Ruth Weisberg
Philadelphia media personality Ruth Weisberg co-hosts with me on this week’s show. Ruth is best remembered for her years as former Mayor Frank Rizzo’s on-air co-host and is a frequent guest on Lynn Doyle’s “It’s Your Call.” In between, Ruth has worked successfully as a voice over artist. She also trains others in the art of voicework.
Kevin Walsh, of Comcast SportsNet Boston, phones in to speak about his fabulous new book Follow The Dog Home. Here’s my review of Kevin’s book, you can also see it on Amazon:
I always knew dog owners shared a special connection, an unspoken appreciation for camaraderie that only they fully understand. But I never knew how a dog could help its owner have a better understanding of self. Kevin, Bob, and Samantha Walsh, whether they intended to or not, reveal that truth.
Save for a two-month period during the harshest winter I can remember during my childhood, I never owned a dog. Today, ours is the only home on the block without a four-legged family member. The neighbors joke that I will get a dog when my nest is empty but I feel a tinge of guilt at not having raised my children with a loyal pet. “Follow the Dog Home” affirms my guilt, but in a good way.
The Walsh family, all terrific story tellers, does a terrific job weaving together the human connection as it’s propelled by the family dog–the one constant. You will recognize the personalities of all the characters (human and canine) described in “Follow the Dog Home.” I fell in love with Daisy I, Dannie, and Annie. Fly Boy is the coolest name I’ve ever known for a dog. You can’t help but like a dog named Fly Boy. More than any of the dogs introduced in this tale, I have an affinity for Claudia. I get choked up thinking about how special she must have been.
I can’t wait to speak with others who’ve read the book to learn which is their favorite dog. It’s okay to have a favorite. Bob even says so. Sure, you’ll love them all, but certain personalities will strike a chord with you. It’s a personality thing.
All this from someone who’s never been fond of animals in the house. Thank you Kevin, Bob, and Samantha for expanding my world.
Oh, and as in his book, “The Marrow in Me,” Kevin Walsh again proves to be a magnet for coincidence. Of course, I’ve never been a believer in coincidence. There’s a reason for everything. I’m eager to learn where life takes Kevin in his next narrative.
Our regular cast of characters check in too.
Jim Vanore talks about Valentine’s messages on Good Writer’s Block.
The Rhonda File presents a rather unique (and hilarious) perspective on Valentine’s gifts.
Chef Jacquie brings us to a buffet of food with aphrodisiac properties.
Dominic Condo has a wonderful ricotta cheese recipe and is making dessert with the kids in the Upstairs Kitchen.
Live vicariously a Day In The Glamorous Life of actress/biscotti baker Natalie Stone, and enjoy a snippet of her as Mrs. Vitale in “Tony & Tina’s Wedding.”
Below are downloads of the Cucina Chatter Valentine’s Day show, as described above, and a special Valentine’s edition of A Cucina Chatter Moment.
Mangia & Enjoy!
