In Memoriam..

Actress Patricia Neal,

born January 20, 1926

died August 8, 2010

A leading lady of American plays and film, Neal studied drama in college and worked as a model before debuting on Broadway in The Voice of the Turtle (1946). And what about her stunning performance in "The Fountainhead"? That still gives me the shivers!

Musician Jack Parnell,

Born Aug. 6, 1923

Died: Aug. 8, 2010

English Jazz Drummer, Conductor of  "The Muppet Show".

In the RAF he played in a jazz ensemble entertaining the troops. Later his own band was successful until Rock and Roll started, when Big Bands went out of favor.  Parnell accepted to work as music director for the ATV network in 1956 where he conducted  almost all of the "Sunday Night at the London Palladium" broadcasts. He was the first British musician to win an Emmy for his 1973 Barbra Streisand special.

Parnell was behind the music for "The Muppet Show" broadcasts (1976 to 1981).

Well known  drummer Buddy Rich was persuaded to play with the Muppets.

Retiring in 1980's Parnell resumed his performing career after relearning his drumming techniques.

Officially retired at age 80 Parnell kept on and played in a jazz trio at Pubs.  He died of cancer.