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Mike Tussey: Birthdays – special dates and times we cherish so much
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Mike Tussey: Birthdays – special dates and times we cherish so much

Indeed, certain dates and certain events have a very particular meaning, as they resonate in our lives.

Over the course of a year, there may be several dates and memories that require us to write them down on our calendars as well as keep them in a logbook.

Even those birthdays that are away from our personal family; The media constantly reminds us that we must never forget.

Start of career in law enforcement, September 1, 1970 (Photo provided)

Television producers tend to make documentaries on the anniversaries of important dates such as the Civil War, December 7th, and of course September 11th.

This is also good reasoning, because we should think about those who are involved in life and death situations. Then, of course, we wonder how far have we gone and what have we learned.

However, the question remains: why do we celebrate, commemorate and document our birthdays?

Looking back at our growing up years, our families have always noted special dates, times and places so that they will forever mark the moments of our lives. Of course, this includes incidents in our life cycle, such as births, marriages and even deaths. In fact, those precious photos, dates and times that we have recorded sometimes end up in the attic, cellar or even in a trunk.

Last career match broadcast, November 22, 2022 (Photo provided)

If you took a few minutes today, pen in hand, and wrote down the memories that resonate in your life and in your family, you would be surprised at how many you have probably forgotten.

We, parents, remember well the dates and times of our children’s birth. For Jo and me, our 3 boys were indeed: “Midweek Morning Babies”. Mike was born at 8:41 a.m. Thursday, Chris at 8:26 a.m. Wednesday, and Joe at 9:37 a.m. Wednesday.

How do I remember these dates and times?

It must be that special talent for many of us who remember special dates and times. Chances are you can also recite these special hospital dates and times. I am sure you have many achievements and memories in your life that are birthdays you will never forget.

Kentucky Police Officer of the Year Award, 1989 (Photo provided)

Here are a few to think about:

· High school and/or college graduation day
· Your wedding day
· First day on your new job
· A very serious road accident
· A professional excellence award of which you are very proud.
· Professional inductions into prestigious organizations such as the Hall of Fame
· Your last day of work in your career before retirement
· The first time you held your grandchildren or great-grandchildren.

Obviously, these are just some of life’s defining events, but their impact on your life reverberates every time you think about them. Remember the old adage: “If one door closes, another will open.” I firmly believe this because it has happened to me several times in my life – including twice here in November.

I was calling my last college basketball game on ESPN+ – Saturday, November 22, 2022. I retired that evening. The curtain has finally fallen after 57 years of talking about sport on radio and television. It was a birthday I will never forget. However, I was so lucky in so many ways that this was all possible. I will always be grateful. A week later, on my birthday, another career opportunity presented itself with the Northern Kentucky Tribune as a weekly columnist. My two-year anniversary with the Tribune is next week. My sincere thanks for the opportunity to join our team. I am very proud.

Today is National Peanut Butter Fudge Day. Appreciate! (Photo provided)

Have you ever found boxes full of old photos that time has consumed over the decades? This is likely to be the case. A few years ago I remember finding boxes full of photos and even negatives! Then take the time and open them as my journey through the “Time Tunnel” instantly began. If you’re like me, some of these photos were saved and have earned the right to be framed as a family treasure.

Many years ago there was a television series called “Days of our Lives”. You may remember it well. If so, you probably remember the beginning of the series which featured an hourglass with the resounding comments of famous actor McDonald Carey: “Like sand through the hourglass, so are the days of our lives.” » Let’s hope these days spent at the hourglass are filled with your great birthdays and great memories.

In fact, “Days of Our Lives,” which is still on television today, celebrated its 59th anniversary just 12 days ago, on November 8.

Besides. For your edification – Today, November 20, we joyfully celebrate: NATIONAL PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE DAY. Feel free to consume whatever you want today. Make a batch of two; it’s the noble thing to do.

For those celebrating your very special day today, this week or soon, let me be the very first to smile and say: HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Mike Tussey “retired” after a 60-plus year career as a legendary play-by-play announcer for more than 2,000 football, baseball and basketball games, including most recently for ESPN+ . His career also includes a stint in law enforcement, teaching and coaching, and writing books, including “Touchdown Saints.” He grew up in Eastern Kentucky and now lives in Florence with his wife Jo. He opened another “door of opportunity” and is now a regular columnist for NkyTribune.