The View From Here: Bridgerton, Maisel & Drive Thru Karaoke

By Ken DeLaat

We understand a  month-long Karaoke Competition is going on at the Sportsman's Club in Croton and began this past Friday.
There’s been a long time personal interest in Karaoke but not as a participant or even a fan. Back when it’s popularity was soaring years ago I remember telling a group of friends who had gathered about one weekend night for socialization and refreshments that I wanted to let them know about a business idea I had. 
A couple people groaned and I thought I heard someone whisper ‘Amway?’, but I assured them it was nothing like that then went on to describe my idea. It involved drive thru Karaoke stands where folks could cruise up to a window and for a nominal fee pick out a song and belt it out to an attentive attendant who would applause at the end. After adding the part about how I felt it would be a great stress reliever for folks I finished up and took in the crowd of friends and acquaintances
The reaction was priceless and ranged from truly puzzled and sympathetic looks to the shaking heads of those who knew me best. For years after that party  my idea would come up in situations when someone in the group came up with something the others felt was boneheaded or simply stupid.
“That’s as asinine as DeLaat’s Drive-thru Karaoke plan” became embraced as almost part of the group jargon, an accomplishment that honors me to this day.
But I digress.
We know nothing about this competition but are admittedly intrigued. Apparently the winners from the 5 April Friday night showdowns will compete on Saturday the 30th. First place $250 Second place $100 and Third place $50. 
Entry fee is a ten spot which is good because this  should limit the entries to those who might have a chance.
Or, based on past contact with the whole Karaoke experience…
Maybe not.

Another event that piques my interest is being held April 11th at the Fremont Library.
Now granted, I watched the first season of Bridgerton and found it entertaining. However others have taken to the series  with all the fervor shows like Downton Abbey or (dating myself) Dallas drew during their memorable runs.
I recall watching Twin Peaks while several people I worked with  were equally enticed by it. This led to a morning-after ritual of picking apart  the show and discussing what this or that meant. It was a fun way to keep in touch with the show.
But it was weekly. In these days of streaming I would be willing to bet that the true fans of Bridgerton finished the second season within about 24-36 hours after it was released on Friday March 25th.
Thus, this invitation has been sent out via social media:
Dearest Gentle Reader,
As an esteemed member of the Ton, you are cordially invited to this season's most promising event yet: Spilling the Tea with Fans of Bridgerton. Come to enjoy tea and biscuits while discussing the Bridgerton televised storyline. Do be certain you have seen Season 2 in its entirety, for spoilers you do not wish to receive.
Spilling the Tea with Fans of Bridgerton
Fremont Area District Library
April 11th from 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Please RSVP by telephoning: 231-928-0256
This would be a veritable banquet of Bridgerton for the true fans who have taken heartedly to the innovative show,
But take heed. 
If you have to ask what the Ton is, you’re not ready to attend.

Speaking of TV and streaming…
I admittedly am a latecomer to Mrs. Maisel. 
Having recently discovered this gem via adding Amazon Prime to the burgeoning streaming options at N3 World Headquarters & Kayak Dockage, I now see why the show has accumulated so many awards. From top notch performances led by the near perfect pairing of Rachel Brosnahan and Alex Borstein and the sublime support of Marin Hinkles and Tony Shaloub to the crisp and creative writing that delivers a rollicking romp through each episode this show is an absolute feast from start to finish. 
The best comedy I’ve seen on television since I was charmed by Cheers and buoyed by Barney Miller.
Warning: It’s 2022 not the 70’s (Barney) or 80’s (Cheers) or even 90's (Seinfeld) so this is not your mother’s sit-com. If  the occasional curse causes consternation, if sexual references or a splash of nudity tickle your tsk-tsk toggle, and if your sense of humor begins and ends with ‘good clean fun’...?
This is not likely to be your cup of tea.
But if you want to see comedic genius on many levels and are perhaps a bit less, uh, sensitive about such things give Mrs. Maisel a peek.