Meteorologist Larry Handley joined the 9News forecasting team in April of 1999, and in May of 2008, began his weather blog for WCPO.com
Friday, July 20, 2009
High Flying Honor...
Imagine being a young man in 1941. A full year of work earned you about $1,750. With that salary you could buy a new home for a little over $4,000. It would cost you about $850 to park a new car in your garage and filling up that car would set you back around 12 cents a gallon. Glenn Miller was at the top of the music charts with "Chattanooga Choo Choo" and a young, up-start director named Orson Welles released his first feature-length film, a little project called Citizen Kane. Later that year, on December 7 to be exact, all normality was shattered when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor in Hawaii and the United States entered the War in Europe - World War II.
A couple of weeks ago a group of WW II veterans was honored with a flight to Washington D.C. to see and experience their war memorial. Dozens of men, on either side of 90 years old, boarded a chartered plane, were assigned a guardian and embarked on a trip of a lifetime. Considering that many of them don't move as well as they used to the day was long and exhausting but I doubt that any of them regretted going. The trip was mostly about patriotism, memories and companionship...About remembering a war and the results that still shape our world and country to this day. These men are still alive and kicking with so much to offer and share. I know because one of those men is my Step-Dad. His name is Glenn Davis.
Glenn married my mom about 25 years ago. I was a young man already out on my own at the time but still impressionable. Watching him I learned about acceptance and patience and living in the moment. I also learned that you don't have to be a perfect man. It was way more important to be a man of honor. Unfortunately, I don't have a plane at my disposal to provide an "Honor Flight" like the one he just took but I do have this space and the freedom to write the the words that fill it up. So Glenn, here's to you and your buddies. For the sacrifices you made, the example you have shown and the life that you continue to live.
I've noticed...I thank you and honor you.
(Check out the awesome Channel 9 hat!)
Thursday, July 2, 2009
From TV To Tonga...
It was a beautiful March day in 1989 when I arrived at TV20 in Gainesville, Florida (at my own expense) to interview for a weather anchor position that I heard was open at that station. Steve Hunsicker, the station's News Director, greeted me warmly and proceeded to politely listen to me blather on about why someone with no credentials or real weather experience should be given a chance. For reasons I still can't explain he hired me and the rest, as they say, is history. Despite his apparent lack of sound judgment some 20 years ago his recent decisions are much more impressive.
About a year and a half ago Steve resigned his position as a big-time television group executive to join the Peace Corps. He left his nice home in South Florida, his powerful and high-paying job and all the comforts of America to help businesses in the Kingdom of Tonga succeed. His blog is a favorite bookmark on my computer and I always look forward to his newest entry. I must admit that I'm living vicariously through his adventures on the other side of the world. He tells tales of beautiful geography, people and traditions. He shares adventures that could only be experienced in that setting. He had to learn a new language in just a few months and he lives on nearly nothing. He chose to do all of this in his upper 40s and he seems genuinely happy and content.
His two year commitment to the Peace Corps ends later this year and he has no idea what he will do when it's over. However, he seems totally unconcerned and relaxed. I believe that's the way it works. The more you give of yourself - freely and honestly - the less you worry. Maybe helping to solve other people's problems and making their lives better increases your own faith that things will work out. Thanks to Steve things worked out for me 20 years ago when I was desperate for a job like they are working out now for the people of Tonga. And there's no doubt in my mind that things will work out for Steve as he transitions back to life in America.
Follow the last several months of Steve's Peace Corps adventure at http://blog.stevesadventure.com/.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Summer of Service...
An incredible event just ended this weekend. Maybe you were even unknowingly touched by it. It's called Summer of Service and it has been happening about this time every year for the past 18 years. This past week about 900 middle and high school students gathered together to reach out to the city of Cincinnati and surrounding areas to simply offer touches of love.
They did the usual things and handed out cold bottles of water at traffic lights and washed cars for free. But, they also did things that many will never see. They constructed the walls of a local Habitat For Humanity house. When the home is finished in the near future those walls will be covered up with dry wall and paint. What the new owners won't see are the countless words of encouragement and blessings that are scrawled on the studs inside those walls. Words of affirmation that will last until those walls come down and perhaps even longer.
On Thursday evening those same 900 students hosted a surprise luau for about 700 special-needs men and women. 700 beautiful people that are often forgotten by today's society, that never get invited to the homecoming dance or the prom or even a date. As the unsuspecting guests arrived they were greeting by hundreds of faces that looked a lot like so many that jeered them before. These young faces did not jeer though...They cheered and clapped and sang and smiled. Each guest was personally escorted from their ride to the party inside that was designed just for them. For at least one night the world was playing by their rules. It made sense for maybe the first time ever. The smiles and faces of both the hosts and guests are forever etched in my mind.
The love and compassion that was poured out across our area last week by some 900 teenagers is a great enough story by itself. However, the bigger story will happen as all the seeds that were scattered begin to grow into a kinder, more understanding, loving and tolerant Tri-State in the years to come.
If these young people are our future...Everything is going to be just fine.
You can read more about the stories from Summer of Service 2009 at www.summerofservice.com.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Viewer Mail...
I don't recall having ever contacted a T.V. station as a viewer. In fact, as a 20 year veteran of the television industry, I'm still amazed at the number of calls, emails and general correspondence that stations get. I would venture to guess that in an average week I personally get close to 100 emails from people I have never met...People that watch me on television and feel comfortable enough to sit down at their computer and send me their thoughts. Considering that I do almost all my work in a big, nearly empty, studio I think sometimes I forget there are people out there actually watching. To be honest, it's both encouraging and scary if I allow myself to think about all the people sitting at home in their pajamas (or less) in the morning watching me work.
I'd say that 90% of the emails I get are very kind and supportive from wonderful people. The other 10% usually come after a forecast that doesn't quite verify as accurate. In other words, I blew it and they want in the worst way to let me know it! They tend to be something other than supportive and kind. My general response to them is usually something like this...I doubt that you even know my mother! But enough about those, today I want to share with you an email that made my day, one of those rare emails that I usually get just about the time I am beginning to wonder why I continue to get up everyday at 2:15 am and drag my tired behind to work, about the time that I start to doubt that anyone really cares about what I do or if it makes any difference at all. When I'm just about at my breaking point, with uncanny timing that can only be described as blessed, I open up an email like the following...
Dear Mr. Handley,
My name is Elle (last name omitted to protect identity) and my hometown is Cincinnati, Ohio. Though I have lived in many different places in the U.S., I am always brought back home by my roots.
One of the things that always brings me back home is because I miss my local news station so badly. My parents have been watching Channel 9 ever since I was a little kid, so I grew up with the cast at WCPO. As I got older though, it was your name and face that I remembered most, and each time I returned home from my excursions, I was always too happy to get up early to watch the weather.
At this point I am in Germany, I've been here since February and won't be returning home until August. I have to tell you Mr Larry, I miss Skyline Chili and you. In a way, I can't wait to return home just to hear the intro to the news and see the familiar faces that I love.
Anyways, my mom watches the news every morning and every evening...I'm so far from home and missing the things that I know. Could you give a shout out to her? Her name is Tina.
Thank you Mr. Larry...and I look forward to hearing your weather reports in August.
With sincerity,
Elle
Beautiful, Elle and thank you for the the major dose of encouragement. And, by the way, when August rolls around and you get to come home I won't forget that you are out there watching getting your major dose of home. All of the sudden I remember one of the reasons why I chose to do this job.
March 9, 2009
Hope Springs Eternal...
The Cincinnati Reds are in the midst of their final spring training in Sarasota, Florida. Next year they will move nearly all the way across the country to their new spring training home in Goodyear, Arizona. Considering I cut my baseball teeth on the mid '70s Big Red Machine it seemed almost required that I make the trip to Florida this year for their swan song to Sarasota. So, my son and I drove south and basked in the warm sunshine and watched our beloved Reds' first three games a couple of weeks ago.
Early in the spring training process teams usually run out a bunch of prospects (or perhaps suspects) with big numbers and unfamiliar names on their uniforms. This year, because the World Baseball Classic was going to take so many established stars away for a couple of weeks to compete for their countries, the Reds started many of their big guns to get them some playing time before they left. Game 1 was in Port Charlotte against the Tampa Bay Rays, the American League representative in last year's World Series. The field in Port Charlotte was newly remodeled, beautiful and comfortable. We sat in general admission on a grassy berm in foul territory along the left field line. The Reds ran out Edison Volquez, Jonny Cueto and Homer Bailey among others. Each one looked as good as the guy before him. Nice win. Beautiful day. Great start.
The next two days were played at what Hall of Fame broadcaster Marty Brennaman calls "tire, old Ed Smith Stadium" in Sarasota, the Reds' spring training home. He's not kidding. It's tired and old and, consequently, the experience wasn't nearly as pleasant. We still had a great day though under warm, sunny skies and a starting line-up filled with regulars. I spent much of the afternoon talking to Sarasota long timers that were sad that the Reds were leaving. The weren't upset with the Reds, though. Mostly, they were mad as a snake at their city leaders. It seems that keeping the Reds in Sarasota was a 40-50 million dollar investment in facility improvements. A lot of money, right? Well, according my new friends, most of the money was going to be provided by corporate sponsors (20-30 million) and Reds' owner Bob Castellini (10 million of his own cash) leaving the city of Sarasota a relatively modest 10 million dollars to raise. The general consensus of my focus group was that 10 million would have been a bargain considering the kind of revenue the Reds bring to town every February and March.
It's all too bad, really. Sarasota is a very nice town and a great location for the Reds' spring home. Great culture, beautiful beaches, wonderful people. Perhaps just as important is that Sarasota is a car trip away from Cincinnati and Goodyear, Arizona...well, isn't. So, so long Sarasota. It's been nice sharing our Reds with you all these years. Your hospitality has not gone unnoticed and it will be missed as early as next year at this time. I have high hopes for the Reds this season and if they just happen to pull off a miracle and win the World Series maybe the City of Sarasota leaders can spruce up "tired, old Ed Smith Stadium" with a brand new "Cincinnati Reds World Series Champion - 2009" banner. Granted, it won't cost 10 million dollars but who's going to see it hanging from an empty baseball stadium?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
There's Someone Out There...
Confession time. Other than my mom, and the other not-so-anonymous person (thanks, Scott) that left their thought in the comment section at the bottom, I was really beginning to wonder if anyone ever stumbled across my blog. Until last week that is, when someone I don't believe I have ever met emailed me to tell he was reading my posts. He even went the extra step to tell me how much he liked them. Wow! I'm humbled and amazed. So, this post is for you and your wife, Rico...The recipe for the Santa approved cookies I wrote about on December 19, 2008. They are not easy to make but are well worth the effort when you get them right. Thanks for the kind and generous words of encouragement and I hope you love the cookies. Here goes...
Ingredients
2 eggs
6 tablespoons sugar
9 ounces bittersweet chocolate (or 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup flour
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 1/4 cups (7 1/2 ounces) of white chocolate chips
1 cup coarsely chopped nuts (optional)
Directions
1. Melt bittersweet (or semisweet chips) and butter in the top of a double boiler (I don't have a double boiler so I boil an inch or so of water in a larger pan and then place a covered, smaller pan with the chips and butter in it and let it melt while I do the next step). When melted, stir until blended and let cool completely.
2. Beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer on whip until thick and light (about 6 minutes)
3. Stir cooled chocolate in the egg mixture . Add vanilla and mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, stir together flour, salt and baking powder. Add this to the egg mixture and mix well.
5. Stir in the white chocolate chips and nuts if desired.
6. This will make about 2 dozen cookies plus. I try to spoon out ALL the cookies onto cookie sheets lined with parchment paper rather than waiting for one set to bake and then re-use that cookie sheet. If the dough sits out too long the consistency changes and they don't work as well. Scoop the dough into about 1" rounded balls approximately 1 1/2 inches apart. Do not flatten them. Place the cookie sheets in the freezer (or a cold garage will do) for about 30 minutes to firm them up.
7. Bake the cookies for about 10 minutes on 350 degrees. Don't over bake them. They should have a cracked, shiny surface when done and still soft inside.
8. Transfer to racks and let cool.
9. We like to dust them with powdered sugar although that is optional.
Not that there are ever any left but they will keep for several days if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
There you have it and good luck. By the way, the recipe is a secret so don't tell anyone!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Still My Baby Girl...
Well, she went and did it. My daughter turned 18 years old today. To her, I think it's just another birthday. To me, it's the beginning of her being on her own, an adult, making all her own decisions. She's a senior in high school and is in the process of applying for colleges. She wants to move away to attend college and the thought of only seeing her a handful of times every year occasionally hits me like a body blow. The truth is though she's ready and I'm not. 18 years wasn't long enough for me but it's been the perfect amount of time for her.
I can remember her first year of life when all she wanted was her mom (and the attached food supply). Mom, unfortunately, had to work though and that meant I had to be incredibly creative, entertaining and interesting. I was not properly gifted for any of that but I managed. We would spent literally hours and hours on our carport in Gainesville, Florida with me pushing her in one of those Fisher Price swings that bolts into the ceiling and singing nursery rhymes. She loved it while I yearned to be playing tennis or out on a golf course somewhere. As she turns 18 today, I wouldn't trade those hours, weeks and months for anything. Probably somewhere around the millionth refrain of "Papa's gonna buy you a diamond ring" we bonded. She fell in love with me (it certainly wasn't my singing) and we became connected, forever.
And I do mean forever. Despite her desire to go away to college I'm confident that the bond we have formed is simply unbreakable. I hope that she'll indulge me occasionally in the years to come and maybe ask for some advice. I pray that there will be at least a couple of trips home when she simply needs a hug and not money. And when those moments occur I pray that I can recognize them for what they are...Just my little girl needing her dad.
Happy 18th birthday, Madison. I love you and am very proud of you!
Friday, January 30, 2009 Hyper Sensitive Weather... I've been writing this blog for 7 or 8 months now I have seldom discussed weather issues. Maybe I do that way too much everyday and this format lets me escape for a few moments. Today though I need to rant a little... We just came off what was hopefully, for me, our worst week of winter weather this season. Officially 7.5 inches of snow fell on Tuesday and Wednesday with around a half inch of ice sandwiched in the middle. It was a nearly 40 hour weather event that closed nearly all our schools, many businesses and made many of our roads impassible. It was ugly and I spent most of it right here at Channel 9. I even wore the same suit and tie two days in a row because I wasn't able to get home and change...Or sleep for that matter. Not that I'm complaining. It's part of the job and I accept it. Nobody asks me to come in early or stay late or spend the night. It's what I believe I'm responsible to do in situations like this. Maybe I'm a little tired but here's my beef today. I've had no less than a dozen calls this morning asking about the "possible" snow maker for this coming Monday. we're talking Monday! That's 3 plus days away. Meteorologically speaking, that's an eternity. In that amount of time things can, and probably will, change. I'm not suggesting that we should ignore it. I spent reasonable and responsible time today making people aware of the potential of Monday's storm. The fact is though, it's too early for anyone to know what it will do exactly. Don't believe them if they tell you they can. So, what's the point of dwelling on it more than simply being aware that it could develop? We have sunshine back in the forecast today and quite a bit of it this weekend, too. Temperatures will begin to moderate this weekend to possibly near 40 degree by Sunday. Take a break from the winter stress we had the last several days. Do something fun with your family. Maybe even enjoy the snow some by sledding or taking a trip to Perfect North Slopes in Lawrenceburg. Go outside and be amazed at the sunlight dancing off the ice coated trees. Then, turn us on Sunday and find out what Monday's storm may bring. No need to hurry to the next weather event. Take it one day at a time, one storm at a time.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Happy New Year!
I must confess that I'm not a a big New Year's Eve partier. I claim it has to do with my unusual 3:15 am to 1:15 pm work shift that chases me to bed around sunset even on my off days. Truth is, I'm not a big partier anyway. But, I do love the idea of a brand new year...Or, at least, my idea of it.
In reality it is simply a turn of the calendar. I get that. But, I like to use the New Year as an annual "reset". It's an opportunity for me to start fresh, to put the numerous mistakes I made in the old year in the past and apply the lessons I learned to a better New Year. In theory this results in a wiser and better me every year. Unfortunately, it's only a theory.
Generally, I'm not a resolution maker either. The problem with resolutions is that most people make them just too big and impossible to achieve. We've all done it. How about the exercise resolution, "I'm going to work out everyday for an hour this new year". That one is usually busted before the Christmas decorations are all put away. So, this year I resolve the same thing I have for years...To do the best I can at all that I do and to enjoy life to the fullest.
Here's to a fresh, exciting New Year 2009. I hope it's your best year ever filled with blessings beyond your imagination!
Friday, December 19, 2008
'Tis The Season...
6 days and counting until Christmas arrives and the pace is picking up. I'm a notorious late shopper although I think I'm a little ahead of my normal pace this year. Shopping though is one of those holiday "traditions" that I could definitely do without. That's a rant for another day though. Today I want to talk about traditions I do enjoy and that shape my holiday.
The holidays really begin in our home the weekend of Thanksgiving. After regaining consciousness from our Thanksgiving Tryptophan stupor we all head out as a family to Nieman Tree Farm in Oxford to pick out a tree. You're probably thinking that's a little early to get a Christmas tree but there is a method to our madness. First of all, you get the pick of the crop when you arrive that early. Secondly, we get a live tree, one with the bulb still on the bottom. We leave the tree at Nieman's for the experts to take care of until about 10 days before Christmas when we return to take it home. Through New Year's Day it serves as the centerpiece of our Christmas decorations but its time doesn't end when the ornaments come down. As the brand new year begins our tree is planted in its permanent home in our yard where we can watch it grow and provide memories for years to come. Live trees are a little pricey but we think of it as an investment that keeps on giving.
Cooking is another tradition this time of year that is important to me. Granted, I don't spend a lot of time in the kitchen but I do venture in there during the holidays several times to make cookies. Not just any cookies, mind you, but the most delicious, plumpest, gooiest, chocolaty delights imaginable (if I do say so myself)! They are a pain to make but well worth it when it's time to indulge. Plus, they have Santa's seal of approval...Never a single complaint or leftover morsel in all the years they have been left for his refreshment!
Here's hoping our paths cross this holiday season. If they do, I'll share some cookies with you...
Until then, what are some of your cherished holiday traditions?
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving!
We have a little tradition in our family that, before we partake in the feast, we each share something that we're thankful for. When my kids were younger they would often use their moment of reflection to glow about their newest video game or the plethora of desserts that was taunting them just a few feet away. I miss those days but also love that in recent years, as they get older, they wax a little more philosophic.
So, I'm thankful. Thankful for others that add so much to my life. I shudder to think about my existence if it was only me. My family, both immediate and extended, is the very best and I'm lucky each year that they don't choose to vote me out of the clan. I hope they are never offered a Survivor-type reality show because I am sure I would be the first one gone. I'm thankful that I'm part of a church with a keen outward focus that continually strives to help those that need it most. I'm often overwhelmed by the shear number of people hurting, hungry and homeless but my church family seems energized to help every single one. I'm thankful for my few, but cherished, best friends. I hope you know how much you mean to me and that I have, in some way, successfully expressed that to each of you recently. I'm thankful also for the place where I spend at least 50 hours a week. In our current stressed economy I'm more appreciative than ever for the opportunity to make a living but even more thankful for the kind of people I work for and with. We spent so much time together...No reality show for you guys either! Most of all, I'm thankful for hope. Hope that comes from a deep faith that goodness, kindness and love will prevail against some of the toughest times many of us have ever faced.
I state all of this now because tomorrow, just prior to taking my customary seat at the kid's table and it's my time to express thanks, the moment will overwhelm me and I'll say the only thing roaming through my brain...I'm thankful mashed potatoes smell so incredible and that they taste even better! Let's eat!
What are you thankful for this year? Make it the greatest Thanksgiving ever.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Playing For A Tie...
Okay, I've had a few days to let the Bengals' tie this past weekend with Philadelphia settle in and I have come to this conclusion. I simply don't get it! I've listened to many people debate the merits of allowing an NFL game to end in a tie and I don't buy any of them. In fact, I can't think of a single sporting event that should ever end in a tie. They are designed to be resolved, to reach an outcome, to finish with a winner and a loser. The most passionate argument for allowing a tie I've heard states that it protects the players health. Some feel that by playing the extra time it would minimize and hinder recovery time for the following week's game. So be it. Part of the game of sport is understanding how your body and mind recovers between contests.
Plus, fans make sports what they are. If people didn't cough up their hard earned money to attend these games there simply wouldn't be professional sports. So, how can the NFL rules committee justify sending 60,000 plus fans home after several hours of cold weather football with no outcome? How unsatisfying must that have been? The NCAA understands. College football has an overtime policy that has its critics but is fun and exciting and ends in a result. There is always a winner or a loser and those student athletes recover and compete the next week.
Poor Bengals. They have had such a tough season. Now, they have to deal with a tie which is, as they say, like "kissing your sister". Considering how tough victories are to come by this season...She must look like Halle Berry.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Season Long Good-Bye...
Since I go to bed at about 7:00 every night I don't indulge in much prime time television. In fact, my favorite show, the one I never miss, is 15 years old. I got hooked before I started working this kooky shift. ER has stood the test of time and complete star turnover and is coming to an end this season.
You may remember it as the show local favorite George Clooney became famous in as Dr. Doug Ross. He was an original cast member and left to pursue fame and fortune as a movie star. Great move for him yet the show still succeeded. Not one original remains in the current cast and just last week the creator of the show, Michael Crichton (author of Jurassic Park), sadly passed away. Its success was in the sum of its parts. It had great acting, an innovative film-making look, brilliant writing and a seemingly endless smart plot line. That's why it was able to withstand losing star after star and still flourish.
This final season has been just as good if not better. The new characters are excellent and many of the old guard are making guest appearances (maybe even Mr. Clooney?). Tonight Anthony Edwards' character, Dr. Mark Greene, returns. He was the center of, what I believe was, the greatest single episode of television ever. Several years ago Mark Greene dies of cancer and it was handled with unbelievable class, dignity and spirit. I still have the episode on VHS somewhere.
Anyway, the end is near for ER. I'm not quite sure what I'll watch after the curtain falls on the final episode but I do know this...I may need a trip to the ER to be intubated, stat!
By the way ER is, as they say, on another network. Since I work for an ABC affiliate maybe I'll replace it on my DVR with Lost or Dancing With The Stars...They're good too (shameless plug)! Maybe, if I'm really good, Santa will bring me all the available episodes out on DVD.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Election Day...
We have endured two years of campaigning and consideration. We have tried our best to wrap our brains around all the issues and candidates. So, take a deep breath, say a prayer for our leaders/country and cast your vote. After that, all that's left is the counting...
Friday, October 24, 2008
The Name Game...
Is it me or has the naming of children these days gone completely mad? Admittedly, when we named our daughter Madison 17 years ago it was so odd that some unnamed family members could hardly bring themselves to utter it. Our goal was to name her something beautiful and so unique that it wasn't available on one of those small, souvenir license plates. Years later Madison is consistently in the top 5 on the most popular names list but we believe our Madison was the first. But what about Zamboni?!
That's right, Zamboni! I was listening to ESPN radio recently and the host was talking about a soon to be released Time magazine article with Vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin. Apparently she is considering having another child and if it happens to be a boy she wants to name it after a machine used to smooth out the ice between periods of a hockey game. Seriously, really? Maybe it shouldn't be such a surprise considering her track record. She has five children with each name as unique as the other; Track, Trig, Bristol, Willow and Piper. And she is the self-proclaimed "hockey mom" so maybe Zamboni isn't so strange after all.
The machine was actually named after its inventor. Wikipedia says the name Zamboni is actually a federally and internationally registered trademark. If they don't let her use it maybe she would consider some other sports related names like Mitt (as in baseball glove), Jersey, Pad (as in shoulder pads) or Helmet (kind of like the German name Helmut). If she is still stuck on Zamboni she could always use the inventor's first name, Frank...Found on souvenir license plates everywhere!
How about you, any suggestions?
Friday, October 3, 2008
One month and counting...
I don't know about you but I'm tired. I'm literally fatigued from the current presidential campaign. I accept that there are some people that can't get enough of this. It even energizes them. Hopefully, that's how our candidates respond to all of it. That wouldn't be me though. From the debates and the mind-numbing analysis that follows, to the seemingly endless commercials, to the droning talk show pundits, it's all too much for me. Total political overload.
Some of my reaction is a result of my inability to sort it all out. I consider myself well educated and functionally intelligent. Most of the time though I feel like a political illiterate. Even if I could successfully carve away all the political fat the issues remain overwhelming...Especially when everyone seems to want to explain them to you and convince you how right they, or their candidates of choice, are. My brain tends to work like dry ground during a heavy thunderstorm. If I'm bombarded by too much information it just tends to runoff failing to soak in. I process information much better if it's presented like a gentle, light shower...a little at a time.
Perhaps the bigger issue for me though is the attacking style that is so common in today's political campaigns. I have often heard of soldiers coming back from war with "battle fatigue". I believe I'm feeling a much less serious form of that. It wears on you so much that the mission, in this case electing our next president, becomes unimportant because all your focus is on just wanting the whole thing to end. And that's too bad because I believe that this is the most critical election of my life and every vote should be an intelligent, highly considered one.
So, it's time for me to turn off all the commentary and allow some of the issues to soak in. However it turns out one month from now I need to rest in the faith that our system works and will smooth out all the rough edges of either ticket that may win the next presidency. And then take a political nap for the next four years...
Thursday, September 25, 2008
What if...
Republican presidential candidate Senator John McCain says he wants to suspend his campaign, including tomorrow's scheduled debate, to focus on a solution to the proposed bail-out plan. I'm not so naive that I don't think this is some sort of political positioning but, "what if?"
What if our greatest political, social and financial minds put all else aside and committed to fixing our staggered economy?
What if all the millions of dollars being spent on getting elected were funneled into eliminating, or at least denting, our astronomical national debt?
What if all the intended political contributions between now and the election in November went instead to sobering up our drunken financial industry?
Idealistic? I'm sure it is. But, despite our current problems, we still live in the richest country in the world. The campaign coffers of both John McCain and Barack Obama (not to mention all the other former candidates) prove that there is plenty of money to throw at our many issues. I once heard that you can tell where a person's priorities are by looking at where they spend their money...
Where are our country's priorities?
Friday, September 12, 2008
Fan to the end...
I love sports. When I was in college I even considered becoming a sports anchor but thought it would taint my love as a fan. To say I'm a "homer" is an understatement. I bleed Cincinnati red and Bengal orange and black. Even when I was living in Florida for ten years my allegiance never waned. When the Reds won the 1990 World Series I was in Gainesville, Florida celebrating in the middle of a sea of apathetic orange and blue (Gator colors). Being a Reds and Bengals fan has always had its challenges with extreme highs and lows. Then came 2008.
What is a Cincinnati fan suppose to make out of this year? The Reds season was effectively over by the end of April. I will confess to agreeing with the Reds late season moves that point to a youth movement for the years to come. Since baseball doesn't have a salary cap that evens out the competitive field going young is really the only financially responsible way to try to win here. Smaller market teams like the Reds just can't afford to go out and sign established stars like the Yankees and Red Sox do. You need to draft effectively, groom young talent in the minors and get a few great years out of them in the big leagues before they leave for big bucks elsewhere. Even as the Reds teeter near last place as the season winds down they are playing better and the future, at the very least, looks brighter. Then there are the Bengals.
I know it's only one game but you have to admit their week one loss to the Ravens was demoralizing if not depressing. Our Bengals looked more like kittens losing to a team with a rookie coach, quarterback and running back. A win this week against the Titans would bolster everyone's spirit but I must say that my hopes are low. Lower, in fact, than the ticket price to the home opener. Rumor has it you can find tickets this week for less than face value! That has never happened in the forty years the team has been in existence. What do you make of that? I believe that this community has a greater investment in this team than most other NFL cities due to the sweet deal that owner Mike Brown negotiated years ago. Consequently, Bengal fans feel deserving of more. More effort, more wins and more hope...Especially deeper than one game in to the season.
The band wagon is thinly populated right now. Perhaps it's a good time to jump on...Or is it?
Friday, August 29, 2008
Blue Like Democrats...
Admittedly, my tastes for music, art and literature at times swing like wind chimes in a hurricane. Right now though one of my favorite authors is a man named Donald Miller. If you recognize the name it's probably because of his best selling book Blue Like Jazz. Brilliant book. I've read all his books and have enjoyed every one. Maybe I'll blog more about those some other day. Today is about his perceived close and personal email relationship with presidential candidate Barack Obama.
It's true that Mr. Miller did, in fact, give the closing prayer at the recently concluded Democratic National Convention (unfortunately talked over by most of the networks). And he did spend a few minutes backstage sharing a room with Michelle Obama and the Obama children. That makes him closer to the possible future president than 99.9% of us but best buds they are not. Check out his blog at www.donmilleris.com . He cleverly and hilariously shares a series of emails between him and Barack. Here's a bit of a plot spoiler before you start reading...Obama's responses are generic bulk replies that are sent out to thousands of Americans. Sorry if that ruins it a little for you but you can still appreciate Donald Miller's wit and humor. He also is very adept at keeping his political views close to the chest while crafting sharp, intelligent points and observations. If you can stand some additional fun read some of the replys from others. Those that think the Barack responses are personal versus those that realize they're not is running about 50/50.
Good stuff. Enjoy.
August 19, 2008
"Gold Medal" Heros...
They have been, as they say, on "another network" but I have been faithfully following the 2008 Olympics from Beijing. I have thoroughly enjoyed the competition and the coverage. Swimming in high definition gives it a whole new appeal to me. It simply looks fabulous.The China Olympics will go down in history as the Michael Phelps show and deservedly so. He is a once in a lifetime athlete and a new American hero. I’m thankful I got to witness his accomplishments during my lifetime. To me though the quintessential example of the Olympic hero is Dara Torres. 41 years old, a mom and an incredible swimmer, Dara left Beijing with three silver medals and didn’t seem even a little disappointed. She appeared to be soaking up every single second of her current (and perhaps final?) Olympic experience. Before one of her qualifying heats she held up the start so that one of her opponents could change a damaged swimsuit. Even when she lost the gold by a razor’s edge her smile gave her away. The results weren’t nearly as important as the journey and the relationships. As a fellow 40 something year old athlete I have no plans to compete on a stage as big as the Olympics like Dara did. But her performance and spirit were a platinum medal example that athletics can bring out the best in many of us whether competing in front of the world or in your own backyard.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Tribute to a truck...
It happened about a week ago. I was driving home from work and the "check engine" light came on. No big deal, right? Well, for me it was like a flat-lined heart monitor glaring from my dashboard. Was the end near for my truck?
Now, you may be saying "it's just a truck, man. Get over it!" I understand your sentiments and would normally agree with you but this truck is different. I adopted her in 1998 for $11,000, a 2 year old Ford Ranger with 27,000 miles on her. Since then she has been my regular companion and sole mode of transportation. Repairs have been few and far between so our days of seperation have been sparse. I am her main caregiver providing unwaveringly regular oil changes, brake repair, etc. Her biggest major operation came about two years ago when she needed clutch replacement. The procedure was performed by Tim, her mechanic, and was long but successful. I took her health for granted until her "check engine" light provided a reality blow to my gut. She seemed so healthy...Her cassette deck even still works!
Our best times were during projects like building my paver patio or my daughter's stilt house. We've built fences together and transported the family Christmas tree home each holiday season. Truth told she was the workhorse lugging thousands of pounds of gravel, sand, pavers, bricks, fencing and wood. She never seemed the least bit jealous whenever I excitedly hooked up a large, powerful rental tool to her hitch. Memories filtered through my mind as we made the slow trip to mechanic Tim for a diagnosis. I glanced down at one point trying unsuccessfully to avoid the glare of the light of doom and saw her odometer click over to an even 247,000 miles. Amazing, I thought.
But, if I could only see 250,000 I would treat her better, appreciate her more.
Tim is more than a mechanic. He's a miracle worker! After a few short diagnostic tests he discovers the problem, a faulty valve, and performs the simple procedure. As we drive away the annoying red warning light is off and another mile turns over on her odometer. All is good again but 250,000 isn't nearly enough. I figure after a good cleaning and some well earned detailing we're good for at least 300,000 miles.
Now, if I could only see half a million...
Thursday, August 7, 2008 We're talkin' Ultimate... No, not Ultimate Doppler 9 the Tri-State’s most powerful radar. I’m talking about the sport of Ultimate. Have you heard of it? Some people call it Ultimate disc or Frisbee. Officially, it is simply Ultimate. It is a fast-paced, non-contact, highly athletic team sport that is played on a soccer sized field. Seven players on each team alternate, non-stop, between offense and defense trying to throw the disc to a teammate in the end zone for a point. Fouls and infractions are called by the players on the field. It combines elements of soccer with precision disc handling and the noble self-regulation of golf. I play in a summer league that just concluded and coach my daughter’s high school team in the spring. There is a large Ultimate community locally with leagues nearly year round for all skill levels and ages. You can find information about opportunities to play in this area at www.cincyultimate.org. It is not a new sport by the way. Ultimate turns 40 years old this year and it started as a joke! Joel Silver (the producer of blockbuster action movies like Die Hard, Lethal Weapon and the Matrix) was a high school junior in the fall of 1968 when he proposed "establishing a committee to investigate the possibility of adding Frisbee to the high school curriculum" at a student government meeting. After a good laugh the motion was carried and the rest, as they say, is history. Today thousands of people across the nation and the world play Ultimate. There is a college national championship, a world club championship and this weekend my daughter and her teammates will be competing for the UPA Club Championship in Blaine, Minnesota. You can follow the progress of both the Cincinnati girls and boys teams at http://youth2008.upa.org/node/16.
Friday, August 1, 2008
A couple of goodbyes...
In the past few weeks two people died that I have been missing very much...Yet I never met either of them. Randy Pausch and Kadie Reider. Perhaps you have heard of one or both of them. Randy Pausch was the college professor that delivered the now famous "Last Lecture" that so many people have been inspired by. It's one of the most popular hits on YouTube. The talk came a month or so after he was diagnosed with a terminal illness that promised him only a few more months of life. He turned his limited time into what would be a lifetime of living for most of us that live too cautiously and timidly. I think he resonates with me so much because he was an everyday guy. He wasn't a famous athlete, music superstar, blockbuster movie actor, powerful politician, or multi-millionaire. He was just a regular person, like many of us, that handled an unthinkable situation with grace and dignity. More than that, as he died, he taught many of us to truly live. Katie Reider's passing hits a little closer to home. I never met Katie but know and love her music. I've met her dad once or twice and know her brother Robbie a little. They are a special family that has been through a lot in the last few years. Way too much. Katie's gift was music. She was the leader of the Katie Reider Band that has local ties through and through. For ten years or so she told incredibly personal stories through her music. Her songs are deliciously witty, smart and thought provoking. They have inspired many and will continue to do so through her recordings. Katie was only 30 years old. Her influence lives on ( http://www.500kin365.org/main.htm). I doubt that Randy and Katie ever met but they had at least one thing in common. They were both flawed but beautiful people that used their gifts to pass along their passions to others... Here's to them for lives well lived and to us as we figure out how to do the same.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Another weather seal...I have a little professional accomplishment that I wanted to share with my blogger friends. Last Friday I took the American Meteorological Society's Certified Broadcast Meteorologist test. It was pretty tough but I passed and have been awarded the CBM Seal. Here are a couple of paragraphs from the AMS press release... "The AMS grants the CBM designation to broadcast meteorologists who meet established criteria for scientific competence and effective communication skills in their weather presentations. The CBM is a new program, launched in 2005 as an upgrade to the Society's Seal of Approval program." "The Society's Certified Broadcast Meteorologist designation clearly recognizes that the holders have the educational background and have been tested in their knowledge and communication of the sciences needed to be an effective broadcast meteorologist. The general public can have added confidence in the quality and reliability of the weather presentations made by broadcast meteorologists approved by the Society." I now have all three seals available. The NWA, AMS, and CBM. I'm pretty proud...Now if only Good Housekeeping offered their seal of approval for weathercasters.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
"Real" reality televisionWe seem to be on the the backside of the "reality TV" wave but I'm guilty of still watching Survivor on a regular basis despite its predictability. I've also seen a few episodes of American Idol and my daughter really likes So You Think You Can Dance. They all pale in comparison though to the reality of the 2008 All-Star Home Run Derby Contest this past Monday. I'm a big baseball fan but generally find the All-Star Game and its sideshows pretty blah. Josh Hamilton and the aura of Yankee Stadium certainly changed all that. Walt Disney himself couldn't have imagined a more magical script. The final season for "the house that Ruth built" and all those legendary monuments of Yankee greats was the setting. Josh Hamilton was the hero. Just a few years removed from drug and alcohol addiction, homelessness, and a ban from baseball Josh Hamilton seems to have rebuilt his life and dreams. He hit 28 home runs in the first round alone and had the sometimes testy New York fans eating out of his hands. His fellow players also seemed thoroughly amazed by his display. More importantly, Josh himself seemed to be soaking up every second of this unforgettable moment. He had reached the mountain top after falling to the depths of hell and everyone knew it. Reality doesn't get any better than this. Josh Hamilton's real life reality show isn't over though. Far from it. He fights everyday with the demons that he once chose to hang out with. He knows how easily things can go bad. The stakes are gravely high on Josh Hamilton's reality show...Life or death. I'm staying tuned in for this one and looking forward to the movie a few years down the road, hopefully one with a happy ending...
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
"I got the music in me..."Okay, I admit it. I was in the band in high school. There I said it! It wasn't my favorite activity but I felt I owed my mom the pleasure of seeing her son create some music after years of investing in drum/percussion lessons. Counting 103 measures of music waiting for my lone cymbal crash or tympani roll was mind numbing at times. Especially when all I really wanted was to be a drummer in a rock and roll band. Two weekends ago I returned to my high school (Mt. Healthy) and played in the annual Alumni Band Concert. I still didn't find it all that musically satisfying but I did discover something very important...High school concert band is where the music seed was planted in me and it still grows today. I continue to play drums and guitar to this day and can't imagine a time when I choose to stop playing. So, thanks to Russell Hinkle, my high school band director, and my years in his concert band for the invaluable gift of music. Even if you don't play anymore, once the music is in you it never leaves. Melodies in your mind can be great companions and serve as soundtracks for chapters of your life. Occasionally, one of those chapters even includes a Sousa march...
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
"Good to the last drop..."It seems the big news of the day is that some 600 Starbucks across the nation will be closing over the next year all because the economy is in such a bad way. I believe, like many of you perhaps, that this is the worst economic time of my life. Gas prices are crazy high and climbing, our homes are worth less than they were a year ago and good paying jobs are increasingly difficult to find. But the fact that my local Starbucks may fold up is not a shock or all that disturbing to me, either. Luxury goods and services will be the first casualties. Do we really need a store selling $4 cups of coffee on every other street corner from Seattle to Miami and Boston to L.A.? I seem to recall from my economics classes in college that occasionally we see a "correction" in our market. I don't remember the official definition but I thought a correction brought things back to reality. Over-inflated products, services, stocks, etc. took a hit because they were way over-priced. Maybe if the average house didn't cost about $200,000, a new lower-end vehicle over $20,000, and a cup of coffee around $4 people could afford to work lower paying jobs that they loved and still live a good, comfortable life. These are tough times, no doubt. I pray they get better soon. But I'm also hopeful that whatever we're experiencing... depression, recession or correction that it ultimately produces a more livable economic situation for all, a society that is less dependant on limited energy sources and a sympathetic country that has an even deeper respect for the many blessings that we have as Americans. Judging by the way my GMTS coworkers love their coffee I'm sure Starbucks will be just fine. By the way, my apologies to Maxwell House for the "Good to the last drop" reference. I just couldn't resist...
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
"We're Toast..."Yesterday James Hansen told Congress that "We're toast if we don't get on a different path" in regards to global warming. Hansen is a NASA scientist and is sometimes called the godfather of global warming science not to mention a very "cheery" guy. Now, I have no issues with Mr. Hansen. I never heard of him until yesterday and I'm sure he's very qualified to talk about the topic. But, his presentation to Congress did nothing to convince me that global warming is a fact and pushing us rapidly closer to "the end". Now, don't get me wrong, I am not one of those naysayers that totally disputes the idea that global warning is causing major changes to our climate and the world that we roam. In fact, statistical data over the past 20 - 30 years shows that we are indeed in a cycle of warming. Here's the problem though. We've had many cycles of warming and cooling over the history of our earth and the jury is still way out on whether or not this particular cycle is natural or man made. Despite what you may hear the scientific community is closer to a 50/50 split on this than you might think. Bottom line is that a lot more research is going to have to occur before the global warming theory becomes a fact. Unfortunately, politics are getting in the way. It has become increasingly difficult for me to cut between pure, unbiased research regarding global warming and political rhetoric. Politically and personally, I'm all for being a great steward of this planet we've been entrusted to maintain. It's a stunning piece of real estate that has been abuse and taken for granted since day one. We must commit as a world community to take better care of this globe we call home. I come to this conclusion though despite politicians that seem to be bartering planet earth to get elected. I apologize for being so cynical but it comes honestly. Case in point, mainstream news outlets recently reported on a lost tribe of warriors in the Amazon, a group of men, women and children previously unknown to mankind. There were even photographs as proof. Unfortunately, it was a hoax. Those responsible have since confessed that the story was fabricated to call attention to the dangers of the logging industry to certain groups. Perhaps a very worthy consideration politicized into, at best, skepticism. Politicians can't save the earth. But you and I can, and hopefully we will...For the sole reason that it's ours and we love it.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
California Dreamin'We live in a GREAT country! I'm very proud to have deep roots here in the Greater Cincinnati/Tri-State area. I was born and raised here and I love it. However, I have been very fortunate to have worked and traveled to many other domestic and overseas locations and I am blown away by the geographic diversity of the good old U.S.A. My family and I just returned from two weeks of exploring the California coast and I found it awe inspiring. If you have spent most of your life east of the Mississippi River like I have the west is nothing short of dramatic. We did many of the typical tourist things like walking the Hollywood Walk of Fame, touring the stars homes, and taking pictures of the Hollywood sign. We spend some time in San Francisco too which, to me, is much more interesting than L.A. but still a big, crowded city. It is outside of the cities that stirred up my wonder. My favorite part of the trip by far was spent at a place called Tree Bones. We stayed there for two nights and the experience was unlike any I've had before or expect in the future. We lodged in structures called yurts. They are canvas covered and round with a dome skylight at the very peak. It sounds very rustic I admit but it was nothing of the sort. Our yurt had hardwood floors, two very comfortable queen beds, a futon that let out into a bed, a table and four chairs, two rattan chairs and a ping pong table. That's right...A ping pong table! Very comfortable and not like camping at all. All that is fine and good but it was the location that stole the show. Tree Bones is located at the southern edge of Big Sur, perhaps one of the most spectacular locations on the planet. I felt like we were perched on the edge of the world. The views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline were simply stunning. And they were all available by simply walking out the door of our yurt. It is great to be home again but I must confess that mentally part of me is still there soaking up the beauty that I can't imagine ever taking for granted. It was a great place to slow down, decompress and rekindle the wonder of this big blue marble we live on. Do you have a place like this that allowed you to reconnect? I'd love to hear about it if you don't mind sharing it with me. I'm dreaming of another adventure in the years to come and need to start filling in the blanks of my imagination.
Friday, May 30, 2008
How I spent my summer vacation...One of the many ways that I am undeservingly blessed is regarding my two children. I have a grown son and a daughter just wrapping up her Junior year of high school. My wife and I are very fortunate to still possess some influence in their lives and believe (maybe mistakenly) that they even like to spend time with us. Although, I'm wise enough to realize I'm probably not first on their list of summer companions... Anyway, I'm grateful that I work for people that value family and have given me something very rare...Two straight weeks off. Fourteen straight days of intensive "family time"! Please pray that we are still speaking to each other by the end! Today is my last day at work and I don't return until Monday, June 16th. Sitting here now It seems like such a long time but I know it will be over in an instant. The details of the next two weeks are too numerous to list but I can tell you it is going to be quite an adventure. In fact, I'm almost as excited about sharing it with all of you as I am about the trip itself. I said almost! Until then enjoy the beginning of summer with your family and friends and we'll share stories and pictures when I get back.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008First drops of rain... As we head into summer I think back to my younger days. I recall how magical that glorious three month break from school was. The days were simply nonstop adventure, mischief and fun. No single day was even close to being long enough. And then it would happen... Those first drops of rain. An unwanted interruption of one of my few precious days of summer was imminent. While I dreaded those first drops of liquid inconvenience I think I also sensed their importance. I remember the smell, so clean and sweet, and the cool, invigorating breeze of a nearby thunderstorm. In the years since I've figured out that as the earth was being refreshed by the summer storm, so was I. Forced inside I spent needed time with my family, friends and neighbors that weren't necessarily a part of my regular summer "posse". I'm feeling a bit like that again as I start this blog. It's different and perhaps even a bit of an interruption to what I'm used to. But, I look forward to hearing from so many of you that I don't get to hear from normally. People I know and that I don't know. I hope to discuss many things. Weather is always a good topic but the floor is open. Current events, sports, music, movies, children, relationships, faith, friends, our community, news, television and so much more. Forgive me as I wax philosophic for a moment... Life isn't about staying inside until the storm passes. Life is about dancing in the rain (as long as there is no lightning!) Care to join me?
|
