Friday, September 26, 2008

Engagement pictures

Hope you enjoy looking at them as much as we enjoyed taking them!

http://jnelsonphoto.com/photolife/chris-melyndas-kansas-city-engagement

Chris

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Time with Deane

One of the great things about working for such an established program is the ability to meet and associate with a ton of people. Since one of our players is being heavily recruited, it's been a revolving door of collegiate coaches at Liberty High School.
Most recently Mike Deane, Head Coach at Wagner University, stopped by.

Coach Deane is unlike any other person that I have ever been around. I very much enjoyed our three hours together.

What I realized about Coach Deane is a quality that I wish more people possessed. Humility. Coach has spent 23 years in Division 1 basketball and his Rolodex is probably similar to my "idols" list. Coach Deane and three of us at Liberty went out for dinner at Buffalo Wild Wings and he shared some awesome stories and amazing laughs. Coach treated us with amazing respect, as if we were friends.

Although I probably won't use his vocabulary, I certainly will use his humility.

Friday, September 19, 2008

Prince and KSU



I don't feel like it's appropriate to "blast" someone in the form of email/blog. I think it can be dangerous. Having said that...My alma matter has some serious issues within their football program and they start from the top.

In 2006, Ron Prince was hired to replace coaching legend Bill Snyder. In Prince's defense, the only person who could adequately replace Snyder might have been Vince Lombardi.

Former KSU AD Tim Weiser went out of his way to "make a splash" when he hired the former Virginia Offensive Coordinator. There were numerous reports of who were actual candidates. Leavitt, Venables, etc...

After the initial shock of the hire I thought to myself, "KSU is a unique job, maybe this is the right guy". I checked the internet pages and newspapers every single day so that I could see what Prince's first move was. Then came the announcement that Tim McCarty was going to be "Assistant Head Coach". Immediately I went to McCarty's bio. McCarty came from being the head coach at East Central Oklahoma. Ok, well, maybe he has another connection to big time athletics. "McCarty turned Tabor College into a NAIA power". Hmmm, well, if this is your #1 guy, I would think he would have more experience at the highest level. Then I realized that McCarty coached Prince at Dodge City Community College. No, not as the Head Coach, as an assistant.
So let me get this straight. A guy who has NEVER been a Head Coach, Prince, hired a guy, McCarty, who was an assistant in Junior College, a Head Coach in NAIA and a Head Coach in Ada, OK.
Perhaps the reason McCarty was hired was so Prince wouldn't feel threatened by someone who is more competent? How else can you explain the outmatched staff at Kansas State? How else can you explain so much staff turnover? Perhaps he is difficult to work for?

Just for a point of reference, some of Bill Snyder's past assistants, Bob Stoops, Jim Leavitt, Mark Mangino, all coach at BCS conference schools. They said that Snyder was extremely tough to work for. Everyone knows about the hours and detailed preparation stories that follow Snyder. All three of those former KSU assistants are powering Top 25 programs in NCAA D-1. Not Ada, Oklahoma.

Then I noticed the next change of the football program. The "image". A new website, inside.kstatesports.com. A change in the uniforms. A dinner to talk about upcoming recruits. Preference as to what kind of food is served in the stadium. Decals on the back of the helmets. The walk into the stadium.

Then, perhaps the thing that struck the biggest chord with me. Prince fired longtime equipment manager of 28 years, "Shorty" so he could bring in his own guy. You know the worst part about it? Prince responded to booster's criticism with a 5 page email. (I'm trying to figure out how to attach it. If you want it, send me a comment/email, and I'll send it to you) Is he that sensitive to criticism? Shouldn't you be preparing your football team, not writing a thesis to a booster?

I have heard that upon return from the Louisville game, Prince made his team condition from 3am-4:30am. This is the same guy who makes his own Coaches run. If he demands accountability from his players and coaches, what kind of accountability does he demand upon himself?

The bottom line is KSU doesn't have Snyder nor do they have Lombardi. They have a Prince, in name only.

Sporting News

Melynda was so kind to point out a great resource for Sports News. The Sporting News Today, issues a digital newspaper everyday.
They do a terrific job getting wide ranging articles.

Check it out at : sportingnewstoday.com

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Obama v. McCain

In case you need some help trying to make a decision...

http://www.votehelp.org/

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Is anyone out there...?

I've officially screwed up on "The Press Conference". I havent posted in such a long time that my "website hits" have probably gone from 4 to 0.

I will begin updating soon. I promise!

Friday, May 16, 2008

a Daughter...

Could you imagine if your daughter had to follow this?

This "Coach" should be the football coach, not the Pom coach...

Staley Dance Team Constitution
2008-09
I. Purpose
II. Rehearsals
III. Performance
IV. Summer Requirements
V. Dancewear and Uniforms
VI. Finances/Fundraising
VII. Honor Code of Conduct

I. Purpose
A. The Staley Dance Team is an auditioned performance/spirit group. Dancers are selected in the spring and must meet all requirements until graduation of the following year. The purpose of this group is to foster:
* Self Discipline - Self Respect - Self Worth
* Responsibility and dependability within each dancer
* Organizational Skills
* A standard of excellence in performance
* Teamwork
* Each dancer as a positive role model and as an ambassador for Staley High School.

B. The Student Handbook is part of this constitution. Students are expected to know the rules of SHS and are required to follow them.

C. The rules stated in this constitution are not inclusive. All calendars are subject to change.
Dancers are expected to adjust their schedules and keep their parents informed.

II. Rehearsals
A. Dance Team is a full year commitment.
1. Summer Camp
2. All scheduled/mandatory practices and rehearsals
3. Any scheduled competitions
4. Any scheduled parades or special performances

B. Rehearsal Procedures. (These rules are not inclusive)
1. Dressed and ready to stretch by 2:45 pm.
2. Proper attire as instructed by the director. No baggy clothing, dance shoes required, clothing conducive to dancing.
3. All of your hair in pony tail.
4. NO JEWELRY (includes earrings, bracelets, necklaces, rings, ankle bracelets, belly button ringsand watches). There is no time available during a school year for piercing of body parts. Dancers who wish to pierce ears etc. must choose a time other than during the traditional school year. Band-Aids are not considered a solution for covering piercings.
5. Appropriate behavior and attitude.
6. Follow directions and respect the rights of others.
7. No tattoos are allowed to show during uniforms, costumes, or practice clothes.
8. Maintain little to no talking in rehearsal
9. Do not bring friends, family members or boyfriends to rehearsal.
10. Attend all rehearsals times and also on time.
11. Parents should notify the director before a student misses a rehearsal. It will be at the
director’s discretion to excuse or not excuse the absence.
12. No food or drinks (other than water) during rehearsal.
13. All dancers must COVER UP before leaving rehearsal. This will help prevent sore muscles and
also helps with staying healthy.
14. Dancers are to follow the instructions of the coach/assistant coach/captains without questions
or comments.
15. ‘Thank you’ is the correct response after each correction from the dancer to the coach, captain
or parent.

C. Examples of Unexcused Rehearsals/Performances
1. Any appointments (dentist, doctor, etc.)
2. Family reunions, outings, vacations etc.
3. Attending another function instead of rehearsal.
4. Missing because of a test the next day.
5. Work
6. Interviews of any kind
7. Benched, then not attending rehearsal/performance
8. Not attending because of injury or illness that does not prevent traveling.

D. Dismissal from practice
1. Inappropriate behavior
2. Failure to follow directions/instructions
3. Actions or manners that undermine the progress of the rehearsal
4. Repeated offenses after being warned
5. Inviting friends or boyfriends to practice
6. Negative attitudes that affect the team
7. Talking back or acting rude towards the coach
Any dancer continuously making the above infractions will be removed from the team.

III. Performance
A. Procedures
1. Dressed in full uniform, which includes shoes, hair, tights, poms etc.
2. All attire in good condition and properly worn.
3. No fingernail polish or jewelry. This includes acrylic nails. Nails that are longer than what is
required by the Missouri State Dance Team Association will need to be cut.
4. Performance make-up will be expected during all school performances and competitions.
5. Dancers are required to attend all performances
6. Follow all instructions given by the coach
7. Maintain a professional attitude while in uniform
8. Permission prior to the performance is required from the coach before leaving a performance
early.
9. Permission forms/medical release forms turned in on time.
10. Dancers are required to travel to and from performances with the team.
11. Dancers may never leave the team to sit with family/friends/boyfriends.
Failure to meet performance procedures will result in a benching.

B. Eligibility Requirements
1. Dancers must attend school the day of a performance or competition
2. Dancers must have the routine memorized to stay in the formation during all performances.
3. Individual/group fund raising will be mandatory to remain in good standing with the team and
also full participation required to perform

C. Benchings: Benchings are given for infractions of the rules and result in a dancer becoming
ineligible to perform in the next performance. The following are examples of infractions that will
result in a benching.
1. Any negative reaction to the coach or captain while giving instructions or comments.
2. Miss a performance - benched for the following performance.
3. Inappropriate behavior during the previous performance.
4. Wearing inappropriate practice clothes or not wearing appropriate dance shoes.
5. Late to anything dance team related
6. Work
7. Missing a practice or game (unexcused)

Disciplinary action from any teacher can result in a benching and the coach will determine the
length of the benching. The coach may choose to place any dancer on a probationary status if
that dancer is showing absenteeism in any classes, for problems that result in administrative
action, and/or for behavioral problems resulting in teachers disciplining the dancers. Dancers will
be removed from the team if they repeatedly demonstrate inability to follow school rules and the
classroom discipline from all teachers.

IV. Summer Requirements
A. Summer Practice
1. Summer practice for the team will begin August 4.
2. Dancers are required to be at all summer practices unless written notification is given. A parent
must sign the notice and give the dates that will be missed.

B. Dance Camp
1. A dancer must attend dance camp in order to remain on the team.
2. Place: Staley High School
3. Dates: August 4-6
4. Cost: $174.00
5. Any dancer failing to comply with the dance team constitution will be sent home. No refunds will be
given.
6. A non-refundable deposit of $50 must be turned in by May 2nd. Remaining balance is due by June 13th.

V. Dancewear and Uniforms
A. Rehearsal Clothes
1. All team members must have the required shoes, tights, performance/practice clothing.
2. Appropriate practice clothing must be worn to all practices.
3. Items that are purchased through the Dance Team must be paid in full before you can receive
them.
4. No physical contact allowed during practices or while wearing any clothing that has the Staley
dance team logo. This includes handholding, kissing, hugging etc.

B. Uniforms and Performance Costumes
1. Uniforms/costumes will be purchased from sponsorship and fund raising money.
2. Dancers are responsible for maintenance and the replacement cost if damaged.
3. Uniforms/warm up suits are to be worn only with the team and only with the director’s approval.
4. Correct accessories must be worn with every uniform.
5. Appropriate behavior is required while in uniform.
6. No physical contact allowed while in uniform.
7. Do not wear your uniforms or warm ups to school without director approval.
Tights and shoes must be in good condition.
(No runs, severe scuff marks, holes).

VI. Finances/Fundraising
1. Fundraising money is used to purchase the majority of items needed by the Dance team.
Participation is mandatory. Every dancer will participate in team assigned fundraisers.
Fundraisers that are not team assigned are optional for the dancer. Some competitions may
require each dancer to pay for transportation, hotel and/or competition entry fees. Some
fundraisers may require each dancer to bring in soda, water, etc.
2. Some fundraisers may require a dancer to recruit help, i.e. parents, siblings, grandparents, etc.
3. Scheduled Fundraisers for this year will be posted as soon as they are scheduled
4. Fundraising money will be used for uniforms, transportation, choreography, etc

VII. Honor Code of Conduct
All dancers agree to follow these rules of conduct:
1. Respect your coach, parents, teachers and school.
2. Never speak disrespectfully about your teammates.
3. Never dishonor your teammates by dishonoring yourself.
4. Follow the rules of SHS student handbook.
5. No smoking, drinking or drugs in or out of uniform.
7. Always tell the truth.

I ______________________________ have read the Staley High School Dance Team Constitution
and understand all that is required of me and I agree to the terms of the constitution. I realize that I
am a becoming a role model for other students and agree to conduct myself in a manner that will
make my parents, teachers, and administrators proud. I am aware that I must demonstrate
knowledge of this constitution before I am allowed to perform.
__________________________________ ______________
Signature Date
I have read the Staley High School Dance Team Constitution and understand all the requirements.
By signing this contract, I am giving my permission for ____________________________ to join
for the 2008-2009 school year. I understand my parental commitment and agree to the terms of the
constitution.
________________________________ _____________
Parent/Guardian Date

Monday, May 12, 2008

High school at its best...

Today, we're watching a video in class. I gave specific instructions to remain silent during the video.
As a girl, began talking to her friend during the video, I shot her a stare. Once she noticed she responded with, "Oh, dont even tell me to be quiet, b/c I probably wont".

My response: "Well, I won't tell you that then, but I will tell you to get out of my class and go sit in the hall and write a page to your teacher telling her why you weren't allowed to watch the video".

Point made...

Thursday, May 01, 2008

You might be wondering...

What happened today in High School...

After I have the class working with a partner on their "Poems", I look up and notice that one student has taken the "dry erase solution" from the front of the room and squirted it into his partners face.

**Why didn't I think of this discipline method earlier?**

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Today in High School, continued...

A girl sitting in front of my desk...(with the room DEAD silent)

"WOW, I like, I like, have mind powers..."

"I answered the who and the what in the first portion of the question, then it asked me about the what in the second portion. Wow, do you see how I beat the book, I knew what it was going to ask, I have mind powers"...

**No way does a High School textbook lead you into possible answers, nor does it try to provoke certain thoughts...**

Today in High School...

I was giving simple instructions at the start of the hour to read certain pages in the English textbook. From the back of the room a student yells.
"What, wait? Can you repeat that?"...

Everyone turns and looks at the student...who had her iPod in, music blaring...

**Do you wonder why you couldn't hear me?...**

Monday, April 28, 2008

Overheard

Although the school year is winding down, I'll try to give you a brief sample of my daily encounters and interactions...

1) A girl talking about how she has to write a paper, "I'm going to write mine over how I am not a religion, I don't believe in God".

2) A student, who just had a baby son born about 2 months ago, wont be allowed back in the house of his girlfriend for 2 weeks b/c, "That chick's mom got some crazy boyfriend and thinks I'm bad news. I'll wipe his a$$ out quick if he doesn't let me see my boy and my girl".

Sometimes, things just catch your attention...these would be the two that did today...

Oh, and right before I log off...

I'm subbing in a "Resource study hall", which is a self contained study hall for kids with special needs...

Check this interaction:
Student A: "I haven't had a very good day today"
Student B: "Why, what happened?"
Student A: "I just have to hang around a bunch of retarded kids"...

Now the conversation is on recycling...I think I'm done for the day...holy crap...

Golf

The weather allowed for my favorite spring/summer activity...golf...

I was able to play 18 holes on both Saturday and Sunday at 2 different courses (by the way, I walked both times and it was a good workout,something I'm going to try to do the majority of the time I play). First time out I flirted with 100, second time out I was well under, probably mid 90's. For the first two times out, I was pleased.

Now it's time to perfect the swing b/c Friday I head over to Salina to play in a Tournament Saturday morning.

Only problem is now, I have no excuse if I don't play well...

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Job

As the process continues on, more information has come out. I have just found out today that they are doing more interviews next Monday (who knows when else, but for sure Monday).

I was hopeful that I would know something by today, but it sounds like I won't know anything for at least another week.

I suppose in times like these it's really important to have patience and faith.

Monday, April 21, 2008

Impatiently waiting...

I'm waiting, trying to patiently, regarding the Men's Basketball job I interviewed for last week. Hopefully I will know something this week.

Sooner the better!

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Interview

Yesterday, April 16th, I was able to experience one of the cooler things that has ever happened.

I was able to interview for a Head Basketball job at a local high school. The process, the questions, the presentation, all contributed to a pretty sweet experience.

I am now in a wait and see mode, but am hopeful that I hear something soon.

They asked me a couple of really interesting questions, things to think about...

-If you had no restrictions in your life, what would you be doing?
-What are the two accomplishments you are most proud of?
- What would you say to a player who told you he wanted to be treated "fairly"

Just some things to think about, I know I thought they were all good questions, very thought provoking.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Thanks

Thanks for all of you who have inquired about my dad.

He made it home on Tuesday, 8th, and is resting at home. He is about 70%, but is quickly gaining each day. We're all super excited that things have progressed as they have.

Thanks for those of you who do read, I am going to try to make an effort to update it more.

MAC

Monday, April 07, 2008

Update

For those of you that still read, thanks...also, here is an update.

My father had brain surgery on Thursday, April 3rd, to repair an aneurysm that had developed. He is resting comfortably in the hospital and is hopeful to be released middle of the week.

Prognoses is 100% full recovery and we are just super excited that it was detected.

Thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers, it's no wonder that he is doing so well.

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Tuesday, December 04, 2007

Chili Cook-off

Frank: "Recently, I was honored to be selected as a judge at a chili
cook-off. The original person called in sick at the last moment and I
happened to be standing there at the judge's table asking for directions
to the Coors Light truck, when the call came in. I was assured by the
other two judges (Native Texans) that the chili wouldn't be all that
spicy and, besides, they told me I could have free beer during the
tasting, so I accepted".

Here are the scorecard notes from the event:

CHILI # 1 - MIKE'S MANIAC MONSTER CHILI...

Judge # 1 -- A little too heavy on the tomato. Amusing kick.

Judge # 2 -- Nice, smooth tomato flavor. Very mild.

Judge # 3 (Frank) -- Holy shit, what the hell is this stuff? You could
remove dried paint from your driveway. Took me two beers to put the
flames out. I hope that's the worst one. These Texans are crazy.

CHILI # 2 - AUSTIN'S AFTERBURNER CHILI...

Judge # 1 -- Smoky, with a hint of pork. Slight jalapeno tang.

Judge # 2 -- Exciting BBQ flavor, needs more peppers to be taken
seriously.

Judge # 3 -- Keep this out of the reach of children. I'm not sure what
I'm supposed to taste besides pain. I had to wave off two people who
wanted to give me the Heimlich maneuver. They had to rush in more beer when
they saw the look on my face.

CHILI # 3 - FRED'S FAMOUS BURN DOWN THE BARN CHILI...

Judge # 1 -- Excellent firehouse chili. Great kick.

Judge # 2 -- A bit salty, good use of peppers.

Judge # 3 -- Call the EPA. I've located a uranium spill. My nose feels
like I have been snorting Drano. Everyone knows the routine by now. Get
me more beer before I ignite. Barmaid pounded me on the back, now my
backbone is in the front part of my chest. I'm getting shit-faced from
all of the beer.

CHILI # 4 - BUBBA'S BLACK MAGIC...

Judge # 1 -- Black bean chili with almost no spice. Disappointing.

Judge # 2 -- Hint of lime in the black beans. Good side dish for fish or other mild foods, not much of a chili.

Judge # 3 -- I felt something scraping across my tongue, but was unable to taste it. Is it possible to burn out taste buds? Sally, the beermaid,
was standing behind me with fresh refills. That 300-LB woman is starting to
look HOT...just like this nuclear waste I'm eating! Is chili an aphrodisiac?

CHILI # 5 LISA'S LEGAL LIP REMOVER...

Judge # 1 -- Meaty, strong chili. Cayenne peppers freshly ground, adding

considerable kick. Very impressive.

Judge # 2 -- Chili using shredded beef, could use more tomato. Must
admit the cayenne peppers make a strong statement.

Judge # 3 -- My ears are ringing, sweat is pouring off my forehead and I
can no longer focus my eyes. I farted and four people behind me needed
paramedics. The contestant seemed offended when I told her that her
chili had given me brain damage. Sally saved my tongue from bleeding by
pouring beer directly on it from the pitcher. I wonder if I'm burning my lips
off. It really pisses me off that the other judges asked me to stop
screaming.
Screw those rednecks.

CHILI # 6 - VERA'S VERY VEGETARIAN VARIETY...

Judge # 1 -- Thin yet bold vegetarian variety chili. Good balance of
spices and peppers.

Judge # 2 -- The best yet. Aggressive use of peppers, onions, and
garlic.Superb.

Judge # 3 -- My intestines are now a straight pipe filled with gaseous,
sulfuric flames. I shit on myself when I farted and I'm worried it will
eat through the chair. No one seems inclined to stand behind me except
that Sally. Can't feel my lips anymore. I need to wipe my ass with a
snow cone.

CHILI # 7 - SUSAN'S SCREAMING SENSATION CHILI..

Judge # 1 -- A mediocre chili with too much reliance on canned peppers.

Judge # 2 -- Ho hum, tastes as if the chef literally threw in a can of
chili peppers at the last moment.
**I should take note that I am worried about Judge # 3.
He appears to be in a bit of distress as he is cursing
uncontrollably.

Judge # 3 -- You could put a grenade in my mouth, pull the pin, and I
wouldn't feel a thing. I've lost sight in one eye, and the world sounds
like it is made of rushing water. My shirt is covered with chili, which
slid unnoticed out of my mouth. My pants are full of lava to match my
shirt. At least during the autopsy, they'll know what killed me. I've
decided to stop breathing it's too painful. Screw it; I'm not getting
any oxygen anyway. If I need air, I'll just suck it in through the 4-inch
hole in my stomach.

CHILI # 8 - BIG TOM'S TOENAIL CURLING CHILI...

Judge # 1 -- The perfect ending, this is a nice blend chili. Not too
bold but spicy enough to declare its existence.

Judge # 2 -- This final entry is a good, balanced chili. Neither mild
nor hot. Sorry to see that most of it was lost when Judge #3 farted, passed
out, fell over and pulled the chili pot down on top of himself. Not sure
if he's going to make it. poor feller, wonder how he'd have reacted to
really hot chili?

Judge # 3 - No Report