Bob Dylan The Bootleg Series Vol. 18: Through The Open Window, 1956-1963 is Officially Announced

 

There have been rumors about this for some time, but since I saw it on BobDylan.com today, I know it is really being released on October 31.  The deluxe version will comprise 8 CDs with 139 tracks, featuring never-released performances, rare cuts, and a hardcover book containing exclusive photographs.  This set obviously covers Dylan's very early years as a folk singer.  I just saw it on Amazon.com for $160.  I might as well pre-order it, since I already have all the other Bootleg Series CDs.  I will await the Amazon delivery man on Halloween and not the trick-or-treaters.

Random Thoughts of the Day September 16, 2025

• My online chats with younger women have finally come to an end.  They found me by accident on Telegram or WhatsApp.  After I tell them that I am twice their age, they insist on chatting, saying they can learn from an older person.  For several days, we exchanged small talk and pleasantries, but nothing substantial.  Finally, the chat ends.  In most cases, there is no malicious intent, but I suspect a few were assuming fake identities.  No more.  The best way to stop is not to start in the first place.
• It is so sad that there is so much polarization in today's society.  All this started when Trump came on the scene in 2016.  Charlie Kirk's assassination was tragic, but he will be a martyr to the ultraconservatives.  His death was caused by a deranged individual, not the liberals.
• It is a shame that the notorious get so much media attention.  Luigi Mangione's court appearance today is a hot topic in the news.  Pretty soon we will know Tyler Robinson's life story.
• I wish that the war in Gaza would come to an end.  Palestinian civilians should not suffer.

 

We Were There to See Pete Alonso's 3-Run Walk-off Home Run in the 10th Inning

 

Things were looking bad for the Amazin' Mets as their 8-game losing streak was taking them out of the last wild-card berth.  Today's game was part of our Sunday package, so we were there. The Mets backed rookie Nolan McLean with a 2-0 lead only for Joc Pederson to tie the score with a two-run single in the seventh off Reed Garrett.  The rookie was excellent, but again, the bullpen was ineffective until Edwin Diaz pitched a scoreless 9th inning and Ryne Stanek didn't let the Rangers' free runner score in the 10th inning.

Alonso now has five walk-off homers in his career.  His most notable walk-off was on October 3, 2024 when he led the Mets to victory over the Milwaukee Brewers in the wild card series.

Game Recap

Oy Vey - The Mets are on an 8 Game Losing Streak

 

I guess I am a glutton for punishment as I watched on TV the Mets lost their 8th game in a row.  This is 2007 and 2008 all over again as the Mets lost their lead for the final wild card position.  I am not optimistic about their turning it around during the last two weeks of the season.  I blame two people:

1. Carlos Mendoza for not motivating the team.
2. David Stearns for making poor player transactions in the last off-season and at the trade deadline.

I will be at Citi Field tomorrow.

I am Saddened Every Time I Watch or Read the News - Please Listen to What Bernie Sanders Says

 I certainly keep abreast with the news via the New York Times, NY1 News, the Today Show, and a multitude of apps on my phone.  I am saddened by any type of violence, whether it is in a war, on the street, or against a political figure.  I suggest my readers view this 4-minute video by Senator Bernie Sanders who tells it like it is.

Random Thoughts of the Day - September 10, 2025

 

• Over the past 76 games, the Mets are 31-46.  As of today, they are only two games ahead of the San Francisco Giants for the third wild card.  I think the problem has been injuries with the pitching staff.  David Stearns made some bad trades at the deadline as he gave up 11 prospects for 4 players with expiring contracts.  He made so many roster moves with relief pitchers this season.  If the Mets make the playoffs, they will not advance.
• The woman described as "Phillies Karen" was stupid and obnoxious for taking the ball away from the kid. To say the least, the situation has "gone viral" in this era of cell phone videos and the internet.  Let's put it to rest.  How come "notorious" people get so much media attention?
• I am sick and tired of young women finding me on Telegram and WhatsApp, and wanting to start a chat relationship that will eventually die out.  My sense is these young ladies just have nothing to do.

Why Does Bob Dylan Hide at Concerts?

 

Bob Dylan at Mansfield, MA, Sept. 7, 2025

Bob Dylan at Hartford, CT Sept. 6, 2025

When people go to concerts, they want to see the recording artists.  They can always hear the recordings at home, but a concert is a unique experience.  At his last two concerts at the Outlaw Music Festival, Dylan wore a black hoodie and is barely visible to the audience. Last month at Jones Beach, Dylan was wearing a white cowboy hat, but refused to allow the video screens to operate while he performed.  Why is he hiding?