things are progressing, I guess. I’m writing, or at least plotting my writing. i’m also close to wrapping up on McKinsey application. all that remains is a cover letter, but that’s going to take a day or so. i’m currently trying to figure out how to address the darn thing, as I haven’t been given a specific name and I don’t want to fall back on “dear sir-or-madam.”

drea’s doing better. which is all good.

and that’s about it. not too much to report.

Ok… before anyone else goes into a tizzy about my retail applications, allow me to explain. This is NOT a full time pursuit.

At all.
No way. No huh.

However, what I am looking for is a short term, part time source of income while I engage in a more extensive job hunt. There have been a few full time opportunities that have arisen. But currently none of them have been what I am looking for. And, for the moment, I’d prefer not to commit to a full-time position that isn’t right. Especially since the Rochester Scene doesn’t really allow for taking a full time position for only a few months. Plus full time would make it difficult for me to finish my writing tasks, and therefore my Masters. And finishing the Masters is the most important thing right now. Well, both that and being able to cover expenses.

So that’s why I’m currently looking at temporary retail jobs. And a few other avenues (TW I don’t have your current e-mail addy… could you drop at line to “mbernius at gmail.com”).

My goal is to have full employment by mid fall.

This is one that I should have seen coming a mile away and never even thought of: networked jukeboxes. This discovery begins with another revelation: a cup of premium coffee costs the same amount as a pint of beer. Plus, considering that I drink beer far more slowly than coffee it seemed to make good economic sense as well. And it wouldn’t be the first time I’ve, um…, lubricated my writing with an adult beverage. Conveniently, just last week I noticed that the MacGregors, a local watering hole, by RIT was offering free wireless access. So, after dropping off today’s series of applications, I opted to go there for a beer and to write.

Initially I didn’t pay any attention to the wireless registration process. What did catch my eye, was a neon monolith in the corner of the bar. The “Rock-Ola” stands about 5’7” and has a 14 inch flatscreen LCD at eye level. And just as I noticed the Rock-Ola, the screen stated that it was an internet juke box. Actually it was making the claim “I’m the coolest juke box in the world.” Upon investigating I have to agree.

Ecasting has a great model. Bars can buy a Broadband juke box, which then also doubles as a wireless hub for the establishment. And then patrons can choose from the already downloaded albums, or, for a slight fee, browse Ecast’s whole library and download the song/album that they are looking for. The download stays locked in the machine so there’s no fear of unlicensed distribution. We have a juke box that always has the song that you’re looking for.

And all I have to say is “Damn! Good idea E-Cast.