Patrick Ball

On The Fly

A smidgen of history, a dash of culture - a minute dedicated to making you smile.

Author

Patrick Ball

Category

Education

Podcast website

pball001.blogspot.com

Latest episode

Jun 27, 2026

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Episodes

Respect for the Hunt 21.12.2024

The arrival of deer hunting season stirred excitement in their hearts, filling them with a sense of purpose and connection to nature. It was a memorable hunt.

A Scent of Nostalgia 14.12.2024

Here’s an intriguing question: Is there a scent that has the power to transport you back to your childhood? For me, that scent is Old Spice aftershave.

Everything I Need to Know About Christmas 07.12.2024

We’re excited to present this year’s (2024) annual Christmas episode for kids! It all started in 2020 when we launched "On the Fly," and a Santa’s helper told us a great idea: audio versions of children's books. Enjoy!

Fathers Moonlit Walk 30.11.2024

The sun was setting over the Pacific Ocean as we drove South on the 5 Freeway, just entering the conservation area at Camp Pendleton. “This reminds me of raccoon (coon) hunting with Dad as a boy,” 

Unexpected Encounter 29.11.2024

Life presents peculiar twists that make us ponder the universe’s mysteries. Last week, I found an unexpected book:  Another Lousy Day in Paradise ,  A 1996 fly fishing journal by the inspiring humorist and author John Gierach. Stay with me!

Poetry's Magic 23.11.2024

This holiday season, we’re excited to share one of Edgar's Guests' delightful poems that beautifully celebrates the lasting bond of friendship. Enjoy!

The Man Behind the Fence 16.11.2024

A homeless man approached me. Despite his appearance, he spoke with a surprising degree of respect, asking for a dollar to buy a hot cup of coffee. What would you do?

Dawn’s Embrace 09.11.2024

Welcome to this week's episode of On The Fly. The previous poem was written the day after the election results. Yes, we’ve made it through another presidential election cycle. Everyone at work was gloomy, angry, frustrated, and could not understand the logic. Let's find peace.

The Power of a Thank-You Note 02.11.2024

Halloween night brings spooky fun and neighborly camaraderie. As the sun set and shadows lengthened, neighbors gathered to turn their driveways into festive candy stations, recalling a cherished handwritten note.

GridBot & Gramps 26.10.2024

Meanwhile, back in Greenwood, Dr. Jon Gellborn, Ph. D., sat at his cluttered desk, the dim glow of his ancient desktop flickering as he pecked at the keyboard—the adventure continues.

GridBot - Part II 19.10.2024

"Join us. It's easier this way."  He knew then that it wasn’t just a phone but something more. Welcome to GridBot - Part II.

Sierra Reflections 2024 11.10.2024

A glance at my watch–4:45 a.m. on day three, Tuesday, October 1, 2024, of this year's Sierra adventure. Little Lakes Valley.

The Solar Pro 05.10.2024

Have you ever considered your impact on people? In previous podcasts, I've honored my friend Doan Vo by highlighting the lasting impressions of seemingly small actions. This poem is another tribute.

GridBot - Part 1 28.09.2024

Welcome back to On the Fly. Please click the link in the blog post to read the beginning of Marvin's thrilling journey to break free from the grip of GridBot.

The Silent Grid 21.09.2024

In the tranquil town of Greenwood, a quiet revolution is brewing as an unassuming smartphone from the future slowly infiltrates its residents' minds–introduction.

Fascination 14.09.2024

The 1954 story “It's Such a Beautiful Day " is set in a futuristic society (2117) where transportation is primarily done through teleportation devices called  “Doors."

Homesick 06.09.2024

I spent the recent Labor Day weekend immersed in Asimov's captivating narratives that have fueled my passion for science, mathematics, physics, and astronomy since childhood. His stories challenge the bounds of imagination long before scientific advancements have mirrored those depicted in fiction. Enjoy–

The Art of the Possible 24.08.2024

Over the past few weeks of political conventions, I've realized–through others’ stories–the valuable lessons instilled in me by my mother, my father’s example, and my friend Tawfic during my upbringing in a small Midwestern community. They taught me " The Art  of the  Possible ."

Griffith's Glory and Electric Glee 18.08.2024

Lori asked me if I wanted to do something special for my weekend birthday (August 16th, 2024). My thought: Hmmm–It’s been over 35 years since we’ve had one of our Friday night dates at the Griffith Park Observatory. ” What if we spent the weekend in Los Angeles, had dinner at a historic diner, visited the Observatory, and hiked Griffith Park the following morning?”

Don't Just Pedal, Fly 10.08.2024

Don't Just Pedal, Fly: Master the Art of Cadence. Today, we're examining the often overlooked yet critical element of cycling: Cadence.

Unplugged and Strumming 03.08.2024

Today, we're exploring the joy of summer vacation, the Paris Olympics, and the significance of taking a break.

Steppin' Out 27.07.2024

This week's episode is all about stepping out of your comfort zone. And I'm not just talking about trying a new restaurant or taking a dance class. I'm talking about a real leap of faith.

One Giant Leap 20.07.2024

One Giant Leap: 55 Years Later. “Houston, Tranquility Base here. The Eagle has landed." - Neil Armstrong. It's hard to believe that today marks the 55th anniversary of one of humanity's most outstanding achievements: the first moon landing.

Shopping Smarter: The Costco Advantage 13.07.2024

This episode examines Costco as a case study for business-savvy listeners. Costco is more than just a place to buy in bulk—it's a cultural phenomenon, a haven for bargain hunters, and a place where strong, loyal communities thrive.

Firetrucks & Donut Holes 05.07.2024

Dateline: July 4th, 2024. In this episode, Fire Trucks & Donut Holes: California Summit Celebrates Independence Day! Today, we're celebrating the spirit of community with a recap of this year’s fantastic California Summit Neighborhood 4th of July parade!

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