One helluva Obit!

When I die, I hope I have the same sense of humor as this guy!

DOUGLAS -- A celebration of life for James William "Jim" Adams, 53, will be held at a later date.

He died Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2008 at Memorial Hospital of Converse County in Douglas.

Jim, who had tired of reading obituaries noting other's courageous battles with this or that disease, wanted it known that he lost his battle. It was primarily as a result of being stubborn and not following doctor's orders or maybe for just living life a little too hard for better than five decades.

He was born June 8, 1955 in Garrison, N.D. the son of James William and Ruby Helen (Clark) Adams.

He was sadly deprived of his final wish, which was to be run over by a beer truck on the way to the liquor store to buy booze for a date. True to his personal style, he spent his final hours joking with medical personnel, cussing and begging for narcotics and bargaining with God to look over his loving dog, Biscuit, and his family.

He would like to thank all "his ladies" for putting up with him the last 30 years.

During his life, he excelled at anything he put his mind to. He loved to hear and tell jokes and spin tales of grand adventures he may or may not have had.

He is survived by five sons, Jeremiah Adams and his wife, Nicole, Mica Olivas, Wade Olivas, Brice Simpson and Cole Adams; sister, Jerri Giegerich; two ex-wives, Vickie Harrison and Marilyn Williams; four grandchildren; two nieces; and two great-nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law.

In lieu of flowers, he asks that you make a sizeable purchase at your favorite watering hole, get rip roaring drunk and tell the stories he no longer can.

Casper Star-Tribune Online, September 15, 2008

Rest in Peace, Jim. And thanks for one final laugh.

P.S. And who says death isn't funny!

IT'S ALL OUR FAULT!!!

For those of you numbed with all the wonderful business news as of late, this'll come as a nice little wake-up call.

IT'S ALL OUR FAULT!

The Housing crisis? The Business bail-outs? The general gloom and doom that seems to be hitting Wall Street? Our fault! High Taxes? Lower standards of living? Our fault, too!

Health Care Crisis? Credit Card Debt? Look in the mirror and you'll find the problem.

I'm serious! We are rocketing away from being the independent, self-reliant pioneers of our forefathers and becoming co-dependent crybabies. We've abandoned our sense of accountability for feel-good politics and talking heads promising "Change".

Want proof? Okay.

Housing Crisis... Sub-prime mortages. People borrowing more than they can afford because the rates were so low. What they forgot to do was look at the fact those interest rates were VARIABLE, meaning they change. So when rates changed upwards, people had to pay more, and they got in debt deeper and deeper til the banks started to foreclose.

Debt... Two words, credit cards. I used to work at Citi, so I know all about interest rates, penalties, and the like. When I got a credit card eariler this summer, you best believe I made DAMN SURE I read the fine print.

Some people figure it's free money and charge like the Light Brigade in the Crimean War. And with about the same results, too! The average American has $6000 of credit card debt. And you can forget making the Minimum Payments. That only pays for the interest and a miniscule part of the actual debt. So if you're making minimum payments, you're paying through quite a few orifices for years! But hey, it's free money!

Priorities... It's funny... When times are good, money is secondary to our desires and impulses. It is only when we find ourselves in financial straits that we really take a look at our finiancial priorities. Hell, it happened to me and it was a damn good wake-up call. But some others are oblivious to this fact and continue to spend, and charge, and blow their money on wants and not on needs (like health insurance, mortgage payments, retirement, etc.).

Then when the crap hits the fan, they cry poor and ask the taxpayers for a handout!

I realize there are some people with real problems, and this is not geared toward them. But when you are making millions of dollars a year and you're crying poor, perhaps you best re-think the need for 15 houses and 200 cars! It's called living on a budget, people. Try it sometime. You just might surprise yourself. I sure as hell did!

Health Care... People complain that our health care system is in the tubes. Despite the fact we are among the world's leaders in medical innovation. Granted, not every job provides health care. But if that's the case, shouldn't you include at least some major medical coverage in your budget or better yet, find a different job? Or perhaps you can get medical coverage, only to turn it down because you can't swing that and your Jet Ski payments. Hello? Priorities, anyone?

And speaking of which, one of the biggest health issues today is obesity. Now granted, I wasn't always the picture of health, but I'm getting in much better shape and nipping this thing in the bud before I develop real problems. How many times a week do you eat fast food? When's the last time you turned off the TV and took a walk around the block? We're due for a major health care crisis and it's our own making. Dumb! Dumb! Dumb!

These are but a few of the issues. I could go about more but the simple fact is there is no politician, government program, or politcal party that is going to solve all this crap. The solution lies within us and our resolve to improve our finances, our lives, our way of life.

THAT'S when we'll have REAL change in this country... change for the BETTER!

Things to do today...

Treadmill workout... check

Lift... will do tonight

Interview coaches... 2 down, 2 to go.

Convince Cory Heidelberger and Todd Epp to join the Libertarian Party... um.. ah... Bridget, hold my calls. This might take a while!

Infiltrate and Conquer!

Some political thoughts as I was doing my morning run...

With the struggles that the Libertarian Party has in getting its name out and getting funding, I'm thinking it's about time that the party members look at other tactics.

By this, I mean infiltrating and conquering the Republican Party.

In the late 1970s-early 80s, the Republican Party was hijacked by the so-called "Moral Majority", who wanted government to pretty much enforce their religious views onto laws and government. Kinda like Iran, without the terrorism.

Now don't get me wrong, I don't like prohibiting religion out of public discussion. But to force-feed it down our throats is just as asinine.

But what the Moral Majority did is split away from the idea that Government should stay out of people's lives. And they've been firmly entrenched in power for the past 20+ years.

Frankly, I think they've worn out their welcome.

The nice thing about the Libertarian Party is that it says government needs to stay out of people's lives as well as their pocketbooks. Heck, even Ronald Regan said the Republican Party was established in Libertarian roots.

But sadly the party has lost its way. The party of individual freedom and limited government has continued to grow during Dubya's reign. And it's driven a lot of people away.

I think the true Republicans would welcome a return to more Libertarian ideas. I doubt the Democrats would be so key on goverment getting out of our checkbooks.

But hey, a Libertarian can dream, can't he?

So my Libertarian brothers and sisters, lets raid the Republicans, inflitrate the party and TAKE IT OVER!!! The Dems and the "Moral" Majority don't stand a chance!

Two Mantras...

I have a couple of mantras that I use when working out... motivational phrases, I guess.

One is from a British movie that I'd like to see and as soon as I have some money, I'll rent it...

"Run, Fat Boy, Run!"



The other is one of our slogans at Three Eagles..

"No Excuses! No Complaints! Find a Way!"

Impressive enough, but imagine it in the voice of Louis Gossett, Jr. ala "An Officer and a Gentleman!"



Is it any wonder why I've lost over 80 pounds? LOL

The last time...

The last time I stepped on a scale was back in 1999.

George W. Bush was the governor of Texas.

Bill Clinton was President

And I weighed 250 pounds, according to my D.O.T. Physical

Fast forward a few years, I probably gained another 20-30 pounds and got up to about 270-280 pounds before I got sick and tired of being sick and tired and started working out.

This morning, I broke my 9-year scale-less streak and stepped on the scale.

This morning I weighed 196 pounds... 11 pounds more than I weighed in high school fifteen years ago.

WOW.

I'm still in shock.

Political thoughts...

Short post today.

I consider politics and politicians like diapers... Always on your ass and full of shit!

Happy Electioneering, kiddies! Vote Libertarian!

Mail Filters

Added another person to my e-mail filter on GMail today... basically, that means I'll never receive another e-mail from them ever again. And good riddance, too!

He knows who he is, and he knows why.

He's not worthy of anymore recognition than that.

The Miracle Man....

My friend De Lon Mork... if there is anyone directly responsible for Miracle Treat Day's success... it'd be him.



That, and he's a helluva barber! :D

A sense of peace...

With finalizing schedules, trying to get board ops to come to meetings, and dealing with people who want me to document every time I take a nap, I can get a little overwhelmed. Add on to that my relationship issues, money issues, and family issues, and I can be one stressed-out Jackrabbit!

But tonight... a sense of peace. Something I haven't had for a while.

Today I got all my stuff done at the station... on time I might add! Then a quick change into my workout gear (note to self... time to do a load of laundry!) and a jaunt over to the Community Center.

I was able to get some lifting in tonight... something I hadn't been able to do last week since I was overworked and under-rested. A hard walk/run on the treadmill and I was looking like I just stepped out of the rain!

Then home for a quick shower, a quick supper (Lemon Chicken Piccatta... from Weight Watchers), and a little chatting with friends and for a while, all my stress is inconsequential. Not a bad feeling, mind you.

Of course, in three months, I'll be going on a week's vacation. I'm pretty sure I'll be heading out to Wisconsin to spend time with my family. To be honest, I'm kinda looking forward to taking my new car out and getting some good mileage on her. But I need to replace the antenna cable so I can actually listen to the radio! LOL

The last time I saw my aunt and her family was when Grandpa Hendrickson passed away. That's one of my big regrets, not spending more time with Grandpa. But when you're an 8-hour drive from him, a quick jaunt over to visit wasn't very feasible. But I've been to Nasville twice, to Chicago twice; there's no good reason why I can't pack up the Malibu and hit the open road to Sturgeon Bay!

But as much as I'm looking forward to seeing my family, I'm looking forward to the drive itself. To be able to spend 8 hours with me and my thoughts... there's a certain peacefulness in that solitude. That, and listening to my Bruce Springsteen and Buck Owens CDs! LOL

In fact, I feel so peaceful now, I think I'll turn in.

Sleep well.

The Shaving of the Head!!!!

Today's the Day!

1:30... in front of the KJAM Studios... The locks come off!

Such a grand number, too... 12,347!

I figure if I'm going to lose my hair, it might as well be for a good cause. Helping sick kids and their families is definitely worth a couple of hundred good karma points.

But seeing as I slept in and puttered around the house this morning, I'm REALLY late for my workout! So I'll see y'all when I get back!

12,347!

Incredible!

12,347 Blizzards sold in ONE DAY at the Madison Dairy Queen for Miracle Treat Day!

And in keeping with my promise to De Lon, I'll be going sans hair shortly.

Pics coming shortly!

Virus Warning...

Usually when I hear about virus warnings, I pass them off as hoaxes, or refer to Snopes.com.

But this is a bit more serious, and the fact that this message comes from CNN.com means it's a real threat.

So, if you get anything that claims to be from CNN.com, "CNN top 10" or "CNN Custom Alert," DO NOT OPEN IT!!! It contains Malware.

My good deed for the day, I guess!

What do we deserve?

Being that I've been busy with the State Amateur Baseball Tournament, working my second job, and helping Mom get settled into her new place, I haven't had the time this weekend to keep tabs on politics.

However, whilst checking messages last night, I came across this little nugget... Tim Johnson, senior U.S. Senator, has decided not to debate his Republican challenger Joel Dykstra in this year's election. Instead, it seems the esteemed politician is going to do his debating in 30-second ads instead.

Brother!

First, Johnson's operatives start spying on non-candidate Steve Kirby and starts throwing about a bunch of crap about him... AND HE NEVER MADE THE DECISION TO RUN!!! Now "King Tim's" goons say that Dykstra, a legitimately-nominated major party candidate hasn't earned the right to debate Johnson. Don't believe me? Here's an exceprt from this Sunday's Argus Leader.

In light of the fact he did not post an overwhelming primary victory and has not yet raised a notable amount of money, “a lot of people in South Dakota are saying Dykstra hasn’t earned it,” [Steve] Jarding says of debates.

Johnson staffer: Senator decided not to debate; Dykstra 'hasn't earned it'.Sioux Falls Argus Leader, August 10,2008.

What ARROGANCE!!!

Tell me Steve, what about the South Dakota voters? Don't we deserve a debate between these two candidates? Don't we deserve to find out what the candidates believe in and what their philosophies are? Don't we deserve to get some answers, and not in a slickly-produced 30-second sound bite?

Makes me wonder... Does Steve also believe we don't deserve such things as a public discourse between political candidates? Is Johnson's name so sacred and holy, he's above the nasty discourse that is debate?

Hell, maybe we don't deserve to vote... just move along with "King Tim's" coronation and to Hell with the opposition!

Hey Steve, maybe we don't deserve the Constitution, either!

I'm a Libertarian, but I've thought Johnson has been a pretty decent person. He's a Democrat, yes, but I think if he were from California, he'd be considered a Republican... at least from the MoveOn.org nutjobs! This is disturbing. Granted, he's had health issues, but one of the requirements for the job is that he needs to face his opposition and stand up for his beliefs. If he doesn't, how can we be sure that he won't do the same when it comes to debating in the Senate?

His campaign staff also seems to have closed ranks... no interviews with the local media, but a national interview exclusive instead. No debates, and insulting the oppononent where no criticism is warranted. Not to mention the intimidation tactics of a non-candidate. Frankly, Johnson's staff seems less like a support staff, and more like the "Blackshirts" of the Nazi SS.

I doubt Tim Johnson reads this little blog, but some of his "thugs" might. Let me tell you this. NO ONE is above accountability in South Dakota politics. If you don't believe me, just ask George McGovern (defeated in 1980), Larry Pressler (defeated in 1996), and Tom Daschle (defeated in 2004)!

And for those of you "Political Consultants" (i.e. Political Hit Men) that might want to attack me, I'll tell you right now... the only thing on my criminal record in the past six years is a speeding ticket I got in Arlington. And a warning just a few months ago north of Dell Rapids. Good luck with my character assassination on that one, morons!

Random things...

This has been one of the more eventful weeks, to be sure!

State Amateur Baseball is underway. Tomorrow is going to be a test of endurance. Two games in Mitchell, then roar to Dells to host araoke. Yikes! I'll be sleeping good that night!

Congratulations to two of my cousins. One is a new mother, while another his girlfriend are now engaged. Perhaps I'll make it to THAT wedding! LOL

No comment from you-know-who... but then again, I blocked her address from my main e-mails too. OOPSIE! Guess I get the last word after all!

Kinda tough in the marriage department for a couple of friends of mine as they're going through or just starting divorces. It's a bummer, but when the divorce rate in the US is hovering around 50%, the averages are sure to play out sooner or later!

I'm starting to think about another vacation. Especially after the diaster that was Chicago and with you-know-who. I'm thinking of either heading out to the Black Hills for a week, or taking a tour of Door County and visiting relatives. Last time I saw Steve and Chloe was Grandpa Hendrickson's funeral 10 years ago. That's WAY too damn long! I'm making it a point to take a week off after basketball and a week off after football to give myself a chance to refresh and recharge my batteries. That way I'm not so damn cranky all the time!

Took a trip to the Sioux Empire Fair to see Little Big Town and Jake Owen. Jake was excellent, LBT was a bit off. But then one of their leads was sick so that can throw you off. But I had a good time and it was a blast hanging out with my brother Mark. I haven't had a chance to do that too much lately.

Nothing yet in terms of prospects in the dating horizon. I WOULD like to get married and have a family BEFORE I'm too old to remember any of it! LOL

That's about it for now. Stay Groovy!

Playlist #1

So what does a Jackrabbit listen to while he's working out? Here's one of my playlists that I listen to on my phone/mp3 player.

1. "A Girl Like You"-The Smithereens
2. "Why Can't I"-Liz Phair
3. "Perfect Situation"-Weezer
4. "Follow You Down"-Gin Blossoms
5. "Behind the Wall of Sleep"-The Smithereens
6. "Black Magic Woman"-Santana
7. "The Rising"-Bruce Springsteen
8. "The Promised Land"-Elvis Presley
9. "Hazy Shade of Winter"-The Bangles
10. "The Wicker Man"-Iron Maiden
11. "Time Won't Let Me"-The Smithereens
12. "Blues Before and After"-The Smithereens
13. "Hold On"-Santana featuring Ian Thomas
14. "Brilliant Disguise"-Bruce Springsteen
15. "Gimmie Some Lovin'"-Spencer Davis Group
16. "I Feel Love"-Blue Man Group
17. "I Want To Hold Your Hand"-The Smithereens
18. "The Devil"-Hoyt Axton
19. "Dancing in the Dark"-Bruce Springsteen
20. "I'd Wait a Million Years"-Grass Roots
21. "The Letter"-Joe Cocker
22. "London Rain"-Heather Nova
23. "Open Invitation"-Santana
24. "Mary's Place"-Bruce Springsteen
25. "Lonesome Day"-Bruce Springsteen
26. "She's Not There"-Santana
27. "Born in the USA"-Bruce Springsteen
28. "Human Touch"-Bruce Springsteen
29. "Jingo"-Santana
30. "Soul Sacrifice"-Santana
31. "Lucky Town"-Bruce Springsteen

Okay... so it's a little heavy on the Santana, Springsteen and Smithereens. But that's just one playlist, mind you!

Can't sleep....

Frustration, disgust, anger.

Is it work? Is it family? Is it me?

Is it her?

Or is it regret?

Am I still a good person?

Will I go to Hell?

Is this the best that my life is going to be?

Or is there something, someone, out there for me?

Will I ever be able to tell another woman "I Love You?"

Could I stand another heartbreak?

Will they bury the hatchet without burying it in each other's skulls?

Will we ever bury the hatchet without burying it in each other's skulls?

Can I just move on and forget this whole last week?

Do I just need a day off?

I feel like such a phony and a hypocrite.

I'm tired.

The last hurrah...

She sent an email today... probably to get her last digs in on me.

I deleted it without even opening it.

I'm so proud of myself.

Sports and Politics Don't Mix

Recently, a colleague of mine in Sioux Falls had to make an on-air apology during his sports talk show when he made the comment about America having (or is it being?) terrorsts. This came during a discussion over Becky Hammon's decision to play for Mother Russia during the Olympics.

Some in the Blogosphere would think that the announcer shouldn't have to apologize for exercising his First Amendment right. And if the program was one of the millions of politcally-based talk shows out there, I'd agree (even if he was dead wrong). BUT from a programming standpoint, he is clearly in the wrong.

Sports talk shows stir up plenty of controversy. Just listen to "Mike and Mike" or watch "Pardon the Interruption" and you'll probably want to strangle one or both hosts at one point or another during the program. Hell, Jim Rome has made a career out of tweaking die-hard fans. But what you won't see in these programs is politics.

While we will disagree vehemently about our sports teams and our athletes, we tend to normally keep the discussion civil, friendly, and funny... unless you're a Packers fan; then you're just obnoxious! But we all agree that a political discussion has no place in our little world of sports. We cringe when Congress holds Steroid hearings (don't they have anything better to do, like trying to do something about the gas prices?), and we boo lustily when politicians throw out the first pitch at a ball game. Why are we so vehement about this?

Simple.

Sports, for all intents and purposes, is a diversion. It's a way for fathers and sons to find common ground when they disagree about everything else. It's an opportunity to forget about all the ugliness that is in the world and in our lives and to take in the sights, sounds, and pure joy in the action of a baseball game, a boxing match, or a basketball game. It's a great way to take three or so hours and "take a break" from reality.

When someone puts politics into the mix, it disturbs us... "harshes our mellow" as it were. It brings that ugliness back into what is (normally) a pure and beautiful thing. And frankly, we don't need it.

Politics celebrates our failures and thrives on what is bad in our lives. Sports celebrate our accomplishments and thrives on what is good and decen in our lives. Things like sportsmanship, giving maximum effort for maximum gain, and battling through what seems like a hopeless situation to come out victorious.

Let Limbaugh, Boortz, Schultz, and O'Reilly keep the politics on their shows, and keep it out of our sports!

I'm 33!

Buy me a beer... take me out to dinner... send me money... It's my birthday today!

Bringing out the worst in me...

You know how you can be a totally cool and even-tempered person one minute, then become a complete jerk the next? It's happened to me.

Usually it's due to certain people in my life. Whether it's because they've hurt me or whatever, I become a first-rate ay-hole whenever I'm around them.

It's not pretty... It's not right... but it happens.

I'm not making any excuses for my behavior. I think it's a self-defense mechanism to keep myself from being hurt by these people again. Still, I should be the bigger man and not let them get to me. I guess you can call this my mea culpa.

In any case, I'm going to follow the advice of Bill O'Reilly and stay away from these negative people. I'm finally where I want to be emotionally and I don't need or want these vampires taking away from my good vibes.

Party on, Dudes!

INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!

Today, I celebrate my Independence Day!

I'm free from that person forever!

I'm free from feeling like an inferior... I'm free from her criticisms... I'm free from her manipulation of my emotions.

I'm free from comparing other women to her and wondering if they'll be the same way as her.

I'm free to have my opinions, to have my taste in music, literature and movies.

I'm free from ever having her make me feel like less of a person. She will never have that hold over me again for as long as I live.

I have no more feeling for her.

I AM FREE!!!!

Garbled Communications

I must make a correction...

I had mentioned a certain person, who shall remain nameless, wanted me to die of a heart attack... this is inaccurate.

She wants me to die in a fire instead.

Lousy Motorola Cell Phone!

Well, considering I'm not a little pyro like she is, I doubt I'll be a crispy critter anytime soon... unless I forget sunblock at the games this weekend! LOL

As I approach B-Day...

I must be getting old... it's still a week from my birthday and I'm already getting contemplative! It always seems like I'm this way, as July 31st rolls around.

As I wrap up my 32nd year on Planet Earth, I must say it's been an interesting time.

I've made some new friends, lost some old ones.

I saw my Swee Pea grow and walk and smile while I've had fallings out with almost every member of my family at one point in time or another.

I've won awards, I've hit rock-bottom.

I've been rich, and I've been flat-ass broke.

I've fallen in love, gotten my heart shattered, and tried to put the pieces back togeher (most times unsuccessfully), and I've been pining for her.

I've been fat, I've been sick, I've been injured, I've been getting better.

I've laughed, I've cried, I've been numb.

I've traveled and I've stayed home.

Yep... defnitely one for the record books.

Nightmare....

I was napping on my recliner today when someone came came into my apartment. The guy look familiar and he started toward me.

I tried to get up to tell him to leave, but I couldn't move... it was like I was made of stone. No matter how hard I tried to move my body simply wouldn't respond.

I let out a whimper as he approached me...

And I woke up. No one was there. And I was still napping on my recliner.

WHEW!

WOW!

OCTOBER 2007


JULY 2008



What a difference two and a half months of working out and eating right makes!

Join the Party!

So what do actors Drew Carey and Clint Eastwood, Internet reporter Matt Drudge, and noted economist Milton Friedman have in common?

The answer's simple, they're all Libertarians.

A couple of weeks ago, I decided to drop my independent status and come out as a Libertarian. I've decided to do this for several reasons.

1) Government has gotten too big. There are several folks in the South Dakota Blogosphere, including my good friend Cory, who feel that government is the cure-all-for everything from poverty to health care. If that's the case, why then are we paying more taxes than ever, while looking at a smaller quality of life than our parents?

The problem is with every new "program" that comes down from Washington, it costs US more money. In a lot of cases, there's redundancy and duplication that could easily be eliminated. In other cases, these programs are simply not necessary... such as "Corporate Welfare".


2) Government has gotten too inefficient. All one has to do is look at the case of Father Gallagher to see this blatant inefficiency. Here is a man, who was approved for legal, permanent residency only to be denied later because of an "error". In other words, some fricking yahoo at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement probably lost the damn paperwork when they were on one of their 15 coffee breaks during his or her day! And chances are instead of this person being reprimanded, suspended, or even fired, they'll probably be promoted!

If KJAM, or Gehl Manufacturing, or even Citibank operated with this glaring lack of efficiency and effectiveness, chances are they'd be out of business by the end of the month if not sooner. But since this is government they can get away with it because they're rarely accountable! Which leads to...


3) There's no accountability. Department of Education loses over 100-million dollars? No big deal. Pentagon spends $1200 on a wrench? Yawn.

How can government get away with this? Simple... they aren't accountable for or to anyone. Oh, sure, we have our say at the ballot box, but does anything ever get done? Hardly.

Of course, if you or I stopped paying our taxes to Uncle Sam, you can bet the IRS will be on us like stink on a turd pile! The government has every type of organization and agency to make sure we the people are held accountable... but who's making sure the government is held accountable on a daily basis?

And it doesn't end with government. We ourselves need to be held accountable... for ourselves. If I get fat (okay, fatter!), I have no right to sue McDonald's or Burger King for making unhealthy food. I should be blaming myself for not eating properly and not staying active. Things like the "victim mentality" have done more to ruin our country than any type of outside terrorism could ever hope to accomplish.

On top of that, if things don't go our way, by God, someone's gotta pay? Now I'm not talking about real injustice, but lawsuits over every frickin' thing. Folks like Neal Boortz have it right; we need to change our laws so that losers in a civil case have to pay the legal bills of the other party... a "Loser Pays" system (Sorry, Todd!) Or at the very least, allow the defendants to sue for legal costs should they win the case.

4) The major parties want to keep the status quo. How much so? In a recent spending bill, one of the riders attached called for taxpayer money to go towards offsetting the cost of the Republican and Democratic Conventions! $100-million worth! It's bad enough that these two parties have a stranglehold on the political spectrum, but it's asinine to allow taxpayer money to go towards keeping their snouts in the trough!

Every candidate for President likes to talk about "change." It's the hot new buzzword. And of course, for the Republicans and Democrats that means one thing... MORE GOVERNMENT. The Dems want more control over your pocketbook; The Reps want more control over your personal life. The Libertarian Party wants government to butt out of both!

I remember the Conservative Revolution of 1994, when the Republicans re-took both the House and the Senate. One of their big stands with their "Contract With America" was smaller government. There was some token moves, but it seems since then, the Republicans abandoned that principle. And THAT'S why they got their asses handed to them in 2006! That's why you see people like Bob Barr and Tom Selleck bolt the Republican Party and join up with the Libertarians.

Of course the party operatives, or as I like to call them "Thugs" and "Hit-men", want to intimidate you into voting for the Status Quo. Not through physical threats and torture like Mugabe, but through more subtle means, like the "wasted vote"

"If you don't vote for a Republican or a Democrat, you're just wasting your vote!"

WHAT ARROGANCE!

To think that my voice, my vote isn't worth spit if I don't vote for Piggy #1 or Piggy #2. That I don't count, simply because I want a third or fourth option. That my rights as a voter are invalid because I won't bear the flag of big government.

Well, to Hell with the Democrats and to Hell with the Republicans. All 3 houses (Represenatives, Senate and White) need some major remodeling.

I'm a Libertarian and damn proud of it!

A Rockin' New Phone...

Okay... I got REALLY fed up with my E-815. I was tired of having full bars and it sounding like popcorn coming over the line. So seeing as I had the opportunity to renew early with Alltel (which will become part of Verizon at the end of December, BTW), I decided to get a new phone.

After some searching on-line and with the help of my friend Kelli at Pro Cellular in Madison, I settled on the Samsung Alltel "HUE".

Looking at it at first, it looked a little too simple... but that's the beauty of it. In the few days I've had it, I've been very impressed with its versatility. Here's my unofficial review... take it for what it's worth.

The Good...

1) Options. I haven't gone through all the features yet but I have a phone, world clock, GPS, tip calculator (very handy Thursday night at the Hillside Resort), and mp3 Player. In fact I use the mp3 player quite extensively, but more on that later.

2) Durability. I haven't had to test this out yet, but from what I've read and talking to Kelli, you can pretty much slam this thing against the wall and drop it in the toilet and it'll work like a champ. And seeing as I've been burned not once but TWICE on the Motorola RAZR, this was one of the first questions I asked Kelli when I was looking at it.

3) Multimedia. Like I said, I really enjoy the mp3 player on here. With the multimedia pack (that came at extra cost), I really am able to enjoy a lot of the features on here. The mp3 player is quite stable and with the earbuds, it produces a very nice sound. I use it during my workouts and it performs beautifully. The viewscreen had extremely good resolution which I like. And with that mulitmedia pack, I can actually download pics from my phone to the computer easily.

4) Appearance. You can change the appearance of the skin of the phone, which I like. Also it's a lot slimmer and more compact than the E-815 so I can put it in my pocket and not have any "bulges" sticking out!

The Issues...

There are a few minor inconveniences. For starters, I had purchased a couple of Axcess ringtones for the E-815. I could not transfer them to my new phone, which sucks.

Also, I'd like the option of a button or buttons on the outside of the phone to change tracks on the mp3 player. The volume buttons are a big help, but I'd like to be able to change tunes too!


The Verdict...

With my rebate and plan renewal, the phone comes to about $30. For the flexibility of a RAZR with a helluva lot more durability, I think I'm going to stick with this phone for a while!

The 2-minte drill... and my political decision.

When I played high school football in Dell Rapids eons ago (okay, 15 years ago), we played Elk Point at home. Elk Point had embarassed us the year before at their field, 60-6 and it looked like we were going to go down in defeat, 14-0.

But in the final two minutes, we scored a touchdown, recovered a fumble on the kickoff and scored again to force overtime. And in Overtime, my buddy Pantusso caught a pass in the endzone to give us the win. It was stressful, it looked like all was lost, but in those final two minutes all was made right.

I feel that way right now with Father Gallagher.

Last night, I felt like it was "Game Over" in Father Gallagher's plight to stay in this country. I was ready to denounce my government and say for the first time in my life, I was ashamed of our federal goverment. I even sent Father a farewell letter, wishing him the best of luck and thanking him for all he did for my family.

But just like that football game over 15 years ago, the two-minute drill came into play once again....

Father received a call from Senator Johnson’s office informing him of positive progress with his immigration case. Father was instructed a) NOT to leave the country, b) that consideration of his case is progressing in communication with Washington DC, and c) that he should schedule an appointment to get his fingerprints and updated photos taken in Sioux Falls on July 14 (two weeks).

Orignally posted on HelpFather.com, July 1, 2008

Even if Father's case is reviewed and he's given permanent residency, he won't be allowed to return to DeSmet. But I would imagine that the Sioux Falls Diocese would keep him in South Dakota, perhaps working in Sioux Falls, or even going to another parish in the area. They'd be foolish not too!

But the damage is done and I'm afraid there are a lot of sore folks up in DeSmet. Father Gallagher gave his last mass this weekend in a service that had tears, hugs, and a standing ovation. I'm sure Father Stevens will be a good servant to the people of Kingsbury County, but I fear he has his work cut out for him. He'll have the spector of Father Gallagher to contend with, not to mention parishioners who have some ill opinions not only of the Federal Government, but also of Bishop Swain and the Diocese. Those sore feelings are warranted, but not at the expense of Father Stevens.

The heart of a community has been broken... I hope our government, who let all 20 hijackers that attacked the World Trade Center in the country.... who can't find bin Laden but can spend nearly a Trillion dollars on a poorly-run war... who are more concerned about covering their collective asses than doing what's right IN THE FIRST PLACE... is proud of itself.

For the first time in my life, I have been ashamed of my government. Because of the United States Goverment's inflexibility, arrogance and overall incompetence, a town and a beloved spiritual leader have been torn apart.

I'm happy that Father may get to stay. But I'll never forget the government's incompetence. And believe you me, I'll still remember when it comes to vote in November...

Because of this episode, I have decided to drop my "Independent" status and join a political party. NEITHER the Republicans or the Democrats are without blame in this cock-up. I will vote for neither McCain nor Obama, no matter how much lip service they play to the idea of CHANGE. Effective today, I now consider myself a LIBERTARIAN. I now realize that the government is a necessary evil and the least amount of it we have, the better off we'll be!

Breaking Down the Numbers...

As I near the end Month Number 2 on my personal fitness challenge, I've decided to crunch some numbers.

42-my pants size when I started this challenge in late April.
38/39-my pant size as of this weekend.

$20-cost for one month's membership at the Madison Community Center (the actual cost is $24, but I also get a corporate discount working at KJAM).
$16-approximate cost for a Pizza Hut Pizza, that I would order about 3 times a month.

$8-average cost I paid for one take-out meal.
$7-average cost for a day's worth of meals now.

Too Numerous To Tell-Number of rejections over the years
3-Number of Heads I turned this weekend in Dell Rapids.

500-Calories in a Big Mac
500-Calories I burn on the treadmill during one workout.

1-Number of people that wished me dead of a heart attack.
1-Number of people that asked me this weekend if I had surgery... she didn't recognize me!

All in all, the numbers are adding up!

Oy Vey!

Well, the wonderful roller coaster that is my life took a couple of odd twists this morning...

Actually, the twisting started last night. I got my new car (pictures coming soon), but I'm having some issues with the radio. Mainly, I can hardly get in any stations! So I have to get a new antenna AND probably a new radio, to boot! I still have my Pioneer from a couple of years ago, so that should work (Come to think of it, I think I still have a Bruce Springsteen CD stuck in there! BONUS!)

On my way home, I got pulled over for speeding. Got a warning, and I also found out that I have a back-up light out.

And this morning, I lock myself out of my apartment when I left for work!

Like I said, more twists than a Chubby Checker song!

The whole "Schmear!"

It's been an interesting couple of weeks... to start.

1) Work... One of our younger announcers decided to leave our humble abode for greener pastures, which is fine. One thing about small-market stations is that personnel tend to leave for bigger markets or just to get out of the business altogether. However, I don't think we're in any hurry to replace him, we'll just make do with what we have. Funny thing, though, our boss says he doesn't want us working more, but it sure seems like it's the case!

2) Car... I took a look at what is going to be my new car yesterday. I'm a little disappointed with the cosmetics of the car (a couple of dings and the like), but when you buy the thing for 5-thousand dollars, beggars can't be choosers. The engine works well, the fuel efficiency is very good (30 on the highway), and there's not a lot of electronic doo-dads that could get screwed up. So now comes the tough part...applying for a loan and making those payments all over again.

Of course, this means I'll be saying good-bye to my Grand AM. I'm trading it off to the guy. I find myself a bit sad about this. For the most part, it's been a really good little car.. it's taken me all over the state and a couple of times into the Twin Cities. It had its quirks, but she had a lot of pickup for a V6. But with all good things, this too must end. 164-thousand miles on a 15-year old car and replacing everything from the license plate bracket to both front axles... its now getting into what I call the "nickel and dime" phase. I'm pretty sure the car will be sold off for parts, but it'd be nice if someone took a look at it, gave it a little TLC (okay, a LOT of TLC) and kept it on the road.

3)Personal Life... Moving along okay, I guess. Got a lot of good advice from a trusted friend and family member which has really come in handy, especially when it comes to certain people that have broken my heart.

It seems there are a couple of women that are somewhat interested in me. One is a little older than me, the other a bit younger. So far it's been friendly chat with the both of them; an up-close-and-personal meeting isn't feasible at this point due to distance. And besides, after getting my heart stomped on for the umpteenth time in my life, I'm a bit "gun shy" to get back into the dating scene.

Let's see... my personal fitness challenge is going well... I'm averaging 30 miles a week, walking-wise and I had to buy a new belt. New pants are out of the question for now because 1) Money's tight and 2) I'd hate to buy a new set of clothes, only to have to replace them because they're too big. Next week, I won't be able to get in as many miles, due to the fact I'm signing on till 11 all that week and won't be able to get in my morning workout. I'm sure all the young ladies at the Community Center will be disappointed to hear that, but hey, that's show biz!

Damn

I looked at her page again... I didn't want to, but I did.

Damn.

I have more important things to worry about than that user of people.

Sorry, Father Gallagher. I'll keep praying for you. I hope more and more people take up your cause. If anyone deserves to stay in this country, it's you Father.

Some people have real problems... I don't.

Righteous Outrage in Kingsbury County!

I'm not one to take up many causes... there's things I believe in, but at the same time I feel others more suited and able to the task can take up those mantles.

However, this is different. It is a situation that has me OUTRAGED!

I have had the privelege of meeting Father Cathal Gallagher on several occasions. While he hasn't said a whole lot to me, per se, I have been incredibly impressed by his gentleness, his good humor, and his willingness not only to be a spritual leader to his parishoners, but to EVERYONE, regardless of denomination or religion.

Earlier this week, I found out that this humble Man of God is being kicked out of the place he has known as home for almost 10 years. Because of a bureaucratic SNAFU, this man, who's citizenship application was approved by the United States Government TWO YEARS AGO, now faces a July 1st Deportation back to his native Ireland.

In a country where the media "talking heads" and the politcal "talking heads" dicker around with how to deal with the tens of millions of people here ILLEGALLY, it is OUTRAGEOUS that this humble man who has followed the rules now has to face this nightmare!

Fortunately, the parishoners of Kingsbury County, as well as the people of South Dakota are not taking this lying down.

For starters, two of South Dakota's Congressional Delegation is looking into this matter. While that's a good start, the good folks of De Smet, Arlington, and Iroquois are doing more.

HelpFather.com has been established to let people around the world know about this injustice going on in South Dakota. In addition to providing links for the Congressional delegation and State officials, people have been leaving their comments, stories, and prayers in support of this Lamb of God...

We love Fr. G and pray that he will be staying here in the USA where he belongs.

He is a huge part of our community and please do not take a part of our community away.

Words cannot describe the love that I feel for this wonderful man. Not only has he been an inspiration to his three parishes, but to countless communities across the region.

Fr. Gallagher made you WANT to be at church. His stories during his homily are inspiring and thoughful.

I could go on and on... but the most poignant was from my brother, Mike...

When my grandmother was layin in the hospital during her final hours, she wasnt awake and wouldnt respond to no one. But when father walked in the room, began to speak, she opened her eyes for i belive the last time. a man that can impact someone w/ that much faith as my grandmother had, imagine what hes doin to the families he sees every weekend.

I damn near choked up when I saw that! Is it any small wonder I love my family?

Go to HelpFather.com. Sign the petition. Contact your lawmakers. Pray. Let's not let this great injustice occur without one hell of a fight!

New week... new beginnings

I know, it's Tuesday. But yesterday was a holiday so the official start of the week is today. Don't like it? Tough! LOL

Workout went well today. Pushed myself on the incline portion of my workout on the treadmill... went on a 4.5% incline instead of my regular 4. That, and the faster pace in which I'm walking really gets the sweat rolling and the heartbeat racing. Of course, a very attractive young woman was running on the treadmill next to me, so that probably added to my increased heart rate as well! Only problem, the way she was running, she'd have no problem running away from this love-sick radio announcer! LOL

I decided I need a new car. Not next summer, like I had planned... Now. Considering I just spent $460 last week on repairs on my car. Wayne, my handy-dandy mechanic dude at Jack's Service, said my car was, and I quote, "A mess". He also said if I'm looking for another car, now would be a good time. So instead of buying the bike I wanted, I think my stimulus check (all $600 of it) is going towards a down payment on a car.

I saw a 1999 Chevy Malibu in Hartford that has 87000 miles on it and a 4-banger for an engine. I checked the fuel efficiency and it rates at 30 on the highway--sweet! And they want 5100 for it. So this weekend, I'm going to take a look at that, as well as some other vehicles.

Asides from that, helped Mom move to her new place in Trent yesterday. Only problem was we didn't have enough straps for the trailer so we ended up taking only half the stuff we wanted to grab. But that's okay. We put a pretty big dent in the amount of stuff, and as soon as Mike and Katy can close on their house, the happier everyone will be.

That's about it for now... I'm sweaty and I smell like a gym sock. Time to hit the showers and head for work!

The Master Manipulator... or so she seems.

I know, I know... I'm beating a dead horse here, but since I don't want to write Jesse and she doesn't want to write me (and is probably still lurking on this blog), she'll get the message sooner or later.

First of all, I started calling her by her original birth name, Jesse. The beautiful, intelligent creature I knew as Nicci does not exist. Rather a manipulative, conniving, con artist.

Funny thing, I actually got along with one of her other friends. She introduced me to "F" while in Chicago, probably hoping we'd go after each other like two bulls fighting for the same cow. But to her surprise (or was it disappointment?), "F" and I got along quite well.

Yesterday, I was cleaning out some files and decided to tell "F" what happened and that because of his friendship with her, I couldn't talk to him anymore. Imagine my surprise when he told me that she had given him the cold shoulder as well! I guess our aborted gladiatorial showdown kinda rubbed her the wrong way.

I found out that a lot of what I feel about Jesse, "F" feels the same. Such as the fact that she tends to twist around words and feelings so that she can take something that she did wrong to you and make it feel like it was YOUR fault! And now that I've had a night to sleep on it, I realized he makes a LOT of sense.

In the three years I knew Jesse, I have NEVER heard her once show any bit of genuine empathy. When we reconnected after a year and a half, she never once showed her remorse for the pain she cause me and my family. In fact, she made it all out to be MY fault and my family's fault! She never could take accountability for her actions and it was always "someone else's fault".

I think there's a psychological term for that: "Sociopath." But then, claiming to be a therapist, Jesse would have known that already.

In any case, "F" and I both came to the understanding that a woman like that was not needed in either of our lives. "F" is a helluva nice guy and he deserves better. As do I.

As for Jesse? Just a bad mistake.

So far, so good...

Haven't dropped dead of that heart attack yet, Jesse!

Well, instead of going and getting drunk last night or chomping down on a Pizza Hut pizza (my kryptonite), I talked with friends, vented, cried, and otherwise took pleasure in their company, both in person and via the telephone.

Believe it or not, all of them have come to the same conclusion... she's not worth my time, my emotions, or my love. I'm better off without her. My friend Susie, said it best when she asked me if I wanted to spend the rest of my life with someone that 1) Is too stupid to understand when something is said in the heat of the moment and 2)Throws 5th-grade insults at you. The answer is no

I begged, I groveled, I balwed. But in the end she was just too immature and stupid to know what true sorrow is and to discover the grace of forgiveness. Which is fine... She'll end up one of those bitter old women who'll never know the pleasure of unconditional love or family. That's her choice.

But as for giving up my fitness program? Hell no! If anything, I want to get REALLY healthy, show myself off and make Jesse choke on her bile. THAT would be the ultimate payback!

Dad's Day

So Dad doesn't get to a computer much. In fact, about the only way he'll find out about this is if my aunt Chloe, my uncle Bill or I tell him about it.

But my dad, mein pops, the biggest single male influence in my life is now 61 years old today. I consider him a father, a teacher, and a friend.

I've known Dad my whole life (which goes without saying)! It seemed though whenever I was younger, I'd usually get his belt or his hand across my backside when I did something stupid (which happened often!) I remember he had a belt with his name on it that Mom used to use to swat the ol' hindquarters when I was bad. In fact, just hearing the word "Steve" and I immediately put my hands over my butt! LOL

Okay, before I make him out to be a monster (it was humor, people!), Dad has always been there for me. No matter where he is in the country, I know I can bend his ear whenever I have a problem. He may have barely finished high school, but he is the greatest teacher I know. I learned to shave from him, how to drive, how to change the oil (by the way, the nut on the oil pan has to be turned to the LEFT if you want to drain the oil!), but most of all, how to be a good person.

Granted, Dad was (and still is) gone most of the time, as is par for the course with his job. But that's just the thing. Times were tight sometimes and we struggled financially at times, but Dad was always out there, busting his backside 30 hours a day so we could have a roof over our head.

Sure he did some stupid stuff in his life, but I also know that he has his regrets. I remember one time in high school, we were talking about him and his trucking. He turned to me and said "Matt, don't ever go into driving if you want to have a family." He regrets the missed birthdays, vacations, holidays, games, and the normal time that most dads spend with their sons. I've been on the road with Dad and have seen him in that driver's seat for 10-12-14 hours a day, through all sorts of nasty conditions and traffic.

I think as Dad is getting older, he's starting to look at some priorities. He parked his truck and took a job as a company driver. Not so much for the money (but it helps), but for the fact he can now be home on a somewhat regular basis. He's looking at a place of his own to live instead of living out of his truck or at a hotel. And he's making a point to spend time with his granddaughter. To be honest, I don't know who was more tickled when Zoey was born, Mike or my dad!

So on this, the first day of his 61st year of life, I offer this humble but heartfelt wish...

Happy Birthday, Dad!

Goodbye, Freak

Well, the subject of my first "Frustration Chronicles" told me she hopes I drop dead of a heart attack. Isn't that lovely.

To be honest, I'm glad I pushed it with her. She was a chicken and a coward and frankly, a waste of my time. And she nearly cost me the true thing that's near and dear to me... my friends and family.

Thanks, J****, for helping me realize that I was just another notch on your bedpost. Thanks for letting me know there are people out there who actually love and support me and that you will never be one of them.

Thanks for taking such a big burden off my mind. You're a worthless piece of garbage. You said I would have been better off sticking a knife in your heart; is that invitation still open?

Dear readers, I was only joking on that last part. Frankly, I could care less if she lives or dies. I'm just glad I didn't get AIDS from her!

On Clinton...

Although I don’t have a horse in the race that is the South Dakota Democratic Primary*, I feel I should put in my 2-cents on the comments made by Hillary Clinton when she spoke to the Argus Leader editorial board yesterday.

Frankly, the comments Bobby Kennedy being assassinated are disturbing to say the least. And although people like Todd Epp might consider a “Clinton Conspiracy” ala Vince Foster, I doubt “Hill-dog” is planning anything that nefarious.

For being a 2-term senator and being involved in politics longer than yours truly has even been alive, you’d think Clinton would be able to choose her words more carefully. In this world of instant sound bites and news that was outdated 5-seconds ago, a political creature** like Clinton knows that his or her words are going to get aired, sliced-and-diced, and commented on before they even leave her mouth.

But knowing what she has said and knowing how political spin doctors keeps one from putting their foot too far in their mouth, you have to wonder if there isn’t something more nefarious than a simple slip of the mental gears. To a lot of people, Clinton is nothing more than a political opportunist, myself included. She’s a strong person, but she’s also a demogauge. I like to joke that she won’t even take a dump without taking a poll on what kind of toilet paper to use! She’s a fairly clever political mind and knows what to say and who to say it too.

But you wonder now that she’s the “second banana” in terms of polling numbers (even with Florida and Michigan Delegates), her true colors aren’t starting to show. I guess I’d be a mite pissed if I thought the Democratic nomination was going to be a matter of time and all of sudden this upstart steals all my thunder and glory. She may be a political creature***, but she is still human, no matter what Rush Limbaugh might think!

And some pundits on CNN last night even went so far to wonder if these comments won’t hurt her senatorial career, especially if she decides to run for re-election again. If that’s the case, it wouldn’t be the first time a Clinton faced political trouble for failing to control their impulses!****

*Or is that “Jackass” in the race? Anyway, I’m a registered independent, honest!
**Not saying Hillary isn’t human, but rather touching on the quote by Socrates that “(hu)man is a by nature, a political animal.” And if you think otherwise, you’re an idiot and need to read the classics!
***Refer to above comment. I can’t believe that I have to have these stupid disclaimers!
****Both Clintons seem to have problems with closure… Hillary can’t seem to close her mouth, Bill couldn’t seem to close his zipper!

Frustration Chronicles #1: J****

Sorry that I've been incommunicado, faithful readers (all three of you!), but it's been a pretty hectic, frustrating kind of a month. Sometimes it feels like the whole world is collapsing in on itself and you're left with one of those dinky circus umbrellas to shield yourself against the falling rocks.

So, instead of keeping it in and letting it fester, I've decided to let it out in the open, a catharsis, if you will. I call it the "Frustration Chronicles." And believe me, I have more than enough material!

The most pressing source of my frustration right now has to deal with J****. In case you're wondering, "What's a J****", let me assure you that a J**** is not a "what" but a "who". To be more specific, the woman I love and who is again my greatest source of frustration at this time.

I met J**** about three years ago. We had a couple of dates, but she had this nasty little habit of either breaking things off when things got interesting or simply just disappeared with no logical rhyme or reason. Eventually, she came back, and we really started to enjoy each other's company, so much so we decided to start dating. She was (and still is) the only woman I have ever felt this strongly about.

Well I found out some things. Not going to go into specifics, but they pretty much devastated me... bawling for three days straight kind of devastated. And I broke things off and had no contact with J**** for a long time.

Fast-forward a year and a half. I had just about gotten over her, pretty much getting on with my life. All of a sudden, on this blog no less, she came back into my life. We agreed to meet for dinner, both of us scared as hell. She explained what had happened and I, for some dumb-assed reason, forgave her. Granted, I was still a bit miffed at her for what she did, but more so that she said she loved me, wanted to marry me, but when the fit had hit the shan a year and a half earlier, she bolted and didn't stand up to fight for me. But I figured if I was to move on with my life, I had to take a first step.

And then, despite all logic, something pretty amazing happened. We both found out we still had feelings for each other. We became friends, we started spending time together again, and while I was still a little leery of getting hurt again, I was ready to resume things before all this big hullabaloo. And then she dumped me for a piece of man-candy.

Well, from having my heart shattered a year and a half before, to being ready to take the plunge again (despite common sense), it was more than I could take. And I was MAD. Not upset, not agitated, not frustrated, but MAD. And I said some pretty horrible things, some that even appeared briefly on this blog before my rational self got a hold of me. And then I did it, I lit off the atomic bomb of the mouth. I said the one thing that devastated her. And as soon as I sent it, I immediately regretted it.

She said it would have been easier to stab her in the heart.

Now it's been almost 3 months. She still hasn't forgiven me for what was essentially something said in the heat of the moment. She said she still has feelings for me, just not the ones that would bring us back together. Frankly, she said friendship is still there.

Well after our trip to Chicago (in which she did a pretty good job of avoiding me unless she absolutely had to) she hasn't called, written, or nothing. In fact, I'm the one that's been trying to keep in contact, after all she said she wants to "be friends".

After much frustration, I finally asked her if she was trying to forget about me... she said "yes." From wanting to be friends to now wanting to forget me; I must have missed a memo somewhere.

So I called her a coward. The only difference between her hurting me and me hurting her is I immediately tried to make amends and not run and hide like she did. Now she's talking about moving away, after telling me that she was glad I didn't take a job in Wyoming (check last year's archives).

I wish this little girl would make up her mind once and for all. Does she want me or doesn't she? When I talk to her, she talks as though the possibility is still there. I've told her on many occasions that I'd be willing to give up everything I've known in my life... my family, my friends, my career, just to be with her for the rest of our lives. If not, then at least tell me so I can forget about you too and get on with my life!

I know she's afraid of being hurt again, but hey, I was afraid of being hurt too when I decided to let her into my heart again. I told her last Friday that she's ripped my heart out so many times, I'm not sure if I ever had one there to begin with! But I'm willing to take that chance, even if things go to pot and we never speak again. At least we would have honestly tried and not hidden behind some chickenshit excuses.

So that's my big frustration right now. And I know that she'll read this (she's one of the three) and probably pass this off as my pathetic ramblings. And more than likely it'll probably alienate her even more. But at the same time, I don't care. I'm fed up with all the frustration that's in my life.

So congratulations, J****, you just made my first posting in the "Frustration Chronicles."

A New Venture

So I thought about this over the weekend, and I decided that my life isn't busy enough. I've started a new blog that deals with broadcasting issues. I'm calling it "vox vocis desumo", which is Latin for "the voice electric."

Anyway, feel free to check it out. If you have any questions or opinions or would like to help me in this project, let me know!

Round is not a shape!

A few weeks ago, I got an e-mail from someone. Part of the joke says "I'm in shape. ROUND is a shape!"

Well, I've gotten a little too roly-poly for my liking, so I'm doing something about it. I've decided to get more active and try to be a bit more sensible in my food choices.

Why now, after so many years of being lackadasical? Two reasons... actually, a couple of women that are dear to me. One just turned one and I'm sure she'd like to see her uncle around for a long, long time. The other is just a bit older and she told me this weekend that it'd be nice for me to be around for a while as well. And since I'm in love with both, I'm pretty well screwed in terms of putting up any resistance--I'm a bit of a sucker that way!

So I joined the Community Center in Madison yesterday... not nearly as intimidating as I thought. I'm probably going to take some water exercise classes and do a little weight circuit training to start. And as I get more in shape, perhaps more strenuous stuff. The best part, my dues break down to the cost of a pizza a month!

But the big thing I'd really like to do is to get a bike when I get my rebate check from ol' Dubya. With gas expected near 4-bucks a gallon this summer, it makes sense to not drive my car as much. Granted, if I have a game to do or if I have a remote to do, I'll take the ol' buggy. But to go to and from work is an easy 20-minute workout daily. Only problem is if it's really hot out and I start sweating profusely. Perhaps my boss can look at putting in a shower at the station? LOL

I'm also going to try and watch what I eat, too. I looked at my garbage can and saw a LOT of fast food and pizza box containers. YOWZA!!! I'm never gonna eat broccoli, even if a certain person I'm in love with tried to entice me with it. But I can do a lot more home cooking and not have do deal with the added cost of take out. And if my friend from Lake Herman gets a bumper crop of carrots or corn in his garden, perhaps he'd be willing to share in the bounty?!?

Anyway, I'm a bit nervous, and excited at the same time... and it's not from the Hydroxycut I'm taking either. Wish me luck!

Work Kudos

I enjoy what I do for a living... there is nothing I would rather do to make money than to talk in front of a microphone, entertaining thousands of listeners on a daily basis, be it in a studio, on the gridiron, in the gym, or on the diamond.

To be honest, I've never thought of my career as "work". I've had plenty of "jobs", from working as a dispatcher for a now-defunct delivery company in Sioux Falls, to working as a technical writer for a display company, to even trying my hand at teaching in hig school. With the exception of the teaching, each of my jobs were just that, jobs. Something to go in for 8 hours a day and collect a paycheck every two weeks.

But being in radio has been different. I've felt a genuine sense of pride and satisfaction in the five-plus years I have been at KJAM. Whether it's a state tournament game, or updating folks about a thunderstorm at 11:30 at night, I feel like I really make a difference in the lives of our listeners. Add the fact that I absolutely enjoy what do for a living, and sometimes I have to remind myself that I'm actually getting PAID for this!

And now, it seems I've received some recognition to boot!

The South Dakota bureau of the Associated Press has decided that I'm a good enough writer to get an award. First place in the Sports Story catagory for the State AP Radio Contest, to be accurate. Turns out, I edged some heavy competition like Steve Imming and Jerry Oster of WNAX, and Craig Mattick and Bob Lasowski of KWSN.

To be even named in the same breath as these radio icons is one thing, but to have actually surpassed them... well... it's quite humbling. Especially since I worked with Craig on numerous occasions and I ALWAYS have my radio tuned in the fall to WNAX to catch Steve and Jerry and my beloved Jackrabbits on the gridiron.

I guess what this award tells me is that I did make the right choice in my career. Granted, I felt I made the right choice early on, but to be recognized by one's peers is quite special.

While I appreciate the award, I don't look on it as a high point in my career. If anything, I'm more proud of my fellow co-workers Jim Otis and Dylan Steen. They've been in radio a combined three years and got an "Honorable Mention" in the Talk/Public Affairs catagory with their "KJAM Sports Sandwich" program. These two young gentlemen took some initiative early in their careers and they got some well-deserved recognition for it. And for that, I'm very proud of them!

Sadly, my trip to Chicago and a freak snowstorm has kept me from getting my award. But as soon as I get it in my hot little hands, I'll take a picture (I found my camera!) and post it here.

A little worse for wear...

Well, kids, I'm back from vacation... rested, but a little worse for wear.

I did enjoy Chicago. I loved going to the museums, and spending time with my friend Nicci. Unfortunately poor timing and injuries put the kibosh on my complete enjoyment.

Injuries... hmm... biffing it in Millennium Park and a twisted ankle that kept me holed up in bed put a damper on my trip. I mean, if I wanted to sit and watch TV, I could have stayed home and not have spent all that money.

Bad timing... my friend Nicci, whom I like more than a friend. Fact of the matter is, I'm still in love with her, even after all the crap we've been through. Fact is, I tried to propose to her. I told her I would give up every thing in my life to be with her... my job, my friends, everything. But she wouldn't let me propose. So it put me in a bit of a funk.

I can see why, though. She has a lot of stuff coming up over the next six months and the last thing she wants to worry about is being engaged or married. She also says she has feelings for me, but I think she's also putting up a shell around herself when it comes to me. I can see why... after all we've been through, I guess I'd be a little cautious too. She says she needs time... I can see that. But I told her that I've felt this way for a long time and that six months isn't going to change that anytime soon. And that after we've been friends for a while and I've worked on myself (she knows what I mean), I'm going to ask again. And if after that she says "no" (she never said "no" this time, just didn't let me ask), well, I guess I gave it the ol' college try.

It wasn't a complete disaster, though. I did get to spend time with her, which is worth the plane ticket itself. I also got to have dinner with Dan and Jenn, two friends of mine from college whom I haven't seen for a LONG time. Dan, Jenn, when are you two coming out to see me in South Dakota? LOL

But now I go back to work today... perhaps not totally refreshed, but hey, I get three weeks of vacation a year, and I'll take another one after football! Besides, we have a new news director starting (I hope) and I have an award to pick up!

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.