I made it quite known that I just had ZERO desire to work for the Cudahy Bacon Day at the Wisconsin St. Fair. We have to be on site by 5:30am, put in a long day in the Sun to have rude people grab bacon samples out of other peoples hands. Last year I vowed I wouldn't do it again.
I soon realized I just am not at a point in my life that I can turn down work so I agreed to do it.
This year was different because I was to stage manage for the bacon cooking demos and the live band. Much better assignment than the previous year, things were looking up.
I then find out that
Ralph Covert was the act. I met Ralph years ago when his band The Bad Examples were playing in the 90's. He then came up with a brilliant music angle of presenting family oriented rock geared towards kids. That quickly caught the eyes of Disney and you can see
Ralph's World on the Disney Channel here and there. Playing Bass for him is an old friend of mine Brian.
Here's why I'm talking about these guys. I know my Dad went to Ralph's studio a few times to help him with some French accordion consulting. I re introduce myself to Ralph and talked about a few of the same people we know and by the way, I'm Don White's son. His eyes lit up and he declared that he loved Don White. I told him of his passing a few weeks ago and he was so moved that he hugged me and didn't let go. We talk about Dad for a while and I was amazed at the impact Dad had.
The band goes on stage and they are just kill'n it. Kids and parents dancing and really having a great time. Ralph then asks "Who likes a polka???", the crowd cheers. He then says we sure could use an accordion on this tune, This one goes out for one of the best, Don White.
I'm trying to be all professional out in the crowd and I just welled up and was trying to clear my eyes throughout the whole tune. Head here and listen to
Peggy's Pie Parlor Polka.
The day was very enjoyable and I'd do it again and thanks to Ralph for making it unexpectedly amazing.
