Outta here

It's Nicole Sack's last day as a reporter for The Southern Illinoisan. She's moving west, to work for a Southern California newspaper (The Southern Californian?). After swallowing some Sam Adams beer (here's to you, Beer Philosopher), I asked Nicole (on her second glass of something) what she'd miss most about Carbondale. Can you guess her answer judging from this photo? I bet she finds it in California, too.

Another Southern Illinois reporter is also moving on: talented sports writer and blogger, Paul Klee to the University of Illinois sports information department.

About thirty people gathered on the patio outside Tres Hombres after work. Several whom I was able to 'catch up with' or meet, or say 'hi' to, including Chuck and Janet Vaught (the #1 husband/wife public servants in the state of Illinois (gotta be)); the ubiquitous Kevin Clark, the melodious Barbara Eidlin; the righteous (and sometimes wrong) "Mr. Right", blogger Jim Muir; former newspaper publisher, musician Devin Miller, whose brother publishes the Capital Fax; WSIU-FM news reporter Jennifer Fuller; my favorite mayoral candidate, Sheila Simon; along with quite a few SI writers and advertising whizzes.

Something I heard; Sheila Simon and friends are planning a bicycle ride around Carbondale tomorrow -- to the worm farm and back. An 8- mile ride leaving City Hall at 8 a.m. -- a little early for me, but sounds like just the thing for another bicycle riding blogger Peter Gregory, whose local blog has shot to the top of my favs list. You want local? Read Peter's C'dale Biz & SIU Commentary blog.

I told Mr. Right (pictured at right, holding up his right) of my opinion of our current President (worst ever), and the possibility (based on evidence, not speculation) that the terrible event of 9/11/01 was -- at the very least -- allowed to transpire for perceived military and political gain. Sad to say, the evidence points to that conclusion. The investigation should be reopened. Jim Muir and I may be "going at it" on that one, as shown by photographer on the spot, Becky Malkovich.

Okay, 'til Monday . . . I'm outta here.