Musical and spoken tribute to Gerald Ford on TV

The Channel 3 news crew requested that I perform one of President Ford's favorite songs and discuss my personal recollections of him. My comments are heard at the beginning and conclusion of this news item on Mr. Ford's contributions to the Palm Springs area. My piano playing is heard throughout. If the flash player doesn't work below you can also see this video at http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8185957525239212761

President Ford's final P.S. departure - photos

On December 30th, 2006 I took photos of Air Force One as it departed the Palm Springs International Airport with the remains of the late President. As a musician I preformed for him several times and felt honored to do so.

The photo above shows Air Force One taxing into position. The below photo shows the moment of take-off. Mt. San Jacinto can be seen in the background.


A day or so after the last time he and Betty danced to my music, I tried to pass a motorcade on a local highway because I was going to be late to a gig. As I pulled parallel to a stretch limo, a motorcycle officer pulled in front of me and held up his hand gesturing that I should not pass. At that moment the limo driver honked and got the officer's attention and indicated it was okay for me to proceed. As I glanced in the back seat, I saw President Ford smiling at me as he too was waving me to pass him. From my perspective it appeared that the President had recognized me and had given me a special "pass." Although I never saw him again, from that time on I felt as if he somehow were my friend. Incidentally, I did make it to my gig barely on time. The President's kindness had made a difference that evening.