The Rock Island Line

On By scottpetersenIn Rock Island RailroadLeave a comment

[An oldie from May 15, 2014] In 1845, the Chicago Rock Island Railroad began with a charter penned in the City of Rock Island, Illinois. For 130 years, the Rock Island Line hummed and drummed across the landscape of America. Until 1975 when a federal judge in Chicago ordered the famed railroad into bankruptcy. On December 10, 1977, a one day auction was held in the old LaSalle Street Station in Chicago. Tables, chairs, paintings, rolling stock and office supplies were sold off from the old railroad. There were also several hundred “tote” boxes full of archives of the railroad. All were filthy dirty and all were sealed. Bids were on the contents. Sight unseen. The local news touted that a box might contain a letter of Abraham Lincoln or Stephen Douglas – both of whom worked for the railroad. I was drawn – like a moth to flame – and I bought 45 boxes of “stuff” at $3.50 a box. I crammed the boxes into the trunk and interior of our Plymouth Valiant. And drove home. Donna thought I was nuts. Until I opened the boxes. . . .

There were hundreds of letters of U.S. Congressmen, Senators, Vice Presidents of the U.S., members of the U.S. Supreme Court, Chicago mayors. There were Aldermen like “Bathhouse John” Coughlin and “Hinky Dink” Kenna. Original letters of Clarence Darrow. It was a trove of significant value. And I ended up selling most of the material to the University of Iowa. For many times what I paid for it. It was then I went on a three year quest – to acquire the rest of the defunct railroad’s archives.

After scores of phone calls over three years, the squeaky wheel got the oil. A gusher. I was told the rest of the Rock Island Railroad archives were housed in a 10 story, 100,000 square foot building at Polk & LaSalle. No one had been in the building for several years. “I’ll buy it” I said. And did. I bought the entire contents of the building for $500. They handed me the keys and it was mine. The only hitch — I had to get the stuff out in 4 weeks. Within a few hours, I had the contents sold – to the Universities of Iowa and Oklahoma (Norman). Iowa had first choice and Oklahoma got the remainder. I walked alone through the 10 floors. File cabinets. Boxes of files. Empty desks. Coffee cups ringed with dried coffee. A mausoleum. Over the next few weeks, I orchestrated eight 48 foot over-the-road tractor trailers. Loading up the goodies. I looked back, walked out and locked the door.

I still have a few things from the RI. A ceremonial spike. A slice of track. Oh – and yes – a few old letters [and in 2025 – found 2 untouched boxes of archives in the attic!]. In 1998, I delivered a paper to the Chicago Literary Club. Telling the whole story. It’s online at http://chilit.org  The Rock Island Line. Was a mighty fine line. And it was mighty fine to me.

First Aid

On By scottpetersenIn Eagle Scout, First aidLeave a comment

[A repeat from October 25, 2022] The most useful course I took in high school was a year long tutorial on typing (see August 8, 2018). Being able to type (50 wpm) has come in verrrry handy throughout my career. The most valuable course I took in college was a year-long (two semester) course in first aid.  We started with the American Red Cross beginner course, moved on to the intermediate course, then moved up to advanced.  We concluded the second semester with the Civil Defense Emergency Medical Responder course – an intense immersion – which included clear instruction on a wide variety of serious emergency medical situations.  When I signed up for the course I thought “I’m an Eagle Scout.  This will be a snap.”  Yeah right. It wasn’t. 

Knowledge of first aid can be of great value — and may come in handy. Sometimes very handy.  The first response to any emergency is to call “911” or call a medical professional.   But when that’s not possible or help is delayed, knowledge of CPR or the Heimlich Maneuver – or the fundamentals of what to do when confronted with serious bleeding or trauma – could make all the difference in the world. Good for young people to learn the basics early on. All it takes is that one day – that one moment in time – when everything is going south. Fast. And there is no one but you. . . .

The Two Adams

On By scottpetersenIn David Brooks, Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik, The Lonely Man of FaithLeave a comment

[A repeat from March 30, 2017] I just finished the book – The Lonely Man of Faith by Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik.  This wonderful text examines two separate and quite divergent characterizations of Adam which are set forth in the Old Testament book of Genesis.  The two Adams are different indeed.

In Genesis 1, Adam I (and Eve) are created in God’s image.  Adam is charged to take dominion over fish, fowl, cattle and all of the earth, to multiply, replenish the earth and subdue it.  

In Genesis 2, Adam II is formed from dust, has life breathed into his nostrils – and is ordered to tend the garden.  Eve was later formed from Adam’s rib.   

I was drawn to this book by David Brooks’ thought-provoking 5 minute “Ted Talk” on the personality differences between “Adam I” and “Adam II”    http://www.ted.com/talks/david_brooks_should_you_live_for_your_resume_or_your_eulogy

Brooks does not reference Genesis but he does discuss Soloveitchik’s work.  Brooks offers that Adam I is motivated by his resume virtues.  Adam II is driven by eulogy virtues.  And guess which virtues Brooks finds of superior importance?  

I was unaware of the sharp differences of Adam in Genesis.  Rabbi Soloveitchik’s book – apart from using words which will require a dictionary at hand – is a fascinating and inspirational read. And it offers reason to strive to enhance our eulogy virtues . . . .  

Civil Discourse

On By scottpetersenIn Civil DiscourseLeave a comment

[A new one] In November 2018, I had a commentary published in the Chicago Tribune. It responded to an editorial about the animosity Americans felt – then – about our nation’s politics. My comments were as follows. . . . .

I want to help the poor and eliminate hunger and poverty in America.  And around the world.  America needs a strong economy where everyone will benefit.   I want to improve education for all students – especially those in schools that serve our nation’s poorest young people. Crime, injustice and prejudice have no place in America.  We need respect for all people. We need freedom of speech – on campuses and in politics.  And yet we need mutual respect for those with whom we disagree without violence or disruption.

I want a controlled border – while having a fair and compassionate immigration policy allowing immigrants to seek the American dream.  We need to deal with pollution and protect our environment. I want a strong military and yet I yearn for peace for America and among nations.  Thus we need to reach out to friends and potential adversaries alike seeking global tranquility. I love my family and I want my grandchildren to grow up healthy, happy, safe and wise – and to live with a spirit of faith, hope and charity.  And I would like that for your family as well.  

So what am I – a Republican or Democrat? 

While there may be one or two hot button issues. I like to think that most Americans – irrespective of political labels — share similar feelings on the issues above. Though we may differ on how best to address these issues – that is where civil discourse, compromise and conciliation come into play.   Democracy requires it.  Animosity and anger do not work . . . .

Nobody’s getting younger

On By scottpetersenIn Exercise, Workout categories1 Comment

I went to my primary care physician for the annual “wellness check.” Everything seems to be okay. I weigh what I did in college (true) but I’m also 2 inches shorter. I blame gravity. Anyway – he looked at me and asked if I exercise. I told him I go to a nearby gym 4 or 5 times a week. And I play golf. He smiled and said (his words) “you’re investing in your future.”

Most mornings I go to our local fitness center between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m. (when I’m not golfing or have other stuff on my plate). My normal protocol varies – 40 minutes on the NuStep or the cross country ski thingee; then an elliptical; some weights; stretching; and a few times around the walking track. I sometimes ramp up the treadmill to 15 degrees and then walk backwards at 1.1 mph (you could sell seats for that). As I reported on March 25, 2017, I have four different workout regimens. I’m usually in the 75 minute range.

What’s interesting is that over the last few years – the “crew” that shows up on these early mornings is pretty much the same. It’s the same guys and gals who toe the line to work out. The guys have melded well such that earlier this year, a dozen of us had lunch at a local restaurant whose exec is also part of the group. And earlier this week, we did the same thing. Our brotherhood is known as “The Lunch Bunch.”

Nobody’s getting younger. But exercise and social interaction provide a strong RX for health. And a group like ours provides inspiration – to show up. . . . .

The Doyle Family

On By scottpetersenIn Doyle familyLeave a comment

[A repeat from December 5, 2013] Do you know someone with the last name “Doyle”?  They may think they’re Irish.  But. . . .

In my post of December 16, 2011, I spoke of the Viking era (790 A.D. – 1066 A.D.).  And I mentioned that the Vikings who raided – and remained behind in Ireland (usually because they had met a young lady) — were given the name “Doyle” which is from the Celtic Ó Dubhghaill, which means “son of the dark (or evil) foreigner.”  This is the name that indigenous Celts called Danish Vikings who started settling in Ireland and Scotland beginning in the 9th Century. 

Researchers in Ireland have distinguished two separate groups among the Viking raiders in Ireland.  The Lochlainn were the Norwegians who were described as “fair.”  The Danair were Danes who were described as “dark” because they wore chain-mail armor.  Beginning in 830 A.D., the Norwegians began sporadic raiding of the British Isles.  In 852 A.D., the Danish Vikings took control of Dublin and founded the Danish Kingdom of Dublin which continued for 300 years until the coming of the Anglo-Normans.  As might be expected over the course of occupation, the Vikings were absorbed into the social, religious and political life of Ireland.  They adopted the language and customs.  And they intermarried.  And it was those Danish Vikings who remained behind when their brethren left who were given the name “Ó Dubhghaill” or “Dubh-Ghaill.”  Or “Doyle” for those who want the translation.  The names McDowall, McDowell, McDuggal, Dowell, and McDougal all have a relationship to the Dubh-Ghaill – Doyle – family.  So you know someone named “Doyle”. . . . ? 

Sudoku

On By scottpetersenIn SudokuLeave a comment

[A real old one from May 16, 2013] The right side of my brain (the creative side) is full of spinning wheels, sparkles, audio and video stimulation and fast-moving light shifts. The left side of my brain (the analytical side) is a wilderness. It is like stepping into an empty auditorium at midnight. Without seats.  Drafty.  Full of cobwebs.  When it comes to math, I have the IQ of a pretzel (my apologies for insulting the pretzel community).  In high school, Miss Delp gave me a charity “D” in algebra because I constantly showed up for help after school (“duhhh how much is two plus three again?”).     My brain today is much the same as it did when I was in high school though on most days counting to 20 doesn’t require removal of my socks and shoes.  I see that as a “major improvement.”   

I was introduced to Sudoku by my brother-in-law who can whiz through the highest level, 30 row mind-benders in minutes.  With his eyes closed.  One hand behind his back. So I tried a level one. And finally I started to get them right. If I succeed, I give a silent fist pump (“Yeahhhhhhh”).   Every once in awhile, I will succeed on a level 2 (cue the “Hallelujah” chorus).  And once – a miraculous level 3. . . .      

I like to think that doing Sudoku is keeping the grey matter from shriveling.  And it’s starting to fill that empty auditorium with folding chairs.  And the vague hum of activity. 

My Grandfathers

On By scottpetersenIn My grandfathersLeave a comment

[New] I am a grandfather. And I love it! Hopefully my granddaughters will have good memories down the line – of “Popi.” But sadly I have no memory of my grandfathers.

My father’s parents were born in Denmark and both died before I was born (1947). My father’s dad (Olaf Kristian Petersen) in 1930 and my dad’s mother (Ellen Marie Larsen) in 1945. And my mother’s father died when I was two. So I never knew him either. I have a special old photo of him holding me. And that’s it. My Grandma Ruth Munson though was a staple in my life – helping generously to feed my stamp and coin collections.

Donna and I are going through things we have accumulated. No plans to move but we’re thinking about that next “chapter.” And I came across the wedding rings of my father’s parents – Olaf and Ellen. They are inscribed “EML to OKP” and “OKP to EML” and both have the date of marriage – “May 16, 1910.” The two rings are 18 carat gold. It occurred to me that I could sell them and put the money into college funds for my granddaughters. And yet. . . .

We had dinner with some friends and I posed the question of “what to do” with such special family things. The group unanimously felt that we should keep them. Carefully mark them and put them away. For someone down the line to decide. I came home – and took off my wedding ring. And put on Olaf’s ring. It fit perfectly. I then put Ellen’s ring on my little finger. I said a prayer. Removed them and carefully marked the box with the rings – and put them away. . . .

The Rear View Mirror

On By scottpetersenIn All past is prologue, The Rear View MirrorLeave a comment

[A new one] The last time I saw my great friend Ox was after I dropped him off at O’Hare Field for his flight back to Dallas. As I drove away, I saw him in the rear view mirror. He stood there – waving. I honked the horn and drove on. A few months later, he died. My last view of Ox was in the rear view mirror. . . .

It is interesting how the universe of our lives is forever recorded in the rear view mirror. My 10 year old birthday party. The junior prom. Off to college. Meeting Donna. Marriage. Our daughter. Granddaughters. It’s all in the rear view mirror – as is yesterday. And each one of us has a rear view mirror – chock full of life that has gone by.

I’ve read that some folks are overly focused on the past – instead of the future. To dwell on past mistakes or failure – and being held back by a belief that the past dictates the future. Then too, reliving achievements and success can lead to complacency – and a reluctance to try new things.

Probably the best counsel we can receive is to acknowledge the past without letting it get in the way. Our past story does not necessarily determine the future. Best to be grateful for each new day. And live to make a difference. Life is like a painting. It’s never finished until that last bit of paint is applied. Mistakes can be covered – and and the good enhanced. Seeking to make life a masterpiece.

It’s okay to look at the rear view mirror – but it’s best to look out the windshield. Today is a brand new day . . . .

Burning Leaves

On By scottpetersenIn Burning leavesLeave a comment

(A fall classic – first posted on September 11, 2016)

For millennia, folks have been burning garbage and “stuff” with relative impunity.  The smoke was often choking.  And sometimes toxic.  Now – thankfully – there are limitations on such activity.  

But. . . . as a kid, I remember my father – and other men in the neighborhood – raking leaves in the fall.  And ushering them out to the street – at the curb – and lighting them up.  Saturdays and Sundays in October were the optimal days for raking, gathering and burning leaves.  And the distinct smell of burning leaves was overpowering.  And – from my recollection – not so unpleasant.  Everyone burned their leaves.  I mean what were families supposed to do with them?  My dad would stand – smoking his pipe – and talking with the other men.  As the leaves burned. . . . .   

I tend to think it would be nice if for a few hours in the fall, everyone could spoon some dead leaves out to the street.  And burn them.  Like the “good old days” (did I really say that?).    I don’t need a “bad for the environment” speech.  Or “think of what it does to your lungs.”  Or “aren’t there regulations?”  Just think about sharing an indelible olfactory moment of an autumn afternoon long ago . . . . .