17.12.09

What I'm Reading 12.17


The actions of the individual should not be weighed against that person, by any other person; it is not our duty to decide who is worthy and who is not.

This morning Cincinnati Bengals Wide Receiver Chris Henry lost his life. He was a father, someone's son and from many accounts, a changed individual. Slim's time in Cincinnati was short and full of controversy, but no one can justify the loss of an individual at the age of 26 with 3 small children.

It is a truly sad story, as his family rushed to his bedside following an accident, apparently beginning as a domestic dispute. It makes me genuinely sad, as Chris seemed to turn the corner this year, had his head set and was due to do good things.

CincyJungle: Chris became someone you root for, after being taken under the wing of Carson Palmer and others.

In other news:

Make sure to check your facebook privacy settings, now.

There are a ton of disability claims pouring in equidistant to the loss in jobs. During a supervised home visit for one of the kids I work with, the father of the boy told me he was getting a check for $64,000 in lost wages because of a back injury. Blows my mind.

Also, Rust Belt towns hit the hardest, according to the Washington Post.

Blessed are the conservative? I'm not convinced.

Something I saw on Bob and Tom show before I left work last night: 21 things that became obsolete this decade. By the way the decade ends in 2 weeks.

Also, the 15-worst states to start a business. Indiana didn't make the list! Let's hear it for NJ!

In a fledgling economy, kids are asking for jobs for Dad and other essentials.

"Am I the Grinch who stole Christmas?," asks one journalist.

A letter to the Manila Bulletin about importance of Jesus in Christmas; something I'm sure to write about sooner or later this Christmas season.

Prisons are full. So, the best way to alleviate a problem is to empty them?

AND, time to get going on some movies. Here are the 2010 Golden Globe nominations if you haven't seen them.

15.12.09

A Calling

A call to action to alleviate the inequities of this world is sadly only relevant if the bellower of injustice holds status in the unjust society. As a result, the call to action rarely comes, due to the intentions of the renowned individual, because it is their great action(s) and great fault(s) that allow them to take advantage in a world where THEY are the proprietors.

Determining how to pick up the pieces and become justified in a society once thought be limitless in potential for even the dregs, has no precedent and therefore the ingenuity of minds of a great underling society must be grande. Where to go with my thoughts and intentions when I am the aforementioned underling?

Faith fuels the hypothetical fire. Faith in God, in action and in possibilities that may or may not become conceivable with just the right catalyst and opportunity.

A call to action is possible but only with the ability to give of your full self, with non regret for personal loss; finding it in you, to live for someone else can be the biggest challenge in the world.

Selflessness is passion. It is something I work for everyday; a way to break from the individual-gain society we are thrust in. A bit more personal submission from each individual - quaint in distinction and effort - would yield much. It is imperative to give of yourself before you can fully and efficiently give to others.

Although you may have submitted yourself, those you are helping may have not, yet shouldn't be judged, as opportunity has given their struggles to us, to soothe . Understanding and patience is paramount at a crucial time when one may have thought all was figured. You will never find someone who justifies action in the same way you do; a challenge is to find someone who can accept your inherit biases and faults.

Dostoevsky said: “Love a man, even in his sin, for that love is a likeness of the divine love, and is the summit of love on earth." Express said love through action and in a blinding manner, being careful to not trump action.

Action, can be had and will be with time and patience and swift effort, even from the underlings of society. I wish for the understanding and enlightenment of others and for the faith to continue a journey set for no exact destination. Despite a lack of stature and power, difference can be made; it starts with each of us and the attitudes spawned from those around us, through our actions, countenance and silent conviction.

It is empowering without measure when you feel you have given you to something much grander than the self.

3.12.09

What I'm Reading 12.3

Happy December everyone; only 24 more shopping days until the most important day of the year!

Are you getting tired of hearing about Tiger Woods? I believe 'transgressions' were destined to happen.

In the wake of the 25th anniversary of a disaster you've never heard of - a slideshow marking the Bhopal, India gas leak.

My Ball State Cardinals scored the fewest points in a men's basketball game in 58 years: 38 against 23 ranked Butler.

I feel we spend too much money on Christmas presents and as a result I wish for all who read this to donate, donate and donate some more, for those who have little or nothing. On donating: ECI has done a good job.

Barry Larkin is up for the Hall-of-Fame. Would you vote for him?

My Cincinnati Bengals are 8-3, 6-0 in the AFC North, running the ball like never before and are destined for greatness.

And, a periodical that looks interesting to me.

Have a beautiful day, wherever you are.

26.11.09

What I'm Reading; Thanksgiving edition

Happy Thanksgiving!

As I enjoy the national holiday from the seat of my pants, alone with work in the horizon of a couple hours, I thought I'd provide some insight into what's been up and down, so to speak.

Here is an interesting story to ponder over as we celebrate that 1st Thanksgiving.

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade skipped Broadway, this year for the first time.

On something I've read a lot about, the genetic mutation of what we have come to know that is actually a super-turkey, may soon come to an end. Goodbye big-bland-tasting bird, hello smaller, more-expensive-more-rich-flavored bird.

The Detroit Lions are staying on Thanksgiving. IMO, good.

If you haven't seen or heard the bell ringers for the Salvation Army, they now are taking credit or debit.

I've been working consistently at Damar Services for more than 2 months now, and I've come to the conclusion; there will always be good days and bad days. The best thing I've learned to do is to leave everyday at work, and work day-to-day.

Recently, I've felt personal gains with some of the kids. After reading some of their files I have found less reason to become aggravated with behaviors and more inspiration to try and understand what I can do to help.

I struggle with getting the kids to listen to me for a couple reasons I can guess; one, they have a hard time relating with me and two, they just don't care about what someone, with a position of power, over them, has to say.

Interestingly, when I have found a way to lower myself to them (in hypothetical sense only) I have found they listen, and are much more happy with my presence. Joking and having a good time with them is not hard and I struggle with the staff whom cannot find it within themselves to enjoy their time with the kids.

On the staff, I have met some good, some not so good, and some who just show up for a paycheck. I never want to a paycheck person.

Moving on, it is a sad cycle for some of the kids. Watching some of the kids progress within the captive environment is all for naught oftentimes, as many leave and revert to behaviors that seemed to have been irradiated. Also, some complete their treatment plan and because of a lack of family or guardian support and/or consistency, they fall back into the system and sadly if they have reached adult-age that often means incarceration.

I want to get in the minds of the kids but become so aggravated with my own deficiencies, limiting my ability to understand and make breakthroughs with the kids, who may only need one explanation to turn a major corner. I am thankful for this opportunity, but I feel so much time is wasted and it pains me to no end to know that I leave every day at 11 p.m., with the kids sleeping, and I haven't figured out a way to suppress a behavior that would otherwise help them to be at peace with themselves and/or the environment they see around them.

I watch kids struggle with thoughts, memories and defense mechanisms that have been socially conditioned within them from dealing with the horrific lives most of them have experienced. I want to feel their pain in more real terms, so as to understand and have them understand that I am always there to help.

So, today i want to express my thankfulness in having the opportunity to be around the people I hope to help. I am thankful for the chance to be a positive person in their lives and someone they can rely on and trust, the likeness they may have never known.

Today I work from Noon-11 p.m., again, as I am enjoying Thanksgiving with one client's family, via supervised home-visit. It is not ideal for me, or my family who spend another holiday without my presence, but the focus is on the people of need I now attempt to empower. Having the thankfulness to understand my family eats w/out me because I've been so lucky to have a supporting family, is key. Redirecting that thankfulness and giving of myself to help one of my kids enjoy a Thanksgiving, is what is important today.

And I'm thankful for the opportunity.

30.10.09

What I"m Reading 10.30


A lot is going on in the news and a few other things, aside from my new job as a direct support technician at a organization supporting children with developmental and behavioral challenges.

Some days, more than others, I find a ton of interesting stuff on the 'internets' and I feel that it's necessary for you to take part (you who are undefined).

For example: the largest cruise ship in the world is in Miami. The 'Oasis of the Seas' boasts 2,700 cabins and can hold 6,300 passengers.

How is this for irony: a man in Minnesota was mauled by a dog he rescued. Not exactly a plug for HELP shelter and like rescue organizations.

Speaking of Richmond (HELP shelter), on a sad note, a great man passed away this week. Audry Reichter, father of my babysitter, lived an extraordinary life as a WWII veteran and foster parent, with his wife, for more than 2,000 children since 1947. He was 87.

A Washington television station is receiving both praise and critical glances after airing a live-action video of how to properly administer a breast self-exam.

The Phillies and Yankees are even at 1-1 in the World Series.

The Baltimore Ravens, although handled by my Cincinnati Bengals, may be the best 3-3 team imaginable. I'll take them over 6-0 Denver on Sunday.

Perhaps the trade of the decade: Cleveland sent Barolo Colon and Tim Walker to the Expos for Cliff Lee, Grady Sizemore, Brandon Phillips and Lee Stevens. In retrospect; wow!

Back to Bengals talk: Ochocinco, promoting his new book on the off-week, was on Letterman last night reading the Top-10 list.

Also on the Bengals: Carson Palmer has been the key to Cincinnati's early success.

Away from the Bengals and down to Athens, GA: a woman apparently acted like a dog to scare off a man.

Here is a story about the resurected Paul Reubens (Pee-Wee Herman).

Is there a real Jaws out there? Check out the picture on the link.

And finally, a trailer for a new movie about John Lennon's early life: "Nowhere Boy."

29.10.09

Contradicting Perspectives

I want you to think of your first memories. Remember the early times that formed you, at early ages; things that helped you become who you are.

Now, think about who might have lifted you to the table to blow out your birthday candles. Remember who was there to help you when you fell off your bicycle. Think about the times spent with the ones closest to you, the ones who nurtured you and the ones you rebelled against, only to come back to when you needed them the most.

Now, try and think about what your life would be w/out those who did so little, that became so much, in retrospect. Imagine your life w/out happy times and w/out the sad times; having the ability to have someone there to help you or, enjoy times with you. Imagine them not wanting to.

Speaking in general terms, kids i now have the opportunity to help have lived lives without, what most of us have taken for granted. Attempting to reason with someone, who has known a life directly contradictory to my own is a feat. These kids are living with burdens and experiences some of us can't begin to imagine and can never truly understand.

The image of abuse and neglect, I can now see in the faces of so many, causing behavioral and emotional problems have been spawned from the people who were supposed to be there for them the most. No one living a 'normal' life can imagine what they would have become w/out nurturing loved ones. Yet, given the opportunity to change a view of the world and of life, held by someone who has known no true happiness and no true 'loved' one, is an opportunity worth grasping.

Attempting to understand 'my' kids' perspective is difficult but possible, at least on a degree enough to help change a perspective, or have them see things through the help of someone they can trust. Helping one of them understand, despite their pain, that hurting someone else is never going to alleviate their greatest fears of abuse, is possible.

Changing the mindset of the people you are told to trust, will not let you down, is also possible but only if a staff or concerned individual has the ability to give of themselves on an even greater level than even our parents did for us.

"True success is measured only in the growth of an individual."

Yesterday, I felt I gained trust in one, and was able to develop a goal, in another. I want to be someone trustworthy enough, for those who have never known, or had the ability to know anyone they could truly rely on. I want to change perspective(s).

28.10.09

New Observations on Life

The two weeks of orientation were set to enlighten and yet, scare away those feeling that working with children having been through some of the most traumatic life experiences and dreadful treatment known. I pushed through, because that's what I do best and it is only now, as I'm head-on into the job, that I see the images of tragedy and pain those I work with have been through.

The challenge of working with children known and documented as being 'dangerous' and 'disabled', is finding it within yourself to change your perspective of how everything is 'supposed to' work in this world and realize how things sometimes work in the most horrific of situations.

Two full days into the job, about to head for a third, I have been pressed already; morally, physically and psychologically, and yet, no matter the hardship I face in attempting to do all in my power to help, I can never fully understand the pain some of 'my' kids have been put through in their lives. Understanding why a youngster may do something to harm themselves or someone else is best examined after knowing what a child has been through. And that is tough, considering everyone has some handle on how parenting in a 'normal' world works. Helping people who have never had 'real' parents is difficult when brains and trust have been morphed the way these kids' have.

I'm going to do my best to document what I see, keeping anonymity, of course; leaving out specifics often but getting at the root of how and why things happen, things I can only imagine.

A 'job' pushing ones pschy and mental perspective, is not really a job but, a blessing and something an enlightened person can take and do great things with for others. I hope to be that enlightened person and I hope to help change lives for the people I see as, no one else has before; as precious, raw and propitious people.

22.9.09

Jobs, California and Knashing Teeth

Yesterday I learned I now have a job - with the grace of a negative pee test and criminal background check. I think I'll be OK.

I also inquired through car transport company I'm working for, into a car in Riverside, Calif. MATS president Josh said that usually cars further away, like cars in California, are usually shipped. However, for a flat pay amount he said I could pick the car up and drive it back. So, I'm going to California Monday, September 28 to pick up a 2009 Chrysler Sebring.

I have coordinated with a cousin of my G-pa Sheets, who lives in Corona, Calif. to pick me up and take me to the car. I am very appreciative for the ride and I hope to have a good visit with my family from a distant land; roughly 2,400 miles.

On my way back, after visiting with family, and a couple of friends in L.A., I plan on hitting the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Four Corners and whatever I see along the way.

I have worked with my new employer and will not start my orientation until October 12. I will be working for Damar Services, assisting and supervising adolescents with disabilities. It is full-time with benefits. I won't know what to do with a regular pay check. Hopefully I won't do what I do with money, now.

As for the 'knashing teeth' title, I don't know why I said that.

17.9.09

Reds Writer's Last Season


Reading great sports writing is one thing I love very much. And for the past seasons as a reader of everything-Reds I have been a fan of Hal McCoy, the Reds beat writer for the Dayton Daily News.

This year the DDN has had to make more cuts, as all newspapers have, and one job that won't be continued is the beat position covering the Cincinnati Reds. Can you believe it? Therefore, as much disgust and angst that brings to people who care, McCoy is making this season his last covering the Reds and baseball, for that matter.

After 37 years McCoy has seen it all from the Reds, good times and as of late, mostly bad. But he has been there through a lot. I keep up with McCoy through his blog he started a few seasons ago called 'The Real McCoy'. During the last road trip to Chicago, Hal's last stop at Wrigley, he had a post that is encompasses everything about him and his writing. He thoughts could not be more congenial and I'll let you read it:


One Last Fond Look and a good-bye to Wrigley by Hal McCoy of the Dayton Daily News

WRIGLEY FIELD is empty, the 39,805 fans scattered throughout Wrigleyville or on the El or headed home on the freeways - after singing that catchy song they sing after every victory, “Go Cubs Go.”

The Cubs won, 5-2, officially eliminating the Cincinnati Reds from the pennant race, but I’m not giving that much thought.

As I sit in the press box high above Wrigley, scanning the horizon to see the high-rise buildings and Lake Michigan, I think of 37 years of coming to these hallowed grounds. They can talk all they want about Fenway Park, this is THE place to watch baseball. This is what baseball is all about.

Amazingly, the place has changed very little over 37 years - a few new seats crowded into the corners and a bunch of grandstands atop the brownstone buildings on Waveland and Sheffield.

The old-time scoreboard remains the same and the boisterous and belligerent Bleacher Bums remain the same.

But they’re gone now and I’m left here with my memories, of great times, of mostly day baseball, the way it was meant to be played. I love this park when it is empty and I love it when it is full.

I won’t miss walking the ramps. They finally put in an elevator for former broadcaster Harry Caray, but it is down in the left field corner and usable only when you arrive at the park and when you leave. To go to and from the clubhouse and to and from the field, you walks the ramps, just like the fans.

I could sit here and gape for hours, watch the elevated trains beyond the center field bleachers, watch the fans hitting all the bars in Wrigleyville, listen to the sirens from the firehouse behind the left field wall - a firehouse that has to be one of the busiest in Chicago because sirens are constant.

I can look at the ivy on the brick outfield walls and remember outfielder after outfielder getting tangled in the branches and searching frantically for lodged baseballs.

But I have a plane to catch home, so I’ll take my last look around this baseball pasture, this REAL Field of Dreams, and with a tear or two at the corner of my eyes, I’ll walk to the left field corner, take one last glance very close to the left field foul pole, then walk down a portal to the elevator and leave by the gate across from the firehouse. I’ll hail a cab and watch another dream fade over my shoulders.

AS JONNY GOMES calls it, “Your victory tour,” continued Sunday in Wrigley Field.

I was standing in front of the Cubs dugout chatting with manager Lou Piniella. After a 15-minute chat, I turned around and there was a semi-circle of Cubs writers and officials standing behind me.

General Manager Jim Hendry started it off, presenting me with a bottle of cabernet sauvignon, from his own winery in Napa Valley. Very nice. Hendry is a class act, a great friend over the years, who often asked me why I didn’t come to work in Chicago. They didn’t want me, Jim, and the Chicago writers are a great bunch of people. They all took me out for a drink near Wrigleyville after Saturday’s game.

A couple of them who were off and didn’t cover the game showed up for the mini-party. What a great time with Bruce Miles, Dave Van Dyck, Paul Sullivan, Carrie Muskat and Alan Solomon.

The establishment was The Piano Man on Clark Street and as soon as I walked in I saw the jersey of Reds’ pitching coach Dick Pole hanging on the wall. It was a Cubs uniform from the 1980s, when Pole was pitching coach for the Cubs. Then I looked up and there he was, sitting with friends near the bar.

Pole bought the first round and when he got the bill he looked at it and said, “What did I do, break a window?” Turns out he always says that and it never fails to get a laugh.

Next on Sunday, after Hendry, was Piniella, who handed me a box of Macanudos and said, “I first met Hal back in 1990 when I became manager of the Reds. I asked him for a rundown of the team and how to approach them and what kind of guys they were. Hal gave me a great rundown, he was right on all counts, and we won the World Series.”

I’m still waiting for my World Series share and my World Series ring, but Piniella’s words and friendship were enough.

Then Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster, who pitched briefly for the Reds and is one of the all-time great people I’ve met in this game, stepped forward with a gift from the Cubs: The actual No. 37 from the Wrigley Field scoreboard, where they still hang numbers manually. The 37, of course, represents the years I worked the beat. What a fabulous, unique gift. It’ll hang prominently in my home office.

The No. 38 is on the back and Hendry said, “That’s in case you pull a Brett Favre on us and come back.”

EARLIER IN THE DAY, when I was standing in the Reds clubhouse, somebody stuck a bag of cigars in the my face and handed me a note. It was from Cubs home clubhouse attendant Tim Hellmann, who worked the Reds’ clubhouse every spring in Sarasota and was an invaluable help to me after my eyes went bad.

The hand-written note said, “Thanks for everything, you will be missed. Hope to see you again down the road. Best wishes and good luck. TIM HELLMANN.

What a great gesture from somebody who some people in the game consider the “little” people, but he and many, many other clubhouse personnel, from the Reds to all those around the league, are fabulous folks who are tireless workers doing the menial jobs, but they are giants of the game to me. Thanks, Tim.

Thanks, Cubs.

Before the game, I went on the Cubs/WGN pre-game show with TV broadcaster Len Casper for a well-done interview (not by me, by Len and his questions, which made it easy and fun).

THEN I went back to the pressbox to dig into my late Big A** Burrito. Reds media relations director Rob Butcher always makes the burrito run to a little Mexican hole-in-the-wall place under the El tracks about a half a block away.

It was Butcher’s second run of the day. On Sunday morning he ran a half-marathon, The Chicago Half-Marathon. Butcher was one of 15,000 finishers. He did the 13.1 miles in 1:42.09 (980th out of 15,000).

Nice going, Rob. But your short run for the burritos was your best run of the day. It was my third straight burrito for lunch and today’s was my last.

I’ll miss ‘em.


Property of the Dayton Daily News and Cox News and Publishing, acquired Sept. 17, 2009

15.9.09

NYC, Dayton Beach, Washington DC, Unemployment

Folowing my adventurous trip to Houston, I was fortunate enough to get a call again from my friends at MATS International for another job taking me to NYC or rather, Long Island.

It was a great trip as I got to see the ocean, an amusement for someone from landlocked Indiana.

The day after arriving home from NY I got another call from MATS asking me to pick up a 2006 Nissan Murano in Daytona Beach, and so I went. And drove it back, but not before seeing the ocean, an amusement for someone from landlocked, oh ok, you know what I'm trying to say.

I ate at Hull's Seafood Kitchen, and it has my endorsement.

After the Daytona Beach trip I had little to do except for a few empty hopes in regards to jobs.

This past week I traveled to Washington DC to pick up a car, a 2006 Saturn.

I now have prospects with a couple jobs at Damar Services and Lawrence Central High School.

22.8.09

Texas, Camp and Jobs

Camp ended without me completing a post on this site or another. However, I did enjoy the summer that was perhaps the most enjoyable and enlightening time of my life, without disapointment, aside from it ending.

NOW, i'm in the process of finding a job in my new found city: Indianapolis. I have had little luck thus far, although I figured to have a position now at another agency assisting people with disabilities with vocational rehabilation and/or daily living needs.

I applied and am confident but we'll just have to stay posted on what comes of the entire situation and it could be a long road considering the cuts non-profits are making due to the economy. Everyone is taking a hit.

The other day I took a job hint from a friend from high school. We met and out of nowhere he told me that another friend of mine and Younglife leader from high school was running a business that bought used cars through auction all over the country and then paid people to pick them up and drive them back to either Indianapolis or Richmond, IN; the site of the operation.

Therefore, I enquired into the job and mere hours after a call to the president I got my first assignment to a land I had never been to pick up a vehicle I had never driven back to Indianapolis.

So, yesterday at 0330 I awoke and made my way to meet someone else working for the organization also flying out to pick uo a vehicle in Buffalo, NY.

I met said person and picked up my itenerary, company credit card, dealer used license plate and screws to hold said plate and rode along to Indianapolis International.

After arrving I printed off my boarding passes, travelled through security, and made my way to my gate.

In a non-eventful happening of events I boarded flew out and then landed softly in Atlanta International, having enjoyed a cold-cup of coffee; I had to ask twice for and finding what I thought to be my next gate, only to find out. . . .

IT WAS WRONG. . .

. . . and from what I knew Atlanta was a big airport, so i scrambled realized that despite my ticket said 'zone 5' i had no idea what 'zone' i was in except for a panicked one.

I quickly asked someone working at the airport and she said: it's just changed to right there; pointing to the gate next to my scheduled gate departure area. . .

So, it's been over a year since I was at an airport and let me tell you, in just 14 months i've become illiterate to the entire situation in airports. I can't imagine travelling to one, for the first time. now.

After boarding my flight to Atlanta I made my way to my seat. I sat next to a guy that looked smart, was reading a book on applied physics and had glasses; first hint my first observation was correct.

The flight was enjoyable with small belgian crackers and water, this time.

Landing in Houston, i was excited and yet in question mode about what was to come next.

I made my way out of the terminal, called the chairman of the company in Richmond and proceeded to take a taxi, which in turn took more thatn 45 minutes to arrive at my destination and more than $80 dollars.

NONE THE LESS, i found the auto auction, which consisted of a hundred-acre lot full of repo'ed cars, waiting on people to either pick them up or purchase.

I finally found my truck, after finding not 1, or 2 or even 3 people to help me. The 5th person finally called someone, who barely spoke English and who took me to my 2005 Chevy Silverardo that had no one wheel problem but 4.

However, the one tire, FOA or Flat-on-arrival was filled and I was able to make it to my next destination: Hub Cap City.

So, more or less, I left Hub Cap City and used my Garmin nuvi; sometimes my friend, sometimes my greatest enemy, to get to Jack-In-The-Box.

Following a delicious lunch compliments of my employer, I made my way north-eastward.

I stopped in Nacogdoches, TX; proclaimed as the oldest town in Texas. Snapping a few pictures and taking note that no matter how old of a town it is, being west of here, it is still a younger town than say, Richmond, Ind.

That kind of ruins the grandeur of the entire situation but, that is what I do.

Making my way through Texas (6hours with no end in site) I took note of roadside slot machines, long horns and yes Kroger stores. And we thought we were lucky to have such grocery stores.

I ate at an IHOP in Little Rock, AR; never to stop there again. No questions.

I stayed in a hotel in N. Memphis and basically crashed after a full day of driving. It really does take it out of you.

Making my way back, I arrived back in Indianapolis about 16:30 ET and proceeded to clean up diarrhea the dog left for me. Any questions?


23.6.09

Camp Isanogel 2009

I'm working at camp this summer. . .

Go ahead, some of you and laugh, others clap and still more booo. But, despite what anyone thinks it is the most enlightening and rewarding experience of my life.

We are through 2 weeks, of hosting campers, 3 weeks if you count training. This session is a 2-week experience, with a mix of campers staying for one week or the entire session. I have taken note over the last few weeks and added up experiece after experience, hoping to begin this blog anew for those of you interested in the lives of those spending their summers assisting campers with disabilities, the situations we find ourselves in and the campers, themselves.

So, as I'm exhausted, being on duty for more than 80 hours a week, and dealing with things I never thought I would have to, I'll leave the story telling off to tomorrow and hopefully you'll join me for a ride that I hope can last every camper day, for the next few weeks.

21.5.09

Inspiration for the day


I have some inspiration for any of you looking for a material item to boost confidence and babe-appeal.

Introducing the three wolf moon shirt:

Check out these reviews from Amazon on this t-shirt. . .

Here's a sample of one:

This item has wolves on it which makes it intrinsically sweet and worth 5 stars by itself, but once I tried it on, that's when the magic happened. After checking to ensure that the shirt would properly cover my girth, I walked from my trailer to Wal-mart with the shirt on and was immediately approached by women. The women knew from the wolves on my shirt that I, like a wolf, am a mysterious loner who knows how to 'howl at the moon' from time to time (if you catch my drift!).


WOW! I'm getting one!

13.5.09

What I'm Reading 5.13; Jungle Jim's, Pieces of Rome and DEALS!

Yesterday, Andi and I took a trip to Jungle Jim's International Market in Fairfield, Ohio and bought a bunch of stuff we needed and even more stuff we didn't.

It's a neat place with almost any food item you could ever ask for. Six acres of food under one roof, is a lot and I still see things I've never seen before, every time I go.

This weekend we are going to Mauk, Georgia, again, for Andi's cousin's graduation. I recently got a Garmin and have attempted to put their address in it, and it doesn't recognize where they live - could be the dirt roads.

In other news. . . a women bogged down with grief and regret has returned a piece of Rome after taking it during a vacation to Italy.

A snake is to blame for the Missouri capitol building going dark - and he died.

The pope is trying to make friends.

Another reason for me not to root for Notre Dame and Catholics. GO ILLUMINATI!

A drug dealer, who lead police on a chase in Fort Wayne was stopped - at Taco Bell?!

The Reds continue to play well and are now 19-14, believe it or not.

Restaurant.com is offering 70 percent off their already reduced coupons so $10 gift cards are now $3; with the keyword TASTY, when you check out to get the reduced rate.

Shop World Kitchen has a lot of Pyrex baking and mixing dishes for $1.99.

Sam's Club is offering a 1-day pass for non-members.

12.5.09

Jungle Jim's Run!


We're heading to Jungle Jim's now! So if you want anything call. . .

8.5.09

Chipotle; Richmond: Borat Like Very Much!



I'm big on Mexican food and the spicier the better, for me. But, you already knew that. Chipotle is not spicy, but is good.

Yesterday was not the first time I've been to Chipotle, per say, but it WAS the first time I've been to the Chipotle in Richmond. (I'm going to get tired of typing that awkward word soon.)

Whether you know, or not, the place is built for speed with a Subway-esque ordering system, except with steam tables and hot food in front of you; and good hot food at that.

You have only a few options; which is also good. Options are: Burrito, Fajita Burrito, Burrito bowl, and crispy and soft tacos. You then get options that include Chipotle's famous Cilantro-Lime Rice, the most important ingredient, IMO. Several types of beans, salsa's and meats can be added in different ways, to culminate a delicious and BIG burrito, taco or whatever.

Chipotle also offers beer, something most fast-food restaurants don't.

Now, my rating is high on Chipotle despite the fact that it's a bit pricey for lunch, everyday. But, as I was leaving yesterday I thought about the speed at which the employees are expected to get the food done. And every Chipotle I've been to has gotten my order processed, put together and paid for in under 5 minutes. The price of speed, is what tips it over to something more than fast-food, if the food quality doesn't already do it. It is much better food than Taco Bell.

I graciously urge you to at least try the place and don't be afraid to ask questions whilst there, the food is worth it.

What I'm Reading 5.8; Mill, Dog's and jelly bean robbery!


In honor of the fundamental philosopher John Stuart Mill, who died this day in 1873; this post will be directed at the 'greatest good for the greatest number.'


Whether you know or not - assuming you don't and if you did, your lessons from Philosophy 100 are probably gone - Mill was a philosopher, an economist and a political theorist, born in London in 1806. Although devoloped by Jeremy Bentham, 'utilitarianism' was largely expedited to academia as a theory by Mill.

Mill's works include On Liberty; an argument for the importance of individual freedom, established in a place and time of little freedom from the state. Mill also supported the de-establishment of slavery, the fight for women's rights and free market economics; all things foreign to the establishment of the time.

As an exponent for Utilitarianism - the greatest good for the greatest number - Mill became known as one of the foremost progressives of the time in philosophy, economics and government.
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History lesson over, now on to the important stuff:

I plan on going to the dog park again, today.

My cousin Stacey's wedding is this weekend and I'm the photographer. It should be fun.

Here's a good poem for you, from a good book: Good Poems, by Garrison Keeler (a selection of poems read on the writer's almanac, on NPR)

Animals by Frank O'Hara

Have you forgotten what we were like then
when we were still first rate
and the day came fat with an apple in its mouth
it's no use worrying about Time
but we did have a few tricks up our sleeves
and turned some sharp corners
the whole pasture looked like our meal
we didn't need speedometers
we could manage cocktails out of ice and water
I wouldn't want to be faster
or greener than now if you were with me O you
were the best of all my days

Weird News:

A burglar in Pennsylvania took jellybeans and, well that was it.

A cow escaped the slaughterhouse, wandered through Queens, NY (there's one of these stories a year, methinks) and may get a new lease on life.

Now, I love popcorn and eat as much as possible, when I go to the movies; which is never, but I don't think i could eat this much.

Closed for a while, the statue of liberty's crown is set to be open for July 4.
Australian officials are set to shoot 6,000 kangaroo's, because of over population. One of my wishes in life is for kangaroo's to wander Indiana. Isn't there some way we can spare some of the kangaroo's with the bailout money and ship some to Indiana? Heck, I'll put some money up for them. Forget the banks, I NEED KANGAROOS!

Manny Ramirez, yes that Manny, tested positive for performance enhancing drugs. Another one bites the dust.

I rented Last Chance Harvey. It's pretty good and one of the better-more-recent Dustin Hoffman movies.

And, last but not least: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is launching a new intimidating frangrance line. Thank to the Onion, for that one.

7.5.09

Reds Game 5.7


Tonight I will be heading down US 27, then IN 101, then I-74 to the Reds game to watch the much hated Brew Crew in action against the good guys. The only good thing about the Brewers is the sausage race, and that's only in Milwaukee! SO you know what that means. . .


I will do my best to update this tonight as I know it will be a fun night full of Skyline, baseball and (fingers-crossed) no rain.

Follow here for the action, baseball and antics!

Bark in the Park

Assuming people out there know I have a dog - a most gracious dog - and assuming you all know that I've been by her side from week 8 of her life, I want to share with you a 'new' discovery, if you don't know about it already.


I had heard about the 'dog park' at Middlefork Reservoir, but had not been out there to see it for myself. Assuming where the park was supposed to be I had reservations, because i knew little about its construction and establishment. Thanks Pal-Item.

So my reservations led me away from the reservoir, nicknamed the 'dead sea', by my father. What's funny is that(now in my second publishing after safari crashed) that I haven't gone to the reservoir much in my life and it reminds me of the people in Italy I talked to that had never been to the coliseum, never ridden a gondola and never eater canoli's. . .it's kind of like that with me in my own hometown, in regards to the Indiana football hall of fame, as well as other things that escape me right now.

ANYhow, the dog park is sponsored by Hill's pet food and one could miss it, if not paying attention to the west of the reservoir. It is merely a fenced off area with a few barrels, a ladder and fire hydrants, aptly placed for the dogs to place on and over.

The most interesting part of the entire setting is the water fountain near the northern perimeter of the larger section of fencing. Here, you will find a water fountain for owner and ownee, and by pressing a large circular-protruding button, a water dish fills for the dogs to drink; a most handy invention for the summer days ahead, in our beautiful part of the country.


What I'm Reading 5.7

So this adsense thing does work and after spending part of my day reading about how to make money, I think i have it figured out. And I've made $0.04 today!

So the important things include getting you're own domain name, be active and find a niche that will attract traffic from search engines.

Here, here, here and here are some attractive and interesting perspective pages about making money with adsense.

Some people have made more than $4500 per month! And $15 per click!

So far I've: transitioned to the new domain, added my url to google and yahoo. . .and, well, I'll talke about it later. . .

6.5.09

What I'm Reading 5.6


So, whether you know or not, I did not get into the program in Illinois and therefore, the job hunt begins anew.

However - don't be sad for me, as I'm sure something will turn up that will fit my interests - and hopefully my wallet - soon.

Today i'm looking at a number of trends and wondering about many more things that are going on in the world and in other worlds.

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Before I forget, anyone notice something different? Well, if not, take a look at the url bar and notice that I have forwarded you to my own domain! mwaa haha! You are at my mercy now! Not really but I did buy a domain and have now fowarded my blogger page to www.nathansheetsnow.com.

And I'm sure you're wondering why now? and. . . why now? Now, because nathansheets.com was taken and I didn't want to mess with the other .net's, .eau's and others of the world.

And NOW, more specifically because a much more crafty individual, than myself, has earned new $100 already with his new domain. . . .so it goes.

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The first successful face transplant victim, err patient has emerged and looking better than ever. (see top pic)

My fave cartoon episode:



Watch ATHF-Spirit Journey Formation Anniversary in Comedy | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com


Today is national nurses day. SO, go hug one.

I finished Dan Brown's Angels and Demons the other day and it was intense. I'm sure the book will be just like the movie, coming out in a theatre near you 15 May.

A smuggler was caught in LAX trying to bring in songbirds from Vietnam. Apparently the birds bring close to $400 a piece in the U.S. of A.

Sony Dong, 46 can be seen here with the birds attached to his legs.

Another virgin mary sighting - and I can't make this up - two Mexican wrestlers, in full regalia, saw the holy mother on a griddle at Las Palmas restaurant in Calexico, Calif. Again a picture warrants the story.

I can't do anything else today after those two.







28.4.09

Cha Cha, for now

Anyone heard of chacha.com?

It's a neat site, check it out if you ever have a trivial question about anything.

More later. . .

23.4.09

What I'm Reading 4.23: Nature and Police Sketches

"If a man walks in the woods for love of them half of each day, he is in danger of being regarded as a loafer. But if he spends his days as a speculator, shearing off those woods and making the earth bald before her time, he is deemed an industrious and enterprising citizen." - Henry David Thoreau

Despite the feelings of those around me, and society in general, this quote, from my favorite of all essayists/writers, describes my feeling on how to spend days - and how I spent much of yesterday.

I haven't been blessed, or cursed, to have a regular job yet, but I've 'seized' the opportunity to venture in my sabbatical, of sorts. Yesterday, was the capstone to what I've tried to do all semester, in my venture of unwinding prior to the life-long of winding, which i estimate will begin soon.

I had a busy day of picking up trash for Earth day, and walking in the woods, and isn't it funny as I found it to be a busy day, everyone else said I was being 'loafing'.

But, despite their lack of understanding to the world around them, I had a very 'constructive' day, as I picked up not one but 2 heaping garbage bags of trash along Waterfall Rd., walked with the dog - capturing images of spring's splendor along the way, and walked through the woods to see 'things unseen, which are eternal' (Keller).

And now for my thought of the day, which you can love or leave, depending on your outlook on all things regarded and unregarded.

Think, please, that a man's vices may be his virtue, prior dismissing the way he spends his days as fault. Remember that what's important to you, in most cases is not important to him, and even life, that which we all share, takes on a different meaning for him, than you.

__________________________________________________________________

The news takes on a terrifying turn everyday because we can never predict what's next. (a bit rhetorical but it's the truth)

Like take this: South Carolina wildfires, near Myrtle Beach have destroyed several homes and made many people evacuate. No injuries have been attributed to the fires, as of yet.

It seems as common as nightfall, but two suicide bombers in Iraq this morning have killed at least 45.

NPR has a song of the day, every weekday and they're all usually pretty good. Check it out.

Apparently a pregnant women in Fayetteville, N.C., about to rob a bank, was stopped not by cops, but by answering her cell phone. And, another robbery, this time at a dry cleaner, was foiled. The culprit this time: a ninja.

More evidence has been discovered in the Craigslist murder. Apparently Phillips Markoff, kept panties of the victim(s).

Officials in Webster, Mass. have agreed to a common spelling of a lake with a 45-letter name. Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg, more commnly called Lake Webster, by locals, has had several variations in spelling. One amusing paragraph from the story from MSNBC:

But after researching historical spelling combinations, the Telegram & Gazette of Worcester said local Chamber of Commerce officials agreed that some signs were wrong. There was an "o" at letter 20 where a "u" should have been, and an "h" at letter 38 where an "n" should go.

And lastly in 'weird news' a Hamilton, Ohio teacher has resigned after she accompanied female students to a male strip club.

More importantly my Strat-O-Matic team has moved over .500!

Some deals:
- Sears has some Dearfoam slippers for $3.50 per pair.
-The Nike Store has a 20 percent off coupon code: TRAINHARD, for clearance items and NIKESNEAKER, for orders more than $100.
- Amazon has some Birki's and Birkenstock sandals starting at $20.

And last but not least, looking into story ideas for all you potential journalists out there (we all are). Look into the effectiveness of police sketches in your local area. The Times-Picayune in New Orleans looked into it; you should too!

22.4.09

Morning Stroll 4.22

More Morel Mischief


Upon waking I began thinking about what 'we' could do with the mushrooms.

One idea is selling them on ebay, where auctions are set for 24 hours with overnight shipping. Here are some completed sales.

Another option is French cuisine. Anyone up for thyme-roasted chicken-breast with morel-madeira or forest fettucine with morels and a breast of pheasent?

Here is a discussion board about morels being found in Indiana. The Web site, Morels.com has some interesting insight into finding the little things. Everyone on the site seems to be set on looking in orchards; just an idea. . .

What I'm Reading: Morel Mushroom Madness edition




When I think back about Versailles, I think more of Kings of France than Mid-western fungus.

But, despite what I associate with Versailles, Versailles State Park yielded some beautiful spongy miracles for friends and family, today.

Awaking at 5:30 a.m., the thought of getting up was overshadowed by the potential trophies that beckoned from a mere 2 hours away. Jim and Marthalea Hill, my parents and I made their annual trip to southern Indiana to find the Morels that are a staple of early springtime, for us.

Versailles has been a destination for the Hill's for years and with my parents, the group has made the trip annually. I have gone a few times, but usually had school or work.

The day was lousy, for all climatic reasons, and the rain turned to sleet part of the time and finished in a downpour. But, that didn't stop us from having one of the best yields in recent memory.

We began the day deep in the state park. I soon found the first one a black sponge, resembling the one here. And I was off.

The rest of the day I found mushroom after mushroom. With only a few intermissions of no suceess, We all consistently were finding them.

Prior to lunch, I was about to give in for a lack of success (my actions can be described by anyone who has ever fished with me). But, my dad began finding small snake-heads, pepper-tops, or whatever you call them. I soon began finding them lining a log and as two became five, five became 10 and 10 grew to more than 50 in one patch. My white Save-A-Lot bag was more full than I'd ever seen it. And after we finally gave in, in 'the patch' I totalled 106 between my dad and I, in about 20 minutes.

After lunch we didn't have quite the success, but capped off the afternoon with a few black sponges and some sleet.

After leaving a banana peel on the trail, in comic hilarity (to myself), we ran for the car, dodging the flying ice, and made our way to the Osgood Grub Co. prior to heading home to showcase our little wonders.

20.4.09

Mom's 50th Slideshow

What I'm Reading: 420 edition (ridiculous)

(Before reading I have to state I don't condone the use or distribution of material involving or showing marijuana, I am merely finding humour in the day)

April 20, or 4-20 has come to fame or rather, infamy in the past few years as the day that pot-smokers celebrate their avocation. The true story about the day can be read here.

Method Man said he forgot to pay taxes because he was busy smoking.

No legal ganja anytime soon though.

Some famous friends of Mary-Jane:











19.4.09

What I'm Reading 4.19

It seems that eventually spring has to, well, spring. And yet, in light of yesterday's beautiful weather, we end up with what we have today. And it's going to like 'this', until wednesday, at least.

Other than 'what' people talk about when there is nothing else to talk about, there is a lot going on.

Pictures of the new O'maley addition can be seen here at my photostream on flickr. And for future reference, any choice photos i take will be posted at http://flickr.com/photos/nathansheets.

The Onion has a 'first 100 days' post that updates everyday with happenings in the Obama administration. Today's post:

DAY 88: White House senior adviser David Axelrod has to rush home to Chicago when he suddenly realizes he left his car in a two-hour parking zone in January.


And for you other onion readers; the link to our dumb world news.

If you didn't know newsvine and msnbc have teamed up to produce 'The Elkhart Project' focusing on the declinging economy through the eyes of Elkhart, Ind. Elkhart was once a community with large RV production, which has gone by the wayside since the downturn.

An interesting look at America's most endangered rivers.

And more downer news, as malls are reporting a 10-year high in store vacancy.

Did you see, and if you saw, like what you saw, in regards to the iconic Obama painting? You know this one:

Well you can now make a print of yourself just like it, here.

And if you haven't, you know you want to join Twitter. Come on, everybody is doin' it.

A sweet deal on a sweet deal site.

Looking for something good to make tonight? How about Pad Thai. MMMmmm.

Some really choice photos through the MSNBC photoblog.

17.4.09

What I'm Reading; New Baby Edition




I don't have access to upload the photo's I've taken yet, but by the time I get home, or, if I find a USB cord, I'll have them up.

Getting back to the lead; we spent more than 18 hours at St. Vincent's women's hospital. However, the good news is both Amiee and the new baby; Cameryn Paige are fine and doing well.

Throughout the day we spent most of the time sitting, reading, talking and getting updates via text by Chris O. At 10:45 Susie O'maley, Chris's mother got a picture-message with a short message: 'we have a baby!'

And, nearly 45 minutes later a glowing Chris came out of the labor-triage area to dispel rumors of a baby boy; confirming of my intelligence that the baby was indeed, a girl.

Today we are heading back to the hospital to check out the baby and see how things are progressing. I will send more updates when they come to me.

And in other baby news; this guy didn't know his wife was pregnant, but now he has a new baby!

In other news has anyone seen Susan Boyle? Or how about song that has made her a sensation on Britain's Got Talent?

Or how about this?:



In other weird news: this driving instructor was drunk during an instruction. In Peorian, Ill. a 13-year-old boy is the key suspect in a bank robbery. And, last but not least, a women in L.A. staged fake funerals for money.

16.4.09

What I'm Reading 4.16

Did you tuck someone in, telling them to 'not let the bedbugs bite?" This guy does.

The Obama's made $2.7 million last year, most from Mr. Obama's book sales.

And by the way, here is the Springfield Journal-Register, the newspaper I may be working for come Jan. (fingers crossed. . .)

Tens of thousands turned out for tea party's across the country to oppose taxation. If people only thought about what they are doing, now and then, ridiculous events like this wouldn't take place. I'm sure they all took the day off.

Speaking of dummy's, a man in Gilliam, La. was stabbed by his brother. Doesn't sound interesting? How about I add this twist: it was over a can of pork 'n beans! As I was writing this I had to refer to this online U.S. state abbreviation guide.

And here, smugglers are targeting the world's rarest tortoise. WOW!

This year the Reds have three or four bobblehead nights, i can't remember, but for the final one the fans get to vote for who they want. Send your vote here for David Weathers, just cause.

The Washington Post came to Cincinnati to check out its most famous staple.

The Cleveland Indias are giving away a special bobblehead this year. I guess none of their 'real' players were interesting enough. I guess you can only do Grady Sizemore once-a-year.

And if you are interested here is a list of the best and worst stadium give-a-ways this summer.

And lastly, for now, as I will have plenty of time for more today (Andi's sister is in the hospital to have her first child, fingers crossed), here is a way to save as a frequent flyer, or 10-ways to.

15.4.09

Reds!

I haven't said much about the Reds lately but they are playing the much-hated Brew-crew tonight.


I think they might be OK this year. If the pitching holds up they could have one of the best rotations in baseball. 

And you know what the cut-man says about pitching. . .

14.4.09

Reach

I draw my inspiration from many mediums; music, books, religion(s), etc. But i have a hard time where others get the will to try and/or to be. I find that too often those of my generation are apathetic to most everything. I don't think I was born under a special sign, or have anymore knowledge than those that wish to gain information, the same way I do. I merely feel that people, and more specifically those of my generation, don't care about what is around them.

I see examples of apathy all the time, and despite my reservations, I feel it must be said that our society has evolved into a populous that is materialistic, as well as apathetic. We have been brought up through capitalist ideals to have anything we desire, or need. There is not an inkling of conscience in the minds of some and for that, I say shame on society.

We go about with what is in front of us; under our noses, while not paying attention to our peripherals which are slowly, but surely, sneaking up on us.

All of a sudden we were in a financial downturn. All at once a middle-eastern predator was attacking us from within. Within a blink, innocents are shot and killed, again and again and again.

The need to have everything now and have it without the thought of consequence is what has brought us down. In one way or another we can look at how our society is calibrated to find the answers to all the questions we now ask.

You want less violence; less gun-related crime - better regulate the production of guns. You want a world void of American distrust - go into the world and show how we can be leaders not through brute force but by educated and responsible example. Responsibility and well-educated decision making could have saved billions of dollars and millions of lives.

So, whether I have been clear or not, take the time to evaluate how you do things. Think about how each decision in your day, affects all other decisions in your day and the decisions and lives of others. Think, think, think. It could be as small as choosing to use 2 bags instead of 3, at the grocery - decreasing the use of toxic plastics that are filling up our landfills and will someday contribute to our steady declining standard of living.

Reach out a helping hand - make someone's day. Drive less, listen more and observe better.

13.4.09

What I'm Doing

Sometimes I write. And more than that, I don't. But oftentimes, I start writing with no intention of what I'm going to say.

Right now, as I sit on the couch with the TV entertaining itself, Bella snoozing at my feet and the rain attempting to stop; I have nothing to say, but that gives me perfect reason to say something.

So, I'm among the finalists for the internship/M.A. program I want to get into through the Univ. of Illinois at Springfield. I have an interview April 25 with the director of the program in Springfield. So be thinking of me on that day because I really want to get in.

I'm ready for the sun to shine consistently and for warm weather to be the norm rather than the exception. Speaking of norm, did you know 'Norm' is my nickname from my internship at the Star Press?

Did you also know that my first generation Ipod nano has been recalled?

Lately I've been spending a lot of time thinking and not doing much on what I've been thinking about, which come to think of it, I don't know what I've thought.

Bella is quite possessive over her food and rawhides. Anyone have any tips?

Easter was nice but, lately I haven't been into the holidays; and it's not because I'm a grinch or whatever the negative characterization of someone disliking the current holiday, is. I've just been kind of well, blaaa, and I can't wait to do something. How people do nothing everyday, draw medicaid and welfare, when they are perfectly able, and are OK with it, astounds me.

I can't imagine living another week without working, let alone my whole bloody life! I'm ready to break free, that's it on the Queen references.

Has anyone been watching anyhing good lately on TV? I haven't.

I'm working at Isanogel Camp this summer again: did you know that? I can't imagine something more enlightening, grounding and 'real' than working at that camp. I don't think everyone would be perfect for it, but I think that if everyone had to take part in the lives of the handicapped more, the world would be a much better place.

After working there I looked at everything in a different light. I urge you all to take time out of your 'busy' lives and visit someone you don't know. Go to a nursing home or a hospital; it does something for you. I can't tell you what that will be, but I know that the feeling of being appreciated is something to behold.

And even better, is the feeling of knowing you have touched someone's life.

10.4.09

What I'm Reading 4.10


As greener pastures await and the grass outside follows suit, the news seems to come more plentiful.

The pirate saga continues and the Reds finally won just as the 'other' pirates head down the Ohio to Cincinnati.

First for the ridiculous news of the day: a man and his nephew got into a sword fight in Indianapolis and in the middle of the scuffle the grandma of the boy was fatally wounded. Both 'boys' were sent to the hospital with wounds. I didn't know the Indianapolis Renaissance Festival was this week.

A Navy SEAL helped police nab the suspects who shot and killed the war hero's dog.

Apple sized hail and a tornado were too much for this house and for parts of Arkansas.

A man was stabbed in a hotel room by a friend for flatulence while eating.

Here is an incredible slideshow of pictures of the funerals and remembrances of the Italian earthquake victims.

LA Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart died in a hit-and-run wreck, hours after pitching. It is a very sad story about an up-and-coming star for the Angels.

Why NOT to convert to Judaism.

The U.S. and the pirates are sending more ships to the standoff.

And, Not Tiger but Chad Campbell? The leader of the Master's is Mr. Campbell.

9.4.09

What I'm Reading 4.9

The baseball season is off and running and what's nearly too predictable is the placement of the Reds in the standings; last. But, it's early and they have been playing perhaps the best team in the NL.


In other news a girl gets grounded for more than 10,000 texts in ONE month, athletes are being facebook stalked - not by fans but by NFL scouts. And much, much more.

Filipino fisherman caught one of the most rare fish in the ocean - and then they ate it.
A high school girl from Wyoming cost her parents close to $5,000 on a cell phone bill for sending more than 10,000 texts in one month.

Pro scouts in preparation for the NFL draft are using 'ghost' profiles, posing as attractive women, to search for inequities in personalities of NFL scouts.

The pirates are back and after capturing one of our own, it seems they (the pirates) have run out of water, pardon the pun.

Here are some highlights from the NY auto show.

Two-hundred-seventy-five are dead as of today from the Italy earthquakes.

The Master's starts today and this is an interesting post in regards to Tiger and, well, it's worth it for the pictures at least.

Brown fat? What's that? Well it might be important in the difference between obese and non-obese bodies.

How much does that ostrich eat a day?

It's funny you should ask because the topic was brought up at the breakfast table this morning.

I began searching for how much animals eat of their respective food(s) EACH DAY. And here is the list of the estimated amounts:

= 720 lbs








= 300 to 600 lbs.







= 8 lbs. per day








= 1 to 1.5 lbs food per day (have to have 6,600 calories per day)





And here's an excellent column about the recent gun violence.

7.4.09

Fantasy Relapse


Sacha Z. Scoblic, writer for the NY Times - a more modern take on a journalist - writes on alcohol and American life. In his most recent post he talks about 'relapse' and more specifically, the only noteworthy celebrity worthy of relapsing with.

Hunter S. Thompson, the journalist who cultivated drug use within his articles for Rolling Stone and other short stories, is still the envy of all drug users, wishing to explicate their experience on LSD, PCP, Ether or whatever. And yet, for many journalist he is the envy, drugs or no drugs.

Some may be familiar with 'Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas', the psychadelic-acid trip of a movie with Johnny Depp, based on some of the writings of Hunter S. Thompson. But the movie doesn't speak to the writings of Mr. Thompson.

Scoblic's column is very good in capturing the essence of Thompson's writings while remaining different. It's worth a read!

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