78 and holding. No, I am not referring to the current temperature (although I think it is quite interesting that Florida is experiencing cooler weather than most of the US...yet there is still a debate about climate change). But I digress. As many of you know, I have been focusing on my health this year. Through diet and exercise (as well as the support of my doctor and family and friends), I have lost 78 pounds since the beginning of January. No small feat. However, I have been holding at 78 pounds lost for over 6 weeks. I should be happy...I will get happy...but plateaus BLOW. Especially when you continue to do the work! I know I need to be patient...but I never seem to have enough patience for anything. I need my competitive "state" to kick in ASAP! My initial goal was 111 in 2011 (what can I say...I'm gay and I LOVE a theme, so sue me!).
In reality, the past 6 weeks have been filled with an intensity that my old body may not have been able to sustain. Between the 25th Anniversary concert for the band (as well as other band issues that I was tending too) and transitioning into my new job, I should be thankful that I did not gain weight!!! The interesting thing about plateaus is that you are surrounded by ledges. Falling off the ledge is not an option...there is no going back.
I am excited about my family vacation this weekend and I am sure I will be blogging along the way. Then I will re-focus on my diet when I return. Stay tuned...
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Welcome Wagon
"Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing."
Theodore Roosevelt
Dear Colleagues,
Please join me in welcoming Adam DeRosa as the new Coordinator of the Career Center here at South. Adam started July 1st and replaces Kathleen Rhoad who retired last year. Mr. DeRosa’s primary focus will be to work closely with the Associate Deans and Program Managers, particularly in the Career and Technical programs, to equip our graduating students with the requisite skills to successfully apply, interview and secure employment. Additionally, he will develop partnerships with local, national businesses and Workforce One to provide internship opportunities and employment for students earning career and technical degrees. Mr. DeRosa will also work closely with the Student Affairs Leadership Team to develop a process that provides career assessment and career information to our students, thereby ensuring that all students have ‘defined themselves’ so they can ‘Finish What They Start’.
Mr. DeRosa has a Master of Science in Higher Education from The Florida State University and brings lots of experience from both K-12 and higher education. His most recent experience includes serving as the Director of Student Services and Director of New Student Orientation at Everglades University and Florida Atlantic University respectively. He has also taught the College Success Skills course both at the North Campus of Broward College and Florida Atlantic University.
Mr. DeRosa is located in the Career Center, building 68, room 100 and his extension is 8865. Please stop by and give him a warm South Campus welcome.
Janice Stubbs
Dean of Students,
Broward College, South Campus
I am excited about the opportunity I have to make a difference on this campus. Thanks to my family and friends for supporting me through this transition.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
May I Speak With The Manager?
Dear Ryan,
My name is Adam DeRosa and I went to see Super 8 at your theater on Friday, July 8th at 7:05PM. I usually go to the Regal Cinema on Cypress Creek, but Super 8 was only playing there after 9PM. When I was exiting the theater at approximately 9PM, I decided to get a refill of my large soda. When I got to the lobby concession stand, there was only one person behind the counter, and the line was about 12 people deep. Coincidentally, there was a group of about 4 employees (all in the maroon polos) on the benches in the lobby. I went up to the ticket taker and asked why there was only one person working in the concession stand. He said the other employees were "on their break". I immediately asked to see the manager on duty. Katherine came to see me about 5 minutes later. By this time, the 4 employees in the lobby had literally jumped over the counters to attend to the long line of customers. When I told Katherine what I had witnessed, she explained that there was a one hour break between films and the concession stand workers needed to take their breaks. As you can imagine, this answer infuriated me, so I ended the conversation and immediately asked for your business card.
Katherine then walked over the the concession stand and yelled at the employees saying something to the effect of "I told you to take your polos off during your break!" I know this to be true because, at this point, my partner was in the line, waiting to get our soda refilled.
I am sending this email to you because I have managed employees for years, most of which were high school and college age students. I also worked at a movie theater when I was their age and know that employee breaks are NEVER allowed to be taken within view of the customers, especially in uniform. Granted, I was on my way out of the theater, but is this the kind of customer service Regal strives for...I doubt it. As the manager, I wanted you to know what was happening at your theater after 9PM on a Friday evening. I am not sure we will be returning to your theater anytime in the near future, but my partner and I are members of the Regal Cinemas Loyalty Program and would like to continue to patronize your company. However, the employees I encountered on Friday evening, especially Katherine, will make me twice about going back to any theater you manage.
Sincerely,
Adam DeRosa
My name is Adam DeRosa and I went to see Super 8 at your theater on Friday, July 8th at 7:05PM. I usually go to the Regal Cinema on Cypress Creek, but Super 8 was only playing there after 9PM. When I was exiting the theater at approximately 9PM, I decided to get a refill of my large soda. When I got to the lobby concession stand, there was only one person behind the counter, and the line was about 12 people deep. Coincidentally, there was a group of about 4 employees (all in the maroon polos) on the benches in the lobby. I went up to the ticket taker and asked why there was only one person working in the concession stand. He said the other employees were "on their break". I immediately asked to see the manager on duty. Katherine came to see me about 5 minutes later. By this time, the 4 employees in the lobby had literally jumped over the counters to attend to the long line of customers. When I told Katherine what I had witnessed, she explained that there was a one hour break between films and the concession stand workers needed to take their breaks. As you can imagine, this answer infuriated me, so I ended the conversation and immediately asked for your business card.
Katherine then walked over the the concession stand and yelled at the employees saying something to the effect of "I told you to take your polos off during your break!" I know this to be true because, at this point, my partner was in the line, waiting to get our soda refilled.
I am sending this email to you because I have managed employees for years, most of which were high school and college age students. I also worked at a movie theater when I was their age and know that employee breaks are NEVER allowed to be taken within view of the customers, especially in uniform. Granted, I was on my way out of the theater, but is this the kind of customer service Regal strives for...I doubt it. As the manager, I wanted you to know what was happening at your theater after 9PM on a Friday evening. I am not sure we will be returning to your theater anytime in the near future, but my partner and I are members of the Regal Cinemas Loyalty Program and would like to continue to patronize your company. However, the employees I encountered on Friday evening, especially Katherine, will make me twice about going back to any theater you manage.
Sincerely,
Adam DeRosa
His Reply
Mr. DeRosa,
Thank you for taking the time to email about your experience at my location on July 8th. At Regal we strive to exceed our guest expectations and it is obvious that we failed with regards to your wait in the concession line. For your inconvenience I would like to mail you two passes that are good at any Regal Cinemas location; if you would email me your address I can get those in the mail for you. I will look into this incident further with all employees involved. I am also going to use your letter as a training tool at my next employee meeting to help prevent situations like this from occurring again.
Thanks,
Ryan Walton
General Manager
Oakwood Stadium 18 (#10-0463)
2800 Oakwood Blvd.
Hollywood, Fl. 33020
954-923-4321 (Office)
954-923-5203 (Fax)
Monday, July 11, 2011
Just Lame Duck-y
So much has changed for me in the past 7 years. 5 different jobs. 100+ pounds gained and lost. 3 different addresses. 1 walk down the aisle. Being Band President has been the only constant aspect of my life...and in a few short months, I will be passing the gavel. I am both excited and frightened.
When I become Band President, I was a 29 year old "know-it-all" who lived a life of extremes (too much fast food, too many Bud Lights, a few too many one night stands). The only thing I was really serious about was band, which is why I was so willing to devote my life to it.
By year 2, I was in a job I hated, I was gaining more and more weight, and I was getting drunk every Friday night at Bill's Filling Station. However, in one December weekend, my life completely changed. I met John, we went on our first date...and, after 12 years of service, the Band Director resigned. Yes, this all happened in the course of 48 hours!
In my tenure as Band President, I have experienced a lot of "firsts". The "first" Artistic Director selection process brought Dan Bassett into my life. He had the guts to push for real changes and improvements, starting with the band's name. His vision, leadership, and creativity have catapulted our band in the stratosphere. The "first" $10,000 grant award from The John Graves Charitable Fund literally opened doors for the band...enabling us to produce two concerts at the Broward Center, purchase all sorts of new equipment, and provide a salary for the Artistic Director. The "first" LGBA conference in New Orleans which included coordinating the "first" concert in a casino and the "first" marching band in a parade on Bourbon Street since the 1970s. The Obama Inaugural Parade, performing at Carnegie Hall with the Big Apple Corps, attending the Gay Games in Cologne, Germany...some of the highlights of my life are directly connected to being in the band. Sure, there have been some tough times; but with every trying experience, valuable lessons were gained.
Next week, I will begin my final Presidential lap with a Strategic Planning Meeting to engage the band members as we chart the course for the next 25 years, followed by the first rehearsal of our 26th concert season. I will always be a part of the South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble. However, my life is no longer about extremes. I have a husband who has tolerated...and supported my band involvement and somehow found time to love me along the way. I have begun to pay more attention to my health, losing 80 pounds since January and significantly reducing my alcohol use. I have finally found a job that seems to "fit" and I look forward to bringing my "A" game to the office everyday. Without a doubt, I know it is time for me to step down, pass the reigns, and become the biggest advocate for whoever becomes the next President. Ready...Set...Letting Go!
When I become Band President, I was a 29 year old "know-it-all" who lived a life of extremes (too much fast food, too many Bud Lights, a few too many one night stands). The only thing I was really serious about was band, which is why I was so willing to devote my life to it.
By year 2, I was in a job I hated, I was gaining more and more weight, and I was getting drunk every Friday night at Bill's Filling Station. However, in one December weekend, my life completely changed. I met John, we went on our first date...and, after 12 years of service, the Band Director resigned. Yes, this all happened in the course of 48 hours!
In my tenure as Band President, I have experienced a lot of "firsts". The "first" Artistic Director selection process brought Dan Bassett into my life. He had the guts to push for real changes and improvements, starting with the band's name. His vision, leadership, and creativity have catapulted our band in the stratosphere. The "first" $10,000 grant award from The John Graves Charitable Fund literally opened doors for the band...enabling us to produce two concerts at the Broward Center, purchase all sorts of new equipment, and provide a salary for the Artistic Director. The "first" LGBA conference in New Orleans which included coordinating the "first" concert in a casino and the "first" marching band in a parade on Bourbon Street since the 1970s. The Obama Inaugural Parade, performing at Carnegie Hall with the Big Apple Corps, attending the Gay Games in Cologne, Germany...some of the highlights of my life are directly connected to being in the band. Sure, there have been some tough times; but with every trying experience, valuable lessons were gained.
Next week, I will begin my final Presidential lap with a Strategic Planning Meeting to engage the band members as we chart the course for the next 25 years, followed by the first rehearsal of our 26th concert season. I will always be a part of the South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble. However, my life is no longer about extremes. I have a husband who has tolerated...and supported my band involvement and somehow found time to love me along the way. I have begun to pay more attention to my health, losing 80 pounds since January and significantly reducing my alcohol use. I have finally found a job that seems to "fit" and I look forward to bringing my "A" game to the office everyday. Without a doubt, I know it is time for me to step down, pass the reigns, and become the biggest advocate for whoever becomes the next President. Ready...Set...Letting Go!
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Where in the world is Carmen Electra (and who in the world cares)?
I watched So You Think You Can Dance for the first time last night. I know, I know...how can a reality TV junkie not have this show on his DVR priority list? As I was watching last night's show, I realized how much I have learned about the world of dance from working at the Harid Conservatory. I was quite critical of the dancers and the choreography (as I HAPPILY finished a pizza with my sister, Jeane, and my cousin, Jason). I completely understood all the hype and was pretty entertained by the show...until Carmen Electra showed up. I guess the judging panel has a guest every week (and not fun guests like Kathy Griffin, Margaret Cho, or LaToya Jackson...RuPaul's Drag Race, start your engines...).
What does Carmen Electra know about dancing? Probably as much as she knows about acting. When did this bimbo become famous? Wasn't she Pam Anderson's replacement? Don't be shocked. I have never seen Baywatch and could not stomach the idea looking Carmen Electra up my IMDB app. I have a very judgmental iPhone...I will definitely blog about "her" later.
Bottom line, I refuse to get hooked on SYTYCD. It would be easy to blame it all on Carmen Electra. However, this reality television junkie knows that messing around with the judging panel is like "jumping the shark" for the 21st Century. Just ask Simon Cowell.
What does Carmen Electra know about dancing? Probably as much as she knows about acting. When did this bimbo become famous? Wasn't she Pam Anderson's replacement? Don't be shocked. I have never seen Baywatch and could not stomach the idea looking Carmen Electra up my IMDB app. I have a very judgmental iPhone...I will definitely blog about "her" later.
Bottom line, I refuse to get hooked on SYTYCD. It would be easy to blame it all on Carmen Electra. However, this reality television junkie knows that messing around with the judging panel is like "jumping the shark" for the 21st Century. Just ask Simon Cowell.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Office Hoarders
I am obsessed with the show Hoarders. In fact, one of my favorite pastimes during my morning walk is identifying the Hoarder Houses in my neighborhood and tracking their progress. Karma surfaced today as I began cleaning my new office. The previous Career Center Coordinator was an absolute Office Hoarder. Here is the evidence:
1. 10 legal pads with less than 5 sheets of paper remaining. Why? Was she worried about a lack of hard surfaces to write upon?
2. 5 copies of the Broward College Catalog from 2002, labeled as Office Copy on the front. Was there a shortage of these publications that year? I totally wanted to correct her grammar and write Office Copies on all 5!
3. 4 manual letter openers. Fan mail? Multiple bills from FPL? Why on earth does someone need more than 1 of these?
As it turns out, I will not be back in my office until Monday. The hoard will have wait another week...
1. 10 legal pads with less than 5 sheets of paper remaining. Why? Was she worried about a lack of hard surfaces to write upon?
2. 5 copies of the Broward College Catalog from 2002, labeled as Office Copy on the front. Was there a shortage of these publications that year? I totally wanted to correct her grammar and write Office Copies on all 5!
3. 4 manual letter openers. Fan mail? Multiple bills from FPL? Why on earth does someone need more than 1 of these?
As it turns out, I will not be back in my office until Monday. The hoard will have wait another week...
Monday, July 4, 2011
Matthew Morrison Needed to Shave
Independence Day and I am starting a blog. Alanis Morissette-type irony!
I am watching "A Capitol Fourth" and will follow up with New York and Boston...lots of fireworks and music. Was excited to see a slim Jordin Sparks sing the National Anthem. It's nice to see an actual American Idol with a paying gig (Carrie Underwood does not count...country music fans are loyal to a fault, just ask the Dixie Chicks). Next up, Matthew Morrision...wow, I have missed GLEE. Then he sings an original song, yuck...should have gone with God Bless the USA. Next up, a duet with Kelli O'Hara (a Broadway diva I am not too familiar). Tonight from West Side Story (good choice, Mr. Shue). As I look up from my iPad, I see your profile on the TV screen. Holy Facial Hair, Matthew Morrison. Try Gilette Fusion.
On a well deserved break from band as far as rehearsals are concerned. However, lots of work to be done to get ready for the Strategic Planning meeting on July 20th and the Youth Pride Band. Fireworks to being shortly. Thanks to Jennifer Metts and Becca Gross for the inspiration to start this site (I have been lurking on your blogs for sometime). Until next time...
I am watching "A Capitol Fourth" and will follow up with New York and Boston...lots of fireworks and music. Was excited to see a slim Jordin Sparks sing the National Anthem. It's nice to see an actual American Idol with a paying gig (Carrie Underwood does not count...country music fans are loyal to a fault, just ask the Dixie Chicks). Next up, Matthew Morrision...wow, I have missed GLEE. Then he sings an original song, yuck...should have gone with God Bless the USA. Next up, a duet with Kelli O'Hara (a Broadway diva I am not too familiar). Tonight from West Side Story (good choice, Mr. Shue). As I look up from my iPad, I see your profile on the TV screen. Holy Facial Hair, Matthew Morrison. Try Gilette Fusion.
On a well deserved break from band as far as rehearsals are concerned. However, lots of work to be done to get ready for the Strategic Planning meeting on July 20th and the Youth Pride Band. Fireworks to being shortly. Thanks to Jennifer Metts and Becca Gross for the inspiration to start this site (I have been lurking on your blogs for sometime). Until next time...
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