Category "Family"

Category "Life"

June 14, 2006

An Evening Walk at Minnehaha Falls

It's interesting to me how music can so strongly remind us of specific places. Or how strongly we associate music with a particular place.

This is a new video of my son and me taking a walk at Minnehaha Falls. The music in the background dictated the location, and the way the video was shot. At least to me. You might think of something else when you hear this song.

And just as an aside, it was pretty difficult to get the images to correspond to the beat, but I think I did an OK job. There is a part in the song where the tempo slightly changes which caused me no end of problems. I hope you enjoy it anyway!

Download WMV version for clearer and cleaner images.

Posted by snackeru at 08:35 AM | Comments (7) | Family | Life

Category "Cheesehead Craig"

Category "Life"

Category "Stadiums 2006"

Category "Twins"

May 30, 2006

Life is good

• What the heck people!?!?!? What the heck am I supposed to write about? For the past three nights I have sat down at my computer ready to lay into those morons at the legislature only to realize they have actually passed a workable stadium bill! Can you believe it? Who am I supposed to lay into now? This recent development has changed my life. You remember the Seinfeld episode where George stops having sex and becomes more intelligent? That is now happening to me. Not thinking about stadiums has freed up oodles of time and brain waves. I can feel myself getting smarter, healthier, happier. Needless to say, I am a better person because the legislature passed a workable stadium bill. In fact, the Minnesota legislature may have actually saved my life (if not my marriage). It is a strange feeling not having to think about stadiums. I kinda like it.

• So, Cheesehead Craig and I were watching the Twins game on Sunday when we started talking about the players on the current Twins roster that will be around when the new stadium opens in 2010. Specifically, we asked the question, what 5 players do you want to see on the Twins roster when the new stadium opens in 2010? What five players do you want to still see in a Twins uniform in 2010? Anyway, here is the list I came up with:

Johnan Santana
Francisco Liriano
Joe Mauer
Justin Moreneau
Torii Hunter

Yep, that is my list and I'm sticking to it. Santana and Liriano are no brainers, Mauer is a must have, and Moreneau ... I just really like him. But more than anything, I want to see Torii Hunter in a Twins uniform in 2010. I think he has given enough of himself and his body to stick around 4 more years. Pohlad has already said he wants Torii to stick around. Torii himself has said he wants to stick around. And this isn't because I think he is the best player, or because I don't think Denard Span will be ready, it is only because seeing Torii Hunter in center field on opening day 2010 will make me feel good. It will give me the warm fuzzies all over. It will make me happy. And I like to be happy. If you've got a list of your own, put it in the comments.

• So, I got an email from Jiminstpaul today. Jiminstpaul has been reading this blog almost as long as Cheesehead Craig, and more importantly Jiminstpaul is putting together the big New Ballpark Celebration going on this Thursday at the Summit Brewery Rathskellar (you are invited). Anyway, when Jim first came up with this idea last year to hold a "ballpark celebration" it was going to be just for "Greet Machiners" ... maybe 20-30 people who read this blog and who would be interested in getting together to quaff a few brews in the company of friends. Well, Jim now tells me that his little party has been advertised in the Star Tribune and on Cities 97. What was originally going to be 20-30 people may now actually be hundreds of people. So, are you coming? I'll remind you again tomorrow.

• So, I got a comment today from long time reader, and stadium opponent, David Wintheiser that was just too good to not highlight:

Betty Crocker Park. Come on.

General Mills has long been a supporter of pro sports in the Cities - they had a long-standing agreement with the Vikings to purchase unsold tickets so that Vikes games wouldn't be blacked out on local TV, though that agreement finally ended some time around the start of the Red McCombs era. It's a well-known Minnesota company with strong ties, would make a nice family-friendly image, and opens up some interesting cross-marketing opportunities, since food is a big reason to go to a game (and Hormel will still be there regardless).

And those of us who aren't quite classy enough to get behind the ballpark now that it's a fait accompli can refer to the place as 'The Crock'. It's a win-win!

I'm sorry, but that is funny. "The Crock!" Genius! David! Where the heck have you been all this time? By the way, I think some Summit Brewery fans/employees have made my little poll on the ballpark's potential name a little less than "scientific." For shame! I'm of half a mind to declare Land O'Lakes Park the winner and start the negotiations for naming rights! Don't mess with the Greet Machine!

• Finally, back to my opening point. What the heck am I supposed to write about now that the legislature has passed a ballpark bill? I'm sure I'll write about more ballpark stuff as the news comes out, but 2010 is four years away, and as I said above, I don't want to think about this anymore. It isn't healthy.

So, after the big New Ballpark Celebration, I may take a little break. I've got to regroup and "reinvent" this little site. I may talk more about music, or religion, or books, or libraires (I am a librarian), or maybe all of the above, including new ballparks. We'll see. Whatever the case, I am looking forward to a little vacation. Hopefully I'll see you on Thursday!

Posted by snackeru at 08:26 PM | Comments (14) | Cheesehead Craig | Life | Stadiums 2006 | Twins

Category "Life"

May 07, 2006

Memories

There once was a little girl. On her way to Grandma's house, she found a baby turtle struggling to cross the street. Concerned that the turtle wouldn't make it across the busy road, her dad picked it up and decided to help it out.

The turtle was small in the little girl's hands.

The girl and her dad took the turtle to the local nature center to talk with someone about what they should do. The naturalist at the center said the turtle was probably only a day old. She told the little girl she had three options. She could put the turtle in the lake, she could keep the turtle as a pet, or she could let the nature center put the turtle in an aquarium.

The little girl said she wanted to put the turtle in the lake. So, the little girl and her dad walked to a dock on the lake.

The little girl bent over on the dock until her fingers could touch the water.

And she let the turtle go.

And they watched the turtle swim away.

The little girl was very proud of her decision. "The turtle will be happier in the lake than he would be in a cage," she said.

Her dad was proud of the little girl, too, and he doubts the little girl will ever forget the time when they put the baby turtle in the lake.

It was a beautiful and memorable day.

Posted by snackeru at 04:59 PM | Comments (7) | Life

Category "Life"

Category "Stadiums 2006"

April 28, 2006

This is who I am

I want to explain a few things to you:

My name is Shane. It isn't too hard to figure out who I am. I am not an anonymous blogger.

I have a wife and three kids all of whom I love very much.

I volunteer at my church as a sound technician for our Sunday School program.

I teach a graduate class on Tuesday nights at the College of St. Catherine in the Dept. of Library and Information Science.

I am the Tiger Den Leader for my local Cub Scout Pack.

I just put in a brand new basketball hoop on my driveway, and I recently visited Minnehaha Falls.

I enjoy reading (right now it is Air by Geoffry Ryman), listening to music (The Soft Bulletin by the Flaming Lips is in heavy rotation), and watching movies (Wow, was V for Vendetta ever good).

I still mow my parents lawn.

I am a librarian and the webmaster at the University of Minnesota Libraries and manager of the UThink blog system.

This is who I am. I like to think I am making a positive contribution to society.

I spend most of my time as a librarian. Now, any librarian worth his or her salt will tell you one of the most important aspects of librarianship is protecting intellectual freedom and the freedom of speech. Libraries collect a lot of material, some of which is very controversial. The saying goes, if you haven't found something in a library that offends you, you haven't been looking hard enough.

I also like baseball. Specifically Twins baseball. As a Twins fan, I have decided to support the effort to build a new ballpark. I don't have any hidden agendas. I just want to make sure the Twins stay in Minnesota, and I am excited for the possibilty of watching outdoor baseball again. For a lot of reasons, this is controversial. It even offends some people.

I'm sorry if you don't agree with me. I really am. But I have a right to my opinion. In fact, I would argue I have a right, in fact even an obligation to get involved in the issues that matter to me. It is my right as a citizen of this state. Obviously I have gotten involved by writing on this blog.

Freedom of speech is a wonderful thing. As a librarian, I enjoy my role as a protector of this right, and as a citizen I have enjoyed taking a few minutes out of every day to write about a Twins stadium. I am a firm believer that we shouldn't be afraid to speak out on issues that matter to us, and especially on issues that could impact us.

I have recently learned, however, that this may be a naive view of this wonderful right. Freedom of speech is not so much black and white as it is gray, and it is somewhat of a two way street. Sure I can speak my mind and say what I want, but that doesn't mean there aren't consequences. My freedom of speech can get me in trouble. It can also bring me a little pain. I have learned that there are consequences to the freedom of speech that one must be willing to deal with.

For example, some people don't like the freedom of speech, especially when they hear things they don't agree with. The freedom of speech can also cause the people around you to look differently at you. It can also make people become angry with you. In essence, your freedom of speech can make you feel very uncomfortable.

Are you willing to deal with that? Can you handle it? Am I willing to deal with it? For the past three years, I have been willing to deal with it. I would write on my little blog and maybe 100 people would read my drivel. Then a funny thing happened. More people started to read my drivel, word got around, and I got on the 10:00 news.

Wow. This has caused a whole bunch of interesting things to happen to me, both good and bad. I've had some fun conversations with people. I've gotten a lot of fun phone calls from family and friends. Friends have emailed me from all over asking if I could sign some autographs. I've also been confronted by a co-worker. I had a less than pleasant meeting with my own boss and his supervisor. I've gotten a lot of problematic emails, some of them CC'd to the president of the University.

I must also clarify that the Univerisity and the University Libraries have backed me up on this issue. But I will admit to some embarrassment over them having to do so. It makes me a little upset that my blog seems to be the most controversial on the UThink system. The system I developed. It makes me upset that my supervisors have been forced to defend me. So, I have considered letting it go.

You see? Consequences. Your freedom of speech, my freedom of speech does not come without a price. For a long time I have talked a good game concerning the philosophy of freely speaking your mind. What I have recently been forced to ask myself though is can I walk the walk? Can I pay the price? Can I deal with the consequences?

I have decided the answer is yes. Bring it on. A good friend of mine recently wrote me and said, "Remember--we don't do this because it's easy, we do it because it's hard. Anybody can do little things, work the margins, and not make waves -- but where's the fun in that?"

Yes. I am proud of the impact I've had, and I'm proud of the work I've done. I have decided that I want to continue to make waves.

Anyway, I just thought you should know why I didn't post anything today. See you soon.

Posted by snackeru at 11:30 PM | Comments (24) | Life | Stadiums 2006

Category "Life"

Category "Stadiums 2006"

Category "UThink"

March 27, 2006

Not feeling it today

I'm not feeling it today. So, here are some quick thoughts before I move on:

• I'm in the Star Tribune today in an article about the wonder that is UThink. They did a pretty nice job with it.

• The Gopher's men's hockey team disappointed me. I know that is an understatement, but what a phenomenal collapse these last two weeks. Like the saying goes, "That is why they play the games."

• Garnett's recent locker room chat sessions are scaring me a little bit. If he ever left ... wow. I'm not sure what the NBA would mean to me anymore. And SBG probably has more to say about this than me, but is it even possible to reuinte Steph with KG on either the Knicks or the T-Wolves? Doesn't the salary cap situation of both teams make it nearly impossible?

• I watched Good Night and Good Luck last night and I thought it was pretty good. Not as exciting as I thought it would be, but a good treatment of what it means to dissent without being disloyal. It surely is no coincidence that Clooney would choose to make this movie now with talk concerning what it means to be "patriotic." However, it also got me thinking about the power of the media today vs. the 1950s. In the 50s there were three major networks, and then, of course, all the major newspapers. I would wager that back then the media was much more powerful in swaying public opinion than it is now because 1) there is less to choose from and 2) so much news happens live today that we can (we should) form our own opinions before we are swayed by editorializing journalists. Concerning point number 1, though, we have so much news coming at us today from 24 hour news channels (of varying political persuasions), internet sites (like blogs and the like), and the tried and true network news and newspapers, that news today is less about finding the truth, and more about finding the angle you want to see the "truth" through.

I guess what I'm saying is that Murrow would have less impact today because people have more choice concerning the news they want to hear, and they are more entrenched in their viewpoints because of it.

• I saw a lacrosse game at the Xcel Energy Center this weekend. No one was protesting outside of the arena and people seemed pretty happy inside the arena too. I guess giving "free money" to millionaires is OK in this instance.

• Finally, this weekend it was announced that our esteemed legislators have come up with a new plan to build a new Gophers stadium that will cost less in yearly student fees, but retain corporate naming rights for TCF.

I am so jaded at this point that I can only think of one thing to say: I'll believe it when I see it. We haven't seen the last of the problems for this bill.

Over and out.

Posted by snackeru at 08:21 AM | Comments (9) | TrackBack | Life | Stadiums 2006 | UThink

Category "Life"

March 23, 2006

I've got mad skills (or is that bad skills?)

The Greet Machine is a labor of love. I write all this crap day after day without any thoughts of making tons of money or getting any recognition whatsoever for my efforts. That is the way it is and I am comfortable with that. You may think I am being paid by the Twins or people related to the Twins stadium efforts, but alas, no. I am truly stupid enough to do all this work on my own time and dime. It is really humbling to think about. However, I will say that recent events have been a nice change in my favor.

You see, all my inane ramblings about stadiums, and all my work on the Voter's Guide, has actually, for the first time, resulted in a tangible benefit for me. Yes, I have finally made "connections." I bet you didn't know this, but you are reading a blog by someone who "knows people." And one of those "people" actually came through for me in a way I didn't expect. Yesterday, I was invited to play basketball on the Final Four court set up at the Metrodome.

Let me give you some background. I was a pretty decent basketball player in high school. I was the captain of my high school team. At the time my high school (in Virginia Beach, VA) was well known as being the high school of both JR Reid (where has he gone to?) and DJ Dozier (the old Vikings RB flop). During a Lefty Dreisell camp one summer I was selected for a 15 person All-Star team. If you'll note, sometimes the top tagline of this blog states, "Internet home of the 1991 Kempsville High School slam dunk championship runner-up." I don't say all of this to brag, but only to set up how far I have fallen.

Wow, I am really a bad basketball player right now. I think the skills are still there, but I am just way too out of shape to make it work. It was embarrassing. I make Jabba the Hut look healthy. In the games I played in yesterday I literally had to stay on the defensive side of the court because I knew I wouldn't make it back if I ran all the way down. So, in other words, the humbling of Shane Nackerud continues. As Cheesehead Craig has pointed out, I have lost my pride, I have lost almost all of my hope, and now I am being humbled seemingly on a daily basis. I have really got to get back in shape!

You would think that because of my inability to run more than 10 feet I would have had a bad time. Ha! That is where you are wrong! I had a great time! How often do you get to play basketball at the Metrodome? Not often. I mean, I played on the same court Villanova will play on Friday night! It really gave me a unique perspective of what the players will see and how the court is set up from a player's point of view. And plus, I got some great pictures.

I tried to get a picture of the whole set up here. How the spectator seats are laid out, etc.

Here is another picture of the people I played b-ball with. Good people all, and in much better shape than me. I was impressed.

After the games I went down into the bowels of the Dome where I found this sign to the Vikings locker room. I asked a security guard if the locker rooms were open, and he said, "Are you a player?" I said, "No." Then he said, "I don't have a key. Sorry." So, I said, "What if I would have said I was a player?" And he said, "I guess we'll never know, heh?" That was a bummer.

Here is a picture of me trying to dunk. Pathetic. I used to be quite the dunking artist, but now I couldn't jump over a phone book.

This is where I went into the Dome, the "Loading Dock." Ever wonder what is behind this door?

Stairs and then...

A revolving door that leads to a guard desk. Now you know!

Anyway, even though I barely made it off the court alive and breathing, I had a great time. I had a blast! Special thanks to the Big D for inviting me. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am very thankful to get the chance to do this. So, thanks Bid D. Plus, you've got a pretty nice jump shot! Let me know if I can ever take part in something like this again or if I can ever do something for you!

Posted by snackeru at 11:16 AM | Comments (6) | TrackBack | Life

Category "Life"

March 20, 2006

The rumors of my pride have been greatly exaggerated

This weekend I attended a silent auction fundraiser for my kids' school, Park Spanish Immersion. The auction was at the Calhoun Beach Club which is a pretty fancy place and everyone was dressed to the nines. Now, I'm not what you would call a "heavy hitter." My pockets definitely don't "run deep." In fact, I didn't win one of the things I bid on because the bids just got way too high. But one thing I can do is give my time. So, I worked as a staff volunteer at the auction.

One of my jobs, as you can see, was to walk around this with this sign 15 minutes before the tables closed on the "Library" level of the auction. This was a job my wife had originally signed up for, but once she started she found that the task was too mortifyingly embarrassing, so she handed it off to me.

The sign was on a tall poll with bells on the bottom that rang incessantly as I walked. But did I care? No! I walked around with that sign with a huge grin. I yelled, "Fifteen minutes to get your bids in!" I gave people the "wink and the gun" as I went by. I actually had a good time doing this. I am happy to report that after getting married and having three kids, my pride is nowhere to be found. You think I look goofy? I honestly don't care. The next thing on my list is mowing the lawn in a white t-shirt and black socks. No one can stop me!

I have discovered that I am now at the age where I can really start embarrassing my kids without worrying about myself! Life is definitely good.

More when I got time.

Posted by snackeru at 08:20 AM | Comments (5) | TrackBack | Life

Category "Life"

Category "Stadiums"

March 02, 2006

My thoughts on various topics

• Let's start with the most obvious. I have been doing a lot of updating to the Voter's Guide, the votes in the House Taxes Committee, and the votes in the House Ways and Means Committee. Right now I am pretty confident that I have them correct, and right now they all show that a Twins stadium bill will pass (sometimes barely). I had to switch a bunch of people back to no since I seem to have misunderstood some of the information I have been receiving. If anyone has any insight to these predictions, please drop me a line at snackeru@umn.edu (if you'd like to remain anonymous) or leave a comment below. Things are looking good!

• Speaking of which, thanks to a late night phone call from Cheesehead Craig last night I was able to catch the last half of TPT Almanac on channel 2 (PBS). They were interviewing both Dean Johnson and Steve Sviggum and asking them about various issues that might come up in this legislative session. A lot of time was spent on an amendment to the Minnesota constitution to ban gay marriage (which I find to be a ridiculous waste of time), and then they got into stadiums. Both Sviggum and Johnson said they want to vote on both a Gophers and Twins stadium, and both said they think the Hennepin County plan is a pretty good one. Sviggum said he didn't think they could get to a Vikings stadium this session, but Johnson actually said he hoped they would take care of that one too.

This isn't exactly earth shattering news, but it still puts a little bounce in my step today. Of course, nothing will happen until T-Paw and/or "legislative leadership" asks Hennepin County to begin negotiating with the Twins again, but I will let you know if that is happening as soon as I hear something.

• Last week I also heard that Tony Cornish could be switching his vote from a No for a Twins stadium to a Yes. This was shocking news to me since last year in the Local Government committee Cornish made it quite clear that he would only vote for a Twins stadium if the Twins put up half. So, I wrote him an email asking him if he was now in favor of the Twins stadium, and if he was also in favor of the Vikings stadium in Anoka County since Zygi Wilf is putting up at least half. Here is the response I got:

You were given bad information. I plan to vote no on Twins Stadium.

Well, at least he isn't wishy washy about it. He also avoided my question on the Vikings stadium which I take to mean he would also vote no on that. Bummer.

Why am I telling you all of this? Please, I am begging you ... write your legislators and let me know what they say. They will write you back (most of the time) and sometimes their responses are very insightful. Plus, by writing your legislators we can put extra pressure on them to finally get this job done.

• Finally, as most of you know I recently purchased an iPod Video as a gift to myself for everything I do for me. I know, how thoughtful of myself. Anyway, for the past three nights I have been pulling my hair out trying to figure out how to get a full length DVD onto it. Specifically, I've been trying to put The Matrix onto it. Well, don't you worry your pretty little head about it. Behold, my triumph:

Yes, I finally got it to work. My main problems were 1) I was using free software and sometimes that can be unreliable and 2) I couldn't get the audio and video to sync up. After trying a whole bunch of different settings on the software it finally went through. If you are interested in my process and/or settings, please let me know.

So, do you understand what this means? It means that I can now watch The Matrix on the 2.5 inch screen of my iPod! Aren't you jealous? I mean, you still have to watch The Matrix on your big screen TV with your surround sound system! I'm sorry, but that is truly pathetic! Get with the times, man.

Posted by snackeru at 08:24 AM | Comments (7) | TrackBack | Life | Stadiums

Category "Life"

Category "Stadiums"

February 27, 2006

Weekend update

• So, as we gear up for the upcoming legislative session, I've been getting some notes from people concerning my Voter's Guide and changes that should be made to it. Here is what I've heard so far:

Maxine Penas (1A): changed from a No to a Yes.
Pete Nelson (17B): changed from a No to a Yes.
Scott Newman (18A): changed from an Unknown to a No.
Greg Davids (31B): changed from a No to a Yes.
Tom Emmer (19B): changed from an Unknown to a No.
Dan Larson (63B): changed from an Unknown to a Yes.

This brings the grand total so far to:

   Pro-American (Pro-stadium) legislators: 75
   Anti-American (Anti-stadium) legislators: 52
   Unknown: 7

I have also been told that Tony Cornish (24B) should be changed to a Yes. This is surprising to me since last year in the Governmental Operations committee he made it quite clear that he wanted the Twins to put up at least half before he would approve. In fact, I was going to write him to ask him if he was therefore in favor of the Viking stadium bill since Zygi is putting up half. I may have to contact him and ask him what is up. Not that he'll get back to me. As David has said, I think legislators are avoiding me now.

Also, I was stunned to hear that Mary Ellen Otremba is now in the Yes column. Stunned. Curt, isn't this your former district? Can you contact Otremba and ask if this is true?

Finally, I know pro-stadium people are feeling optimistic, but let's take a moment for a little reality check here. The session starts on Wednesday and that is when the partisan politics will begin. Both sides will say, "We can't deal with stadiums until we get all our other business taken care of." Two months later they will still be arguing, the session will end with the stadium bill never reaching the floor, and we'll begin the long summer of "should we call a special session?" I'm not saying I am giving up, no no no... I am just steeling myself for this inevitability.

• And on a completely different note, awhile back I alluded to the possibility that the Greet Machine would soon cease to exist and that changes in my life could be coming. Well, you'll be happy (maybe not?) to know that neither will be happening. In November I applied for a new position at the University of St. Thomas. I had an interview at the beginning of February, but in the interview I think we could both tell that it just wasn't the right fit. I found out last Friday that I didn't get the job.

This process was both painful and exiciting. After the interview, I was pretty confident that I might get offered the job. So, at that point I had to make a choice of telling my boss and his boss that I might be leaving. This was a hard decision because, obivously, I didn't know how they would react. Fortunately, they were happy for me. They understood that I wanted to take a step up in my career. But what made me even more surprised, and actually touched, is that they said they would make me a retention offer.

So, even though I didn't get the new job offer, or the retention offer, it still felt good that my work is appreciated here at the U. In fact, this whole process has really showed me how much I enjoy working here.

However, back to the fact that I got nothing for my troubles. This kind of bothered me, so I bought myself a 30GB iPod Video. Sure, I slept on the couch that night, and yes, I really can't afford it. But I justify it based on all the pain I went through, and because, quite frankly, I deserve something nice every once in a while.

Talk to you later!

Posted by snackeru at 08:27 AM | Comments (6) | TrackBack | Life | Stadiums

Category "Life"

February 17, 2006

Yes, it is cold

So, I was sitting at the bus stop yesterday freezing my butt off. I don't really need to tell all of you just how freakin' cold it is outside, but this is the type of cold that gives a person an understanding of just how someone could die of exposure. This is the type of cold where the tears from my eyes freeze to my face, the snot in my nose freezes, and my exposed skin feels like it has thousands of pins sticking in it. Makes me proud to be a Minnesotan.

Anyway, as I was saying, I was standing at the bus stop last night waiting over 20 minutes (!!!) for my bus to arrive. Man it was cold! To take my mind off of the cold I was listening to my iPod when suddenly the perfect song came on to brighten my mood:

"Surf Wax America" by Weezer

This brought a huge smile to my face, this song about beaches, surfing, waves, and beautiful weather. As I stood there singing along it suddenly wasn't so cold anymore. It is amazing how music can sometimes make -20 degree weather tolerable.

Posted by snackeru at 10:41 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack | Life

Category "Life"

Random musings

• First of all, I've been quoted! There is a great story about the wonder that is UThink in the Minnesota Daily today. Sometimes the Daily staff really messes things up, but I must say I am very impressed with this article. No errors, and I think it concisely captures the essence of class blogging though the UThink system. Anyway, I'm pretty pleased with it.

• Now, I shall answer/comment on freealonzo's suggestions for non-stadium related content for the Greet Machine:

Star Wars vs. Lord of the Rings
For me, the winner is clear: Lord of the Rings. I don't think there has ever been a better trilogy. The orginal Star Wars trilogy was a big part of my childhood, but Lucas has really screwed it up with the prequels. Revenge of the Sith was good, but not anywhere near as good as Empire Strikes Back.

Gopher hockey
Truly, I am cursed to live in a state that is so hockey crazy. Having said that, though, I must say I am warming up to Gopher hockey. For example, I know I'll be watching the game tonight. There is something about college hockey that is way, way, way more exciting than the pro game. I will never claim to be an expert on hockey in general, but I love the Golden Gophers.

Liberal v. Conservative Christians
Now you are just trying to get me in trouble. But I'll play along. Jesus was liberal. He did not follow the rules. He turned both the old covenant and the law on its head. Jesus mentioned the poor and needy hundreds of times. He did not mention anything about homosexuality, tax cuts, or assasinating foreign leaders. Love the Lord God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself. If only. The world would be a better place.

Does Jesse Ventura now like V.P. Cheney because he's hunted man?
Yes. Actually, I thought this was so hilarious I really don't know what I can add to it. Nice one, freealonzo.

Pinewood derby speed tips
You want a fast car? Focus on the wheels. Make sure the tops are angled slightly outwards, and especially make sure all the wheels are symetrically balanced with each other (are they all touching the track at the same time at all times?). Then, soak the axles in graphite. Not the white stuff either. I'm talking the real graphite. Buy some graphite during the summer because around Pinewood Derby time you won't be able to find any in the stores. Lastly, put the weight towards the front of the car. Follow my advice, and you too might be a winner.

Dumb Kevin McHale trades and/or NBA rule changes
I don't know how McHale can ever top the stupidity of Marko Jaric for Sam Cassell and a first round draft pick. That is the winner, hands down. And the NBA rule I hate the most is the defensive three second rule. Stupid. Almost makes Minnesota state legisltators look intelligent.

RSS and Movable Type 4.xxx primers
If Six Apart releases Movable Type 4 anytime soon I will fly out to San Francisco and personally open a can of whoop ass on Ben Trott. It took us forever to get MT 3.2 up, I am not overly enthused about having to go through that any time soon. And I like RSS. So, you can mark me down as being in favor of that technology.

Stratego reenactments
My cat peed all over my Stratego game, so there won't be any reenactments of that game for a while.

Worst/Best concerts
Best concert I ever saw was U2 last September. Just marvelous. Second best would be Pink Floyd in 1995 (?). I was in the 12th row. 3rd best would have to be Page/Plant in 1996 (?). Lots of good Zeppelin songs (although I could have done without all of Page's drooling).

Worst concert I have ever been to was the Rolling Stones Bridges to Babylon tour at the Dome. Horrible sound and we were way too far away. I was just not impressed.

So, there you have it. Anything else anone wants to know about?

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February 14, 2006

Cut me some slack

I am not willing to do it. In fact, I don't think I can physically do it. Try as I might, today I cannot write another entry on stadiums. I am less than enthusiastic about this topic right now, and there is nothing I can do about it. What is truly sad about this is that I probably could think of something to write about this never ending topic. You might think to yourself, "How can anyone write about stadiums as much as Shane? Is there really that much to write about?" Again, sadly, for me there is. I could probably write a PhD dissertation about the topic and keep on truckin'.

But not today. Today my mind is using its non-stadium related synapses and neurons for thinking about an entirely different topic. A topic that has a great deal of impact on me and my family. A topic that is keeping me up at nights thinking and thinking and thinking. I'm sorry I can't be more specific, maybe tomorrow.

But don't worry about me. No, no, no, no ... it is nothing to worry about. Changes could be coming though.

What would life be like without the Greet Machine?

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February 03, 2006

A couple of things

This will be completely stream of consciousness ... please forgive me.

• A little birdy tells me that the meeting that was supposed to happen a couple of weeks ago will actually happen this Monday (2/6). The same people are rumored to attend: Opat, Bell, T-Paw, Day, Sviggum, Johnson, and Entenza. And like I said before, my focus will be on Entenza. He is the only one of these people that I still would consider anti-stadium. If he comes out of this meeting even remotely favorable towards a new Twins stadium I will consider it a victory. For example, if he comes out of this meeting and says, "The plan doesn't suck as much as I thought it would," I will take that as a positive.

• Speaking of Entenza, I heard that he was on WCCO radio today talking about the stadium. According to my sources he said that he wanted to study any new plan in detail before making any judgements. A step in the right direction, I think.

Again, if T-Paw can get Entenza on board that would mean he would have the Speaker of the House, the Minority Leader of the House, the Majority Leader of the Senate, and the Minority Leader of the Senate all in favor of the Hennepin County plan. That would be a nice little coalition. Right now T-Paw has 3 out of 4.

• T-Paw was on WCCO radio last week again touting St. Paul as a better location for a new Twins ballpark. I have no problem with St. Paul being the new home of the Twins, but Governor ... they have no plan. And any plan they do promote will have to include state money. The 3% stadium tax Kelly promoted would not be able to raise the same amount of money a .01% tax would be able to raise in Hennepin County.

Is Coleman even that gung ho about a new stadium in St. Paul? My impression is no. Jim in St. Paul, if you are reading this, help me out with this. Would you take a stadium in Hennepin County right now over the possibilty of the Twins giving up and packing it in? Or do you prefer waiting for another chance for St. Paul?

• Unfortunately, however, as we all know any chance we have relies on T-Paw taking a stand. In fact, it would probably come down to T-Paw playing the bonding bill card ala Arne Carlson and saying, "I won't sign until a Twins stadium bill is approved." How likely is that? Not very.

I was talking with another stadium expert today when I asked him, "What chances do we really have this year? Less than 50?" And he looked at me and said, "The chances are better in 2006 than 2007." What he means by this is that the Hennepin County plan, the Twins desire to try again, the governor's even tepid support ... none of these will probably be the same in 2007.

• However, it seems we do have some reason for optimism. I have heard that stadium supporters might be happy with the outcome of Monday's meeting, for whatever reason. We'll see.

• And I can't believe I didn't write about this before, but last week was our Cub Scout Pack's Pinewood Derby. As you can see below, my son came in second out of about 40 cars! We both were thrilled, especially my son, but I was really happy too because I worked really hard on that car! It was a nice way for my son to end his Cub Scout career. He gets the Arrow of Light later this month.

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February 02, 2006

Winter Blues

What the heck is going on? I think winter is getting to me. Nothing is exciting. Nothing is worth writing about. It is all the same: get up, go to work, slave away, go home, do something else, go to bed, repeat. Where is the fire? Where is the life? Nothing. Just mundane monotony.

Quite frankly, I think my pessimism over this year's stadium bill chances is really bumming me out. And the goofy thing about that is, why? Why should this year be any different? It never works out! I should be used to it by now, but I guess I'm not.

My only hope to bring me out of these doldrums is winning the $180 million Powerball jackpot this weekend. That is the only thing that will make me happier. If I don't win, there is no telling what depths of depression I will enter. Wish me luck.

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January 30, 2006

Now that is an interesting plan

• I'll cut right to the chase, someone tell me how this isn't a good plan:

Published estimates are that Pohlad has a net worth of $2.8 billion. Assume conservatively that only half that amount would be subject to the estate tax. If he remained a Minnesota resident, the state would collect 16 percent, or about $224 million. But there would be no such windfall if he moved.

The state, the Twins, and its owner should consider an arrangement whereby the owner would agree to remain a Minnesota resident and expose his estate to a tax of at least the amount of the state contribution to the cost of a new Twins ballpark. The state would then lend that amount to the Hennepin County project. Along with the $125 million the Twins have already pledged, and the expected infrastructure contribution of local government, the state loan would get the job done. The state loan would be fully secured by the expected Pohlad estate tax, from which the loan would be repaid.

Did you understand that? Pohlad will be paying an estate tax anyway when he dies. This gentleman, William Brody, estimates that it will be $224 million. Assuming that Pohlad dies while a Minnesota resident, why don't we take that money and use it to build a new Twins stadium? How does this plan not work? Someone please inform me because I think it is a fantastic plan (if not a little morbid). Combine that $224 million with Pohlad's already agreed contribution of $125 million, and you've got $349 million: the cost of the ballpark itself. That way, much like the Mall of America, the county would only have to pay for infrastructure around the faciltiy.

Any lawyers in the house? Any reason why this wouldn't work? Under this plan you've suddenly got Pohlad paying for well over half of the total cost, which is something a lot of representatives and senators want.

OK. Now for reality. As much as I'd love this plan to work, I would be very surprised if it went anywhere. Why? We are governed by morons, plain and simple. So, I'll let you know if anything comes of this. I will certainly be monitoring the situation.

• Lastly, if you have multiple children like me, you know how sibling rivalries can develop. Well, my family's most outrageous sibling rivalry is between my middle son and my youngest child, my daughter. I say outrageous because it seems that no matter what my daughter says, my son has got to disagree with her. My daughter will say anything, and my son will point out where she is wrong. For example, my daughter will say, "This peanut butter is crunchy," and my son will say, "No, this peanut butter has peanuts in it which makes it less smooth." Or my daughter will say, "The sky is blue," and my son will say, "No, the sky is blue." Do you see what I mean? It drives me nuts.

So, yesterday while going to church, my kids started to talk about the topic of frogs. My daughter, who is only 5, chimes in and says, "Frogs eat bugs with their tongues." And my son says, "No, that is actually a myth that frogs eat bugs with their tongues. Actually, frogs tackle bugs and then eat them." Can you believe this guy? Of course, my wife and I had to correct him, but where does he come up with this stuff? And all so he can disagree with his sister. It is amazing to me.

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January 20, 2006

Random musings, odds, and ends

I don't have anything coherent to say today, so I'm just going to write and write until I have nothing to write about anymore.

• A few days ago, Tim M. asked me what kinds of story lines I would like to see in a Serenity sequel. I think the story of Book is a given. He was a mysterious character, and we definitely didn't get the truth about him. I would also love to see more about the bounty hunter "Jubal" that showed up in the last Firefly episode. He was a very interesting dude. But more than anything, I would like to know more about the Independence movement and the Browncoats. What were they really fighting for? I know "independence" but what else? I'm sure there were other grievances. I would also like to know what happens now that Mal and his crew unleashed the truth about the Reevers. Does this create another revolution attempt? I would think some people would be kind of upset with the Alliance.

So, there you have it. I think there is a lot of story left to tell. I hope Joss Whedon gets the green light.

• If I was to have another child, and that child turned out to be a boy, I would name him "Augustus Octavius." You know, to boost his confidence. And I would force everyone to call him by his complete name, "Is Augustus Octavius present?" That would be awesome. Of course, I would call him by his nickname: Skippy.

• I was listening to KFAN a couple of days ago when Dan Barreiro said something that made me chuckle, and think. He said one of the biggest mysteries in the whole sporting world is how Matt Millen still has any kind of position of authority within the Lions organization. I used to think Mike Tice had some sort of blackmail working against Zygi to keep his job (ticket scalping, whizzinator, sex boat, 2-5 start, etc.), but Millen must have some naked pictures or something that are working to keep him employed. Yikes.

• So, if you are a stadium fanatic like me, you would have to have been blind to miss this snippet from Sid Hartman yesterday:

Senate Majority Leader Dean Johnson, DFL-Willmar, reports Gov. Tim Pawlenty has called a meeting Monday at the governor's estate to talk about how to solve the stadium proposals for the Twins and Gophers football.

Attending the meeting will be House Speaker Steve Sviggum, R-Kenyon; House Minority Leader Matt Entenza, DFL-St. Paul; and Senate Minority Leader Dick Day, R-Owatonna.

Also attending will be Brad Finstad, R-New Ulm, author of the house ballpark bill, and Sen. Steve Kelley, DFL-Hopkins.

"I hope that Hennepin County will continue to stay with the bill they proposed to build the Twins baseball stadium," Johnson said.

What is most interesting about this is that T-Paw is inviting Matt Entenza, an anti-stadium legislator and House Minority Leader. I honestly think that coming out of this meeting Entenza will be the barometer of possible stadium action. If Entenza comes out of the meeting even remotely optimistic towards the possibilty of a new Twins stadium I think we can all breathe a sigh of relief. If he comes out of the meeting with his typical anti-stadium rhetoric, though, that means the opposition is still there and isn't budging much. That probably means we should all keep our hopes in check.

I know Sid thinks Dick Day is also somewhat anti-stadium, but I disagree. He just wanted to vote for stadiums in the regular session. If push comes to shove he will vote for the Hennepin County plan.

Sid also alludes to the fact that inviting Entenza and Day takes T-Paw off the hook if a stadium bill isn't supported. That may be true. I think Sid is pessimistic that Entenza will come out of the meeting in favor of the plan. I would have to agree with him. We'll see on Monday though.

• Yesterday I linked to the Prejudice Map that uses Google to unveil the prejudices we have towards the people of various countries. I found this map, and the technique to build it, to be highly entertaining. So, I decided to try it on myself. In Google I type "Shane is known for" and this is what I get out:

"Shane is known for taking that extra time to assure that everything is done to the level of his high standards."
So true, so true...

"Shane is known for his boisterous personality and fun-loving attitude."
Again, how do they know me so well?

"Shane is known for pulling rabbits out of hats in competition."
I am a pretty crafty guy. And now that I've mentioned "rabbits" again on this site I'll get even more hits from search engines for this word.

"Shane is known for an aggressive drumming style and in the interest of crowd safety; we have recently been forced to put him in a Plexiglas cage."
Needless to say, I ROCK! The crowd must be protected from ME because I go crazy on those skins! And do they really think Plexiglas can hold me? I'm gonna go Incredible Hulk on that Plexiglas!

"If there's one thing Shane is known for, it's perserverance."
If you fail, try, try again I always say.

Is there anything you are known for? Put it in the comments below...

• Lastly, a few weeks ago something I dearly love was taken away from me. At first I was very upset about this. And then I became very saddened. "Why are they doing this to me?" I thought. "What have I done to deserve this?" I was promised something even better, but I didn't believe it. How could something new be as good as what I had come to love so much. Well, I am happy to say I was wrong.

Black Cherry Vanilla Coke ... oh how I love thee. I must say Coke is forgiven for dropping Vanilla Coke in favor of this taste sensation. I am satisfied.

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January 17, 2006

Happy Birthday to Me (and SBG)

• Greetings and salutations, loyal reader! I'm not sure that anyone out there cares, but today is my birthday. Now, last year was an interesting birthday because I found out that January 17 is also Stick and Ball Guy's birthday. So, after you stop by here go over to his site and wish him a happy birthday from me! And just for your edification, here is a list of other people who were also born on January 17th:

Benjamin Franklin, 1706
Al Capone, 1899
Rock Hudson, 1925
James Earl Jones, 1931
Muhammad Ali, 1942
Jim Carrey, 1962

Good company for me and SBG, heh? Drop me a comment for my birthday! You can even do it anonymously! In fact, I command you to leave me a comment! It is my birthday wish!

• If you are looking for stadium news today, there isn't much to report. In case you missed it, you should check out Andy Brehm's commentary, Replace the Dome or Lose the Twins. A little sleight of hand with the numbers, but overall a good and well written effort.

UPDATE: Of course, just when I think there isn't any stadium news, the Vikings go ahead and create some. My initial impression of this turn of events is that the Vikings are wasting a whole lot of money by trying to ram their plans through this year. Unless this firm is going to start promoting a Twins stadium too, I don't see the legislature giving the Vikings the time of day. And that is a shame because in many ways the Vikings stadium bill is better than the Twins stadium bill. Well, I guess in one big way: it includes a bigger chunk of change from the owner. We'll watch this situation closely, I can guarantee you that, but I don't think much will come from it. I wish Zygi the best though. If we can get one of these stupid stadium bills out of the way that would be a good thing.

• I must admit that I hate the song "Does Anyone Really Know What Time It Is" by Chicago with a burning passion that rivals the Sun. It may even rival my hatred for Tom Petty songs. I heard it yesterday while I was enjoying a delicious Snuffy's malt and it just about ruined everything. I'm still humming that stupid song.

• I just gotta ask, does this man deserve the money the T-Wolves gave him? I know he is a great guy and all, but what does he play, maybe 10 minutes a game? What does he average, a little over 1 point a game? I can't help but think that Mad Dog is the poster child for the ineptness of Kevin McHale as VP.

• Well, I watched all the Firefly episodes. Loved 'em. Couldn't get enough of them. And that Wash character! Such a funny guy. Then I watched the movie Serenity and I was loving it. It had action, suspense, comic relief ... it answered questions and had an awsome plot. And then the unthinkable happened! Why did Joss Whedon do what he did? Why? Both my wife and I sat there stunned. Very upsetting. If you've watched it, you know what I'm talking about.

Luckily, it looks like there will be a Serenity sequel of some sort (probably on TV) so Whedon can redeem himself.

That's all I got time for now. See you later!

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January 16, 2006

Schulz, MLK, and insensitivity

Today is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. I must admit that MLK is one of my favorite historical figures, and the Civil Rights Movement was my focus as an undergraduate history major. I wrote many a paper on King's efforts and I just couldn't believe that something so awful as state-sanctioned segregation, voter intimidation, lynchings, and "colored" drinking fountains happened so close to my own date of birth. King quickly became, and still is, a hero of mine.

So, today I read over King's I Have a Dream speech, and I thought about my favorite of all of King's writings, the Letter from a Birmingham Jail. Powerful, powerful stuff that (and this always amazes me) that my parents actually lived through.

Anyway, after reading over some links concercing MLK day, for some reason I picked up an old Peanuts book. It was a collection of old Peanuts comics, and it contained this particular comic that struck me as ... I don't know "appropriate" for the significance of today, and also shockingly insensitive on the part of Charles Schulz:

Click for larger version

What do you think of this comic? What kind of message does it send? I think we can all agree that we would never see it in a newspaper today because it is insensitive at best and full of prejudice and stereotypes at the worst. I'm very surprised I saw it today. I wonder if this is an example of a comic that Charles Schulz wished he could have back.

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January 01, 2006

My television debut

You know, I didn't think I would get excited about this ... maybe excited is the wrong word ... how about interested? Anyway, I will be on TV tonight on a local PBS station discussing blogs (a topic people seem to think I know something about). The TV show is Tech Talk, and it is a show filmed at the U of M discussing technology related matters. Tonight's show will be about Blogs and Wikis, and along with me Kurtis Scaletta will be discussing wikis. At first glance you may not recognize the name of Kurtis Scaletta, but let me tell you it was an honor to be on the same billing as him! Kurtis is responsible for many of the flash games found on Bat Girl, as well as being a prodigious commenter on that site too.

So, tonight at 9:00 feel free to tune into Twin Cities PBS channel 17 (channel 13 for me on digital cable) and watch me (probably) butcher the topic of blogs. Luckily I'm ony on for 6-7 minutes. I swear I'll barely be able to watch, but the entertainment value for my wife should be high.

If you watch let me know what you think!

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December 26, 2005

My family's trip to Disney World

Yep, we just came back from Disney World, and we had a blast. Man, I cannot express with enough detail or justice how much fun we had! If you've never been to Disney World it is the experience of a lifetime, and I'm glad I was able to provide it to my kids. Needless to say, I hope it doesn't take me another 20 years to make it back to this magical place.

Anyway, there are a couple of details about Disney World that I have to get down before I forget. One is that Disney World teaches you patience. When you first get there and you see that the line waits are upwards of 30-40 minutes you think to yourself, "No way am I waiting that long for a ride!" But by the 4th day you consider 30 minutes to be an absolute steal and you will run into the line before it gets any longer, regardless of the ride. I believe this is the only reason I rode "It's a Small World After All."

Secondly, if Disney could put together a ride that includes 3D, a boat cruise, and a simulation they would probably be as happy as clams. Almost every place we went had at least one of each, sometimes multiple versions of each. Especially 3D movies and simulation rides, though. Sometimes they were excellent and highly entertaining ("It's Tough to Be a Bug" starring Flik from Bug's Life) and sometimes they stunk ("Star Tours," the hyped Star Wars ride, was not very good. This ticked me off.). Anyway, I'm just thinking if they could combine all three of these Disney World staples into one ride they would probably be thrilled.

Finally, if you are planning on going to Disney World, I must recommend the Disney Meal Plan as a "must have" for your trip. The plan was about $150 a day for my family, but it was worth it. I swear we did not have a "sit down" meal at Disney World for less than $130. In addition, lunch usually cost upwards of $50 for the five of us. One meal we had at the Coral Reef restaurant cost $200. One meal. But because we were on the plan we saved oodles of money.

Anyway, if you are interested, click into the extended entry for more about my family's vacation to Disney World. But be warned! There are about 20 pictures on the next page so it may take some time to load for those of you on slow connections. On with the show!

We took over 400 pictures while at Disney World. The pictures below are only the tip of the iceberg. I hope you enjoy them!

The first ride we went on was Space Mountain. Unfortunately, this was the last time we rode it, too. We went back on our last night to ride it for the last time only to be told it was having the dreaded "technical difficulties." Oh well, better luck next time!

My daughter had her picture taken with every princess we happened to come across. In the end she had her picture taken with every princess in the Disney catalog except for Ariel.

This is Splash Mountain, not your typical floom ride by any means. I usually hate flooms, but this was a very, very good, and creative, ride. I would highly recommend it. Also, because it was a little "chilly" outside (by Florida standards) the lines were very short.

We spent a lot of time at Epcot. Right after this picture was taken my kids and I went on the rocket blast simulation ride Mission Space. Wow. The ride simluates a rocket blast to outer space and then to Mars. This ride was so intense I actually got motion sickness. Fortunately I didn't blow chunks, but if we had actually taken the return trip back to Earth I may have. Yikes!

One of the more interesting rides at Epcot was called "This is the Land" where they showed you a lot of the research going on a Epcot concerning more efficient ways to produce food. This tomato plant has been turned into a tomato tree, and it has already produced almost 20,000 tomatos. And it was only planted a year ago. Yes, this is a world record, and the tree provides many of the tomatos eaten at Disney World. I thought that was cool.

While at Epcot we, of course, toured the World Showcase. This is my kids in front of the Japanese Shinto shrine. Cool stuff everywhere you looked...

Here the princess Aurora suckers me into the picture shoot with my daughter. Not that I minded (wink, wink). Note my extreme tourist appearance.

We also spent a day at Disney-MGM Studios. I must admit, we did not spend enough time here. We missed a couple of cool things, but truthfully the park may be more appropriate for adults than little kids. My kids were not as thrilled with this place as I was. Anyway, the ride above is the inside of the Rock and Roller Coaster. This ride, starring Aerosmith, starts off in this stalled postion and then blasts to 60 MPH in under 3 seconds. I don't think my oldest has forgiven me yet for putting him on this ride. It was intense. Loops, hills, and spirals. It had them all. And the ride featured the music of Aerosmith, but I couldn't hear anything over my kids' and my own screams.

Here we are after we conquered the Rock and Roller Coaster. My older son didn't talk to me for at least an hour after this ride.

My daughter walked by this sign, looked up, and said, "Hey! That looks like my god-father!" Sorry Curt. We thought that was hilarious!

Another thing that is common in Disney World besides 3D, simulations, and boat tours, are the "shows." We saw so many shows it was incredible. We saw the Indiana Jones show, a great bird show (twice), Beauty and the Beast, the Little Mermaid, the Lion King, Tarzan Rocks, and this fantastic stunt spectacular, among others. The show above featured high speed car chases and stunts that I can't adequately describe. It was a very good show.

Unfortunately, my two sons also got a recurrence of strep throat while they were at Disney World. So, we had to make a pit stop at the doctor. Bummer.

We got to have breakfast with Disney characters during our visit to the Animal Kingdom. We got pictures with Goofy, Pluto, Donald, and Mickey. The kids had a blast.

This is the outside of the Dinosaur ride at Animal Kingdom. This ride was a lot of fun and again, very intense. Not because of a bunch of loops, but because of the realistic dinosaurs screaming in your face. Wow! My daughter was freaked out! But she still went on it two more times. I swear, nothing fazed this girl. She didn't refuse to go on one ride. I couldn't believe how brave she was (she is only 5).

While at Animal Kingdom we also went on the Kilamanjaro Safari. Obviously, on the safari we saw some giraffes, but also some crocodiles, hippos, elephants, lions, flamingos, gazelles, and bunch of other animals. The ride was also wrapped up into an elaborate "poaching" story where we had to stop some poachers from making off with some ivory. I was amazed. I mean the ride would have been enough with just the animals, but then they spiced it up with stopping poachers. It was very cool.

Back to Epcot for the night (Animal Kingdom closes at 5:00). Here is the Stave Church at Norway. Interestingly enough, Norway is the only country that has any wooden churches left from the middle ages. Over 1,000 of them were built in Norway and 28 survive today. I found that very interesting.

This is a picture of probably our favorite ride at Epcot, the Test Track. In this ride you go through a series of "tests" that GM would usually put a car through including bumpy roads, brake tests, extreme conditions (like hot and cold), climbing, and, of course, speed. The outside of the ride includes a speed track that has riders zip around a velodrome type track. It was very, very cool. We must have ridden this ride at least 4 times. I even video taped the entire ride.

Back at Magic Kingdom we tried to get on as many rides as possible, including this kid favorite, the Indy Speedway.

Not the best picture, I know. Please forgive me. The last night we were there we watched the firework show at Cinderella's castle. This was an emotional moment for me knowing that I was leaving the next day, but also because my family was all together enjoying this moment. I was holding my daughter as we watched the impressive display and I was seriously consumed by love. I know it sounds sappy, but I can't help it. It is a memory I will always cherish.

So, that is my trip to Disney World. I hope to get back there someday. We had a blast!

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December 23, 2005

Disney vacation winding down

Well, my Disney vacation is winding down. One thing I hope I got a chance to see is the Star Wars "ride" at Disney-MGM studios. That should be fun for both me and my boys.

Maybe I'll get to see George and Mickey got at it! Cool!

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December 21, 2005

Still at Disney World

Hey everyone! I'm still at Disney World! And again, I'm not typing these out in my hotel room. I wrote these posts out before I even left.

One of my favorite rides as a child was Thunder Mountain. We'll see if I still like it...

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December 19, 2005

In Disney World!

By the time you read this, I will have been in Disney World for two days. In fact, I am in Disney World! As a Christmas gift my wife and I are taking our three kids to Disney World. I haven't announced it here yet because it was done as a surprise. We woke our kids up on Saturday early in the morning and told them to get in the car because we are going to Florida! I'll tell you all about it when I get back.

I'm actually writing this on Friday (December 16) and I'm using the new scheduling function of Movable Type to publish this post in the future. So, you can expect something from me tomorrow too!

Until then, so long! I'm off to visit Cinderella's castle!

And don't tell me how the Pittsburgh game came out. I'm taping it so I can watch it when I get home.

(just kidding).

By the way, Criag, your gas can for your snow blower is in my garage. Just in case you were looking for it.

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November 24, 2005

Thankful

I am thankful for a lot of things, much like last year:

• I am thankful that Zygi Wilf bought the Vikings. Now, I only have to worry about one team leaving the state.
  
• I am thankful for Brad Johnson, although I'm not sure Daunte Culpepper feels the same way.
  
• I am thankful for the fact that my son plays piano. I love to hear him play.
  
• I am thankful that I am a Den Leader for my son's Cub Scout Tiger Den. It is a big commitment, but it is definitely rewarding.
  
• I am thankful that freealonzo ingtroduced me to the music of Johnny Cash. I must say I had no idea I would enjoy his American Recordings so much.
  
• I am thankful that I got to go to a U2 concert with my best buddy in the whole world Curt in Grand Forks. What a weekend!
  
• I am thankful for my family vacation to the Black Hills of South Dakota. That was a whirlwind, but it was also a whole lotta fun.
  
• I am NOT thankful that Cheesehead Craig put anti-stadium propaganda up in my windows while I was gone. Not cool. Funny, but definitely not cool.
  
• I am thankful for this blog and the fact that I have met so many people through it, namely SBG and COD. It has been great getting to know you two this year, and I'm sure Cheesehead Craig will agree, we need to get together again soon!
  
• I am thankful that Glen Taylor refuses to trade KG. Without KG I shudder to think what the fan support would be like at the Target Center.
  
• I am thankful for my daughter. Nothing in particular, just that she is the way she is. I could be in the foulest mood ever, but one smile from her changes everything.
  
• I am thankful that today is Thanksgiving. This is without a doubt my favorite meal of the year. As my father-in-law likes to say, "I'm gonna eat until my butt sticks out."
  
• I am thankful for Park Spanish Immersion, the local public school I send my kids to. My oldest child speaks fluent Spanish now and I still can't believe it.
  
• I am thankful for my DVR. It is a strange thing to be thankful for, I know, but it has freed my wife and I from the prison of nightly TV watching (and commercials). What a wonderful invention!
  
• I am thankful that I got to hold the Jug. That was a lot of fun.
  
• I am thankful for all the readers of this blog, especially readers like bjhess, freealonzo, Jim in St. Paul, Vince, spycake, Jeff, Jx2, DEG, David Wintheiser, Andy Wink, frightiwg, Kevin in AZ, COD, SBG, Chapman, Tim, Curt in Grand Forks, Cheesehead Craig, and Cheesehead's wife. Without all of you, I would still probably write on this here site, but I would wonder even more than I do now, "What is the point?"
  
• I am thankful that the Twins drew over 2 million fans this year. It is yet another reason the Twins should not be contracted.
  
• I am thankful that my wife ran the TC 10K this year. It was a big time commitment, and it was a a big effort, but she did it and I am very proud of her.
  
• I am thankful for politicians like Mike Opat. Opat isn't afraid to take a stand and do what is right for Minnesota. I wish we had more like him.
  
• I am thankful for spring training, opening day, training camp, spring practice, pre-season, regular season, midnight madeness, march madness, super sunday, game seven, first round, wild cards, and just flat out going to the game.
  
• I am thankful for my home, my family, my health, my friends, my job, and my cats.
  
• I am thankful for my wife. Without her, life would be very lonely, and I would never clean the house.
  

That should cover it for this year. Have a great Thanksgiving!

Posted by snackeru at 10:19 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack | Life

Category "Life"

November 20, 2005

In Boston

Hey everyone! Talk about interesting, I am in Boston right now! So, unfortunately I probably won't have anything substantial written tomorrow (Monday). I am planning on a "future of the Twins" piece and possibly a little essay on Intelligent Design. But that will have to wait. Sorry.

Before I go, I must send a Shout Out! to Kevin in Arizona who I heard this morning on the Sports Huddle with Sid and Dave. Kevin voiced his opinion that if the Twins are to leave our pathetic state he hopes they do it soon so that Pawlenty is the governor of record for this dark day. Well said Kevin! Of course, Sid totally disregarded his comment and then went on a tirade about Gopher football. Anyway, it was nice to hear the voice of Kevin, a regular contributor to the Greet Machine. Nice work Kevin!

Finally, I have discovered a new singer that I must share with all of you: Sufjan Stevens. My goodness he is writing some good stuff. I can't even categorize it ... maybe it could be considered alternative folk with a heavy dose of spirituality. I don't know. Anyway, Sufjan has taken it upon himself to record an album about all 50 states. He has already finished Michigan and Illinois. A tall task to finish the rest of the them in our lifetimes, to be sure, but so far the music is beautiful. If you'd like to give it a listen, his song "Chicago" is freely available on the web (MP3).

Gotta go for now. It is midnight in Boston and I am tired. Talk to you soon!

Posted by snackeru at 11:00 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack | Life

Category "Life"

November 10, 2005

Called Out

I have been cold-cocked. Blind-sided. I have had sand thrown in my eyes and a sucker punch delivered to my gut. But what else would you expect from a Cheesehead? Over at the Oracle of Cheese, my neighbor and "friend" has called me out to finish our Backyard Border Battle. There are certain things I'll admit to: yes, I'll admit that the Backyard Border Battle has not been my highest priority. I will admit that being at a 2 win to CC's 4 win disadvantage has left me flustered. I will admit that Cheeshead Craig throws like a girl. However, let's get a few things straight here.

When was it decided that it would be my responsibility and my responsibility only to schedule the next game in this epic battle? For the record, I don't recall any time, besides this week, Cheesehead Craig ever suggesting that we get together and play chess, or that we go bowling, or that we play horse shoes. No, CC has seen fit to rest on his laurels, sit in his basement, and weep over his precious Packers (3-5 vs. 1-7 ... now there is a stat that matters!).

So, now all of the sudden CC is upset that I haven't been banging down his door to play his little games. Bah! CC has even besmirched my honor by writing this nonsense:

Very well then Shane, your cowardice is plain for everyone to see now.

The Backyard Border Battle is hereby over and I have won by knockout as Shane simply cannot get up off the canvas.

I will let you know when you can be my beverage server for a day as per the agreement we had at the beginning.

Cowardice? Over? I think not. I'm sorry that my positive contributions to society have gotten in the way of what I thought were our friendly little games, but I'm pretty sure that we never agreed to allow either of us to call the competition "over." Especially on a misguided whim. This move reaks of poor sportsmanship. I am outraged! I could handle it from a 12 year old girl, but I am a little perplexed as to why a man 2 years my senior would stoop to these levels. For shame!

So, here is what I propose. Since you feel so wronged, Mr. Cheesehead, I propose one last battle to dictate the future of the overall Battle. I propose we go bowling. If I win 2 out of 3 the Battle will continue with what I hope will be a pleasant game of chess. If you win 2 out of 3 I will abide by the rules of the Battle and serve you, in humiliation, your prefered beverage(s) for a day.

Surely, even a Cheesehead can agree that this is more than fair. Personally, I also feel it is a honorable solution, but I wouldn't expect a Cheesehead to understand that.

Cheesehead Craig, I await your response.

Posted by snackeru at 12:35 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack | Life

Category "Boring vs. Interesting"

Category "Life"

Category "Sports"

November 09, 2005

Random musings

This will be completely off the cuff, and rapid fire. Everything I can think of that I want to get down right now:

• I really want to see the movie Serenity but I can't find the time or willpower to do it. It is playing at the Hopkins theater for $2 right now. Is it worth it? Has anyone else seen it?

• Speaking of movies, I have recently seen Sin City and Secret Window. Sin City was decent. Truthfully, I liked it probably for one reason and one reason only: Carla Gugino. I'll just leave it at that.

Secret Window was not very good. Predictable and not very suspenseful. I would not recommend it.

• Thanks to a past recommendation from Andy at Twins Killings I am really enjoying the music of Air right now, specifically the album Talkie Walkie. Very pleasant and different.

• It has taken me 32 years of life, but I am finally going to read Watership Down. I'll let you know how it goes.

• I am really enjoying the T-Wolves right now. Maybe it is the mystery of a new team (how will they play together? how good is the Jaric guy?), maybe it is Rashad McCants (did you see that alley-oop from THUD? Yikes.), or maybe it is because this is the start of a new season and I'm supposed to be excited. Whatever the case, I am watching a lot of basketball and I am loving it.

Did you see the City Pages article about the T-Wolves last week? Good stuff. Well written. The author, Britt Robson, does not care for THUD at all. Among his more salient points he had this to say:

Every minute Hudson steals from McCants at the shooting guard position will penalize this franchise down the road.

True. McCants is the future, not the defensive nightmare that is Troy Hudson. Give him some PT Casey!

• Now for a Boring vs. Interesting update ... unfortunately I've had three boring days in a row. On Sunday I watched the Vikings game. That was the highlight. On Monday I watched Sin City. Again, a pretty lame highlight. And last night I went to the library. Nothing too exciting there.

At the library I picked up a book for myself (Watership Down), and a bunch of books for my kids. Specifically I got Fantastic Mr. Fox for my middle son. We read half of it last night and really enjoyed it. Roald Dahl was a very gifted childrens' author.

Anyway:

Interesting days: 10
Boring days: 5

Have I really been tracking this for 15 days?

• I've got a question for everyone: how many years have you been working and how many times have you switched jobs? I've worked at the U for 7 year now, and while I still enjoy it, perhaps I should look around. Let me clarify, I'm not looking around right now, I'm just starting to think, "How long can I work in the same job?"

Anyone out there interested in a 32 year old webmaster and adjunct professor at St. Kate's, with a Master's degree in Library Science and a sad obsession for stadium related issues? Let me know. I got mad skills.

• I like Cheer or Die's prediciton that the Vikings will win this Sunday. I think the team has finally turned the corner.

• I gotta say I liked how the Minneapolis mayor race turned out. Keep Rybak in office so McLaughlin stays on the Hennepin County board. Of course, it probably doesn't matter since the Twins deal with Hennepin County expires at the end of December, but I still have a little hope.

St. Paul's race is another story. I think St. Paul's chances to land the Twins just took a serious hit with Coleman taking over. We'll see though. What do you think Jim in St. Paul?

That's it. Talk to you later.

Posted by snackeru at 09:04 AM | Comments (18) | TrackBack | Boring vs. Interesting | Life | Sports

Category "Life"

October 31, 2005

Happy Reformation Day!

Greetings everyone! In my never ending quest to bring you unexpected news and musings, I'd like to wish you all a Happy Reformation Day! On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther tacked his 95 theses on the church door in Wittenberg, Germany and changed history. I know there is another spookier holiday that usually takes precedence today, but today is definitely important for other reasons.

No more posts today. Sorry. My wife is in charge of a big wing-ding called "Halloween at the Creek" in Plymouth and I am her slave for the day. I know I've got three days to describe for my "interesting vs. boring" debate, and I know there was a Vikings "game" yesterday, but today it is all about helping my wife. So, I'll talk to you all later!

Posted by snackeru at 08:25 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack | Life

Category "Boring vs. Interesting"

Category "Life"

October 26, 2005

My boring life?

I'm reading a book right now called The Beach by Alex Gardner. Among other things, this book describes the backpacking culture of Thailand, and how a lot of foreigners come into the country to hang out and explore. It features mystery, danger, exploration, french women, drugs, and exotic locales. It is a very interesting book (so far).

As I was reading it yesterday, I suddenly came to the conclusion that 1) fact is NOT stranger than fiction and 2) my life is just plain freaking boring. First of all, you hear this all the time, that non-fiction is much more interesting than fiction. I beg to differ. In the grand scheme of things, 9 out of 10 times our lives are as boring as watching snot freeze. Man, we really know how to be boring. Wake up, go to work, get home, eat dinner, watch tv, go to bed, repeat. Yikes! Somebody stop us! Secondly, I came to the conclusion yesterday that my life is not very interesting. I may do some fun things every once in a while, but for the most part I am a sedentary individual content to watch the world pass me by. Or am I?

Bear with me here. What I plan on doing for the next month (?) is document my life and decide once and for all whether it is interesting or boring. Hopefully I can keep up with this, but at the end of a month I hope to tally up all my interesting and boring days and make a decision on whether or not my life has enough pizazz. We'll see how it goes.

Anyway, let's start by writing about last night. Last night I actually did something that I will deem as "interesting." I went to a Jewish Synagogue and celebrated Simchat Torah. My son's Webelos Den Leader is Jewish, and as a Den we are visiting a bunch of different churches (and synagogues). Next week we'll probably visit my church (which should provide me with another interesting event in my life).

Anyway, last night was Simchat Torah or the holiday of "rejoicing with the law." It was the first time I had ever been to a synagogue. Simchat Torah, and its sister holiday of Shemini Atzeret, mark the end and beginning of a year of reading the Torah. As you may know, the Torah is the first five books of the Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy), and it is the most sacred text in the Jewish faith. In the synagogue the Torah is kept in the "ark" at the front of the sanctuary (?) and it is in scroll form.

The service started out with some singing and chanting in Hebrew. Needless to say, I was completely lost, but it was very interesting. Oh, and I had to wear a yamika. After that, it was time for the "rejoicing" aspect of the service, and this was really interesting. The rabbi called for certain members of the synagogue to come up and take the Torahs out of the ark (this synagogue had about 5 Torahs). He announced that their would be 7 hakafots (pronounced "ha-ka-fa") and that other members would hold the Torahs for each one. Ha! I was so lost. But again, very interesting.

After this announcement, the band started in, and the people holding the Torahs started to dance around the sanctuary. Baloons and streamers dropped from ceileing and everyone literally began celebrating. Everyone reached out to touch the Torah, or kiss it by way of kissing a book and then touching the Torah. My kids loved it. We all danced around for probably a half an hour, and then the rabbi said, "For the second hakafot we will use people over 40."

I thought to myself, "That was only the first hakafot? And we've got six more to go? Wow! These people really like to rejoice in the Torah! We're going to be here until midnight!"

In actuality, each hakafot after was steadily shorter and shorter until we finished with the 7th hakafot. Then, the rabbi took out one of the scrolls and asked the synagogue members to roll it out and hold it up. It was about as long as half the sanctuary. Then, he went throu