My long-range forecast

My long-range forecast -- chapter 32

Hello everyone, and I hope that you're having a good week. I continue to rewrite and write more chapters of this story and I'm seeking any suggestions, constructive criticms or positive feedback you have about the story. Please send information to cjwilson328@aol.com. For those if you who have already reached out to me - my thanks! I'm working your ideas into future storylines.

After the big discussion between CJ and UD, they both get a day to relax and enjoy the station. UD gets to serve his luncheon to the entire staff and is in the height of his hosting skills. Be ready for the next chapter as Sally is planning a surprise birthday party for CJ and Wally.

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Everyone made it back to the condo complex and the group continued to be rowdy up to the fourth floor. Aunt Sally spoke up and said "I can't remember when we've had so much fun together. CJ, Wally and Alex thanks for getting us all there tonight. I have to agree with Laura, I'd enjoy another night at Mel's if anyone else is up to it?" Everyone had their tee shirts in hand except for me. Oh well, I have way too many tee shirts now and don't need any more.

I kept hearing crap from UD and Wally telling me to take money from them to help out with the bill. I looked at both of them and said "guy's the bill was taken care of. I had a wonderful evening and enjoyed seeing everyone sing and have a great time. If you want to, give your winnings to Alex and let him plan another happy hour and dinner for one of the remaining nights." Wally and UD handed their winnings to Alex who was smiling. He said "okay everyone, we've got happy hour and dinner covered for Wednesday night!"

I told everyone "I need to turn in for some sleep now. Please continue to enjoy your evening. If you want breakfast tomorrow before the station events, Cecilia has invited you all to her breakfast sandwich restaurant. Wally and Alex, do you remember where that is?" They both nodded yes and I continued to say "once you finish up with breakfast, come on over to the station and park in the guest lot in front. Mindy will be at the reception desk waiting for all of you and will notify me when you're all there. Have a good evening, everyone, and I love you all!" Aunt Sally, UD and Laura gave me a hug and kiss good night.

Wally joined me earlier than I expected and caught me while I was brushing my teeth. I smiled at him with my foaming smile of toothpaste. I said "hey stud, how did you escape UD and Alex?" He smiled and said "UD told me I looked tired and that I needed some sleep for a big day tomorrow." He told me to tell you "To get some good sleep and enjoy your evening!" I cracked up and said "I love that man!"

Wally got ready for bed also, and we held each other in our arms. I felt so relaxed after my day with UD. I quickly went into a spoon position with my man holding me. I said "thanks for being there for me my love, and for putting up with me as I've dealt with this. As you told me all along, it went better than I thought. UD is still in our lives, and I feel a huge burden lifted off me so that you and I can move forward freely and honestly in our relationship." Wally kissed my forehead and said "I love you CJ and thanks babe for including me today. I am so blessed to have you and UD in my life. You sleep well my love." We soon both fell asleep in a peaceful bliss.

1:30 came around way too early, but I started in on my routine. As I was showering, I said to myself "today is going to be a fun day. Enjoy it CJ! The family will be so surprised when Bailey makes his announcement and Laura is going to be so surprised today with her voice audition and first paycheck. Little did I know that Bailey had a special surprise in store for Ronny and myself today.

Wally had coffee ready for me when I came out to the breakfast bar. He said "I'm supposed to meet everyone at 7:30 so we can drive over to Cecilia's. I said "okay, I will plan to meet you all there around 8:00 then. Thanks, sweetheart for being the chauffer this week, as well as being the love of my life!" He smiled at me, pulled me into his body and said "you are the love of my life CJ. Just when I was about to give up on finding the perfect one for me, you appeared in my life just over two months ago. This has been the happiest two months of my life, and I want to share so many months with you ahead in our future CJ. I love you CJ Skinner Walters, and I'll always be here for you."

The morning shows went very smooth. Vicki was in a beautiful mood and brought doughnuts in for everyone in the newsroom. Angela snickered and said "this is the first I ever remember her bringing in anything for the newsroom. It figures that she's going to turn into a pleasant person on the day that Bailey announces she is leaving. That Bitch!" I spewed out my coffee and said "give me some forewarning when you are going to trash her!" We both had a good laugh and I said "do you think she injected the doughnuts with her drugs this morning?" Nick heard me and spit out the doughnut bite he had just taken. Angela and I busted out laughing and she said "let's see who else we can get wound up this morning!"

After the shows were over, I said "who is up for meeting the Skinner family at 8:00 versus waiting until later this morning? They are coming to Cecilia's with Wally and Alex this morning." Angela said "I'm up for it as I need to talk with Wally and Alex. I need some extra's for a segment I'm producing." Nick, Carl, Trevor, Jennifer and Ross joined into the breakfast as well. Vicki declined and said "everyone have fun and I'll talk to you later."

We loaded into the news van and drove to Cecilia's. Cecilia said "oh my, I get the whole crew this morning!" I said "that's right Cecilia, and my family is going to join us this morning also. Can you handle 14 of us?" She smiled and said "for you CJ, I will make room for 100 if I need to."

Cecilia put several tables together and the news crew began sitting down at them. I saw the SUV pull up in front and I said "okay everyone, here come The Skinners!" I went up to the front door and greeted everyone. Aunt Sally smiled and said "oh this is wonderful dear. I did not think I was going to have breakfast with you." I said "well Aunt Sally, I brought a few people from the morning newscast to meet you as well if you don't mind?" UD smiled and said "hell no CJ, this is so great seeing you have a family in Ohio, as well as a family in Florida. I'm so happy for you son!" I started in introductions of my family to Cecilia. Cecilia gave everyone a hug and when she got to UD she said "ah, Senor UD thank you for visiting my humble breakfast restaurant. I hope to visit one of your restaurants for the great barbecue creations that CJ is always mentioning." UD smiled and gave Cecilia a hug. He said "I understand I am about to taste the best breakfast sandwich and coffee I will ever have in my life. It's so good to meet you, Cecilia."

We joined the rest of the table, and I did the remaining introductions. Soon everyone was breaking off into smaller conversations. Cecilia served us all water, coffee and juices. She brought her son Jorge out to help take the orders this morning. Angela spoke up and said "Laura, I understand you and I are going to be doing some work together this morning." Laura smiled and said "we are?" Angela smiled and said "yes, we are. I'm producing a commercial for a local restaurant and I need several voices in it before it's completed. My boss Bailey said you are interested in television, so he wants to audition you this morning for my commercial." Laura's smile got even bigger and she said "wow everyone, this vacation just keeps getting better and better!" Everyone got a laugh on her comments, and the conversations continued to flow well.

Everyone enjoyed their breakfast and Cecilia returned asking "can I get anything for anyone, or can I get coffee to go for anyone?" UD spoke up and said "Cecilia, I don't know what ingredients you put in your sauce, but I have to agree with CJ when I say that is the best breakfast sandwich I have ever had." Aunt Sally chimed in and said "I agree Cecilia, and I absolutely love your coffee blend. It's such a rich and smooth flavor for the morning." UD continued and said "I want you to come to Cincinnati sometime and bring Jorge with you. We'll trade recipes, and I'll show you both the highlights of the Queen City of the Midwest." Cecilia smiled and said "we definitely will visit you in Cincinnati UD. It's been our pleasure to serve you and your family this morning."

We all stood up from the table and went to our vehicles. Wally said "pull into the front, correct?" I said "yes, I'll come out to the reception area and meet all of you. UD -- no job offers to Mindy until I get there." He chuckled at me and said "I'm making no promises on anything this vacation son!"

We pulled into the back lot and unloaded. Ross said "CJ, you and UD have the same bubbly personality. It was so nice to meet your family, and I'm looking forward to spending more time with them through the day today." Angela chimed in and said "your cousins are absolutely delightful. Laura is just as cute as you described her to me. She's going to be very excited on the commercial, isn't she?" I nodded my head yes to Angela and said "I'm going to go meet them in the reception area and make sure UD has not hired Mindy for his organization!" Angela said "I'll come with you and see what Bailey has planned."

I walked into the reception area and was shocked when I saw James Thompson, Josh and Bailey sitting down and conversing. My family was coming through the front door, and I went to Bailey and said "what is going on boss?" He stood up, gave me a smile and said "surprise! Your college mentor heard there was a huge party here today and flew down to join it." James looked at me and said "good morning, CJ. I hope you don't mind me crashing your party? You remember Josh Trumball, don't you?" I smiled and said "of course I don't mind" and gave James a big hug. I turned to Josh and said "hey Josh, it's great to see you. How is your summer break going?" Josh smiled and said "it's going great CJ. I've had a busy week, but I'm glad to be here today and I hope to see you and Ronny in action today."

UD and the family approached and UD said "James, it's wonderful to see you. How have you been?" James smiled and said "I'm doing wonderful UD. I hear you are serving your barbecue here today so I am crashing the party! Hello Sally, it's so wonderful to see you. Laura, I understand you've been inquiring about the television program at Maumee? We'll get together soon and discuss it when you return to Ohio. Until then, Bailey and I are going to do a voice audition with you today. Does that sound good to you, young lady?" Laura looked and her mom and dad and said "you bet Mr. Thompson! I've been watching CJ faithfully, and I want to follow in his footsteps in the television industry." Bailey smiled and said "you've got a good voice Laura. Angela, are we all set up for Laura's audition?" Angela said "we sure are Bailey. Why don't the four of us go into the audio booth and see how she does with the commercial lines?" Bailey said "that sounds great Angela. Why don't you take Laura and James there and I'll be right along. I have to meet the famous UD and Sally before I do anything else this morning!"

Bailey turned to UD and said "hello UD. I feel I already know you from all that CJ has shared with me about the family. It's great to finally meet you in person, and thank you so much for setting up the catered event for the station today. It fits so well into my plans, and I cannot begin to express my appreciation to you. Good morning, Sally, Maddie and Josie. I'm Bailey Stauffer, the general manager at channel 2. I am so glad you can all join us today. We've got a big day planned for all of you! CJ, why don't you give your family and Josh a tour of the place. I'm going to catch up with Angela, James and Laura to see how her audition is going. Let's reconvene around 11:00 in the studio."

UD went over to Mindy's desk and said "Mindy, it's so wonderful to meet you today versus the emails and phone calls we have been exchanging." UD gave her a hug and said "let me introduce you to my family."

I turned to Josh and said "so, do I take this visit as you're considering changing your fall schedule to do an internship with us?" Josh smiled and said "yeah, CJ. I'm considering it very heavily. I'm not sure if I should shoot for the fall, or wait until the spring semester? James said that all the classes I have scheduled can be moved to the spring, and is encouraging me to be here in a couple of weeks after Labor Day to start. I'm going to discuss it over with James and Bailey later today. How do you like it here CJ?" I smiled and said "Josh, I cannot believe what has happened to me over the last two months. I came to channel 2 thinking I was starting on the weekends doing the weather and as a general reporter. A number of good things have come my way, and here I am now doing the morning and noon weather at channel 2. It's definitely been an extension of the Maumee program for me, and Bailey is just as wonderful to work with as James is. They appear to be working well together on this internship and I look forward to all of the opportunities it will present for the Maumee students. If I were you, I'd take it in the fall. We definitely need help on the weekends, and you will learn so much." Josh said "thanks CJ. Your comments do help and who knows, maybe I'll be able to intern here in the fall and come back for summer work." I said "tell Bailey you want that to happen and if you prove yourself to him, he will make it work. He's an awesome person to work for, and has so much knowledge of the industry. I'll be happy to answer any questions you have today or we can continue discussions through Zoom in the near future."

I gathered up Aunt Sally, UD, Maddie and Josie and introduced them to Josh. I explained that Josh may be joining us on an internship yet this fall. Maddie and Josie were all over him as his cute fraternity boy look is definitely appealing! I took them through the entire station. Highlights of the tour included the newsroom, the directors master control room which houses the master control switcher and other auxiliary systems. Josh looked at the switcher and said "this looks like our unit CJ, but it's march larger. Does it have more functionality than what we have? I said "sit down Josh and give it a try. I explained to my family that the main screen is what is live now on the station. I started barking out commands to Josh like give me a preview of camera 1 against the weather wall." He did that and the weather wall appeared in a preview monitor. I said "from here we can add in graphics and said fly in graphics 1 to the preview Josh and add video one to the shot." Soon Josh had a live shot of the pier in the background with weather graphics over top of it. I said "from here, when the director is satisfied with the shot, they will say cutover to preview 1. We won't do that now as we're live with a national syndicated show now. This is how we set up our local studio shots though, and cut them over to the main transmitter."

Aunt Sally and UD had several questions for me which I was able to answer. All Maddie and Josie could comment on was the hideous shade of green for the weather wall. Josie said "doesn't that color interfere with your wardrobe?" I smiled and said "that is one standard you will see in any tv studio. That color does not interfere with your wardrobe, but graphics and video can be merged in with it to present a cohesive picture with the on-air talent in front of it. You'll both see that on the noon news today." I said how about you Josh, any questions?" He said "I think I'm good CJ. I can see the additional functionality this unit has, and it provides so many additional preview shots and functinality than what we have at Maumee."

We continued on through the editing bays and the audio booths. When we got to the booth where Angela, Laura, James and Bailey were at, I turned on the speakers and heard Bailey saying "Laura can you give me a little higher pitch when you say try these pancakes, you'll love them?" James jumped in as well and said "take a deep breath before you say it Laura, and push from your stomach." Bailey and James were happy with the result, and Bailey said "Laura, that was great! Let's take everything from the top now and go through it one more time." Maddie said "how come she gets to audition, and we don't?" UD cracked up and said "tell us what you want to do like Laura has and maybe we can make something happen for you two as well."

I took everyone to the engineering room and explained that this was the heart of the operation. I said "this unit over here is the transmitter. Everything you saw in the master control room is sent to this box unit. The transmitter disseminates the video out to television substations and eventually to everyone's television set. Aunt Sally said "it amazes me that something just plain like this box has so much power to send video streams to output components. This has been fascinating CJ. Where is your office dear?" I took them to our office wings and she said "ah, you need more pictures in here CJ. I've got to take care of that before we leave." UD just cracked up and said "that's my wife for you CJ, her interior decorating skills are always first and foremost on her mind."

We made our way back to the studio and found Angela, Laura, James and Bailey already there. Bailey had some special seats placed in the studio so that everyone can watch the broadcast from here live. Laura was grinning ear to ear and said "look mom and dad, I got a job today and my first paycheck! UD looked at the check, and it was made out to Laura for $500!" UD looked at Bailey and said "this is too kind, but we can't accept this." Bailey laughed at UD and said "nonsense UD. I needed a young teenage voice today, and Laura filled the void for us. That is the standard fee for a commercial voiceover. She earned it today, and if we ever need her again, we'll be in contact." UD looked down at Laura and said "wow sweetheart, how did you enjoy your first day at work?" She smiled at UD and said "it was great dad! I am going to school at Maumee and I want to intern here someday with Mr. Stauffer and everyone. This has been the best day of my life!"

Angela turned to me and said "let's go get your weather updates in and then we'll load them." I said "sounds good. Laura, do you want to see how I changed graphics and get them loaded behind me?" She said "yeah, will you do that for me CJ?" Josh spoke up and said "I'd like to see it as well to compare the cg systems." Angela said "okay everyone, follow me. Oh Bailey, Nick has Ronny set to do several noon stories as well so we'll have a full broadcast at noon." Josh smiled and said "great, I will get to see both of you in action at noon."

Ronny was not aware that James and Josh were here yet. We found him in an audio booth and James knocked on the door. Ronny turned around, and his eyes grew bigger than I have ever seen on him. He opened the door, gave James a hug and said "James, it is so good to see you! What are you doing here today?" James smiled and said "I wanted to see my Muskies in action on a live stage, and I heard we are having UD barbecue today. I couldn't resist Ronny!" Ronny then saw Josh and said "Josh, bro how are you? Are you the intern coming here by any chance?" Josh replied "hey Ronny, I am doing great and it's good to see you. Yes, I'm working with Bailey and James on the internship. I'm trying to decide what works best for me for either the fall or spring semester. We're going to discuss everything this afternoon."

I sat down and showed Laura and Josh what I did to change graphics, and how I merge them into the show segments. Laura and I then loaded everything to the master switcher and I explained to Laura that that device will allow the director to switch all the slides behind me." She smiled at me and said "this is so cool CJ. I can't wait until I go to college and learn all of this stuff."

Angela said "okay Laura and Josh, we have about 10 minutes left. Let's go back out to the studio and we'll get you two into a comfortable seat."

I grabbed my jacket and went out to the set. Ronny and Ross joined me and Angela explained to everyone else what was going to happen. She said "make sure you watch the green boards behind Ross, CJ and Ronny. You won't see any video there, but watch this monitor. This is what is going out live to our audience." The floor director said "two minutes everyone." Ross and I took our seats, put our microphones on. My family, James, Josh, Wally and Alex all took their seats and before we knew it the floor director was giving the five second countdown and cued Ross. The red light on the camera appeared and Ross said "Good afternoon, St Petersburg. Let's get started off with the St Petersburg in sixty for our noontime headlines." The camera light went off an came back one minute later pointing towards me. The floor director cued me and I started with "Good afternoon, everyone in the bay area. It's another hot and humid day out there today, but we have some relief coming in late this week. I'll have the entire forecast coming up later." Ross took over and said "in our top story at noon today....". I could tell I had two interested pupils in the group. Laura and Alex were still amazed with the green boards and how they really worked. Everyone was watching intently, and I could tell they were all having a good time.

We went through two commercial breaks, and the camera came back to me as I was standing in front of the big green board. I started in on my forecast, and everyone saw the sunshine skyway bridge behind me. Graphics began fading in and out along with radar shots and static maps. I was putting on a fantastic show for everyone. I went to the seven day and 10-day forecasts as I walked back to the desk. Ross and Ronny were setting at the desk, and I was standing by Ronny. Ross said "we get a special treat this afternoon everyone as Ronny has joined us with several sports stories occurring this weekend. Ronny what's happening today at the Buc's training camp?" Ronny started in and said "good afternoon, everyone. I caught back up with Baker Mayfield today about the upcoming game this weekend versus Green Bay. Here's what Baker is thinking about the game on Friday night." I took a side glance at Alex who was smiling like a proud parent. The camera came back on Ronny, and he continued with more video and graphics imposed behind him. He said "Ross, it's a very busy week in town. The Rays continue their series against the Red Sox, and the Orioles come into town for a three-day weekend series. Baker and the Bucs are at Raymund James on Friday night for a 7:30 kickoff."

Ross said "thanks Ronny. We'll be right back after this message." The floor director said "cut and back in 20." The camera pulled back to the three of us and the floor director cued Ross. Ross said "CJ, the weekend looks cooler?" I said "yes Ross, we're going to feel the effects of a cold front approaching from the north on Thursday night into Friday morning. It's setting us up for an absolutely beautiful weather pattern for the weekend. Ronny ... ". Ross took back over and said "thanks everyone for tuning in at noon today. Be sure to join us again at 5:00 for the best news, weather and sports coverage in the bay area. Have a great afternoon everyone." The floor director said "cut" and everyone on the sidelines gave cheers, shouts and applause. They all approached the desk and Aunt Sally said "I still don't understand the green walls, but it's just amazing how the video and graphics are imposed there. You three did a fantastic job. Ross, I enjoy you every morning at home. You're so much better than the Cincinnati broadcasters." Ross smiled and said "thank you Sally, you flatter me too much!"

Bailey came into the studio and said "great show you three. I've got everyone coming in here within 15 minutes, and we'll get our luncheon started after my announcements. UD, Mindy has everything ready to go in the studio annex just on the other side of this wall. I sampled that pulled pork already, and I want that recipe before you leave. That is probably the best barbecue sauce I have ever tasted!" I saw UD puff out his chest on that comment. He came up to Ronny and me, gave us each a hug and said "you two did a fantastic job. Thanks for getting us in here today. I have thoroughly enjoyed this today an I know the family has as well." He shook Ross's hand and said "I echo my wife's comments Ross. I enjoy your broadcasts and you outshine the Cincinnati broadcasters! He then pulled me in closer to Ross and said "I still want to know who you two were trashing on yesterday's news though!" Ross cracked up and said "UD, wait for 10 minutes and you'll understand who we were trashing."

Soon, about 80 people were gathered into the studio, and Bailey took the stage. He started out by saying "good afternoon, everyone and thank you for joining us in another station luncheon. It's just been over one month since our last gathering, and I have so much to share with all of you today. I promise to keep it under 15 minutes though, so we can enjoy a superb lunch being served in the annex. Paul could not be with us today but extends his greetings to everyone and thanks you for your continued dedicated support to the station. I'm starting off with some bittersweet news today concerning Vicki Lake. Vicki, please come up here with me. Vicki has been with channel 2 for a little over five years on our morning newscasts. Vicki has accepted a new position in San Francisco, so I can tell you all now we have a direct pipeline from Tampa Bay to San Francisco Bay! Vicki, we appreciate all you have done here at channel 2. I hate to see you go, but at the same time this is an excellent opportunity for you to move into a larger market. Please join me in congratulating Vicki on her new position. We'll miss her and wish her well." A round of applause occurred and Vicki stepped down off the stage. UD turned around to Ross and me, gave us a wink and thumbs up gesture.

Bailey continued on and said "Ronny and Trevor, come on down! You're the next two contestants on Bailey's corner!" Everyone cracked up and Bailey started in with "Trevor Anderson is joining us as the weekend weather anchor and a general reporter. Trevor started with us two weeks ago and comes to us from Nashville, Tennessee. Trevor's doing an excellent job and I'm looking forward to continue witnessing his growth with the weather team. Trevor, welcome aboard!" More applause was given and Bailey turned to Ronny. "Everyone it's been over a month ago since we had a Muskie invade our station. It's my pleasure to announce that last week we had another Muskie appear on our stage. Ronny Bradford joined our cast as a nightly sports anchor for our 5:00 and 6:00 pm shows. He's doing an outstanding job working with Paul on covering the Rays, Lightning and the Buc's training camp. He's our latest addition from Maumee College, home of the fighting Muskies! It's good to see Ronny and CJ back on the airwaves together. Ronny, welcome aboard and keep up the good work you're doing!" More applause spread through the audience and Alex gave a huge whistle for his man!

Bailey continued on and said "stay with me everyone, I promise just a few more announcements and introductions then we'll get some lunch. Next, I'd like to introduce all of you to James Thompson. James is the head of the Radio and Television Department at Maumee College. James, please join me up here. James and I have a big announcement today for Maumee College, and channel 2. We're announcing the creation of an internship between our two organizations. James has already sent us two Muskies, and he has more hidden talent which we hope come our way to enrich their broadcasting skills. James took over the department approximately 10 years ago, shook up the curriculum and has now created one of the top five broadcasting schools in the nation. James, do you have any comments about the internship program you want to share?" James said "thanks Bailey. It's such a wonderful day to be here with all of you to announce this program. At Maumee we want each of our broadcasting students to engage in an internship. I happened to luck out and achieved getting two fine graduates of mine into your operations here at channel 2. We've got so many fine young talented individuals at Maumee, and it's my goal to keep funneling them to channel 2 for their continued growth and experience. Thanks everyone for letting me speak here today, and I look forward to Maumee and channel 2 forging a solid partnership today and in the future." The audience went nuts, and Bailey had a tough time gaining the composure back. He said "thanks everyone. This is so exciting for both our organizations. James and I are working with Josh Trumball today. Josh, come on up here son. Josh is most likely going to be our first intern from Maumee at channel 2. Josh is working on his schedule to see if the fall or spring works out better for him. Josh currently serves as the news anchor at Maumee, and we plan to work him into the weekend weather and anchor spots here. Josh, whether it turns out to be the spring or you surprise us by being here after Labor Day, we welcome you and are looking forward to you joining us!" Another round of applause ensued.

Bailey said "I have two format changes I want to announce impacting our morning news casts. Channel 2 has been increasing our morning viewership over the last year. I want to capitalize on that, and continue to grow our audience base. I believe these next two changes are going to help tremendously in achieving our goals. With Vicki's departure, we have an opening for a co-anchor position. We're not going to do a replacement search now, but we're going to try an innovative change. There's been press about this model, but to my knowledge no station in the US has tried it yet. I want channel 2 to be the first at it, and create a kick-ass model that other stations want to emulate. Beginning August 14th, CJ Walters is going to fill the role of co-anchor. CJ will still be the weather anchor, but this change will serve two purposes: one being filling Vicki's departure and the second to satisfy our morning audience with more CJ! Since joining the morning crew, we've had nothing but compliments and requests for more CJ in the mornings. Ross, CJ and Jennifer have agreed to give this model a try with me, and we'll keep a pulse on it to see what results we will receive from it. I want to especially thank CJ for agreeing to support us with this change, and I am looking so forward to watch his continued growth with channel 2. CJ, thank you for your support." I had four people shake my hands immediately, and UD forged his way over to me and said "way to go you Muskie! Keep on kicking ass for me down here. You're doing so well, and I love you so much." UD gave me a hug and joined back into the applause with the crowd. Bailey said "we're also going to make a format change to our weekend morning shows. Leslie and Trevor have agreed to help me here as well. Starting the weekend after Labor Day, our weekend morning coverage will go to a 5 -- 8 show on both Saturday and Sunday mornings. Our audience base has been asking for more local morning news on the weekends. We're going to see how this change works for the audience and I want to thank Leslie and Trevor for their support on this!"

Bailey continued on and said "last, but certainly not least I want to introduce the Skinner Family to everyone. UD, Sally, Maddie, Josie, Laura and CJ come on up here with me. Ronny and James, please join us as well on this. CJ has become an integral part of our channel 2 family in a short period of time. CJ's family is visiting him this week from Cincinnati, Ohio. CJ's uncle Dean or UD for short owns 15 restaurants in the Cincinnati area, and his wife Sally owns her own interior decorating business. They approached me last month asking if they could cater a lunch in for us today. I wanted the station to pick up lunch, but UD heard nothing of it! He's been working with Mindy to create a fantastic lunch for us featuring his great recipes from his restaurants in Cincinnati. He and his family have had a great day here today, and we have a special gift for them, CJ, Ronny and James. Mindy, bring those gifts up please." Mindy gave one to UD and Sally, one to me, one to Ronny and one to James. Bailey said "go ahead and open them please. This idea was started by James as he wanted a picture of his two Muskies for his Maumee TV Wall of fame. Mindy and I had these framed collages created for all of them, and Ronny we have one more for you to send home to your family. I'm so proud to have these two Muskies swim downstream to us at channel 2. James, thank you for your contributions to us by extending CJ and Ronny to us as well as influencing so many young people in the broadcasting industry. UD and Sally, thank you both for molding such a fine young man into who he is and sending him to us. We also want to thank you for the lunch and opportunity to meet all of you this week. Everyone, lunch is in the annex. Please take a few minutes to wish Vicki well, welcome our new associates, welcome James, Josh and the Skinner Family. Thanks everyone and have a great rest of your day."

Everyone joined in a final round of applause. UD and Aunt Sally quickly made their way to Bailey and exchanged hugs with him. I overheard UD saying "Bailey, thank you for those kind words you extended to us. We want to thank you for taking care of CJ and all of the opportunities you are presenting him with. You two are going to create a wonderful team here at channel 2 and we cannot be more proud of him." Ross nudged me and pointed towards the back of the studio. No one was around Vicki, and she looked pissed. She headed out the back door and went into the newsroom. Ross leaned into me and said "I hope she didn't get upset with anything Bailey said today!" I cracked up and gave Ross a big hug.

Aunt Sally and the girls were surrounded by well-wishers, while UD made his way to the top of the buffet line. I think he shook everyone's hand, gave hugs all around and passed bottles of his barbecue sauce out. He's truly in his height of hosting glory and looked at home! Ronny and Trevor were greeted by a significant number of station associates whom they had not met. Suddenly, I felt alone but I am so happy on how the day is going. I turned around to step off the stage and there they were, my special guys, Wally and Alex both smiling at me.

Wally said "I echo what Bailey said CJ. I can choose so many words to describe you, but we don't have enough daylight yet to get through all of my choices. I'm just going to summarize my words into I am so proud of the wonderful and beautiful individual that you are. I am so very proud to have you in my life, and I love you dear. I'm saving my kisses for you for our private celebration, but I do need to give you a big bear hug now!" Alex had tears in his eyes and said "look around you CJ. None of this would have happened today had it not been for you! CJ, I will never be able to repay you in dollars, special comments or performing odd jobs for you. You have uplifted me CJ and have renewed purpose in my life to carry on and fight the good fight. I love you and I am so grateful to have you in my life. Congratulations CJ on your significant accomplishments, and thank you for being a wonderful individual in our lives." Alex gave me a hug and his words sent me over the edge. I began to tear up when we were hugging. He quickly pulled out some tissues and said "I knew I was going to make you cry today, so I came prepared!" We both broke out in laughter and I said "come on you two. Let's go get some of UD's special sauce before it's all gone."

The lunch went on well past 2:00 pm and no one saw Vicki for the remainder of the day. I'm not even sure Aunt Sally got to eat lunch as so many people were talking to her. She's always been a social individual, but I sense that some other covert mission is happening today. Ah well, all I know is I'm happy, I'm enjoying the day and I know my family is enjoying the day. I saw Bailey, James and Josh off talking in a corner together. Bailey suddenly shook Josh's hand and pulled him in for a hug. I thought to myself "Josh is taking the fall internship. I wonder how much today's visit played into his final decision?" UD was roaming around the room and making new friends with whomever he talked to as well as making sure everyone had a bottle of his barbecue sauce. Laura was talking with Angela, Nick and Zach while Maddie and Josie were off talking to Carl and Trevor. I cracked up and said to myself "don't waist your time girls, no matter how much you flirt with them they're spoken for!"

The 5:00 crew started to break away to begin show preparations. The early morning crew began departing as well. Around 2:45 it was just Bailey, Angela, Nick, Zach, Trevor, Carl, Mindy and myself remaining from the station. Mindy came around with gift bags for my family, James, Josh, Wally and Alex. She said "I took a guess on shirt sizes for everyone. If I guessed wrong, please see me before you leave and we'll switch them out for your correct size."

Bailey said "everyone, this has been one of the best afternoons I can remember at our station. UD, thank you so much for today's lunch. I cannot tell you how many positive comments I've received from the station associates about today's event. It's going to be very hard to top this UD!" UD cracked up and said "I'll start working on September's menu tomorrow, Bailey!" Everyone got a good laugh out of that. Bailey continued and said "we have another reason to celebrate today as Josh has accepted our invite for a fall internship at channel 2. He'll be joining us on September 5th and will be on air September 9th! I have set up reservations tonight at The Beachcomber for 6:00 pm, and I hope you can all join me there. UD, no arguments, dinner for you and your family is on the station tonight!" UD cracked up, walked over to Bailey, gave him a hug and said "thank you Bailey. It has been an extreme honor to be here with all of you today, and on behalf of my family we are very happy to join you at dinner tonight!" Aunt Sally spoke up and said "Bailey, thank you and your staff for such a special day. It's been so exciting to be here seeing how a television station operates behind the scenes. I cannot believe you're also taking me to my favorite restaurant in St Pete Beach. I am so thrilled that I get to go there one more time before I leave this week, even though Wally calls it his dive bar!" Laughter broke out across the group and everyone who was there accepted Bailey's invite, and extended congratulations to Josh on his upcoming internship!

Mindy went to change out some shirt sizes for a few individuals. I went over to James and said "James, where are you and Josh staying at in town?" James smiled at me and said "your boss rolled out the red carpet for us and is putting us up at The Don Cesar!" I said "damn, he is really rolling out the carpet for you and Josh. I cannot believe how excited he is about this internship program. Josh is going to do well and will get so much practical experience out of this experience James. Do you two have a rental car, or do you need a lift to the hotel and restaurant?" James smiled and said "I have a rental car CJ, but if I can follow you back to the beach and have you get me to the hotel entrance, I'd appreciate it."

I walked over to Bailey and said "hey boss, thank you for a very special day for my family and myself. It's also very gracious of you to extend the dinner invite. You did not need to do that!" He smiled at me and said "yes, I did need to do this. I've got to keep my rising star as happy as I can. This is just a small token of my thanks to you for all that you have done, and all you will be doing for the station in the future. CJ, you're one in a million, and I'm so glad we crossed paths in March." I smiled and said "I am also very appreciative of that March day happening Bailey. Who knew four months ago that I'd be working with the best boss in the industry! We're going to kick-ass Bailey, and sweep the Nielsen ratings in our future together!"

We all headed out at the same time and I said "hey Laura, want to ride with me and put the top down on the jeep?" She screamed "yeah CJ, that sounds great! Can Maddie and Josie come to?" I smiled and said "sure they can, let's head out the back ladies. James, I will pull around front and you can follow me to your hotel."

We got James and Josh to their hotel, and the rest of us returned to the condo complex. It was just after 3:00, and I said "I'm going to the pool for a while before dinner, does anyone care to join me?" Everyone said yes to my invite, we changed into our bathing suits, and headed for the pool. UD and I stayed at a table for a few minutes prior to jumping in the pool with the rest of the family. He smiled at me and said "CJ, thank you for setting all of this up today. I had a wonderful time, and I'm so damn proud of your continued success and accomplishments at the station son. Promise me though that you will not work yourself to death? Take time to enjoy the life you are creating for yourself here. You need to maintain a healthy balance of personal life and work." I cracked up and said "you have my promise on that UD! Work does help pay for the fun life, but all the money in the world does not guarantee happiness. I promise you that I will not become a work horse, and if I see it becomes too much for me, I will scale it back with Bailey." UD replied "good man CJ! I am so damn proud of you! I wish we had a bottle of bourbon and cigars now! Your Aunt would throw a huge ass shit fit on that though!" He and I hugged and jumped in the pool with the others.

We enjoyed the pool and all got ready for dinner. Bailey was waiting for us at the restaurant and all of his party was there a few minutes after 6:00 pm. I was shocked when I walked in and saw Bailey talking to Aaron. I walked over and shook both of their hands. Before I even said a word Bailey said "I needed one more to make an even 20 for dinner. I invited Aaron to enjoy in our festivities and want him to meet Josh since they will both be starting the same day." I smiled and said "excellent idea Bailey. Aaron, ride this man's coat tails -- he is watching out for you!" We all laughed on my comments, and soon everyone was seated at a beautiful table facing the beach and gulf. I ended up sitting between Angela and Wally, which was fine with me. Bailey was sitting at the head of the table and had Josh on one side of him and Aaron on the other. I leaned into Wally and said "I'm changing my BS 2023 Theory and you're my witness. I'm now going with middle age daddy who is head of a harem of beautiful young men." Wally bit his lip and avoided cracking up. Alex saw us and no doubt will be quizzing us later on what I said to Wally to get him so frustrated!

Dinner was wonderful, the company was excellent, the sunset was beautiful and it was one evening that I did not want to see end. The early morning group began disappearing after sunset saying "it was going to be an early morning." I joined Angela when she got up from the table to make my departure. I said "everyone this has been a fantastic evening, and I hate to see it end. Bailey, thank you for this beautiful dinner and please everyone continue on. I will see everyone tomorrow." Aunt Sally and UD both stood up and gave me a hug and kiss goodnight. On my way out I asked James "when are you leaving St Petersburg?" He said "Josh and I have flights out on Sunday morning." I said "oh wonderful, I'll text you tomorrow and we can make plans with you and Josh for the remainder of the week. I don't want you two sitting in that hideous hotel for the remainder of the week!" We both laughed on that knowing how fancy The Don Cesar is. James stood up, gave me a hug and said "CJ, thank you for making all of this happen. I cannot believe what good things are in store for you, Ronny, Josh and the rest of the Maumee program. You are a gem CJ, and I am so proud of you. I'll talk to you tomorrow my friend."

I returned to the condo and felt tired. I brushed my teeth, got the coffee maker ready for the morning and got into the bed. I reflected on the day and could not believe what all happened in the past 24 hours. It's been a wonderful day, and I'm going to need a vacation to recover from my family's vacation! I see Wally, Alex and myself on full hosting duties through noon Sunday. Ah well, it's all part of life and I'm extremely happy with my life at this point in time.