Resa’s Pieces

”When you’re born, you get a ticket to a freak show. When you’re born in America, you get a front row seat.”

These are the words of George Carlin, standup comic and social critic. I don’t find this negative. There’s much to be learned from living in a freak show and the loyalty that goes with it.

As a writer, I’ve met many interesting people and had some interesting experiences in our great country. As of now, I have a top three. They are the “darndest” (autocorrect wouldn’t let me use another word.)

These are in no particular order, just uniquely American. Feel free to make your own list.

Elvis Days—Every August thousands of fans, some travel from distant parts of the world, descend on Memphis to celebrate “The King”—Elvis not Charles III. There are Elvis impersonators, even an “Elvis off” where the best of these is crowned. He might be a young Elvis or a jeweled older Elvis, or anything in between.

You can watch Elvis movies or hear from people who knew him. There is a candlelight vigil where thousands pass by the burial plots of Elvis, his parents, his only child Lisa Marie, and her son Benjamin. They are buried by the swimming pool at Graceland which by today’s standards seems a small house for a rock icon.

It might be a “freak show,” but it is very American. Elvis came from a poor background. When his country called, he went into the army. When his career seemed over, he came back. His fans are very loyal. He’s an American success story and an American cautionary tale.

Downtown Nashville—My next favorite “freak show” is also in Tennessee! If you find yourself in Nashville, visit the downtown area. There are endless bars, side by side. You don’t have to drink. Go for the music. You’ll hear all types of music—country, of course, rock, rap, ballroom.

It is a challenge to walk in the downtown because of party buses powered by pedaling passengers who are dancing, singing, and yes, drinking. You’ll see “young’ un’s” in cowboy or cowgirl hats and boots. Then you’ll see “seasoned citizens” showing everyone you’re never too old to have a good time.

In a truly, loyal American trait, Nashville didn’t let an attack knock them down. On Christmas Day 2020, to the tune of Petula Clark’s “Downtown,” a voice warned citizens to evacuate while he blew himself up, hurting eight others and damaging much of the. downtown area. Nashville built back, and the party goes on.

Rosebud—This is my last one, but I do expect to add more to the list as life goes on. This is not a reference to Orson Welles’ class film “Citizen Kane.” It is a steak house in Osprey, Florida with a very loyal clientele.

Tuesday through Sunday it opens at 4:00 for Happy Hour. Dedicated patrons, all seasoned citizens start lining up at two possible doors around 3:30. Someone stands guard at each of the doors to listen to the “click” indicating which door will open first. Once informed by text or call which door is to open, the rush is on to get to the bar to order your “two for one” drinks and to hear the specials. The bartender and waitresses know what the regulars drink and handily set them up.

You won’t find the sleek metallic look of a temporary bar here. It is solid wooden tables, overstuffed chairs. Sinatra sings in the background against photos on the wall of 1960s Chicago, the home of the Korda family’s original restaurant. A descendant of this family is the owner/chef of Rosebud’s. The capacity of the bar is around 55. The age of the regulars is well above that. After all, Florida is a retiree’s haven.

Everyone knows each other, are loyal to each other. They ask about families, health, and travels as well as commenting on the world around them. It seems like a private club, yet there are welcoming to strangers.

Sadly, Covid took its toll on this “darndest” spot. The parking lot wasn’t as full this October, and we missed seeing some of the regulars.

I’m proud to be a part of our American “freak show.” I look forward to “being on the front row” and adding to my list. I’m sure you have your own.