Jeremy on JQ99

11 months...Woah!

2009-09-10T12:01:00.002-04:00

That little girl right there...She's 11 months old today!

Wow...Where did the time go? Woke up this morning and remembered that today my baby girl turned 11 months old today. Even better...1 month from today she's going to celebrate her first birthday!

Now I have the world's worst memory, and since I can remember everything that happened on October 9th & 10, 2008, in very vivid detail...Time has gone by WAY too fast.

It's kind of exciting though...Pretty soon she'll be walking and talking. Right now she spends her time making nonsense noises, which are cute, and crawling faster than any other land mammal!

Good stuff!

Where have I been?

2009-09-09T13:04:00.003-04:00

Posting somewhere else!

A couple of weeks ago I got involved with Music Programming here at the station. Then...Based on a conversation I had with a Record Label Rep. I started a Music Blog, and so, since then, that's where I've been spending all my time.

Check it out...HERE!

Finally!

2009-08-18T17:09:00.001-04:00

It finally arrived today! What is it? I don't know, but maybe it'll
fix out road.

Mr. Picassohead

2009-08-18T10:08:00.001-04:00

Ha...this is fun. Check it out!

MR. PICASSOHEAD

Noah's Special Ark

2009-08-11T16:43:00.001-04:00

I knew Noah had two of every animal on the ark, but I guess I missed
the part where there were two Noah's!

2009-07-29T17:04:00.000-04:00

Look what I built with my daughter's toys. It's a toybot!

2009-07-20T18:02:00.001-04:00

Emerson with a souveniour from the zoo. It's a tourtise.

During today's internet adventure...

2009-07-20T10:58:00.001-04:00

I ran across this photo and caption:

It was only a matter of time. Carmen Sandiego has grown old and reckless. She’s been spotted sitting in a train station, sporting her trademark red hat and jacket. I guess now, we can all stop asking the question, "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?"

2009-07-19T12:39:00.001-04:00

My daughter with my glasses on. Doesn't she look smart?

2009-06-21T20:51:00.001-04:00

Just a little something I whipped up on my iPhone.

2009-06-21T09:48:00.000-04:00

After Friday night's storms, this is what happened to the street I
live on! Longer commute to work this week.

2009-06-19T08:12:00.001-04:00

New paint job for the car hole! Looks great! Sorry...I don't have a
'before' picture, but trust me..it needed it!

2009-06-19T08:10:00.001-04:00

Look at this! Hope College Campus SAFETY truck being safe and helpful
by parking diagonally in a handicapped parking spot. Notice that there
is no indication of handicapped-ness on the plate, and there wasn't
one hanging from the rear-view mirror either!

Way to help and keep things safe!

Wierd Baby Thing...

2009-06-11T06:02:00.002-04:00

Alright, so my daughter, Emerson, turned 8 months old yesterday. The last 8 months have been pretty fantastic with her. She's really starting to show off her personality and is really working hard to crawl, but isn't quite there yet.

The last 8 months have also been eye opening. I have seen/encountered things I never new existed, some I wish never had to exist. This brings us to today's post. My wife and I were at the grocery store to pick up the norm, when I ran across these:

Yes...Boogie Wipes. Wait, Huh. Really? "Boogie" Wipes? You couldn't have called them "Nose Wipes", "Sniffle Stoppers", or something like that?

Anyway...if it wasn't enough for them to be called "Boogie Wipes" they're also GREEN! Come on! Green? Why didn't you just have them dispense from a nose-shaped box to seal the deal?

Oh and by the way, they're "Great for Lunchboxes, Backpacks, & Purses" Huh!? For wiping them or storing them? Final question...Do you want something called "Boogie Wipes" in your lunchbox?

Needless to say, we didn't purchase these, but I do find enjoyment in finding strange baby products. I'd say this one is "MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!"

Oh, and if you've tried these, I am curious to know how well they worked and if the "Fresh Sent" smells like dryer sheets. Thanks!

~jeremy

Which one is which?

2009-05-26T07:47:00.002-04:00

Okay...Time now to test both your Food AND Space knowledge. Here's the deal, this weekend, we ate quesadilla's for dinner. The following image is a side by side comparison of the Planet Jupiter and a Quesadilla that grilled up looking like Jupiter. Here's your test...Which is which?

~jeremy

You control the Music Video!?

2009-05-22T12:44:00.003-04:00

Wait...Huh!? How does the viewer control the Music Video? Like this...Check it out!

**Basic instructions: Clicking the different colors above each musician will change their sound/instrument.**

Ha ha...Early Morning Funny

2009-05-21T06:56:00.003-04:00

Love your Mp3 Player? Love Wiener Dogs? You're in luck! You can now pick up a pair of Wiener Dog Ear Buds...That's headphones for the older folk. Check it out...Here's the link!

YES!

2009-05-20T11:16:00.002-04:00

Stop me if this sounds familiar...

"It's another busy weeknight, around dinner time, you open the fridge to see lots of food, but no meals" STOP!

Okay...Got it.

So yes...We've all been there. We didn't plan for dinner, we open the fridge multiple times, just HOPING that some meal manifests itself between door openings, but to no avail. Well...enter SUPERCOOK!

This handy little website, at its very basic level, allows you to enter all the different food items you have in your fridge and pantry and it will, on the fly, offer up meal options based on what you have available!

A definite plus during these tough economic times!

Check out SUPERCOOK HERE!

~jeremy

the Breathers!

2009-05-20T07:04:00.001-04:00

Become one today!

Pst...Are you a JQ Family Rewards member? Are you a fan of NeedtoBreathe? If so...check this out. NeedtoBreathe has a fun little group called "the Breathers" and you can join...FREE.

Complete Missions and earn points just like JQ Family Rewards. You can then use those points for other fun things like: Posters, T-Shirts, and MORE! Very cool!

If you'd like to check it out and/or sign up, CLICK HERE!

Glad this wasn't around when I was a kid...

2009-05-20T06:31:00.003-04:00

When I was a kid, I played outside, played inside, and played LOTS-o-VIDEO GAMES. I don't anymore, and that's mainly due to the fact that I have a 7 month old watching everything I do, while I'm watching her.

It's okay though, I knew that the older you get, the more your priorities change, and you know what, I'm really okay with that. While years ago I enjoyed spending time Squishing Goombas and Saving the Princess, Tracking down the all-powerful Triforce, and Defending mankind in Space...the following have replaced them:

* Squishing bugs to Save my Little Princess.
* Tracking down the all-powerful toy that comforts Her.
* Defending my space as it gets taken over by more and more pink colored things.

But to be honest...I don't miss them that much, and every once in a while, I'll get a weekend alone, and then it's me and my old friend having a good time once again. Video Games are kind of like a bike, you never forget how to play (ride).

Anyway...All that to say, that I found evidence of a very Parent-Friendly gadget, that will aid them in the battle against their children going on All Day Video Game Binges this summer.

Check it out...It's the "Game Dr."

Simply put, you plug your Video Game system's power cord into it, IT plugs into an outlet, and after a Parent set amount of time, it will kill the power to the system, rendering the system useless until the next opportunity. Oh...and you can't simply unplug the system cord, since it's locked inside the "Game Dr." nice and tight.

My thoughts...Sales of extra power cords are going to go up! Buy stock now! Want more info...Here's the article I found.

~jeremy

Where am I at?

2009-05-08T08:06:00.003-04:00

So where am I at on the whole "calorie counting/weight loss" thing on my iPhone. Pretty much where I was last time. I've been naughty enough here and there to slow down my progress. However, I believe I'm still on track for my goal weight on my goal date!

In other news...Since today's supposed to be a pretty nice day, here are some Friday time wasters:

In the music department, here's a drum machine that has different effects tied to the letters on your keyboard. Make some music and share with your cubicle neighbor! LINK

Also...See what kind of song you can come up with, with this fun little program. LINK

In the art/entertainment department, here's a fun site where movie/film posters are reduced to an abstract image. They're really cool looking and you can even play a game by guess what movie the poster is for. The "How to Play" can be found on the site! LINK

Outside of those time wasters, here are a couple of opportunities to catch up with JQ99!

Coming up later today (Friday, May 8th) I'll be broadcasting live at Garden Crossings from 5-7. Stop out and pick up some flowers for mom before Mother's Day arrives. Also...For any JQ Family Rewards members...I'll have a Bonus Code!

Tomorrow (Saturday, May 9th), you can find me, Ceci, Mandy, and Sports Director Roger Allen, driving/riding along in the Tulip Time Meijer Muziekparade. Thing is...the line up online doesn't have us in there...so I won't make a promise that we'll be there! :)

That's about it. Take care of yourself, others, and call your mom! It's her day on Sunday!

~j

Oh and just for fun...Here's an image that made me laugh:

Losin' It: Week 3 (Back on track)

2009-04-17T07:44:00.003-04:00

Okay...So...After meeting my wife, getting married, and having a child, I've put on a significant amount of weight...FOR ME. So...I decided to do something about it.

A couple of things about me...I like games/contests and technology! So with my iPhone in hand I sought out an application that would assist me in my quest of losing a couple of pounds.

Here's the stats for you:

* Starting weight: 180
* Goal weight: 165
* Plan: Lose 1 pound per week.

Take a look at this screenshot.

Within the last 3 weeks, I've lost 5 pounds. Oh..and that spike towards the end? That's Easter weekend. Oops!

I'll try and share more as I continue "Losin' It!"

~jeremy

Daddy Day Care...uh...Day

2009-04-03T07:32:00.003-04:00

So our Day Care provider headed out for Spring Break early, leaving us to find a replacement. Well...part of the "Replacement Plan" involved me staying home today with Baby Emerson. That's ALONE...for a LONG TIME...for the FIRST TIME!

Here's what I was greeted with this morning when I woke up. CLICK HERE!

Yeah...So...HAPPY FRIDAY! I'll try and check in throughout the day and let you know how the Daddy Day Care is running!

~jeremy

Children Books into Movies...

2009-03-26T10:19:00.004-04:00

Okay...So here's the deal. I don't like reading. Never been a big fan. I can do it...but it's not enjoyable for me. I'd rather do something else. Get the picture?

Well...This is who I've been since I was a kid. Now, I'm guessing that I am 1 of a 'handful' of individuals who has NEVER read the book, "Where the Wild Things Are". Don't know why the book never crossed my path, just never did.

Anyway...I bring it up, because by something short of a miracle, Hollywood has taken a short children's book and turned them into full-length feature movie. They have done "the Grinch"..."Hornton Hears a Who"..."The Polar Express"...and maybe a few others. Now..."Where the Wild Things Are" is coming to theaters.

I watched the trailer...Not bad. Click here to view the Trailer!

All that to say, that my FAVORITE children's book...one of the few books I've ever read, still has yet to become a full-length feature.

Where's my...

..."Harold and the Purple Crayon"!

This is a book I'd like to see transformed into a live action movie! So...Hear my cry Hollywood...please make, "Harold and the Purple Crayon"!

~jeremy

Music Tune Tuesday...

2009-03-24T06:26:00.005-04:00

Kind of just came up with the heading, I doubt it'll be a weekly installment. But here's the deal...For whatever reason, I thought I would let you know the Top 3 songs on my iPhone this week. Ready?

#3. Switchfoot - "Stars"

#2. The Afters - "Never Going Back to OK"

and...

#1. Jars of Clay - "Work"

Let these be a recommendation for you. Now...moving away from the music for a moment and moving to JQ Family Rewards. I think that I'm going to try and give a "Hint" every once in a while, in order to help you all out. So, without further ado...Here's today's JQ Family Rewards Hint...

"Unlike the saying, when it comes to winning a JQ Family Rewards Contest, putting your "eggs"...or Points...in one "basket"...or Contest...WILL give you a better shot at winning."

There you go! And just for grins...How's about a Bonus Code? Enter in the title of the #1 song on my iPhone and earn 3,500 Points! Click here to go enter it!

Enjoy!

~jeremy

Again...It's been a while...

2009-03-18T06:20:00.002-04:00

It get's old...I know...but it has been a while, and I apologize. But here's the deal, I've really been working hard at a lot of different things..

JQ99's Facebook Page
JQ99's Twitter Page
JQ Family Rewards
and MORE!

I'm getting to a point now, where I can visit each thing daily...do a couple of things and each day will be fresh and new. That said..I'm not QUITE there...but it's coming.

Aside from that, yesterday was B-e-a-U-tiful at 70 degrees. What did you do? Myself? I stayed inside with my daughter. Oh well. Bike riding weather is coming.

Sorry for the short post, I'll continue to work to update this on a more continuous basis!

Thanks!

~jeremy

I know I'm a father because...

2009-01-28T08:18:00.002-05:00

Okay...so my daughter Emerson is now 16 weeks old and things have starting happening in my life that verify my role as a father. So here are a list of the things that affirm my fatherhood status:

- I have a pacifier in my jacket at all times.
- I also don't mind sucking on the pacifier in my jacket when it needs washing.
- I get calls from people who drive by my house and see me dancing in the window. It's during these phone calls that I tell them that I am singing and dancing for my daughter, for entertainment purposes only.
- I spend more time combing her hair then I do my own.
- After weeks of getting her to do a 'raspberry' with her tongue, at random times throughout the day, NOT around my daughter, I find myself doing 'raspberries' to no one.
- Pink is now a cool color, although I still won't wear it.
- The word "Poopie" is now used for exciting times, rather than challenging times.
- The word "Grumpy-Pants" is now a frequent word in my vocabulary.
- My goal each and every day is to make my daughter laugh.

These are just a few things, I'm sure I'll have more to share at another time. Enjoy!

The 'Office' Design a T-Shirt Contest

2009-01-12T07:18:00.004-05:00

Alright...so I'm a huge fan of the office. Not too long ago I ran across a contest on the NBC 'Office' web site/page. It was a design a T-shirt contest. Something that could then be sold at 'the Office' online store.

So I thought...and thought...and thought...when it came to me, why not design a T-shirt that looks like one is wearing a mustard yellow collared shirt with a yellow and brown tie, Dwight Schrute style...so I did, take a look:

Well...now people can vote on them and I'm not doing half bad! Almost 4 out of 5 stars! You have a voice too...so click the link below and vote. Vote fairly...if you like it, vote high, if not...that's cool, vote low. Either way...I'm pretty excited...there are prizes to be won!

JEREMY'S T-SHIRT DESIGN: http://www.nbc.com/The_Office/photos/gallery#item=56995

~jeremy

Mystery Hotwheel!

2009-01-10T17:44:00.004-05:00

So I was at Target just a couple of days after Christmas...thought I would check out the toy isle and ran across a new way to sell Hotwheels...MAKE IT A MYSTERY!

Ha...what a great idea...Could be a Garbage Truck...or a Hurst...or a really cool Hot Rod, your guess is as good as anyone elses!

Intriguing.

~jeremy

Wow...Mind Reader?

2008-12-18T08:12:00.002-05:00

This would have been exciting to watch...Too bad...

~jeremy

Elfing myself with "The Office" staff...

2008-11-24T09:00:00.001-05:00

Ha! Check this out:

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Oh! Watch this!

2008-11-12T08:26:00.006-05:00

Hey check this out! During one of my many adventures on the internet I ran across a movie trailer for Disney/Pixar's upcoming movie, "UP". Looks funny. The boy scout makes me laugh!

I'm back!

2008-10-23T06:18:00.007-04:00

Okay...so I'm back to trying to blog...again. Who knows how long this stint will last...we shall see.

Anyway...here's what's been going down for the last couple of weeks. I've kept it as secret as I can...why? Not really sure...mostly just because. Here's the scoop...there's a little one of me now...kind of. What I mean by this, is that my wife and I recently had a baby!

We're excited to announce that Emerson Grace is alive and well. She was born like 13 days ago though...but overall, it's been busy, so I couldn't really tell you before hand! She's great and both mom and baby are doing fine!

Aside from that...JQ Family Rewards (one of my bigger duties around here) continues to grow and expand, oh and give prizes away like crazy! If you aren't a member yet, "What's wrong with you?", just kidding, but seriously...sign up, it's fun, easy, free, and you get free stuff, why wouldn't you sign up?

SIGN UP HERE!

Music-wise, there's actually a lot of good music out right now, so for the first time...here's my top picks of the week:

5. Building 429 - End of Me
4. Downhere - Here I Am
3. Above the Golden State - The Sound of Your Name
2. NeedtoBreathe - Washed by the Water / Streets of Gold (Tie)
1. The After - Never Going Back to OK

Speaking of, "Above the Golden State"...have you seen the official video for "The Sound of Your Name"? It's really neat...I'd like to think that had I done things different in life, I would have like to be a concept artist for music videos...is there such a thing? Anyway...check the video out...nicely done!

Outside of that...I'll be making a note to chat with you again soon, so...enjoy the week, see you then!

~jeremy

So it's been almost a month...so what?

2008-09-26T10:30:00.004-04:00

It seems like every blog entry as of that last serveral months starts the same, 'Sorry I haven't posted in so long, it's been busy around here..blah blah blah." Reality is...IT IS!

As the person who is in charge of JQ Family Rewards, I'm busier than I've ever been! Not only do I put new prizes up and put new points opportunities up, but throw some customer service on top of that...and it's almost a full-time job in itself. But please don't hear me complain, I actually love every minute of it! (Ok...almost every minute!)

So I bring up the business of JQ so you know how work is overwhelming, but there's another 'thing' in my life right now, that's been keeping me super busy all these months. I can't tell you quite yet, but in the coming weeks, I'll reveal, so check back, if you haven't completely given up on checking my blog!

That's all for now...talk to you soon!

~jeremy

Finally...

2008-08-28T10:12:00.010-04:00

Since I can remember I played video games. In fact, just to show you how much I loved them, and how 'nerdy' I was, let me list all the systems I've owned in my lifetime:

ATARI 2600
NES (Nintendo Entertainment System)
Sega Genesis
Nintendo Gameboy
SNES (Super Nintendo Entertainment System)
Nintendo 64
Sega Dreamcast
Playstation
Playstation 2
Microsoft Xbox
Nintendo Gamecube
Xbox 360
and Nintendo Wii

Don't scream...my parents didn't buy those all for me, most of them I didn't own until I was an adult with my own income. Anyway...during my time with all of those consoles, I can count the number of Positive, Encouraging, Christian, etc. games that I've played on my fingers and toes. (Meaning...not a whole lot!)

Usually they're something Mario related, since that plumber can do no wrong, but every once in a great while you can run across some real gems.

This day and age, I constantly hear about DDR's, Karaoke Revolution's, and the Guitar Heroes and Rock Band's. Now...they aren't naughty or bad, but sometimes the music isn't so positive.

Those days are gone...check it out:

Okay...so it's not really called Guitar Hero: Christian Edition, but it is called "Guitar Praise"...CHECK IT OUT HERE!

Rock on!

~jeremy

"Here I sit broken hearted..."

2008-08-18T13:43:00.003-04:00

Ok...for those of you who know the rest of that childish poem...that's not where I'm headed. For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about...you're probably better off.

Anyway...So...been pretty busy the last couple of weeks. Unity...JQ Family Rewards...those 2 things alone have eaten up a lot of my time at the station. But since I worked hard all morning and ducked out a little early, I've got some time...oh and because I'm stuck at the auto repair place to have my 'new' car looked at.

See...on Christmas Eve of last year, my Grandpa passed away...he had a lot of cool things...boats...house on the Gulf of Mexico...hand carved chess sets and more. Well, there was one thing he knew I liked most of all...and he left it to me.

It's a car...but no ordinary car...a convertible. A 2001 BMW Z3...Atlantic Blue...less than 35,000 miles on it! If you've ever seen the James Bond movie, "Goldeneye" then you know which one I'm talking about.

Well, I picked it up the Wednesday of Unity and last week Thursday that little annoying "Check Engine" light came on...guess I can't be too upset...the car sat for almost a year in Florida without being driven.

So here I sit...
Waiting...wondering how much it'll cost to get her up to 99%. Stay tuned.

~jeremy

Did you see it?

2008-08-01T08:18:00.002-04:00

So...did you see it? I didn't. It was either because I thought it was later...or...we couldn't see it here. What? What am I talking about? Oh...sorry...I'm talking about the Solar Eclipse that occurred earlier this morning.

Take a look...
I like this picture...you can see one of those Solar Flares reaching out into space. If you'd like to see more of today's little display, head to NASA's site HERE!

~jeremy

I saw God this morning...

2008-07-11T07:32:00.002-04:00

Okay...so maybe I didn't see God in the physical sense...but I saw Him is this lovely scene:

Anyone else see this lovely display? It happened right around 6:20 a.m., today (Friday). I was just sitting here at my desk, turned around, saw this...which my picture does no justice. There was also a rainbow to the west that was too big for my camera. I could see it start AND end!

OH! Almost forgot...since today is July 11th...7-11...don't forget to stop at your nearest 7-11 convenience store and grab your free 7.11 ounce Slurpee! If you live in the Holland/Zeeland area, there's one on Chicago drive by McDonalds, right before the entrance to I-96 (I believe).

Have a great day!

~jeremy

Another effect of terrible storms...

2008-07-11T07:27:00.004-04:00

Sorry it's been a while...I've been kept very busy around the station with our new JQ Family Rewards program. I think I've finally caught up for the week, so I can finally catch up on some things I've wanted to share.

The month of June was pretty terrible when it came to storms and such. Those nasty storms even trickled into early July. Here's what happed at my house...

Looks a little bigger in person. Now...here's the irritating part. It fell on my neighbors fence, so as the responsible person I am, I'm trying to get it taken care of right away. Only problem is...almost all the tree places I called (last week and this week) can't do anything for me for another 2-3 weeks! Apparently...TOO many trees have fallen down. Hope my neighbors are understanding.

~jeremy

Anyone else see this?

2008-06-23T09:15:00.002-04:00

I couldn't believe this...I went to check the radar yesterday for whatever reason and this is what I saw:

Wow...Can't really say I've ever seen that much rain scattered over the ENTIRE United States! I wonder when we'll have that much sunshine grace our presence.

Anyway...thought it was kind of cool to share...so there you go!

~jeremy

What are you doing?

2008-06-09T21:00:00.004-04:00

Everyone's talking about it...no one can avoid it...it keeps getting worse. What am I talking about? Duh...Gas Prices! Yea! Everyone's favorite subject. Okay...so maybe "favorite subject" is a stretch, but everyone's talking about it almost all the time, you'd think it was for some people.

Well, this post will avoid being the rant side of things and instead offer up more ideas on how to relax, when it comes to gas prices.

First off, I think we'd all be a lot better of if we did a couple of things:

#1. Realize that there is nothing, I repeat NOTHING, we can personally do to lower the price of gas. You may get those emails, saying, "Don't go buy gas from these people and prices will go down...blah blah blah." I'm here to tell you...it'll NEVER work, because we could never get enough people to follow suit, oh and IF we could, I'd personally rather have that many people do nice things for other people, rather than lower gas prices. You know..."Pay it Forward" style.

#2. Ignore the news. It'll only stress you out and upset you. I think we all feel they only bring up the fact prices will rise, just so oil company's have a reason to raise them. Honestly, I doubt that it's true, but that's why I've just come to the point of ignoring ALL news coverage of gas prices.

Okay...now...here ARE some things, you've either thought of or not, that could possibly help.

#1. Combine your trips out. Instead of running out multiple times a day...make one trip, and plan it like a circuit, so you can make the shortest trip to each destination.

#2. S...l..o..w D...o...w..n. We aren't at the race track. I've got a GPS system in my car that once I program the destination, it'll inform me of my arrival time. Well, I've toyed with it...I've exceeded the speed limit and gone the speed limit, (to the same destination) and really you're only saving a couple minutes here and there...nothing to get all worked up about.

#3. Take some tips from "Hypermiling". Not necessarily a new idea...but it's catching on. I'm a fan. Basically, you alter your driving habits in order to maximize your fuel efficiency. In fact, I've been really working at this for a couple of weeks, and have seen a couple of things.

I've increase my average mile per gallon, almost to the point that I've exceeded what the sticker on the car said when I bought it. I've also noticed that I've relaxed a LOT more on the roadways. I find I don't get as upset with the slower drivers and I only laugh at the impatient ones.

This is already long enough, but I figure since I've not posted about gas prices...might as well.

~jeremy

We're back!

2008-06-04T06:19:00.002-04:00

Alright...if you visited jq99.com or JQ Family Rewards today, you'll notice things are back up and running. That's all thanks to the thousands of hamsters in their wheels down in Texas keeping the power flowing to our severs. GOOD JOB guys, keep it up!

Okay...so there may not be hamsters keep us online, but a generator is! Amazing how dependent our lives become with technology. Well anyway...this post was really just to let you know that things are back up and running and I can finally go back to work and do my job.

~jeremy

Experiencing Technical Difficulties...

2008-06-03T06:25:00.002-04:00

Alright...if you come here because you listen to JQ99 you probably know by now that our website has experienced some extreme difficulties over the last couple of days.

It started on Saturday and continued through yesterday...well yesterday afternoon things were working...and now yet again this morning...they're not. Turns out that this isn't just some little problem.

Apparently the Data Center that holds our Servers experienced an electrical fire and took down our Servers along with about 9,000 others! If it interests you at all to follow along with the action, the Data Center is updating us through the following web site...feel free to check it out!

The Planet - http://service-update.theplanet.com

Hopefully it'll be back up soon so I can do my job!

~jeremy

Yeah I know, it's been a while...

2008-05-21T14:59:00.002-04:00

Yeah...I'm fully aware that the last time I posted something on my blog, it was like over 2 weeks ago. I apologize.

Here's what's been going on...

First...I'm in another class at Davenport. This time I'm taking an HTML class so that I can make web sites, and improve the existing ones I work with. The first class I took this year was a basic computer class...Microsoft Office and this is a mouse, great class for some...too easy for me...passed it with a 120%. First time.

This new class is all about learning a new language. Something I've never done. It's too bad that this new language that I'm learning can't be spoken really...just displayed. Oh well.

Second thing that has been going on...head over to JQ99.com and check it out. It's called JQ Family Rewards. When I haven't been doing my regular job, I've been training and finishing...now updating...this monster. I call it a monster because it's about to rock the socks off our listeners!

Check this out...a listener already listens to the station...now...they can sign up for this rewards program earn points through a variety of different means and trade the points in directly for prizes, or trade them in for entries into a sweepstakes.

This rewards program should really balance out the prize giving at JQ99. If you aren't a member...DO IT! I spent a lot of time on it and it was all to get you some free S.W.A.G. (Stuff We All Get).

Other than that...summer is back, so I've had to mow the lawn a couple times, I've gone golfing, and there's one more bigger piece of news, but I can't reveal that until next time!

Until then...

~jeremy

You'll be missed...

2008-05-05T12:20:00.003-04:00

Okay...I'll try and keep this as positive as I can. Although...it is a pretty sad story, but I thought that my part in this story showed how much I care about my wife and her feelings!

So the other day we found a pair of ducks hanging out in our backyard. Apparently our neighbors have been feeding them. Well over the weekend we that the misfortune of watching one get hit by a car right in front of our house.

Well...my wife and the animal lover that she is...was crushed and there were many tears shed. During the incident she asked me, "Is there anything you can do?"

What is a husband supposed to say to that? So I did the only thing I could think of...I went and grabbed a snow shovel and scooped the duck up, and in the rain on Saturday afternoon we had a funeral service for the duck.

You'll be missed...and to my wife...I love you.

~jeremy

What's the News - Episode 5

2008-05-05T12:13:00.001-04:00

So it's way late and overdue...had some issues with the upload sorry.

What's the News? - Episode 4

2008-04-15T05:29:00.002-04:00

It's "Tax Day"...so make sure your taxes are postmarked and sent in before the post offices close! It's also Tuesday...meaning it's time for a new episode of "What's the News?"

Thanks!

Where's Waldo?

2008-04-11T09:04:00.006-04:00

I might be a little behind on the trend, but there have been some very interesting things done to surprise users of Google Earth. Call them "Easter Eggs", "Trinkets", or whatever...they're fun little surprises that either we create, or nature does, that make using Google Earth a little more fun.

Well, today I ran across this website: "Where on Earth is Waldo?"

This site informed me that there is a lady in Vancouver, BC, Canada that has re-imagined the childhood book series on a much larger scale. She's created a large Waldo sized painting that she has put on the roof of her building, large enough to be seen using Google Earth.

So...I downloaded Google Earth and went a searching. The only evidence I had was this picture that was taken by a helicopter in Vancouver.
After about oh...15 minutes or so...don't tell me boss...I think I found him...well sort of. I have seemed to match the building...but there's no Waldo to be found. See...
Now this could be because 1 of 2 reasons...one...the building set up I found is remarkably similar but not exact to the helicopter picture, OR...the Google Earth image of the area I found is too old and doesn't show the most recent image.

You be the judge...what do you think...did I find the right area?

~jeremy

What's the News - Episode 3

2008-04-08T08:37:00.001-04:00

Enjoy!

~jeremy

What's the News - Episode 2

2008-03-31T14:14:00.001-04:00

Here you go...this week's episode of "What's the News?" Enjoy!

~jeremy

What's the News - Episode 1

2008-03-25T10:41:00.002-04:00

Well look at that...the station gets a camera and I get a new segment! Every week...hopefully every Tuesday, I'll be bringing you a short news feature covering the latest news in Christian Music, reviews, top songs of the week and more. Check it out:

Hope you enjoyed...I'm sure in the coming weeks there will be tweaks, but if you have some constructive criticism...feel free to leave a comment!

Educational Time Waster

2008-03-18T10:07:00.003-04:00

Ever been sitting around at work or at home and wanted an educational time waster? Well search no further! I ran across this game on one of the many sites I check every day. It's called: "Questionaut"Now...the premise is pretty easy, but I can't share it with you because it would lose some of the excitement you'd get from figuring it all out and watching it all unfold.

Just head to the "Questionaut Website", wait for it to load (you need Flash), click Play, and go from there.

I can say that the art is really beautiful and the music is just as complimentary. It contains 8 educational levels and is so enjoyable I wish that it would continue on for hundreds more!

Enjoy!

~jeremy

Spring Swim Phone Call

2008-03-18T08:13:00.006-04:00

So the annual JQ99 First Swim of the Spring is this Saturday. This is the 13th Spring Swim we've done and we're trying to make it the largest swim ever. So big in fact, that we've tried to bring in celebrities...however, we've been unsuccessful.

It was my job to contact President Bush...I recorded the phone call...take a listen...

I know that he means well and unfortunately he's just way too busy to come to Spring Swim, but maybe you're not. Grab a release form and pledge form over at JQ99.com and join us this Saturday, March 22nd!

See you there!

~jeremy

Look UP!

2008-03-10T12:12:00.004-04:00

Look up...what do you see? Well, you either see the kid looking up with a big green arrow, a goofy drawing of myself, or you see a very cool blue banner telling you what we're playing on JQ99 right now!

How cool is that! It's called: Yes.com

A very cool tool for radio stations and their listeners! It allows us to provide our listeners to view previously played songs, chat with other listeners, vote on songs, purchase the songs through iTune, and MORE!

Click the banner for more!

Spring is Here!

2008-02-22T13:21:00.004-05:00

Alright...so maybe according to the calendar it's not quite spring...but it is for me. I think everyone has a tell tale sign that signifies the beginning of Spring. I know that for my mom and grandma it was the first sighting of a Robin.

Anyway...we've got some sunshine in the forecast this weekend and yesterday I had my Spring...and Shamrock Shake from McDonald's. My all time favorite milk shake!

Yeah check that out...ever seen that guy before? I never have but he apparently exists. He's related to Grimace...the big furry purple guy. Apparently the story is that Uncle O'Grimacey hides away for 11 months out of the year, and always comes to visit Grimace and the other McDonald friends, and brings the Shamrock Shakes with him. Although I guess he's been M.I.A. for a number of years. Don't believe he's real? Check this out!

Oh yeah...he existed all right.

So anyway...I know it's Spring now, because Shamrock Shakes are available at McDonald's. I highly recommend you pick one up before ol' Uncle O'Grimacey heads back home!

~jeremy

Here's what I accomplished this morning...

2008-02-12T08:29:00.000-05:00

Okay...before I get to what I accomplished this morning, let me say that I'm very sorry for those who work with me.

Here's what went down. We've got a snack drawer here at the station and it got filled this morning. Now, it's usually filled with items like, chocolate, chewy candy, more chocolate, suckers, and more chocolate. Well after much consideration they've starting adding healthier items like, nuts, crackers, and microwave popcorn.

Keeping that in mind, here I am, I finished my healthy breakfast which consisted of me dipping apple slices in my vanilla yogurt and still have a hankering for a tasty treat. So I made my way to the recently filled snack drawer and grabbed a microwave popcorn packet.

In the past, I've just pushed the "Popcorn" button and my popcorn has come out amazingly good. So...this morning I did the same thing to come back to microwave and found this:

Oops...oops...oops...oops!

That's right, I burned the popcorn...and I burned it GOOD! There wasn't a single piece that could be salvaged, every single kernel bit the dust as it was.

I'm not sure if someone in your home or office has ever accomplished such a feat but man it smells in here today...and not in a good way.

~jeremy

13 again...

2008-01-28T13:40:00.000-05:00

What a weekend! I don't remember actually getting out of the house much, but it sure was enjoyable.

Yesterday night I had youth group again and I experienced something I haven't had the pleasure of experiencing since I was in Middle School. Now, since I'm 26 and when you're in Middle School you're usually what, 12 - 13? So...a little math in the head...

Got it! Until yesterday, it was 13 years ago since I last played "Four Square"! Wow!

So here's how it went down, last night was Youth Group and it was a fun night and as I walked into the gym I noticed a group of kids playing "Four Square" and I immediately jumped in.

There I was waiting in line, just knowing that the wealth of skill I once had 13 years ago would come flooding back...but alas, in my old age my spryness has faded. Although I had a good time, I was not the killer "Four Square" player I once was. Oh well.

So...if there's anyone else out there looking to relive those Middle School days, here's Wikipedia's explanation of "Four Square"!

See you on the court!

~jeremy

What is going on here...

2008-01-23T10:30:00.000-05:00

Okay...I am only 26 years old. That's it! (and yes, I drew that)

Now...I'm not saying that it's bad or anything, but why on Earth did I find 2 gray hairs on my head this week!?

Maybe there is something to the myth...you know, the one that says for every gray hair you pluck out, 2 more grow in it's place.

Well about a month or so ago I plucked one out, and then this week...2! I'm not old, am I?

Not sure if this has happened to you or not, but it's not a great feeling. I was fine with my bad knees, sore shoulder, the other body aches, and being tired all the time, but this is really...kind of...a step too far, and too quick!

Anyway...that's my experience this week. Could it be stress? If so...man I need to relax!

Oh well...I guess that's that...I'm old...it's all downhill from here, unless...WAIT! I've got it! I'll start tracking down a hairstyle that looks good gray! Now...which celebrity should I model myself after? Hmmm.

~jeremy

I'm back! Time for School!

2008-01-07T07:15:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm back...actually, I put in a day's worth of work on Friday. Got to tell you that it's not a bad idea to come back from vacation at the end of a week, because then you get the weekend, and you don't have to come back for a full weeks worth of work!

Anyway...back to the 'ol grindstone. It's going to be interesting...not only am I back to work today...but I start my class. It's an intro to computing class and is required in order for me to attend all those Web Design classes.

It's an online class...never taken one of these before, could be the best thing ever...but it could be the opposite. I'll let you know. All I can say is that, it's kind of exciting and in a way I'm proud to be going back for furthering education.

If you've never done it, or you've considered it...I highly recommend it. I'm very proud of those that are taking the class with me...some of them are single parents attending college for the first time! I can't imagine! Good luck to us all!

I'll try and bring you more posts in the near future...some about school...others about whatever. In the mean time, enjoy the 50+ degree weather we've got today and tomorrow.

~jeremy

Holy Post Batman!

2007-12-24T12:07:00.000-05:00

Yes...I know it's been WAY too long since I last posted. I've been extremely busy like the rest of the world. I've been covering for many different people here at the station.

But...I'm BACK! Just in time to leave! HA!

My wife Annie and I are taking that "Christmas Vacation" we've always wanted...you know the one to some really warm place. That place that makes you never want to return to work. Yeah...we're going there. I'll be back after the New Year.

I just thought that since I'll be gone for a while I would post something...a Christmas Greeting! Here you go!

I'll try and bring some sunshine back with me...if I could only figure out how to get it. Hmm.

Merry Christmas!!

~jeremy

New favorite Christmas Song...

2007-12-03T13:55:00.000-05:00

Alright...so it looks like I'm not persistent enough to keep up with the Music Video Monday...plus, I think that you all like regular posts if anything.

However...today's a special day. I found a new Favorite Christmas Song. Jars of Clay: Love Came Down at Christmas. Great song, with great lyrics, beats, and all that.

Well...I found the music video. It's really cool! Kind of like if a group of kids drew out the Christmas Story, seeing that I'm not sure that Mary and Joseph traveled by a "Pink Polka-Doted Unicorned Giraffe".

Anyway...watch the video...it's really cool and so is the song. Thanks!

~jeremy

Back 2 School

2007-11-30T13:01:00.001-05:00

That's me...well...not really...but it's what I think I might look like if I were young and going back to school. Wait...

You don't have to be young to go back to school. See...that's what I'm doing today. Later on this afternoon, I'm signing up for classes. This makes absolutely no sense. While I was in school, I couldn't wait to get out...now I'm going back...and even excited about going back? Huh...okay.

Well...class starts in January...keep checking back where I'll keep you up-to-date on my adventures of going "Back 2 School".

~jeremy

Owen & Sheldon

2007-11-20T09:08:00.000-05:00

So...my last post was about the friendship between my wife's cat and my turtle. Well...upon much thought, I wonder what it is they do while we're at work. You know the saying, "When the cats away, the mice will play."

What I'm going to try and do is come up with an amature comic strip about the two of them and their antics while we're not around. So...here you go, the first "Owen & Sheldon".

Sorry if it's terrible...I'm only a funny guy...sometimes.

Thanks!

~jeremy

Caught!...or...Best Friends? You decide.

2007-11-15T10:02:00.000-05:00

So my wife and I have two pets...there's: Owen...The Cat, and Sheldon...The Turtle.

Every morning before I leave for work, it's my job to stick Sheldon in the bathtub for his morning bath. Well this morning, I come around the corner through the doorway and low and behold...Owen is perched on the ledge watching his aquatic roommate.

I just can't tell if they're buddy's or if Owen was getting ready to pounce on poor, slow, Sheldon.

If it were my guess...I'd say they're friends. Thought this was a cool picture to post, so there you go...smile at the fact that Owen and Sheldon are Best Friends Forever.

~jeremy

I've been avoiding this...but...

2007-11-14T07:24:00.000-05:00

Alright...so as much as I didn't really ever want to talk about it, I guess I just can't help it any more.

What am I referring to? The writers strike in Hollywood. Here's the deal, I don't watch a whole lot of television, I have it on a lot, but I'm usually doing something else and I have a few shows that I really like to watch and don't want to miss.

2 of those shows would be "The Office" and "Lost". Now...right now "The Office" is well into it's newest season and it's pretty good so far. However, I ran across an article yesterday that delivered some bad news...until the strike is over, the episode of "The Office" that will air this Thursday, tomorrow...is the last one they have done. Great! Now I can get outside and do all those fun yard work things I've been putting off! Wait...that's not cool.

Then...in February...the new season of "Lost" starts up...well, they don't have all of the episode written...but they have 7 or 8 of them. Now here's how their going to handle it..."Lost" will air what they have done and apparently the last of the finished episodes will end on a cliffhanger. This will seem all to familiar, as it's what we experienced last season when they took a 2/3 month break over December/January/February time frame. The whole idea for starting it in February was to have a non-stop season...we'll see if that happens.

So anyway...there's my rant. Maybe we'll see a new era of television...7-8 episodes every couple of months, that way all year long we'll get new and fresh episodes! Well, I guess it's time to spend time with the family, pick up a new hobby, and get outside until this is all over...wait...maybe this strike will be the healthiest thing to ever hit the nation. Hmmm.

~jeremy

Music Video Monday! (Nov. 12th)

2007-11-12T09:07:00.000-05:00

Alright...it's time for another Music Video Monday installation now that our internet is back up.

Today's music video comes from a group coming to concert this Sunday, November 18th. It's the NEWSBOYS! They wrap up their "Go Tour" right here in West Michigan at the Van Andel Arena and I can't wait to go!

So to get ready...here's one of my favorite songs from the Newsboys, "Entertaining Angels"...Enjoy!

~jeremy

Music Video Monday! (November 5th)

2007-10-30T08:45:00.000-04:00

Today's Music video comes from a group that has never before been played on JQ99. I also don't see it hitting the airwaves any time soon either. (Just doesn't fit our format)

Now...it's a little older video, but I wanted to share it because I think it holds some interesting discussion. Today's video features Christian rap artist, "Grits" and the song is called, "Hittin' Curves".

I find it interesting to combine rap and Christianity...and originally at first, I felt it was disrespectful...but after some thought and discussion I now think of it as a tool.

A tool? Yes..a tool. Imagine a young teen who spends their time listening to the terrible messages of mainstream rap music because for some reason that's what they've grown up on. One day that young teen hears a song like the following and realizes that music doesn't need to consist of garbage and negative messages. That they can still get the sound, groove, feel, beat, and music, but with a much more positive message.
I present to you..."Grits: Hittin' Curves" (Click the link for the lyrics)

Music Video Monday! (October 29th)

2007-10-29T06:11:00.000-04:00

I've got a special treat for you today...a group that I'm going to guess many of you have never heard of. Their a group I picked up on about 5-6 years ago...(maybe)...there sound...very catchy...the lyrics/meaning...great and very insightful.

So...here you go...today's "Music Video Monday" is:

Seven Places: Landslide

Thanks!

~jeremy

Oops.

2007-10-25T09:32:00.000-04:00

Alright...it's official...I'm a dork.

Last night...my wife, Annie, was giving me a hug before she left the house and looked at me funny. I looked back at her...said, "What?"

She told me to go look in the mirror. I thought I had spilled something on my shirt...or something like that.

Well...after being dressed all day...doing what I normally do...work, meetings, etc. I realized that my undershirt had been inside-out ALL day long.

I guess it could have been worse...it could have been on backwards too!

Oh well.

~jeremy

What are we doing to our kids?

2007-10-24T08:10:00.001-04:00

Okay...right off the bat...let me tell you that this post is kind of a rant. I was in the FM studio today and ran across a magazine and found the following advertisement...

Wow..."Tums" for kids...not only kids...but children TWO YEARS OLD to ELEVEN!!

(The age range is printed on the bottle)

You've got to be kidding me! Now...I'm not 100% sure how "Tums" or "Rolaids", and the like work...but I can't imagine that they'd have a positive impact on a 2 year old's tummy!

Another glance at the ad and I realize what's happening in the picture...the older sister in the ad is encouraging her brother to help build a "dessert" that would destroy even the toughest stomach.

Look closely and you'll notice the following items:

Gumdrops
Cheese Puffs
Whip Cream
Ice Cream
Cherries
Potato Chips
Chocolate Syrup
Fruit Loops
Sprinkles
Chocolate Chips
Chocolate Chip Cookies
and Marshmallows!
(and probably more that I can't see!)

Now...I don't have kids...but I've spent lots of time with kids...and I'm all for having fun and making a mess...but after some thought...maybe these children don't need a "Tums" to help their tummies feel better...but maybe someone needs to inform their parent of what they're doing while they're not around!

Just a thought!

~jeremy

Music Video Monday! (October 22nd)

2007-10-22T09:10:00.000-04:00

Here's another after last weeks delayed video featuring Relient K and John Reuben.

This week I bring you a group that was found at Unity 2007...Leeland.

In all his redheaded goodness...Leeland brings us "Sound of Melodies."

A unique sound with some catchy grooves and a great message take a listen.

Also...to all the "Lost" fans...is that Hurley on drums?

Thanks!

~jeremy

Music Video Monday! (October 15th)

2007-10-18T07:34:00.000-04:00

Hey hey hey...kind of a special music video today. Since we've got the Switchfoot and Relient K concert coming up on Thursday...I'd like to offer up a song featuring Matt Theissen.

Today's video is from a gentleman by the name of John Reuben. Coming from his, "The Boy vs. The Cynic" cd...comes..."Nuisance"

Very cool video and AWESOME song!

Thanks!

~jeremy

Wow...

2007-10-16T11:29:00.000-04:00

Alright...so there I was flipping channels last night when all of the sudden I come up on CBS Evening News with Katie Couric. Now I don't typically watch these types of programs but the story I caught was an amazing story.

The story was about this program being implimented in schools across the nation called, "Blessings in a Backpack"

Check on the news story here!

Amazing.

~jeremy

Music Video Monday! (October 8th)

2007-10-04T07:01:00.000-04:00

Got another one for you...now...kind of my reason for posting these videos is because...although the words of a song can enter the heart and mind very quickly and evoke an emotion...I know for me...a visual element, heightens that experience.

Today's Music Video Monday is from a little known group: Hawk Nelson.

I don't think it got any radio play on JQ99...unless it was on Total Axxess. However, it's a very catch song, with a great message, and good visuals...take a look.

Thanks for watching!

~jeremy

Fall Countdown

2007-10-04T06:53:00.001-04:00

So...I think according to the calendar...it's already Fall, or Autumn, whatever YOU call it!

However...with temps in the 80's for the next several days and plenty of green on the trees...when is West Michigan going to fully dive into fall?

Well...check out this elaborate graphic from Weather.com

So...there you have it...as of 10.3.7 we're Patchy in our Fall Foliage. However by the looks of it Near Peak should be here quickly. I'm going to call it and say that within the next couple of weeks...at the latest...end of October...we'll be hanging out in the Peak territory.

So there you have it...now you can plan your color tours accordingly!

~jeremy

Music Video Monday!

2007-09-25T10:21:00.000-04:00

Alright...looks like we made it through the first installment just fine. Here's the second installment of Music Video Monday.

Today I'll be featuring:

Brandon Heath: I'm not Who I Was

First off this song is built beautifully and is tied together wonderfully in a nice package with the video. The video brings more to the meaning that the song itself!

Click play and take a look!

Music Video Monday.

2007-09-25T09:36:00.000-04:00

Okay...so it's Tuesday...and I wanted to start something new. And since the term "Music Video" starts with an "M"...without question...I had to do it on a "Monday".

So every Monday (I'll try my best to do it each week) I'm going to provide you with a Music Video...hence the term "Music Video Monday".

So without further ado...here's this week's Music Video Monday:

Jars of Clay: Work

This video has a lot going for it...GREAT song...awesome concept...and...unless my eyes deceived me...is all done in 1 take. (Not always the easiest thing to do.)

Click the Play Button and Check it out!

Need a Healthy Snack...or Meal?

2007-09-10T07:57:00.000-04:00

So who says that television ads aren't effective? Well, I've been effected by one recently. Let me lay it out for you...

There I was watching television...sitting on the couch...not doing any sort of activity to make me any little bit healthier when this commercial pops up on t.v. about this company that provides you with healthy snacks and meal and that I could log on to their website for a FREE snack.

Wait...FREE snack. Side note...it's really amazing how that little work "FREE" gets people moving. What happened? I jump up from the couch and immediately went to: www.kashi.com

Once there...I was treated with healthy information and the opportunity for a FREE snack, which I'm still eagerly awaiting for. I'll give you a review of my snack once I receive it.

*Although at this point I'm fairly convinced that it will taste like twigs, bark, swamp muck and the like...we shall see.* (Totally kidding by the way)

Anyway...the only reason I mention it is if you are looking for a healthy snack source check out www.kashi.com and while your there don't forget to sign up for your FREE snack. Let me say it again...FREE snack!

Enjoy!

~jeremy

I'm a National TV Superstar...Kind of

2007-09-05T06:04:00.001-04:00

Alright...so last night I was watching ABC News...actually a program called: "i-Caught". There I am watching when all of the sudden they start talking about toy recalls and BAM!

The "Dora the Explorer Recall" Video I made a couple weeks back pops onto the TV. Don't believe me...or want to see...click here for the news report. "i-Caught Report with My Video"

(My clip pops up at about the 5 minute mark)

So yeah...there you have it...I'm a superstar! Nah...not really, but it sure feels great!

You can watch the full video here: "Youtube Link to Video"

**By the way...I made this video as mere satire and entertainment...not to attack corporations.**

Thanks

~jeremy

Awesome Wedding Pics!

2007-09-04T08:59:00.000-04:00

So it's been an official week (and a couple of days) after the wedding and our pictures are ready and they are AMAZING!

We went with Rachel Henderson Photography and she did a fabulous job! This is one of my favorites, take a look.

Rachel comes highly recommended by us! Check out her website, she does Weddings, Engagements, Graduates, and Kid pictures. rachelhendersonphotography.com

Also, if you'd like to view a quick slide show of our exciting day, click HERE!

Married...When's the Anniversary

2007-08-29T13:19:00.001-04:00

Alright...so this past weekend I got married! How awesome is that! I have a wife now! Wow...kind of weird to say...a wife! Life is great so far and we have taken a couple of days to relax and have a few more on the way, but today and tomorrow (Wednesday and Thursday) we have to work...so, here's a new post.

Now that we're married...an Anniversary is a year away. However, today I received a credit card size card that has the 2007 calendar on it, a list of all the holidays, and a list of...get this...Wedding Anniversary Gifts. So...if you have an anniversary coming up and want to be old fashion about it, here is the official list of gifts. Where are you?

1st - Clocks
2nd - China
3rd - Crystal/Glass
4th - Appliances
5th - Silverware
6th - Wood
7th - Desk Sets
8th - Linen/Lace
9th - Leather
10th - Diamond Jewelry
11th - Fashion Jewelry
12th - Pearls
13th - Textiles/Furs
14th - Gold Jewelry
15th - Watches
20th - Platinum
25th - Silver
30th - Diamond
35th - Jade
40th - Ruby
45th - Sapphire
50th - Gold
55th - Emerald
60th - Diamond

Alright...so I have a full year to plan for a clock...I think I can do this!

~jeremy

Coolest NEW Timewaster on the Web!

2007-08-23T06:54:00.000-04:00

Alright...I've got another Time Waster that not only educates but is really cool! If you haven't heard by now, well you'll have to investigate. Google has this program called...Google Earth. It's a very cool...it gives viewers an opportunity to view any area of the Earth and zoom in pretty far!

Well...now, this week Google has added "Sky". This gives Google Earth viewers the option to take to the skies and view the stars, galaxies, constellations, and MORE!

You have to check it out...within minutes of searching the vastness of the Universe, I ran across this little nebula...any guesses to what it's name is?

(Click for larger image.)

Know the name? Try...North America Nebula. Yeah...look again...looks a little like the United States/North America! Pretty Cool.

It's a free service and does require you to download the software, but I was up and running in about 5 minutes! Enjoy!

~jeremy

Dora the Explorer Public Service Announcement

2007-08-15T14:38:00.000-04:00

So with the recent recall of millions of Mattel toys...it seemed necessary to bring out the good old "Public Service Announcement."

However...this one is done straight from someone who is effected even more than you and I...Dora the Explorer. She'll give you the information you need to spot the issues and even give tell you how to handle the recall.

Take a look!

**Just in case you were really fooled...this was done as a bit for the station. It's my voice and I ran across some video footage and spliced it together with my audio to make this. It is all in fun and I hope you laughed...feel free to submit a comment or 2 and let me know what you thought!

Thanks!

~jeremy

After Unity 2007 - Who's Who?

2007-08-13T07:32:00.001-04:00

Alright...so...Unity 2007 is over and as I recall the events of Unity, I'm left thinking about some key moments.

A few of these moments include:

My favorites...ie. Kutless, Newsboys, Leelane, downhere, and Jars of Clay ALL did extremely well.

I picked up a new favorite...Burlap to Cashmere, who by the way rocked it too!

The new JQ99 Prize Wheel is a very popular toy and will be a big hit!

and Finally...one of the last key moments I've been thinking about...

How much Steven Delopoulos (Lead singer from Burlap to Cashmere) looks like Mark Ruffalo. Didn't catch that? Take a look.

Do you know who's who?

Leave a comment and I'll share the answer in the next day or so.

Good luck guess...unless you have an eagle-eye, or it's really easier than I thought.

~jeremy

A new hobbie?

2007-08-10T10:12:00.000-04:00

So recently I had the exciting opportunity to participate in an activity that I've been wanting to try for a very long time...Golf.

Now...before you say negative things about this...it's one thing to watch Golf on T.V. (which can be as exciting as watching grass grow), however...it's another to actually play the game.

My friends took me out and I was the only one who had never played a day in his life. Long story short, I had a great time, it wasn't over and done with too quickly, and they said I did fairly well for my first time and that I could actually make contact with the ball!

I'm excited for my next opportunity...whenever that might be. But now I need some clubs and shoes. However...these things will have to wait, there's been a lot of spending going on for the wedding that is...2 weeks away...and I'll have to save up.

Not to mention that my finacee, Annie and I want to get a pair of Kayaks, which need to be purchased before the clubs. :)

Anyway...it was a great time and I can't wait to go again. If you have any tips, please feel free to leave a comment. I could use the help!

[More]

Remember these Guys?

2007-08-01T13:21:00.000-04:00

Alright...for you "older" people out there, what I'm about to say will probably be funny...for you "younger" people out there, don't laugh, because soon you'll be saying the same thing.

It's official...I'm old. I recently found out that there is a movie coming out this December...Christmas time to be exact that features and unbelievable trio of boys that can sing like no-one you've ever heard.

Who is it? Take a look.

Yeah...I'm old. I remember watching these guys on t.v., I remember that it wasn't Christmas time until I heard those guys sing my favorite Christmas songs, I remember watching the animated movies.

Now...a live action movie is coming out featuring Jason Lee...(Earl, from "My name is Earl") as Dave Seville.

I caught the trailer and wanted to share.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE TRAILER!

Ah...the 80's/early 90's...welcome back.

~jeremy

Evan Almighty Review

2007-07-27T09:08:00.001-04:00

Alright...I know...I know...this is probably way later than it should be, however...time is very hard to come by, these days before the wedding.

I caught "Evan Almighty" in the theaters this week and I have to share my opinion, because it's a great movie and there have been many people out there that are skeptical, concerned, maybe even closed-minded about this movie. Their reasoning stems from many different views, ie. "God promised to never flood the earth again and this movie clearly goes against the Bible on this." or, "It has so-and-so in it and they were in some Non-Positive/Non-Christian movie and that's wrong!", or, as horrible as it sounds..."God isn't black/African-American."

(By the way...these are quotes from individuals that I have read first-hand and if anyone can tell me of a program on mainstream television that DOESN'T have someone who can be tied to a less than positive/Christian movie or television show, I'd like to know, as well as if whoever feels they know the color of God's skin...if He even has skin, would share with the rest of us, that'd be great too!)

Take or leave this review...but know that the opinions of this column are that of me...the individual...and do NOT reflect the views of anyone else. Also...I did used to work for a video store...for 5 years and watched lots of movies...took video production classes in college...therefore I feel I have a little bit of "street cred."

So...without further ado...here's my review on "Evan Almighty."This movie picks up "some time" after the 1st one..."Bruce Almighty." Evan who, in the first movie was successful in becoming a head anchor...now in the 2nd film successfully becomes a congressman.

He and his family pick up and move to a fancy house in a ritzy housing development. Although the fanciness of the house and the new lifestyle don't seem to be enough for the wife, Joan, and kids to forget what they left behind...friends, etc. Something that is reinforced throughout most of the movie.

The successful Congressman Evan Baxter quickly makes connections and is ask to co-sponsor a bill, thus creating lots of work, inevitably causing Evan to pick work over family.

One night after most of the family prays...it is clear the wife picks up on this and prays that the family will be able to grow closer. This along with Evan's positioning statement while running to be a congressmen, "Change the World" gives God His in, into the Baxter family.

Without giving away the what's and how's...let's just say that, much like the first movie, God...after much persuasion is able to get Evan's attention and even his service into building him an Ark.

At first Evan tries to build the Ark while still doing the congressman thing...but that eventually falls apart and he then decides to focus full-time on the Ark...which then sends the wife and kids headed to her mother's house.

As Evan continues the Ark with the aid of many...MANY animals. Evan's wife and kids are at lunch and Joan, without knowing who she's talking to, has a GREAT conversation with God. This to me is a very strong part of the movie and ultimately where the message of the movie lies.

After her conversation with God, Joan and the kids go back home to Evan and help in his efforts to finish the Ark before the deadline of the "flood."

Eventually the Ark is finished and it's the day that Evan was told the flood would come and there are news reporters, neighbors, and the like, surrounding the Ark, only to make fun and be skeptical. Not to mention that John Goodman's character shows up to destroy the Ark.

Now...I'm not going to share what happens next because you'll just have to have faith that this movie DOES uphold God's promise that he will NOT flood the earth again.

Throughout the movie there is another storyline tying in John Goodman's character and the bill which does get resolved in the end and everyone lives happily ever after.

Now that I've given you the basic storyline of the movie let me say that this movie has a GREAT message. It also had many...MANY opportunities to stray from the positive...but doesn't! This movie is...in my opinion acceptable for any age. The movie does an amazing job of walking the line between entertainment and Faith and is NOT blasphemous. Lastly...this movie is very funny!

The one thing I will reveal is something that I know most of us already know and believe that if it were to catch on...that the world would be a better place.

One of the many good morals of the story is that, God tells Evan that, "Changing the world starts with one Act of Random Kindness." Much like the theory of "Pay it Forward", "Evan Almighty" gets the message across that with one Act of Random Kindness you can change the world. Think about what the world would be like if every single person did one Act of Random Kindness...pretty awesome huh?

There you go...my review and thoughts. If you're one of those people who like the thumbs up/thumbs down, or star scale. I give "Evan Almighty" - Thumbs Up and 4 out of 5 stars.

Thanks!

An Educational Time Waster!

2007-07-26T06:22:00.000-04:00

So as much as we would all probably NOT admit that we do it...we all waste time. At home...at work...wherever. Well...I've run across I time waster that is very educational! That way you don't have to feel so bad when you're wasting time!

It's called:

"Click on the above image to be taken to the game."

Yes..."StateTris". It is a combination of the United States and Tetris. Pretty simple concept. The pieces...or States...float down from the top of the screen and you put them where they need to go...thus building the U.S. from the bottom to the top.

There are difficulties...

Easy - State shapes have names attached to them and pieces DON'T need to be rotated.

Medium - State shapes have names attached to them and pieces DO need to be rotated.

Hard - State shapes have NO names attached to them and NEED to be rotated.

I issue you a challenge today...see what your fastest time can be on HARD. Mine is 2:55.2

Good luck...leave a comment with your score!

It's Coming...

2007-07-23T12:20:00.000-04:00

So...yeah...

Sorry. That's really all I have to say at this point. It's been almost 3 weeks since my last post. I very much apologize and I hope...that you can forgive me.

However...in my defense...life has been CRAZY!

Crazy in a good way though. Which brings me to my next post.

Coming up on Wednesday, July 25th, not only are we 6 months from Christmas...yes I said Christmas, but I am 1 month from "W-day"...or Wedding Day!

It's no lie that it feels like time has flown by. It really seems like only a few months ago, Annie and I were even talking about getting married. Yet here we are...a month and 2 days away!

A month and 2 days away...
from the wedding.
from marrying my best friend.
from starting the next stage in life.
from starting a family.

All the months leading to our special day has been filled with excitement and lots and lots of advice from EVERYONE! Which is great...but...wow...everyone has different advice. One thing I do with advice is listen to it all then form my own way.

So...since our special day is nearing, I'd like to invite anyone who has advice to please, feel free to share it. Leave a comment and leave some words of wisdom.

Thanks!

~jeremy

Could You Be a Citizen?

2007-07-04T09:19:00.001-04:00

Alright...so today is the 4th of July. A very special day for the U.S. It's even a special day for some "out-of-town" folk who have studied their hearts out and would like to become a citizen of the United States of America.

I was thinking...I'm a citizen...but only because I was born here. I wonder how many of the questions I could answer.

Well, I ran across some of the questions (with answers available)...and the results put me in the C/B+ range...so not bad.

Why don't you give it a shot and see if you can stay in the country. :)

Click here for 100 questions to prove your citizenship!

Back from Biloxi

2007-07-02T13:49:00.000-04:00

Well...I'm back from Biloxi and boy am I tired. Seriously...

Anyway...time for some facial hair fun!

During the week I was down there leading the Youth in their Summer Mission Trip, I didn't shave...take a look at what 1 week did for me.

Some might say, "Teen Wolf"...others..."Abe Lincoln"...I say, "Wait until tomorrow!" That's right. I've been challenged to shave just enough to leave me with some large sideburns, you know...Wolverine style.

We'll have to see if I can leave the house like that or not.

Now that I'm back...I'll have more time to post, so check back!

~jeremy

Cicada Nastiness!!

2007-06-12T12:32:00.001-04:00

Alright...so I'm not usually someone who needs to "see it, before I believe it". But in the case of the Cicadas, I needed to.

See...apparently ever 17 years, in certain areas where the climate is right and the trees are old, the Cicadas hatch. And boy do they!

My fiancee, Annie, told me that her mom lives in an area where they are really bad. And by really bad, she means quantity and annoyance. We here in Michigan have at least heard their annoying buzzing, but we have been fortunate to never experience what my future Mother-in-Law has experienced.

To give you a quick overview, during this month that they're out and about, the make tons of noise, due to the sheer number of them. The crawl all over everything. They're in the grass, in the trees, on your house, all over your sidewalk (leaving some people to shovel them, like on might shovel SNOW!) Above all...the worst sounding part is the fact that they...FLY! Umbrellas become a much needed asset during this event.

Now...since I've lived in the West Michigan area my whole entire life, I've never heard of (until a few weeks ago) or experienced this horrific event. So...this past weekend, Annie had to go home for a friends Baby shower and I sent her with my camera...take a look. Photos not recommended for the squeemish.

*(These pictures were taken the weekend of June 9 & 10, so these were NOT taken during the peak of their lovely appearance)*

(Click to enlarge - If you want to)

And finally one more. I really liked the composition of this one. My fiancee did a very nice job snapping pics for me! This next one, doesn't make them look as nasty as they are.

(Click to enlarge - If you want to)

There you have it! Have a good day...and Thank GOD if you don't live in an area that has this going on!

~jeremy

Talk about a "Free Ride"!

2007-06-07T13:25:00.000-04:00

Alright...so amongst me trying to find some cool things to talk about this afternoon on the show, I found a story that's really...well...hard to believe. And by the way, for those of you who may be feel like God doesn't help us in times of need, read on. This situation had God all over it!

Here is the news article: (Continue down for pictures)

Man in wheelchair takes ride on semi's grill

PAW PAW -- The Michigan State Police Paw Paw Post and Van Buren County Central Dispatch began receiving strange reports of a man in a wheelchair being pushed by a semi truck on Wednesday afternoon.

As the truck was leaving a gas station, the 21-year-old man wheeled his chair in front the vehicle and the wheelchair became lodged by its handles in the front grill of the truck. The unwitting truck driver then proceeded to travel west on Red Arrow Highway at speeds of approximately 50 mph.

Police initially thought the report might have been a prank until they started receiving more reports of the situation.

The truck traveled for an estimated four miles unknowingly pushing the man in the wheelchair. The driver then pulled into the Ralph Moyle Trucking Company with wheelchair and occupant still attached. When troopers arrived, they discovered the man was unharmed and unfazed by the incident.

Police approached the driver and advised him of the man in the wheelchair. The driver did not believe them until he stepped out of the truck and saw the man still sitting in the chair.

The young man said it was quite a ride.

One trooper on the scene said it would be possible to work another 90 years in law enforcement and never see an incident such as this one.

Everybody said they are just glad no one was injured.

This is eye opening...

2007-06-06T07:57:00.001-04:00

I don't eat fast food on a regular basis, and to be honest, I really only go "out" to eat once a week, maybe twice if the occasion arises. After what I'm about to share with you, you may be cutting that fast food intake back a little.

Imagine your sitting at home on your couch...catching the latest episode of your favorite television program when it's time for the commercials. You think about getting up to grab a snack and then you hear it...the ever popular McDonald's music, or the karaoke version of "Sweet Home Alabama" and realize a KFC advertisement is on. So...you watch.

You watch as the fast food scrolls across the screen tempting you with it's crispy glow and delicious allure. You cave. Eventually.

Later on you find yourself at Burger King, McDonald's, Arby's, Taco Bell, whatever you've been craving since the fast food graced your television screen. You receive your food, make sure it's all there, then being eating it as you drive away. Now, occasionally some of us tend to notice our food.

What do we notice? Well some of us notice that the order is wrong, but a select few actually notice that the once deliciously looking meal that was displayed on your television set, no longer looks delicious, in fact it looks like someone sat on it, or worse.

Don't believe this is true. Take a look. I ran across a website that shows a side-by-side comparison of food in ads to reality. Prepare to be frightened. Here's a sample just in case it'd be too much for you.

*(Disclaimer) Sorry if anything on this site offends you, it's intention is to entertain and make you aware of a scary situation. Without further ado...

CLICK HERE!!

Thanks for looking!

Jeremy

Sheldon!

2007-06-05T13:29:00.000-04:00

Well my birthday isn't until early September, however my lovely fiancee decided she knew exactly what I would like...a turtle!

She grew up with box turtles and decided that she would like to get one for me. The only thing is they aren't available at the pet store until spring and early summer!

Well...over the weekend we headed out and got one. His name...(although I think he's actually a girl) is "Sheldon". It was the first name that came to me. Take a look what do you think?

I haven't had my own pet since I was in middle school. I hope I remember how to take care of him. :)

He's doing great so far and spends a lot of time with his head out of his shell which is nice. It means he doesn't spend all his time in his shell. He even lets me pet the top of his head!

Just thought I would share a picture of my exciting friend. Thanks for looking!

Jeremy

Where has all the Mello Yello Gone?!

2007-05-30T13:54:00.000-04:00

Alright...so here's the deal.

The other day I was mowing my fiancee's lawn and it was fairly warm outside, somewhere around the 80-85 degree mark. I was a little more than half way and decided to go grab a drink of water.

Well at the same time I had been mowing, Annie's neighbor was mowing his lawn. He's 87, and it was hot, and he was taking a break too. So I decided to walk over with an extra bottle of water and share in a drink and some conversation.

Then he mentions that he prefers "Mello Yello". "Mello Yello?" I say. "Yep" he said, "Haven't had it in a very long time, can't seem to find it anywhere."

As this conversation took place in my head, my mind was reeling with places I could go to track down some of that delicious citrius soda, but you know what...I don't know where to look or where to find it.

I'd like to pick some up for him and bring it over to his house as a surprise. SO...

I'm looking for your help. If you know where I can find "Mello Yello" in can, bottle, 2 liter, whatever kind of form in the Holland area, leave a comment and let me know!!

Thanks!

~jeremy

Meez.com

2007-05-16T16:26:00.000-04:00

Ran across a websit that let me make...well...me, check it out! Meez.com!

Baby Ducks!!

2007-05-07T11:18:00.000-04:00

That's right...our beloved JQ pond ducks have production Baby JQ Pond ducks!

I noticed them from across the pond, ran out and grabbed my camera and snapped a couple of pics. Can't say that I've really ever seen baby ducks up close. Thought it might bring a smile to you all today!

Oh yeah...I did a double take on this one. But this little guy must have JQ running through his veins. Not sure where you get a tiny little flag like that. Good job Doogan...I named him...he's easy to spot with the flag on his backside! :)

~jeremy

Keyboard Waffle Iron!

2007-05-04T13:40:00.000-04:00

Because breakfast isn't nerdy enough, I present to you the Keyboard Waffle Iron.

There's really nothing else to be said about this wonder of modern technology, but I invite you to make your best keyboard/waffle puns in comments. Come on, let's see what you've got.

JQ99's Move for Life...My Part

2007-05-04T11:06:00.000-04:00

So the radio station is doing this "Move for Life" deal. It's something that anyone can be a part of.

Essentially what the deal is, is that you sign up to be a part of the team. Do some movin' and do some losin' and record it through the JQ99 website, and we'll keep totals of everyone and see how healthy we can become by the end of the summer.

So...what I plan to do is...Next week I plan to ride my bike to work. Now, normally it's like a 6-10 minute drive on Chicago Drive. However, I had to plan a safer route and it's about 5.55 miles, at least according to Mapquest, and would take 15 minutes by car. We'll see how long it'll take by bike.

Check out the map below. And stay tuned to JQ99 as I recap my fun ride next week! Don't forget, you can listen live at JQ99.com.