Inexorable march of Time

TV's Jerry Mathers "one step closer to death" (from The Onion)

Yahoo's "Top Stories" added to Shawnee Network home page.

Stay tuned for big end-of-year clearance blog.

Carbondale's highly regarded Muslim Sheikh Din Muhammad Abdullah Al-Dayemi will speak and lead zikr at Garrison Institute's "Contemplation and Community" symposium on the changing roles of university religious leaders, in February in New York, along with Mirabai Bush, Executive Director, Center for Contemplative Mind in Society, and other prominent spirituality-in-action people.

Suspicious almanacs

As Dave Barry might say, those terrorist bastards...now they're using almanacs. Since the information is readily available on the internet, it's odd the FBI issued an alert against Almanac carriers on Christmas Eve. How it effects sales of almanacs this year remains to be seen, although local almanacker Jim Jung believes that there is nothing in his Waterman and Hill-Travellers Companion that would be of any special benefit to a terrorist, unless it's ... this.

Carbondale Dog Owners Group (CDOG) surveys Oakland Park neighbors and get favorable response.

Something tells me it's all hap'nin' at dot biz.

It may not be on Oprah's list, but...

A reader writes, "The recent appearance of Mad Cow disease in our midst should give the book, Deadly Feasts, by Richard Rhodes a few extra printings. (Rhodes won the Pulitzer for The Making Of The Atomic Bomb.) The first two pages alone are worth the price of the book. It's also a study on the issue of 'scholarship,' and 'peer review', as in whose research gets approved, and whose gets ignored.

Home streak

SIU men's basketball tops Illinois State, 57-40 "Salukis set school-record with 31st-consecutive home win, breaking a home winning-streak that had stood since 1968."

Friday night's opponent may be the toughest so far this season, because UNC-Charlotte 49er's backcourt is tough.

Heaven-sent Suspense

Two books by Dan Brown Angels & Demons: "...a wild ride through the world of the high tech via the winding streets of Vatican City[.]" and The Da Vinci Code, "an exhaustively researched page-turner about secret religious societies, ancient coverups and savage vengeance." Suggested by another blog

Another day, another blog. Or rather blogs, since this one has spawned Bike to the Future, Bark to the Future, and CarbondaleNow.Biz, each of which was launched to focus on specific topics. These new blogs are experiments in using advanced technologies for the public weal. You don't hear that word much any more, weal. Well, it means ... we'll will well.

WJPF News Radio: "Illinois Board of Higher Education is planning to assess faculty productivity at public universities throughout the state"

Interested in details of the Zimmer Radio Group sale?

A useful exercise: summarize your life during the past year in 20 words, as described in mayfly project 2003. This blog will try it too.

G writes to tell us about: Sports Blast (behind the University Mall), where women can pass a soccer ball to men on the same team, and the men pass back.

The importance of being bloggy

Carbondale, Illinois has three newspapers (four, if you count Muddy Media), one news radio station, and three entertainment guides, plus a host of other paper publications, but only one blog . . . so far.

Many organizations in town would benefit from blogging--and benefit the rest of us as well, by keeping us "up to speed" with what's going on with them. In addition, many readers of this blog have things worth saying in a timely fashion. The deejays of WDBX, for instance; members of City Council; the Women's Center, etc.

To help facilitate the number of blogs and up-to-date websites in Carbondale, Shawnee Network will hold a one-day workshop at the Dunn-Richmond Center on "How to maintain your own website or blog."

There is space for 24 participants in morning and afternoon sessions in January. The exact day, times and cost will be announced later.

biz buzz

A blog is not a newspaper, although it can deliver news more efficiently through the use of News Reader, which aggregate and list the latest stories posted by thousands of news sources, including major and local newspapers.

Experimenting with another weblog format, courtesy of a 30-day trial of "Radio Userland" using weblog tools today.

Radio Userland is one of several "news readers" on the market that allows users to post directly from a news source to a web log (blog) including link. These days, many news sources including the New York Times, the Daily Egyptian and Southern Illinoisan are making their headlines and summaries available via free electronic syndication.

Meanwhile, Carbondale Now [dot} Biz" has added some business headlines courtesy of Yahoo.

Eventually, this blog will also be available in headline format (xml) for syndiction, so maybe it can still "work something out" with Nightlife before the end of the year. Stay tuned.

Looking ahead: SIU men's basketball at home vs. Illinois State, Sunday, 2:05 PM.

Jim Gordillo looks at Redbirds men's basketball team

ISU's best shooter: Trey Guidry

To mark the 20th Anniversary of 'A Christmas Story', Yahoo! News talks to the actors

Just so you know

This blog is frequently revised for accuracy, completeness (including added links) and style. (If you aren't informed or amused the first time, just keep re-reading until you are!) Now it's--

Miller time: 6-9 a.m.

Of all the people photographed for Shawnee Network, Tom Miller is the only one to turn the tables--in this case the turntables--on the photographer. This won't surprise anyone who listens to Tom's WJPF Morning Newswatch, nor the fact that he remembers Bob Paul's Shawnee Free Net local internet service from the 90's (which you can still find traces of in cyberspace, although the site itself is no longer available. Bob is now webmaster for Shawnee Group Sierra Club and other local sites. )

Miller has been behind microphone for nearly 30 years, beginning at WEBQ in Harrisburg in the seventies, where he hung out with Channel 3 news anchor (and cartoon host), Briggs Gordon right up to the day "Uncle Briggs" left work early, feeling ill, and never returned. (These days the only evidence of Briggs on the net is a 1982 aircheck.

In the 80's Miller moved from Harrisburg to Murphysboro, working out of a garage for Bill Varecha's old station WTAO-FM, and a decade later, after a close, but unsuccessful political campaign, Tom moved to WJPF-AM, where two years ago he assumed duties as news talk show host. Whoever came up with that assignment was brilliant, because Tom is a great interviewer who does his homework and asks informed questions. He's not bad with a camera either.

Where are they now?

Bill Varecha owns KKCO NBC 11 NEWS in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Former WCIL deejay Dennis Lyle is here: Illinois Broadcasters Association in Energy, IL.

Another CIL deejay, Mike Chylewski is president of Wildife Materials International, Inc.

Remember the first "Barefoot Cobbler" Dan Ward? He now has a successful business selling beautifully designed Longshadow Planters.

But wait, there's more...

Southern Illinois television news Blasts from the Past.

Where's the Man of Steel when they need him?

Near the town that boasts a Super Museum and other Superman attractions, Metropolis, Illinois, the nuclear fuel processing plant will remain shut down: "...on orders from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission until federal inspectors are satisfied the problems that led to a leak of ... an unknown quantity of uranium hexafluoride gas (UF-6) ...from a valve in one of Honeywell International's chemical process lines from 2:24 to 3:20 a.m. Monday," as reported by Ken Seeber of The Southern Illinoisan (not the part about Superman, the rest of it.)

Bottler-friendly law repealed

Richard Goldstein reports: Governor signs repeal of 'Crisp Law': "Harry L. Crisp II's [Pepsi MidAmerica] bottling empire suffered a legislative defeat Tuesday when Gov. Rod Blagojevich signed the repeal of a law passed to protect the bottler from attempts by Pepsico Inc. to withdraw Crisp's ability to sell Pepsi Cola products." In the Southern Illinoisan.

A year ago, the Marion, Illinois, Pepsi bottler changed names to reflect growth: The former Marion Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co. "has been a bottler and distributor of Pepsi products since 1935. It has about 650 employees."

Red Cross simplifies Code Orange and the other color alerts, in case you're wondering what to wear.

Interested in the blogomenon? "Weblogs: a history and perspective"

Meeting WJPF news director Tom Miller this morning, which should make for interesting reading later. And speaking of interesting reading....

Reader J.K. was offended by the tenor of the blog below about inspecting everyone's luggage that boards Greyhound or Amtrak, but especially the last sentence about the hypothetical Arabic-speaking bomb-toting girl, so it has been deleted. This blog aims not to offend, but to amend. It has nothing against the Arabic language (or people who speak it) but it sees red over vague, color-coded terror alerts designed to... what? why? how?

Although weekend sales disappoint merchants, some businesses have
done very well. Perhaps eventually December's religious holidays will morph into "Code Orange Days" with advertisers trumpeting "sales blowouts" etc.

What can orange do for them?

Recently UPS launched a nationwide televised advertising campaign identifying itself with the color brown. A bold marketing tactic, but might have been better to change the color of the trucks to orange. More seriously

They're "more serious than ever before"

According to acting Police Chief Steve Odum, he and detectives in the Carbondale Police force have met with state and federal law enforcment authorities as part of Code Orange terror alert preparedness response coordination. So it's not just crayolaganda.*

Elsewhere, Parker Ames attempts to shed some light on "Code Orange: The Reason Why".

*word made up by this blog meaning "the use of color in propaganda purposes."

Orange you glad they don't check the luggage?

As suggested earlier today, the Carbondale Police Department might want to inspect the luggage of all passengers boarding busses and trains out of town during the next few days, as part of the Code Orange routine, since there are currently NO security checks in these public modes of transportation. But acting Police Chief Steve Odum said that the police could not arbitrarily search people's luggage before they boarded a bus--code orange alert or no. If it were on private property, a company can require luggage inspection, if carried out by private security officers, but otherwise ... no can do.

Remember the Oscar Meyer Weinermobile? There have been no reports that one of these was hijacked and driven into the Bunny Bread building in Anna.

New knock-knock joke:

Knock, knock.
Who's there?
Code orange.
Code orange who?
...Could Aur and Joe go to the Show?

Aur, of course is Aur Beck "da energy mon," and dancin' man, but Joe refers to nobody in particular. Joe Nobody. FOX's newest reality show. Immediately following ... "How to Marry a Nihilionaire."

They're kidding, right?

The Onion reports: Broke Dad Makes Son PlayStation 2 For Christmas "Determined to make his son's Christmas dreams come true despite financial woes, David McManus spent three hours in his garage Monday constructing a PlayStation 2 from scrap lumber and transistor-radio components...."

The Carbondale Police Dept. gives no email address on its web page.

Must add the CCHS Terrier-Times online to the Shawnee Network newsletter links.

What headline would best capture the two posts below? Answer: "Long bomb from downtown?"

Basketball Classic Update

This blog has learned that former CCHS Terrier and SIU Saluki standout basketball player Johnny Fayne is living in Memphis...He has two nephews on the current team. Joe Hamilton, the sophomore team coach, was a standout rebounder on the 1983 and 1984 Terrier team. He said there are few ex-players around who might be willing to suit-up against a team comprised of local media to benefit FFEEP, as previously proposed in this blog. Interested blogtators will be given the play-by-play as this project develops.

Code Orange

As a rule, Carbondale Greyhound does not examine baggage, but since it's "Code Orange" time, it might be a good idea to search EVERYONE'S baggage boarding the bus and train for the next few days, if they don't already plan to do so. Don't you think? Perhaps someone in the Carbondale Police Dept. will read this blog.

In a related story, the Southern Illinoisan reports: Illinois increasing security for terror alert.

On the way back from meeting Nancy Stemper at Hickory Lodge, ran into Travis on Sycamore St., who starts on the CCHS Freshman team, and scored 26 points in his last game. Since I taught him how to shoot a hook shot last year, I told him I'd attend his game tonight--to see if he's using it effectively. ;-)

Meeting Nancy

After some trouble hooking up, the meeting with the executive director of Carbondale Community Arts and the District 95 School Board President went pretty well.

Three areas were discussed: 1) Carbondale Middle School's middlin' report card; 2) Carbondale Community Arts future; and 3) The future of Hickory Lodge.

Re: Carbondale Middle School's middlin report card rating: a) the currently posted school report card is from 2002...This year's has just been received and not yet posted. Linda Meredith is the curriculum director who knows more about it. (Two interesting asides: *30 different languages are spoken in the District 95 school district! *There is a movement to shift the burden of school financing from property taxes to income tax-based financing, which she supports)

Re: Hickory Lodge, as Executive Director of CCA, Nancy would like to find financing to maintain Hickory Lodge as a public venue before it can be sold. As things now stand, the Carbondale Park District has committed to upkeep for the Lodge through the end of the June. After that it must be sold or self supporting. If it is sold, it must be approved by voters in a ballot referendum in March. As previously reported in this blog, when the Carbondale Park District dedicated Hickory Lodge in 1983, the building and surrounding property were valued at $330,000. The value is now being reassessed. About $500,000 is this blog's guess.

People want to know, who is Dave? (and why has he been publishing this blog for past 14 months?)

Another nice thing about living in Carbondale is-- it doesn't take long to get anywhere.

This blog is meeting District 95 School Board President and Carbondale Community Arts executive director Nancy Stemper in twenty minutes to discuss education and art hereabouts.

Men's Basketball Tops Montana, 82-71 "Salukis win 30th-straight at home, tie school record."

No bizness like blog bizness

There's a new blog in town from the creator of Bike 2 the Future, The Park Bark, and the Carbondaley Dispatch: CarbondaleNow.Biz. Apparently intended to challenge Carbondale On-line's use of the phrase "Carbondale Now." Alternative titles considered were "Currently Carbondale" "Carbondale Momentarily" "Carbondale Wow".

A more serious purpose appears to be to stimulate local business use of advanced technologies to communicate and sell product.

Speaking of advanced technologies...

Some Presidential candidates are using Carbondale, IL Meetups

Platters

This blog's plate is fuller than the ones at Sergio's Restaurant in Williamson County Airport, which was crowded last night with dinner partiers from Hundley House, which is open until 5 p.m. today through Wednesday to satisfy your gift-wrapped gift-buying needs. Thanks to the Queen of Chic and her talented escort, for making the evening happen. (Un)fortunately the digital was out of juice, so no incriminating photos could be snapped, though something came unhooked. . . . And thanks to the Queen of Schtick and her brood for the trip to Molly's in Marion where Williamson County States' Attorney Chuck Garnati bought beers and Tom Pigford rocked the house with LOKO (available for clubs, weddings, special events). Thankfully, bars in Marion close at midnight, so this blog could get an early start today on projects such as the great Carbondale

Bark Park

Ever since Elsie discovered Oakland Park, members of the Carbondale Dog Owners Group (C-DOG) have been meaning to visit homes in the neighborhood to see if there would be any objection. It might be a good idea to bring dog biscuits and cookies to give out. If neighbors don't object, it should be simple (though costly) to put a fence around the property. However, because of all the trees, Bark Park has a double meaning. Carbondale Park District Board member Milton McDaniel suggested another location, Attucks Park, where there is more space and parking space. But no double meaning. Another neighborhood survey will have to be conducted--more dog biscuits and cookies in exchange for the answer to one simple question: do you object to setting aside a portion of this park as a space for dog owners to let their dogs run free if they promise to pick up after their dogs? C-DOG hopes to have a proposal for the Park District Board to vote on by early next year.

Mediocre Report Card

One of this blog's best-informed sources, "Half Full," says that Carbondale's middlin Middle School performance is a big reason why Carbondale will never attract a major employer. It doesn't matter, says HF, that the high school is rated among the best. What is HF half full of, you ask? You decide: CMS report card. Is it true? What can be done? This blog will try to learn the answers next week from School Board President Nancy Stemper and School District Superintendent, Elizabeth Lewin.

Moving Museums

Two more CDs of photos from last August's Eve of Elegance were burned today to drop off at African American Museum in the University Mall, where Milt McDaniel-- fresh from a successful 350-kid, 4-night engagement as Santa Claus--sat behind the welcome desk, dressed in casual black, and very interested in getting a virtual Gift Store on the museum website. Supposedly the Museum is not allowed to have real gift store, but a virtual gift store should be doable. A new Board is being formed in January, so the subject may come up then.

The really moving part is both the Af-Am Museum and the Science Center across the hall will relocating in the mall at the end of the month.

TL's Archery

Right outside the Af-Am Museum, TL's Archery has a kiosk and a website-in-development for Archery International, so it's blogworthy, like

Oh Henry

The landlord Carbondale loves to hate can be traced here, where he continues to direct his real estate empire (if that is the right word in a city the size of Carbondale). The word on the street is he's acquired the Corner Diner property, and has agreed to terms with the City to sell the American Tap building, which will be levelled and offered by the city for private development. An interesting aspect of the deal is that this blog has already written about another serious offer made by a private business person of assessed value plus, and it was turned down as "not for sale." How much is the city offering? This blog hopes to find out next week.

Touch that dial!

Southern Illinoisan: Zimmer Radio Group is selling 17 of its 32 stations to Mississippi River Radio, including WCIL-FM and WCIL-AM, WOOZ-Z100, WJPF, WUEZ and WXLT, all based in Crainville.

The Poplar Bluff Daily American Republic further reports: "The principal shareholder in Mississippi River Radio is Virginia-based Max Media, which has a track record of operating both radio and television stations in small markets. Max Media at one time owned KBSI-TV in Cape Girardeau, a FOX network affiliate, and built WDKA-TV, the UPN affiliate in Paducah, Ky., now owned by KFVS-TV of Cape Girardeau.

A press release earlier this year describes a partnership between Max Media LLC and Golden Gate Capital and two other firms, including Rust Communication, investing $150 million to pursue opportunities to acquire small and middle market radio and television stations."

Rust Communications is a family-owned media company based in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, that publishes a string of newspapers, including the Southeast Missourian in that city.

Tip offs

Someone in the School of Journalism tipped off this blog about this story weeks ago, but the situation is not the same here as it is in Cerritos, California, where wireless web is available for all.

Grizzly Sunday

Tip off for Saluki mens' basketball game vs. University of Montana at the Arena, 2:05 p.m. The leading scorers for the 3-6 Grizzlies are Criswell and Davis: Click on the photos to read their bios or click here for entire Grizzlies team info.

Citizen of the Year?

Don't forget to nominate someone for Chamber of Commerce "Citizen of the Year". Forms are available at the Chamber office, on Illlinois Ave. in the old Train Station. Previous winners:

2002 Frank Black
2001 John & Nancy Jackson
2000 Gail & Linda White
1999 Ellis & Betty Mitchell

The nominee should probably be a member of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce, but Sara Birkbigler may be able to provide this blog with more details about qualifications. This blog would vote for another man named Black to be this year's winner--Master Thomas Black, founder and President of FFEEP (simply the Family Foundation).

Sketches of a City Manager

Jeff Doherty has a tough job, so he has to be tough, and refuse to be photographed--as he did before, so this blog once again must resort to a crude sketch done hastily on a yellow Post-it Note, as he spoke.

Neither then, nor now, was Jeff impressed by the artist's skill, but today he was amused at the idea of being represented in sketch form. But this blog wonders if his answers will also be sketchy. Let's see.


click photo to see larger image

Today, the City Manager revealed

1. A replacement for Executive Assistant, Patti Clark has been hired; someone who used to live here and has recently moved back, whose name Jeff couldn't say because the final paperwork hasn't been approved.

2. The City Manager is not convinced that the City should fork out any dough for secure bicycle storage lockers, pointing out that people who want to ride bicycles in town can use bike racks on their cars, and transport their bicycles back and forth. He also pointed out that space the bicycle lockers occupies would be lost to other forms of payment. A parking stall rents for $12 per month. The question of the fee for storing a bicyle was also discussed, and bicyclists I spoke to would pay $10 per month, so we're not far off.

Another aspect discussed was the physical location of the unit(s). Since the parking lot across the street from the Interfaith Center is the City's most profitable parking lot (Lot #4), nearly $12,000 per year. Perhaps a parking lot that doesn't do as much business would be better place to install the lockers. This must be looked into.

Further discussion can be found in the bike 2 the future blog.

3. The first thing the City Manager revealed at our interview was the City's new website (under construction by Noteworthy Communications), but no photo of the home page was allowed. Nor would he give out the URL because the site won't be ready for launching for a few weekes (no specific date was given), but without the pay-your-bills-online feature the Mayor has requested. Jeff says the project is lagging because of "privacy" issues that Noteworthy is looking into, and which this blog will look into also.

Conclusion: Tough interview. Some "sketchy" answers.

Southern Illinoisan: Carbondale Community Teen Center city funding on hold and other developments at Tuesday's Council meeting, capably covered by Andrea Kampwerth.

Missing Mayor

In its account of reactions of local mayors to Gov. Ryan's indictment, the Southern Illinoisan noticably omits one of Ryan's top assistants, Carbondale's own mayor, Brad Cole. Not even an "unavailable for comment."

A few minutes with Nancy

Nancy Stemper, Carbondale's arts and education maven, is another public servant this blog will try to interview this week--to find out who's having pizza with Brad Cole, and other topics of interest to readers of this blog.

'Da Energy Mon' = The Energy Man

This blog is not sure why the Advanced Energy Solutions guy chooses a slightly doobieous Jamaican style nickname, but there is nothing dubious about this:

Aur Beck, "Da Energy Mon," has a bright gift idea.

Perhaps this blog will get a photo this time

Meeting this afternoon with City Manager, Jeff Doherty to discuss several things, including: 1) the new improved website for the City of Carbondale, 2) TIF District update, 3) the search for a permanent replacement for former executive assistant, Patti Clark, who left to become Victims' Advocate for the Jackson County State's Attorney, and 4) the possibility of the City purchasing and installing a few bicycle storage lockers for out-of-town bicyclists in time for next Spring's Bike 2 Work Day.

The headline alludes to this blog's first interview with Jeff.

Corruption catches up with ex-Gov

The Southern Illinoisan reports: former Gov. George Ryan charged with corruption, including "... racketeering conspiracy, mail fraud, making false statements to investigators, tax fraud and filing false tax returns. The 22-count indictment alleges that for more than a decade, as Secretary of State and then governor, Ryan took payoffs, gifts and vacations in return for letting associates profit from steering government contracts and leases."

6-1

Men's Basketball loses 68-64, at Murray State

Strike One

The Southern Illinoisan reports: Baseball group strikes out in New Orleans, but that doesn't mean they can't make another pitch somewhere else, like the Frontier League, which this blog suggested months ago.

Master Black dives in

Tae Kwon Do Master Thomas Black is President of the foundation that recently purchased the old CCHS school buildings and gymnasium with plans to create a Community Center (to be named later) and wants to build a public outdoor swimming pool in the old high school practice fields on Oakland St. Master Black and other members of his Family Foundation plans to meet with the owners of the property to discuss the possibility of buying 4 acres of the 14 acre site for that purpose.

Bless me Father, for I have blogged

It was time for this blog to meet Rev. Joseph A. Brown, SJ, Ph.D., a Jesuit priest, Professor and Director of Black American Studies at SIUC; the man who presided over Paul Simon's funeral at the Arena on Sunday, but doesn't know why the local Muslim cleric wasn't invited to speak or eulogize. He does know how to get things done, however, and he needs two more tenured faculty in his program, so it can confer undergraduate and graduate degrees.

More Serendipity

Ran into Father Brown this morning at the Citgo station across the street from Schnucks because I ran out of gas. He purchased several newspapers, and I bought a can of gasoline. Business cards exchanged and a meeting arranged.

More on Miller

This blog recently contacted WJPF news director Tom Miller regarding his radio show and an ad the station has been running for "Evolution Media" something or other. Tom is hands-down the most dynamic and knowledgable news reporter in any medium in Southern Illinois. Listen to his morning news program from 6- 9 a.m., and see--or hear-- for yourself.

Enough for a two teams

Eight news, six sports reporters in the Southern Illinoisan: Meet the newsroom. Photos, bios, email. Not counting Jerry Bradley and Travis DeNeal , Andrea Kampwerth and others. Do any play basketball?

...Dribble, pass...

This blog would like to launch another project next year--like a 3-pointer from DOWNNNNNN TOWWNNNNN --an intermedia game of hoops to benefit FFEEP, to be held at Bowen Gym in the Spring, after March Madness and before Baseball season. Perhaps Southern Illinois versus Zimmer Radio or ClearChannel, or Just About Any Group vs. Team of former CCHS players. This blog hoped to interest its favorite university administrator to play, but a bad knee made it impossible. Not this blog's bad knee, but Walter Wendler's bad knee, since knees are very important to the game of basketball and to some forms of prayer.

The level of interest in this project will depend totally on how much the Southern Illinoisan staff --or any other group--enjoys actually PLAYING the game of basketball, and has the physical health to do so. Anyone who truly loves the game and the community will show up, especially for charity--and publicity. Pending the approval of the publisher, Dennis DeRossett--and, of course, the players themselves, the Southern Illinoisan may well be able to field a talented squad of keystroking bombers. And Linda Rush can be official scorekeeper.

The Southern Illinoisan vs. who? An All Star team of former CCHS or Saluki players working in town as a security guards or sports informationists? Speaking of both, whatever became of Johnny Fayne? Nothing turned up in a Google search for him and SIU, but he made some state high school tournament record books for CCHS in 1978. John was pretty good from the free-throw line. Maybe the tournament could be called the

Johnny Fayne Charity Stripe Classic.

This would work--maybe better--even if Johnny was now serving time in prison. But it doesn't matter what the Benefit B-ball Game is called. What it needs is some PLAYERS! Former CCHS star TJ Silas may still be in town, trying to launch a new CD label, which this blog wrote a "rap" about last year, but it has nothing to do with the Johnny Fayne Charity Stripe Classic to benefit FFEEP.

CPD Hoops Leagues

Carbondale Park District Program Coordinator, Sally Wright says her co-worker Jeff Ratajczak is working on having basketball leagues at Bowen Gym. Jeff is also involved with FFEEP.

What is FFEEP?

Foundation for Family Enhancement and Enrichment Programs. Say it fast three times. FFEEP recenty purchased the old CCHS classroom building and Bowen Gym, with plans to make it full-fledged full-service community center. One of these days, a local paper will report on FFEEP's endeavor and you can read more. In the meantime, this blog thinks Kite Foundation is a better name, because of the Beatles' song, and the symbolism of the kite. But no one ever listens to this blog.

Speaking of listening...

WVW on the air

in most months, SIUC Chancellor, Walter V. Wendler can be heard on radio station WCIL and WJPF-AM on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month, interviewed by Tom Miller, and on WSIU-FM from 8:30 to 8:40 on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday.

If hearing the Chancellor isn't enough, he can also be seen once a month on Connections on WSIU-TV, interviewed by Jack Tichenor. But Wendler doesn't watch television, he reads! Most recently, these titles: All the Presidents' Children about the offspring of U.S. Chief Executives; The Power Broker about Robert Moses ("Surely the greatest book ever written about a city."--David Halberstam); David McCullough's Truman; and Schaeffer's The Great Evangelical Disaster.

Southern Illinoisan reports: "Despite Saddam's capture, local pols still disagree about war. "

Dear Bloggy

Meeting this afternoon with this blog's favorite university administrator to discuss one of his favorite subjects and and one mine.

Meanwhile, a business ticker has been added to the Carbondale Directory, and other projects just keep rolling along, like

How much is that Dog Park in the window, 2

The Dog Park pack is gaining adherents. Property has been found by Elsie, the dog, at Oakland Park that may be suitable. Now DOG (Dog Owners Group) must contact people living in houses adjacent to the park to see if there would be objections. Then, an estimated cost to fence it in, secure it, insure it. etc. Other nice cities have very pleasant dog parks, and C'dale can too. Speaking of things Carbondale can have,

POOL

appears to be dead in the water. Hope has sunk for a public outdoor swimming pool located on the old CCHS tennis court unless People Organized against Only Lakes can persuade the current owners of the property to set aside some land for that purpose. Before you say this blog is all wet, this blog may have to create a new blog just for POOL. Like Bike 2 the Future. And one for DOG, too, while we're at it.

Darren Brooks leads Salukis with 20 points as Men's Basketball Shoots Down Wright State, 79-73: "The Salukis will have a chance to record their best start since the 1947-48 season when they play at Murray State (7-0) on Wednesday. "

Wright State game tonight

Saluki Men's basketball team goes up against Wright State (Ohio), 1-4, at the Nutter Center in Dayton. Hard core fans can listen to the game on Saluki Sports radio. Tip-off at 7:00.

More on Park place

As promised, some details of last Thursday's informal meeting to discuss the future of Hickory Lodge, attended by CPD Board member, Milton McDaniel, and staff people Richard Grant, Sally Wright, and Bob Green. Also in attendance, Nancy Stemper and Dave Koracy of Carbondale Community Arts, as well as Kris S. from Carbondale Clean and Green. 10 others were invited, but did not attend, including catering and historical preservation consultants.

The Park District is committed to maintaining the building through fiscal year (6/03), but is in process of getting property appraised. Further plans will be discussed at the next meeting of the Board on Jan. 12 (second Monday in Jan.)

What will become of Hickory Lodge?

Way back in 1983, the Carbondale Park District dedicated Hickory Lodge and surrounding property valued at about $330,000. Twenty years older, and worth much more, the building may be sold, leased, or donated to another organization. There will be a general meeting to discuss the question this week. More details later.

Said of Simon

What can be added to the Daily Egyptian report of former Senator Paul Simon's funeral? More details about the inclement weather that forced President Clinton to deliver his comments through Senator Dick Durbin? More about the thousands of mourners who drove to the SIU Arena to attend an event that (for people around here) topped even the capture of Saddam Hussein in significance that day? About the weather? The afternoon was suitably dressed in overcast gray to pay tribute to a great statesman, a man who urged all of us to make the world a better place--not just for the rich, but for everyone.

Senator Edward Kennedy quoted his brother Robert's phrase "moral courage" to describe Paul, while his son, Martin Simon, a Washington D.C. photographer, praised his parental wisdom in allowing his children freedom to grow in a soil of sound moral values. Other friends and colleagues, including Sam Goldman and Bill Norwood, offered touching remembrances, and the orchestra and choir moved watery-eyed listeners to applause with its rendition of God Bless America. There were many television cameras present, so a videotape of the service may eventually become available through the Public Policy Institute.

Less diverse

In its report on Paul Simon's funeral, The St. Louis Post-Dispatch mentions: "Rev. Joseph Brown, a Simon colleague at SIU who officiated the culturally and religiously diverse service, explained to the audience that a Muslim speaker from an area mosque who had been scheduled to speak wouldn't be there only because he had been unable to attend. "

In fact, the Muslim speaker was from Chicago, but the local Muslim leader, Iman Abdul-Haqq, was seen in the crowd, and since local Christian and Jewish leaders spoke, he could have too. Why he didn't, this blog does not know.

There's a local Muslim website, Islamdale

Goodbye to Paul

This blog doesn't have to tell you, today's memorial service for Paul Simon will be illustrious and secure: "Security teams may be sweeping the Arena and surrounding area before the memorial service begins."

Merry Christmas, Mr. Bush

Best Local CD of 2003?

In this week's Nightlife, editor Chris Wissmann writes that Bruce Camden's stellar CD Nothing Gained may be "this year's best local CD," and this blog agrees, with strong competition from Majnun 's eponymous CD and The Woodbox Gang's Born with a Tail. Like to hear sample tracks from Bruce's?

Cajun music legend Morris Ardoin at Yellow Moon Cafe tonight.

Andrea Kampwerth in The Southern tells us the visiting Clydesdale's real names: Scott, Smoky, Luke, Chris, Elliott, Archie, OJ and Eddie, but this blog likes this blog's names better.

The right thing to do

Molly D'Esposito, Chair of SIU Board of Trustees will resign because of what she calls an "unfortunate" new state ethics law, preventing lobbyists and their spouses from serving on decision-making boards and commissions appointed by the governor." Others agree. In a follow-up article, Richard Goldstein quotes Peter Ruger, the university's general counsel: "'She has been an exemplar of wisdom, civility and integrity and her departure is a great loss to Southern Illinois University."

The light thing to do

Physicists say they have frozen a pulse of light for an instant, then sent it on its way.

Is this thing on?

This blog is frequently revised for accuracy, brevity and clarity, rhythm, rhyme and hilarity, for a stand-up monologue at Mungo Jerrys Fat Cat Cafe next year, if Jerry and this blog can come to terms. Jerry, of course, is impresario, Jerry Bradley, Flipside music writer, and coffee-house stage producer.

Dudolph the red-nosed Clydesdale

They're as well known as Santa's reindeer, maybe better, and strong enough to pull Santa's sleigh, if Rudolph and company ever fail in their duty. The Budweiser Clydesdales are the kings of the draft horses. Fame-wise, they only lack catchy individual names, such as Slosho and Tipsy, Dipsy and Tripper, Slurry and Blotto, Belchy and Nipper.

Carbondale Mane Street?

There will be plenty of photos in the local papers of the Budweiser Clydesdales, who came to town for a couple of hours yesterday enroute to a gig somewhere else. I heard about it on Tom Miller's morning radio program on WJPF. Seizing the photo op, this blog dispatched its best photographer to snap pix of Slurry and Belchy (pictured above).

Digging up dirt on new bank land

At the site where First Southern Bank plans to construct a bank and office complex, an evironmental situation has arisen deep beneath the check-in counter of the old Uptown Motel. There used to be a gas station at that location, so the soil is contaminated, and the ground has to be dug out until it gets a clean reading--in another day or two. Then soil samples will be submitted to EPA, which can take up to 4 months to sift through the data and issue its decision.

Don't get this blog wrong...a new bank is capital idea!

And speaking of banks...

Prime retail space

Old National Bank doesn't need the parking space adjacent to Illinois Ave. It should consider leasing to a developer to build a shop or two. A bootique shoe store? Why not?

Speaking of prime retail space.

How the last place you think of for Baked Ham will become the first place you think of for Cheese Steak

To fully understand this headline, you must be a regular reader of this blog (a blogular?) or read this and Booby's recent announcement. (Having seen the Hardee's hamburger commercial is extra garnish.)

Will this blog cause First Southern Bank President and CEO John Dosier to laugh all the way to work?

Funeral arrangements

Public Policy Institute announces visitation and funeral arrangements for former U.S. Senator Paul Simon.

Visitation: Saturday, December 13, from 2 - 6 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 700 S. University Avenue, Carbondale, IL.

Funeral: Sunday, December 14, at 1:30 p.m. at the SIUC Arena.

"In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made payable to the SIU Foundation and sent to the Public Policy Institute, Mail Code 4429, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, 62901. Meredith Funeral Homes in Carbondale is in charge of arrangements. For more information call: Matt Baughman at 618/453-4001 or 618/453-4009."

Directions to Our Savior Lutheran Church

Stars started, not finished

Although I missed the Stars on Main committee meeting last night at Chicago Underground, I spoke to committee member, Carbondale City Planner, Jeremy Hayes, who provided helpful background to the project, explaining why no star has been placed anywhere to honor anyone in the 3 or more years since the project began. Two reasons: the ambitious artistic mosaic stars being used by CMS instead of simple brass stars, like those used in University City, St. Louis, where the Main Street folks got the idea. The second reason is the complicated selection process. So "overconstructed" that it hasn't worked. No one has been honored.

So how about

"Stars on Illinois"

Here's an idea that will work: put a "Star on Illinois" for Paul Simon on the sidewalk in front of City Hall. Why not? Let's get this show on the road.

(Joke: You know what a camel is? A horse designed by a committee.)

Memories of Paul

I first met Southern Illinois' most distinguished politician when he was a U.S. Congressman and I was publishing a then-weekly newspaper in Carbondale and co-proprietor of an art gallery on The Island on University Ave. (where Castle Perilous is now located.) Congressman Simon arrived unannounced, introduced himself, looked around and congratulated us on our effort. Soon after, Paul was elected to the U.S. Senate, and I returned to teaching, and eventually we both retired to Carbondale, so I used to see him at the grocery store and occasional public functions, such as last year's benefit dinner for Friends of SIRSS, where I snapped a photo of him (at right) wife, Patti Simon, and Sam Goldman. He always said 'hi' and made me feel like he knew me, but barely did. Nor I him--though I hoped to change that last week, when I contacted the Public Policy Institute to make an appointment--on the very day he went to Springfield for tests and possible surgery. Next, it was bad news.

The good news is Paul Simon's vision for a sane and good world lives on--in the Institute he founded, and more importantly in his children, Sheila (one of our city's leading citizens) and Martin (an accomplished photographer in Washington, DC), and four grandchildren, with whom he spent his 75th birthday, as told in a feature story by Caleb Hale in the Southern Illinoisan.

It's nice that Paul had a relaxing birthday with his family, and the Public Policy Institute is on a roll, with the recent hiring of Dr. John Yopp to develop the "Lincoln Fellowship" plan for study abroad. That was why I was trying to get in touch with Mr. S. the day he went to Springfield--to learn more about this project. Well, he would appreciate that I tried--and will again.

p.s. be sure to look at Paul's son Martin's photo gallery thumbnails. Not bad. This blog could use another photographer.

Southern Illinoisan Special Section about Paul Simon, 1928 - 2003.

Rebuild America?

Rebuild Carbondale

A Downtown PO?

Spoke to Dan Finnegan at the U.S. Post Office on East Main about getting a Postal Annex or "Contract Station" downtown. The person to talk to is: Jeannette Gregory in St. Louis, 314-436-6505.

Southern Illinoisan: Senator Simon's death caused by cardiac surgery side-effect. Read The Southern for more details.

Great Man Passes

Surrounded by his family, former U.S Sen. Paul Simon died today at 1 p.m. at St. John's Hospital in Springfield. Paul's unflagging commitment to a better world--and bow ties--will be missed, but his vision will be followed through by the Public Policy Institute he founded in 1997.

To the extent that a blog can convey sympathy, this one does--to Sheila, Martin, Patti and the rest of Paul's family and many friends.

Hoops for young and old

This blog spoke to Sally Wright, Program Director for Carbondale Park District about plans for a weekly Basketball Night at Bowen Gym every Wednesday from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. starting on Feb. 4. For 18 years and older; $3 at the door.

Speaking of 18 years or older, whatever happened to ...

The "Six-feet-and-under" League

Carbondale Park District used to sponsor a basketball at Lincoln Junior High School, for players "30 years old and over" and for "Six Feet and Under" in the 1970s and 80s.

Whatever became of those leagues, and that great team of Paul Bates, Paul Renzaglia, Steve Falcone, Paul Kolojeski and another guy who passed alot.

Bates, the best player on the team went on to write the classic Carbondale sports memoir, Vicarious Thrills about CCHS's 1992 State Championship team.

Renzaglia was a force underneath the backboard, and still a student. After he graduated he joined his father, Guy, growing grapes and making wine, which became Alto Vineyards.

Falcone was the captain of team with 'pretty' hands on defense and a lyrical layup. He went on to become the poet laureate and dramatist-in-residence at John A. Logan College.

Which leaves Kolojeski. An energetic player with a sweet jumper and a Ph.D. in 17th Cent. Lit, last seen in Carbondale running around Campus Lake in 1980. Lately seen playing poker with cronies from the Class of 61 in South Jersey.

Don't know what ever happened to the other guy, but he sure could jump--from topic to topic.

Stars on Main Committee meeting in 3 minutes

King of the Hill is about to come on Fox-23. Dang ol' show is the best on television, ah'll tell you what. I'm not even on the committee. There are no men on the committee, as a matter of fact. Maybe it's time to form a new committee. The Stars on Illinois Committee for getting a dozen stars in place by the end of next year. We should be able to come up with that many notables who have trod the Illinois Ave. pavement for more than taking a train out of town.

Community blog

Someone from the Women's Center who reads this blog appreciates the sense of community it fosters. Which got me thinking about Community, and community within communities, and cliques inside groups of communities within the Community. People speak of the University community, the Business community, the Service community, the Law Enforcement community, the Sufi community, the community of Sports fans, and so on. Communities within community.

This blog takes ALL OF CARBONDALE for its community--Business, Religious, Political and Social. It includes the Lost Cross House (can't wait to see Susie's Master's Thesis "Beyond the Porch) and New Beginnings Church; Carbondale's raunchiest bar, PK's, and its classiest restaurants; the Chamber of Commerce and the Law School; meat-eaters and vegetarians; locally-owned businesses and mall chain stores; Maggie Flanagan and Brad Cole.

Brief appeal for money

You want more links? More insight? More photos? Support this blog and the Shawnee Network website in one of three ways:

1) advertise through the $5 per month plan.

2) donate thru a secure PayPal transaction by clicking on the logo at top of the gray bar at left....when the spirit moves you. If you act now, you may be the first kid on your blog to do so.

PayPal is a safe, secure way to send money. Since it's an "Ebay" company, it has to be good. But if you're old-fashioned and parsimonious, and want to cut out the middle man, by all means

3) simply mail a check to Shawnee Network, 402 S. Illinois Ave., Carbondale IL 62901. The amount is up to you. This blog needs a business manager.

This blog also needs an editor. (Hmm, Nightlife editor, Chris Wissmann needs a writer. Maybe we can still work something out. )

Bicycle storage locker update

Before the month is over, this blog has many projects to wrap up. The most pressing at the moment is the one for Bike2Work Bicycle Storage Lockers. In order for these to be installed and operational in time for next May's "Bike2Work Day," a proposal must be given to the City Council before the end of the month. Never having spoken to City Council before (as an assembled body), this will be a first, unless someone else will represent this blog. Maybe Hugh Muldoon will help us form BIKE (Bicyclists in Kind Endeavor) and some high-profile bicylist can present the proposal to Council. Maybe Mark Robinson will peddle the proposal. So detailed is the proposal that another blog has spun off this one-- devoted soley to Bike 2 Work Day. It's called Bike to the Future.

For local poet, it's nearly 'rhyme time'

According to SIUC poet, Rodney Jones, the announcement for Illinois Poet Laureate will be made this week by Mrs. G-Rod.* Rodney isn't sure he wants it, but how can he refuse? The candidates have been narrowed down to him and a poet from Peoria. That has a nice ring, "Poet from Peoria." Those uppitty-North poets are all alliterates.

*G-Rod is this blog's name for Gov. Rod Blagojevich

Listen to your Inner Ear

Tomorrow night, Award-winning professor Donald M. Caspary, winner of Southern Illinois University Carbondale's 2003 Outstanding Scholar award, will discuss his neuropharmacological research into how changes in the inner ear effect the brain. If you hear ringing and it's not the phone, this may be of interest to you.

Calendars of Event

Ever notice how all the information about what's going on around town is scattered "everywhere" on the web. True, the local newspapers do a credible job of gathering, but even they don't capture every event every week.

Online, there's the IFC Newsletter, the Community Calendar, the SIUC Calendar and Nightlife. They all do a pretty good job, but fall short of the total picture. To be up to speed in Carbondale a more complete Calendar is needed. Just leave it to this blog--and Kevin Clark. Want more links? Support this blog through PayPal!

Stars on Main

Do you wonder how this project is progressing since 2000 when it was launched? There's a Committee Meeting today 4:30 p.m. at Chicago Underground. According to the Carbondale Main Street web page about this project, the ‘Stars on Main' Committee is Susan Karayanis, Dorothy Beyler, Jeremy Hayes, Evelyn Koine, Phyllis Morris, Barbara Sibert, Nancy Stemper, Kay Pick Zivkovich, and Laurel Weiderman.

Maybe one of them will inform this blog about the latest Stars on Main news. Maybe plans to change the name to "Stars on Main on Illinois", since the stars are on Illinois Ave.

Out goes the Old, in goes the New

What was the best news you got in 2003? The best news for this blog came from Tae Kwon Do Master Thomas Black, whose Foundation for Family Enhancement and Enrichment is transforming the old CCHS school buildings into a brand new, privately-funded "Yet-to-be-Named" Community Center. Currently a small group of Foundation members and volunteers are cleaning out the classrooms to get them ready for the new tenants. The Foundation also has another cool community-oriented project in the works, but won't be making an announcement for a few weeks. I wonder which newspaper will be the first to follow up this story. All it would take is to go to the old CCHS building on the Bowen Gym side and ask.

Speaking of Yet-to-be-Named

Will the SIU School of Business follow this blog's suggestion to have a student marketing organization sell the rights to name the bathroom stalls in the building (for a limited time) or even an entire room for the highest bidder as a "warm up" to selling the name of the entire building? This blog has had high level talks with principals in the building for a plan to charge $100 for a stall, $500 for a room. Somthing like the [Name of Sorority here] Women's Room, or the Budweiser 3rd Floor John, or the Business & Professional Women's Powder Room?. A corporation that has an extra 15 million dollars to spend on naming a building that fosters entrepreneurship may well be impressed with the initiative of a School of Business that encourages its marketing students to try new things.

After breaking the SIU record for steals in a game, Darren Brooks named MVC Player of the Week.

Science asks: Is your personality making you sick?

Would you like a pillow with that?

Carbondale Greyhound, the Little Station that Could, now sells pillows to long distance travelers who are suckers enough to pay $5 for one. "Our customers appreciate the service," said head clerk Loretta Buspill, "so we go up the street to Salvation Army and buy a pillow for a dollar, and mark it up a few bucks."

New Public Policy Institute website

Just posted "Lights Fantastic" float photos. I wish I snapped the photo of the children on the back of the Venegoni Distributing Budweiser float. Those kids must've worked for hours on that float.

"Caption Fantastic" is this blog's favorite headline in this blog this year. Elton John fans will understand why.

New "news ticker"

A moving text line for late-breaking news, messages and announcements has been added to make the Shawnee Network home page more informative and more dynamic. Next: a photo slide show.

Good news, bad news

The good news is a Foundation for Family Enhancement and Enrichment has purchased the old Carbondale High School main building and Bowen Gym to create a brand new Community Center. The man behind the plan, Master Thomas Black, owns Perry's School of Tae Kwon Do, and he expects new businesses and existing organizations to set up shop in the newly renovated old classrooms. There's still a lot of work to do, and volunteers are welcome. Want to see some photos?

The bad news is: the Foundation was robbed of valuable tools, equipment and appliances the day after it was donated. Three of Carbondale's Finest (police) were on the case on Sunday, questioning two suspects. This blog will have more about the police investigation and the Foundation's other projects in a future dispatch.

Floating to the top!

Were you there? Did you see the floats? Hear the bands? The Carbondale Middle School marching band band sounded the tightest in this blog's Simon Cowellish opinion, but don't tell the four high schools, including Carbondale HS, because they were all out there trying their best. Maybe it was the song selection.
At the judges stand, WSIL-TV news anchor Edan Schultz called the parade, reading from notes supplied by floatmakers, as Mayor Brad Cole handed out commemorative plaques to participants as they drove by, and SIUC Band Director Michael Haynes gave trophies to the bands.

The best float? The one entered by Old National Bank, pictured here (click to enlarge). Look closely and you may see the insane smile the driver was flashing as he snapped a photo of me-- as I snapped one of him--as he drove by. I'll try to get hold of him today to see his photos.

Caption Fantastic

This unfortunate caption on the Southern Illinoisan's Local page takes the Red Ryder BB Gun to a new level.

If you missed it, there's a screen image.

Idea clicks with local webmasters

Added Art Mart of Southern Illinois to the Shawnee Network Artists Directory. The webmaster/artist is Sharon Honey, who has created many other local websites. Bob Presley is another local website designer I know who does good work. We spoke briefly at the Interfaith Center Saturday night prior to the Lights Fantastic Parade. Bob liked the idea for having a webmasters get together, and so have other webmasters--an informal gathering or workshop at the university. Since the Student Center is a wireless internet environment, it would be a good location--in the Big Muddy Room, maybe. If you are a local webmaster or would like to learn how to maintain a site that someone else has created for you, then come to the "Greater Carbondale Web Conference" next year.

Enlightening

Sunrise occurs at 6:57 a.m. today, and at precisely 5:00 p.m. the Town Square businesses will set their buildings alight. Not for the insurance money, but for the festive effect of thousands of lights outlining building-tops in the historic district--to kick off the "Lights Fantastic" parade and give downtown Carbondale a festive look.

Light Bulb Fantastic

The glowing tribute at Carbondale's Town Square is reminiscent of two events orchestrated by PR pioneer Edward Bernays: For the 50th anniversary of the invention of the incandescent light bulb, he organized a Golden Jubilile to dedicate the Edison Institute of Technology in Dearborn, Michigan. The event was attended by such notables as President Hoover, Henry Ford, Orville Wright, John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Madame Curie, and even Albert Einstein. To commemorate the event, the first light bulb was ceremoniously switched on.

Twenty five years later, a "Diamond Jubilee" light extravaganza in Atlantic City was organized by Bernays. On the day of the dedication ceremony, utility companies from around the world shut off their power for one minute in honor of Edison," as told in The Museum of Public Relations.

Who's counting?

A cup of hot chocolate to the first person to point out the error in the description of tonight's Lights Fantastic Parade, in CCTB's - Events for December 6. (You must click on the link, then click on "13th Annual Lights Fantastic Parade" link . While you're at it (for a refill), what's not quite right about one of the photos on the page?

If you're near Coos Bay, Oregon

You may enjoy this holiday lights extravaganza.

If you like Miami

On the subject of Holiday Lights, humorist Dave Barry writes "A forest of lights can only mean that it's Christmas in Miami."

It was a very good year

If you have time to waste, or believe in time travel, go to College of Education News & Notes and click on "Calendar of Events."

Green candidate announcement

Representing the Green Party, Carbondale attorney Rich Whitney is running for State House of Represetatives: "With three of his supporters in front of City Hall, Carbondale lawyer Whitney, 48, announced a platform opposing expansion of highways and favoring mass transit and spending on social services."

Looking back at Great Quake

The "dean" of Southern Illinoisan columnists, Ben Gelman, writes about: an early account of the New Madrid earthquake. "'The Illinois Earthquake of 1811 and 1812,' is reproduced in the current issue of Gary and Judy DeNeal's magazine, Springhouse.

Northeast "Star" rising

The ubiquitous Kevin Clark, Community Development Specialist with Rural Health and Social Service Development Center has an exciting new project developing: a web site that provides an umbrella for the various church groups and community organizations in the Northeast quadrant of the city. To be called the "Northeast Star," the site hopes to see the events of its members included in the Carbondale Calendar.

The old University School has a website.

Small Business Development Center already offers some Training Courses at Dunn-Richmond.

alt.news 26:46 on 12/14 at 10

Thanks to Paula Davenport for the following: TV Schedules - Local Production: "alt.news 26:46 'TBA' (Sun, Dec 14 at 10-10:30pm)"

This show has won two regional Emmy Awards, so mark your calendars!

Dunn-Richmond Computer Lab update

According to David Schwartz, Director of Information Systems with Institutional Advancement, there shouldn't be any problem installing Netscape Composer on the computers in the lab in the Dunn-Richmond Center, so I can offer a class in January for people who want to learn how to maintain their own websites.

Advancing the Institution

First, Rickey D. McCurry, SIUC's vice chancellor for institutional advancement, was hired in Sept. 2000. In April 2001: Roger Neuhaus was hired to Institutional Advancement team. ("$115,000 annually," the press release says). They're featured on the website for the SIU Foundation.

In Sept 2001, Institutional Advancement made more changes-- "a leadership team to improve fundraising and marketing ... for a future capital campaign," including these key appointments:

Edward M. Buerger, associate chancellor for institutional advancement and executive director of the SIU Alumni Association. Buerger will continue to lead the alumni association while carrying some expanded responsibilities for the division.

Cindy Miller recently took over for Dorothy L. McCombs, who retired in the Spring, as associate executive director for University Relations, has been promoted to executive director for institutional advancement (Constituent Relations and Special Events.) She will direct special programs and functions hosted by the University while overseeing communication with donors and alumni.

Beth Mohlenbrock, director of Advancement Services for the SIU Foundation, was promoted to executive director for institutional advancement (Advancement Services).

Susan L. Davis, director of Public Affairs, has been promoted to assistant vice chancellor for institutional advancement and executive director of marketing and communication. University marketing efforts move to this area along with responsibility for the University's Web site. They will complement efforts already in the division including public relations, publications and photographic and video services. Davis later implemented ...

SIUC's new, improved communications organization

It's been one year since reorganization. Is it working? For this blog, the answer is yes and no. Sue Davis and her SIUC Media & Communication Resources Staff of six former local news reporters and J-school grads. do a good job in getting out news about SIUC, but they don't seem to have the e-mail thing down very well.

This blog is still waiting for an answer to a query sent about when the Emmy award-winning SIU student-produced television show Alt.News 46:26 is broadcast. A follow-up phone call message hasn't gotten a response either. But this blog is persistent.

Wouldn't you expect Information Technology to have a state of the art web page with links? SIU Directory Search Results (FAC/STAFF)

Want to know the cost of war in Iraq?

Wine tasting today

Maybe you'll find a couple of Christmas presents for your friends or yourself at 829 E. Main St. today from 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM. No admission charge.

Informative graphics about SIU, a webpage called Campus Sights & Sounds

SAVE Inc.

Although last night's meeting at the Interfaith Center was more sparsely attended than the meeting of Howard Dean supporters in the Student Center, or the showing of "Daughters of Abraham" in New Life III, or Lady from the Sea at McLeod Theater, the group put on a good show, beginning with a videotape of SAVE President Bob Streit (as in Strite) shot by fellow SAVEr and R&T prof, Jay Needham at McLeod, of Bob in a theater seat, addressing the camera on the topic of saving the Varsity Theater. Relaxed, reassuring, Bob tells the viewer what the organization has been doing--namely, incorporating, gathering consultants and trying repeatedly (but unsuccessfully) to get the owner of the building George Kerasotes to give the keys to someone who can show them them the building in order to assess the cost of rehabbing and getting the building up to current electrical code. Rob Gallegley and ubiquitious Kevin Clark explained that the group didn't want to have a website or send out any publicity until Mr. K. acknowledges their existence, and so far, he hasn't been returning calls.

But Kevin Clark has many other irons in the fire of community development, and meeting with him later this week, this blog will tell you more about them.

Lodge for sale?

You heard it there first. The Carbondale Park District is indeed moving its entire operation to the New Life Center on Sunset Drive in order to make interoffice communications more efficient. What will become of Hickory Lodge is up in the air. There will be a meeting on Dec. 12 to discuss possible uses, including putting it up for sale, or leasing it, or giving it to another organization.

With all the people in the Park District organization, and Carbondale Community Arts organization (which has offices upstairs, and Keep Carbondale Beautiful organization, also upstairs, it seems likely that there are some specific plans already being discussed, but what?

It's a terrific piece of property, with landscaped grounds, a historic building and parking. You'd think the website would have some information about the move or upcoming meeting, wouldn't you? But as with many local websites (including, this one occasionally) the immediacy of the web is not utilized. It doesn't even give an email address!

Salukis slam SEMO, 71-58: "Jamaal Tatum shows everybody why he was the Southern Illinois University basketball team's most-hyped recruit since Kent Williams."

Dean supporters meet at Student Center: "Fighting the SIUC basketball game, nine Howard Dean supporters met last night as part of Dean's national meet-up the first Wednesday of each month," in the Daily Egyptian.

Carbondale Main Street gives exactly $8,206 VFW toward building wall. The DE article doesn't say how that amount was arrived at.

Magnum PPI

This blog had no idea there were so many Public Policy Institutes in the U.S. The one in Carbondale, founded by retired Sen. Paul Simon, doesn't come up 'til mid-way down the second page of Google. The website needs updating to reflect changes that have occured since 2000, when the site was designed, such as Dr. John Jackson's appointment to the staff, and Dr. John Yopp's role in creating a "Lincoln Fellowship" Study Abroad" program.

Hog blog

SIUC Country Column: Study explores ways to 'piggyback' on success of Angus beef

"The Illinois Pork Producers are investing $71,000 to find out. Over the course of this next year, Dwight R. Sanders, an agribusiness economist along with fellow economists Wanki Moon and Roger J. Beck, and SIUC swine expert Anthony W. Young will conduct a set of surveys that aim to pinpoint what consumers want in premium pork and how that translates into grading standards at the processing plant."

Don't you love that name, Wanki Moon? This blog will follow up on this story, perhaps with a new promotion: And now, [Taco John's?] the last place you'd think of for baked ham, will be the first place you think of for baked ham.

The Meatrix (reloaded)

A word from the herd in this short Flash movie.

Jim Gordillo's MVC men's basketball notes.

And you thought they were just "crazy old coots"

School of Social Work gerontology seminar focusing on "common signs and behaviors associated with mental health issues in older adults" and related issues at Dunn-Richmond Center this Friday.

SIUConnected

It's still not too late to register for Spring 2004 Online Courses:

alt.news 26:46

A student-produced TV show wins another Emmy

"beating commercial stations and snaring two statuettes at the 45th Annual Midwest-Chicago Emmy Awards competition, Monday night at Chicago's Goodman Theatre, bagging two statuettes, including one for "Outstanding Achievement for Informational Programming-Magazine Program Series. "

Now if we can just find out when the show is broadcast.

What's an arts and hoops lover to do?

SIUC film student Hilla Medalia will screen and answer questions about her powerful, 45-minute documentary "Daughters of Abraham" at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, in the Life Science III Auditorium (room 1059). Admission is free.

Then, at 7:30 p.m. at the Interfaith Center, Rob Gallegley and the group at SAVE (as in Save the Varsity Theatre) will serve refreshments and tell people about what the group has been doing since the summer to save the venerable Varsity.

If you attend these two events, you still might be able to make the second half of men's basketball vs. SEMO at the Arena, 7:05 PM.

But if you attend these events, you'll have to see Lady From the Sea at McLeod Theater another night.

The Lights Fantastic Parade does have a modest presence on the web at the Carbondale Now area portal. A small ad shares a spot on the home page with "Lady by the Sea" at McLeod Theater. The ad changes about every ten seconds. Carbondale Now is a good name for a website. I wish I thought of it. Most of the names with "Carbondale" in it, Carbondale.com, etc. are owned by people in Carbondale, Colorado.

Lights Fantastic Parade update

It's still on for Saturday night.

Food for thought or naught?

Munchy Man must close shop: "on Dec. 31, it's all coming to an end for James Rochman and the legacy of the sandwich truck stationed between Brush Towers."

Restaurant franchise reviews to help young Mr. Rochman choose the right restaurant franchise.

Did Lincoln say that? Now you can look it up.

Be the first kid on your block to have a free 2004 Dry Cleaners Compliance Calendar.

Illinois Screenwriting Competition begins January - April, 2004.

State of Illinois coal mine virtual tour .

What Carbondale needs is a Journal of Media Psychology.

Says The Southern: "Keeping Carbondale beautiful [will be] easier with a $6,200 grant the city recently received through the Keep America Beautiful program."

Bridging the Digital Divide

Editing and evaluating archives of this blog for a first-ever, year-in-review, print edition of the Carbondaley Dispatch in 'zine format. One hundred copies will be sold for $5, and proceeds will be used to rent the computer lab at Dunn Richmond Center--at $15 per computer for half a day--to help "Eliminate the Digital Divide computer literacy classes in January.

Quoth Lenore

My new friend, New York Daily News columnist and versifier Lenore Skenazy has some insight into Pres. Bush's ads for homeland security. Among other things, she notes: "For $30 billion, you can get some pretty good shoe sniffing at the airport. What you can't get are things like serious port security: Only 2% of the containers coming into America get inspected."

Paraphrasing Lenore: Put our money where your mouth is, Mr. Bush.

Sounds of the Holidays at SIUC

A musical CD "...featuring musicians associated with the University as well as readings by Chancellor Walter Wendler and SIU President James Walker is set to be released at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Old Main Lounge in the Student Center. All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society."

Peace Coalition of Southern Illinois has a web site!

Reporter Richard Goldstein scrapes off the cleats of some local Minor League teams of yesteryear.