Morning Coffee — For many some, dates pass quietly on the calendar this day may not do so.

September 11, 2026September 7, 2026BenjaminLeave a comment

September 11, 2026

us flag on gray surface — _{^{Photo by Matthis Volquardsen on Pexels.com}}

September 11 does not.

For millions of Americans, and for people around the world, this date carries a scar that time has never completely erased. It reminds us where we were, what we saw, what we felt, and how quickly an ordinary morning became something unimaginable.

But beneath the history, the headlines, the smoke, the sirens, and the sorrow is another lesson that reaches into every home.

There are no guarantees when we say goodbye.

On the morning of September 11, 2001, thousands of people did what they had done countless mornings before.

They kissed a spouse goodbye.

They hugged a child.

They waved from a doorway.

They grabbed their coffee, headed for work, boarded an airplane, stepped into an office, answered an alarm, or began an ordinary shift.

Most of them had every reason to believe they would be home again that evening.

Some never were.

That may be one of the hardest truths September 11 leaves with us.

We often live as though there will always be another opportunity.

Another phone call.

Another dinner.

Another visit.

Another chance to say, “I love you.”

Another chance to apologize.

Another chance to linger at the door for just a few more seconds.

But life has never promised us that.

A person can leave our presence in the morning and, through circumstances completely beyond anyone’s control, be gone before nightfall.

September 11 reminds us not to take the people in our lives for granted.

It reminds us that the hurried goodbye deserves a little more care.

That the person sitting across from us at breakfast deserves our attention.

That the phone call from someone we love might be worth answering.

That anger sometimes deserves to be put aside before we walk out the door.

And that “I love you” is rarely something we should save for later.

This day also reminds us of those who ran toward danger while others were trying desperately to escape it.

Firefighters.

Police officers.

Paramedics.

Emergency workers.

Ordinary people who became extraordinary simply because someone else needed help.

Many knew the danger.

They went anyway.

Their courage remains part of the living legacy of September 11, along with the memories of every innocent life taken that morning.

So perhaps today’s coffee should be a little slower.

Perhaps we should sit with the people we love a little longer.

Make the call we have been putting off.

Forgive something that no longer deserves the space it occupies in our hearts.

And when someone we love walks out the door today, let our final words be words we would be at peace remembering.

Because none of us knows which goodbye will be the last.

September 11 taught us that lesson in the most painful way imaginable.

May we honor those who were lost not only by remembering how they died, but by remembering how important it is to cherish those who are still here.

This morning, hold your coffee close.

Hold your memories closer.

And hold the people you love closest of all.

We remember. We honor. And we never forget.

— Morning Coffee
benandsteve.com

Morning Coffee — The Things We Carry Forward

September 4, 2026September 1, 2026BenjaminLeave a comment

The ordinary moments of life often leave the deepest impressions. A familiar phrase, an old memory, or a simple act of kindness can become something we carry with us for years—and eventually pass along to someone else.

September 4, 2026

There is something comforting about the first cup of coffee in the morning.

Before the phone starts ringing, before the television begins telling us what happened while we slept, and before the responsibilities of the day start lining up at the door, there are those few quiet minutes when the world seems willing to wait.

I think we need those moments.

man in white crew neck t shirt holding a phone — _{^{Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels.com}}

This morning, as I sat with my coffee, I found myself thinking about how much of our lives we carry forward without even realizing it.

~~~

A phrase our father used to say.

A recipe our mother never bothered writing down because she simply knew how much of everything belonged in the bowl.

The way a grandparent waved from the porch.

The sound of an old screen door closing behind us.

The advice of a friend that didn’t seem particularly important when it was given, but somehow became wisdom twenty years later.

~~~

We spend so much of our lives believing we are moving forward and leaving yesterday behind.

But I don’t think that’s really how life works.

We carry yesterday with us.

Not all of it, thankfully. Time has a merciful way of softening some things and allowing others to fade. But the pieces that shaped us remain tucked away in places we don’t always recognize.

They appear when we catch ourselves saying something exactly the way one of our parents said it.

They show themselves when we perform some small kindness because once, long ago, someone did the same thing for us.

Sometimes they appear in the strangest places—a song on the radio, the smell of rain, an old photograph, or the sound of coffee being poured into a familiar cup.

And suddenly, someone or someplace we haven’t thought about in years is sitting right there beside us again.

Maybe that is one of life’s quieter gifts.

The people we have loved never completely leave the road we are traveling. They simply stop walking beside us in the way they once did.

Instead, they travel within us.

Their lessons become part of our decisions.

Their laughter becomes part of our memories.

Their kindness becomes something we pass along to somebody who may never know where it originally came from.

And eventually, pieces of us will travel the same way.

Someone will remember something we said.

Someone will tell one of our stories.

Someone might pour a cup of coffee one morning and smile because something reminded them of us.

That is why the ordinary moments matter so much.

We are always leaving something behind.

A word.

A kindness.

A story.

A memory.

So while you enjoy your coffee this morning, remember that the smallest things you do today may become something another person carries with them for years.

Make them worth carrying.

Have a wonderful morning, and may your coffee be warm, your memories gentle, and your day filled with something worth remembering.

Morning Coffee —The Morning After

August 23, 2026August 12, 2026Benjamin2 Comments

The Coffee on The Morning Will Taste Different

By Benjamin Groff II GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2026

The coffee is quieter this morning.

Yesterday, we buried my mother.

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After traveling hundreds of miles with us—from Arizona, through New Mexico and Texas, and finally into Oklahoma—we brought her to Binger.

Her last ride is over.

She rests beside my father now.

And this morning, life has done that peculiar thing it always does after a loss.

It continued.

The sun came up.

Someone started a car.

A dog needed attention.

Coffee had to be made.

The world didn’t stop simply because something monumental happened in mine.

Perhaps that is one of life’s quietest lessons.

We spend days preparing ourselves for the big moments—the service, the goodbye, the final prayer. But nobody prepares us quite as well for the morning afterward.

The morning when there is nowhere else we need to take them.

No arrangements left to make.

No more miles left to drive.

Just memories.

Yesterday, I stood in Oklahoma soil and helped return my mother to the place that had shaped so much of her life.

Today, I can begin carrying her differently.

Not in a special carrier.

Not buckled safely into the vehicle.

Not guarded faithfully by Otis.

I carry her in stories.

I carry her in the expressions I inherited without realizing it.

I carry her in memories of childhood, family gatherings, arguments, laughter, disappointments, forgiveness, and all those wonderfully complicated things that make a family a family.

Perhaps that’s what we eventually discover about saying goodbye.

The people we love don’t simply disappear down some road behind us.

They become part of the traveler.

And so this morning, I will have another cup of coffee.

Then Steve, Otis, and I will eventually point ourselves toward Arizona.

There will be an empty place in the vehicle where Mom rode with us.

But I don’t think she’s leaving Oklahoma alone.

A little bit of her will be going home with me.

Until tomorrow, may your coffee stay warm, your memories stay close, and your hope stay strong. The coffee will be waiting again tomorrow, and I hope you’ll be here to share it with me.

— Benjamin Groff II
Morning Coffee at benandsteve.com

Morning Coffee — August 22, 2026. We’re Taking Mom Home Today

August 22, 2026August 22, 2026BenjaminLeave a comment

Coffee is that wonderful drink that calms the soul—without calming you so much that you wake up the next morning with your best friend asking, “Do you remember what you did last night?”

Drink coffee. Lots of coffee. Your reputation may depend on it. ☕

By Benjamin Groff II GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2026

August 22, 2026

There are mornings when coffee is simply coffee.

And then there are mornings when you wrap both hands around the cup because you need something steady to hold.

This is one of those mornings.

Today, we are taking Mom home.

Before we reach Binger, I want her final journey to pass through some of the places that belong to our family’s story.

We will travel near Sentinel, Oklahoma, past the country where her parents made their home in the 1930s.

Then we will continue toward Cordell.

That’s where I was born.

I find something deeply meaningful about carrying my mother past the place where she once carried me. While raising my sister. Along with other other siblings.

Then we will travel east toward Binger.

There, at Binger Murray Cemetery, my mother will finally be laid to rest beside my father, JD Groff.

For so many years, they traveled through life together. They raised a family. They worked. They struggled. They laughed. They disagreed. They grew older.

Life wasn’t perfect.

Families seldom are.

rural canadian landscape with red farmhouse and wind turbines — _{^{Photo by Guriqbal Billing on Pexels.com}}

But their lives became part of ours, and whatever else can be said about the years behind us, one truth remains:

They were Mom and Dad.

Today, Steve will be beside me. Otis will have completed his special assignment. Family and friends will gather. Words will be spoken. Memories will be shared.

And eventually there will come a moment when there is nothing left for me to do except say goodbye.

Or perhaps not goodbye.

Maybe simply:

We got you here, Mom.

You’re home.

This morning’s coffee is for everyone who has ever had to make that final journey with someone they love.

Drink it slowly.

Remember them well.

And when the time comes, let them go with love.

Until tomorrow, may your coffee stay warm, your memories stay close, and your hope stay strong. The coffee will be waiting again tomorrow, and I hope you’ll be here to share it with me.

— Benjamin Groff II
Morning Coffee at benandsteve.com

Morning Coffee — Morning Coffee — August 21, 2026

August 21, 2026August 12, 2026BenjaminLeave a comment

“We are remembering our mother over coffee this year. It is her first birthday since she has been gone—the first birthday we have not been able to celebrate with her. But we will celebrate her, remembering the life she lived and the memories she left behind.”

By Benjamin Groff II GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2026

August 21, 2026

This morning’s coffee tastes a little different.

We’re in Oklahoma.

^{_{Marjorie and her sister Opal Mae Burke}}

Yesterday, Steve and I carried my mother across the miles, with Otis faithfully keeping watch beside her. Somewhere along the way, the landscape began changing into something familiar.

Home.

It’s an interesting word, isn’t it?

We spend much of our lives deciding where home is. We move. We build lives elsewhere. We find people we love and create new homes with them. Yet there are places buried so deeply within us that merely seeing the countryside can awaken memories we didn’t realize were still there.

Today, Mom rests in Elk City.

It is a town woven into Steve’s and my story because this is where we met in 1982. We couldn’t have known then where the road ahead would take us.

And we certainly couldn’t have imagined that more than forty years later we would return together carrying my mother on the final miles of her journey.

Tomorrow will be different.

Tomorrow we will travel through country filled with family history.

We will take Mom near Sentinel, past the land where her parents made their home during the 1930s. We will continue toward Cordell, where my own story began, and then east toward Binger—the community where so much of our family’s life unfolded.

Tomorrow, my mother’s journey ends beside my father.

But not today.

Today is for remembering.

Today is for another cup of coffee, another Oklahoma morning, and the realization that sometimes going home isn’t about returning to a house.

Sometimes it is simply about returning to the people and places that made us who we are.

Until tomorrow, may your coffee stay warm, your memories stay close, and your hope stay strong. The coffee will be waiting again tomorrow, and I hope you’ll be here to share it with me.

— Benjamin Groff II
Morning Coffee at benandsteve.com

Morning Coffee — The Last Ride.

August 19, 2026August 12, 2026Benjamin1 Comment

There are times in ones life, when going home is all about visiting relatives. Then there are times when, going home is all about taking what is left of life back with you.

By Benjamin Groff II GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2026

August 19, 2026

There are some journeys in life you know you will remember every mile of.

This morning, Steve and I are carrying my mother home. She will be going to see her daughter Twila.

Her name is Marjorie Bernice Groff, and after 95 years of living, loving, raising a family, making mistakes, making memories, and leaving pieces of herself in all of us, she is taking one final ride from Arizona to Oklahoma.

_{^{[Left to Right: Marjorie Bernice (McWhirter) Groff, with her parents G.W.(Bill) McWhirter, and Bernice Mae McWhirter}}]

And we’re not hurrying.

Her special carrier is safely buckled beside our trustworthy little traveling companion, Otis. He has been given an important assignment for this trip: protect Grandma.

I have no doubt he takes the responsibility seriously.

We will cross Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and finally enter Oklahoma. Along the way, when there is something worth seeing, we’ll make sure Mom gets to see it. An overlook, a beautiful stretch of country, an unusual roadside attraction—whatever catches our attention.

After all, when you’re taking your mother on her last road trip, there is no reason to rush.

Maybe that sounds a little unusual to some people. But grief has taught me that ceremony doesn’t always have to happen inside a church or beside a grave. Sometimes ceremony is simply two people, a little dog, an open highway, and someone precious riding beside you.

Tonight, we will reach Elk City, Oklahoma.

That seems especially fitting.

It was there, in 1982, that Steve and I first met. More than four decades later, the two of us will arrive there together carrying my mother home.

Life has a strange way of bringing roads back around to where they began.

So this morning’s coffee is going into a travel mug.

There are miles ahead of us.

Mom has one last Oklahoma sunset waiting for her.

And Otis has Grandma to protect.

Until tomorrow, may your coffee stay warm, your memories stay close, and your hope stay strong. The coffee will be waiting again tomorrow, and I hope you’ll be here to share it with me.

— Benjamin Groff II
Morning Coffee at benandsteve.com

For My Friend, Trace Baldwin, Judge, Lawyer, Husband,Father, Son, Singer, Friend,

July 30, 2026July 30, 2026Benjamin

SPECIAL STATEMENT FROM BENANDSTEVE.COM

July 12, 2026July 12, 2026BenjaminLeave a comment

~ Throughout history there have always been those who stood firm, and those who surrendered their principles for the sake of comfort or fear. Those who exchanged their standards out of weakness and bowed to a tyranny are rarely remembered among the notable. History tends to reserve that honor for those who stood their ground when it mattered most. ~ Benjamin Groff

Johnny Gage Has Answered His Last Call: Remembering Randolph Mantooth

July 11, 2026July 10, 2026Benjamin2 Comments

© Benjamin H. Groff II — Truth Endures / benandsteve.com

July 11, 2026

There are actors who entertain us for an hour each week. Then there are actors whose work quietly changes the course of people’s lives.

Randolph Mantooth was one of those rare individuals.

**Randolph Mantooth, who starred as the goofy but gallant firefighter-paramedic Johnny Gage on Emergency!, the 1970s NBC action show that changed life-saving services as we know it, has died. He was 80.**

Millions knew him simply as firefighter-paramedic John Gage on the television series Emergency!. Week after week, audiences watched Squad 51 race toward danger while others ran away. For many of us, it was our first real glimpse into the world of emergency medicine. Before Emergency!, most Americans had never even heard the word “paramedic.” By the time the series had finished its remarkable run, the profession had become part of our national vocabulary, and communities across America were beginning to recognize just how vital those highly trained men and women could be.

Mantooth himself once remarked that when he was first offered the role, he asked,

“What the hell’s a paramedic?” There were only a handful in California at the time.

As someone who spent years in law enforcement and emergency communications, and who worked alongside ambulance crews and first responders, I can tell you this: television rarely captures the reality of the job. Emergency!came closer than most.

More importantly, it inspired countless young people to become EMTs, paramedics, firefighters, nurses, and physicians. Many have openly credited Randolph Mantooth and his co-star Kevin Tighe for setting them on that path. That may be the greatest legacy an actor could ever hope to leave—not simply applause, but lives changed because someone watching believed they could make a difference.

Randolph Mantooth: The Actor Who Helped Inspire a Generation of Paramedics

What impressed me most about Randolph Mantooth was that he never walked away from the profession after the cameras stopped rolling. Long after Emergency! ended, he continued speaking at EMS conferences, supporting firefighters and paramedics, advocating for emergency medical services, and honoring those who answered the call every day. He understood that the badge his character wore represented real people who climbed into ambulances and fire apparatus every morning, never knowing what the next call would bring. He became one of their strongest ambassadors.

Gage and the more buttoned-down DeSoto worked out the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s Station 51, interacting often with Rampart General Hospital personnel Dr. Kelly Brackett (Robert Fuller), nurse Dixie McCall (Julie London) and Dr. Joe Early (Bobby Troup, London’s real-life husband).

One of the qualities I admired most about Randolph Mantooth was that he never walked away from the role that made him a household name. He recognized that John Gage had become far more than a television character. In this video, Mantooth speaks about the privilege—and the responsibility—of representing the paramedics and firefighters of the Los Angeles Fire Department. His words reveal the genuine respect he held for those who serve others every day.

On Emergency! He Was Johnny Gage. To Millions, He Was Much More.

Actors often hope they will be remembered for a performance. Randolph Mantooth will be remembered for something much greater. He portrayed courage with such honesty that it encouraged others to live it. Somewhere tonight, an EMT will respond to a difficult call. A paramedic will restart a heart. A firefighter will pull someone from danger. Many of those men and women first imagined themselves wearing that uniform while watching a young paramedic named John Gage answer another call from Rampart Hospital.

Somewhere, one can almost hear it one final time.

"Rampart, this is Squad 51..."

**Squad 51, Firefighter – Paramedic Johnny Gage you are clear to go 10-7. Rest Easy. Your Watch is hereby completed. God’s Speed!**

Rampart to Squad 51 - Thank you, Randolph Mantooth. Johnny Gage!

Rest easy, sir. Your watch is over. The generations you inspired will answer from here.

Manawan Community Mourns the Loss of Musician and Actor Oshim Ottawa

June 25, 2026BenjaminLeave a comment

The community of Manawan, Quebec, is mourning the loss of musician and actor Oshim Ottawa, whose work helped bring Atikamekw culture and storytelling to audiences across Canada.

Ottawa was best known for portraying Philippe Flamand in the 2023 feature film Soleils Atikamekw (Atikamekw Suns). His moving performance earned him a nomination for Best Lead Performance in a Drama Film at the 13th Canadian Screen Awards in 2025, bringing national recognition to both his talent and the film’s powerful story.

Beyond acting, Ottawa was an accomplished musician and a respected member of the Manawan community, where he was admired for sharing his culture through both music and film.

Following news of his passing, family, friends, and community members have expressed their grief and remembered him for his artistic contributions and the impact he made on those around him. A crowdfunding campaign has also been established to help support his loved ones during this difficult time.

Oshim Ottawa’s passing marks the loss of a gifted artist whose work helped shine a light on Indigenous stories and voices in Canadian cinema. At the time of publication, the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.

Groff Media extends its sincere condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Manawan community as they mourn his loss.

Remembering Bishop Basil Harry Losten, a revered figure in the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church

June 23, 2026June 16, 2026Benjamin3 Comments

Originally Posted By: Benjamin Groff© Groff Media 2024© Truth Endures Reposted on June 23, 2026 Truth Endures© Remembering a Bishop and a revered figure in the Greek Catholic Church, formerly of Connecticut.

Basil Harry Losten (May 11, 1930 – September 15, 2024)

Bishop Basil Harry Losten, a revered figure in the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2024, in Stamford, Connecticut, after a brief illness. He was 94 years old. At the time of his passing, he was Bishop Emeritus of the Ukrainian Catholic Diocese of Stamford, a role he held with grace and devotion until his final days. Bishop Paul Patrick Chomnycky succeeds him.

Born in Chesapeake City, Maryland, on May 11, 1930, Basil Losten embarked on a life of faith and service that began with his early education at St. Basil School in Philadelphia. His journey into the priesthood was marked by years of dedicated study, first at the Ukrainian Catholic Seminary in Stamford and later at St. Basil College, where he earned a bachelor of arts in philosophy. His theological education culminated in a graduate degree from the Catholic University of America in 1957.

Basil Losten was ordained to the priesthood on June 10, 1957, by Bishop Constantine Bohachevsky. His initial assignments saw him serve the Philadelphia Archdiocese as chancery secretary and in various parishes across the city. In 1962, his leadership and loyalty were acknowledged when he was appointed personal secretary to Archbishop-Metropolitan Ambrose Senyshyn.

In 1968, Pope Paul VI recognized his contributions by elevating him to the rank of papal chamberlain. On March 23, 1971, he was nominated to the episcopacy, and on May 25 of that year, he was consecrated as auxiliary bishop of the Ukrainian Archdiocese of Philadelphia. He continued to serve with distinction, later being appointed apostolic administrator of the diocese in 1976 during the declining health of Archbishop-Metropolitan Senyshyn.

Bishop Losten was admired throughout his career for his unwavering dedication to his faith, leadership, and tireless service to the Ukrainian Catholic community. Losten’s impact on clergy and laity alike will be remembered for generations.

Bishop Losten is being mourned by his many parishioners, colleagues, and the communities he served. Funeral services will be held at Stamford’s Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. May his memory be eternal.

Former Oklahoma City Acting Mayor Guy Liebmann Dies at 90

June 10, 2026June 11, 2026BenjaminLeave a comment

Groff Media ©2026 benandsteve.com Truth Endures

June 10th, 2026

Former Oklahoma Acting Mayor Had Grit, And Determination. A Marine. A State Lawmaker. And A Family Man.

——–

Public Servant Helped Guide Oklahoma City Through a Time of Transition

Local news media in Oklahoma appears to have ignored the former city council member and acting mayor service.

Former Oklahoma City Mayor and Oklahoma State Representative Guy Hoyt Liebmann has passed away at the age of 90.

According to comments posted by citizens following his passing, concerns have been raised that local Oklahoma news media largely overlooked the public service of former Oklahoma City Council member and Acting Mayor Guy Liebmann.

Groff Media reviewed coverage from Oklahoma City’s three major television news outlets—News 9, KOCO 5, and KFOR—as well as Oklahoma’s largest newspaper, The Oklahoman. Aside from a death notice appearing in paid obituary advertising space, we found little or no reporting recognizing Liebmann’s years of service to Oklahoma City and the State of Oklahoma.

Whether this reflects changing news priorities or simply an oversight, it has prompted some residents to question why a public servant who devoted decades to civic leadership received so little attention from the institutions that regularly document the history of the community he served.

Unlike that situation. Groff Media will recognize the individual.

Liebmann died on June 8, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of public service that stretched from the Oklahoma City Council to the Oklahoma House of Representatives and included a brief but significant period as Oklahoma City’s acting mayor.

Born in Shawnee on April 27, 1936, Liebmann graduated from Oklahoma City’s Classen High School before earning a degree in business management from the University of Oklahoma. He later served as an officer in the United States Marine Corps before entering a successful career in real estate and investments.

Many Oklahomans may remember Liebmann best for his service on the Oklahoma City Council representing Ward 8. In November 2003, following the resignation of Mayor Kirk Humphreys, Liebmann was appointed acting mayor and guided the city until voters elected Mick Cornett in March 2004.

Though his time as mayor lasted only a few months, it came during an important chapter in Oklahoma City’s development. The city was continuing its transformation into a nationally recognized metropolitan area, and Liebmann helped provide stability during a period of leadership transition.

During his service on the council and as acting mayor, Liebmann worked with several important city organizations, including the Oklahoma City Water Trust, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Oklahoma City Fairgrounds Trust.

After leaving City Hall, Liebmann continued his public service by representing House District 82 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives from 2005 through 2013.

His public career reflected a belief that local government matters. While many political careers are measured by headlines and controversy, Liebmann’s legacy was built largely through committee work, civic involvement, and a willingness to serve when called upon.

Today, Oklahoma City residents drive roads, utilize services, and enjoy civic improvements that were influenced by the efforts of countless local officials whose names rarely appear in history books. Guy Liebmann was one of those individuals.

As news of his passing spreads, Oklahomans have an opportunity to remember a generation of civic leaders who dedicated years of their lives to public service, often with little recognition beyond the communities they served.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Smith & Kernke Funeral Directors in Oklahoma City. At the time of publication, the funeral home reported that memorial service details were still pending and would be announced when finalized.

Guy Liebmann was 90 years old.

Funeral services and memorial information can be found here.

Benjamin Groff II
Groff Media © Truth Endures
Today We Remember

Remembering Retired Colonel Bruce Crandall

June 3, 2026BenjaminLeave a comment

A Hero Who Never Left His Men Behind

Groff Media ©2026 benandsteve.com Truth Endures

June 03, 2026

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Some men become heroes through a single act of courage. Others spend a lifetime proving what courage truly means. Retired U.S. Army Colonel Bruce Crandall belonged to the latter group.

Colonel Crandall, who died on May 31 at the age of 93, leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary service, selflessness, and devotion to the soldiers who depended upon him. His story is one that deserves to be remembered not only by military historians, but by every American who values duty, sacrifice, and leadership.

During two tours in Vietnam, Crandall flew more than 900 combat missions. Yet it was one day in November 1965 that would forever define his place in American military history.

As commander of a flight of helicopters during the fierce fighting in the Ia Drang Valley, Crandall and his fellow aviators found themselves in the middle of one of the first major battles between U.S. and North Vietnamese forces. The landing zone was under relentless enemy fire. Helicopters were being driven away by the intensity of the attack. Wounded soldiers were stranded on the battlefield with little hope of evacuation.

Most men would have understood if the risk became too great.

Bruce Crandall did not.

Again and again, he flew his unarmed helicopter back into the combat zone. Enemy fire raked the landing area. The danger was obvious. Yet Crandall continued returning, delivering ammunition and supplies to embattled troops and evacuating wounded soldiers who desperately needed medical attention.

By the end of the day, he had flown numerous rescue missions under conditions that many considered impossible. His actions helped save the lives of dozens of American soldiers who might otherwise have been left behind.

For those heroic actions, Crandall was awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration. The award recognized not only extraordinary bravery but an unwavering commitment to the men on the ground who were counting on him.

His story later reached millions through the film We Were Soldiers, where actor Greg Kinnear portrayed him. Yet those who knew Crandall often described him as a humble man who viewed himself simply as a soldier doing his job.

That humility may be one of the most remarkable parts of his story.

The generation that fought World War II, Korea, and Vietnam often carried their accomplishments quietly. They did not seek praise. They did not ask to be called heroes. They simply answered when their nation called and did what was required of them.

Ret. Col. Bruce Crandall would receive the nation’s highest honor for valor in 2007 for his actions during the Nov. 14, 1965, Battle of Ia Drang — the first major battle of the Vietnam War. (U.S. Army) — Ret. Col. Bruce Crandall

Bruce Crandall embodied those values.

His life reminds us that true leadership is not found in titles or rank. It is found in the willingness to place the welfare of others before your own safety. It is found in the courage to go back when everyone else is retreating. It is found in the determination to never abandon those who depend on you.

As America pauses to remember Colonel Bruce Crandall, we honor not only a Medal of Honor recipient but a man whose actions represented the very best of our nation. His helicopter may have long since landed, but the example he set continues to soar.

Today we remember a warrior, an aviator, a husband, a father, and a patriot.

Most of all, we remember a man who never left his fellow soldiers behind.

Rest in peace, Colonel Bruce Crandall. Thank you for your service, your courage, and your sacrifice. The nation you served so faithfully will not forget.

Farewell & Remembrance – Barney Frank

May 20, 2026May 20, 2026BenjaminLeave a comment

May 20, 2026

_{^{Image – Groff Media ©2026 benandsteve.com Truth Endures}}

Barney Frank

1940 – 2025

Public Servant. Trailblazer. Champion. Icon.

Former Congressman Barney Frank has died. Reports indicate that Frank entered hospice care at his home in Ogunquit, Maine, while battling congestive heart failure. According to the Associated Press.

Frank died late Tuesday, according to Jim Segel, Frank’s former campaign manager and close friend.

“Former Congressman Barney Frank, one of the most recognizable and influential openly gay lawmakers in American history, spent his final days in hospice care at his home in Ogunquit, Maine. The longtime Massachusetts representative, known for his sharp wit, fierce advocacy, and groundbreaking role in LGBTQI representation in Congress, had been battling congestive heart failure. As supporters, friends, and admirers reflect on his legacy, many are honoring a public servant whose voice helped reshape conversations about equality, civil rights, and representation in America.”

Barney Frank was many things to many people: a fierce advocate, a sharp intellect, a political force, and a voice that could cut through the noise with clarity and conviction. But above all, he was a champion for fairness, equality, and the rights of those too often left on the margins.

As one of the first openly gay members of Congress, Barney Frank broke barriers with unapologetic authenticity. He did not merely open doors for others — he helped tear them down. From fighting for LGBTQI rights to shaping major financial reform through the Dodd-Frank legislation, his impact on the nation remains undeniable.

Barney possessed a wit that could disarm opponents, a mind capable of dissecting the most complex issues, and a determination that never stopped pushing for what he believed was right. His public service helped redefine what representation looked like in America and inspired generations who once believed they had no place in government, leadership, or public life.

For countless members of the LGBTQI community, Barney Frank stood as proof that courage and honesty could change history. He understood the weight of silence, and he refused to live within it. In doing so, he became not just a lawmaker, but a symbol of progress and perseverance.

“Equality is not a special interest. It is a human right.”
— Barney Frank

Today we remember a man who helped shape modern America through intelligence, humor, resilience, and conviction. His voice may now be silent, but the legacy he leaves behind continues to echo through every conversation about equality, dignity, and justice.

Thank you, Barney.
You recorded history.
You changed it.
And you will be remembered.

Rest in Power.

MEMORIAL VIDEO FOR MARJORIE BERNICE (McWhirter) GROFF

March 25, 2026Benjamin1 Comment

I recently created a short memorial video honoring my mother, Marjorie Bernice (McWhirter) Groff—centered around the final telephone call I shared with her not long before she passed. In those last moments, there was a quiet understanding, a tenderness in her voice, and a sense of closeness that words can hardly capture. This video reflects that conversation and the emotions carried within it—love, gratitude, and the unspoken bond between a mother and her child. While we will gather at a later time to celebrate her life more fully, this small tribute preserves one of our final connections, a moment I will carry with me always. ––– Benjamin Groff

Marjorie Bernice (McWhirter) Groff passed away on the evening of January 19, 2026, in Burns Flat, Oklahoma. She was nearing her 96th year—a life that spanned some of the most defining chapters in American history. Born in Sentinel, Oklahoma, during the Great Depression, she witnessed firsthand the hardships of the Dust Bowl, the resilience of post-war America, the uncertainty of the gas lines in the 1970s, and the ever-changing world of today. Alongside her husband, JD, she raised six children, building a life grounded in perseverance, faith, and family. In her final moments, she was not alone—two of her children remained faithfully by her side, just as she had so often been there for them throughout their lives.

A Story I Picked Up From The Surfing The Web About A Man Helping His Wife Through Labor…

March 18, 2026May 6, 2026Benjamin6 Comments

March 18, 2026

The Most Supportive Husband Ever… Or So He Thought

A man rushed his very pregnant wife to the hospital as her labor pains began.

After examining her, the doctor looked up with a serious expression.
“This is going to be a difficult delivery,” he said. “But… there is an experimental choice.”

The couple leaned in.

“There’s a machine,” the doctor explained, “that can transfer a part of the mother’s pain to the father. It would significantly reduce what she feels during labor.”

Without hesitation, the husband said, “Hook me up.”

The doctor raised a cautious finger.

“There’s one small issue… a flaw in the mechanism. The pain transferred to you is amplified—up to ten times stronger than what she experiences. If it becomes too much, you must tell me at once.”

The husband nodded confidently. “I can handle it.”

The machine was connected.

The doctor started at 10%.

“How do you feel?” he asked.

“Honestly?” the husband said. “I don’t feel a thing.”

Curious, the doctor increased it to 30%… then 50%… then 80%.

Still nothing.

The doctor was amazed. He pushed it all the way to 100%. Due to the flaw, this meant the husband was now receiving ten times the full intensity of labor pain.

He stood there calmly.

No grimace.
No flinch.
Not even a bead of sweat.

Meanwhile, his wife delivered the baby with remarkable ease.

The doctor, stunned, turned to the husband.
““I have never seen anything like this in my entire career.”

Proud, the couple gathered their newborn and headed home, marveling at what had just happened.

But when they arrived…

There, on the front doorstep…

Lay the mailman.

Dead.

I am only retelling this story. I am not responsible for the contents. Just for the ending. Which I had nothing to do with.

The End.

Marjorie Bernice McWhirter Groff Dies at Age 95

January 20, 2026January 20, 2026Benjamin2 Comments

The mother of Groff-Media’s Benjamin Groff has passed away at the age of 95. Marjorie Bernice McWhirter Groff died in Burns Flat Oklahoma on the 19^th of January 2026. She was raised on her father’s farm in Southwest Oklahoma during the Great Depression.

Marjorie Bernice McWhirter Groff, age 95, of Burns Flat, Oklahoma, passed away on January 19, 2026. She was the beloved mother of Groff-Media’s Benjamin Groff. Her life reflected perseverance. She was devoted to family and demonstrated quiet strength.

Marjorie Bernice (McWhirter) Groff was born on August 21, 1930, to G.W. and Bernice McWhirter on the McWhirter homestead near Sentinel, Oklahoma. She was raised on her father’s farm in southwest Oklahoma during the Great Depression. She learned early the values of hard work. She also developed self-reliance and resilience. She attended school in Sentinel, graduating in 1949. With characteristic humor, she often recalled being held back in first grade by Ms. Thomas. This was an event never fully explained, but she later attributed it to her grit and orneriness. These qualities remained with her throughout life.

She later married JD Groff in Arapaho, Oklahoma. Together, they formed a blended family of “yours, mine, and soon ours.” They raised six children. They built a life rooted in commitment and unconditional love. The family lived in Clinton, Cordell, and Binger, Oklahoma. Wherever they resided, Marjorie ensured her family had food on the table, clean clothes, and a warm home. She faithfully followed JD wherever his work and calling led, embodying the meaning of partnership and devotion.

Marjorie worked for many years in grocery and retail service. She held positions at Puckett’s Grocery in Cordell. She also worked at United Supermarkets in Clinton and Cordell. Additionally, she worked at Loren’s Grocery in Binger. She was employed at the former Humpty Dumpty store in Anadarko as well. In the mid-1970s, she managed a store for the late Dr. Henry Phifer. She assisted her husband in the care of Camp Red Rock. Helping with the operation of the Girl Scout camp from the 1970s through the mid-1980s. Many residents of Caddo, Kiowa, and Washita Counties came to know Marjorie through her work as a census demographic assistant. They relied on her for accuracy and trustworthiness. Later in life, she devoted herself to caring for others in different roles. She worked as a group-home caregiver. She was also a personal care assistant for individuals with developmental challenges.

In 2010, Marjorie moved from Binger to her son’s ranch near Phoenix, Arizona. In 2013, she returned to Oklahoma to live with her daughter Twila in Edmond. They later moved to Burns Flat. She resided there until her passing.

Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents. Her husband, JD Groff, also passed before her. She lost two sons, Sheldon Groff and Dennis Groff. She was also preceded in death by her brothers and sisters and their spouses. They were Robert Glen McWhirter, George McWhirter, David McWhirter, Richard McWhirter, Opal Burke, Nancy Dew, and Carolyn Overton. Her sisters-in-law were Mary McWhirter from Wichita Falls, Texas. Another one was Irene McWhirter from Oklahoma City. The third sister-in-law was Dortha Groff Downing from Weatherford, Oklahoma. Her brothers-in-law were Bennie Groff of Oklahoma City and Virgil Downing of Weatherford, Oklahoma. Others included Herb Burke of Mustang, Oklahoma, and Raymond Dew of Guthrie, Oklahoma.

She is survived by her children: Terry L. Groff and his wife, Paula, of Binger, Oklahoma. Juli Hall resides in Fort Cobb, Oklahoma. Twila Bowling lives in Burns Flat, Oklahoma. Benjamin Groff and Steven Swint, are from Mesa, Arizona. She is also survived by her sister, Shirley Lawson of Oklahoma City. She leaves behind many nieces and nephews. Many extended family members, friends, and neighbors remained in contact and offered care and companionship over the years.

Marjorie leaves behind a large and loving family, including thirteen grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. She is also remembered by three adopted grandchildren—Benny, George, and Vojta—and their families in Germany and the Czech Republic.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Tommy Groff, Robert Groff, Jay Dee Groff, and Raymond Groff. Florence Lynn (Groff), Amanda Bowling, Blake Bowling, and Natasha Garrison. Nathan Smith, Michael Smith, Tracey Groff, Ryan Groff, and Sisney Groff.

The love and support she received from those who stood by her until the end speak volumes. They highlight her husband’s enduring values. This is a testament to his character. These values were instilled by JD Groff. She never lost their dedication, trust, or love. This reflects the respect for family and elders that JD taught his children. Marjorie lived this respect every day.

Private family services will be held at Marjorie’s wish in the Spring Time.

Actor Gregory de Polnay passed away on January 1st, 2026, at the age of 82.

January 4, 2026January 4, 2026BenjaminLeave a comment

~~~

Gregory de Polnay was born on 17 October 1943 in Chelsea, London, England, UK. He was an actor, known for Mansfield Park (1999), Doctor Who (1963) and Dixon of Dock Green (1955). He was married to Candice Caroline White. He died on 1 January 2026 in Poitiers, France. Some reports have listed as 2 January, 2026.

~~~

1–2 minutes

Big Finish Productions confirmed Gregory de Polnay’s death. He was known and respected there for his contributions to audio drama. News of his passing was met with sadness by colleagues, listeners, and admirers of his work.

Gregory de Polnay built a career defined by presence and voice. These qualities served him especially well in the world of recorded performance. Through his work with Big Finish, he became part of a storytelling tradition that values nuance, imagination, and character. He brought scripts to life for audiences. These audiences knew him primarily through sound rather than stage or screen.

De Polnay was not a household name. Yet, his work left a lasting impression within the creative communities he served. Fellow performers and producers remembered him as a dedicated professional. He matched his seriousness of craft with a deep respect for storytelling and collaboration.

Gregory de Polnay played D84 in the Doctor Who television story The Robots of Death. He later voiced V23 in the Kaldor City audio story Storm Mine. He also reprised D84 in The Robots audio story Closed Loop.

He also voiced Home Assistant V14 in The Collection — Season 14 mini-episode Home Assistant.

He shared his memories of The Robots of Death on Reeltime Pictures‘ documentary I Was a Doctor Who Monster! and the 171st edition of Big Finish‘s charity podcasts series Toby Hadoke’s Who’s Round.

Gregory de Polnay is survived by friends, colleagues, and listeners who continue to enjoy the performances he left behind. His voice endures in the stories he helped tell. This ensures that his contribution to the art of audio drama will not be forgotten.

Disney’s Experiential Designer Eddie Sotto Dead At Age 67

December 18, 2025Benjamin1 Comment

1–2 minutes

Eddie Sotto, 67, American experiential designer, mixed-media producer and conceptualist

Eddie Sotto, a visionary designer and influential figure in themed entertainment, has died at the age of 67. Sotto earned widespread respect for his creative leadership. He made a lasting impact on the way immersive environments are imagined and experienced. His work with Walt Disney Imagineering was significant during a pivotal era of expansion and innovation.

Eddie Sotto imagined places where stories lived. He shaped immersive worlds at Walt Disney Imagineering. These worlds welcomed millions and forever redefined themed design.

Sotto joined Walt Disney Imagineering in 1986. He rose to become Senior Vice President of Concept Design in 1994. This role placed him at the center of some of Disney’s most ambitious international projects. Among his most notable achievements was overseeing the design of Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland Paris. There, his vision helped adapt a classic American concept for a global audience. He managed to preserve its sense of nostalgia, storytelling, and emotional resonance.

One of Sotto’s most enduring contributions was his proposal. He suggested placing the Disneyland Hotel directly at the entrance of Disneyland Paris. This proposal was bold and unprecedented. This was the first time Disney situated a hotel within a theme park. This concept would influence future park planning. It also redefined the relationship between guest experience and themed architecture. Eddie Sotto’s legacy endures in the spaces he helped create and in the imaginative standards he set for immersive design.

Because They Mattered ~ Legacy Lives On

November 26, 2025November 25, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

Their Final Chapter Is Not the End

2–3 minutes

In the quiet margins of newspapers, lives flicker out of print. Still, they do not fade out of memory. That is where our magazine steps in. It offers a respectful space for families and community members. They can share and preserve their loved ones’ stories. benandsteve.com believes that every person who mattered deserves more than a line in the obituary section. It doesn’t matter whether they soared in the spotlight or labored in the shadows. They deserve a story that lingers.

At Galaxy8News, a Service of benandsteve.com, we curate the collection “Notable Deaths—Gone But Not Forgotten“. Our aim is to shine a light on the lives behind the names. We ask the questions no standard notice ever does: What did they believe? What seeds did they plant? Who still carries their echo?

Remembering those who have gone on before. — _{^{In State. Gone But Not Forgotten!}} ~ _{^{The Quiet Roll Call of Memory ~ A Place Where Every Life is Honored}}^_!

The local teacher’s kindness rippled through generations. The factory worker’s quiet ingenuity saved jobs. Every story reminds us that all lives matter and deserve recognition. Each of them mattered in a way that defies headline fame, and we honor that truth.

When you turn our pages, you are not just scrolling past a date and a funeral notice. You are stepping into a life lived, an unfinished story, and a memory that still speaks. Through these stories, you can feel connected to those who shaped our world in ways that matter deeply to someone.

Join us. Let this edition of Notable Deaths – @ Galaxy8News, a service of benandsteve.com, stand as a testament that we remember — not only the famous, but the faithful. We honor not only the celebrated, but the steadfast. Through meaningful storytelling, we create a space where every life is acknowledged. Each life is valued and preserved. This nurtures a lasting sense of belonging and purpose.

We assure their contributions, their legacy, and their memory are posted. Visit daily to stay connected and informed on the most recent passing’s of those who have departed this world. Their lives mattered, and their stories deserve to be remembered. Bookmark it here! Just remember Galaxy8News, a service of benandsteve.com and Notable Deaths are two different pages. Hosted by the same entity.

BE SAFE AND HAVE HAPPY THANKSGIVING.

DRIVE SAFE. & BUCKLE-UP

If You Are Driving Don’t Drink And Drive.

Do Not Drive If You Are Not Well Rested.

Keep A First Aid Kit In Your Vehicle.

And Avoid Fights On Airplanes.

_{^{Photo by ASHISH SHARMA on Pexels.com}}
_{^{Don’t Be A Turkey!}}

Alice Kessler & Ellen Kessler — Twin Lives, Shared Stardom, and a Final Choice Together

November 20, 2025November 18, 2025Benjamin1 Comment

3–4 minutes

Alice and Ellen Kessler were born on August 20, 1936, in Nerchau, Saxony, Germany. From early childhood, they trained in ballet and performance, eventually emerging as a dazzling twin act in post-war Europe. They became known internationally for their synchronized dancing, singing, and television appearances. They found particular fame in Italy, where they were dubbed “Le gemelle Kessler”.

They appeared in films like Love and the Frenchwoman and Dead Woman from Beverly Hills . Their careers expanded beyond dance into acting.

Shared Career, Shared Life

For decades, they performed as a unit—twins inseparable both on and off stage. Their image of elegance, glamour, and synchronized precision made them icons of entertainment in the 1950s and 1960s. Their bond remained strong even as they stepped away from the spotlight, ultimately returning to Germany and settling near Munich.

Their Final Days & Decision

On November 17, 2025, both Alice and Ellen passed away in Grünwald, Bavaria, Germany, at the age of 89. Their cause of death is reported as assisted suicide. They made this decision together. It reflects how they had lived life: side by side.

The sisters had long ago expressed the wish to be cremated together. They wanted their ashes placed in a single urn, according to reports. They had indicated they no longer wished to continue their current life. They chose to end their lives together.

Why They Made That Choice

While the intimate details of their decision stay personal, the public record suggests the following contributing factors:

Age and quality of life: At 89, they faced the realities of aging. Having lived their whole careers, they wished to face death by choice rather than decline.
Deep bond: Their identity had been formed around always being together—professionally and personally. The decision to depart together echoes the unity they maintained for nearly nine decades.
Autonomy in the final act: In Germany, since 2019, medical aid in dying has been legal under certain conditions. This involves an individual administering prescribed medication themselves. They chose the timing, setting, and manner—affirming their autonomy to the end.

Legacy and Reflection

Alice and Ellen stay symbols of an era of variety-show glamour. They epitomize cross-European entertainment. Their twin synergy is unmatched by few acts. But beyond their performance, their final act raises profound questions about dignity. It also questions companionship and the nature of choice at the end of life.

Their journey is a full-circle narrative for fans, historians, and those intrigued by human stories. They start as childhood ballet students. They become international stars. Finally, they become co-authors of their own end. It shows how life can be lived. It also demonstrates how life can be shared and completed on one’s own terms.

Closing Thoughts Remembering The Kessler Sisters

How many partnerships in life are built to last so long, and so deeply?

The Kessler twins remind us of devotion not only to craft, but to each other. In their final act, they teach us something tender and unsettling. They reveal the power of choice, the weight of togetherness, and the mystery of closure.

Latest on the Kessler Twins’ passing –

NEWS BULLETIN. TUESDAY NOVEMBER 19, 2025

The Kessler Twins have left this world together.

Alice Kessler and Ellen Kessler—German twin sisters who performed as a variety entertainment duo—died by joint assisted suicide at their home in Gruenwald, Germany, on Nov. 17, according to the German Society for Humane Dying (DGHS).

“They had been considering this option for some time,” the association, which advocates for the right to a self-determined death, said in a statement to NBC News. “They had been members of the organization for over a year.”

Explaining that those “who choose this option in Germany must be absolutely clear-headed, meaning free and responsible,” the organization noted that the sisters engaged in thorough discussions with a lawyer and a doctor before setting on this path.

“The decision must be thoughtful and consistent,” the DGHS added, “meaning made over a long period of time and not impulsive.”

Assisted dying is legal in Germany, with the country’s constitutional court ruling in 2020 that an individual has the right to end their life and seek help from a third party under certain circumstances.

MEMORIAL: VIDEO – NOT A DRY EYE IN THE HOUSE

Former Zamalek Midfielder Dies in Car Accident at 51

November 15, 2025November 14, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

2–3 minutes

🕊️ Mohamed Sabry (1974–2025)

Mohamed Sabry, Former Zamalek Midfielder, Dies at 51

Mohamed Sabry Former Zamelek Midfielder, Dead at Age 51.

The Egyptian football community is deeply saddened to mourn the loss of Mohamed Sabry. He was the former Zamalek and Egypt national team midfielder. He died in a car accident in Cairo’s Fifth Settlement on Thursday. He was 51. Sabry’s untimely passing marks the end of a remarkable life. He dedicated his life to the sport he loved. He helped define it for a generation of fans.

Sabry was a central figure in Zamalek’s golden era throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. This was a decade of triumphs. It cemented the club’s legacy in African football. Between 1993 and 2003, he lifted 15 major titles. These included three CAF Champions League trophies and two Egyptian Premier League championships. Known for his fierce determination, vision, and leadership on the pitch, Sabry was instrumental. He led Zamalek through some of its most celebrated victories. He earned admiration from teammates, opponents, and supporters alike.

After news of his passing, tributes poured in from across Egypt and beyond. Zamalek icon Mahmoud Abdel-Razek “Shikabala” described Sabry as “a legend of Egyptian football.” He also called him “a symbol of loyalty and devotion to his club and supporters.” His words reflected the views of many who admired Sabry for his exceptional talent. They saw him as a model of dedication and humility. Fans, former teammates, and rival clubs alike joined in remembering a man whose passion for football transcended the game’s rivalries.

Condolences also came from key figures within Egyptian football. Hossam Hassan, the national team coach, offered his sympathy to Sabry’s family. Al Ahly president Mahmoud El Khatib also conveyed his condolences to the wider football community. Tributes continue to flow. Mohamed Sabry will be remembered as one of Zamalek’s most influential midfielders. His achievements, sportsmanship, and loyalty to his club left an indelible mark on Egyptian football history.

Mohamed Sabry (1974–2025): Remembering a Zamalek Legend

You Can Read Learn Daily About Notable People Who Die Around The World Like ~

Former Zamalek midfielder Mohamed Sabry has died in a tragic car accident in Cairo at 51. A defining figure in Zamalek’s golden era, Sabry won 15 major titles, including three CAF Champions League crowns. Tributes from teammates, rivals, and fans recall a man of skill, loyalty, and unmatched devotion to the game.

A place to honor the names and stories that shaped our world. Even in the United States Click here~!

Carol Jane “Penny” Pence Taylor * May 11, 1929 – November 4, 2025

November 5, 2025November 5, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

2–3 minutes

Carol "Penny" Pence Taylor — _{^{Carol Jane “Penny” Pence Taylor}}

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carol Jane “Penny” Pence Taylor. She was born on May 11, 1929, and passed away on November 4, 2025. Penny was a pioneering American swimmer, Olympian, mentor, and coach. She was also a beloved figure in the sport of swimming. She died in New Orleans, Louisiana, at the age of 96.

Life & Accomplishments

Penny Pence was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, and as a young woman rose to national prominence as a breaststroke specialist. She represented the United States at the 1948 Summer Olympics in London. She competed in the women’s 200-metre breaststroke at the age of 19.

In that era, women’s competitive swimming was still evolving. Swimsuits were made of cotton. Goggles were not yet in regular use. Lane lines and pool technology were far less advanced than today. As noted in

Beyond the Olympics, she achieved multiple national titles in breaststroke and medley relay events. At the 1951 Pan American Games, she won gold in the 3×100 m medley relay. She also secured bronze in the 200 m breaststroke. Which is noted in Olympedia+1

After her competitive career, Penny turned to coaching and leadership. She spent more than three decades as a swim coach in the St. Louis area. She served in various roles with U.S. Swimming organizations. She was a team leader at the 1984 and 1992 Olympics. She worked as a deck marshal at the 1996 Games. She was also the chef de mission at several FINA World Championships. Her backgrounds are well documented on Wikipedia

Legacy

At the 1951 Pan American Games, she won gold in the 3×100 m medley relay. She also secured bronze in the 200 m breaststroke.

Penny Pence’s legacy lives on in many ways. She helped lay the groundwork for women’s competitive swimming in the United States. Her efforts bridged the post-war era into the modern age of the sport. Her dedication as an athlete, coach, administrator, and mentor touched countless swimmers. She had the rare perspective of having raced in the era when the butterfly wing-style was emerging in breaststroke events. Later, she guided new generations.

A Life Remembered

Penny was admired for her determination, her attention to detail, and her lifelong commitment to the sport she loved. She stayed involved with swimming well into her later years. She attended major events. She offered counsel and shared stories of an era when competitive swimming was very different from today.

You will find many references to her through Swimming World Magazine

In Tribute

A private celebration of her life is being planned.

Her family requests donations in her name instead of flowers. These can be made to a local swim club. Alternatively, they can be directed to a scholarship fund supporting young swimmers.

Her memory reminds us of the value of perseverance, service, and passion for the sport.

Penny Pence has left the pool. Still, her ripple effect continues in the lanes. It also continues in the lives of all whom she touched. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

William Irwin “Bill” Krisher (September 18, 1935 – 2025, age 89)

July 30, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

1–2 minutes

William Irwin “Bill” Krisher (September 18, 1935 – 2025, age 89)

William Irwin Krisher, known to football fans as Bill Krisher, passed away in 2025 at age 89 (1).

He was born on September 18, 1935, in Perry, Oklahoma. He grew up in Midwest City. He developed into a standout lineman for the University of Oklahoma under coach Bud Wilkinson (2).

Krisher’s college career was decorated. He earned consensus All-American honors in 1957. He helped the Sooner’s win consecutive national championships in 1955 and 1956 3.

Selected in the third round of the 1958 NFL draft, he played for the Pittsburgh Steelers before moving to the AFL’s Dallas Texans (now Kansas City Chiefs), where he was named to the All‑AFL Team in 1960 and honored as a division All‑Star in 1961 4

Off the field, Krisher dedicated himself to faith and mentorship. He was an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and served as its southwestern regional director by the mid‑1970s 5

Bill Krisher leaves behind a legacy of excellence in collegiate and pro football. He dedicated his life to uplifting others through faith and service.

He is remembered by family, teammates, and athletes inspired by his example.

Helen Cornelius Passes Away At Age 83

July 19, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

3–4 minutes

Helen Cornelius (December 6, 1941 – July 18, 2025) was the deeply cherished voice of classic country. She was the beloved duet partner to Jim Ed Brown. She passed away on July 18, at the age of 83 Facebook The Sun Set TV. She was born as Helen Lorene Johnson in Monroe City, Missouri. She was raised on a farm where music flowed naturally in her family. She joined her sisters Judy and Sharon in a local singing trio before forming her own band, The Crossroads.

Cornelius’s early career blossomed in the late 1960s. She worked as a songwriter signed to Screen Gems Music. She penned songs recorded by artists like Barbara Fairchild and Connie Smith Wikipedia+3Wikipedia+3The Sun Set TV+3. After a brief stint with Columbia and MCA Records, her life’s defining moment arrived in 1976. Teaming up with Jim Ed Brown, she recorded “I Don’t Want to Have to Marry You.” It was a No. 1 country smash. This success launched a string of hit duets. These include “Saying Hello, Saying I Love You, Saying Goodbye.” They also include “Lying in Love with You” and “Fools.” There are more HistoryForSale+7Wikipedia+7Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum+7. Their chemistry was undeniable. It earned them the Country Music Association’s Vocal Duo of the Year award. This accolade came in 1977 Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Cornelius also enjoyed solo success. This includes her charting single “Whatcha Doin’ After Midnight Baby.” She toured with iconic acts like The Statler Brothers. She later brought her signature warmth to stage shows. This included a stint in the musical Annie Get Your Gun. She also opened the Nashville South venue in Gatlinburg HistoryForSale+3Wikipedia+3The Sun Set TV+3. In the 2000s, she became a Branson favorite at the Jim Stafford Theater. She made frequent appearances on RFD‑TV’s Country’s Family Reunion series Facebook+5Wikipedia+5The Sun Set TV+5.

Helen was recognized not just for her pure, heartfelt voice. She was also acknowledged for her humility and graciousness. Moreover, the undeniable bond she shared with Jim Ed Brown on stage and in life was noteworthy. Even after their professional split in 1981, she remained a steadfast presence in country music. They reunited for a 1988 tour. She continued to be a steadfast presence in country music 98.1 – Minnesota’s New Country+4Wikipedia+4The Sun Set TV+4.

She is survived by her loving family and legions of fans who still cherish those golden harmonies. Helen Cornelius’s legacy lives on in every record, performance, and the countless artists she inspired. She will be remembered as one of country music’s finest voices. She was a true steward of its heart.

Highlights of Helen Cornelius’s life and career:

Early Beginnings: She was raised on a Missouri farm. She sang in a trio with her sisters. Later, she led The Crossroads band Facebook The Sun Set TV+3Wikipedia+3Wikipedia+3.
Songwriting Roots: Signed with Screen Gems; wrote for renowned country artists before launching her singing career The Sun Set TV.
Duet Stardom: Teamed with Jim Ed Brown in 1976. They earned six top-ten country hits. They also won CMA Vocal Duo of the Year honors Wikipedia+4Wikipedia+4Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum+4.
Solo & Stage Work: Charted solo singles; toured with The Statler Brothers; performed in touring musicals HistoryForSale+3Wikipedia+3Wikipedia+3.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Founded a performance venue in Gatlinburg. There are regular appearances in Branson and on regional television. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum+3Wikipedia+3The Sun Set TV+3.
Continued Connection: Remained active in the community through Country’s Family Reunion and Branson theater gigs YouTube+4Wikipedia+4Wikipedia+4.

Her passing marks the end of a storied chapter in country music. Her voice—filled with warmth, purity, and grace—will continue to echo for generations. Rest in harmony, Helen Cornelius.

Remembering Horace Speed: A MLB Player’s Legacy

May 28, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

1–2 minutes

Horace Speed (1951–2025): Former Major League Outfielder Remembered for His Speed and Perseverance

Horace Solomon Speed was a former Major League Baseball player. He was known for his blazing speed and quiet determination. He passed away on May 26, 2025, at the age of 73.

Born on January 22, 1951, in Pasadena, California, Speed was a standout athlete from an early age. The San Francisco Giants drafted him out of Pasadena High School. This was during the Major League Baseball’s round of the 1969 June Amateur Draft. Speed spent most of his professional career in the minor leagues. Nonetheless, his dedication to the game paid off. He finally broke into the majors with the Cleveland Indians.

Speed made his MLB debut on September 14, 1975, and played parts of three seasons with the Indians. Throughout 62 games, he was often utilized as a pinch runner and reserve outfielder, capitalizing on his hallmark speed. While his offensive stats — a .140 batting average, seven stolen bases, and eight runs scored — show limited playing time, his presence was valuable. He made significant contributions in late-game situations, particularly on the bases.

Speed’s journey through professional baseball was a testament to resilience. He spent nearly a decade in the minors. Before reaching the major leagues, he served as a model of perseverance for countless aspiring athletes. His career was modest in statistical output. Nevertheless, it remains a testament to hard work and patience. It inspires all who hear his story.

After retiring from baseball, Speed largely stayed out of the public eye, living a private life away from the spotlight. His modesty stands out. He has made significant contributions to the sport. This modesty is a reminder of the humility that can be found in even the most accomplished individuals.

Horace Speed’s passing marks the loss of a quiet but determined competitor. His journey inspired those who watched him run, hustle, and chase his dreams. He is remembered for his achievements on the field. More importantly, he is remembered for the character he displayed in getting there.

Dre Love’s Legacy: Bridging American and Italian Music

May 20, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

3–4 minutes

André Thomas Halyards, known artistically as Dre Love, was a central and pioneering figure in Italian hip hop. He has passed away in Florence at the age of 55.

Dre Love was born in the Queens borough of New York City. He became a Florentine by adoption in the 1990s. Dre Love was a versatile artist: DJ, rapper, beatmaker, songwriter, and tireless collaborator. He had a gritty voice and unmistakable style. He brought the groove and soul of African American funk into the sounds of Italian hip hop. This helped to write some of its most authentic and vital chapters.

Dre Love arrived in Italy in the early 1990s. He made his home in Florence. This city would shape both his artistic and personal journey. There, he joined Radical Stuff, one of Italy’s very first hip hop groups. He became a living bridge between American street culture and the emerging urban scenes taking shape across the country. He was also a member of the collective Messaggeri della Dopa. He helped to redefine Italian rap with a style that blended social consciousness. His approach also incorporated sophisticated musicality and spirituality.

His Collaboration with Neffa

Dre Love’s name is often linked with Neffa, with whom he collaborated on the Campanian rapper’s first two albums. He worked with a wide array of Italian and international artists. These include Irene Grandi, Alex Britti, Almamegretta, DJ Gruff, DJ Enzo, Gopher D, Reggae National Tickets. His collaborations even touched on the soul-funk sound of Jamiroquai.

Dre Love was never just a guest artist. He was a true collaborator in the deepest sense. He was an artist who opened doors. He created connections between musical worlds that seemed far apart. A messenger who made every beat, every bar, a statement of purpose. His music was a captivating blend of rap, funk, soul, and electronic experimentation. It was deeply rooted in a visceral respect for African American culture. His work always pushed toward innovation.

With his band, Dre Love delivered live performances. The band featured talented Italian musicians like Diego Leporatti (drums), Gianni Pantaleo (keyboards), and Niccolò Malcontenti (bass). It also included Tiziano Carfora (percussion), Andrea Rubino (guitar), Leandro Giordani (saxophone), and Emanuele Campigli (trumpet). Each performance was a true sonic journey through the past, current, and future of Black music.

Unlike the other famous “Dre” in hip hop history, Dr. Dre, Dre Love built his legend in a different way. He did not do it through the spotlight of the music industry. Instead, he made a direct impact with audiences, scenes, and people. He didn’t seek confrontation, but dialogue. Not profit, but connection. Where Dr. Dre of Compton made significant changes in hip hop with The Chronic, he further transformed the music industry with Beats. In contrast, Dre Love revolutionized hearts and stages, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Italian rap.

(By Paolo Martini)

A Tribute from Casino Royale

“Just a little while ago, a ‘great’ one made the big leap. This was a soul who gave so much. He contributed both humanly and in terms of sound and attitude to the Italian scene. Casino Royale was never a hip hop project. Still, we had the privilege of crossing paths with many figures. These figures made history in this country’s hip hop culture. Dre Love was one of those. He will always stay in our Olympus of demigods. We had the honor of meeting such people.

Every time we crossed paths, there were genuine hugs. They were full of mutual respect. We always promised that one day, we’d play that game together. It’s the game that becomes a mission for those who feel the responsibility. They also experience the joy of doing things a certain way.

ROCK ON!!! That was his goodbye.
‘The sky is the limit’—fly light, Dre Love. See you on the other side.”

(From a post published by Casino Royale on Facebook)

Originally posted at adnkronos

Jason Conti’s Impact on MLB History

May 17, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

January 27, 1975 – May 17, 2025

1–2 minutes

Stanley Jason Conti was a former Major League Baseball outfielder. He was known for his defensive prowess. He contributed to several MLB teams. Conti passed away on May 17, 2025, his cause of death has not been disclosed.

Conti was born on January 27, 1975, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Arizona Diamondbacks drafted him in the 32nd round of the 1996 amateur draft. He came from the University of Pittsburgh. He made his highly anticipated MLB debut with the Diamondbacks on June 29, 2000, filled with excitement and promise. He played for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Milwaukee Brewers, and Texas Rangers over a five-year major league career. Known for his strong throwing arm, Conti made memorable defensive plays. He threw out Atlanta’s Brian Jordan at third base on consecutive nights. He also gunned down Chicago’s Frank Thomas at home plate in back-to-back games. He appeared in 182 MLB games, recording a .238 batting average with six home runs and 47 RBIs.

After his time in the majors, Conti continued his baseball career in the minor leagues, even taking his talent overseas. He played in Italy for the Bologna Italieri of the Series 1-A Championship League during the 2007 season. His performance on the field showcased his skills on a global stage.

Conti’s passion for baseball and his memorable moments on the field left a lasting impression on fans and teammates alike. He is remembered for his athletic achievements and unwavering dedication to the sport, a commitment that inspired many.

He is survived by his family, friends, and countless fans who appreciated his contributions to baseball.

A memorial service will honor Jason Conti’s life and career.

Remembering John S. Foster Jr.: A Key Figure in Nuclear Deterrence

April 29, 2025Benjamin1 Comment

2–3 minutes

John S. Foster Jr., 102, Pioneering Physicist and Architect of U.S. Nuclear Deterrence, Dies

John Stuart Foster Jr. was a visionary physicist. His career spanned over eight decades of American scientific and defense innovation. He passed away on April 25, 2025, in Goleta, California. He was 102. (1)

Born on September 18, 1922, in New Haven, Connecticut, Foster was the son of renowned Canadian physicist John S. Foster Sr. He began his academic journey at McGill University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1948. He later obtained a Ph.D. in physics from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1952. (2)

Foster’s skill during World War II was instrumental in developing radar and countermeasure technologies at Harvard’s Radio Research Laboratory. He served as a scientific advisor to the 15th Air Force in the Mediterranean Theater. This role further demonstrated his dedication to the war effort. (3)

In 1952, Foster was recruited by Edward Teller to join the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). His leadership in nuclear weapons design at LLNL was groundbreaking. He eventually became the director in 1961. This leadership fostered a culture of innovation and collaboration that continues to inspire today.

From 1965 to 1973, Foster served as the Director of Defense Research and Engineering at the U.S. Department of Defense, advising four Secretaries of Defense and two Presidents. He championed advancements in smart weapons, night vision, and reconnaissance technologies. (4)

After his tenure at the Pentagon, Foster joined TRW Inc. as Vice President of Science and Technology, later serving on its board of directors. He remained an influential figure in national security. He participated in the Defense Science Board. He also joined the President’s Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board. Additionally, he served on the Commission to Assess the Threat to the United States from Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) Attack. (5)

Foster’s contributions earned him many accolades. These include the Enrico Fermi Award and the Founder’s Award from the National Academy of Engineering. He also received multiple Department of Defense Distinguished Public Service Medals. He was also honored internationally. He received the Knight Commander’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. He was named Commander of the French Legion of Honor. (6)

In recognition of his enduring legacy, LLNL established the John S. Foster Jr. Medal, awarded annually to individuals demonstrating exceptional leadership in national security science and technology. (7)

Foster is survived by his family and a legacy that continues to influence U.S. defense policy and scientific research.

A memorial service will be held at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Instead of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Livermore Lab Foundation in his honor. (8)

Tribute to Edy Star: The Groundbreaking Brazilian Artist

April 25, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

1–2 minutes

Edy Star, Trailblazing Brazilian Artist and Queer Icon, Dies at 87

April 25, 2025 – São Paulo, Brazil

Edy Star was a flamboyant and fearless Brazilian artist. He was a singer, actor, and visual artist. He broke ground as one of the country’s first openly gay performers. Edy Star died on April 24 in São Paulo. He was 87.

A Singular Life

Born Edy Nunes in Salvador, Bahia, Edy Star became a singular presence in Brazilian culture. His career spanned music, theater, television, and visual arts. He carved a space for himself that defied convention. He also challenged the mainstream.

He is best remembered for his work on the 1971 cult album. Sociedade da Grã-Ordem Kavernista Apresenta Sessão das 10 gained significant attention. It is a psychedelic, satirical collaboration with Raul Seixas, Sérgio Sampaio, and Miriam Batucada. The album blends rock, samba, and theatrical flair. It was initially pulled from circulation. But, it later became a defining artifact of Brazil’s counter cultural movement.

Fearless Expression in Dangerous Times

Edy Star was known for his irreverent stage presence, extravagant costumes, and unapologetic queerness. Brazil was under a military dictatorship. During this time, LGBTQ+ voices were often silenced. His bold performances stood as acts of defiance.

By challenging gender norms and pushing social boundaries, he became a symbol of artistic freedom, resistance, and queer pride.

A Multidisciplinary Force

Moreover to his musical legacy, Edy Star was a visual artist, television presenter, and seasoned stage actor. His multidisciplinary approach made him a beloved figure across Brazil’s creative scenes.

He brought the same vibrant energy and passion to every medium he touched. His work left a lasting impression on audiences and fellow artists alike.

A Peaceful Farewell

Edy Star passed away peacefully in a São Paulo hospital due to complications after a domestic accident. According to a statement from his press office, he died “without pain, while receiving medical treatment.”

An Enduring Legacy

Edy Star’s legacy lives on in the bold, boundary-breaking art he championed. He inspired generations of LGBTQ+ artists to live and create without compromise.

He didn’t just execute. He transformed.

A Life of Humility: The Story of Wayne Handy

April 5, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

3–4 minutes

In Memory of Wayne Jackson, Handy ––– The Unlikely Rock and Roller

Wayne Jackson Handy was a man whose velvet voice once crooned over the airwaves of American Bandstand. His voice later soothed those navigating the mortgage banking world. He passed away peacefully on April 1, 2025, at 89. Wayne started from humble beginnings on a farm in Eden, North Carolina. He then moved on to the dazzling lights of 1950s television. Later, he found the quiet steadiness of a career in finance. Wayne lived an entire and remarkable life. It was defined not by fame or fortune but by kindness, creativity, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Wayne’s love and commitment to his family were unwavering. The youngest of five children, Wayne was born in Eden and raised helping his parents in the fields. He graduated from Reidsville High School in 1953. Two years later, he married the love of his life, Marjorie Louise Smith of Cassville. He charmed her at a local baseball game. This was a story he told with a twinkle in his eye. His smile hinted at the hopeless romantic within. Their marriage endured over six decades. It was a bond marked by deep affection and laughter. Their steadfast partnership lasted until Marjorie’s passing in 2018.

Wayne’s musical talent was a source of inspiration for many. His velvet-smooth voice and playful way with melody, often accompanied by his ukulele, were a joy to behold. In 1957, his passion for music led him to a national stage. He performed on American Bandstand. He shared the screen with some of rock and roll’s earliest stars there. His brush with fame was brief. Yet, it left a glimmer of rockabilly stardust. This touch of stardust was on a life otherwise grounded in humility and grace.

After enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1958, Wayne served two years in Alaska as a field radio operator. Upon returning home, he pursued higher education. He studied business at North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He graduated in 1962. His career in mortgage banking took him and his family across the Southeast. They even moved to Utah. His career eventually culminated in his time with Carolina Bank in Greensboro. He worked there until his retirement in the mid-2000s.

In every chapter of his life, Wayne’s character remained consistent: humble, gracious, patient, meticulous, and quietly dignified. He gave generously of himself, donating blood regularly and ringing the Salvation Army bell during the holidays. He was profoundly artistic and playfully inventive. His children celebrated him for his affectionate nicknames. Adults also appreciated his funny songs, silly voices, and irrepressible sense of the absurd.

Despite his many accomplishments, Wayne’s humility was a defining trait. He was never one to boast. He preferred to show love through small, steady acts. This included a freshly repaired item. It was a perfectly stacked rock wall, a gentle word, or a slow walk in the evening light. He was a natural storyteller. He was a dapper dresser. His gentle Southern accent and kind eyes conveyed a rare and genuine warmth.

He is remembered with love and admiration. His children include Christopher Handy, Jeff Handy, and Meredith Brunel (Richard). His grandchildren include Louise, Henri, Carlene, Charlotte, Erendira, and Matthew. He is also remembered by his great-grandchildren. Wayne was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marjorie, with whom he now reunites in eternal peace.

A graveside gathering and inurnment of ashes will occur at Bethesda Presbyterian Church in Ruffin. The date is yet to be announced.

Wayne Handy lived with a quiet brilliance. He was a rock and roller by surprise, a banker by choice, and a gentleman by nature. His life reminds us that grace, humor, love, and a good melody can carry us further than fame ever could.

Rest well, Wayne. You sang your song, walked your path, and left the world a gentler place.

Remembering Gordon Faith: A Legacy in Acting and Voice Coaching

April 3, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

1–2 minutes

Gordon Faith, a distinguished actor and voice coach, has passed away at 94 in Tyne, England. Gordon was born in 1931. His passion for the performing arts led him to a successful career on stage and screen. He also held a respected position as an educator in voice and speech.

Gordon’s acting career spanned several decades, with notable performances in London’s West End productions.

He appeared as a Neighbor in “Bye Bye Birdie” in 1961. He portrayed the Cantor in “Bar Mitzvah Boy” in 1978. His television credits were extensive. He took roles in “Doctor Who,” “The Liver Birds,” and “War and Peace.” He also acted in “When the Boat Comes In,” “Z Cars,” “Crossroads,” and “Colditz.”

Beyond his acting accomplishments, Gordon was deeply committed to the art of voice and speech. He studied under Cicely Berry. She was the esteemed voice coach for the Royal Shakespeare Company. He furthered his skills with phonetics specialist Greta Colson. Gordon shared his knowledge through teaching positions at several institutions. These included the Guildford School of Acting, the Webber Douglas Academy, Rose Bruford College, and Mountview Drama School. He was Head of Voice at the London Academy of Performing Arts and London’s Method Studio.

Gordon’s dedication to voice coaching extended to private clients. He offered guidance in interview techniques, vocal projection, elocution, and stage confidence. His students included aspiring actors, business professionals, and individuals seeking to enhance their communication skills.

Colleagues and students remember Gordon for his exceptional ability to convey the importance of bodily support in voice production. Actress and playwright Naomi Willis remarked,

“Gordon is brilliant at conveying how every part of the body must support the voice for it to be strong.”

Gordon Faith’s legacy in the performing arts is invaluable. Those who had the privilege of learning from him will cherish his influence in voice coaching communities. Those who worked with him will also hold his influence dear.

Remembering Slick Watts: NBA Star and Community Hero

March 15, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

“Where you do not have to pay to read a person’s obituary.“

2–3 minutes

https://www.theelinetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/slick-watts.jpg

Donald Earl “Slick” Watts (July 22, 1951 – March 15, 2025)

Donald Earl “Slick” Watts was a beloved figure in basketball. He was also a cherished member of the Seattle community. He passed away on March 15, 2025, at 73. Slick was born on July 22, 1951, in Rolling Fork, Mississippi. His journey from humble beginnings to NBA stardom is a testament to his dedication. It also highlights his charisma and enduring spirit.

Slick’s basketball career began at Grand View Junior College, after which he transferred to Xavier University of Louisiana in 1970. There, he played under coach Bob Hopkins and alongside future ABA and NBA star Bruce Seals. He was a leader on the court. His leadership guided the Xavier Gold Rush to consecutive NAIA District 30 Championships in 1972 and 1973.

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Undrafted in 1973, Slick’s relentless determination earned him a spot with the Seattle SuperSonics. Known for his signature bald head and headband, he quickly became a fan favorite. In the 1975–76 season, Slick led the NBA in assists and steals, the first player to achieve this remarkable feat. His tenure in the NBA also included stints with the New Orleans Jazz and the Houston Rockets.

Beyond his professional career, Slick’s contributions to the Seattle community were profound. He dedicated many years to education. Slick Watts shared his skills and gifts as a physical education teacher at several elementary schools. Slick also served as a basketball coach at Franklin High School. His commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting physical fitness left an indelible mark on countless students.

In 2001, Slick faced a serious health challenge with sarcoidosis but demonstrated resilience and strength in his recovery. In April 2021, he suffered a significant stroke. He faced rehabilitation with the same determination that characterized his life on and off the court.

Slick Watts is survived by his son, Donald Watts. Donald followed in his father’s footsteps. He played basketball at the University of Washington and later contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor. Slick’s legacy is etched in basketball history. It also lives in the hearts of those he inspired through community engagement and unwavering spirit.

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A public memorial service will be held in Seattle to honor Slick’s life and legacy. Details will be announced in the coming days. Instead of flowers, the family asks for donations to The Watts Foundation. This supports youth basketball programs and continues Slick’s lifelong commitment to empowering the next generation.

Slick Watts will be remembered for his exceptional basketball court skills. He profoundly affected the community and was dedicated to education. His resilience in the face of adversity inspired him.

George Kalinsky A Man Of Pictures 1936-2025

January 17, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

1–2 minutes

A Man Of Pictures 1936-2025 George Kalinsky Obituary — _{^{George Kalinsky}}

George Kalinsky was born in 1936 in Hempstead, New York. He was a renowned American photographer. His work captured some of the most iconic moments in sports and entertainment history. Finding Aids

His photography journey began serendipitously in the mid-1960s. He noticed Muhammad Ali entering the 5th Street Gym while on vacation in Miami. Intrigued, Kalinsky followed and was allowed to photograph Ali after a brief exchange with trainer Angelo Dundee. These images marked the start of his illustrious career. Interview Magazine

In 1966, Kalinsky became the official photographer for Madison Square Garden, a position he held for nearly six decades. He documented over 10,000 events throughout his tenure. He captured legendary figures like Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and Pope John Paul II. His work has been featured in major publications like Sports Illustrated, People, Newsweek, and The New York Times. Kalinsky authored ten books. His photographs were exhibited in esteemed institutions, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. – From The Lens of George Kalinsky

Over the years, Kalinsky has received many accolades for his contributions to photography. In 2001, the PhotoImaging Manufacturers and Distributors Association named him International Photographer of the Year. He was inducted into the New York City Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010. He received the Pratt Institute’s Legends Award in 2017. Wikipedia

George Kalinsky passed away on January 16, 2025, at the age of 88. His legacy endures through the timeless images he captured. These images continue to inspire. They evoke memories of significant moments in sports and entertainment history. Wikipedia

Sources

Country Music Singer Melba Montgomery Dies

January 16, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

Melba Joyce Montgomery, a distinguished figure in country music, passed away on January 15, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on October 14, 1938, in Iron City, Tennessee, and raised in Florence, Alabama, Montgomery’s musical journey was deeply influenced by her father, a fiddler and guitarist, who introduced her to the world of music.

Montgomery’s career gained momentum in the early 1960s through her collaborations with George Jones. Their 1963 duet, “We Must Have Been Out of Our Minds,” achieved significant success, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The duo continued to charm audiences with albums like “What’s in Our Heart” (1963), which also peaked at number three on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. Throughout the 1960s, Montgomery partnered with other notable artists, including Gene Pitney, with whom she recorded the top 20 single “Baby Ain’t That Fine” in 1965.

In the 1970s, Montgomery’s solo career flourished. Her 1974 single “No Charge” became a standout hit, topping the country charts and crossing over to the Billboard Hot 100. The accompanying album reached number 14 on the Top Country Albums chart. She followed this success with albums like “Don’t Let the Good Times Fool You” (1975), whose title track secured a spot in the top 20 country charts.

Over her extensive career, Montgomery released 22 solo studio albums and seven collaborative albums, alongside 42 solo singles and 18 collaborative singles. Her contributions to country music have left an indelible mark, influencing countless artists and resonating with fans worldwide.

Montgomery was married to Jack Solomon in 1968, a union that lasted until his passing in 2014.

She is survived by her children and grandchildren, who remember her not only as a musical icon but also as a loving mother and grandmother.

Services to honor Melba Montgomery’s life and legacy will be announced by her family in the coming days. Her enduring influence on country music ensures that her voice and songs will continue to be cherished by generations to come.

Robert Machray-May 4, 1945 – Jan. 12, 2025

January 14, 2025January 14, 2025Benjamin3 Comments

2–3 minutes

Obituary: Robert Machray––– May 4, 1945 – January 12, 2025

Robert Machray (Ward) was a talented and versatile stage and television actor. He passed away on January 12, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. He was 79 years old. Many remember him for his memorable role as Fire Marshal Captain Dobbins in the iconic sitcom Cheers. Machray left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. His career spanned more than three decades.

Born in San Diego, California, on May 4, 1945, Machray displayed a passion for performing arts from a young age. He pursued a vibrant stage career. He brought characters to life in major productions at Shakespeare festivals. Esteemed venues like the Los Angeles Civic Light Opera, Hartford Stage, and Playwrights Horizons hosted these performances. His dedication to the craft of acting earned him respect and admiration in the theatrical community.

In 1977, Machray transitioned to film and television, debuting in the television film Panic in Echo Park. He quickly gained recognition for his comedic timing and adaptability, leading to roles in series like Operation Petticoat. Over the years, he became a familiar face on many popular programs. These included Roseanne, Life Goes On, The Drew Carey Show, Suddenly Susan, Profiler, and Three’s Company. His film credits include Cutting Class, where he portrayed Mr. Conklin and The Master of Disguise.

Machray’s career highlights included a summer stage production of My Fair Lady in 1983. This production showcased his vocal talents. It also highlighted his theatrical talents. In his later years, he delighted audiences with a guest appearance in the beloved satirical sitcom Parks and Recreation. He retired in 2011 after a fulfilling and impactful career.

Outside of his professional achievements, Machray was known for his wit, kindness, and love of storytelling. He cherished time spent with friends and family, often sharing humorous anecdotes from his life in the entertainment industry.

Robert Machray (Ward) is survived by his extended family. A wide circle of friends and colleagues will remember him fondly. They cherish his warmth, talent, and enduring contributions to the arts.

Instead of flowers, the family asks for donations. Please contribute to organizations supporting aspiring actors and artists. This honors Robert’s lifelong dedication to nurturing creativity and performance.

A private memorial service will be held in Los Angeles to celebrate his life and legacy.

A Love That Endures

January 10, 2025January 10, 2025Benjamin1 Comment

2–3 minutes

Anna sat on the edge of her porch swing, the crisp autumn air wrapping around her like a familiar shawl. She cradled a weathered photo album filled with snapshots of a life well-lived with her husband, Thomas. Though he had passed a year ago, his presence lingered in every corner of their home. She noticed the faint scent of his aftershave in the closet. The carved wooden birdhouse he made hung by the garden. The laughter seemed to echo from the walls.

The sun dipped below the horizon. It painted the sky in hues of orange and violet. Anna whispered, “Death have taken your body, Thomas, but you’re still here.”

In the quiet, she remembered the words their pastor had spoken at his funeral: *Death takes the body. God takes the soul. Our minds hold the memories. Our hearts holds on to the love. Our spiritual beliefs let us know we will meet again.

Her memories of Thomas were not just memories, they were vibrant, living moments. They replayed in her mind like a cherished movie. She saw how his eyes crinkled when he smiled. She heard his deep belly laugh. She felt the strength of his hand in hers as they danced in the kitchen.

Though grief often pressed against her chest, her heart was not empty. It was full of love—a love that hadn’t dimmed with time. She placed a hand over her chest and smiled. She knew it was where Thomas still resided. He was a glowing ember that would never go out.

Every Sunday, Anna would visit the little white church where they had exchanged vows so long ago. She found not just solace, but peace there, her faith bridging the earthly and the divine. She believed Thomas was in God’s care now, his soul at peace, waiting patiently for her.

One evening, as she closed the photo album, she noticed the first star twinkling in the sky. She gazed upward and whispered, “I’ll see you again, Thomas. Until then, I’ll carry you here.” She touched her head. “Here.” She placed her hand on her chest. “And here.” She folded her hands in prayer.

At that moment, Anna felt a warmth envelop her. It seemed like Thomas himself was reminding her. Real, enduring love that never truly is separated by time or space.

She smiled and rocked gently on the swing, humming the melody of their favorite song. The stars above her were a quiet witness to the eternal connection between two hearts.

President Carter’s Memorial Service IN D.C.

January 9, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

2–3 minutes

Former President Jimmy Carter’s state funeral was held today at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., honoring his legacy as the 39th President of the United States and his extensive humanitarian work. Carter passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100. He was remembered by dignitaries, family, and friends for his dedication to public service. He also made significant global peace efforts.

President Joe Biden delivered an emotional eulogy, highlighting Carter’s unwavering character and lifelong commitment to improving the lives of others. Biden was one of the first senators to endorse Carter’s presidential candidacy. He reflected on their shared values. Carter had a profound impact on the nation. CBS News

All five living U.S. presidents attended the service, including President-elect Donald Trump, who will be inaugurated on January 20, 2025. Trump engaged in a brief but cordial conversation with former President Barack Obama. This marked a rare moment of civility between the two. Reuters

The ceremony featured heartfelt tributes from Carter’s family. His grandson, Jason Carter, praised him as the nation’s “first Millennial,” acknowledging his progressive-thinking approach and enduring legacy. The Sun

Steven Ford, son of the late President Gerald Ford, read his father’s letter for Carter. This action underscored the deep friendship between the two men despite their political rivalry. New York Post

Musical performances added to the solemnity of the occasion. Phyllis Adams, a longtime Delta flight attendant, had earlier performed for the Carters. She delivered a moving rendition of “Amazing Grace.” This fulfilled a special demand made by the late President. CBS News

Security measures were notably heightened for the event, reflecting concerns over potential threats. Despite this, the service proceeded without incident, allowing attendees to focus on honoring Carter’s life and legacy. The Sun

Carter’s remains will be transported to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, after the national ceremony. There, a private service and burial will be held according to his wishes. The Times

From 1977 to 1981, Carter’s presidency was marked by significant achievements. These included the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt. They also involved the establishment of diplomatic relations with China. His post-presidential years were equally impactful. He dedicated himself to human rights and diplomacy. This dedication earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. The Times

The state funeral poignantly reminded us of Carter’s enduring contributions to the nation and the world. It celebrated a life dedicated to service, peace, and the betterment of humanity.

Highlights from Jimmy Carter’s State Funeral

Sources

People

Trump Doesn’t Stand for Obama but Then Chats with Him as All 5 Living Presidents Reunite at Jimmy Carter’s Funeral

Today

The Sun

Biden gets emotional in Jimmy Carter’s funeral speech as grandson Jason praises 39th prez as nation’s ‘first Millennial’

Today

Reuters

Trump shakes hands with Pence, engages Obama at Carter funeral

Today

Special Air Mission 39: A Tribute to President Carter

January 7, 2025January 7, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

3–4 minutes

The sun broke over the Air Force Base in Atlanta, Georgia. It cast golden hues across the tarmac as Special Air Mission 39 waited. Its polished surface gleamed in the light. The presidential seal on its side served as a solemn reminder of the journey it was about to undertake. Inside, a reverent hush filled the cabin. The crew prepared for their most crucial passenger. It was a man whose life had been dedicated to service, humility, and unwavering commitment—President Jimmy Carter.

From his earliest days at the Naval Academy, James Earl Carter Jr. was shaped by discipline, honor, and an unrelenting drive to do his best. Those who knew him often remarked on his quiet determination. His former Navy colleagues remember him as a man of integrity, always putting the welfare of his team first. Carter navigated the complexities of submarine systems in the Navy with steady resolve. He also tackled global issues from the Oval Office with the same determination.

The engines roared to life for Special Air Mission 39. This was what President Carter had once known as Air Force One. At that moment, the memory of his long journey sharpened. Memories of his enduring journey came into sharp focus. Here was a man who had never sought power for power’s sake but had wielded it to uplift others. In the years after his presidency, Carter’s service reverberated across communities. He built homes for people experiencing homelessness. He mediated peace in war-torn nations. Additionally, he battled disease through the Carter Center. His legacy was not confined to history books but lived on in the lives he had touched.

The flight crew gathered for a moment of silence before departure. Captain Emily Harrington, a seasoned pilot who had long admired Carter, addressed her team.

“Today, we honor not just a president but a man who believed in the power of service. Let’s give him the journey he deserves.”

As the plane ascended, the passengers—family, close friends, and select members of his administration—reflected on his unwavering faith and commitment. Rosalynn, his beloved late wife, was his partner for more than seven decades. She was waiting for him at their Plains, Georgia home. She also waited in Jimmy’s heart, where their journey had begun. Jimmy would be back. He had business in D.C. to take care of first. President Carter would fly there with the family. He would lay in state at the Capital Rotunda. He would attend a state memorial service. Later in the week, he would return to Plains, Georgia. He would be laid next to Rosalynn at their place of burial.

The flight path traced the arc of his life. It went over the rural farmlands of Georgia. The soil there had nurtured his love for community and the values of hard work and compassion. The Naval Academy in Annapolis, where young Jimmy had set the course for a lifetime of service. Over Washington, D.C., where he had walked into the presidency with a promise to lead with integrity.

As SAM 39 descended, the crowd gathered below to pay their respects. They came not just to honor a president. They came to honor a man who had reminded the world that authentic leadership lies in humility. True leadership also involves an unwavering commitment to doing what is right.

The plane touched down with grace, its engines whispering to a stop. The door opened, and the honor guard stepped ahead to carry Carter to the Rotunda. The air was heavy with gratitude, sorrow, and pride. A man who had given so much of himself had completed the second leg of his journey. There was only one more leg left in the final part of his last journey.

In the quiet stillness of that moment, a quote from Carter’s own words have echoed in the hearts of all there:

“My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I can, whenever I can, for as long as I can, with whatever I have, to try to make a difference.”

Quote Reference: Congratulations Jimmy Carter – Bryan Strawser. http://bryanstrawser.com/2002/10/congratulations-jimmy-c/

The Sunday School President – THAT THE RELIGIOUS RIGHT WASTED AND IGNORED.

January 5, 2025BenjaminLeave a comment

2–3 minutes

A warm Sunday morning in Plains, Georgia seemed tailor-made for reflection. At the Maranatha Baptist Church, a small congregation gathered in quiet anticipation. This wasn’t an ordinary Sunday service—it was one led by Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States.

Even decades after leaving the White House, Carter stayed true to the values that shaped his life. These values were faith, humility, and service. Carter taught Sunday School to anyone who wanted to listen every Sunday that he was capable. Visitors from all over the world made the pilgrimage to Plains. Some traveled thousands of miles to hear wisdom. This wisdom was not shared in a grand hall. Instead, it was delivered in a modest church that held no more than a couple hundred people.

Jimmy Carter, then in his 90s, shuffled to the front of the sanctuary, a quiet determination in his step. He greeted the crowd with a humble smile, his voice steady and welcoming. His lesson was simple yet profound: loving your neighbor, no matter their background or beliefs.

“When Jesus said to love your neighbor,”

Carter explained, his blue eyes twinkling,

“He didn’t put any conditions on it. He didn’t say only if they look like you or vote like you. He meant everyone.”

The audience was a mix of locals and travelers. They hung on his every word. Their hearts and minds were stirred by the profound simplicity of his message. The room was filled with a palpable sense of awe. This was not due to the titles Carter once held. Instead, it was because of his unwavering commitment to living the values he taught.

When the lesson ended, Carter didn’t rush off. Instead, he stayed to shake hands, take photos, and share stories. These personal moments hold the most significant importance for him. He listened as much as he spoke. This is especially meaningful for a man who had once navigated the complexities of global politics.

One visitor, a young man from Chicago, nervously approached.

“President Carter, what made you keep teaching Sunday School after everything you’ve accomplished?”

Carter smiled warmly.

“I’ve been a farmer, a naval officer, a governor, and a president. But teaching Sunday School reminds me of who I truly am—a servant of God. Titles come and go, but the love we share with others lasts forever.”

That was Jimmy Carter. He believed that service didn’t end with a term in office. He thought that humility wasn’t weakness. Even the simplest acts of kindness can ripple through the world. For Carter, life’s most outstanding achievement wasn’t in power or prestige. It was in the quiet and steady work of lifting others up. He demonstrated this belief through his work with Habitat for Humanity. He also promoted peace and human rights. Additionally, he was committed to public service long after his presidency.

As the church emptied, a sense of peace lingered in the air. This was a testament to the legacy of a man who lived his faith with every breath.