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Table of contents for How to meet famous people
Prologue
1. How I Met Richard Nixon
2. After My Nixon Visit
3. Creative Ideas for Meeting Famous People
7. Richard Snowden – The Front Row Joe
8. How I Met the Vice President of NBC
9. Meeting Celebrities at the 1980 GOP Convention
10. Returning to the RNC
11. How to Meet Someone Famous - A Summary
1. How I Met Richard Nixon
2. After My Nixon Visit
3. Creative Ideas for Meeting Famous People
- Meeting the Current President.
- Meeting former Presidents
- Meeting Jimmy Carter
- Meeting Steve Jobs
- Meeting The Bee Gees
- Meeting Sport Celebrities
- Celebrities Returning to their Home Towns
- Looking for a Celebrity Near their Residence
- Date a Celebrity
- Meet and Greet
- Autographs through the Mail
- Autographs at Offices
- Live Theater
- Live Television Shows
- Vegas Shows
- Paid Live Video Chats
- The Jimmy Kimmel Show
- Comic Cons and Festivals
- Photo and Autograph Shows
- Churches
- Elected Officials
- Fan Web Sites
- Meeting Paul McCartney
- Meeting George Harrison
- Meeting Taylor Swift
- Meeting Steven Spielberg
- Meeting John Malkovich
- Meeting Doug Collins
- Meeting Chris Kattan
- Meeting Justice Sotomayor
- Meeting Gorbachev
- Meeting Betty White
- New York Parties
- Meeting Matthew Broderick and Nathan Lane
- Meeting Harrison Ford
7. Richard Snowden – The Front Row Joe
8. How I Met the Vice President of NBC
9. Meeting Celebrities at the 1980 GOP Convention
10. Returning to the RNC
11. How to Meet Someone Famous - A Summary
- How To Get A Meeting
- Things You Can Do to Lay the Foundation
- Places to Meet Celebrities
- When Seeing A Famous Person
- How To Get Autographs.
- One Final Thought
- Agenda & Budget for my 1978 Trip
- My 1980 Republican Convention Newspaper Article
EXCERPTS FROM How to meet famous people
From " How to Meet Famous People" page 72-75
MEETING CELEBRITIES IN UNEXPECTED PLACES
Sometimes, all you have to do is be at the right place at the right time. When you are at a gas station in Downstate Illinois, you are not expected to run into Paul McCartney. When attending a funeral in Southern Illinois you are not expected to run into Stephen Spielberg. When streaming on social media, you’re not expecting for Taylor Swift to be watching. I have a few stories of people that met celebrities in very unexpected places.
Meeting Paul McCartney
Something amazing happened in Springfield, Illinois on August 2, 2008. A group of five Springfield guys (Josh Lowder, C. J. Lowder, Jared Lowder, Cory Neuhoff and Jeremy Judd) were on their way to a St. Louis Cardinals ball game. They stopped at Circle-K gas station in Springfield to pick up some snacks.
They thought they saw someone that looked like Paul McCartney of the Beatles leaving the rest room. “No way!”, they thought. He walked through the gas station store and no one else noticed him. Why would such a famous person be in Springfield, Illinois on a hot day in August?
They followed him outside and asked him if he was Paul McCartney. He replied “yes” in a British accent. They asked if they could get a quick photo and he agreed. His girlfriend at the time, Nancy Shevell, actually took the photo. They told Paul that they were going to a ballgame in St. Louis. Paul told them that he was on his way to St. Louis too. He got into a Ford Broncho with New York plates and drove away.
After the game, the guys called the Springfield newspaper, The State Journal-Register. The newspaper printed the photo on the front page of the paper. It quickly became the talk of the town, however a lot of people thought it may have been an impersonator.
Their reported siting was later confirmed by the national media. The photo was first authenticated by The Mirror, a United Kingdom newspaper. It was the unique belt Paul was wearing that they identified as the same one he had worn in England. Paul McCarthy’s agent later confirmed that Paul and his girlfriend Nancy Shevell, were driving across country on Old Route 66 as an adventure.
After the photo was printed in the Springfield newspaper, it was picked up by media outlets throughout the world. The guys became instant celebrities themselves with their photo appearing everywhere. The guys were interviewed by the New York Daily News, The Chicago Sun-Times, the London Daily Mail, USA Today, WGN Radio and many other newspapers and radio stations. They received calls from media outlets in Spain, France and Denmark.
Paul McCartney was also seen in Chicago by one lucky guy, when he rolled his window down and asked for directions. He later was spotted at the Route 66 Welcome Center in the Joliet, Illinois area. It was reported that Paul asked the employees there, what the proper pronunciation of the word “Route” was.
There is a nice video on YouTube from WGN Channel 9 TV News from Chicago titled, “Lucky Illinois Man Tells of Meeting Paul McCartney.” There are several stories on the internet about it as well, just search for “Paul McCartney in Illinois.”
I found this story amazing. I have even been to the same gas station. The lesson here is, if you see someone that may be a celebrity in a location that seems impossible, follow through. If the guys didn’t ask for a photo, the story would have been that they may have seen Paul McCartney or someone that looked like Paul McCartney. The photo was what authenticated the story. Second, if they did not call a reporter, their story would not have been told and the photo would not have been authenticated either.
Meeting George Harrison
Can you imagine meeting a long haired boy with a British accent that said he was in a group in England called “The Beatles"? Well, this actually happened to Dorothy Burkitt and several others in September 1963 in Southern Illinois.
A few months before the Beatles made their legendary appearance on the Ed Sullivan show, George Harrison came to the USA to visit his sister Louise Caldwell, who was living in Benton, Illinois at the time. He was the first Beatle on American soil. Dorothy Burkitt and her husband were serving as chaperones at the old West Frankfort Teen Town when she met George Harrison. George told her that he played in a band in England called the Beatles. Dorothy laughed and said, “Why would you name a group after an insect?” They talked for a long time and George said that he was visiting over from England with this sister and wanted to hear some live music. A few months later she saw the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan show and told her husband, “Oh, my gosh, there’s that kid that came to our teen town,” she said. “He was telling the truth!”
During his visit to Southern Illinois, George Harrison went to several record stores to purchase records. He even bought the guitar he used on the Ed Sullivan show at a music shop in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. George and his sister went to a local radio station for an interview and brought a copy of the record “She Loves You” which had been released three weeks earlier in Britain. They played the record live, even though probably no one had heard it before. The song actually got a positive review by Billboard magazine a few weeks prior, but got very little airplay in the USA.
On September 28, 1963 there was a dance at the VFW with music by a local group, The Four Vests. George and Louise attended the dance and George played guitar with the band. George didn’t sing any Beatle songs but he did sing two songs by Chuck Berry. A few days later, George filled in for the lead guitarist for The Four Vests at the Bocce Ball Club in Benton. George played with the group for two hours. The attendees were quite impressed with George’s performance. It was really exciting for all of those who met George during his first trip to the USA. However, at the time, they had no idea that he would in just a few weeks, become one of the world’s most famous musicians.
When driving south bound on US Route 57 before the Benton, Illinois exit, you will see a large one-of-a-kind mural titled, “George Comes to Benton” painted by California artist John Cerney. They also have a Beatles Music Festival every year. In 2017, Louise returned to Benton once again to dedicate a plaque in the public square to mark the visit of “The First Beatle in America”.
A book was published in 2000 by Jim Kirkpatrick, titled “Before He Was Fab: George Harrison’s First American Visit.” The author does an outstanding job documenting all that George did during his visit with lots of photos. I highly recommend this book.
When you meet new people, remember their names because someday they may be famous!
(Copyrighted Material - Use of this materials is prohibited without written consent of the Author)
MEETING CELEBRITIES IN UNEXPECTED PLACES
Sometimes, all you have to do is be at the right place at the right time. When you are at a gas station in Downstate Illinois, you are not expected to run into Paul McCartney. When attending a funeral in Southern Illinois you are not expected to run into Stephen Spielberg. When streaming on social media, you’re not expecting for Taylor Swift to be watching. I have a few stories of people that met celebrities in very unexpected places.
Meeting Paul McCartney
Something amazing happened in Springfield, Illinois on August 2, 2008. A group of five Springfield guys (Josh Lowder, C. J. Lowder, Jared Lowder, Cory Neuhoff and Jeremy Judd) were on their way to a St. Louis Cardinals ball game. They stopped at Circle-K gas station in Springfield to pick up some snacks.
They thought they saw someone that looked like Paul McCartney of the Beatles leaving the rest room. “No way!”, they thought. He walked through the gas station store and no one else noticed him. Why would such a famous person be in Springfield, Illinois on a hot day in August?
They followed him outside and asked him if he was Paul McCartney. He replied “yes” in a British accent. They asked if they could get a quick photo and he agreed. His girlfriend at the time, Nancy Shevell, actually took the photo. They told Paul that they were going to a ballgame in St. Louis. Paul told them that he was on his way to St. Louis too. He got into a Ford Broncho with New York plates and drove away.
After the game, the guys called the Springfield newspaper, The State Journal-Register. The newspaper printed the photo on the front page of the paper. It quickly became the talk of the town, however a lot of people thought it may have been an impersonator.
Their reported siting was later confirmed by the national media. The photo was first authenticated by The Mirror, a United Kingdom newspaper. It was the unique belt Paul was wearing that they identified as the same one he had worn in England. Paul McCarthy’s agent later confirmed that Paul and his girlfriend Nancy Shevell, were driving across country on Old Route 66 as an adventure.
After the photo was printed in the Springfield newspaper, it was picked up by media outlets throughout the world. The guys became instant celebrities themselves with their photo appearing everywhere. The guys were interviewed by the New York Daily News, The Chicago Sun-Times, the London Daily Mail, USA Today, WGN Radio and many other newspapers and radio stations. They received calls from media outlets in Spain, France and Denmark.
Paul McCartney was also seen in Chicago by one lucky guy, when he rolled his window down and asked for directions. He later was spotted at the Route 66 Welcome Center in the Joliet, Illinois area. It was reported that Paul asked the employees there, what the proper pronunciation of the word “Route” was.
There is a nice video on YouTube from WGN Channel 9 TV News from Chicago titled, “Lucky Illinois Man Tells of Meeting Paul McCartney.” There are several stories on the internet about it as well, just search for “Paul McCartney in Illinois.”
I found this story amazing. I have even been to the same gas station. The lesson here is, if you see someone that may be a celebrity in a location that seems impossible, follow through. If the guys didn’t ask for a photo, the story would have been that they may have seen Paul McCartney or someone that looked like Paul McCartney. The photo was what authenticated the story. Second, if they did not call a reporter, their story would not have been told and the photo would not have been authenticated either.
Meeting George Harrison
Can you imagine meeting a long haired boy with a British accent that said he was in a group in England called “The Beatles"? Well, this actually happened to Dorothy Burkitt and several others in September 1963 in Southern Illinois.
A few months before the Beatles made their legendary appearance on the Ed Sullivan show, George Harrison came to the USA to visit his sister Louise Caldwell, who was living in Benton, Illinois at the time. He was the first Beatle on American soil. Dorothy Burkitt and her husband were serving as chaperones at the old West Frankfort Teen Town when she met George Harrison. George told her that he played in a band in England called the Beatles. Dorothy laughed and said, “Why would you name a group after an insect?” They talked for a long time and George said that he was visiting over from England with this sister and wanted to hear some live music. A few months later she saw the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan show and told her husband, “Oh, my gosh, there’s that kid that came to our teen town,” she said. “He was telling the truth!”
During his visit to Southern Illinois, George Harrison went to several record stores to purchase records. He even bought the guitar he used on the Ed Sullivan show at a music shop in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. George and his sister went to a local radio station for an interview and brought a copy of the record “She Loves You” which had been released three weeks earlier in Britain. They played the record live, even though probably no one had heard it before. The song actually got a positive review by Billboard magazine a few weeks prior, but got very little airplay in the USA.
On September 28, 1963 there was a dance at the VFW with music by a local group, The Four Vests. George and Louise attended the dance and George played guitar with the band. George didn’t sing any Beatle songs but he did sing two songs by Chuck Berry. A few days later, George filled in for the lead guitarist for The Four Vests at the Bocce Ball Club in Benton. George played with the group for two hours. The attendees were quite impressed with George’s performance. It was really exciting for all of those who met George during his first trip to the USA. However, at the time, they had no idea that he would in just a few weeks, become one of the world’s most famous musicians.
When driving south bound on US Route 57 before the Benton, Illinois exit, you will see a large one-of-a-kind mural titled, “George Comes to Benton” painted by California artist John Cerney. They also have a Beatles Music Festival every year. In 2017, Louise returned to Benton once again to dedicate a plaque in the public square to mark the visit of “The First Beatle in America”.
A book was published in 2000 by Jim Kirkpatrick, titled “Before He Was Fab: George Harrison’s First American Visit.” The author does an outstanding job documenting all that George did during his visit with lots of photos. I highly recommend this book.
When you meet new people, remember their names because someday they may be famous!
(Copyrighted Material - Use of this materials is prohibited without written consent of the Author)
From " How to Meet Famous People" page 139-141
HOW TO GET A MEETING
Research the Person
Learn all you can about the person you want to meet. Find out about their background, where they are from, who are their relatives, who are their friends, where do they go for dinner, where do they live and what do they do for relaxation. All of these will help you in your quest.
Go to a Third Party
Once you have researched the person you want to meet, go to a third party to help you. Befriend one of their relatives or friends, anyone that may know the celebrity. Follow one of their relatives on social media and send them a friend request. If the celebrity goes to your profile, they will see that you are have mutual friends.
Contact their Agent or Staff
The best way to contact a famous person is to go through their agent or staff. You can search the internet to try to find out who their agents are. Most stars have agents, assistants, and publicists. If you get their attention, you are one step closer to meeting the person they work for. Politicians will have a Chief of Staff and many assistants. They can always help you meet their boss.
Be Creative and Have a Reason for a Meeting
Find a reason to meet with the person. It helps to have something to present to the celebrity. In my case, it was to give President Nixon a painting and to thank him for his contributions to the nation from the Illinois Teenage Republicans. Be creative and think of what you could give the celebrity. Here are some ideas: make a scrapbook of articles about the celebrity; make something homemade for the celebrity; draw or paint a picture of the celebrity; present an idea for a movie or play staring the celebrity; or, write a poem about the celebrity. Try to think of something unique that would get their attention.
Ask for an Appointment
You have to ask. Former Presidents normally put time in their office hours to meet people. In a book about Ronald Reagan written by his chief of staff after he left office, she said just that. People wrote letters and asked for an appointment. Often, they got in. If I didn’t write a letter and sought help from others, I would not have gotten the appointment to see President Nixon, Lin Bolen and others.
Ask for an Interview
If you write a blog, do a podcast, newsletter or if you are writing a book contact a famous person and ask for an interview. These can take place on the telephone, through an online meeting service such as Skype, or in person. This goes with the concept that I mentioned previously, a “reason for the meeting.” An interview is a legitimate reason and celebrities want people to write positive things about them.
Be Flexible
If you are asking for a meeting, you need to be flexible with the date and time. I would suggest you give a time period of three weeks. If you get a rejection letter, follow-up with a new time period. This will let them know that you are really serious
Press Coverage
After you meet your celebrity, it is very easy to receive press coverage of the event if you are interested. First, you can post on your social media pages a selfie with the celebrity. If you want an article in your local newspaper, just contact them and tell them your story. Most papers will write something about it and probably print your photo. Local papers are always looking for human interest stories to publish.
If you want to be on television, you can call the local network affiliate stations that cover your market. Tell them your story and ask if they want to put something on the air about it. If you have a unique story, they will probably send a reporter to you. You can also volunteer to come to the station, which may close the deal if their reporters are covering other stories.
You can also write a press release about the event and send it to various media outlets. In the press release, include the “What, Where, When, Who and How” and a copy of your photo with the celebrity. If you are sending this by email, I would recommend that you telephone the station and tell them you want to send them a press release and obtain the best email address to send it.
(Copyrighted Material - Use of this materials is prohibited without written consent of the Author)
HOW TO GET A MEETING
Research the Person
Learn all you can about the person you want to meet. Find out about their background, where they are from, who are their relatives, who are their friends, where do they go for dinner, where do they live and what do they do for relaxation. All of these will help you in your quest.
Go to a Third Party
Once you have researched the person you want to meet, go to a third party to help you. Befriend one of their relatives or friends, anyone that may know the celebrity. Follow one of their relatives on social media and send them a friend request. If the celebrity goes to your profile, they will see that you are have mutual friends.
Contact their Agent or Staff
The best way to contact a famous person is to go through their agent or staff. You can search the internet to try to find out who their agents are. Most stars have agents, assistants, and publicists. If you get their attention, you are one step closer to meeting the person they work for. Politicians will have a Chief of Staff and many assistants. They can always help you meet their boss.
Be Creative and Have a Reason for a Meeting
Find a reason to meet with the person. It helps to have something to present to the celebrity. In my case, it was to give President Nixon a painting and to thank him for his contributions to the nation from the Illinois Teenage Republicans. Be creative and think of what you could give the celebrity. Here are some ideas: make a scrapbook of articles about the celebrity; make something homemade for the celebrity; draw or paint a picture of the celebrity; present an idea for a movie or play staring the celebrity; or, write a poem about the celebrity. Try to think of something unique that would get their attention.
Ask for an Appointment
You have to ask. Former Presidents normally put time in their office hours to meet people. In a book about Ronald Reagan written by his chief of staff after he left office, she said just that. People wrote letters and asked for an appointment. Often, they got in. If I didn’t write a letter and sought help from others, I would not have gotten the appointment to see President Nixon, Lin Bolen and others.
Ask for an Interview
If you write a blog, do a podcast, newsletter or if you are writing a book contact a famous person and ask for an interview. These can take place on the telephone, through an online meeting service such as Skype, or in person. This goes with the concept that I mentioned previously, a “reason for the meeting.” An interview is a legitimate reason and celebrities want people to write positive things about them.
Be Flexible
If you are asking for a meeting, you need to be flexible with the date and time. I would suggest you give a time period of three weeks. If you get a rejection letter, follow-up with a new time period. This will let them know that you are really serious
Press Coverage
After you meet your celebrity, it is very easy to receive press coverage of the event if you are interested. First, you can post on your social media pages a selfie with the celebrity. If you want an article in your local newspaper, just contact them and tell them your story. Most papers will write something about it and probably print your photo. Local papers are always looking for human interest stories to publish.
If you want to be on television, you can call the local network affiliate stations that cover your market. Tell them your story and ask if they want to put something on the air about it. If you have a unique story, they will probably send a reporter to you. You can also volunteer to come to the station, which may close the deal if their reporters are covering other stories.
You can also write a press release about the event and send it to various media outlets. In the press release, include the “What, Where, When, Who and How” and a copy of your photo with the celebrity. If you are sending this by email, I would recommend that you telephone the station and tell them you want to send them a press release and obtain the best email address to send it.
(Copyrighted Material - Use of this materials is prohibited without written consent of the Author)
EXCERPTS FROM While you do your business
I would like to introduce you to my first book, “While You Do Your Business: A Bathroom Reader that Makes you Laugh in all the Right Places.” In the book, I tell humorous and motivational stories that will help you laugh in all the right places, featuring true stories from my real life experiences. From hilarious family tales, to my meeting President Nixon, to being mistaken for an assassin by Jerry Falwell’s bodyguard, you’ll read all about my travels and see how humor popped up everywhere. Also included are my hilarious “complaint letters” and my experiences hosting a foreign exchange student. My goal is that you will go through my book with a smile on your face, laughing yourself silly day in and day out. Best of all, you can accomplish all of this While You Do Your Business !
(212 Pages)
$13.95
CURRENTLY ON SALE FOR $11.95
(212 Pages)
$13.95
CURRENTLY ON SALE FOR $11.95
From "While You Do Your Business" page 14-19
THE CHICAGO LIBRARY RULES
During a recent visit to the Chicago Public Library, I was taken in by a list of rules posted on the wall there. Knowing that these rules would really take “a bite out of crime”, I wanted to do my part for society and share them with you. I present these rules to you as they really appeared, quoted directly with no exaggeration.
The Chicago Public Library - Guidelines Governing the Use of the Library
Please Do Not:
PERSONS WHO FAIL TO OBSERVE THESE GUIDELINES MAY BE ASKED TO LEAVE THE BUILDING OR BE SUBJECT TO ARREST.
Can you believe these rules? What a way to stop crime? I am sure any potential violator will think twice before attempting to commit one of those infractions. They have the strong arm of the Chicago Library Authority to stop them.
Each rule deserves individual comment, so let’s start from the beginning. First, I am glad the Chicago Public Library used the words “Please do not.” The politeness of the library is appreciated. People do not always say “Please” when they should. I am sure that politeness will go a long way in the “Windy City”. Potential violators may stop their behavior in their tracts if they are politely asked not to. I think that our U.S. Criminal Justice system could learn a lesson from the Chicago Public Library!
The first rule covers everything wrong and illegal. It reads “Please do not engage in any illegal activity or behavior.” This covers it all. I am sure that criminals would appreciate this commandment. It would also prevent anyone from going before a judge and saying, “Your honor, I just didn’t know it was wrong to shoot the librarian.” Instead, the criminals are told up front with the rule clearly posted on the wall. Anything that is illegal is prohibited in the library. They must conduct their illegal activity outside.
In case one would not understand or recognize that vandalism is an illegal activity, the Library clearly mentions this in the second rule. It states: “Please do not vandalize library facilities, equipment or materials.” In other words, do not destroy any of their property. This would include the library itself, any computers or other equipment or any of the books.
I am sure that it is necessary to let people know about the anti-vandalism bias of the Library. These days, some people just take these things for granted. In fact, I was thinking about busting one of the computers myself during my visit, until I saw the rule. I immediately collected myself and remembered that they said “Please.”
The third rule actually made sense to me, it stated, “Please do not bring in animals except guide dogs.” I know that some people just think they can bring their dogs anywhere. I am sure that the libraries would be full of barking dogs and meowing cats if it wasn’t for this rule. I was also wondering how a blind person could read this rule. Perhaps, they should post it in Braille.
The next rule asks us not to “harass other library users or library staff (physical, sexual or verbal abuse.)” In case one does not know what type of harassment they are talking about, the library specifically identifies it for you. You can’t get physical, you can’t get sexual and you can’t get verbal in the library. If you do, you are harassing the staff or other library users. I’m glad they identified whom you can not harass. I guess if you are not on the staff or a library user, you are fair game. I just stopped by to use the bathroom and get a drink of water, so I’m not sure how I would be identified. Am I a library user? I’m not using the book part of the library, but I am using the facilities. I would have to ask on that one.
However, sexual harassment is clearly identified. If one begins to sexually harass the librarian, then she can point to rule number four. “Didn’t you read the rules, you can’t put your hand up my dress!”
“Please do not eat, drink, smoke or sleep.” This rule is not fair! I think there is nothing wrong with sleeping in a library, unless you are snoring. Taking a nap between books does not hurt anyone. I think the constitution should give us the right to sleep in libraries. In fact, just reading the constitution would put most people to sleep. If one brings in a pillow, blanket, changes to their pajamas and sleeps for eight hours, I would understand why that would be wrong. However, sleeping in general should not be prohibited. (I think I will write the library and complain!)
How about eating and drinking? That does not make sense at all to me. How would one define eating? Are they talking about candy or a full course meal? I would understand bringing in a pizza or something, but “eating” is really a broad term. Drinking? If you can’t drink, then why is there a water fountain in the library? Would you explain that to me? I think the library needs to clarify this rule like they did with the “Seeing Eye dog”.
This brings us to the next rule: “Please do not bathe, shave or wash clothes.” Remember this because if you want to take a bath in the library’s sink, you can’t! (After all, I didn’t see any showers in the restroom.) I don’t know about you, but it has always been one of my fantasies to take a bath in a library. And, if you want to do your laundry there, think again, you will have to visit your local Laundromat.
The last rule, “Please do not remove library materials from the building without charging them out,” I think this should go without saying. Isn’t this what a library is all about anyway? But, in case one has not ever heard of the library system of checking out books, it is there in the list of rules.
The guidelines end with the statement that if people do not obey the rules they “may be asked to leave the building or be subject to arrest.” It is either or. Either you leave or you are arrested. I guess that if you engage in any criminal activity and then leave, then you are OK. You will only be arrested if you refuse to leave. So, criminals or rule breakers, keep this in mind. If you shoot the librarian or vandalize their property, and then leave, you will not be subject to arrest. You will only be arrested if you stay in the library.
Criminals in Chicago, beware of the Public Library. They will not take any crap from anyone! They have their own Library Rules!
(Copyrighted Material - Use of this materials is prohibited without written consent of the Author)
THE CHICAGO LIBRARY RULES
During a recent visit to the Chicago Public Library, I was taken in by a list of rules posted on the wall there. Knowing that these rules would really take “a bite out of crime”, I wanted to do my part for society and share them with you. I present these rules to you as they really appeared, quoted directly with no exaggeration.
The Chicago Public Library - Guidelines Governing the Use of the Library
Please Do Not:
- Engage in any illegal activity or behavior
- Vandalize library facilities, equipment or materials
- Bring in animals except guide dogs
- Harass other library users or library staff (physical, sexual or verbal abuse)
- Eat, drink, smoke or sleep
- Bathe, shave or wash clothes
- Remove library materials from the building without charging them out
PERSONS WHO FAIL TO OBSERVE THESE GUIDELINES MAY BE ASKED TO LEAVE THE BUILDING OR BE SUBJECT TO ARREST.
Can you believe these rules? What a way to stop crime? I am sure any potential violator will think twice before attempting to commit one of those infractions. They have the strong arm of the Chicago Library Authority to stop them.
Each rule deserves individual comment, so let’s start from the beginning. First, I am glad the Chicago Public Library used the words “Please do not.” The politeness of the library is appreciated. People do not always say “Please” when they should. I am sure that politeness will go a long way in the “Windy City”. Potential violators may stop their behavior in their tracts if they are politely asked not to. I think that our U.S. Criminal Justice system could learn a lesson from the Chicago Public Library!
The first rule covers everything wrong and illegal. It reads “Please do not engage in any illegal activity or behavior.” This covers it all. I am sure that criminals would appreciate this commandment. It would also prevent anyone from going before a judge and saying, “Your honor, I just didn’t know it was wrong to shoot the librarian.” Instead, the criminals are told up front with the rule clearly posted on the wall. Anything that is illegal is prohibited in the library. They must conduct their illegal activity outside.
In case one would not understand or recognize that vandalism is an illegal activity, the Library clearly mentions this in the second rule. It states: “Please do not vandalize library facilities, equipment or materials.” In other words, do not destroy any of their property. This would include the library itself, any computers or other equipment or any of the books.
I am sure that it is necessary to let people know about the anti-vandalism bias of the Library. These days, some people just take these things for granted. In fact, I was thinking about busting one of the computers myself during my visit, until I saw the rule. I immediately collected myself and remembered that they said “Please.”
The third rule actually made sense to me, it stated, “Please do not bring in animals except guide dogs.” I know that some people just think they can bring their dogs anywhere. I am sure that the libraries would be full of barking dogs and meowing cats if it wasn’t for this rule. I was also wondering how a blind person could read this rule. Perhaps, they should post it in Braille.
The next rule asks us not to “harass other library users or library staff (physical, sexual or verbal abuse.)” In case one does not know what type of harassment they are talking about, the library specifically identifies it for you. You can’t get physical, you can’t get sexual and you can’t get verbal in the library. If you do, you are harassing the staff or other library users. I’m glad they identified whom you can not harass. I guess if you are not on the staff or a library user, you are fair game. I just stopped by to use the bathroom and get a drink of water, so I’m not sure how I would be identified. Am I a library user? I’m not using the book part of the library, but I am using the facilities. I would have to ask on that one.
However, sexual harassment is clearly identified. If one begins to sexually harass the librarian, then she can point to rule number four. “Didn’t you read the rules, you can’t put your hand up my dress!”
“Please do not eat, drink, smoke or sleep.” This rule is not fair! I think there is nothing wrong with sleeping in a library, unless you are snoring. Taking a nap between books does not hurt anyone. I think the constitution should give us the right to sleep in libraries. In fact, just reading the constitution would put most people to sleep. If one brings in a pillow, blanket, changes to their pajamas and sleeps for eight hours, I would understand why that would be wrong. However, sleeping in general should not be prohibited. (I think I will write the library and complain!)
How about eating and drinking? That does not make sense at all to me. How would one define eating? Are they talking about candy or a full course meal? I would understand bringing in a pizza or something, but “eating” is really a broad term. Drinking? If you can’t drink, then why is there a water fountain in the library? Would you explain that to me? I think the library needs to clarify this rule like they did with the “Seeing Eye dog”.
This brings us to the next rule: “Please do not bathe, shave or wash clothes.” Remember this because if you want to take a bath in the library’s sink, you can’t! (After all, I didn’t see any showers in the restroom.) I don’t know about you, but it has always been one of my fantasies to take a bath in a library. And, if you want to do your laundry there, think again, you will have to visit your local Laundromat.
The last rule, “Please do not remove library materials from the building without charging them out,” I think this should go without saying. Isn’t this what a library is all about anyway? But, in case one has not ever heard of the library system of checking out books, it is there in the list of rules.
The guidelines end with the statement that if people do not obey the rules they “may be asked to leave the building or be subject to arrest.” It is either or. Either you leave or you are arrested. I guess that if you engage in any criminal activity and then leave, then you are OK. You will only be arrested if you refuse to leave. So, criminals or rule breakers, keep this in mind. If you shoot the librarian or vandalize their property, and then leave, you will not be subject to arrest. You will only be arrested if you stay in the library.
Criminals in Chicago, beware of the Public Library. They will not take any crap from anyone! They have their own Library Rules!
(Copyrighted Material - Use of this materials is prohibited without written consent of the Author)
From "While You Do Your Business" page 57-59
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MALT AND A SHAKE
How much does an employee need to know? How extensive should a new employee’s orientation be? How much cross training is necessary in the work place?
Decisions relating to training are very important to management. Although training is expensive, it is an investment in the organization. Employees have a basic human need to understand the “why” aspects of their jobs. Supervisors who do not take the time to teach their employees why things are the way they are, run the risk of having robotic employees who do not think for themselves.
The following true story illustrates the importance of training and teaching the employees the reason why.
The Difference between a Malt and a Shake
It all happened one Sunday after church services when I went to Steak ‘N Shake with friends for lunch in Springfield. We were greeted by a beautiful waitress who took our order. After a few minutes it was obvious that our waitress was a new employee for the restaurant. When it was my turn to order, I selected my usual steak burger with a chocolate malt. However, this time by mistake I ordered a chocolate “shake” instead of a “malt.”
I always liked the malt flavor and these days it’s hard to find a restaurant that offers both shakes and malts.
After the waitress had completed taking the orders for our table, I remembered that I had said “shake” instead of “malt.” I asked the waitress to change my order.
She responded, “Oh, that’s ok, the only difference between a malt and a shake is that the malt has two cherries and the shake has one.” I was dumbfounded. Everyone at our table looked at each other in amazement. I went on to disagree with the waitress. I explained that there was a major difference. Malts, I said, have a malted powder that changes the taste.
She continued to disagree and said that the lady behind the counter who makes the ice cream items told her that the malts had two cherries and the shakes had one. The waitress felt so strongly about her point that I had to get the manager to prove that she was wrong. Her final response was, “I always thought that was kind of silly.”
The point of this story is that it is important for management to explain “why” things are done the way they are done. I do not blame the waitress for not knowing the difference between a shake and a malt. The supervisor only told her what she “needed to know.” She was told that in order to distinguish between the two, one cherry was placed in the shakes while two cherries were placed in the malts. Although this was important, the reason “why” was not explained to the waitress.
In management it is important to explain “why.” If we fail to do this, we will have employees who do not know the difference between a malt and a shake.
Well, that’s the serious part of this book; let’s get back to the funny stuff.
(Copyrighted Material - Use of this materials is prohibited without written consent of the Author)
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MALT AND A SHAKE
How much does an employee need to know? How extensive should a new employee’s orientation be? How much cross training is necessary in the work place?
Decisions relating to training are very important to management. Although training is expensive, it is an investment in the organization. Employees have a basic human need to understand the “why” aspects of their jobs. Supervisors who do not take the time to teach their employees why things are the way they are, run the risk of having robotic employees who do not think for themselves.
The following true story illustrates the importance of training and teaching the employees the reason why.
The Difference between a Malt and a Shake
It all happened one Sunday after church services when I went to Steak ‘N Shake with friends for lunch in Springfield. We were greeted by a beautiful waitress who took our order. After a few minutes it was obvious that our waitress was a new employee for the restaurant. When it was my turn to order, I selected my usual steak burger with a chocolate malt. However, this time by mistake I ordered a chocolate “shake” instead of a “malt.”
I always liked the malt flavor and these days it’s hard to find a restaurant that offers both shakes and malts.
After the waitress had completed taking the orders for our table, I remembered that I had said “shake” instead of “malt.” I asked the waitress to change my order.
She responded, “Oh, that’s ok, the only difference between a malt and a shake is that the malt has two cherries and the shake has one.” I was dumbfounded. Everyone at our table looked at each other in amazement. I went on to disagree with the waitress. I explained that there was a major difference. Malts, I said, have a malted powder that changes the taste.
She continued to disagree and said that the lady behind the counter who makes the ice cream items told her that the malts had two cherries and the shakes had one. The waitress felt so strongly about her point that I had to get the manager to prove that she was wrong. Her final response was, “I always thought that was kind of silly.”
The point of this story is that it is important for management to explain “why” things are done the way they are done. I do not blame the waitress for not knowing the difference between a shake and a malt. The supervisor only told her what she “needed to know.” She was told that in order to distinguish between the two, one cherry was placed in the shakes while two cherries were placed in the malts. Although this was important, the reason “why” was not explained to the waitress.
In management it is important to explain “why.” If we fail to do this, we will have employees who do not know the difference between a malt and a shake.
Well, that’s the serious part of this book; let’s get back to the funny stuff.
(Copyrighted Material - Use of this materials is prohibited without written consent of the Author)