Trip to Kandahar Afghanistan, Sept 14, 2013
Dear Friends, I am back from my trip to Kandahar and I feel like a different person. It was definitely an experience of a lifetime and I will never forget my new found friends, Sgt. Andrews whose bright outlook and outgoing personality, enhanced our stay in Afghanistan. I also want to thank Sgt. Osan, Major Anderson, Col Cok, The Kandahar Fire Brigade and so many more.. They are heroes with honor and humility.
Our first day, we flew from Dubai and landed in Bagram, on the way to Kandahar. It was an eye opener to know that we have been flying over Iran and were now landing at a base just a stones throw from Pakistan. It was recommended that we not leave the plane, and soon enough we were off again on our way Kandahar.
We landed at dusk and were escorted single file to the main building on the airstrip called "Talaban's Last Stand" Named for the last stronghold of the Talaban. We were gathered in this concrete building that was riddled with bullet holes and almost immediately given instruction on the procedure for an RPG (Rocket Propelled Grenade) or "Rocket Attack". Informed by our host that they had two such attacks that very day, we knew that we were not in Kansas any more.
Our home for the next two days was surrounded by 15 foot concrete walls as is every building on the massive base. Outside of every building and scattered everywhere are concrete bunkers and sand bag reinforced bunkers as a refuge for rocket attacks. That being said, the thought of attacks is farthest from the minds of our friends. It becomes commonplace and after the alert, its life as usual.
In our short 2 day stay in Kandahar we were taken on a whirlwind tour of the base and so many of the supporting teams of people that make up this small city in the desert. From the fire brigade to the signal core to the hospitals, USO and stress clinics, it is an amazing team of different nationalities and professionals all working together to do an impossible job in a most hostile place.
I have come to a new understanding and appreciation of our service men and women, the Afghan people and the radical group of extremists that threaten the balance. Daniel.
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June 29, 2007
Daughters of the American Revolution Award Ceremony
Today I received the “Founder’s Medal for Patriotism” from the Daughters of the American Revolution. I wonder if everyone who receives such a great honor thinks the same thing on that special moment when the crowd is hushed and your name is called and all eyes are on you, “What did I ever do to deserve this?!”
I guess most people see the things that I do for the USO, among other worthy charities, as patriotic, but to me, it’s just the right thing to do. Don’t get me wrong, I am honored to be given such a great award; I just don’t know if I'm deserving of it. If you compare me to the men and women who are in the pit of hell and fighting for the freedoms that we hold dear, then it is easy to see that there are those more deserving than me of a patriot award. But if this award means that I love my country and I never miss an opportunity to show that love in my actions, especially where our soldiers are concerned, then I accept this award on behalf of all patriots.
It was amazing to see so many turn out for this event. There were ladies who were adorned with beautiful medals that illustrated their lineage as daughters, mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers of those brave men who fought for our independence. I performed three songs that I chose for the occasion: Shenandoah, Bring Him Home, and God Bless America. They were greatly appreciative, and honored me once more with a standing ovation. I felt as though I became a part of those who are a part of history. Daniel
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June 28, 2007
American Bald Eagle Recovery Ceremony
It was an honor to be asked to participate in this auspicious ceremony commemorating the recovery of the American Bald Eagle and the removal of this symbol of freedom from the list of endangered species. I was also very excited to once again be working with “Challenger.”
Many of you will remember that the last time I worked with “Challenger," was at Yankee stadium at one of the many games I participated in after 9/11. I'm reminded of a funny story that occurred during one such game. Before the singing of the National Anthem, I met with “Challenger” and his handler Al Cecere ("Challenger” is a bald eagle that travels the country raising awareness regarding the plight of bald eagles). Al asked if I would sing the National Anthem for him, so that he could get a time. The idea was to release “Challenger” from the outfield at the same time as “the land of the free” was sung. “Challenger” would then fly to second base, and I was to time my ending of the Anthem with “Challenger’s” landing.
I began the Anthem as usual, and felt an overwhelming sense of Patriotic pride when I reached “the land of the free," and “Challenger” began his flight. I continued singing as Challenger soared toward second base. As I finished “the home of the brave", I was waiting for “Challenger” to land. As I held the last note, it looked like “Challenger” saw a passing pigeon, and took off again. I must have held that last note for what seemed like an eternity, and was nearly out of breath, when “Challenger” finally decided to come in for a landing. Fortunately, history did not repeat itself this morning. I sang the National Anthem and “Challenger” flew across the Jefferson Memorial.
It was fitting that the ceremony be held at the Jefferson Memorial because President Thomas Jefferson was one of the founding fathers who made the decision to make this majestic bird the symbol of our nation. I was impressed by Scott Aikin, an Native American holy man who blessed the ceremony. His words spoke of the spirit of the eagle and of the four winds that carry the eagle. He sang a traditional blessing that his grandfather taught him, and I was moved by the beautiful tones that came from this spiritual person. I look forward to our paths crossing again. It is said by Native American cultures that the eagle is the only creature to have seen the face of God. It is not hard to see when you look at the majesty and grace of such a beautiful animal. Daniel
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June 23, 2007
Washington National Cathedral Concert
What a privilege to have the opportunity to perform in the same cathedral where presidents and heads of states come to worship, are laid to rest, and go to find inspiration! I spent the entire day anticipating the concert and wondering what my voice would sound like in such a cavernous space. I was told that the Kennedy Center Orchestra had just played the night before and I felt a little disappointed that our two dates could not have been combined into one symphonic concert. That night, though, with Victoria on the piano, I hoped to be just as impressive.
I was awestruck when I walked into the church and gazed at all the beautiful stained glass windows. I thought to myself, “How many years and how many men could it have taken to build such a wonderful structure?” I've heard it said that there are generations involved in the making of such an amazing place. Grandfather, to father, to son; they all dedicate their lives and perpetuate their faith in such an undertaking, and I stood, humbled, before it.
The first tone of the first chord of the first song rang out and echoed through the great hall as the concert began. Victoria was brilliant as she kept step with my singing, and I felt inspired to give that much more to the audience that sat and listened. I feel a sense of ease when Victoria is accompanying me. We have worked together so long that it feels as though we anticipate what the other is going to do. Bill Chatfield, the director of selective service, described Victoria and my relationship as “synergistic." I just know that when we work together, it’s a lot of fun. The concert went off without a hitch, and the people seemed to leave satisfied. I feel blessed when I think of what lives may have been affected simply by sharing the gift that God gave me. Daniel
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April 15, 2007
Crystal Cathedral
I was very excited to be returning to the Crystal Cathedral to recharge my spiritual battery. I have been working all week on the song that I was going to perform called “Immortal, Invisible.” This song was arranged by one of the musicians at the Cathedral and had a very bright feel to it. I arrived in Garden Grove yesterday and was driven to the Marriott where I spent most of the afternoon perfecting the lyrics of “Immortal, Invisible”. Even after going over it countless times, I still felt that there may be a chance of missing a word or two and I wanted to make sure that I remain true to the text, particularly since the arranger was to accompany me on the piano. So, to reveal a professional secret, I had “cheat sheets” placed inconspicuously where I was going to sing; although I really didn’t need them, it was comforting to know that if the moment arose, I could quickly check my memory. I found that once I began to sing the spirit moved me and I sang from beginning to end, and the words flowed naturally. From the arranger’s reaction, I think I got it right! It really is a wonderful experience to be at the Cathedral and share the spirit with the congregation.
One of Dr. Schuller’s guests was a runner-up for Miss America, the very beautiful and well-spoken Miss Arizona, Hilary Griffith. I was moved and inspired as she shared the devastating story of a rape that took place during the Miss Arizona pageant. She spoke clearly and with focused thought as she shared with all her experience, and more so her decision to lean on God and to allow God to give her comfort and consolation. She chose to use this horrific moment in her life as a pillar of strength to help others and to enlighten others about the evil of rape. She became a living example of the ability to overcome all obstacles if you put your trust in God. It was moving and gave me a renewed sense of purpose as I consider my own future. I know that each and every day there is a God ready, willing, and able to assist us in all of our endeavors. We all just need to allow him to do so. Daniel
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March 27, 2007
Lifetime Achievement Award
I arrived in Washington this morning still reeling from the great experience I had yesterday, in Mississippi. I was picked up by my dear friend Dick, who has been the Transportation Manager for the USO for as long as I can remember. This was my fifth USO dinner and I looked forward to the after-party, with as much excitement as I did the actual event. It has been a tradition, that after the dinner we all get together in a room on the first floor and sing and have a good time. I will tell you about that in a minute - first, the dinner. As is the norm with this function, the guest list was very impressive. This year it included First Lady Laura Bush, General Pace, who is Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, country music singer Trace Adkins, WWE superstar Bret Hart, and personal friend from the WWE Chris Wolinski, among others.
The night began with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by the current Miss America, Lauren Nelson. Then I sang God Bless America. There were several awards given to service men and women who were injured in Iraq and showed extreme courage and valor. These awards and the stories that were told, were moving and inspirational. For me, the highlight of the night was receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award, for my work with the USO Care Package Program, side by side with my dear friend, Joe Bowser. Laura Bush was on hand for the presentation and after my rendition of Into the Fire, shook my hand and commented how wonderful she thought the performance was. Words really can’t describe how you feel at a moment like that, but if I had to choose one, I would have to say that I felt blessed. Now on to the after-party!
We gathered in the back room of the lobby as we do every year with Miss America, Trace Adkins, Elaine Rogers, WWE superstars, and of course, Connie Stevens who is an icon for the USO. Also, this year for the first time was the very funny and talented Fred Travolina and his wife, Louise, among many others. Each of us in turn sang, told jokes, and had a wonderful time. At the end of the evening, Elaine presented me with a second award. It was a shadowbox which contained the American Flag and an inscription which read “Presented to Daniel Rodriguez … This flag was flown over Camp Freedom Iraq in your honor. Congratulations on your Lifetime Achievement.” I pledged to continue my work with the USO for as long as there is need. Daniel
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March 26, 2007
The Promise
This is a story about a young boy named Livingston and a promise that was made two years ago. Two years ago when I was performing with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, I received a call that a young man named Livingston and his dad were driving from Mississippi to come to the concert. I asked them if they would join me for lunch. This was the first time that I met Mr. Livingston Harper, a wonderful young man with a heart of gold and a personality to match, despite his challenges in dealing with Fragile X Syndrome (www.fragilex.org). He said he was a singer in his high school choir and would love it if I would come to listen to him someday. I promised that I would, which brings me to the amazing day I just spent at Pearl High School in Pearl, Mississippi.
The amazing choir that performed this evening rivaled any professional choir. I got a chance to sing "Battle Hymn of the Republic" with the choir before doing a few songs of my own. The audience was extremely energetic and my music was well-received, but the highlight for both them and myself was when I called Livingston up to the stage to perform "God Bless the USA". The crowd went bananas! Livingston had been working closely with his music teacher for several days prior to the concert and his proud mother, father, and sister sat in the audience and awaited the moment when the fruit of his labor would be revealed. He took the stage like a professional; I began the first verse and when he began to sing the second verse, there was not a dry eye in the house, including my own. It was one of the most satisfying, inspiration moments of my life. Mere words could not describe the overwhelming sense of love that filled that auditorium. Livingston and I both ended on a high note with hands held high in the air. It was an amazing experience. Livingston's dad, Greg, expressed his gratitude and, I must say, was the perfect host throughout my stay in Pearl. Daniel
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Sunday, December 25, 2005
I was very excited to be returning to the Crystal Cathedral to recharge my spiritual battery. I have been working all week on the song that I was going to perform called “Immortal, Invisible.” This song was arranged by one of the musicians at the Cathedral and had a very bright feel to it. I arrived in Garden Grove yesterday and was driven to the Marriott where I spent most of the afternoon perfecting the lyrics of “Immortal, Invisible”. Even after going over it countless times, I still felt that there may be a chance of missing a word or two and I wanted to make sure that I remain true to the text, particularly since the arranger was to accompany me on the piano. So, to reveal a professional secret, I had “cheat sheets” placed inconspicuously where I was going to sing; although I really didn’t need them, it was comforting to know that if the moment arose, I could quickly check my memory. I found that once I began to sing the spirit moved me and I sang from beginning to end, and the words flowed naturally. From the arranger’s reaction, I think I got it right! It really is a wonderful experience to be at the Cathedral and share the spirit with the congregation.
One of Dr. Schuller’s guests was a runner-up for Miss America, the very beautiful and well-spoken Miss Arizona, Hilary Griffith. I was moved and inspired as she shared the devastating story of a rape that took place during the Miss Arizona pageant. She spoke clearly and with focused thought as she shared with all her experience, and more so her decision to lean on God and to allow God to give her comfort and consolation. She chose to use this horrific moment in her life as a pillar of strength to help others and to enlighten others about the evil of rape. She became a living example of the ability to overcome all obstacles if you put your trust in God. It was moving and gave me a renewed sense of purpose as I consider my own future. I know that each and every day there is a God ready, willing, and able to assist us in all of our endeavors. We all just need to allow him to do so. Daniel
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March 27, 2007
Lifetime Achievement Award
I arrived in Washington this morning still reeling from the great experience I had yesterday, in Mississippi. I was picked up by my dear friend Dick, who has been the Transportation Manager for the USO for as long as I can remember. This was my fifth USO dinner and I looked forward to the after-party, with as much excitement as I did the actual event. It has been a tradition, that after the dinner we all get together in a room on the first floor and sing and have a good time. I will tell you about that in a minute - first, the dinner. As is the norm with this function, the guest list was very impressive. This year it included First Lady Laura Bush, General Pace, who is Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, country music singer Trace Adkins, WWE superstar Bret Hart, and personal friend from the WWE Chris Wolinski, among others.
The night began with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by the current Miss America, Lauren Nelson. Then I sang God Bless America. There were several awards given to service men and women who were injured in Iraq and showed extreme courage and valor. These awards and the stories that were told, were moving and inspirational. For me, the highlight of the night was receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award, for my work with the USO Care Package Program, side by side with my dear friend, Joe Bowser. Laura Bush was on hand for the presentation and after my rendition of Into the Fire, shook my hand and commented how wonderful she thought the performance was. Words really can’t describe how you feel at a moment like that, but if I had to choose one, I would have to say that I felt blessed. Now on to the after-party!
We gathered in the back room of the lobby as we do every year with Miss America, Trace Adkins, Elaine Rogers, WWE superstars, and of course, Connie Stevens who is an icon for the USO. Also, this year for the first time was the very funny and talented Fred Travolina and his wife, Louise, among many others. Each of us in turn sang, told jokes, and had a wonderful time. At the end of the evening, Elaine presented me with a second award. It was a shadowbox which contained the American Flag and an inscription which read “Presented to Daniel Rodriguez … This flag was flown over Camp Freedom Iraq in your honor. Congratulations on your Lifetime Achievement.” I pledged to continue my work with the USO for as long as there is need. Daniel
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March 26, 2007
The Promise
This is a story about a young boy named Livingston and a promise that was made two years ago. Two years ago when I was performing with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, I received a call that a young man named Livingston and his dad were driving from Mississippi to come to the concert. I asked them if they would join me for lunch. This was the first time that I met Mr. Livingston Harper, a wonderful young man with a heart of gold and a personality to match, despite his challenges in dealing with Fragile X Syndrome (www.fragilex.org). He said he was a singer in his high school choir and would love it if I would come to listen to him someday. I promised that I would, which brings me to the amazing day I just spent at Pearl High School in Pearl, Mississippi.
The amazing choir that performed this evening rivaled any professional choir. I got a chance to sing "Battle Hymn of the Republic" with the choir before doing a few songs of my own. The audience was extremely energetic and my music was well-received, but the highlight for both them and myself was when I called Livingston up to the stage to perform "God Bless the USA". The crowd went bananas! Livingston had been working closely with his music teacher for several days prior to the concert and his proud mother, father, and sister sat in the audience and awaited the moment when the fruit of his labor would be revealed. He took the stage like a professional; I began the first verse and when he began to sing the second verse, there was not a dry eye in the house, including my own. It was one of the most satisfying, inspiration moments of my life. Mere words could not describe the overwhelming sense of love that filled that auditorium. Livingston and I both ended on a high note with hands held high in the air. It was an amazing experience. Livingston's dad, Greg, expressed his gratitude and, I must say, was the perfect host throughout my stay in Pearl. Daniel
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Sunday, December 25, 2005
"Holiday Spectacular" with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Dear Friends,
Some have asked me to give an insight to what is involved with hosting a show like the recent very successful "Holiday Spectacular" with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. "Although I was thrilled to be asked to host, I really wasn't sure what was expected of me. So I was told I just needed to sing, dance and be funny. Well singing is easy. I've done that all my life and we found out in rehearsal that when I dance it's very funny." This was actually my opening statement at the holiday show and it was not so far from the truth. I had some prior experience from the 26 shows I hosted in Indianapolis last December but every show is different and this was a whole new city and cast of players.
I arrived in Baltimore on Monday the 10th and was to open the show on Friday the 16th so there was no time to waste. I began rehearsals and working on music, dialog and review of the dance number I would revisit with the very fun and talented Gwendalyn Jones. I suppose the reason people think I work so hard on projects is because I really do. I start to learn new music for concerts as soon as I can because I never want to slow a project down by not being prepared before hand. I learned this the hard way. I don't read music as well as I would like and one time, because of my crazy schedule, I waited till the last minute to work on my music and felt terrible that I held up rehearsals a few hours while I played catch up. So when I arrived for the first day of practice in Baltimore, I already knew my music and felt confident that I would be able to have my script memorized by opening night.
Like all new works there are always revisions. Needless to say I had new lines and rewrites all week long. Finally opening night and all was great. My dear friends Bonnie and George were in the audience to root me on and all went well till the second half. I was standing stage right and watching the amazing tap dancer, Karen Williams, do her thing. I greeted her as she came off stage and told her what an amazing job she had just done. Then watched as the stage was silent. I wondered to myself what was next and why was there such a long pause. When I saw Gwendolyn coming out from stage left my heart dropped as I realized I was supposed to be out on stage for the start of our "Timeless To Me" number. She was such a pro and began by saying, "Daniel where have you been? I've been looking all over for you!!" I was so happy to be working with a pro and thanked her profusely for saving my butt. All in all the show was a great success and I have bragging rights as the host of the first "Holiday Spectacular."
I guess you can say that being part of a company is hard enough. Hosting and being on the front line can be nerve racking but we all do our very best and perform to the best of our abilities. You just have to let go and let God... Daniel
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Sunday, October 2, 2005
Reverend Schuller’s Retirement Party.
Dear Friends,
Some have asked me to give an insight to what is involved with hosting a show like the recent very successful "Holiday Spectacular" with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. "Although I was thrilled to be asked to host, I really wasn't sure what was expected of me. So I was told I just needed to sing, dance and be funny. Well singing is easy. I've done that all my life and we found out in rehearsal that when I dance it's very funny." This was actually my opening statement at the holiday show and it was not so far from the truth. I had some prior experience from the 26 shows I hosted in Indianapolis last December but every show is different and this was a whole new city and cast of players.
I arrived in Baltimore on Monday the 10th and was to open the show on Friday the 16th so there was no time to waste. I began rehearsals and working on music, dialog and review of the dance number I would revisit with the very fun and talented Gwendalyn Jones. I suppose the reason people think I work so hard on projects is because I really do. I start to learn new music for concerts as soon as I can because I never want to slow a project down by not being prepared before hand. I learned this the hard way. I don't read music as well as I would like and one time, because of my crazy schedule, I waited till the last minute to work on my music and felt terrible that I held up rehearsals a few hours while I played catch up. So when I arrived for the first day of practice in Baltimore, I already knew my music and felt confident that I would be able to have my script memorized by opening night.
Like all new works there are always revisions. Needless to say I had new lines and rewrites all week long. Finally opening night and all was great. My dear friends Bonnie and George were in the audience to root me on and all went well till the second half. I was standing stage right and watching the amazing tap dancer, Karen Williams, do her thing. I greeted her as she came off stage and told her what an amazing job she had just done. Then watched as the stage was silent. I wondered to myself what was next and why was there such a long pause. When I saw Gwendolyn coming out from stage left my heart dropped as I realized I was supposed to be out on stage for the start of our "Timeless To Me" number. She was such a pro and began by saying, "Daniel where have you been? I've been looking all over for you!!" I was so happy to be working with a pro and thanked her profusely for saving my butt. All in all the show was a great success and I have bragging rights as the host of the first "Holiday Spectacular."
I guess you can say that being part of a company is hard enough. Hosting and being on the front line can be nerve racking but we all do our very best and perform to the best of our abilities. You just have to let go and let God... Daniel
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Sunday, October 2, 2005
Reverend Schuller’s Retirement Party.
With all of the crisscrossing I do across the United States, I believe I will have enough frequent flyer miles some day to go into space! Another long flight from Washington to LAX, I was met by Terry and off to Newport we went to attend the surprise party for Reverend Schuller on his retirement – 50 years of spreading God’s Word. What a man and what a story of faith! I never knew the full story of the Crystal Cathedral and how it came to be, and that evening light was shed on many who were there. We found out that the Reverend Schuller began with an idea – a desire to being a ministry and start a church. I don’t know how many of my facts are accurate, but I do know that the Schullers came from Idaho to California on the back of a truck with a church organ in tow. His idea was to form a church in a drive-in theater space and to have cars drive up and hear his sermon. The first drive-in church! The Reverend tells of inviting a local chorus to perform and asking each of them to bring their own car so that the parking lot would look full. He built the altar with his own two hands and very soon the people came. Soon there was need for expansion and not too long after, on that same spot, was built the Crystal Cathedral. I have had numerous opportunities to recharge my spiritual battery there and if you haven’t experienced a service there, I highly recommend it, regardless of your religion.
This night at the Four Seasons Hotel family and friends gathered to pay tribute to a life devoted to worship and service. I listened as the Reverend’s children answered the question “What attributes to you most admire or wish to inherit from your parents?” The answers ranged from determination, unending faith, perseverance, and good sense of humor, which described the entire family to a “T.” I took away with me a renewed sense of empowerment to strive to deliver the message in my music and minister with heart and soul and voice. Daniel
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Saturday, October 1, 2005
Top Cops, Washington, D.C.
This night at the Four Seasons Hotel family and friends gathered to pay tribute to a life devoted to worship and service. I listened as the Reverend’s children answered the question “What attributes to you most admire or wish to inherit from your parents?” The answers ranged from determination, unending faith, perseverance, and good sense of humor, which described the entire family to a “T.” I took away with me a renewed sense of empowerment to strive to deliver the message in my music and minister with heart and soul and voice. Daniel
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Saturday, October 1, 2005
Top Cops, Washington, D.C.
I flew out to Washington for the Top Cops Awards hosted by John Walsh and featuring some of the actors from the popular TV show “Law and Order.” I arrived early at the Lincoln Theatre for a sound check. I took a moment to reflect on the beauty of the theatre. After a successful sound check of “Bring Him Home” and “Into the Fire,” two songs I though most appropriate for the occasion, I returned back to the hotel for the usual ritual. This consists of ironing the evening’s garments. I suppose I could send them out to be pressed, but usually there isn’t enough time and I find it rather therapeutic (go figure).
Well, all cleaned and pressed and headed back to the theatre for the event. As I made my way to the lobby in search of my ride, I saw a sign for Top Cops; so I headed in that direction and found myself aboard a tourist bus. I figured I must be in the wrong place, but the doors closed and I was on my way! Sitting next to me was a young gentleman in a police uniform. We spoke for a while and I found out that he was being honored this evening at Top Cops for one of the awards. Apparently, while at home sleeping, his mom heard some shots fired and not more than 150 yards away was a distraught husband with a shotgun shooting into his estranged wife’s apartment. He heard his mother scream and came out with his revolver in his hand to see her hiding behind a tree. He observed the man with the gun and made his way over to try to stop him. When he approached the perpetrator and identified himself, the man swung around and let a round go in the officer’s direction. They exchanged gunfire and the perpetrator was hit and mortally wounded. As he lay dying, he continued to reach for the shotgun in a last attempt to kill the officer. I will call him “John” to protect his identity. John is an example of what it means to take an oath to protect and serve. He didn’t know who I was and was later surprised when I came out on stage to perform. I congratulated him on his award and hopefully made a lasting friendship.
There were several other recipients at the awards ceremony, and after listening to their stories I can’t help but be filled with pride for my fellow officers. I listened as their stories were recounted – real-life stories of how they acted without fear for their own safety, only the desire to protect innocent life at a moment when they are the only thing to stand between a criminal and his victim – examples of courage, selflessness, and resolve. And then the moment came for me to take the stage and I am filled with a desire to sing my two songs with as much passion as I feel for these brave men and women – to pay homage to them with my gift. It was well received. Daniel
Well, all cleaned and pressed and headed back to the theatre for the event. As I made my way to the lobby in search of my ride, I saw a sign for Top Cops; so I headed in that direction and found myself aboard a tourist bus. I figured I must be in the wrong place, but the doors closed and I was on my way! Sitting next to me was a young gentleman in a police uniform. We spoke for a while and I found out that he was being honored this evening at Top Cops for one of the awards. Apparently, while at home sleeping, his mom heard some shots fired and not more than 150 yards away was a distraught husband with a shotgun shooting into his estranged wife’s apartment. He heard his mother scream and came out with his revolver in his hand to see her hiding behind a tree. He observed the man with the gun and made his way over to try to stop him. When he approached the perpetrator and identified himself, the man swung around and let a round go in the officer’s direction. They exchanged gunfire and the perpetrator was hit and mortally wounded. As he lay dying, he continued to reach for the shotgun in a last attempt to kill the officer. I will call him “John” to protect his identity. John is an example of what it means to take an oath to protect and serve. He didn’t know who I was and was later surprised when I came out on stage to perform. I congratulated him on his award and hopefully made a lasting friendship.
There were several other recipients at the awards ceremony, and after listening to their stories I can’t help but be filled with pride for my fellow officers. I listened as their stories were recounted – real-life stories of how they acted without fear for their own safety, only the desire to protect innocent life at a moment when they are the only thing to stand between a criminal and his victim – examples of courage, selflessness, and resolve. And then the moment came for me to take the stage and I am filled with a desire to sing my two songs with as much passion as I feel for these brave men and women – to pay homage to them with my gift. It was well received. Daniel
September messages from 2008 and 2004
Sept 11, 2008
Dear Friends:
As I attend memorial services and, once again, reflect on the events that changed my life 7 years ago, I
realize that what God has given me to help me get through the tough times is you. Each and ever one of
you and all the wonderful people that come and go in my life are a blessing that remind me that I am here
to serve my fellow man.
Through reflection and a deep sense of spirit I have come to know that we are here for each other. God
has placed his creation on this earth and charged us with the care of our brother and sister. Where there is hunger let us bring food, where there is sadness let us spread joy, where people cry out for peace let us be peacemakers, let us live each day in the examples of the men and women who have come before us and
have shown us that God is love and that we should love one another.
In the days after 9/11 we witnessed a swell of love and compassion that filled the world, and that brought
us closer together than we had been since Pearl Harbor, or the loss of great leaders who tried to bring us closer together like John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King: events that shape the world we live in.
I pray that we remember what we felt then and how we all wished there was something we could do to help. Now is our chance. Go out and spread some love to those in our world. Lend a hand to a neighbor or an elderly person you know. Mentor a child and show him or her that we care about the future of our children
and will dedicate a little of our time to help them become the best that they can be. Call your family and
share the message that they are loved and thought about, and in their time of need that they have someone they can call on.
I pray to never pass up the opportunity to do a good deed for my fellow man. I pray that God guide my steps each and every day and when I decide that I know the way, and find myself a little lost, I pray that I have
sense enough to get back in the seat that suites me best - co-pilot.
God Bless you all, Daniel
------------------------------------------
Sept 11, 2004
Dear Friends:
As the third anniversary of that horrible tragedy quickly approaches I would like to share some thoughts and feelings that, as I sit here at home, I have been reflecting on. Sept 11th was a day that changed all our lives forever. Not only the way we live but the ideas that for so long we have lived with. It can't happen here, terrorism is something you see on the news in far off places or just the feeling of being secure from war and terror in our own homes. I lived the horror of that day and there was a moment as I watched the towers fall that I said to myself aloud "This day will change the way we live forever."
It took some time till the city started to feel sane again. "Normal" began to emerge slowly and we went on
with our lives. The best tribute we can give those fallen men and women is to find the courage to live our
lives without the fear of terrorism. To be soldiers for freedom in our own way by celebrating life and live it to
the fullest. Shielded by faith we should rejoice in our being and show those bastards that they may have hurt us but they can never destroy us because you can't kill the spirit that drives us.
I wish that we all take a moment to send our prayers to those lost in Russia. Especially the children and most of all the parents that must endure with that terrible emptiness. Their loss is our loss for we are all children of God.
I have tried to live a good life and tried to share some of the things God has shown me. I have learned to
love others and to give of myself, to cherish friendships and to be tolerant of peoples faults as well as my
own. I have learned that life is not a rehearsal, so you should take advantage of each day given as though
it were the last. The most important things cannot be bought because they are free. Love, Laughter, Friendship, Faith, Family, Inner peace and Happiness.
On this day of mourning and reflection I pray that God grant each of you these gifts and that we share
them with those who may be in need of them. God bless the families of the victims of all the tragedies
that have touched our lives. Daniel
2003 Troy Ohio concert review by Daniel
Dear Friends,
I don't know if anyone posted a review for the concert at the Hobart Center in Troy Ohio but I thought I'd
give an accounting of the show from the perspective of the artist-me. It was an early flight from Florida,
where I had the wonderful opportunity to spend Thanksgiving with a large number of family members who
live in the Tampa area. I arrived at the airport around 12:30 P.M. and was taken to a very nice hotel in
Troy to check in and get right to rehearsal.
The Hobart arena is a skating rink that was converted into a concert hall that day, with a full size stage
and a 180 degree seating arrangement. The orchestra was situated in front of the stage at floor level.
Show time and the place was nearly full with around 2,000 people.
The show opened with a bell choir made up of mentally challenged adults and they were great. They
received standing ovations and I believe they truly deserved it as much for their courage as for their talent.
I was a little nervous because the arrangements, that were provided by a dear friend and songwriter Earl
Rose, I had only heard once before and was not 100% sure of the intros and bridges in the music. I would have to rely heavily on the conductor to bring me in and out at the right time. Well, the conductor Peter
Wilson, was not too sure of the arrangements himself. Having only received them a week prior. The show
must go on.
I opened with "This is the Moment" and felt a cold chill as the piano player seemed to be playing a different song altogether but with the orchestra right on the button I was able to make a clean start. The piano player found his way and the song went over very well. I was pleased at the start. Stage performances vary with so many aspects. In this particular forum the spot light was so direct that I could not see the audience past the first row.
Next was the "Ave" and I felt very warm when I sang this and tried to sing it as beautifully as I could. Starting the note gently and adding inflection when needed to give the word power then pulling back at the end of the phrase to let the note float away as if whispered. That audience seemed to appreciate the effort.
I was then to introduce the "Springfield High School Choir" and they performed "Joy to the World" It was
very good. I came back to do a few Christmas songs and this is where things got a little hairy. I started with
"Angels we Have Heard on High" which went well, although I had to read part of the music because it was
an arrangement from the Crystal Cathedral and went from fairly high to through the roof! By the end, I
believe the last note was a high "C." I took a deep breath and plowed on.
The next was "Oh Holy Night" followed by "Adeste Fideles." Now "Oh Holy Night" went wonderfully with a
loud ovation but "Adeste" Lets just say if you're telling me you're doing this song, one would assume you're singing in Latin, right? Other wise you would say you're doing "Joy to the World." Well, I learned the Latin
and they did it in English. What's the big deal you may say? Nothing if they had done the two verses I know
but they didn't, so I had to learn TWO new verses that afternoon AAAHHHH!! I did it (that's why I get the
big bucks or so they tell me) LOL!!
I ended the first half with "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." It went well, although with the popular arrangements I felt as though I should be performing at a lounge in Atlantic City. The second half was full
of the old favorites "Danny Boy," "The Lords Prayer," "You'll Never Walk Alone," "I'll Walk With God" and
a duet with a local soprano who was just wonderful in "The Prayer." A standing "O" and ended with "God
Bless America," made he night a great success.
I want to thank Butch and the Connersville crowd for driving out and having dinner with us. Its always good
to see the fans at the concerts. I've gotten to know some of you so well it's like having family there.
Well, hope you all enjoy the read and God bless you all now and through this holiday season. Don't forget
our men and women overseas in your prayers. Daniel
Simply Wonderful by Daniel Rodriguez
This writing by Daniel is included in a collection of essays compiled by Kelly Ripa.
Available on Amazon
My mother was a factory worker all her life-she operated a sewing machine for
the handbag designer Judith Leiber. When she and Dad came over from Puerto
Rico as teenagers, they had to start from square one, learning English and
coping with a new environment.
We weren't rich, but Mother made things work-we had things even when there
was no money to have them, and no matter what, she always made time for us.
Coming from a very big and loving family, Mother and her ten brothers and
sisters assured every holiday would be a major event. Our family parties were
legendary.
Dad was a hard worker, too. He started out as a laborer in a box company and
later moved on to a job at the Transit Authority, before retiring. I'm certain
I inherited his clown genes. He and I would spend the day seeing who could
make Mother laugh the most. Even their divorce during my teenage years didn't
change my relationship with either of my parents, because I was always close to
them and particularly to my mother.
There was always music in our house. Mother used to sing to us when we were
kids. She had one song that I remember very well, "You're Not Sick, You're Just
in Love." It was a beautiful lullaby. She instilled a deep love of music in all of us. I
have been singing my whole life and my mother always encouraged me.
When I started singing and doing shows in junior high, Mother attended every one
of them. In what was to become a grand leap of faith, she allowed me to take singing
and dancing lessons with Elliot Dorfman, a teacher at my school and my mentor during
those early years. It took a lot of trust on her part to realize I did have potential and to
let me go.
If it wasn't for Mother, I don't think my music career would have taken off. I wouldn't
have had the training necessary. She sacrificed a lot for us and worked hard to make
sure I was given every opportunity.
Mother is my biggest fan. She always knew that I would be, at least in her mind,
famous. Even when I doubted it, she was certain. I had been giving concerts every
week since I was twenty-four and not looking beyond the obvious that I was giving
the gift of music. After a great show, I'd say to her, "Everybody loves it, I get standing
ovations. How come I'm not famous?" My mother would be the one to bring me back
to earth and say, "Are you doing it for fame or are you doing it because you love to do
it?" I'd say, "You're right, I'm doing it because I love to do it," and she'd say, 'well then,
you're already famous."
When I sang the National Anthem at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, it
was amazing for her to watch me on television. I was so grateful that I was able to
share that moment with her.
There is one story that I believe really shows the type of person my mother is. After
she left her job at Judith Leiber she started working as a home healthcare attendant.
Her sister's mother-law was suffering from Alzheimer's; at the same time her sister was
very ill, so her brother-in-law asked my mother to take care of his mother. She said,
"I'll take care of your mother if you take care of my sister." Although in her fifties, she
went to school in order to learn how to become an attendant. She's been taking care
of this one lady for the past seven years. My mother lives with her during the week and
only gets to come home on the weekends. It takes a truly strong person to deal with that
illness on a daily basis. It is a true testament to my mother's goodness and strength, and
to the type of woman she is.
My mother has a great heart and bestowed upon me the ability to love people for who
they really are. She adheres to the simple philosophy of "Live and let live:' The greatest
lesson she taught me goes back to our family motto: "Live simply so others may simply live."
It's a simple life-enjoying the little things that make life worth living, not focusing on the big
prize but enjoying the ride. That's the lesson that she taught me that has helped me
immensely in my career. I consider myself a passenger in a moving car-I let God do the
driving and I get to look out the window and enjoy the ride. My mother taught me to always
have faith. ~ Daniel Rodriguez
