OHC Picnic- Then and Now

                                          Picnic fun in 1893

These folks had gathered at the Los Angeles River near Tajunga Blvd. in 1893 to have a bash close to the water. Back then in the San Fernando Valley, this was actually a stream that turned into a river in the rainy season. It had reeds and cattails growing along the banks, and was a favorite of different birds of all kinds. Now of course, it is a concrete channel built to stop flooding, and not the least appealing. But back then, the kids had a blast, and the adults talked of things to come, while enjoying the greenery.

While we enjoy this weekend at the Possum's place having the First Annual OHC picnic, we can also think of a quieter time, when life seemed more simple. When people "Gathered" like this for each other's company, whether it was a holiday or not. 

On this 4th of July celebration, let's remember that it was people such as this that built this nation, and passed it on for us to improve upon. The founding fathers had a great idea, and the people ran with it. Thanks to them, we live free, we pursue happiness, and get down on picnic days. Yeah......

To help kick off the long weekend, and help get me in the mood, I'm going to play a song that used to curl my toenails back in the day. I had a friend named Karl, that owned this platter of sound, and I would walk miles across Canoga Park to his house in order to experience "The Record" of 1968. At least it was to us at the time. If I was lucky, he would have been cool that week, and his father would give him the keys to his car back, then he would pick me up in his copper colored '58 Chevy Nomad. The world was ours for 50 cents worth of gas apiece, and we were off......

                            _________ Iron Butterfly _________

If you have about 17 to 20 minutes, you can listen in. Make sure you turn up the volume, and get ready to vibrate man. I'm dedicating this music, and this icon, to the Old Hippies Corner on behalf of Iron Butterfly, and wild memories of 1968; enjoy.

Danh danh, dada danh danh, danh danh danh

Da Duh, danh dada danh dann.........

In a gadda da vida, honey,

Don'tcha know that I love you?

In a gadda da vida, baby,

Don'tcha know that I'll always be true?

Oh, won't you come with me-

And take my hand?

Oh, won't you come with me-

And walk this land?

Please, take my hand!

(repeat)

(solo)

(repeat) 

I hope this was worthy of the Gatherstock weekend, and that you can still hear. I have to pick out a new icon now, 'cause this one is for history. Have a great 4th everybody, and be safe!