Memories of Gooding's Million Dollar Midways at the Pensacola Interstate Fair in the 1980s

I originally posted this story a while back and thought it deserved a revisit for accuracy. Interestingly enough, shortly after I shared it, a certain carnival Facebook page decided it was good enough to copy and paste as their own. And when someone pointed out their blatant theft, they blocked me. Classy move, Pounce-Matics Amuse-Matic. Maybe consider coming up with your own content for your pages?

After my parents moved my sister and me to Pace, I didn't realize that we would no longer be going to the Greater Gulf State Fair in Mobile. When fair season began in the area, the Pensacola Interstate Fair was much closer. To my parents, a carnival was just a carnival—all the same rides, food, and blah blah blah. The fairs in Pensacola and Mobile either overlapped or ran at the same time, and we thought the company that owned the rides was the same one that brought rides to both locations. Somehow, we believed Mobile would get the bigger, better, and flashier rides. To a kid, the grass is always greener everywhere else.

Something with the Gooding's logo. Source Unknown.

I really didn't know at the time that there were a whole lot of carnival companies crisscrossing the country, playing different fairs simultaneously. In Mobile, we'd seen Al Kunz's massive Century 21 Shows, which held that spot for many years until Conklin took over, with additional rides booked in from Cumberland Valley Shows. When Conklin took over the fair in Mobile, it seemed to be a seamless transition because Century 21 had many of the same rides Conklin had, such as the Himalaya, Skywheel, Sky Diver, Trabant, Scrambler, and other classics. The only difference you noticed was the addition of newer, more massive thrill rides like the Enterprise, Wave Swinger, and Rainbow.

In Pensacola, we got Gooding's Million Dollar Midways. Gooding's was a massive carnival in terms of the number of spots they played each year. They held contracts with many large fairs and supposedly had enough units with enough rides to play over 10 large fairs simultaneously. In reality, Gooding's Million Dollar Midways didn't own many rides. Rumor had it, the only equipment they owned were ticket booths, generators with their logos painted on, an office trailer, and maybe a girly show. Their business model was based on booking rides from other carnival companies to fill a midway. This meant that you not only had rides from Gooding's—if they actually existed—but also from Link Shows, Royal American Shows, Cumberland Valley Shows, possibly Reithoffer Shows, and several others that had a good working relationship with Milt Kaufman, the owner of Gooding's. Essentially, their fairs could be considered an "Independent Midway" of sorts.

As we pulled into the parking lot, my eyes were transfixed on what makes a fair a fair for me—the Skywheel. That lot could've had no more than two other rides, and I wouldn't have cared less because the Skywheel was the ride I loved the most, something that hasn't changed over the years. Not only was there one Skywheel, but there were two—both at opposite ends of the midway. As we walked the midway, I saw many differences compared to what I'd seen in Mobile. There were many duplicates of rides throughout the midway: two Zippers, three Scrambler-type rides, two Paratroopers, five music-type rides, three Ferris Wheels, and so on. This fair was bigger than Mobile, but only because they had multiples of the same type of rides. The Wave Swinger was the only ride I remembered from Mobile that Goodings didn't feature on the midway, though it was in the commercial. Instead, we got a Chance Yo-Yo and a Watkins Swinger, except for the last year when a Wave Swinger made an appearance.

Pensacola's rides weren't as flashy, and the color schemes didn't really match, but the fair was definitely solid. 1991 was the last year Goodings held the contract for the Pensacola Interstate Fair. Reithoffer Shows took over the following year. Goodings went out with a bang that last year. The midway was filled to capacity with pieces booked in, ranging from classics to modern rides of the time.

For those interested in ride line-ups, this is what I remember from Pensacola the last year Goodings played the fair. Keep in mind, this was 1991, and I had no clue who owned what other than the Giant Wheel owned by Link and the Wave Swinger, which was either Deggeller's or CVS's ride:

• Skywheel

• Tilt-A-Whirl

• Geister-Bahn

• Zipper

• Fantasy Fun House

• Super Sizzler

• Scrambler

• Sizzler

• Spider

• Force 10

• Paratrooper

• Crazy Dance (owned by Royal American)

• Giant Wheel (owned by Link Shows)

• Magical Mirrors

• Super Jets

• Sunshine Speedway

• Hampton Umbrellas (5 of them)

• Mini Scooter

• Gravitron

• Wave Swinger

• Round Up

• Thriller Dark Ride

• Lil Scrambler

• Reverchon Himalaya (with 7-8 seats tied off)

• Flying Carpet Funhouse

• Pirates Den Dark Ride

• Ghost Hunters Walk-Thru

• Amor Express The Love Machine

• Music Fest

• Alpine Haus Funhouse

• Musik Express

• Boomerang

• Roll-O-Plane

• Bumper Cars

• Bumper Boats

• Flume Ride

• Kiddie Bumper Boats

• Glasshouse

• Loop-O-Plane

• House of Fun Funhouse

• Ghost Train

• Raiders

• Enterprise

• Eli Hy-5 Wheel

• Sea Dragon

• Swinger

• Eli Eagle Wheel

• Space Rader (Ring of Fire)

• Flying Bobs

• Sky Diver

• Racing Coaster

• Kamikaze

• Hurricane

• Toboggan

• Carousel

• Trabant

There was talk on the news that there were over 120 rides and attractions, but realistically, I can only remember maybe 85 at the most, collectively among the years I saw them. Unless they were including pony rides, concessions, kiddie attractions, games, and the sideshows. Gooding's seemed to feature an obscene amount of glass houses, funhouses, dark rides, and walk-thrus, so a good bulk of my not-remembered attractions may have included those. There may have been more out there, or I may have some of the lineup from the year before mixed in. I really wish I'd had the foresight to take photos at carnivals the way I do now. Up to that point, I'd never seen a midway packed out like I did that particular year. Back in the day, I never really thought about what was actually owned by the shows that were booked in and what wasn't. Now that I have more knowledge about rides and carnivals, I can safely say that if Gooding's Million Dollar Midways owned anything featured at the fair, it was most certainly not the larger and newer rides. The following year, Reithoffer definitely came in with a bang to top Gooding's last year and did rather well. They brought in most of the Blue and Orange units, as well as their Green unit, which was dissolved and broke off as a separate show in the late '90s. In addition to the three Reithoffer units, they also booked in much of the entire All-American Midway, as well as a few independently owned rides, such as someone's Chance Rok-N-Rol.

I hope you enjoyed reading about my memories of Gooding's Million Dollar Midways. Do you have any carnival or fair memories, personal stories, or experiences you'd like to share? I’d love to hear about them in the comments. Your stories and memories make this journey all the more special. If you enjoyed this post and would like to support my storytelling journey, any small token of appreciation is always welcome. Let’s keep the joy of sharing memories and stories alive together!

A Shamrocking Good Time with "Go Luck Yourself" by Sara Raasch - A Holiday Romance to Remember

Hey everyone! If there's one thing you should know about me, it's that I'm a massive fan of holiday-themed reads. So, when I got my hands on an early copy of Go Luck Yourself from Bramble/Macmillan, I was beyond excited! 🎉

Since I adored Sara Raasch's last book, Nightmare Before Kissmas (which I eagerly reviewed back in October), I couldn't wait to dive into her latest festive adventure. And guess what? It totally lives up to the hype!

Sara Raasch, a New York Times bestselling author, brings us this merry, mischievous follow-up. This time, there’s a new holiday rivalry brewing, and it’s absolutely delightful! Can we also take a moment to appreciate those stunning shamrock green sprayed edges? Gorgeous!

The story is an enthralling enemies-to-lovers romance that pairs the spare prince of Christmas with the crown prince of St. Patrick’s Day. Someone’s been stealing Christmas’s joy, and the only clue is a single shamrock. With Coal busy and their dad having a midlife crisis in the Caribbean, Kris volunteers to investigate St. Patrick’s Day to distract himself from his own romantic woes.

Going undercover as an ambassador from Christmas, Kris's journey is anything but smooth. It turns out Prince Lochlann Patrick, Crown Prince of St. Patrick’s Day, is the same guy Kris has been feuding with for months at Cambridge. Despite trying to play nice for the tabloids, the tension between them is palpable. Kris can’t talk to Loch without feeling a mix of frustration and, surprisingly, attraction. Yep, Kris might be in trouble.

Raasch perfectly blends holiday magic and romance, creating an engaging and heartwarming tale. The chemistry between Kris and Lochlann is off the charts, with the perfect mix of humor, tension, and festive cheer.

If you’re a fan of holiday romances with a twist, Go Luck Yourself is a must-read. Huge thanks to Macmillan & Bramble for the early access!

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you read Go Luck Yourself or any of Sara Raasch's other books? What are your favorite holiday romances? Share your memories and stories in the comments below.

Your recommendations—or even a small token of appreciation—would certainly make my day and help me continue sharing the joy of reading. Let’s keep the spirit of storytelling alive together! 🎶✨

Thank you for joining me on this festive literary adventure. Let's celebrate the magic of books and the memories they create! 📚💖

The Magic of the Waterbeds My Sister and I Got After Moving to Florida: A Nostalgic Look Back

Back when my family first moved to Florida, my parents decided to surprise my sister and me with waterbeds from Waterbed Gallery. It was such an exciting moment! I got a super single, while my sister was treated to a queen-sized bed. Both of them were full motion, which was a blast at first. The gentle swaying motion of the waterbeds was something we quickly fell in love with, making bedtime a fun experience. The feeling of the water gently rocking us to sleep was like nothing we’d experienced before.

One of the coolest features of our waterbeds was the heater. During the hot Spring, Summer, and Fall months, we discovered we could turn off the heaters to stay cool while we slept. It was like having an internal air conditioning system built right into the bed! This was incredibly useful during our summers spent under the Florida sun. We were always warm to the touch, whether from a tan or a fever, and the cool bed offered such comfort. When the temperatures dipped in the winter, we’d switch the heaters back on, making our beds warm and cozy. It felt so luxurious to snuggle up in a heated bed on a chilly night. The flexibility of adjusting the bed’s temperature to suit the season was something I absolutely loved.

My granny would come to visit and she would often sleep on my waterbed. Despite it being quite different from a traditional mattress, she really liked it, often stating that her back didn’t hurt as much. Though I would be sequestered to the living room couch while she was with us, losing my bed for the duration of her visit, I loved having her stay. It was worth it to see her so comfortable and happy on my unique bed.

That waterbed lasted over 10 years and through three moves before it finally sprung a leak in one of the seams that couldn’t be patched. It was a sad day when my dad and I realized it was beyond repair. When we priced a new waterbed mattress, it turned out to be too expensive to justify, especially since I was in and out of town a lot by then. So, we opted to buy a conventional mattress and use the waterbed frame as my base. The waterbed had served me well, and I had to let it go. Its durability over the years was impressive, but all good things eventually come to an end.

Not to mention, kids in the neighborhood were super jealous of my waterbed and always wanted to sleep over. But I hardly let anyone on my bed because I was afraid they would mess it up. Years later, my boyfriend in Kentucky had a waterbed too, but his was motionless and definitely not the same. Looking back, my waterbed was one of my favorite beds ever. It had that unique mix of comfort and fun that’s hard to beat. Of course, nowadays I sleep on a Serta iSeries memory foam mattress, which I love for its support and comfort. But there will always be a special place in my heart for those waterbed days and the fond memories that came with them. From the gentle rocking motion to the customizable warmth, it was an experience that brought joy and comfort in equal measure.

I hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the magic of waterbeds. Do you have any fond memories, personal stories, or experiences with unique beds? I’d love to hear about them in the comments. Your stories make this journey all the more special. If you enjoyed this post and would like to support my storytelling journey, any small token of appreciation is always welcome. Let’s keep the joy of sharing memories and stories alive together!

Dale Kristien's The Beauty of Broadway: A Must-Listen for Phantom Lovers

Dale Kristien, The Beauty of Broadway

Dale Kristien holds the unique distinction of being the only actress to perform the role of Christine for eight weekly performances in the original Los Angeles production of The Phantom of the Opera until it closed. Her journey as Christine began as the Alternate Christine on Broadway, stepping in for Patti Cohenour who replaced Sarah Brightman. It’s a shame that replacement performers often don't get the chance to release a cast recording, especially when they possess a voice like Dale Kristien.

A page from Phantom's LA program featuring Dale with Michael Crawford

After the LA production of Phantom ended, Dale recorded an eleven-track CD for Prima Records titled The Beauty of Broadway. Naturally, she included a few Phantom tunes. Her renditions of “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again” and “Think of Me” are stellar, complete with her breathtaking cadenza and HIGH C. The album also features her duet “All I Ask of You” with her Raoul co-star, Michael Piontek. The other eight tracks span various shows, from Peter Pan and The Secret Garden to Irene. One of the most epic moments on this CD, besides the Phantom tracks, is her incredible vocal duel with her former Carlotta, Leigh Munro, during “Glitter and Be Gay” from Candide.

Dale’s voice is unique, lighter in tone than most actresses who have portrayed Christine. However, this lightness does not equate to weakness by any means. I highly recommend this CD to any Phantom fan who appreciates an outstanding Christine, as well as fans of classic musical theatre.

Buy & Save on this and other great NEW & used CD's, Records and Tape on eBay.

I’d love to hear about them in the comments. Your stories make this journey all the more special. If you enjoyed this post and would like to support my storytelling journey, any small token of appreciation is always welcome. Let’s keep the joy of sharing memories and stories alive together!

Kid Beats Mom Over French Fries

In a shocking turn of events, Dennis Hickman went berserk and repeatedly clubbed his disabled mother, Sheila Ross, because she wouldn't share her French fries with him. Family and friends have stated that the troubled man has a history of violent and bizarre behavior. Following his rampage, Dennis was charged with first and second-degree assault.

Sheila Ross, Dennis's 52-year-old mother, suffered injuries to her head, wrist, and leg. Fortunately, she was treated and released from the hospital the same evening. Despite the severity of the incident, Sheila claims her son went crazy but isn't crazy and simply needs help.

The altercation began when Sheila denied her son the last remaining French fries from her meal. In a fit of rage, Dennis grabbed a bat and started swinging. His rampage didn't stop there; he kicked down the door, slashed his mother's tires, bashed in her mailbox, and hit her car multiple times.

In a heartfelt statement to the police, Mrs. Ross said, "He's my only son. I love him, but I can't be abused." This incident highlights the complex and often painful dynamics within families dealing with mental health issues.

Family and friends have expressed their concern for both Sheila and Dennis, hoping that this incident will lead to the help and support Dennis needs to manage his behavior and mental health. The community remains shocked and saddened by the events, but there is a collective hope for healing and resolution.

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.