my old friends...are now, really old!

A few days ago, was the anniversary of the passing of my very good friend Costas Dalacos. He died three years ago and it was heartbreaking news from Lula. He & his wife, Lula were a fantastic couple, full of fun & laughter at all times. I used to love to visit them in Tarpon Springs, Florida. I met Costas in '70 or '71 while he and a couple of his co-workers, Joe & T.J., were FAA residents at Don Quixote, an apartment complex I managed here in OKC. They also followed me through the years to reside @ railhead......as did some of their children, also employed with the FAA. OMG!, what a crazy character Costas was! I think he was loved by everyone he encountered. During his tenure with the FAA, I made a few trips to Florida to spend time with he & Lula. I loved them, I loved their zest for life, their committment to one another, their humor. That humor & laughter filled every room everyday! And, the greek cooking lessons I would receive each visit. Gus would go out on the dock in their backyard, and catch fish. I loved going to PAPPAS' every visit. Tarpon is a wonderful Greek community.

'Gus' retired from the FAA in October, 1985. I was invited to attend his 'retirement party' as a speaker. My speach was only to read a poem I had written for him:

I have loved thee Costas, In my fashion:

I've composed a little ditty,

a poet I am not, it's a pity.

the day I first met thee,

was on tenth street @ Don Quixote

there was you, T.J. & Hampton,

with all those phone wires running rampton.

Remember how you borrowed my wig & dress

to wear to Glen's Hick'ry Inn & you caused such a mess!

and, the day from the Academy place,

when you pulled from your briefcase, a starter's pistol, to everyone's surprise

almost causing your instructor's demise?

And our canoe trips down the Illinios

taking the bus was only half the joy!

You were always our hiliarous 'MC'

introducing the joke 'wathy, wathy', by 'Madam Du Pwee'

and the summer when Lula came out

and the two of you, Joe & I

went to the 'Red Dog Saloon', what a 'bout'.

My trips to your home are always such a pleasure

no better Host & Hostess can I measure

I'll never foget our festive night @ The Sparta when we danced with glee

You even got me a date with Pappas' 'maitr'e d

I could go on and on, but I'm through

Only to remind you once again, that I love you.