TIME TO CLEAR MY DESK AGAIN

What should be done with all the little odds and ends that clutter my desk – things that aren’t a big enough deal for an entire column but too big to just throw out? That’s right. You guessed it – it’s time to do a round up column. And the first item on my list is the recent sad ending of the Astros’ incredible season. For the last several days the words have been running through my mind from the old poem, Casey At The Bat. You probably remember it. It ends with the sad words, “ There is no joy in Mudville, mighty Casey has struck out.” After last year‘s incredibly successful season, capped with winning the 2017 World Series, and this year’s amazing run to repeat that achievement, the dream ended when the Boston Red Sox won their fourth game and earned their spot in this year’s World Series. I’m a devoted Astros fan and really hoped to see them repeat last year’s achievement. But it wasn’t meant to be. Injuries played a big part in how it all ended. So did a crushing call of fan interference wiping out Jose Altuve’s home run in Game Four. But we have next season to get ready for, and time for injured players to recover. And then look out! We’ll be back and better than ever. On a second sad note, actor Scott Wilson, who played a major role in The Walking Dead, died last week at the age of 76. Ironically, he passed away the day before the new season began. His character, Hershel, was a much-loved part of this zombie apocalypse series. He was the “moral compass” of the show (never a good thing on this program) and highly regarded by his fellow cast members. Wilson was originally from Georgia, where The Walking Dead is filmed, making his portrayal of Hershel spot on. Goodbye, Scott Wilson. It was hard losing Hershel, but it’s harder losing you. While we’re on the subject of TV series, who thought it would be a good idea to bring back Magnum PI? Seriously? I haven’t seen the current effort and have no plans to watch it. There is only one Thomas Magnum, and his name is Tom Selleck. This actor, who currently stars in the police drama Blue Bloods, put his stamp on the Magnum character. I can’t imagine anyone else in that role and have no plans to see someone try. Finally, on a lighter note, I have to share a funny sign that is posted at my veterinary clinic. It reads, “Unattended children will be given an espresso and a free puppy.” Now there’s a scary threat! Photo Sources: thegruelingtruth.net, poptopnews.com, & imdb.com