If you missed...

...the show (which closes tonight), go buy the book.

The kiddo's were all enthralled, clapping & laughing & sooooo focused on the whole musical - until just after intermission when the day started to overcome their collective desire to watch anymore (7:30PM start time for a 1:45 run including intermission).

I'm sure this may spark some loud vocabulary & imaginative conversation around the house, especially over the validity of a certain jolly man usually dressed in a red suit. But without giving away the story - they all still believe.

The Perfect Flight

Doesn't exist; never has, never will.

So to the kind gentleman getting off my flight yesterday from AUS, thank you but..... Now I know what he meant, he was satisfied, trying to be gracious and offered his salutations deplaning, but....

Ever since Icarus man's attempt to make a perfect flight has failed, always has, always will. Any airman worth his wings will tell you exactly the same.

Let me offer as an analogy to driving your car and doing it perfectly. You must obey ALL traffic laws, all recommendations in your drivers manual, ensuring you're up to date with all maintenance & your records kept current. You think you do that? Really?? Then you haven't been paying close attention. It's kind of like the old saying, "I thought I made a mistake once, but I was mistaken", thus...

So you think you always drive at or below the speed limit, stop at or before every crosswalk, you signal every lane change or turn (even when nobody is around to see you), you get that windshield repaired/replaced when a nick or crack first appears, you always have the proper tire pressure in your tires, you always change your fluids at the recommended intervals, you've always been sober, never fatigued, and never ever distracted; and you do it day in & day out -right?

Well we all strive to, we have the best intentions - but were not Saints. I'd go so far as to say that the guy who drives the Pope-mobile does something wrong (no matter how insignificant) every time.

Same with airline flying. From a pilot standpoint we're human, we all make mistakes, we recognize that - and that's important. Most errors are small & insignificant (a mistuned radio, a wrong turn on the taxiway, a radio call answered on the PA system instead of back to ATC). Some are more so (a wrong flap setting, lining up for the wrong runway, flying to the wrong navigation aid, etc.). A few years back an airline had a rash of flights landing at the wrong (small adjacent) airports that the joke was their airline name stood for Don't Ever Land There Again.

Most are recognized right away by the pilot OR caught by either the other pilot, the air traffic controller, the FA's, sometimes the passengers, or the airplane itself. The training we receive, backed up with the experience we've obtained, mixed with the checks & balances all help manage to trap errors. Recognizing that the routine of the job requires attentiveness. Searching for those subtle differences that makes each flight unique - different weights, different runways, different routing, different weather, different crew, etc. - helps keep the routine fresh.

Untrapped errors frequently compound until you're watching it on the evening news; which rarely even cover traffic accidents anymore because they're so frequent. BTW you notice they're never called traffic on-purposes, even though we all bear witness to knucklehead driving all the time.

You can rest assured that knucklehead pilots don't make it very far in this business; the profession pretty much ensures that. That old saying goes, "There are old pilots, and bold pilots, but there are no old bold pilots."

So while I was just focused on this from a pilot point of view, but it starts much earlier. From the initial & refined design, manufacturing, testing of the aircraft, engines & components, all the FAA rules & Company policies in place (most written in blood), the mandated ongoing training that everyone gets, the oversight from various departments & agencies, from management, to the maintenance side, to the dispatchers, to the ramp guys loading the baggage & cargo properly, to the FA's and ultimately the folks in the pointy end - to the ATC folks and manufactures of their equipment, to the airport folks and the guys who built & grooved & plow the runways, and installed the navigation aids, and the approach lighting, and to the engineers on the performance side who ensure given various conditions we can takeoff & land at certain weights & design T-Pro's and the like - ALL focused on getting Mr & Mrs 27 A/B from their point of origin to their destination safe & sound (and oblivious to the W,W,W,W & how's that made it so). And doing it every day & all night for thousands of flights with millions of passengers worldwide every 24/7.

It may not be perfect, but we're doing the best we can.

QofTD - answer

Question was - When is a warthog called a bulldog and asked to be a guinea pig?

Answer - When the lead aircraft of a group of Fairchild-Republic A-10 Thunderbolts (affectionately, or not) known as the Warthog (or simply Hog) with the 354th FS (with the radio call sign of Bulldog) based out of Davis-Monthan AFB in Tucson is asked by Air Traffic Control to see if the weather has lifted enough for the visual approach into Navy North Island.

AUS

EZ spin today out enjoying the perfect weather. My Garmin Edge 305 was on the fritz when I left (though I finally got it to reset), so see route here.

Quiz of the day

When is a warthog called a bulldog and asked to be a guinea pig?

Toughest 2 hours on TV - DEC 18th

It's official - I'm a Blockhead!

Official Results ALA Council #67
Group III Representative Election Ballot

There were 714 eligible voters. 202 voted electronically through either the web site (193) or the IVR system (9) representing 28.3% of the eligible voters.
For Term Beginning 3/1/11 and Ending 2/28/13 Seniority Block Representative #4 (Vote for One):

Erik G. Scheller (#0605907)
162 99.39%

Ries, Paul R (#0789206)
1 0.61%

Total 163 100%

Foxtrot Oscar Golf = FUN

That was the word of the day.

After a shortish layover in SAN, I got an earlier than normal wake up call from scheduling at 4AM. The scheduler indicated that the plane for our early departure did not make it in the night before due to fog & low visibility and diverted to LAX. So we were rescheduled to limo up to LAX and ferry the plane back to SAN with a planned 8AM return & then a flight to SEA to finish up the day earlier than planned.

Of course the scheduler was very optimistic that the SAN weather was going to stay as it was - which at 4AM was pretty clear, though very humid. I had my doubts.

Sure enough by the time the sun started to warm up the FOG reformed and thickened all down the coast. This happens when the temp/dew point is already close and then as the sun rises the air warms slightly & able to hold more moisture; add in a very slight wind mixing the ingredients just so and viola! Can you say Ground Stop boys & girls?

Ground Stop (GS) is an Air Traffic Control function whereby planes take there delay on the ground rather than get airborne & hold until the weather clears. Of course planes already airborne on long cross-country or international flights don't usually have the luxury to take their delays on the ground and is the reason why we all carry enough fuel to divert to an alternate destination should the weather become a factor.

SAN visibility was reported to be 1/8 mile, which is well below their landing minimums of 1 mile. This is an unusually high visibility value for a major city airport, but due to a number of factors - terrain, tall buildings, and runway lighting - it is what it is.

While waiting for the weather to improve the Flight Attendants (FA's) were goofing around in the back of the plane - our only "passengers" - and a one point I noticed that a the cockpit air was beginning to fill with sparkly floaty stuff. Well that's just what it was - some sort of glittery makeup that got out of control. I opened my window to help it dissipate, but this only increased the flow of the stuff as it now had a method of escape. After awhile it cleared out, but I've had a persistent cough ever since - is this crap toxic?

By 10AM the FOG also began to dissipate and we were off. As were all the other flights that had been on a GS or had diverted. So now the airspace was saturated with aircraft instead of clouds or fog. We were in line at LAX for 1/2 hour before we were finally allowed to takeoff & then when finally airborne we took the slow route to SAN. Normally this would be a 25 minute flight, and it took about twice that, with many turns (ATC vectors) and speed adjustments to fall in line for our arrival slot into SAN.

On the ground it didn't get any easier. Our gate was not available as another plane was still in their boarding process so we parked at one of the remote ramps. We were the first in a sequence of many joining us as airplane after airplane landed (from every carrier) and they also didn't have a place to park. As the various remote ramps started filling up, and the taxiways filled with planes trying to taxi either to those remote ramps or for departure, they started blocking other planes wishing to push off their gates. As more airplanes continued to land & needed space to clear off the runway, even if their gate was open there was no clear taxi route to get them there. The entire airport was rapidly becoming a chaotic parking lot. Frustration started to creep into the fray as tempers started to fly (even as they physically weren't), radio transmissions were being blocked, as too many planes just sat.

We actually had the best seat in the house & with no passengers to worry about (at least none onboard) - we were relatively stress free. Once we did finally get to a gate (45 minutes after landing), the plane we brought in was not the one we were taking out (of course). And our FA's missed their OGG flight and were reassigned to cover something else. Since they need the FA's to be onboard prior to passengers boarding, this further delays the process. The plane we were taking back to SEA was still parked in remote waiting for their gate to clear. Inside the terminal it was pandemonium.

As many of the early flights were cancelled, due to lack of planes and/or crews - I'm sure many passengers Friday travel plans got screwed as mostly full later flights filled to capacity. We finally returned to SEA later than we were originally scheduled - and while we didn't actually fly very much, it felt otherwise.

You might think this airline biz is all glamorous - but all I got at the end of the day is a bunch of shimmery glitter on my clothes & in my hair & and this persistent cough. Are we having fun yet?

For Sale - best offer

Kid Kraft Fire Truck cot. Like new, great condition, fully assembled - slept in 1 year (not by me mind you, ask the boy how comfortable it is). Comes with mattress.

For product description - http://kidkraft.com/furniture-and-decor/toddler-beds/76021

Beaver trap

If those ladies didn't know he was the leaker they should've doubled up. Prosecution or persecution (Pravda knows it when it sees it)?

If it's Sunday...

...this must be AUS. Trying to keep focused on mostly everything else but actually getting on the bike. This is my 4th (maybe 5th) straight day out running. Today an EZ 30 minute trail run adjacent to Lady Bird Lake (to the darn dam & back). I could've gone out for more, and legs felt energized; but felt like I needed to hold back to prevent overdoing it.

Looking to follow some advice from Bicycling Mag for once and throw some informal fitness training into the mix. I'll still get in the rainy commute (schedule permitting), pack the bike with me for longer layovers & even jump on the dreaded stationary trainer soon to get some bike specific workouts in so I don't grow too stale. I do have some particular short & long term goals and I think this is the right way to keep balanced.

Sometimes we get too focused on a particular goal(s) that we forget what the primary objective is - HAVE FUN and stay healthy & fit.

What to do in SJC for 3 hours?

Run.

Timber vultures

Just like ambulance chasers. The County cut down a big fir tree Friday that was a leaner. It wouldn't have been long before another good wind would have blown her over. Standing at the end of a cul-de-sac it wasn't in danger of causing any traffic disruptions but potentially was a hazard to cars that may be parked up there (including our own). And the wrong wind might have blown it the our way, surprisingly not much of a root structure that keep them standing.

So the County came out in force with a big high lift bucket truck, a dump truck hauling a chipper and a crew of six. After trimming the branches of an adjacent maple that was in the way of the projected fall, they attached a cable midway up the fir to one of the trucks, and meticulously cut the base so it would fall where they wanted. Then finally with a flick of a thumbs up from the chain saw guy, the truck backed away ever so slowly & down she came with a big thuwmp. "TIMBER!", my 3 kiddo's were yelling watching the whole show. The county guys then trimmed off & chipped up the branches, cleaned up the mess, bucked up the rest in 6' log sections.

And unfortunately for us the direction of the slope of the road where the tree lay it was easiest for the County crew to put the logs on the other side of the road rather than next to our hedge. Later that afternoon as I was returning home from a run, the first timber vulture was assessing the scene. He had the big rig 4X4 but didn't have his chain saw; but he was coming back. A few of the neighbors were also lurking.

Seeing as it was a tree on county property & the county crew cut it down, it was technically free for the taking, so we had to move fast.

We made a deal with one of our neighbors who came down with a tractor with a big claw & his big truck, so that he would buck all the logs into a manageable splittable size - and he could take half. She wasn't really an old fir, only had a 3' across base maybe 75' tall, where the kiddo's will now play on her stump. We'd rather see her stay in the neighborhood, than go to those who'd just come & take. It'll be a year or more to season it so it isn't so green, but when we do finally hear her crackle in the fireplace we'll have full appreciation for our giving tree.

Keeping the leaks flowing

Amazon may have caved to pressure, as did PayPal (a division of eBay); both claiming violations of their policies banning "illegal activities"though there has been no legal charges brought against anybody (yet). None of these companies will suffer as a result; folks are too fickle to really care (though they should), as they could wreak havoc against their bottom line especially in this Holiday Season should folks decide to stick up for their principles. But who really has the Time when there's presents to be bought & deals to be had?

I, for one, in protest will personally switch to utilizing

for my future billings; and dump my stock.

How long and how much of an effect that has may depend on you.

It was a boy's name first

I'm smiling just thinking about how you've always made me laugh - RIP.

$99/night giveaway

La Niña is forecast to hit the NW hard this Winter - MAUI! >> YOU!! >>> NOW!!!

December & January special rates in effect for 1 BD/2 BA Wailea Condo.

Sunny but not Hotlanta

Explore ATL out to Stone MTN.

It just takes one out of the thousands who are ignorant to the rules of the road. As in most states bikes belong on the road as a vehicle. Try to tell that to Jane who not only tried to left hook me, but then felt that the best way to get my attention when she was behind me was to lay on her horn. Then having the gall to yell, "get on the sidewalk" as she finally passed by in a huff.

Do you want to know?

Age Guesstimater

ATL revisted

Definitely not Hotlanta this time of year, but rather Coolanta tonight. Returning to the hub airport of my past life seems like I never left - even though it's been 21 years. Staying just north of the airport and went out for a nice exploratory run. I haven't been running as much this Fall as I had hoped, but still nice to know I can get out & pound out a few at a decent tempo for a change of fitness pace. Next time my feet will appreciate my not forgetting socks.

Tomorrow, with nice mild weather forecast - I'm having trouble finding a Saturday "ride" nearby - so I'll keep you informed as to what I come up with.

Confession of a EPO cheat

Sanctioned Masters Racer confesses on Facebook (after being caught by the USADA):

I wanted to post this to all my cycling friends and colleagues. I have been sanctioned for two years by the cycling federation for buying and using erythropoietin in August 2006. I had always wondered what it would feel like to cycle on it and exactly how much it could increase a person's performance, so I bought some online in early August of that year and took a dose each week for a month.

My hematacrit before I took it was 42.3 and when I had it tested the lst week in September it had gone up to 49.2, and by mid-October it had dropped back to 44.5 I had trained with a powertap that year and my maxmimum wattage output had been 332 watts for 32 minutes at the Willow Time Trial. I did a 25 minute time trial test the 2nd week in September and my wattage was 361 watts. It was almost a 9% increase on end of season fatigued legs.

When you consider that the difference between lst and last place in the Tour is only 3%, it's easy to understand why epo can skew the whole playing field and why it can't be in the sport. It made it easy to understand how whole pro careers can be made by riding 10-20 percent over their natural abilities. I did not race on it during this time, but it was still the absolute wrong choice to make.

I think we all know deep down when we are doing something we should'nt be doing, and I should have listened to myself better. It was very easy and tempting to just send an email and order it, and I lacked the self-discipline then to not do it even though I knew deep down it was'nt right. I shared the numbers so hopefully anyone curious can refer to these and NOT try it!!!!

I've told my son about this experience and I hope he can take away from it that there will be many times in your life that temptation to make the wrong choice will arise, and that you have to be able to have the self-discipline and moral fiber to make the right one. I hope that can be a positive aspect of this.I am a good father, husband, and honest businessman, and every time I've ever knowingly gone against my morals, I've paid the price. I stole a .98 cent car air freshener in 10th grade and got caught, I knowingly drove my car way over the legal limit when I was 23 and got caught, and this time with the epo. I can say for sure that I will always listen to my moral compass from this point on!!!

You can't selectively apply your morals, they have to be the end all/ be all that keeps you on the right path. I hope everyone understands that although I've haven't raced much in the last 3 years, I feel terrible about bringing any negative aspect to the sport.

I feel proud starting the West Branch race, and I want to make sure I give something positive back to the sport and not cast it in a bad light. I love to simply ride my bike with my friends and will always do that. If you have any questions or comments, please let me know.

Take Care
Neal

Not that the EPO really helped his personal results, maybe he was using it for embrocation.



Maybe USADA will get to a point where they don't have to exhaust all their investigative resources and should offer up an amnesty program whereby all the cheats (Pro & amature alike) would be encouraged to self-disclose in exchange for information on the whereabouts of their obtaining the illicit drugs in an effort to eradicate them from the market (black or otherwise) with the result being that no formal racing sanction would be levied other than the pressure they'd feel from their racing peers (which would vary on the extremes with little middle ground).

TSA = ...

...at first it was Thousands Standing Around; I think now most would agree that it has morphed to Temporary Sexual Arousal.

How insensitive of me

I'm am not a tech guy, or rather a very low-tech guy - but when news broke recently about somebody finding a jawbone on the beach in Aruba, and authorities were going to test it to see if it belonged to the missing teen - I thought they were referring to this. But I guess that it wasn't even on the market until a year after the teen disappeared; my bad.

Worst person...

in the world!

OK, that may be a stretch, but definitely the worst person in CT! Here's a summary of his recent lost appeal which provides much detail of the case.

Current CT law requires helmets for kids 15 & under, which was updated in '08 from 12 & under.

Never mind the continued emotional distress he's causing the victim's family (a person with his history of reckless behaviour has no empathy), but how does this idiot have any case? Especially when the law states, "Failure to wear protective headgear as required by this subsection shall not be considered to be contributory negligence on the part of the parent or the child nor shall such failure be admissible in any civil action."

Man up dickhead & don't drop the soap.

Technology increases security?

With all the flak the TSA's been getting about it's increased secondary screening pat down procedures & full image body scans - it's no wonder folks are mad as hell.

There are differing approaches for dealing with the same problem - old school vs new school. And before you all get on the bandwagon for the El Al method - think again about the cost & time involved.

Yes, the TSA can be credited with stopping threats at checkpoints; week at a glance:
NOV 08 - NOV 14
6 artfully concealed prohibited items found at checkpoints,
11 firearms found at checkpoints,
6 passengers were arrested after investigations of suspicious behavior or fraudulent travel documents;

And while they pat themselves on the back & tell you how well they're doing (the numbers above do indicate a certain level of danger) how many of the above didn't they detect? How many artfully concealed prohibited items, how many firearms, how many travelers w/fraudulent documents did they let through and traveled without incident? Impossible to tell.

They also don't do themselves any good with knuckleheads of their own not behaving. Lest you think this is limited to Newark, look at DTW, LAX, MIA, PHL, etc.

So I've got to wonder if through the Patriot Act, a grandiose new government agency, increased focus on shared intelligence, more beat feet, & the ever increasing wonder toys that get deployed at our airports; is the intelligence & security community being reactive to the threat as they perceive it OR are they thinking proactively to end whatever vulnerabilities still exist OR is it a lot of fluff designed to look impressive but not accomplish much?

I've got my suspicions, what say you?

No 2fer today

Usually when I snap my overused seatpost binder bolt, I have a replacement; not today. I missed out on some great riding weather in PSP this morning; the Idyllwild loop will just have to wait for another day. So I got out for a decent run instead.

UCI is aiming for YOU!

And this soon-to-be (Spring or Fall) Classic may very likely be the race that sets you up for earning the coveted Rainbow Jersey.

Work, smurk!

Haven't been aviating since OCT 22nd - because I -

had vacation through the rest of that month,
had the eldest BD parties, 1st w/kids then w/family,
entertained 34 kids + their parents for Trunk er Treat preceding Halloween,
did the neighborhood Halloweenie thing with the trio,
studied for & completed recurrent training (only 8 to go, but who's counting?),
got 2 physicals - one from my GP and the other from my aviation examiner,
finally paid a visit to the guy who has this license plate; giddy up!

Whew! Back to work Sunday for some rest & relaxation.

Next up is the dentist (next week) & some special security training (the week after).

Power to weight ratio

If your in need for a chick magnet that'll set you in the books for an absolute LSR, check out this little tricycle.

Cheers

New Poll

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart	Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c
MSNBC Suspends Keith Olbermann
http://www.thedailyshow.com/
Daily Show Full Episodes Political Humor Rally to Restore Sanity

Keith Olbermann - for or against?

Conflict of interest

How is it that Mr 60% was in the process of signing the guy who was racing against his (then) current top guy (who just lost the yellow jersey), and he's offering advice to the yet to be signed guy (who just gained the yellow jersey in controversy) to apologize to his (then) current guy? He's playing both sides and can't lose.

But then there is the possibility that Riis didn't really want his guy to get the top spot since he had already privately told Bjarne that he wasn't racing for him next year. Did this in any way create a possibility that he sabotaged the race (strategy, team tactics, equipment setup, etc.) of his (then) current top guy in favor for the soon to be signed guy?

So now one top guy is gone, the other embroiled in a doping charge - but at least Bjarne has a book to sell.

40%

That's the overall US estimate, based on 2006 data, of how many of us will vote today - WA State had a turnout of 47%; but why?

I mean why vote at all - what do the other 60% know that I don't?

Do they not vote because they:
are disgusted, flabbergasted, or appalled with the process?
are the ultimate undecided?
feel apathetic that their 1 measly vote won't matter?
let their spouse vote for them?
are too busy to participate?
are not registered?
can't find their polling place?
misplaced their absentee ballot?
lost their voter registration card?
intimidated by so-called "election observers"?
are supremely confident that all their candidates & issues will win?

Did you vote in my poll yet on which was the best rally?

Don't Forget

VOTE Tuesday!

New Poll posted - who's rally was best?

Restoring Honor or Restoring Sanity?

Previous results; for the Donkeys 75% - not voting 25%. How's that going to pan out tomorrow?

Midterm Election simplified

Do you vote for the party or the person? Most would say person but when it comes down to it they really mean party. Like it or not - party ideology trumps individualism, especially on big ticket items.

The party of No! wants to reverse everything. The Tea (er Me) Party has evolved from its demand to reduce "big" government to ever increasing extremists views. They both blame the Democrats for running up the tab. But Supply-side & voodoo economics actually raised our debt to our present unimaginable level; which you can thank Reagan & the Bush's for that. Economics was never my strong point; but cutting taxes while increasing spending (mainly for defense buildup & wars) indicates to me a very bassackwards approach.

The Stimulus & Bailouts were, IMHO, a necessary evil. Yes, it raised our deficit spending to even greater levels, but it has help turn around the economy. The DOW is up, the GDP is up, 2010 YTD profits are up. Corporate America is stabilizing and growing. Yes unemployment & underemployment are still way too high, the lag confounding everyone as the economy improves; but job growth will slowly return. Deregulation is not the answer, neither is unfettered corporate greed - both flourish in Republican administrations.

So the question for tomorrow is - do you believe that change is possible & still desirable AND are willing to hold the line for what you voted for in 2008 OR do you go running to the naysayers & fear mongers and bring everything to a standstill?

Undecided? All you need to remember is that D is for drive, R is for reverse (and T is for all talk).

She stole 2 lives

By not contesting the charges she saved the emotional toll on the surviving family members & the taxpayers the expense of a trial - another unsafe driver off to jail.

New feature

Poll (top right). Every couple of weeks your chance to weigh in on a new topic.

New?

What's with the "new" issued license replacement plates? The only difference I notice is that the "old" one is stamped while the "new" one is not. Oh - they're more reflective, really; I didn't notice?

They do come in 3's

Recently received a parking ticket on my Dad's old '91 Taurus that I park in the employee lot in LAX because it doesn't have a current monthly tag hanging for the rear view mirror. Well I guess I can't complain too much because I can't remember the time when I've actually bought the last monthly tag. So it's been getting away with free parking for over a year, a $55 fine is getting off cheaply.

Also recently we were notified by our mortgage broker that on one (of 3) credit reports that they pull for our refi, there was a lien attached in '07 by a former security monitoring company because of payments we disputed. But we've never received the notice on this action until now & probably still wouldn't know if we weren't taking advantage of the "historically low" interest rates right now. While the monitoring company is now out of business (gee I wonder why, ethical business practices?); we still have to do some court stuff to clear it up officially, but we're confident it'll be resolved favorably shortly.

The 3rd is the most heartbreaking, just happened this afternoon - I broke the fastening strap on my trusty little fanny pack that I run with. I know, I know, laugh all you want...but I've had the thing since they gave it to me as a participant at the '90 Ironman (20 years). The IM logo, Gatorade placard, & the dayglow orange color (that was all the rage then) have long since faded, but it up until now - it was large enough to carry the Hot L keycard, some bills and/or cc, a gel, & a cell phone if need be, and small enough so as not to be too intrusive and bouncy during a nice run. Dang!

If you're happy & you know it....

Yesterday was National Coming Out Day. ‎1 of every 10 people born is gay. And as Seinfeld said, "not that there's anything wrong with that." Seriously - that means 1 of every 10 people is instantly put down, given bad labels, pitied, left alone, put in minority, discriminated against, & so much more; just because of who they are.

And how does their sexuality affect you? Don't ask, don't tell - pleeeeese!

Gay teens, who are just dealing with their raging hormones like every other teen, often turn to suicide as a way of escape. Many, including adults, hide the truth and are afraid of societal & career consequences. If you want to tell them to hold their heads high, & that you respect them for who they are treat them as a normal human being. Because that's WHO THEY ARE! Do you think they judge you on your sexual behavior? They don't necessarily need for you to go out of your way for support (though that'd be nice, especially on a 1-to-1 basis) - just not your harsh judgement & admonition.

long hot windy sweaty day

If you can't wait for the 2-hour edited wrap up in December - watch for live updates here or here or here; starting today at 9:30AM PDT.

What's Ron got to gain here?

El Pistolero

I gather that the famed finish line gesture should be now attributed to shooting himself in the career; probably fires last shot (at least for 2 years) at tomorrow's mea culpa excuse filled press manipulation.

I already imagine him saying something along the lines of, "Vino said it was melatonin to help me on my rest day" or "Andy sent me a nice steak for dinner."

At same time Andy, sporting a grey outfit & oversized glasses, will announce his main Luxembourg sponsor for his new team - North Korea!

Unity

I threw my proverbial hat into the ring this afternoon to run for a recent vacant position as CAPT Rep. Three of us were nominated. I'm told that in the 1st round of votes we were all pretty even though I was a vote or two short & thus the low man out. Next round was a landslide victory as my supporters consolidated behind the best of the remaining two.

I want to thank those that supported me today - especially those that failed to show, I owe everyone a few beers.

Take this to the bank(s)

A good friend of mine - I'll call him RAAM-boy - recently got a job as a Sales Rep with a bike company down in SoCal selling cruiser bikes with the cushiest territory ever - the coastal communities from Long Beach to San Luis Obispo. This is cruiser bike heaven with miles & miles of beach paths with 100's of thousands of potential wanna-be cruisers. Though perhaps, I thought, maybe too saturated already. With the LA radio stations dedicating helicopters to call out traffic on the beach paths, and light regulated on ramps to meter the flow, even HOV bike paths already too crowded with Beach Cruisers - which is why my friend got the job. He's doomed!

So I thought I make a couple of suggestions to improve his career chances. He's moving from the Monterey Bay area - which is in the vicinity of Soledad Prison - a very rough & tough place, even if you're a rough & tough criminal. My suggestion was to tap into this market by attracting new customers to the Cruising scene.

The Crips (blue) Cruiser & the Bloods (red) Cruiser, along with the Skinhead (black & white) Cruiser, and let's not forget the Latinos with their (plaid) Cruiser. Each could be outfitted according to their individual gangsta style with appropriate graphics & gear. I thought even a Cruiser for the guys wanting to emulate those on death row - choosing between the Gas or Syringe Cruiser for that one last spin. You could even market it by location, certainly those choosing the San Quentin model would want to differentiate from those of the Folsom or Pelican Bay models. They could even offer a retro Alcatraz model - an off-road version called "The Rock."

With the recent tragic death of last year's RAAM winner - there's an opportunity to outfit the next best guy for the 2011 RAAM with an ultrasleek aero Cruiser - and tap that ultracyclist market.

I'm sure this'll be a hit all around CA & beyond - and my buddy will rolling in the megabucks soon & offering me a job flying him around to bike races in a new G650.

Zzzzzzzzzzzzz........

OK we've all done it haven't we - set the alarm for an early wake up & then after silencing the bugger at O-2-early, went back to bed (please Mom just 10 more minutes). Which is exactly what happened when the alarm went off at 7:15 this morning. I told myself that if I just lay down for another 10-15 minutes I'd get going - kinda softly waking up is how I refer it.

I was in the Windy City after all - and I was voluntarily getting up early (5:15 body clock time) to get ready for one more treat. One last season ending race (a local Crit) that I found on the web the night before taking place late Saturday morning (11:05 start). Only I needed to get going no later than 8:30 to allow myself to navigate the 30-ish miles to the start, allowing 2 hours to get there, registering, affixing my number, and allowing the competition to get overly confident sizing up me on my clown bike, etc.

So when I finally did get out bed indeed the minutes on the clock said :30 and I went about getting my front derailleur straightened, dressed in my kit, while downing my vitamins & a couple of homemade extra cinnamon bagels (that I bought down from the Silverbow Bakery in Juneau the day prior) lazily checking weather.com to see what indeed I should plan for & a few other sites for good measure as well. I left the room 45 minutes later, in what I assumed was about 8:15-ish, so as not to feel rushed.

I navigated sort of along the route suggested by googlemaps.com (by bike) and was happy about my progress arriving 1:45 later on the top-of-the-hour; presumably 10AM, plenty of time. Legs warmed up & raring to go.

So what are all the 30 or so old guys doing rushing to line up? It still didn't register in my pea brain that this was my group until I waltzed over to the registration table, filled out the USAC release, finagled my license & two $20's out of my jersey pocket and went up the the lady - who upon examining my release & license without missing a beat said - "Did you sleep in or something?"

It still wasn't clear what she was referring to. No, I explained, that I was actually up early to come out and race, something about time zones & body clock and yada yada rambled on when - DOH! - the light bulb came on.

Was that my group that just started, I asked meekly; but I already knew before she nodded yes. She asked if I wanted to do the CAT 1/2 race later that afternoon & I disappointingly explained that I barely had time for "that race" (pointing off to the bunched group going by on lap 2) as I've got a 3:30 departure back to the Jet City. She handed me back my license + the two $20's, and I watched for a few laps as a break of 4 went off the front. They were away pulling almost half a lap lead by the time I left 10 minutes later, getting a head start on my 30-ish mile ride back to the Hot L.

So I gather that while I thought I was just laying there with my eyes closed telling myself that I'm going to get up at any minute - that minute was an hour later than I thought it was. I got out of bed when I should've been on my way. I've got to take some advice from - OK I never thought I'd mention this person's name on this blog (or anywhere else for that matter) - Lady Gaga, when she said, "I'll sleep when I'm dead"(why do I even know she said this?); and just get going when the alarm goes off.

I still got in a very nice ride in comfortable weather along a mix of limestone trails & roads - some decent & some not so decent (too many deep cuts & ruts, not enough of a shoulder, with too much traffic).

Not too many days like that left in the year - so get up, get out and enjoy.

Great idea

P or SC, part 2

Well at least we get an apology (after-the-fact mind you) with perhaps promise of further insight (drama?) to come. And I'm not sure whether he is sorry because he got caught or because he was a cheat? "A mind is a terrible thing" (as Eddie Murphy liked to point out on SNL) and some people do certain things because they want to get caught, even if it takes awhile for the proper authorities to catch up with them; others don't give a damn. Who's next?

Message from me
by ddickey » Thu Sep 16, 2010 10:06 am
I'd like to start by saying I'm sorry to everyone who believed in me, supported me, liked me as a person and counted me as a friend. I am terribly sorry for what this does to my mom and sisters. To the people close to me, friends and family, I ask for your forgiveness. To the others, I doubt anything I say will change your mind about what you think of me, but I am offering you my apology anyway.

I want to make it very clear that everything that's happened to me is because of my own actions. I blame no one else or any circumstance, and am offering no excuses for what I have done. I feel sickened by what I've done and what I’ve become. I took my first sip almost ten years ago and never put the bottle down. There will be no more lies and half-truths from me—I'm done with living this life of deception. My parents did not bring me up like this, and I feel embarrassed by my actions.

I'd like to tell my story about how this has happened to a 'good' guy. I will not offer it as an excuse, only as an apology. That will come at a later date, for now I have to get my life back in order. Thanks for listening and for your support.

Sincerely, Dewey

Perseverance or shortcuts

In life we take paths that define the type of person we are. Do you lie on your resume, exaggerate on your education or experience, and otherwise cheat to get ahead even if nobody notices OR do you play fair & accept yourself for who you are and deal with the hand your dealt with?

I did an out-and-back run to the end of a popular trail in Juneau today that was mostly slightly uphill paralleling Gold Creek on the way up with roots, rocks, and steaming berries; challenges all. There was no way to get to the platform at the end of the trail overlooking the waterfall & valley below and the unless you followed that path. There were no shortcuts - 7+ miles round trip. As defined this was a "steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., esp. in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement."

Velonews has a report today on the acceptance of lifetime ban by another top (Master's & CAT 1) 41 year-old cyclist. Stupid!, you'd say, nice catch USADA, a good riddance to a Kenny Williams wanna-be. But further scrutiny might provide an in depth look at this man's situation and provide a better understanding of what's going on, as well as bringing up more questions.

Last May, Chicago Bike Racing reported on his out-of-competition test. A previous detailed article by the Minneapolis/St Paul Magazine is a pretty amazing story of the harsh life he's endured the past few year's.

However the fact that he's accepted a lifetime ban begs to ask the question was this indeed another person taking shortcuts that got caught or is this a case of excessive enforcement? Also what did the TUE's that came after the test allow (certainly not EPO)? And if, in fact, he needed EPO for his medical condition, what is the minimum time that he should've sat out before he could compete again?

Seems like a guy, who a lot of people admire (sounds familiar), whose hand was caught in the steroid cookie jar previously - made another bad mistake taking shortcuts to improve his physical condition to get results. Other mistakes are #1: not taking the out-of-competition test and then appealing the result by showing his medical history & associated after the fact TUE's (though with the associated sneers & jeers from his peers) & #2: taking the most enhancing of the PED's around without explanation.

I also have to wonder why the USADA (and/or USA Cycling) continued to allow him to participate in almost 2 dozen races throughout the Midwest after his May 11th refusal to submit? Does it really take 4 months to get the word out to race promoters? It is also unclear what the reference to April 2007 is all about; and what's been going on for the 3-year period if there's been a previous indiscretion?

I would like to believe that most persevere to make the most of our accomplishments - whether they be in our career, our athletics, or our family. Some however choose to take shortcuts and the easiest way regardless of the moral, ethical or personal consequences. Which do you choose?

Regardless - I think there may be more on this story than what we know now, & there might be a great deal on a load of bikes available from Cokato, Minnesota on EBAY or Craigslist soon.

Ignoramus

I'm not sure why these folks feel compelled to do what they indicate they're going to do on Saturday but I'm more mystified about all the attention they're getting. The General, the Secretary General, the President & a host others all commenting - plus now a visit to the church by the FBI???

I've learned a few simple things when raising kids that these folks maybe have forgotten - you ignore the raucous rants by children who are solely seeking attention.

If I burned the Bible, the Qur'an, the Talmud, the Veda, the Tao-te-ching, the 5 classics attributed to Confucius right now in my backyard - nobody would notice (except maybe my neighbors wondering what that kook was doing during the fire ban). If I announced it to the world - via any/all forms of media - I'd literally have a firestorm on my hands. And to what purpose?

This is where we find ourselves headed for a countdown to Saturday. One group of religious intolerant nuts in Florida who have a religious extreme view as those they're protesting against. In our country it is legal within their right to do this. We have it in our Constitution that protects wingnuts to say & pray as they please - even if the majority disagrees & it is hurtful to others. This is the best & worst of free speech & practice of religion.

We've also learned and taught our children - that sticks & stones phrase; and that one's actions are louder than words. Turn a blind eye and don't pay this guy & his small flock any more attention - ignore the ignoramus.

Now that's easier said than done - as it's not EZ to unscramble the eggs. Perhaps the best that could be done is to organize a large interfaith group to show up at this proceeding on Saturday & have a non-violent sit-in to demonstrate how to properly tolerate non-tolerance (a la the various civil rights groups in the 60's). Course that Florida church group probably wouldn't understand what all the fuss was all about.

End of Season

I actually got in early enough on layover to race Friday afternoon in the short TT - but I thought what's the point. So Saturday at Tour de Austin:

1st race (10AM Masters 40+ 3/4 combined w/50+ 1/2/3/4) placed 12th overall (of 100+ racers) & 3rd in the 50+. Unfortunately cash payout was only 10 deep in combined race; though I'm 3rd in points for the 50+ Omnium which pays out 3 deep - I wouldn't expect that to last since I'm not participating in any more races this weekend.

Stayed for 2nd race (Noon CAT 2/3) & finished dead last in shifty crash prone bunch sprint (75+ racers).

Would've loved to race in the Crits Sunday & Monday but not the case as I wasn't going to be in town. Sorta weird Omnium with no formal road race especially with the number of open roads nearby and the cycling crazy support from the locals (?).

Finally feeling in decent shape for bike racing - now time to hone the overall fitness for next year.

Running on empty

In the Mile High City this afternoon & I intended to get out for a little spin to loosen the legs from a long day. Where I intended to turnaround came so quickly that I decided to make a little loop out of it; around the airport grounds - though as I knew it's a big airport.

The turnoff for the short loop that I had previewed on Goggle maps turned out to be all gravel so I continued eastbound until I could turn south (HWY 79). This resulted in doubling my distance with the bonus (a PruDog fav) of 5-6ish miles of gravel anyway - I wasn't about to go explore another route at that point. Up until the gravel road segment I was averaging slightly over 20 MPH and the dirt portion significantly slowed that. And if you ever need some motivation mumbling the words to the Jackson Brown hit actually helped keep me focused & running down the road (which then had me mumbling Eagles lyrics).

The epic part of this isn't the total time out (3:40) or the distance (70.5) but the fact that I had only 1 large bottle of H2O, 1 CLIF bar, and 1 gel packet. The route was so desolate that, besides some farms, there weren't any stops to rehydrate or refuel until nearing the Hot L; so I had to fend with what I had. I also turned off my little handlebar light most of the way (except when the rare car came screaming by) to enjoy the darkness & solitude miles from nowhere.

I came back on fumes - but what a great ride.

If history is any guide from previous long rides - this'll only improve my chances in AUS on Saturday (though I'll again be struggling to acclimate to the inevitable heat & humidity). If I get through the Old Guy race in the AM in good shape perhaps I'll jump in the CAT 2/3 race at Noon; we'll see.

Cold & Wet

With temps in the hi-50's and showers all day, I normally wouldn't consider racing my bike. But with the season ending race on the line tonight - and the fact that we've finished 3rd & 2nd the last two races, watch out we're intent on closing it out on top.

9/1 update: So the track was wet, but not raining, and the temp's were OK with the intensity high enough for the short duration (35 minutes) that it was actually not unpleasant. I usually hate to use a double negative to describe a situation - but to say that it was comfortable would be overstating it. A small turnout of the tough guys willing to endure the wet showed guaranteeing a fast race. My tummy wasn't cooperating fully but my legs felt OK. Our tactics worked fairly well as we initiated & covered breaks and then secured 2nd in an attack on the final lap; which was probably better than it may have worked out in a bunch sprint.

Shoes

It's all about getting the equipment straight for the various races that I do. A key component of that would usually involve footwear. Yesterday for my 1st triathlon in ages I needed 2 sets of shoes - the first for my bike segment & the second when transitioning to the run segment. My triathlon shoes are an old pair of Carnacs that are EZ to slip on & off using a single large Velcro closure across the top. These aren't as secure as my regular bike shoes, but allow for quicker entry & exit which is more important (particularly in sprint tri's - see pic at left).

After my early morning tri yesterday I had visions of racing an afternoon regular road race up in nearby Carnation and thus had a another bike & a separate bag-o-stuff for that. That race didn't happen (for several reasons) and I transported all my crap home in the back of my SUV.

This afternoon when going up to the season ending race at Seward Park I thought I switched all the necessary above mentioned road bike & crap to our van (for kiddo transport). Upon arrival getting all kitted up and ready for racing I pinned on my WSBA number to my jersey, got dressed, took the bike off the roof, checked the tires, set out my helmet on the handlebars, yada yada... and had that curious feeling that something was missing. Then it occurs to me, DOH!

In sorting through my stuff in the SUV for what to transfer to the van and what to leave behind, I remember placing my regular bike shoes off to the side - for some reason that made sense then, but doesn't now - and left them where I placed them. Well having all the other stuff is great, but I can't get too far or be very competitive in the running shoes I had on during a bike race (especially with the small lollipop pedals I use). Double DOH!

So the lemonade part is that the kiddo's had fun with their bud Sammy & I sorta got to watch a bike race and cheer the Killer Robots snatching a few primes in their aggressive style AND almost win the whole enchilada with a hard 4 or 5 lap solo effort toward the end by Jamie ---though it wasn't destined to be (and it may have had something to do with shoes).

4 pts = $9

A line too far - after leading out the sprint from the bottom of the hill (not in sight - though see additional pics here 229-237) I placed best of the rest at PR last night. Fun times w/PruDog beating up on the old guys.

185

The scene - Austin, TX; 8:30AM, temp in the mid-80's w/humidity to match (and only to get worse).

The show - A local shop (not owned by the guy who's won 7 TdF's) for what was advertised as:
One of the largest group rides in the country leaves every Saturday from the shop. In a case of dogs and cats living together, you can witness roadies and tri-geeks battling head to head and somehow all getting along. 30 or 50 mile loops. Hope to see you there. Wheels down at 8:30am!

The group - 50+ guys split between high end roadies and TT bikes.

The ride - This is the edge of Texas Hill Country and we rolled out peaceful enough though as road turned up the pace did to. I didn't feel too bad but was surprised to see my HR already in the mid-160's. I was placed near the back of the pack keeping track of things and getting a lay of the land. I was in the gutter of the shoulder swerving by guys who were getting popped left & right. A little gap opened as a couple guys in front of me drifted off the back of the main group ahead. Not wanting to get dropped I was trying to go around and close this one last gap as we neared the top of the climb when I noticed my HR at 185 - the highest I can recall ever seeing on the bike.

The end - And then my rear tire punctured. "Dude you've got a flat" was the call from the guy on my wheel - well no s*%t master-of-the-obvious Sherlock!

I wasn't sure if this was a crushing blow or a huge relief. So after a much too long fix - I continued on solo at a much more pedestrian pace. I never found out whether they did the short (30-ish) or longer (46-ish) mile loop. So I did the long loop. By the end I was totally wasted - probably due to my lack of acclimation to riding that hard in those weather conditions.

It always seems as if/when I go on a ride with a group in territory I'm not familiar with I get a flat. I think this is due to the fact that I don't know the roads and their particular pitfalls. And I can't see the dangers (glass, thorns, whatever) with riders ahead. Combined these with the fact that I'm usually riding far right (in the gutter) to avoid being pushed out into traffic - and you have a perfect storm for punctures.

O2K reunion

I will be in Steamboat Springs this weekend in spirit.

My 5-year Racer Bob showdown will have to wait until we meet again (triathlon next summer perhaps?). I'll have to wait another time to hear further about RAAM from Charlie. All the other fun catching up that is best done in person (Pat's Italian adventure). And to the mystery person who pies TK's smiling face - post pictures please.

Why races disappear

The umpteenth annual Black Hills Triathlon, a staple in Pacific NW, will not take place this September - not a victim of the economy; but because of a reaction by a 2009 participant to the unawares transgression of a non-participant vehicle.

This is a perfect example of how an up-your-ass adrenaline fueled I'm-too-important-with-having-fun-here-so-get-outta-my-way attitude can ruin it for the rest of us. The sad part is Mr (or Ms.) too-important probably doesn't even realize who he (or she) is. If the race director knows - they should name names.

A statement from course director Jon Atherton of AA Sports:
"In 2009 an older couple entered this very busy park and stopped to read an informational sign just inside the main gate. A participant who was returning to the park near the end of the bike segment of the race was forced to slow down and go around the vehicle. While passing the stopped vehicle, the participant shouted a series of expletives at the driver who was not even aware of the cyclist's presence - all of which transpired right in front of the Park Ranger. The result – the event can happen ONLY if the Transition Zone can be moved to the small grassy area at the park entrance, which is simply not feasible. This course modification would have made the venue disjointed and would degrade the quality and safety of the event. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused the athletes aiming to participate in this year's event."

Hooked

Wifey wife competed & completed 1st triathlon today (pics here):

Total time 01:44:39

Overall Place 908 / 3320
Division Place 85 / 260
Swim 00:24:06 Swim rank 2007
Trans1 00:04:26
Bike 00:43:04 Bike rank 790 Mph 16.7
Trans2 00:03:05
Run 00:29:55 Pace 00:09:39 Run rank 626

Can you guess what her strength is? Next up Lake Sammamish

Bite worse than his bark

PruDog rocks. Extended ban not really that hurtful since it protracts into the off-season - but sends a clear message.

I know I'm old when....

...I'm explaining of how I fell over in a slow speed bike crash like Arte Johnson from Laugh-In at the Tuesday night World Championships; and they don't know #1 what Laugh-In was, and #2 who Arte Johnson is?

Goodnight Dick!

half wits

I went to the Special MEC meeting (our local airline union governing body) this afternoon to offer my 2 cents worth (mostly aimed at the outpost guys) on why their inclination to discuss the disposition (recall) of the MEC Chairman must not be taken lightly & to consider all the potential ramifications before taking drastic action. I also pleaded my case as to why the meeting should remain an open forum. I think they only heeded 1/2 a cent of my advice and then promptly closed the meeting; what don't those idiots understand about the democratic process?

Curious about candidate Gruber

Went to HS in Spokane, WA. A graduate of Wazzu. Works for Banner Bank in Walla Walla.

Wrote an interesting note to Sarah Palin on her blog on May 21st:

Miss Palin: I want to point out that I, too, am a candidate for the US Senate in Washington State. You would like my conservative approach to defense, deficits, and other matters of national importance. You may be less enthusiastic about my views on some social issues. But I still think there is more room for diverse opinion under the Republican tent than under the Democratic tent.

Naturally, I have met Clint Didier. In fact, I just gave his people the benefit of my thinking on his milquetoast approach to campaigning. I actually asked when was it exactly that he cut of his brass? So far all he seems to be doing is papering the state with pretty flyers that everyone throws away. If he has made a forceful, passionate statement on any subject I guess I missed it.

There are a number of men running against Patty Murray....but I have an advantage over all of them. We all know what a bully is...and every time a good man has run against her eventually the Seattle Slimes (oops, I mean Seattle Times..) or the Public Intelligencer (oh, another little slip...I mean the Post Intelligencer) began to intimate that the poor little old mom in tennis shoes is getting bullied, and how dare they gang up on such a nice little women!

Now: not thinking, just say the English noun that means female bully....

There is none.

Oh, you can call me a bitch...but that word has taken on more general meanings. Hell, my Airedale Sophie is a bitch! And in my thirty + year career in banking, which is a man's profession (or more appropriately, a white man's profession,) I have heard a whole lot worse words applied to me. And I never compromised my ethics to accommodate anyone and on the occasions when I had to stand up for a customer or a principle and or perhaps confront a bank executive or an obnoxious customer, there were never any personal ramifications to me.

So I say that I am the only candidate that can take on Patty tit to tit and win because I too, am a woman. And yes, I am getting some good advise from a man whose name you would well recognize. His name is not relevant....and he's staying under the radar and is also pretty busy in his own right, but he is taking an interest and has advised me not to show my hand too quickly. I am heeding that advise.

May we talk? Here's an idea....why don't you come to Walla Walla? We have an airport that can accommodate medium sized aircraft - and we have two flights a day via Horizon Airlines whether we need them or not. And this wouldn't be a media event unless that is what you what. (My neighbors are decidedly incurious about what goes on around here...) Hell, you could even head up the valley to see old Clint!

We could sit by the pool in the warm SE Washington sunshine, play with the dogs, have an adult beverage, and just talk. And I can offer you a comfortable bed in which t rest.

I'm here. Just let me know your wishes.

No word on any get together - though I'd think anything that Sarah does is for her benefit, thus publicity would be the game. Though on July 21st the half-term governor endorsed tea party boy Clint Didier.

Sorta nice plug for Horizon Airlines, whether they need it or not.

I think she is running out of time (AUG 17th primary) & would be advised to show something quickly, I doubt her hand would be enough - perhaps planning to bare all; which after a 30+ year banking career would be bad advice.

Keep the bums in

Just received my Voters' Pamphlet in the mail this afternoon - and I'm convinced that the current crop of candidates inspires me to keep most, if not all, incumbent candidates in office. Though the primary election is three weeks away (AUG 17th) - it'll cut the predenders from the contenders. Not registered - get registered!

These are the current crop who paid the $1,740 filing fee to be on the list for candidate for US Senator (in order listed):

Ms. Gruber - no info. submitted, no picture, no statement = no votes for you!

Mr. Said - has elected experience as comity chair - oh really? The definition of comity is "a state or atmosphere of harmony or mutual civility & respect." We have a chairman of that? After reading his statement - maybe his experience should also include comedy chair.

Mr Goodspaceguy - you just gotta love the fact that he has ponied up the $$ to officially run for office - I'd suggest that somebody else proof his statement to officially unsabotage his campaign. We do share a like for the same favorite book.

Mike the Mover - perennial original flake.

Mr Akers - "America is begging for authentic, proven leadership." Elected experience - ah well - a glaring goose egg.

Mr. Latimer - Does God really care if this guy does or doesn't get elected.

Mr. Mercer - As he covets his physics background as a climate specialist he then can apply that knowledge to solve the economy how? He appears to be severely worried about securing our borders - damn too many Canadians anyway.

Mr. Didier - One too many blows to the head during football career. That Sarah Palin endorsement will do more to hurt than help. I realize he probably doesn't realize that.

Mr. Leonard - Why don't you just state that you do not have any experience in community service. Ends his sorta patriotic, strong, feel good statement with, "Good fences make good neighbors." Is he referring to a lovey white picket fence, or an impenetrable fence on the border (again damn Canadians), the fenced in gated community he probably lives in, or the electrified razorwire that runs around his personal property? Aim high! Oh wait, wrong branch of service.

Ms. Murray, incumbent - with all the fighting I'd have expected her picture to be more black & blue.

Mr. Burr - a former VP of R&D at The Rock, probably one of the 1% haves he mentions - has him sitting pretty good so as to not accept any private $$ for his campaign. Other than that - he has the experience, and writes a good game.

Mr. Chovil - Duke, Wild Bill, or Newman! would be good pseudonyms, but I wouldn't want to defame any of those with any association to this guy - who if elected may just go postal.

Mr. Rossi - 1 against 99; after twice losing the governors race he now targets the Senate with his simple plan to "pass a Balanced Budget Amendment, because neither Republicans or Democrats in Washington, D.C. have any discipline spending your money." Oh that along with; fix the tax code & replace the health care bill. Simple things for simple minds or just plain simpleton; let the voters decide.

Mr. Allen - will be inaccessible on 1 day during the leap year.

Mr. Baker - Just the facts: no experience, no professional resume, no education = no way!

Chicago street sign guys (& gals)

I was in Chicago today - but it could've been anywhere. Do you ever pay any attention to those guys standing by the side of the road with some kinda sign pushing whatever? I don't really give them too much attention when driving my car, but I gotta front row seat at 3 different intersections of varying versions of the street sign folks while out for a quick bike ride.

First guy was very entertaining - dancing, prancing, had a sign he'd twist, twirl, flip, make go through his legs, behind his back; all the while seemingly enjoying his antics (smiling, waving). Even after he dropped his card, the show continued. He looked at it like it betrayed him ("how come you just laying there?"), he stomped on it ("take that"), he put his hands on his waste ('WELL"), and then he picked it up and his routine continued. This all happened while waiting for my light to change 30-40 seconds max. The problem was with all his enthusiasm it was very difficult to see exactly what he was advertising - $5 pizza - but I couldn't understand where? And it wasn't obvious looking around either.

Next guy was on the total opposite spectrum of enthusiasm. He slouched, barely moved, had a bad expression on his face, with a cigarette dangling from his lips - holding a signing in the shape of an arrow pointing across the street that read "1/2 OFF SALE" in big letters and the words "Salvation Army" in small letters. No twirling, dancing or waving from this guy; and his arrow wasn't even pointing at the Salvation Army store, which was behind him. It also begs the question - the Salvation Army (like the Goodwill & others) gets its items donated to them, they have little investment in the items their selling (beyond possibly some cosmetic repair) - why would they price anything so high that it didn't sell that they then have to hold a 1/2 price sale?

The last intersection I witnessed was a couple of bouncy young ladies (high school-ish age or younger?) all eager to wash cars; or in my case my clown bike. Now I thought the first guy had energy, but these girls put him to shame. Not only did they have the dancing & twirling thing going, they had music and verbal brashness to entice customers into their sudsy lair.

The girls were only doing this once a year (maybe once a lifetime) - fundraising effort of some kind; while the guys were most likely at it full time. If the girls wear out, they have replacements they can call over. The guys had no reinforcements.

I realize how little I know of the insides & secrets to the street corner card twirling advertising profession - if it's a different gig every day, new signs, new corners, or if it's the same ol day in - day out? What kinda perks & benefits do they get for standing there in all kinds of weather, with exhaust permeating your existence all day? Does OSHA get involved here? How's in depth is the interview process for that job? Would they hire the handicapped? What are the limits on your roaming? Do you get any breaks? Can you bring a chair? Do you get a shoe allowance? How many corner card twirling guys can one street corner handle? Is it like panhandling - first come first served? Are there municipal codes that need to be followed (permits, sign size, etc.)? So many unanswered questions.

I know one thing - probably the first thing that they're told in street corner twirling school is to get the hell outta Dodge in case there's an accident in the intersection - that distracted driver is sure going to point to sign twirler guy as the root cause. Really $5 pizza - where??? Smashhhhh.