the way she is. You'll see the events that shape her into the iconic Wicked Witch.

To sum it up, "Elphie: A Wicked Childhood" is a fantastic addition to the "Wicked" world. It sheds light on the early experiences that made Elphaba such a captivating character. Fans of Maguire's work are in for a treat with this prequel. It's both enlightening and emotionally engaging.

Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip: A 12-Year-Old's Bar & Beach Winter Adventure

The year I was in the 7th grade, Mama and Daddy became friends with a lady they worked with at Hackbarth Delivery Service named Angie. Angie was a very sweet lady of Mexican heritage who loved painting ceramic figures, a hobby my mom picked up from her. Mama loved any sort of crafts; she had learned tole painting from my classmate Kerry Ferrell's mom, Judy, years before and passed on her knowledge of tole painting to Angie.

My dad and Angie were better friends than what we all thought, but that's a story covered in my second book, if it gets published and no doubt future blog entries.

Angie was married to a biker type named Butch who was super nice. Though his name didn't really fit his stature—short and skinny but definitely rough—Butch was a cool man. He gave me my first hit of weed, and I knew even at the age of 12 that it was not for me. The smell of it reminded me of the time that I got skunked, and I just couldn't get past the odor. Every other weekend, I would stay with Angie and Butch at their house in Pensacola, riding their dirt bike and my go-cart in the area behind their house. Butch and Angie also had motorcyles, which were always fun to take a ride on.

My parents had plans for New Year's Eve and didn't want me to be alone, so they decided to send me to Angie and Butch's house on an odd weekend.

Butch had a son a few years younger than me named Chris and a daughter a few years older than me named Francine, both of whom he didn't have custody of. They would stay with him every other weekend. This was one such weekend, and I slept on the couch rather than in the room Francine stayed in during her visits.

They had all been talking about the Polar Bear Dip and how much fun it would be. I honestly didn't know what it meant, but I was all in. They made sure to tell me I needed to bring swimwear. Cool, I guess. It had been raining a little throughout the day, the high was in the 60s, but when we arrived at the bar, Flora-Bama, it was in the lower 50s.

We went inside. It wasn't the first time I had been in a bar, but it was the first time I was in a bar with other kids. Francine instructed Chris and me to secretly (not letting adults know what we were doing) look for random cups that were left around the bar that were still over half full, as well as beer cans. We found a good bit of them. Francine took it upon herself to drink from the cups with colored beverages. I chose to drink from one of the beer cans because it felt like it was barely touched. Chris' can of beer not only contained a good bit of leftover beer, but someone had obviously used it as an ashtray because his second drink from the can brought out a cigarette butt. He promptly spit it out, and I put my can down and found Angie and asked her if she could get me a Coca-Cola.

When the sparse crowd began to head out of the bar and down to the beach, we followed. Just as everyone was doing, I took my shoes, socks, and shirt off and headed into the water. It was pretty cold, but it was brown and just as dark and cloudy as the sky. I thought we were all going for a swim and that we would get used to it, but once we were all in, everyone turned around and got out. I thought there might have been a shark or something, so I followed. I was confused.

Once I got out, the cold air hit my saltwater-soaked body, and I was ready for a towel down and proper clothes. I got my shirt, socks, and shoes back on but could feel sand in my socks—a feeling I still hate. I thought we were all going to go back into the bar, but Angie and Butch headed to their truck, so Francine, Chris, and I followed them. They turned the truck heater up as far as it would go, and we were on the way to Pace, where they dropped me off before going back to Pensacola. Though it was a Thursday and I love spending weekends with Butch and Angie, I didn't car much for Chris and I didn't like sharing Angie's attention with anyone else and Francine was not really that nice to me.

I was really confused about the point of getting into the water, but apparently, I had just taken part in an annual event known as the Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip. Did I have fun? Nope. If I were more informed, would I have done it? Nope. Would I do it again? Nope.

As an adult, I look back on that experience with a mix of amusement and bewilderment. The idea of willingly plunging into icy waters, though not exactly icy, on a cold day just doesn't appeal to me anymore. The thrill of the Polar Bear Dip is something I can appreciate from afar, but it's not an adventure I need to repeat. Some memories are best left in the past, and for me, the Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip is one of them.

I often wonder what became of Angie and Butch after their divorce, as well as Chris and Francine. I have a vision that Francine may still be a party girl over 30 years later, and I hope they are all doing well. As I stated, I may share stories about my time with Angie before she was told that she was no longer welcome in my family's lives not too long after this day. While she was no longer welcome, she and I had some great times together.

A New Year's Eve to Remember: My New Years Kiss with a Real Boyfriend

"AI Alex" stepping into the chilly Gulf water

The following story is from the first draft of one of the books I am writing about some of my life experiences. Since it’s New Year’s Eve, I thought I would share the story of my first New Year’s Eve spent with an actual boyfriend. But before we dive into that night, I need to give you a bit of backstory.

When TK and I met in the 6th grade, we quickly became friends who hooked up more than just occasionally, but we never became boyfriends. We had an agreement that if either of us hooked up with someone else, we wouldn’t tell each other. We always played the part of the inexperienced one with new partners. However, I was searching for something more meaningful.

During my 10th grade year, I met Alex. My relationship with Alex was definitely interesting, especially with my mom being completely overbearing and overprotective. Now, let me take you through that memorable New Year’s Eve night with Alex.

Towards the end of December, Mama decided to go to Kissimmee with a friend, leaving me under the supervision of my dad. Although my sister, Becki, wasn't living with us at the time, she would still come by occasionally. Becki was very close to my dad and would visit frequently just to see him. Daddy wasn't as overbearing and didn't mind when I would come and go, as long as I wasn't hanging out with Jon Lawrence anymore and I let him know where I was going and how long I would be there.

I had informed Alex that my mom was going out of town a week before she left. On the day Mama departed for Kissimmee, Alex called me and asked if there was any way I could get away for New Year's Eve. I had no idea how I would make it happen, but I said yes and began figuring out a plan.

Alex was a great guy. I was 15, and he was 21 or 22, so the age difference didn't seem too significant to me. Besides my friends Costa and TK, I had an affinity for older guys. But to my mom, Alex might as well have been 50. She thought he was straight from the devil, out to corrupt me. Little did Mama know, a neighbor—a 40-year-old man she was friends with, and the father of a girl in my grade—had already contributed to the delinquency of her son from the ages of 9 to 12 years old.

When New Year's Eve morning arrived, I lied to Daddy and told him I was going to spend the night with my friend TK, and he was okay with that. I actually had Alex pick me up a few houses down from my place, just in case Daddy was looking out the window, which he did frequently due to being super nosey. Alex and I drove over to Fort Walton Beach from Pace and checked in at the Red Roof Inn.

Alex made sure he grabbed everything we would need: drinks, snacks, and some provisions from the adult section at Spencer's. It sounds funny now, but aside from pharmacies where you could get basic stuff like KY Jelly, Spencer's was basically the only place in Pensacola that sold lube and toys for adult activities at the time.

Alex had a friend who invited us to a party where there were no adult beverages or substances, which I really wasn't interested in at the time because I was there to enjoy my time with Alex. I wanted to be lucid and not waste our time together or forget it. We had a great time at the party, though in my mind, I just wanted to be alone with Alex.

When Alex and I left the party, we stopped off at a park by the beach and went down to hang out by the water. I love going to the beach at night; something about it has a completely different feel than the daytime, plus it seemed romantic. The outside temperature was around 46 degrees, but with the wind and the fact we were next to the water, it felt even colder. Alex actually took his shoes and socks off. I wasn't complaining because, hey, he's already stripping down for me. I think he thought it would be fun to get his feet wet, but when he stepped into the water, he quickly stepped out, drying off his feet as best he could with his sweater sleeve before putting his socks and shoes back on. While the water was most likely around 60 degrees, which is normal for the Gulf of Mexico in December, the 40-degree air probably made it seem way colder.

While I'd like to say we made out by the beach, it was far too cold for that, and I'm sure Alex's cold and sandy feet didn't help matters. We just kissed a few times on the beach before heading back to the hotel. At the hotel, we stayed up most of the night enjoying each other's company, watching basic cable and cracking up at the "flavors" of the three lubes he had bought at Spencer's, with Strawberry being my favorite. The night was incredible, and I told him I wished we had one more night to hang out. By the time the sun came up, it was over. He had to get back to work the day after New Year's Day, and I was pretty sure my dad would get suspicious if I stayed out one more night.

When I returned home, my dad already knew I wasn't where I was supposed to be. I knew I should have called TK to tell him to cover for me, but I didn't want him to know I was out with someone else, as per our agreement on not telling each other about our hookups. TK had called to wish me a Happy New Year, which tipped my dad off to the fact that I wasn't at his house. In fact, no one knew where I was, which probably upset him. But something about my dad was that he knew which battles to fight with my mom over, and I was not one of them.

Daddy told me to be honest about where I was, and I don't know why, but I told him I was with Alex and that Alex was not the person Mama thought he was. He told me he wouldn't tell my mom, but unfortunately, somehow my sister knew. My dad probably called her to ask if she had seen me, and when my mom returned, I was already ratted out.

My relationship with Alex ended a few weeks later, not because we weren't getting along—it was quite the opposite. My mom didn't want us to be involved with each other. She met Alex over coffee and threatened him, which I didn't find out about until many years later. As much as it hurt, I see the end of our relationship as a blessing in disguise because had it not ended, I probably would have never left home and never made my way to New York and experienced all the things I did from May 1992 to March 1993.

Flash forward to December 31, 2024, and Alex and I are still friends and still appreciate the great memories of our brief time together. While this wasn't the first time I enjoyed a New Year's kiss with someone, it was the first time I enjoyed one with a real boyfriend rather than TK, my friend who was just a boy.

Potato Cheese & Corn Chowder: A Winter Comfort Food

Now that winter is in full swing, I thought I'd share my favorite winter comfort food recipe just in time for all those winter storms we may or may not get. No matter what, it's an amazingly easy and delicious recipe.

I toyed around with the recipe in the old Better Homes and Gardens recipe book and found ways to improve upon it, developing my own version of chowder. My version is pretty much foolproof. In the BH&G recipe, the milk is one of the first ingredients added, and unfortunately, 99% of the time, I burned or scalded the milk, which ruined the entire batch. My version saves that step until it's safe to go into the mix.

Ingredients:
7 medium potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
32 oz chicken broth
1 cup milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
1 16 oz can whole kernel corn
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tbsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

• Boil the potatoes until tender. Drain.
• Reserve 1 cup of potatoes and return the remaining to the saucepan. Mash the reserved potatoes, then return them to the saucepan.
• Stir in the broth, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes.
• In a small bowl, whisk the milk and flour together until smooth, then add to the saucepan, stirring constantly.
• Stir until the mixture thickens, then add the cheese and corn. Stir until the cheese melts.

Bacon and chopped scallions make great additions as garnish.

This is comfort food, not for a calorie-counting day for sure. Enjoy!

Childhood Game Nights With A Built In Babysitter...my sister

My sister and I were very close when we were young. Despite the six-year age gap between us, I was a quick learner and could play games meant for older kids even at the age of three. This often meant that my nine-year-old sister could make up her own rules to ensure she wasn't bested by a toddler. When she was old enough to stay home alone, she became my built-in babysitter. What better way to entertain a child for hours than to play games?

At that time, the Atari 2600 was hugely popular, but we didn’t get our first one until many years later, just before they were discontinued to make way for the 5200 and 7800. Our family didn’t have a lot of money, so my mom discovered the joys of yard sale shopping. This was before thrift stores became as common as they are today, at least the ones people would actually shop at.

Yard sales, flea markets, junk markets, and trading posts were regular occurrences and treasure troves for a struggling family. New toys and games were reserved for Christmas or birthdays. Why spend $8 or $9 on a new game when you could buy the same game for $1? Aside from the tattered box, the contents were usually as good as new. These inexpensive investments became our go-to activities when we were bored, stuck inside on rainy days, or had no money for outings.

The family games, which excluded me due to my age, were Monopoly and Scrabble. Monopoly, intended for ages 8 and up, is a classic board game where players buy, trade, and develop properties to bankrupt their opponents. Scrabble, also for ages 8 and up, involves creating words on a game board using letter tiles to score points. I wasn’t interested in these games because their boards lacked the bright colors of the games my sister and I played together.

When my parents began to go out more, usually to places like the dog track or local restaurants, my sister and I would pull out the board games from the closet. These were the perfect times for her to rule supreme and beat me at games I only half-understood. We would sit in our small dining room with nicotine-stained yellow curtains that my mom made, at our round Formica table, on black iron straight-back chairs with pleather-covered cushions, playing my sister’s interpretation of the rules.
WABB blared from her top-of-the-line (sarcasm) Soundesign stereo system from K-Mart, located in her bedroom two rooms and a corner away. Our snack layout usually consisted of the cheaper version of Doritos, cheese-flavored Tostidos, along with French onion dip. Our beverages were generic sodas, not store brands but white-labeled products simply labeled COLA, GRAPE, DIET, or ROOT BEER in big, bold letters. GRAPE would fizz in three different colors as you poured it, but the liquid was always purple.

In my adult life, I've often talked to people about the games we played as children. Two games that frequently come up are Candyland and Chutes & Ladders, which my mom either never found or didn’t think we needed. Candyland, designed for ages 3 and up, is a simple race-to-the-finish game with brightly colored paths. Chutes & Ladders, for ages 4 and up, is a game of ups and downs, where players climb ladders and slide down chutes.

However, I became a fierce competitor at Yahtzee, intended for ages 8 and up. The Yahtzee cup was too loud for my liking, and my sister would shake it vigorously, knowing I hated the sound. Despite that, I loved the game. Our box was old and faded, with a bit of discolored hot glue stuck to it, which my sister convinced me was dried pee from when I was really little. I was gullible enough to believe her.

We also played:
Payday: For ages 8 and up, this game simulates a month of financial transactions.
The Game of Life: Also for ages 8 and up, this game involves navigating through life’s milestones.
Connect Four: Intended for ages 6 and up, this is a strategy game of aligning four checkers in a row.
Operation: For ages 6 and up, this game involves removing "ailments" from a patient without touching the edges.

Cousins' Games
My cousins had the Wheel of Fortune and Family Feud board games, which seemed more fun than the ones we had. Perhaps it was because they were TV games, giving me the impression of interacting with actual game shows, or maybe it was just a case of the grass being greener on the other side. They also had Simon and Perfection, but they wouldn't play those with me because I would get so anxious that I would have to pee, I actually had an unfortunate and unforgettable accident while playing Perfection.

Now that I’m almost 50, I wonder how many of those original games still exist in my sister's house from when we were kids. What do you say, Becki? Wanna challenge me now that I know the rules to all those games? 😉

Hooray for Hollywood!: The True Story of the Original GLOW Girl - A Memoir

Nashville, TN – Dec 27, 2024 – Step into the ring of 1980s professional wrestling with Hooray for Hollywood!, the captivating memoir of Jeanne "Hollywood" Basone, the first hired and original GLOW girl. This inspiring tale not only chronicles her life in wrestling but also unveils the behind-the-scenes scoop and the groundbreaking impact the internationally syndicated 80s hit TV series Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling had on women in sports entertainment.

In her memoir, Jeanne reflects on her childhood dreams and the aspirations that led her to audition for GLOW’s creator, David McLane, in 1985. This pivotal moment catapulted her into a cultural phenomenon, where she and her fellow GLOW girls broke barriers and shattered the glass ceiling for an entire generation of female wrestlers. With GLOW airing in over 100 major markets across the U.S. and broadcast internationally, Jeanne’s journey became a beacon of empowerment for women in the wrestling industry.

Featuring insights from fans, GLOW girls, rock ‘n’ roll rollers, award-winning producers, directors, and photographers, Hooray for Hollywood! offers a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrate the evolution of women’s roles in professional wrestling and sports entertainment.

Jeanne has been a media darling, gracing the pages of esteemed publications such as The Hollywood Reporter, New York Post, Washington Post, Vanity Fair, and People magazine. She has also been featured in influential books on wrestling history, such as Sisterhood of the Squared Circle, and was named a “Lethal Woman” in her Playboy pictorial. Her journey has taken her around the globe for appearances, inspiring countless individuals with her story.

Join Jeanne in this incredible journey and discover how one woman’s story can ignite the spark of inspiration in us all.

"Fans of the squared circle, sensational behind-the-scenes storytelling, and all things pop culture will not want to miss one of the best memoirs ever written by a once-in-a-generation talent."
– A.J. Devlin, Screenwriter, author of award-winning “Hammerhead” Jed pro wrestler PI mystery novels.

"Hooray For Hollywood! will be enjoyed by book lovers, women’s wrestling fans, wrestlers, and industry professionals."
– Bob Harris, Writer and women’s professional wrestling archivist.

Hooray for Hollywood! will be available in bookstores in 2025 and online at Amazon and directly from Etsy store: glowhollywoodmerch.etsy.com.

For more information, to schedule an interview, or to request a review copy, contact: Jeanne Basone - jeannebasone@gmail.com jeannebasone.com