Why two casinos in a single day? Two good reasons as it turns out. First, and most important was our good friend Bill's birthday celebration dinner. A tradition our Battle Creek friends have honored for many years. We each get a turn each year and it is a great excuse to get together and hug the old feed bucket. Bill is aging as gracefully as most, though claims that vodka is really the magic elixir from the fountain of youth and is most responsible. With wife June, friends Paula, George, and Kim and, of course Sharon and me, we made the best of the generous buffet at the casino and celebrated in style.
The second part of the evening was a returning visit to the music of Tony Reynolds (http://www.ynotsing.com/). With keyboardist/vocalist Mark Kahny (http://markkahny.blogspot.com/) the duo made for another great evening of jazzy, inventive arrangements and great fun for the audience. Playing in a casino room has got to be tough and this casino is no exception. Annoying slot-machine noises coming through the doors plus a lighting system best suited for a 1971 disco floor, these pros played through and around these distractions. Even a boisterous group of drinkers in the rear (who cared less of who or what was entertaining the rest of us) were treated smoothly with quick witted humor. Mark's well-known for his keyboard work with a left-hand bass line the likes I have never heard as good. Tony did the new/old standard of Louis Armstrong's "It's a Wonderful World". Great lyrics to begin with, Tony kicked into his 'Satchmo' voice for the last verse and it could bring a tear to your eye it was so good.
These two entertainers are worth seeking out. If you live in Southwestern Michigan, check out their websites and find a venue they are playing. You'll have a great time.
Still livin' the dream.
Phil
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