Monday, February 17, 2020
I had the opportunity to work with Joe from 1992 to 1995 while touring with various roadshows and touring acts. At one point we were on tour with The Orb, a psychedelic rave band from London. I recall pulling up to a gig in the twilight hours at a club in Seattle. Joe had parked his truck and I was going to claim the spot in front of him. He was on the CB radio while I was backing up and told me I might expect to be solicited for some spare change. I looked in my mirror and saw a homeless gentleman motioning me on how and where to park. It was typical practice of panhandlers to provide an unrequested service in exchange for a hopeful contribution. The hour was early, and the streets were for the most part empty. I responded to Joe and said, “Watch this”. Bear in mind we were both in a goofy mood and feeling a bit punchy after a long drive. So, I commenced to making several unnecessary steering corrections and pull-ups all the while the gentleman keeps gesturing on where to park. Joe started his trademark cackle on the radio as he saw what I was up to. In hindsight I must admit it wasn’t my proudest moment, but we were keeping ourselves entertained…unfortunately at this stranger’s expense. I finally got the truck parked, set the air brake and turned off the engine. I watched in the mirror as the man started to approach the cab. About the time he got even with the rear axle of the tractor, I fired up the engine, released the brakes and drove off around the block. Joe was beside himself with laughter as he described the reaction of the man throwing his arms in the air as I disappeared around the corner.
