Cliff Note: I'm taking a break from my usual Facebook activities this week. I'm not expecting a heck of a whole lot of traffic to this post since I won't be posting this link anywhere. So while I deal with FB withdrawal, I may be concentrating on my blogging this week. But I do feel my blogging audience are a real good bunch of people.
Anyway, I was driving through my small town this morning. A sight I saw, and this wasn't the first time it caught my eye, got me to thinking. My thought was what jobs have gone through a natural attrition? The sight that made me think that was the empty store front where the TV repair shop used to be. Yes, hoe many remember not being able to watch TV because their sets were in the shop? How many remember before the TV brecame solid state, and a repair would just involve changing a tube?
The independent TV repairman has, for a while, been a dying breed. Towards the end of the analog era, TV's had gotten cheap. And TV's also became disposable. And now with the new digital and HD televisions, there are no serviceable parts on the inside.
I noticed this after I filled up at a full service gas station. And I only filled up there because the self serve pumps across the street were 10 cents a gallon more.
I'd go bowling, but I can't find a bowling alley that employs pin boys...
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Thursday, May 17, 2012
WIXYpedia
I started working on this post over a week ago, then got into a reading frenzy, where I read two books from cover to cover in three days, and posted reviews for both.
Anyway, over a week ago, I was checking my site meter. Sometimes I am curious about where the hits here are coming from. I saw that a particular hit came from Wikipedia, that very accurate source of information on the web. I know that, in the past, there have been things taken from this blog and used on Wikipedia, and I wanted to see the reason for the link.
The link was an article about Jay Lawrence, brother of comedian Larry Storch. In the article, it had mentioned that Jay Lawrence had died in 1987, and was a disc jockey during the 60's at KYW/WKYC-1100 in Cleveland, Ohio. The link here was this review of a book by "Big Chuck" Schodowski, long time late night television host, here in northeast Ohio. I had mentioned in the book that the famous recorded laugh used for many years in the skits was provided by Jay Lawrence.
Problem was, this was the wrong Jay Lawrence. The Jay Lawrence who was a Cleveland disc jockey is currently a talk show host at KTAR in Phoenix AZ. I had seen comments by Jay on Radio-Info.com as late as 2007. You know, about 20 years after he allegedly passed on the the great control room in the sky.
Anyway, I sent the living Jay Lawrence an email, telling him about the rumor of his death which, in the words of Mark Twain "were greatly exaggerated." Here's how he responded-"Larry Storch was a comedian who passed away, his brother Jay Lawrence also passed away. I assure you, this Jay Lawrence is alive and well. I am in a bad mood this morning but I'll make it through the day. I have a talk show on KTAR in Phoenix and look ,pretty good for a dead person. I was on the radio in Cleveland some years ago. KYW and WKYC
Jay"
As one who likes to keep facts straight, I post this as a public service. Well, maybe for a couple of chuckles too.
Click here to hear the laugh at the end of this skit.
Anyway, over a week ago, I was checking my site meter. Sometimes I am curious about where the hits here are coming from. I saw that a particular hit came from Wikipedia, that very accurate source of information on the web. I know that, in the past, there have been things taken from this blog and used on Wikipedia, and I wanted to see the reason for the link.
The link was an article about Jay Lawrence, brother of comedian Larry Storch. In the article, it had mentioned that Jay Lawrence had died in 1987, and was a disc jockey during the 60's at KYW/WKYC-1100 in Cleveland, Ohio. The link here was this review of a book by "Big Chuck" Schodowski, long time late night television host, here in northeast Ohio. I had mentioned in the book that the famous recorded laugh used for many years in the skits was provided by Jay Lawrence.Problem was, this was the wrong Jay Lawrence. The Jay Lawrence who was a Cleveland disc jockey is currently a talk show host at KTAR in Phoenix AZ. I had seen comments by Jay on Radio-Info.com as late as 2007. You know, about 20 years after he allegedly passed on the the great control room in the sky.
Anyway, I sent the living Jay Lawrence an email, telling him about the rumor of his death which, in the words of Mark Twain "were greatly exaggerated." Here's how he responded-"Larry Storch was a comedian who passed away, his brother Jay Lawrence also passed away. I assure you, this Jay Lawrence is alive and well. I am in a bad mood this morning but I'll make it through the day. I have a talk show on KTAR in Phoenix and look ,pretty good for a dead person. I was on the radio in Cleveland some years ago. KYW and WKYC
Jay"
As one who likes to keep facts straight, I post this as a public service. Well, maybe for a couple of chuckles too.
Click here to hear the laugh at the end of this skit.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
It's Been A Real Ball- A book review
Click here for a review of the same book, written by blogging friend and fellow media geek, Tim Lones.
The past week has been great for a radio geek, such as myself. On Friday, I received in the mail, It's Been A Real Ball, a book written by Joe Tait and Terry Pluto. Like the other book I read this week, I consumed this within 24 hours. But then Terry Pluto is a great writer as well as an all around good guy.
Cliff Note: As I write this review, I will interject some of my thoughts as well.
Joe Tait is one of the best sportscasters to hone his craft in a market that knew a lot alot of defeat and disappointment His voice was one of the last, some of us who were sports fans in the 1970's, would hear before retiring at night. And for the most of 39 seasons, he was the voice of Cleveland Cavaliers basketball. Joe is a transplant to northeast Ohio who firmly took root.
Growing up, Joe had two areas of interest, sports and the railroad. Like so many of us, Joe Tait was an avid sports fan who had very little athletic ability. But he knew very well how to describe a game. Starting with college, he gave some excitement to many woebegone teams. Bill Fitch, then a college basketball coach, took note of this when he was scouting for his college football team. This paid off for Joe Tait when Fitch was named first head coach for the expansion Cleveland Cavaliers. Fitch recommended Joe for the job of play by play announcer, and the rest, as they say, is history.
I can remember listening to WERE the first time the Cavs beat the New York Knicks. I recall Joe saying things like, "the crowd is going bananas" and "the only way these refs were going to call a foul on New York is if they pulled out a gun." this remains one of my favorite Joe Tait memories.
And for all of you who think a job in radio is all glamour, this book is an eye opener. Joe describes the jobs he took with little or no pay, the times he got fired from small town stations, and having to take on many other jobs at WERE to supplement the $7200 salary he received from the Cavaliers for the first season. The extra jobs also lead to his becoming Herb Score's partner on Cleveland Indians broadcasts for seven seasons.
Cliff Note: One evening in 1975, I found myself at the Richfield Coliseum after being stood up for a date. The Cavs won that night and since I was by myself, I made my down to the broadcast table after the game was over. Being one who wanted to get into radio at the time, I approached Joe Tait and asked him for some pointers for getting into the industry. In the next couple of minutes, he told me about small towns, long hours, and little pay. Pretty much like everyone else connected to radio has told me over the years.
Much of the book is dedicated to an era in sports when the main attraction to going to a game was the game itself. Joe was a blue collar announcer in a blue collar market. He was there, describing to us the Miracle in Richfield, Ten Cent Beer Night, and Len Barker's perfect game, among others.
Cliff Note: One of my instructors at the WIXY School of Broadcast Technique in 1974, was a young sportscaster named Les Levine. He had criticism for Joe Tait, pretty much along the lines of most sportswriters in town at that time. Les did admit that he was jealous since Joe announced the Indians and Cavaliers, and all he (Les Levine) had was the Cleveland State Vikings basketball games to announce. Les has done well for himself over the years, being a sports talk show host.
A year ago I wrote a post about about Len Barker's perfect game. Announcing that evening was Joe Tait and Bruce Drennan. The broadcast is another of my favorite Joe Tait memories. I was watching the game that evening with my brother, Ricky. Those who are long time readers of this blog know that Ricky had neurofibromatosis, and was developmentally disabled. Ricky, who passed away in 2008, had a great love for sports. Voices of people like Joe Tait, Pete Franklin, Herb Score, and Nev Chandler comprised a large part of the soundtrack of his life. Gordon Gund hired Joe back as the voice of the Cavs after Tait was away for two seasons. Gund was blind and appreciated the picture Joe painted during his telecasts. Joe brought the game alive for many that could not be there. I couldn't help but wish Ricky was still around to pass the book onto after I was done reading it. He would have loved it.
It's Been a Real Ball does touch on the Gund ownership, as well as the Dan Gilbert years of the Cleveland Cavaliers franchise. Joe does touch upon players such as Larry Nance, Craig Ehlo, Shawn Kemp, and World B. Free. In Tait's opinion the acquisition of Free saved the franchise and that his number, 21, should be retired by the Cavs. The book also devotes a chapter to Lebron James.
As I stated at the beginning of this post, I was able to read the whole book in a 24 hour period. I don't do this with many books. The book is an easy read and I felt I was living many of my sports memories all over through the eyes of one of the greatest sportscasters of my lifetime. And I'm going to finish this post with a limerick.
Listening at night to Joe Tait
I think his announcing was great
Pluto there at his side
To share this great ride
A great read again I must state
So...What are you waiting for??? Get the book! Click here to order it from Amazon.
The past week has been great for a radio geek, such as myself. On Friday, I received in the mail, It's Been A Real Ball, a book written by Joe Tait and Terry Pluto. Like the other book I read this week, I consumed this within 24 hours. But then Terry Pluto is a great writer as well as an all around good guy.
Cliff Note: As I write this review, I will interject some of my thoughts as well.
Joe Tait is one of the best sportscasters to hone his craft in a market that knew a lot alot of defeat and disappointment His voice was one of the last, some of us who were sports fans in the 1970's, would hear before retiring at night. And for the most of 39 seasons, he was the voice of Cleveland Cavaliers basketball. Joe is a transplant to northeast Ohio who firmly took root.
Growing up, Joe had two areas of interest, sports and the railroad. Like so many of us, Joe Tait was an avid sports fan who had very little athletic ability. But he knew very well how to describe a game. Starting with college, he gave some excitement to many woebegone teams. Bill Fitch, then a college basketball coach, took note of this when he was scouting for his college football team. This paid off for Joe Tait when Fitch was named first head coach for the expansion Cleveland Cavaliers. Fitch recommended Joe for the job of play by play announcer, and the rest, as they say, is history.
I can remember listening to WERE the first time the Cavs beat the New York Knicks. I recall Joe saying things like, "the crowd is going bananas" and "the only way these refs were going to call a foul on New York is if they pulled out a gun." this remains one of my favorite Joe Tait memories.
And for all of you who think a job in radio is all glamour, this book is an eye opener. Joe describes the jobs he took with little or no pay, the times he got fired from small town stations, and having to take on many other jobs at WERE to supplement the $7200 salary he received from the Cavaliers for the first season. The extra jobs also lead to his becoming Herb Score's partner on Cleveland Indians broadcasts for seven seasons.
Cliff Note: One evening in 1975, I found myself at the Richfield Coliseum after being stood up for a date. The Cavs won that night and since I was by myself, I made my down to the broadcast table after the game was over. Being one who wanted to get into radio at the time, I approached Joe Tait and asked him for some pointers for getting into the industry. In the next couple of minutes, he told me about small towns, long hours, and little pay. Pretty much like everyone else connected to radio has told me over the years.
Much of the book is dedicated to an era in sports when the main attraction to going to a game was the game itself. Joe was a blue collar announcer in a blue collar market. He was there, describing to us the Miracle in Richfield, Ten Cent Beer Night, and Len Barker's perfect game, among others.
Cliff Note: One of my instructors at the WIXY School of Broadcast Technique in 1974, was a young sportscaster named Les Levine. He had criticism for Joe Tait, pretty much along the lines of most sportswriters in town at that time. Les did admit that he was jealous since Joe announced the Indians and Cavaliers, and all he (Les Levine) had was the Cleveland State Vikings basketball games to announce. Les has done well for himself over the years, being a sports talk show host.
A year ago I wrote a post about about Len Barker's perfect game. Announcing that evening was Joe Tait and Bruce Drennan. The broadcast is another of my favorite Joe Tait memories. I was watching the game that evening with my brother, Ricky. Those who are long time readers of this blog know that Ricky had neurofibromatosis, and was developmentally disabled. Ricky, who passed away in 2008, had a great love for sports. Voices of people like Joe Tait, Pete Franklin, Herb Score, and Nev Chandler comprised a large part of the soundtrack of his life. Gordon Gund hired Joe back as the voice of the Cavs after Tait was away for two seasons. Gund was blind and appreciated the picture Joe painted during his telecasts. Joe brought the game alive for many that could not be there. I couldn't help but wish Ricky was still around to pass the book onto after I was done reading it. He would have loved it.
It's Been a Real Ball does touch on the Gund ownership, as well as the Dan Gilbert years of the Cleveland Cavaliers franchise. Joe does touch upon players such as Larry Nance, Craig Ehlo, Shawn Kemp, and World B. Free. In Tait's opinion the acquisition of Free saved the franchise and that his number, 21, should be retired by the Cavs. The book also devotes a chapter to Lebron James.
As I stated at the beginning of this post, I was able to read the whole book in a 24 hour period. I don't do this with many books. The book is an easy read and I felt I was living many of my sports memories all over through the eyes of one of the greatest sportscasters of my lifetime. And I'm going to finish this post with a limerick.
Listening at night to Joe Tait
I think his announcing was great
Pluto there at his side
To share this great ride
A great read again I must state
So...What are you waiting for??? Get the book! Click here to order it from Amazon.
Friday, May 11, 2012
They Call Me Baba Booey-A Book Review
Gary Dell'Abate is probably the best known radio show producer in the world, as he is the producer for the Howard Stern Show. Now I'm not a big fan of Howard Stern, but I did read his book, Private Parts. And if Howard was in town and offered to autograph my copy of the book, I would let him. As I have said, I'm not a fan, but I am a radio geek.
I picked up They Call Me Baba Booey and could not put it back down. It is very rare for me nowadays to be able to finish a book in a reasonable amount of time, but this one kept my attention. Gary tells quite a bit of his home life, especially dealing with his mother. The way he describes his mother's behavior, I would say she was suffering from bipolar disorder. Having a difficult home life, Gary turns to music and his beloved New York Mets to help him cope. His interests lead him into a career in radio and eventually producing one of the most popular radio shows in the history of the medium, The Howard Stern Show.
Unlike Private Parts, where Stern goes into minute detail about all his guests, Gary gives us an insight about his adventures in life and shares many embarrassing moments with the reader. Lets everybody know that getting into radio wasn't a cakewalk back in the 1980's. Gary also accepted the fact that sometimes his life would be center stage on the Howard Stern Show because there was comedic value in doing that.
We also learn how a brain cramp became a nickname and rallying cry everywhere when a Howard Stern fan would pull a fast one on a radio television host. Read the book and see how Gary Dell'Abate became part of one of the biggest news stories of the 1990's.
As I have stated earlier, even if you are not a Howard Stern fan, but you are a radio fan, give They Call Me Baba Booey a read.
Tuesday, May 08, 2012
The Love of Money
Is the root of all evil. This is more than evident when it comes to legalized gambling.
The Horseshoe casino will be soon opening in Cleveland. One thing this will mean is the rate of bankruptcies in northeast Ohio will be on the increase. Also means the pawn shops will see increased business.
But people see legalized gambling as the road to easy street and look for any vehicle to get them there. In some cases, this includes fraud.
Several years ago, Ohio got their first Mega Millions winner. The jackpot was 165 million. The winning ticket was sold at a convenience store in an eastern suburb of Cleveland. The holder of the winning ticket had not come forward when someone else said they had bought the winning ticket, but dropped it in the parking lot of the convenience store. This caused a crowd of people to converge on the store to search the parking lot, trash receptacles, and dumpster, for the elusive ticket. The holder finally come forward with an unsoiled ticket which showed no evidence of being dropped in a parking lot on a winter day.
The person who claimed to purchase the ticket confessed to trying to defraud the lottery commission, saying she wanted the money to help others, including the police. WTAM talk show host, Mike Trivisonno, said he admired this lady for what she had done and that if he had a million dollars, he would get naked and roll around in it.
This memory was sparked by the recent story about the million dollar winning ticket which was recovered from the trash in a convenience store in Arkansas. The alleged buyer of the ticket claimed that she checked the ticket against the scanner, which said it wasn't a winner. The ticket was then disposed of. The redeemer of the ticket recovered it from the trash. The person who claimed they bought the ticket and the convenience store went to court over this. The judge ordered the holder of the winning ticket to surrender the winnings. I'm sure the story will be continued.
Biggest winners will be the attorneys.
The Horseshoe casino will be soon opening in Cleveland. One thing this will mean is the rate of bankruptcies in northeast Ohio will be on the increase. Also means the pawn shops will see increased business.
But people see legalized gambling as the road to easy street and look for any vehicle to get them there. In some cases, this includes fraud.
Several years ago, Ohio got their first Mega Millions winner. The jackpot was 165 million. The winning ticket was sold at a convenience store in an eastern suburb of Cleveland. The holder of the winning ticket had not come forward when someone else said they had bought the winning ticket, but dropped it in the parking lot of the convenience store. This caused a crowd of people to converge on the store to search the parking lot, trash receptacles, and dumpster, for the elusive ticket. The holder finally come forward with an unsoiled ticket which showed no evidence of being dropped in a parking lot on a winter day.
The person who claimed to purchase the ticket confessed to trying to defraud the lottery commission, saying she wanted the money to help others, including the police. WTAM talk show host, Mike Trivisonno, said he admired this lady for what she had done and that if he had a million dollars, he would get naked and roll around in it.
This memory was sparked by the recent story about the million dollar winning ticket which was recovered from the trash in a convenience store in Arkansas. The alleged buyer of the ticket claimed that she checked the ticket against the scanner, which said it wasn't a winner. The ticket was then disposed of. The redeemer of the ticket recovered it from the trash. The person who claimed they bought the ticket and the convenience store went to court over this. The judge ordered the holder of the winning ticket to surrender the winnings. I'm sure the story will be continued.
Biggest winners will be the attorneys.
Wednesday, May 02, 2012
What a difference time makes....
Two years ago, in May, 2010, I was unemployed. I didn't know if I would ever find employment. I was told by someone as I was going around with my resume that "the white stuff on top of my head" would prevent me from getting a job.
To keep my spirits up, I started posting a daily video on Facebook, calling it "The Morning Show." That became a hit with my family and friends. also encouraged a friend to post a daily video, calling it "Second Edition." A month later, I started posting my "Question of the Day." Became popular in time, but also became polarizing to some. Also proved I would stink as a talk show host. Though friends and family told me that my talents could translate in a radio job, I knew better. I have had those in broadcasting tell me that it makes a great hobby and a lousy career. I decided that this would remain a great hobby. I remained unemployed.
During this time, I also helped plan a class reunion. One of my classmates from out of town, pulled me aside and gave me a card with a very generous amount of money inside. though we have had some differences since then, I still am grateful for that.
Early in the fall of 2010, I finally found a job. Not what I had been doing, but utilizes my talents. Some decent benefits as well.
After 18 months on the job, I was honored, and humbled, this week by being awarded employee of the month. My feelings about this are that I got this as a result of being part of the best program at my place of employment, and having some of the best coworkers around. Also the result of a few supervisors working hard to help develop my skills. I realize that can be harder when you are working with someone who is over 50 years old. I also realize that many newer employees will be looking up to me and that as a result, I will have to step up my job performance. I also had realized that when I was told that my calls were among those being played for training purposes.
Yes, in these days, big brother is watching...Also little brother. Big and little sister as well. But it's all good.
To keep my spirits up, I started posting a daily video on Facebook, calling it "The Morning Show." That became a hit with my family and friends. also encouraged a friend to post a daily video, calling it "Second Edition." A month later, I started posting my "Question of the Day." Became popular in time, but also became polarizing to some. Also proved I would stink as a talk show host. Though friends and family told me that my talents could translate in a radio job, I knew better. I have had those in broadcasting tell me that it makes a great hobby and a lousy career. I decided that this would remain a great hobby. I remained unemployed.
During this time, I also helped plan a class reunion. One of my classmates from out of town, pulled me aside and gave me a card with a very generous amount of money inside. though we have had some differences since then, I still am grateful for that.
Early in the fall of 2010, I finally found a job. Not what I had been doing, but utilizes my talents. Some decent benefits as well.
After 18 months on the job, I was honored, and humbled, this week by being awarded employee of the month. My feelings about this are that I got this as a result of being part of the best program at my place of employment, and having some of the best coworkers around. Also the result of a few supervisors working hard to help develop my skills. I realize that can be harder when you are working with someone who is over 50 years old. I also realize that many newer employees will be looking up to me and that as a result, I will have to step up my job performance. I also had realized that when I was told that my calls were among those being played for training purposes.
Yes, in these days, big brother is watching...Also little brother. Big and little sister as well. But it's all good.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Are You a Starving Artist?
Many folks reading these words are bloggers. We do like to check what one another are writing. I have had people telling me that I should write a book. I do have about 4 books inside me. What I need to do is convert much of my stuff to my word processor, then to adobe file, then to the hands or computers or e-readers of those who want to read my words.
I post quite a bit of examples of my talent online. Have I ever profited from this? Can't say that I have. I recently reached the conclusion that I am a starving artist. I realized this after having a conversation with a new coworker. This young lady has music available on iTunes, has acted in plays, and writes in a journal. However, being a young single mom of 2, she realizes that she does need to put food on the table. I can see her going far in life, as she has the gift of encouragement and knows how to effectively apply it on those around her. When she told me about all her talents, I replied that she knows all about the "starving artist" thing. I had to apologize to her because I later recognized the fact that she is working on using her talents. Some don't even go that far, most of the time because they fear the negative influence of those around them.
Sometimes we never even put our irons in the fire, causing not to even temper the steel of our talents. There are times we have to arise to any challenge we can give ourselves.
Earlier this week, I was watching my grandson. I had to gas up my car. On the way, we stopped for breakfast at Chick Fil A. My grandson decided he wanted to go in the play area, where he met up with two other boys. I struck up a conversation with the mother of one of the boys. I had asked her what she had done before becoming a mother. Her answer was she designed kitchens. I then asked her if she was going to return to this line of work when her boys got older, and her answer was that she wanted to write instead. I had told her about Dan Miller and showed her the 48 Days app on my phone. She immediately went to the Android store on her phone and downloaded the app. Cliff Note: the app is also available on iTunes as well.
It occurred to me that writing is something I will be able to do when I reach retirement age within the next 10 years. I may be a starving artist, but I will continue to starve if I keep my art inside me.
I post quite a bit of examples of my talent online. Have I ever profited from this? Can't say that I have. I recently reached the conclusion that I am a starving artist. I realized this after having a conversation with a new coworker. This young lady has music available on iTunes, has acted in plays, and writes in a journal. However, being a young single mom of 2, she realizes that she does need to put food on the table. I can see her going far in life, as she has the gift of encouragement and knows how to effectively apply it on those around her. When she told me about all her talents, I replied that she knows all about the "starving artist" thing. I had to apologize to her because I later recognized the fact that she is working on using her talents. Some don't even go that far, most of the time because they fear the negative influence of those around them.
Sometimes we never even put our irons in the fire, causing not to even temper the steel of our talents. There are times we have to arise to any challenge we can give ourselves.
Earlier this week, I was watching my grandson. I had to gas up my car. On the way, we stopped for breakfast at Chick Fil A. My grandson decided he wanted to go in the play area, where he met up with two other boys. I struck up a conversation with the mother of one of the boys. I had asked her what she had done before becoming a mother. Her answer was she designed kitchens. I then asked her if she was going to return to this line of work when her boys got older, and her answer was that she wanted to write instead. I had told her about Dan Miller and showed her the 48 Days app on my phone. She immediately went to the Android store on her phone and downloaded the app. Cliff Note: the app is also available on iTunes as well.
It occurred to me that writing is something I will be able to do when I reach retirement age within the next 10 years. I may be a starving artist, but I will continue to starve if I keep my art inside me.
Sunday, April 08, 2012
You've come to a bridge, now what?
I have been thinking about this this weekend. What have you done with the bridges in your life? There are several things that you can do.
You can burn them. Many of us have done that, whether we realize it or not. We also have to suffer the consequences of the arson job. Two years ago when I was out of a job, a couple of things I did in the past stood in my way of getting employment sooner than the nine plus months in which I was out of work. Many others have done things to affect their relationships with friends and family. Sometimes the bridge can be rebuilt, other times not so much. Be careful with these bridges.
You can camp under them. Too often we hear about the homeless living by the river under a bridge. Too many people and programs nowadays offer a hand out, and too few offer a hand up. You don't have to be physically there to be there. Sometimes wallowing in self pity is the same as camping under this bridge. I've always been told that God helps those who help themselves. I think that even though this isn't in the Bible, it is a truism. Sometimes those who need help also need some direction, especially how to get away from this bridge.
Some jump off them. Some of my high school friends who will read this post after I put the link in Facebook remember Mr. McCormick. He was a math teacher at our school. His first year out of college and teaching was my senior year. He was very intelligent, but was the target of much ridicule and meanness from the students. The year following our graduation, Mr. McCormick was also having other problems in his life, including his fiance leaving him. One day he called off from work sick, drove to Akron, and jumped off a high level bridge. This past year, one of our classmates, after dealing with alcoholism, shot himself.
Several others reading these words remember our blogging friend, Liquid. Dealing with some emotional issues and a failed marriage, Suzanne took her life on Christmas Eve, 2008.
Please, please, please stay away from this bridge. There are those who care. Ask for help until you get it. Jumping off this bridge affects more than you.
Many cross the bridge and go on. And some come back to tell what's on the other side, maybe help others get to the other side. We are all in this together. Some go further away from the bridge than others, but that's okay.
What will you do when you come to your bridge?
Some jump off them. Some of my high school friends who will read this post after I put the link in Facebook remember Mr. McCormick. He was a math teacher at our school. His first year out of college and teaching was my senior year. He was very intelligent, but was the target of much ridicule and meanness from the students. The year following our graduation, Mr. McCormick was also having other problems in his life, including his fiance leaving him. One day he called off from work sick, drove to Akron, and jumped off a high level bridge. This past year, one of our classmates, after dealing with alcoholism, shot himself.
Several others reading these words remember our blogging friend, Liquid. Dealing with some emotional issues and a failed marriage, Suzanne took her life on Christmas Eve, 2008.
Please, please, please stay away from this bridge. There are those who care. Ask for help until you get it. Jumping off this bridge affects more than you.
Many cross the bridge and go on. And some come back to tell what's on the other side, maybe help others get to the other side. We are all in this together. Some go further away from the bridge than others, but that's okay.
What will you do when you come to your bridge?
Wednesday, April 04, 2012
Adventures in Limerick Land, NASCAR Style
As many of you know, there are times when I wax poetic and I can keep the rhymes coming. Always best when I'm near my keyboard. This past Sunday, NASCAR raced at Martinsville. I was in my car when the race started. During the pre race show, it was said that Hendrick Motorsports were going for their 200th win. Their first came at Martinsville. The favorite going into this race was five time Sprint Cup champ Jimmie Johnson. I thought of this limerick to post on Facebook if this has come to fruition:
The forty eight driven by Jimmie
The car did not shake or shimmy
Great calls by Knauss
Brought a win to the house
And the grandfather clock was a gimmie
Needless to say, this is the first time I made this one public. And the grandfather clock is the trophy given to the winner at Martinsville.
As the race was progressing, I started to post some limericks on Facebook. Jeff Gordon was dominating the race early. I wrote this limerick:
Jeff Gordon is leading the pack
While driving around the short track
If it keeps up, he's in
Hendrick's 200th win
He'll get a clock instead of a plaque
And yes, Jeff is a Hendrick driver. As the race progressed, Kasey Kahne was having some trouble. Kahne started on the pole:
Kasey has started to choke
His car has belched out some smoke
The car's in the pits
His points taking hits
A very poor April Fool's joke
Oh oh, as the Fox announcer said, if it weren't for bad luck, Kasey would have no luck.
Fan favorite, Dale Earnhardt Jr, had momentarily taken the lead, and the crowd roared.
Junior was hearing the crowd
They were cheering for him real loud
Passing Jeff for the lead
And picking up speed
However not left in a cloud
And others were making the show interesting. Columbian driver Juan Pablo Montoya and Ken Schraeder met on the track, sending Montoya into the inside wall: .
Montoya was riding real clean
Until he met Schraeder's machine
He went for a ride
Hit something inside
Sometimes the fate can be mean
And Carl Edwards got into the spirit of April Fool's day, telling crew chief Bob Osbourne something was wrong with his transmission, then saying it was a joke.
Old Carl said something was wrong
Sang Osbourne a nasty sad song
Said the tranny was broke
Then said was a joke
Bob's palipatitiations were long
The race itself, seemed to be in the hands of Johnson or Gordon. I posted this one with 100 laps to go:
With less than 100 to go
The driving is quite a good show
I now have a hunch
That one of Rick's bunch
Will set victory lane all aglow
And this one was also posted: But things don't proceed as expected.
Jimmie and Jeff's in slot one and slot two
Both know what they need to do
They need to race clean
And not to be mean
To the pedal apply some more shoe
But gas was running low with the front runners:
The Hendrick cars needing some gas
They're hoping that no one will pass
They're hoping no shock
Will lose them the clock
And losing they will have to show class
And a late race caution brought this meeting between Gordon, Johnson, and Clint Bowyer:
Jimmie is singing this song
Asking what the hell went wrong
Bowyer sent him and Jeff in
They went for a spin
Felt like a big bang on the gong
And this opened the door for Ryan Newman.
Ryan is now feeling fine
His car, the thirty nine
He drove like a ringer
And beat Allmendinger
And doesn't have need to whine
The forty eight driven by Jimmie
The car did not shake or shimmy
Great calls by Knauss
Brought a win to the house
And the grandfather clock was a gimmie
Needless to say, this is the first time I made this one public. And the grandfather clock is the trophy given to the winner at Martinsville.
As the race was progressing, I started to post some limericks on Facebook. Jeff Gordon was dominating the race early. I wrote this limerick:
Jeff Gordon is leading the pack
While driving around the short track
If it keeps up, he's in
Hendrick's 200th win
He'll get a clock instead of a plaque
And yes, Jeff is a Hendrick driver. As the race progressed, Kasey Kahne was having some trouble. Kahne started on the pole:
Kasey has started to choke
His car has belched out some smoke
The car's in the pits
His points taking hits
A very poor April Fool's joke
Oh oh, as the Fox announcer said, if it weren't for bad luck, Kasey would have no luck.
Fan favorite, Dale Earnhardt Jr, had momentarily taken the lead, and the crowd roared.
Junior was hearing the crowd
They were cheering for him real loud
Passing Jeff for the lead
And picking up speed
However not left in a cloud
And others were making the show interesting. Columbian driver Juan Pablo Montoya and Ken Schraeder met on the track, sending Montoya into the inside wall: .
Montoya was riding real clean
Until he met Schraeder's machine
He went for a ride
Hit something inside
Sometimes the fate can be mean
And Carl Edwards got into the spirit of April Fool's day, telling crew chief Bob Osbourne something was wrong with his transmission, then saying it was a joke.
Old Carl said something was wrong
Sang Osbourne a nasty sad song
Said the tranny was broke
Then said was a joke
Bob's palipatitiations were long
The race itself, seemed to be in the hands of Johnson or Gordon. I posted this one with 100 laps to go:
With less than 100 to go
The driving is quite a good show
I now have a hunch
That one of Rick's bunch
Will set victory lane all aglow
And this one was also posted: But things don't proceed as expected.
Jimmie and Jeff's in slot one and slot two
Both know what they need to do
They need to race clean
And not to be mean
To the pedal apply some more shoe
But gas was running low with the front runners:
The Hendrick cars needing some gas
They're hoping that no one will pass
They're hoping no shock
Will lose them the clock
And losing they will have to show class
And a late race caution brought this meeting between Gordon, Johnson, and Clint Bowyer:
Jimmie is singing this song
Asking what the hell went wrong
Bowyer sent him and Jeff in
They went for a spin
Felt like a big bang on the gong
And this opened the door for Ryan Newman.
Ryan is now feeling fine
His car, the thirty nine
He drove like a ringer
And beat Allmendinger
And doesn't have need to whine
Made for an enjoyable Sunday afternoon
Sunday, April 01, 2012
Candice covers NASCAR and Life
As many of you know, I'm a NASCAR fan. And I belong to a group on Facebook, called NoBarNASCAR. One of the recent additions to this group is a motor sports writer and blogger named Candice Smith. Her blog is called Chief 187 Chatter. Candice chose her blog name because, "she's crew chief of her family."NASCAR isn't the only topic Candice covers. Like most of us bloggers, she likes to share her life with those who will want to read about it. But as race day approaches, she will let us in about things like food at the track NASCAR's visiting that weekend, or history revolving around the track. Her aim is the casual fan, hoping to turn them hardcore.
Even if you don't happen to be a NASCAR fan, check out Chief 187 Chatter. I guarantee you'll find something you'll like
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Great Hobby, Lousy Career...
As most of you know, I'm a radio geek. And I'm not shy about making it known when I make an acquaintance of someone who is, or has been in the industry.
About 6-1/2 months ago, I started contacting former WMMS host, Jeff Kinzbach, via Facebook. I had found out he was going to be the band announcer for Highland High School, where I had graduated. His daughter was playing in the marching band. We had some good exchanges back and forth. I gave him some advice that he had probably known already, but thanked me anyway.
A few weeks later, Rittman and Highland played in the same band show. Jeff came looking for me and introduced me to his wife, Patty. We had a good conversation, probably things he had discussed ad nauseum with countless others over the years. He messaged me the next day, telling me that he enjoyed the Rittman Band's performance and gave me kudos over my announcing style.
About 5 weeks later, after I broke my ankle, Jeff sent me well wishes via Facebook. Safe to say, Jeff Kinzbach is not full of himself. I had written a post several months ago called "After the talent is gone, then what?" Jeff was kind enough to write this response to the post:"From Jeff Kinzbach:Thanks for the kind words, Cliff. I try to tell people that you have to have a back-up plan. While I was in broadcasting I knew that it could be a life-long career but the odds were better that it would not. At the time, being in broadcasting was like being a baseball manager. Eventually you will lose your job. Now, most businesses are like that. I was fortunate. I worked hard and kept my head on straight. But, I was always fascinated by the economy. So I studied it and it became my second passion. I began to think that my next goal would be to work for myself. As time went on, radio started to change. The companies were expanding and buying more properties. However, they started to cut staff and corners in order to make the bottom line look better to shareholders and investors. Key people were let go because they made too much money and had too much vacation time. Creativity was put on the back burner for the safety of playlists. I knew at that point, radio would not be a life-long career for me. I actually wanted a new adventure. I was 41 at the time and had spent over 25 years in the business. I sometimes worked 7 days a week. Anywhere I had to go, whether it was a vacation or for business, I flew because I had to be back for work. One thing I realized more than anything...was that life was not about radio. I wanted more. I wanted to see other places and experience other things. Most people think that being in radio or television is great. You are famous. That was never an attraction for me. For me it was the creative ability to put together sounds, music, news, comedy and to enjoy it. Having another plan was starting to work wonders for me. After having been shown the door in 1994, when I came home, my wife said, "Why don't you just do your investment business?" So I took the plunge and did that. Was it easy? No. But I stuck with it and am glad I did. When I got out of radio I went through a very interesting change. I had never realized how wound-up I was. I started to relax. My wife and I got into the car and drove all the way down the east coast. No agenda. If there was a ferry to take...we took it. One of the first things I did when I was out of radio was to watch the sun come up one morning over the Atlantic in Hilton Head. With a great cup of coffee...it was super. Soon we were parents to a daughter. We moved to Texas, bought an old ranch and fixed it up. We harvested hay, had cattle, dogs, cats and whatever else showed up. The ranch was way out in the country so we would sit around the firepit at night and listen to the coyotes howl. It was a great place to raise a child. As we got older, the heat and the ranch work were wearing us down. We moved back to Ohio. It is great to be back. One thing Texas lacked was the seasonal changes. The vivid fall colors of Ohio are amazing. We lived through a pretty nasty drought. (not as bad as the one they have now) So rain, clouds and snow do not bother us anymore because we know how important rain is. Would I change anything? Probably not. Are we perfect? Of course not. If I had a dime for every mistake I have made....geez I would be rich. Life is to be lived and enjoyed. However, you have to have a plan and a back-up plan too. A good lawyer once told me, "I don't like surprises." And I agree. You have to look both ways. "What if," should be in your plan."
Sometimes a response can be longer than my post. Anyway we have had a few exchanges over the past several months, as he has probably done with his over 4000 Facebook friends.
Lately, Jeff has made a return to radio. He has begun to do fill in work at WNCX/98.5, classic rock station in Cleveland. People have been able to get small doses of what had made radio great in "The Rock N Roll Capitol of the World." And I'm sure it has revived interest in WNCX. As he said in the above comment, he has moved on in life, but he gets to do something he has loved, now on a part time basis.
This week, the regular morning show host on WNCX, Slats, is on vacation. Jeff has been filling in to the audience's delight. Would this work on a long term basis? Probably not, but for me and many others, it's dessert. Better had in small servings. Today he also has in studio, his longtime on air partner, Ed "Flash" Ferenc, reliving past glory days. Good listening. Always good to hear one of the good guys who has never forgot who and what had made him popular. Cliff Note: Photo above was courtesy of the WNCX website.
About 6-1/2 months ago, I started contacting former WMMS host, Jeff Kinzbach, via Facebook. I had found out he was going to be the band announcer for Highland High School, where I had graduated. His daughter was playing in the marching band. We had some good exchanges back and forth. I gave him some advice that he had probably known already, but thanked me anyway.
A few weeks later, Rittman and Highland played in the same band show. Jeff came looking for me and introduced me to his wife, Patty. We had a good conversation, probably things he had discussed ad nauseum with countless others over the years. He messaged me the next day, telling me that he enjoyed the Rittman Band's performance and gave me kudos over my announcing style.
About 5 weeks later, after I broke my ankle, Jeff sent me well wishes via Facebook. Safe to say, Jeff Kinzbach is not full of himself. I had written a post several months ago called "After the talent is gone, then what?" Jeff was kind enough to write this response to the post:"From Jeff Kinzbach:Thanks for the kind words, Cliff. I try to tell people that you have to have a back-up plan. While I was in broadcasting I knew that it could be a life-long career but the odds were better that it would not. At the time, being in broadcasting was like being a baseball manager. Eventually you will lose your job. Now, most businesses are like that. I was fortunate. I worked hard and kept my head on straight. But, I was always fascinated by the economy. So I studied it and it became my second passion. I began to think that my next goal would be to work for myself. As time went on, radio started to change. The companies were expanding and buying more properties. However, they started to cut staff and corners in order to make the bottom line look better to shareholders and investors. Key people were let go because they made too much money and had too much vacation time. Creativity was put on the back burner for the safety of playlists. I knew at that point, radio would not be a life-long career for me. I actually wanted a new adventure. I was 41 at the time and had spent over 25 years in the business. I sometimes worked 7 days a week. Anywhere I had to go, whether it was a vacation or for business, I flew because I had to be back for work. One thing I realized more than anything...was that life was not about radio. I wanted more. I wanted to see other places and experience other things. Most people think that being in radio or television is great. You are famous. That was never an attraction for me. For me it was the creative ability to put together sounds, music, news, comedy and to enjoy it. Having another plan was starting to work wonders for me. After having been shown the door in 1994, when I came home, my wife said, "Why don't you just do your investment business?" So I took the plunge and did that. Was it easy? No. But I stuck with it and am glad I did. When I got out of radio I went through a very interesting change. I had never realized how wound-up I was. I started to relax. My wife and I got into the car and drove all the way down the east coast. No agenda. If there was a ferry to take...we took it. One of the first things I did when I was out of radio was to watch the sun come up one morning over the Atlantic in Hilton Head. With a great cup of coffee...it was super. Soon we were parents to a daughter. We moved to Texas, bought an old ranch and fixed it up. We harvested hay, had cattle, dogs, cats and whatever else showed up. The ranch was way out in the country so we would sit around the firepit at night and listen to the coyotes howl. It was a great place to raise a child. As we got older, the heat and the ranch work were wearing us down. We moved back to Ohio. It is great to be back. One thing Texas lacked was the seasonal changes. The vivid fall colors of Ohio are amazing. We lived through a pretty nasty drought. (not as bad as the one they have now) So rain, clouds and snow do not bother us anymore because we know how important rain is. Would I change anything? Probably not. Are we perfect? Of course not. If I had a dime for every mistake I have made....geez I would be rich. Life is to be lived and enjoyed. However, you have to have a plan and a back-up plan too. A good lawyer once told me, "I don't like surprises." And I agree. You have to look both ways. "What if," should be in your plan."
Lately, Jeff has made a return to radio. He has begun to do fill in work at WNCX/98.5, classic rock station in Cleveland. People have been able to get small doses of what had made radio great in "The Rock N Roll Capitol of the World." And I'm sure it has revived interest in WNCX. As he said in the above comment, he has moved on in life, but he gets to do something he has loved, now on a part time basis.
This week, the regular morning show host on WNCX, Slats, is on vacation. Jeff has been filling in to the audience's delight. Would this work on a long term basis? Probably not, but for me and many others, it's dessert. Better had in small servings. Today he also has in studio, his longtime on air partner, Ed "Flash" Ferenc, reliving past glory days. Good listening. Always good to hear one of the good guys who has never forgot who and what had made him popular. Cliff Note: Photo above was courtesy of the WNCX website.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Encouragement
I have been accused of doing much of what I do here on the internet purely for the attention it brings me. Sometimes that's true. But when you see some of the things posted on Facebook, I have to admit that what is posted by myself and others who have a blogging backround is much more original than the usual "repost this if you love Jesus" posts that we all have the tendency to see. And believe me, I don't have to prove I love Jesus by reposting a message.
Now that I have my rant out of the way, let's get to the subject of the post. I have noticed others around me are wanting to start working out. I was told by one coworker that I have inspired her to come to work early and spend about 15 minutes working out. Another coworker wants to check into Weight Watchers. I received an email last week from a friend who reads this blog. He told me that he joined Weight Watchers.
Top all this with my wife wanting to get walking, but not with me at 4:30am, and I feel that I'm doing a fair job encouraging others. This encourages me to do better for myself.
Another bit of encouragement came in the comment section from my last post. Syd always gives me a good word, and Busy Bee Suz always brings me a smile. There was a comment from someone who come to visit for the first time, Strong Beauty Val. After a little bit of following links, I found that Val writes a blog on women's fitness. So for someone like that to come over to this blog and offer the encouragement that she gave me, I felt that was a privilege.
So if at all possible, offer someone some encouragement today.
Now that I have my rant out of the way, let's get to the subject of the post. I have noticed others around me are wanting to start working out. I was told by one coworker that I have inspired her to come to work early and spend about 15 minutes working out. Another coworker wants to check into Weight Watchers. I received an email last week from a friend who reads this blog. He told me that he joined Weight Watchers.
Top all this with my wife wanting to get walking, but not with me at 4:30am, and I feel that I'm doing a fair job encouraging others. This encourages me to do better for myself.
Another bit of encouragement came in the comment section from my last post. Syd always gives me a good word, and Busy Bee Suz always brings me a smile. There was a comment from someone who come to visit for the first time, Strong Beauty Val. After a little bit of following links, I found that Val writes a blog on women's fitness. So for someone like that to come over to this blog and offer the encouragement that she gave me, I felt that was a privilege.
So if at all possible, offer someone some encouragement today.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
It's Working Out!
I'm writing this post after returning from a 14 mile bike ride. One I've taken before. But this time I thought I had bitten off more than I could chew.
We will back up to my workouts. I had spent the prior 3 days utilizing the fitness center at my work. My aim is to be working "in the zone", or working up a good sweat at about a level 7. With several machines at my disposal, I could mix a variety of exercises, all designed to build up my legs and drop pounds along the way, that is if I can manage to eat right, and believe me I've also been working on that.
Yesterday I went in the fitness center about 7:15am. I wanted to get a good workout in before I started work at 9. I decided to reverse the order of machines used, and got on the treadmill first. I ended up spending 25 minutes on the treadmill, then after a rest, 30 on the stationary bike. Then after a shower, off to work. In my mind, a good workout.
Today is the first day of daylight savings time, and with a high in the 60's not a bad day here in Ohio. Considering I started the winter on crutches and had to transition back to walking, it wasn't a bad time to have a mild winter. I was going to go for the usual 1.7 mile walk I've been taking lately, but the bike path was calling my name.
Now for those unaware, the bike path I ride is also known as the County Line Trail, which makes no sense because the county line is a mile north of the trail. Where I get on the trail is 1/4 mile before the 1 mile marker. It's also about a mile from my house. My original intent was to turn around once I got to the town of Sterling, about half way into the trail. I got there, found a bench to sit on, then decided to go all the way to the end, which is in Creston.
Once in Creston, I decided to go to the Circle K convenience store. I bought me a Polar Pop, or a fountain Diet Coke, and a banana. I took my grandson on this trail last summer. Rested at the same place. When we got back to my house, he found some pizza coupons and said we could eat pizza while we rested the next time. I told him that would defeat the purpose. Good news is there is a Subway inside the Circle K, and I'm starting to like some of their salad possibilities.
On the way back to the trail, there was an accident with my water bottle and I lost about 2/3 of the water in it. I thought I would stop at a restaurant in Sterling and refill when I got there. No dice, restaurant closed. And I didn't have any money for the vending machine in front. So when I needed water, I could just take a sip. Good thing it was getting cooler. Was also a good thing that I could coast a lot along the way. My legs were starting to feel like lead. And I also need to get a wider seat for the bike.
And around the 2 mile marker is a shelter. And in the shelter is a bench. And once I got there, I entered the shelter and parked my butt on that bench. Stayed there awhile, probably wasn't a good idea since my legs felt heavier when I got back on the bike. Even though, it wasn't that far now, I thought I would never get back home. But let's take some inventory: I'm 56 years old, have an artificial left knee, and I'm 4-1/2 months removed from having a plate and 9 screws in my left ankle. All in all I'm not doing all that bad. And since the shelter had no wifi, you can see I made it home.
Now after a shower and granola bar, I'm sore but am feeling good about my accomplishment. And I intend on becoming more familiar with the County Line Trail.
We will back up to my workouts. I had spent the prior 3 days utilizing the fitness center at my work. My aim is to be working "in the zone", or working up a good sweat at about a level 7. With several machines at my disposal, I could mix a variety of exercises, all designed to build up my legs and drop pounds along the way, that is if I can manage to eat right, and believe me I've also been working on that.
Yesterday I went in the fitness center about 7:15am. I wanted to get a good workout in before I started work at 9. I decided to reverse the order of machines used, and got on the treadmill first. I ended up spending 25 minutes on the treadmill, then after a rest, 30 on the stationary bike. Then after a shower, off to work. In my mind, a good workout.
Today is the first day of daylight savings time, and with a high in the 60's not a bad day here in Ohio. Considering I started the winter on crutches and had to transition back to walking, it wasn't a bad time to have a mild winter. I was going to go for the usual 1.7 mile walk I've been taking lately, but the bike path was calling my name.
Now for those unaware, the bike path I ride is also known as the County Line Trail, which makes no sense because the county line is a mile north of the trail. Where I get on the trail is 1/4 mile before the 1 mile marker. It's also about a mile from my house. My original intent was to turn around once I got to the town of Sterling, about half way into the trail. I got there, found a bench to sit on, then decided to go all the way to the end, which is in Creston.
Once in Creston, I decided to go to the Circle K convenience store. I bought me a Polar Pop, or a fountain Diet Coke, and a banana. I took my grandson on this trail last summer. Rested at the same place. When we got back to my house, he found some pizza coupons and said we could eat pizza while we rested the next time. I told him that would defeat the purpose. Good news is there is a Subway inside the Circle K, and I'm starting to like some of their salad possibilities.
On the way back to the trail, there was an accident with my water bottle and I lost about 2/3 of the water in it. I thought I would stop at a restaurant in Sterling and refill when I got there. No dice, restaurant closed. And I didn't have any money for the vending machine in front. So when I needed water, I could just take a sip. Good thing it was getting cooler. Was also a good thing that I could coast a lot along the way. My legs were starting to feel like lead. And I also need to get a wider seat for the bike.
And around the 2 mile marker is a shelter. And in the shelter is a bench. And once I got there, I entered the shelter and parked my butt on that bench. Stayed there awhile, probably wasn't a good idea since my legs felt heavier when I got back on the bike. Even though, it wasn't that far now, I thought I would never get back home. But let's take some inventory: I'm 56 years old, have an artificial left knee, and I'm 4-1/2 months removed from having a plate and 9 screws in my left ankle. All in all I'm not doing all that bad. And since the shelter had no wifi, you can see I made it home.
Now after a shower and granola bar, I'm sore but am feeling good about my accomplishment. And I intend on becoming more familiar with the County Line Trail.
Thursday, March 08, 2012
New blog: Charm of Nail Polish
It's been a while since I've introduced a new blog. A former coworker of mine named Courtney, also known as Zombie Mommie, has started a blog called "The Charm of Nail Polish."
Courtney is a single mom of 2 and she is going through some changes in her life. She has decided to go to school to become a nail tech, which has been a passion of hers for some time now.
Anyway, above is an example of Courtney's work. Check out her blog and say "Hi" while you're at it.
Anyway, above is an example of Courtney's work. Check out her blog and say "Hi" while you're at it.
Self Esteem Issues
In the past 5-1/2 years since I began blogging, I have encountered many people with their share of of esteem issues. And I'm sure those of my friends who write recovery blogs have documented their own.
One of the descriptions of myself that I have had to promise myself I would quit using is when I have referred to myself as "the fat kid from the other side of the tracks." To be honest, I used to think this would get me some points. At least one of my friends called me out on it.
Problem is sometimes overweight people serve as comedic foils for other people dealing with their own self esteem issues. And as a Christian, I think this sort of behavior is as wrong as slandering your fellow man. Really serves no useful purpose.
Food is too often used as a recreational drug. Can give you a false sense of satisfaction when you are dealing with feelings of guilt or when someone causes you hurt. When I was growing up, I used to take out many of my frustrations on my stomach. Of course being a minor, that was the only legal way to handle it. Combine this with being a faithful follower of TV Guide, this was the perfect recipe for obesity. I wonder how many other have followed this non plan through the years.
Cliff Note: The last four sentences of this post was deleted as upon further review, they really had nothing to do with the spirit of the original idea behind this post. The only thing I do want to say is that if I offended any recovery bloggers who read my blog, I am truly sorry.
One of the descriptions of myself that I have had to promise myself I would quit using is when I have referred to myself as "the fat kid from the other side of the tracks." To be honest, I used to think this would get me some points. At least one of my friends called me out on it.
Problem is sometimes overweight people serve as comedic foils for other people dealing with their own self esteem issues. And as a Christian, I think this sort of behavior is as wrong as slandering your fellow man. Really serves no useful purpose.
Food is too often used as a recreational drug. Can give you a false sense of satisfaction when you are dealing with feelings of guilt or when someone causes you hurt. When I was growing up, I used to take out many of my frustrations on my stomach. Of course being a minor, that was the only legal way to handle it. Combine this with being a faithful follower of TV Guide, this was the perfect recipe for obesity. I wonder how many other have followed this non plan through the years.
Cliff Note: The last four sentences of this post was deleted as upon further review, they really had nothing to do with the spirit of the original idea behind this post. The only thing I do want to say is that if I offended any recovery bloggers who read my blog, I am truly sorry.
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