Hoisting the Anchor...

No, this is not about boating... or my upcoming vacation to Chicago. I'm actually going to do a positing on my industry, broadcasting. More specifically, the situation at CBS news.

There has been a lot of talk lately about CBS News... the crown jewel of the "Tiffany Network" has been taking a lot of hits over the past few years. First of all, it was the "Memogate" episode in which host Dan Rather aired a dubious document about Dubya's time in the Air National Guard. That gave CBS a pretty big black eye in the terms of credibility, but it looked like things were on the upswing after Rather stepped down from the anchor desk and Bob Schieffer took over in the interim.

Frankly, I liked Bob. He knew he was in a "storekeeper" mode with the show until someone "better" came along(I know that feeling all too well!), but he really seemed to build back a lot of trust that had all but disappeared just a few short months before. In fact, viewer numbers were increasing as well. I think in a lot of ways, Schieffer reminded a lot of people of Walter Cronkite... an elder statesman that stuck to the facts, without personal bias or hidden agendas. People like me really appreciate that, especially since we have Bill O'Reilly, Keith Olberman, Rush Limbaugh, and Ed Schultz constantly bombasting us with their opinions.

And then there was Katie.

It seemed like a novel approach. Take a very popular host from a very popular show to freshen up the news cast. I was looking forward to seeing Ms. Couric take on a more serious tone, to really let her journalistic chops fly. In fact CBS even got good ol' "Uncle Walter" off his sailboat long enough to record the introductory voice-over as a symbolic "passing of the torch".

After an outstanding first month of ratings, the program dropped like the proverbial stone.

I think a lot of it has to do with image. For the better part of two decades, Couric was the perky, giggly person who got people's mornings off to a good start on "Today." I think that image, combined with an emphasis on "soft" stories put in the minds of many people that Couric, whether accurate or not, lacked the gravitas to do hard news. And it eroded the credibility of CBS even further.

Now the scuttlebutt is that CBS is looking to replace Couric before her contract is up. Some speculate that it may even happen before the political conventions this summer. While both Couric and CBS deny the rumors, enough buzzing is going on about it that makes one wonder if there isn't some merit.

IF Couric leaves, as has been suggested, the question becomes "Who takes over?" Schieffer says he's not interested in the big chair, citing his age. Frankly, if I got dumped on my derrière like that, I probably wouldn't be too keen on going back for more, either. Others like Randall Pinkston, John Roberts, and Lara Logan keep popping up as in-house reporters who have anchor experience and could take over.

But here's a little bit of juicy speculation, especially for you conspiracy buffs.

Right now, CBS is looking at outsourcing much of the news department's work and resources to CNN. If this should happen (and from the reports of CBS News laying off personnel, it just might.), I wonder if someone like Anderson Cooper or Christianne Armanapour could find themselves at "Black Rock"?

It could be a win-win situation. CBS would regain credibility in the news world with an established journalistic presence but at a much-lower price than Couric's $15-million a year asking fee. It would also cement the agreement between both networks, should that come to fruition. It could make CBS the big kid on the block once again.

Or it could blow up in their faces, and CBS will have to spend the next 30 years trying to climb out of the cellar while pundits bemoan the demise of a once-great organization.

Really "Fowl" Balls

Sometimes, things just come across your desk that makes you stop and scratch your head for about four or five minutes. Such was the case this afternoon.

I received a press release from the Sioux Falls Canaries in my work e-mail. Normally, these releases talk about promotions planned for the season or players that are signed, traded, or have been signed to a major league club. But this one... well... here are some of the "highlights"!

The Sioux Falls Canaries and [name removed to cover my ass] are teaming up to this summer to bring Fowl Balls to concession stands at the Birdcage. The venture makes Sioux Falls Stadium the first sports venue in the country to offer their fans a chance to enjoy turkey testicles.

Turkey WHAT?!?!?

The breaded and fried nature of the Fowl Balls make them a great appetizer to enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce as an alternative to onion rings or mozzarella sticks.

I can just see it now... "Sorry darling, but the concession stand ran out of onion rings and mozzarella sticks. So I got you the deep fried reproductive organs off a male turkey!"

“The Fowl Balls will make a perfect compliment to a cold beer at the Birdcage,” said Canaries Director of Food & Beverage Bill Sedelmeier.

A lot of beer, Bill... a LOT of beer!

The food item is considered a delicacy in China and Japan.

YOU MEAN THAT WASN'T GENERAL TSO'S CHICKEN I WAS EATING THE OTHER NIGHT!?!?!?!?!

Two morals to this story.

1) I really need to get out more.
2) The next time you go after a foul ball, make sure you specify which balls you're after... I might just need you to get me another beer!

So long, Conde School.

Conde School Votes To Dissolve

Barring some miracle, the Conde School District will cease to exist by 2009.

That means this years' sophomores will not graduate from their home school. Rather, they will get their diplomas from Northwestern, Doland, Groton, and Warner. A shame.

It also means that the Doland/Conde athletics cooperative will also cease to exist. Doland will no doubt go back to its old nickname of the "Wheelers". Or they may continue to honor their partner school and former rival and continue to be the "Chargers". Doland could find itself co-oping with Clark (rather doubtful, considering they are already planning a co-op with Willow Lake) or head west and set up shop with Redfield.

I was a part of the Doland/Conde Athletics Cooperative for a year, serving as the junior high football coach as well as a volunteer assistant for the varsity team. One of my fondest memories was driving back from a game in Langford (about a 2-hour drive) in a Suburban full of statisticians, student managers, and about 35 dirty shoulder pads and jerseys. Needless to say, we drove all the way back to Conde (and eventually Doland) with the windows down!

And though my time in education was brief, I sure enjoyed being a Charger. I realized how much I loved coaching and always thought how nice it'd be to do that again. Of course, with my current occupation and the fact that my Fridays are pretty booked with football games to announce, that doesn't seem very feasible.

I'm not sure what rhyme or reason I'm giving to this post. Perhaps it's just my own thoughts and reflections at 2:30 in the morning. It could be that I'm lamenting a part of my past that is fading away. Or it's my way of honoring the soon-to-be memory of a little school in the northeast part of the State that fought to the last battle.

In any case, my issues now resolved with that part of my life, I wish the folks of Conde well. And I tell the students... "Go Chargers!"

Monday, Monday

I know, you're getting a treat! A post from me less than a week from the last one!

The weekend went fairly well. I caught up on a lot of sleep, which is always good. It seems that during the week 5-6 hours of sleep is the norm for me and then I end up sleeping away the weekend. I don't seem to mind it and since I'm not married, or dating or anything, it's not like I have to be accountable to anyone. So there!

Friday was Zoey's first birthday, but we all got together on Saturday for the party. She is an incredible little girl! I did get a gift, a $50 savings bond. Probably not the cutest gift, but considering these things collect interest for 30 years, it may get her something more memorable in the future. At least I hope so! Besides, she has more than enough clothes and toys.

It got me thinking about what I want to do for the future. Like I've written in previous posts, I'm quickly becoming a not-so-happy bachelor. In fact, I was told this weekend that a certain person I have very strong feelings for does not have the same feelings for me... in fact she said its highly doubtful she'll ever have those feelings for me again.

The worst part is it's my own fault. When I had my little temper tantrum, she said, "you ripped out my heart and destroyed any feelings I may have had for you." And considering that she had a fantastic date with someone else this weekend is a pretty big sign that not only did I screw up royally, but that I should forget all about her. Not an easy thing to do, considering how much I love her. I could probably do all the "mea culpas" in the world and do all sorts of bloodletting, but it won't make one bit of difference to her. Smooth move, Matthew!

The sad part is, of all the people I've met and dated, she's the one that I would want to start a family with. To marry her and settle down and go from being a not-so-happy bachelor, to a happy husband.

But as she said, "It's a bit late to be thinking these things."

Damn.

But... I also realize that my life has more to it than just one person. I still have some awesome friends (a couple of whom I'll be seeing in Chicago next week), a great job (how many people can say they look forward to going to work and MEAN it?), and a great family.

So let's see, what else? Oh... taxes are done, a whole two days before the filing deadline. What can I say? I'm getting them done earlier and earlier! I do have a nice refund of MY money that's forthcoming, so I'm pleased about that. Don't believe the politicians... this is money that they take from YOUR paycheck before you even get to see it on payday. And some of these people that grouse about the stimulus check not helping us... hell, I'll take $600 of my money any day! I just wish it was a permanent thing. It's not welfare, it's my money that I paid in to Uncle Sam for fruit fly mating research and Minnesota Zoo improvements (though I live in South Dakota). Can you tell I'm getting a bit miffed about this!

Still some remaining vestiges of Thursday's blizzard. But Mother Nature is doing her best to have it all go bye-bye this week. I HOPE that's the last of the snow for a while!

One more week until vacation! And not a moment too soon!

Lessons learned; Lessons forgotten

One of the biggest influences in my life when I was growing up was Randy Nelson, my high school English teacher. Mr. Nelson was my teacher for three years at good ol' Dell Rapids High School: German my sophomore year, German II and junior English my junior year, and College-bound English my senior year.

In addition to instructing me on the wonders of the English language, literature, and the beauty of the German language ("Auf Deutsch, Herr Hendrickson, Auf Deutsch!"), Mr. Nelson taught me a lot about life and about being a good person. Although he never sat me down formally and told me what I needed to do, he still taught me by being a positive example. He never lost his temper, he always followed through on his committments, and he always treated everyone with respect. He could be strict, but at the same time he wasn't mean about it.

He was THE teacher that you never wanted to disappoint. Other teachers could get mad at you, and that happened to me quite a few times in my illustrious high school career. But you never, ever wanted to have Mr. Nelson disappointed in you, because he was (and still is) such a genuinely good person. It made you feel rotten when you did.

Case in point, my freshman year of college, I had the opportunity to splice into my neighbor's cable, which is a bit illegal. We would have split the cost and be able to watch TV in our dorms. I let it slip to Mr. Nelson what I was planning and he said the words that have stuck in my mind ever since.

"Matt, you're a better person than that."

I was so ashamed of myself that I immediately scrapped that idea.

One of the biggest lessons he taught me was that the human mouth was much more destructive than a nuclear weapon. What we say and who we say it to can cause more damage than a gun, a knife, or a fist. And I always liked to think I followed that maxim... but I haven't.

I've said some pretty hurtful, damaging, spiteful, and just plain mean things over the past few weeks and months. Some on here (quickly erased), but also on e-mails, phone calls, and in person. My friends have read and heard my poisoned words and even the ones who weren't the targets looked at me like I was crazed. I've made people mad, I've made people sad, and I made someone very near and dear to me cry.

Because of MY words, I made her cry. She was inconsolable. All because my feelings were hurt and I was petty and so self-centered that she had to pay. I don't know what Mr. Nelson would say to me about that, but I have a pretty good idea:

"Matt, you're a better person than that."

No, Mr. Nelson, it would appear I'm not. I've hurt people with my voice. And no amount of self-flagellation, pennance, or apology will ever change that. And the fact that I apologized and haven't been forgiven goes to show just how much I hurt her. Maybe I don't deserve forgiveness. And if that's the case, then it's what I deserve.

I should find Mr. Nelson and re-take high school English. It's all too apparent I forgot some important lessons that I need to relearn.

A little something to make you smile this Monday!

The Smithereens had a few big hits in the late 80s and early 90s with such songs as "A Girl Like You" and "Blues Before and After." They're still together (28 years strong!), and they came out with a tribute CD to the Beatles' first album, called "Meet the Smithereens."

Here is the video to "I Wanna Hold Your Hand." I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

WHEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!

In this twisted, crazy emotional roller-coaster that is my life, the past week or two has taken a decided upswing.

First of all, I'm all set for my trip to the "Windy City". I will be leaving on April 23rd and return on the 27th. I thought about staying longer, but five days is really quite enough. I think Ben Franklin said that "Fish and company start to smell after three days." If that's the case, I'll be a ripe piece of mackerel!

But I'll take plenty of pics... if I can find my farking camera!

Work is going well... still no news director. We almost had one before they pulled a disappearing act. So now we talk to another person hopefully less flaky. I also found out that I'm to recieve a fairly prestigious award from the Associated Press, so I'm puffing my chest about that. Of course, fate being the trickster it is, the award presentation will take place whilst I'm in Chicago. Oh well, someone from the station will accept for me and besides, I stink at golf!

Personal life is okay... it hasn't gotten any better but then it hasn't sucked, either. I'm friends again with my friend (look back on prior posts if you're clueless). Of course, she's giving me some much-deserved ribbing for my little temper tantrum. And my little "Swee Pea" is turning ONE next Friday! THAT'S gonna be COOL!

Well, that's about all for now. Enjoy your day.

The Boys of Summer return!

Baseball season is just a few short hours away!

And after a many-year absence, I am back in a major league baseball fantasy league. So without further suspense, I present my "Boys of Summer"

Storm Track Baseball League
Team Hendrickson 2008


Position Players-
C-Joe Mauer, Minnesota Twins
1B-Justin Morneau, Minnesota Twins
2B-Luis Castillo, New York Mets
3B-Chipper Jones, Atlanta Braves
SS-Jhonny Peralta, Cleveland Indians
2B/SS-Mark Ellis, Oakland A’s
1B/3B-Matt Stairs, Toronto Blue Jays
OF-Alfonso Soriano, Chicago Cubs
OF-Jacoby Ellsbury, Boston
OF-Ken Griffey Jr., Cincinnati
OF-Jeff Francoeur, Atlanta Braves
OF-Andruw Jones, Los Angeles Dodgers
DH-Jim Thome, Chicago White Sox
UTIL-Nomar Garciaparra, Los Angeles Dodgers
Bench-Moises Alou, New York Mets OF
Bench-Cristian Guzman, Washington Nationals SS
Bench-Dmitri Young, Washington Nationals 1B
Bench-Scott Rolen, Toronto Blue Jays 3B
Bench-Delwyn Young, Los Angeles Dodgers OF

Pitchers-
SP-Johan Santana, New York Mets
SP-A.J. Burnett, Toronto Blue Jays
SP-Derek Lowe, Los Angeles Dodgers
SP-Greg Maddux, San Diego Padres
SP-Jered Weaver, Los Angeles Angels
SP-Livan Hernandez, Minnesota Twins
SP-Dontrelle Willis, Detroit Tigers
SP-Barry Zito, San Francisco Giants
SP-Kenny Rogers, Detroit Tigers
RP-Eric Gagne, Milwaukee Brewers
RP-Kerry Wood, Chicago Cubs

A short fuse...

It seems my temper has been more prevalent as I get older.

For the most part, I'm a pretty mild-mannered person. A "live and let live" kind of person. I used to think I was the most patient person in the world.

Over the past 5 or 6 years, I learned something. I'm not.

Whether I was teaching kids or trying to cope with heartbreak, it seems my trigger gets tripped more easily than when I was a kid. Even in radio, I can get pretty frustrated if things aren't just so.

It concerns me... and it scares me sometimes.

It hasn't done a LOT of damage, but it damn near cost me a very dear friend. And I may have alienated a few people in the process... my mea culpa, if you will.

I've got to get back to where I was 10 years ago.

Fambly

Family is a funny thing... these are folks you are born with, spend most of your early life with, fight with, get drunk and cry with... and through it all, are there for each other with a fair amount of love and support.

So when a trusted and even beloved member of the family starts ripping on you and pretty much demeaning you, you tend to get pretty bitter about the bloody thing, even years later. I'm finding that to be the case today.

My uncle and I had only met a handful of times. I reconnected with him while I was a student at UWGB over 12 years ago and we had had a pretty good relationship. He has his quirks, which I could accept and we had our disagreements, but never to the point of disrespect.

It all came to a head about 4 years ago... My uncle, who is a big fan of sending stuff via e-mail regarding real or supposed injustices sent me an e-mail about boycotting all gas stations for one day to protest high oil prices. I wrote him and said this was not very feasible, as most people would still buy gas, either the day before or the day after. I suggested things like alternative fuels, increased technology, etc. as a means of promoting some intelligent debate.

Well... his response was a bit... harsh.

He basically mocked me for not "Being around the block," because I lived in a sparsely-populated state. Fine, I can take that criticism. Then he tore into my family. He called me, my brothers, and my mom "ungrateful" and "selfish" for what my dad did for us and said he understood why my dad left my mom.

It was like I got hit right between the eyes with a 2x4... and not in the "I have an epiphany" sense, either!

It floored me!!! My own flesh and blood basically ripping on me and my brothers and my mom, simply because I didn't agree with his opinions. And I respected the man! Hell, I was even thinking about flying to Phoenix and spending time with him and his wife.

It's one of the few times I actually bawled that didn't have to do with a friend or loved one passing away.

A few days later, with my temper still unassuaged, I blasted him in an e-mail... most of it is laced with some pretty salty language, but here's what I wrote at the end.

Names changed to protect the guilty.

If this is what I can expect from you in the terms of personal correspondence, do me a huge favor... don't write. In fact, I will not expect nor accept any correspondence, nor respond to you unless I get an apology. And a sincere one at that.

Frankly, I'm disappointed in you, ****. I expected much better from you.

Don't bother to respond unless you do it to apologize.

Your nephew (believe it or not), Matt

P.S. Just because I live in a State with a significantly smaller population than your's, doesn't mean I'm any less intelllegent or "world wise." You have your opinions, I have mine... The only thing is, is I at least have the maturity not to launch into personal attacks against you when your ideals don't mesh with mine.

I guess I should follow my own advice... right, Nicci?

After that, I blocked his address from my e-mail. And with the exception of a dinner 2 years ago in Sioux Falls and e-mailing him Zoey's picture after she was born, I haven't heard from him since.

Tonight, he is back in the area. Dad is taking us out to Outback for supper. I'm going to go, if only to make Dad happy. I hope I can remain civil.

By the way, he still hasn't apologized... and I still haven't forgiven him.

Finally Friday!

And not a moment too soon!

Well, it's your favorite jackrabbit back in the driver's seat for another whirlwind cruise around the circus that is my life.

Basketball has finally been put to rest at work. But what a finish! For the first time in 63 years, Madison made it to the state finals. That's pretty impressive and the town was tickled pink-or was it maroon? Anyway, they finished second and are the favorites to win the thing next year.

Work has been going along at a happy, buzzing pace. With sports essentially done for the time being, I can concentrate on other things at work that might not always get my full attention.

I'm also going on vacation! Barring some minor disaster and the like, I'm going to fly out to Chicago April 23-27 to visit my good buddy Dan. I'm bringing a friend along, so we're going to do our best to stay out of Dan and Jenn's hair during the day. And take them out a few times in the evening! Now, I need to get me taxes done so I can get my refund and stimulus checks and refresh my bank account.

But I'm looking forward to going out there. I had such a blast out there the last time, I just had to share it. Now I just need to find my camera (I THINK it's in my car!) and I'm set!

I decided to wait on getting another car. Frankly, this car has been running well (with the exception of needing a tune-up) and with the body damage it has, I probably wouldn't be able to get jack-squat on a trade. So I'll drive it til it dies and then buy another one. I might go the route my dad is taking and get a Jeep. That would be cool!

The roller coaster that is my personal life has finally found something of an equilibrium. It's not perfect, but it'll do for now. I've also taken to growing some pretty decent facial hair. Nothing like what my friend from Lake Herman has, but not too shabby. I started growing it after Madison's boys won regions, and I'll probably keep it until I get tired of it (or overheated!). My niece Zoey couldn't quite recognize me... I can see in her eyes that she want's to recognize me, but she can't quite make up her mind if I'm her silly uncle Matt or some imposter with weird stuff on his face!

Other than that, things are going well. I've discovered that while having money and things are nice, it's having inner peace and peace of mind that is far more valuable in this world. Wise words to live by. Have a good 'un!

Why I'm not running...

Since my friend who lives on Lake Herman is now an official politico with White House aspirations (okay, so I'm kidding on that, but Jimmy Carter got his political career started by serving on the Plains, Georgia, school board.), I thought I would post my own non-candidate, non-profile, stating why I do NOT want to serve in pubic office!

Name: Matt Hendrickson, soon to be the Grand Sultan of "Oom-poppa-mow-mow!"

Family: Swingin' Bachelor, Baby!

Occupation: Media Star, Graduate School Dropout, World Conquistador in Training.

Age: Too old for Demi Moore and too young for Catherine Zeta-Jones-Douglas-whatever-the-hell-her-name-is.

How long a resident of Lake County: 6 years (hey, gotta have some straightforward answers once in a while!) but I've lived in the area (Dell Rapids, Brookings, etc.) my whole life.

What influenced you not to run to politics? Well, I have a pretty thin skin when it comes to personal attacks. I make it a point to treat others with respect, even if I don't agree with them. I guess it all stems back to my dear mother instilling a sense of MANNERS that has been my biggest weakness. As has been experienced in the Democratic primary and even our own little episode with the hired thug out of Virginia slamming someone who hadn't even DECIDED to run, I know that I couldn't be that cold-blooded. So screw it, I'm not running!

Of course, with the right kind of brainwashing, perhaps I can be a sociopath along the lines of Michael Savage, Fred Phelps, Badlands Blue, and Ted Rall and make a mint in politics!

Who have been your biggest influences in your decision not to run? Jesse Ventura. He once said that the best and brightest in the country are making a difference in the world of business, education, arts and entertainment, and technology and sciences. Politics are for those who are too stupid to succeed in those fields! And that's the best and brightest representing us!

If elected I will: 1) Demand a recount. 2) Find the person responsible for putting me on the ballot, and 3) kick them square in the ass!

After that, I would institute term limits and work to do away with elections and replace them with a drawing system, kinda like Jury duty. Make it so that all they want to do is do their jobs and get the hell out of there as soon as possible! And anyone who wants to make a career out of it would get intense psychological counseling and possible commitment to the happy farm!

Then I would resign after selling my life story to Hollywood for 300-million dollars!

What is your political philosophy? The American public should all be like grumpy old men and tell Uncle Sam to “Leave me alone!” and “Stay off my lawn!” And if it doesn't, turn the garden hose on them!

I vote because: It's a great way of biding my time before becoming world emperor!

Stuck in my head...

Ever have a song stuck in your head that you can't get rid of? It's happening to me now. And at 3 in the morning too!

For some inexplicable reason, I have the song "S.O.S." by ABBA stuck in my head. And for me, that's an OLD SONG (1975, the year I was born!)

I'm not much of an ABBA fan... Mom and Dad liked them well enough to have several tapes and 8-tracks (yes, I said 8-tracks... Nicci, if you wondering what those are, I'll be happy to explain to you at another time!)

But one thing I can say about ol' Benny and Bjorn, they sure know how to write a tune!

Where are those happy days, they seem so hard to find
I tried to reach for you, but you have closed your mind
Whatever happened to our love?
I wish I understood
It used to be so nice, it used to be so good

So when you're near me, darling can't you hear me
S. O. S.
The love you gave me, nothing else can save me
S. O. S.
When you're gone
How can I even try to go on?
When you're gone
Though I try how can I carry on?

You seem so far away though you are standing near
You made me feel alive, but something died I fear
I really tried to make it out
I wish I understood
What happened to our love, it used to be so good

So when you're near me, darling can't you hear me
S. O. S.
The love you gave me, nothing else can save me
S. O. S.
When you're gone
How can I even try to go on?
When you're gone
Though I try how can I carry on?

So when you're near me, darling can't you hear me
S. O. S.
And the love you gave me, nothing else can save me
S. O. S.
When you're gone
How can I even try to go on?
When you're gone
Though I try how can I carry on?
When you're gone
How can I even try to go on?
When you're gone
Though I try how can I carry on?

Now that I've listened to this song on Napster about 50 frickin' times, it's time to go to bed... nite, all!

Update... now I have the urge to buy an ABBA CD! I just can't win!

Home-bound

The nice thing about the State tournament is that it "absolves" you from actually doing other work! So I'm home this morning in my PJs.

Don't worry, I'm not going to be a complete bum. I just needed sleep considering I finally signed off after 11 last night and got home from work at about 2:30 this morning. But I'll check in before heading back to Sioux Falls, where I'll have two games today...

Tri-Valley vs. Lennox (FM 103.1), 2:45 p.m.

Madison vs. Sisseton (AM 1390), 8:45 p.m.

What a game last night between Madison and Lennox! An old-fashioned "back door" play ala Princeton vs. UCLA (95 NCAAs) gave Madison the win! And great performances by White and Fiegen as well as Vlastuin from Lennox. All three players are Division-One bound (White and Fiegen to SDSU in a couple of years, Vlastuin to Drake next year). The fans definitely got their money's worth last night!

Jeff Larson was right... it was the game of the tournament!

Guten Morgen!

Well, I'm up early, since I have a lot to do today. But since I've been through the wringer over the last few days, I thought I'd give you a quick update on how things are going in this pitiful little life. ;)

Work is going as well as usual. We made goal for the umpteenth time in a row, which is good, but I can't help but think that bad things are coming on the horizon. I've been hearing some things about some of the other stations in the company having to reduce staff and even though we're doing well, budget-wise, I wonder if and when it'll hit us. But I shouldn't let things like that bother me, yet. As long as I go out there, and keep doing a good job I should be okay... But I don't think it'd be a bad idea to touch-up the old resume, either!

Other than that, it's going well. I'm broadcasting the Madison and Tri-Valley games on AM 1390 and FM 103.1 this week for the State "A" tournament in Sioux Falls. It'll be a bit hectic, but I have to remember... it beats the hell out of working at Citibank!

Personal life has not been so fortunate. As has been reflected in earlier postings (and one that's been tossed into the virtual incinerator), the woman I love did not return those feelings. And I'll admit I was pretty mad and I said some pretty rotten things to her in order to assuage my broken heart. I should have followed the advice of Abe Lincoln, who suggested writing a spiteful, venomous, hateful letter to that person and then throw it away. But I failed to do that and now I not only lost the love of my life, but a good friend... double bonus points for me! :(

This little episode shouldn't bother me, but it does. It's amazing that I can be so successful in so many areas of my life, yet fail so completely in this one part. I know it's her loss and that I have so much to offer, but at the same time it seems that every time I find someone, it blows up in my face. My buddy Stadem says that the right woman will come along and completely blow me away when I least expect it. Call me cynical, but the only way that I'll probably be "blown away" is if she's wearing a vest stuffed with plastic explosives!

I talked with my friend Genie about this last night. I've been pretty much a loner in affairs of the heart for a long time. I knew something was missing, but it never bothered me because, frankly, you can't miss what you don't have. When I fell in love, it felt like that missing piece arrived and for the first time in my life I felt whole. And it felt GOOD! And now that it's gone out of my life again, I'm more miserable than ever. And I question a) Will I ever find that missing piece in my life again? and b) Do I even DESERVE such happiness? At this point in my life, both are a resounding "NO".

I'm doing a lot of thinking now... I feel like saying "To Hell With This" and running away and not letting anyone know where I am. A fresh start, if you will... No work stress, no family stress, and no Nicci. Especially no Nicci. But as pathetic as it sounds, I'll probably just stay here and mope.

Jackrabit1, Career Counselor.

Every once in a while, I go onto a message board that discusses broadcasting, the trends, and stuff like that. And while 95-percent of the stuff on there is nothing more than jerks "flaming" on other announcers, managers, owners and the like, you do find some good nuggets and some honest-to-goodness folks that are seeking advice.

Case in point... a radio newbie named Jackie posted this question:

I'm a new person in radio. I see, hear and read a lot of negatives about the radio industry. What can be done to bring passion back into radio? Better yet, what can I do so I don't lose my passion?

A great question and to-the-point! So I posted this response...

I'll probably get ripped a new one for this, but you need to remember that at the end of the day, it's not about how funny the bit was or how many callers called in for the tickets you gave away. When it's all said and done, it's about the DIFFERENCE that you make to that one person.

It's easy to get wrapped up in all the details... the salespeople that seem to make unreasonable demands... the general manager who doesn't know thing one about broadcasting... the folks who are all about "the bottom line". But we have to remember why we got into the business in the first place... to entertain, to have fun, but most of all, to make a difference.

It could be making that one person laugh when they've had their butt chewed seven ways from Sunday. It could be playing that one song that convinces someone to call their spouse and make up after the big fight. It could be convincing that one person to donate the final dollar that helps a family devastated by cancer help make their lives a little bit easier.

We are in a powerful medium... and no matter what forces like consultants, Clear Channel, and the FCC may try to do, in the end, it's about making a difference.

I've been in Radio for 5 years. I've been frustrated, aggravated, spat on, cussed out, and ripped off. But I've also made good friends, had great belly-busting laughs and have enjoyed the HELL out of my career! If I still feel that way after 15 or 20 years, I'll truly be blessed.

It's good advice no matter what profession you're in. Whether you're in broadcasting, banking, or automotive service, if you can remember that you're making a difference and have fun doing it, then it's easy to keep the passion in your job. If you can't, no amount of money is going to make you love it more. And you're not doing you or anyone else any favors.

What do you think?

Counting Blessings...

I know I have a lot to be grateful for... good friends, loving family, and a kick-ass job in radio just to name a few.

But is it wrong to want more? To crave and long for more in my life? Not the material things, but things like love, romance, even a family of my own.

Does that make me a bad person? Should I just be happy with what I have now and leave it at that?

Thoughts? Comments?

3-bucks?!?

From the things that piss me off department...

Usually it's things like politics and getting stood up that burn my balding head. But THIS takes the cake... or in this case, the bread!

I like Potato Bread. It's tasty, it's dense and holds up well for toast and for sandwich-making (especially with my heavy-handedness on spreading the sandwich-y goodness). I like Old Style Potato Bread. It costs a bit more than Wonder Bread, but I figure if I gotta eat it, I want it to be good (I'm such a simple creature!)

Sunday, I was in Sioux Falls with Mom, doing a little shopping and even catching a movie (By the way, "Juno" is excellent! Not a sappy romance or some schmaltz like that). Before the movie we go to a mega-store so I can do a little grocery shopping... not going to tell you the name but it rhymes with "Wall Marte!"

I go to get my ever-lovin' potato bread... and it's 3 BUCKS A LOAF!!!

HUH?

GAH!

WTF!!!!!

So much for "Low, Low Prices." That must be reserved for the crap they import from China!

Cleanup...

So why, oh why did I do it?

I probably broke a cardinal rule in blogging, I deleted one of my own postings. I'll probably go to blogger's hell for it.

But frankly, it wasn't so much a legitimate posting, as it was me throwing a temper tantrum. Hey, I get just as mad as anyone else, and I acted (and wrote) before I thought.

Of course, this decision comes after a weekend of reflection, not to mention copious amounts of Vodka and Bud Light at Pantusso's place... and a pretty funny imitation of me as a "human fire extinguisher!"

But I'm still in pain, I'm still hurting... But I'll be better, stronger, faster... we have the technology! (Apologies to Lee Majors!)

Hoopin' it up...

While I'm waiting to hear the outcome on some important decisions, I'm keeping myself busy with hoops, hoops and more hoops!

First of all, congratulations are in order for the Madison boys for making their return trip to the State Tournament. I'd have to check the record books, but I want to say the last time the Bulldogs made back-to-back state tourney appearances was probably in the 1940s... if anyone knows for sure, please let me know so I don't sound like a moron!

Frankly, I'm glad to see Madsion clicking on all cylinders again. They've had a bit of a rough season with injuries, so they really have only had their full team together for a short while. But you can see the confidence back again, and that was true against Sioux Falls Christian in the Region finals. Definitely makes one forget about that stinker of a last regular season game... oops!

I was just informed that my "fan license" is dangerously close to being suspended... Turns out you can't be a fan and say anything critical about the team-- By that twisted logic, it means I'm no longer a fan of the Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Vikings, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits, the Milwaukee Beers and the Texas State Fighting Armadillos!

But I know that Madison will make a good showing in Sioux Falls next week. And of course, "The Voice of the Bulldogs" will be there... fan license or not! LOL

Speaking of Madison, the Lady Bulldogs have had a rough season. The girls got a new head coach and learned a new style of play. And even though wins weren't plentiful, the girls showed grit, determination and heart--the makings of a good team! And if they can play next season like they played at the end of the season, they're definitely going to turn some heads next year!

But this week, it's all about the ladies, mainly Colman-Egan. The C-E Hawks are the top-seed in this year's Class B tournament and are unbeaten. Augustana signee Cami Koehn has been the sparkplug for this team, as they're looking for their first-ever state title. In many ways, Koehn reminds me a lot of Michelle Amundson, who was a "Miss Basketball" player for Dell Rapids a few years back. Both players make the others around them not only play better, but WANT to play better. THAT's what being an MVP and a leader is all about! But we'll be following them on FM 103.1, so you Colman and Egan folks can put away your poisoned pens!

My Jackrabbits have done well, especially the Lady Jacks. The wrapped up their first-ever regular season Division I conference title and are pretty much a shoo-in for the WNIT later this month. It'd be nice if they could make the NCAA's, but that'll have to wait til next year. As for the men, well, they improved a bit over last year's wreck of a season. Despite not getting many more wins, they stayed in many games, flexed their muscles (thanks to some off-season weightlifting) and now know what it takes to win in Division I men's basketball. Considering the bulk of this year's team was primarily freshman and sophomores, I'm excited to see these salty jacks hit the hardwood next year!

A little chin music?

I was looking at the serious chin fuzz that my friend Cory has sprouted over the winter. And I must say, it reminds one of a young Cat Stevens, minus the radical Islamic politics (Thanks, Erin!).

Makes me wonder if I shouldn't grow some whiskers of my own. I had a goatee for the better part of 5 years before one too many hot summer days compelled me to shave the darn thing off. But with my age, and my propensity to be a little stressed out, would I end up having to dye the damn thing?

And would ladies like the "Distinguised look" compared to looking like a "babyface?"

Of course, I could save a bit on razor blades, too!

Post 101 Update

Seems as though my friend has made up her mind, or is close to it, if her blog is accurate (and it usually is). I'm positive I'll find out this week what her answer is, just a little blurry on what she's decided.

On the other hand, another friend in my life is about to tell me she wants to date me. Well, it's nothing set in stone (her asking), but just a feeling I have.

It's odd... here I was a happy bachelor and now this. One of the more unusual ways to start a Monday!

Post 101

Just took a look at my stats, and I realized that I now have over 100 posts. BUT, that's over the span of 2+ years, so it's rather pitiful in retrospect!

So what shall I talk about today? How about an everything and anything episode of TJD? That sounds about right!

Politics: I've pretty much decided who I'm going to vote for in the Presidential election. And for the first time in my voting life, I'm going for a major party candidate. My selection: John McCain.

Why McCain? I think he's probably the candidate that has the most personal integrity out there. He's not going to speak in broad generalizations like Obama, and he's not going to be a demagogue like Clinton. He's going to speak his mind and call a jackass a jackass if need be. Granted, I may not agree with some of his policies regarding immigration, but he is the least of the three evils in my mind!

Work: Work is humming along as well as can be. We're getting ready for the State Basketball tournaments, which start next week (We're covering Colman-Egan's girls, in case you're curious). Still need a news director, I think poor Matt is getting a little wore down by pulling double-duty on music and news. I did the same darn thing with music and sports a few years ago and I absolutely detested it. I couldn't begin to tell you how many times I threatened Peg I was going to quit!

Last week was a bit rough, though... I had my ass chewed so many times from so many sides, I felt like my butt was a big piece of chewing gum! Parents who think I should be nothing more than a mindless cheerleader and never be critical, bosses who say I need to do more, and announcers who feel put upon. I just about told all three parties to Eff off!

But I did get a computer for my desk so it wasn't all that bad!

Personal: My re-connected friend and I are what I like to call, "Stuck in a Holding Pattern." I feel like she was pushing for me to start up a relationship right away. Of course, I wanted to take it slow, for the first month at least, while I got to know her again and sort through some feelings.

And now that I've done that and made my decision, it turns out I now have to wait. Because she has to sort things out. HUH?!?! You mean she wasn't doing that while I was and I'm getting chided because I was taking my time? SHEESH!

But despite my feelings on this (as well as the advice of several women-friends that told me not to), I'll wait. Yeah, I know, I have no backbone, but I think she's worth it, so much so that I can swallow a little of my self-respect... for the time being! LOL My only fear is that this'll end up like the many job interviews that I've had... the more time it takes to hear back from them, the less likely there will be a positive outcome. Granted this ISN'T a job interview, but the sentiment is still there.

So that's my life in a nutshell, for this week at least. Still getting over this crud in my chest, but I just had a good night's sleep and I feel much better. So much so, I might even do some housework again today.... yeah, right!

Playing the Gadfly

One of the things I like to do is poke holes in people's arguments by using hard cold facts... in other words, slapping them upside the ol haid with them!

Case in point... on the Argus Leader boards, a woman (I'm assuming) is criticizing schools for putting too much emphasis on sports and "Paying coaches too much". Well, I was a coach for a while in another life and I was a little upset by her blanket statement. So I posted this little response...

You know, Buffy, you're right... there's too much emphasis on sports and there's too much money going into sports!

Now, let's break down the numbers... An average high school basketball coach will get a coaching stipend of around $2000 for the season. Some make more, others less, but 2-grand is a good middle figure.

You need at least 10 days of practice before your first game. So figure a minimum of four hours a day for prep work (taping ankles, setting up equipment) as well as a practice. You're looking at a bare bones minimum of 40 hours work before the season starts. Most coaches like the two-a-days so they can get their guys conditioned so you could even add more to that.

Now we get into the season. According to the South Dakota High School Activities Association, the typical basketball season from start to finish is 15 weeks. Take 3 practices a week at 4 hours total (prep and actual practice time) and two games (including travel time, since some coaches are also bus drivers) and you're looking at a bare bones minimum of 22 hours a week.

So we take the pre-season hours, plus the season hours and a coach will total a minimum of 370 hours during the season. Take that by that $2,000 stipend I mentioned earlier and you're looking at compensation of around $5.40 an hour. Last time I checked, minimum wage was set at $5.85 an hour. Of course for some folks, that's too much money to be making!

And I'm leaving out a lot of extra stuff... like videotape research that the coach will do at home on his or her own personal time... Washing team uniforms... going out of town to scout opponent's games. Attending rules meetings, continuous training and coaching clinics and re-certification (most of which is paid out of the coach's own pocket). So tack on another hundred hours and you're looking at $4.25 an hour... no tips either!

So let's see... pre-seson work, regular-season work, dealing with know-it-all fans that think they know everything about basketball because their YMCA 10-year old youth team placed 3rd at Tri-State 20 years ago.. Oh, and I nearly forgot... they also have a full teaching load on top of that, too !

You're right Buffy. These coaches make too much money.

Sometimes I'm just too damn good! LOL

On awards shows...

Well, good readers, we just wrapped up the granddaddy of all awards show, "The Oscars". And according to early figures, ratings for this program are sinking faster than Kelvin Sampson's hopes for the College Basketball Hall of Fame!

So why the drop? Could be a lot of things... the lingering effects of the writer's temper tantru--I mean strike... The fact that America's fastest-growing spectator sport ran so late on Fox. Or perhaps it's something else... something more basic.

I think folks are getting tired of these awards shows trying to one-up each other in terms of oppulence and tacky self-promotion. The long-winded speeches and political appeals by the winners, the overblown tribues, and the arrogance that people will take over FOUR FRICKIN HOURS to watch this claptrap. If I'm going to be watching something for four hours, there'd best be some helmets, shoulder pads, and a good chance someone's getting a bone broken!

Frankly, I was tickled when the Golden Globes went to a press conference format because of the strike. It was quick, to-the-point, and it was frickin' interesting! Hell, I'm probably like most of the viewers and tuned in last night at 10:30... after all, that's when the big awards are presented.

Don't get me wrong, art direction and costumes and best sound mixing by a lesbian asian woman is all interesting, but I think you could have a very nice, 2-hour viewer-friendly program with all the catagories if you cut out the oppulence and self-righteous self back-slapping.

Until the folks in Hollywood get this through their thick, cocaine-addled skulls, the Oscars and other self-important "awards" shows will continue to see their TV ratings drop like the proverbial stone.

Happy Valentine's Day!

I know... I know... I'm a week late! SUE ME!

For all of you in love or who want to be in love... enjoy!

The Baldwin Edict...

Well, it's official... My General Manager says I'm verboten from doing any kind of game broadcast tonight due to the Alec Baldwin-like quality to my voice. I'm to go home after my airshift tonight and go straight to bed...

Anyone care to join me? ;)

Sounding like a Baldwin

Well, it's been fairly eventful over the past few weeks, my friends, so I'll just give you the main points.

Work has been as busy as ever with basketball games, sick announcers, and gymnastics. With the supposed drop-off in games due to the end of the regular season, I figured things would be easier and I'd get a chance to rest my over-taxed voice. The damn flu bug made other plans. So I've been pushing my voice more than it should and with a cold I'm still trying to shake, I'm afraid I may come down with a case of laryngitis.

But I got to do some cool things, like watch Madison win its 14 straight state gymnastics title. What makes it even cooler is that it set a national record. I've been very impressed with the heart and dedication of these athletes. I guess I just became a Madison gymnastics fan!

The personal life has been quite interesting to say the least. A friend from my past has reappeared in my life. We're taking our time reconnecting (and for me to get over some trust issues). I try to tell her hi daily, but sometimes my timing can be a bit off and I end up missing her so I feel like a stalker in that sense. So I feel a little discouraged... I wish my sense of timing was better!

And one of these days I'll shake off my cold... I need to see my lil' Zoey Swee' Pea!

Money (That's All I Want!)

Well, it's official. The rebate checks are coming... as long as you fill out your taxes (if that isn't enough of a stimululs!)

Basically, it works out like this... $600 per person or $1200 per couple (sorry, no "double dipping!") and $300 per kid. So most of us will start getting checks about May (about the time I'm thinking of looking for a new car! LOL).

But who won't get the checks? People who don't make enough money (gotta make at least $3000 a year, no welfare please) and people who make too much money (75-thousand for single folk, 150-thousand for couples). But... The Crypt Blog lists an interesting group of folks who won't be getting the stimulus checks:

Off-the-books earners: Prostitutes, drug dealers and loan sharks may be big indirect recipients of stimulus funds, but they won’t get checks themselves unless they’re reporting their earnings on their 1040s (in which case the lack of rebate checks may be the least of their worries).

Hey, I don't make the news, I just report it... humorous though it may be!

Ghosts...

It seems more and more I'm being visited by ghosts. Not the fake ones like in "Scooby Doo" or the ones in "Ghostbusters" (kick-ass movie, by the way!), but rather the people in my life I figured were off and gone.

Rather amazing... even though I hadn't seen these people, much less TALKED to them in several years, it's almost like time has stood still.

And it has me confused, because I know I caused some of them pain and anguish... and the fact they want anything to do with me is simply amazing. And some want even more.

It reminds me of the song by .38 special... "A heart needs a second chance"... yeah, cheesy 80's pop I know... but it's from the Van Zant family (as in Lynard Skynard Van Zant), so BACK OFF!

Question is, can I convince myself that I deserve a second chance?

Blah....

Ever have one of those days where you feel like telling the world to kiss your ass?

I had one of those days today.

Thank God it's over.

I'm going to bed.

We're talkin' Baseball...

The Twins finally did it... they traded Santana. Not Carlos, genius... Johan. As in "two-time Cy Young Award Winner" and "Roger Clemens without steroids". Not to Boston or the G*dda*n Yankees, but to the Mets. Traded him for four minor-league prospects. I'm surprised Bill Smith and Carl Pohlad didn't ask for a case of baseballs and a bottle of Jack Daniels!

I'm a bit mixed, emotions-wise. For starters, why the Hell didn't we lock up Santana to a long-term contract back in 2006 when he was younger (and infinitely cheaper)? We could have had a helluva rotation this year... Santana in the 1 position, Liriano would be back from Tommy John surgery and fill the 2 role. Boof Bonser would be a solid 3 pitcher, and Baker fourth. Pat Neshek would be a good set-up man and as a part-time starter, while Nathan would come in and close. Forget that jazz, Jack!

Now we're going to have a very untested pitching squad. Santana would have been the captain and keep the young turks in check. Now, we go with Liriano going into the 1 spot... which is tenuous at best because of two factors... 1) Youth and 2) Durability, especially since he's been gone for over a year due to major reconstructive surgery and rehab. Bonser's better I think at the 3 than he would be at the 2. With the absence of Silva, you also lose a solid 2-3 pitcher, and I wouldn't move Baker out of the 4 spot yet. And if Nathan goes bye-bye as expected, I see more fireworks in the Metrodome than Disneyworld on the Fourth of July!

We just spent a butt-load of dough to resign Morneau... why couldn't Pohlad pry open that wallet just a little more to keep Santana? Hell, you're worth over a billion fricking dollars thanks to foreclosing on mom-and-pop farms in the 80's, Carl. You're old... and you can't take it with you when you die so don't start going all cheap in your twilight years. Besides the State of Minnesota is building you a shiny new stadium... you owe them and all the farmers you evicted at least a competitor!

T. Denny... HELP!!!

If I were Bill Smith... I'd be on the horn trying to find some experience for that staff. Not Clemens and his roided butt. But ya gotta find someone. Hell, get Randy Johnson! He's not a 1-starter anymore, but he could be good at the 2 or 3 and he'd also give some stability to that staff.

Okay, so I'm talking out of my backside... but if you're going to trade the golden goose, why not get some instant return? Someone like Coco Crisp out of Boston (and his cousin "Sugar Golden")? Hell, we just lost Hunter to California (which might not be such a bad deal, considering he'd been on the schnide until the last year of his contract). If we're going to be giving up 2,000 fricking home runs this year, why not get someone who can help us level the playing field, offensively?

Okay, now that I've turned off Heidelberger and left Mork and Goeman in stitches at my Dennis Miller-style rant, I'll leave you to your posting... and your grief over a very long season. Anyone care to join me in a "Premo"? Or a Schmidt's "Brown Grenade?"

A thousand miles in one week...

The great Chinese philosopher Confucious once wrote "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." Funny... I didn't know they used that measurement of distance in 2000 B.C.!

In any case, this week's going to feel like a thousand-mile journey for yours truly. We're in the "meat" of the sports broadcast schedule, so the next few days will be busy.

So in addition to my regular stuff, here's what I have going on sports broadcast wise.

Tonight: Madison girls vs. Lennox, AM 1390
Tuesday: Madison girls vs. Sioux Falls Christian, AM 1390
Wednesday: no game, BUT, I get to read for READING ROCKS! 11:00 am Tina Denne's 1st Grade -Madison Elementary
Thursday: Madison boys vs. West Central, AM 1390
Friday: Madison girls at West Central, AM 1390
Saturday: Madison boys vs. Sioux Falls Christian at Dakota Schoolers Classic in Sioux Falls (AM 1390)

So I'm asking all my loyal readers (i.e. Cory, DeLon, "Pantusso")... will someone PLEASE record "NCIS" and "Boston Legal" for me on Tuesday???

Pretty cool...

Got a little tired of the political talk today... so I thought I'd show you this.

No rhyme or reason. It's just pretty darn cool!



Why, oh why, didn't I take guitar lessons!

Legislative Fun and Games...

Back to back posts about public policy... man, I must be getting more serious!

So once again, we begin the three-ring circus in Pierre known as the legislative session. Since we don't believe in career politicians, the session is pretty short... 40 days in odd-numbered years and 35 days in even-numbered years. This year is 35 days, which means less time for those legislatures to play grab-butt with the pages!

Speaking of which, the Legislature finally passed a "Code of Conduct" for themselves this year. Isn't that something? To be able to determine your own rules as well as pay? What other job can you do that BESIDES politics? Anyway, the measure passed resoundingly, with the exception of a few Republicans (including the guy that used to sub for me in Doland, Brock Greenfield) poo-pooing the idea.

Frankly, I'm glad they passed this. A lot of folks say that passing this code of conduct won't prevent such episodes as Dan Sutton and Ted Klaudt. They're probably right, but what I'm glad this thing does is provide some modicum of accountability that our lawmakers can be held to.

That's the key word right there... "Accountability". You go to any profession, be it media (even though I'm not a reporter, per se, I do follow the Code of Ethics set down by the Society of Professional Journalists. When I was a teacher, I had to follow the Code of Conduct set by the South Dakota Department of Education. Doctors, lawyers, even my brother, who is a real estate agent, all have to follow codes of conduct established by the State of South Dakota. If they fail to follow those rules, they are held accountable and can even get stripped of their licenses, certifications, etc. So doesn't it make sense that the folks that are setting up the rules also be subject to the same means of accountability themselves?

Now that the Legislature has established these rules, they're now turning around and trying to do away with the constitutional amendment dealing with term limits. Here's the poop... a legislator can only serve in one particular house for no more than eight years. They can serve in the other house as well as governor, but they are also held to the same 8-year limit for each position. Now soon-to-be term-limited folks like Bill Napoli (R-Rapid City) are whining that the limits "take away a lot of experience."

What arrogance! To think that these folks are the only ones that can do the job! Frankly, I like the idea of "changing the plant water" every once in a while, to get new ideas and new perspectives, instead of the old fuddy-duddies that should have left office but decided to make it a career.

I know what you're thinking... why not let voters do the term-limiting at the polls? Well, because there is precedent with the 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, limiting an elected official (i.e. the President) to just 2 terms. What's good for Dubya, Clinton, and Reagan should be good enough for Napoli, Gassman, and Olson!

Emergency Service by the Wayside?

Being that I'm a native of Dell Rapids, I've been watching with interest the plan to create a rural ambulance district in Minnehaha County.

Here's the story in a nutshell. Most communities in Minnehaha County are served by volunteer ambulance services. These folks donate their time, and in many cases, their money, in order to provide good medical service not only to their communities but the rural parts of the county.

However there's been a problem. The pool of available volunteers is shrinking. It used to be that the folks that volunteered were able to take time off from there jobs should an emergency arise. For example, if the butcher in Dell Rapids was on-call and a call came through, it wouldn't be but a 5-minute drive to the garage and hop in the ambulance. Nowaday, many folks have to work out of town, which makes daytime service difficult, if not impossible. So that volunteer may now have to drive 15-30 minutes just to get to the ambulance, which is pretty impractical.

The County Commission recognized this and gave the services a one-time grant of around $250-thousand so they could hire full-timers to man the ambulances. Still rely on volunteers, but also ensure reliable service. But the County Commission said that the money was a one-time deal to help get the services on their feet.

As a result, several communities, including Dell Rapids, Hartford and Garretson drew up plans to create a special tax district. Essentially, property would be assesed and the funds would help pay for full-time personnel to ensure that there would be reliable ambulance service. Essentially, property taxes would go up $15 per $100,000 of valued property (which is valued significantly lower than market price).

However, voters in Minnehaha county overwhelmingly defeated the proposal in a special election on Tuesday. Basically, these services are now on their own.

Now I'm not one to vote for every single tax increase that comes along. I hate taxes as much as the next person. But at the same time, I see this as being an essential service that is in now in serious jeopardy.

Look, it's like paying insurance. You pay premiums every month, and then pray to God you never have to use it. But there's always those times where something does come up and that service is (usually) there for you. Same principle applies here. You hope you never have to need the ambulance service, but it's good to know it's there. After all, it's not like you're paying for a pool (sorry, AQUATIC CENTER) that you'll never use!

But now these communities are forced to go back to the drawing board. And I wonder... is our desire to be on the cheap going to hurt us in the end? Already we're a humiliating 51st in teacher salaries, we have to claw tooth and nail to get decent schools built, and we have this NIMBY quality whenever someone comes in to offer some economic opportunities.

I'm a fiscal conservative, don't get me wrong. If a project is not worth the cost, I won't vote for it. I think the Sioux Falls was idiotic to try and pass a bond issue for a downtown events center, then turn around and take out a loan to upgrade flood prevention and drainage facilities. And if you can get some private funding involved in some of these projects, all the better! In fact, I joke that the only way that Madison is going to get a proper high school gym is if some old rich person kicks off and leaves an inheritance!

Frankly, what this district was asking was pretty much on the cheap. The newspaper that Cory Heidelberger thinks is evil says it will cost $360,000 to properly fund this service each year. Imagine what Rural-Metro Ambulance or some other for-profit service would charge to cover such a vast area! Frankly, I think the voters turned down one HELL of a deal!

I'm hoping some of my fellow Dell Rapidians and Minnehaha-ites see the light and come up with SOMETHING before people begin to suffer from lack of services.

Disclaimer...

As most of you know, I am the sports director at KJAM Radio in Madison, South Dakota. I would like to take this moment to remind all of you that the views and opinions expressed on this blog are mine and mine alone and do not reflect the thoughts and opinions of KJAM Radio, its parent company Three Eagles Communications, Madison Kiwanis, Cory Heidelberger, the King of Sweeden, MoveOn.org, Fox News Channel, the Loyal Order of Water Buffalo, or the Democrat or Republican Parties.

In other words... MY THOUGHTS ARE MY OWN!

My Top 5

Okay, everyone is doing it... Newspapers, TV Channels, even my blogging friend at Lake Herman is doing it. The insipid Top 10 list of events in the past year/predictions.

So I'm going to buck tradition... and go with my Top 5 best things that happened to me this year!

5) Going on my first vacation in nearly 2 years.

4) Being elected president of Madison Kiwanis.

3) Watching South Dakota State University win its first conference football title in 44 years.

2) Madison making the State Boys' Basketball tournament

and of course

1) The birth of my niece, Zoey!



Now... my top 5 predictions for 2008

5) Zoey turns one year old and signs with the William Morris Agency. (What can I say, she's a cutie!)

4) All opponents from now til March forfeit their games to Madison, allowing the Bulldogs to win their first State Basketball title since 1945.

3) Adrian Peterson becomes the first ever NFL player to rush over 400 yards in a game.

2) A certain sports director in Madison, South Dakota wins the 300-million dollar Powerball lottery. He will give the Madison School District 10-million dollars to build a new gym and name it after T. Denny Sanford. His reason? "It's inevitable!"

And the Number One Prediction of 2008....

1) New News Director... Cory Heidelberger! LOL

Oh, as a bonus... the new Star Trek Movie is such a hit, that it vaults to the top of AFI's top 100 films, gets every single Oscar at the Academy Awards, and create a special one for William Shatner, to say "We forgive you" for Star Trek V! Paramount quickly renumbers all the movies in the series, effectively saying ST: V "never existed!"

Happy New Year, Everyone!

A little Thanksgiving Ha-Ha

Happy Thanksgiving from your favorite Jackrabbit!

SDSU Football

Only one word to describe this team....



CHAMPION

A conversation with a spammer...

Okay, it's not so much a conversation... but it's pretty damn funny!

By the way, I'm sdsu_jackrabbit_fan.

angeltessy1981: Hello, my name is Tessy ,im 26 years Old from New Jersey,single,never been married before, looking for the right man in my life,Hit me back if you care to chat,I am looking for someone who is not materialistic but looking for lasting love. I hope to find a man who is responsible, very honest and open, completely faithful and trustworthy,im ,currently in west africa at the moment,looking forward coming back soon

sdsu_jackrabbit_fan: And you wouldn't want us to send a thousand dollars to Nigeria, by chance!

sdsu_jackrabbit_fan: I've seen this scam... you think people would be smart enough not to fall for it.

sdsu_jackrabbit_fan: Jeez, you're trying to rip people off, can't you be at least a LITTLE creative! This is just being plain LAZY!

sdsu_jackrabbit_fan: But then if you're a thief... work is not in your vocabulary, is it!

More sports stuff...

Okay... it's been a while since we talked sports... so here we go!

1) Vikings... as much as it pains me to say it, the Minnesota Vikings suck. Yesterday, we saw a struggling Eagles quarterback look like the Donovan McNabb of old... simply by playing the Vikes. Perhaps this team can market itself as the new fountain of youth... where washed-up QB's go to feel young again!

But who am I kidding? Three pathetic performances.. two by our QB's and one from our high-priced Offensive Line. It would have been four, but thankfully Tavaris Jackson was out with a hurt pinky finger. This is a team that looks even more unfocused and adrift than during Tice's last year at the Vikings helm. I hate to say it, but the only pressing question come the post-season for Minnesota will be who's responsible for making sure the other players keep their hands off the strippers at the Super Bowl Party!

2) Red Sox... the lovable losers of the 20th Century look to become the Yankees of the 21st Century. This is a team that's caused more choking cases than Anaphylactic Shock! First, the Yankees in 2004 in one of the all-time choke jobs that would make Jake "Raging Bull" La Motta proud! Then it was Cleveland, who had a 3-1 lead in this year's ALCS before Boston decided to wake up and play baseball. Now it was the Rockies, who were more outmatched than if the BoSox were playing the 1976 Bad News Bears (forget Billy Bob! Gimme Walter Matthau!)

Whoever is responsible for keeping Theo Epstein on board as the GM had best be sending the "boy wonder" a ton of Omaha Steaks each and every winter to keep him put! Come to think of it... Theo, how would you feel about coming to Minnesota?

3) College Football... Why do I love College Football? Take a look



Any questions?

Another example of "Congress" being opposite of "Progress"

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,301684,00.html

Man, if this isn't cultural elitism at its worst! Perhaps if NASCAR had Chardonnay sponsors instead of beer sponsors....

Any chance I can get to the ballot box early this year?

Another example of "

Should the Argus have an Ombudsman?

An interesting debate... The paper that my friend on Lake Herman says is peddling smut has been making news lately, fighting for such things as state employee salaries, lists of buddies that hunt with the governor, Mike Rounds' schedule of his family thankgsiving dinner and when he has his bowel movements... hey, it's on the taxpayer's dime!

And apparently some folks feel that if the Argus is going to be the "voice of the people", there should be some accountability. I are one of these people.

Look, I'm not going to say the AL "Speaks for me" or doesn't. But if it's going to go around parading itself as the "champion of the average citizen," isn't it considered reasonable to be held to some kind of public scrutiny, perhaps, even some third-party examination?

Which gives me the idea... an ombudsman!

Okay, I know what you're going to ask... "What the HELL is an ombudsman?" Well, basically, an ombudsman is a person, independent of the media organization that acts as the "voice of the people". They take suggestions, handle inquiries about procedures, and reports them to the masses. If a privately-held cable channel like ESPN can have an ombudsman, why can't a paper that supposedly represents a larger cross-section o f people?

The Boss is Back!

Last Thursday, at the Harvard Square theatre, I saw my rock'n'roll past flash before my eyes. And I saw something else: I saw rock and roll future and its name is Bruce Springsteen. And on a night when I needed to feel young, he made me feel like I was hearing music for the very first time.

Jon Landau, Rolling Stone magazine (1974)

Breaking News... Developing News... and all that Claptrap

The other night I was watching the news with my brother Mike (Yes, folks, my brother actually watches the news! I'm so proud of him!). Normally I'm not a big watcher of the newscasts because I work in radio, which means I get most of my news from our news director. CBS Radio (we're an affiliate) or the Internet.

But I watched KSFY. And in terms of news, they are traditionally decent. However, they started doing this stupid "Breaking News" headliner. Basically it takes one "BIG" story and pretty much re-hashes it to death.

The story they were talking about is a supposed recall coming from Mattel regarding their toys, lead paint and all that. Now I can see how this is a concern, especially for people who have kids. Obviously eating lead paint is not good for you... I'm living proof!

So I figured the best thing would be to do the main story followed up with a local reaction right away. All together, shouldn't take more than 2 minutes. Not only did KSFY spread out the story (by my estimates, 4 minutes of a 22-minute newscast), but they kept repeating it throughout the newscast!

"Our breaking news story tonight"

(5 minutes later)

"In case you're just tuning in...."

(after weather)

"In case you've been in a coma the last 15 minutes..."

(before closing)

"If you are an idiot and was just drooling at the screen for the last 30 minutes..."

Okay, I took a little poetic license... And I can understand how there are some big stories that deserve this kind of attention... Poison Gas Leak... Airline Crash at Joe Foss Field... Emergency Evacuation of Minnehaha County because I had supper at Puerto Vallarta (Okay, make that Lake, Miner, Moody, Minnehaha, and Lincoln Counties). But a toy recall really doesn't warrant that kind of coverage, does it?

To me, it sounds like the "Little Boy who Cried Wolf"

Give me radio news any day!

Of Felons and Football...

Perhaps I'm becoming a “Fuddy-Duddy” in my starting-to-advance years. But I've always believed that if you do something wrong, you should be penalized. It may seem outrageous or unfair, but it serves as good lesson that everyone is accountable for their actions.

Which confuses the hell out of me about the Jerome Hunt thing.

If you've been living in a cave, or out of state, here's the poop. Jerome Hunt was a state champion wrestler from Parker. He was accused and convicted of attempted rape of his teammates. During his legal problems and trial, he dropped out of what would have been his senior year.

Now he's back... at another school anyway.

Hunt is going to West Central, where he is a senior. That's not the issue. I'm all for this young man finishing his education so he can get on with his life. What I have issue with, is the fact that he, a convicted felon, is suiting up for the football team and will more than likely be involved in wrestling.

To me, being involved in high school athletics is a privilege, not a right. I've seen many young men and women being barred from participating with their teams for everything from drinking to poor grades. Frankly, I think a felony conviction would elicit some kind of restriction. But apparently not.

I'm not putting any blame on Kent Mueller, the Trojan Football coach. I've known Kent for a few years. He's a man of principle and follows the rules. My blame rests on the folks who should have put some restriction on this man playing on a high school sports team.

I also have to put some blame on the parents, as it seems they've been “shopping” Mr. Hunt around to different schools as though he were some free agent. Which begs the question.... if they're so concerned about this guy finishing his schooling, why should being involved in sports be such a deciding factor?

To me it reeks of hypocrisy. And I'm a sports director, for crying out loud!

A Couple Good Organizations

When I was younger, I would always watch the telethons that came up on the Sioux Falls stations. Jerry Lewis, UCP, CMN, all that jazz. And my dear mom always said instead of giving money, I should say a prayer.

Prayer is good, but unfortunately it's money that makes the world go round.

Now I'm at a point in my life financially where I can make a monetary contribution. But ONLY to the causes I have a vested interest in. Namely, the United Way and Children's Miracle Network.

The nice part about giving to the United Way is that my money goes to many organizations in my area. Non-political, non-advocacy groups like Little League Baseball and Softball, Lake County Search and Rescue, and Meals on Wheels. And it's only a few bucks out my paycheck, so it's not like I'm gonna miss it... but the impact it makes is long-lasting!

Children's Miracle Network has taken on a more personal note with me. Unless you're some kind of recluse, chances are you know someone or ARE someone who has had to take advantage of the services of CMN. Co-Workers, friends, friends-of-friends... these are just some of the people I know who have been helped by CMN.

The really cool part about CMN, is it's not all about research. Granted, they do give a bit to research and to help buy medical equipment. But all of the money raised STAYS LOCAL. In other words, the money you spend on donations or even on a blizzard for "Miracle Treat Day", stays in the area, and doesn't go to pay for corporate lobster dinners in New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles.

But the personal reason I do it is for a darling niece that I affectionately call "Swee' Pea." Fortunately, she is a healty, (relatively) happy baby girl and has not had any major issues. But you just never know. And while I don't like to think of the worst case scenario, I do take comfort in the fact that Zoey's parents can count on an organization like Children's Miracle Network should something happen in the future.

I'm not much for advocating causes, namely because of the guff I'd get because it's not in the correct "political spectrum". But it's a safe bet you're not going to go wrong with these organizations.

The Press as Billboards

The local paper recently ran an opinion column about press photographers being forced this upcoming National Football League season to wear vests emblazoned with corporate logos. Apparently, this is part of some grand marketing scheme that the NFL cooked up with Canon and Reebok.

Frankly, it stinks to high heaven.

For starters... these journalists are not employees of the NFL. They have to abide by certain guidelines set down by the league, but are not employed by the NFL. Therefore, the idea that they can be "compelled" to be walking billboards is hogwash, especially if said persons do not receive compensation. THEN, you're looking at labor violations, not to mention any working agreements that are already in place!

Someone that wants to treat me like an employee can PAY me like an employee.

Secondly, and I agree with the article on this, it violates the idea of journalists being "objective". Now granted, journalists have done advertisements in the past. And almost every disc jockey appears on radio commercials. Hell, even Charles Osgood and Paul Harvey do commercials! But the big factor is they are not out and about like walking advertisements, being compelled by a company outside of their employ to do so.

I'm just curious... if a photographer from the Associated Press shows up to a game wearing Nike shoes and using an Olympus camera, can the NFL revoke his or her press credentials? As Dennis Hopper once said in a Nike commercial, "Bad things, Man!"

Baseball Galore!!!

If you're a fan of baseball, you're gonna LOVE the next few weeks!

First of all, the District 4B amateur baseball tournament starts this Friday in Salem. Basically, this consists of ALL the teams in the Corn Belt League, all 12 teams.

Because of so many teams, the SDABA decreed that seven teams out of our district will advance to the State Tournament in Sioux Falls, August 8-19. So head on over to Salem! They've done a LOT of renovations to their facility, and it's good small-town baseball.

Oh, and if you go, make sure you have your radio on 103.1 FM!

---

The young bucs are getting their post-season tournaments underway. In Madison, the "Reds" made it to the State 13-14 year old "Teener" tournament which starts this Friday in Flandreau. Howard and Flandreau are also in it as well, so there should be a lot of good baseball going on there. I talked with Rick "The Weapon" Weber last night, who's helping to put this together. I think the poor guy's gonna have his hands full with this tournament, PLUS managing the Flandreau Cardinals in the Districts. But "Weapon" is a gamer and he'll pull it all off and with a big ol' smile on his face!

--

Speaking of last night, Madison legion played some "Marathon" baseball at the Regions in Garretson. They squeaked out a win over Flandreau in an elimination game, and looked to cruise to an easy win over West Central in the championship. But I think the strain of playing 18 innings in sauna-like conditions proved to be too much for the Maroon and Gold as they lost and saw the season come to an end.

A few questions about last night....

*Why does the consolation team have to play back to back games in the same night? Especially when the heat index has been near triple-digits for the last few games... Anyone remember Korey Stringer?

*How difficult is it to find a circuit breaker to shut off the automatic sprinker system? Seriously... 20 MINUTES?!?!

*Just where in the heck did Brady Wiebe get the knack for hitting the long ball? To heck with Barry "BALCO" Bonds... this kid gets a hold of a fat one, you can measure its travelling distance in Astronomical Units!

Dining on Asphalt, Part One

With apologies to Alton Brown!

During the high school sports season, I pretty much live off of take out… of course I do that pretty much all the time! But as I continue to go to different towns, I have a tendency of finding out what places are good, which are bad, and which are downright ugly!

So if you find yourself hankering for a good meal… here are my humble suggestions. I didn’t use any scientific formula to come up with my top choices; these are simply my anecdotal experiences. You may have different opinions, feel free to contribute them!

Best Burger: Commercial Club Burgers, Cadwell Park, Mitchell, SD

These little gems are usually available only during the State Amateur baseball tournament, which is in Mitchell two out of every three years (the other year, it’s in Sioux Falls). There’s nothing fancy about these burgers, EXCEPT the buttered/sautéed/fried/grilled onions that you put on them… a grilled burger, a little ketchup, a whole butt-load of onions, and you’re in burger nirvana… Just make sure you take a breath mint before making out with your sweetheart afterwards!

Honorable mention: Nick’s in Brookings, Jersey’s in Madison

Best Pizza: George’s Pizza, Brookings, SD

Picture this… it’s been a long night of hanging out with your friends in the bars. It’s 2:00 am, you’re tired, but you want something to settle your stomach. You COULD go to one of the Big Box “family” restaurants on the edge of town, but only at the risk of being pulled over by the police. So what do you do?

You head up to the walk-up window at George’s Pizza and get a slice of the all-meat pizza. Actually, make it two… one to eat there and one to eat when you finish walking home. And man is it worth it! FRESH ingredients, HOMEMADE dough and enough toppings during regular business hours to make your eyes bug out! One suggestion, though, get the deep dish!

Honorable Mention: open to suggestions here!

Best Steak: The Old Dutch Inn, Dell Rapids, SD

Living in South Dakota, the steakhouse is as much an institution as the grain elevator. And believe me, there are a LOT of choices here in this area. And they’re all very good. BUT, I have to go with the place where you can get a VERY good steak dinner for just six bucks. And that’s the Old Dutch, back in my old stomping grounds of Dell Rapids.

So how do you get a good sirloin steak dinner for six-bucks? Very simple. Tom (the owner) hand-cuts his steaks, which keeps prices WAY low! There’s more to it, but I’m sworn to secrecy!

Honorable Mention: The Depot, Mitchell, SD; The Moonlite, Madison, SD

MORE TO COME... Keep watching!

Is 60 the new 40?

A few months ago, mein pops turned the big 60.... which means he's just a few scant years away from being at the traditional retirement age.

Thinking of that I've been hearing a new phrase... "Sixty is the new 40". In other words, the thinking of 40 being the traditional start of middle age has now been pushed up another 20 years.

Truth? or Marketing ploy?

I'll grant you the "Baby Boomers" that are joining the afternoon shuffleboard leagues have benefitted more health-wise than the "Greatest Generation". Advances in medicine, plus a focus on staying healthy more than likely means that this group of folks will be around for quite a while.

But as far as statistics go, the average life span in the United States is 72 for men and 79 for women (I wonder why that is? Are men in that much of a hurry to get to the grave before women? LOL). So unless we see a massive uptick in centigenarians within the next 20 years or so, I think sixty is going to remain sixty.

What do you think?

To "jock" or not to "jock"?

Hello... I'm jackrabit1... I'm 32 (at the end of the month)... single... and I'm a disc jockey.

Or am I?

Officially, I am considered an "on-air announcer," at least that's what I put down on my 1040 this year. But there are other terms... "on-air personality", "disc jockey", "boss jock", and probably a few I haven't heard.

"Disc jockey" is a bit outdated... unless you're work at a college station or a station that still believes in turntables and reel-to-reels! Most radio stations now have their libraries on computer, usually arranged with some type of scheduling software and played over the computer with a program like Simian or Smartcaster. Some stations even go off satellite 24-7, using programming from such providers like Westwood One, Jones Radio Network, or ABC, just to name a few. Happily, we use live announcers, with some satellite programming at night or sports.

"Personality" is a bit of a misnomer... at least in my case! When I hear "personality" I think of Howard Stern, Opie and Anthony, or any of those adult-oriented folks that seem to make their livings off sex and fart jokes. Sex and fart-jokes are fine in their place, hell, I'll tell them; off-air! Another thing about "personalities"... they tend to wear out their welcome pretty darn fast. As the butler said in the 1995 movie "King Ralph", "Today's breath of fresh air can quickly become tomorrow's foul wind". See Cory, I used quotes and everything!

"Announcer" is a bit dry... but it's accurate.

I guess, though, that I've been calling other announcers "jocks". And I used to think "jocks" was a bit of a demeaning, like I was some sort of trained monkey just playing songs. But as I've started to become a student of the history of broadcasting, listening to old clips and reading about such disc jockeys as "Wolfman Jack", "Cousin Brucie", Rick Dees, Shadoe Stevens, Charlie Tuna, Ralph Emery, and "Murray the K", I realize "jock" is not a bad term... it has a history of fantastic announcers, a heritage of some of the most influential voices and their music. I guess you can say, I'm taking back the term... as a term of affection, of course!

But I'll still use "on-air announcer" on my 1040 next year!

It happened...

Elijah Page Executed

South Dakota's first execution in 60 years... wow.

For those of you thinking there was some celebration of this act, there wasn't. He paid his debt. Simple as that.

No gloating... just closure.

Some more....

So here's some more stuff that's been floating around the ol' brain-box.

1) Fred Phelps... Okay, who is this guy? Some demented little crackpot who's rooting for our enemies because, get this, we are tolerant of homosexuals! Dude, up your dosage!

I consider myself an almost religious person. I try to follow the principles of my faith, although I don't get to church as much as my dear, departed grandma would like. But I guess the God I believe in is a God of love and who does not hate. So when I see signs like "God Hates F@gs", I really get upset. And these inbreeders even go and protest at soldiers' funerals!!!

Let me get this straight... because of your beliefs, you're going to go and preach your hateful message to families who are hurting and in pain because they lost a loved one... That is sick and sad. What a bunch of morons!

2) New Projects in South Dakota... It's funny. 15 years ago, a popular publication called us the "outback" of the United States... elitist pricks! But it seems we're in position to become a major economic player outside of just agriculture.

It looks like we're about to become a major leader in childrens' medical research, thanks to the Sanford initiative, we have the natural resources to become the "OPEC" of wind energy, a new oil refinery that'll bring oil down from our good ol' friends to the north in Canada, and now the announcement today that Western South Dakota is going to get its props with the old Homestake Mine being named the new site of the National Underground Lab and South Dakota could be a real economic player.

3) This weekend... two things about this weekend... Lemonade and CCR! I actually bought a CCR greatest hits CD this weekend (only 12-bucks at Pamida!). Since it was going to be too hot out of doors last week, I needed a little musical diversion...

The 60's had a lot of breakthrough groups and performers... the Beatles, The Who, Janis, Jimi, Clapton, Jefferson Starship, and more. And I think Creedence Clearwater Revivial gets lost in that mix. There's nothing fancy about their music... it reminds me of a group of friends jammin out on a front porch and there's a group of folks sitting around in lawn chairs or on the ground and sipping their favorite adult beverage.

But they influenced quite a few "roots rockers", Eagles, Springsteen, Mellancamp, and even Tom Petty. And they didn't use reverb, or distortion or re-mixing... just straight ahead, clean rock and roll. And I love anything that is NOT pre-produced!

Oh, and my drink of choice this week... Country Time Strawberry Lemonade! Yum! Unfortunately Jubilee was out of it when I stopped on on Sunday, so if anyone sees it on the shelves, could you drop me a line? Thanks!

Head On... apply directly to the forehead!!!

Okay, so I'm in one of those surreal moods! And time for some more "Random Thoughts."

1) Leg Cramps... Got one about 3:30 a.m.... It takes a lot to get me to sail like a sailor. Like a leg cramp. I'm surprised I didn't wake up the whole of Madison! Or my blogging friend out on Lake Herman!

You know, there are about as many theories about what causes leg cramps as there are JFK assassination theories. All I know is I was walking like a goober today because of it. Leg Cramps Suck!

2) Death Penalty... Believe it or not, I'm not quite sure about this anymore. On one hand, there's the whole deterrent thing, which holds about as much water as a colander. On the other hand, there's the "being much better than the criminal" argument. Which is a bit silly, because we are not committing crimes or going around killing people for no good reason!

Frankly, I'd like to be a heartless bastard. Ship em all to Alaska, no cable TV, no porn, just 3 basic meals and 12-hours of hard labor a day. That's all they deserve. And if they escape... well, good luck with the bears!

3) Bush pardon of Libby... Dubya, you gotta take a lesson from your predecessor... If you give a pardon, make sure that person gives a nice fat contribution to your Presidential library (or your wife's Senate campaign!)

4) Zoey... Every since my niece was born, I've had her picture on my cell phone. Whenever I get stressed or feel like crap, I just flip open my phone and there she is in all her newborn cuteness. Best medicine in the world!

Random Thoughts...

Some things that have been floating round the ol' Jackrabit's noggin.

1) Paris Hilton...proof that all you need to make it in this world is a sex tape, skanky clothes, skanky attitude, and a DUI! Oh, and a public more concerned with "Bread and Circuses" than with other issues. Still readin' that Bible, girlie? Or are you using it as a drink coaster!

2) Isaiah Washington...a sad example that you can do everything expected of you... make apologies left and right and figuratively castrate yourself at the altar of political correctness and it doesn't amount to a tinker's damn in their eyes. Funny... I thought the "Politically Correct" bunch was all about tolerance and acceptance; I guess that doesn't include apologies. Keep fighting the good fight, amigo! Take these hypocrites to task!

3) Video Game Addiction... I heard a report where a young man was spending an unreal time playing video games. The parents took away the game and he went ballistic, starting to trash the house. They relented and gave him back his games.

What a pair of wimps! If it was my kid pulling that crap, I would have back-handed him! In a non-closed hand fashion, of course (don't want some to think I'm advocating child abuse!) Addiction to video games? What a crock! Some made-up term some out-of-work therapist cooked up to drum up more business. To me, it's a matter of setting boundaries and the parents failing MISERABLY.

4) Congress... we rail about how Bush has such lousy numbers... turns out Congress has an approval rating of 14-PERCENT!!! Those who live in glass houses, I guess.

That's all for now... stay tuned!