The truth of the matter is . . .

Thursday, November 12, 2020

On January 20, 2020, I published a tribute to Rotarian Tony Bellacera, on his 100^th birthday, titled “The Beat Goes On.” A fantastic guy, all hoped he would live forever.

However, he became ill this fall. It appeared he did not have the strength to survive. But being blessed, he did. To celebrate his strong desire to continue to navigate life's road, Rotarian Bill Cook suggested a song be written called “Brooklyn Tuff,” for Tony, born in Brooklyn, and a New Yorker most of his life. And so, on October 22, I took up the challenge and wrote the words to the tune of “Take Me Out To The Ball Game.” Rotarian Clark Osterhout put the lyrics to the music and sings it to honor Tony. You can hear it on YouTube ( https://youtu.be/6gVhFhJ7NQE) or read it below. I give you . . .

Brooklyn Tuff

Stix, our friend Tony, is really glad.
Has the will to live and has it bad.
Takes pride in knowing he is in control of the game.

Has many friends, he knows by name.

Nobody can tell him he will not last.

He’s too cocky, and has a long past.

He plays by his rules and makes them clear.

If you disagree, he yells, ”But I’m still here!”

Be a part of Tony’s game.

Celebrate his long life of fame.

Tony is the man, 101 to be.

Be a part of his crowd and see.

So it’s root, root, root for Tony today.

He is so strong and noble; he ain’t going away.

For he is Brooklyn Tuff, our man of fame.

And there is no end in sight for his game.

Now Tony has played the drums so long.

His life has been one long-lasting song.

Talents he uses to create happiness for all.

Providing warmth and kindness, he has a ball.

His wonderful smile makes you feel alive.

Knowing him makes you happy and helps you thrive.

His kindness is seen through the gleam in his eyes.

That he’s had a long life is no surprise.