Its funny that people say technology makes our lives easier. I believe this to a certain extent. But for the most part it only makes us more frustrated, stressed and adds grey ara to that line between work life and personal life. There are many times that I feel I couldn't live without the internet, a digital camera, and now a blackberry.
My cellphone contract ended yesterday on Christmas Eve. So I figured I should go ahead and get a present for myself. It has been a longstanding tradition for me to do this. It used to get me in trouble a lot with one of my exgirlfriends. I settled on the BlackBerry Pearl.
This new toy is not going to be just be a toy. This is a new leash that I will have not only to those who know me and are demanding of my time but also to my desk and work. That is exactly what worried me when I swiped my card for the phone. Is this phone going to make my life easier or more difficult?
I am hoping that this new piece of technology isn't going to further blur the line between work and personal life. But it will most likely take some time to re-enforce that balance. But now I have absolutely no excuse for not blogging more then I have been.
To those of you who celebrate it, Merry Christmas. To the rest, have a great holiday season.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Friday, December 21, 2007
My time as Santa
We recently had a competition at work that involved each sector of our production team decorating their area. Each team had to decorate their area to fulfill certain categories to win. These categories included areas like showcasing the different ethnicity's in your group, displaying good old American commercialized Christmas and using the decorations to reflect our sector.
Our sector got together for a team meeting and laid out a game plan. Somehow, this game plan involved a girl in our group dressing up as a giant Christmas stocking and I was to dress up like Santa. I don't know how this came about, but apparently it was written in stone. To be honest, I really didn't have a problem with being Santa. I just misspelled Santa when I was typing that sentence and I never realized how close to Satan it is. I have never dressed as Santa before and I figured that it is something that I needed to do before I die.
So a friend of mine in the office, the girl dressing as a stocking, picked me up a Santa suit and I was on my way to becoming St. Nick. This last Monday night I took the suit home with me to try it on. Once fully engulfed in Santa gear, my roommate decided it would be a good time to go out for a cigarette. SO I went out as Santa. There I am standing on a major road in Chicago outside my apartment wearing a Santa suit, smoking a Camel Wide Light. Ho ho ho. There were people walking down the sidewalk that were high-fiving me, patting me on the back, and asking me why I was out so early. Then the lady from the palm reading place spotted me and came running down the street. "Santa, Santa, you have to do me a big favor. Can you come and talk to my kids?" My first response was no. Who the hell am I? I just put this suit on five minutes ago. I don't know how to be Santa. But what the hell, it will make a good blog post since I have been slacking. My response to the palm reader went as follows, handing my smoke to my roommate, "I have to warn you, Santa has had a couple egg nogs."
The next thing I know I am standing in the middle of a complete strangers living room. There were about a dozen people in the room ranging from the age of mid 40's to 2 years old. The kids were really the only ones excited to see me. But I knew that I was safe because no one is going to kill Santa in front of their kids. The kids were all coming up to me and telling me what they wanted for Christmas. I haven't even heard most of this shit before. But I nodded and asked them if they were good. That's when the age of technology came in to play. I was starring in a video taken on a cellphone with one of the guys that was most likely in his mid twenties. He asked me what he was getting for Christmas and since I saw him smoking outside, I told him that I was bringing him cartons of Marlboro Reds. If you see this video at any time or on youtube or something. Let me know. I am interested to see how it turns out. I quickly excused myself after about 15 minutes and headed out. The little boy who was the youngest in the room ran to the window as I left and waved goodbye. I do actually hope that I made those kids night.
So that is the main part of the story. Well at least that is the part that is the most interesting. I dressed as Santa at work on Wednesday and we ended up winning our office competition. We will be leaving today at noon to head to a new "Irish Bar" here downtown for lunch and a few drinks. I say "Irish Bar" because a lot of places in Chicago claim to be an Irish bar or pub and they are nothing but a yuppie bar with an Irish flag waving.
So Ho ho ho and Merry Christmas to everyone. And if you ever are in Chicago and you want a free palm reading, let me know me because I have the hook-up.
Our sector got together for a team meeting and laid out a game plan. Somehow, this game plan involved a girl in our group dressing up as a giant Christmas stocking and I was to dress up like Santa. I don't know how this came about, but apparently it was written in stone. To be honest, I really didn't have a problem with being Santa. I just misspelled Santa when I was typing that sentence and I never realized how close to Satan it is. I have never dressed as Santa before and I figured that it is something that I needed to do before I die.
So a friend of mine in the office, the girl dressing as a stocking, picked me up a Santa suit and I was on my way to becoming St. Nick. This last Monday night I took the suit home with me to try it on. Once fully engulfed in Santa gear, my roommate decided it would be a good time to go out for a cigarette. SO I went out as Santa. There I am standing on a major road in Chicago outside my apartment wearing a Santa suit, smoking a Camel Wide Light. Ho ho ho. There were people walking down the sidewalk that were high-fiving me, patting me on the back, and asking me why I was out so early. Then the lady from the palm reading place spotted me and came running down the street. "Santa, Santa, you have to do me a big favor. Can you come and talk to my kids?" My first response was no. Who the hell am I? I just put this suit on five minutes ago. I don't know how to be Santa. But what the hell, it will make a good blog post since I have been slacking. My response to the palm reader went as follows, handing my smoke to my roommate, "I have to warn you, Santa has had a couple egg nogs."
The next thing I know I am standing in the middle of a complete strangers living room. There were about a dozen people in the room ranging from the age of mid 40's to 2 years old. The kids were really the only ones excited to see me. But I knew that I was safe because no one is going to kill Santa in front of their kids. The kids were all coming up to me and telling me what they wanted for Christmas. I haven't even heard most of this shit before. But I nodded and asked them if they were good. That's when the age of technology came in to play. I was starring in a video taken on a cellphone with one of the guys that was most likely in his mid twenties. He asked me what he was getting for Christmas and since I saw him smoking outside, I told him that I was bringing him cartons of Marlboro Reds. If you see this video at any time or on youtube or something. Let me know. I am interested to see how it turns out. I quickly excused myself after about 15 minutes and headed out. The little boy who was the youngest in the room ran to the window as I left and waved goodbye. I do actually hope that I made those kids night.
So that is the main part of the story. Well at least that is the part that is the most interesting. I dressed as Santa at work on Wednesday and we ended up winning our office competition. We will be leaving today at noon to head to a new "Irish Bar" here downtown for lunch and a few drinks. I say "Irish Bar" because a lot of places in Chicago claim to be an Irish bar or pub and they are nothing but a yuppie bar with an Irish flag waving.
So Ho ho ho and Merry Christmas to everyone. And if you ever are in Chicago and you want a free palm reading, let me know me because I have the hook-up.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
A Sledgehammer and Three Hookers
"There I am, sitting in a cab heading toward a bar in Brooklyn. My phone buzzes in my pocket and I see it is my roommate." This is how my week went from alright to shit in about three minutes.
My roommate proceeded to tell me the happenings of an undercover police raid that had just taken place at our apartment. We had been suspicious for a while since there was a lot of foot traffic up to their apartment and it always seemed to be guys walking in by themselves. We had a few situations where a "John" walked into my apartment looking for some action. Once he saw me and the extremely angry look on my face, he apologized and left. Another situation was that at about 4am we had some asshole "John" pounding on our door. A friend of ours was sleeping on the couch and awoke to let the desperate man know he was pounding on the wrong door. The last occurrence that I will mention was when I heard a bunch of noise coming from their upstairs door, which is next to our upstairs door, so I looked out the peep hole to check it out. There one of the hookers stood in a school girl skirt and a bra ushering in the next customer.
Back to the main story, my phone rang and I immediately picked it up. My roommate was all shaken up as he started telling me the story. He was sitting in his room on his computer when there was a knocking on the door, which is about 10 feet from where he sat. The knocking turned to loud banging and he went over to the door to figure out what was going on. Upon looking through the peep hole, he saw four guys in street clothes with badges and one of them swinging a sledgehammer at our door. They were yelling Chicago Police and telling him to open the door. The door had been hit with the sledgehammer three times by now as my roommate yelled that he was going to open the door. he quickly opened it and the undercover cops busted in brandishing 9mms, putting him up against the wall and pointing at least three of their weapons at his face. He started trying to tell them that he was the only one in the apartment and that they had the wrong apartment number. To explain, the apartments used to be separated by floors but were made into duplexes a few years back. The upstairs door of these ladies of the night still had the old apartment number on it wither intentionally or by accident.
Once realizing that they had the wrong apartment, they kicked in the other door and arrested its inhabitants. Three hookers in all were arrested and taken away. The cops were cool after they had the right people in custody. They told my roommate that there was a prostitution ring that was operating above us and that they had received a tip to raid the apartment. He apologized for the mix up and told him that we should hang a new sign on our door in that hallway. "This is not 2F, No Hand-Jobs Sold Here".
Since then someone has returned to the apartment. We can hear them entering the door and walking around upstairs. I went and met with my property manager yesterday afternoon. Apparently, the first that she had heard of the situation was from me. I am glad that Kass Management is up to date on the illegal activities that happen in their apartment buildings.
I asked if they were going to be evicted and she replied that she had to wait for the police report so that they knew for certain that these things had happened. That's understandable, but come check out the enormous dents in my door from the sledgehammer. She let me know that once she obtained the police report it would take about a month to evict the whores. I think that is ridiculous and I was not pleased. I told her that we wanted our November rent back since my roommate had multiple guns in his face, our door was practically busted in by the cops and that the owners of the building were oblivious to anything. Her response was that it would never happen, but she would speak to the owner of the company, and maybe he would give us $50 or something. I was in awe. She also let me know that things like this happen when you live in the city. But I reminded her that we pay a lot of money to live in a nice part of Lincoln Park. Also that a college kid smoking pot in his apartment or throwing huge noisy parties is something that happens when living in the city. Not a prostitution ring and a police raid on the wrong apartment. I think that this was an extreme situation and that they needed to do something about it. But she offered no help at the time. But she did make me aware that if we left the apartment and broke our lease that they would take us to court and ruin our credit. This is no way to conduct business. She reminded me that they were running a business and they can't just start giving out free rent. Even now, sitting here at my desk, finishing typing this story, I am getting fired up and I want to call and give her another piece of my mind.
My advice for anyone moving to Chicago or anyone looking for a new place. Stay away from Kass Management properties. Also if anyone has any advice on how to get our way with these asshole landlords, I would greatly appreciate it.
And just remember, "This is not 2F, No Hand Jobs Sold Here".
My roommate proceeded to tell me the happenings of an undercover police raid that had just taken place at our apartment. We had been suspicious for a while since there was a lot of foot traffic up to their apartment and it always seemed to be guys walking in by themselves. We had a few situations where a "John" walked into my apartment looking for some action. Once he saw me and the extremely angry look on my face, he apologized and left. Another situation was that at about 4am we had some asshole "John" pounding on our door. A friend of ours was sleeping on the couch and awoke to let the desperate man know he was pounding on the wrong door. The last occurrence that I will mention was when I heard a bunch of noise coming from their upstairs door, which is next to our upstairs door, so I looked out the peep hole to check it out. There one of the hookers stood in a school girl skirt and a bra ushering in the next customer.
Back to the main story, my phone rang and I immediately picked it up. My roommate was all shaken up as he started telling me the story. He was sitting in his room on his computer when there was a knocking on the door, which is about 10 feet from where he sat. The knocking turned to loud banging and he went over to the door to figure out what was going on. Upon looking through the peep hole, he saw four guys in street clothes with badges and one of them swinging a sledgehammer at our door. They were yelling Chicago Police and telling him to open the door. The door had been hit with the sledgehammer three times by now as my roommate yelled that he was going to open the door. he quickly opened it and the undercover cops busted in brandishing 9mms, putting him up against the wall and pointing at least three of their weapons at his face. He started trying to tell them that he was the only one in the apartment and that they had the wrong apartment number. To explain, the apartments used to be separated by floors but were made into duplexes a few years back. The upstairs door of these ladies of the night still had the old apartment number on it wither intentionally or by accident.
Once realizing that they had the wrong apartment, they kicked in the other door and arrested its inhabitants. Three hookers in all were arrested and taken away. The cops were cool after they had the right people in custody. They told my roommate that there was a prostitution ring that was operating above us and that they had received a tip to raid the apartment. He apologized for the mix up and told him that we should hang a new sign on our door in that hallway. "This is not 2F, No Hand-Jobs Sold Here".
Since then someone has returned to the apartment. We can hear them entering the door and walking around upstairs. I went and met with my property manager yesterday afternoon. Apparently, the first that she had heard of the situation was from me. I am glad that Kass Management is up to date on the illegal activities that happen in their apartment buildings.
I asked if they were going to be evicted and she replied that she had to wait for the police report so that they knew for certain that these things had happened. That's understandable, but come check out the enormous dents in my door from the sledgehammer. She let me know that once she obtained the police report it would take about a month to evict the whores. I think that is ridiculous and I was not pleased. I told her that we wanted our November rent back since my roommate had multiple guns in his face, our door was practically busted in by the cops and that the owners of the building were oblivious to anything. Her response was that it would never happen, but she would speak to the owner of the company, and maybe he would give us $50 or something. I was in awe. She also let me know that things like this happen when you live in the city. But I reminded her that we pay a lot of money to live in a nice part of Lincoln Park. Also that a college kid smoking pot in his apartment or throwing huge noisy parties is something that happens when living in the city. Not a prostitution ring and a police raid on the wrong apartment. I think that this was an extreme situation and that they needed to do something about it. But she offered no help at the time. But she did make me aware that if we left the apartment and broke our lease that they would take us to court and ruin our credit. This is no way to conduct business. She reminded me that they were running a business and they can't just start giving out free rent. Even now, sitting here at my desk, finishing typing this story, I am getting fired up and I want to call and give her another piece of my mind.
My advice for anyone moving to Chicago or anyone looking for a new place. Stay away from Kass Management properties. Also if anyone has any advice on how to get our way with these asshole landlords, I would greatly appreciate it.
And just remember, "This is not 2F, No Hand Jobs Sold Here".
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Back with a Vengeance
For all of you faithful readers out there, I apologize. I have been very busy lately and have not had much time to document life. I also feel that I started getting a little political and that is not my aim here. I strictly want to share my outrageous experiences and shameful thoughts with all of you.
The good news is that I have had quite a week. I just got home from the airport a few hours ago from my latest trip to New York. More has happened in the last week than I would like to admit. This has been one of the weirdest weeks of my life. It has been a test and I made it through with only light bruises and just about $2,200 in wrongful credit card charges that I did not authorize. I am planning on writing a story a day until I am caught up. But to be completely honest I am way to tired to put a decent post together at this time. I have been living off of coffee and adrenaline for the last 5 days and I have a feeling that my body is going to give up on me soon. Even though I think I am supposed to go out on the town tonight and have a football party at my place tomorrow. I am very proud of the fact that I will be taking Monday off to try and rest. But now that is going to be cut short because I need to head over to the landlord's to talk about the police raid and the asian hookers. Yeah, I know, I just caught your interest. That will be tomorrow's story.
The good news is that I have had quite a week. I just got home from the airport a few hours ago from my latest trip to New York. More has happened in the last week than I would like to admit. This has been one of the weirdest weeks of my life. It has been a test and I made it through with only light bruises and just about $2,200 in wrongful credit card charges that I did not authorize. I am planning on writing a story a day until I am caught up. But to be completely honest I am way to tired to put a decent post together at this time. I have been living off of coffee and adrenaline for the last 5 days and I have a feeling that my body is going to give up on me soon. Even though I think I am supposed to go out on the town tonight and have a football party at my place tomorrow. I am very proud of the fact that I will be taking Monday off to try and rest. But now that is going to be cut short because I need to head over to the landlord's to talk about the police raid and the asian hookers. Yeah, I know, I just caught your interest. That will be tomorrow's story.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
The UAW Strikes Again
I can believe that it is happening again. The UAW has forced another strike. This time they have called for a strike with Chrysler. The strike was official at 11 a.m. EST this morning. I am really hoping that Chrysler sticks up for itself and forces the UAW workers either back on the line or onto the unemployment line. For those of you who do not know, Chrysler is now a private company. This gives them a distinct advantage. They do not need to look out for all those shareholders that have invested their hard earned money into the company. Chrysler actually has the opportunity to set a precedent and not give in to the UAW. They need to look out for the company and the people who want to work there.
As usual, I was actively involved in participating in a message board on WWJ Newsradio 950's website. Once the strike was announced I was appalled. So I went on the message board and posted the first comment. I will be completely honest. I tore the UAW and the striking workers apart. I stated the same comments that I had for the GM strikers. I hope that all of you striking workers that aren't showing up for your shifts get fired. But of course there are many pro-union people that were on the site and started making rebuttals. Lets attack them one at a time.
"I guess you want all of our jobs to go across seas"
No I do not want this. I want hard working people to keep their jobs and get paid well for their work. I just don't want the UAW to continually beat up the automotive companies. The companies need to be able to overhaul to get back to where they once were. Look at it from a business stance, why would you pay someone $73 dollars an hour and give them a ton of benefits if you can find workers that work harder for less. Its called competition.
"I saw the workers walk out to strike. They weren't happy. They were unhappy that they had to strike."
They didn't have to strike. They don't have to do anything the UAW tells them. They pay the UAW not the other way around. If you have a problem with what your union is doing stand up and say something.
"Who would look out for workers if unions weren't around?"
This is an easy one, the workers. How do you think non-union workers get by?
I think the thing that pissed me off the most is that my first comment was reported as offensive and removed from the message board. I contacted WWJ and was made a ware that my comment was the only one that was removed and that is because someone continually reported it until it was kicked out of the system. How childish. Below is my reply to the person who removed my comment.
Speechless:
I was very disappointed before. But now I am just plain angry. I never realized that people could be so childish. If you had a problem with my original comment, then tell me I am wrong and why you think that. Are you really that uninformed or uninspired to actually write something back? Defend yourself. I called WWJ and asked why my comment was the only comment removed. I was told that it was reported as offensive and was removed. I did not curse or name names. My comment was by no means offensive. Apparently freedom of speech means nothing to the UAW or its over protected workers unless it proves their point. If you have a problem with me saying that you should all be fired for not being willing to perform your job when their are so many people that don't even have one, tell me why. Please everyone read this comment as fast as possible. Before the UAW deems it offensive since it isn't their overpaid, overprotected opinion.
I think that pretty much says it all. But if I didn't get my point across. If you are holding a picket sign outside your place of business right now, I hope you get fired. Chrysler has about 49,000 employees that could walk off the job in total. Those jobs would be easily replaced with non-union workers that would take a pay cut so that they would have a job.
Realize what state you are in and realize the condition of the state you are in. Get your ass back to work.
As usual, I was actively involved in participating in a message board on WWJ Newsradio 950's website. Once the strike was announced I was appalled. So I went on the message board and posted the first comment. I will be completely honest. I tore the UAW and the striking workers apart. I stated the same comments that I had for the GM strikers. I hope that all of you striking workers that aren't showing up for your shifts get fired. But of course there are many pro-union people that were on the site and started making rebuttals. Lets attack them one at a time.
"I guess you want all of our jobs to go across seas"
No I do not want this. I want hard working people to keep their jobs and get paid well for their work. I just don't want the UAW to continually beat up the automotive companies. The companies need to be able to overhaul to get back to where they once were. Look at it from a business stance, why would you pay someone $73 dollars an hour and give them a ton of benefits if you can find workers that work harder for less. Its called competition.
"I saw the workers walk out to strike. They weren't happy. They were unhappy that they had to strike."
They didn't have to strike. They don't have to do anything the UAW tells them. They pay the UAW not the other way around. If you have a problem with what your union is doing stand up and say something.
"Who would look out for workers if unions weren't around?"
This is an easy one, the workers. How do you think non-union workers get by?
I think the thing that pissed me off the most is that my first comment was reported as offensive and removed from the message board. I contacted WWJ and was made a ware that my comment was the only one that was removed and that is because someone continually reported it until it was kicked out of the system. How childish. Below is my reply to the person who removed my comment.
Speechless:
I was very disappointed before. But now I am just plain angry. I never realized that people could be so childish. If you had a problem with my original comment, then tell me I am wrong and why you think that. Are you really that uninformed or uninspired to actually write something back? Defend yourself. I called WWJ and asked why my comment was the only comment removed. I was told that it was reported as offensive and was removed. I did not curse or name names. My comment was by no means offensive. Apparently freedom of speech means nothing to the UAW or its over protected workers unless it proves their point. If you have a problem with me saying that you should all be fired for not being willing to perform your job when their are so many people that don't even have one, tell me why. Please everyone read this comment as fast as possible. Before the UAW deems it offensive since it isn't their overpaid, overprotected opinion.
I think that pretty much says it all. But if I didn't get my point across. If you are holding a picket sign outside your place of business right now, I hope you get fired. Chrysler has about 49,000 employees that could walk off the job in total. Those jobs would be easily replaced with non-union workers that would take a pay cut so that they would have a job.
Realize what state you are in and realize the condition of the state you are in. Get your ass back to work.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Stop Destroying Classic Movies
The movie industry has not been very good in my eyes for some time. When you think back through time there are so many movies out there that are just plain classics. Some examples would be: Uncle Buck, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Animal House, Blues Brothers, all the Indian Jones movies, IT, or Caddyshack. These are the movies that you will always remember. They are not the movies that would have ever gone straight to DVD or ended up in a bargain bin at Best Buy.
For some reason, the movie industry has been churning out the same crap as always. Granted there are some good ones that have been released. I think that movies like Wedding Crashers, The Devil's Rejects and Lucky Number Sleven have kept our heads above water. But it seems that the movie industry just keeps going back to the same well over and over again. Rocky 4 was a great movie. In my opinion, it was the best of the series. I also thought it would be the last. When Rocky 5 came out, I was befuddled. In the back of my mind I did wonder if it would live up to 4. Obviously, I was wrong. I was positive that I would never have to make the leap of faith again. But once again, I was wrong. "Rocky Balboa" was released in December 06. I thought about it for about 4 minutes. Should I go and give it a shot? The answer is no. I will not support riding a classic into the ground.
This holds true for another Sly classic, Rambo. And almost like a personal slap in my face "John Rambo" is being released on my next birthday. I am starting to think that Sly is just going back and making more and more sequels to all of his movies. I don't know about you, but I am definitely looking forward to such greats as: Daylight 2 - Back in the Tunnel, Assassins 2 - He's really that Good, Cobra 2, Driven 2 and my personal favorite Stop or My Mom will Shoot Two - The Bitch is Back.
There have also been a string of comic books being turned into movies in the last ten years. Spiderman, The Punisher, Superman, Batman, Fantastic Four, X-Men, or Hulk. Many of these movies have grossed a ton of money at the box office. Which once again baffles me. The spiderman movies are decent. The Punisher has been done about 4 times. Batman movies are horribly inconsistent. Fantastic Four, I wouldn't have even given it the time of day if it wasn't for Jessica Alba. X-Men started off good but definitely took a turn for the worse. And last and definitely least, Hulk. They did a horrid job making this movie. They bastardized the concept of the Hulk so far beyond its original state that I wouldn't have even been able to tell it was him if he wasn't green. Stop turning good comic books into bad movies.
You might be thinking about where this came from. How did this all come up? If you read my posts you can see the one underlying factor. I don't really seek out things to write about. I sit back and watch and sooner or later something happens that is worthy to write about. Yesterday I was sitting at my desk reading on CNN's website. I saw an article about "The Karate Kid" so I decided to see what was going on. As I read I almost fell out of my chair. Yes folks, they are re-making The Karate Kid. My next thought was, who are they going to get to play pivotal roles like Daniel, Mr. Miyagi or Ali? The only role that they have cast is for Daniel.
Please stop reading for a second and try and think of the person you would cast into this role. I did the same thing when I read the article. I will admit I had a hard time thinking of a good one because so many of the current young male actors are pop star trendy douche bags. I decided that the best pick would be Norman Reedus who played Murphy MacManus in Boondock Saints. But now is the time that I will reveal the person cast for the role of Daniel. Its Will Smith's son Jaden, which is ironic because Will is going to try his hand at Directing. You have to be kidding me. I do not believe for a second that they are going to be able to pull this off. Smith should try and direct his first movie as something new. He is going to try and re-make a classic on his first try. To me this is ego and it is ridiculous. What is going to be his next big directing project, personally starring in and directing the re-make of several Hitchcock films?
For some reason, the movie industry has been churning out the same crap as always. Granted there are some good ones that have been released. I think that movies like Wedding Crashers, The Devil's Rejects and Lucky Number Sleven have kept our heads above water. But it seems that the movie industry just keeps going back to the same well over and over again. Rocky 4 was a great movie. In my opinion, it was the best of the series. I also thought it would be the last. When Rocky 5 came out, I was befuddled. In the back of my mind I did wonder if it would live up to 4. Obviously, I was wrong. I was positive that I would never have to make the leap of faith again. But once again, I was wrong. "Rocky Balboa" was released in December 06. I thought about it for about 4 minutes. Should I go and give it a shot? The answer is no. I will not support riding a classic into the ground.
This holds true for another Sly classic, Rambo. And almost like a personal slap in my face "John Rambo" is being released on my next birthday. I am starting to think that Sly is just going back and making more and more sequels to all of his movies. I don't know about you, but I am definitely looking forward to such greats as: Daylight 2 - Back in the Tunnel, Assassins 2 - He's really that Good, Cobra 2, Driven 2 and my personal favorite Stop or My Mom will Shoot Two - The Bitch is Back.
There have also been a string of comic books being turned into movies in the last ten years. Spiderman, The Punisher, Superman, Batman, Fantastic Four, X-Men, or Hulk. Many of these movies have grossed a ton of money at the box office. Which once again baffles me. The spiderman movies are decent. The Punisher has been done about 4 times. Batman movies are horribly inconsistent. Fantastic Four, I wouldn't have even given it the time of day if it wasn't for Jessica Alba. X-Men started off good but definitely took a turn for the worse. And last and definitely least, Hulk. They did a horrid job making this movie. They bastardized the concept of the Hulk so far beyond its original state that I wouldn't have even been able to tell it was him if he wasn't green. Stop turning good comic books into bad movies.
You might be thinking about where this came from. How did this all come up? If you read my posts you can see the one underlying factor. I don't really seek out things to write about. I sit back and watch and sooner or later something happens that is worthy to write about. Yesterday I was sitting at my desk reading on CNN's website. I saw an article about "The Karate Kid" so I decided to see what was going on. As I read I almost fell out of my chair. Yes folks, they are re-making The Karate Kid. My next thought was, who are they going to get to play pivotal roles like Daniel, Mr. Miyagi or Ali? The only role that they have cast is for Daniel.
Please stop reading for a second and try and think of the person you would cast into this role. I did the same thing when I read the article. I will admit I had a hard time thinking of a good one because so many of the current young male actors are pop star trendy douche bags. I decided that the best pick would be Norman Reedus who played Murphy MacManus in Boondock Saints. But now is the time that I will reveal the person cast for the role of Daniel. Its Will Smith's son Jaden, which is ironic because Will is going to try his hand at Directing. You have to be kidding me. I do not believe for a second that they are going to be able to pull this off. Smith should try and direct his first movie as something new. He is going to try and re-make a classic on his first try. To me this is ego and it is ridiculous. What is going to be his next big directing project, personally starring in and directing the re-make of several Hitchcock films?
Monday, September 24, 2007
UAW: Necessity or Hypocrisy
This morning at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time workers from General Motors went on strike. Despite working all night to reach a deal, the 11 a.m. deadline set by the United Autoworkers Union in its negotiations with General Motors Corp. passed with out an agreement. Workers have already begun picketing outside five GM plants. I wish I was still in Michigan. I would pick up a picket sign and stand right next to those workers. But my picket sign would read "Overpaid for Decades and Loving It".
I can not believe that these union protected workers have the guts to stand on a corner and hold a sign saying that they are mis-treated workers. I hope that there is someone out there that can explain it to me. These workers have been being paid way too much for over three decades and still find a reason to complain. The economic situation in MI is already in the toilet. The epicenter of this horrible situation is the Detroit auto market and the ever-increasing unemployment rate.
I have been reading the WWJ Newsradio 950 message board all morning. I was delighted to see that there were so many people out there that agreed that the unions have taken advantage of the auto industry. There are union protected workers that get 15 paid vacation days, 10 sick/personal days, full medical coverage, and receive an annual salary of $80,000 a year. Please keep in mind there are many of these workers that have no more then a high school education.
This is my stance. I am not going to spit out statistics and quotes from union and GM representatives. I have friends and family members that work in the auto industry and I have sat down at holidays and told them my views. And here it is....
Union protected auto workers have been extremely overpaid for decades. The original reason for the unions was to protect the rights of the worker. This was a noble start for this group. The unions came in and developed safer work environments, they regulated the hours that a worker could take on, helped provide them with sufficient pay, and made the company responsible for taking care of its employees. But this has spun out of control. OSHA was developed to specifically keep workers safe and out of harms way. This left compensation for the unions to take care of and they have beaten it into the ground. There is no reason for the UAW to exist. Is the auto industry really that different that they need a union when so many other industries can function properly without? If the UAW is so worried about the rising threat of union protected employees then why don't they suspend their union dues. Let the workers have a little more disposable income. This will not happen because it is a business. It is not looking out for the workers, it is looking out for itself. If the UAW keeps going at the pace that it is, GM will be ripped apart due to the high costs of labor compared to the low quality of the work they perform. Where will UAW reps be after that? Still fighting for the worker? Are they going to be actively seeking out jobs for those workers that handed them a piece of there check that they didn't deserve in the first place? I very much doubt that the UAW will still be helping workers if they can't get their hand in the worker's wallet.
In today's day and age, no ones job is safe. The mechanic, the dentist, line worker or the computer programmer. You have to be good at what you do to keep your job. You have to work your ass off and try and be the best. There are way too many people out there that can get away with not doing their jobs. The auto worker is one of these people. But it is time for the auto market to stand up and fight.
I am hoping that a GM representative comes out of the building and approaches one of the many news crews on-site. I hope that representative looks into the camera and states the following "Good morning. I wanted to let all of our workers know that we appreciate their views and opinions. But we are still a business at the end of the day. Therefore, if you are scheduled to be working at this time, I recommend you return to your job. Those that fail to arrive within a half hour of their scheduled starting time will be laid off without compensation. You are paid to work and if you don't want to work then we will not pay you. For all of you that sit watching this because you have felt the real economic struggle we are currently experiencing in the great state of Michigan, you are welcome here at General Motors. Those standing behind me would like to offer you their jobs. Please apply within."
I can not believe that these union protected workers have the guts to stand on a corner and hold a sign saying that they are mis-treated workers. I hope that there is someone out there that can explain it to me. These workers have been being paid way too much for over three decades and still find a reason to complain. The economic situation in MI is already in the toilet. The epicenter of this horrible situation is the Detroit auto market and the ever-increasing unemployment rate.
I have been reading the WWJ Newsradio 950 message board all morning. I was delighted to see that there were so many people out there that agreed that the unions have taken advantage of the auto industry. There are union protected workers that get 15 paid vacation days, 10 sick/personal days, full medical coverage, and receive an annual salary of $80,000 a year. Please keep in mind there are many of these workers that have no more then a high school education.
This is my stance. I am not going to spit out statistics and quotes from union and GM representatives. I have friends and family members that work in the auto industry and I have sat down at holidays and told them my views. And here it is....
Union protected auto workers have been extremely overpaid for decades. The original reason for the unions was to protect the rights of the worker. This was a noble start for this group. The unions came in and developed safer work environments, they regulated the hours that a worker could take on, helped provide them with sufficient pay, and made the company responsible for taking care of its employees. But this has spun out of control. OSHA was developed to specifically keep workers safe and out of harms way. This left compensation for the unions to take care of and they have beaten it into the ground. There is no reason for the UAW to exist. Is the auto industry really that different that they need a union when so many other industries can function properly without? If the UAW is so worried about the rising threat of union protected employees then why don't they suspend their union dues. Let the workers have a little more disposable income. This will not happen because it is a business. It is not looking out for the workers, it is looking out for itself. If the UAW keeps going at the pace that it is, GM will be ripped apart due to the high costs of labor compared to the low quality of the work they perform. Where will UAW reps be after that? Still fighting for the worker? Are they going to be actively seeking out jobs for those workers that handed them a piece of there check that they didn't deserve in the first place? I very much doubt that the UAW will still be helping workers if they can't get their hand in the worker's wallet.
In today's day and age, no ones job is safe. The mechanic, the dentist, line worker or the computer programmer. You have to be good at what you do to keep your job. You have to work your ass off and try and be the best. There are way too many people out there that can get away with not doing their jobs. The auto worker is one of these people. But it is time for the auto market to stand up and fight.
I am hoping that a GM representative comes out of the building and approaches one of the many news crews on-site. I hope that representative looks into the camera and states the following "Good morning. I wanted to let all of our workers know that we appreciate their views and opinions. But we are still a business at the end of the day. Therefore, if you are scheduled to be working at this time, I recommend you return to your job. Those that fail to arrive within a half hour of their scheduled starting time will be laid off without compensation. You are paid to work and if you don't want to work then we will not pay you. For all of you that sit watching this because you have felt the real economic struggle we are currently experiencing in the great state of Michigan, you are welcome here at General Motors. Those standing behind me would like to offer you their jobs. Please apply within."
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Things They Should Have Told You At Your College Graduation
I recently went on a business trip to Miami. I was sitting on the plane on the way back to Chicago and I started thinking about writing this post. I wanted to make a play off of the popular book "All I need to know I learned in Kindergarten". I started thinking about this as the two 6 year olds behind me would not stop crying, yelling at their mom because their ears were popping and kicking the back of my seat. (Insert Trojan Condom commercial here) I know that this book teaches all those little things that you are supposed to do. Treat others like you want to be treated, don't steal your neighbors crayon, and every work day should include a good nap. But I think that there are a lot of little things that college grads should be told before being released into real life. I wish that one of my professors or the Dean would have stood at the podium and told me a few key insights into my future. Here are some of the things I wish they would have told me and the reasons why.
"Chivalry is not Dead. Common Courtesy is Dead."
I try to be as courteous as possible to those around me most of the time. It is different if I am at a bar or another situation that I am probably drunk. If someone sneezes, I say bless you. If someone drops something, I will pick it up for them. I will hold a door, carry something heavy or say thank you if someone goes out of their way for me. I do not think this is contagious in any way. The prime example was the women that was trying to tame those brats sitting behind me. As we waited for everyone to slowly exit the plane, she stood right behind me. She was breathing on my neck which I am not a big fan of unless we are in another situation and popping her gum in my ear. I did the polite half turn to let her know that I was not happy with the situation but she continued and I prayed to not go off in the plane. I slowly counted the number of people it would take to get this horrid women away from me. If she is reading this right now. You deserve those kids. I hope they get worse by the day. If I had my way I would find out where you live and drop off a ton of candy and sugar for them just so they would bounce off the walls and you would have to deal with it.
"Your flight has been delayed. But we will offer you a warm Sierra Mist and a $3 cookie when you get on board."
I wish someone would have warned me that there is nothing exciting about business trips if your company does not spring for business class. The experience of flying today is nothing like it was 15 years ago. Flying used to be a luxury and a pleasure. Now it is annoying and the bare minimum. They should include in the safety announcement that the guy next to you has the flu and the baby in front of you will not stop crying the entire flight. I just wish I could have enjoyed flying in the days when it mattered to the airlines how people felt.
"Its not what you Know, its Who you Know"
Something that my university never really highlighted was the networking aspect of business. They made it seem as if you needed to memorize your book and get an A on a test to get a job. When really, it is all about having that piece of paper to show companies that you can learn. It took me 344 pages in "what color is your parachute" to learn that the single most important business skill is to be able to be social. You need to be a people person. Critical thinking is extremely important, but if you can't communicate your results, then you have nothing.
"The Age of Job Security is Gone"
It is said that my generation will switch careers at least eight times before retirement. It is funny to read stories about people who worked with the same company for 25 years and steadily moved up the ladder. This is something that my generation will not see. To be perfectly honest, retirement is something that my generation might not see. They should have told us, "Work your ass off every day at your job. Your employer needs to know how much you care. But never be irreplaceable. If you are irreplaceable then how could you ever get that promotion".
"Thanks for staying in Michigan for your undergraduate studies. Now, its time to leave."
No matter how bad the market was they always tried to veer us in the direction of working with a MI company. They never explored the potential of leaving MI in search of better things. Thanks God I did not wait for someone to tell me and i figured it out myself.
"You need a balance between work and the rest of your life. But never be afraid of a side project, you never know when that new project could give you the time to enjoy life even more"
Anything dealing with entrepreneur was something that was lacking from my education. The programs dealt more with working in a corporation, efficiently moving everything from your in box to your out box and leaving at 5. I wish they would have dealt more with having an addition to just the work you do everyday 9 to 5. This is something else that I will need to learn on my own, even if it is the hard way.
"You can re-take a Class, but Screw Up at your Job and your in Deep Shit"
Personally, i have not had any problems in this area, but I have some friends that have had to deal with this. it is the instant maturing process of realizing that it is time to get down to business. Make-up exams and skipped classes do not count any more. Go or No go. It is your choice succeed or fail. I think that a lot of people stay in school for longer periods of time to be able to not have to face this fact.
"Congrats. You are now an Adult and You have Complete Control of your Life"
In school you always have a direction you have to take. A set of classes that you have to take. An internship that you have to complete. A term paper that has to be done on a certain date. But in real life you have more choices. You can take whatever job you want, if it is offered to you. You can work at Jimmy Johns or you can work at Morgan Stanley depending on your drive and goals. If you want to just sit on the couch all day and collect welfare, that is your choice. You are no longer limited to the goals of others. You can do anything you want. Start a small business, create a new newsletter of magazine that you are interested in, or work part-time as a video game tester. It is your life, live it the way that you want.
"If you don't Remember anything that you have Learned here, Remember that there is No Sex in the Champagne Room"
I think that this is the equivalent to the age old motivation quote "There is no such thing as a free lunch". I just think that the champagne room quote resonates better with my generation.
Please feel free to add more things that you wish they would have told you in the comments section.
"Chivalry is not Dead. Common Courtesy is Dead."
I try to be as courteous as possible to those around me most of the time. It is different if I am at a bar or another situation that I am probably drunk. If someone sneezes, I say bless you. If someone drops something, I will pick it up for them. I will hold a door, carry something heavy or say thank you if someone goes out of their way for me. I do not think this is contagious in any way. The prime example was the women that was trying to tame those brats sitting behind me. As we waited for everyone to slowly exit the plane, she stood right behind me. She was breathing on my neck which I am not a big fan of unless we are in another situation and popping her gum in my ear. I did the polite half turn to let her know that I was not happy with the situation but she continued and I prayed to not go off in the plane. I slowly counted the number of people it would take to get this horrid women away from me. If she is reading this right now. You deserve those kids. I hope they get worse by the day. If I had my way I would find out where you live and drop off a ton of candy and sugar for them just so they would bounce off the walls and you would have to deal with it.
"Your flight has been delayed. But we will offer you a warm Sierra Mist and a $3 cookie when you get on board."
I wish someone would have warned me that there is nothing exciting about business trips if your company does not spring for business class. The experience of flying today is nothing like it was 15 years ago. Flying used to be a luxury and a pleasure. Now it is annoying and the bare minimum. They should include in the safety announcement that the guy next to you has the flu and the baby in front of you will not stop crying the entire flight. I just wish I could have enjoyed flying in the days when it mattered to the airlines how people felt.
"Its not what you Know, its Who you Know"
Something that my university never really highlighted was the networking aspect of business. They made it seem as if you needed to memorize your book and get an A on a test to get a job. When really, it is all about having that piece of paper to show companies that you can learn. It took me 344 pages in "what color is your parachute" to learn that the single most important business skill is to be able to be social. You need to be a people person. Critical thinking is extremely important, but if you can't communicate your results, then you have nothing.
"The Age of Job Security is Gone"
It is said that my generation will switch careers at least eight times before retirement. It is funny to read stories about people who worked with the same company for 25 years and steadily moved up the ladder. This is something that my generation will not see. To be perfectly honest, retirement is something that my generation might not see. They should have told us, "Work your ass off every day at your job. Your employer needs to know how much you care. But never be irreplaceable. If you are irreplaceable then how could you ever get that promotion".
"Thanks for staying in Michigan for your undergraduate studies. Now, its time to leave."
No matter how bad the market was they always tried to veer us in the direction of working with a MI company. They never explored the potential of leaving MI in search of better things. Thanks God I did not wait for someone to tell me and i figured it out myself.
"You need a balance between work and the rest of your life. But never be afraid of a side project, you never know when that new project could give you the time to enjoy life even more"
Anything dealing with entrepreneur was something that was lacking from my education. The programs dealt more with working in a corporation, efficiently moving everything from your in box to your out box and leaving at 5. I wish they would have dealt more with having an addition to just the work you do everyday 9 to 5. This is something else that I will need to learn on my own, even if it is the hard way.
"You can re-take a Class, but Screw Up at your Job and your in Deep Shit"
Personally, i have not had any problems in this area, but I have some friends that have had to deal with this. it is the instant maturing process of realizing that it is time to get down to business. Make-up exams and skipped classes do not count any more. Go or No go. It is your choice succeed or fail. I think that a lot of people stay in school for longer periods of time to be able to not have to face this fact.
"Congrats. You are now an Adult and You have Complete Control of your Life"
In school you always have a direction you have to take. A set of classes that you have to take. An internship that you have to complete. A term paper that has to be done on a certain date. But in real life you have more choices. You can take whatever job you want, if it is offered to you. You can work at Jimmy Johns or you can work at Morgan Stanley depending on your drive and goals. If you want to just sit on the couch all day and collect welfare, that is your choice. You are no longer limited to the goals of others. You can do anything you want. Start a small business, create a new newsletter of magazine that you are interested in, or work part-time as a video game tester. It is your life, live it the way that you want.
"If you don't Remember anything that you have Learned here, Remember that there is No Sex in the Champagne Room"
I think that this is the equivalent to the age old motivation quote "There is no such thing as a free lunch". I just think that the champagne room quote resonates better with my generation.
Please feel free to add more things that you wish they would have told you in the comments section.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Priming the Pump: A Necessity of City Life
Back in Michigan, pre-drinking was never really an act I never really participated in. I usually had to drive to the bar and drinking a case of beer is never really a good idea before getting behind the wheel. Getting drunk at the bar was never really an issue. We usually went to the same place all the time where they would hook us up with drinks and let us stay after hours to sober up and avoid the police during their busiest time of night. But things have certainly changed now that I have moved to Chicago. Now I don't drive anywhere. Now pre-drinking has turned into an art form. It is the simplest way to not spend every hard-earned dollar in your pocket on booze.
The last two weekends have been great examples of this. Two weeks ago on Saturday, everyone came to my apartment before we were leaving for the bar. Everyone was just sitting around, drinking beer and talking about bullshit. When all of a sudden, someone started a yawn chain. Lets just say that I wasn't very happy with this and I knew I had to do something about it. We need to have some fun and we need to do it right now. As you probably can tell, I am a big movie guy. And the one scene that popped into my head when I realized what I needed to do was from Beerfest, when they walk into the Frat party "We're the party brigade".
Suddenly their were 8 shot glasses laid out on my bar and I was reaching into the freezer for the ice cold half gallon of Canadian Club (CC) that I had bought in case of just such an emergency. I quickly rallied the troops around the bar and started getting everyone to do shots. After about 5 shots each within an hour there was no more yawning. Everyone was quite awake and ready to party. We topped everyone off with three rounds of "Thunder Chug" and headed to the bar completely shitfaced. I spent $0 at the bar that night.
This last weekend was very similar. No one yawned because they feared the catastrophic affects of their actions. This time they just bellied up and decided not to fight it. This time I decided to start the night off with some Curty Bombs. This consists of a shot of Jack Daniels dropped in a glass of Rockstar. After three round we were out of Rockstar but had plenty of Jack, or at least we thought. When the Jack ran out we turned to SoCo. Shot after shot and beer after beer, we were once again drunk. How much did I spend at the bar this time? $0
The damage of the two weekends: One half gallon of Canadian Club, 1 1/2 fifths of Jack, a fifth of SoCo and about 6 cases of beer. Not bad for 8 people.
The last two weekends have been great examples of this. Two weeks ago on Saturday, everyone came to my apartment before we were leaving for the bar. Everyone was just sitting around, drinking beer and talking about bullshit. When all of a sudden, someone started a yawn chain. Lets just say that I wasn't very happy with this and I knew I had to do something about it. We need to have some fun and we need to do it right now. As you probably can tell, I am a big movie guy. And the one scene that popped into my head when I realized what I needed to do was from Beerfest, when they walk into the Frat party "We're the party brigade".
Suddenly their were 8 shot glasses laid out on my bar and I was reaching into the freezer for the ice cold half gallon of Canadian Club (CC) that I had bought in case of just such an emergency. I quickly rallied the troops around the bar and started getting everyone to do shots. After about 5 shots each within an hour there was no more yawning. Everyone was quite awake and ready to party. We topped everyone off with three rounds of "Thunder Chug" and headed to the bar completely shitfaced. I spent $0 at the bar that night.
This last weekend was very similar. No one yawned because they feared the catastrophic affects of their actions. This time they just bellied up and decided not to fight it. This time I decided to start the night off with some Curty Bombs. This consists of a shot of Jack Daniels dropped in a glass of Rockstar. After three round we were out of Rockstar but had plenty of Jack, or at least we thought. When the Jack ran out we turned to SoCo. Shot after shot and beer after beer, we were once again drunk. How much did I spend at the bar this time? $0
The damage of the two weekends: One half gallon of Canadian Club, 1 1/2 fifths of Jack, a fifth of SoCo and about 6 cases of beer. Not bad for 8 people.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Final Score: ACLU 2 Me 45
I thought it was quite ironic yesterday when I was walking to the Red Line Grand Station and was approached by a kid from the ACLU holding a petition. I am not going to mention what the petition was for because once again, this is not a political forum. But he walked up to me and asked if I have a few minutes. Of course I said yes because the first thing that came to mind was my post about protestors and how I could add to it. So here it is. He started asking me if I would be willing to sign his petition to help re-shape our governement because we are currently in a "in a swirl that is going to turn us into a Nazi or Communist-like facist state". So here is how the conversation went:
Me: Didn't the ACLU defend the Nazi party here in Illinois in the late 70's and then in Cincinnati earlier this year?
ACLU: That is true, we were protecting there freedom of speech.
Me: I am all for the freedom of speech. But I think that the ACLU stepped in just to get their name in the paper and get publicity rather then standing up for freedom of speech.
ACLU: The ACLU stood up because they wanted to defend the rights of people because that is ultimately what they are, people.
Me: But you were publically standing up for people that do not just want to remove the rights of others, but also wanting those people to no longer exist in our society.
ACLU: Thats not the issue here. The issue is removing "act to remain nameless" so we can restore balance in our government.
Me: Do you think you would still be standing here right now if someone else was president? I think this is coming up because your organization has it out for the current president. When the new president in put in office, is this petition even going to exist anymore?
ACLU: Its not a matter of who is president.
Me: For some reason I dont beleive that. What is your stance on the Michael Vick situation? Are you with the NAACP on this one?
ACLU: We currently do not have a stance on that situation.
Me: Why not? Animals not your thing?
ACLU: Sir, this really has nothing to do with this petition.
Me: But it has something to do with your organization. You see I can't just pick and choose on when to support an organization. I also can't defend everyone. If you defend everyone, then whats the point of even defending anyone?
ACLU: We defend those who's rights have been infringed upon.
Me: Like Nazis trying to hold a demonstration in Skokie where there are a lot of Holocaust victims living or a prodominantly black nieghborhood in Cincinatti? If I screamed fire in a crowded movie theatre and during the stampede people were hurt or killed. Would you defend my freedom of speech or does that fall under clear and present danger?
ACLU: Sir, would you like to sign my petition?
Me: You haven't told me a reason why I should. I will look into it on the website and if for some reason I decide I want to sign I will do it there, not here.
So needless to say, I was not impressed by his lack of knowledge. I think it is ridiculous for a person to be able to stand on a corner with a politcal message, asking me to participate and they have no idea what they are talking about. One of the biggest reasons that I won that battle is that I kept him busy for 20 minutes. While we talked about 100 people walked by and were not bothered by this guy. Thats right, I win.
Me: Didn't the ACLU defend the Nazi party here in Illinois in the late 70's and then in Cincinnati earlier this year?
ACLU: That is true, we were protecting there freedom of speech.
Me: I am all for the freedom of speech. But I think that the ACLU stepped in just to get their name in the paper and get publicity rather then standing up for freedom of speech.
ACLU: The ACLU stood up because they wanted to defend the rights of people because that is ultimately what they are, people.
Me: But you were publically standing up for people that do not just want to remove the rights of others, but also wanting those people to no longer exist in our society.
ACLU: Thats not the issue here. The issue is removing "act to remain nameless" so we can restore balance in our government.
Me: Do you think you would still be standing here right now if someone else was president? I think this is coming up because your organization has it out for the current president. When the new president in put in office, is this petition even going to exist anymore?
ACLU: Its not a matter of who is president.
Me: For some reason I dont beleive that. What is your stance on the Michael Vick situation? Are you with the NAACP on this one?
ACLU: We currently do not have a stance on that situation.
Me: Why not? Animals not your thing?
ACLU: Sir, this really has nothing to do with this petition.
Me: But it has something to do with your organization. You see I can't just pick and choose on when to support an organization. I also can't defend everyone. If you defend everyone, then whats the point of even defending anyone?
ACLU: We defend those who's rights have been infringed upon.
Me: Like Nazis trying to hold a demonstration in Skokie where there are a lot of Holocaust victims living or a prodominantly black nieghborhood in Cincinatti? If I screamed fire in a crowded movie theatre and during the stampede people were hurt or killed. Would you defend my freedom of speech or does that fall under clear and present danger?
ACLU: Sir, would you like to sign my petition?
Me: You haven't told me a reason why I should. I will look into it on the website and if for some reason I decide I want to sign I will do it there, not here.
So needless to say, I was not impressed by his lack of knowledge. I think it is ridiculous for a person to be able to stand on a corner with a politcal message, asking me to participate and they have no idea what they are talking about. One of the biggest reasons that I won that battle is that I kept him busy for 20 minutes. While we talked about 100 people walked by and were not bothered by this guy. Thats right, I win.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
We're no longer allowed near Higgins Lake Pt 2
So we finally brave our way to South Higgins Lake State Park and wait in line to check-in. But we had to wreak some havoc on the way into the camp to let everyone know what our plans were for the weekend. Matt leaned out the window of my Grand Prix and Terry hung out the window of Dan's Impala throwing the football back and forth. In true fashion, Terry overshot Matt and banked the football off of the guy in front of us's camper. Hi, nice to meet up, don't worry that dent will pop right out, are you in the site next to us?
Wouldn't you know that Michigan meteorologists were finally right. They had predicted rain and they were correct. I had my tarp down and I was laying out my tent when the skies opened and it started to pour. Matt, Terry and Dan had there tents mostly set-up but for some reason my tent was not cooperating. The three of them finished and came over to try and help me out. But somehow when my brother used the tent the weekend before, the poles had gotten mixed up and it was impossible to put the tent up. By the time I had figured this out it was useless anyways. There was about three inches of rain on top of my tent and there would be no way to dry it out in time to use it during the trip. It just sat there looking like a two day old dead spider. The center portion trying to stay off the ground while the poles that were still in the tent tried to hold there share of the weight.
The fun never seemed to stop on Friday. After setting up camp, having a celebratory beer, taking a couple cannonballs out of a warm bottle of Jack and being completely soaked to the bone, we deciding to head into town. We went to a restaurant called Garrett's Place (GP) to have dinner. I liked it because it reminded me of the Gathering Place (GP) back home, but maybe a little more upscale. The food was great, other then the fact that Matt was ordering like a king and made the rest of us look like we were sitting at the kiddie table. But along with the big tip that we left for our waitress, were the four huge puddles that were now soaked into their booth. No longer welcome there.
We needed firewood so we started driving around looking for anywhere that would have dry wood for sale. We stopped at a gas station for smokes and asked the attendant if they had any dry firewood in the back the we could buy. She had seen us coming and was not in the mood to deal with us, she replied grumpily "NO". We asked if she knew anyone who would "NO". Then I will take a pack of Camel Wide Lights then. Terry wasn't so eager to shrug it off. He decided to take his frustration out on a stand-up ashtray that was outside the door of the gas station. Next thing I know, there is a huge pile of ash sitting right in front of the door and the ashtray was rolling around. Someone made a smart ass comment about Keith Richards coming to snort it up with his father's ashes and we hit the road again. No longer welcome there.
Maybe Wal-Mart has dry firewood. We once again announced ourselves through the parking lot and then into the store that we were on a mission and didn't give a shit. This was a pretty quick stop. "Excuse me ma'am, do you have firewood for sale? No, OK well fuck this place there are no hot chicks here anyways, lets go to Glens." No longer welcome.
After finally loading up on firewood, food and most importantly beer at Glens we heading back to the site. Sitting there, we started to finally get into camping mode. Sitting around a fire completely burning from chemicals and drinking a beer. It doesn't get much better. unless you were the campsite across the little road from us. These people looked like they were set up for the entire summer. We all sat around drinking and watching the fire and exactly when it got quiet for one minute all we heard from there site was "Know your role woman and get me another beer". We knew that we were going to get along with that guy.
The wood that we had bought was not exactly dry. So we had to use some more unorthodox methods to get the wood to light. A gallon of lantern lighter fluid should last about three years. We had used about half the can on Friday night to get that fire going. But it was worth it. We used the fire to dry out, except for my tent, and we called it a night.
Just remember that we were there for some of Friday, all of Saturday and Sunday morning. There is still 1.5 days to cover and it only gets better. I feel like I should be writing this in a book rather then a blog. Hopefully, I won't sway to far from your interest level.
Wouldn't you know that Michigan meteorologists were finally right. They had predicted rain and they were correct. I had my tarp down and I was laying out my tent when the skies opened and it started to pour. Matt, Terry and Dan had there tents mostly set-up but for some reason my tent was not cooperating. The three of them finished and came over to try and help me out. But somehow when my brother used the tent the weekend before, the poles had gotten mixed up and it was impossible to put the tent up. By the time I had figured this out it was useless anyways. There was about three inches of rain on top of my tent and there would be no way to dry it out in time to use it during the trip. It just sat there looking like a two day old dead spider. The center portion trying to stay off the ground while the poles that were still in the tent tried to hold there share of the weight.
The fun never seemed to stop on Friday. After setting up camp, having a celebratory beer, taking a couple cannonballs out of a warm bottle of Jack and being completely soaked to the bone, we deciding to head into town. We went to a restaurant called Garrett's Place (GP) to have dinner. I liked it because it reminded me of the Gathering Place (GP) back home, but maybe a little more upscale. The food was great, other then the fact that Matt was ordering like a king and made the rest of us look like we were sitting at the kiddie table. But along with the big tip that we left for our waitress, were the four huge puddles that were now soaked into their booth. No longer welcome there.
We needed firewood so we started driving around looking for anywhere that would have dry wood for sale. We stopped at a gas station for smokes and asked the attendant if they had any dry firewood in the back the we could buy. She had seen us coming and was not in the mood to deal with us, she replied grumpily "NO". We asked if she knew anyone who would "NO". Then I will take a pack of Camel Wide Lights then. Terry wasn't so eager to shrug it off. He decided to take his frustration out on a stand-up ashtray that was outside the door of the gas station. Next thing I know, there is a huge pile of ash sitting right in front of the door and the ashtray was rolling around. Someone made a smart ass comment about Keith Richards coming to snort it up with his father's ashes and we hit the road again. No longer welcome there.
Maybe Wal-Mart has dry firewood. We once again announced ourselves through the parking lot and then into the store that we were on a mission and didn't give a shit. This was a pretty quick stop. "Excuse me ma'am, do you have firewood for sale? No, OK well fuck this place there are no hot chicks here anyways, lets go to Glens." No longer welcome.
After finally loading up on firewood, food and most importantly beer at Glens we heading back to the site. Sitting there, we started to finally get into camping mode. Sitting around a fire completely burning from chemicals and drinking a beer. It doesn't get much better. unless you were the campsite across the little road from us. These people looked like they were set up for the entire summer. We all sat around drinking and watching the fire and exactly when it got quiet for one minute all we heard from there site was "Know your role woman and get me another beer". We knew that we were going to get along with that guy.
The wood that we had bought was not exactly dry. So we had to use some more unorthodox methods to get the wood to light. A gallon of lantern lighter fluid should last about three years. We had used about half the can on Friday night to get that fire going. But it was worth it. We used the fire to dry out, except for my tent, and we called it a night.
Just remember that we were there for some of Friday, all of Saturday and Sunday morning. There is still 1.5 days to cover and it only gets better. I feel like I should be writing this in a book rather then a blog. Hopefully, I won't sway to far from your interest level.
We're no longer allowed near Higgins Lake
Some friends of mine and I went camping this last weekend at Higgins Lake in Michigan. But unfortunately, I do not think that we will ever be allowed back. There was not any particular incident that will keep us from returning, there were about 25 incidents. Obviously I will not be able to post all of them today, my lunch hour is only one hour. But I will start with this post and finish over the next couple of days.
My trip started in true Hitman fashion, horribly. I left work a half hour early so that I could head to Union Station an hour before my train was scheduled to depart. About an hour before I was to leave for the Station, a huge storm rolled through Chicago. It knocked out power to the Red Line, blew trees onto the Blue Line, flooded the streets and sent people running from cabs. This helped me out needing to get to the Station. I was fortunate enough to have a cab driver stop and tell at least about 15 that the cab was taken. I arrived at the Station with about 20 minutes left before the train would leave, which meant I only had 15 minutes to get my ticket because they will not relinquish tickets within 5 minutes of departure. Needless to say I was in a hurry. There were about 16 people in line ahead of me and most of them were in line well over an hour before their train was scheduled to leave. But for some reason none of them wanted to help me out or the other guys in line that had trains leaving within 15 minutes. There is no such thing as common courtesy anymore. After about ten minutes, they finally started letting us ahead of them and I made it onto the train with about 1.5 minutes to spare. Little did I know that the storm that ripped through Chicago had headed east and hit every city on my train ride home knocking out signals and blowing trees and branches onto the tracks. A 5 and a half hour train ride quickly turned into an eight hour train ride. I didn't make it to the bar that night.
We took off the next morning and headed to Higgins Lake. but we needed to make a stop in Birch Run first to buy some stuff at the Coleman Outlet store there. Within 4 minutes of being in the store we were not welcome any more even though we were planning on buying there stuff. We were loud and crude from the minute we walked in the door. We were all stoked up and ready to go for the weekend and could not contain ourselves. We quickly gathered the things that we needed and headed to the register. This stop was topped by one single comment by my friend Terry. "Why can't they build an air mattress with a built in vibrator? I mean, you know, those back massage things. Fuck you guys, you know what I mean."
Driving across the parking lot, we noticed a Dairy Queen and decided to drop in. We were waiting in line being obnoxious and Terry started talking about how cold it was in the store. Something you need to know is that Terry is notorious for not wearing shirts with sleeves. In this particular situation, he was wearing shorts and a wife-beater. We had been tormenting him about his beater since we left Sterling Heights. One well placed comment and he grabbed his wallet and chucked it at us. The funniest part is that the cheap metal bottle opener that Marlboro had sent him for his birthday flew out of his wallet and nailed the glass doors at the entrance and made a huge bang. The only people in the DQ were a group of blue hairs and a couple little kids who all jumped out of their seats in fright. There seems to be something about my group of friends and the next comment after something like this when it happens. My friend Dan turned to the cashier girl, looked her in the eye and pleaded, "Please don't spit in my shake."
To Be Continued...........
My trip started in true Hitman fashion, horribly. I left work a half hour early so that I could head to Union Station an hour before my train was scheduled to depart. About an hour before I was to leave for the Station, a huge storm rolled through Chicago. It knocked out power to the Red Line, blew trees onto the Blue Line, flooded the streets and sent people running from cabs. This helped me out needing to get to the Station. I was fortunate enough to have a cab driver stop and tell at least about 15 that the cab was taken. I arrived at the Station with about 20 minutes left before the train would leave, which meant I only had 15 minutes to get my ticket because they will not relinquish tickets within 5 minutes of departure. Needless to say I was in a hurry. There were about 16 people in line ahead of me and most of them were in line well over an hour before their train was scheduled to leave. But for some reason none of them wanted to help me out or the other guys in line that had trains leaving within 15 minutes. There is no such thing as common courtesy anymore. After about ten minutes, they finally started letting us ahead of them and I made it onto the train with about 1.5 minutes to spare. Little did I know that the storm that ripped through Chicago had headed east and hit every city on my train ride home knocking out signals and blowing trees and branches onto the tracks. A 5 and a half hour train ride quickly turned into an eight hour train ride. I didn't make it to the bar that night.
We took off the next morning and headed to Higgins Lake. but we needed to make a stop in Birch Run first to buy some stuff at the Coleman Outlet store there. Within 4 minutes of being in the store we were not welcome any more even though we were planning on buying there stuff. We were loud and crude from the minute we walked in the door. We were all stoked up and ready to go for the weekend and could not contain ourselves. We quickly gathered the things that we needed and headed to the register. This stop was topped by one single comment by my friend Terry. "Why can't they build an air mattress with a built in vibrator? I mean, you know, those back massage things. Fuck you guys, you know what I mean."
Driving across the parking lot, we noticed a Dairy Queen and decided to drop in. We were waiting in line being obnoxious and Terry started talking about how cold it was in the store. Something you need to know is that Terry is notorious for not wearing shirts with sleeves. In this particular situation, he was wearing shorts and a wife-beater. We had been tormenting him about his beater since we left Sterling Heights. One well placed comment and he grabbed his wallet and chucked it at us. The funniest part is that the cheap metal bottle opener that Marlboro had sent him for his birthday flew out of his wallet and nailed the glass doors at the entrance and made a huge bang. The only people in the DQ were a group of blue hairs and a couple little kids who all jumped out of their seats in fright. There seems to be something about my group of friends and the next comment after something like this when it happens. My friend Dan turned to the cashier girl, looked her in the eye and pleaded, "Please don't spit in my shake."
To Be Continued...........
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
"We're Not Gonna Protest"
You'll understand that title if you have ever seen the 1994 film "PCU". I sincerely recommend this movie. Jeremy Piven is hilarious and a great example of a smartass.
The reason for this post is quite straight forward. I have become disgusted with protesters. In the digital age that we have entered in the last decade, there is no longer any reason to stand on a corner with a sign or peddle fliers. Why do people still think that this is a good way to try and get others to see their perspective? Yesterday I ended up working late. I finally got on the red line at about 7:30pm. By the time the train stopped at Fullerton, I was tired and hungry. This means that I was not in the mood for anything but a cigarette and a quick walk home with Pantera or Three Days Grace ringing in my ears. As soon as I walked out of the station, I am confronted by some jackass selling t-shirts. The t-shirt had the faces of President George W. Bush and his advisers and had large letters across the top that read "Wanted for Murder - The Bush Regime". I promptly side-stepped this asshole and headed down the block. Little did I know that they also had people selling them on the street corner. As I walked by, the guy held the t-shirt within 10 inches of my face. Not being in the mood for this behavior, I stopped, turned and looked him in the eye to reply, "Get a fucking job". Needless to say, neither of of us were very pleased with each other. But I still stand behind my statement. We all have opinions, I am not throwing my opinions in your face, so don't throw yours in mine.
The same goes for both sides of the abortion issue at the Dream Cruise in Michigan. If you have ever made it out to a Dream Cruise you will understand what I mean. Why do Pro-Life or Pro-Choice people think that they are going to be able to change the opinion of any one else by holding a sign? There are so many more positive things that you could be doing with your time. Educate yourself on the issues and organize a community group. This group will consist of other people who care about this issue and want to express their opinions. Or maybe you could spend time with your family and friends or start a website, blog or message board to exchange thoughts. Or maybe you should find ways to communicate with lobbyists and your local government to see if you could actually have some impact. I, personally, am not going to stop and talk to you on a street corner when I am trying to watch hundreds of classics cars drive by while drinking a beer. Please just get out of my face.
My whole point to this post is not to point a finger at either side of the political spectrum or any religious view. I simply want people to realize that when I am walking down the street or sitting on a train, I do not care what your opinions are. There is a reason I have my iPod on. I don't want to hear about how Cheney should be impeached, Bush is doing this or that, Congress blah blah blah, scientology, or any of this bullshit. There is a time and a place, and this isn't it. I am walking home from work, you know that place that people go to accomplish things, earn money and be a benefit to society.
And to use another movie quote that fits the ending of this post, "Go sell crazy somewhere else, because we're all stocked up here" (As Good as it Gets).
The reason for this post is quite straight forward. I have become disgusted with protesters. In the digital age that we have entered in the last decade, there is no longer any reason to stand on a corner with a sign or peddle fliers. Why do people still think that this is a good way to try and get others to see their perspective? Yesterday I ended up working late. I finally got on the red line at about 7:30pm. By the time the train stopped at Fullerton, I was tired and hungry. This means that I was not in the mood for anything but a cigarette and a quick walk home with Pantera or Three Days Grace ringing in my ears. As soon as I walked out of the station, I am confronted by some jackass selling t-shirts. The t-shirt had the faces of President George W. Bush and his advisers and had large letters across the top that read "Wanted for Murder - The Bush Regime". I promptly side-stepped this asshole and headed down the block. Little did I know that they also had people selling them on the street corner. As I walked by, the guy held the t-shirt within 10 inches of my face. Not being in the mood for this behavior, I stopped, turned and looked him in the eye to reply, "Get a fucking job". Needless to say, neither of of us were very pleased with each other. But I still stand behind my statement. We all have opinions, I am not throwing my opinions in your face, so don't throw yours in mine.
The same goes for both sides of the abortion issue at the Dream Cruise in Michigan. If you have ever made it out to a Dream Cruise you will understand what I mean. Why do Pro-Life or Pro-Choice people think that they are going to be able to change the opinion of any one else by holding a sign? There are so many more positive things that you could be doing with your time. Educate yourself on the issues and organize a community group. This group will consist of other people who care about this issue and want to express their opinions. Or maybe you could spend time with your family and friends or start a website, blog or message board to exchange thoughts. Or maybe you should find ways to communicate with lobbyists and your local government to see if you could actually have some impact. I, personally, am not going to stop and talk to you on a street corner when I am trying to watch hundreds of classics cars drive by while drinking a beer. Please just get out of my face.
My whole point to this post is not to point a finger at either side of the political spectrum or any religious view. I simply want people to realize that when I am walking down the street or sitting on a train, I do not care what your opinions are. There is a reason I have my iPod on. I don't want to hear about how Cheney should be impeached, Bush is doing this or that, Congress blah blah blah, scientology, or any of this bullshit. There is a time and a place, and this isn't it. I am walking home from work, you know that place that people go to accomplish things, earn money and be a benefit to society.
And to use another movie quote that fits the ending of this post, "Go sell crazy somewhere else, because we're all stocked up here" (As Good as it Gets).
Monday, August 20, 2007
Hey Buddy.....Your Collars Flipped Up
Can someone please explain to me why people flip their collars up. I am not a "trendy" person and that is on purpose. I am not a big fan of sporting the latest trends and making sure I know what all the douche bags in the world are up to. But at least most of the time I can kind of understand where someone is coming from or why they are portraying themselves as such a douche.
I know, you want an example. I can think back to when those braided belts were the thing to have. Oh yeah its great, you use it like a normal belt but you take the end and excess and curve it under the actual belt that you are using so it points down towards your feet. That was cool. Or how about rocking the "Skidz" pants. It doesn't really get much better then that. Wslking around wearing MC Hammer-esque pants that had the crazy designs that would through you into an epileptic seizure. Ok...last one. Sporting to longer hair that is split straight down the middle. I can remember tons of kids in grade school and high school that wore this style for years.
But I can not understand the "popped" collar. It makes no sense. You look like a tool. Especially the guys that will go out and buy the pastel blue and canary yellow polos with the alligator sewn on the front and wear them together, with both collars simultaneously "popped".
My friends and I were out on Saturday at a bar in Wicker Park. There was a group of douches that had decided to party at the same bar that night. One of which was actualy wearing that pastel blue polo mentioned earlier and anpther was wearing a blue bottom-down shirt with his "popped" as well. They looked like idiots, other then the fact that they obviously can't handle their beer. Among our group of friends that night were three very attractive young ladies. All of which were disusted by the "popped" display of these douches. One actually went over to the guy in the button-down and flipped his collar back for him. He acted as if he didn't even notice and just kind of acted as if she just wasn't there. But, within five minutes, the collar was back up and apparently ready for action.
So please, someone let me know why it seems to be the thing to make yourself look like a complete tool by displaying your collar in this fashion?
I know, you want an example. I can think back to when those braided belts were the thing to have. Oh yeah its great, you use it like a normal belt but you take the end and excess and curve it under the actual belt that you are using so it points down towards your feet. That was cool. Or how about rocking the "Skidz" pants. It doesn't really get much better then that. Wslking around wearing MC Hammer-esque pants that had the crazy designs that would through you into an epileptic seizure. Ok...last one. Sporting to longer hair that is split straight down the middle. I can remember tons of kids in grade school and high school that wore this style for years.
But I can not understand the "popped" collar. It makes no sense. You look like a tool. Especially the guys that will go out and buy the pastel blue and canary yellow polos with the alligator sewn on the front and wear them together, with both collars simultaneously "popped".
My friends and I were out on Saturday at a bar in Wicker Park. There was a group of douches that had decided to party at the same bar that night. One of which was actualy wearing that pastel blue polo mentioned earlier and anpther was wearing a blue bottom-down shirt with his "popped" as well. They looked like idiots, other then the fact that they obviously can't handle their beer. Among our group of friends that night were three very attractive young ladies. All of which were disusted by the "popped" display of these douches. One actually went over to the guy in the button-down and flipped his collar back for him. He acted as if he didn't even notice and just kind of acted as if she just wasn't there. But, within five minutes, the collar was back up and apparently ready for action.
So please, someone let me know why it seems to be the thing to make yourself look like a complete tool by displaying your collar in this fashion?
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Looking for a good read?
There are a lot of exceptional authors and books out there for you to read. Some of my own personal favorites are the works of Donald Trump, Jeffrey Fox, Ben Tracy, Suze Orman, Dante, and Michael Lewis. But my most preferred author is Ben Mezrich.
I first was introduced to Ben Mezrich when I was sifting through discount books on amazon.com. I came across "Bringing Down The House" and decided to buy it. When it finally arrived at my house, I always get the free standard shipping by spending over $25, I cracked it open and started reading. There have not been many instances in my life when I could not put a book down, but this was one of those rare situations.
I was completely enthralled in the book. I have always been a fan of gambling, so I was immediately drawn into the high stakes, card counting atmosphere of this book.
But what really draws me to Ben's writing is the fact that he can make his way into these exclusive social circles. He writes from behind enemy lines and develops relationships with some of the most interestingly successful and manipulating people today. There are very few authors that can embrace these relationships and release a story that readers are dying to get their hands on. The closest comparison that I can think of would be Bob Woodward, who seems to be able to walk in to those hard to get political interviews.
I have read three of his books so far and I am going to purchase his latest after its upcoming release date. I would fully recommend all three, "Bringing Down The House" (not to be confused with that lame Queen Latifah movie), "Ugly Americans", and "Busting Vegas". I will have a post to let you know how "Rigged" turns out.
If you are interested in finding out more about Ben Mezrich, please check out his website.
http://www.benmezrich.com/
I first was introduced to Ben Mezrich when I was sifting through discount books on amazon.com. I came across "Bringing Down The House" and decided to buy it. When it finally arrived at my house, I always get the free standard shipping by spending over $25, I cracked it open and started reading. There have not been many instances in my life when I could not put a book down, but this was one of those rare situations.
I was completely enthralled in the book. I have always been a fan of gambling, so I was immediately drawn into the high stakes, card counting atmosphere of this book.
But what really draws me to Ben's writing is the fact that he can make his way into these exclusive social circles. He writes from behind enemy lines and develops relationships with some of the most interestingly successful and manipulating people today. There are very few authors that can embrace these relationships and release a story that readers are dying to get their hands on. The closest comparison that I can think of would be Bob Woodward, who seems to be able to walk in to those hard to get political interviews.
I have read three of his books so far and I am going to purchase his latest after its upcoming release date. I would fully recommend all three, "Bringing Down The House" (not to be confused with that lame Queen Latifah movie), "Ugly Americans", and "Busting Vegas". I will have a post to let you know how "Rigged" turns out.
If you are interested in finding out more about Ben Mezrich, please check out his website.
http://www.benmezrich.com/
Monday, August 13, 2007
Scratching that Itch
Yeah, its not what you think. Do you ever find yourself striving to get involved with projects or finding ways to scratch that creative itch? Kind of like starting a blog or creating a website. Using these tools to keep that creative edge sharp and your ambition alive.
I have been itching like crazy lately. That's one of the reasons that you will be reading a lot more posts on this blog soon. I have always enjoyed writing. But in the last few years, my writing was pretty much limited to work. Whether it was writing copy for a :30 spot for a new sponsor or writing a summary of a presentation for a conference. But this blog is truly re-kindling my love of writing. Even though I may just be writing about a drunk ass weekend or a crazy homeless guy on the train, it has shown me that I really appreciate being able to write.
But it doesn't seem to be enough anymore, even with the lack of posts lately. I seem to be striving to want to start a new side project. I have no idea what it is going to be. For some reason, I want to clutter up my day even more. It is not enough that I have a full-time job that I love. I need to have more outlets for creative thinking and to maximize the knowledge I have gained from college and from reading countless business books. It really could be anything. I have been wanting to write a book for a long time. I have also wanted to start a small business. My usual thoughts linger around starting a small online t-shirt company or eMagazine. Of course the thought of extra income doesn't hurt, but that's not what it is about.
I have had people tell me that I have accomplished a lot at the age of 24. I have graduated from college, gained valuable work experience from two great radio stations, found myself a new career focusing on my skills and talents and picked up and moved away from everything that I was comfortable with, and succeeded. But I think of my business icons and heroes. I think of the accomplishments of Donald Trump, Andrew Carnegie, and Jack Welch. These are men that strived to always do more while doing there current tasks better. This is what I am striving to do. I want to be dynamic, and ever expanding.
If you have any ideas or suggestions, feel free to shoot them my way.
"My experience has shown me that the people who are exceptionally good in business aren't so because of what they know but because of their insatiable need to know more." Michael Gerber
I have been itching like crazy lately. That's one of the reasons that you will be reading a lot more posts on this blog soon. I have always enjoyed writing. But in the last few years, my writing was pretty much limited to work. Whether it was writing copy for a :30 spot for a new sponsor or writing a summary of a presentation for a conference. But this blog is truly re-kindling my love of writing. Even though I may just be writing about a drunk ass weekend or a crazy homeless guy on the train, it has shown me that I really appreciate being able to write.
But it doesn't seem to be enough anymore, even with the lack of posts lately. I seem to be striving to want to start a new side project. I have no idea what it is going to be. For some reason, I want to clutter up my day even more. It is not enough that I have a full-time job that I love. I need to have more outlets for creative thinking and to maximize the knowledge I have gained from college and from reading countless business books. It really could be anything. I have been wanting to write a book for a long time. I have also wanted to start a small business. My usual thoughts linger around starting a small online t-shirt company or eMagazine. Of course the thought of extra income doesn't hurt, but that's not what it is about.
I have had people tell me that I have accomplished a lot at the age of 24. I have graduated from college, gained valuable work experience from two great radio stations, found myself a new career focusing on my skills and talents and picked up and moved away from everything that I was comfortable with, and succeeded. But I think of my business icons and heroes. I think of the accomplishments of Donald Trump, Andrew Carnegie, and Jack Welch. These are men that strived to always do more while doing there current tasks better. This is what I am striving to do. I want to be dynamic, and ever expanding.
If you have any ideas or suggestions, feel free to shoot them my way.
"My experience has shown me that the people who are exceptionally good in business aren't so because of what they know but because of their insatiable need to know more." Michael Gerber
Wrigley Field: An Inspiring Experience
A couple weeks ago I had mentioned that I was going to have my first ever experience walking into Wrigley Field and watching the Cubs play. I wanted to use the experience to compare the Cub's experience to the crazy experience I had at US Cellular. I was pleasantly surprised.
The main different between my two experiences was the amount of passion and tradition that is instilled in Cub's fans. There was something about the structure of the stadium and the fans that filled it. There seemed to be this ever present feeling of excitement and appreciation. There was much less vulgar blabbering by the fans and threats of violence. I sported my Tigers hat and American League Jersey from when the All Star game was in Detroit. I was not shot one malicious glance or word. I was accepted into the crowd as a fan of the game of baseball.
A prime example of acceptance was the Phillie's fan that was sitting in front of us. We cheered for the Cubs and he cheered for the Phillies. There was no booing or insults thrown either way. The game was a nail-biter and every pitch was important. And thats what seemed to really matter, The Game.
Off in the distance you saw displayed the number of years it has been since the Cubs won a World Series. And even though it has been 98 years, every fan sitting in the stadium was concentrating on the game and cheering for every good throw and play.
I was truly impressed with the behavior and passion of the Cubs' fans. It is impossible for me to change from having the Detroit Tigers be the number #1 baseball team that I cheer for. But I am certainly going to take on a secondary team. This secondary team, without question, will be the Chicago Cubs.
The main different between my two experiences was the amount of passion and tradition that is instilled in Cub's fans. There was something about the structure of the stadium and the fans that filled it. There seemed to be this ever present feeling of excitement and appreciation. There was much less vulgar blabbering by the fans and threats of violence. I sported my Tigers hat and American League Jersey from when the All Star game was in Detroit. I was not shot one malicious glance or word. I was accepted into the crowd as a fan of the game of baseball.
A prime example of acceptance was the Phillie's fan that was sitting in front of us. We cheered for the Cubs and he cheered for the Phillies. There was no booing or insults thrown either way. The game was a nail-biter and every pitch was important. And thats what seemed to really matter, The Game.
Off in the distance you saw displayed the number of years it has been since the Cubs won a World Series. And even though it has been 98 years, every fan sitting in the stadium was concentrating on the game and cheering for every good throw and play.
I was truly impressed with the behavior and passion of the Cubs' fans. It is impossible for me to change from having the Detroit Tigers be the number #1 baseball team that I cheer for. But I am certainly going to take on a secondary team. This secondary team, without question, will be the Chicago Cubs.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Letter to the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority)
Dear CTA,
I want to thank you for the continued expansion that you currently have under way. This expansion stays true to the Chicago mindset of continuous improvement and renovation. So thank you for your continued efforts in this context.
I would more specifically like to thank the Security Guards at the Red Line Grand Station. This station will be the next to receive a complete face lift. It is the 4th most frequently used station in Chicago. Your support of these actions is extremely value. I realized your role when I spotted you taking a nap in your chair that was positioned behind the beam. I enjoyed that you had your dust mask on with your hat pulled down over your eyes. Or the time that the entire platform was packed because of a Cubs game and you let me know that I needed to step one foot to the right because that was your 10 X 10 space. I listened since I am a caring civilian and I got to watch you paint your fingernails. It was a great shade. But I asked myself, what would you do if something happened? Would you risk your nails to help out someone like myself?
I really enjoy the fact that your schedules remain untouched even with the construction. You have managed to some how make it possible for me to stop and smell the roses. By being able to stand on that platform, I have the time to stop and think. Many things run through my mind. Will there be a homeless guy going from car to car asking for $0.50? Will there be a bum pissing in the corner of the train again? Can I stand next to the guy that is talking very loudly into his cell phone? Or the guy that is rapping to himself as he listens to the latest Ice Cube cassette tape? I would never be able to stop and think about these things without you.
One last thank you to the construction workers that make all of this renovation possible. The dust, mud and generator smoke are the perfect atmosphere for the walk to work. You provide us with the changes necessary to keep our city updated and all the dry cleaners in the city in business. I am a smoker but the diesel fumes that you supply are ten times better. I also marvel at the business hierarchy that you have in place. The sheer fact that two people can work with 12 on break and 6 others supervising everyone is incredible. Thank you.
So in closing, I want to thank all of those mentioned and all those that I may have missed for helping the CTA be so repliable and accountable.
Sincerely,
Your friendly neighborhood Hitman
I want to thank you for the continued expansion that you currently have under way. This expansion stays true to the Chicago mindset of continuous improvement and renovation. So thank you for your continued efforts in this context.
I would more specifically like to thank the Security Guards at the Red Line Grand Station. This station will be the next to receive a complete face lift. It is the 4th most frequently used station in Chicago. Your support of these actions is extremely value. I realized your role when I spotted you taking a nap in your chair that was positioned behind the beam. I enjoyed that you had your dust mask on with your hat pulled down over your eyes. Or the time that the entire platform was packed because of a Cubs game and you let me know that I needed to step one foot to the right because that was your 10 X 10 space. I listened since I am a caring civilian and I got to watch you paint your fingernails. It was a great shade. But I asked myself, what would you do if something happened? Would you risk your nails to help out someone like myself?
I really enjoy the fact that your schedules remain untouched even with the construction. You have managed to some how make it possible for me to stop and smell the roses. By being able to stand on that platform, I have the time to stop and think. Many things run through my mind. Will there be a homeless guy going from car to car asking for $0.50? Will there be a bum pissing in the corner of the train again? Can I stand next to the guy that is talking very loudly into his cell phone? Or the guy that is rapping to himself as he listens to the latest Ice Cube cassette tape? I would never be able to stop and think about these things without you.
One last thank you to the construction workers that make all of this renovation possible. The dust, mud and generator smoke are the perfect atmosphere for the walk to work. You provide us with the changes necessary to keep our city updated and all the dry cleaners in the city in business. I am a smoker but the diesel fumes that you supply are ten times better. I also marvel at the business hierarchy that you have in place. The sheer fact that two people can work with 12 on break and 6 others supervising everyone is incredible. Thank you.
So in closing, I want to thank all of those mentioned and all those that I may have missed for helping the CTA be so repliable and accountable.
Sincerely,
Your friendly neighborhood Hitman
Monday, July 30, 2007
Chicago White Sox Fans Continued
Due to the overwhelming response from my post on the Tigers games that I went to here in Chicago, I decided to give out some honorary mentions to some more Sox fans. They are not as insightful as those that were honored with the Olympic metals, but they are worth mentioning none the less.
HM #1 - To the gentleman who tried the start the "Detroit Sucks" chant in the Men's restroom. Thank you for you attempt. I think there were many reasons for your failure. Maybe you are the long lost cousin of "douche", who I found out works at the stadium selling 50/50 raffle tickets. If you see him, tell him I say hello and go fuck yourself.
HM #2 - To the seven fans that had oral diarrhea as I walked back from the bathroom to my seat. I understand that you were pissed because you were losing and until very recently were last in that standings. Congrats, you are ahead of the Royals. But comments like "Go home Detroit", "Steriods", "You Suck", and "Where's Your WS Banner?" don't really mean much to me. You see, we may have lost to the Cardinals, but we are still contending which is more then I can say for your team.
HM #3 - To the teenagers that would do anything for better seats. I can understand where you are coming from. But unfortunately that was Section 538 Row 30. I fully appreciate the attempt to try and take those $25 tickets and sit in the only row that was in front of me. That was very kind of you. I just don't know how you were planning on fitting 5 people into 3 seats. I think you should take that one back to the drawing board.
HM#4 - To the assholes on the red line and the red line platforms. I think the last thing you should do is walk into a car filled with half Tigers fans, a lot of Sox fans and some Cubs fans mixed in and start talking shit for 30 minutes. We played the entire Toledo Mudhens line-up against you.
HM#5 - This is going to be a positive mention. To the saxophone player outside the park. Thank you for playing Sanford and Son. I was actually quite impressed that you held it from when I walked out onto the concourse to when I passed you going to my train. That dollar I gave you was well spent.
HM#6 - Another positive mention. To all my fellow Detroit Tiger fans. It was good to see that once we flee MI we can come back together. Through responses and conversations with complete strangers, I realizied just how much sports can bring people together. So thank you.
If I had to give White Sox fans a grade that included class, wit, timing, talent, humor, respect, and knowledge, I would give you a C-.
I will fully admit that this post is not one of my greatest. But, there is more to come. I will have my first Wrigley Field Experience on Wednesday and I am sure I can find some good topics there for you. Also, I have some friends coming into town this weekend so that should spur up some hilarity.
HM #1 - To the gentleman who tried the start the "Detroit Sucks" chant in the Men's restroom. Thank you for you attempt. I think there were many reasons for your failure. Maybe you are the long lost cousin of "douche", who I found out works at the stadium selling 50/50 raffle tickets. If you see him, tell him I say hello and go fuck yourself.
HM #2 - To the seven fans that had oral diarrhea as I walked back from the bathroom to my seat. I understand that you were pissed because you were losing and until very recently were last in that standings. Congrats, you are ahead of the Royals. But comments like "Go home Detroit", "Steriods", "You Suck", and "Where's Your WS Banner?" don't really mean much to me. You see, we may have lost to the Cardinals, but we are still contending which is more then I can say for your team.
HM #3 - To the teenagers that would do anything for better seats. I can understand where you are coming from. But unfortunately that was Section 538 Row 30. I fully appreciate the attempt to try and take those $25 tickets and sit in the only row that was in front of me. That was very kind of you. I just don't know how you were planning on fitting 5 people into 3 seats. I think you should take that one back to the drawing board.
HM#4 - To the assholes on the red line and the red line platforms. I think the last thing you should do is walk into a car filled with half Tigers fans, a lot of Sox fans and some Cubs fans mixed in and start talking shit for 30 minutes. We played the entire Toledo Mudhens line-up against you.
HM#5 - This is going to be a positive mention. To the saxophone player outside the park. Thank you for playing Sanford and Son. I was actually quite impressed that you held it from when I walked out onto the concourse to when I passed you going to my train. That dollar I gave you was well spent.
HM#6 - Another positive mention. To all my fellow Detroit Tiger fans. It was good to see that once we flee MI we can come back together. Through responses and conversations with complete strangers, I realizied just how much sports can bring people together. So thank you.
If I had to give White Sox fans a grade that included class, wit, timing, talent, humor, respect, and knowledge, I would give you a C-.
I will fully admit that this post is not one of my greatest. But, there is more to come. I will have my first Wrigley Field Experience on Wednesday and I am sure I can find some good topics there for you. Also, I have some friends coming into town this weekend so that should spur up some hilarity.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Welcome to US Cellular Field: Please keep your hands and feet inside the cart at all times
There is no better city to be a Michigan transplant then Chicago. There are many MI transplants here and you can make good friends through your "fleeing the wasteland" brethren. But one of the highlights of escaping from MI to Chicago is the Detroit Tigers playing the Chicago White Sox at US Cellular Field. The Tigers were recently in town for a 5 game series with the Sox that included a make-up game. I was fortunate enough to attend two of these games.
Sox fans have to be some of the most different fans I have ever seen. back in my sports radio promotion and marketing days I met a lot of different baseball fans from all over the country. None of them compare to the ridiculous nature of the Sox fan. I have decided to give out Olympic style metals to those that most caught my eye during these games.
Bronze Metal: Sitting in the first of of the club level seats was quite grand. I immediately thought that we would have a lot smaller chance of running into the drunk obnoxious fan that had no idea what they were talking about. But it just so happened that I was wrong. On Tuesday the 24th, the Tigers had a considerable lead, but soon started to slip. It could have been because we were developing at least 6 players from the minors, but that's neither here nor there. The Tigers only being up one run, the Sox fans finally woke up and decided to cheer. One of the classy Lady's in our section singled us out as Tigers fans and decided to place a bet. I certainly hope she is not a business woman and if she is I hope she is fired. She would give away the company. Her bet was as follows: "If your boys lose, then your buddy has to give me his Tigers hat......and I'll show you my boobs". She was a pretty good looking girl, probably early mid thirties, so it was a bet. If you follow baseball you know, the Tigers ended up losing that game. She stumbled over to us and demanded "her hat". We demanded the the entire section get to see what lies beneath and she quickly took off her jacket and lifted her shirt. Not even a second thought. I wish she would have left her shirt on. She must have been wearing four or five push up bras because these were by far the worst tits I had ever seen in my life. The guy sitting behind us took a pic on my camera and I am horribly glad that he did not hit the button in time to catch the disappointing display of female anatomy.
Silver Metal: In that same game as the Bronze metal, our section was blessed with the celebrity appearance of Lindsay Lohan. Not really but this chick was fucking wasted so it was a good comparison. Lindsay and her friends, all ranging around 21, were having a great time and drinking it up. The guys behind us were cool and decided to buy the girls a round of beers. Little did they know that Lindsay just received another DUI, I don't follow that shit but I heard people talking about it at work, and was on quite a rampage. Whitin no time she is stumbling through the section demanding that the guys pay for another round of beers and all the drinks that had had so far. When the guys refused and others in the section started telling her to sit down and shut up, Lindsay got a little upset. She through a temper-tantrum and and swearing. You know, being a belligerent bitch. Some of the fans decided they had enough and alerted Security, Lindsay was cut off and told to stay quiet. Her response was stealing popcorn from someone else and shoveling it into her mouth without a chance of air getting in. After about 10 minutes and 3 lbs of popcorn, her body gave up. She jumped out of her seat and headed for the bathroom. None of her friends followed. But after some pestering by some of the other fans, they finally decided to go hold Lindsay's hair back.
The coveted Gold Metal: We were sitting second row in right field, and we had a whole family of douche bags in front of us. It was the guy, we will refer to him as "douche" from now on, his wife, his daughter, and a friend of theres. Douche was apparently a big fan of the Sox and didn't want to let anyone forget it. He was also training his daughter to chant "steroids" for Gary Sheffield, "you suck" for Magglio and cheering when Placido Polanco took a pitch to the ankle and was hurt. he was a real class act. SO we started digging into him. Reminding him of the standing, cheering over him at every point we could, yelling encouragements to our Tigers and basically pushing every single one of his buttons. But we never swore, never talked bad about a player on their team, booed, and we also clapped when a Sox player made a good play. he didn't enjoy our tactics. He soon began to repeat everything we said in a sarcastic tone. "Millers looking really good for a rookie". insert sarcastic tone "Miller looks good for a rookie" for example. So we decided to test how smart he was. Our next comment was "Walker Texas Ranger". This dumb ass made it as far as "Walker Texas Raaaa". That's right shut up. By the end of the game his wife, friend and daughter had stared us down for at least half the game. But they saw that we were actually handling the matter with class and how much worse douche would act because of that. So finally, Tigers win 9-6. We cheered he got red, we cheered he gave us a dirty look. So finally it came to a point. Douche "All the matters is that banner up there". Really, congrats that you won the WS but you are currently at the bottom of the division. "Fuck you Detroit, Good back home". I will thank you, the red line to Lincoln Park. "Tigers Suck". C'mon how can you, a White Sox fan say that. "I'll meet you in the street". This douche piece of shit is holding his two year old daughter that he just taught how to cheer at the sight of an injured player from the opposing team, and is yelling at me that he is going to meet me in the street. Here's your Gold Metal asshole, trust me your earned it. I am forwarding this message to Child Services.
Sox fans have to be some of the most different fans I have ever seen. back in my sports radio promotion and marketing days I met a lot of different baseball fans from all over the country. None of them compare to the ridiculous nature of the Sox fan. I have decided to give out Olympic style metals to those that most caught my eye during these games.
Bronze Metal: Sitting in the first of of the club level seats was quite grand. I immediately thought that we would have a lot smaller chance of running into the drunk obnoxious fan that had no idea what they were talking about. But it just so happened that I was wrong. On Tuesday the 24th, the Tigers had a considerable lead, but soon started to slip. It could have been because we were developing at least 6 players from the minors, but that's neither here nor there. The Tigers only being up one run, the Sox fans finally woke up and decided to cheer. One of the classy Lady's in our section singled us out as Tigers fans and decided to place a bet. I certainly hope she is not a business woman and if she is I hope she is fired. She would give away the company. Her bet was as follows: "If your boys lose, then your buddy has to give me his Tigers hat......and I'll show you my boobs". She was a pretty good looking girl, probably early mid thirties, so it was a bet. If you follow baseball you know, the Tigers ended up losing that game. She stumbled over to us and demanded "her hat". We demanded the the entire section get to see what lies beneath and she quickly took off her jacket and lifted her shirt. Not even a second thought. I wish she would have left her shirt on. She must have been wearing four or five push up bras because these were by far the worst tits I had ever seen in my life. The guy sitting behind us took a pic on my camera and I am horribly glad that he did not hit the button in time to catch the disappointing display of female anatomy.
Silver Metal: In that same game as the Bronze metal, our section was blessed with the celebrity appearance of Lindsay Lohan. Not really but this chick was fucking wasted so it was a good comparison. Lindsay and her friends, all ranging around 21, were having a great time and drinking it up. The guys behind us were cool and decided to buy the girls a round of beers. Little did they know that Lindsay just received another DUI, I don't follow that shit but I heard people talking about it at work, and was on quite a rampage. Whitin no time she is stumbling through the section demanding that the guys pay for another round of beers and all the drinks that had had so far. When the guys refused and others in the section started telling her to sit down and shut up, Lindsay got a little upset. She through a temper-tantrum and and swearing. You know, being a belligerent bitch. Some of the fans decided they had enough and alerted Security, Lindsay was cut off and told to stay quiet. Her response was stealing popcorn from someone else and shoveling it into her mouth without a chance of air getting in. After about 10 minutes and 3 lbs of popcorn, her body gave up. She jumped out of her seat and headed for the bathroom. None of her friends followed. But after some pestering by some of the other fans, they finally decided to go hold Lindsay's hair back.
The coveted Gold Metal: We were sitting second row in right field, and we had a whole family of douche bags in front of us. It was the guy, we will refer to him as "douche" from now on, his wife, his daughter, and a friend of theres. Douche was apparently a big fan of the Sox and didn't want to let anyone forget it. He was also training his daughter to chant "steroids" for Gary Sheffield, "you suck" for Magglio and cheering when Placido Polanco took a pitch to the ankle and was hurt. he was a real class act. SO we started digging into him. Reminding him of the standing, cheering over him at every point we could, yelling encouragements to our Tigers and basically pushing every single one of his buttons. But we never swore, never talked bad about a player on their team, booed, and we also clapped when a Sox player made a good play. he didn't enjoy our tactics. He soon began to repeat everything we said in a sarcastic tone. "Millers looking really good for a rookie". insert sarcastic tone "Miller looks good for a rookie" for example. So we decided to test how smart he was. Our next comment was "Walker Texas Ranger". This dumb ass made it as far as "Walker Texas Raaaa". That's right shut up. By the end of the game his wife, friend and daughter had stared us down for at least half the game. But they saw that we were actually handling the matter with class and how much worse douche would act because of that. So finally, Tigers win 9-6. We cheered he got red, we cheered he gave us a dirty look. So finally it came to a point. Douche "All the matters is that banner up there". Really, congrats that you won the WS but you are currently at the bottom of the division. "Fuck you Detroit, Good back home". I will thank you, the red line to Lincoln Park. "Tigers Suck". C'mon how can you, a White Sox fan say that. "I'll meet you in the street". This douche piece of shit is holding his two year old daughter that he just taught how to cheer at the sight of an injured player from the opposing team, and is yelling at me that he is going to meet me in the street. Here's your Gold Metal asshole, trust me your earned it. I am forwarding this message to Child Services.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
On a rainy day in Chicago there are only so many things that you can look forward to; the smell of the rain, the drop in humidity, watching little kids piss there parents off by jumping in the puddles, and women wearing white. The most important being those women who chose to wear white that day. But sometimes thia can go well and other times it can go horribly wrong. Here are three examples that I encountered yesterday during the storms we recieved in Chicago.
The Good: I was walking the the Grand Red Line Station and there was a young lady walking in front of me that he woken up that morning and decided to wear a white sundress to work. Bad luck for her, but good luck for me, she had forgotten her umbrella. She was a very attractive girl and it was quite a site to see. An expensive looking white sundress had turned into a transparent napkin. One thing she did have going for her is that she was one of those girls that knows that she is very attractive, therefore it seemed that she did not care that anyone walking by could see everything that is usually hidden. That was a great start for the trip home and the best quarter mile that I have had so far in this city. But I soon to be disappointed.
The Bad: While waiting for my train, an older women walked over by me and was standing by the edge of the platform looking for the lights of the train. To my dismay, she had decided to wear white that morning. I will not go into much detail for the danger of vomiting. But this muffin-top was wearing a white shirt that was now a second skin. She paced around waiting for the train and with each step the site turned more and more ugly. The platform was rather busy seeing that it was 6:00 pm in Downtown Chicago. But somehow, this women stood alone with her own personal bubble space of over 10 feet because no one wanted to get close to her. It was a disturbing experience, but I thought that it was to balance out the attractive girl i had seen earlier. Right there I thought that I had a good, but not great, blog post. I didn't know it would get worse.
The Ugly: "Next stop Fullerton, doors open on the left at Fullerton". I step off of the over-crowded train relieved that "muffin-top" was no where in sight. I proceeded to the stairs down to the street and was confronted by "The Ugly". There she was in a skirt and a white t-shirt. She had apparently been standing in the rain for a while and her shirt was completely soaked through and transparent. Let's just say that she was a little more girthy then average. Standing by the top of the stairs, she waited for her train. Sometimes people can get a little hungry while waiting. She had decided to stop and get a huge as cheeseburger from one of the restaurants near the stop. So imagine my horror. She was standing there damn near topless, stuffing a cheeseburger into her face. Ketchup and mustard spackled to her face and not a chance that she could catch a breath in between bites. That's when I knew I had to write this post.
There were no more sightings in the rest of my adventure home. But those three had been much more then I had ever needed.
So just remember, the next rainy day that you encounter may come with The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.
**DISCLAIMER - I wanted to state this to nullify any backlash from this post. I know that I am not the most visually stimulating man on this planet. But there is a reason I wasn't walking around in the rain in a white t-shirt and white shorts molesting a cheeseburger.**
The Good: I was walking the the Grand Red Line Station and there was a young lady walking in front of me that he woken up that morning and decided to wear a white sundress to work. Bad luck for her, but good luck for me, she had forgotten her umbrella. She was a very attractive girl and it was quite a site to see. An expensive looking white sundress had turned into a transparent napkin. One thing she did have going for her is that she was one of those girls that knows that she is very attractive, therefore it seemed that she did not care that anyone walking by could see everything that is usually hidden. That was a great start for the trip home and the best quarter mile that I have had so far in this city. But I soon to be disappointed.
The Bad: While waiting for my train, an older women walked over by me and was standing by the edge of the platform looking for the lights of the train. To my dismay, she had decided to wear white that morning. I will not go into much detail for the danger of vomiting. But this muffin-top was wearing a white shirt that was now a second skin. She paced around waiting for the train and with each step the site turned more and more ugly. The platform was rather busy seeing that it was 6:00 pm in Downtown Chicago. But somehow, this women stood alone with her own personal bubble space of over 10 feet because no one wanted to get close to her. It was a disturbing experience, but I thought that it was to balance out the attractive girl i had seen earlier. Right there I thought that I had a good, but not great, blog post. I didn't know it would get worse.
The Ugly: "Next stop Fullerton, doors open on the left at Fullerton". I step off of the over-crowded train relieved that "muffin-top" was no where in sight. I proceeded to the stairs down to the street and was confronted by "The Ugly". There she was in a skirt and a white t-shirt. She had apparently been standing in the rain for a while and her shirt was completely soaked through and transparent. Let's just say that she was a little more girthy then average. Standing by the top of the stairs, she waited for her train. Sometimes people can get a little hungry while waiting. She had decided to stop and get a huge as cheeseburger from one of the restaurants near the stop. So imagine my horror. She was standing there damn near topless, stuffing a cheeseburger into her face. Ketchup and mustard spackled to her face and not a chance that she could catch a breath in between bites. That's when I knew I had to write this post.
There were no more sightings in the rest of my adventure home. But those three had been much more then I had ever needed.
So just remember, the next rainy day that you encounter may come with The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.
**DISCLAIMER - I wanted to state this to nullify any backlash from this post. I know that I am not the most visually stimulating man on this planet. But there is a reason I wasn't walking around in the rain in a white t-shirt and white shorts molesting a cheeseburger.**
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Michigan: The Modern Day Bermuda Triangle
Michigan, by far, is becoming the worst state in this country. It is still battling with Ohio to take the title of last place, but Ohio is still putting up a hell of a fight. I can't help but compare the situation to the battle that the Detroit Lions continually face. They are clearly one of the absolute worst teams and front offices that exist in the NFL, but somehow always seem to become dead last. This is a great analogy for the state of Michigan. The businesses within the state have had enough with the people and the front office. What do you mean? You don't enjoy the leadership of Debbie Stabuenthaback, Jennifer Granhomely, and the notorious Hip-Hop Mayor himself, Kwame Kilpatrick.
Obviously, this is leading to a story. Here it is. I decided late last week that I was going to come home for a buddy's birthday. I bought a train ticket from Union Station in Chicago to a couple benches and an awning in Royal Oak Michigan. The train left on time and I got the two seats to myself so I could spread out my shit and got some reading done. But the recently released felon two rows back and across the isle from me decided that it was not going to be a peaceful ride for any of us. For three hours he spoke to himself anf harrassed all those around him. He let everyone know he had just been let out of prison and that he wasn't afraid of "white men because they are to much of cowards to step up and do anything". I put this into english, it was a little harder to piece it together on the train. The people around him would only last a few minutes. Many retreated to other cars or simply moved as far as possible. We also found out that our criminal friend has some sour feelings not only towards our government but also those that serve this country. He repeatedly made comments to the six Naval Officers in our car letting them know that he thought they had made a bad choice. Some of his most memorable comments were as follows: "Go protect your country, I hope you get shot in the face", "You know your gonna die Bobo", "Why are these undercover cops following me?", and "Have anyone ever made you feel like a little boy?". We were all thrilled when he pulled together $4 in change to extend his stay on the train. But sooner or later this fairytale had to end. He kind of went peacefully. He grabbed a guys magazine and shredded it while throwing the remnants in every direction. We pulled into the Battle Creek station and the show was over............for now.
Long story short, a bunch of us took our buddy out on Saturday and got him completely shitfaced.
Sunday, time to head back to Chicago. I caught a ride home from my roommate who still had the shakes from the massive amounts of booze from the night before. Everything was going well other then the fact that we were leaving a little bit later then we had hoped. We stopped at Exit 110 on I-94 for some gas and something to eat and we thought we would have a straight shot home. But as soon he tried to start the car up so we could get back on the road we had some difficulties. The key would spin in the ingnition but would not activate the starter. This had happened before. "Well what did you do last time to fix it?" Tow truck and a mechanic. The problem was that we both had to be to work in about twelve hours and we were three hours from Chicago. Over the next several hours we tried many things. We banged on the steering column, turned the key a couple thousand times and popped it in and out of gear. But after some help from my roommates dad and the attendant at the Truck Stop that we broke down at we got the car running. It involved getting a jump from an Envoy, forgot the mention that the batttery died while working on the car, I was bypassing his security system under the steering column and my roommate was under the car, arching the posts of the solenoid with a screwdriver that he was holding with a sock so that we wouldn't electricute himself.
Michigan is a mystery to me. It took me so long to be able to get out of the bubble. I never believed that I could live outside of that bubble. The state demoralizes you and makes to complacent. But I don't want that for everyone that I know in Michigan. Get out, explore, see other places of the country. The state is still in a pattern of decline and you don't have to stand for it.
My trip shows me that Michigan wanted to teach me a lesson for leaving and on top of that, it wanted to make me stay. Do not underestimate the evil that is contained in Michigan and its political parties.
Obviously, this is leading to a story. Here it is. I decided late last week that I was going to come home for a buddy's birthday. I bought a train ticket from Union Station in Chicago to a couple benches and an awning in Royal Oak Michigan. The train left on time and I got the two seats to myself so I could spread out my shit and got some reading done. But the recently released felon two rows back and across the isle from me decided that it was not going to be a peaceful ride for any of us. For three hours he spoke to himself anf harrassed all those around him. He let everyone know he had just been let out of prison and that he wasn't afraid of "white men because they are to much of cowards to step up and do anything". I put this into english, it was a little harder to piece it together on the train. The people around him would only last a few minutes. Many retreated to other cars or simply moved as far as possible. We also found out that our criminal friend has some sour feelings not only towards our government but also those that serve this country. He repeatedly made comments to the six Naval Officers in our car letting them know that he thought they had made a bad choice. Some of his most memorable comments were as follows: "Go protect your country, I hope you get shot in the face", "You know your gonna die Bobo", "Why are these undercover cops following me?", and "Have anyone ever made you feel like a little boy?". We were all thrilled when he pulled together $4 in change to extend his stay on the train. But sooner or later this fairytale had to end. He kind of went peacefully. He grabbed a guys magazine and shredded it while throwing the remnants in every direction. We pulled into the Battle Creek station and the show was over............for now.
Long story short, a bunch of us took our buddy out on Saturday and got him completely shitfaced.
Sunday, time to head back to Chicago. I caught a ride home from my roommate who still had the shakes from the massive amounts of booze from the night before. Everything was going well other then the fact that we were leaving a little bit later then we had hoped. We stopped at Exit 110 on I-94 for some gas and something to eat and we thought we would have a straight shot home. But as soon he tried to start the car up so we could get back on the road we had some difficulties. The key would spin in the ingnition but would not activate the starter. This had happened before. "Well what did you do last time to fix it?" Tow truck and a mechanic. The problem was that we both had to be to work in about twelve hours and we were three hours from Chicago. Over the next several hours we tried many things. We banged on the steering column, turned the key a couple thousand times and popped it in and out of gear. But after some help from my roommates dad and the attendant at the Truck Stop that we broke down at we got the car running. It involved getting a jump from an Envoy, forgot the mention that the batttery died while working on the car, I was bypassing his security system under the steering column and my roommate was under the car, arching the posts of the solenoid with a screwdriver that he was holding with a sock so that we wouldn't electricute himself.
Michigan is a mystery to me. It took me so long to be able to get out of the bubble. I never believed that I could live outside of that bubble. The state demoralizes you and makes to complacent. But I don't want that for everyone that I know in Michigan. Get out, explore, see other places of the country. The state is still in a pattern of decline and you don't have to stand for it.
My trip shows me that Michigan wanted to teach me a lesson for leaving and on top of that, it wanted to make me stay. Do not underestimate the evil that is contained in Michigan and its political parties.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
A Weekend of Infamy
I was in New York last week to execute the first conference that I produced. It went very well and made a lot of good business contacts through it. I finally got to see some more of New York that is not Time Square.
For anyone that has traveled to the Land of the Fake Purse, you'll understand where I am going. The first time I went to NY there wasn't a lot of time for fun. My flights in and out were very close to the conference times so I didn't get see much. But this time I had some spare minutes so use and I wanted to see some more of the city. I couldn't even make my way through Time Square, which by the way is not much more then a huge intersection and a ton of billboards, because of the insane amount of tourists walking around and suddenly stopping in front of you to get that perfect picture of the guy selling hot dogs and the want-to-be rappers peddling there latest cd.
I met up with a friend of mine that lives out there that used to intern with me back when I worked at 1270 XYT. She took me to the downtown area and the next day we checked out Astoria in Queens. It was a much better time.
The funniest part of the weekend happened when I got back to Chicago. After a 3 hour delay at La Guardia I finally got back to O'Hare and headed to my apartment. A couple good friends of mine had come into town for the weekend and we all went out.
The incident occurred when one of my buddies, we'll call him Timmy, had to piss and couldn't wait. So I started walking over to the L station with him so he could run under and take a piss. But literally 15ft before we got there, he had had enough. He busted into a bar that was on the way and said that if he had to pay cover, it didn't matter because it was life or death. I stood outside for about a minute and a half before I realized it was a Gay bar. While I stood outside pondering what could be happening with him inside, this is what happened. He paid $7 to get in and immediately spotted two guys on the stage making out. He didn't think much of it. He asked a guy if he knew where the mens room was and the guy asked him if he needed any help. Still not registering? When he got to the bathroom the guy standing next to him started talking to him and as he walked away after finishing his business he started smacking Timmy on the ass with chains that he had around his waist. And this is the point where Timmy finally figured it out. He came barrelling out of the bar pissed off and not knowing what to do with himself.
To make matters worse a guy walked up to us (there were 4 of us on the corner, all guys) and asked for a cigarette. A friend of a friend asked him why he doesn't just suck on the cigar that he has on his ear. Insert string of comments here, "I won't suck on that but I'll suck on something else", "my trick jaw works wonders", and "are you guys just standing on this corner randowmly or were you in Berlin (the gay bar)". Timmy lost it. So that we don't have conflicting reports or possible hate crimes, I will not mention the things that were said by Tim. The incident ended with the guy apologizing and Timmy telling him to go the fuck home and storming off.
Of course, I was blaimed for the incidence. But as a straight man, how in the hell am I supposed to know where the gay bars are? I plead ignorance on this one.
It was an interesting weekend. And while the weekend is over the stories will live on forever.
For anyone that has traveled to the Land of the Fake Purse, you'll understand where I am going. The first time I went to NY there wasn't a lot of time for fun. My flights in and out were very close to the conference times so I didn't get see much. But this time I had some spare minutes so use and I wanted to see some more of the city. I couldn't even make my way through Time Square, which by the way is not much more then a huge intersection and a ton of billboards, because of the insane amount of tourists walking around and suddenly stopping in front of you to get that perfect picture of the guy selling hot dogs and the want-to-be rappers peddling there latest cd.
I met up with a friend of mine that lives out there that used to intern with me back when I worked at 1270 XYT. She took me to the downtown area and the next day we checked out Astoria in Queens. It was a much better time.
The funniest part of the weekend happened when I got back to Chicago. After a 3 hour delay at La Guardia I finally got back to O'Hare and headed to my apartment. A couple good friends of mine had come into town for the weekend and we all went out.
The incident occurred when one of my buddies, we'll call him Timmy, had to piss and couldn't wait. So I started walking over to the L station with him so he could run under and take a piss. But literally 15ft before we got there, he had had enough. He busted into a bar that was on the way and said that if he had to pay cover, it didn't matter because it was life or death. I stood outside for about a minute and a half before I realized it was a Gay bar. While I stood outside pondering what could be happening with him inside, this is what happened. He paid $7 to get in and immediately spotted two guys on the stage making out. He didn't think much of it. He asked a guy if he knew where the mens room was and the guy asked him if he needed any help. Still not registering? When he got to the bathroom the guy standing next to him started talking to him and as he walked away after finishing his business he started smacking Timmy on the ass with chains that he had around his waist. And this is the point where Timmy finally figured it out. He came barrelling out of the bar pissed off and not knowing what to do with himself.
To make matters worse a guy walked up to us (there were 4 of us on the corner, all guys) and asked for a cigarette. A friend of a friend asked him why he doesn't just suck on the cigar that he has on his ear. Insert string of comments here, "I won't suck on that but I'll suck on something else", "my trick jaw works wonders", and "are you guys just standing on this corner randowmly or were you in Berlin (the gay bar)". Timmy lost it. So that we don't have conflicting reports or possible hate crimes, I will not mention the things that were said by Tim. The incident ended with the guy apologizing and Timmy telling him to go the fuck home and storming off.
Of course, I was blaimed for the incidence. But as a straight man, how in the hell am I supposed to know where the gay bars are? I plead ignorance on this one.
It was an interesting weekend. And while the weekend is over the stories will live on forever.
Welcome to my Blog
A couple of friends of mine have started blogs on here and seem to have a lot of fun with it. It is interesting to me to read the random shit that happens in other people's lives and their friend's lives. These are the kinds of things that I plan on sharing as well. Since I moved to Chicago, I have had a lot of random stuff happen in my personal life and in my business life. There will be many instances that I flashback to tell a great story that needs to be shared.
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