Played NTN Sunday at Donovan's in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, and yesterday at Hello Folks in Fox Lake, Illinois. We had quite a few top twenties both days as we have good teams playing at both places.
While going through the the NTN/Buzztime site, I saw the national rankings of places.
Hello Folks ranks #11 in Illinois and #115 nationwide (out of about 4000 places). Not bad for a townie type bar.
Two other places we play at a lot are Pug Mahone's in Fox Lake which is #267 in the nation and Capital City in Springfield, Illinois which is #920.
National rankings of other places we have visited in Illinois: Fargo Lounge Moline #2, Diamond Lils Roselle #12, 46 Zone #28, Teasers Chicago #40, Moretti's Schaumburg #47, Scoreboard Rockford #78, Miranda's Rockford #135, BW3 Bloomington #154, Damon's Rockford #234, Sports Page Arlington Hts #297.
Illinois has a total of 197 NTN sites, down from 214 last year. Florida has the most with 334 places.
I always warn new players to be careful as it is addictive. Liz and I are REALLY HOOKED.
So far this year, we have been to 61 new places. We went to 49 places when we went to the Gulf Coast back in February. I went to 7 more going to visit the family in NC. We just got back from an Illinois trip and added four more to the list.
Altogether, we have been to 671 sites around the US. That puts us into second places for most sites visited.
NTNing Down Da Road. --RoadDog
Being an account of some things I'm interested in, what I'm doing, and reflections on my past, especially music.
Listen to this man. Seven years of college, you know. Trying to reason with 2020 and, now, 2022.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Bbbrr!! It Sure Got Cold Last Night
Last night capped off a cold and rainy day around the Wisconsin/Illinois border. Temps got down to the low 30s and their was frost and the Firebird's windows this morning. Hopefully, this is winter's last rotten gasp. This has been quite the miserable winter. And even when we went south it turned cold.
Didn't have to do anything with the plants as the only things up right now or bulbs. Hopefully, there was no harm to the budding trees. The Bradford pears and crabapples always put on a great show in the spring.
However, it is supposed to get into the 70s later this week.
It's Time to Get the Boat Out, Not to Get Snow Off the Driveway. --RoadDog
Didn't have to do anything with the plants as the only things up right now or bulbs. Hopefully, there was no harm to the budding trees. The Bradford pears and crabapples always put on a great show in the spring.
However, it is supposed to get into the 70s later this week.
It's Time to Get the Boat Out, Not to Get Snow Off the Driveway. --RoadDog
Pets in the Family
An article in the April 25th Chicago Tribune about pet cemeteries and some numbers of interest.
It said Americans spend $43.4 billion each year on their pets.
$16.9 billion on food
$10.9 billion vets
$10.3 billion supplies/over-the-counter medicine
$3.2 billion pet services/grooming
$2.1 billion animal purchases
These are BIG NUMBERS INDEED.
Liz and I have just had one dog, Brandy, from 1974 to 1991. She was a sheltie/beagle mix. We wouldn't mind having another dog, but like to travel a lot, but with gas prices keeping us home more, it might be the time to get another dog. Liz is allergic to cats.
Mom has a dog named Coco.
Nephew and niece Andy and Andrea have two dachshunds, Frank and Rusty.
Brother Bob and Judy have a new sheltie, Gracie. She came just a few weeks after they had to put their previous sheltie, Chrissie to sleep. They also have a cat named Shasha.
Sister Julie has three cats and three dogs. Cats are Lexi, Max, and ?. Dogs are all golden retrievers: Sadie, Duke, and Penny Lane.
My Family is a Pet Family Indeed. --RoadDog
It said Americans spend $43.4 billion each year on their pets.
$16.9 billion on food
$10.9 billion vets
$10.3 billion supplies/over-the-counter medicine
$3.2 billion pet services/grooming
$2.1 billion animal purchases
These are BIG NUMBERS INDEED.
Liz and I have just had one dog, Brandy, from 1974 to 1991. She was a sheltie/beagle mix. We wouldn't mind having another dog, but like to travel a lot, but with gas prices keeping us home more, it might be the time to get another dog. Liz is allergic to cats.
Mom has a dog named Coco.
Nephew and niece Andy and Andrea have two dachshunds, Frank and Rusty.
Brother Bob and Judy have a new sheltie, Gracie. She came just a few weeks after they had to put their previous sheltie, Chrissie to sleep. They also have a cat named Shasha.
Sister Julie has three cats and three dogs. Cats are Lexi, Max, and ?. Dogs are all golden retrievers: Sadie, Duke, and Penny Lane.
My Family is a Pet Family Indeed. --RoadDog
Friday, April 25, 2008
Running Out of Time-- NIU Memorial Committee
We're approaching the third month anniversary of the horrible events that took place at my alma mater, Northern Illinois University in Dekalb on February 14th.
April 29th will be the cut-off date for sending the NIU Memorial Committee your ideas for a fitting memorial to the slain and wounded. So far, they have received over 100 ideas ranging from fountains, landscaped gardens to statues. Many have the slogan "Forward, Together Forward" which is taken from the school fight song.
The committee consistes of about 30 students, faculty, staff, and alumni. The memorial, whatever shape it will take, does not have to be very expensive. Virginia Tech only spent $30,000 on theirs.
It is hoped to have it completed by Feb. 14, 2009.
You can give your idea at memorial@niu.edu.
From April 22nd Daily Herald.
I am suggesting that permanent crosses be erected on the berm by the student center where the temporary ones were placed after the event.
Forward, Together Forward. --RoadDog
April 29th will be the cut-off date for sending the NIU Memorial Committee your ideas for a fitting memorial to the slain and wounded. So far, they have received over 100 ideas ranging from fountains, landscaped gardens to statues. Many have the slogan "Forward, Together Forward" which is taken from the school fight song.
The committee consistes of about 30 students, faculty, staff, and alumni. The memorial, whatever shape it will take, does not have to be very expensive. Virginia Tech only spent $30,000 on theirs.
It is hoped to have it completed by Feb. 14, 2009.
You can give your idea at memorial@niu.edu.
From April 22nd Daily Herald.
I am suggesting that permanent crosses be erected on the berm by the student center where the temporary ones were placed after the event.
Forward, Together Forward. --RoadDog
So, What Are You Listening To?
An article in the Business Section of the March 26th Chicago Tribune discussed listening options available today.
IPODS-- 75% of new cars have option. I've never had one, but have sure heard about them.
STANDARD RADIO-- 93% still listen, down from 96% ten years ago. Still my preferred thing to listen to in my car.
WIMAX RADIO-- about a year away from commercial use. You can listen to your favorite internet stations. I'm listening to 94.7 FM the Surf from North Nyrtle Beach right now.
HD RADIO-- 1200 stations offered it last year, but only a quarter of US aware of it. Definitely something I'll look into.
SATELLITE RADIO-- XM and Sirius have combined 17 million subscribers at about $13 a month. Don't think I'll PAY for MY RADIO. But, then again, I said I'd never PAY for my TV either. Look where that got me.
Interesting, Nothing Mentioned About Listening to Your Cassette While Driving. --RoadDog
IPODS-- 75% of new cars have option. I've never had one, but have sure heard about them.
STANDARD RADIO-- 93% still listen, down from 96% ten years ago. Still my preferred thing to listen to in my car.
WIMAX RADIO-- about a year away from commercial use. You can listen to your favorite internet stations. I'm listening to 94.7 FM the Surf from North Nyrtle Beach right now.
HD RADIO-- 1200 stations offered it last year, but only a quarter of US aware of it. Definitely something I'll look into.
SATELLITE RADIO-- XM and Sirius have combined 17 million subscribers at about $13 a month. Don't think I'll PAY for MY RADIO. But, then again, I said I'd never PAY for my TV either. Look where that got me.
Interesting, Nothing Mentioned About Listening to Your Cassette While Driving. --RoadDog
Spring Trip-- Route 66-- Springfield-- Part 1
We just got back from a six day mini-trip before gas gets so expensive we can't afford to go anywhere anymore. We were gone April 18th to the 23rd.
DWIGHT--
Took Il-47 as usual to avoid the Chicago hassle. Once in Dwight, we had a great buffet at Smaterjax's on Rt. 66, but were sorry to see that they had taken down all that great car memorabilia, including a complete run of Illinois license plates from the early 1920s to the 80s. Now, that was impressive.
Impressed with how the 1930s gas station looks now as it was falling apart when we first started cruisin' the Mother Road in 2002. They really need to repaint the Rt 66 shields on the road as they are getting so worn and faded, it's hard to see them.
ODELL
Took 66 to the 1920s Standard station in Odell and went inside. Saw about ten different countries listed in the sign-in book. They have a new old washer/dryer machine that looked like none I'd ever seen.
PONTIAC
Visited the new phoo exhibition at the Rt 66 Association of Illinois' Museum. This guy can see a photo in a scene like no one else can. Well worth a stop. Also toured the new Pontiac War Museum which is located next door.
TO SPRINGFIELD
Took the superslab, I-55, around Bloomington-Normal as usual. Not much remains of the old road througn these towns.
FUNK'S GROVE
Stopped at Funk's Grove Maple Sirup (correctly spelled) to get some of the great maple candy, but they were already sold out. Bought a CowBop CD, a group that will travel Route 66 in May and try to make ends meet by impromptu performances. They do a western swing/jazz sort of thing.
Ran into a motorcyclist there from Bloomington, Indiana, who was on his first Route 66 trip. Warned him to be careful as this is VERY ADDICTIVE. He told us he was already hookjed after just being on it from Towanda.
Went past Tall Paul and the world's ugliest water tower in Atlanta. Ernie Edwards was not out and about at the Pig Hip restaurant.
Got a room at the Days Inn on the southeast side of Springfield and played NTN at Capital City Bar and Grill.
DWIGHT--
Took Il-47 as usual to avoid the Chicago hassle. Once in Dwight, we had a great buffet at Smaterjax's on Rt. 66, but were sorry to see that they had taken down all that great car memorabilia, including a complete run of Illinois license plates from the early 1920s to the 80s. Now, that was impressive.
Impressed with how the 1930s gas station looks now as it was falling apart when we first started cruisin' the Mother Road in 2002. They really need to repaint the Rt 66 shields on the road as they are getting so worn and faded, it's hard to see them.
ODELL
Took 66 to the 1920s Standard station in Odell and went inside. Saw about ten different countries listed in the sign-in book. They have a new old washer/dryer machine that looked like none I'd ever seen.
PONTIAC
Visited the new phoo exhibition at the Rt 66 Association of Illinois' Museum. This guy can see a photo in a scene like no one else can. Well worth a stop. Also toured the new Pontiac War Museum which is located next door.
TO SPRINGFIELD
Took the superslab, I-55, around Bloomington-Normal as usual. Not much remains of the old road througn these towns.
FUNK'S GROVE
Stopped at Funk's Grove Maple Sirup (correctly spelled) to get some of the great maple candy, but they were already sold out. Bought a CowBop CD, a group that will travel Route 66 in May and try to make ends meet by impromptu performances. They do a western swing/jazz sort of thing.
Ran into a motorcyclist there from Bloomington, Indiana, who was on his first Route 66 trip. Warned him to be careful as this is VERY ADDICTIVE. He told us he was already hookjed after just being on it from Towanda.
Went past Tall Paul and the world's ugliest water tower in Atlanta. Ernie Edwards was not out and about at the Pig Hip restaurant.
Got a room at the Days Inn on the southeast side of Springfield and played NTN at Capital City Bar and Grill.
Every Bloomin' Thing-- April
Well, it must be that time of the year again. Spring has arrived...FINALLY.
1. THE BIRDS ARE BACK-- while we were away on vacation, while we can still afford the gas, a family of birds built a nest on the back deck light by the sliding door. This year, it was a different bird though, not the usual robins.
As usual, walking by the door or out it brings fluttering, but at least so far, no fussing. The robins liked to land on the deck railing and let me know they were unhappy. I'll have to find out what kind of bird they are. Quite a bit smaller than robins.
2. CUT THE GRASS-- Yesterday, I had to cut the grass for the first time in 2008, a sure sign that spring has arrived. Just hope I will be able afford gas for it this year.
3. TREES AND BUSHES ARE BUDDING-- DAFFODILS, HYACINTHS AND SOME TULIPS ARE IN THEIR GLORY. Good to see all this after that rotten winter we had.
4. YARD CLEANUP CONTINUES-- I've been busy clearing out flower beds, removing dead branches, and trimming bushes.
5. APRIL SHOWERS BRING... Finishe dup working outside yesterday just as the rains came. It has started raining here again today.
It's a Lot of Work, But Something I Really Enjoy. --RoadDog
1. THE BIRDS ARE BACK-- while we were away on vacation, while we can still afford the gas, a family of birds built a nest on the back deck light by the sliding door. This year, it was a different bird though, not the usual robins.
As usual, walking by the door or out it brings fluttering, but at least so far, no fussing. The robins liked to land on the deck railing and let me know they were unhappy. I'll have to find out what kind of bird they are. Quite a bit smaller than robins.
2. CUT THE GRASS-- Yesterday, I had to cut the grass for the first time in 2008, a sure sign that spring has arrived. Just hope I will be able afford gas for it this year.
3. TREES AND BUSHES ARE BUDDING-- DAFFODILS, HYACINTHS AND SOME TULIPS ARE IN THEIR GLORY. Good to see all this after that rotten winter we had.
4. YARD CLEANUP CONTINUES-- I've been busy clearing out flower beds, removing dead branches, and trimming bushes.
5. APRIL SHOWERS BRING... Finishe dup working outside yesterday just as the rains came. It has started raining here again today.
It's a Lot of Work, But Something I Really Enjoy. --RoadDog
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Gas Gouge!!!! When Will It End???
The GRBs at Big Oil have been an active group of boys and girls this past week.
Yesterday, when leaving Springfield, Illinois, gas jumped from $3.47 to $3.70. We got gas at in Pontiac for the bargain rate of $3.60, after paying $3.45 the previous Friday at the same station.
Gas was mostly $3.70 to $3.80 around the suburbs of Chicago. In Jerseyville, Illinois, Sunday, we saw premium at $3.99.9!!! Can anybody say FOUR DOLLARS!!!
I noticed a lot of stations now JUST SHOW the regular prices of gas instead of plus and premium. Premium was $3.96 in the ones I did see posted. I guess they don't want to be the first to show that mark that Big Oil so badly wants, the magical $4 barrier.
The way I look at it, if you are planning on ripping people off, be proud and not shy about it. I'm going to get your money and there is NOTHING you can do about it, then give your best Snidely Whiplash chuckle.
When Will the Government Do Anything?? --RoadDog
Yesterday, when leaving Springfield, Illinois, gas jumped from $3.47 to $3.70. We got gas at in Pontiac for the bargain rate of $3.60, after paying $3.45 the previous Friday at the same station.
Gas was mostly $3.70 to $3.80 around the suburbs of Chicago. In Jerseyville, Illinois, Sunday, we saw premium at $3.99.9!!! Can anybody say FOUR DOLLARS!!!
I noticed a lot of stations now JUST SHOW the regular prices of gas instead of plus and premium. Premium was $3.96 in the ones I did see posted. I guess they don't want to be the first to show that mark that Big Oil so badly wants, the magical $4 barrier.
The way I look at it, if you are planning on ripping people off, be proud and not shy about it. I'm going to get your money and there is NOTHING you can do about it, then give your best Snidely Whiplash chuckle.
When Will the Government Do Anything?? --RoadDog
Friday, April 18, 2008
JSS-- Slept Right Through It-- More Daffs-- Gas Gouge-- "Ruins"-- Inflation Hits Sliders-- 24 Years
JSS-- Just Some Stuff
1. SLEPT RIGHT THROUGH EARTHQUAKE IN ILLINOIS-- Something you just don't think of when the word earthquake is mentioned. California comes to mind, but not Illinois. But, early this morning, at 4:36 am, a 5.2 Richter Scale tremor hit near New Salem, Illinois, about 90 miles northwest of Evansville, Indiana.
The Chicago Tribune reported that it could be felt at the Tribune Tower downtown. It took a poll from readers, and as of 8:11 am, 1457 said yes, 581 no. I had to vote no as I slept right through it if it had been felt this far north in Spring Grove. We are about six miles south of the Wisconsin border.
2. DAFFODILLS are now blooming in several diferent places around the yard. The SMELL of Spring!
3. STILL REELING FROM THIS PAST WEEK'S GAS GOUGE-- The GBRs from Big Oil and their allies (commodities traders, oil analysists and oil experts) have been busy little bees this past week with gas in the Fox Lake area rising from $3.43 Monday to $3.66 yesterday. I did "top off" at the "bargain price" of $3.55 at the last "low" gas station on US-12.
The "magical" $4 a gallon mark is in easy reach. I'm predicting by the end of the month at this rate. You've got to give credit to Big Oil for moxie. I had figured they'd only go as high as $3.50 around here, as that, in itself, would be a record, but, they're going for the golden ring.
4. "RUINS"-- saw this movie yesterday about four spring breaking college students who decide to get some culture instead of drinks and visit a Mayan ruins near their resort. SYNOPSIS-- I don't think I'll be working out in the yard for awhile.
5. INFLATION HITS THE SLIDER-- Just one more thing that is more expensive these days. The price of a White Castle went from 52 cents to 55 cents!! It will now cost me more to get my "craving." I have develoed a taste for their new bacon cheeseburger at 69 cents. Plus, in Lebanon, Indiana, they had a 99 cent pulled pork sandwich which was quite good as well, but I haven't seen it around here. Hope they get it.
6. 24 YEARS OF DEEJAYING-- Last night, I deejayed at a local middle school in Mundelein, Illinois, for the 24th straight year. It is the only school I still deejay at these days. Being a private school, the kids are very well-behaved and a lot of fun. I play there four times a year.
As far as prices going up, I still charge the same today as I did 24 years ago.
Things Going On Around Here. --RoadDog
1. SLEPT RIGHT THROUGH EARTHQUAKE IN ILLINOIS-- Something you just don't think of when the word earthquake is mentioned. California comes to mind, but not Illinois. But, early this morning, at 4:36 am, a 5.2 Richter Scale tremor hit near New Salem, Illinois, about 90 miles northwest of Evansville, Indiana.
The Chicago Tribune reported that it could be felt at the Tribune Tower downtown. It took a poll from readers, and as of 8:11 am, 1457 said yes, 581 no. I had to vote no as I slept right through it if it had been felt this far north in Spring Grove. We are about six miles south of the Wisconsin border.
2. DAFFODILLS are now blooming in several diferent places around the yard. The SMELL of Spring!
3. STILL REELING FROM THIS PAST WEEK'S GAS GOUGE-- The GBRs from Big Oil and their allies (commodities traders, oil analysists and oil experts) have been busy little bees this past week with gas in the Fox Lake area rising from $3.43 Monday to $3.66 yesterday. I did "top off" at the "bargain price" of $3.55 at the last "low" gas station on US-12.
The "magical" $4 a gallon mark is in easy reach. I'm predicting by the end of the month at this rate. You've got to give credit to Big Oil for moxie. I had figured they'd only go as high as $3.50 around here, as that, in itself, would be a record, but, they're going for the golden ring.
4. "RUINS"-- saw this movie yesterday about four spring breaking college students who decide to get some culture instead of drinks and visit a Mayan ruins near their resort. SYNOPSIS-- I don't think I'll be working out in the yard for awhile.
5. INFLATION HITS THE SLIDER-- Just one more thing that is more expensive these days. The price of a White Castle went from 52 cents to 55 cents!! It will now cost me more to get my "craving." I have develoed a taste for their new bacon cheeseburger at 69 cents. Plus, in Lebanon, Indiana, they had a 99 cent pulled pork sandwich which was quite good as well, but I haven't seen it around here. Hope they get it.
6. 24 YEARS OF DEEJAYING-- Last night, I deejayed at a local middle school in Mundelein, Illinois, for the 24th straight year. It is the only school I still deejay at these days. Being a private school, the kids are very well-behaved and a lot of fun. I play there four times a year.
As far as prices going up, I still charge the same today as I did 24 years ago.
Things Going On Around Here. --RoadDog
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Big Oil Feeding Frenzy in Full Swing-- Gas Gouge!!!!
I can almost hear and see the board rooms of Big Oil as they jump up and click their heels for the imminent arrival of the "magical" four dollars a gallon mark, which evidently should fall by the end of the month if not sooner.
Monday, I got gas here in Fox Lake, Illinois, for $3.42 (BIG Ripoff!!). Tuesday it was up to $3.52. Yesterday it was $3.56. Today, it hit $3.66. That 24 cents in four days!!!
And yet, our government does nothing. Hard to believe nothing is being done.
Remember, this is the anticipation of the summer driving season PUSH.
This is Getting Ridiculous!! --RoadDog
Monday, I got gas here in Fox Lake, Illinois, for $3.42 (BIG Ripoff!!). Tuesday it was up to $3.52. Yesterday it was $3.56. Today, it hit $3.66. That 24 cents in four days!!!
And yet, our government does nothing. Hard to believe nothing is being done.
Remember, this is the anticipation of the summer driving season PUSH.
This is Getting Ridiculous!! --RoadDog
JSS-- Chicago Cougar-- They Started-- 70s and WIND-- Double Feature-- GAS GOUGE!!!
JSS-- Just Some Stuff
1. CHICAGO COUGAR-- I am sure sorry to see that the police decided to shoot that cougar in Chicago a few days ago. I'm sure it would have much rather been somewhere else. Too bad they couldn't have sedated it or captured it.
2. 85 FIREBIRD AND LAWN TRACTOR-- Tuesday, I tried to start the mu 1985 Firebird for the first time in three weeks after rarely doing so all winter. Nothing. Tried it again yesterday and it started right up. Who's a figgered? The lawn tractor started right away after being off for the winter. You know what is growing.
3. MAYBE SUMMER'S HERE-- Yesterday temps got into the 70s!!! First time in six months. Unfortunately, the wind was howling. Almost blew me over and keeping dead vegetation in the wheelbarrow was all sorts of fun. I know my neighbors don't much care for it, but those items escaping the wheelbarrow were off my yard quickly. That's ok because I got a fair amount of stuff from my neighbors to the west and south.
4. DOUBLE FEATURE DAY-- Saw two movies at the Fox Lake Theater. The first for $5, the second for $4. It's senior day, but that's at 60 to qualify so I can't press it. Just depends who I get to buy my ticket from.
The first movie was "21"-- Blackjack, Vegas, Card Counting, and the High Life. Sign Me Up. Not likely as I can't remember but three digits at a time.
Second "Leatherheads"-- No Doubt, George Clooney is the "King of Smarm."
5. GAS GOUGE IS ON!!!-- Gas in Fox Lake was $3.50 (up from $3.44 Monday) when I went to the theater at 11:15 am. It had gone up another two cents on the way back. I filled up the five gallon gas container for the tractor for $3.56 here in Spring Grove. THIS IS THE MOST I'VE EVER SPENT FOR GAS. I really hate those Big Oil GRBs.
Gettin' Too Expensive. --RoadDog
1. CHICAGO COUGAR-- I am sure sorry to see that the police decided to shoot that cougar in Chicago a few days ago. I'm sure it would have much rather been somewhere else. Too bad they couldn't have sedated it or captured it.
2. 85 FIREBIRD AND LAWN TRACTOR-- Tuesday, I tried to start the mu 1985 Firebird for the first time in three weeks after rarely doing so all winter. Nothing. Tried it again yesterday and it started right up. Who's a figgered? The lawn tractor started right away after being off for the winter. You know what is growing.
3. MAYBE SUMMER'S HERE-- Yesterday temps got into the 70s!!! First time in six months. Unfortunately, the wind was howling. Almost blew me over and keeping dead vegetation in the wheelbarrow was all sorts of fun. I know my neighbors don't much care for it, but those items escaping the wheelbarrow were off my yard quickly. That's ok because I got a fair amount of stuff from my neighbors to the west and south.
4. DOUBLE FEATURE DAY-- Saw two movies at the Fox Lake Theater. The first for $5, the second for $4. It's senior day, but that's at 60 to qualify so I can't press it. Just depends who I get to buy my ticket from.
The first movie was "21"-- Blackjack, Vegas, Card Counting, and the High Life. Sign Me Up. Not likely as I can't remember but three digits at a time.
Second "Leatherheads"-- No Doubt, George Clooney is the "King of Smarm."
5. GAS GOUGE IS ON!!!-- Gas in Fox Lake was $3.50 (up from $3.44 Monday) when I went to the theater at 11:15 am. It had gone up another two cents on the way back. I filled up the five gallon gas container for the tractor for $3.56 here in Spring Grove. THIS IS THE MOST I'VE EVER SPENT FOR GAS. I really hate those Big Oil GRBs.
Gettin' Too Expensive. --RoadDog
You Know What They Say About Payback
This story in Yahoo out of Dubuque, Iowa, a favorite place to visit anytime of the year, but especially when the bald eagles are there in January.
Rick and Marilyn Jones are very fond of pranking their neighbors, the Tschudis, when they go away on vacation. They have strung beer cans around the house like Christmas lights, put up yellow crime scene tape complete with chalk body outlines on the sidewalks.
Well... the Jones went away for a wedding this past weekend and, on Sunday, the Tschudas, their two kids, and another neighbor got out on the Jones' lawn an carefully places 3000 plastic white forks on it.
Picnics Should be Interesting at the Jones' This Summer. --RoadDog
Rick and Marilyn Jones are very fond of pranking their neighbors, the Tschudis, when they go away on vacation. They have strung beer cans around the house like Christmas lights, put up yellow crime scene tape complete with chalk body outlines on the sidewalks.
Well... the Jones went away for a wedding this past weekend and, on Sunday, the Tschudas, their two kids, and another neighbor got out on the Jones' lawn an carefully places 3000 plastic white forks on it.
Picnics Should be Interesting at the Jones' This Summer. --RoadDog
What's With All These Politicians Making So Much Money
With the Obamas coming forth with their earnings for 2007, I am beginning to believe that I should have gone into "Statesmanship" instead of teaching as a career.
A few weeks ago it was the Clintons earning over $100 million since leaving office, mostly on Bill's speaking and "Fantastic business ventures." Hhhmmnn to that.
Now, today, I see the Obamas pulled down over $4 million last year mostly on Barack's books. They did give $26,270 to the Trinity United Church, home of you-know-who and $50,600 to the United Negro College Fund.
McCain hasn't released his earnings yet, but his wife is worth at least $100 million.
Perhaps I should vote for the poorest millionaire?
I Definitely Chose the Wrong Career. --RoadDog
A few weeks ago it was the Clintons earning over $100 million since leaving office, mostly on Bill's speaking and "Fantastic business ventures." Hhhmmnn to that.
Now, today, I see the Obamas pulled down over $4 million last year mostly on Barack's books. They did give $26,270 to the Trinity United Church, home of you-know-who and $50,600 to the United Negro College Fund.
McCain hasn't released his earnings yet, but his wife is worth at least $100 million.
Perhaps I should vote for the poorest millionaire?
I Definitely Chose the Wrong Career. --RoadDog
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
It was an NTN Roadtrip
Yesterday, Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wi., became the temporary Hello Folks North as a whole bunch of players took the short trip over the border to the taste of Florida in Cheesehead Land.
It was organized by Paintr. Such Folks stalwarts as Klofman, Quack, Gemini, Imotis, Hawk, Larry, and Lizard and myself, Roadog, made the trip.
Larry's wife, not an NTN nut, got a bit peeved at him for wasting the gas, but this is only about 14 miles away.
We did pretty well, actually beating Dennis at Fargo Lounge a couple times in Appeteasers where we had a #2, #1, and #1.
On the regular games we had #7, 2, 6, 5, 8, 5, 2, 9, and 13. Reckon we put Donovan's on the board.
Most of us had the excellent Maxwell Street Polish special for $3.50 which came with fries. Vaughn can really cook 'em up.
We'll have to do this again.
It was organized by Paintr. Such Folks stalwarts as Klofman, Quack, Gemini, Imotis, Hawk, Larry, and Lizard and myself, Roadog, made the trip.
Larry's wife, not an NTN nut, got a bit peeved at him for wasting the gas, but this is only about 14 miles away.
We did pretty well, actually beating Dennis at Fargo Lounge a couple times in Appeteasers where we had a #2, #1, and #1.
On the regular games we had #7, 2, 6, 5, 8, 5, 2, 9, and 13. Reckon we put Donovan's on the board.
Most of us had the excellent Maxwell Street Polish special for $3.50 which came with fries. Vaughn can really cook 'em up.
We'll have to do this again.
Now Here's Some Big-Time 'Cue!!
Cane across an article about the World's Biggest BBQ in Uruguay this past Sunday. Now, this was BIG!! and even set a World Record.
Some 1,250 Uruguayans grilled up 26,400 pounds of beef, beating the old record of 17,600 pounds set in Mexico in 2006.
They used 6 tons of charcoal in 15000 metal bbq stands.
Uruguay is a big-time ranching and farming country. Last year, they exported over one billion pounds of beef.
Twenty thousand spectators made short work of all that 'cue.
Sorry Carolina, this was beef.
Where's the Pork? --RoadDog
Some 1,250 Uruguayans grilled up 26,400 pounds of beef, beating the old record of 17,600 pounds set in Mexico in 2006.
They used 6 tons of charcoal in 15000 metal bbq stands.
Uruguay is a big-time ranching and farming country. Last year, they exported over one billion pounds of beef.
Twenty thousand spectators made short work of all that 'cue.
Sorry Carolina, this was beef.
Where's the Pork? --RoadDog
Monday, April 14, 2008
Got Back-- Part 3
Left Lebanon, Indiana, on Thursday, on was rained on all day. Just love driving in the rain. Fortunately, it was not a downpour.
Took I-65 northwest with the intention of looking for a route west to Illinois before I hit the big mass of sprawl and traffic by US-30, the old Lincoln Highway. Next time through, I will take Indiana Hwy 10 at Roselawn over to Illinois. As it was, I stayed on I-65 to Lowell and ended up taking US-41 to US-30 as there weren't any good roads going west.
At least there was a White Castle at the intersection of those two roads so got a taste. Gads, White Castles went up 3 cents to 55 cents because of this inflation that is not happening.
FUN AND GAMES IN CHICAGOLAND
Planned on taking the Lincoln Highway to Joliet, but missed a turn somewhere. Ended up taking Il-394 to US-6 and going west. I don't suggest this. It was traffic and stoplights the whole way. I went under one big underpass where the garbage was all over the place and the potholes hadtheir own potholes.
Took Il-7 to Lockport and eventually caught up with US-30 again to my Il-47 Chicago by-pass.
All along, I got to see gas prices rise significantly once in Chicagoland. Usually it was $3.50 to $3.60!!! Thanks Big Oil GRBs.
All in All, a Pretty Miserable Day of Driving.
Took I-65 northwest with the intention of looking for a route west to Illinois before I hit the big mass of sprawl and traffic by US-30, the old Lincoln Highway. Next time through, I will take Indiana Hwy 10 at Roselawn over to Illinois. As it was, I stayed on I-65 to Lowell and ended up taking US-41 to US-30 as there weren't any good roads going west.
At least there was a White Castle at the intersection of those two roads so got a taste. Gads, White Castles went up 3 cents to 55 cents because of this inflation that is not happening.
FUN AND GAMES IN CHICAGOLAND
Planned on taking the Lincoln Highway to Joliet, but missed a turn somewhere. Ended up taking Il-394 to US-6 and going west. I don't suggest this. It was traffic and stoplights the whole way. I went under one big underpass where the garbage was all over the place and the potholes hadtheir own potholes.
Took Il-7 to Lockport and eventually caught up with US-30 again to my Il-47 Chicago by-pass.
All along, I got to see gas prices rise significantly once in Chicagoland. Usually it was $3.50 to $3.60!!! Thanks Big Oil GRBs.
All in All, a Pretty Miserable Day of Driving.
And I Thought Chicago was the Most Miserable Sports City
Forbes has compiled a list of the ten most miserable sports cities in the US according to how well their pro teams have fared in championships. Now, I would have figured Chicago would have been on the list because of our Cubbies, but not so.
Forbes used a complicated set of criteria and also mentioned sports teams lost to other cities over the years.
Here is the list and teams lost:
1. Atlanta-- Flames
2. Seattle-- none-- How about MLB's Pilots?
3. Buffalo-- Braves
4. Phoenix-- none
5. San Diego-- Rockets and Clippers
6. Houston-- Oilers
7. Denver-- NHL's Rockies
8. Cleveland-- Rams, Barons, original Browns
9. Philadelphia-- Athletics, Warriors
10. Minneapolis-St. Paul-- Lakers, North Stars
We'll make a separate category for the long-suffering Cubbies.
Who's Have Figured? --RoadDog
Forbes used a complicated set of criteria and also mentioned sports teams lost to other cities over the years.
Here is the list and teams lost:
1. Atlanta-- Flames
2. Seattle-- none-- How about MLB's Pilots?
3. Buffalo-- Braves
4. Phoenix-- none
5. San Diego-- Rockets and Clippers
6. Houston-- Oilers
7. Denver-- NHL's Rockies
8. Cleveland-- Rams, Barons, original Browns
9. Philadelphia-- Athletics, Warriors
10. Minneapolis-St. Paul-- Lakers, North Stars
We'll make a separate category for the long-suffering Cubbies.
Who's Have Figured? --RoadDog
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Perhaps Spring is Here
Woke up this morning to a smattering of snow on the ground and temps in the 30s. Overcast at first, but now sunny and snow has melted. Saw a robin hopping along the top of the deck railing and kicking up snow as he went along earlier in the day.
Trees are budding and bulbs are coming up. When I went out to put seed in the birdfeeder, I saw that one group of daffodills were blooming. Cut one and brought it in for what is to me the real smell of spring. This group of daffodills is always the first to bloom because of their location on the south side of the house and by it. Plus, the furnace vent is right there.
Perhaps spring is about here after all.
Temps are supposed to get up to the upper 60s mid 70s by Wednesday!!!
It's About Time. --RoadDog
Trees are budding and bulbs are coming up. When I went out to put seed in the birdfeeder, I saw that one group of daffodills were blooming. Cut one and brought it in for what is to me the real smell of spring. This group of daffodills is always the first to bloom because of their location on the south side of the house and by it. Plus, the furnace vent is right there.
Perhaps spring is about here after all.
Temps are supposed to get up to the upper 60s mid 70s by Wednesday!!!
It's About Time. --RoadDog
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