Instant Messaging with Michael Eisner.

So, my Grandfather is in the hospital, and probably will pass away this week. I went out to see him with my family this weekend, and my folks turned over several boxes of slides and negatives. Some of them I have seen before, most of them not. It is a treasure trove of my family history from the 1940s to the late 1970s. I have these wonderful memories of going to all the Southern California theme & amusement parks with them - but the photos of Sea World always seemed to be sparse. In particular, there was a little kiddie ride in boats shaped like Shamu the Whale that I have this memory of - a day I spent with my family that was kinda pure joy for me. Try as I might, I never could find a photo of the darned thing. I know, I'm being a mushy dork here -but when I found this negative in the stash, well it choked me up...



I look to be about 5 or 6 here, so I'm gonna guess it's 1976. I've got boxes to go through - including several packs of negs labeled "Hawaii -1974"...



Here's my Grandfather in Dec. 1947, with what looks like a new combo turntable/radio. They gave us those blue ceramic chinese dogs you see on top for Christmas last year. I don't know where to put them yet, but I'm sure I'll accompany them with this photo. He really spent a lot of time documenting his life through slides and photos - and I'm really thankful that he did. I guess I'm just saying that I love my Grandfather, and I'll miss him. Thanks, Grandpa.

Shards Of Metal Injure Cedar Point Coaster Riders
Man Says Riders Bleeding When Ride Ends

SANDUSKY, Ohio -- Four people are recovering after shards of metal started flying Monday while they were riding Top Thrill Dragster, WEWS-TV in Cleveland reported.

Some were also burned by some type of oily substance.

A metal cable was reportedly frayed, and when the cart rolled over the cable metal shards were sent flying, said Janice Witherow, Cedar Point's spokeswoman.

Meanwhile, Cedar Point officials said the park has an overall good safety record. The ride, however, is shut down indefinitely. This is the second time this month that the ride has been shut down.

Coney Island in Three Dimensions

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Disneyland artist Sam McKim died yesterday.