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.

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?