Happy New Year! Of course, by this time tomorrow, the actual first day of 2009,most of us will have broken half of our precious “New Year’s Resolutions”!
There is something magic about a new year- a fresh start to make changes, improvements and generally increase the quality of life. Maybe That's why so many people dive right in!
I Googled “Top New Years Resolutions” to find out what other people say is a priority. The two top results offer different lists, with some common items, of course. I will supply the links here so you can see for yourself, but here is the list from our top Google site, About.com:Pittsburgh:
1) Spend More Time With Family
2) Fit In Fitness
3) Tame The Bulge (lose weight)
4) Quit Smoking
5) Enjoy Life More (whatever THAT means)
6) Quit Drinking
7) Get Out of Debt
8) Learn Something New
9) Help Others
10) Get Organized!
Here is the link: http://pittsburgh.about.com/od/holidays/tp/resolutions.htm
The second most popular site was USA.gov-here is their Top 13:
1) Lose Weight
2) Manage Debt
3) Save Money
4) Get A Better Job
5) Get Fit
6) Eat Right
7) Get A Better Education
8) Drink Less Alcohol
9) Quit Smoking Now
10) Reduce Stress Overall
11) Reduce Stress At Work
12) Take A Trip
13) Volunteer to Help Others
Here is that link: http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/New_Years_Resolutions.shtml
Both lists have a lot of commonality-and a lot of common sense! We’d all do well to focus on the even 2-3 of these—AND MAKE’EM STICK!!
Good luck…but I love you just the way you are!
If you’d like to receive my daily blog as an E-MAIL in your in-box (it would come directly and personally from me, so there is no “list-selling” or passing along your e-mail to anyone else), just e-mail me at the address below-just state somewhere in the e-mail that you’d like to receive the Tim Moore blog! (it’s FREE!)
Tim.moore@citcomm.com
Again…Happy New Year!!!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
The 94.9 WHOM Community
As 2008 winds down, it’s amazing to look back at all the changes that have occurred in the past year!
Aside from the historic election and all the news events of the year, there have been quite a few changes here at WHOM. My return to the airwaves fulltime is one of those changes and doing this daily blog is another.
As I think about it, there is a common bond among WHOM listeners, no matter where they may reside. It used to be that our audience was “confined” to 5 states and Canada—not bad, since WHOM is the largest FM station (coverage-wise) in North America. Obviously, the bulk of that audience is still in Northern New England. However, the emergence of the internet and streaming has expanded WHOM’s audience worldwide! (We got a nice e-mail from Croatia the other day-amazing!)
What we have discovered is that regardless of where a WHOM listener lives, there are some common features that make the WHOM “profile”. At the risk of making us (or you!) appear a snob, here are a few:
1) WHOM listeners are generally better educated than the population at large. They tend to be either owners of businesses, upper-level management in business, writers, teachers, doctors , lawyers, professionals and the like. Even those whose occupations are more mundane seem to have a higher level of intellect and curiosity than the average person. Those who are in what I call “regular” jobs tend to see their work as a means to an end (paycheck), but do not “define” themselves by their job. These people are often VERY active in some OTHER area outside of work-where they have an opportunity to demonstrate their creativity and passion.
2) WHOM listeners are diverse in their music tastes. They want to hear everything from “My Girl” by the Temptations to “Walk Away” by Kelly Clarkson. Aside from an aversion to “rap” and screaming, WHOM listeners have a wide appreciation for music-which explains the scope of tunes we play.
3) WHOM Listeners tend to be rather spiritual. Not necessarily “religious” (although many are), but spiritual in the sense that WHOM listeners tend to see the “bigger picture”, whatever their personal definition of that may be.
4) WHOM listeners are not hugely into radio contests, but will play ones that are easy to enter-and where the prizes are decent enough to make the effort! Many of our listeners will never call to PLAY the 5 Second Song or “Wicked Hard Morning Trivia”, but they nonetheless “play along” in the car or wherever.
5) WHOM listeners come to us to ESCAPE! While morning headlines may need to include distressing stories that you need to be aware of, we try to filter out as much of the negativity as we can.
6) WHOM listeners are friendly! OK, so now it sounds like I’m sucking up, but it is true that our listeners are some of the sweetest, kindest people on earth! After many thousands of you have made contact with the station over the years, I can present myself as an authority in this matter!
In about a week, I will celebrate my 18th anniversary of being with WHOM, so the above list is gleaned from a deep and long association with you, the WHOM listener!
Starting today, I will be making my blog available to you as an E-MAIL, sent directly to you! All you have to do is e-mail me below and let me know you’d like to receive the blog in your in-box!
Tim.moore@citcomm.com
I will personally send it to you daily!
Aside from the historic election and all the news events of the year, there have been quite a few changes here at WHOM. My return to the airwaves fulltime is one of those changes and doing this daily blog is another.
As I think about it, there is a common bond among WHOM listeners, no matter where they may reside. It used to be that our audience was “confined” to 5 states and Canada—not bad, since WHOM is the largest FM station (coverage-wise) in North America. Obviously, the bulk of that audience is still in Northern New England. However, the emergence of the internet and streaming has expanded WHOM’s audience worldwide! (We got a nice e-mail from Croatia the other day-amazing!)
What we have discovered is that regardless of where a WHOM listener lives, there are some common features that make the WHOM “profile”. At the risk of making us (or you!) appear a snob, here are a few:
1) WHOM listeners are generally better educated than the population at large. They tend to be either owners of businesses, upper-level management in business, writers, teachers, doctors , lawyers, professionals and the like. Even those whose occupations are more mundane seem to have a higher level of intellect and curiosity than the average person. Those who are in what I call “regular” jobs tend to see their work as a means to an end (paycheck), but do not “define” themselves by their job. These people are often VERY active in some OTHER area outside of work-where they have an opportunity to demonstrate their creativity and passion.
2) WHOM listeners are diverse in their music tastes. They want to hear everything from “My Girl” by the Temptations to “Walk Away” by Kelly Clarkson. Aside from an aversion to “rap” and screaming, WHOM listeners have a wide appreciation for music-which explains the scope of tunes we play.
3) WHOM Listeners tend to be rather spiritual. Not necessarily “religious” (although many are), but spiritual in the sense that WHOM listeners tend to see the “bigger picture”, whatever their personal definition of that may be.
4) WHOM listeners are not hugely into radio contests, but will play ones that are easy to enter-and where the prizes are decent enough to make the effort! Many of our listeners will never call to PLAY the 5 Second Song or “Wicked Hard Morning Trivia”, but they nonetheless “play along” in the car or wherever.
5) WHOM listeners come to us to ESCAPE! While morning headlines may need to include distressing stories that you need to be aware of, we try to filter out as much of the negativity as we can.
6) WHOM listeners are friendly! OK, so now it sounds like I’m sucking up, but it is true that our listeners are some of the sweetest, kindest people on earth! After many thousands of you have made contact with the station over the years, I can present myself as an authority in this matter!
In about a week, I will celebrate my 18th anniversary of being with WHOM, so the above list is gleaned from a deep and long association with you, the WHOM listener!
Starting today, I will be making my blog available to you as an E-MAIL, sent directly to you! All you have to do is e-mail me below and let me know you’d like to receive the blog in your in-box!
Tim.moore@citcomm.com
I will personally send it to you daily!
Monday, December 29, 2008
The Week In Between
Ah, back to the grind this week! Many people will take this week off….others will “go” to work without really getting much accomplished (see my blog re: the holidays)
This is actually one of my favorites weeks of the year. The phones are relatively slow, the e-mail torrent is a trickle-and there are just plain fewer folks in the office.
That means a fresh start to the new year. Some of the things you can accomplish this week include:
1) Cleaning your office/cubicle/workspace, tossing out all the crap that has been piling up
2) Install you new daytimer or calendar programs for 2009
3) Close out 2008 files and start ones for the new year
4) Catch up on your correspondence from the hectic holidays
5) THINK about what you would like to accomplish in the new year
Number 5 is especially important. Divide your life into it’s various component parts-as you have distinctively different “roles”. There is WORK, FAMILY, PERSONAL-and maybe you can come up with others.
Assess how effective you were in 2008 in each of your roles. Then, make your list of GOALS for 2009.
It’s a cliché, but it’s true: “Failure to plan is actually planning to fail!”
Here’s hoping this week is productive for you as you wrap up ’08!
This is actually one of my favorites weeks of the year. The phones are relatively slow, the e-mail torrent is a trickle-and there are just plain fewer folks in the office.
That means a fresh start to the new year. Some of the things you can accomplish this week include:
1) Cleaning your office/cubicle/workspace, tossing out all the crap that has been piling up
2) Install you new daytimer or calendar programs for 2009
3) Close out 2008 files and start ones for the new year
4) Catch up on your correspondence from the hectic holidays
5) THINK about what you would like to accomplish in the new year
Number 5 is especially important. Divide your life into it’s various component parts-as you have distinctively different “roles”. There is WORK, FAMILY, PERSONAL-and maybe you can come up with others.
Assess how effective you were in 2008 in each of your roles. Then, make your list of GOALS for 2009.
It’s a cliché, but it’s true: “Failure to plan is actually planning to fail!”
Here’s hoping this week is productive for you as you wrap up ’08!
Friday, December 26, 2008
Deception At The Point Of Giving
Here’s hoping you had a Merry Christmas!
After logging MANY hours on the air, I am back to playing our regular format of Light Rock on 94.9 WHOM—not that I don’t love the Christmas tunes….it was just time(at midnight last night) to move on!
Many of us are fresh from our Academy Award-winning performances of unwrapping horrible gifts in front of the people who gave them to us. When revealing an ugly shirt or cheap gadget, you must disguise the look of disgust on your face. In fact, you need to act as if you have just received a winning Powerball ticket:
“Oh, my goodness! What an AWESOME gift! How on earth have I SURVIVED without the Clapper?”
“Wow! How clever are those Chinese! Who else would of thought of McCain/Obama salt and pepper shakers?!”
“I’m certain that doubleknit Nehru jackets are coming back into style! I’ll be the FIRST in my neighborhood to have one!”
“A lawn ornament of Daffy Duck with wind-propelled crazy spinning legs was on my list last year, but nobody got it for me!”
Of course, the challenge is to:
a) Not run into the person who bestowed upon you said crappy gift at the exchange/return counter.
b) Find a way to (at least ONCE in the near future) actually wear or display the offending item in front of the gifter.
This, of course, means inviting that person of extreme bad taste into your home. This is convenient for clothing, since that way you won’t be seen leaving the house wearing the plaid leisure suit. Only your other family members and pets will be subjected to the pain of having to withhold either uproarious laughter or vomit while entertaining the offender in your living room.
Displaying those hideous items in your home can be a one-and-only-one time event too:
“Say, could you please pass the Obama? My steak needs a bit of seasoning!”
My feeling is that after ONE “sighting”, the giftee and gifter never have to uphold the pretense that the item was ever valued.
Future questions can be answered using the little white lies we employ to spare other people’s feelings. For instance, if the giver asks why he/she hasn’t seen in you that wide-lapel turquoise smoking jacket, you can answer with a rueful laugh about how ironic it is that a smoking jacket somehow itself caught fire and was completely burned to a cinder.
How unfortunate.
I was VERY fortunate to have received all winners from my family-no acting needed!
My wish is that Santa (in all of his various forms) gave you EXACTLY what you wanted this year. If you got a real bummer of a present, feel free to share it with me as a comment or right to my e-mail at: tim.moore@citcomm.com
After logging MANY hours on the air, I am back to playing our regular format of Light Rock on 94.9 WHOM—not that I don’t love the Christmas tunes….it was just time(at midnight last night) to move on!
Many of us are fresh from our Academy Award-winning performances of unwrapping horrible gifts in front of the people who gave them to us. When revealing an ugly shirt or cheap gadget, you must disguise the look of disgust on your face. In fact, you need to act as if you have just received a winning Powerball ticket:
“Oh, my goodness! What an AWESOME gift! How on earth have I SURVIVED without the Clapper?”
“Wow! How clever are those Chinese! Who else would of thought of McCain/Obama salt and pepper shakers?!”
“I’m certain that doubleknit Nehru jackets are coming back into style! I’ll be the FIRST in my neighborhood to have one!”
“A lawn ornament of Daffy Duck with wind-propelled crazy spinning legs was on my list last year, but nobody got it for me!”
Of course, the challenge is to:
a) Not run into the person who bestowed upon you said crappy gift at the exchange/return counter.
b) Find a way to (at least ONCE in the near future) actually wear or display the offending item in front of the gifter.
This, of course, means inviting that person of extreme bad taste into your home. This is convenient for clothing, since that way you won’t be seen leaving the house wearing the plaid leisure suit. Only your other family members and pets will be subjected to the pain of having to withhold either uproarious laughter or vomit while entertaining the offender in your living room.
Displaying those hideous items in your home can be a one-and-only-one time event too:
“Say, could you please pass the Obama? My steak needs a bit of seasoning!”
My feeling is that after ONE “sighting”, the giftee and gifter never have to uphold the pretense that the item was ever valued.
Future questions can be answered using the little white lies we employ to spare other people’s feelings. For instance, if the giver asks why he/she hasn’t seen in you that wide-lapel turquoise smoking jacket, you can answer with a rueful laugh about how ironic it is that a smoking jacket somehow itself caught fire and was completely burned to a cinder.
How unfortunate.
I was VERY fortunate to have received all winners from my family-no acting needed!
My wish is that Santa (in all of his various forms) gave you EXACTLY what you wanted this year. If you got a real bummer of a present, feel free to share it with me as a comment or right to my e-mail at: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Merry Christmas!
We’ve just kicked off our “Home For The Holidays” 36 hours of commercial-free Christmas music!
I’ll be on the air A LOT from now through the weekend, so I’ll dispense with my usual RANT to simply wish all of you a very Merry Christmas! It has been a challenging year-and yet there is so much to be grateful for.
The “attitude of gratitude” will keep you healthy and happy (just ask John Tesh!) My wishes for a restful and blessed Christmas..remember the reason for the season!
Merry Christmas!
I’ll be on the air A LOT from now through the weekend, so I’ll dispense with my usual RANT to simply wish all of you a very Merry Christmas! It has been a challenging year-and yet there is so much to be grateful for.
The “attitude of gratitude” will keep you healthy and happy (just ask John Tesh!) My wishes for a restful and blessed Christmas..remember the reason for the season!
Merry Christmas!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Deserted Office
One of the byproducts of the holiday season is a pronounced decrease in personnel around workplaces across America.
People are simply out shopping. Offices are virtual ghost towns.
They may be calling in sick, calling in with phantom car trouble or childcare issues, but the truth is that they are all at the Mall.
Contrast this with the legitimate “late lunch”-turning an hour into two or so—all with the prior knowledge and approval of the boss, who is hoping said employee is shopping for THEM.
Part of the problem stems from the idea that no one wants to actually DO anything because it’s the “holidays”…… Huh?
“Sorry, we won’t be able to get to that until after the New Year”. Hey, it’s OCTOBER! OK, maybe that’s exaggerating things a bit, but----not much! The holidays are a built-in excuse for failing to get the job done. No matter that no one wants to conduct normal business. For salespeople, the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is horrid for getting decision-makers to make a commitment.
“See me after the holidays”, they say.
“OK”, you say, forgetting to add that you may STARVE before you get to call on them again.
For those of us on the air, the holidays are anything but. You’ll hear me on 94.9 WHOM (I hope) for a good chunk of Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s…you get the picture. Not that I don’t love it…after all, most people would never consider what I do WORK. Digging ditches, rearing children, brain surgeon….all tough work. Disc Jockey?
Hardly.
“Hey, can you play me a song?”
See me after the holidays.
People are simply out shopping. Offices are virtual ghost towns.
They may be calling in sick, calling in with phantom car trouble or childcare issues, but the truth is that they are all at the Mall.
Contrast this with the legitimate “late lunch”-turning an hour into two or so—all with the prior knowledge and approval of the boss, who is hoping said employee is shopping for THEM.
Part of the problem stems from the idea that no one wants to actually DO anything because it’s the “holidays”…… Huh?
“Sorry, we won’t be able to get to that until after the New Year”. Hey, it’s OCTOBER! OK, maybe that’s exaggerating things a bit, but----not much! The holidays are a built-in excuse for failing to get the job done. No matter that no one wants to conduct normal business. For salespeople, the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is horrid for getting decision-makers to make a commitment.
“See me after the holidays”, they say.
“OK”, you say, forgetting to add that you may STARVE before you get to call on them again.
For those of us on the air, the holidays are anything but. You’ll hear me on 94.9 WHOM (I hope) for a good chunk of Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s…you get the picture. Not that I don’t love it…after all, most people would never consider what I do WORK. Digging ditches, rearing children, brain surgeon….all tough work. Disc Jockey?
Hardly.
“Hey, can you play me a song?”
See me after the holidays.
Monday, December 22, 2008
The Zombie Walk
As the days slip away and my Christmas gift list DOESN’T shrink, I take on a demeanor that maybe you’ve seen in the Mall before.
It’s the “Zombie Walk”—and you will most certainly witness it even if you don’t experience it yourself. The Zombie Walk usually afflicts men trying to buy something for the wives. The hallmarks include a shuffling of the feet as the eyes are almost completely glazed over. Victims are not only those personally afflicted, but also the sales clerks they come in contact with. These unfortunate souls are saddled with the weighty problem of making a sale to an idiot for someone who is even more unfortunate to have married said idiot.
The Zombie Walk is simply aimless shopping in a catatonic state. You don’t know what to purchase-and this haphazard wandering (sometimes followed by babbling in the corner of the store) manifests itself most acutely on Christmas Eve, when gift items that never would have passed muster a week prior-all of a sudden start to look appealing.
Imagine her delight when she unwraps the nosehair clipper!
See you in the doghouse! (here’s that link again)
http://bewareofthedoghouse.com/videoPage.aspx
It’s the “Zombie Walk”—and you will most certainly witness it even if you don’t experience it yourself. The Zombie Walk usually afflicts men trying to buy something for the wives. The hallmarks include a shuffling of the feet as the eyes are almost completely glazed over. Victims are not only those personally afflicted, but also the sales clerks they come in contact with. These unfortunate souls are saddled with the weighty problem of making a sale to an idiot for someone who is even more unfortunate to have married said idiot.
The Zombie Walk is simply aimless shopping in a catatonic state. You don’t know what to purchase-and this haphazard wandering (sometimes followed by babbling in the corner of the store) manifests itself most acutely on Christmas Eve, when gift items that never would have passed muster a week prior-all of a sudden start to look appealing.
Imagine her delight when she unwraps the nosehair clipper!
See you in the doghouse! (here’s that link again)
http://bewareofthedoghouse.com/videoPage.aspx
Friday, December 19, 2008
Batten Down The Hatches!
Here we go! Winter is happening big time out there right now…..this is a sorry excuse for a blog, as I need to go fetch my coat, my gloves…..and CAN SOMEONE FIND ME A SHOVEL!!!!!!!!!!???????
I deferred on buying a snowblower again this season and I haven’t arranged for someone to plow me out…so it’s yours truly with a wooden dowel supporting a cheap plastic blade to clear out my driveway, my sidewalk, my deck, etc.
My back hurts already.
Anybody want to join me in buying timeshare in Florida until, say……JUNE?
I deferred on buying a snowblower again this season and I haven’t arranged for someone to plow me out…so it’s yours truly with a wooden dowel supporting a cheap plastic blade to clear out my driveway, my sidewalk, my deck, etc.
My back hurts already.
Anybody want to join me in buying timeshare in Florida until, say……JUNE?
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Parking Etiquette
As the holiday season heads into the final week—and shoppers become more frantic, you’ll see an increase in PLR, which, of course, is more commonly known as Parking Lot Rage.
PLR increases after Thanksgiving and reaches a crescendo on Christmas Eve at around 5pm. The source of PLR is naturally: too many cars and not enough parking spaces in any given parking lot. The culprits are not always behind the wheel.
Here are some scenarios you may recognize:
1) THE INTERLOPER- In this situation, you see someone pulling out of a space. While you are patiently waiting for the exiting car to leave- someone else comes from the OTHER side and charges into the space that you were there first for. I don’t throw “justifiable homicide” around lightly, but there isn’t a jury anywhere within shouting distance of a Mall that would convict you.
2) THE DAWDLER- Yes, these shoppers returning to their car SEE you waiting there, but they have to take their sweet time in unloading their packages into the car. Some will finish their coffee, apply makeup or sit around talking on their cell phone instead of being considerate and GETTING THE HELL OUT OF THE SPACE!!!!!! Ahem….sorry.
3) THE SPACE HOG-This idiot usually is driving a really fine set of wheels. He or she believes that such a nice ride deserves to be protected from scratches and dents. The best way to do this, of course, to take MORE THAN ONE SPACE. Sometimes, this is done overtly (parking diagonally across two or more spaces)-other times, it is crossing “over the line” just enough to keep anyone driving anything other than a Mini Cooper from using the adjacent space. Unfortunately for them, they are often the targets of vandalism from those afflicted with PLR (serves them right)
4) CAR STALKER-After a few rounds up and down every lane-with no open spaces in sight, PLR victims will begin stalking their prey (you) as you stroll through the parking lot on the way to your car. If you are making your way to your vehicle, nonchalantly glance over your shoulder to see if you are being followed by one or more cars. Yes, they are following you to your vehicle, where a fresh space appears imminent. This may incite PLR in you, but will definitely trigger rage amongst the following caravan of drivers if it appears-even for a minute—that you have forgotten where you have left your SUV. Any backtracking at all could elicit profanity directed your way. Of course, you can have your own fun by darting quickly across three lines of cars, thus thwarting the car stalker. If you decide to do this, I suggest that you refer to #2 above and EXIT YOUR SPACE QUICKLY.
Good luck—be careful out there—and don’t BE/DO any of the above
PLR increases after Thanksgiving and reaches a crescendo on Christmas Eve at around 5pm. The source of PLR is naturally: too many cars and not enough parking spaces in any given parking lot. The culprits are not always behind the wheel.
Here are some scenarios you may recognize:
1) THE INTERLOPER- In this situation, you see someone pulling out of a space. While you are patiently waiting for the exiting car to leave- someone else comes from the OTHER side and charges into the space that you were there first for. I don’t throw “justifiable homicide” around lightly, but there isn’t a jury anywhere within shouting distance of a Mall that would convict you.
2) THE DAWDLER- Yes, these shoppers returning to their car SEE you waiting there, but they have to take their sweet time in unloading their packages into the car. Some will finish their coffee, apply makeup or sit around talking on their cell phone instead of being considerate and GETTING THE HELL OUT OF THE SPACE!!!!!! Ahem….sorry.
3) THE SPACE HOG-This idiot usually is driving a really fine set of wheels. He or she believes that such a nice ride deserves to be protected from scratches and dents. The best way to do this, of course, to take MORE THAN ONE SPACE. Sometimes, this is done overtly (parking diagonally across two or more spaces)-other times, it is crossing “over the line” just enough to keep anyone driving anything other than a Mini Cooper from using the adjacent space. Unfortunately for them, they are often the targets of vandalism from those afflicted with PLR (serves them right)
4) CAR STALKER-After a few rounds up and down every lane-with no open spaces in sight, PLR victims will begin stalking their prey (you) as you stroll through the parking lot on the way to your car. If you are making your way to your vehicle, nonchalantly glance over your shoulder to see if you are being followed by one or more cars. Yes, they are following you to your vehicle, where a fresh space appears imminent. This may incite PLR in you, but will definitely trigger rage amongst the following caravan of drivers if it appears-even for a minute—that you have forgotten where you have left your SUV. Any backtracking at all could elicit profanity directed your way. Of course, you can have your own fun by darting quickly across three lines of cars, thus thwarting the car stalker. If you decide to do this, I suggest that you refer to #2 above and EXIT YOUR SPACE QUICKLY.
Good luck—be careful out there—and don’t BE/DO any of the above
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Santa Needs Help Sometimes
Completely unbeknownst to my daily afternoon audience yesterday, I did a good part of the show as Santa Claus, complete with jolly red suit, beard and boots.
Why, you ask?
Well, it was the Citadel Broadcasting of Portland Holiday Party (see YESTERDAY’S blog on office Christmas parties)-and unlike years past, when it was strictly an adult affair with lots of cocktails, this year, we decided to make it a family affair, right down to the kiddies. And what is a kids Christmas party without a visit from Santa?
The trick of course, was to not miss a break on the radio while fulfilling my Clausly Duties in the WHOM Conference Room, the scene of the mayhem
I must say up front that the REAL Santa is busy right now, assembling Nintendos and plasma screen TVs at the North Pole. My job was to be a reasonable facsimile for the sake of the little ones. My 8 year old Kevin was made aware of this-and enthusiastically volunteered to be Santa’s helper. Of course, he was indispensable, from helping old Santa climb into his Deluxe Santa Suit from Marden’s to basically leading the Jolly Elf from one place to another..once the beard and wig and glasses are on, Santa is blind as a bat.
Luckily, no disasters yesterday. I “Ho-Ho-Ho’ed” my way through a sack of goodies-and perhaps because the kids had a not-so-healthy sugar headstart with snacks, there was none of the Santa-phobia that anyone who has ever stuffed himself into the felt suit has experienced. In fact, the kids nearly tackled me. Between the gentle “Santa loves you” greetings directed at the youngsters to the “slightly PG-13” comments made for the benefit of the adults, it was clear that Santa didn’t frighten anyone. Whew!
Aside from having my Santa laugh compared to that of Herman Munster (which, as it turns out was 100% accurate), my guess is that most of the grownups were too busy eating, drinking and making sure their kids didn’t get stiffed by Saint Nick in the gift department to take much notice of the many imperfections of the appearance.
There really is something that happens once that suit goes on…truly. I can’t explain it, but it SO real that you have to experience it to appreciate it fully. If transporting yourself into the “Christmas mood” is difficult-and 94.9 WHOM’s continuous holiday music doesn’t do the trick…I suggest playing Santa.
Guaranteed to work.
Hurry, there’s ONE Santa Suit left at Marden’s---an absolute STEAL at $69.95!
Why, you ask?
Well, it was the Citadel Broadcasting of Portland Holiday Party (see YESTERDAY’S blog on office Christmas parties)-and unlike years past, when it was strictly an adult affair with lots of cocktails, this year, we decided to make it a family affair, right down to the kiddies. And what is a kids Christmas party without a visit from Santa?
The trick of course, was to not miss a break on the radio while fulfilling my Clausly Duties in the WHOM Conference Room, the scene of the mayhem
I must say up front that the REAL Santa is busy right now, assembling Nintendos and plasma screen TVs at the North Pole. My job was to be a reasonable facsimile for the sake of the little ones. My 8 year old Kevin was made aware of this-and enthusiastically volunteered to be Santa’s helper. Of course, he was indispensable, from helping old Santa climb into his Deluxe Santa Suit from Marden’s to basically leading the Jolly Elf from one place to another..once the beard and wig and glasses are on, Santa is blind as a bat.
Luckily, no disasters yesterday. I “Ho-Ho-Ho’ed” my way through a sack of goodies-and perhaps because the kids had a not-so-healthy sugar headstart with snacks, there was none of the Santa-phobia that anyone who has ever stuffed himself into the felt suit has experienced. In fact, the kids nearly tackled me. Between the gentle “Santa loves you” greetings directed at the youngsters to the “slightly PG-13” comments made for the benefit of the adults, it was clear that Santa didn’t frighten anyone. Whew!
Aside from having my Santa laugh compared to that of Herman Munster (which, as it turns out was 100% accurate), my guess is that most of the grownups were too busy eating, drinking and making sure their kids didn’t get stiffed by Saint Nick in the gift department to take much notice of the many imperfections of the appearance.
There really is something that happens once that suit goes on…truly. I can’t explain it, but it SO real that you have to experience it to appreciate it fully. If transporting yourself into the “Christmas mood” is difficult-and 94.9 WHOM’s continuous holiday music doesn’t do the trick…I suggest playing Santa.
Guaranteed to work.
Hurry, there’s ONE Santa Suit left at Marden’s---an absolute STEAL at $69.95!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Office Christmas Parties
There should be a book written about office Christmas parties. Nowhere else are your co-workers so defined forever in the minds of their colleagues than at the annual festive gathering. More careers are lost here than even the summer company picnic.
Eggnog is the culprit. So, too, are all of its alcoholic cousins, turning what we all thought were well-behaved coworkers into rear-end pinching, dirty joke telling, lampshade wearing fools.
What better time to tell the boss what a jerk he or she is than at the company Christmas party? Of course, it isn’t done OVERTLY. It comes in the form of alcohol-induced sarcasm and “humor” aimed at the group in general. Only problem is that the only person laughing is the boss’s spouse (and that REALLY isn’t good)-and you-until you see the blank stares returned following your “killer” punchline.
God help you if there is a “Yankee Swap” or other lame excuse for gift giving. It doesn’t matter that you purchased a nice desk set for someone else’s delight. The lingering memory will be the one of YOU unwrapping the gigantic vibrator-or other adult sex toy (“hey, it’s just a JOKE!”)
Some parties are compulsory. If a bonus is given at your holiday party, it might as well be. People show up to grab the goodies and then scram. Of course, if your company has a reputation for giving you, say, a HAM for Christmas…you might decide to insure your career by NOT attending and just get your own ham.
The only advice to give is….DON’T DRINK…and if you must drink, have ONE….and nurse it all night. Staying employed is tough enough in this economy without you contributing to your own demise by acting like an imbecile!
Merry Christmas!
Eggnog is the culprit. So, too, are all of its alcoholic cousins, turning what we all thought were well-behaved coworkers into rear-end pinching, dirty joke telling, lampshade wearing fools.
What better time to tell the boss what a jerk he or she is than at the company Christmas party? Of course, it isn’t done OVERTLY. It comes in the form of alcohol-induced sarcasm and “humor” aimed at the group in general. Only problem is that the only person laughing is the boss’s spouse (and that REALLY isn’t good)-and you-until you see the blank stares returned following your “killer” punchline.
God help you if there is a “Yankee Swap” or other lame excuse for gift giving. It doesn’t matter that you purchased a nice desk set for someone else’s delight. The lingering memory will be the one of YOU unwrapping the gigantic vibrator-or other adult sex toy (“hey, it’s just a JOKE!”)
Some parties are compulsory. If a bonus is given at your holiday party, it might as well be. People show up to grab the goodies and then scram. Of course, if your company has a reputation for giving you, say, a HAM for Christmas…you might decide to insure your career by NOT attending and just get your own ham.
The only advice to give is….DON’T DRINK…and if you must drink, have ONE….and nurse it all night. Staying employed is tough enough in this economy without you contributing to your own demise by acting like an imbecile!
Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Ice Storm Aftermath
Well, it got into the 50’s in Portland today…hard to believe that Friday was a complete freakshow. The ice storm toppled trees, utility poles and caused widespread damage across the northeast.
I am still talking with people who still have no power- and haven’t been able to take a shower. Employers in the area have to balance their company’s staffing needs with some measure of compassion over the plight of their employees. Some bosses have been great—we’ve heard about them….and of course, some others have been heartless jerks.
Naturally, though, it’s a two-way street. I spoke to at least one boss who said that several of her employees “used” the ice storm to take a day or two off. She predicted ahead of time just who on her staff would be opportunistic…and she was dead-on right.
Unless you CANNOT get to work, why would the power being off cause you to completely miss the day (child care issues excluded)? When an employee says, “I can’t come in, there’s no heat in my house”, I would be tempted to reply, “Well, that’s fine, because there IS heat here in the office! Come on down and warm up!” Obviously, a lot of businesses were among those without the juice. Going to work wasn’t an option.
Inch by inch, we will drag ourselves out of this latest storm, as we have with those in the past. Again, my salute to the CMP and Public Service of New Hampshire crews-as well as their counterparts in all states affected!
WHERE WOULD WE BE WITHOUT YOU? (cold & dirty with a fridge full of spoiled food, that’s where..)
I am still talking with people who still have no power- and haven’t been able to take a shower. Employers in the area have to balance their company’s staffing needs with some measure of compassion over the plight of their employees. Some bosses have been great—we’ve heard about them….and of course, some others have been heartless jerks.
Naturally, though, it’s a two-way street. I spoke to at least one boss who said that several of her employees “used” the ice storm to take a day or two off. She predicted ahead of time just who on her staff would be opportunistic…and she was dead-on right.
Unless you CANNOT get to work, why would the power being off cause you to completely miss the day (child care issues excluded)? When an employee says, “I can’t come in, there’s no heat in my house”, I would be tempted to reply, “Well, that’s fine, because there IS heat here in the office! Come on down and warm up!” Obviously, a lot of businesses were among those without the juice. Going to work wasn’t an option.
Inch by inch, we will drag ourselves out of this latest storm, as we have with those in the past. Again, my salute to the CMP and Public Service of New Hampshire crews-as well as their counterparts in all states affected!
WHERE WOULD WE BE WITHOUT YOU? (cold & dirty with a fridge full of spoiled food, that’s where..)
Friday, December 12, 2008
Ice Storm! Here We Go Again..
Not much of a blog today……dealing with the aftermath of the big ice storm last night..so many of our listeners are without power..some tuning in on battery-operated radios.
The important thing is to be SAFE! With power lines down, it is important when walking to know where you are stepping! Keep dogs on a SHORT leash, not letting them get too far ahead of you!
If you are without electricity, keep the opening and closing of the fridge to an absolute minimum. Milk and other perishable products will last a few hours, but they’ll be a lot better off if you keep the unit closed! The freezer should be OK for a much longer period of time!
Lots of candles will light the way, but they are among the highest causes of house fires-never leave them unattended—or close to combustibles!
If you can, visit the elderly neighbors to see if they are OK-make sure they are eating-and although we are all watching our “dining out costs”, resign yourself to the fact that expenses will rise a bit…keep it all in perspective!
Let’s ride this one out! Good luck!
The important thing is to be SAFE! With power lines down, it is important when walking to know where you are stepping! Keep dogs on a SHORT leash, not letting them get too far ahead of you!
If you are without electricity, keep the opening and closing of the fridge to an absolute minimum. Milk and other perishable products will last a few hours, but they’ll be a lot better off if you keep the unit closed! The freezer should be OK for a much longer period of time!
Lots of candles will light the way, but they are among the highest causes of house fires-never leave them unattended—or close to combustibles!
If you can, visit the elderly neighbors to see if they are OK-make sure they are eating-and although we are all watching our “dining out costs”, resign yourself to the fact that expenses will rise a bit…keep it all in perspective!
Let’s ride this one out! Good luck!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Christmas Music Favorites...And Duds
Tomorrow will mark the two-week “anniversary” of 94.9 WHOM switching over to All Holiday/Christmas music.
Since then, we have had hundreds, maybe thousands of requests! Of course, I’m interested in YOUR favorites, but I am also intrigued by the songs that appear at the top of the list:
Dominic The Donkey- By Lou Monte….again this year, out most requested song! Hard to believe. I grew up in Washington, D.C. and NEVER heard this song until just a few years ago. While mentioning it on-air one morning, we were flooded with calls from people who said it was part of their childhood growing up-and thus had tremendous sentimental value.
The Maine Christmas Song-By Melinda Liberty. Never a fan myself ( I consider the song a little on the SAPPY side), we nonetheless get a lot of requests for it. I just aired it this afternoon after a call from a “displaced” Mainer living in Reading, California-who was listening to the internet stream. I was happy to play it for her…
The Christmas Shoes-By Newsong. This song made me cry the first time I heard it-and about the next ten times. Now, it just depresses me….and the fact that I no longer cry at the lyrics about a small boy buying shoes for his dying mother makes me feel doubly depressed because now I believe I am heartless for NOT getting emotional!
A lot of the traditional songs I am personally tired of. “Feliz Navided”, “White Christmas”, “Wonderful Christmastime”, “Happy Christmas (War Is Over)”, “Blue Christmas”…they remain HUGE with the audience, but I’m a bit fatigued. I still love Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song” and The Carpenters “Merry Christmas Darling”, even though I have heard them THOUSANDS of times, too!
Would love to hear from you—which are your favorites and which ones would you like to see us DEEP-SIX? (in a jolly holiday sort of way, of course)
Either comment below—or send me an e-mail!
And, as always….THANKS FOR LISTENING TO 94.9 WHOM!tim.moore@citcomm.com
Since then, we have had hundreds, maybe thousands of requests! Of course, I’m interested in YOUR favorites, but I am also intrigued by the songs that appear at the top of the list:
Dominic The Donkey- By Lou Monte….again this year, out most requested song! Hard to believe. I grew up in Washington, D.C. and NEVER heard this song until just a few years ago. While mentioning it on-air one morning, we were flooded with calls from people who said it was part of their childhood growing up-and thus had tremendous sentimental value.
The Maine Christmas Song-By Melinda Liberty. Never a fan myself ( I consider the song a little on the SAPPY side), we nonetheless get a lot of requests for it. I just aired it this afternoon after a call from a “displaced” Mainer living in Reading, California-who was listening to the internet stream. I was happy to play it for her…
The Christmas Shoes-By Newsong. This song made me cry the first time I heard it-and about the next ten times. Now, it just depresses me….and the fact that I no longer cry at the lyrics about a small boy buying shoes for his dying mother makes me feel doubly depressed because now I believe I am heartless for NOT getting emotional!
A lot of the traditional songs I am personally tired of. “Feliz Navided”, “White Christmas”, “Wonderful Christmastime”, “Happy Christmas (War Is Over)”, “Blue Christmas”…they remain HUGE with the audience, but I’m a bit fatigued. I still love Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song” and The Carpenters “Merry Christmas Darling”, even though I have heard them THOUSANDS of times, too!
Would love to hear from you—which are your favorites and which ones would you like to see us DEEP-SIX? (in a jolly holiday sort of way, of course)
Either comment below—or send me an e-mail!
And, as always….THANKS FOR LISTENING TO 94.9 WHOM!tim.moore@citcomm.com
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Streaming Across The World
I am constantly amazed by the footprint of WHOM! Across 5 states and Canada, 94.9 WHOM has the largest geographic coverage of any commercial radio station in North America. Getting calls and/or e-mails from Massachusetts, Canada and places like Rhode Island and even New York state have become commonplace.
Technology and the web have now extended the WHOM platform to THE WORLD via the website: http://www.949whom.com/
With the analytical tools we now have for the internet stream, we can tell EXACTLY how many people are listening-below is a list of listening locations in just the first 10 days of this month!
Portland-Auburn, ME
Boston, MA,
Canada
Bangor, ME
Burlington, VT
New York, NY
NO DMA, USA
Washington, DC
Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY
Providence, RI
Hartford, CT
Augusta, GA
Philadelphia, PA
United Kingdom
Atlanta, GA
Norfolk-Portsmouth, VA
Chicago, IL
Phoenix, AZ
Rochester, NY
Singapore
Indianapolis, IN
Paducah, KY
Mexico
Portland, OR
Albuquerque, NM
Orlando, FL
Dayton, OH
Baltimore, MD
Springfield-Holyoke, MA
Cleveland, OH
Los Angeles, CA
San Francisco, CA
India
Germany
Hong Kong
Denver, CO
Nashville, TN
Switzerland
Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
Hungary
Jacksonville, FL
Columbus, OH
Tampa, FL
Japan
Wilkes Barre-Scranton, PA
Italy
Detroit, MI
Spain
Czech Republic
Knoxville, TN
Pittsburgh, PA
Gainesville, FL
Salt Lake City, UT
Syracuse, NY
Miami, FL
Minneapolis-St Paul, MN
Raleigh-Durham, NC
(Undetermined)
Madison, WI
Presque Isle, ME
Europe
Greensboro, NC
Puerto Rico
La Crosse-Eau Claire, WI
Colorado Springs, CO
Houston, TX
Roanoke-Lynchburg, VA
Panama City, FL
Great Falls, MT
Cincinnati, OH
Mongolia
Johnstown-Altoona, PA
Honolulu, HI
New Orleans, LA
Sioux City, IA
San Diego, CA
Las Vegas, NV
Greenville-Spartenburg, SC
Sweden
Savannah, GA
South Bend, IN
Virgin Islands, British
Utica-Rome, NY
Oklahoma City, OK
Buffalo, NY
Brazil
Israel
Colombia
West Palm Beach, FL
France
Sherman, TX
Watertown, NY
Belgium
Lansing, MI
Youngstown-Warren, OH
Cedar Rapids-Waterloo, IA
Sacramento, CA
Korea, Republic of
Montgomery, AL
Bowling Green, KY
Peoria-Bloomington, IL
Traverse City-Cadillac, MI
Chico-Redding, CA
Huntsville, AL
Nepal
Elmira, NY
Green Bay-Appleton, WI
Seattle-Tacoma, WA
Columbia, SC
Columbia-Jefferson City, MO
Hey...WORLD!!!!!! Thanks for listening to 94.9 WHOM!
Technology and the web have now extended the WHOM platform to THE WORLD via the website: http://www.949whom.com/
With the analytical tools we now have for the internet stream, we can tell EXACTLY how many people are listening-below is a list of listening locations in just the first 10 days of this month!
Portland-Auburn, ME
Boston, MA,
Canada
Bangor, ME
Burlington, VT
New York, NY
NO DMA, USA
Washington, DC
Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY
Providence, RI
Hartford, CT
Augusta, GA
Philadelphia, PA
United Kingdom
Atlanta, GA
Norfolk-Portsmouth, VA
Chicago, IL
Phoenix, AZ
Rochester, NY
Singapore
Indianapolis, IN
Paducah, KY
Mexico
Portland, OR
Albuquerque, NM
Orlando, FL
Dayton, OH
Baltimore, MD
Springfield-Holyoke, MA
Cleveland, OH
Los Angeles, CA
San Francisco, CA
India
Germany
Hong Kong
Denver, CO
Nashville, TN
Switzerland
Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
Hungary
Jacksonville, FL
Columbus, OH
Tampa, FL
Japan
Wilkes Barre-Scranton, PA
Italy
Detroit, MI
Spain
Czech Republic
Knoxville, TN
Pittsburgh, PA
Gainesville, FL
Salt Lake City, UT
Syracuse, NY
Miami, FL
Minneapolis-St Paul, MN
Raleigh-Durham, NC
(Undetermined)
Madison, WI
Presque Isle, ME
Europe
Greensboro, NC
Puerto Rico
La Crosse-Eau Claire, WI
Colorado Springs, CO
Houston, TX
Roanoke-Lynchburg, VA
Panama City, FL
Great Falls, MT
Cincinnati, OH
Mongolia
Johnstown-Altoona, PA
Honolulu, HI
New Orleans, LA
Sioux City, IA
San Diego, CA
Las Vegas, NV
Greenville-Spartenburg, SC
Sweden
Savannah, GA
South Bend, IN
Virgin Islands, British
Utica-Rome, NY
Oklahoma City, OK
Buffalo, NY
Brazil
Israel
Colombia
West Palm Beach, FL
France
Sherman, TX
Watertown, NY
Belgium
Lansing, MI
Youngstown-Warren, OH
Cedar Rapids-Waterloo, IA
Sacramento, CA
Korea, Republic of
Montgomery, AL
Bowling Green, KY
Peoria-Bloomington, IL
Traverse City-Cadillac, MI
Chico-Redding, CA
Huntsville, AL
Nepal
Elmira, NY
Green Bay-Appleton, WI
Seattle-Tacoma, WA
Columbia, SC
Columbia-Jefferson City, MO
Hey...WORLD!!!!!! Thanks for listening to 94.9 WHOM!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
The Ghost Of Christmas Presents
With 16 days left until Christmas (which translates to 14 “shopping days” assuming no Sundays which of course is no longer relevant, but I digress), it is HIGH TIME to start thinking about what to get for the ones I love.
My kids are not too much of a problem. They make their preferences known, especially the youngest, who also happens to have the longest list.
It’s my wife who is my challenge. First of all, she wants to CUT BACK this year (something about an economic turndown-I have yet to hear of it)—I simply told her that there wouldn’t be a Christmas in my lifetime where she didn’t have SOMETHING to open from me…of course, it could be something TOTALLY inappropriate, which would land me in the DOGHOUSE!!!
Which reminds me of a VERY funny video-watch this and LAUGH!
http://bewareofthedoghouse.com/videoPage.aspx
My kids are not too much of a problem. They make their preferences known, especially the youngest, who also happens to have the longest list.
It’s my wife who is my challenge. First of all, she wants to CUT BACK this year (something about an economic turndown-I have yet to hear of it)—I simply told her that there wouldn’t be a Christmas in my lifetime where she didn’t have SOMETHING to open from me…of course, it could be something TOTALLY inappropriate, which would land me in the DOGHOUSE!!!
Which reminds me of a VERY funny video-watch this and LAUGH!
http://bewareofthedoghouse.com/videoPage.aspx
Monday, December 8, 2008
Handyman Tim...What A Laugher!
Someone should have installed a video camera in my bathroom this weekend to capture my antics in trying to replace the bathroom overhead fan/light. It could have become a viral hit on You Tube!
So, the existing fan got real noisy real fast…..OK, time for a diagnosis! A failing bearing (any Time-Life book worth its salt will tell ya that!) and this meant a hasty trip to the local big-box hardware store. Thirty-eight dollars later, I was off with another do-it-yourself project for Sunday.
Who wants to watch football and drink beer when you can curse and swear and nearly kill yourself?
First, my all-inclusive kit is missing all the necessary hardware bolts and screws. So what? We’ll find them around the house. Sure. A quick look at the directions told me I would need a LONG look at the directions. I can’t read Spanish, but those directions looked about as useful to me as the ones in English.
Of course, Step One is to TURN THE POWER OFF. This was relatively easy, but why my basement was wired on the same circuit as my upstairs bathroom (plunging me into darkness at the circuit panel) leads me to believe the workers who built my house were on CRACK at the time.
This feeling only grew as I removed the existing fan. It was jury-rigged to a ceiling beam. The duct exiting to the outside was actually a gutter drain pipe that I don’t believe exited anywhere but into my attic. Nice.
I’m sure it must have been humorous to see me pounding and yanking at the blasted old fan. Finally, what was left of it came loose after I literally hack-sawed through nails used to fasten it. Of course, the ceiling (sprayed to look like stucco) suffered more damage than the new face plate would cover. It was fortuitous that my eight year old was at a friend’s house, as the air inside the bathroom was blue.
To make a long story longer, I finally got the new one in and working, only after slicing my finger open with a utility knife while wiring the darn thing. My lingering memory will be standing on the edge of the tub, simultaneously holding the unit while trying to twist wire screws onto misbehaving wires with my other hand. It’s a miracle that I didn’t break my neck.
After it was all done and the bathroom cleaned up, my family admired my handiwork and asked, “Was it difficult to install?”
“No, not at all…it was a breeze”
Then I had to turn the fan on to remove the odor of BS.
So, the existing fan got real noisy real fast…..OK, time for a diagnosis! A failing bearing (any Time-Life book worth its salt will tell ya that!) and this meant a hasty trip to the local big-box hardware store. Thirty-eight dollars later, I was off with another do-it-yourself project for Sunday.
Who wants to watch football and drink beer when you can curse and swear and nearly kill yourself?
First, my all-inclusive kit is missing all the necessary hardware bolts and screws. So what? We’ll find them around the house. Sure. A quick look at the directions told me I would need a LONG look at the directions. I can’t read Spanish, but those directions looked about as useful to me as the ones in English.
Of course, Step One is to TURN THE POWER OFF. This was relatively easy, but why my basement was wired on the same circuit as my upstairs bathroom (plunging me into darkness at the circuit panel) leads me to believe the workers who built my house were on CRACK at the time.
This feeling only grew as I removed the existing fan. It was jury-rigged to a ceiling beam. The duct exiting to the outside was actually a gutter drain pipe that I don’t believe exited anywhere but into my attic. Nice.
I’m sure it must have been humorous to see me pounding and yanking at the blasted old fan. Finally, what was left of it came loose after I literally hack-sawed through nails used to fasten it. Of course, the ceiling (sprayed to look like stucco) suffered more damage than the new face plate would cover. It was fortuitous that my eight year old was at a friend’s house, as the air inside the bathroom was blue.
To make a long story longer, I finally got the new one in and working, only after slicing my finger open with a utility knife while wiring the darn thing. My lingering memory will be standing on the edge of the tub, simultaneously holding the unit while trying to twist wire screws onto misbehaving wires with my other hand. It’s a miracle that I didn’t break my neck.
After it was all done and the bathroom cleaned up, my family admired my handiwork and asked, “Was it difficult to install?”
“No, not at all…it was a breeze”
Then I had to turn the fan on to remove the odor of BS.
Friday, December 5, 2008
O.J. Finally Gets The Justice He Deserves
O.J. Simpson today received a 15-year sentence for his role in the Las Vegas/memorabilia raid with a group of his cronies. A minimum of 9 years and a maximum of 33 may end up making this a veritable life sentence.
Finally….justice.
A murderer who got off with an acquittal-and of course vowed to spend his days “searching for the real killer” (he never did find the culprit, no matter how many golf courses he scoured) has finally received a jail term that may end up being the life sentence he should have gotten years ago. The verdict was delivered 13 years to the day from the moment he walked out of a Los Angeles courtroom a free man.
Nothing will bring back his wife or her friend, but at least this sentence drives home that O.J.’s insane mocking of the U.S. Legal system has come to an end.
Karma is real-and it was only a matter of time before O.J. would see the pendulum swing back. Of course, no one takes any joy from the misfortune of another, but there was a deeply satisfying feeling that a dangerous man will now spend at least 6-9 years in a maximum security prison—no “country club incarceration” for him. Better yet, he will no longer be able to literally profit from the murders he committed so many years ago.
The tragedy of O.J. has yet to see a final chapter, but our culture’s saturation with the original crime tends to hide the chapters in Simpson’s life before that fateful act. Namely, that a gifted athlete, who parlayed his ability into that of a multi-millionaire sportscaster, actor, commercial spokesman and celebrity—was able to sink so far so fast. He had everything—and his own ego and sense of “no rules apply to me” attitude led to the behavior and rage that destroyed his life-and the lives of so many others.
Hopefully, we will be spared hearing about O.J. for at least 9 years. Just as hopefully, the families of Nicole and of Ron Goldman will be able to experience some sense of peace or closure.
Finally….justice.
A murderer who got off with an acquittal-and of course vowed to spend his days “searching for the real killer” (he never did find the culprit, no matter how many golf courses he scoured) has finally received a jail term that may end up being the life sentence he should have gotten years ago. The verdict was delivered 13 years to the day from the moment he walked out of a Los Angeles courtroom a free man.
Nothing will bring back his wife or her friend, but at least this sentence drives home that O.J.’s insane mocking of the U.S. Legal system has come to an end.
Karma is real-and it was only a matter of time before O.J. would see the pendulum swing back. Of course, no one takes any joy from the misfortune of another, but there was a deeply satisfying feeling that a dangerous man will now spend at least 6-9 years in a maximum security prison—no “country club incarceration” for him. Better yet, he will no longer be able to literally profit from the murders he committed so many years ago.
The tragedy of O.J. has yet to see a final chapter, but our culture’s saturation with the original crime tends to hide the chapters in Simpson’s life before that fateful act. Namely, that a gifted athlete, who parlayed his ability into that of a multi-millionaire sportscaster, actor, commercial spokesman and celebrity—was able to sink so far so fast. He had everything—and his own ego and sense of “no rules apply to me” attitude led to the behavior and rage that destroyed his life-and the lives of so many others.
Hopefully, we will be spared hearing about O.J. for at least 9 years. Just as hopefully, the families of Nicole and of Ron Goldman will be able to experience some sense of peace or closure.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Where Are The "New" Christmas TV Specials?
Last night, I had the pleasure of sitting in front of the TV with my 8 year old son Kevin and watching the “Rudolph The Reindeer TV Special” on CBS.
First of all, hats off to CBS for airing this classic TV special in prime time for a new generation of viewers. They said it was “digitally re-mastered”—frankly, I didn’t notice an improvement in picture quality, but then again, I don’t really care.
As I was careening down memory lane and re-living my childhood, I was anxious to see how my youngest would assess the program. Today’s kids have high-tech graphics on handheld devices (like Nintendo DS) that make the “visual effects” of the 1960’s seem like crude craving on the wall of a cave. Of course, the story and the music is the thing. Kevin was familiar with the music (since I play virtually the entire soundtrack on 94.9 WHOM during the holidays!) As for the story, he was engaged and delighted! It was a special experience to share, as I did with my other two kids, who are in college and high school now.
What struck me is how there really are no new “classics” being made. When we were young, we also had a “Charlie Brown Christmas”, “The Grinch”-and relative newcomer “Frosty The Snowman”. All of these are still shown today-and yet, I can’t think of a contemporary holiday cartoon special that kids today are excited about.
Maybe it’s the fragmentation into cable and a thousand channels. Maybe it’s just the Pokemon generation that views these holiday specials as “lame”. Certainly, the good old fashioned “messages” of good will, forgiveness and even the religious associations that are so prevalent in the Charlie Brown special seem to be dangerous territory for today’s TV producers to approach. Too bad.
Am I missing something here? If there is a “new” classic out there, I’m all ears!
First of all, hats off to CBS for airing this classic TV special in prime time for a new generation of viewers. They said it was “digitally re-mastered”—frankly, I didn’t notice an improvement in picture quality, but then again, I don’t really care.
As I was careening down memory lane and re-living my childhood, I was anxious to see how my youngest would assess the program. Today’s kids have high-tech graphics on handheld devices (like Nintendo DS) that make the “visual effects” of the 1960’s seem like crude craving on the wall of a cave. Of course, the story and the music is the thing. Kevin was familiar with the music (since I play virtually the entire soundtrack on 94.9 WHOM during the holidays!) As for the story, he was engaged and delighted! It was a special experience to share, as I did with my other two kids, who are in college and high school now.
What struck me is how there really are no new “classics” being made. When we were young, we also had a “Charlie Brown Christmas”, “The Grinch”-and relative newcomer “Frosty The Snowman”. All of these are still shown today-and yet, I can’t think of a contemporary holiday cartoon special that kids today are excited about.
Maybe it’s the fragmentation into cable and a thousand channels. Maybe it’s just the Pokemon generation that views these holiday specials as “lame”. Certainly, the good old fashioned “messages” of good will, forgiveness and even the religious associations that are so prevalent in the Charlie Brown special seem to be dangerous territory for today’s TV producers to approach. Too bad.
Am I missing something here? If there is a “new” classic out there, I’m all ears!
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Making my List...And Checking It Only Once
It’s that special time of year. The time when family and friends-even my kids-ask the eternal holiday question: “What do YOU want for Christmas?”
Should I respond with a long stream of items-or simply answer that “world peace” would be sufficient?
The more I think about it, I have no real “needs”. I have my health, a wonderful wife and three incredible kids, all of them healthy as well. I still have a job (as of this writing anyway) and a roof over my head. The car works, so does the furnace and I never go to bed hungry. In short, what do I have to ask for?
OK!
Hybrid Golf Club(s)
iPod
GPS
Books
And..oh yeah,
Underwear
There you have it..aside from the last item, none of it is essential, important, required or a life-changer.
I’ll be overjoyed when my 8 year old makes a picture for me. It will be better than anything from a store. Making a donation to a worthy cause in my name (or not) is better than a gift for me. A happy holiday will be defined in far more expansive terms than mere STUFF! We all have enough STUFF!
Happy Holidays!
Should I respond with a long stream of items-or simply answer that “world peace” would be sufficient?
The more I think about it, I have no real “needs”. I have my health, a wonderful wife and three incredible kids, all of them healthy as well. I still have a job (as of this writing anyway) and a roof over my head. The car works, so does the furnace and I never go to bed hungry. In short, what do I have to ask for?
OK!
Hybrid Golf Club(s)
iPod
GPS
Books
And..oh yeah,
Underwear
There you have it..aside from the last item, none of it is essential, important, required or a life-changer.
I’ll be overjoyed when my 8 year old makes a picture for me. It will be better than anything from a store. Making a donation to a worthy cause in my name (or not) is better than a gift for me. A happy holiday will be defined in far more expansive terms than mere STUFF! We all have enough STUFF!
Happy Holidays!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Cyber Monday
Yesterday marked a day that has become as well known as “Black Friday”-the Friday after Thanksgiving. “Cyber Monday” has traditionally been the largest ONLINE shopping day of the year, as web bargain hunters raid the online retailers for great deals.
According to Comscore, a research company, sales of 29.2 BILLION were expected. That would be about flat with last year—saying something since internet sales have grown about 20% each year. There are conflicting reports, however…according to Nielson, traffic at the top 120 retailers was up 10%.
Overall, 85 million Americans were expected to make a purchase online this holiday season, which would be the record for the most ever.
Most intriguing of all (to me) is the growth in CONFIDENCE that we now have about punching our credit card numbers into a computer. Of course, identity theft is at an all-time high---and much of that crime originates from just these kinds of transactions-cyber travel of personal information through servers all over the world. Just a few short years ago, the very thought of plugging your credit card number—or God forbid, your Social Security number into an inanimate object that could be viewed by goodness knows who—would send a shiver up your spine! Now, we happily type away, sending this info across the cyber-universe! Thankfully, most sites are secure (or that little pop-up assuring us that they are makes us feel all warm and cozy!) Once we get the “all systems go”, we’re off to the races!
Shopping for virtually everything—with shipping and even the card and optional gift-wrapping possible-makes the “hassle” over holiday shopping confined to those with carpal tunnel syndrome.
The only thing we CAN’T do is to complain to the recipient that we “drove EVERYWHERE to find that special gift!”
They know better.
And if you run into them at the exchange counter returning YOUR gift, maybe you won’t take it as personally!
According to Comscore, a research company, sales of 29.2 BILLION were expected. That would be about flat with last year—saying something since internet sales have grown about 20% each year. There are conflicting reports, however…according to Nielson, traffic at the top 120 retailers was up 10%.
Overall, 85 million Americans were expected to make a purchase online this holiday season, which would be the record for the most ever.
Most intriguing of all (to me) is the growth in CONFIDENCE that we now have about punching our credit card numbers into a computer. Of course, identity theft is at an all-time high---and much of that crime originates from just these kinds of transactions-cyber travel of personal information through servers all over the world. Just a few short years ago, the very thought of plugging your credit card number—or God forbid, your Social Security number into an inanimate object that could be viewed by goodness knows who—would send a shiver up your spine! Now, we happily type away, sending this info across the cyber-universe! Thankfully, most sites are secure (or that little pop-up assuring us that they are makes us feel all warm and cozy!) Once we get the “all systems go”, we’re off to the races!
Shopping for virtually everything—with shipping and even the card and optional gift-wrapping possible-makes the “hassle” over holiday shopping confined to those with carpal tunnel syndrome.
The only thing we CAN’T do is to complain to the recipient that we “drove EVERYWHERE to find that special gift!”
They know better.
And if you run into them at the exchange counter returning YOUR gift, maybe you won’t take it as personally!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Overeating...Part One
What is it about the holiday season that says…”OK, go ahead and eat enough for a family of four”? I mean, why is it that our common sense is overridden by statements like, “ I guess it wouldn’t hurt to have ANOTHER serving of mashed potatoes, gravy, turkey, cranberry sauce…and oh, yeah…when are we having DESSERT?”
We tend to dismiss our overindulgence by saying things like, “Well, it’s the holidays”.
Huh?
That’s like saying, “Well, after all, it IS Wednesday!” The fact that people the world over are stuffing themselves wildly does not excuse our own individual behavior! Cookies, pies, cakes and other treats are displayed EVERYWHERE…..you can’t turn around without having a plate of SOMETHING shoved into your face.
If there is a happy medium, I haven’t found it yet. Somewhere between “That’s about the amount I usually eat” and “can someone rent a forklift to get me off the couch?”
Reminds me of comedian Jim Gaffigan’s line about his obsession with home delivery: “It combines two of my favorites things: eating..and not moving”
So, go for it! Enjoy the baked goodies. Try to be good, but promise yourself an HOUR on the treadmill for every treat above your usual limit.
After all, the only thing better than breaking your diet is breaking your New Year’s resolution to take off those extra pounds!
We tend to dismiss our overindulgence by saying things like, “Well, it’s the holidays”.
Huh?
That’s like saying, “Well, after all, it IS Wednesday!” The fact that people the world over are stuffing themselves wildly does not excuse our own individual behavior! Cookies, pies, cakes and other treats are displayed EVERYWHERE…..you can’t turn around without having a plate of SOMETHING shoved into your face.
If there is a happy medium, I haven’t found it yet. Somewhere between “That’s about the amount I usually eat” and “can someone rent a forklift to get me off the couch?”
Reminds me of comedian Jim Gaffigan’s line about his obsession with home delivery: “It combines two of my favorites things: eating..and not moving”
So, go for it! Enjoy the baked goodies. Try to be good, but promise yourself an HOUR on the treadmill for every treat above your usual limit.
After all, the only thing better than breaking your diet is breaking your New Year’s resolution to take off those extra pounds!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Giving Thanks
I think I’ll take a vacation from blogging for a day or two…as I’ll be on the radio pretty much nonstop this “holiday” weekend! (ahem)
So, now’s a good time to express my gratitude for all the blessings I have. For starters, I have been blessed with good health. In over 26 years, I have missed a total of two days of work for being sick-and have never spent a night in a hospital. I am grateful for that.
For my beautiful wife Peggy, who is the rock in our family. She is a terrific mother, a loving and PATIENT wife-and my best friend. For my three incredible children-John, Christina and Kevin—I am SO lucky to be your Dad…and I am so unbelievably proud of your accomplishments and mostly the people you are. I could not ask for more.
For my mother, who is an inspiration to me and to our entire family. A severe stroke victim who lost her leg, her ability to speak and the use of one side of her body-she nonetheless is more concerned about others than she is about herself. She is my hero.
To my sister Claire, her husband Walt and her wonderful family-Teresa, Colleen and Natalie-I don’t deserve to have such a terrific sister who is-and always has been there for me.
I simply cannot make mother-in-law jokes….WHY?… because Peggy’s mom is an incredible woman-who is responsible for introducing me to her lovely daughter. Her husband Dick, who despite being an Orioles fan (nobody’s perfect) is a joy to have around. Peggy’s siblings and their families, Kathy & Steve, Matt & Lindsey, Bob & Sara, Katie & John and Judy & Dancer—and all the aunts, uncles, cousins and kids….we have a loving tribe!
I am grateful to be employed in a business I love, working for a company that has treated me well-with colleagues, my WHOM & WJBQ DJs and staff who are the absolute BEST-I love you all-, lastly, for all the WHOM listeners who have made my life special through their support over the years, punctuated with this, our 50th Anniversary year.
Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!
So, now’s a good time to express my gratitude for all the blessings I have. For starters, I have been blessed with good health. In over 26 years, I have missed a total of two days of work for being sick-and have never spent a night in a hospital. I am grateful for that.
For my beautiful wife Peggy, who is the rock in our family. She is a terrific mother, a loving and PATIENT wife-and my best friend. For my three incredible children-John, Christina and Kevin—I am SO lucky to be your Dad…and I am so unbelievably proud of your accomplishments and mostly the people you are. I could not ask for more.
For my mother, who is an inspiration to me and to our entire family. A severe stroke victim who lost her leg, her ability to speak and the use of one side of her body-she nonetheless is more concerned about others than she is about herself. She is my hero.
To my sister Claire, her husband Walt and her wonderful family-Teresa, Colleen and Natalie-I don’t deserve to have such a terrific sister who is-and always has been there for me.
I simply cannot make mother-in-law jokes….WHY?… because Peggy’s mom is an incredible woman-who is responsible for introducing me to her lovely daughter. Her husband Dick, who despite being an Orioles fan (nobody’s perfect) is a joy to have around. Peggy’s siblings and their families, Kathy & Steve, Matt & Lindsey, Bob & Sara, Katie & John and Judy & Dancer—and all the aunts, uncles, cousins and kids….we have a loving tribe!
I am grateful to be employed in a business I love, working for a company that has treated me well-with colleagues, my WHOM & WJBQ DJs and staff who are the absolute BEST-I love you all-, lastly, for all the WHOM listeners who have made my life special through their support over the years, punctuated with this, our 50th Anniversary year.
Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Spending Is Patriotic....Right?
Well, we’re just a couple of days away from the “official” start of the holiday shopping season. Everywhere, you hear the dire predictions of spending cutbacks that translate to sluggish retail sales.
Generally, there are now three classes of shoppers:
1) Those who will not be affected at all (read CEO’s, trust fund babies, etc.)
2) Those who will be affected out of necessity…they have lost their jobs, their hours are cut back or if they own a business, they are losing money.
3) Those who are affected out of FEAR of losing their jobs. Many of these people have lost real dough in the stock market, but it was the 401K that took a hit—for many, the outlook for a secure retirement took a punch to the gut.
Most people fall into category #3…..with gas and heating oil prices plummeting, those who are still employed are enjoying MORE disposable income, not less. However, it is thought that they too will cut back spending…out of FEAR.
A crisis of confidence is fueling the behavior that fails to ring up sales. Economic experts say that we as a nation have lived FAR beyond our means for years, financing our flat screen TVs, our electronic gadgets and other toys with the so-called “equity” we had built up in our homes. When those home values dropped, the squeeze was on. As a nation, we have the one of the lowest savings percentages of any civilized country. For many, it is debt, credit card debt-growing without an end in sight, evidenced by the number of personal bankruptcies being filed.
If there is a trick, it is simply this: Regardless of your income, determine your monthly living expenses—and include only necessities….HBO is NOT a necessity. After that figure, add in a reasonable amount to sock away. 10% is great, but not everyone can do that much. The idea is to “pay yourself first”. I would have always suggested the stock market—maybe not now, but this is a good time to buy—if only you knew WHAT to buy. Seems everything is a bargain, but then again, some of these companies (like GM for instance) may not be around this time next year.
After the needed expenses and some savings, if there is anything left over—GO FOR IT! Spend away—or start paying down the credit card debt! Eliminating this consumer debt should actually come before saving, since the interest on a credit card is at least 18%--and the best money markets are paying about 4%.
Then…if you have dough left, go out and help stimulate the economy! We need to hit the RESET button, come to our senses—and then do our part to keep businesses BUSY!
Generally, there are now three classes of shoppers:
1) Those who will not be affected at all (read CEO’s, trust fund babies, etc.)
2) Those who will be affected out of necessity…they have lost their jobs, their hours are cut back or if they own a business, they are losing money.
3) Those who are affected out of FEAR of losing their jobs. Many of these people have lost real dough in the stock market, but it was the 401K that took a hit—for many, the outlook for a secure retirement took a punch to the gut.
Most people fall into category #3…..with gas and heating oil prices plummeting, those who are still employed are enjoying MORE disposable income, not less. However, it is thought that they too will cut back spending…out of FEAR.
A crisis of confidence is fueling the behavior that fails to ring up sales. Economic experts say that we as a nation have lived FAR beyond our means for years, financing our flat screen TVs, our electronic gadgets and other toys with the so-called “equity” we had built up in our homes. When those home values dropped, the squeeze was on. As a nation, we have the one of the lowest savings percentages of any civilized country. For many, it is debt, credit card debt-growing without an end in sight, evidenced by the number of personal bankruptcies being filed.
If there is a trick, it is simply this: Regardless of your income, determine your monthly living expenses—and include only necessities….HBO is NOT a necessity. After that figure, add in a reasonable amount to sock away. 10% is great, but not everyone can do that much. The idea is to “pay yourself first”. I would have always suggested the stock market—maybe not now, but this is a good time to buy—if only you knew WHAT to buy. Seems everything is a bargain, but then again, some of these companies (like GM for instance) may not be around this time next year.
After the needed expenses and some savings, if there is anything left over—GO FOR IT! Spend away—or start paying down the credit card debt! Eliminating this consumer debt should actually come before saving, since the interest on a credit card is at least 18%--and the best money markets are paying about 4%.
Then…if you have dough left, go out and help stimulate the economy! We need to hit the RESET button, come to our senses—and then do our part to keep businesses BUSY!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Christmas Music, Take Two
Thanks to everyone who responded to my blog Friday (read the one BELOW this one) and to my on-air comments regarding the reasons for the switch before Thanksgiving.
It was nice to see that so many people actually LIKE the change early. I had heard mostly from very angry people who felt it was “commercializing” the holiday (huh?). Some were non-Christians who felt left out. I can sympathize with this thought, but remember that MANY of the so-called “Christmas songs” are really HOLIDAY tunes. “Frosty the Snowman” is pretty non-denominational, as are “Jingle Bells”, “Sleigh Ride”, “It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year”—and the list runs into the hundreds.
To those who ask for more Hanukah songs, I say…if they are around, help me find them! Over 80% of the so-called Christmas music is marginal, so we are pretty selective with that. As for Jewish holiday songs-or any other faith, Kwanza, etc…I have yet to find any hits (save for one by Adam Sandler, which we don’t play for reasons of good taste). This reminds me that there are not any viable “Thanksgiving” songs either. A lot of the vitriol has been directed at us for somehow ignoring Thanksgiving. I think it safe to say the word “holiday” is inclusive of the Thanksgiving holiday as well-and many of the songs are really seasonal in nature-rather than holiday-specific.
I am frankly surprised at the venom being spewed by people who claim to be reasonable, intelligent and self-described lovable people who revere the holiday season.
To them I say….CHILL OUT!
Life is too short. There are so many important things facing us right now. I cherish our listeners-and the reason for the switch is to please the vast majority who, by their measured behavior from past years (ratings) approve of the All-Christmas format by listening to it in droves. For those who disagree, you have the choice of listening to another station-or turning off the radio. I respect that choice and if you feel this way, I do want to know about it. Again, here is my e-mail address:
Tim.moore@citcomm.com
I DO want to hear your input/feedback, but PLEASE, try to refrain from crude language, threats and over inflating what is, at the end of the day…….MUSIC ON A RADIO STATION!
Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays!
It was nice to see that so many people actually LIKE the change early. I had heard mostly from very angry people who felt it was “commercializing” the holiday (huh?). Some were non-Christians who felt left out. I can sympathize with this thought, but remember that MANY of the so-called “Christmas songs” are really HOLIDAY tunes. “Frosty the Snowman” is pretty non-denominational, as are “Jingle Bells”, “Sleigh Ride”, “It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year”—and the list runs into the hundreds.
To those who ask for more Hanukah songs, I say…if they are around, help me find them! Over 80% of the so-called Christmas music is marginal, so we are pretty selective with that. As for Jewish holiday songs-or any other faith, Kwanza, etc…I have yet to find any hits (save for one by Adam Sandler, which we don’t play for reasons of good taste). This reminds me that there are not any viable “Thanksgiving” songs either. A lot of the vitriol has been directed at us for somehow ignoring Thanksgiving. I think it safe to say the word “holiday” is inclusive of the Thanksgiving holiday as well-and many of the songs are really seasonal in nature-rather than holiday-specific.
I am frankly surprised at the venom being spewed by people who claim to be reasonable, intelligent and self-described lovable people who revere the holiday season.
To them I say….CHILL OUT!
Life is too short. There are so many important things facing us right now. I cherish our listeners-and the reason for the switch is to please the vast majority who, by their measured behavior from past years (ratings) approve of the All-Christmas format by listening to it in droves. For those who disagree, you have the choice of listening to another station-or turning off the radio. I respect that choice and if you feel this way, I do want to know about it. Again, here is my e-mail address:
Tim.moore@citcomm.com
I DO want to hear your input/feedback, but PLEASE, try to refrain from crude language, threats and over inflating what is, at the end of the day…….MUSIC ON A RADIO STATION!
Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Rushin' The Season?
94.9 WHOM flipped to our “All Christmas Music” format around 8:30am this morning, prompting the phones to meltdown and my e-mail to heat up!
Obviously, the biggest question is….WHY SO EARLY!!!!?????
This was said in a variety of ways, some of which were….how shall we say…laced with profanity? And a “Merry Christmas” to you too!
To answer the question, I must preface with a couple of facts:
1) 94.9 WHOM was not the first station in the Portland market to go all-holiday music this year.
2) Stations in Boston (2), Providence (2) and MANY other markets around the country went all-Christmas weeks ago. Some flipped the day after Halloween (I’m not kidding)
So, that said, the logical question is still…..WHY SO EARLY!!!!????
To be perfectly honest, it is for competitive reasons. Just like all media, all radio stations compete with each other for listeners. The simple fact is that All-Christmas stations see their audience levels SOAR when they flip to All-Santa all the time. Whether you or I like it or even understand it, that reality is a simple fact.
People who complain all say to me---“But EVERYONE I know agrees with me and they HATE it this early!!” Hey, I get it—and I might even tend to agree with you….but my job as Program Director of 94.9 WHOM (yep, I’m the guy to blame) is to sustain, maintain and grow the audience of the station. Knowing what Christmas music does to the ratings makes the decision of WHAT to do easy. WHEN to do it?
Well, if I had my druthers, I would likely wait until the traditional day after Thanksgiving. However, once a competitor or multiple competitors make the switch, the decision of WHEN is automatically made. Why?
Well, if my competitor gets a week (or more) head start , then my going all-holiday will likely fail from an audience-growth perspective. Again, enough historical evidence out there to confirm that stubborn Program Directors who stuck to their guns and REFUSED to make the switch early (and thus giving another station or stations a big headstart) usually got their heads handed to them when the ratings came in.
So there you have it. That’s the reason.
94.9 WHOM is the #1 Station in Northern New England (Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont combined) The margin grows even wider during the all-Christmas music format. We are committed to our audience (who in numbers that continue to astound us love this music) and to our advertisers, who keep us in business by supporting 94.9 WHOM as we deliver their messages to a quarter million people every week
Of course, there is another reason THIS year…and that one is the economic news of late. With all the crazy financial stories out there, there are a lot of people who want to remember better times-and the Christmas/Holiday music (we use both terms interchangeably) makes them feel good-perhaps at a time when songs that bring back good memories are a comfort to our listeners.
Whenever we do anything, we get feedback—and I welcome it even when it’s not flattering. Most e-mail and voicemail tend to be critical…satisfied customers rarely voice their content-it’s usually the other way around. Even so, the feedback today has NOT been completely negative! There were many people who thanked us for going Xmas this morning.
While I know that we can’t please everyone, we do try our best to delight as many people as we can! We really held our breath that first year ( 5 years ago!), wondering if our commitment to all holiday music would drive the audience away. When the results came in, we were stunned-and pleased at the huge audience growth. The appeal of the music to the vast majority was beyond indisputable.
That said, if you are among those disappointed by our early “flip”, my apologies. I fully understand your feelings-and whatever listening decisions you make as a result. I still welcome your input—either as a comment to this blog below…or direct to my e-mail:
Tim.moore@citcomm.com
Have a safe and happy holiday season!
Obviously, the biggest question is….WHY SO EARLY!!!!?????
This was said in a variety of ways, some of which were….how shall we say…laced with profanity? And a “Merry Christmas” to you too!
To answer the question, I must preface with a couple of facts:
1) 94.9 WHOM was not the first station in the Portland market to go all-holiday music this year.
2) Stations in Boston (2), Providence (2) and MANY other markets around the country went all-Christmas weeks ago. Some flipped the day after Halloween (I’m not kidding)
So, that said, the logical question is still…..WHY SO EARLY!!!!????
To be perfectly honest, it is for competitive reasons. Just like all media, all radio stations compete with each other for listeners. The simple fact is that All-Christmas stations see their audience levels SOAR when they flip to All-Santa all the time. Whether you or I like it or even understand it, that reality is a simple fact.
People who complain all say to me---“But EVERYONE I know agrees with me and they HATE it this early!!” Hey, I get it—and I might even tend to agree with you….but my job as Program Director of 94.9 WHOM (yep, I’m the guy to blame) is to sustain, maintain and grow the audience of the station. Knowing what Christmas music does to the ratings makes the decision of WHAT to do easy. WHEN to do it?
Well, if I had my druthers, I would likely wait until the traditional day after Thanksgiving. However, once a competitor or multiple competitors make the switch, the decision of WHEN is automatically made. Why?
Well, if my competitor gets a week (or more) head start , then my going all-holiday will likely fail from an audience-growth perspective. Again, enough historical evidence out there to confirm that stubborn Program Directors who stuck to their guns and REFUSED to make the switch early (and thus giving another station or stations a big headstart) usually got their heads handed to them when the ratings came in.
So there you have it. That’s the reason.
94.9 WHOM is the #1 Station in Northern New England (Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont combined) The margin grows even wider during the all-Christmas music format. We are committed to our audience (who in numbers that continue to astound us love this music) and to our advertisers, who keep us in business by supporting 94.9 WHOM as we deliver their messages to a quarter million people every week
Of course, there is another reason THIS year…and that one is the economic news of late. With all the crazy financial stories out there, there are a lot of people who want to remember better times-and the Christmas/Holiday music (we use both terms interchangeably) makes them feel good-perhaps at a time when songs that bring back good memories are a comfort to our listeners.
Whenever we do anything, we get feedback—and I welcome it even when it’s not flattering. Most e-mail and voicemail tend to be critical…satisfied customers rarely voice their content-it’s usually the other way around. Even so, the feedback today has NOT been completely negative! There were many people who thanked us for going Xmas this morning.
While I know that we can’t please everyone, we do try our best to delight as many people as we can! We really held our breath that first year ( 5 years ago!), wondering if our commitment to all holiday music would drive the audience away. When the results came in, we were stunned-and pleased at the huge audience growth. The appeal of the music to the vast majority was beyond indisputable.
That said, if you are among those disappointed by our early “flip”, my apologies. I fully understand your feelings-and whatever listening decisions you make as a result. I still welcome your input—either as a comment to this blog below…or direct to my e-mail:
Tim.moore@citcomm.com
Have a safe and happy holiday season!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Are You Ready For The Cold?
This morning was the first of the season where I really woke up and said…”Whoa!!!”
The house was cold.
Yes, storm windows are in and the cost of heating oil is down, but I am still stingy with the thermostat….that is, until this morning.
Getting out of bed is tough enough…then scrambling across the room to crank the heat! Give me SOMETHING!!! Shivering is not the way to start the day…..
The electric heat kicks in as I turn the dial as far as it will go! I can almost hear the electric meter outside spinning like a top! Once the chill is knocked off, I return to my normal morning routine.
Ah, this is just the beginning….not a lick of snow yet and I’m already looking forward to Spring! My golf clubs are stubbornly refusing to leave my trunk. I may need to use force.
Oh well….no one is holding a gun to my head-I could head south…to say….York Beach? New England is where it’s at….maybe we’ll get lucky this winter….what do you think?
The house was cold.
Yes, storm windows are in and the cost of heating oil is down, but I am still stingy with the thermostat….that is, until this morning.
Getting out of bed is tough enough…then scrambling across the room to crank the heat! Give me SOMETHING!!! Shivering is not the way to start the day…..
The electric heat kicks in as I turn the dial as far as it will go! I can almost hear the electric meter outside spinning like a top! Once the chill is knocked off, I return to my normal morning routine.
Ah, this is just the beginning….not a lick of snow yet and I’m already looking forward to Spring! My golf clubs are stubbornly refusing to leave my trunk. I may need to use force.
Oh well….no one is holding a gun to my head-I could head south…to say….York Beach? New England is where it’s at….maybe we’ll get lucky this winter….what do you think?
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Dustin Pedroia--An MVP For Our Times!
You don’t have to be a baseball fan to appreciate the accomplishment of Red Sox Second baseman Dustin Pedroia. He was, as baseball aficionados know, selected as the American League Most Valuable Player yesterday!
Why is this impressive? I mean, someone wins EVERY year, right? Well….yeah, but it’s not every year that the winner is a former Portland Sea Dog (let alone a Red Sox player-as the last one was over a decade ago) Another Portland alumnus, Kevin Youkilis was one of the runners-up!
What makes Dustin’s accomplishment noteworthy is the complete lack of advance notice that he would even be a regular starter in the big leagues, let alone the Rookie Of The Year last season—and MVP this year!
He is one of the smallest players in the Major Leagues. He is one of the slowest on the basepaths. When he swings a bat, he almost goes to one knee to summon up that extra power that someone of his small physical frame needs. He was only given a second look by scouts because he has quick reflexes for an infield position-and he had a competitive spirit that impressed the coaches.
With the list of his “can’t do this, can’t do that”, he surprised a lot of people by being named the starting second baseman for the Sox last season. Terry Francona and company hung with him through an early season hitting slump—despite fan and media protests that Alex Cora be given the job.
To put it mildly, the patience paid off.
Dustin’s glove was never an issue, as he made impossible plays look routine. What shocked everyone was his prowess at the plate. He became a threat to get on base EVERY time he went to bat—and his batting average, combined with his infield play made him a slam-dunk choice (if you’ll pardon the basketball metaphor) to become Rookie Of The Year.
Few believed his second season could be as good—but after homering in his first at-bat in the World Series in 2007, perhaps anything was possible. A few points away from the AL batting title, nearly impossible to strike out and continued stellar play on defense earned him the MVP honors this year.
For parents of kids who are labeled as “too small”or “too slow” to play, Dustin Pedroia is the one guy you can point to-and say…”look, he did it---and so can you!”
As the saying goes, “it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog”—or in this case, Sea Dog. Dustin has talent to be sure, but above all, he has HEART…and you can’t measure that by any yardstick.
It makes itself apparent in the way a player approaches and plays the game—Dustin, you are the best! Congratulations!
Why is this impressive? I mean, someone wins EVERY year, right? Well….yeah, but it’s not every year that the winner is a former Portland Sea Dog (let alone a Red Sox player-as the last one was over a decade ago) Another Portland alumnus, Kevin Youkilis was one of the runners-up!
What makes Dustin’s accomplishment noteworthy is the complete lack of advance notice that he would even be a regular starter in the big leagues, let alone the Rookie Of The Year last season—and MVP this year!
He is one of the smallest players in the Major Leagues. He is one of the slowest on the basepaths. When he swings a bat, he almost goes to one knee to summon up that extra power that someone of his small physical frame needs. He was only given a second look by scouts because he has quick reflexes for an infield position-and he had a competitive spirit that impressed the coaches.
With the list of his “can’t do this, can’t do that”, he surprised a lot of people by being named the starting second baseman for the Sox last season. Terry Francona and company hung with him through an early season hitting slump—despite fan and media protests that Alex Cora be given the job.
To put it mildly, the patience paid off.
Dustin’s glove was never an issue, as he made impossible plays look routine. What shocked everyone was his prowess at the plate. He became a threat to get on base EVERY time he went to bat—and his batting average, combined with his infield play made him a slam-dunk choice (if you’ll pardon the basketball metaphor) to become Rookie Of The Year.
Few believed his second season could be as good—but after homering in his first at-bat in the World Series in 2007, perhaps anything was possible. A few points away from the AL batting title, nearly impossible to strike out and continued stellar play on defense earned him the MVP honors this year.
For parents of kids who are labeled as “too small”or “too slow” to play, Dustin Pedroia is the one guy you can point to-and say…”look, he did it---and so can you!”
As the saying goes, “it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog”—or in this case, Sea Dog. Dustin has talent to be sure, but above all, he has HEART…and you can’t measure that by any yardstick.
It makes itself apparent in the way a player approaches and plays the game—Dustin, you are the best! Congratulations!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Working Harder...OR Working SMARTER?
If there is a truism out there, it is this:
EVERYONE has more on their plate than they did a year ago…or for that matter, a MONTH ago.
Corporate downsizing and layoffs-combined with the extra efforts that all companies are making to increase revenue have resulted in an increased “in-box” for those still fortunate to have a job. Those glancing at the now-empty seats of those who used to be their colleagues are not complaining (at least not out loud) about their increased workload, grateful that they still draw a paycheck.
With a busy day BEFORE the increase, the trick is to then somehow manage the extra load without completely losing your mind. Because your coworkers are likewise “piled on” may actually be a blessing—each of you understands that the survivors are in the “same boat”.
How do you accomplish all the tasks on your “to-do” list? Well, part of it is prioritizing your work. There may be things that you USED to do that simply need to go undone. Using the old 80-20 rule---that 80% of your relevant results come from just 20% of your activities should help guide you. Part of that lesser 80 may be best left undone-if they come at the expense of more important issues. I would have suggested you delegate these tasks to other people….but most of those people are now GONE>
Here’s what I do—and not only does it appear to be fairly efficient—it is a GREAT stress reliever. Keep in mind that much of the internal stress comes from trying to remember things that you need to do. Eliminate that stress by jotting stuff down…which happens to be my first commandment!
RULE NUMBER ONE: Write EVERYTHING down. Before scheduling, make an exhaustive list of everything that you need to do in the next 24 hours, without regard to its importance or priority. Refer to your daytimer/calendar and transfer everything to a list.
RULE NUMBER TWO: Schedule those duties with an eye towards priority and another towards efficiency. For instance, the most important task you may have could be a phone call—and while time management experts say—“Do First Things First”, that particular task may be impractical if you arrive at work at 7am. So, instead, from 7am until 9am or so, schedule the “busywork” that every job has—doing it at a time when the phone won’t ring and people won’t interrupt.
I use a “linear” clock, where each hour is a horizontal line-on it, I list the numbered tasks from my daily list. That way, you look at ONLY the tasks for that hour. FOCUS is important—and it’s amazing how much you can accomplish with this method. I have my day planned out so specifically that if you give me ANY hour in the day, I can tell you EXACTLY what I have planned.
RULE NUMBER THREE: You WILL be interrupted. You WILL have daily emergencies that throw your schedule off. How do you deal with it? Simply move the items in whatever time period you were delayed into a later time in the day. At the end of the day, you will have a number of tasks that were NOT done. Simply transfer these to your NEXT day. As the system works, you will discover that you instinctively delay those tasks that are either NOT URGENT or long-term projects that need work over time. The one pitfall is to be diligent that the latter don’t get passed off day to day without action on your part. The process of having to physically write it down each day will keep it forefront in your mind!
Hope the above tips that work for me—will work for you too! Let me know—and of course, feel free to share tips that work for you!
EVERYONE has more on their plate than they did a year ago…or for that matter, a MONTH ago.
Corporate downsizing and layoffs-combined with the extra efforts that all companies are making to increase revenue have resulted in an increased “in-box” for those still fortunate to have a job. Those glancing at the now-empty seats of those who used to be their colleagues are not complaining (at least not out loud) about their increased workload, grateful that they still draw a paycheck.
With a busy day BEFORE the increase, the trick is to then somehow manage the extra load without completely losing your mind. Because your coworkers are likewise “piled on” may actually be a blessing—each of you understands that the survivors are in the “same boat”.
How do you accomplish all the tasks on your “to-do” list? Well, part of it is prioritizing your work. There may be things that you USED to do that simply need to go undone. Using the old 80-20 rule---that 80% of your relevant results come from just 20% of your activities should help guide you. Part of that lesser 80 may be best left undone-if they come at the expense of more important issues. I would have suggested you delegate these tasks to other people….but most of those people are now GONE>
Here’s what I do—and not only does it appear to be fairly efficient—it is a GREAT stress reliever. Keep in mind that much of the internal stress comes from trying to remember things that you need to do. Eliminate that stress by jotting stuff down…which happens to be my first commandment!
RULE NUMBER ONE: Write EVERYTHING down. Before scheduling, make an exhaustive list of everything that you need to do in the next 24 hours, without regard to its importance or priority. Refer to your daytimer/calendar and transfer everything to a list.
RULE NUMBER TWO: Schedule those duties with an eye towards priority and another towards efficiency. For instance, the most important task you may have could be a phone call—and while time management experts say—“Do First Things First”, that particular task may be impractical if you arrive at work at 7am. So, instead, from 7am until 9am or so, schedule the “busywork” that every job has—doing it at a time when the phone won’t ring and people won’t interrupt.
I use a “linear” clock, where each hour is a horizontal line-on it, I list the numbered tasks from my daily list. That way, you look at ONLY the tasks for that hour. FOCUS is important—and it’s amazing how much you can accomplish with this method. I have my day planned out so specifically that if you give me ANY hour in the day, I can tell you EXACTLY what I have planned.
RULE NUMBER THREE: You WILL be interrupted. You WILL have daily emergencies that throw your schedule off. How do you deal with it? Simply move the items in whatever time period you were delayed into a later time in the day. At the end of the day, you will have a number of tasks that were NOT done. Simply transfer these to your NEXT day. As the system works, you will discover that you instinctively delay those tasks that are either NOT URGENT or long-term projects that need work over time. The one pitfall is to be diligent that the latter don’t get passed off day to day without action on your part. The process of having to physically write it down each day will keep it forefront in your mind!
Hope the above tips that work for me—will work for you too! Let me know—and of course, feel free to share tips that work for you!
Friday, November 14, 2008
Fun With Your Finances
It’s starting to get redundant on the ‘ol Tim Moore blog, but it seems that just about all conversation these days leads to the ECONOMY, the RECESSION, the JOB MARKET and other fun topics.
My wife and I went to see our Financial Advisor this morning. He’s a pretty smart fellow and was able to give us a lot of insight on the progression of BAD STUFF that led to the “Perfect Storm” were are facing right now.
The stock market is down. The bond market is down. So, with our meager “portfolio” getting more meager by the minute, the $64 dollar question (it USED to be a $64,000 question, but it resided in my 401K) is: “OK, what do we do now?”
I think we got some good advice..and a whole lot of reassurance that things will pick up. If you have a financial advisor you trust, it’s a good idea to at least get a reality check. That person may just be your accountant or tax guy/gal, but whoever you trust to navigate you through these troubled waters should be consulted-if for nothing else-to keep you from making a boneheaded move purely out of emotion.
Today, I learned about Stock Market certificates. Basically, it’s an index fund where the principal is protected (unlike stocks)—if the market goes up, you receive interest that is a fraction of that growth (they average about 7-8% historically-not bad!), but if the market goes down, you simply earn 0% interest. With CD’s paying about 3% and Money Markets not much better, a zero or up to 8% upside (with no downside) looks pretty good right now.
Your situation may be a lot different, but it might be a good idea to ask your financial guru about this instrument. Let me know how it works out!
My wife and I went to see our Financial Advisor this morning. He’s a pretty smart fellow and was able to give us a lot of insight on the progression of BAD STUFF that led to the “Perfect Storm” were are facing right now.
The stock market is down. The bond market is down. So, with our meager “portfolio” getting more meager by the minute, the $64 dollar question (it USED to be a $64,000 question, but it resided in my 401K) is: “OK, what do we do now?”
I think we got some good advice..and a whole lot of reassurance that things will pick up. If you have a financial advisor you trust, it’s a good idea to at least get a reality check. That person may just be your accountant or tax guy/gal, but whoever you trust to navigate you through these troubled waters should be consulted-if for nothing else-to keep you from making a boneheaded move purely out of emotion.
Today, I learned about Stock Market certificates. Basically, it’s an index fund where the principal is protected (unlike stocks)—if the market goes up, you receive interest that is a fraction of that growth (they average about 7-8% historically-not bad!), but if the market goes down, you simply earn 0% interest. With CD’s paying about 3% and Money Markets not much better, a zero or up to 8% upside (with no downside) looks pretty good right now.
Your situation may be a lot different, but it might be a good idea to ask your financial guru about this instrument. Let me know how it works out!
Thursday, November 13, 2008
What's The Next BIG Thing?
Everyday, I marvel at the technology we are surrounded by. Things that we tend to take for granted-are amazing! Sometimes, it makes sense to stop and think about how our lives have changed in just the last decade or so.
The Internet- Clearly, this is the biggest change to our daily existence. To think we are a few mouse clicks away from virtually any information staggers the mind. We can shop across the world, meet new people (some of them scary, no doubt!) and educate ourselves on any topic under the sun. It’s hard to imagine that the internet was solely the domain of eggheads in the scientific community just a few short years ago.
The Cell Phone- Being able to talk with anyone around the world, completely unconnected by wires is still incredible to conceive! On that same device, you can take pictures or video and send anywhere in the world. You can send and receive e-mail, text messages, download files or audio/video through the air and store vast amounts of data on a gadget that fits in a shirt pocket!
Google- Obviously related to the internet, it is a phenomenon in and of itself. To be able to type a word or two into this search engine and immediately receive context appropriate website links is nothing short of a miracle! To think that two Stanford University students were able create a company with a market value greater than General Motors in just a few short years is testament to the warp speed at which we are living!
GPS- A device that sits in your car that connects wirelessly to a satellite in outer space that TALKS to you and tells you when and where to turn-all the while displaying an up-to-the-second graphical display of where you are? Right out of the Jetsons!
Back in the 1800’s some brainchild (whose name escapes me now) declared, “I think that everything that could be invented already has!” Guess he was a little off…
Can our minds even conceive of what’s next? It’s exciting to think about what might be around the corner!
The Internet- Clearly, this is the biggest change to our daily existence. To think we are a few mouse clicks away from virtually any information staggers the mind. We can shop across the world, meet new people (some of them scary, no doubt!) and educate ourselves on any topic under the sun. It’s hard to imagine that the internet was solely the domain of eggheads in the scientific community just a few short years ago.
The Cell Phone- Being able to talk with anyone around the world, completely unconnected by wires is still incredible to conceive! On that same device, you can take pictures or video and send anywhere in the world. You can send and receive e-mail, text messages, download files or audio/video through the air and store vast amounts of data on a gadget that fits in a shirt pocket!
Google- Obviously related to the internet, it is a phenomenon in and of itself. To be able to type a word or two into this search engine and immediately receive context appropriate website links is nothing short of a miracle! To think that two Stanford University students were able create a company with a market value greater than General Motors in just a few short years is testament to the warp speed at which we are living!
GPS- A device that sits in your car that connects wirelessly to a satellite in outer space that TALKS to you and tells you when and where to turn-all the while displaying an up-to-the-second graphical display of where you are? Right out of the Jetsons!
Back in the 1800’s some brainchild (whose name escapes me now) declared, “I think that everything that could be invented already has!” Guess he was a little off…
Can our minds even conceive of what’s next? It’s exciting to think about what might be around the corner!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
A Trip To The Dentist
I went for my six month teeth cleaning this morning-and it struck me how some businesses appear to be recession-proof. I think the dentist is doing OK, as are most of the professionals in the medical field.
After all, since insurance cover 100% of preventative dental care, most people have not cancelled their trips to the dentist. Elective cosmetic work may be a different story. Folks who have to shell out their own bucks may have second thoughts nowadays.
Am I the only one who HATES the gritty “toothpaste” they clean your teeth with? My hygienist is terrific-friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about her job. Best of all, she has a steady hand and never stabs me with those sharp probing tools of hers! Nonetheless, that awful stuff that she polishes my fangs with tastes terrible and there is no way it all gets evacuated with that suction-thing. This, of course, means I have to swallow the damn stuff….which makes me want to gag!
And about that suction thing…..I think I liked it better when we used to turn our heads and spit into the basin. At least that way, we could really get rid of the junk instead of swallowing! Cruising around your mouth with the dental version of a wet/dry vac is a bit weird…and not as effective. I’m sure it is more sanitary, though. How did dentists and their assistants ever survive the germs when I was growing up? Now, it’s gloves on the hands, a smock and protective facegear to keep my propellants from landing on her. It’s all good….just a bit strange, that’s all.
After being admonished for not flossing enough, being loaded up with a brush, floss and rinse, I was sent along my merry way…eager to compromise my newly cleaned teeth with a bagel, cream cheese and hot coffee!
Anything to get that gritty taste out of my mouth!
After all, since insurance cover 100% of preventative dental care, most people have not cancelled their trips to the dentist. Elective cosmetic work may be a different story. Folks who have to shell out their own bucks may have second thoughts nowadays.
Am I the only one who HATES the gritty “toothpaste” they clean your teeth with? My hygienist is terrific-friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about her job. Best of all, she has a steady hand and never stabs me with those sharp probing tools of hers! Nonetheless, that awful stuff that she polishes my fangs with tastes terrible and there is no way it all gets evacuated with that suction-thing. This, of course, means I have to swallow the damn stuff….which makes me want to gag!
And about that suction thing…..I think I liked it better when we used to turn our heads and spit into the basin. At least that way, we could really get rid of the junk instead of swallowing! Cruising around your mouth with the dental version of a wet/dry vac is a bit weird…and not as effective. I’m sure it is more sanitary, though. How did dentists and their assistants ever survive the germs when I was growing up? Now, it’s gloves on the hands, a smock and protective facegear to keep my propellants from landing on her. It’s all good….just a bit strange, that’s all.
After being admonished for not flossing enough, being loaded up with a brush, floss and rinse, I was sent along my merry way…eager to compromise my newly cleaned teeth with a bagel, cream cheese and hot coffee!
Anything to get that gritty taste out of my mouth!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Veterans Deserve Our Thanks
No one day will begin to cover it, but we are happy to express our gratitude to veterans of all branches of the service by setting aside this holiday to honor those who have served their country.
This morning, 94.9 WHOM teamed with Sudzie Autowash in Scarborough to offer free car washes to veterans, as well as active and reserve military personnel. As I write this, it is just past noon—with another 5 hours to go—and we have been BUSY! Veterans were also given pairs of tickets to a Portland Pirates hockey game (thank you Brian Petrovik and the entire Pirates organization!), free coffee and treats from Tim Horton’s and someone will win a free car detail plus a free wash a month for a year!
It’s always fun to meet our listeners-and we are having a great time meeting you today! Our live broadcast was hosted by GV Rapp-and our Promotions Director Brett Williams was also on hand to “press the flesh!”
Thanks finally to Sudzie Autowash owner John Massengill, who was terrific to work with. John is a huge believer in “giving back” to the community—and it was evident today as John enthusiastically pitched in to help us set up the broadcast and graciously welcomed us and all of the veterans to what I must say is THE most awesome carwash facility I have ever seen!
Thanks also John for joining GV on the broadcast!
Veterans, we salute and honor you today! Without your sacrifices, we would not have the freedoms we currently enjoy!
This morning, 94.9 WHOM teamed with Sudzie Autowash in Scarborough to offer free car washes to veterans, as well as active and reserve military personnel. As I write this, it is just past noon—with another 5 hours to go—and we have been BUSY! Veterans were also given pairs of tickets to a Portland Pirates hockey game (thank you Brian Petrovik and the entire Pirates organization!), free coffee and treats from Tim Horton’s and someone will win a free car detail plus a free wash a month for a year!
It’s always fun to meet our listeners-and we are having a great time meeting you today! Our live broadcast was hosted by GV Rapp-and our Promotions Director Brett Williams was also on hand to “press the flesh!”
Thanks finally to Sudzie Autowash owner John Massengill, who was terrific to work with. John is a huge believer in “giving back” to the community—and it was evident today as John enthusiastically pitched in to help us set up the broadcast and graciously welcomed us and all of the veterans to what I must say is THE most awesome carwash facility I have ever seen!
Thanks also John for joining GV on the broadcast!
Veterans, we salute and honor you today! Without your sacrifices, we would not have the freedoms we currently enjoy!
Monday, November 10, 2008
Life After Bush
Trivia question-quick! Name the last year a Republican was elected President when there WASN’T a “Bush” or “Nixon” on the ticket!
Give up?
It was 1928!
That’s eighty years-and that, “my friends”, is a LONG time!
As we prepare for the Obama era, we also say goodbye to the Bush years. Regardless of your politics, there is a mixed sense of both anticipation and anxiety. Change is tough…and this year, the change is QUANTUM in nature.
Let’s remember that we have endured harder economic times-and more dangerous times as well. Our economy will rebound, our fortunes abroad will be reversed-and good times are just around the corner. It will take both Democrats and Republicans-and a good place to start your own agenda of “change” is to tune out the voices of hate and division that have crept into our media. Not just right wing people like Rush Limbaugh, but Air America and all those other heavily biased talking heads who “major in minor things”.
Can you believe that Sarah Palin is still being criticized for every slip of the tongue? LET IT GO ALREADY!
We have bigger fish to fry! Let’s block out the hate and focus on what unites us-and more importantly, where we want to go as a country. Barack Obama will need to corral to forces within his own party who want to “stick it” to the Republicans—and he’ll also have to reach out to those same Republicans to enlist their help in moving the country forward.
Choosing carefully the rhetoric we expose ourselves to (and could be influenced by) will go a LONG way towards BECOMING the change we seek.
Give up?
It was 1928!
That’s eighty years-and that, “my friends”, is a LONG time!
As we prepare for the Obama era, we also say goodbye to the Bush years. Regardless of your politics, there is a mixed sense of both anticipation and anxiety. Change is tough…and this year, the change is QUANTUM in nature.
Let’s remember that we have endured harder economic times-and more dangerous times as well. Our economy will rebound, our fortunes abroad will be reversed-and good times are just around the corner. It will take both Democrats and Republicans-and a good place to start your own agenda of “change” is to tune out the voices of hate and division that have crept into our media. Not just right wing people like Rush Limbaugh, but Air America and all those other heavily biased talking heads who “major in minor things”.
Can you believe that Sarah Palin is still being criticized for every slip of the tongue? LET IT GO ALREADY!
We have bigger fish to fry! Let’s block out the hate and focus on what unites us-and more importantly, where we want to go as a country. Barack Obama will need to corral to forces within his own party who want to “stick it” to the Republicans—and he’ll also have to reach out to those same Republicans to enlist their help in moving the country forward.
Choosing carefully the rhetoric we expose ourselves to (and could be influenced by) will go a LONG way towards BECOMING the change we seek.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Tightwads Unite! Your Ranks Are Growing Daily
While the economic “crisis” may have passed from the front pages, the troubles continue for many families. Unemployment, underemployment, rising prices and the onset of winter (and the costs of heat) are making everyone take a new look at their finances—and the discretionary things we USED to spend money for-without thinking about it at all.
Grabbing a cup of coffee each day was sort of like breathing for me—I just did it. Stopping by my favorite place and picking up a piping hot java was a daily treat. Now, I save a couple of bucks by going about half as often. When dining, the appetizer may go away—or the dessert (which is just as well)—just to save on the bill. It’s unfortunate that a couple of waitresses I have spoken with say the crunch has shown up in their tips. And I don’t mean fewer dollars because the bill is lower. Instead, fewer dollars because people who used to tip 15% are now doing 10%---or lower. That is just unfair to others who are having the same struggles. We need to keep that in mind!
In our quest to pinch pennies, I think that it’s important to strike a balance between the pain that we can easily withstand, the pain that hurts a little—and those things that really make us happy. So much of the belt-tightening can be done without any perceptible strain on our lifestyle. The next level will cause a little pain, but it is a reminder that we need to sustain a little short-term pain in order to avoid the long-term variety. I think that we still need to celebrate a significant life event with a dinner out. Gifts to loved ones are important, too. We still need to LIVE-and we still need to keep things in perspective.
I’m sure that things looked bleak during the Great Depression—and maybe back then, the view was that we would NEVER recover. Well, we did. We need to realize that while the bottom this time around has not likely been reached yet, it WILL come—and then, too, the REBOUND.
Everything is cyclical…and this too shall pass!
Tighten your belt—don’t SELL it on eBay!
Grabbing a cup of coffee each day was sort of like breathing for me—I just did it. Stopping by my favorite place and picking up a piping hot java was a daily treat. Now, I save a couple of bucks by going about half as often. When dining, the appetizer may go away—or the dessert (which is just as well)—just to save on the bill. It’s unfortunate that a couple of waitresses I have spoken with say the crunch has shown up in their tips. And I don’t mean fewer dollars because the bill is lower. Instead, fewer dollars because people who used to tip 15% are now doing 10%---or lower. That is just unfair to others who are having the same struggles. We need to keep that in mind!
In our quest to pinch pennies, I think that it’s important to strike a balance between the pain that we can easily withstand, the pain that hurts a little—and those things that really make us happy. So much of the belt-tightening can be done without any perceptible strain on our lifestyle. The next level will cause a little pain, but it is a reminder that we need to sustain a little short-term pain in order to avoid the long-term variety. I think that we still need to celebrate a significant life event with a dinner out. Gifts to loved ones are important, too. We still need to LIVE-and we still need to keep things in perspective.
I’m sure that things looked bleak during the Great Depression—and maybe back then, the view was that we would NEVER recover. Well, we did. We need to realize that while the bottom this time around has not likely been reached yet, it WILL come—and then, too, the REBOUND.
Everything is cyclical…and this too shall pass!
Tighten your belt—don’t SELL it on eBay!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
President Obama
Wow.
What a difference a few hours makes, Regardless of whom you voted for, there is no question that history was made last night. The first African-American President was elected by a healthy margin. Yes, change is certainly on the way. No one in this country—or the world for that matter—will ever look at the U.S. the same way again.
It is astonishing to think that a mere 8 years ago, Barack Obama was refused entry to ATTEND the Democratic Convention. He didn’t have credentials to get in. Fast forward to 2008 and there he is, the standard-bearer of the party—and now, President-Elect.
What a country.
Most striking about last night’s speech (and you’ll notice I didn’t call it a “victory” speech) was that at no time did our next President pump his fist or engage in any rhetoric re: the win or the defeat of his opponent. Considering the manner in which he was personally attacked, he would have been entitled to a moment to publicly gloat over the defeat of his rival. But he didn’t. Instead, he was sober and serious and acknowledged that there were millions of Americans who had NOT voted for him. He addressed them, telling them that he wanted to be THEIR President, too.
For his part, Senator McCain was a class act in defeat. In fact, had he spoken DURING the campaign in the mature and wise manner that he did last night, the outcome may have been different.
Barack Obama’s genius is that he SOMEHOW keep race from being a real issue in this race. He transcended ethnic origin to become a uniting force, someone who stood on his ideas and positions rather than the color of his skin.
Perhaps now we can move on. We have shown the world what democracy means: namely, that ANYONE can rise to the top in America—and THIS someone-Barack Obama---has a unique opportunity to transform not only the political landscape, but our national fortunes.
To do so will require compromise, conciliation—and cooperation.
Change is here. Let’s make the most of it!
What a difference a few hours makes, Regardless of whom you voted for, there is no question that history was made last night. The first African-American President was elected by a healthy margin. Yes, change is certainly on the way. No one in this country—or the world for that matter—will ever look at the U.S. the same way again.
It is astonishing to think that a mere 8 years ago, Barack Obama was refused entry to ATTEND the Democratic Convention. He didn’t have credentials to get in. Fast forward to 2008 and there he is, the standard-bearer of the party—and now, President-Elect.
What a country.
Most striking about last night’s speech (and you’ll notice I didn’t call it a “victory” speech) was that at no time did our next President pump his fist or engage in any rhetoric re: the win or the defeat of his opponent. Considering the manner in which he was personally attacked, he would have been entitled to a moment to publicly gloat over the defeat of his rival. But he didn’t. Instead, he was sober and serious and acknowledged that there were millions of Americans who had NOT voted for him. He addressed them, telling them that he wanted to be THEIR President, too.
For his part, Senator McCain was a class act in defeat. In fact, had he spoken DURING the campaign in the mature and wise manner that he did last night, the outcome may have been different.
Barack Obama’s genius is that he SOMEHOW keep race from being a real issue in this race. He transcended ethnic origin to become a uniting force, someone who stood on his ideas and positions rather than the color of his skin.
Perhaps now we can move on. We have shown the world what democracy means: namely, that ANYONE can rise to the top in America—and THIS someone-Barack Obama---has a unique opportunity to transform not only the political landscape, but our national fortunes.
To do so will require compromise, conciliation—and cooperation.
Change is here. Let’s make the most of it!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
A Candidate's Place Is NOT In Front Of The Polls
As I proceeded to perform my civic duty this morning by voting, I was faced with the usual “local candidate gauntlet line”.
There they stand, shoulder-to-shoulder, next to their opponent. Candidates for the State Senate, the State House, The City Council, School Board and County Commissioner. Each of them eager to “greet” you as you enter to vote.
What do they think they are doing?
Well, they’re hoping that you still haven’t made up your mind as you are actually going in to cast your ballot. They are hoping that the very act of your seeing their face, shaking their hand or taking their stickers will sway you from whatever choice you were about to make.
If you’re going to the polls without a clue as to whom you will vote for, please do us all a favor and stay HOME. I will admit not knowing all of the candidates or their “stands” for some of the local offices, but I usually leave them blank. I know some folks who simply vote the party line for races they’re not knowledgeable about. Others pick people they personally know, even if that person would punch out Santa Claus. “Yeah, he may be an S.O.B., but at least I could get him on the phone if the city doesn’t plow my street!” One candidate for office in my neighborhood actually had the gall to paste mini-election “vote for me” stickers on Halloween candy that landed in my son’s Trick or Treat bag! Scratch THAT guy from my list!
While candidates are NOT allowed INSIDE the polling place, they are permitted to prowl around outside, shamelessly asking for your “support”.
Please.
While I hope the vast majority are truly concerned about our taxes, our schools or another issue that propels them to seek office, I fear that a great many are merely on an ego-trip, the first step toward a local political career. For those just looking for a feather to place in their proverbial resume’ cap, I say, shame on you! I can sniff out some of you (because it’s THAT obvious)—others are sneakier. Their lack of true purpose will show up in missed votes in session and unreturned calls to constituents.
I think that we as voters get PLENTY of exposure to the candidates, their platforms and their annoying commercials and lawn signs. On Election Day, the only reason a candidate should go to the polls is the same reason we do….to VOTE.
And that’s it!
There they stand, shoulder-to-shoulder, next to their opponent. Candidates for the State Senate, the State House, The City Council, School Board and County Commissioner. Each of them eager to “greet” you as you enter to vote.
What do they think they are doing?
Well, they’re hoping that you still haven’t made up your mind as you are actually going in to cast your ballot. They are hoping that the very act of your seeing their face, shaking their hand or taking their stickers will sway you from whatever choice you were about to make.
If you’re going to the polls without a clue as to whom you will vote for, please do us all a favor and stay HOME. I will admit not knowing all of the candidates or their “stands” for some of the local offices, but I usually leave them blank. I know some folks who simply vote the party line for races they’re not knowledgeable about. Others pick people they personally know, even if that person would punch out Santa Claus. “Yeah, he may be an S.O.B., but at least I could get him on the phone if the city doesn’t plow my street!” One candidate for office in my neighborhood actually had the gall to paste mini-election “vote for me” stickers on Halloween candy that landed in my son’s Trick or Treat bag! Scratch THAT guy from my list!
While candidates are NOT allowed INSIDE the polling place, they are permitted to prowl around outside, shamelessly asking for your “support”.
Please.
While I hope the vast majority are truly concerned about our taxes, our schools or another issue that propels them to seek office, I fear that a great many are merely on an ego-trip, the first step toward a local political career. For those just looking for a feather to place in their proverbial resume’ cap, I say, shame on you! I can sniff out some of you (because it’s THAT obvious)—others are sneakier. Their lack of true purpose will show up in missed votes in session and unreturned calls to constituents.
I think that we as voters get PLENTY of exposure to the candidates, their platforms and their annoying commercials and lawn signs. On Election Day, the only reason a candidate should go to the polls is the same reason we do….to VOTE.
And that’s it!
Monday, November 3, 2008
Almost Time To Stop Talking And Start Voting
After all the debates, the endless TV and radio commercials, the pundits and polls, the Saturday Night live skits and late-night talk shows, it’s almost time to finally stop the endless gab….and get into that voting booth!
Every area will have local candidates to choose from, the state issues, etc….but the BIG one, the Presidential race is getting the lion’s share of attention, of course.
The polls (or should I say, “surveys”) indicate that Barack Obama will win going away. John McCain, often given up for dead (both literally and figuratively) is not new to that position-and so feels that he-and his chances-are very much alive.
Now, finally, it is OUR turn to speak. Now, finally, it is OUR turn to exercise our hard-fought right to vote for the candidates we feel are speaking for us.
Whatever your political persuasion: Democrat, Republican or Independent---make time Tuesday to let your voice be heard. Record turnouts are expected and that’s a good thing.
There’s much on the line….and now, finally…it is OUR time!
VOTE!
Every area will have local candidates to choose from, the state issues, etc….but the BIG one, the Presidential race is getting the lion’s share of attention, of course.
The polls (or should I say, “surveys”) indicate that Barack Obama will win going away. John McCain, often given up for dead (both literally and figuratively) is not new to that position-and so feels that he-and his chances-are very much alive.
Now, finally, it is OUR turn to speak. Now, finally, it is OUR turn to exercise our hard-fought right to vote for the candidates we feel are speaking for us.
Whatever your political persuasion: Democrat, Republican or Independent---make time Tuesday to let your voice be heard. Record turnouts are expected and that’s a good thing.
There’s much on the line….and now, finally…it is OUR time!
VOTE!
Friday, October 31, 2008
A Proud Father....Take Two
There are life events that you never anticipate in advance as a parent. I experienced one this afternoon as my daughter was honored at a Rotary Luncheon as the recipient of a scholarship for being the one Portland High School senior who best exemplifies service to her community.
We parents all look forward to the usual rites of passage: first day at school, graduations from elementary and high school and maybe college. The prom, passing your driving test and eventual marriage perhaps, all demand inclusion.
Seeing your child being honored for outstanding community service was not in my “consideration set”---at least not until a day a couple of weeks ago when my 17 year old daughter Christina called me with the news.
I cannot describe the pride that my wife Peggy and I had as Michael Johnson, the Principal at PHS-introduced our daughter with a laundry list of her activities and honors.
If Christina was nervous as she gave her little acceptance speech, it didn’t show as she displayed the poise and confidence of the beautiful young woman we know as our daughter.
The room at the Italian Heritage Center in Portland was packed as Senator Susan Collins was in attendance to speak to the Rotarians. She, too, had words of praise for Christina and it was especially gratifying to see one of the country’s foremost current female leaders speak so glowingly of one of our country’s FUTURE female leaders!
(my little girl)
Mom and Dad love you! So do brothers John and Kevin. CONGRATULATIONS!
We parents all look forward to the usual rites of passage: first day at school, graduations from elementary and high school and maybe college. The prom, passing your driving test and eventual marriage perhaps, all demand inclusion.
Seeing your child being honored for outstanding community service was not in my “consideration set”---at least not until a day a couple of weeks ago when my 17 year old daughter Christina called me with the news.
I cannot describe the pride that my wife Peggy and I had as Michael Johnson, the Principal at PHS-introduced our daughter with a laundry list of her activities and honors.
If Christina was nervous as she gave her little acceptance speech, it didn’t show as she displayed the poise and confidence of the beautiful young woman we know as our daughter.
The room at the Italian Heritage Center in Portland was packed as Senator Susan Collins was in attendance to speak to the Rotarians. She, too, had words of praise for Christina and it was especially gratifying to see one of the country’s foremost current female leaders speak so glowingly of one of our country’s FUTURE female leaders!
(my little girl)
Mom and Dad love you! So do brothers John and Kevin. CONGRATULATIONS!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Obamamercial A Success?
Not since Ross Perot in ’92 has a Presidential candidate essentially bought out a roadblock schedule in primetime across several networks to deliver his closing argument.
Barack Obama did just that last night-and the results are predictably….MIXED!
Of course, the Democrats say it “sealed the deal”. Republicans have dismissed it as a half hour story tale propaganda.
It might have actually been both. Of course it was propaganda-and a damn good job of blending the message with emotion and production values second to none. It was also maybe just a bit too polished.
As the race tightens in these final days, the electoral vote-watch has Obama with a formidable lead in key states formerly pegged as “toss ups”.
Whomever you are for, I suppose the one thing that everyone can agree on is the notion that a vote NOT cast is actually an admonition to not COMPLAIN with whatever the outcome is. The stakes this year may be the highest they have been since the dawn of the Great Depression.
Making sure your voice is heard will be important as we solve our future challenges—together, not as Democrats, Republicans or Independents….but as Americans!
I’m Tim Moore and I approved this message!
Barack Obama did just that last night-and the results are predictably….MIXED!
Of course, the Democrats say it “sealed the deal”. Republicans have dismissed it as a half hour story tale propaganda.
It might have actually been both. Of course it was propaganda-and a damn good job of blending the message with emotion and production values second to none. It was also maybe just a bit too polished.
As the race tightens in these final days, the electoral vote-watch has Obama with a formidable lead in key states formerly pegged as “toss ups”.
Whomever you are for, I suppose the one thing that everyone can agree on is the notion that a vote NOT cast is actually an admonition to not COMPLAIN with whatever the outcome is. The stakes this year may be the highest they have been since the dawn of the Great Depression.
Making sure your voice is heard will be important as we solve our future challenges—together, not as Democrats, Republicans or Independents….but as Americans!
I’m Tim Moore and I approved this message!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Snow Already??!! Please, No!!
When I heard that Aroostook County got a pile of snow recently-and that many parts of Pennsylvania and upstate New York were slammed with a half a foot yesterday, it made me shudder….and realize that our turn is not far off!
As October winds down, the entrance of the 11th month means that the white stuff is ALWAYS a possibility. We need to get physically prepared—break out the snow blower (if you are fortunate enough to have one---I still haven’t bought one…yet!), dig out the snow shovels, put the plow on the truck…..and wait.
Aside from equipment prep, we need to MENTALLY prepare to face the flakes. That may be the hardest part. Losing sight of your yard until Spring is never easy—and seems to get harder each year.
Hopefully, the Farmer’s Almanac is dead wrong about the snowfall amounts we can expect this winter….I’ll take the cold…and enough snow to keep the skiers happy, but beyond that….Mother Nature…PLEASE SPARE US!!!!!
As October winds down, the entrance of the 11th month means that the white stuff is ALWAYS a possibility. We need to get physically prepared—break out the snow blower (if you are fortunate enough to have one---I still haven’t bought one…yet!), dig out the snow shovels, put the plow on the truck…..and wait.
Aside from equipment prep, we need to MENTALLY prepare to face the flakes. That may be the hardest part. Losing sight of your yard until Spring is never easy—and seems to get harder each year.
Hopefully, the Farmer’s Almanac is dead wrong about the snowfall amounts we can expect this winter….I’ll take the cold…and enough snow to keep the skiers happy, but beyond that….Mother Nature…PLEASE SPARE US!!!!!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Musings From An Ignorant Insurance Buyer
A recent car accident (no one hurt, thank God!) has me nonetheless pondering whether we should rethink the whole idea of car insurance.
I have a good agent-and the service was decent, but the lingering thought I have is that the REAL reason for insurance is to keep yourself from being wiped out financially if a CATASTROPHIC accident happens. Aside from that, there may be a case for not keeping any other kind of insurance on your car. Hang on to the Liability portion-and consider discarding the Collision and Comprehensive parts…
Why?
Using my family’s accident as an example, here’s my reasoning:
The damage to my car was about $6,000. After the deductible of $500, the “betterment” charges of $400 that my insurance company would not cover-because some of the parts replaced on the car made it “better” than before the accident (HUH?—aren’t ALL replacement parts newer than what existed before?), my out of pocket expenses will be about $900. OK, you say, but the insurance company will pay the remaining $5,100.
True, but if my premiums increase as a result of the crash (as most insurers will jack up rates), isn’t it true that I am really just FINANCING this crash? Over time, the increase in my premiums paid as a result of the accident may exceed the $5,100 paid out in MULTIPLE fashion. Perhaps I would be better off just taking out a bank loan for the cost of the repair—and at least I’ll know the EXACT cost of the accident (loan plus interest)
I’m no insurance expert, but I do know the profits “earned” from the insurance industry are no….accident.
I have a good agent-and the service was decent, but the lingering thought I have is that the REAL reason for insurance is to keep yourself from being wiped out financially if a CATASTROPHIC accident happens. Aside from that, there may be a case for not keeping any other kind of insurance on your car. Hang on to the Liability portion-and consider discarding the Collision and Comprehensive parts…
Why?
Using my family’s accident as an example, here’s my reasoning:
The damage to my car was about $6,000. After the deductible of $500, the “betterment” charges of $400 that my insurance company would not cover-because some of the parts replaced on the car made it “better” than before the accident (HUH?—aren’t ALL replacement parts newer than what existed before?), my out of pocket expenses will be about $900. OK, you say, but the insurance company will pay the remaining $5,100.
True, but if my premiums increase as a result of the crash (as most insurers will jack up rates), isn’t it true that I am really just FINANCING this crash? Over time, the increase in my premiums paid as a result of the accident may exceed the $5,100 paid out in MULTIPLE fashion. Perhaps I would be better off just taking out a bank loan for the cost of the repair—and at least I’ll know the EXACT cost of the accident (loan plus interest)
I’m no insurance expert, but I do know the profits “earned” from the insurance industry are no….accident.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Proud Parent Brags About Daughter
That’s the headline…..and I’m the parent! I snuck out of work for an hour or so today to see my daughter Christina participate in a mock trial at the Cumberland County Courthouse.
Christina is a senior at Portland High School –and is the captain of her mock trial team. Following in the footsteps of her older brother, she thought it would be fun to get involved.
Held in a real courtroom, presided over by real attorneys acting as judges (which I think must be perceived as good practice by those lawyers aspiring to the bench), the rules of law are enforced as each team takes both sides of the argument in a fictional case. Today, it was Portland High versus Deering.
As I write/post this, I have no idea who won or lost…not sure I could tally the points, but I was extremely proud of my girl-who played the part of the plaintiff. As I sat and watched her confidently answer questions in front of a packed courtroom-and an intimidating atmosphere, it was hard to imagine that this is the same sweet baby whose diapers I changed….not that long ago. In short, Christina was MAGNIFICENT!
It is a miracle how children grow and mature…and my wife and I are truly blessed to have three incredible “kids”!!
Christina is a senior at Portland High School –and is the captain of her mock trial team. Following in the footsteps of her older brother, she thought it would be fun to get involved.
Held in a real courtroom, presided over by real attorneys acting as judges (which I think must be perceived as good practice by those lawyers aspiring to the bench), the rules of law are enforced as each team takes both sides of the argument in a fictional case. Today, it was Portland High versus Deering.
As I write/post this, I have no idea who won or lost…not sure I could tally the points, but I was extremely proud of my girl-who played the part of the plaintiff. As I sat and watched her confidently answer questions in front of a packed courtroom-and an intimidating atmosphere, it was hard to imagine that this is the same sweet baby whose diapers I changed….not that long ago. In short, Christina was MAGNIFICENT!
It is a miracle how children grow and mature…and my wife and I are truly blessed to have three incredible “kids”!!
Friday, October 24, 2008
If I Were The VP Nominee, I Would Look Like An Idiot (Too)
So much is being made of Sarah Palin’s perceived readiness(or lack thereof) to take over the Oval Office.
I won’t comment on THAT one-I’ll let her own words and actions speak for themselves. What occurred to me was the sheer ONSLAUGHT this whole process must have been for her or anyone else.
First, I don’t think I could be a governor, so that immediately makes Sarah Palin smarter than me in all likelihood . Given that, I cannot imagine the spotlight of scrutiny that has followed her every move since that fateful announcement. I remember when we first got a glimpse of Dan Quayle. Talk about “deer in the headlights”. The somewhat goofy smile betrayed his lack of readiness (and yet the delight he was taking in getting all that attention)
The bottom line is that I sense ALL of us (certainly myself) would appear to be a complete IDIOT if assaulted under the hot lights by the media with questions. Not just the answers would elude me. How to say them, which way to look, how to control both my words and emotions when someone is taking a potshot.
Good thing I’m just a DJ.
I won’t comment on THAT one-I’ll let her own words and actions speak for themselves. What occurred to me was the sheer ONSLAUGHT this whole process must have been for her or anyone else.
First, I don’t think I could be a governor, so that immediately makes Sarah Palin smarter than me in all likelihood . Given that, I cannot imagine the spotlight of scrutiny that has followed her every move since that fateful announcement. I remember when we first got a glimpse of Dan Quayle. Talk about “deer in the headlights”. The somewhat goofy smile betrayed his lack of readiness (and yet the delight he was taking in getting all that attention)
The bottom line is that I sense ALL of us (certainly myself) would appear to be a complete IDIOT if assaulted under the hot lights by the media with questions. Not just the answers would elude me. How to say them, which way to look, how to control both my words and emotions when someone is taking a potshot.
Good thing I’m just a DJ.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Customer Service Has Gone The Way of The Typewriter
Remember the good’ol typewriter? Bulky but functional, it got the job done until Wang introduced the Word Processor. Market leader Smith-Corona responded with an electronic typewriter. In 1985, the company filed for bankruptcy.
Change is incessant (not just a campaign theme), and smart businesses and individuals need to scan the horizon for what is next. What’s the next big idea? What products and services that are dominant today will be replaced by technology tomorrow?
While the average person may not be able to predict future technological breakthroughs, I believe that a revolution in CUSTOMER SERVICE may be the next big competitive advantage. Since the customer is always a human being (and not likely to be replaced by a machine), why is it that so many companies have chosen to automate their interaction with the customer?
Websites are one thing. Allowing the public to access information instantly with little trouble is a good thing. Having a MACHINE answer your business line is another. Here at 94.9 WHOM, we often must put the Listener Lines to voicemail (since the DJ is on the air), BUT we answer ALL questions where a return phone number is left. Requests are also given due consideration.
Everyone has a horror story of being on infinite “HOLD”, being passed from one person to another (complete with goony music in between) and generally being treated like a pile of garbage. Promises broken, rude behavior and indifference to the customer is rotten now—and on the rise.
Companies that become an example by TREASURING the customer and making that ideal a reality by their actions—will prosper in the years to come!
Change is incessant (not just a campaign theme), and smart businesses and individuals need to scan the horizon for what is next. What’s the next big idea? What products and services that are dominant today will be replaced by technology tomorrow?
While the average person may not be able to predict future technological breakthroughs, I believe that a revolution in CUSTOMER SERVICE may be the next big competitive advantage. Since the customer is always a human being (and not likely to be replaced by a machine), why is it that so many companies have chosen to automate their interaction with the customer?
Websites are one thing. Allowing the public to access information instantly with little trouble is a good thing. Having a MACHINE answer your business line is another. Here at 94.9 WHOM, we often must put the Listener Lines to voicemail (since the DJ is on the air), BUT we answer ALL questions where a return phone number is left. Requests are also given due consideration.
Everyone has a horror story of being on infinite “HOLD”, being passed from one person to another (complete with goony music in between) and generally being treated like a pile of garbage. Promises broken, rude behavior and indifference to the customer is rotten now—and on the rise.
Companies that become an example by TREASURING the customer and making that ideal a reality by their actions—will prosper in the years to come!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Field Trips Are Fun!
This morning I skipped out of work for a few minutes to join my youngest son Kevin on a school field trip to Portland City Hall.
Since I sort of snuck in, I guess I was not exactly considered a chaperone. No matter, as I caught his eye—and the look on his face at seeing Dad at the back of the room made it all worthwhile. I thought about how I’ll miss this someday, when he is all grown-and gone. I remember similar events with my older son John (now a sophomore in college) and my daughter (a senior in high school)—how time has flown! It seems like only yesterday that I was with THEM for such field trips.
Although the trip is meant to educate the young ones, I never leave without learning a thing or two myself. Like the fact that the present Portland City Hall is the THIRD one to sit on that site, the previous two having burned. The granite that makes up the building comes from Jay, Maine, The architectural firm that designed the building is the same one that drew up plans for the New York Public Library and Senate/House buildings in Washington. The city’s motto, “Resurgam” and the seal featuring a phoenix rising from the ashes are references to the devastating fires that consumed much of the city in the past.
I missed the last part of the trip as I had to scoot back to work…but I will always cherish the memories of today with my boy, Kevin, whom I affectionately refer to as the “Dude of Dudes!”
Since I sort of snuck in, I guess I was not exactly considered a chaperone. No matter, as I caught his eye—and the look on his face at seeing Dad at the back of the room made it all worthwhile. I thought about how I’ll miss this someday, when he is all grown-and gone. I remember similar events with my older son John (now a sophomore in college) and my daughter (a senior in high school)—how time has flown! It seems like only yesterday that I was with THEM for such field trips.
Although the trip is meant to educate the young ones, I never leave without learning a thing or two myself. Like the fact that the present Portland City Hall is the THIRD one to sit on that site, the previous two having burned. The granite that makes up the building comes from Jay, Maine, The architectural firm that designed the building is the same one that drew up plans for the New York Public Library and Senate/House buildings in Washington. The city’s motto, “Resurgam” and the seal featuring a phoenix rising from the ashes are references to the devastating fires that consumed much of the city in the past.
I missed the last part of the trip as I had to scoot back to work…but I will always cherish the memories of today with my boy, Kevin, whom I affectionately refer to as the “Dude of Dudes!”
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Saving Money When Things Are Tight
Conversations are happening all over the U.S. (and probably the world) , conversations that usually only happen in households where a drastic event (like the loss of a job) has occurred.
Families all over the country are examining their financial expenditures—and cutting out that which exceeds the “need” threshold. Some of it is just a precaution—and for some, it is a necessity.
While the price of gas has mercifully dropped below $3.00 in many areas, the prospect of a cold winter and a colder economy have put a chill in our forecasted spending.
The funny thing is that we may deny ourselves the things that really don’t make as much of a difference. For instance, declining to go to a restaurant in order to save some dough may leave you feel deprived of the simple treats that everyone should occasionally enjoy. If you eat out 3-4 times a week, slicing ONE of those visits may be reasonable, but going cold turkey may end up being drastic.
I suggest you start with the little things. Here in Portland, it’s sometimes tempting to take the Maine Turnpike to the Mall. Now, however, I’ll take I-295 instead and save the $1.20 in round-trip tolls. I’d rather deny a dollar to the government than I would to a local business that’s depending on me.
Avoiding credit card interest charges, unneeded bank fees and ATM charges—ordering a Medium instead of a Large coffee. Little things that can throw an extra 20 bucks or more a week—all add up.
We need to conserve….but…paradoxically, we need to SPEND too! Pulling this country out of a recession requires commerce. Let’s work to keep our dollars LOCAL…and if not LOCAL, AMERICAN rather than foreign!
Families all over the country are examining their financial expenditures—and cutting out that which exceeds the “need” threshold. Some of it is just a precaution—and for some, it is a necessity.
While the price of gas has mercifully dropped below $3.00 in many areas, the prospect of a cold winter and a colder economy have put a chill in our forecasted spending.
The funny thing is that we may deny ourselves the things that really don’t make as much of a difference. For instance, declining to go to a restaurant in order to save some dough may leave you feel deprived of the simple treats that everyone should occasionally enjoy. If you eat out 3-4 times a week, slicing ONE of those visits may be reasonable, but going cold turkey may end up being drastic.
I suggest you start with the little things. Here in Portland, it’s sometimes tempting to take the Maine Turnpike to the Mall. Now, however, I’ll take I-295 instead and save the $1.20 in round-trip tolls. I’d rather deny a dollar to the government than I would to a local business that’s depending on me.
Avoiding credit card interest charges, unneeded bank fees and ATM charges—ordering a Medium instead of a Large coffee. Little things that can throw an extra 20 bucks or more a week—all add up.
We need to conserve….but…paradoxically, we need to SPEND too! Pulling this country out of a recession requires commerce. Let’s work to keep our dollars LOCAL…and if not LOCAL, AMERICAN rather than foreign!
Monday, October 20, 2008
Sox End Season, But Not In Disgrace
No anger at the “other guys”. No throwing stuff at the TV or screaming at the manager or the umpires in my house last night.
Just quiet disappointment as we witnessed the end of the Red Sox 2008 campaign. If the scene had occurred in Game 5, all of the above tantrums would have been on the table. But they showed their courage in that game-and in the subsequent one. No one in Tampa in disparaging the Sox…they are breathing a sigh of relief.
With battered starting pitching, the loss of Mike Lowell, the sub-par performance of David Ortiz and Jacoby Ellsbury at the plate, you might argue that the ’08 Sox were overachievers to get within 2 runs of going to the World Series again. Had they won last night, I am certain they would have beaten the Phillies.
The fact is that the better team won—and I’ll be rooting for them against Philadelphia in the World Series….darn it!
Just quiet disappointment as we witnessed the end of the Red Sox 2008 campaign. If the scene had occurred in Game 5, all of the above tantrums would have been on the table. But they showed their courage in that game-and in the subsequent one. No one in Tampa in disparaging the Sox…they are breathing a sigh of relief.
With battered starting pitching, the loss of Mike Lowell, the sub-par performance of David Ortiz and Jacoby Ellsbury at the plate, you might argue that the ’08 Sox were overachievers to get within 2 runs of going to the World Series again. Had they won last night, I am certain they would have beaten the Phillies.
The fact is that the better team won—and I’ll be rooting for them against Philadelphia in the World Series….darn it!
Friday, October 17, 2008
The AMAZING Red Sox!
Last night’s game may go down in Red Sox Nation as the most exciting game that nobody actually watched!
Admit it….many, many fans turned off the TV or radio well before the 7th inning.
I did. And—although I am a bit ashamed of my lack of faith, it was simply too painful to continue witnessing the unraveling of my team—at HOME, no less!
What a huge surprise to learn the news this morning! And then to turn to ESPN for the nonstop replays of all the clutch hits! Ortiz (whom I think most major league pitchers have figured out) finally connected with a big one. J.D. Drew? HUGE.
The heart of this team is something to behold. And although I must admit that the Tampa Bay Rays are the better team this year, I’m just happy that our last game at Fenway didn’t end with the visitor celebrating on OUR field!
Incredible to think that the Rays were a perfect 38-0 this season when leading by 3 or more runs. To have that streak end in the fashion that it did could wreak havoc on a young team….let’s hope so!!
Tito, you should start Jon Lester-NOT Josh Beckett in Game 6. There will be no Game 7 without a win! If it DOES get to a 7th game, I believe the Sox will win—and of course, EVERYBODY in the bullpen is a potential pitcher.
GO SOX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Admit it….many, many fans turned off the TV or radio well before the 7th inning.
I did. And—although I am a bit ashamed of my lack of faith, it was simply too painful to continue witnessing the unraveling of my team—at HOME, no less!
What a huge surprise to learn the news this morning! And then to turn to ESPN for the nonstop replays of all the clutch hits! Ortiz (whom I think most major league pitchers have figured out) finally connected with a big one. J.D. Drew? HUGE.
The heart of this team is something to behold. And although I must admit that the Tampa Bay Rays are the better team this year, I’m just happy that our last game at Fenway didn’t end with the visitor celebrating on OUR field!
Incredible to think that the Rays were a perfect 38-0 this season when leading by 3 or more runs. To have that streak end in the fashion that it did could wreak havoc on a young team….let’s hope so!!
Tito, you should start Jon Lester-NOT Josh Beckett in Game 6. There will be no Game 7 without a win! If it DOES get to a 7th game, I believe the Sox will win—and of course, EVERYBODY in the bullpen is a potential pitcher.
GO SOX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Is It Over Already? Ask "Joe The Plumber"!
I sure hope that “Joe the Plumber” cashes in on his fifteen minutes of fame. Of course, if he clears more than a quarter million bucks (and Obama wins) he’ll likely pay more taxes!
What’s more likely is that he will remain below that threshold. As Obama said today on the campaign trail “How many plumbers do you know that make more than a quarter million dollars a year?” (followed by raucous laughter) Joe says that McCain is still his man.
Many of the polls had Barack Obama the “winner” in last night’s debate, although it appeared that he was a tad cautious-the hallmark of someone who knows he has the advantage and wishes to avoid a mistake rather than score points. Sen. McCain, on the other hand-needed a knockout punch—and even most Republicans agree that he didn’t land it.
In fact, I think he appeared anxious to mix it up—and that tone and demeanor worked against him.
Whatever your politics, there is much consensus that Obama has run the better campaign. His message of change has been consistent from the beginning, his organization has been far better (if you don’t believe me, ask prohibitive pre-primary favorite Hillary Clinton) and he has out-maneuvered and out-strategized his opponents at every turn, right down to ignoring “conventional wisdom” regarding “red” and “blue” states. As a result, he has redrawn the electoral map to be competitive in states that historically have been Republican strongholds.
John McCain’s campaign-on the other hand—has been one of high drama, from the shift away from Obama’s inexperience (abandoned after the selection of Sarah Palin) to “change” to his mishandling of the economic crisis.
A wise man once said that a candidate’s campaign is a microcosm of their administration. If one can’t conduct a cohesive campaign that is effective, how can they run something far more complex—like, say, the United States?
I DON’T think it’s over-as enough undecided voters can shift in time to cause an upset win for McCain.
It will be exciting to watch!
What’s more likely is that he will remain below that threshold. As Obama said today on the campaign trail “How many plumbers do you know that make more than a quarter million dollars a year?” (followed by raucous laughter) Joe says that McCain is still his man.
Many of the polls had Barack Obama the “winner” in last night’s debate, although it appeared that he was a tad cautious-the hallmark of someone who knows he has the advantage and wishes to avoid a mistake rather than score points. Sen. McCain, on the other hand-needed a knockout punch—and even most Republicans agree that he didn’t land it.
In fact, I think he appeared anxious to mix it up—and that tone and demeanor worked against him.
Whatever your politics, there is much consensus that Obama has run the better campaign. His message of change has been consistent from the beginning, his organization has been far better (if you don’t believe me, ask prohibitive pre-primary favorite Hillary Clinton) and he has out-maneuvered and out-strategized his opponents at every turn, right down to ignoring “conventional wisdom” regarding “red” and “blue” states. As a result, he has redrawn the electoral map to be competitive in states that historically have been Republican strongholds.
John McCain’s campaign-on the other hand—has been one of high drama, from the shift away from Obama’s inexperience (abandoned after the selection of Sarah Palin) to “change” to his mishandling of the economic crisis.
A wise man once said that a candidate’s campaign is a microcosm of their administration. If one can’t conduct a cohesive campaign that is effective, how can they run something far more complex—like, say, the United States?
I DON’T think it’s over-as enough undecided voters can shift in time to cause an upset win for McCain.
It will be exciting to watch!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Down To The Last Debate!
By the time anyone reads this, the Final Presidential Debate will likely have taken place.
Who “won”?
The latest polls indicate that Barack Obama is leading and starting to pull away. That means that tonight will likely be the last chance for John McCain to state his case. Exactly how he will do this remains to be seen.
Pundits claim he must really go on the attack—but with the market down another 700+ points today, most Americans want to hear about the economy—and who will turn things around. Pointing fingers is not likely to go over well.
If I were a Republican strategist, I would suggest that McCain try to appear “Presidential” (whatever that means) and put the thrust on his economic plan. Without a clear “pocketbook” rationale for choosing McCain, Obama stands to win. Not that Americans feel he has all the answers, either.
Do either of them have any real answers? Not likely, but Americans will probably go with their GUT on November 4th. Most experts predict the Obama lead will shrink and that the race will be a tight one, fought on electoral turf where the state tallies may make this the closest race since 2000.
Whatever the outcome, the best idea is to make your own decision and by all means, VOTE!
Who “won”?
The latest polls indicate that Barack Obama is leading and starting to pull away. That means that tonight will likely be the last chance for John McCain to state his case. Exactly how he will do this remains to be seen.
Pundits claim he must really go on the attack—but with the market down another 700+ points today, most Americans want to hear about the economy—and who will turn things around. Pointing fingers is not likely to go over well.
If I were a Republican strategist, I would suggest that McCain try to appear “Presidential” (whatever that means) and put the thrust on his economic plan. Without a clear “pocketbook” rationale for choosing McCain, Obama stands to win. Not that Americans feel he has all the answers, either.
Do either of them have any real answers? Not likely, but Americans will probably go with their GUT on November 4th. Most experts predict the Obama lead will shrink and that the race will be a tight one, fought on electoral turf where the state tallies may make this the closest race since 2000.
Whatever the outcome, the best idea is to make your own decision and by all means, VOTE!
Monday, October 13, 2008
Sports As A Diversion
The value of sports is often drilled into us when we’re young. Virtues like moving towards a goal, striving to do your best, overcoming adversity and working together as a team—all of them and more are put forth as ideals to aspire to.
Nowadays, however—sports—and in particular, spectator sports-are serving a different purpose altogether. Sports are the diversion we need, the distraction from our everyday worries.
The stock market, the cost of fuel, threats of layoffs and shrinking credit are enough to drive one to drink. Instead of such a pathetic excuse, why not just pop a cold one and flip on the Red Sox?
Game 3 is this afternoon—and while I must admit that I don’t have high hopes for Boston making it past this round, I am satisfied that this baseball team is helping me unwind after a stressful day. Of course, I hope that I’m wrong-that the Sox will defeat Tampa and then whup either the Dodgers or the Phillies in the World Series. Regardless of the outcome, I am happily ensconced in the carefree world of baseball. OK. I know it too is big business and is nothing like the sandlot game I played as a kid. I don’t care. I want the ESCAPE that watching sports brings.
Of course, some of those ideals might be worth paying attention to by our national leaders:
Working together towards a goal.
Overcoming adversity.
Teamwork.
Maybe Congress should spend less time talking and more time watching sports.
Nowadays, however—sports—and in particular, spectator sports-are serving a different purpose altogether. Sports are the diversion we need, the distraction from our everyday worries.
The stock market, the cost of fuel, threats of layoffs and shrinking credit are enough to drive one to drink. Instead of such a pathetic excuse, why not just pop a cold one and flip on the Red Sox?
Game 3 is this afternoon—and while I must admit that I don’t have high hopes for Boston making it past this round, I am satisfied that this baseball team is helping me unwind after a stressful day. Of course, I hope that I’m wrong-that the Sox will defeat Tampa and then whup either the Dodgers or the Phillies in the World Series. Regardless of the outcome, I am happily ensconced in the carefree world of baseball. OK. I know it too is big business and is nothing like the sandlot game I played as a kid. I don’t care. I want the ESCAPE that watching sports brings.
Of course, some of those ideals might be worth paying attention to by our national leaders:
Working together towards a goal.
Overcoming adversity.
Teamwork.
Maybe Congress should spend less time talking and more time watching sports.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Confidence Will Get The Job Done
I’m no economist (although I passed those college classes!)-but I do know that there is a “disconnect” between the economic indicators (facts) and the stock market (fear and greed)
While the two are interrelated, as I understand it, market behavior is mostly based on EMOTION connected to beliefs about what the economy will do in the future. In short, it’s a CONFIDENCE GAME.
So, with the government bailout of the credit markets, liquidity should improve –and if consumers and businesses are not restricted from borrowing, the stock market downturn is mostly…..well…in our minds.
It doesn’t help that Jim Cramer the TV windbag is advising people to take the cash they’ll need for the next 3-5 years OUT of the market. When the profit-seekers see real deals, they’ll get back in and hopefully the confidence will increase, fueling a cycle that will feed on itself to jumpstart growth. The reverse is what is happening now, with daily BAD NEWS causing further withdrawals from the Dow Jones.
So….let’s have CONFIDENCE!!!!!
People still need homes, need to eat, travel and spend money. Unemployment is still relatively low—and as long as consumers continue to buy the goods and services they normally would, businesses won’t have to lay off more workers!
I realize that a majority of my recent blogs have been about the economy and the current crisis—but frankly, it’s all that anyone is talking or thinking about. So let’s have FAITH in our ability to produce, to purchase and to thrive!
Regardless of the economic facts that are undeniable, IF it is true that Wall Street is dependant upon our ATTITUDES toward the market, then recovery is within our collective control!
Let’s do it!
While the two are interrelated, as I understand it, market behavior is mostly based on EMOTION connected to beliefs about what the economy will do in the future. In short, it’s a CONFIDENCE GAME.
So, with the government bailout of the credit markets, liquidity should improve –and if consumers and businesses are not restricted from borrowing, the stock market downturn is mostly…..well…in our minds.
It doesn’t help that Jim Cramer the TV windbag is advising people to take the cash they’ll need for the next 3-5 years OUT of the market. When the profit-seekers see real deals, they’ll get back in and hopefully the confidence will increase, fueling a cycle that will feed on itself to jumpstart growth. The reverse is what is happening now, with daily BAD NEWS causing further withdrawals from the Dow Jones.
So….let’s have CONFIDENCE!!!!!
People still need homes, need to eat, travel and spend money. Unemployment is still relatively low—and as long as consumers continue to buy the goods and services they normally would, businesses won’t have to lay off more workers!
I realize that a majority of my recent blogs have been about the economy and the current crisis—but frankly, it’s all that anyone is talking or thinking about. So let’s have FAITH in our ability to produce, to purchase and to thrive!
Regardless of the economic facts that are undeniable, IF it is true that Wall Street is dependant upon our ATTITUDES toward the market, then recovery is within our collective control!
Let’s do it!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Boy, I Must Really Be Lucky!
Some people never win anything.
Door prizes at trade shows, school raffles, the slot machines in Vegas or the state lotteries and Powerball. No matter how many books of tickets they buy, how many “chances” they purchase, how many magazine subscriptions they acquire to win the Publishers Clearinghouse, it seems they always come up empty. Someone else (usually in Battle Creek, Michigan) is declared the winner. Their toothy grin is prominently featured on the NEXT mailer they get showing how EASY it is to win. Another postage stamp, another disappointment.
Not me.
Why, just this week I’ve received about a half dozen e-mails from people who are looking to give me money! One is from a sheik somewhere in the Middle East who says MY NAME showed up on a list of “lost investors” of profitable oil wells who are to share in several billion dollars! What luck! All they need is about $500 to “process my application”
Another is from some relative I’ve never met who passed on and left most of their estate to me! I have no idea how they are related to me, but if I provide my Social Security number for verification, the check will be IN THE MAIL!
What are the odds that on that very same day I also received an e-mail from Microsoft informing me that since I am a PC user, I was ALREADY REGISTERED to win several million dollars in their sweepstakes! All they need is a certified check for $1,000 in order to complete my winners profile and cut me a check. They even said they would automatically deposit it in the bank for me if I sent them my account number!
This must be my lucky day!
Door prizes at trade shows, school raffles, the slot machines in Vegas or the state lotteries and Powerball. No matter how many books of tickets they buy, how many “chances” they purchase, how many magazine subscriptions they acquire to win the Publishers Clearinghouse, it seems they always come up empty. Someone else (usually in Battle Creek, Michigan) is declared the winner. Their toothy grin is prominently featured on the NEXT mailer they get showing how EASY it is to win. Another postage stamp, another disappointment.
Not me.
Why, just this week I’ve received about a half dozen e-mails from people who are looking to give me money! One is from a sheik somewhere in the Middle East who says MY NAME showed up on a list of “lost investors” of profitable oil wells who are to share in several billion dollars! What luck! All they need is about $500 to “process my application”
Another is from some relative I’ve never met who passed on and left most of their estate to me! I have no idea how they are related to me, but if I provide my Social Security number for verification, the check will be IN THE MAIL!
What are the odds that on that very same day I also received an e-mail from Microsoft informing me that since I am a PC user, I was ALREADY REGISTERED to win several million dollars in their sweepstakes! All they need is a certified check for $1,000 in order to complete my winners profile and cut me a check. They even said they would automatically deposit it in the bank for me if I sent them my account number!
This must be my lucky day!
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Town Meeting Or Town....Nap?
Being a political junkie, I had to plant myself in front of the TV last night to see the second Presidential Debate. The “town meeting” format, hosted by veteran anchor Tom Brokaw promised to be better than the first one—but mostly disappointed those looking for red meat-like me. It was more like warmed over corned beef.
Brokaw did better than Gwen Eiffel (sp?) who completed mishandled the VP Debate last week. However, the tightly controlled atmosphere, the mundane questions and complete lack of fireworks left me cold. We were told that over 6 million questions had been submitted…are THOSE the best they could come up with?
I thought Obama and McCain both did OK, although the Senator from Arizona seemed awkward at times…his referral to Obama as “that one” was strange, to say the least.
I call again for a FACTUAL test. Ask questions that test their KNOWLEDGE, not just their opinions. Knowing and recalling facts re: the economy, foreign affairs and policy and/or particulars about the Constitution (how can they “protect and defend” it if they don’t know it?) seems a better gauge of suitability for the job.
One more to go……with McCain supposedly “on the ropes”, it will be interesting to see if the gloves come off….that was supposed to happen last night-and didn’t.
Forget who “won” and who “lost”. Who articulated a better future for you and your family?
Brokaw did better than Gwen Eiffel (sp?) who completed mishandled the VP Debate last week. However, the tightly controlled atmosphere, the mundane questions and complete lack of fireworks left me cold. We were told that over 6 million questions had been submitted…are THOSE the best they could come up with?
I thought Obama and McCain both did OK, although the Senator from Arizona seemed awkward at times…his referral to Obama as “that one” was strange, to say the least.
I call again for a FACTUAL test. Ask questions that test their KNOWLEDGE, not just their opinions. Knowing and recalling facts re: the economy, foreign affairs and policy and/or particulars about the Constitution (how can they “protect and defend” it if they don’t know it?) seems a better gauge of suitability for the job.
One more to go……with McCain supposedly “on the ropes”, it will be interesting to see if the gloves come off….that was supposed to happen last night-and didn’t.
Forget who “won” and who “lost”. Who articulated a better future for you and your family?
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