Not too many in my generation can forget the “New Jack LaLanne Show” and a few of us can remember the precursor show that was only slightly different. Unfortunately, too many in my generation have forgotten many of the lessons of his show that discussed the virtues and value of diet and exercise… and boomers are beginning to pay a sad price today with hospital visits and a cornucopia of prescription medications…. that, in my opinion, was largely preventable It was a show that had quite an influence on my youth… we need more Jack LaLannes today.
Jack LaLanne moved to Morro Bay in the 1980’s and I saw him at two places around the county: the San Luis Obispo COUNTRY Club (the cows are never too far away) and “the Spirit of San Luis Obispo” restaurant at the airport. It was fun to see him around… although I ‘thought he’d be taller.’ 😉
I can not claim a friendship with the great man, but his interest in golf lead us on a collision course at the COUNTRY Club sometime in the 90’s…. before I was smart enough to retire from golf. ( I still get a fruit basket from Saint Andrews on the anniversary of my leaving the greens!) However, I did have one minor ability, I could hit a drive a very long way and won the ‘longest drive’ competitions on occasion. So, one day, Jack’s group started pressing my foursome and maybe it was the excitement but I brought out my cannon and cut across the dog leg with my drive landing close to the green. After seeing this, Jack, jumped in his cart and took off to see where it landed… my dream was complete… I impressed Jack LaLanne. I will always remember his energy and enthusiasm.
I hope fitness and eating healthfully will come back in vogue… we need more Jack LaLannes.
Roger