We send out Birthday and Anniversary coupons to all who register...usually, these coupons are for a FREE meal. We no longer have crepes. We do give out a FREE dessert or FREE drink...unless they are redeeming a Birthday coupon.
Here's a thought: do we have the time/energy to do the games this year? I'm not against doing them, I just thought I'd say what many might be thinking anyway. It's a short weekend. Comments? (no epithets, please)
John McCain doesn't go to church...I mean he only goes when he's in Phoenix, which he admitted isn't very ofter...so, McCain doesn't care if you're a Chaplain, Cathy...However, Obama goes every week and would welcome your service to the armed church!
I had a delicious bass (I mean walleye) at Sarah's last night, Mike had his birthday dinner (thanks for the B'day coupon!) of mussels, steak and fries and lots of wine and finished in Whittemore with 2 whittemore fogs!
Anyone who thinks Hussein-Obama goes to church every Sunday should read the front cover story about his "faith" in this week's Newsweek. It seems his faith is whatever he wants it to be at a given moment. That should not be a surprise, seeing that he changes his position on national issues every time a new poll comes out. I guess his faith is evolving just as his position on issues seems to evolve. Dad
"Evlolving" might not be the right term, as the word does have a sense of moving forward toward something, maturing, or progressing. The changes in his faith, and his positions on issues, seem less like progress, less like advancement, than they resemble the movements of protozoa instinctively and constantly moving to the lighter side of the petri dish, the side more politically advantageous. There is no progress but only lateral movement. Hey, it's change tho, and even if it's not change you can believe in it is change you can count on.
Dan Rather was on Morning Joe this morning and as he was answering a question...he inserted Osama's name where he should have said Obama's. No one corrected him and went on as usual. Hmm.
Obama's chameleon-like character is accentuated by his recent charge to the middle of the political spectrum. I won't itemize these shifts in his policy statements since his nomination because most are painfully aware of them.
Andrea Mitchell reported this morning that Obama explicitly did not want Biden to accompany him on his overseas trip because he knew that Biden's towering stature in the foreign arena would underscore his own shortcomings. Obama opted for a couple of senators to accompany him less acumen and regard in foreign relations.
Here is a list of those who have told us they are coming to the family reunion. The number in parenthesis is the total number coming in each family: Cathy & Steve (3) plus 4 for dinner Don (1) Mary & Mike (2) Joe (3) plus maybe Eli & Liam Jim & Erin (5) Monica & Joe (6) Ed (1) Everyone else is welcome but it sure would make it easier for us if we knew how many chops we will need. Please call if we have not heard from you. Mom & Dad
Pro-life or anti-abortion? My biggest disappointment with Obama so far is his disagreement with the Supreme Court over a capital punishment case where they ruled in favor of the defendant. If you are pro capital punishment you are not pro-life. I also think Obama is wiggling around too much. But I also believe that a man who will not change his mind no matter what new information he receives is just as much a fool and afraid of what the polls will say as a man who changes all the time.
Thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes! It was a painless birthday (well sort of) but the real celebrating will start @ 6:45 tonight when Mary and I see "The Dark Knight"...if we are able to get in. By the way... "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" to EVERYONE who had a birthday this past year and best wishes to those who didn't! ML
John McCain likes "walking tacos"...gringo enuf for him. Andrea Mitchell may want to speculate on her own husband's tour of duty. I wonder how many people voted for "W" 'cause he's "pro-life"? He hasn't made a Christian decision since he's been in office.
Suddenly I'm encountering nervous, hypersensitive Obama supporters. I get the sense that there is some regret that they fell for a poser. That they should have picked a legitimate candidate with a clearly defined background and experience. A candidate who can counter McCain's own level of experience.
Let's face it. McCain has run a pretty unfocused campaign to this point and barely trails in the polling. Once he gets his stuff in one pile (and he will) there is a better than 50/50 chance that the "Rock Star" is gonna lose.
It means just what it says. A person with a record that can not be construed in any way. As in the case of, oh - let's say Biden. He has decades of statements, legislative work and a voting record that clearly defines him as a reasonable moderate with whom the "Reagan Democrats" (who will decide this election) would be more comfortable with than a new-on-the-scene poser. Like, oh - let's say Obama.
Obama is not a poser, he's just the "it" guy right now...in our society he can't let this chance pass by...I would bet money that everyone in the Senate has(or had) a desire to run. And it's those clearly defined statements of McCain's that will do him in...lots and lots of sound bites from the crusty hot-tempered dude...I just wish they had footage of him hitting on Cindy while he was still married...yes, much easier to make a run for Senate from Arizona with a VERY wealthy wife!
The New Yorker has a really long article on Obama this week. I'm just in the midst of it. He's definitely a savvy politician. BTW, he joined his church at the advice of a political mentor (who no longer supports him). I'm not saying it's right, but apparently this is not so unusual in Chicago. The article so far is both very admiring of his savvy and moxie and also cautionary about the same traits. He is a poseur but what politician ISN'T????
I still like him better than McCain who scares the heck out of me when imagining him president.
we are sitting a theatre waiting for batman to start. we showed up 5 minutes ago and rhere was a very loooooooong line. just before thet let people in one of the ticket clerks said the line could not cross the exit and made everybody move. suddenly we were at the front of line in front people who had been in line for 3 hours.
Yes...do tell! I've heard the same thing and I'm trying to decide whether the boys should see it. I checked it out on pluggedinonline.com and still couldn't make up my mind, entirely.
Hey, check your emails. I named all who plan to be at the reunion. As the email states, if anyone who said he or she (and family) are not coming decides to change his or her mind, there is still room. Dad
So I was on my way to work this morning and as I approach my building I hear what sounds like music above sounds of traffic and the trains coming from the south and so I go check it out and John Mellencamp was giving a free concert in Daily Plaza (which is like a block south of my building). So I stick around and hear him sing R-o-c-k in the USA, Rain the Scarecrow and some song about having Jesus give you ride somewhere I think.
My take on the Dark Knight: Good Movie. Complicated story for young kids to follow. Action scenes are specatcular as you would expect. These scenes are seperated by morality tests of the main characters and the Gotham public at large.
The violence is often felt rather than seen.
I have to admit I laughed when I had heard Heath Ledger say that playing the Joker had taken a toll on him. I thought "come on. It's the Joker!? How rough can this be?" I was recollecting the Joker as played in the campy TV series of the 60s. Not realizing that these new Batman movies are as much drama as they are action adventure movies.
Ledger did an great job of playing a person completely comforatable in causing as much mayhem and psycological torture as possible. He almost made the character seem plausible.
Whoever played Rachel - they could have chose a much hotter actress. I forget her name but she looks like Princess Leya's less attractive little sister.
The actor who plays Batman- he kind of reminds me of me.
Stevo and I are going to see the Batman movie at the Imax. I've never been to it - I'm so excited. We have to wait for a rainy night because otherwise we are scraping, sanding and painting our house. Why didn't we do this in May and June when it was 20 degrees cooler?? I think it was raining every weekend or something like that.
I really don't like my boss. Well, one of the 5, as it is a family run hotel. They are everywhere. I have to tell you, waitresses are typecast and treated as if they are dumb by many people. On the other hand, many people are really really nice. I have a hard time deciding how far I'll prostitute myself b4 just giving up on a tip. It's an interesting profession in the interaction regard. I'm glad to do it for a few months but will be glad when I can quit. At least this specific location. I so want to tell off my boss. A little man with a big chip.
If it weren't for my boss (and my feet still having a hard time) I'd be happy doing this job. I think everyone should do it for a while. The nasty rich people are not that awful, given others are great. But it is a question, how far will you be demeaned b4 just forgetting about the tip? Someone said yesterday, "I want my toast buttered and that means you need to do it. So if you want a tip, you;ll butter my toast, sweetheart." p
Serving the public can be a challenge and sometimes the tip ain't worth it. However, if one is going to be successful at serving...yah gotta sorta roll with these types of people. A response to a Guest, such as him, could be varied based upon what you've learned from him while serving...here are a few. "Hey, if You butter it...I'll give you a $1!" (Then, give him one.) Or, "I could call your Mom and ask her to do it." Or, "If you really want me to butter it...I would be more than happy." ...then, you look at him like "yah really want me to?" Another response could be, "We don't butter the toast because everybody likes a different amount and we want our Guests to choose for themselves." I would choose one of the latter two...although, the first two are kinda fun!
I spit on food...once. I was 16. Working at Pannekoeken Huis. A Guest repeatedly yanked at my wrap around skirt...every time I left his table. I'm unsure it every exposed my undergarments...however, it certainly felt, "chilly," each time it happened. When his dutch country omelet (loaded with gouda cheese atop) came up...I did it. He loved it. Left me a fiver. Naughty...I know. I think there's a lesson in there somewhere...hmm.
I told him he'd see what he got when it came. Then I put the order in at the kitchen as buttered. If the cook did it, he'd get it buttered, if the cook didn't, he wouldn't. The cook did, so he got it buttered. What I typed does not convey the condescension dripping from his every word. Next time I'll handle it differently. The owner (female) told me not to take any crap from him so now I have the owner's blessing. He apparently comes in every weekend. P
These types will try and test the nerve of a new employee and then usually (USUALLY) mellow out when at some point they realize you can't be rattled.
As long as you have a green light from the owner your response could be, "How 'bout I bring the butter and you shove it in your ear hole?"
But I would hold this in reserve. Difficult guests can be made into pussycats and good tippers through rolling with the punches and trying to figure out what it takes to illicit a smile.
This isn't "prostituting" yourself. It's turning him into the chump AND a good consistent tipper. Play his game. Give him what he wants. If it's a smile give him that. If it's the course response above - give him that. You need to figure out what he wants and give it to him. It's a game.
The best servers I worked with wouldn't take crap from customers. They would respond in a way that takes a difficult customer and disarms him. You gotta take his ammo.
But whatever you do you need to do it with confidence.
This usually only works with men. If a woman is a pain she usually will always be a pain.
This is speaking from 20 plus years in the business.
As a bartender, I have had way more particular Guests. I think because they have you held captive behind the bar...they are able to make more demands AND I think they enjoy the banter and attention. I had a "regular" that required 3 ice cubes...not, two, four or three and an added ice crystal...three. I would make a little production while I made his drink selecting just the perfect cubes and laying them ever-so-gently in his glass while I counted aloud. Oh and scotch drinkers...never put a straw in the glass as it may bruise the scotch...God forbid. Some drinkers ask for a half glass of coke alongside their drink and if you pour it all the way they get all excited and hollar, "Whoa, whoa...only half!" As much as I enjoyed serving the public and pampering/spoiling people...there were days when I would see a human life form entire the building and think, "Ugh, now what do YOU want from me." That's when you know it's time for a job change. :-) Oh and it IS a misconception that a Server doesn't need a lot of brains...not at all true. Of course, we don't need to be brain surgeons...however, a smart, savvy, organized thinker makes the best Server. I think all teens should try their hand at serving because it teaches them how to navigate themselves through a myriad of different people and personalities...and, do it well.
I agree - everyone (or almost everyone; it could turn some people into serial killers) should have a serving job at least once in their lives. I also always regretted that none of my kids ever worked in a nursing home. Probably farmers think that every kid should work on a farm for a while, and brain surgeons wish their kids could come tweak some gray matter, etc.
I had a wonderful experience, in 3rd grade, at the nursing home right down the street from our school. Our Teacher was very involved there and brought us over several times a year and each of us had our own, "special friend."
Well, I don't know if I'll make it. I've had my experience now. I don't know if it's different bc it's Palm Beach (today I had two older men talkign about driving their bentleys vs their ferraris - oh and the porsche was also a problem - and cops stopping them. They have so much money it is ridiculous, and they want to be treated like majesty by people who are their serfs. I have to admit I have a hard time with it. Oh, and I think I messed up some check today, and the person called from the airport to scream. The owner doesn't know about that yet - if I go back I just can't wait to hear what I did. I have NO IDEA but I'm sure I'll b e to blame, as the new employee. Even though they ate in the restaurant about 10 times during their stay. I did make about $80 in tips today, unless I have to pay back for whatever happened with these people. They just want to make the most money possible and so have me on all alone (even though new, and the cook was new too) and if you have one table sitting at the far end of the patio and two other tables inside it's a LOT of ground to cover and ring stuff up and deliver and etc. for people who want top treatment. We'll see, I just got home and am discouraged.... p
I know some people who think everyone should serve in the military for two years - mandatory. I think those people are completely delusional. Some people couldn't handle a nursing home, either, but I do like the trend toward mandatory community service as a HS graduation requirement. It could be visit nursing home, boys n girls club, cleaning up the park one weekend a month, recycling cans, tutoring younger kids, working community events like parades or local artists' showcases, whatever suits the kid's personality. Kudos to anyone who is or ever was a server. You gotta be special to take that on.
The guys talking about their cars...that's funny. Poor guys, trying to establish a pecking order. The lady who volunteered to take charge of crafts for our vacation bible school came in today with a day-by-day, class-by-class list of the supplies she needs and I was looking at this ridiculous 3-page list ("24 small googly eyes")thinking I will never get this all done by the weekend - it starts next Monday and I have to make sure food, music, craft materials, game supplies, curriculum for the teachers etc. are all lined up - and she looked at my face and started laughing and said, "You only have to worry about Monday. Monday afternoon you can worry about Tuesday," and it was like a revelation. I only really have to worry about Monday! I can do that! Everything's OK! I'm going home.
Joe, Betty, and I stayed up until way after midnight watching the movie "21". Joe did sleep until noon. I only got Betty up at nine to eat and then she went back to bed until noon as well. Ahhhhhhh....summer vacation!!
P.S. I give "21" two thumbs up. Kevin Spacey is awesome.
Thomas won. I did take them lunch. They lasted until about 3. Peter went prepared though. He stripped down to his underwear and took books, markers, paper,coloring books and a bed tray. Tom just laid there and read. Monica
I had quinoa for breakfast this morning. It was good! Try it!
Health Benefits
A recently rediscovered ancient "grain" native to South America, quinoa was once called "the gold of the Incas," who recognized its value in increasing the stamina of their warriors. Not only is quinoa high in protein, but the protein it supplies is complete protein, meaning that it includes all nine essential amino acids. Not only is quinoa's amino acid profile well balanced, making it a good choice for vegans concerned about adequate protein intake, but quinoa is especially well-endowed with the amino acid lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair. In addition to protein, quinoa features a host of other health-building nutrients. Because quinoa is a very good source of manganese as well as a good source of magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus, this "grain" may be especially valuable for persons with migraine headaches, diabetes and atherosclerosis.
That wasn't me. But to elaborate on Quinoa- it is about the only source of plant based protien that provides all the essential elements of protien. Whereas, some plant based protiens will provide some but not all essential elements forcing seething radical, tree hugging vegans to mix sources, such as beans and rice. It is called the perfect source of protien by some vegetarians.
My perfect source is a big thick, well marbled ribeye cooked over coals.
We discovered Quinoa a few years ago. It's easy to find in noodles or ground up and ready for some recipe that doesn't exist... but not so easy to find in breads, cereals, etc. I do wish there were usable forms of it.
Tom likes to excell at anything - I am not surprised he won. He will put his mond to that the way he puts his mind to practicing skateboard for 5 hours just to get a specific turn just right.
I do believe the coolest person in this whole contest was Monica... I probably would have made them get out of bed. Lisa
I looked on the Algona Upper Des Moines website and didn't see the article about dad.
It was fantastic today when I realized as I was boarding the train to get to work that this would be the last time I will need to get up at 5:15 in the morning to catch the train and get to work. New wake up time: 7:00 AM. Will seem like heaven.
Here is my new address:
Ed Straub 222 S. Racine Ave. #201 Chicago, IL 60607 PH: 312 526 3725 (H) 312 732 4684 (W) 630 853 9115 (C)
Oh - since everybody is basically through moving for a while (with the possible execption of Mike and Mary) if you send me you addresses I will put together a new list.
The article is about his retirement from the bench...and his new venture as a lawyer with his son at STRAUB LAW!! Should be a photo also, and KLGA just phoned him for an interview.
If you don't watch Jon Stewart, you might want to catch his send-up of the Obama tour. It's pretty funny. When he introduces it each night they show Obama slaying Cyclops and other heroic images and then he summarizes what Obama did that day ("stopped in Bethlehem to visit the manger where he was born"). Apparently yesterday he had a press conference on a mountain top and was on his way to a meeting in the Temple of Hercules. They also showed Osama bin Laden griping about stupid Americans who can't tell them apart, saying, "Osama! Osama! Stupid Americans confusing me with Changey McOptimist!" I heard somewhere that for about 65% of twentysomethings their only news source is Jon Stewart. Better than Rush Limbaugh, I guess.
I'm cleaning house for someone who might want to rent this place, is stopping by in 1/2 hour and I just found half a lizard, the front half by the bed. I wonder where the cats left the other half. SO GROSS to clean up. It was pretty fresh.
One time, all the Jayjacks came home to find our little kitty trying to hide in the tank that held our pet lizard and hermit crab. The lizard was still in the cage, but the crab was in the dining room. All three of them were still alive.
There is an all white rat living outside of our apartment now. I am pretty sure those are only pets around here, and the orkin man at Andy's work confirmed that thought. It's pretty tame and has been trying to come in at night. I think I might try to catch it. I don't want a rat, but if it's someone's pet it will die outside. And I just want to see if I can catch it.
Good job Pat...Dad was on the noon news, mentioned how he and Mom moved from Long Island, also Notre Dame, and his plans to be a lawyer again...it was nice!
They just re-played Dad's interview on KLGA...right in the middle the radio guy must have pushed a wrong button because a voice announced "the New York Mets have just moved into 1st place!"..and then Dad's story continued. It was funny.
i can just see dad and Anne hanging out by the coffee maker griping about the senior partner.
this weekend i'm going to Opera in the Park. i'm really hoping they do the Elmer Fudd/Buggs Bunny version of Barber of Seville. that's the extent of my opera knowledge.
My favorite ever is the one with the two hillbilly guys and Bugs was calling like a square dance and he called them through a hay baler and off a cliff etc. Priceless.
so opera in the park was actually pretty fun. they did do the bit from barber of seville that bugs bunny did. i recognized a couple other pieces from commercials.
i kept waiting for someone to get drunk and shout at them to play Freebird, but no one did.
114 comments:
You're a hard guy to find a picture of Mike. Hope your day is great!
Happy Birthday Mike LaVelle! For your birthday I wish you complete recovery from your back aches and pains.
p
Happy Birthday Mike. Whatcha doing on your birthday?
Happy Birthday, Mike! :-)
Happy birthday, Mike! Have a great day.
Happy birthday, Mike!
Hope you have a swell day and groovy year.
Lisa
Breithla sona duit, Big Mick!
Happy Birthday Mike! I like this photo. To celebrate, I'm eating dinner at Dairy Queen. What about you?
Happy Birthday Mike! Have a great meal at Sister Sarahs. Ask for a free birthday crepe. Do they still give those?
We send out Birthday and Anniversary coupons to all who register...usually, these coupons are for a FREE meal. We no longer have crepes. We do give out a FREE dessert or FREE drink...unless they are redeeming a Birthday coupon.
I'm reading a good book: The Gospel according to America by David Dark. Someone read it so we can have a book club on the blog.
Is David Dark his real name?
P
He must be the Dark Knight.
Hey Mike - Happy Birthday!
So who all is going to the farm for the Straub family feast? Anyone? Anyone?
Tom - what are the games?
Joe - did you get my package?
What's up with Brett Farve? No wonder Something About Mary didn't want him.
Here's a thought: do we have the time/energy to do the games this year? I'm not against doing them, I just thought I'd say what many might be thinking anyway. It's a short weekend. Comments? (no epithets, please)
If there aren't any games...does that mean we get to keep the Trophy for another year? I hope so because I have decorated an entire room around it.
Mary, what's your new address so we can put you and Mike on our B-Day/Anniversary Coupon mailing list.
I just got recruited to be a USArmy chaplain. Whaddya think? Should I go for it?
Cathy - Yes! How often do you get a chance to serve God AND country? President McCain would appreciate your service.
Sorry for belated birthdays to all. I've been a busy guy of late.
Tom
Tom you still didn't wish them well.
Back to work tomorrow, back to work. It's been 7 months since I said that.
Do it , Cathy. Do you have to go through basic training?
P
Well, that might be the deal-breaker.
John McCain doesn't go to church...I mean he only goes when he's in Phoenix, which he admitted isn't very ofter...so, McCain doesn't care if you're a Chaplain, Cathy...However, Obama goes every week and would welcome your service to the armed church!
I had a delicious bass (I mean walleye) at Sarah's last night, Mike had his birthday dinner (thanks for the B'day coupon!) of mussels, steak and fries and lots of wine and finished in Whittemore with 2 whittemore fogs!
Anyone who thinks Hussein-Obama goes to church every Sunday should read the front cover story about his "faith" in this week's Newsweek. It seems his faith is whatever he wants it to be at a given moment. That should not be a surprise, seeing that he changes his position on national issues every time a new poll comes out. I guess his faith is evolving just as his position on issues seems to evolve. Dad
"Evlolving" might not be the right term, as the word does have a sense of moving forward toward something, maturing, or progressing. The changes in his faith, and his positions on issues, seem less like progress, less like advancement, than they resemble the movements of protozoa instinctively and constantly moving to the lighter side of the petri dish, the side more politically advantageous. There is no progress but only lateral movement. Hey, it's change tho, and even if it's not change you can believe in it is change you can count on.
Ed-I got the package-thanks a million. No-thanks a million five.
Dan Rather was on Morning Joe this morning and as he was answering a question...he inserted Osama's name where he should have said Obama's. No one corrected him and went on as usual. Hmm.
Obama's chameleon-like character is accentuated by his recent charge to the middle of the political spectrum. I won't itemize these shifts in his policy statements since his nomination because most are painfully aware of them.
Andrea Mitchell reported this morning that Obama explicitly did not want Biden to accompany him on his overseas trip because he knew that Biden's towering stature in the foreign arena would underscore his own shortcomings. Obama opted for a couple of senators to accompany him less acumen and regard in foreign relations.
Tom
I think Obama is icky.
I don't care for McCain.
What does a person do when it comes time to vote?
Cathy -
The chaplin thing is totally cool. Would you have to report out of state? Join the reserves? How does it work.
Lisa
That's easy. Vote for the one who is pro-life. The wise one
Yes, I told my Mom that's what I'm gonna do. Still feels weird to vote for someone I don't like in other regards.
Here is a list of those who have told us they are coming to the family reunion. The number in parenthesis is the total number coming in each family:
Cathy & Steve (3) plus 4 for
dinner
Don (1)
Mary & Mike (2)
Joe (3) plus maybe Eli & Liam
Jim & Erin (5)
Monica & Joe (6)
Ed (1)
Everyone else is welcome but it sure would make it easier for us if we knew how many chops we will need. Please call if we have not heard from you.
Mom & Dad
Pro-life or anti-abortion? My biggest disappointment with Obama so far is his disagreement with the Supreme Court over a capital punishment case where they ruled in favor of the defendant. If you are pro capital punishment you are not pro-life.
I also think Obama is wiggling around too much. But I also believe that a man who will not change his mind no matter what new information he receives is just as much a fool and afraid of what the polls will say as a man who changes all the time.
Thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes! It was a painless birthday (well sort of) but the real celebrating will start @ 6:45 tonight when Mary and I see "The Dark Knight"...if we are able to get in.
By the way... "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" to EVERYONE who had a birthday this past year and best wishes to those who didn't!
ML
John McCain likes "walking tacos"...gringo enuf for him.
Andrea Mitchell may want to speculate on her own husband's tour of duty.
I wonder how many people voted for "W" 'cause he's "pro-life"? He hasn't made a Christian decision since he's been in office.
Joe made a beer can chicken yesterday. It was yummmmmy. Easy and cheap.
Monica
You should make beer can chickens in pairs because they look like they're standing there talking to each other. It's hilarious.
Does having the name Hussein mean that there's something wrong with you?
Suddenly I'm encountering nervous, hypersensitive Obama supporters. I get the sense that there is some regret that they fell for a poser. That they should have picked a legitimate candidate with a clearly defined background and experience. A candidate who can counter McCain's own level of experience.
Let's face it. McCain has run a pretty unfocused campaign to this point and barely trails in the polling. Once he gets his stuff in one pile (and he will) there is a better than 50/50 chance that the "Rock Star" is gonna lose.
Should of picked Biden.
I love cheap, easy and good food.
Tom
That's because you're cheap and easy.
What does "clearly defined background" mean?
It means just what it says. A person with a record that can not be construed in any way. As in the case of, oh - let's say Biden. He has decades of statements, legislative work and a voting record that clearly defines him as a reasonable moderate with whom the "Reagan Democrats" (who will decide this election) would be more comfortable with than a new-on-the-scene poser. Like, oh - let's say Obama.
Tom
for a democrat to win the presidency they need a slightly sleedy younger brother. Billy Carter, Roger Clinton, Ted Kennedy, ect.
does Obama have any siblings?
just his twin Osama.
Obama is not a poser, he's just the "it" guy right now...in our society he can't let this chance pass by...I would bet money that everyone in the Senate has(or had) a desire to run. And it's those clearly defined statements of McCain's that will do him in...lots and lots of sound bites from the crusty hot-tempered dude...I just wish they had footage of him hitting on Cindy while he was still married...yes, much easier to make a run for Senate from Arizona with a VERY wealthy wife!
The New Yorker has a really long article on Obama this week. I'm just in the midst of it. He's definitely a savvy politician. BTW, he joined his church at the advice of a political mentor (who no longer supports him). I'm not saying it's right, but apparently this is not so unusual in Chicago. The article so far is both very admiring of his savvy and moxie and also cautionary about the same traits. He is a poseur but what politician ISN'T????
I still like him better than McCain who scares the heck out of me when imagining him president.
p
happy bday mike
we are sitting a theatre waiting for batman to start. we showed up 5 minutes ago and rhere was a very loooooooong line. just before thet let people in one of the ticket clerks said the line could not cross the exit and made everybody move. suddenly we were at the front of line in front people who had been in line for 3 hours.
life is good.
Jim, was it good? Did you take the kids? I heard that it's way too scary for kids.
Monica
Yes...do tell! I've heard the same thing and I'm trying to decide whether the boys should see it. I checked it out on pluggedinonline.com and still couldn't make up my mind, entirely.
Never mind...we sent 'em. :-<> :-)
Hey, check your emails. I named all who plan to be at the reunion. As the email states, if anyone who said he or she (and family) are not coming decides to change his or her mind, there is still room. Dad
So I was on my way to work this morning and as I approach my building I hear what sounds like music above sounds of traffic and the trains coming from the south and so I go check it out and John Mellencamp was giving a free concert in Daily Plaza (which is like a block south of my building). So I stick around and hear him sing R-o-c-k in the USA, Rain the Scarecrow and some song about having Jesus give you ride somewhere I think.
Nice way to start the week.
My take on the Dark Knight: Good Movie. Complicated story for young kids to follow. Action scenes are specatcular as you would expect. These scenes are seperated by morality tests of the main characters and the Gotham public at large.
The violence is often felt rather than seen.
I have to admit I laughed when I had heard Heath Ledger say that playing the Joker had taken a toll on him. I thought "come on. It's the Joker!? How rough can this be?" I was recollecting the Joker as played in the campy TV series of the 60s. Not realizing that these new Batman movies are as much drama as they are action adventure movies.
Ledger did an great job of playing a person completely comforatable in causing as much mayhem and psycological torture as possible. He almost made the character seem plausible.
Whoever played Rachel - they could have chose a much hotter actress. I forget her name but she looks like Princess Leya's less attractive little sister.
The actor who plays Batman- he kind of reminds me of me.
Tom
I spoke to Bob yesterday. He said Deb is doing much better and has gone back to work. She does have to take several prescriptions. Dad
Stevo and I are going to see the Batman movie at the Imax. I've never been to it - I'm so excited. We have to wait for a rainy night because otherwise we are scraping, sanding and painting our house. Why didn't we do this in May and June when it was 20 degrees cooler?? I think it was raining every weekend or something like that.
I really don't like my boss. Well, one of the 5, as it is a family run hotel. They are everywhere.
I have to tell you, waitresses are typecast and treated as if they are dumb by many people. On the other hand, many people are really really nice. I have a hard time deciding how far I'll prostitute myself b4 just giving up on a tip.
It's an interesting profession in the interaction regard. I'm glad to do it for a few months but will be glad when I can quit. At least this specific location. I so want to tell off my boss. A little man with a big chip.
P
oooh Pat, you sound angry.
Yesterday was national Ice Cream Day. Did anyone partake?
Monica
If it weren't for my boss (and my feet still having a hard time) I'd be happy doing this job. I think everyone should do it for a while. The nasty rich people are not that awful, given others are great. But it is a question, how far will you be demeaned b4 just forgetting about the tip?
Someone said yesterday, "I want my toast buttered and that means you need to do it. So if you want a tip, you;ll butter my toast, sweetheart."
p
Did you know The Fonz is the child of holocaust survivors, a yale grad(b4 acting) , and author of 13 novels for childrens?
Who'da thunk??? He's on oprah right now.
p
Did you butter the toast? How can people be so rude?
So did you spit on the toast before you served it?
Monica
Serving the public can be a challenge and sometimes the tip ain't worth it. However, if one is going to be successful at serving...yah gotta sorta roll with these types of people. A response to a Guest, such as him, could be varied based upon what you've learned from him while serving...here are a few. "Hey, if You butter it...I'll give you a $1!" (Then, give him one.) Or, "I could call your Mom and ask her to do it." Or, "If you really want me to butter it...I would be more than happy." ...then, you look at him like "yah really want me to?" Another response could be, "We don't butter the toast because everybody likes a different amount and we want our Guests to choose for themselves." I would choose one of the latter two...although, the first two are kinda fun!
I spit on food...once. I was 16. Working at Pannekoeken Huis. A Guest repeatedly yanked at my wrap around skirt...every time I left his table. I'm unsure it every exposed my undergarments...however, it certainly felt, "chilly," each time it happened. When his dutch country omelet (loaded with gouda cheese atop) came up...I did it. He loved it. Left me a fiver. Naughty...I know. I think there's a lesson in there somewhere...hmm.
I told him he'd see what he got when it came. Then I put the order in at the kitchen as buttered. If the cook did it, he'd get it buttered, if the cook didn't, he wouldn't. The cook did, so he got it buttered. What I typed does not convey the condescension dripping from his every word. Next time I'll handle it differently. The owner (female) told me not to take any crap from him so now I have the owner's blessing. He apparently comes in every weekend.
P
These types will try and test the nerve of a new employee and then usually (USUALLY) mellow out when at some point they realize you can't be rattled.
As long as you have a green light from the owner your response could be, "How 'bout I bring the butter and you shove it in your ear hole?"
But I would hold this in reserve. Difficult guests can be made into pussycats and good tippers through rolling with the punches and trying to figure out what it takes to illicit a smile.
This isn't "prostituting" yourself. It's turning him into the chump AND a good consistent tipper. Play his game. Give him what he wants. If it's a smile give him that. If it's the course response above - give him that. You need to figure out what he wants and give it to him. It's a game.
The best servers I worked with wouldn't take crap from customers. They would respond in a way that takes a difficult customer and disarms him. You gotta take his ammo.
But whatever you do you need to do it with confidence.
This usually only works with men. If a woman is a pain she usually will always be a pain.
This is speaking from 20 plus years in the business.
Tom
Smile sweetly and sincerely and say, "Oh, that's OK, I wasn't counting on a big tip from you anyway!"
As a bartender, I have had way more particular Guests. I think because they have you held captive behind the bar...they are able to make more demands AND I think they enjoy the banter and attention. I had a "regular" that required 3 ice cubes...not, two, four or three and an added ice crystal...three. I would make a little production while I made his drink selecting just the perfect cubes and laying them ever-so-gently in his glass while I counted aloud. Oh and scotch drinkers...never put a straw in the glass as it may bruise the scotch...God forbid. Some drinkers ask for a half glass of coke alongside their drink and if you pour it all the way they get all excited and hollar, "Whoa, whoa...only half!"
As much as I enjoyed serving the public and pampering/spoiling people...there were days when I would see a human life form entire the building and think, "Ugh, now what do YOU want from me." That's when you know it's time for a job change. :-)
Oh and it IS a misconception that a Server doesn't need a lot of brains...not at all true. Of course, we don't need to be brain surgeons...however, a smart, savvy, organized thinker makes the best Server.
I think all teens should try their hand at serving because it teaches them how to navigate themselves through a myriad of different people and personalities...and, do it well.
I agree - everyone (or almost everyone; it could turn some people into serial killers) should have a serving job at least once in their lives. I also always regretted that none of my kids ever worked in a nursing home. Probably farmers think that every kid should work on a farm for a while, and brain surgeons wish their kids could come tweak some gray matter, etc.
I had a wonderful experience, in 3rd grade, at the nursing home right down the street from our school. Our Teacher was very involved there and brought us over several times a year and each of us had our own, "special friend."
Well, I don't know if I'll make it. I've had my experience now. I don't know if it's different bc it's Palm Beach (today I had two older men talkign about driving their bentleys vs their ferraris - oh and the porsche was also a problem - and cops stopping them. They have so much money it is ridiculous, and they want to be treated like majesty by people who are their serfs. I have to admit I have a hard time with it.
Oh, and I think I messed up some check today, and the person called from the airport to scream. The owner doesn't know about that yet - if I go back I just can't wait to hear what I did. I have NO IDEA but I'm sure I'll b e to blame, as the new employee. Even though they ate in the restaurant about 10 times during their stay. I did make about $80 in tips today, unless I have to pay back for whatever happened with these people.
They just want to make the most money possible and so have me on all alone (even though new, and the cook was new too) and if you have one table sitting at the far end of the patio and two other tables inside it's a LOT of ground to cover and ring stuff up and deliver and etc. for people who want top treatment.
We'll see, I just got home and am discouraged....
p
I know some people who think everyone should serve in the military for two years - mandatory. I think those people are completely delusional.
Some people couldn't handle a nursing home, either, but I do like the trend toward mandatory community service as a HS graduation requirement. It could be visit nursing home, boys n girls club, cleaning up the park one weekend a month, recycling cans, tutoring younger kids, working community events like parades or local artists' showcases, whatever suits the kid's personality.
Kudos to anyone who is or ever was a server. You gotta be special to take that on.
$60....I made 60 in tips.
p
The guys talking about their cars...that's funny. Poor guys, trying to establish a pecking order.
The lady who volunteered to take charge of crafts for our vacation bible school came in today with a day-by-day, class-by-class list of the supplies she needs and I was looking at this ridiculous 3-page list ("24 small googly eyes")thinking I will never get this all done by the weekend - it starts next Monday and I have to make sure food, music, craft materials, game supplies, curriculum for the teachers etc. are all lined up - and she looked at my face and started laughing and said, "You only have to worry about Monday. Monday afternoon you can worry about Tuesday," and it was like a revelation. I only really have to worry about Monday! I can do that! Everything's OK! I'm going home.
Thomas and Peter are having a contest to see who can stay in bed the longest. I wish I was in that contest.
How long have they been in bed? Do you bring them their meals?
p
I'm betting they last till about 2:30
Joe, Betty, and I stayed up until way after midnight watching the movie "21". Joe did sleep until noon. I only got Betty up at nine to eat and then she went back to bed until noon as well. Ahhhhhhh....summer vacation!!
P.S. I give "21" two thumbs up. Kevin Spacey is awesome.
Kelli
Thomas won. I did take them lunch. They lasted until about 3. Peter went prepared though. He stripped down to his underwear and took books, markers, paper,coloring books and a bed tray. Tom just laid there and read.
Monica
That right there is like a single perfect portrait of childhood.
p
Childhood rocks. :-)
I had quinoa for breakfast this morning. It was good! Try it!
Health Benefits
A recently rediscovered ancient "grain" native to South America, quinoa was once called "the gold of the Incas," who recognized its value in increasing the stamina of their warriors. Not only is quinoa high in protein, but the protein it supplies is complete protein, meaning that it includes all nine essential amino acids. Not only is quinoa's amino acid profile well balanced, making it a good choice for vegans concerned about adequate protein intake, but quinoa is especially well-endowed with the amino acid lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair. In addition to protein, quinoa features a host of other health-building nutrients. Because quinoa is a very good source of manganese as well as a good source of magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus, this "grain" may be especially valuable for persons with migraine headaches, diabetes and atherosclerosis.
That wasn't me. But to elaborate on Quinoa- it is about the only source of plant based protien that provides all the essential elements of protien. Whereas, some plant based protiens will provide some but not all essential elements forcing seething radical, tree hugging vegans to mix sources, such as beans and rice. It is called the perfect source of protien by some vegetarians.
My perfect source is a big thick, well marbled ribeye cooked over coals.
Tom
That was me.
Speaking of tree huggers, you should all watch this video of Stepehn Colbert with a Sierra Club rep. It is SO FUNNY.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KsDMzhoYB7s
P
I can't provide a link but there is a extremely well written article and picture about Dad in today's Algona paper.
Tom
We discovered Quinoa a few years ago. It's easy to find in noodles or ground up and ready for some recipe that doesn't exist... but not so easy to find in breads, cereals, etc. I do wish there were usable forms of it.
Tom likes to excell at anything - I am not surprised he won. He will put his mond to that the way he puts his mind to practicing skateboard for 5 hours just to get a specific turn just right.
I do believe the coolest person in this whole contest was Monica... I probably would have made them get out of bed.
Lisa
I just made it like rice and ate it like oatmeal, with milk and brown sugar. Easy and good.
P
Maybe Tommmy should get the Straub trophy.
I looked on the Algona Upper Des Moines website and didn't see the article about dad.
It was fantastic today when I realized as I was boarding the train to get to work that this would be the last time I will need to get up at 5:15 in the morning to catch the train and get to work. New wake up time: 7:00 AM. Will seem like heaven.
Here is my new address:
Ed Straub
222 S. Racine Ave. #201
Chicago, IL 60607
PH: 312 526 3725 (H)
312 732 4684 (W)
630 853 9115 (C)
Oh - since everybody is basically through moving for a while (with the possible execption of Mike and Mary) if you send me you addresses I will put together a new list.
Send them to: edward.x.straub@jpmchase.com
I read the algona paper every Thursday and they usually post the new issue around 11 central time.
What was the article about? About Dad, but in what context?
P
The article is about his retirement from the bench...and his new venture as a lawyer with his son at STRAUB LAW!! Should be a photo also, and KLGA just phoned him for an interview.
If you don't watch Jon Stewart, you might want to catch his send-up of the Obama tour. It's pretty funny. When he introduces it each night they show Obama slaying Cyclops and other heroic images and then he summarizes what Obama did that day ("stopped in Bethlehem to visit the manger where he was born"). Apparently yesterday he had a press conference on a mountain top and was on his way to a meeting in the Temple of Hercules. They also showed Osama bin Laden griping about stupid Americans who can't tell them apart, saying, "Osama! Osama! Stupid Americans confusing me with Changey McOptimist!" I heard somewhere that for about 65% of twentysomethings their only news source is Jon Stewart. Better than Rush Limbaugh, I guess.
...and I thought the name \"Desmond\" was embarrassing when I was a kid.
Hmmm, article is still not there.
I'm cleaning house for someone who might want to rent this place, is stopping by in 1/2 hour and I just found half a lizard, the front half by the bed. I wonder where the cats left the other half. SO GROSS to clean up. It was pretty fresh.
P
One time, all the Jayjacks came home to find our little kitty trying to hide in the tank that held our pet lizard and hermit crab. The lizard was still in the cage, but the crab was in the dining room. All three of them were still alive.
There is an all white rat living outside of our apartment now. I am pretty sure those are only pets around here, and the orkin man at Andy's work confirmed that thought. It's pretty tame and has been trying to come in at night. I think I might try to catch it. I don't want a rat, but if it's someone's pet it will die outside. And I just want to see if I can catch it.
Ask Mia for ideas on catching rodents. There's digging a hole involved, I know that. (Are rabbits rodents?)
I just emailed the editor of the algona paper and they're going to get the article up within the next 15 minutes.
P
Good job Pat...Dad was on the noon news, mentioned how he and Mom moved from Long Island, also Notre Dame, and his plans to be a lawyer again...it was nice!
It's posted now:
http://www.midiowanews.com/site/tab2.cfm?brd=2700&pag=460&dept_id=578350&nr=1&nostat=1
What a great retrospective article.
Des
http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/07/24/odd.names/index.html
Nice article. Will he be a junior partner?
They just re-played Dad's interview on KLGA...right in the middle the radio guy must have pushed a wrong button because a voice announced "the New York Mets have just moved into 1st place!"..and then Dad's story continued. It was funny.
Can someone bring a copy of the article to the farm? Our virus riddled computer won't go to it
Will Joe 3 get to call Dad "Junior"?
Monica
He'll get to call him "Indy."
Dad, did you write that press release?
See you all Saturday!
Lisa
i can just see dad and Anne hanging out by the coffee maker griping about the senior partner.
this weekend i'm going to Opera in the Park. i'm really hoping they do the Elmer Fudd/Buggs Bunny version of Barber of Seville. that's the extent of my opera knowledge.
That is one of the all-time great performances of the Barber of Seville. And how 'bout that Carmen?
My favorite ever is the one with the two hillbilly guys and Bugs was calling like a square dance and he called them through a hay baler and off a cliff etc. Priceless.
i like the ones with the mobsters. 'would i light the stove if my friend Mugsy was hiding in there?' 'you might, rabbit, you might.'
i always rooted for the coyote over the road runner.
Samardzija was called up by the Chicago Cubs today. He's pitching right now! The game is on WGN.
he pitched well, why did they pull him?
Vote for Bob Barr!
so opera in the park was actually pretty fun. they did do the bit from barber of seville that bugs bunny did. i recognized a couple other pieces from commercials.
i kept waiting for someone to get drunk and shout at them to play Freebird, but no one did.
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