Cutter's Log - Stardate 8002.13.70
Current Song - Dirty Work (Steely Dan)
It seems like America is getting lazy. I know I have, and in some way it is showing in what I write. Back when I was writing for print, the first thing we do is type our our agate (the box score) and then our actual story. I hated doing that, especially on deadline. Isn't it the stories people want to look at? But when little Johnny who went 0-for-4 with 2 K's isn't mentioned in the story, they turn to the box.
On NISB, I have tried to use up the unlimited space (the "online advantage") to make mention of these stats. I'll do that and still keep the story from being long and drab.
We now live in an age where we need to recognize not just the star athletes, but every single person who makes an effort in the event. This is in order to please them. People come up with a journalism method which recognizes all those involved, and then takes it as the default. Everything other philosophy becomes worthless and unwanted. Having been raised an old-school sportswriter, I'm not likely to recognize athlete after athlete because you have to EARN your name in the paper, not recieve it.
I've mentioned this before in an older entry, but I began to wonder again if I would do better if I turned to columns instead of game pieces. When you think about it, there is no real "high school sports columnist" left in northern Illinois (since Andy Colbert departed SVN). In fact, I think Barry Temkin and maybe Bob Frisk are the only ones left.
It would further escalate my education in column writing. If I actually find a journalism job and have to convert back to writing game articles, and thus doing agate, I'll already have that experience. I have considered setting up templates for sports agates and just filling in the blanks rather than write out half of it. I've seen Tribune writers write out part of their story before halftime of a game on their laptop. I'm not close to getting a laptop right now. I still do not know how one works. If only I had this information, I'd be much better off! If I can start writing my columns during the game, that may give me a heads up on knowing how to write game stories in progression.
The business of writing game articles is one that requires continual involvement, which I do not have. Column writing gives me more freedom in not only what I write, but how and when I can write. I don't have that time to concentrate toward game articles until I graduate CC in 2010. I'll let the newspapers take care of the game articles, while I do what they don't do.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Grade Discrepancy
Cutter's Log - Supplemental
I just sent a note to my music teacher about my grade as of this point. Apparently I've been shorted about 30 points. I added up my total points, and they came to about 30 more than what was given.
Unfortunately, I will be getting no better than a D in this class. My learning capacity in this class is full. Together with my physics grade, I may be under the Mendoza Line - which probably forbids me from Highland, and making me take a "study skills" class at Sauk.
Let me be frank, I haven't touched NISB this summer except for the State of the Site addy. So don't tell me that NISB or IHSGD is ruining my grade. Before I worked at BP, I had a 2.9 GPA in my first year of college. Since then, I had two grades handed to me on a silver platter.
Other than a monumental comeback in Composition I class, nothing good has happened grade-wise. I had a 54 coming into the due date of the final research paper. That paper bumped me up to a mid-C. I had a similar situation during my senior-year English class. I had a D+ coming into the final research paper. That paper, which was on the Multiplier, raised my grade to a B.
I've done less on NISB during 2007-08 than I did in 2005-06. I remember that year being the one where I'd cover anything and everything. That was because I did not have a job.
It's the job! That same job that is giving me money for working. Cut off the job, I have no money. Cut off the money, I have no college studies. Cut off the journalism, I have no purpose of going to school.
And I can't live on my own.
I just sent a note to my music teacher about my grade as of this point. Apparently I've been shorted about 30 points. I added up my total points, and they came to about 30 more than what was given.
Unfortunately, I will be getting no better than a D in this class. My learning capacity in this class is full. Together with my physics grade, I may be under the Mendoza Line - which probably forbids me from Highland, and making me take a "study skills" class at Sauk.
Let me be frank, I haven't touched NISB this summer except for the State of the Site addy. So don't tell me that NISB or IHSGD is ruining my grade. Before I worked at BP, I had a 2.9 GPA in my first year of college. Since then, I had two grades handed to me on a silver platter.
Other than a monumental comeback in Composition I class, nothing good has happened grade-wise. I had a 54 coming into the due date of the final research paper. That paper bumped me up to a mid-C. I had a similar situation during my senior-year English class. I had a D+ coming into the final research paper. That paper, which was on the Multiplier, raised my grade to a B.
I've done less on NISB during 2007-08 than I did in 2005-06. I remember that year being the one where I'd cover anything and everything. That was because I did not have a job.
It's the job! That same job that is giving me money for working. Cut off the job, I have no money. Cut off the money, I have no college studies. Cut off the journalism, I have no purpose of going to school.
And I can't live on my own.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Almost over
Cutter's Log - Stardate 8002.92.70
Current Song - If You Really Love Me (Stevie Wonder)
Two more days of Physics class, three more days of Music class. Then it's over until the Freeport treks begin on August 18.
I've got one test in Physics (the sit-down class) and two more in Music (the sit-on-my-ass class), plus a concert paper. Luckilly I have all of Tuesday off of work, so I can get caught back up on Music stuff. I work Wednesday, and only work for two hours on Thursday. I can only hope that I get everything wrapped up by then. It will create a huge sigh of relief.
Then I can't wait to turn my attention to putting out more content on NISB. I can't wait to make more travels to places I've never seen and meet people I've never met. But first I have to pray that I will get Friday nights off.
I'm closing the store 4-5 days a week, plus stubs like the two-hour day. I don't like working that much, especially when I am traveling and going to school. Apparently I'm too good. But I can't let work and school take over my life. I have to have something else going on, and that's what NISB, message board postings, and family activities are there for.
There was an interesting discussion in my Physics class, not about physics, but about all these new teachers at SHS. My physics teacher, Mrs. Gatz, was my high school physics and physical science teacher. She's been there 21 years, and it surprises her to know that 70% of the teachers at SHS are non-tenured. Of the 30 teachers I had at SHS, 19 are now gone. That's all within the last seven years. My dad would always remark if a certain teacher was "still there" from his days at SHS (early 1980s). I can't do that now. There was a sense of security when I was in high school because my dad knew who was teaching me. Not even I know who's teaching Daniel.
Current Song - If You Really Love Me (Stevie Wonder)
Two more days of Physics class, three more days of Music class. Then it's over until the Freeport treks begin on August 18.
I've got one test in Physics (the sit-down class) and two more in Music (the sit-on-my-ass class), plus a concert paper. Luckilly I have all of Tuesday off of work, so I can get caught back up on Music stuff. I work Wednesday, and only work for two hours on Thursday. I can only hope that I get everything wrapped up by then. It will create a huge sigh of relief.
Then I can't wait to turn my attention to putting out more content on NISB. I can't wait to make more travels to places I've never seen and meet people I've never met. But first I have to pray that I will get Friday nights off.
I'm closing the store 4-5 days a week, plus stubs like the two-hour day. I don't like working that much, especially when I am traveling and going to school. Apparently I'm too good. But I can't let work and school take over my life. I have to have something else going on, and that's what NISB, message board postings, and family activities are there for.
There was an interesting discussion in my Physics class, not about physics, but about all these new teachers at SHS. My physics teacher, Mrs. Gatz, was my high school physics and physical science teacher. She's been there 21 years, and it surprises her to know that 70% of the teachers at SHS are non-tenured. Of the 30 teachers I had at SHS, 19 are now gone. That's all within the last seven years. My dad would always remark if a certain teacher was "still there" from his days at SHS (early 1980s). I can't do that now. There was a sense of security when I was in high school because my dad knew who was teaching me. Not even I know who's teaching Daniel.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Abandon Ship
Cutter's Log - Supplemental
I've decided to abandon the listening response paper. I can't comprehend that kind of information on such short time span. I can still remain at a C if I pass the two remanining tests with a B- or better, and do well on the Concert paper. So I'm starting the concert paper immediately in order to get a good start on it.
Music is not my thing, especially when it's classical music that I really do not give a rat's behind about. Haydn's 39th Symphony was the closest piece that interested me out of the selections. I know it's a good-mood piece, but other than that I am drawing blanks all over. I can't tell you what the meter is, what instruments are playing (there are many different "string" instruments and I can't tell the difference between a violin and a cello) and what the beats and pitches are. Yes, I learned nothing from this course. I didn't the first time, and I didn't this time.
Don't get me wrong, I like classical music. I like hearing it. I do not like comprehending it and breaking it down into what is what. It's like eating things without tasting them. I do not understand the concept of "tasting" a cookie. I can eat a cookie, but not taste it. That's the relationship between me and classical music.
G2G - I'm late for a class I don't want to go to.
I've decided to abandon the listening response paper. I can't comprehend that kind of information on such short time span. I can still remain at a C if I pass the two remanining tests with a B- or better, and do well on the Concert paper. So I'm starting the concert paper immediately in order to get a good start on it.
Music is not my thing, especially when it's classical music that I really do not give a rat's behind about. Haydn's 39th Symphony was the closest piece that interested me out of the selections. I know it's a good-mood piece, but other than that I am drawing blanks all over. I can't tell you what the meter is, what instruments are playing (there are many different "string" instruments and I can't tell the difference between a violin and a cello) and what the beats and pitches are. Yes, I learned nothing from this course. I didn't the first time, and I didn't this time.
Don't get me wrong, I like classical music. I like hearing it. I do not like comprehending it and breaking it down into what is what. It's like eating things without tasting them. I do not understand the concept of "tasting" a cookie. I can eat a cookie, but not taste it. That's the relationship between me and classical music.
G2G - I'm late for a class I don't want to go to.
I absolutely cannot wait
Cutter's Log - Stardate 8002.42.70
Current Song - You're No Good (Linda Ronstandt)
I have once last chance to type up my Listening Response paper for Music class, and that is after class tomorrow and before work. The three-page paper is due by midnight, right when I get off work. It's a paper I've been struggling with in a class that I have absolutely zero interest in. But I took it because it was the easiest remaining Humanities credit I could get. Everything else looked difficult. It'll be a race against the clock for 50 points.
I also went to one of the Sterling Symphony Orchestra concerts tonight. I had to go to one concert and write a paper on it. I'll be doing that sometime before classes are done (NEXT WEEK). There are also two tests I have to take yet. I've got one more test and a couple of labs for Physics class. I'm hoping I can get out of both classes with a C. I've got a B- in Physics, but unfortunately I don't expect that to hold.
Tomorrow I begin the first of four straight days of work. I guess that's what I get for requesting Wednesday off. Once I get off of school, I can't wait to get caught back up on high school sports stuff and IHSGD research.
Current Song - You're No Good (Linda Ronstandt)
I have once last chance to type up my Listening Response paper for Music class, and that is after class tomorrow and before work. The three-page paper is due by midnight, right when I get off work. It's a paper I've been struggling with in a class that I have absolutely zero interest in. But I took it because it was the easiest remaining Humanities credit I could get. Everything else looked difficult. It'll be a race against the clock for 50 points.
I also went to one of the Sterling Symphony Orchestra concerts tonight. I had to go to one concert and write a paper on it. I'll be doing that sometime before classes are done (NEXT WEEK). There are also two tests I have to take yet. I've got one more test and a couple of labs for Physics class. I'm hoping I can get out of both classes with a C. I've got a B- in Physics, but unfortunately I don't expect that to hold.
Tomorrow I begin the first of four straight days of work. I guess that's what I get for requesting Wednesday off. Once I get off of school, I can't wait to get caught back up on high school sports stuff and IHSGD research.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
When I was there ...
Cutter's Log - Stardate 8002.22.70
Current Song - Heart Hotels (Dan Fogelberg)
Edit: 4/4/09 - Post taken down
Current Song - Heart Hotels (Dan Fogelberg)
Edit: 4/4/09 - Post taken down
Monday, July 21, 2008
Cycle of Pain
Cutter's Log - Stardate 8002.12.70
Current Song - Got To Be Real (Cheryl Lynn)
Work, school, work, school, work, school ...
It's a vicious cycle that eats at me.
I'm working today at 4:00 PM, getting Tuesday totally off (except class), going to a orchestra concert on Wednesday, and working from Thursday-Saturday. I cannot wait until Summer classes are OVER WITH!
Current Song - Got To Be Real (Cheryl Lynn)
Work, school, work, school, work, school ...
It's a vicious cycle that eats at me.
I'm working today at 4:00 PM, getting Tuesday totally off (except class), going to a orchestra concert on Wednesday, and working from Thursday-Saturday. I cannot wait until Summer classes are OVER WITH!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Bank Discrepancy
Cutter's Log - Stardate 8002.61.70
Current Song - Rock You Like a Hurricane (The Scorpions)
Yesterday was another one of those moments where I found out I was more stupid than I thought. You see, I must have this "stupid-and-lazy" disease where I think I can do something but I really can't, and I need to do something but I don't. Like guessing how much I have, roughly, in my bank accounts.
There's no question times have been a little tough for me with no money, Sauk payments and a car payment every month. Oh, and gas too (and no, I don't get it free since I work at a gas station). So every day I make a trip to my bank's ATM machine to get a balance. Turns out that that stupid machine was always wrong. I had overdrafted and got tacked fees, and was once over 100.00 in the red. I deposited my recent paycheck in there yesterday, so everything should be alright now.
God I'm stupid, and lazy.
Current Song - Rock You Like a Hurricane (The Scorpions)
Yesterday was another one of those moments where I found out I was more stupid than I thought. You see, I must have this "stupid-and-lazy" disease where I think I can do something but I really can't, and I need to do something but I don't. Like guessing how much I have, roughly, in my bank accounts.
There's no question times have been a little tough for me with no money, Sauk payments and a car payment every month. Oh, and gas too (and no, I don't get it free since I work at a gas station). So every day I make a trip to my bank's ATM machine to get a balance. Turns out that that stupid machine was always wrong. I had overdrafted and got tacked fees, and was once over 100.00 in the red. I deposited my recent paycheck in there yesterday, so everything should be alright now.
God I'm stupid, and lazy.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
I need a break
Cutter's Log - Stardate 8002.31.70
Current Song - Us and Them (Pink Floyd)
Four straight nights of work, and possibly a fifth night as well. I'm "on call" for tonight in case someone calls off. She isn't too happy with her work situation at the moment. Plus a possible two-and-a-half hours on Monday. I'll like the paycheck(s), but I like having some time to myself a little more.
All this time I'd like to use to jump start plans I have for NISB this upcoming school year: The four football trips, a few columns, plus EdgyTim Conference Calls (if he asks me to do them again this year). I've been flirting with a "Quick Shots" type briefs column, but that seems like a thing I could do in my NISB sports blog.
But if I I continue to write more in my sports blog, then how will that be taken by the local sportswriters, whose profession dispises the blog?
Another problem I've been having with the blog is what to post there in relation to the message board. Previously I used the blog for small columns that weren't big enough to warrant a noted NISB coumn. At the same time, if I used the blog for posting every bit of information and opinion that I have, it would sink traffic on the message board. I wouldn't be starting topics or posting a whole lot anymore.
Now that would be a good transition from sports junkie poster to sports writing poster. After all, how many sportswriters these days actually post on message boards?
Or just get rid of the blog, and transfer those thoughts onto the boards ("unpublished thoughts") or a quick shots-type writeup ("published thoughts").
Then there's the name of the quick shots-type column. I can't use "Quick Shots" because the Rockford Register-Star uses it. "Quick Bits," which I used for the Voyager is just a spoof of QS. "Digest" wouldn't work if I wrote opinions of things.
Or the "New and Improved Monday Column" - but is it a true column if there are non-opinionated items included?
So it's not really a blog, not really a digest, not really a column.
Blgemn
Geblmn
Mnblge
Mngebl
Coldigblo
Blocoldig
Digcolblo
Colblodig
Blodigcol
Digblocol
Cody's Coldigblo
Monday Mnblge
Cody's ColDig (leaving the "blog" part out)
So it's essentially a blog.
I'm bored. I'm going to now think about how I can write a Coldig, Column and stories while posting on message boards.
Current Song - Us and Them (Pink Floyd)
Four straight nights of work, and possibly a fifth night as well. I'm "on call" for tonight in case someone calls off. She isn't too happy with her work situation at the moment. Plus a possible two-and-a-half hours on Monday. I'll like the paycheck(s), but I like having some time to myself a little more.
All this time I'd like to use to jump start plans I have for NISB this upcoming school year: The four football trips, a few columns, plus EdgyTim Conference Calls (if he asks me to do them again this year). I've been flirting with a "Quick Shots" type briefs column, but that seems like a thing I could do in my NISB sports blog.
But if I I continue to write more in my sports blog, then how will that be taken by the local sportswriters, whose profession dispises the blog?
Another problem I've been having with the blog is what to post there in relation to the message board. Previously I used the blog for small columns that weren't big enough to warrant a noted NISB coumn. At the same time, if I used the blog for posting every bit of information and opinion that I have, it would sink traffic on the message board. I wouldn't be starting topics or posting a whole lot anymore.
Now that would be a good transition from sports junkie poster to sports writing poster. After all, how many sportswriters these days actually post on message boards?
Or just get rid of the blog, and transfer those thoughts onto the boards ("unpublished thoughts") or a quick shots-type writeup ("published thoughts").
Then there's the name of the quick shots-type column. I can't use "Quick Shots" because the Rockford Register-Star uses it. "Quick Bits," which I used for the Voyager is just a spoof of QS. "Digest" wouldn't work if I wrote opinions of things.
Or the "New and Improved Monday Column" - but is it a true column if there are non-opinionated items included?
So it's not really a blog, not really a digest, not really a column.
Blgemn
Geblmn
Mnblge
Mngebl
Coldigblo
Blocoldig
Digcolblo
Colblodig
Blodigcol
Digblocol
Cody's Coldigblo
Monday Mnblge
Cody's ColDig (leaving the "blog" part out)
So it's essentially a blog.
I'm bored. I'm going to now think about how I can write a Coldig, Column and stories while posting on message boards.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Overload
Cutter's Log - Stardate 8002.11.80
Current Song - Money (Pink Floyd)
As I might have shared many times on here, the computer at home is shared by the entire family. I run my NISB, IHSGD and other stuff on it, and everyone else runs their stuff on it. We've had this Gateway computer since March of 2000. So we've had it for over eight years, which in computer years is about 150 human years.
The C: drive holds up to 18.6 GB. It's that ancient. My traveldrive is 1 GB itself. We've only got 1.19 GB of space left. That means we all have to get rid of a bunch of things to make the hard drive more free. The bulk of these things are music file drives that Mike, Chris and Dan have (Windows media, limewire, etc.). I've got files that can be backed up onto floppy discs if I so choose.
So most of this night, I'm trying to free up what I have and get rid of what I don't need. Decisions, decisions.
Recycle Bin - I hardly ever delete anything out of it. Done.
Cookies - Burp.
Temporary internet files - which means I'll have to wait for things to load more. Done.
*Hard drive use just shrunk 0.12 GB to 1.31 GB left*
Web history - kinda sucks because I use this as a shortcut. I save mine 3 weeks. Done, but kept important pages.
Desktop items - things with not as much priority as others. Done.
"What I need is another stick drive for my personal pictures!"
NISB Folder - lots of stuff that I never completed. Most of the word files I don't use are gone. I've uploaded my past audio files onto my traveldrive.
To be continued ...
Current Song - Money (Pink Floyd)
As I might have shared many times on here, the computer at home is shared by the entire family. I run my NISB, IHSGD and other stuff on it, and everyone else runs their stuff on it. We've had this Gateway computer since March of 2000. So we've had it for over eight years, which in computer years is about 150 human years.
The C: drive holds up to 18.6 GB. It's that ancient. My traveldrive is 1 GB itself. We've only got 1.19 GB of space left. That means we all have to get rid of a bunch of things to make the hard drive more free. The bulk of these things are music file drives that Mike, Chris and Dan have (Windows media, limewire, etc.). I've got files that can be backed up onto floppy discs if I so choose.
So most of this night, I'm trying to free up what I have and get rid of what I don't need. Decisions, decisions.
Recycle Bin - I hardly ever delete anything out of it. Done.
Cookies - Burp.
Temporary internet files - which means I'll have to wait for things to load more. Done.
*Hard drive use just shrunk 0.12 GB to 1.31 GB left*
Web history - kinda sucks because I use this as a shortcut. I save mine 3 weeks. Done, but kept important pages.
Desktop items - things with not as much priority as others. Done.
"What I need is another stick drive for my personal pictures!"
NISB Folder - lots of stuff that I never completed. Most of the word files I don't use are gone. I've uploaded my past audio files onto my traveldrive.
To be continued ...
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Roller Coaster of Emotions
Cutter's Log - Stardate 8002.80.70
Current Song - When Doves Cry (Prince)
The past couple of days have gone by up and down.
Saturday was a dissapointing day because I wasn't able to attend my Uncle Bill's funeral - for work. I had to work the midday shift, which is always something I dread. It's non-stop for the entire duration.
Then I get a phone call Sunday morning at 3:30 AM asking if I could work not only my scheduled 4:00-close shift, but the 5:00-11:30 AM shift. I did it this once, and told my boss not to let me do this ever again. I guess the good thing here is that I get a fatter paycheck than normal. That, and I MAY get a payraise - Mary is fond of my work ethic and experience. My feet were absolutely sore, and I went and bought new shoes the next day.
So Monday I'm enjoying a very deserved day off. Well, aside from a Physics test review. I decide to make the trip to Highland CC to register for my classes. I don't think I'm going to have a problem with the drive up and down. Once I keep doing it, it will feel quicker. My Seals and Crofts' Greatest Hits cassette plays from start to finish from my house to the college.
Highland has seven or so buildings. I go to the Admissions desk, and they need a transcript. I have to print one out at their library, which charges for printing. The only thing was that all I had was my debit card. Rather than having to break a twenty, the library staff waived my print cost (probably because they're happy someone is transferring there). Another trip to Admissions, then a trip to Counsoling. I get my JOUR 231 class approved there, and go back up to Admissions again.
There I recieved probably the best news I have recieved since I won an Illinois state student newspaper award. The class is FREE! I had to keep asking the admissions lady the question, "really?"
Then I went to the Highland Chronicle office to see the instructor. I had to ask him the question. Apparently the class is free in order to entice more people to work for the newspaper. He also gave me an edition of the last print newspaper.
On my way to Rockford, I stop at the tavern at Ridott Corners for lunch and to sit down and read that paper. World's Famous Burgers is what they tout. Wasn't that impressed, but a burger, chips and coke for $5.50 is a very good price.
I'm doing research for a NISB story at the Rockford Library's history room. Didn't end up finding what I expected, but I'm still able to churn out a story from what I did gather.
Today I fell back down to Earth - I locked my keys in my car at Sauk.
Can't wait for my paycheck on Thursday!
Current Song - When Doves Cry (Prince)
The past couple of days have gone by up and down.
Saturday was a dissapointing day because I wasn't able to attend my Uncle Bill's funeral - for work. I had to work the midday shift, which is always something I dread. It's non-stop for the entire duration.
Then I get a phone call Sunday morning at 3:30 AM asking if I could work not only my scheduled 4:00-close shift, but the 5:00-11:30 AM shift. I did it this once, and told my boss not to let me do this ever again. I guess the good thing here is that I get a fatter paycheck than normal. That, and I MAY get a payraise - Mary is fond of my work ethic and experience. My feet were absolutely sore, and I went and bought new shoes the next day.
So Monday I'm enjoying a very deserved day off. Well, aside from a Physics test review. I decide to make the trip to Highland CC to register for my classes. I don't think I'm going to have a problem with the drive up and down. Once I keep doing it, it will feel quicker. My Seals and Crofts' Greatest Hits cassette plays from start to finish from my house to the college.
Highland has seven or so buildings. I go to the Admissions desk, and they need a transcript. I have to print one out at their library, which charges for printing. The only thing was that all I had was my debit card. Rather than having to break a twenty, the library staff waived my print cost (probably because they're happy someone is transferring there). Another trip to Admissions, then a trip to Counsoling. I get my JOUR 231 class approved there, and go back up to Admissions again.
There I recieved probably the best news I have recieved since I won an Illinois state student newspaper award. The class is FREE! I had to keep asking the admissions lady the question, "really?"
Then I went to the Highland Chronicle office to see the instructor. I had to ask him the question. Apparently the class is free in order to entice more people to work for the newspaper. He also gave me an edition of the last print newspaper.
On my way to Rockford, I stop at the tavern at Ridott Corners for lunch and to sit down and read that paper. World's Famous Burgers is what they tout. Wasn't that impressed, but a burger, chips and coke for $5.50 is a very good price.
I'm doing research for a NISB story at the Rockford Library's history room. Didn't end up finding what I expected, but I'm still able to churn out a story from what I did gather.
Today I fell back down to Earth - I locked my keys in my car at Sauk.
Can't wait for my paycheck on Thursday!
Friday, July 4, 2008
In memoriam: Wilbur McKinnis
Cutter's Log - Supplemental
STERLING - Wilbur "Bill" McKinnis, 82, of Sterling, died Tuesday July 1, 2008, at CGH Medical Center.
Mr. McKinnis was born Jan. 21, 1926, in Tekamah, Neb., the son of Lloyd Wilber and Martha Madeline (Ashmead) McKinnis. He married Arline Bonnita Metzler, his high school sweetheart, on Nov. 15, 1943. They moved to Idaho and later relocated to Rock Falls. Arline preceded him in death on April 13, 1996. They were married for 53 years and raised two children, Judy and Bill.
Judy McKinnis of Sterling, survives her father. Their son, Bill, passed away in 1972.
Family was very important to Bill and his life centered around his love of family. Together they created wonderful family memories including school-related activities and 4-H. He was an active leader of the Rock Falls Eagles 4-H club and once served on the Montmorency School Board.
Bill was a highly skilled carpenter and a proud member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters for more than 55 years. In addition to building many homes, he served in a supervisory role in constructing Illinois nuclear plants.
Bill proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
On Jan. 3, 1998, Bill married Vernita Berard, who survives him. They loved traveling and especially enjoyed visiting places like Jamaica, where they could sit, relax, and hear the ocean. They created a wonderful collection of memories by purchasing magnets from all the locations they visited.
Survivors also include a host of very special relatives and friends from both the McKinnis and Berard families. His greatest entertainment was inviting friends out to share a meal. He enjoyed participating in the Big Brother Program and was a member of First Baptist Church, Sterling.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 5, at First Baptist Church, Sterling, with the Rev. John Kermott, pastor, officiating. Burial will be at Coloma Township Cemetery, Dixon Road, Rock Falls, with military honors. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at Schilling Funeral Home, Sterling.
A memorial has been established to First Baptist Church, Sterling.
Arline ("auntie neen") was my great-grandma Holder's twin sister. Grandma Holder is my father's mother's mother. Uncle Bill was a great and caring family man. I enjoyed visiting with him, auntie neen, and Vernita during all the holidays.
I'll miss you Uncle Bill. Rest in peace.
STERLING - Wilbur "Bill" McKinnis, 82, of Sterling, died Tuesday July 1, 2008, at CGH Medical Center.
Mr. McKinnis was born Jan. 21, 1926, in Tekamah, Neb., the son of Lloyd Wilber and Martha Madeline (Ashmead) McKinnis. He married Arline Bonnita Metzler, his high school sweetheart, on Nov. 15, 1943. They moved to Idaho and later relocated to Rock Falls. Arline preceded him in death on April 13, 1996. They were married for 53 years and raised two children, Judy and Bill.
Judy McKinnis of Sterling, survives her father. Their son, Bill, passed away in 1972.
Family was very important to Bill and his life centered around his love of family. Together they created wonderful family memories including school-related activities and 4-H. He was an active leader of the Rock Falls Eagles 4-H club and once served on the Montmorency School Board.
Bill was a highly skilled carpenter and a proud member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters for more than 55 years. In addition to building many homes, he served in a supervisory role in constructing Illinois nuclear plants.
Bill proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
On Jan. 3, 1998, Bill married Vernita Berard, who survives him. They loved traveling and especially enjoyed visiting places like Jamaica, where they could sit, relax, and hear the ocean. They created a wonderful collection of memories by purchasing magnets from all the locations they visited.
Survivors also include a host of very special relatives and friends from both the McKinnis and Berard families. His greatest entertainment was inviting friends out to share a meal. He enjoyed participating in the Big Brother Program and was a member of First Baptist Church, Sterling.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 5, at First Baptist Church, Sterling, with the Rev. John Kermott, pastor, officiating. Burial will be at Coloma Township Cemetery, Dixon Road, Rock Falls, with military honors. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at Schilling Funeral Home, Sterling.
A memorial has been established to First Baptist Church, Sterling.
Arline ("auntie neen") was my great-grandma Holder's twin sister. Grandma Holder is my father's mother's mother. Uncle Bill was a great and caring family man. I enjoyed visiting with him, auntie neen, and Vernita during all the holidays.
I'll miss you Uncle Bill. Rest in peace.
Relief, for now
Cutter's Log - Stardate 8002.40.70
Current Song - The Star Spangled Banner (Francis Scott Key)
I finished my 3rd music test just minutes before the submission deadline (it's an online class). There was previously a listening test due as well, but that got pushed back. Woo hoo! There is also a Physics test coming up on Tuesday over forces, work, energy and heat.
My grades for both classes are in the B- range as of now. B's have been my goal for as long as I can remember. A's are great, but I don't really expect them. I can take a break from my music studies as of now and concentrate a little more on sports stuff. I've got a list that I can hopefully get done with before going back to music studies. Other than that, I cannot wait for my first paycheck.
Current Song - The Star Spangled Banner (Francis Scott Key)
I finished my 3rd music test just minutes before the submission deadline (it's an online class). There was previously a listening test due as well, but that got pushed back. Woo hoo! There is also a Physics test coming up on Tuesday over forces, work, energy and heat.
My grades for both classes are in the B- range as of now. B's have been my goal for as long as I can remember. A's are great, but I don't really expect them. I can take a break from my music studies as of now and concentrate a little more on sports stuff. I've got a list that I can hopefully get done with before going back to music studies. Other than that, I cannot wait for my first paycheck.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Music Test coming up
Cutter's Log - Supplemental
I've got quite a few things to do for my Music class. In fact, I have to take two tests and a listening quiz all by Thursday midnight. That's my own fault for not being active enough in the Online class. This week is my first full week at Shell, and once I get used to doing that and balancing with the Physics classes, I should be fine.
I'm taking test 2 tonight.
Speaking of Shell, I know that a few of my friends are sort of dissapointed that I did not hold out and wait until WLLT hires me. With the radio station not ready to make a hire for some time (I'm assuming), and my net worth down to a measly $40.23 (with 1/8 tank of gas), I'm glad I took the job. Now I just want to know when I'll be getting a paycheck.
I've got quite a few things to do for my Music class. In fact, I have to take two tests and a listening quiz all by Thursday midnight. That's my own fault for not being active enough in the Online class. This week is my first full week at Shell, and once I get used to doing that and balancing with the Physics classes, I should be fine.
I'm taking test 2 tonight.
Speaking of Shell, I know that a few of my friends are sort of dissapointed that I did not hold out and wait until WLLT hires me. With the radio station not ready to make a hire for some time (I'm assuming), and my net worth down to a measly $40.23 (with 1/8 tank of gas), I'm glad I took the job. Now I just want to know when I'll be getting a paycheck.
Sheley Manhunt Creates Media Discussion
Cutter's Blog - Supplemental
The cities of Sterling and Rock Falls are buzzing about a couple of murder cases that involve and possibly involve Nick Sheley, a 28-year-old ex-convict.
He is wanted in Whiteside County for the murder of 93-year-old Russell Reed of Sterling, held up a house and forced checks to be written for him, and stole numerous cars. That we know was an act of Sheley's.
On Monday night, four people were shot dead at a Rock Falls apartment (12th avenue and Ave. A) not too far from my cousin's house and grandma and aunt's house. Sheley is a person of high interest.
To someone from Chicago, this seems like something that happens often. But Sterling and Rock Falls do not see these murders that often. Rock Falls had a double-murder nearly 30 years ago, but nothing like this in a very long time.
This creates a huge amount of panic throughout the Ster-Rock community. Just check the Public Comments section of the local newspaper (www.saukvalley.com).
There are over 700 comments on this as of this write-up. These comments are the biggest reason why I never listen to newspaper comments, or post any newspaper comments. The commenters are all in panic mode and posting rumors all over the place.
According to the comments, there are "reported" murders at every street corner, gas station, restruant, park and cornfield in the area, and x-number of bodies have been found all over the place.
Newspaper reporters are staying the course and only writing about factual information. That's good and responsible reporting. There were even comments about how the paper wouldn't listen to what they heard, going as far as crying out the 1st Amendement. There were also a lot of comments deleted because they go against board rules.
Stay calm and let the police, and the newspapers, do their job.
The cities of Sterling and Rock Falls are buzzing about a couple of murder cases that involve and possibly involve Nick Sheley, a 28-year-old ex-convict.
He is wanted in Whiteside County for the murder of 93-year-old Russell Reed of Sterling, held up a house and forced checks to be written for him, and stole numerous cars. That we know was an act of Sheley's.
On Monday night, four people were shot dead at a Rock Falls apartment (12th avenue and Ave. A) not too far from my cousin's house and grandma and aunt's house. Sheley is a person of high interest.
To someone from Chicago, this seems like something that happens often. But Sterling and Rock Falls do not see these murders that often. Rock Falls had a double-murder nearly 30 years ago, but nothing like this in a very long time.
This creates a huge amount of panic throughout the Ster-Rock community. Just check the Public Comments section of the local newspaper (www.saukvalley.com).
There are over 700 comments on this as of this write-up. These comments are the biggest reason why I never listen to newspaper comments, or post any newspaper comments. The commenters are all in panic mode and posting rumors all over the place.
According to the comments, there are "reported" murders at every street corner, gas station, restruant, park and cornfield in the area, and x-number of bodies have been found all over the place.
Newspaper reporters are staying the course and only writing about factual information. That's good and responsible reporting. There were even comments about how the paper wouldn't listen to what they heard, going as far as crying out the 1st Amendement. There were also a lot of comments deleted because they go against board rules.
Stay calm and let the police, and the newspapers, do their job.
Near Scare For First Solo Day at Shell
Cutter's Log - Stardate 8002.10.70
Current Song - Fool For The City (Foghat)
My first solo day at Shell took place from 11:00 am to 6:00 p.m. Saturday.
It was a disaster.
The air conditioning did not work. When I went to change it, I set it down too far that the system broke down. It was baking inside, while the outside was nice and cool. Wearing a polo shirt and kaki pants did not help me.
The two counter-one register format got so out of hand, that I sometimes had to place a milk crate on top of one of the counters in order to make matters easier on me.
I apparently had a $59.01 driveoff.
My shift replacement didn't know much about the store (she was a fill-in from another Shell), so I had to partially train her. She didn't have a key or a alarm code.
By 1:00 a.m. Sunday morning I was ready to crawl under a rock and rot.
I got good news on Monday afternoon, however. That drive-off didn't happen. It was a register glitch. Whew! Usually, that would be strike one in a three-strikes-and-your-fired system. Plus, I wasn't berated about the air conditioning.
This particular shift is called the "mid-shift" which is the one I don't often work. In fact, I had never worked it at Shell. It was menacing and really busy. The "late shift" (4-close) isn't that bad, however. I'll be working that on Wednesday.
So the first day was a little rough, and it can only get better.
WLLT Update: I heard the part-time position opening on the radio today. Does that tell me that they are STILL looking??? No matter how Shell works out, WLLT is still my No. 1 hope. I will now have to keep myself in the running somehow.
Pre-Pay: A new column on NISB will be posted after it gets copy edited by either mom or dad. It's about gas station drive-offs. It has nothing to do with sports, but is an issue dear to me. It was too long to put as a blog entry, so I just made it a column.
Current Song - Fool For The City (Foghat)
My first solo day at Shell took place from 11:00 am to 6:00 p.m. Saturday.
It was a disaster.
The air conditioning did not work. When I went to change it, I set it down too far that the system broke down. It was baking inside, while the outside was nice and cool. Wearing a polo shirt and kaki pants did not help me.
The two counter-one register format got so out of hand, that I sometimes had to place a milk crate on top of one of the counters in order to make matters easier on me.
I apparently had a $59.01 driveoff.
My shift replacement didn't know much about the store (she was a fill-in from another Shell), so I had to partially train her. She didn't have a key or a alarm code.
By 1:00 a.m. Sunday morning I was ready to crawl under a rock and rot.
I got good news on Monday afternoon, however. That drive-off didn't happen. It was a register glitch. Whew! Usually, that would be strike one in a three-strikes-and-your-fired system. Plus, I wasn't berated about the air conditioning.
This particular shift is called the "mid-shift" which is the one I don't often work. In fact, I had never worked it at Shell. It was menacing and really busy. The "late shift" (4-close) isn't that bad, however. I'll be working that on Wednesday.
So the first day was a little rough, and it can only get better.
WLLT Update: I heard the part-time position opening on the radio today. Does that tell me that they are STILL looking??? No matter how Shell works out, WLLT is still my No. 1 hope. I will now have to keep myself in the running somehow.
Pre-Pay: A new column on NISB will be posted after it gets copy edited by either mom or dad. It's about gas station drive-offs. It has nothing to do with sports, but is an issue dear to me. It was too long to put as a blog entry, so I just made it a column.
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