John's Blog

Probably not the first occurrence of me linking to a story that included the words "george", "bush", "monkey", & "white house". But surprisingly we're NOT talking about Dubya this time. Joe Bush is the guy to call if you need an organ grinder with a monkey, since he's last organ grinder here in the NYC area.

Thirty-one years ago, Joe got himself a monkey. Every night he would lock himself and George in the family room, tie himself to the monkey, and a battle of the wills would begin. Eventually, Joe won and they were a performing duo for the next fifteen years. Sadly, George passed on a few years ago, but is now freeze-dried and in Joe's study. His replacement, George II allowed the act to go on. But if you're thinking of hiring them, better have your ATM card handy, since an appearance will cost you between $600 and $5,000! But heck, they do costume changes and represent a rapidly disappearing art form. How can you go wrong?

Today in a meeting that went on entirely too long, we were brainstorming about what special events and entertainment we could layer into an upcoming promotion. I only half kiddingly suggested Joe & George. Most people assume that much that comes out of my mouth comes from the part where my tongue is firmly planted in my cheek. But just about everyone seemed to think this wasn't one of my better ideas. Too bad; their loss. When there are no more organ grinders with monkeys to be found, don't come crying to me.