SoCal Tom's Blog

Union Thugs At Work

2011-09-12T22:23:00.000-07:00

LONGVIEW, Wash. (AP) — Hundreds of Longshoremen stormed the Port of Longview early Thursday, overpowered and held security guards, damaged railroad cars, and dumped grain that is the center of a labor dispute, said Longview Police Chief Jim Duscha.

Six guards were held hostage for a couple of hours after 500 or more Longshoremen broke down gates about 4:30 a.m. and smashed windows in the guard shack, he said.

No one was hurt, and nobody has been arrested. Most of the protesters returned to their union hall after cutting brake lines and spilling grain from car at the EGT terminal, Duscha said.

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union believes it has the right to work at the facility, but the company has hired a contractor that's staffing a workforce of other union laborers.
Thursday's violence was first reported by Kelso radio station KLOG.

Police from several agencies in southwest Washington, the Washington State Patrol and Burlington Northern Santa Fe responded to the violence to secure the scene that followed a demonstration Wednesday.
"We're not surprised," Duscha said. "A lot of the protesters were telling us this in only the start."
One sergeant was threatened with baseball bats and retreated, Duscha said. "One officer with hundreds of Longshoremen? He used the better part of discretion."

The train was the first grain shipment to arrive at Longview. It arrived Wednesday night after police arrested 19 demonstrators who tried to block the tracks. They were led by ILWU International President Robert McEllrath, who said they would return.

The blockade appeared to defy a federal restraining order issued last week against the union after it was accused of assaults and death threats.

EGT chief executive Larry Clarke said it was unfortunate that law enforcement needed to make arrests.

I suppose that being union members gives you the right to act like a pack of morons. And the union (Local 770) grocery clerks are threatening going out on strike if their health care demands are not met. This means that if their demands are met, our groceries are going to increase; just to cover the costs that the employers have to pay for insurance premiums. And the grocery clerks are unfriendly to non-union workers. They slash tires, break car windows and other nasty stuff, just like the union thug longshoremen.

MORE ON LABOR UNIONS

2011-02-16T16:35:00.000-08:00

Did you know:

a. Labor unions account for a small percentage of the workforce.

b. 82% of non-unionized workers do not want their jobs to be unionized, according to the Center for Union Facts.

c. Unions are too expensive for employers and employees.
1. Employers have to pay into unions for non-insured retirement plans.
2. Employees have to pay an initiation fee, plus monthly dues. If you're making under $14 an hour, this can be too expensive for families.

d. Employees lose their rights to talk to their supervisors or managers about wages and/or working conditions.

e. With union representation, there's no guarantee that you'll end up with more than you started with.

f. During a strike, you'll lose your right to work, costing you money.

Those are just a few things that a union brings into the work place. The main thing is that a union will not help you keep your job during a lay-off or labor dispute. If you belong to a union today, your only guarantee is that you'll lose your money as fast as a gambling casino.

A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

In December, 2009, I had a heart attack at work (a union job) and subsiquent triple by-pass operation during open heart surgery. During my recovery I tried contacting my union representatives for find out what kind of benefits I had. For months afterward, I was handed off from one idiot to another, with no knowledge of my benefits or anything. The most common answer I received was: "That's not my department. You should call such and such," who passed me on to someone else then back to the beginning. Meanwhile, my bills kept piing up even with my insurance company. In fact, just the ambulance company's charge for hauling me less than a mile to the hospital cost me $2,000.My boss wouldn't help pay part of the cost even when I told him not to call an ambulance.

In the meantime, my hospital stay, surgery, angiograms, medications and everything else cost me a $50 co-pay, with my insurance picking up the rest of the tab. The union was nowhere to be found. Today, I'm fighting two types of cancer, and the union is nowhere to be seen.

Back in the 30s, 40s and almost into the 50s, labor unions were excellent. They established minimum wages, working conditions, and child labor laws. Today they're useless. The only good thing about them is keeping an honest employer honest. A crooked employer is going to screw you even with a union present.

If a union representative comes to your workplace, just TELL THEM NO!!

Labor Unions Suck Big Time

2011-02-11T15:44:00.000-08:00

Look for a new "Sucks" website starting up soon. I'm pissed at SEIU union and I want the world to know that labor unions suck, with SEIU in particular.

When I had my heart attack and subsiquent tripple by-pass open heart surgery, the labor union, of which I was a member, did absolutely nothing.

BTW: I now have to use hearing aids, thanks to working around jet engines while I was in the Air Force. Since I'm already a disabled veteran, the addition of this "new" disability will be added to the compensation I'm already receiving. I'm still waiting for the percentage amount that will be added; however, the two $1,000 hearing aids were provided by the Veterans Administration. Plus, they'll supply me with a lifetime of batteries.

Gotta Watch Your Diet!!!

2010-02-18T00:17:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, December 10th, I suffered a major heart attack while at work. My boss called 911 and an ambulance was dispatched. I was hauled off to Anaheim Memorial Hospital, where I spent the night attached to a heart monitor. Since I was back to full power the next morning, I went home against the doctor's better judgement. Since my health care provider is familiar with my medical history, I contacted her who set up an admission at Arcadia Methodist Hospital. I was admitted that night (Friday, December 11th).

On Monday, December 14th, I had an angiogram which found three blocked arteries. Since they were in areas where stents wouldn't work without causing additional problems, I was consoled about open heart surgery. On Thursday, December 17th, I underwent a tripple by-pass operation. On Mondy, December 21st, I was well enough to be discharged from the hospital.

But, that isn't what I wanted to write about. I wanted to write this as a warning. A warning to those of you who enjoy tobacco products; who enjoy foods high in sodium, cholestrol and other "nasty" stuff. Just because it tastes good doesn't mean it's good for you.

AT RISK

What does it mean to be at risk? You can be at risk of a heart attck or stroke because of your age, if you're a smoker, or have a family history of heart trouble. Any one or a combination of all three can put you at risk.

The wrong diet can put you at risk if you consume the wrong foods. I'm not advocating that you should quit going to your local supermarket and going to a health food store, because I'm not. You can find the wrong foods in a health food store too. The food may be low in fat and cholestrol; however, it's above the danger level with sodium. And sodium increases blood pressure.

SO, WHAT"S ALL THIS ABOUT SODIUM?

Sodium is a preservative used in packaged foods, especially meats and dinners. Look at the sodium content of a can of Spam to see what I mean. We humans need a small amount of sodium in our diets. It helps to regulate a few systems; however, we Americans have a bad habit of overdoing the amount of sodium that we consume. We salt our meats and vegies way too much; so we taste the salt more than what it's sprinkled on. I'm not advocating that we should eliminate salt from our diets; but, what I am saying is that we should cut bck on the amount of salt we use.

SUGAR

Sugar is another substance we use too much of. We sprinkle sugar on our breakfast cerial, which is already sugared by the manufacturer. We add sugar to our morning coffee; and drink sugared drinks throughout the day. Almost everything we consume contains sugar. Sugar isn't bad for you if you use moderation. The same goes for alcohol. It's OK to have a drink or two; however, we have a tendency to overdo the drinking. Alcohol has no nutritional value.

OK - SO WHAT AM I SAYING?

Believe it or not; but, I have more energy now than I have had in the past 25 years, and I'm on a "cardiac" diet. A cardiac diet conists of a major reduction in sodium, cholestrol, cafiene, and sugar. My cardio specialist suggested that it's OK to have a McDonald's burger every once in a while; however, don't make it part of your daily routine or diet. The same goes with the so-called health foods.

Lean beef is a must. The same with lamb, or any other red meat. Pork is OK as long as it hasn't been processed into ham, bacon or pork sausage. Foul (chicken, turkey, duck, etc) is lean to begin with; however, it must be thoroughly cooked to kill any lingering bacteria.

Stay away from packaged meats, meals, canned soups, deserts. Anything packaged is usually loaded with sodium, because it's a preservative. I used to joke about junk foods keeping me alive. Wow, was I wrong! Junk foods were part of the problem. My angiogram showed blockages in areas where stints would create more problems than they would fix; which is why the need for a tripple by-pass operation. All of which was brought on by a poor diet, smoking and a lack of sleep. I was stupid.

I'm still waiting for my awards.

2009-08-27T13:06:00.000-07:00

It's been over three weeks and nothing has been heard; although, my 300 award has been recognized by the USBC. Our local association is very slow.

2009-07-30T00:04:00.000-07:00

One of the bowlers I was shooting against said, "I don't like bowling against him (Tom), he's screwing up my line." I was very tempted to say, "You're doing the same thing for me," but kept it to myself, and continued on. I was having too much fun.

Another tidbit was that I didn't know I had a 300 until the game was over. I wasn't paying any attention to my scores. I suppose if I was, my knees would have turned to rubber, and I wouldn't have had those last three strikes. I was taking the game one frame at a time, except for the tenth.

I got the first strike, turned to my wife and said, "Number one." After the second strike, I said, "Number two." And after the final strike, I looked at the score screen and said, "And that was number three." What I didn't realize were the number of bowlers and spectators that were applauding and shouting. It hadn't sunk in that I had shot a perfect game until the league secretary gave me the form to fill out.

Although this was my first 300 in an USBC sanctioned league, it's not my first 300. I have shot several in unsanctioned leagues and a few "no-tap" 300s (which don't count).

And this brings me back around to what I tell my friends. "Remember your basics. Once you have your mechanics down, the rest is a mental game. Don't worry about your score, take it one frame at a time, and do your best each frame." Do this and your game will improve.

I finally did it.

2009-07-29T02:05:00.001-07:00

Above is a recap scorecard from my Tuesday night scratch league.

As you can see, the big game was my third in a series of 3 games.

We earned 19 out of 20 possible points. I had the highest game (300), highest series (774), and lost a point (second game).

This is kinda creepy.

2009-02-04T13:44:00.000-08:00

From: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29012946/

SAN FRANCISCO - With an upgrade to its mobile maps, Google Inc. hopes to prove it can track people on the go as effectively as it searches for information on the Internet.

The new software to be released Wednesday will enable people with mobile phones and other wireless devices to automatically share their whereabouts with family and friends.

The feature, dubbed "Latitude," expands upon a tool introduced in 2007 to allow mobile phone users to check their own location on a Google map with the press of a button.

"This adds a social flavor to Google maps and makes it more fun," said Steve Lee, a Google product manager.

It could also raise privacy concerns, but Google is doing its best to avoid a backlash by requiring each user to manually turn on the tracking software and making it easy to turn off or limit access to the service.

Google also is promising not to retain any information about its users' movements. Only the last location picked up by the tracking service will be stored on Google's computers, Lee said.

The software plots a user's location — marked by a personal picture on Google's map — by relying on cell phone towers, global positioning systems or a Wi-Fi connection to deduce their location. The system can follow people's travels in the United States and 26 other countries.

It's left up to each user to decide who can monitor their location.

Opinion mode: on.

This can make people's locations known to anyone that can hack into the system. Also, a cheating spouce's location could be learned by the simple click of a button.

At first I thought that this was a cool idea. My wife could track my progress from work to home. But, in the wrong hands, this could cause more problems than what it solves.

Let's say that a school kid is being bullied at school. The kid tries to escape. Meanwhile, the bulley could be tracking the kids location, and can lay in wait for the bullied kid to show up. More harm would follow.

With the lack of ethics, this is a dangerous tool.

Opinion mode: off.

The Day That Music Died

2009-02-04T13:34:00.000-08:00

People associate "the day the music died" with the deaths of Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and J P (The Big Bopper) Richardson; as reflected in the Don McLean ("American Pie") song.

Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on point of view) the music didn't die. Three entertainers did. The Big Bopper was a one-hit wonder; however, he wrote other material for other singers. Valens and Holly were singer/songwriters, nothing more and nothing less.

Some could say that music died with the murder of John Lennon, which could hold true to an extent; however, most of the Beatles music was co-written by Paul McCartney and Lennon, with George Harrison and Richard Starkey (Ringo Starr) writing additional material. Music didn't die, two song writers/entertainers did.

I do agree that it's nostalgic to look back on music in general and rock music in particular. However, as long as song writers continue to produce songs, and entertainers continue to sing them, music will never die.

If this is true, we won't be able to hide.

2008-10-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

BY: Jeff Levy

A United Nations agency is quietly drafting technical standards, proposed by non other than the Chinese government, to define methods of tracing the original source of Internet communications, potentially curbing the ability of users to remain anonymous.

The U.S. National Security Agency is also participating in the "IP Traceback" drafting group, named Q6/17. Members of Q6/17 have declined to release key documents, and meetings are closed to the public.

The potential for eroding your rights to remain anonymous on the Internet, which is, by the way, protected by law in the United States and recognized in international law by groups such as the Council of Europe, is setting off alarms for some technologists and privacy advocates.

What's really distressing here is that it doesn't look like there has been any real consideration of how this type of capability could be misused.

Most of us agree that there are, at least in some circumstances, legitimate security reasons to uncover the source of Internet communications. The most common justification for tracebacks is to counter distributed denial of service, or DDoS, attacks.

But implementation details are important, and governments participating in the process -- organized by the International Telecommunication Union, a U.N. agency -- may have their own agendas. A document recently submitted by China said the "IP traceback mechanism is required to be adapted to various network environments, such as different addressing (IPv4 and IPv6), different access methods (wire and wireless) and different access technologies (ADSL, cable, Ethernet. To ensure traceability, essential information of the originator should be logged."

Another document to be considered by this traceback group holds that if a political opponent to a government publishes articles putting the government in an unfavorable light, the government, having a law against any opposition, will try to identify the source of the negative articles but because the articles were published using a proxy server, can’t do so, thereby protecting the anonymity of the author.

So it looks like we have the same old my rights to privacy” vs. “we need to find the bad guys. On a personal note, I wouldn’t ever support this kind of tracing – Currently we here in the U.S. have methods by which law enforce can and does find individuals on the Net. We just don’t need any more legislation designed to make us more visible to prying eyes.

Off the top of my pointy little head.

2008-09-09T08:18:00.000-07:00

As I type this I'm listening to some cool Jazz that I've either downloaded or ripped from CDs. A lot of it is from "unknown" or unsigned artists. Some is from unheard of artists, such as Yoko Kanno (she did the soundtrack music from the "Cowboy Bebop" animated series and movie).

The thing is, why aren't radio stations playing this stuff? Some of my music is from the turn of the 20th Century (yes, it's on composition or bakelite, or whatever they used way back then), and continues up to the present. This is great stuff! It's not being heard, and that's a shame.

Off The Top Of My Head

2008-07-28T23:21:00.000-07:00

I've been hearing how good "HD" radio is. Now, the "HD" doesn't mean high definition; it means high density. This means that a radio station's digital signal can carry many programs at the same time. "HD 1" may mean the main channel; while "HD 2" may be in Spanish; "HD 3" may be traffic information; and so on.

The problem is that the "HD" signal can't be heard in some areas, but the main (analog) program can. The "HD" signal creates adjacent channel noise. This means that, if there is a weak station you want to listen to that's next to the "HD" station, the weak station can't be heard over the noise.

The company licensing the "HD" concept, and equipment (iBiquity) has a monoply on everything made, and that ain't right. There's no competition, which means that iBiquity can set the prices of transmitting and receiving equipment.

If that ain't bad enough, the programming on most "HD" channels is a computer playing a few songs in its library, sort of like an iPod on random play. Here, in southern California, the entertainment capitol of the world, the programming sucks.

I'm not going to buy a "HD" radio anytime soon.

Big 22 Doubles Tournament

2008-07-28T23:05:00.000-07:00

OK - a lot has happened since my last entry.

Over the weekend, my bowling partner and I competed in a doubles tournament. We went against 28 teams and made the semi-finals. Now it got down to a one-game-beat-the-board semi final. The field was cut in half again, and we were still in it. We went against two other teams for final positions.

My partner had a spare in the ninth, and left the 6 - 10 in the tenth. Going for the spare, he pulled the shot, which went wide missing the two pins. He finished with a respectable 198, ten pins over his average.

I had a clean game, including picking up the 5 - 7 split early on. I had a strike in the ninth, and my first ball in the tenth was a strike. My first bonus ball was a half of a board high, and left a wobbly 7 pin, which I spared, giving me a clean 229 game.

When our handicap was added in, we ended two pins short of making the final match. We ended the tourney in third place, which was good for $500 each.

First place paid $1000 each, and second paid $750. $500 for an afternoon's work was good. The main thing was that we put on a great show. Getting paid for it was a bonus.

You have to read this.....

2008-04-12T23:40:00.001-07:00

Received this e-mail from an old Navy pal. Either he received this mail or one of his friends did. Too bad our own politicians don't see our troops as this guy does.

Gentlemen

I am an Australian and my son is an Australian - as far as we are
concerned there is not place on God's earth better than Australia , and
there are no people better than Australians.

That was until the past week or so.

My son is in the Australian Army and he is currently on deployment in
Iraq . I can not go into his duties in great depth, but shall we say
that he and his fellow army buddies are on a glorified guard duty
looking after the Australian Embassy. They don't go out looking for
"action", though it is a different story in Afghanistan , there the
Aussie troops chase the baddies over the hills and into the valleys..

My son and I just ended a long 'phone conversation and here are some of
his comments, believe me this is what he said. We have all seen the
cowpie emails written by some clown in his lounge room pretending to
be at the coal face, but this is what was said.:

"Before I came over here I thought we (the Australian Army) were pretty
[beep] hot..... was I ever wrong!....The Yanks (I hope you don't mind me
using that word) are so professional from the top to the bottom that it
is almost embarrassing to be in their company, and to call yourself a
soldier....don't get me wrong, we are good at what we do but the Yanks
are so much better.....they are complete at what they do, how they do it
and their attitude is awesome....they don't complain they just get on
with the job and they do it right.....I carry a Minimi (SAW) so I am not
real worried about a confrontation but I tell you I feel safer just
knowing that the US Army is close by....If we got into trouble I know
that our boys would come running and we could deal with it but they
would probably be passed by a load of Hummers. No questions asked, no
glory sought, the Americans would just fight with us and for us because
that is their nature, to protect those in need of protection.....We use
the American Mess so you could say that we are fed by the
Americans.....they have every right to be pissed at that but they don't
bitch about that they just make us feel as welcome as possible....what
gets to me is that the Yanks don't walk around with a "we are better
than you attitude" and they could because they are, they treat us as
equals and as brothers in arms. If nothing else, coming here has taught
me that the Americans are a truly great Nation and a truly great bunch
of people.....Let's face it they don't HAVE to be here, they could stay
in America and beat the [beep] out of anyone who threatened them, BUT THEY
ARE HERE because they believe they should be here, and the Iraqis would
be screwed if they weren't here.....When I come home, you and I we are
going to the US, we will buy some bikes and we are going riding...."

The reason why I am sharing this with you is because I realize that you
(as a nation) must get pretty pissed with all the criticism you receive
by the so-called "know it alls" who are sitting at home - safe. The
reality is that they are safe, just as I am, because of America . If the
world went arse up tomorrow there is f**k all we ( Australia ) could do
about it, but I know that the Americans would be there putting
themselves on the line for others. That to me is the sign of greatness.

The most precious thing in my life is my son, I look at him and I thank
God that I am fortunate enough to be able to spend time in his company.
We laugh, we discuss, we argue, we dummy spit, we have the same blood I
am not happy that he is where he is but that is his duty. He joined the
Army to protect and to defend, not to play games. I mightn't like it but
I accept it. My reasons for not liking it are selfish and self centered.
I felt assured that he would be safe because he is in a well trained
army with an excellent record, BUT NOW, I feel a whole lot better
knowing that he is with your sons, daughters, brothers and sisters.

Whilst he was growing up. I was always there to look after him, I would
not let harm befall him and I would always put myself before him to
protect him I can't do that now. When it comes to looking after him now
he and his mates will do the job, but also THANK GOD FOR AMERICA.

Gentlemen, I have rambled on for too long. but as I finish I say to you,
as a foreigner and outsider, a nation is only a collection of its people
and its attitude is the attitude of its people, collectively and as
individuals. I am really glad you are here on this Earth and I respect
you as a nation and as people.

Stand up and feel proud because you deserve it, there is no one else who
will do what America does without question. The next time someone howls
you down, take some comfort in the fact that America is defending their
right to act like an idiot.

Finally, thank you for looking after my son.

XXXXX XXXXXX

Hard at Work!

2008-03-13T11:08:00.000-07:00

That's enough for today.

Off The Top Of My Little Pointed Head.......

2008-03-06T16:53:00.000-08:00

.....but, if I keep my hat on, it won't show.

I finished downloading a tune I've been looking for in the stores and on-line. The tune: "Beds Are Burning" by Midnight Oil, from the album "Diesels And Dust." If there was a way to upload it to this blog, I'd do it in an instant (or as long as it would take on a broadband connection).

This weekend is the Masters Tournament, and I'm entered in the "scratch" division. I dislike handicapped tournaments, as my average is too high, which means I don't get a handicap. If a 150 average bowler has a 50 pin handicap, then bowls a 190 game, I have to shoot a 240 just to break even. The other problem is that a three game series, the 150 average bowler gets 150 pins handicap. Let's assume that the 150 average bowler shoots three 200 games, giving him a 600 series, plus the 150 pin handicap, means that his total is 750.

A 750 scratch is no small chore; but, if I want to qualify for the finals, I'd have to shoot a 750, or else to take my toys and go home. When I shoot a 750 scratch, I'm going to be pretty close to the top in a scratch tournament. Now, if I want to cash, I have to match that series in the semi-finals and again in the finals. I'm up to the task, as I've been on the lanes practicing under all types of lane conditions.

In any case, I'm bowling all this weekend, starting tonight (Thursday) and ending up on Sunday night. Scores will follow, if I remember to bring the recap sheets home.

As a side note: Any more spam in the comments section will cause me to delete comments. 'nuff said!

Thoughts for a Sunday night.

2008-02-25T02:00:00.000-08:00

As I sit here, watching "The Outer Limits" on Sci-Fi, the crap rattling through my head is enough to choke a horse.

Rain delayed the NASCAR race until later this (Monday) morning at 10 AM. So much for southern California sunshine.

The OSCARs were handed out earlier tonight. "No Country For Old Men" won a few. I haven't gone to a movie in over a year. It's too damn expensive. I gotta save my bucks for bowling.

Speaking of bowling, big tournament next month. The USBC Masters.

And that brings me to another subject, sort of. As an organization such as the USBC, it's almost useless. The honor awards suck. The enforcement of the rules suck. Their promotion of the sport sucks. And they want more money!

Why?

So they can approve (?) equipment, such as bowling balls. What's funny is that I have, in my arsenal, an almost illegal ball. It's a Roto-Grip SD-73 Classic. What makes it illegal is that, if the design of the ball (internal weight block and coverstock) were to be submitted today, the USBC would disallow it. However, it was submitted and approved by the ABC (before it folded) and "grandfathered" in. But, that's only part of it. When I drilled the ball, I balanced it out (on a highly accurate scale) and put the holes where it would do the best job for me. This course of action almost puts the ball in the "illegal" status. It has my required side and top weights. If you look at the drilling pattern, you'd ask, "Why the hell did he do it that way?" The answer is simple: It gets me a lot of strikes that I normally wouldn't get on the same hit. It's drilled for a heavy oil pattern, and it works like a champ. I've already recorded three unsanctioned 300 games in the four months that I've had it. It has, also, got me seven unsanctioned and two sanctioned 700 series. It has increased my overall average to over 215 (up from 205).

Of course, maintaining a high average in these days is easy. It's all due to the lane conditions. Most centers want to increase business, so they oil the lanes to make it easier to get high scores. It's a form of cheating. So, where is the USBC in all of this? They approve the lanes for sanctioning. That says a lot about the USBC enforcing their rules.

Of course, the centers are somewhat to blame for all of this too. They don't look at bowling as a sport; they look at it as entertainment and recreation. Both QubicaAMF (AMF Bowling, Inc.) and Brunswick (Brunswick Recreation Centers) are to blame for getting it started. And most of the independents have followed in their footsteps.

Here's how to tell a sport center from an entertainment center. Is the decor brightly painted? Does the seating look plush and comfortible, with plenty of tables nearby? Are there special effects lighting fixtures and large speakers hanging from the ceiling? Does the menu suggest "open play" and parties? If you answered "yes" to any of the questions, it's an entertainment center with bowling as a sidelight or an after-thought.

My center is being remodeled. The building needs to be replaced more than fixed up. We're getting new carpeting. New furniture. New score screens. We've already got a new $100,000 snack bar (called "the Cafe'") and a new $14,000 lane machine. Four years ago, the company spent $250,000 for a new roof. The damn thing leaks. The walls (red brick construction) leak too, especially in the pinsetter area. The builders did a wonderful job of sealing up the place. Every time it rains, I'll have about an inch or two of water on the shop floor.

Last summer, four out of ten of our air conditioning units had to be replaced. If I want air conditioning in the shop area, I have to open the shop's outside door. We don't have any toilet facilities for the mechanics either. No sink, no nothing. We do have a fridge that was salvaged from a closed center, and a microwave for our food; however, the general manager gets upset when we bring in our own lunches. Tough stuff! I'm not going to pay good money for over-priced crap, even if I get a discount. There's a 7/Eleven across the street that's actually cheaper and better. Plus, they have damn good coffee.

EEch! Coffee's cold, so enough for now.

By the way: Please don't use the comments section for your spam. I want real comments, not some crap. Thank you.

America, the Dumb

2008-02-19T11:19:00.000-08:00

Last week I purchased a burger at McDonalds for $1.58. The counter girl took my $2 and I was digging for my change when I pulled 8 cents from my pocket and gave it to her. She stood there, holding the nickel and 3 pennies, while looking at the screen on her register. I sensed her discomfort and tried to tell her to just give me two quarters, but she hailed the manager for help. While he tried to explain the transaction to her, she stood there and cried. Why do I tell you this? Because of the evolution in teaching math since the 1950s:

Teaching Math In 1950s: A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5 of the price. What is his profit ?

2. Teaching Math In 1960s: A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100 His cost of production is 4/5 of the price, or $80. What is his profit?

3. Teaching Math In 1970s: A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80. Did he make a profit?

4. Teaching Math In 1980s: A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80 and his profit is $20. Your assignment: Underline the number 20.

5. Teaching Math In 1990s: A logger cuts down a beautiful forest because he is selfish and inconsiderate and cares nothing for the habitat of animals or the preservation of our woodlands. He does this so he can make a profit of $20. What do you think of this way of making a living? Topic for class participation after answering the question: How did the birds and squirrels feel as the logger cut down their homes? (There are no wrong answers, and if you feel like crying, it's ok.)

6. Teaching Math In 2007: Un hachero vende una carretada de madera para $100. El costo de la producciones es $80. Cuanto dinero ha hecho?

Sorry! I'm not going to lower my standards to make you look better.

Look at these high-tech toys we have today. We have computers, connected to the Internet, and can research any subject we desire. We can write our thoughts faster than using paper and pencil. We can read 600 page novels in a few hours. With a click of the mouse, we can be transported to any part of the world.

WOW!

So, what do we do with these high-tech toys? We spend hours playing video games. We get stupid playing video games.

No wonder why little Johnny/Jenny can't read, write or count.

Here it is, and in its entirety.

2008-02-08T14:18:00.000-08:00

[new comments, data, etc., are in brackets and/or bold type like this]

LARADIO.COM Op-Ed by Tom August
Published Thursday, June 1, 2000 on http://www.laradio.com/

“L. A. Radio is Boring”

I’m getting tired of radio in the Los Angeles market. And if one person, myself, feels this way, think of how many other people feel the same way. To me, radio in this city is boring. Why? I believe that station managers are not broadcasters in the old sense, but merely accountants that don’t know radio. How did I come to this conclusion?

When you hear “Unbreak My Heart” ten times during an eight-hour period.
When you hear Kenny G. once each hour during the day.
When you hear the exact same music being repeated 90 minutes later.
When you hear the exact same songs being repeated twenty-four hours later, almost to the second.
When you hear the same 200 songs being repeated over and over again day in and day out.

Who’s to blame? Station managers, “program” directors, sales managers, air people, or all the above? It seems that the owners don’t care since all of the major stations are owned by two corporations. You know who they are.

Why am I on this rant? Here we are, in the entertainment capitol of the world. There is more talent here than in any other part of the world. There is more recorded music here than most anywhere. Why can’t it be exploited? I’m an “oldies” fan, and I have more [oldies] music in my library than all of the Oldies stations in all of California combined.

When I was on radio in Sacramento during the mid-sixties to early seventies, I had an average listening audience of over 325,000 people (ARB fall quarter 1965 thru spring quarter 1971). This was when the total population for the city of Sacramento was 225,000. I was outdrawing television on Friday nights. And my main program on Sunday mornings was sold out six months in advance, and the revenue paid 75% of the station’s overhead.

Why?

The GM/PD gave me the freedom to do something different. How many GM’s, PD’s, or whoever can say that today? You tell me.

In a single station market you have a captive audience; in a multi-station market you have competition; in the Los Angeles market, who cares who wins? As “broadcasters,” you should care. Don’t forget the ratings. The higher the ratings the more you can charge for advertising. I shouldn’t have to remind you of this. With more people tuning out, the lower the ratings. How do you keep listeners?

1. Quit the repetition. Put more music in rotation. A minimum number of titles should be 1200, in all formats.
2. KZLA, how many Hank Williams, senior, or Juice [Judy] Newton or David Allen Coe titles have you played in the past two years.
3. KRTH, how many Bobby Rydell or Gene Pitney or the Royal Teens titles have you played in the past ten years?
4. KCBS-FM, how many Pacific Gas and Electric or Ten Years After titles have you played in the last five years?
5. KCMG, how many non-disco titles have you played in the last twenty-four hours?
6. KOST/KBIG, how many Barry Manilow or Barbra Streisand have you played in the past five years?
7. KTWV, how many times have you played Cal Tjader, Dave Brubeck, or Charlie Byrd? That’s smooth jazz!
8. How many radio stations have more than 200 titles in their libraries?
9. How much music has been recorded in all formats during the last fifty years?

The answers to #8 & 9 are one and a lot. The answers to #2 thru #7 can be answered by the stations that I picked on, and the artists that I mentioned are just a few of the very many that aren’t being played. There’s so much good to great music out there that it’s impossible to mention in this article. The question I have is simple: Why isn’t it being played? And I’m not talking about one-hit wonders; I’m talking about all artists that aren’t being played period!

According to many artists/performers, when approaching a PD with a new recording, the artist is told that the station will have to drop an artist to add a new one.

Did you know that you can get over an hour of music on a [single] CD? Did you know that you can get five hours of music in stereo on a “zip” or mini-disc? Do you know how any CD’s or “zip” discs you can store in the same space that it takes to store 100 vinyl LP’s? Did you know that you can purchase a commercial stand-alone CD recorder for $700, and the CD’s can be played on any CD player? Stations dropping one artist/performer to add a new one is pure stupidity, yet some stations are doing it. Why? You tell me.

How do I know this when I’m not in broadcasting today? Again, the answer is simple: I pay attention. If I go to work for a broadcaster I’d be expected to follow the “rules.” I’m not a follower, I’m an innovator. That’s how I got and can get results. My programs are listened to. It’s hard to turn off the radio when you’re having fun.

Let me illustrate my point further. I helped a friend program a radio station on Long Island in New York State. Since we didn’t have a FCC license, we put the station on cable. [WPTS 95.5] The only way you could hear us was you had to hook your FM receiver to the cable, then tune us in. In a ten over-the-air station market, we were number 3 in the ratings the first time out. How did we do it? We listened to all the stations in the market to see what they were doing, then did something [everything] different. If you pay attention to what’s happening in your market, forget syndication (that’s for the stations that are in the middle of nowhere and can’t afford talent), do something different. Increase your music libraries, hire talent that knows music and can’t fake it, the audience can usually tell; and be creative. This will increase listeners.

KBIG and KOST are supposed to be different, yet they sound similar. It shouldn’t surprise anyone because they are owned by the same corporation. KRTH, KOLA and KZLA need a lot of help to keep them on the map. KTWV needs lessons as to the difference between smooth jazz and blues. KCMG needs to come down from the pedestal they think they’re on. These are just a few of the stations I’ve listened to over the past fifteen years, and I’ve listened to almost everybody in the L. A. market. I’m not Latino, yet I’ve listened to stations programmed for that market, and a couple sound like they’re broadcasting from a toilet (way too much echo). I’m not sure if they’re in the L. A. market, but they put in a strong signal here.

If you don’t believe me, listen to your station for more than fifteen minutes, then listen to the competition to see if you’re copying them or if they’re copying you.

Why am I not in broadcasting today? Because I would have to follow “rules.” I wouldn’t be able to add music to the library. I wouldn’t be able to do something different. I wouldn’t be able to make the station number one in the ratings. In the past, a radio station was used as a tax write-off for a corporation of wealthy investors. When the station became profitable, it was sold and the process started over. I have personally seen this in more than one case.

With these mega-mergers, where’s the competition? If there’s one or two owners in a multi-station market, who needs to compete? All the bucks are going into one or two pockets. If one station fails, the other stations will support it. This happens in the retail business every day. Without competition there’s stagnation, which we’re hearing today. It should be evident with the amount of repetition that’s taking place.

Back a few years ago, there were specialized stations. KHJ, KFWB and KRLA were Top 40; KMPC and KABE were variety (as I remember); KDAY featured “Urban” (in today’s terms); KPOL was classical and serious popular (elevator); and so on down the dial. The key word you don’t hear today is “variety” from a single station. Can it be done? Will it be profitable? Can each air personality bring in their kind (or type) of music and have a good-sized audience. It was done in the past. Will it be done in the future? Only you know the answers.

Here’s another stupid idea: Have a telemarketing company make random calls to the average listener, play a few seconds of a song, then ask the listener if he was offended by it. The song that offended the most people never made it on the air. How many L. A. radio stations are doing that today? A lot! [In fact, almost all.]

How about community involvement? There’s a small station out on the east end of Long Island, New York, that’s heavily involved with their community. That’s the station we couldn’t beat with our cable radio station mentioned The station is WLNG AM & FM in Sag Harbor. They’re constantly doing remotes from this festival to that store opening (or sale). WLNG is there with their brightly painted bus. You can’t miss them. If I was to go back into radio today, I’d do it similar to Paul Sidney’s WLNG. It’s a toughie to beat. [ed. note: In the years since this Op-Ed was published, Paul sold off the AM (days only) to a bible thumper. His FM operation is still going strong.]

What kills radio today? Is it like stupid management decisions? [Like the “hold your pee for a Wii” stunt in which a woman died.] Is it making too much money because it becomes unprofitable due to taxes? As I see it, most management lacks the foresight to turn a talent loose. [Phil Hendrie is an exception.] Well, how can you manage a L. A. radio station when your office is in New York? A good manager has to get down in the trenches with the help to direct the workers [talent]. You can’t do it by remote control! Take some advice from some top-level managers in the retail field. You have to sell the product (programs). If the consumer (listener) doesn’t buy your product, they’ll go elsewhere. Why are there so many department stores? Is it price, quality, service, courtesy, all the above or none of the above?

And another thing, if you listen to yourselves you’ll notice one glaring mistake, you’re buying listeners. You’re giving away money, trips, cars, or anything that says, “Listen to me, I’ll make you rich.” You’re not giving your audience the entertainment that they deserve. The only reason you’re playing music is to separate the commercials.

A lot of the information for this piece came from the pages of http://www.laradio.com/, and I do not believe for a moment that anything was taken out of context. Only the names have been deleted to protect the innocent (if there were any innocent).

The following was published by Don Barrett’s “Email Saturday” page on Saturday, June 3, 2000.

“As for being psychic, Tom August’s rant, excuse me, commentary, was right on as far as KBIG/KLAC’s changes and the one-note one-theme running through KBIG and KOST, as well as the lack of “Classics” aired on KZLA (other than Mac Davis’ program). A fine example of how to program a successful country station is right down the road at KFRG in the Inland Empire, which features 2-3 classics an hour, as well as heavy community involvement and an on-going “Hometown Handshake” that is currently being ripped off by other local stations. Unfortunately, KFRG is an anomaly as far as being in touch with their listeners, for unless the Southern California market is prepared to hear nothing but Top 15 and Talk in the future, programmers are going to have to start listening to the people they supposedly service, otherwise a lot of dials are going to go dark. Thanks again, Don, for keeping us aware and informed about the radio we love.”
Julie, Temple City

And here are a few emails I personally received following the Op-Ed piece.

Friday, June 2, 2000
Tom,
I have spent 25 years in the radio business, and you are a man after my own heart. You hit the nail right on the head. I have been saying the very same thing for years.

The ONLY bad part about it is that it will fall on deaf ears. EVERY programmer that is now involved in radio is merely a “yes” man. All they care about is keeping their jobs and will do ANYTHING to accomplish that. This is the exact reason why NO ONE in the radio business will take a chance anymore. The type of radio you talk about is what I grew up listening to. (I was born and raised in Los Angeles.) I was there the day KHJ became Boss Radio (and have the air checks to prove it). I was there for “Color Radio KFWB,” and the wonderful years of KRLA with Hudson, Kasem, Hull, Eubanks, etc., etc. Unfortunately, WE will never hear this kind of radio again because the only sound that radio station honchos care to hear anymore is the sound of of cash jingling in their pockets. Two of the biggest culprits are Mike Phillips at K-EARTH and Jahni (don’t call me Johnny) Kaye at KBIG, KOST, etc. They are nothing but puppets that will bend over just to stay in radio. My philosophy has been that radio stations should make you feel like you’re missing something by NOT listening. As I write this, I am listening to an Unscoped hour of Humble Harve on KHJ from November of 1969. And yes, our memories do serve us correctly…radio WAS wonderful in those days. What radio needs are more people like you that are innovative and care enough to ENTERTAIN their audience. I just don’t think any of these corporations that own EVERY station in town care to have people like us around. We are a threat to their main concern in life…the almighty dollar. Thanks,
“Radio Guy”

Friday, June 2, 2000

Tom,
I concur with the observation of “boring” radio. It’s more systemic than we know.
With the vast array of music available, past, present, current, call them whatever, there seems to be a lack of information about the music & the artist.
But then I was turned on to AOR via KZAP [Sacramento] during the early 70s and got into radio via KDVS (Davis) then worked at Earth Radio 102 (KSFM) . Moved to LA & dabbed in big time radio in ’76 via KNAC & KEZY but saw the writing on the wall. Tighter control over music so played at KXLU.
Who plays Frank Zappa, Dan Hicks,…..endless of missing on air.
Who even remembers real musical segues?
Why did we have to loose our connection to the air personality and their music? You knew who was on the air by the music “they” selected.
I miss musical variety.
I moved to Detroit market in ’97. Boring here too, hmmm.
Glad there are those, like yourself, who can better express thoughts I carry.
Now I wish I’d airchecked all of my shows just for the musical value. I kept my playlist though!
Best wishes,
“K H”

So I wrote K H back about KSFM and the guys, as I used to know most of them.

“Yep, that was Donald [Don Wright] and Michael Sheehy that started Earth Radio 102. It was in Woodland at the converted “cow barn.” Don hired me in ’74 (their first female DJ) at a damn good wage ($10 an hour) then $800 per month. There was a playlist, rather play categories (which I was known to stray from more than often).
Best wishes,
“K H”

Friday, June 2, 2000

I related to much of what you said and I’d love to hear more. By the way, as a morning show broadcaster, I’ve been known to play David Allen Coe’s “You Never Even Called Me By My Name.” [one of my Country favorites]

I’m currently out of work but moving to LA and keeping my fingers crossed as I press the flesh. Is that a death wish or what? Actually, my wife took a killer job. She’s in radio sales management.

Bruce

Thursday, June 1, 2000

Hi Tom,

Read your piece with great interest. Couldn’t help respond to your quote “Should I be on radio today?” What’s your secret?

Mark & Kim
KOST-FM Los Angeles

Well, Mark & Kim, if you read the piece, you’d know the secret.
Let’s cool it with the boring radio.

Thursday, June 1, 2000

Tom – you’re right on target, they’re all a bunch of sheep and don’t know how to be creative. You’re not “nuts.” The people running LA radio stations are “NUTS.” I was on the air at KMPC for 22 years, retired younger than most broadcasters. Our front yard is the Pacific Ocean and life has been very good to us.

Roger Carroll

I used to listen to Roger on KMPC, and the guy is a class act. His radio programs were really worth listening to. I wish he was still on the air; but retirement can be fun too.

Thursday, June 1, 2000

Hi Tom – They buy stations with big bucks, and then are so afraid of losing their investment that they won’t take chances. It certainly is difficult to listen, though it may not be as bad in my area (California central coast) as it is in LA. I do get a kick out of “Radio A Go Go” on KRLA, but there’s just too little of it. I had some fun in Fresno in the mid-80s at KYNO-AM. We had a big playlist and brought back the old Drake jingles – it was fun, though an FM eventually killed us off- KYNO is now Spanish Catholic Family Radio! I’m glad Don Barrett carried your commentary. Will anyone with any power do anything sensible because of it? Don’t hold your breath…sorry. I also have a large CD collection, because I know that if I’m in the mood to hear something, I damn well better own it!

Rich

If I owned a radio station, I’d want Rich to work for me. We’d make a helluva team.

Thursday, June 1, 2000

Dear Tom,

What a piece of work, and I say that with a smile. You have said what I have been thinking for so long. Radio today is boring, and management/owners have become arrogant in their programming skills. They’re positioning themselves with the attitude, “give the audience what we think they need.” I usually listen to tapes or CDs in my car…when tuning in KRTH, they’re playing Aretha Franklin’s “Respect,” or Wilson Pickett’s “In The Midnight Hour.”

Recently, while visiting Las Vegas, my wife and I were in the El Cortez Casino and the music service that they use is an oldies format, but with a difference…..not just the same 200 songs we hear over and over, but numerous gems and artists we have not heard played anywhere in years! It was exciting to listen, because you knew something different was coming up next.

Like you, I have been an avid collector of music since the age of nine in 1956 with my first single “My Blue Heaven.” [By Fats Domino] After being exposed to Color Radio-KFWB, became fascinated with it and eventually ended up working in the business…mostly in sales and management, but my heart was in programming, music and the talent.

Since my wife and I grew up in Los Angeles, we have gravitated towards listening to Oldies, but we like Country, light Jazz, and even more contemporary music played on KOST and KBIG…but these stations are like KRTH, just play the same music and ignore the great artists of yesterday.

I teach radio and television broadcasting at several Orange County colleges, and through my collection of music, airchecks and jingles, I am able to share with them how it all came together for Rock ‘n’ Roll. It is interesting to see and hear the reactions of students as they listen to Gary Owens from ’62, or Bill Balance in ’59, or “Transfusion” by Nervous Norvous!

Prior to the tightening of the format at KRTH, Brian Berne was allowed a Saturday Night Special every so often to play those “forgotten favorites.” Even Huggy Boy has had to tighten up his playlist and return to the same routine…..”My Girl”…..

It seems evident that with the current smug attitude of stations, this situation will only hasten the exodus of listeners who will find that “ten in a row” of the same redundant music can be corrected by putting in a tape or listening to CD’s.

We were lucky to have grown up with radio that was not so specialized in format. We grew to appreciate hearing the various types of artists and songs on one station whether the music was rock, country, jazz, instrumentals, or even novelty records. This is a point I stress in my classes…students are urged to listen to all types of formats to prepare themselves for working at any station.

Because of this, I believe over-the-air stations are an endangered species. We will have numerous other forms of communications to deliver music into our homes…and existing wireless stations will not be needed since they do not provide something special in their programming.

I could go on, but we already agree…no one wants to take a chance on being different.

Sincerely,

John

John, I want to use your crystal ball to see if I hit the lottery. You wrote that letter eight years ago, and look at what we have today. A completely wireless telephone that can access the Internet, take photographs, and upload them to a website. The same telephone can receive almost any radio or TV station in the country, and present it in color on a 2-inch screen. One day, I’ll audit one of John’s classes.

Thursday, June 1, 2000

Tom – I couldn’t agree with you more. I’m stuck in a truck all day and some days I turn the radio off it’s so bad. I am an Oldies fan as well. I can’t stand KRTH. Their big problem is they think Motown is the only thing out of the 60s worth playing. Thanks for your letter. Maybe they’ll listen to you as a radio man. God knows I’ve written to them and they don’t care about me, I’m only a listener. – Jim [in Lancaster, CA]

Jim, I’m only a listener too, as I’m not in broadcasting any longer. Besides, they won’t listen to me either, because their minds are made up. I’d just confuse them with the facts.

Thursday, June 1, 2000

Tom – Thank you for having the “stones” to call it like it is, especially the bribery aspect of keeping listeners, well numbers would be more accurate. Miss the 50s sound of KFWB, where real DJ’s pulled their own music, and sank or swam on their talent. I would have called KMPC MOR, before the days of playlists. And who could forget the great sounds of KRHM/KBCA days of real jazz. You’ve got my ear, please tell me more. And for what it’s worth I loved every day I was in front of a microphone, but most especially pulling and airing a show. – John

John, I remember the KMPC talent. Dick Wittinghill, Gary Owens and Roger Carroll especially. I couldn’t wait for Gary’s “Story Lady.” Those were some of the funniest bits on radio. I understand that they are/were syndicated.

Thursday, June 1, 2000

Tom – Okay I read your rant on LA Radio and I agree that the radio situation in Los Angeles can be described as a vast wasteland. You are correct, many collections on a single CD seem to have more programming than some stations. My present solution is to buy a megachanger and put in a whole bunch of my favorite CD’s (I like Beautiful Music, Classical and New Age the most plus some big band, etc.) set it on random play and I have my own station that plays great music and does not go through pointless format changes. (Sometimes the new format is indistinguishable from the old one.) Ever wonder why hardly anybody makes good radio receivers any more?

Tony

Tony – I have the solution. Download “T-Player” from the Internet. It’s freeware; however, it features a dual deck. It automatically does cross fades, and can be programmed for random play. Rip your CD’s to your computer, tell “T-Player” where to look, push the “GO” button and listen away. By the way, it works 100% better than most radio station automation systems. As an aside, I loaded 2,000 tracks into “T-Player,” set it on random play, and it played for two weeks before I heard a repeat.

Thursday, June 1, 2000

Hi Tom,
I agree 100% with your comments in LA radio people. Have you ever heard of my show “Rhapsody In Black?” 8 to 10 Wednesday nights on KFPK 90.7 FM.
Bill Gardner

Yes, Bill, I used to listen, but not as frequently as I would have wanted to. You’re another guy that I would want to work for me; that is, if I had a radio station.

Thursday, June 1, 2000

Read your article today – as a layman who enjoys/likes music, what you said makes a lot of sense. Go to work for a station and I will listen.
Jack

Hey, now I have two listeners: my wife and Jack.

Saturday, June 3, 2000

WOW – I couldn’t agree more, Tom. Really good piece.
Bill at Lake Tahoe

Bill, if my non-existent radio station reached Lake Tahoe, I’d have three listeners, and three employees.

All in all, I didn’t receive any negative comments about my piece; however, I did receive over 100 hundred favorable comments, and a lot of them came from real radio people.

As a matter of fact, I received a email wanting me to go to work for a small radio station. I checked them out, and it seems that I would be stuck with their playlist, and no funny stuff (ala: Gary Owens or Don MacKinnon). For the money they offered, I’d have been better off flipping burgers at Mickey D’s. And I wouldn’t have to relocate.

Whaddya know!

2008-02-08T13:53:00.000-08:00

I found the hard copy of the piece I wrote for Don Barrett's "LA Radio" website, back in June, 2000. I've transcribed the hard copy to a word processing program for easy transfer to this blog. I'll run it in a day or two.

I'll publish it, and some of the emails I received following the piece. I even heard from some of the people I worked with back in the late 60's and 70's.

Although written eight years ago, it is still relevant today. Radio in general sucks; and LA radio sucks in particular. No one, and I mean absolutely no one, is doing anything new and creative in radio broadcasting today. It's become a vast wasteland of automation, voice tracking, and repetitions beyond belief. (Lately, I've heard some of the jokes I heard as a kid growing up.)

Radio is losing listeners by the multitudes, some in thanks to iPods, and others are migrating to television and video (where it's getting to be as boring as radio). Radio is loaded with "yes" men, afraid of losing their plush jobs if they should think of something different. Radio is being run by surveys, polls, ratings, and whatever paperwork comes across the paths of programmers.

One of the people seeming to break the mold is Larry Miller of Sit 'n' Sleep mattress stores. "If I can't beat the advertised price, your mattress is FREE!!!" Larry's innovative way of selling mattresses is one for the books. He and his "accountant" Irwin come up with fast, easy to understand and humorous commercials. ("You're killing me, Larry.")

Aside from Sit 'n' Sleep ads, radio is boring, run by corporations loaded with greed. The only reason for programming is to separate the commercials (spots). If it wasn't for the Internet and my iPod, I'd have nothing to listen to.

DAMN!!!

2008-02-07T00:55:00.000-08:00

In the midst of computer crashes, hard drive failures, websites swapping hands; the Op-Ed piece to Don Barrett's website is lost (unless it's on hard copy somewhere around here). The emails I received refering to the piece are intact.

Here's a sample: "I'm just a truck driver from the Central Valley, but I listen to radio, and I read your piece on Don Barrett's website. Everything you said makes a whole lot of sense. I know nothing about radio programming, nor do I care to know; all I really do know is that whoever is doing it, in my opinion, stinks. I hear the same thing every day and I'm getting sick of it."

Signed: "Dan"

Dan, I know how you feel. It seems like radio stations have a 200 song library that they wear out on a daily basis. My personal recorded music collection numbers about a quarter million tracks, in various genres and formats, and dates back to 1903. There is no radio station in the country that can match that number, nor will they ever.

Radio today stinks.

It's Been A While.....

2008-02-05T12:14:00.000-08:00

.....since I've posted anything new here.

I've been in the radio broadcasting industry for many years; and just the other day, found a ton of material from an Op-Ed piece I wrote for Don Barrett's "L A Radio" website. The piece dates back to June, 2000, and is highly revelant today. As soon as I dig out the piece, I'll publish it here, along with a few of the emails I received following the piece.

I heard from many "big" names in L A radio, and quite a few other people as well. I also received emails from people I worked with in Sacramento radio. Many have gone on to bigger and better gigs. Then, there's me. I have never had the opportunity to work in L A radio; however, I've wanted to.

Radio people are gypsies, traveling from gig to gig, never staying long enough to get to know the area or the people. Radio station owners are only interested in ratings, and bringing in the "almighty dollar." When it comes to creativity, there is none. They don't understand that it's the creative aspect that brings in listeners, followed by the dollar. They don't get the idea that it takes a little time to cultivate the station, to give it its sound. All the owners want is instant gratification. It's due to the MTV generation. Quick cuts, and then it's over.

I heard from one L A radio individual who was at one station for 22 years, a long time in radio history. And as for the follow-up emails I received from the Op-Ed piece, I'm not going to publish the complete or correct names of the individuals that replied; however, I will publish what they wrote. It should be interesting reading.

2007-10-29T01:03:00.000-07:00

More nonsensicality in business.

Bowling -bowling - bowling. That's all I've been doing. Semi-pro tours; local tours; regional tours; it's all been about bowling. And I've made a nice chunk of change doing it.

Since I'm a senior, I get price breaks on entrance fees; and special senior squads to compete in.

I was in a tournament today. I made the finals in fourth place. I had to go against the fifth place guy; then the third place guy; then the second place guy; and finally, the tournament leader. I had games of 200, 259, 290 & 279. Not too shabby for a guy pushing 70 years of age. The $5,000 prize money was just right for a couple of afternoons of work.

I travel the circuit from Los Angeles to Portland, Oregon, down to Reno and Las Vegas, Nevada, and to Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona. This next weekend, I'm two local (one day) tournaments. Those are "beat the board" style. First there's qualifying, then the roll offs. Saturday, it's local (to me) and Sunday it's across town.

If I can figure out how to post pictures on this site, I'll do it. That's enough for now.

It's About Time!!!!!

2007-07-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

Damn straight! It's about time that I update this thing.

I've recuperated from the accident in January.

My company gave me a two week all-expense paid vacation in Phoenix. Actually, it's the company that I work for.

And, thanks to the accident, I lost the domain to one of my websites; and the other two are in limbo for the moment.

If I wasn't so damn busy, I'd have time to say more. One of our guys is gone, so I have to fill in during his absence.