Tag Archives: Imperial Plaza

09

Oct. ’14

Fun At Imperial Plaza

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I went to Imperial Plaza’s Oktoberfest and had a great time.  It bought back many fond memories of days of yore.  Not only was the music great but there were dancers (women in the traditional dresses and the men in leather hosen) and a wonderful female singer singing in German.  I remembered and understood most of the songs and was lulled into dreams of my ten years in Germany.

There was not only the music and dancing but plenty of beer, wine and food.  I believe I had more than my share but I didn’t run them dry.  The food was good but, although they tried hard, it was not cooked the way Germans cooked their food nor did it taste German.  Good try but no cigar.  I can cook somewhat like a German but not like a true German.  What I wouldn’t give for a real Wiener Schnitzel (those of you that were station in Germany with me know what I mean).

Yesterday Imperial Plaza spent most of the day touring the Richmond Federal Reserve and, again, it was great.  I’m not only talking about the money but they view from the twenty third floor dining room was fantastic.  As someone commented…..it’s like when you look down at a model train set with the tiny village, that’s what we see……we could see and pick out most of the points of interest in Richmond.  Those that did not take the trip missed another great endeavor that Imperial Plaza’s Activities Department presented.

In two weeks Imperial Plaza will be going on it’s every other month trip to a casino and, this time, we will be going to Maryland Live, not too far north of Washington D.C.  I understand that there is another casino, farther north that just opened and, as new casinos do, there are plenty of winners (just to pull players there through word of mouth).  I’m game and want to try it.  Since I’m going to Maryland Live this month and Imperial Plaza’s next casino trip will be either December or January, I think I’ll go next month and see if I can get a share of the loot.  Imperial Plaza’s next trip should be West Virginia to Charlstown Casino but the horses aren’t running then.

We have a new Executive Director here and, thank-you very much, she is a Dallas Cowboy just like me.  We talked about it and I think we’ll get along just fine.  Win or lose, I am a cowboy fan with the Dolphins as my second team.  Unlike many others, I am not a fanatic because, like I always say, I don’t get paid by them; I just enjoy watching them and hope.

Say hello via e-mail or comment on this blog.  I want to know you are there.  And, as I used to say at the end of my radio programs…Be kind to your neighbor for you’ll never know when you’ll need them.  Bye-bye

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29

Sep. ’14

Musings

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I am having problems syncing my blog with my other sites, such as Facebook. If I don’t fix the problem soon I will go back to my old computer until I get it in order. Then, not only will the people that only come to my blog page see what I have written, the people that follow my other sites will see the blog also.

Imperial Plaza Activities is really getting a lot more on it’s calendar and I am finding it hard to participate in most of it and I find I am spending more money than I intended. The activities doesn’t cost much but it adds up quickly and then you find you are getting close to being broke, if not broke. However, it does not cost as much as when you go it alone or with another outside agency.

I was thinking, the other day (that can be a dangerous situation) and estimated the number of mobile people that live within the four units and I then began to realize that only a very small percentage of the residents participate in anything that happens here. This includes the Townhall Meetings in which only about half of the auditorium (on a good day) is occupied.

It is finally fall, the air is cooler and the leaves are beginning to change. I will have to get more bicycle riding done and do other exercises. My wardrobe is getting smaller and smaller and I mean size, not volume. On my job, I wear dress pants and I don’t like the squeezed feeling I have for eight hours. Since I can’t just leave my pants open, like I do at home, I will have to buy larger pants. I’m getting that old age spread. Back to the gym and cycling.

Have you noticed the new shows on the fall lineup on television? I like to watch pro-football and they have some good shows at the same time the games are on and that include Thursday night. Now I have to watch a lot of shows, on my tablet or laptop, a few days later. I don’t like to do it because of the constant buffering but I guess I will have to put up with it if I want to see the show.

I guess I am now officially part of the government’s Health System because I received a letter saying they will give my specialty care to a civilian facility because they are overbooked. I phoned them and said I had one they can assign me to and to tell my doctor to call me (I even faxed them my records from the place in order to give them a head start). That was a week ago and I haven’t heard from anyone about anything. Oh well, I guess it’s like when you file a claim, hurry up and wait. How long does it take to make a quick phone call and to say yes or no to my suggestion.

See you next time………………;)

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23

Sep. ’14

I’m Back And Here To Stay

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It has been a long time since I last wrote in this blog and I know I am well overdue. A lot have happened, since I last wrote and I will attempt to highlight a few things before I continue the normal weekly activities. It is not difficult to get off track and not get back to writing but I must in order to dig deep into the book I am writing.

I have hooked up with a buddy that I have not seen in thirty years (in fact we were together in the military in Germany and in North Dakota) and he and his wife have been getting together with me and my wife, over a meal or two, several times since we reunited. He lives in Charlottesville, Virginia which isn’t that far away. And, to my surprise, he is now a minister (I would have never thought he would become one from the way we used to drink and party).

My wife and I also went to Tennessee for a week long family reunion that was great. We were in Dolly Parton territory and, of course, I had to go by the corn whiskey distillery for the booze. To tell the truth, that booze is not as strong as that which is gotten from the back woods. The family have gotten much larger and family members came from every state up and down the east coast.

Imperial Plaza have been keeping my wife and I busy, not only with the trips but also with the other activities. Coming here has been one of the best moves I have ever made. My wife run the twice weekly WII bowling, the Saturday Pokeno games and work part-time. I am part of the Bellevue Community Neighborhood Patrol and I have a part-time job as well. Now that it is pro-football season..(enough said).

When I add in going to the McGuire Veterans Hospital, fighting with them for my due benefits (it seems to be a hopeless case), most of my time is shot. There is an old saying….”If you can’t say anything good about someone, don’t say anything at all”. I won’t say anything more, I’ll leave it alone except to say that the law suits and investigations into the Federal Health Care System is long, long overdue.

My time (space) is up and I’ll try to stay on track. Until next time…

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08

Jun. ’14

Hear Ye – Hear Ye!!

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This weather is beautiful and is just right for any outside activity.  Sure, there is occasional rain, here and there, and it is mostly at night when everyone should be sleeping or at least inside, out of the weather.  Don’t let the threat of rain or an occasional sprinkle bother you.  Like the shoe ad say….”just do it”.  Imperial Plaza had a cookout and the weather was perfect for that as well as for all other things going on at that time.

My wife talked me into playing BINGO and, lucky her, she won one and was really close on a couple.  I, on the other hand, wasn’t even close so you know what that mean.  Yep…..no more BINGO because I can think of other things to do with the time I spend at BINGO.  She still runs the twice weekly WII BOWLING and she is trying to get me into that also.  I show up, every now and then, and watch while having a beer or two.

There are a few things that have changed at Imperial Plaza and they are to talk about it at the next “Men’s Conversational” which will be with Cindy as the guest speaker.  Since she is from Corporate, she should have all the answers we want and then some.  The one thing I heard is that the name (Imperial Plaza) is changing to Brookside, the company that bought facilities across the nation.  This should be interesting because after calling a place by one name, it’s hard to call it something else.  I still say Mosque instead of Altria (those around Richmond know what I am talking about.  All others can contact me directly and I will explain).

Virginia is a place to behold.  They are so against gambling (years ago it was very hard to get lotto) that they not only repeatedly turned down casinos (the Indians wanted it like in other states) but now the only horse racing arena is going around and around with the state over some sort of regulations, etc. that there is no time for racing this year.  This state tries to be too puritanical and we all (the residents of the state) suffer for it.  This is not the 1600 or 1700 but we are into the 2000’s and things have changed.  Morality has changed all over the world yet Virginia refuse to change.

SEE YA LATER!!!!!!!!

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31

May. ’14

Outings Galore

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Again I have had a full week and, right now, I am pleasantly tired.  This week I’ll write about two things, ROMEO and The Traveling Vietnam Wall.  First ROMEO.  At Imperial Plaza ROMEO stands for Retired Old Men Eating Out and we had two meals this month (May).  When we were originally scheduled to go to the steakhouse there was a vicious rain and hail storm.  All of us were on the bus, except for Ron, raring to go.  All of us men were on the bus having fun laughing and joking with the storm raging all around when Ron came on the bus to say the trip was cancelled because of the storm.  We didn’t want to cancel because we knew it would soon blow over.

We went to the White Squirrel and had dinner there.  We didn’t care about the storm or anything else because it was our evening out and we would not be daunted.   Ron came in and we jokingly told him the tab was on him because he cancelled, we didn’t.  He laughed it off and said he would reschedule the outing.  He called me three days later and said we were rescheduled for the following Thursday.  We went to the steakhouse and partied hard because we are ROMEO.

The Vietnam Traveling Wall may not be as good as seeing the real thing but it was something a Vietnam vet should not miss.  While there, the vets had the opportunity to computer research the name of a fallen service member and locate the name on the wall (where it would be in DC at the real wall).  The display also included some small items used in Vietnam along with a few pictures.  Some of the pictures bought back memories that were being suppressed but I made out ok.

I was a little sad but after talking to a couple of vets (we all can start a conversation with another vet at the drop of a hat) we lost that feeling (they admitted they felt bad also) and we had a pleasant but short conversation.  All of us Vietnam Vets are brothers, no matter where we may meet, and all other vets are second.  A hard thing to say but vets understand this because we all went through the same thing.

That was a short week but a full week.  Take care!!

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17

May. ’14

New Developments

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Things have really changed since my last writing.  For those that do not know my background I will say this…..it was colorful and varied and I really enjoyed all of it.  I am retired from the air force and have had many careers since then with another retirement included.

I decided to apply for a part-time job, that was seen in the papers, to have a little extra spending change and to take up the rest of my free time (I know I am crazy).  I have been training all week and will be on my own next weekend.  The job will have me working midnight shifts Friday and Saturday nights, every other weekend.  That’s not bad and it will give me a little change in my pocket and it won’t take up all my time or all my weekends.

The second thing that happened is the message I received from one of my EX-air force comrades.  I had no idea anyone was looking for me and I did not know there will be a reunion of the guys I worked with in Germany.  These were great guys although they were not K-9 (smile).  I worked with these guys as their security supervisor and, if I may say so, we had a great time.  There was always something happening (I should write a book about the things that happened).  There were a few guys that came to North Dakota where I became the First Sergeant.  Again we had some good times together although not as much.  I was invited to the reunion but I cannot go to Chicago because of other commitments during that time frame.

Needless to say, I haven’t had time to ride my bike but I will tomorrow.  The weather will be good and I shouldn’t have anything to do.  RICHMOND AND HENRICO LOOK OUT BECAUSE HERE I COME!!  The temperature should be low (around 75’) and it will have a light wind from the north.  That will be great for riding and Richmond is becoming safer for us on bicycle.  I am glad to be here, in a city and county that is bike friendly and will be more so as time go by.

Not forgetting Imperial Plaza, tomorrow is WII day in the White Squirrel and Wednesday is a trip to the Eastern Shore.  TAKE CARE!!!!  Don’t forget to click “like” and/or “follow”.  BYE-BYE!!!

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11

May. ’14

Warm Weather

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I know I am late getting this out but, yesterday, I was at a Mother’s Day/Graduation Celebration at my daughter’s house in Chesterfield.  Her daughter just graduated Richard Bland College (a branch of William and Mary University).  Everyone was there and it was great.  To all the mothers that read this HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY and many more to come.  I hope that you are taking it easy today or, if you are reading this after Sunday, you took it easy and had a great day.  You all deserve it more than I can say.

I haven’t had much time to ride my bicycle because of commitments and the weather.  I know there are riders that ride in any weather, at any time, but I do not.  Mine is strictly a fair weather thing and for exercise.  It is better than a stationary bike and requires many more muscles.  On a two wheeler, a person must maintain balance, go up and down hill, dodge vehicles and obstacles and use almost every muscle in the body.  That is exercise over being on a gym bike.

The people playing the WII on Thursday and Sunday afternoons (ran by my wife, Alba) seem to be having a good time.  I have sat in the White Squirrel drinking draft beers and cheering them on.  A couple of people, which have been there from the beginning, have been absent the past couple of times but the majority is still there and wants to expand.  They are looking great and, believe it or not, it is mild exercise.

Imperial Plaza, as scheduled, went to Maryland Live casino and, as usual, it was great.  I enjoy these trips because I don’t have to drive and it is so relaxing.  This way I can eat, drink alcohol and play without the thought of driving.  The bus still had empty seats although it is usually full.  Maybe people are finding other things to do during the warm weather months.  I understand because I also have so much on my plate that I can’t attend everything I used to attend.  I will try to do better but, as I said a few times before, I will get my bicycling in when the weather allows.

I am asking you to pass this blog on to others as well as my Facebook page and my writings with Yahoo Voices.  Bye-bye!

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03

May. ’14

The Bicycle Races Are Here

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Now that the bad weather bought about the real spring it is now the actual time for bicycling in earnest.  I have been out and about parts of these fine locations (we are a few yards from Henrico) and I have traveled both by two wheels and have had lots of fun doing it although my rear end disagree.  The small seat, which comes with the purchase of the bicycle, really does a number on your rear end.  I understand why a lot of bicyclists rise up to ride.

I ordered and received a larger and softer seat for my Schwinn and it feels wonderful.  I don’t know why it doesn’t already come equipped this way.  I guess the company wants a person to spend more money for additional equipment.   I don’t mind as long as it’s something that is necessary.

I guess you have heard about the National Bicycle Championship being held here in Richmond this weekend.  I rode my regular route yesterday, which was Friday, and then headed downtown to check out the time trials.  It was a nice setup and I think the International Bicycle Races, next year, will be pleased with the route.  This year’s contest is on a portion of the track for next year.

There were not a lot of people watching and I am guessing it was because it was a workday Friday.  Today and tomorrow should be much different and have crowds everywhere.  Richmond has something for everyone and that is something most cities can’t say.  In fact there are three or four major events happening at the same time.  Each week there is something different in the area and at Imperial Plaza.

Next Wednesday Imperial Plaza will again go to Maryland Live casino and, of course, my wife and I hope to be there.  It should be a lot of fun and the weather should cooperate.  I expect to lose, as usual, but it is fun eating, trying to hit a jackpot as well as just getting away for a few hours.  That’s what it is all about.

I’ve had a couple people say they don’t know when a new blog is out.  Just look to the right and “follow” or “subscribe” and every time a new blog is posted, you will automatically know.  You may comment or contact me, which ever or both.  Oh, by the way…..FISHING TIME!

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26

Apr. ’14

Here’s The News From Imperial Plaza

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From the Imperial Plaza “Plaza Professional Pharmacy Newsletter” April is alcohol awareness month.  I did not know this.  After reading the newsletter I only found a couple things I did not know but, for the most part, it was pretty informative.  It is very true that elderly people should not drink or, at least, drink very, very little.  I drink very little because I need my faculties for driving, bicycling or writing.  I’m not trying to be a Puritan but, over the years, I’ve had MORE than my share of alcohol.  I still, every now and then, put one on but the hangovers are stronger now.

The play last Saturday night was really good.  Before I went, I was pretty apprehensive but, while watching, I was lost in the performance.  The actors were better than I thought they would be and I was surprised at the few stage props that were used.  I would go to see them again if all of the performances are like this one.  It was only an hour and cost only three dollars.  I heard a few people complaining about having to pay but, personally, I don’t think it was much at all.

Next month is casino month.  We are going to Maryland Live again and this is one of my favorite casinos.  I have been to many casinos but this one has everything a person would want.  Unlike a lot of casinos, this one have the mall next door and, no matter how hard you try, you will not be able to shop all the stores and have time for the casino also.  That means half casino time and half mall time along with keeping a close watch on the clock so you won’t miss the bus.

Lastly, today was a great day to be riding bicycles in Bryan Park.  It was such a beautiful day but, having things to do, I only put in a little over four miles and I stopped four or five times to take some very beautiful pictures of the flowers (mostly all different colored Azaleas)and a few blooming trees.  The storm, yesterday, bought down a few trees.  They did not fall close to the road therefore they did not damage anything.  There also was evidence of the roads being flooded all over the park but no damage was seen.

Take care and I’ll see you again.

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20

Apr. ’14

Very Fine Outings

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It was a very fine, although busy, week and my wife and I had plenty of fun.  I thank the Activities Department, here at Imperial Plaza, for having so much to do and making sure it is all very interesting.  No one could ask for any more from their hard work and the care of all the concerns of everyone.

I will start with the trip to The Riverside Theater in Fredricksburg, on a beautiful Wednesday morning, for a wonderful lunch and a nice play.  Like the normal dinner theater the waiters and waitresses were the actors/actresses for us.  The musical was great although it did not hold mine or my wife’s interest.  To tell the truth, with a full belly, I almost fell asleep.

Thursday evening, my wife went out with The Red Hats to the dinner/theater at The Swift Creek Mill House Theater.  She told me it was like Thursday’s theater but the music was better because it was all from the sixties.  The women (I know a lot of them because I go out on the majority of excursions) wanted to know why I didn’t accompany them to the theater.  My wife told them I didn’t want to come to a women’s outing.

I haven’t gotten onto my bicycle but twice this week because, like I’ve said before, I’m a fair weather rider.  It was kind of cool and, although bundled up like a mummy, I still had a wind chill factor on my face.  I will try to do better and I know the weather will have to get warmer.  Some days I just want to sit and write an article or two for Yahoo Voices (pocket money).  There is work to be done around the apartment also.

By the way, the Harp Trio was great last Monday evening.  I really enjoyed the music and I won the door prize, their latest CD.  I listened to the CD and put it on my computer for some good music while I do my thing.  From what Ron say, there are some great things coming to the auditorium.  Stick around for more and greater things.

I have written more and more for Yahoo Voices and I am now up to seventeen articles and counting.  Look me up and pass me on (this article and that one).  Take care and I hope you had a Happy Easter.

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