Sometimes the UPS outnumber the DOWNS...

March 12th, 2006

There we were (Ian and I), sitting at the front of the auditorium with our clipboards, waiting for the next band to come out, when the monitor approached us. He was 10 years our senior, with graying hair pulled back into a ponytail. He kept his distance as if we would strike him down with lightning at any time, and asked timidly, “Is there anything you’d like at the moment? Would you like a bottle of water? Would you like a break? Because we’ll tell them to wait if you like.” That was only the beginning. We had access to all the “important” sections, we had all-you-can eat privileges during lunch, we were told to feel free to cut to the front of lines (although we never had to), we were given extra attention by the competing directors because they were trying to earn extra points for their band. You may be asking, "Why would two college rascals, barely old enough to rent cars be treated so"? Because...we were wearing a special badge that, in large bold letters, proudly proclaimed us as: “Judges”.

Unfortunately the day took a turn for the worse. After getting our checks and happily bounding to our cars, I realized my car wouldn’t start. Argh! The more I attempted to turn the key, the more frustrated I got.


"Arghhhhh!!!!"

I was forced to wait by my car for 45 minutes in total humiliation for the tow truck to arrive. There are very few things which are more frustrating than your car breaking down, mostly because you know that in 24 hours you are going to have considerably less money in your bank account. And sure enough, within 24 hours, not only had I spent the money from the adjudicating gig, but I had also dived deeply into my checking account. So basically, I judged for 7 hours for one sole purpose: to give it to a bunch of mechanics.

Tomorrow we’re going to Las Vegas, and I’m going to win back the money wasted on an ignition mechanism replacement. I know, I know...you don’t believe me. You think I’ll have to hitchhike my way back to Phoenix because in the end I won’t have enough money for gas, right? Well, I’ll tell you what…you’re probably right.

Geronimo!