Keep an Open Mind in 2009

Looking For Some Fun

One of my softball buddies, Joe Patti, worked for the Ilitch family on the side. They own Little Caesars Pizza, The Detroit Tigers, The Detroit Red Wings, The Fox Theater and much more. A telephone installer by trade, he and his brother minded the elevator systems at Joe Louis Arena for all Detroit Red Wing games, concerts, etc. Their compensation was season tickets. Joe sold the seats to the games and concerts for cash.

Joe and I, and our best gals, got together one night and the girls decided that it would be fun if we could go to a concert together. There were a lot of major acts scheduled at The Fox. After studying the list of shows, the girls decided that that they wanted to see Johnny Mathis. Johnny Mathis? No way.

There Was a Time

There was a time for Johnny Mathis. I recall that when young and in love, Johnny Mathis music was a value add. I am now old and in love and I can tolerate Johnny. When I was middle aged and in love, and a man’s man softball junkie, the farthest thing from my mind, the absolute worst use of my time and the last place in the world I wanted to be, let alone seen, was at a Johnny Mathis concert.

There was no way we could talk the girls out of seeing Johnny. We were going, no matter what. Joe and I were beside ourselves.

The Long Drive

It was a long drive, on a cold winter night, to The Fox Theater. The place was packed. As luck had it, we had great seats. Up front and in the middle. Joe and I were praying that we wouldn’t be seen by anyone we knew. I had my collar up and did not look up. Once in the seat, I slid down for cover.

Out Came Johnny

Well, here’s why we should all keep an open mind in 2009. The concert was spectacular. Johnny Mathis was extremely entertaining. He sang great songs, had a great voice and was terrific. It was an evening to remember. Joe and I stood up at the end, arms in the air, yelling “Johnny, Johnny, Johnny”. We left the event better off than when we arrived.

I don’t know about Joe, but the lesson I’ve carried over is to keep an open mind in 2009.