Pick the Playlist

"PLAY GLEEMER!!" (only a handful will get that)

I think Pitchfork Fest did something like this a few years ago. This will probably only interest the GBV loving folk out there, so apologies in advance to those who have no idea (but feel free to chime in anyway).  Anyways...Andy from The Textbook Committee forwarded me the following list of tunes the other day, all of which are within their repertoire.

So here's your chance.  Many of you are traveling from quite a distance, so feel free to pick the tunes you want to hear!  Or, for the Cheap Trick lovers...see the last track :)

14 Cheerleader Coldfront

A Crick Uphill

A Salty Salute

Alone, Stinking, and Unafraid

Beg For A WheelBarrow

Big Boring Wedding

Bull Spears

Chief Barrell Belly

Cut-Out Witch

Dayton, OH, 19 Something & 5

Do the Earth

Don't Stop Now

Drag Days

Dragons Awake

Drinker's Peace

Echos Myron

Ester's Day

Everybody Thinks I'm A Raincloud (When I'm Not Looking)

Exit Flagger

Expecting Brainchild

Fair Touching

Finks

Flat Beauty

Fly Into Ashes

Game of Pricks

Get Under It

Girls of Wild Strawberries

Glad Girls

Goldheart Moutaintop Queen Directory

Goldstar For Robot Boy

He's The Uncle

Hot Freaks

Huffman Prairie Flying Field

I Am a Scientist

I'm a Widow

I've Owned You for Centuries

Key Losers

Let It Rest For A Little While

Lethargy

Little Lines

Maggie Turns To Flies

Man Called Aerodynamics

Motor Away

Much Better Mr. Buckles

Mute Superstar

My Impression Now

My Son Cool

My Valuable Hunting Knife

Navigating Flood Regions

Not Behind The Fighter Jet

Over the Neptune / Mesh Gear Fox

Pantherz

Paradise Is Not So Bad

Peep-hole

Pimple Zoo

Portable Men's Society

Postal Blowfish

Psych-Threat

Queen of Cans and Jars

Red Ink Superman

Redmen and Their Wives

Sad If I Lost It

Sensational Gravity Boy

Shocker In Gloomtown

Sister I Need Wine

Skills Like This

Smothered In Hugs

Squirmish Frontal Room

Stiff Me

Stifled Man Casino

Stingy Queens

Storm Vibrations

Striped White Jets

Subspace Biographies

Surgical Focus

Teenage FBI

The Best of Jill Hives

The Brides Have Hit Glass

The Closets of Henry

The Wheel Hits the Path (Quite Soon)

Time Machines

Tractor Rape Chain

Underground Initiations

Underwater Explosions

Unleashed! The Large Hearted Boy

Useless Inventions

Watch Me Jumpstart

When She Turns 50

White Whale

Wished I Was a Giant

Wormhole

Wrecking Now

Auf Wiedersehen*

Had to post this Cheap Trick video for "Auf Wiedersehen." First off, it rocks. But it also reminds me of the first records I had as a kid, thanks to my cousins Joe and Tony.  I remember removing a few of my mom's favorites from the turntable, like some Carly Simon or Melissa Manchester record, and dropping the needle on Cheap Trick at Budokan.  Of course, "Auf Wiedersehen" wasn't released until some years later on Budokan II, but you get the point.  Enjoy...

Emily, Matron of Honor

 My mom told me one day that I had to give up my blankie…but I didn’t just have to give it up, I had to give it to some little creep who would flaunt it in front of my face every day…thus Emily Cooper (Radaker) would make her way into my life, when I was just four years old. It wasn’t like I had a choice—I had to live with this little twerp. So, I made the best of it.

JUST KIDDING, SIS. :P

Emily Radaker is my best friend and she is my only sister. And sometimes, I don’t know what the hell I would do without her. There were times, in high school and college, she told me I was ruining her life (I student-taught at Butler High School while she was a senior there), but I think she forgave me--right, Em? LOL.

Most times we keep one another sane. I do really think we would be lost without one another other. But, she’d probably have a less stressful life if I weren't always bothering her—LOL. I do have to say that the thirteen-hour drive to Brunswick, Maine does stink…but "I gots the iPhone 4, baby." LOL. Nah…if Skyping and traveling to Brunswick is what I have to do to see her and talk to her, then so be it. I need her in my life. She is always there for me when I am talking myself in and out of things, working through the trials of life, or when I need to talk about just about anything you can think of. I sometimes wish I could do the same for her.

Emily's perspective always seems to be something I can completely relate to, yet I never would have conceived of in my own bouncy-ball-esque brain.

I never met someone who I was so much like, but also so different from. It is good that way, though—that’s why it works.

My sister is cooler than yours. ;)

Allison, Maid of Honor

This is at BMO Field in Toronto--go TFC! It was a winner!

Allison Gall is the only friend I can say that has grown with me for the majority of my life—I guess you could say that we’ve grown together.

We first met in CCD classes (Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, for those non-Catholics out there) when we were pretty young, at Saint Michael the Archaengel. We were the oddballs who didn’t know anyone, so we made our own alliance, so-to-speak. IT was the alliance to not like the snotty other kids...we were pretty young and sassy then—so that ain’t ‘gonna change, people. ;)

Later Allison and I would end-up going to elementary school together, due to some awkwardly drawn “district” lines, but who cares—we saw each other at school—not just CCD; all the better. I got to spend more time with her on a regular basis.

Until the sixth grade, we had classes together.

In junior high we still made it work, too.

In high school, we always seemed to have the same English classes, but we had very different boyfriends, who weren’t necessarily in the same group of friends. We still worked it out.

And in college, we didn’t see each other much, but we remained in contact. Clarion, PA and Moon Township, PA--that's a good distance apart.

When we graduated college, we saw each other more and more because we were both in Butler more regularly--I was at the high school teaching everyday and she was working in the area, too.

Today, we are still going strong.

She now lives in Baltimore, which is not exactly close, but I have made it to visit as much as possible. I wish I could go more often, but life happens to both of us. One of us needs to move closer. Alli—I can still get you a job in Pittsburgh. ;) Just kidding...BUT SERIOUSLY.

Love you, girl.

The Jess & Gary Video Hour

The Collaborators

One night only! October 15th. The Warhol Theater.

Jess and I are pretty fortunate to have a few talented friends. With the help from our good pal Johny (above), we are compiling a slew of short little videos to be played for your enjoyment. Some are old, and some will making their World Premiere on this night! Wherever we go, the video camera is never far behind. This is our version of the photo album.

Stay tuned for the official program. But in the meantime, enjoy the trailer...


Jess and Gary Trailer from Almost Human on Vimeo.

Miss the video you've been dying to see?!? No worries. The hour (plus) will be on loop, and each video will have 3 screenings. See your official program for times.

Jimmy, Groomsman

Super Pete, Super Chief, me

Jimmy (aka: Chief, Super Chief)

Jimmy is one of the most generous people I've ever been around, and defines the term "mi casa e su casa."  He's the original "making things right" guy.  Many of my friends in Pittsburgh know that to be one of my credos...you gotta make things right.  Admittedly, I learned and adopted that from Jimmy.  When it comes time for a little R & R,  you don't just half-ass things.  You make it right.

I met Jimmy playing softball in the early 90's, but we probably would've been good pals had we met elsewhere.  Jimmy was always older than me, but in "Jimmy years," I've probably passed him by now (I think he was 28 years old the first 3 years I knew him).  Jimmy's like the big bro I never had, who was into cool music before I was into cool music.  I always admired the fact that he was into bands like the Clash, the Sex Pistols, the Buzzcocks, and the Smiths at a time when I thought the only bands that existed where ones I saw on MTV as a kid.

Although he resembles Rodney Dangerfield and can look kinda goofy in a baseball hat, Jimmy is actually one of the most talented infielders I ever played with.  He was the best shortstop I had played with...until Brad (see below) came along.  And while he would probably even admit that, Jimmy's not one to lack in confidence.  He'll recall every big hit or great play he's ever made, and he never shies away from telling his OPRF baseball state championship days.  On the surface, it could sound cocky.  But the way Jimmy tells a story, there's always a comical aspect to it.  He's one of those guys whose just a lot of fun to be around.  We've shared a ton of laughs, and I'm proud to call him a dear friend.

if you never been out to dinner with Jimmy, this isn't too far off...

Christy, Bridesmaid

Christy at Sunny Jim's Hypnotizing the best of 'em

Everyone knows that teaching public school affords one the summers off, however…that never “flew” with me. In that, I am a very antsy person. I have always NEEDED to be doing something. So, during my first four and one half years teaching, I was working a job in the summer to keep myself sane. In 2006, I applied to Primanti Brothers in Moon Township. Who wouldn’t do that in their spare time—duh—DELICIOUS. Anyway, within the first couple days, I had met Christy Kerr. Christy had worked for Primanti's for a while, and was extremely helpful in training me to be successful there, too. It was nice to know someone who could show me the ropes.

After a while, I began to tell her how much I LOVED coffee—or maybe it was evident that I was SO EXCITED that Primantis had “good coffee,” I don’t know. Before long she’d told me about her mother managing a local coffee shop in our village. That was it—I was working in the coffee shop before long. When I left BSHS, after getting my masters, I didn’t have time for a “summer job” anymore, but I sure love my Crazy Mocha. MY PTI colleagues can attest to that.

Christy is actually a certified hypnotist, and the part of the ONLY father-daughter hypnotism duo in the United States. And, she HAS hypnotized me to think I was Carlton from the Fresh Prince of Bell-Air. Apparently this is on video somewhere in cyber space. EXCELLENT. :)

Christy is always one to offer help—whether it’s to lend an ear, make some AWESOME homemade salsa, or guide me to the best establishment in the area—she grew up in Sewickley. Gary and I both love having her around. Her honesty is contagious--an one of her best qualities.

Howie, Groomsman

Brent (aka: Howie)

It's been said that Howie looks kinda like Kevin Costner.  Not Field of Dreams Kevin Costner...but more like Waterworld Kevin Costner.  Although he makes his home in San Diego, we stay in touch a lot, mostly during football season. He likes to brag about how great the weather is whenever we're getting dumped on with sleet and snow...to which I have no comeback for.  He's one of these guys that piggybacks off of my supreme football knowledge, and will ride whatever picks I give him. Like most of these guys, I never hear about all of the winners I predict.  But it never fails.  I could be 6-0 on a Saturday.  And if San Jose St or one of these other West Coast teams doesn't win the late game, I'll surely get a voice mail at 2:00 am EST to tell me how lousy I am.  It's ok...I get a kick out of them the next morning.  Howie's late Saturday night rants from the West Coast have become a staple in my Sunday morning routine every Fall.

Howie's another one of these Sportin' Wood fellows I met around 1995.  He was known as a pretty good hitter, and could hit .650 by only utilizing the space between the SS and 3B.  Kind of amazing and weak in the same time.  Howie was also really good infielder in his day, but got scared of the ball and wanted to play OF instead.  I can sympathize with that.  The move to San Diego shortened his playing career with Sportin Wood, and he was dearly missed...more as a friend than a player.  Take that however you'd like :) 

Howie's taste in music is questionable, at best.  I sent him a Superchunk CD one time, and never heard anything back.  So I assume he still has bad taste in music.  But I love him, nonetheless.

Michelle, Bridesmaid

Michelle and me during a week long excursion to NYC to see Pavement

All my Canadian friends ROCK. Well, this one especially. One of the truest people I have ever known—one of the coolest, really—Michelle Gillen was once mistaken for me—BY MY OWN DAD—in the GBV Electrifying Conclusion video. (Sorry for calling you out on this one, Dad.)

Gary and I met Michelle (and Ned—see Groomsmen) while seeking out Robert Pollard fueled rock concerts, probably in/ around the year 2004??? I don’t know—Miller Lite makes things hazy, sometimes.

Though a resident of Guelph, ON, Michelle and I see one another AT LEAST four times a year…and for all involved…it isn’t enough. When parting ways, we always openly share our wishes that one another lived closer. Five hours away is just too much. A kindered spirit and a balanced force in my times of rock mania, Michelle is always there to listen to my bologna-pony and make a suggestion of level-headed consideration. Plus, she has opened house and home many times to nothing more than Gary and I, four cases of beer, and rock and roll. And when it comes to environmentally friendly living, I always MUCH APPRECIATE her lucidity and sageness.

Erin, Bridesmaid

Erin is the pretty blonde--the rose, as I said...

Erin is my closest first cousin (of too many). Well, not proximity-wise anymore—North Carolina?! Anyway, Erin has always been the rose between two thorns (just kidding sis--I should speak for myself). And, I remember playing many days and nights at my grandma’s house with Erin, Emily (see Matron of Honor), and my cousin Kaiti (also pictured to the left).

When I was older, I often babysat for my Aunt Heather and Uncle Chip in Karns City, PA; though far “out there,” compared to my childhood abode, we had fun, and I enjoyed spending the time with my cousins. I vaguely remember being a snotty teenager once, though, and fighting with Erin and her brother about whether or not they were allowed to watch Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. I swore that it wasn’t an appropriate show (I had no idea, what-so-ever, really...), and they swore they had watched it all the time…I later found out that I was being a BIG JERK. Woah—TIME TRAVEL. LOL.

Erin has always been a gifted dancer, and though I never got to watch enough of her performances, I know that dancing was to her life  as gymnastics was to mine, when I was younger. I understood that well.

I recently got to enjoy a Post Secret show at Slippery Rock University (google: Frank Warren), and had a phenomenal time, thus solidifying my connection with an awesome “cuz.” And when Erin graduated with her teaching degree this past May, I was VERY proud of her accomplishments.

Dean, Groomsman

Dean (aka: Meat Pants)

A few years after meeting Dean, he asked me for a giant favor.  His fantasy football team in the legendary Windy City Fantasy Football League was in dire straits, losing season after season.  He was getting mocked by his peers at the annual draft, and he was tired of getting embarrassed.  Knowing that I was a fantasy football genius, Dean asked for my help.  So much like Pauly Cicero did for Sonny Bunz in Good Fellas, I came in as Dean's partner.  The rest is history.  Bloated Stiff Football would dominate and change the entire landscape of the WCFFL.  With my guidance, and Dean's "expertise" on any player who ever played for the Wisconsin Badgers, The Bloated Stiffs would win 5 league titles over a 10 year span.

Dean is also the class clown of the bunch. And while I enjoyed pulling his strings at times, much to the dismay of his lovely wife, Sue, I do claim innocence in most of Dean's deeds :)  Like the time he ate 15 hot dogs in a 20 minute span at McGaffer's, or something like that (the legend grows).  That wasn't really me egging him on.  I just had a rooting interest, since I bet everyone there that he could do it.

Dean was usually my roommate when our softball team traveled, and we usually got in the most trouble.  Too many stories, many of which will not be discussed on October 15th.  Despite the hi-jinx, Dean was always ready to go on game day.  We were probably a good match as roommates.  I liked to sleep in late.  On the other hand, Dean was so jacked up, he would often sleep in his uniform.  No need for coffee when you have Dean waking you up 2 hours earlier than necessary.

Besides being my fantasy football partner and former outfield mate, Dean's a really good pal, and a stand up guy.  Like many of the guys I met on this Sportin' Wood team, he also has a tremendous sense of humor.  There were many more good times off the field than on, and I will always treasure those the most.  Like the time our connecting flight to Florida was delayed, and we had a layover in Mississippi.  After a late night trip to the riverboat, we came back to the hotel and Dean...

Ned, Groomsman

Ned (aka: Ned)

I met him in a Pakistani Pizza shop.  Seriously.  It was some of the worst pizza I've ever tried, and it was after a Guided by Voices show in Washington, DC.  Ned will probably tell you he liked it.  He's been one of my best friends ever since.  Ned not only shares my obsession for GBV and 2nd favorite band (Pavement - the Real Madrid of La Liga), but he's a huge sports guy.  Many people I know are either passionate about one or the other.  Ned's one of those few that I can chat to about either, and we talk (e-mail) more regularly than anyone I know.

Ned's also responsible for making me into a crazy football (aka: soccer) fanatic.  I gave the sport a chance a few years back, after joining a World Cup pool of his, and I've been hooked ever since.  Thanks, Ned.  We don't always share the same viewpoints, and he likes to throw things in my face like YDLB.  He's incredibly quick witted, and will often answer an e-mail in the form of a Robert Pollard lyric.  On rare occasion, I have to Google, but I will never admit it to Ned. ILB.

Pictures of Ned are tough to come by (they're about as rare as finding an unopened Propeller).  While he's a professional photographer / journalist during the day, Ned is notoriously camera shy.  Most pictures of him come out with a huge palm facing the camera.  And despite being from Canada, Ned claims not to be a big fan of hockey.  Crazy and a shame, I know.

Our annual trips to Guelph, Ontario to visit him and his girlfriend Michelle (bridesmaid), and take in a Toronto FC game, are something that Jess and I cherish very dearly.  Ned & Michelle, along with their families and other Canadian pals, are some of the nicest and most beautiful people we've ever had the pleasure of hanging out with.  We love 'em...especially Ned.

Julie, Bridesmaid

Julie and I are Charlie's Angels--though she probably remembers the cupcake in her face the best from this night. Oops.

So among many things I attempted to pursue in my crazy childhood, track and field was probably the most lucrative—LITERALLY. I didn’t start track until a broken leg forced me to resign from gymnastics. After I healed, the Butler High track coach hunted me down. Apparently, gymnasts can make good track athletes. I knew nothing of such a sport until Grade 9. Long story short, that’s how I figured I was going to pay for college.

When senior year of high school rolled-around, and the good ‘ole state of PA finally legalized women’s pole vault...THAT WAS THE TICKET.

Bill Hodge, rest his soul, saw something in me at 5’3”. He apparently had seen something in one SPUNKY and wirey Julie Woloshin, too because he actively pursued the both of us for his women's team.

We had both decided, in 1999, that Robert Morris College (now, University) was our future. Except I didn’t know that, until one of my last high school track meets. It was a big one (WPIAL-style). Out of nowhere, Julie introduced herself (somehow she knew who I was--such a goof), and we were friends thereafter. In fact, Julie was with me the night I met Gary. I drug her along because I wasn’t sure I wanted to go out. Needless to say…I think I am glad I went out? ;)

Julie also took me to my first Pittsburgh Penguins game in 2000. We were two of maybe 5,000 people in the Igloo, that night.

Due to her international career and wherabouts, it is more likely her parents make the party than she does, but we love her anyway!

Chris, Groomsman

Chris (aka: Clarke)

"You've got room!!!"  Those 3 words will explain a few of the scars on my knees and shins. Clarke's another good friend that I originally met playing ball.  I often played next to Chris in the OF, and I was always told there's enough room to make the catch.  Ask the 5 foot pine tree in Itasca that I snapped in half.  Clarke, meanwhile, never slid into a bag in his life.  He'd probably tell you that he's never had to.  Sounds weird, I know...considering the fact he enjoyed seeing me dive all over the place.

Not long after knowing Chris, I remember him coming by the office to discuss the team's lineup for that night (actual work was overrated in those days).  He loved talking the game and strategy more than anyone I knew, so on the surface, you'd think he was a hack who couldn't play.  On the contrary, he's one of the most talented players I ever played with.  He was your prototypical 5-tool player who never got his knees dirty :)

Chris is also the victim of one of the worst ever lean-in moves I've got on camera. That's fellow groomsman Jimmy executing the move to perfection, snubbing Clarke, from what would've been a great picture with Jim Thome during a visit to Pittsburgh...

I feel very fortunate to have met a lot of great people during my years in Chicago, and Chris is atop that list. He's a super guy and incredible friend...despite his lack of care for my health.

The bus will get you there yet!!

a quick note on transportation for anyone arriving from outta tahn:

No need to worry about transportation on Saturday. Hotel shuttles will be able to take you to the ceremony (if you plan on going to the ceremony*). Also, we've hired a couple of buses to transport everybody from the Chapel after the ceremony to the Warhol, and then back to your hotels after the reception.

We want everyone to enjoy themselves without the need to worry about driving afterwards.

* if you don't plan on attending the beautiful ceremony that Jess is doing an incredible job of arranging, but are staying at the hotels in Moon, you should probably still shuttle over to the chapel so you can hop on the bus,Gus.

Brandy, Bridesmaid

Last October in Ogunquit, Maine for Em and Jordan's wedding

Brandy Shoup has been a part of the “Cooper” family tradition for as long as I can remember. She grew-up “across the alleyway” beside Saint Michael’s, our childhood parish. Brandy's brother also went to school with me, but alas, nothing is more priceless than she and my sister getting into trouble for sidewalk-chalking an old garage in the church parking lot. The incident was even in the Butler Eagle (our town’s small newspaper publication). They, of course, weren’t bad kids—just artistic, I guess. Technically, it was vandalism, though. It’s a good thing the police found their actions to be relatively innocent, too. But she was breaking the rules with my younger sister—that’s why I liked her.

I hung out many an afternoon with Brandy and Emily, cutting hair, dying hair, dressing-up, and doing make-up. If you can name some of our childhood shenanigans, Brandy was usually around. And she recently did this for Emily last October—now ya’ gotta do it again, sista. ;)

Brad, Groomsman

3 stiffs: me, Brad, Dean

Brad (aka: Bips)

Like a few of the stiffs* that will be standing up Oct. 15th, I initially met Brad playing softball. It was 19-something-and-5, and we were actually on opposing teams.  My team at the time, O'Sullivan's, kept running up against this other team from the area at weekend tournaments around the Chicago land area.  They had cool shirts, and a somewhat offensive name.  They also had a pretty awesome shortstop (whose shaved / bald head is now swelling more as he reads this).

* footnote: do not be offended. this a term of endearment amongst my friends. *

Brad's team looked like a group of swell guys, a group of young up-and-comers, and I really wanted to play for them.  When they went looking for a third basemen to play in this national tournament down in Jacksonville, Florida, I jumped at the opportunity.  "Why hell yes, I can play 3B!!"  (Like most players who valued their face, I hated playing 3B).

In my very first at-bat in a lousy fall league game, I hit a ground ball to the left side, and tried to leg it out.  And just like that - torn hamstring...season over.  My flight to FLA a few weeks later was already paid for, so I decided to go just for the fun of it.   On the ride to the airport, I got pink eye (seriously).  So now...I'm the stiff in Florida with a torn hammy and junk in my eye.

Not sure what I did that fall to impress my new teammates, but they asked me back next season for some crazy reason.  Maybe they saw a lot of promise in that lone AB, a routine 6-3 ground out to short.  Anyways, I'm pretty glad they did.  I developed a lot of great friendships from my time with Sportin' Wood, one of them being Brad, and 5 of those friends will be standing up for Jess & I come the big day.

Besides being the world's greatest shortstop, Brad is also quite the fisherman.  About 10-12 years ago, I took a trip to northwest Ontario, for a week of fishing bliss with Brad and 6 other pals on some remote island.  It was one of the most fun and relaxing weeks I've ever had.  It also reminded me of those times as a kid, when my dad used to take me fishing in the French River for these week long trips: long summer days, fresh Canadian air, remote peace and quiet, endless walleye and pike fishing, tasty shore lunches.  The exception on this trip with Brad: my dad and I never had to send the plane back to the main island to pick up our 30 cases of beer.

Brian, Groomsman

Brian (or simply Tirpak, or Tirps.  Our Canadian pals affectionately know him as Tripod.)

Brian works for the Steelers.  And he annoyingly loves it when you introduce him like that.  He's kind of a modest guy, and around Pittsburgh, when someone hears that you work for the Steelers...well, you can imagine.  (What's Mike Tomlin like?  Does Mr. Rooney know you my name?  Do you get to touch Troy's hair?  Can you get me Hines Ward's autograph?  Tickets?!?)  He's pretty fortunate to be working for the team he grew up cheering for, and I'm pretty sure he knows that.  But when you see some of the video work he does, you quickly realize that he's very deserving of his position.

I met Brian at RMU when I was doing Colonial Sports Center.  Before he came aboard, I was producing the show, anchoring, reporting, editing (more like attempting to edit).  I knew nothing about TV, so I was spending countless hours and late nights trying to put out this live weekly show, that maybe a handful of people watched.  My final year, Brian came aboard to help produce the show, so I could simply concentrate on hosting...which is what I really enjoyed.  CSC got exponentially better.

** side note: the cult classic video Former Colonial Sports Center Anchors Who Went On To Other Things will definitely be part of the "Jess and Gary Video Hour" to be shown in the Warhol's Theatre come the big day (more deets to come on that - stay tuned) **

After my final show, we celebrated and we partied.  We've been hanging out on a regular basis ever since.  Brian's probably witnessed more of my air guitar sessions than anyone else we know.  Being a little younger than me, I've had a good time bending his willing ear to a lot of classic punk and 90's indie rock that I grew up loving. Tirpak either digs most of my musical tastes, or he's a tremendous faker.  Either way, we keep inviting him back :)

Brian's also one of the most reliable people I know (a trait the Steelers surely saw in him), and he's always ready to lend a helping hand.  He's also one of the most respectful young chaps I know, and Jess and I are both proud to call him a close pal.  Since moving back to Pittsburgh, he's become one of my best friends and we've shared a lot of amazing times over the past 6-7 years.  Stiffler loves his Uncle Brian, as well.

Lauren, Bridesmaid

We are celebrating one of many sporting events at the Cooper-Smith household, here.

Way back when—1997, to be exact—I decided to embark upon a new journey. I chose to be a cheerleader at the age of 17. Okay—I had done it a bit when I was younger, but gave it up at a relatively young age. At Butler High School this was “news,” considering I was on the dance team (YOU DIDN’T DO BOTH). Sequinettes and cheerleaders—they typically didn’t mesh. ;)

By the time junior year rolled-around people were pretty set in their ways. I chose to defy that unspoken rule—when has anything like that EVER stopped me?! And Lauren Eisenhuth (Parker) was there to welcome me with open arms. Well, I guess the others welcomed us—they caught us from falling to the ground quite often. We were both “tops” (flyers) when “building.”

After high school, Lauren and I parted ways for a time as we pursued our degrees.

One day, three years ago, we ran into one another at the New American Union Music Festival in Pittsburgh. We have kept it going, since then. Hey—we both grew up in that small rural place they call “Butler.” Us Golden Tornados ‘gotta stick together, ya’ know?

Dave, Groomsman

Dave (aka: DK)

DK had me at "a gator bit my arm."  Ask him about it.  I met Dave when I started playing for this softball team called Riff Raff in the early 90's.  He was the pitcher, and had this somewhat unorthodox, yet effective, throwing motion (see: gator encounter).  But I didn't let that prevent us from being buddies.  We won the championship in Oak Park my first season on the squad (a clear indication I was the difference maker), and we remained good friends ever since.

In Forest Park, Dave kinda took me under his wing, and taught me the art of bartending at the old O'Sullivan's on Circle Ave.  All good bartenders have a mentor, and DK was like the Coughlin to my young Flanagan.  There were no stupid poems, and no bottle tricks...just shots of Absolut in your pint of Killian's Irish Red.  DK also made a pretty kick-ass Reuben, and would always pile the corned beef thick and high when I came in for lunch after class at Loyola.  I remember thinking, "damn, this guy looks a lot like Mickey Rourke.  But he makes a helluva sandwich!"

DK can get pretty passionate about things, like someone else I know ;)  In 1992, when my Pens beat his Hawks in the Stanley Cup, I think he wanted to slug me at one point.  Maybe it was after Game 1, when I went berserk after Mario Lemieux netted the GWG with 12 seconds left.  Dave wasn't too happy as I ran by pumping my fist and screaming in his face.  But being my good pal, he restrained himself.

Dave is one of those people that you can hang out with for an hour, and he'll treat you like his best friend that he's known forever.  Simply a great guy and an even better friend. And because I love Dave so much, I dug through the archives to find this video to dedicate to him...



Pens trailed 4-1 in this game. Ouch :)

Ron, Groomsman

Ron (aka: Ronnie Berenguer, an obvious play off of the former Mets, Royals, Blue Jays, Tigers, Giants, Twins, Braves pitcher from the 80's).

Ron is one of my dearest and long time friends.  I remember first meeting Ron at a party in high school, and he repeatedly sang the phrase, "October 31st, that is my date of birth." Actually, it's not.  It's just a lyric from a Beastie Boys song. We've been buds ever since.

Ron is also one of the few close friends of mine to have known my mother, which is very important to me.  Like many of my close pals who will be standing up, Ron still hails from Chicago.  And while he's one of the few buddies of mine who doesn't communicate via the Internet, he never hesitates to send me a text message when the Steelers lose and the Bears win.  I think he still owes me a case of beer from a recent sporting wager.  But who's keeping score?

Invites (and Revised Times!!)

First and foremost, revised and finalized times for both the reception and ceremony (earlier posts have been edited):

Ceremony: 4:30 (sharp)

Reception: 6:00 - 11:00

That's correct. 4 hours just didn't seem long enough, especially with the addition of a band. Invites have been ordered and they will be going out within the next 3-4 weeks, I hope.  And the invites will show the corrected times.

Also...word on the streets is that people have started to book their hotel rooms.  If you should run into any problems, please let Jess or I know asap.  Thanks!!  Looking forward to seeing everyone!

Introducing: The Textbook Committee

Negotiating with the world's greatest Guided by Voices cover band to play your wedding can be challenging.  I suggest doing it over a couple of beers at a minor league baseball game.

Wait...back up. Some of you may be wondering what this "Guided by Voices" thingy is all about. Sorry to disappoint anyone, but Guided by Voices (GBV) is not a Christian rock band. GBV is this little indie rock band from Dayton that Jess and I love very dearly, led by the greatest and arguably most prolific song writer ever, Robert Pollard. Some of you may have heard us talk about them before :)

Mr. Pollard (Uncle Bob, Bob, Bobby Pop) has written something like 1500 songs, and The Textbook Committee has learned all of them, just for our collective enjoyment.  I hope they will play about half of these :)  And when I say "greatest" GBV cover band, your next question is probably, "there's more than one?"  To which the answer is a serious "yes."

In all seriousness, we could not be more excited that they're coming to Pittsburgh for this special occasion.  The negotiations weren't really that tough, and they're being incredibly gracious and generous (maybe it was the beers? :)  The Textbook Committee is from Chicago, and in addition to being GBV fanatics like ourselves, they're a real swell group of guys we're proud to be friends with.  So in addition to the world renown DJs (see below) that will be playing, everyone will get to rawk out to some of our favorite GBV nuggets from over the years.

The Textbook Committee is: Lil' Dave (as Bob), Andrew (geetar), Jim, (geeter), Brian (drums), and Chris (bass).  And if you're curious, the band name comes from the tune "Smothered in Hugs."  Singing along is encouraged, but optional.  Although hugs will definitely be required on this night.

So throw the switch, it's rock n' roll time...




"I am a lost soul, I shoot myself with rock n' roll..."




"...and I want to shout out our love to the world."

Flying to Pittsburgh?

We highly recommend Southwest Airlines, especially for those folks coming in from Chicago. Not only are they usually the lowest fairs flying in/out of the Burgh, but you'll also get some very friendly service, which we've always been real happy with. Departing out of Midway:

Non-stop flights from Chicago to Pitt (dept time / arrival time):

8:05am / 10:20am

11:20am / 1:35am

1:00pm / 3:15pm

4:10pm / 6:20pm

Non-stop flights from Pitt to Chicago (dept time / arrival time):

11:00am / 11:30pm

1:40pm / 2:05pm

3:45pm / 4:15pm

5:05pm / 5:35pm

Book early to get one of the "Wanna Get Away" deals.  And if you are staying at one of the hotels on University Blvd (see previous post), there should be a free shuttle to your hotel.

Meet Deb!

So, in January, roughly, both Gary and I were cordially invited to a colleague's house for drinks, hors oeuvres, and funsies by way of the board game (Apples to Apples was a blast, and Trivial Pursuit was epic, literally.). Gary and I were excited to attend from the get-go--though Gary was excited more-so when he heard the Penguins game WOULD, IN FACT, be on the television, that evening, amidst the other festivities.


My colleague, Sheila, also an avid West Coast Swing dancer, invited along some dancing friends. And so the story goes, we met Deb Byrum--a friend of a friend. As the evening progressed, and we learned more about Deb, I knew that I had to ask a favor...because getting married by someone we knew and LIKED was truly important to both Gary and me! We asked Deb to officiate, and she gladly accepted.


Deb is a Lutheran pastor who was ordained in 1991. She also served as a missionary to Senegal, West Africa for eight years! (HOLY COW!) And as Deb put it to us at 61C Cafe, last Saturday in Squirrel Hill, she was "the type of missionary that helped people"--and it was one of the most rewarding experiences in which she could conceive. Deb was mostly focused upon the humanitarian work associated with being in Senegal; and she told us she helped build a lot of community buildings/ programs for many impoverished people. Connecting with locals on a most personal level was the most memorable, to her. She explained that it was very interesting to see people who had  nothing--not even food--but what they did have, they wanted to give to her. The sense of LOVE and community among the locals in Senegal was nothing she had ever experienced before.

Deb has three children, one of which was born in West Africa. And due to her children living such a diverse intercultural lifestyle, her daughter is now studying to receive her Ph.D. in Arabic!

Currently, she is a hospice chaplain at Aseracare Hospice (not a church pastor). But has conducted wedding ceremonies in the past. She is, VERY MUCH, looking forward to our celebration! YAY!

Meet Your DJs

DJ G - Smooth

DJ Jess E - Silk

Jess and I have, what might be described as, a "different" taste in music. Some might call it good taste, and we'll certainly champion that, but we do love the music that we love. We're simply not familiar with what many consider to be popular or mainstream (not that there's anything wrong with popular or mainstream). So who better to play the hits we wanna hear than us?

What we're saying is, you might not hear a lot of the prototypical wedding songs (not that there's anything wrong with prototypical wedding songs). You probably won't hear "YMCA", and we probably won't be busting out the "Macarena" (not that there's anything wrong with those songs). It's just simply not our style.  Belle & Sebastian is more likely to be heard than Lady Gaga.  We will probably opt for the Dirtbombs over the Jackson Five.  And the Ramones will be played in lieu of Bon Jovi.  Not that there's anything wrong with Lady Gaga, the Jackson Five, or Bon Jovi.

There is also no pre-established dance floor at the Warhol. But this does not mean we are anti-dance. You can dance wherever you please. Strike a pose, air guitar, sing to your hearts content. We strongly encourage this (just please watch your drink if you're playing air guitar). But there may not be any collaborative efforts such as the "Chicken Dance" or the "Electric Slide" (not there's anything wrong with those dances).   Additionally, the lack of a prefab dance floor means there will be a lack of guys standing awkwardly to the side of the dance floor hoping that no one asks them to said dance floor (I can sympathize with that guy).

While we can not guarantee everyone will be familiar with everything we play, we can guarantee everyone will have a rawkin good time.

And for those Guided by Voices fans on the guest list, we are working out a special treat for y'all. We will pass on the news once it is confirmed. For those asking themselves, "Who is Guided by Voices?", simply Google: "Greatest rock band of all-time."