Saturday, November 30

7:14 a.m. - Yesterday was mostly spent with Caleb and Carmen and Tyler, which was fun and was sad to see end.  Then I picked up Marcus, and we went to Bushnell-Prairie City High School and officiated with Tony - two low skilled teams, which wasn't much fun.

Today, I'm going to try to survive three games, when I struggled to finish one yesterday.  My leg really hurts.

Things for School 

• take care of lunch balance
• transfer arbiter payments from school - GBurg - 11/26
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS

• pay beginning of month bills
• send message to BPC and West Prairie
• Enter games on this list for rest of basketball season
• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas
• Jan. 20 - 10 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. virtual meeting with Tyler Kargl

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - at West Central - 6 p.m.

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - open

13 - open

Friday, November 29

7:52 a.m. - Yesterday's Thanksgiving Day was awesome yesterday.  Everyone was at Amber's side, and everyone was at my side.  It was so nice to see everyone.  And when I mean everyone on my side, that means everyone I normally see on holidays.  I still never get to see my Uncle Dave Bizarri's family nor my Uncle Dan.  And I still don't get to see some of my Aunt Mary Westpfahl's side of the family nor my Aunt Sue Mairet's side of the family.  That's not a bad thing....just missing pieces that have their own festivities. 

So today, it's time to relax and enjoy Caleb, Carmen, and Tyler.  They spent the night last night, and Cole and Chase came over for a bit too, and we watched a couple of Hallmark movies after getting back from my mom's house.  

I have a late game at Bushnell-Prairie City High school at 7:30, and I need to pick Marcus up at 5.  I know that we are going to go visit Kourtney's house at 2, and I think I remember hearing that the Southwell kids are coming sometime this morning for a couple of hours.  I'm not sure what is happening in and around those timeframes.  I did get some bills written out this morning, so I'll mail those off today sometime.

Things for School 

• take care of lunch balance
• transfer arbiter payments from school - GBurg - 11/26
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS

• pay beginning of month bills
• Enter games on this list for rest of basketball season
• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas
• Jan. 20 - 10 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. virtual meeting with Tyler Kargl

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony  - BPC vs. West Prairie

- Tony driving separately; Jay drives and picks up Marcus at 5:00

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - at West Central - 6 p.m.

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - open

13 - open

Thursday, November 28 - Happy Thanksgiving!

6:40 a.m. - It's Thanksgiving!  It's a day off, it's awesome food with family and friends, and Baby Caleb gets to spend the night!  I've been looking forward to this day for awhile.  I hope it goes well.

Yesterday was a grind.  My leg is killing me, but I limped and struggled through a game at Wethersfield and then a game at Orion.  Officiating boys is such a different experience than girls.  Boys just think they are much "cooler" than they actually are; girls are for the most part are okay, but there are a few who are just "difficult".  Last night's game was a hard one, because both teams want to push and pressure...that means that there are going to be a lot of fouls and and stoppages of the game to manage it.  That's just what it's going to be...more physical contact and players flying around is going to create a slower game with more fouls.  Players, coaches, and fans just need to realize that.  It's not the officials' fault that the game is going to be played that way - it's just how it works.

So today it's making potatoes, watching parades and football, eating awesome food, seeing friends and family, and having baby Caleb!

Things for School 

• transfer arbiter payments from school - GBurg - 11/26
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS

• pay beginning of month bills
• send message to Bureau Valley, Putnam County, A-Town, and Fulton
• Enter games on this list for rest of basketball season
• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas
• Jan. 20 - 10 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. virtual meeting with Tyler Kargl

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony  - BPC vs. West Prairie

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - at West Central - 6 p.m.

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - open

13 - open

Wednesday, Nov. 27

6:39 a.m. - I was able to experience the Turkey Time Dance at ICE yesterday with Mr. Hasson and the students.  We even had an all-school Turkey Time performance.  Later in the day we had an IEP meeting that was rather involved.  After that, I headed to Galesburg with Marcus.  I'm glad it's Wednesday and no school, but I'm wishing that I had the whole day off and did not have two boys games to work today.  My left calf is killing me.

Things for School 

• transfer arbiter payments from school - GBurg - 11/26
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month
• get time sheets and anything else to unit office

OTHER THINGS

• Enter games on this list for rest of basketball season
• Send message to Galesburg and Sterling Girls
• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas
• Jan. 20 - 10 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. virtual meeting with Tyler Kargl

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony  - BPC vs. West Prairie

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - open

13 - open

Tuesday, November 26

5:35 a.m. - Yesterday was a challenge; started the day by taking a staff member to an emergency room in Rock Island for chest pains.  She's going to be okay, and it doesn't look like it was a heart attack.  I then went back to school to try to accomplish items off the things to do list.  Later in the day I had a meeting that went well, and then it was off to work a basketball game.  I got home last night and discovered Kenzie can't sub today, and neither can Cole.  I tried one other possibility, but he never responded.  I guess we'll go without the sub.

Today will be very challenging.  We'll get through it; it's just going to be rough.  I wish the weather was better...that would help.  Tonight I'm off to Galesburg for a girls game - that's goign to be rough too.  Is it Wednesday yet?

Things for School 

• transfer arbiter payments from school
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month
• get time sheets and anything else to unit office

OTHER THINGS

• Send message to West Central and Riverdale boys
• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas
• Jan. 20 - 10 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. virtual meeting with Tyler Kargl

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony  - BPC vs. West Prairie

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - open

13 - open

Monday, November 25

5:25 a.m.  - Back to work, but only for two days!  It's Thanksgiving week.  Let's just get through these two days.

Yesterday, was a hodgepodge day.  We woke up with the Harrison grandchildren and then packed up a bed to take to Karrigan's house.  I made the drive over to Orion and lost part of the load on NN, oops.  So I added another tie strap and made it the rest of the way - not too much damage to the headboard that dropped out.  Then it was back home to watch the Bears - once again the Bears found a way to torture me - losing in overtime to the Vikings.  Amber went to work at Shivers, so I proceeded to try to complete some tasks around the house, put up the rest of the lights, tried to work on that leak in the drain, and picked up the items blown into my yard from the neighbor's house.  Then it was off to visit mom and dad, but they already had visitors - Peyton, Mary, Kaylee, and her girlfriend were all there having pizza.  So I helped mom get some hay down and some feed in the bin, and then went in for a visit with the guests.  All are doing well.  Then I went home and climbed in bed and relaxed my aching legs.

Today...survive and advance and get to Williamsfield for a boys basketball game.

Things for School 

• transfer arbiter payments from school
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month
• pick up hot chocolate mix, styrofoam cups, and marshmallows, also potatoes, butter, and sour cream and parsley leaves

OTHER THINGS

• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas
• Jan. 20 - 10 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. virtual meeting with Tyler Kargl

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m. - with Shawn and Marcus

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony  - BPC vs. West Prairie

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - open

13 - open

Sunday, November 24

6:38 a.m. - Yesterday was a long, long day.  I thought I was only going to work one game at Galesburg; turned into two.  And then we had two games at AlWood, including the championship game of the tourney.  That was a long, long day.  Coming home to homemade bread and chicken noodle soup was wonderful.  My legs are dead, and I had to get up early because my right calf muscle was cramping up.  

Today I'm going to try to take it easy.  We need to run a bed over to Karrigan's, and I want to visit mom and dad sometime.  The rest of the day I would like to spend on the couch before starting another long week next week.

Things for School 

• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month
• pick up hot chocolate mix, styrofoam cups, and marshmallows

OTHER THINGS

• send message to Glenwood, Pekin, Ridgewood, ROWVA-Williamsfield, A-Town, and Monmouth-Roseville
• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m. - with Tony and Dave Hasley

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m. - with Shawn and Marcus

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony  - BPC vs. West Prairie

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - open

13 - open

Saturday, November 23

6:14 a.m. - Yesterday was okay.  We had a couple of things up that needed attention, and there was an IEP meeting to attend, and we had a sub secretary for the second half of the day.  Then I drove to Monmouth-Roseville High School and worked a boys' scrimmage with Tad and Robbie.  Today we have three games - one in Galesburg and two at AlWood.  It's going to be a long day.  

Things for School 

• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month
• pick up hot chocolate mix, styrofoam cups, and marshmallows

OTHER THINGS.

• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m. - with Tony and Dave Hasley

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m. - with Shawn and Marcus

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony  - BPC vs. West Prairie

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - open

13 - open

Friday, November 22

525 a.m. - We made it to Friday again!  Yes!  I think the colder, windy, gray weather has impacted folks this week.  The students are a little more energized; staff members seem a little grumpier, and some weird stuff has happened.  We need to get through today and get to Thanksgiving week next week.

My day was eventful; I'm learning that the paras in the building don't appreciate supervising recess in the cold.  Hopefully the temperature will be a little warmer today and next week.  It does sound like the wind has died down, so that will help.  

Let's just get through the day as quickly, quietly, and peacefully as possible.

Things for School 

• take home remaining dilly bars
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month
• pick up hot chocolate mix, styrofoam cups, and marshmellows

OTHER THINGS.

• send message to Knoxville and Newman
• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Robbie and Tad

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m. - with Tony and Ryan Craig

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m. - with Shawn and Marcus

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony  - BPC vs. West Prairie

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Thursday, November 21

5:15 a.m. - I (and Amber, Anne Danner, and Kelly Preston) all successfully cleared another hurdle in our efforts to become licensed to drive a school bus.  After another four hours of class last night, we all passed our true false test to proceed to the next level of training.  Now we have to successfully pass some tests at the DMV to get a permit to begin driving with a trainer.  In other news from yesterday, I successfully survived an admin meeting which also included a crisis team meeting.  Each time I survive those meetings I am adding something on to my list of things to accomplish and share with the ICE staff.

Today?  More meetings are scheduled; one of which is at the unit office for math curriculum.  Then later in the day I have another meeting related to a specific math curriculum resource.  Fa, la, la, la, la, la....la, la, la, la.  Later in the afternoon, I'm headed to Geneseo to work a girls basketball game, but it's only one game, and I'm with Tony and Kraig, which is good.

Oh, I forgot to mention that yesterday featured snow!  Needless to say, the students were a little amped up.  It wasn't really a pretty snow, though.  It was snow that included a cold driving wind.  Welcome to winter in a K, 1, 2 building.  

Things for School 

• take home remaining dilly bars
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month
• pick up hot chocolate mix, styrofoam cups, and marshmellows

OTHER THINGS.

• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m. - with Tony and Kraig -- Newman vs. Knoxville

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Robbie and Tad

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m. - with Tony and Ryan Craig

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m. - with Shawn and Marcus

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony  - BPC vs. West Prairie

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Wednesday, November 20

5:36 a.m. - Yesterday was a long day, and another day of a carcass at ICE.  Apparently Anita found a mostly eaten rabbit in the playground mulch.  Sheesh.

I did get around to classrooms yesterday, so that was nice.  We also completed a little meeting with the certified staff to listen to concerns and improve our effectiveness of students entering the building for the day and leaving the building for the day.  And finally, I survived my first of two nights of bus school.  Four hours of sitting and listening to someone go through the important parts of a binder is a bit much, but I made it - and so did Amber and Anne and Kelly.  Before we went to the bus class, Chase and Cole stopped by for a brief visit.  Cole was up at the unit office getting some paperwork things done to be a substitute, and it was nice to see the two of them, even if it was for only about thirty minutes.

Today is going to be a long day again.  I have a meeting at the district office - an admin meeting and then a crisis plan meeting.  I have to remember to take that booklet with me.  Then I go back to ICE for the rest of the day.  Then I have to survive night two of bus school.   (Then I go back to the district office for a math curriculum meeting tomorrow.)

Things for School 

• take home remaining dilly bars
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month
• pick up hot chocolate mix, styrofoam cups, and marshmellows

OTHER THINGS.

• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical (DOT physical; complete paperwork)
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m. - with Tony and ???

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Robbie and Tad

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m. - with Tony and Ryan Craig

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m. - with Shawn and Marcus

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony  - BPC vs. West Prairie

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Tuesday, November 19

5:27 a.m. - Yesterday was a long one!  And it all started with finding a dead chicken.  Yup, I was in on the playground at ICE helping supervising students before school and there was what appeared to be a small mound of mulch.  It seemed weird, so I just went to smooth it out with my foot, and underneath was a dead chicken...what the hell?  It was a great conversation piece for the 107 students in attendance that morning.  I have now had to dispatch three animals while in my first year as principal - cat, raccoon, and chicken.  What really added to the difficulty of the day was the weather - we had our first rain day of the school year, which meant we were in the gym for recess - both the lunch recesses and the all-school recess.  I had some visions in my mind that weren't good, but I asked for some advice from the folks who had been there before, and they helped.  And to be honest, the students did very well under the circumstances.  For us to go this long into the school year and this be the first rain day was actually pretty good.  I'd like to avoid back-to-back days, though, so I hope the weather forecast for today is better.  And then to top off the day, we had our first night of girls high school basketball - it was a rough night.  The second game featured 55 fouls.  I thought our crew did pretty well, though.

Today and tomorrow, Amber and I and Ann Danner have bus class.  We have to go into the ROE from 5-9 p.m., which is going to not be fun.  Geez.  I didn't get into the classrooms much yesterday, but I hope I can get into them today.

Things for School 

• take home remaining dilly bars
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month
• pick up hot chocolate mix, styrofoam cups, and marshmellow

OTHER THINGS.

• Message to West Central, Ridgewood, MonRose, and Galva
• Enter game/teams into IHSA "my schedule" each day/week.
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical (DOT physical; complete paperwork)
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m. - with Tony and ???

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Robbie and Tad

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m. - with Tony and Ryan Craig

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m. - with Shawn and Marcus

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony  - BPC vs. West Prairie

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Monday, November 18

5:44 a.m. - I didn't sleep well again last night, but I did drink some sleepy tea and managed to get back to sleep a little.  Yesterday was not a typical Sunday.  After the Harrisons departed, I got ready for the day and headed to Fort Madison via Aledo.  I did some shopping for some needed stuff in Aledo at Huffman's and WalMart, and then I traveled down to see Caleb and Carmen and Tyler.  Caleb was in good spirits, and we attempted to go to Harvestville, but it's not open for Christmas until next weekend.  Carmen did take me to a couple of places in Fort Madison to allow me to finish my shopping.  Then it was back home.  I tried to find my reading glasses at ICE, but I still can't find them.  Then I unloaded all the shopping stuff at home and went down to Shiver's to get some supper and use my gift certificate before Shivers closes down for the season.  

Today I don't seem to have any meetings...I think I will try to visit some classrooms without the black folder and complete my Public Works training things.  Then tonight, the official opening of the high school basketball season begins.  It's going to be an awfully long week this week.

Things for School 

• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical (DOT physical; complete paperwork)
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

18 - at AlWood (2) - 6 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m. - with Tony and ???

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Robbie and Tad

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m. - with Tony and Ryan Craig

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m. - with Shawn and Marcus

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Sunday, November 17

8:40 a.m. - Yesterday, was "around the house" day.  I tried to accomplish some things and got some things done - organized the garage, worked on my exercise bike repairs, and also assisted Amber with getting the Christmas decorations out and all that work that is included like setting up the tree and working on the lights.  I didn't get all the lights done, as I need to now pick up some new lights for lights that no longer work.  Then the Harrison grand children arrived after lunch, and it was television and lounging and playing and I did squeeze in a nap.  I ate too much and didn't exercise enough, so that will be corrected today.  

Speaking of today, I get to see Caleb today, so that will be fun.  I'm not exactly sure how the day is going to go, but after I get this entry done and get ready for the day, I'm driving down to Fort Madison to see the crew.  Along the way there or back, I'm stopping and doing some shopping for stuff I need to bring back with me.

Things for School 

• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• Rock Island County Historical Society
• 822 11th Ave.
• Moline, IL  61265-1221
• $30 (send a check for dues)
• Put Uncle Gus stuff in camper
• Spray sealant around basement sewer pipe
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical (DOT physical; complete paperwork)
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

18 - at AlWood (2) - 6 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Robbie and Tad

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m. - with Tony and Ryan Craig

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m. - with Shawn and Marcus

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Saturday, November 16

5:31 a.m. - Yesterday was productive.  I went to an ROE meeting of principals - only five people showed up, but I still liked it, and I got a tour of the Rock Island Center for Math and Science even though it's just another school in the Rock Island District that students can choose to attend.  It sounds special, and I think it was originally built to be special, but it's not.  After that I picked up some treats at Shivers and Shakes for the staff on my way out to the building.  While there, I completed some middle of the month paperwork, and I tested the fire alarm system pull stations.  After that, I had a girls high school scrimmage at Monmouth-Roseville, and then Marcus and Tad and I had some supper.  

Today is my last open Saturday for awhile.  I hope to get a couple of things done...go put some mouse stuff in the camper and straighten up the garage and get it ready for winter snowfall.  I'm sure something else will find me, but that's all I have for now.  Apparently Amber said today is "Christmas time", which means I have to get decorations out of storage and set up the tree...I knew something would find me.

Things for School 

• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• Rock Island County Historical Society
• 822 11th Ave.
• Moline, IL  61265-1221
• $30 (send a check for dues)
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical (DOT physical; complete paperwork)
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

16 - open

17 - SUNDAY

18 - at AlWood (2) - 6 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Robbie and Tad

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m. - with Tony and Ryan Craig

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m. - with Shawn and Marcus

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Friday, November 15

5:05 a.m. - I slept better last night, but it was weird.  I fell to sleep watching basketball around 9 p.m., and didn't wake up until 4 a.m.  That's unusual...I slept hard.  But now it's time to start another day, and it's going to be a weird one.  I'm not even going to the ICE building in the morning - I'm headed to the Rock Island Math and Science Academy for an ROE principals meeting.  Then I will head to school and try to get a few things done.  That's not as big of a deal because it's an 11:30 a.m. dismissal day, and teachers are working on their LETRS training on their own.

Yesterday, the day went okay, as I was able to get some things done.  There was no officiating, so I was able to go into Farm N Fleet and get the two tires for the HHR and get them back on the car after we had some supper.  The HHR is back in action!

It's pay day today!  That's been a long time coming.  Tomorrow I'm not sure what I'm doing, and then on Sunday, I think I'm headed down to Fort Madison to visit Caleb.

Thursday, November 14

3:31 a.m. - I did another day of OMAD yesterday - one meal a day.  I had the hot lunch at school, and for the first time I had Scooby Snacks and Sour Patch raisins.  Today is grilled cheese and tomato soup ... I am looking forward to that, but it will be tough not to eat when I get home from school because tonight I have an "open" night.  I have managed to lose a little wait, finally, after I increased my determination level.  Yesterday I didn't get into the classrooms, but I did make copies of the health life/safety stuff I need to work on, and I did spend some time on my eventual BOE presentation, and those things were both good things.  Also last night, I believe I had my last junior high girls basketball game - Kewanee vs. Rockridge.  I haven't had a game night with Rockridge that they were even close in beating their opponent, and last night they won both over Kewanee - yes, Kewanee is pretty bad too.  I then got home and watched Illinois basketball, and they are going to frustrate me again this year - lots of talent, lots of hard work, and no visible resemblance of an offensive philosophy.  I have said it before, but I'll say it again.  I really like the expansion of the Big Ten Conference to UCLA, USC, Washington, and Oregon.  There is a good chance of a Big Ten late game on the west coast all winter long!

Today, then, I'm going to get into the classrooms with my clipboards and start filling in the paper charts for the ROE health and life/safety binders.  Since I have no game to officiate (yet) today after school, I'm going to go get my tires from Farm N Fleet and work on the HHR.  Maybe tomorrow morning I can drive the HHR again to school.

Things for School 

• Complete Public Works Training
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• pick up HHR tires getting fixed 
• take pool motor to RIM for cleaning/maintenance
• Dec. 10 8:30 a.m. Wang physical (DOT physical; complete paperwork)
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

travel plans link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZaC-Olm0joMLoIUC2kF1wG5XoEIwNAQjJkc37bKbhI/edit?tab=t.0

November

15 - MonRose Girls Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Marcus and Tad

16 - open

17 - SUNDAY

18 - at AlWood (2) - 6 p.m. - with Tony and Shawn

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Robbie and Tad

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m. - with Tony and Ryan Craig

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m. & 4:30 - with Tony and Shawn

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m. - with Shawn and Marcus

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m. - with Marcus and Lloyd Trowers

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m. - with Marcus and Shawn

     - at Orion - 5:30 p.m. - with Marcus? and Shawn?

28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.- with Marcus and Tony

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m. with Tony and Shawn

     - at Galesburg - 7:45 p.m. with Tony and Leah

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Wednesday, November 13

5:36 a.m. - Yesterday was a tough day.  It all started out with a parent conversation, and the parent was upset, but apparently not as upset the night before.  Then we had an ROE health and life safety inspection, and I found out all the things that haven't been done that I now need to do.  Then our superintendent visited me to have a conversation with me.  Then I had to go officiate junior high girls basketball.  Oh, and a frequent flyer and I had to spend some time together in my office.  I hope today isn't as bad as yesterday.  

And it shouldn't be....I hope to get in the classrooms today, and seeing the teachers and students always helps me feel better about life in general.  I get to meet with our student council, which was really enjoyable the last time.  And I get to end the evening with junior high girls basketball again, but it's at Rockridge, so the drive will be minimal.  

Things for School 

• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• decide on Knauff dates
• pick up HHR tires getting fixed 
• take pool motor to RIM for cleaning/maintenance
• Dec. 19 8:30 a.m. Wang physical (DOT physical; complete paperwork)
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

November

13 - JHBK - at RR - 5:30 p.m.

14 - open

15 - MonRose Girls Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Marcus and Tad

16 - open

17 - SUNDAY

18 - at AlWood - 6 p.m.

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m.

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m.

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m.

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m.

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m.

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m.

28 - THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m.

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Tuesday, November 12

5:01 a.m. - Yesterday's Veterans' Day event went well.  We loaded up over 100 K,1,2 students and the building staff on a couple of buses and traveled to the high school.  The program was longer than I envisioned, but the students did well, and their song contribution was a hit.  The rest of the day was fairly quiet, and then in the evening we had a BOE meeting.  The recommendation for our new para was approved, which is good news.  There were presentations by the Andalusia and Taylor Ridge building principals that included administrative goals and academic assessment data, and I suppose I'm going to be next.  The problem is that my administrative goals are based on the data I reviewed on the 5 essentials survey that indicated ineffective leadership by the previous administrator.  The other problem is that I really don't have a strong handle on our academic data yet, and I've focused efforts in other directions - building culture and student motivation for the assessments and their accomplishments.  I'm going to have to figure something out that doesn't offend others and still addresses the questions the BOE members may have.  That was a long day to start the week.

And on to today!  We have building health/safety walkthrough; that should be fun.  I know we are going to have some issues; I just hope it's a gentle experience.  Tonight it's back on the junior high girls basketball trail.  I still don't have my tires back yet, and now I really don't have time to get them.

As I've said before....just keep swimming.

Things for School 

• Call Mr. Taylor back after talking with Nikki
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• look at new Foremost date
• Dec. 16 date - BOE change
• decide on Knauff dates
• pick up HHR tires getting fixed 
• take pool motor to RIM for cleaning/maintenance
• Dec. 19 8:30 a.m. Wang physical (DOT physical; complete paperwork)
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

November

12 - JHBK - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

13 - JHBK - at RR - 5:30 p.m.

14 - open

15 - MonRose Girls Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Marcus and Tad

16 - open

17 - SUNDAY

18 - at AlWood - 6 p.m.

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m.

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m.

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m.

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m.

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m.

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m.

28 - THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m.

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Monday, November 11 - Remembering Veterans Day

5:12 a.m. - I did sleep a litter longer last night, so that's good.  Unfortunately, I didn't fast all day like I had hoped, which probably led to the longer sleep.  Yesterday I went and visited my dad after reading my book - mom wasn't home because she was at the baby shower for Karrigan.  Then I went and visited Greg, and I was hoping my tires would be done, but they weren't...apparently.  (At least I didn't get a phone call.)  Then I came home and watched television, which included watching Yellowstone, which sucked.  The Bears were terrible once again yesterday, but at least I didn't watch much of it.  So on to this week!  And what adventure awaits this week.  Today is an assembly at RHS, which includes me riding on a bus with 5 of our students...oh boy.  And tonight is a BOE meeting...great.  Basically, today is going to be a long day.  This week our custodian Mr. Morgan is gone on vacation; that's bound to create some issues.  Tomorrow a rep from the ROE is scheduled to inspect our building; that's also bound to create some issues.  And I think Friday is an 11:30 dismissal day, and on that day I think I'm out of the office at an ROE Principal's meeting....also an opportunity to have more issues.  Sprinkled in there are a couple of junior high girls basketball officiating dates and a high school scrimmage at MonRose on Friday.  Yup, it's going to be another long week.

Things for School 

• Call Mr. Taylor back after talking with Nikki
• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• decide on Knauff dates
• pick up HHR tires getting fixed 
• take pool motor to RIM for cleaning/maintenance
• Dec. 19 8:30 a.m. Wang physical (DOT physical; complete paperwork)
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

November

11 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

12 - JHBK - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

13 - JHBK - at RR - 5:30 p.m.

14 - open

15 - MonRose Girls Scrimmage - 5:30 - with Marcus and Tad

16 - open

17 - SUNDAY

18 - at AlWood - 6 p.m.

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m.

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m.

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m.

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m.

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m.

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m.

28 - THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m.

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Sunday, November 10

4:57 a.m. - I'm still not sleeping very well; oh well.  Yesterday went as planned, sort of.  I went and worked junior high girls basketball.  Then I picked up my prescription at Walgreen's in Milan, and then I got home and removed my tires from the HHR to take to Farm N Fleet for repair.  Unfortunately, I had to leave them there because they were busy.  That was fine, but I hope the are done today.  If not, I may have to pick them up tomorrow.  

After that I ate too much left over food, and I slouched on the couch watching football and basketball.  Today I don't have much on the agenda...maybe go visit Greg and try to get my tires back.  The Bears play today at noon, but they play at New England, and the Bears are terrible at road games under their current coach - something like 0-and-18.  I hope to read my book too.

I read an interesting opinion piece this morning on MSNBC -- https://www.msnbc.com/opinion/msnbc-opinion/trump-election-won-seriously-comedy-rcna177723

This opinion piece sums up everything I feel and want to say. 

Things for School 

• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• get officiating gear back into the car/truck
• pick up HHR tires getting fixed 
• check out McGonnigal's Wethersfield volleyball dates
• take pool motor to RIM for cleaning/maintenance
• Dec. 19 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

November

11 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

12 - JHBK - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

13 - JHBK - at RR - 5:30 p.m.

14 - open

15 - MonRose Girls Scrimmage - 5:30

16 - open

17 - SUNDAY

18 - at AlWood - 6 p.m.

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m.

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m.

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m.

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m.

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m.

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m.

28 - THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m.

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Saturday Nov. 9

4:54 a.m. - I didn't really sleep well again last night, and yesterday I ate too much food.  Oh well, I'm up now.  Yesterday was a day to end a long week, but the day wasn't so bad.  It was a busy day, but there wasn't any total surprise to the day, which was nice and unusual.  After the day, there was a birthday party at our house for Kenzie, so there were lots of grandchildren running around.  I did get to see Darren's S&T team play for the first time on television - they were playing SIU on ESPN+, and it was pretty cool to see little brother on the bench on television for the Miners.

This morning I have basketball officiating at AlWood - not a great adventure, but I'm with Marcus, so that's good.  After that I need to get home and get tires off of my car to get fixed.  I think I'll take them to Farm N Fleet and on my way take those dumbbells to Greg.  He asked for the back to help him strengthen his hips from his recent replacement surgeries.  This week he had the other hip replaced, so now both are done.  I also need to pick up my prescription at Walgreens.

This week I needed to stand up to a couple of administrators on the team.  In the end, my stance didn't really accomplish much, but it was important to do all the same.  I'm not surprised at what occurred, but I'm still a little disappointed.  I learned a lot, though, so that's good.  

Things for School 

• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• get HHR tires fixed
• pick up the meloxocam
• check out McGonnigal's Wethersfield volleyball dates
• check out Knauf's block for 25-26
• take pool motor to RIM for cleaning/maintenance
• Dec. 19 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

November

7 - JHBK at Sherrard - 5:30

8 - open

9 - JHBK at AlWood - 9 a.m.

10 - SUNDAY

11 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

12 - JHBK - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

13 - JHBK - at RR - 5:30 p.m.

14 - open

15 - MonRose Girls Scrimmage - 5:30

16 - open

17 - SUNDAY

18 - at AlWood - 6 p.m.

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m.

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m.

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m.

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m.

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m.

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m.

28 - THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m.

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Friday, November 8 - Happy Birthday Kenzie

3:40 a.m. - Yup...it's 3:40 a.m., and I can't sleep.  I'm not surprised, though.  Yesterday was a challenging day, and I'm doing well limiting my food intake this week, and I remember the last time I really performed well in trimming my eating, I had trouble sleeping through the night too.  So even though it's really early in the morning, I'm not stressed out about me being up.  I expected it.  The only bad thing is that my book I'm reading is in the truck, which is not in the garage.  Oh, why am I driving the truck you might ask.  Well, that's because I have not one but two flat tires on the HHR.  I've been officiating this week, so I've been unable to have time to remove the tires.  That may be a job for tonight or tomorrow.  I thought about doing it now, but then I would have to open up the garage door and back the van out and make noise, and I don't want to do that.  

So yesterday was a full day.  There was an admin meeting in the morning, with an extra meeting prior to that.  Then there was dealing with all the additional to-do items from the admin meeting.  Then I needed to have a meeting with the certified staff in the building.  Then I needed to go officiate basketball at Sherrard Junior High.  It was Heath Smith's last game of coaching, and it was nice to be there and congratulate him.  He's been coaching junior high a long time, and he's made a positive impact on a lot of athletes. 

Today with my extra time awake, I have now completed the task of balancing my checkbook.  The finances are not looking good right now.  That's okay; I knew it was going to be like this for awhile when I elected to use money I had saved up as well as money in checking to pay off the camper earlier this year.  And I also haven't done as much officiating as I could have the last couple of weeks.  

Today at school will be a day of meetings.  I have a meeting with the classified staff to start the day, and then I need to get through the day, and then have a couple of IEP meetings to end the day.  And then I need to come home and get a couple of tires removed from the HHR.  And then tomorrow I need to go do some junior high girls basketball officiating.  No rest for the wicked...just keep swimming.

Things for School 

• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• get HHR tires fixed
• pick up the meloxocam
• check out McGonnigal's Wethersfield volleyball dates
• check out Knauf's block for 25-26
• take pool motor to RIM for cleaning/maintenance
• Dec. 19 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

November

7 - JHBK at Sherrard - 5:30

8 - open

9 - JHBK at AlWood - 9 a.m.

10 - SUNDAY

11 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

12 - JHBK - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

13 - JHBK - at RR - 5:30 p.m.

14 - open

15 - MonRose Girls Scrimmage - 5:30

16 - open

17 - SUNDAY

18 - at AlWood - 6 p.m.

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m.

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m.

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m.

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m.

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m.

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m.

28 - THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m.

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Thursday, November 7

5:01 a.m.  - I can't bring myself to view the national news much; I have taken a peek now and then, and I was glad to see the highlights of Kamala Harris's concession speech where the outgoing democratic presidency will take the high road and offer a smooth transition of power to the King.  I also did watch some Fox News just to see how giddy they are, and they were indeed pretty giddy - not surprising.  I just can't envision another Donald Trump presidency - breaks my heart.  So I'll keep my head down, and try to focus on the items that are in my control.

Yesterday was a unique day at ICE.  First, I had to be in pajamas, and second I had to spend some time with one of the building's frequent flyers.  Next, the first meeting of the ICE student council took place.  It went about how I envisioned it, but we also talked about the referendum vote, and that it means we are going to have a new school built.  Needless to say, there were a lot of questions about the new school, but I did have to answer honestly to one question and report that the new building likely won't have a waterpark.  At the end of the school day, we had an IEP meeting that was interesting, but I really can't talk about that here.  And then finally, I had junior high girls basketball officiating at Rockridge.  I bumped into some ICE students, one of which was really surprised that I was running.  (I told him I didn't know if what I was doing was called running or not.)

And on to today!  We have an admin meeting, and I'm in charge of taking notes.  Admin meetings always leave me with additions to my "to-do" list.  After school I have another junior high girls basketball night at Sherrard.  Oh, and sometime I need to get a couple of tires repaired on the HHR...I have two flat tires on the car sitting in the garage...ugh.  And I may not be able to get to those tires until tomorrow night.  And it's garbage day, so part of my morning routine is going to be to get the garbage out.  

On another front, yesterday I had school lunch with the students.  I think when I have basketball games, I'm going to try to have school lunch and not eat any supper.  In that way, I'll be getting my one meal a day but not eating late at night.  I hope that can help me shed a few pounds.  It's just really hard at night when I'm tired and not yet ready to go to bed...the hunger voices just talk pretty loud, and I have to fight them off, so I drink a lot of tea without caffeine.    

Things for School 

• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• pick up the meloxocam
• check out McGonnigal's Wethersfield volleyball dates
• check out Knauf's block for 25-26
• take pool motor to RIM for cleaning/maintenance
• Dec. 19 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

November

7 - JHBK at Sherrard - 5:30

8 - open

9 - JHBK at AlWood - 9 a.m.

10 - SUNDAY

11 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

12 - JHBK - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

13 - JHBK - at RR - 5:30 p.m.

14 - open

15 - MonRose Girls Scrimmage - 5:30

16 - open

17 - SUNDAY

18 - at AlWood - 6 p.m.

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m.

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m.

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m.

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m.

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m.

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m.

28 - THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m.

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open

Wednesday, November 6

5:07 a.m. - Today opens with excitement and frustration - Rockridge will have a new school built.  Unfortunately, it will be under the presidency of Donald Trump, who defeated Kamala Harris last night.  For the life of me, I cannot understand this fascination and infatuation of that man, but it is what it is.  I hope the United States is strong enough to withstand him again.  I think I'll just focus on the good news of the morning.

The school vote measure passed overwhelmingly - like 70% to 30%.  It will be an exciting time with lots to do and for us in our home, lots of construction to look at for the next couple of years.  The community group that was organized by BLDD sure did put in a lot of work, and it sure did work to be transparent.  I'm proud of our school district for how it proceeded and executed the process.  

Yesterday after voting I did get some bounce sheets and moth balls around the camper to try to keep out mice.  I did also order some additional stuff that I'll put in the trailer later this winter.  After that I pretty much stayed home and watched television.  I did finish my book, and it was really good.  I hope to start a new book today.  

Actually, I hope to survive the day.  It will be a busy day at school, and then I have junior high girls basketball.

Things for School 

• absent days for staff entered into SDS by the 15th of each month

OTHER THINGS.

• check out Knauf's block for 25-26
• take pool motor to RIM for cleaning/maintenance
• Dec. 19 8:30 a.m. Wang physical
• Dec. 23- Carmen, Tyler, Caleb, Chase, Cole Christmas

OFFICIATING/UMPIRING UPCOMING

November

6 - JHBK at Rockridge - 5:30

7 - JHBK at Sherrard - 5:30

8 - open

9 - JHBK at AlWood - 9 a.m.

10 - SUNDAY

11 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

12 - JHBK - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

13 - JHBK - at RR - 5:30 p.m.

14 - open

15 - MonRose Girls Scrimmage - 5:30

16 - open

17 - SUNDAY

18 - at AlWood - 6 p.m.

19 - BLOCKED - bus class

20 - BLOCKED - bus class

21 - at Geneseo 6:00 p.m.

22 - MonRose Boys Scrimmage - 5:30

    - APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR BASKETBALL OFFICIATING PROMOTION MARCUS

23 - at Galesburg 10:30 a.m.

     - at AlWood - 3 p.m.

24 - SUNDAY

25 - at Williamsfield - 5 p.m.

26 - at Galesburg - 7 p.m.

27 - at Wethersfield - 2 p.m.

28 - THANKSGIVING

29 - at BPC - 7:30 p.m.

30 - at Riverdale - 11:00 a.m.

December

1 - SUNDAY

2 - at MerCo - 5:30 p.m.

3 - open

4 - at United - 6 p.m.

5 - at Erie - 7 p.m.

6 - at MonRose - 5:30 p.m.

7 - at Erie - noon

8 - SUNDAY

9 - BLOCKED RR BOE MEETING

10 - at Moline - 7 p.m.

11 - BLOCKED - Winter Program

12 - at ROWVA - 6 p.m.

13 - open