Congratulations, Trooper Criswell!

I went to Zionsville High School this morning to attend the graduation ceremony of the 67th class of the Indiana State Police Academy.  One of my former students and fellow hams was in that class, and I wouldn't have missed it for the world!  Daniel, KC9AXD, is now referred to as Trooper Criswell.  It was an impressive ceremony, and Dan looked like a million bucks.  I am so proud of him!  He will be stationed at the Putnamville State Police Post just west of Greencastle--closer to home than many of the former recruits.  He is a lucky duck!

Dan is special to me for several reasons.  One is that he was such a pain in class in 10th grade that I figured he was destined for trouble.  He found a little of it, but turned his life around, totally.  During his senior year, he IMed me at my sister's in Illinois at Christmas to inquire about amateur radio.  We talked back and forth about it for a little bit, then he started studying for the Technician test.  He passed it with flying colors on January 5th.  I'm sure it's not a record, but it impressed the hell out of me!  After high school, he started on his quest to become a cop, never giving up on his dream.  He told me at the end of his first week at the Academy that it was as rough or rougher than military boot camp, but no matter how hard they tried to make recruits drop out, he was in for the long course.  Today, Dan's dream became a reality.  Way to go, Trooper Dan!  (On a lighter note, one hapless young graduate's last name is Trinkle.  He will be hereinafter be referred to as Trooper Trinkle.  Poor fellow!)

Change of subject.  I hereby change Frodo's title from "Wonder Dog" to "Junkyard Dog"!  In her 'roid rage, she has become a dog on an endless quest for food.  Last night, I had three garbage bags sealed up to take to the curb this morning.  Had them on top of the table, away from her ability to get to them....I thought.  Ha!  The minute my back was turned, she found a way to get on top of the table.  I caught her in the act of tearing into one of the bags.  Even after a severe scolding and my making the bags more secure, she STILL managed to get into another one.  She is absolutely shameless when it comes to food!  I wonder if there is a twelve step program for doggie food addicts...