Vivika_Vergara's Blog

Tonight, we worked on a piece about vandalism at Calvary Cemetery in Milwaukee.  At this particular site, about 60 headstones were knocked over and a number were also spray painted. Every time I come across one of these stories, it makes my heart sink.  

Driving into the cemetery didn't seem so bad until we spotted two men with a large crane hoisting a massive headstone upright.  In the ground, you could definitely see a large indentation -- tracing almost -- of where this 1,000+ pound headstone used to be.  When I asked them what came to mind when they saw these knocked over headstones, they just shook their head and said it was disgusting.  

They don't know why, the cemetery doesn't know why, complete strangers probably don't why either -- why anyone would find enjoyment from vandalizing a sacred spot meant for reflection and peace.

It's bad enough you have crews working around the clock trying to restore order before the super busy Memorial Day weekend -- but I can only imagine what it would be like to make the drive in, with intentions of reflections and prayer, only to be greeted by the unthinkable.   

I also had a chance to speak with the man who oversees all Catholic cemeteries for the Archdiocese who says in most instances, vandals are never caught -- unfortunately, crews just end up finding their handywork.

I'm sure you probably have your own ideas and suggestions about what to do with anyone caught and connected to these awful acts -- for me, I'm praying they will stop and realize they are doing more than just merely knocking over headstones and defacing property -- they're hurting a family and community.

  

I don't know about you but waking up to blue skies and sunshine is better than an alarm clock anyday.  When it's bright, I feel like I can take on the world!  Gray skies and and rain only make me want to sleep or curl up on the couch with Cheetos and movies.  So, seeing that we've had such soggy conditions lately, where have dreary weather daydreams taken you?  Planning any interesting vacations or roadtrips?  I'm sure travel agents are busy considering the odd seasons we've been having...

For me, I'd transport to the beach with my family and dogs.  Phones, computers and the Blackberry would not be allowed -- just sun and nature. 

I know Spring is somewhere out there -- I guess I'll just have to hold on tight to tropical thoughts until puddles, splashing and snow scrapers are completely out of the forecast.

 

I'm not originally from Milwaukee but do have a Tom Snyder memory.  I interned at the Late Late Show with Tom Snyder out at CBS Television City (Los Angeles) back in 1998!  Mr. Snyder was funny, articulate, tall and loved his mother.  Although mornings were spent prepping for shows, researching and finding future guests, when he came in to the office in the afternoon, it was time for business.  The thing I liked the most about his show was how he entertained and educated.  One guest would be Rick James ... the second interview would be Jeffrey Toobin.  He brought on movie stars and poets; singers and activists; comedians and Ron Popeil (no lie -- there was a signed poster in the conference room).  Being interested in late night entertainment shows in college, this internship truly opened my eyes to a variety of topics and ideas.  As nervous and scared as I was to be working for him, he even talked to the interns!  He told great stories and liked to crack jokes.  I was sad to hear about Mr. Snyder's passing and know his legacy and wit will live on.  

How many times have you blurted something out at the movies or while watching TV? Why doesn't he just ask her out already! OR No you didn't just walk down that dark alley by yourself! I think we've all been there before.  But today, a photojournalist and I experienced a different sort of "one-way dialogue" while out on a story.  Just as we were about to interview someone, a woman in her car slows down, honks her horn and screams out, "This is why local news sucks!!!"  Now, if you missed something -- like WHY she felt compelled to screech this from her sedan -- we've got a similar mystery to solve.  We were on a public sidewalk, the camera wasn't pointed at anyone or anything and last time I checked, she did not stop to find out what we were doing a story on.  Had she stopped, I would've kindly told her.  I think sometimes, members of the media are walking targets for criticism.  

This isn't the first time someone's spoken their mind.  I get height comments all the time! Those I don't mind.  I'm completely fine with the fact that I only need a little over half an inch to break the "five foot barrier." :) I've even had people tell me I'm prettier in person than on TV.  Hurts to hear -- but hey, everyone's entitled to their opinion.  I'm happy with who I am.  It's the comments when someone straight up tells me, "Wow, your English is very good.  Where were you born?" or "You're really looking fat on TV," that really make me wonder, "Did they really just say that to me OUT LOUD???" Yes, we work for a news station and represent the station at all times but we are also human beings.

It's interesting, our "office" is the community.  We go out every day to gather research, compile facts, make our deadlines and like many out there, please our bosses.  Above all, we all try to find happiness on the job.  Maybe it's because our office is so public, some think that comfort in their living room extends to the streets when we meet at the grocery store, at the park or while covering the news of the day.  I'm not saying don't approach us or make comments to us because the overwhelming number of people who do come up and say hello are very kind, courteous and genuinely appreciate what our station does.  Or, they've got a story idea they'd like to share.  It's the lingering few that really leave me speechless. I've never gone to someone's work and without reason or warning, openly crticized someone for how they answered the phone, handled a meeting, prepared a dish or calculated taxes.  If I really had a beef with someone, I'd bring it to their attention and let them know why.  I understand we are all entitled to our own opinions but sometimes, I think it's good to put this friendly reminder out there: Sometimes when you open your mouth and words come out, we CAN hear you.   

Was out walking my dog today and already saw someone sorting through boxes in their driveway and dusting off the "Garage Sale" sign.  It made me think about two things:  good deals to come and what everyone is wanting to fix-up this spring.  Any cool bargain finds you've made?  What about spring remodeling projects?  No garage sale for me but I'll be working on making a copper trellace for my garden.        

I read an interesting article last week about pet prescriptions.  In it, a North Carolina couple spent thousands of dollars in meds just so their pet can stay healthy. 

According to the Animal Health Institute, Americans bought $2.9 billion in pet drugs in 2005.  At first, I was very surprised -- but come to think of it, I've contributed to that number.  My dog and I have waited it out when the vet's office has been full.  My family and I have spent a number of late nights at the animal ER and never have we been the only ones there.      

I know lots of people who consider their pet a member of the family.  I also know a number of people who will pay the extra money for special diets and medication just so their pet can be healthy.  Then there's the other couple of people I know people who think a dog is "just" a dog. 

What do you think about all this money being spent on their care?      

 

On Friday, we covered opening day of the Beer City Tattoo Convention. While there, we met many talented artists and people looking to get inked. We even found a 54-year old woman and her 80-year old mother who were looking to get their first tattoos. For quite some time though, there's been a sort of stigma attached to tattoos. No doubt about it, it's a unique form of self expression. The thing I find very fascinating is the story behind the design. What's your story?

Monday will mark the anniversary of the unthinkable -- the September 11th terrorist attacks. What do you think about the movies and docudramas coming out on this?

This Newsweek article talks about how Clinton aides are demanding changes to an upcoming miniseries:

http://msnbc.msn.com/id/14722188/site/newsweek/

How about books -- has anyone picked up the 9/11 Commission Report lately to re-read or is there another book or magazine you're reading regarding this? I'm planning on checking out the 9/11 Commission Report again.

I know we just came off a long holiday weekend but was wondering, where's the good BBQ in town? Back at home, Hecky's in Evanston has delicious rib tips! I've tried Speed Queen and that's tasty, too. So, where can a hungry reporter find some good grub?