charleswiedenmann

[charleswiedenmann]

The Deadly and Ancient History of the Komodo Dragon – Earth's Largest Lizard 

In the lush and remote islands of Indonesia, a legendary creature roams the Komodo dragon. These massive reptiles, known for their imposing size and lethal bite, are more than just impressive predators. They have a deep-rooted history and an intriguing relationship with their environment. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of the Komodo dragon, Earth’s largest lizard. A Giant Among…

[charleswiedenmann]

Shadows and Sounds: David Lynch's Philly Days and the Birth of Eraserhead 

In the dimly lit streets of Philadelphia, amidst the echoes of urban life, a young David Lynch found himself in a peculiar chapter of his artistic journey. It was during this period, marked by shadows and unconventional living arrangements, that Lynch penned what would become a cult classic in the realm of surreal cinema—Eraserhead. Lynch’s time in Philadelphia was nothing short of…

[charleswiedenmann]

The Brilliant Truths of Rick and Morty

“Rick and Morty,” the animated series created by Dan Harmon and Justin Roiland, is more than just a cartoon. It’s a mind-bending journey through the multiverse that tackles existential questions, absurdity, and the complexities of human existence. In this blog post, we’ll explore the brilliant truths hidden within the layers of humor and chaos that make “Rick and Morty” a cult…

[charleswiedenmann]

A Nostalgic Journey: Remembering the Former Glory of Philadelphia's Horn & Hardart

In the heart of Philadelphia’s history, one name stands out as a symbol of culinary innovation and communal dining – Horn & Hardart. Once a bustling haven for automat aficionados, Horn & Hardart left an indelible mark on the city’s culinary landscape. Join us on a nostalgic journey as we fondly recall the former glory of this iconic establishment. Automats: Where Culinary Magic Unfolded The…

[charleswiedenmann]

Tales of Rock: Univox Super Fuzz Pedal: A Glorious Journey Through Time

In the world of music and sound, few objects hold as much allure and mystique as the humble effects pedal. Among the many stompboxes that have left an indelible mark on the music industry, the Univox Super Fuzz pedal stands out as a legendary and enduring icon. This unassuming device has a rich history, a unique sound, and a dedicated following. Join us on a journey through time as we explore the…

[charleswiedenmann]

The Ongoing Fallout of Disco Demolition: Unmasking Racism and Homophobia - Part 2

In the aftermath of Disco Demolition Night, the repercussions extended far beyond the damage to Comiskey Park and the decline of disco music. This tumultuous event inadvertently unmasked deeply rooted issues of racism and homophobia in American society. In part two of our exploration into the fallout of Disco Demolition, we delve into how the seeds of hatred sown that night continued to…

[charleswiedenmann]

The Dark History of Steve Dahl's Disco Demolition - Part 1

In the late 1970s, a cultural phenomenon swept across the United States: the disco craze. Disco music, with its pulsating beats and glittering dance floors, had taken the nation by storm. But amidst the glitter and glamour, a dark chapter in music history unfolded—one that culminated in the infamous “Disco Demolition Night,” orchestrated by the controversial radio DJ Steve Dahl. Let’s delve into…

[charleswiedenmann]

The Tap Away Choice: Why Cooking at Home Beats Food Delivery Apps

The Temptation of Food Delivery Apps In today’s fast-paced world, the allure of convenience often beckons from our smartphones. The rise of food delivery apps has made it incredibly easy to order a meal with just a tap. But have you ever found yourself one tap away from ordering and then, in a moment of clarity, decided to close your phone and cook your own dinner from the ingredients sitting in…

[charleswiedenmann]

Phicklephilly 2025: Happy New Year!

Happy New Year! What a year it’s been! When I started writing this blog back in 2016 I never thought it would grow to what it’s become. What initially was born during a conversation with a colleague over lunch has become a platform that’s launched 9 books. Let’s get the technical stuff out of the way first. Since its inception, Phicklephilly has gathered over 5000 subscribers over several…

[charleswiedenmann]

The Gift of Solitude: Embracing My Evolving Self

As I reflect on my journey, I see how far I’ve come. Healing from childhood trauma and finally coming to terms with my past has been transformative in ways I never imagined. This process hasn’t just healed old wounds—it’s fundamentally changed me. I’m evolving so quickly now that I find it difficult to relate to many of the people who were once a part of my life. It’s not that I don’t care about…

[charleswiedenmann]

Snow Globe

Once upon a time in the quaint village of Evergreen, nestled between snow-covered hills and frosted pine trees, lived a pretty young girl named Lily. Every year, as the holiday season approached, Lily found herself drawn to the charming snow globe shop at the heart of the village. The shop, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, held a magical allure that captivated Lily’s…

[charleswiedenmann]

Winter Ritual

In the early winter of 1972, the families of Lawndale embarked on a cherished tradition that marked the beginning of the holiday season – the search for the perfect Christmas tree. Children, bundled up in coats and scarves, eagerly joined their parents for a festive adventure that would bring the spirit of Christmas into their homes. The air was crisp as the families strolled through the streets…

[charleswiedenmann]

Triumph

What If My Lifelong Anxiety and Depression Were Never Real Disorders? For as long as I can remember, anxiety and depression were constants in my life. They were like unwelcome guests that lingered in every corner of my mind, whispering fears and doubts, casting shadows over even the brightest moments. I tried everything to manage them—therapy, alcohol, toxic relationships, meditation, and…

[charleswiedenmann]

Lawndale's Timeless Delights: Our Favorite Toys from the 60s and 70s

In the bygone era of the 1960s and 1970s, children found joy in the simplest yet most iconic toys that have become legendary through the lens of nostalgia. Let’s take a delightful journey down memory lane and revisit the timeless favorites that captured the imaginations of kids during these two groovy decades. Barbie Dolls: A World of Imagination Introduced in the 1960s, Barbie dolls became an…

[charleswiedenmann]

What If the Reason I Wrote Lawndale and Down The Shore Wasn’t Just to Share My Past?

What if the reason I wrote Lawndale, a book about growing up in Northeast Philadelphia in the 60s and 70s, and Down The Shore, a collection of stories about my summers in Wildwood in the 70s, wasn’t really about sharing nostalgic tales with others who could relate? Sure, on the surface, that’s what it looks like—a glimpse into the past, an ode to a simpler time. But what if there’s more to it?…

[charleswiedenmann]

Gliding Through History: The Birthplace of the Flexible Flyer Sled

In the snowy landscapes of the 19th century, a simple yet ingenious invention took shape, forever changing the way people experienced winter fun. The Flexible Flyer sled, an iconic piece of Americana, has its roots in the inventive spirit of one man and the scenic backdrop of the eastern United States. The story begins with Samuel Leeds Allen, a man with a passion for creating innovative…

[charleswiedenmann]

From Happy Hours to Happy Solitude: Embracing the Bliss of Alone Time

Before COVID, my life looked pretty different. I worked in advertising and marketing, along with a few other odd jobs, and had a bustling social life. In my 50s, I was out and about, heading to happy hours, enjoying snacks and drinks with friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. Socializing was part of my routine, and I moved in circles where bars and gatherings were just part of the deal. It felt…