Stories My Father Wrote · The Volumes

Letters & Advice

Letters to friends and family, and the hard-won counsel of a man who paid attention.

293 pieces · 18 with his original pages

01

'2001 Challenges' — a year-in-review self-assessment

2001

Challenges – some met, some failed

Skills — Gatwed some, lost some, Rept some KnowLeage – increased in some areas § status quo Friends ~ gained many, found old ones, Rept all Strengths – +- +- +- trying to figure this out Heights — reached new Levels ~ high and Low Attitude – checked daily, generally good Remembered and forgot Engaged new concepts, cast some away, kept some Answers ~ searched, found, still looking Encouragement — OK, So-So, OH NO, …

Changes = Spiritual, emotional, +, Financial — a Little bit here and there-s ty ec h e a tight. Tighter yet. Laughed, loved, ana a few dewdrops.

Health — can fog a mirror

Grew ~ Grey,

Courage – At times strong (B+)

Leaped small hurdles, founo new walls § boned fielos, and also paths. Family – closer, farther, importance obvious

How about you?

batch 9 · p.16↑ Contents
02

'2011 – I will use SHED to guide me' (self-improvement)

2011 I will use SHED to guide me and change my life:

Separate the treasures Heave the trash Embrace my identity Drive myself forward

I’ll keep treasures that energize me and have true value

I’ll heave the trash and let go of things that are no longer relevant or depletes my energy. I’ll embrace my identity and recognize who I am without my stuff. I’ll drive myself forward and fill my space with activities and experiences.

It will help me with self-discovery; healthy growth; and for clarity. Plus, bring lightness, authenticity, by living genuine and fully engaged.

Shed is not just de-cluttering. Some things served me in the past. I will study them and if they do not block my opportunity for self- discovery they may stay.

I will get rid of the old and obsolete so that I can have space for what’s important. SHED is an ongoing process that generates movement and fuels transformation.

My vision will be on what I want to express or how I want to feel,

batch 15 · p.86↑ Contents
03

'2015 Projects and Activities' – goals (incl. health)

Original page 1 — '2015 Projects and Activities' - goals (incl. health)

His original page — tap to enlarge

2015 Projects and activities –

Health: Stay with plan- maintain weight, (no gain or loss) Eat fresh, keep it simple –

Work: Concentrate on my niche – Work at home when I don’t go in.

Golf: practice hard early in the season. Lighten up-

Relationships: Cultivate new ones and keep strong ones. Attire/clothes/shoes… Keep it simple – stick with the basics – Garden: Keep it simple –

Travel: Take short trips (2-3 days – 300 mile radius) be ready to travel. Reading and writing: stick with interests –

Music: -Listen – improve sounds

Learn a foreign language.

Buy a lotto ticket now and then.

Tell people who I love, that I love them Take my medicine

batch 15 · p.23↑ Contents
04

248 Goals (character list)

248

GOALS Ability to maintain an emotionally stable personal life Ability to function effectively under stress

Possession of character traits of patience, kindness, detail, perseverance, joy, and thankfulness

Ability to focus Enjoy solitude

Be objective to the extent that I can stand outside myself to evaluate situations

Be involved in activities with a clear set of goals

Ability to negotiate changing demands and make adjustments Have good balance for the challenges of tasks

Listen attentively

Speak clearly

Be specific

Limit hobbies

Create new habits

Be open and to understand first, and to be understood

I can’t improve my health alone. Ask questions of health providers and knowledgeable people. Don’t talk about or complain about my health to just anyone. Don’t even think about it.

Continue to build relationships with family and close friends

Evaluate relationships — nurture good ones

batch 5 · p.101↑ Contents
05

30th-birthday letter (Jan 31, 2003)

January 31, 2003 — almost February 1, 2003

Tomorrow is your birthday — your 30th. Happy Birthday Shan.

There has not been a day that you have lived that I have not thought of you. Well maybe once, in 1987. And one time in 1992. Once again 1999. Perhaps once in 2001. But, it might have been that I was really thinking of you on those days too. At least once.

Tell you what, I will think of you every day for … as long as I can remember.

You have been a special person to me and I have enjoyed our relationship so very much. You have also been amazing. I remember so many times that sticks out as examples of our fun. Once when we were in St. Louis at the fair and we were watching people, you said, "Dad, did you ever think that when you are looking at someone, someone is looking at you?" Recently you said, "the next time you get into a relationship, I'm going to tell you what I think about the person, I haven't done that before but I will now."

You say that you are proud of me and that makes me feel wonderful. I have felt proud of you too. Whenever I am challenged I think of how you would feel in the same situation and I think about what you might do or say. I will act in a way that if that was the last thing in the world that I did or said, would you be proud of me and believe in me? So, you see, you have become a mentor of mine. That is why I tell you of what I do and how I feel. It's a check point and a way of learning. I hope you let me continue to do this.

In two years you will be half as old as I will be. Actually, we could calculate the exact day that this will happen — it will happen sometime in 2005. Let us check our lives again then for sure and find out how we have changed. Meantime, let's have fun and enjoy our lives.

Happy Birthday Son.

Dad John

batch 8 · p.17↑ Contents
06

30th-birthday letter — color-paper version

January 31, 2003 — almost February 1, 2003

Tomorrow is your birthday — your 30th. Happy Birthday Shan.

There has not been a day that you have lived that I have not thought of you. Well maybe once, in 1987. And one time in 1992. Once again in 1999. Perhaps once in 2001. But, it might have been that I was really thinking of you on those days too. At least once.

Tell you what, I will think of you every day for … as long as I can remember.

You have been a special person to me and I have enjoyed our relationship so very much. You have also been amazing. I remember so many times that sticks out as examples of our fun. Once when we were in St. Louis at the fair and we were watching people, you said, "Dad, did you ever think that when you are looking at someone, someone is looking at you?" Recently you said, "the next time you get into a relationship, I'm going to tell you what I think about the person, I haven't done that before but I will now."

You say that you are proud of me and that makes me feel wonderful. I have felt proud of you too. Whenever I am challenged I think of how you would feel in the same situation and I think about what you might do or say. I will act in a way that if that was the last thing in the world that I did or said, would you be proud of me and believe in me? So, you see, you have become a mentor of mine. That is why I tell you of what I do and how I feel. It's a check point and a way of learning. I hope you let me continue to do this.

In two years you will be half as old as I will be. Actually, we could calculate the exact day that this will happen — it will happen sometime in 2005. Let us check our lives again then for sure and find out how we have changed. Meantime, let's have fun and enjoy our lives.

Happy Birthday Son. Dad John "DJ"

batch 8 · p.22↑ Contents
07

'A Letter I Didn't Send' – to someone in deep sadness

A letter | didn’t send

After reading your recent post about your extreme sadness of losing your sweet heart, I’ll risk sending you an intended helpful way to deal with life in general.

I’m 81 and have lived alone for the last 20 years. The last 10 with health issues. | accepted, although reluctant at times, that | could not stop being sad, stressed, or filled with anxiety.

| had to accept that it was up to me to understand and that | needed to provide myself with some relief. Feeling sorry for myself was not one of the ways.

My doctors helped (I had a dozen it seemed) but they had to deal with many other patients. They were not therapists. They, along with a staff, dealt with medicine, pain, symptoms, pills, and sometimes desperate people. | was honest with them and spoke out about my issues.

Because | spent most of my time indoors, | didn’t see a need to be groomed well every day, even sometimes when | did errands. | didn’t have a plan to eat balanced meals. There were simply no pattern to deal with everyday. | read, | watched TV, | dabbled with the internet (too much). | felt sorry for myself and sad. | sank deeper into despair.

Who encouraged me? Did | reach out? My son and his partner did. Asta did. Sandi did. I’m writing a book. Ops. | just swallowed a half of a cough drop. | felt it slide down my throat and could not save it. Darn, a good cough drop costs about 15 cents!. | have a few left and they will be on my list of groceries.

| wrote about Asta and Sandi, my son and Jay, and friends and a few about my family. | steered away from my issues. However I’m sure | was a headache to everyone with my wailing and words. | apologized and kept right on doing them.

Most of my life | have set goals. They guided me to do things. | don’t do that any more. Now | strive and work on objectives. Goals have a timing issue. Do this by this date kinda thinking. When the time was up | may not have reached the goal or goals. Set new goals. Repeat.

Objectives, have meaning to me without a crunch time. | want to be happy and do something that pleases me. | want to feel free. By doing this

A letter I didn’t send …. After reading your recent post about your extreme sadness of losing your sweet heart, I’ll risk sending you an intended helpful way to deal with life in general. I’m 81 and have lived alone for the last 20 years. The last 10 with health issues. I accepted, although reluctant at times, that I could not stop being sad, stressed, or filled with anxiety. I had to accept that it was up to me to understand and that I needed to provide myself with some relief. Feeling sorry for myself was not one of the ways. My doctors helped (I had a dozen it seemed) but they had to deal with many other patients. They were not therapists. They, along with a staff, dealt with medicine, pain, symptoms, pills, and sometimes desperate people. I was honest with them and spoke out about my issues. Because I spent most of my time indoors, I didn’t see a need to be groomed well every day, even sometimes when I did errands. I didn’t have a plan to eat balanced meals. There were simply no pattern to deal with everyday. I read, I watched TV, I dabbled with the internet (too much). I felt sorry for myself and sad. I sank deeper into despair. Who encouraged me? Did I reach out? My son and his partner did. Asta did. Sandi did. I’m writing a book. Ops. I just swallowed a half of a cough drop. I felt it slide down my throat and could not save it. Darn, a good cough drop costs about 15 cents!. I have a few left and they will be on my list of groceries. I wrote about Asta and Sandi, my son and Jay, and friends and a few about my family. I steered away from my issues. However I’m sure I was a headache to everyone with my wailing and words. I apologized and kept right on doing them. Most of my life I have set goals. They guided me to do things. I don’t do that any more. Now I strive and work on objectives. Goals have a timing issue. Do this by this date kinda thinking. When the time was up I may not have reached the goal or goals. Set new goals. Repeat. Objectives, have meaning to me without a crunch time. I want to be happy and do something that pleases me. I want to feel free. By doing this

batch 18, 19 · p.49, 85↑ Contents
08

“A Long Slow Dinner” — building trust/partnership; 6-point list

The original page will appear here.

batch 31 · p.p.2↑ Contents
09

A morning 'hello' — sneezes & business before email

Before | check email and get into business, I’ll say hello.

A battle with sneezes and tickling throat were the only flaws (mine) to a great few days with a happy family and friends in Jacksonville, Fl and Christmas was the middle day. | counted 15 DEVICES in the group and that was before dinner at 2:00 with 15 people. In between finding out what friends are doing and showing photos, taking photos, and laugh out loud stories, there was one-on-one getting-to- know each other(again for some) and catching up on things. It was genuine enjoyment. Thank you and you’re welcome were common words that never seem to tire one out. “Thank you. You’re Welcome.” See!

On the ride down in cloudy skies adrenaline was begging me for action. | begin writing a story and started from the ending to the start of it, even using the last page of my writing tablet for the first entry and working backwards. Perhaps the story will be named, “It Doesn’t Get Any Better Than This.” As soon as | was on the ground, the story was put up and didn’t get touched, leaving me with an unfinished story that maybe I'll write before 2016 begins. It was a story set in the 1990’s, but it takes a back seat to the recent events and my forward thinking now. My adrenaline is lower though.

Have a cold or the flue? In a large mug, add the juice of one lemon, a bit of raw ginger sliced thin and put into a diffuser, 1 tablespoon of local honey, a tea bag, a pinch of sea salt and a pinch of Cayenne pepper, add 1 % oz Jack Daniel’s finest, and boiling water and sip slowly. Warm PJs and a throw are also recommended. It is second to having someone bring you chicken soup and tuck your feet in a blanket and say “This will make you feel better”. Living alone, | can also choose the channel and may watch “River Monsters,” or “Hunting Big Foot” or two football games at once. I’d personally choose the chicken soup stuff.

It rained for several days up here and some of my routes to work this morning were closed. | had received bulletins on my phone in the night warning of the dangers. Power went down after midnight, but the phone didn’t. | thought of the animals too who were affected by the flooding. Dry ground, there was none.

During quiet times | try to turn off circuits of self and surroundings around me which lets my mind think of people who are both close and far away. The distance and times are not a hindrance. | recall the person clearly and hear their voices, laughter, and see them as they were the last time | saw them. I’m doing that now. Very soon, this session will be over and | will return to right now, right here.

| just want you to know that you have been in my thoughts. Keep it up, laugh and smile. It doesn’t get any better than this.

Love,

John / dad

batch 10 · p.62↑ Contents
10

'A person I've known a long time…' (a note)

A person I have known a long time wrote that she and her current hand-holder would be attending a football game between West Virginia and Notre Dame. She wrote they would be in the WV President’s box. She looked forward to the oodles of food and the comfortable warmth of the box. She looked forward to a good time. She has sent me news before that she had attended other games and was in the VIP President’s Box. She included mentioning of rubbing-elbows with important people. I prefer being at tail-gate gatherings, and seats from the first row to the top of the stands. I like the adrenaline rush, and being with rowdies who dress up in outfits and colorful costumes, jump and holler, hold up signs, and ogle the other sex, yell at refs, coaches, players, and cheer players, cheer leaders, band members, and run onto the fields or courts, dance with each other or by themselves and let loose howls, rip off shirts, have painted skins, cut down basketball nets, throw hats and octopuses on the ice and make faces for any camera shot. I like being in the middle or on the edges. I like hot dogs, and pass-along swigs. I am not an elite, I am a fan. I respect others and they respect me. They are friends for a fews minutes. Some will stay in my memory. I remember the game and who won, but not always the score. Foot note: I didn’t hear from her. The score that day: ND 43 WV 3

batch 20 · p.42↑ Contents
11

A realtor's mantra (business)

A Realtor can make changes to a mantra. (1) I believe it is critically important to choose an agent……… (4) I am a champion for my clients………. Tooting your own horn does work. It’s a me thing. A Broker/ manager/owners are usually well trained, skilled in their profession, are good writers, know the right words, and are important leaders of their company and team. They can write ad copy in minutes that many agents struggle with. The agent and Broker will develop confidence, trust, and understanding of each other. Being a professional Realtor is an achievement.

batch 20 · p.104↑ Contents
12

Advice note: 'believe in yourself… get a strong grip on life. Welcome to Seattle.'

…my golf card and card of life only show the math of golfing and living. In my case, I lost a/of math.

You must always believe in yourself and never give up. Get a strong grip on life. Welcome to Seattle. Go!

Love, John

batch 8 · p.12↑ Contents
13

Advice note: 'believe in yourself… Welcome to Seattle'

…my golf card and card of life only show the math of golfing and living. In my case, I lost a/of math. You must always believe in yourself and never give up. Get a strong grip on life. Welcome to Seattle. Go! Love, John

batch 13 · p.100↑ Contents
14

Airline itinerary – record locator (Dec 19, 2021)

Record locator: KWAQHL SUNDAY DECEMBER 19, 2021 DEPARTURE 7:05 AM ARRIVAL SEATS: ST. LOUIS CHICAGO COACH (N) AMERICAN # 1003 8:31 AM DEPARTURE 10:40 AM ARRIVAL Coach (N) CHICAGO BOSTON AMERICAN 2264 1:56 PM TUESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2021 DEPARTURE ARRIVAL SEAT BOSTON ST. LOUIS 11F 8:00 AM 10.28 AMERICAN # 1974 TICKET # 0012319232729

batch 19 · p.87↑ Contents
15

'Always Aim High' — motivational creed (all caps)

Original page 1 — 'Always Aim High' — motivational creed (all caps)

His original page — tap to enlarge

ALWAYS AIM HIGH. YOU MAY NOT ALWAYS MEET YOUR ELEVATED TARGET, BUT YOU ARE SURE TO ACHIEVE SOMETHING WORTHWHILE.

THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTION FOR HARD-WORK.

DO NOT ALLOW DISASTERS, MISTAKES, ACCIDENTS, HLLNESSES, UNPOPULARITY, CRITICISM GET YOU DOWN.

WASTE LITTLE TIME AND ENERGY ON THE MEANNESSES OF LIFE, SHIFTING THE BLAME, REVENGE, DIRTY TRICKS, SPREADING RUMORS, HARBORING GRUDGES. GO ON.

THE ABSENCE OF HATRED LEAVES PLENTY OF ROOM FOR JOY.

THE DANGER ISN’T TO AIM HIGH AND FAIL, THE DANGER IS TO AIM TOO LOW AND SUCCEED.

batch 9 · p.64↑ Contents
16

An action plan to boost real-estate success

Steps to take in an action plan to boost the success in real estate.

REALTORS:

Sharpen your AXE.

Identify and act upon opportunities. Take time to collect information, form a plan, and act confidently when you are prepared.

SELLERS:

List the property ata COMPELLLNG PRICE.

The value of any item in any industry is determined by only two variables: the DEMAND of that item and the SUPPLY of that item. Therefore it is important to price properties at a compelling price now to avoid further reductions that may occur later.

BUYERS:

Realize there is a difference between COST AND PRICE.

Fear comes from lack of understanding. Education to the reality of the market is the key here. The buyer should be less concerned with the price and more concerned with the value

EVERYONE: Take the time to truly understand WHAT is happening in the current market as well as WHY it is happening. Knowledge is power and it is needed to move forward.

batch 15 · p.85↑ Contents
17

Apology for the ugly corner at Bluff & Mamie (civic)

Neighbors and friends, I apologize for the ugly corner on Bluff and Mamie Street (west side) for the dirt, debris, mud, and grass growing in the side walk. It has been there a long time. The heavy rain added to the mess. It was cause to detour for walkers and dog walkers. Everyone used the street rather than the sidewalk. I have removed most of the dirt, and grime. There’s a bit more to do. I’m embarrassed that it looked so nasty as it reflects on me. I live at 435 1/2 Bluff St. Someone tried to steal my car this week and failed. There was some damage to the grill and cable. I will make a police report of it today (Wednesday).

Thanks for being my neighbor and the kindness you show me. John Casey

batch 19 · p.40↑ Contents
18

Be Your Own Hero

Be your own hero; a worthy example; and admire your traits.

Look for the best results possible. Concentrate on the gifts in your life.

When you laugh — you lose the need to take yourself seriously. When you shrug — you lose the need to blow things out of proportion. When you lose the need to hold on to stress you feel relief.

Belong to today. Be aware of what it’s like simply to be. Feel that “I am” is enough to sustain you.

Be on intimate terms with nature. Nature wants to catch your attention. See the life in everything.

The gifts in your life Are always around you You have found your center, Your peace, your inner awareness.

You have welcomed others To join you and experience The love in your heart That spreads as far as awareness can reach.

When you laugh — When you shrug — When you look at yourself as though you are another person You know that others are the ones who count.

Admire your traits —

Imagination, creativeness, Intuition, Reason, emotion, expressiveness, physical body. You know “The Now’ is the disappearance of time,

No past, or future — a mindful state.

Some moments are meant just for you. You can be your own hero.

John casey 9/12/06

Look for the best results possible. Concentrate on the gifts in your life.

When you laugh — you lose the need to take yourself seriously. When you shrug — you lose the need to blow things out of proportion.

Belong to today. Be aware of what it’s like simply to be. Feel that “I am” is enough to sustain you.

Be on intimate terms with nature. Nature wants to catch your attention. See the life in everything.

The gifts in your life Are always around you. When you find your center, You find peace and inner awareness.

You have welcomed others To join you and experience The love in your heart That spreads as far as awareness can reach.

When you laugh — When you shrug — When you look at yourself as though you are another person You know that others are the ones who count.

Admire your traits — Imagination, creativeness, Intuition, Reason, emotion, Expressiveness and physical body.

“The Now’ is the disappearance of time, No past, or future — a mindful state. Some moments are meant just for you. You can be your own hero.

John casey 9/12/06

batch 4 · p.5, 17↑ Contents
19

'Be your own hero' — affirmations

Be your own hero

Look for the best results possible. Concentrate on the gifts in your life.

When you laugh — you lose the need to take yourself seriously. When you shrug — you lose the need to blow things out of proportion.

Belong to today. Be aware of what it's like simply to be. Feel that “| am” is enough to sustain you.

Be on intimate terms with nature. Nature wants to catch your attention. See the life in everything.

The gifts in your life Are always around you When you find your center, You find peace and inner awareness.

You have welcomed others To join you and experience The love in your heart That spreads as far as awareness can reach.

When you laugh — When you shrug — When you look at yourself as though you are another person You know that others are the ones who count.

Admire your traits — Imagination, creativeness, Intuition, Reason, emotion, Expressiveness and physical body.

“The Now’ is the disappearance of time, No past, or future — a mindful state Some moments are meant just for you. You can be your own hero.

John casey 9/12/06

batch 9 · p.96↑ Contents
20

'Best friends for life' letter – part 1

Shan, my life was about nothing for almost thirty years. But then your mother came along, and then you came along, and for the next two decades I'd check if you were breathing before I went back to sleep. Can you grasp that? I'm not afraid of saying I love you. Even when you didn't play baseball or went to hunt or fish, it's okay. You meant to make models, the Titanic, build model cars, Lego communities, play wild music or wear crazy tee shirts. Maybe I did understand that putting pressure on you to do my things would push you away. They say that sooner or later the majority of men turn into their fathers. But that isn't true. I went much better for you. Your grandfathers were different than you and also me. It's likely those men made a mistake or two during their own parenting. I know I have.

batch 13 · p.103↑ Contents
21

'Best friends for life' letter – part 2 (the embarrassments)

I've wondered and worried about all the times I've embarrassed you: wearing shorts with knobby knees showing; insisting you go fishing with me; going mad if your grades slipped; wearing silly hats; wanting you to fight when you were bullied; butting in when I didn't know s—; not listening to your feelings. I think you got it. I wanted you to find someone to love you who doesn't love you for the person you are, but despite the person you are. I believe you have. One day I looked away for two seconds and when I turned around you were all grown up. Let me tell you right now. Some of the very, very best days of my life have been being with you.

batch 13 · p.104↑ Contents
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'Best friends for life' letter – part 3 (Frodo, Han Solo)

You'll need best friends. Frodo knew that. Han Solo knew that. You know that. I know that too. So here we are, you and I. Best friends for life. You're pretty damn creative when it comes down to it, I'll have you know. It wasn't the toys, the clothes or the shoes. You used Play Dough, dinosaurs, Lego cars and houses and acting. You didn't play with cardboard boxes a single time either. So play. Learn. Keep growing. Follow your passions. Be kind when you can, tough when you need to be. Hold on to your friends. You'll be just fine. Love, Dad

batch 13 · p.105↑ Contents
23

Beyond the features of a property (realty advice)

Consider more than the features of the property. Facts are necessary, of course, but they are static. A well filled out MLS sheet contains a lot of information regarding the property, but too little information on marketing. The MLS relies on buyers (and agents) to recognize the property fitting to their wants and needs. It is supposed to compel someone to CALL AN AGENT.” An agent, then, will do their thing and try to arrange a showing. Is it that simple? I don’t think so.

Let’s say a very nice home in the country is for sale. It has been on the market for almost a year without an offer and very few showings. It is an all brick raised ranch on five acres with a fenced pasture and stable, a clear lake, a good sized pole barn and is private and yet accessible. The Realtor/Agent has completed a CMA when the property was first listed. The MLS is filled out, but the remarks are limited and generally redundant with flowery words such as magnificent, beautiful, spacious, and wonderful — you get the picture. The agent did not use the section marked AGENT REMARKS, and the directions are vague. The seller is likely to be considering changing agents.

It seems that the seller and the Realtor need to get together and do something. Communication is not that hard, once initiated. Sincerity trumps hem-hawing and blaming something or someone. There are two parties with an interest in a successful transaction and the ball is not rolling. A third party is needed — a buyer.

Ask for a new CMA along with a narrative by the Realtor/Agent to support the CMA. It’s time to be both objective and subjective. Opinions are needed. Redo the remarks section carefully, including agent remarks and directions. Will new photos (or more photos) help in marketing the property? Should the house be professionally staged? Are there incentives, rewards, or compelling reasons for a prospective buyer to look at this property?

Be sure to make sure it’s OK to provide incentives/rewards. Ask the agent to research and provide information necessary to comply with regulations, Freebies are OK if terms are clearly disclosed. An agent can provide information on incentives/rewards.

e Selling Agent bonus (This does not appear to be the right thing to do, but don’t tell me that it won’t get some attention.)

e Agent bonus such as a $50 certificate at a local merchant/business for showing the property to a qualified buyer. ( See above remarks)

Provide buyer over agent incentives. Incentives/rewards such as: e = Ariding lawn mower ¢ Acord of firewood? e A gift certificate for the Buyer: A saddle and harness for a horse (tack) Fishing tackle Membership in a golf club or gym Golf clubs / tickets to games, etc. Consider, after a new CMA is completed, lowering the price by a $1,000 each week for four weeks so that all agents (and hopefully buyers) will see the property again and again

batch 10 · p.74↑ Contents
24

Books to Read

Original page 1 — Books to Read

His original page — tap to enlarge

If you're too busy to read, you need to re-priortize your schedule. Reading is a must in every business. Reading can increase your determination to succeed. Some of the selections below can make a difference in your career. Even without the name of the author, you should be able to find most or all of the books. Your business associate or friend may already have some selections.

In Search of Excellence

The Magic of Believing

Move Ahead Through Positive Thinking – Robert Schuler

Tough Times Never Last – Tough People Do

The Secret Of The Ages – Robert Collier

The Three Magic Words

As A Man Thinketh

Contact, The First Four Minutes

It Takes Very Little To Be Above Average

The Richest Man In Babylon

Be My Guest – Conrad Hilton

The Greatest Salesman In The World

What is it you want in Life? Can you say it in one breath; one sentence? Write down three things you want? Write down When you can Accomplish these?

HOW TO SET REALISTIC GOALS

Decide specifically what you want

Set time frame to accomplish goals

Visualize these goals – If you can see it, you can achieve it

Record progress and revise goals according to realistic expectations

Set new goals based on the reality of your goals

batch 3 · p.66↑ Contents
25

Broker introduction — 100% commercial real estate

Hello, my name is John Casey. I’m a Broker/Agent concentrating 100% in the commercial area of real estate and have been since 2001. Prior to joining Coldwell Banker Commercial Brown Realtors | had a 25+ year background in banking management/real estate/commercial lending/and marketing.

Concentrating and working with clients/customers on commercial properties requires experience and knowledge of commercial properties, like buildings, developed and undeveloped land, farms, recreational property, investment properties, industrial, retail, warehouses, general purpose properties, restaurants, churches.

| will do what | say | will when | say | will. I’m quietly aggressive, direct, and responsive. Results are always my goal. I'll give you reasons to trust me and will do all | can to keep it.

batch 10 · p.33↑ Contents
26

Broker remarks – 'without hyperbole' (realty)

Original page 1 — Broker remarks - 'without hyperbole' (realty)

His original page — tap to enlarge

My remarks are without hyperbole or subjective opinions. I believe a buyer or company willing and able to invest thousands of dollars in a property are astute buyers with clear objectives and purpose. They are knowledgeable, and their decisions are logically based. They want facts and information in clear terms. Trust is important, but they respond to instinct and emotion too.

Note: I welcome remarks and comments of sellers to use in our marketing efforts. Quotes reflect the owner’s opinions.

Along with our companies extensive marketing programs, network, history, plus reputation is complimented by the individual agents. Our goal is the same as the sellers and buyers; a successful sale.

Thanks,

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Business letter (page 3)

@ Page 3

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Business letter – 'Thanks. john' (page 2)

Thanks. john

@ Page 2

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'Business plan' — ideas in your head vs. on paper

Business plan:

If you do not have a business plan — you have ideas in your head that only you know. At least: you must write down information about your planned business.

Write a one line description of your company.

Why are you uniquely qualified to succeed?

What is your financial strength?

How much funding do you need – what is the source of it, when do you need it

What are your risks?

Decide on a name, it’s important What marketing do you plan to use Staffing needs

Stocking needs

Equipment needs Furniture/lighting/

Decorations, features

Know what permits, license, taxes, health concerns, insurance, liability, comprehensive, fire, and contents, storms, security, signage, and other costs you will incur.

Research the market — competition- find at least three (you may have to go outside your immediate area) and review their business, price, and customer base. Visit each one and count people, cars, tables, staff, furnishings, and service, plus parking, size, lighting, and special features. Make notes to review later.

What is the population in a circle of one mile, three miles, five miles, or more? What are the demographics, age, ethnic, major employers, such as schools, hospitals, and general businesses?

Creating a business plan is the first step towards financing. Plan to spend 50 to 100 hours writing a business plan. Assign priorities and don’t skip or be too brief. You can edit it later. Start with a personal financial statement.

After your research and collecting and recording basic information, find help in writing the plan. Seek help.

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Buyer's-agent reference, 3/19/2014 (pt 3)

Buyers’ agent. Her reference was made on 3/19/2014, 48 days after the contract date (1/30/2014) and 10 days prior to the extension date for closing the transaction on or before 3/29-2014. Note: The closing date of 3/29/2014 is a Saturday and is not a normal working day for the Title Company, and the actual closing date was scheduled at 3:00 PM on 3/28/2014.

Acknowledging that a commercial appraisal report, a licensed inspector’s report, and/or a contractor’s report were completed would have been helpful to the Seller even if the Termination was approved. At the least it would have alerted the Seller of potential problems so that attention made to correct them or for disclosures to future potential buyers and or corrections.

The agent told me her Broker, Lisa Smoot, told her a reference a government report regarding a potential liability of USTs was unacceptable to the Buyer was sufficient to terminate the contract. The notice referenced (by block completion on the form) that a government report was the basis of determining the potential liability. Not providing the report after repeated requests to the Seller’s agent for them indicates, to me reports were not received. On 3/24/2014 the agent emailed me stating the Buyer had not delivered the report to her and when it was received it would be provided.

The Seller disclosed information regarding the underground tank issue. This hand written disclosure was given to the agent prior to writing the contract. If the buyer elected to terminate the contract due to the reported potential liability of USTs why did it take so long to request a termination? Why go to the trouble and expense of obtaining an appraisal, conducting inspections and getting estimates when the Buyer believed the USTs were considered an unacceptable potential liability?

I do not believe a government report was made stating USTs were a potential liability for owner’s of the property. I believe the agent was evasive in responding to my requests for a report. Recommending that the Buyer sign a Termination Notice without a report is irresponsible. I further believe her Broker gave her bad advice to the selling agent the reason to terminate the contract be based on a government report that was not available. I believe it was unprofessional of the agent to inform me that a problem with the roof was damaged and it would take $30,000 to $35,000 to correct, further there was a report there was potential structural damage to the building without providing a report for the source of her statements. I believe it was wrong for the Selling agent to call the Seller’s tenant and telling him that the contract was terminated when it was not and discussing reasons for termination, and asking him if he was interested in making an offer to purchase

Mrs. Weakley has received regular and almost daily contact with me regarding the situation, the searches being made, requests for reports and information.

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Care-needs plan — roles for Tom/Jay, Donna, Shan

I want Tom/Jay to be my Deep cleaner — * occasional Shopper. I want Donna to be my Pill Chief and advisor — & Teach me or others — * Occasional grocery Shopper. I want Shan to be my [Withdrawalist?] and adviser. I want to do my own grocery Shopping — short errand — * Staples only — Less than 30–40 min. 20 LB — 2 bags. A driver Works too. Trash — Laundry (Sm. meal Lifts?) — Rides to Dr/hospital. Wash & dry dishes — water plants.

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Carpe Diem — life-advice list (Mariah letterhead)

The original page will appear here.

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Cash flow – day-to-day money records (business)

Cash flow: Develop a system of maintaining current day to day record of money. Review current monthly income and expense records of each property. Cash/money/checks, check expenditures by category, Use percentages of primary costs/expenses in regard to totals. Make notes or questions on figures. Need: trends, unusual numbers, causes, changes, direction, attention to category.

Begin a study of Rural Development Subsidy programs. Monthly statements, records, etc. Dates of required submissions to Rural Development.

Attend local/regional/ (other) Rural Development meetings for information, changes, procedures, etc. If available collect information of other Rural Development housing operations in the state – or other states. If assigned, make comparisons of their operations to ours.

Current information on the operation of the Rural Housing properties is critical to managing the properties with efficiency and in a profitable manner. The information should be available and in a form that can assist management recognize trends and direction of the business. Decisions can be made with improved and easy to understand reports.

Other assignments: Create organized files on property owned by the corporation. Organize by category. Complete comprehensive information on each property: Tax information, insurance, maintenance. Keep paper work to a minimum. Rely on computer information, photos, etc.

Complete a list of equipment and materials owned by the corporation.

Likely all of the information is available in the office files. Records are likely to be mixed and not sorted so as to allow quick access to them. Accurate records that are current and immediately available are important as are readable, easy to understand reports. Once they have been organized they will also be easier to maintain and used for the day to day operation of the corporation.

Heidi, the above is an outline of a person to work for you in a support role that I believe will help you in several ways. First, by organizing segments of your

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Character sketch / letter to "Sue" (Larry & the kids; Brussels; the odd man out)

The original page will appear here.

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Character sketch — Jacob Nelson (handyman) + health routine

One of my favorite people is Jacob Nelson. Jacob is 23. He's a handy-man. He thinks out Loud. He is humble. He gets Life. His family Loves him; his fiancée is his supporter; he works at Lowe's. He Listens, Calculates, Visualizes, and acts on "I can do this." He trusts me — I trust him. I gave him 6-Pair of Khaki/denim pants that fit him perfectly [washed, pressed] — but Not me. I must be someone who Cares about others (Him). I treat him as a MAN — an ally. He trusts me. He speaks up, questions, & has his own ideas.

I take BP 2 times a day. I weigh myself 2 times a day. I take my Pills. I pick up. I have good days & Bad days — about 50/50. I must do something about my Phone — doesn't ring. Messages get Lost.

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'CHOKE' — eulogy (v2)

Original page 1 — 'CHOKE' — eulogy (v2)

His original page — tap to enlarge

“CHOKE”

Choke was a darned good man and he knew it and we knew it and Choke knew we knew it. It was the way it was. Choke was an ordinary guy in the noblest sense of the term, a steady solid man whose old-fashioned virtues were the perfect antidote for his friends and brothers who cherished his stability and civility.

He was utterly uncomplicated, lacking pretense, and he spoke, smiled and toasted everyone.

He was a fine gentleman and gave to and received great respect from his brothers. For that and many personal kindnesses,

Thank you, Mr. Chokey Brothers and friends of the Wood River Moose Lodge # 1349 john casey 2/7/08

The length of one day matters less than the love of one’s Family and friends. | thank God for the gift of every sunrise and, even more, for all the years he has Blessed me with the friends of a life time. John casey 2/7/08

The sun is out, the sky is blue, There’s not a cloud to spoil the view, But it’s raining, raining in my heart

Buddy Holly

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'CHOKE' — eulogy (v3)

“CHOKE”

Choke was a darned good man and he knew it and we knew it and Choke knew we knew it. It was the way it was. Choke was an ordinary guy in the noblest sense of the term, a steady solid man whose old-fashioned virtues were the perfect antidote for his friends and brothers who cherished his stability and civility.

He was utterly uncomplicated, lacking pretense, and he spoke, smiled and toasted everyone.

He was a fine gentleman and gave to and received great respect from his brothers. For that and many personal kindnesses,

Thank you, Mr. Chokey Brothers and friends of the Wood River Moose Lode # 1349 jobncasey 2/7/08

The length of one day matters less than the love of one’s fa mily and friends. | thank God for the gift of every sunrise and, even more, for all the years he has blessed me with the friends of a life time. John casey 2/7/08

The sun is out, the sky is blue, There’s not a cloud to spoil the view, But its raining, raining, in my heart

Buddy Holly

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38

'CHOKE' — eulogy for a friend (Wood River Moose Lodge), v1

Original page 1 — 'CHOKE' — eulogy for a friend (Wood River Moose Lodge), v1

His original page — tap to enlarge

4y & 98 eo 1 abl teed wie fs

a i” wt where eee op b flere a i “CHOKE” es eI Choke was a darned goo

d man and he knew it and we knew it and Choke knew we knew it. It was the way it was. Choke was an ordinary guy in the noblest sense of the term, a steady solid man whose old-fashioned virtues were the perfect antidote for his friends and brothers who cherished his stability and civility. He was utterly uncomplicated, lacking pretense, a spoke, smiled and toasted everyone. He was a fine gentleman and gave to and received great respect from his brothers. For that and many personal kindnesses,

Thank you, Mr. Chokey prothers and friends of the Wood River Moose -_ Lodge # 1349 jebe casey 2/7/08

nd he

The length of one day matters less than the love of one’s family and friends. ] thank God for the gift of every sunrise and, even more, for all the years he has blessed me with the friends of a life time. John casey 2/7/08

The sun is out, the sky is blue, There’s nota cloud to spoil the view, But it’s raining, raining in my heart

Buddy Holly

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Christmas 2000 (year in review)

The original page will appear here.

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Christmas card 1998 — 'a great 1999 & beyond'

Shanon, Merry Christmas We are going to find our way to a great 1999 & beyond.

Some of the gifts are for the kids — you decide. Some are for James & Nina

I plan to see you all at Nina's in the 3:00 – 3:30 range.

Dad 12/25/98

Let's call your mom today.

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Christmas card 1998 — 'Hold those close to you — close.'

Merry Christmas

Hold those close to you — close.

Shanon John

[sticky note:] A condition of all gifts (not clothing) is that you must keep them.

I'm getting ready for a happy year, thanks for helping make '98 memorable.

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42

'Circle of Service' – Coldwell Banker marketing

General Marketing:

“Circle of Service” within Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors exposing the property to our agents throughout Madison and St. Clair County Color brochure development and printing – for distribution to agents, prospective buyers and mailings Signage on property Advertising on regularly scheduled basis in office advertising avenues Print advertising in selected area-wide advertising

Internet Marketing

www.brownrealtors.com www.coldwellbanker.com www.coldwellbankerpreviews.com

www.coldwellbankercommercial.com

www.realtor.com

Multiple Listing Service of Greater Gateway Board of Realtors Multiple photos of property on web sites

“Leadrouter” – immediate agent notification on web site inquiry LoopNet.com – Commercial

Land&Farm.com – Rural land

Xcelligent – a commercial real estate information platform directed to broadcast email to its members in the greater St. Louis area

Direct Marketing

Select direct mailings Promotions to real estate brokerage companies in St. Louis and Illinois Personal marketing; phone, email and visits to clients/customers/agents

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43

Cleaning Tips

ra YL

cleaning for everyone and everything (or mostly) Sit pillows in the sun to freshen — same for duvets, comforters Oven- add 3 tbsp of baking soda to a spray bottle of warm water, shake and mix, spritz on stains and let sit 10 min. Also can sprinkle salt over stains and wipe off. Cleaning room by room: Dust every surface Wipe down walls — add small amt. of dishwashing liquid to a gallon of warm water Wipe light fixtures, blinds Rotate mattress — wash or hang drapes outside to freshen Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spritz doorknobs, phone, cupboard handles, sinks, toilet seat Germs removed! Windows: orpart vinegar, 2 parts water in a spray bottle (dry with paper towels) Counters: One part ammonia, 2 parts water Fresh air spray: 1 tbsp vinegar, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 cup water in a spray bottle Clean toilet: 1 cup vinegar in bowl; let set 5 min before scrubbing Glass ring on wood: 2 tbsp vinegar, 2 tbsp veg oil — apply and rub with grain Polish silver: 3 parts baking soda, 1 part water. Rub with soft cloth, rinse with water, dry Rugs: sprinkle baking soda 15 min before vacuum Decrust pots/pans: sprinkle baking soda & water and make a paste, let soak over night Stains: Red wine \% cup white vinegar; | tsp liquid laundry detergent — apply/dab with paper towel, rinse with cold water Blood | tsp laundry detergent; 2 tsp ammonia; 2 cup cold water, dap, rinse. Can add salt and cold water and soak. Other stains: Fill and boil a large pot with water, spread stained clothing over the top of the bucket and pour the water through the stain area Ink: Squeeze lemon juice on the stain, set garment in the sun Mud: Scrape off — add rubbing alcohol for the hard to remove film stuff Press flowers: Use a phone book, trim blossoms, lay flat, close and press (use a touch of glue to mount on paper or matte) press 1-2 weeks. A small bowl of white vinegar will absorb foul odors Remove stains from shirt collars/pits of shirts: spray with vinegar before washing Drains: / cup baking soda, wash down 2 cup vinegar —wait 15 min. & Pour boiling water into drain.

Tea toddy: 1 tea bag in large cup or tumbler; steep 2 min, add tsp honey, 4 juice of a lemon, shot or jigger of whiskey, breathe to clear your snoz and sip. Repeat until cured.

Martini: 2 oz gin or vodka over cracked ice in a shaker; 1 oz (or less) dry vermouth; dash of orange bitters (good addition); run a lemon twist around the edge of the chilled (ice optional) pour mix into the glass through a strainer. Add large Olive.

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Coldwell Banker letter (Edwardsville)

John Casey Coldwell Banker Commercial Brown Realtors 2205 S. St. Rt. 157, Edwardsville, IL 62025 618-692-7290

Fax: 618-692-1484 618-670-5646 johncasey@coldwelibanker.com

Memo Date: 8/6/2014 TO: Gerry Re: 4700 S. St. 159, Glen Carbon, IL

The Sales Contract on the above property is expected to be dropped off this evening before 6. It needs Mr. Bollinger’s signature. | have a skeleton of the contract and earnest money check.

They want it to be a residence for their (her) children. They are aware of the need for extensive work and costs (expected to be in the $15,000 – $20,000 range)

Mrs. Jacobs banks at the Bank of Edwardsville (several homes) and is confident of approval and quick service.

| have advised that disclosures may be required and would assist in obtaining them.

| asked Mrs. Jacobs to be responsive and quick on decisions as the interest in the property has picked up due to the price reduction and sign with the price at $150,000.

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45

Column submission letter to The Telegraph (May 2015)

May 10, 2015

Civitamedia The Telegraph P. O. Box 278 Alton, IL 62002

Re: Column submission Dear Editor:

Golf has been my passion since I began in 1963. I began writing about golf for 50 years. Golf does not seem to evolve quickly. It creeps, thus, its attraction to players of all ages. The many friends I have made bears testimony to the connection of golf and life. Every game, every player is unique and unforgettable.

I’m asked often when am I going to write about golf again and my answer is, of course, “I write all the time.” Only sometimes do they reach the paper or get published. This submission is about 775 words. Perhaps it will make the grade. If it does I’ll let everyone know its coming.

Thanks for considering it.

John Casey

435 2 Bluff St. Alton, IL 62002 618-670-5646

IJrcasey 134@ gmail.com johncasey @coldwellbanker.com

I have it on my computer and can submit it to you.

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46

Column-submission letter to the Alton Telegraph

Original page 1 — Column-submission letter to the Alton TelegraphOriginal page 2 — Column-submission letter to the Alton Telegraph
1 / 2

His original — flip through the pages, tap to enlarge

bstrickley @civitrasmedia.com Alton Telegraph

P.O. Box 278

Alton, IL 62002

Re: Column submission Junior Golf Clinic

I would appreciate your consideration of publishing the column on the recently completed junior golf clinic held at Rolling Hills Golf Course in Godfrey. It was the 22" consecutive junior clinic at Rolling Hills and was attended by 62 golfers.

The clinic was conducted by Zack Deeder, a teacher and golf coach of Alton Senior High School. Mr. Deeder has conducted eleven consecutive junior golf clinics. Shane Smith, one of the instructors, is now a professional golfer. He is from Alton and was a three-time winner of the Alton Gold Medal Tournament held at Rock Springs. Shane is based in Arizona and has completed in tournaments in Arizona and also in Thailand. The other volunteer instructors; Ryan Coughlin, Joe Swartz, Matt Cress, and John Casey are golf enthusiasts.

The account of the clinic was written by one of the instructors of the clinic, John Casey. He can be contacted by email: jrcasey134@gmail.com. His Full address is below.

Thank you,

Joan Stupperich

John Casey

435 % Bluff St.

Alton, IL 62002 618-670-5646 jrcasey134@ gmail.com

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47

Commercial real-estate advice intro

If you are thinking about selling

or buying commercial real estate and would like additional information about

our services,

take a moment and call me at

618-670-5646

WE attract Buyers and SELLERS!

John Casey

Full time Commercial Real Estate Agent In addition to our outstanding residential real

estate services, Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors Is one of the few brokerage firms also providing full-time, full- service commercial real estate agents who really focus on commercial real es-

tate. That's important!

We will provide you with Blue Ribbon Service — always. J John Casey (lives in Alton) 618-670-5646

jrcasey134@gmail.com

COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL

BROWN REALTORS®

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

Coldwell Banker Commercial Brown Realtors 2205 S. State Route 157

Edwardsville, IL 62025

618-692-7290 618-692-1484 (fax)

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48

Commercial real-estate referral pitch

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

670-5646

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give mea call. Thanks.

670-5646

670-5646

670-5646

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

If you hear of someone interested in selling or buying commercial real estate, ask them to give meacall. Thanks.

670-5646

670-5646

670-5646

670-5646

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

|OHN CASEY

670-5646

JOHN CASEY

670-5646

|OHN CASEY

670-5646

|OHN CASEY

670-5646

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'Communication' — effective relationships (realty)

Communication: Effective relationships are dependent upon communication. We believe there are four keys to communication: 1. Discover innermost thoughts & feelings. 2. Identify & verbalize thoughts and feelings 3. Accurately understand what another person is saying. 4. Make conversations as personal as possible.

Selling and buying real estate is personal – always.

We have700 (e) listings throughout the five offices of Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors and Coldwell Banker Commercial Brown Realtors. Our agents are positive, enthusiastic, and quietly aggressive in communicating with buyers, sellers, and a host of related other entities involved in real estate. They take pride to make known, reveal clearly, to interchange, spread information and to connect with everyone.

They apply the art and technique of using words effectively. They follow a system (they are encouraged to develop their own style), such as mail and email, web based listing services, telephone, rqdio, television, billboards and signs. We have a network of routes designed to connect a willing buyer and seller in a successful real estate transaction. WE are all communicators.

How successful are they? Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors is ranked as the top agency in the metro-east area, and have high ranking nationally. We have been in business since 1972.

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'Constant learning, constant trying'

Constant learning, constant trying, constant searching is what keeps us from ruts and being stuck. It teaches us ho to be attentive, to anticipate, each other’s action and avoid repeating our selves. Being good is not so hard. My goal is to become a better person in my day to day life. Knowledge makes me gentle, Ignorance hardens me.

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'Constant learning, constant trying' (affirmation)

Constant learning, constant trying, constant searching is what keeps us from ruts and being stuck. It teaches us ho to be attentive, to anticipate, each other’s action and avoid repeating our selves.

Being good is not so hard. My goal is to become a better person in my day to day life.

Knowledge makes me gentle, Ignorance hardens me.

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'Creative IQ' (definition)

Creative IQ The ability to incorporate new ideas into ways of doing things, leading to a change in viewpoint Usually individuals with high creative IQs are highly empathetic because they can see multiple points of view. Unlock reasoning & activate the brain required for creativity. Review past experiences on how you found ways to do something. There is always a different (and perhaps a better) way to do something.

Learn to ask for help when you need it. Also, volunteer to help, but be sure you are invited or welcomed. Can I help may be a question. May I help sounds more like a request and a no or yes answer is enough.

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'Dance' / 'Books' – personal tags (self-improvement)

DANCE “Dance Contest Winner” could be your personal tag.

BOOKS Read a few books or a lot. Read different kinds of books, Especially cook books.

WALK Why? I’m just kidding. Walk, trot, lope, run, cater, or skip – whatever. And you can wear nifty outfits if you want.

Cliques Join one if you can, but if you can’t, to hell with them. Tf a clique has a leader it’s not a clique, it’s a clan. I don’t like cliques unless I belong to one.

NEW AND IMPROVED Check out the new and improved product with the old one. New and improved is sneaky.

PRACTICALJOKES Practical jokes are all about revenge. That explains it. Somebody gets pissed sooner or later, And then watch out

CLIMBING

Climbing is fun but it sure is tiring.

Level is better

and slightly down hill is down right exhilarating A MIRROR

Don’t break one.

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54

Dear John (advice column)

Original page 1 — Dear John (advice column)Original page 2 — Dear John (advice column)
1 / 2

His original — flip through the pages, tap to enlarge

Dear John: Will learning to juggle increase my chances with the ladies? Steve, Lonesome in Bethalto

Dear lonesome Steve:

That you even have to ask is evidence that you are hopeless with “the ladies.” I doubt if it’s your lack of carnival skills hurting you the most, my uncoordinated friend.

John

Dear John:

What's the second best way to ask your boss for a raise? Mike Y

E. Alton

Dear Mike: What’s with the Y?

The best way for you to ask your boss for a raise is to build atime machine, go back in time, fix all of your stupid mistakes, and start making good, responsible choices while being nice and respectful to your fellow workers. This might also work with your former friends.

John

Dear John:

T have a receding hairline, but only on the right side of my head. People say it makes me look unique, but I have become quite anxious about it. Should I shave the other side to match? Shave it all off or wear a selection of hats?

Paul

Dear Paul: I would definitely go with the hat. May I suggest a ski mask? Or a fez? John

Dear John: I've been a smoker for thirty five years. I would like to silence those nitties who are always obnoxiously preaching to me about cancer and coughing every time I light up. Is there a not a-healthy,- but equally-annoying habit I could pick up that'd allow me to live longer while continuing to piss off the right people? Thanks for your help. Kim and Bill (we have the same problem)

Dear Kim and Bill: Join the Republican Party. Do what they tell you. You're welcome, John

Dear John: The word “unicorn” always makes me wonder. Why isn’t it “unihorn?” When I hear “unicorn,” I think that maybe somebody called it that because they thought the horn looked like a giant corn on the cob and just screamed out, One Horn!” That makes me think unicorns are native to Iowa.

Dave J.

Dear Dave J.

You are really dumb. “Corn” is Latin for “horn,” as in Cornucopia. A mono (one)-horned horse is naturally called a unicorn.

Dear John, I’ve been told that I’m hard of hearing, but the minute I turn on the TV and see an ad announcing a new or improved product, for the house my hearing is fine. Why. Elmer, in Godfrey

Dear Elmer,

You don't say! You are listing to a TV ministry service program.

EL, WHERE SHOUTING IS COMMON! Turn down the volume every time you hear a jingle or see a new fangled thing, and, SEND YOUR TITHE TO ME YOU HEAR ME? .

John.

Shin czae kL ae tbh wd wa x 7

AQ ik icaf neice pe 2) Ale) on ne, Vacol Jil Seu wba MOET Ae Greve 7s

& Val coc

batch 1, 5 · p.76–77, 111–112↑ Contents
55

'Dear Mrs. Hunter' (v2)

Pete Hunter 1567 Lewis Road Edwardsville, IL 62025

Dear Mrs. Hunter:

For goodness sakes! We have talked to each other several times. With both of us being Realtors we may one-day meet Jay Leno, or whomever, who wants to buy the property we have listed. For sure Realtors run into all sorts of people and personalities, many who we will never meet. Sometimes though, we do. Like

at a library.

It was the same way in the Civil War. Uniquely, there was no language or physical barrier to the North and South and people almost freely traveled to one land and the other without knowing they had left one or the other. So, kin fought (and sheltered) kin. I like civil stories and they abound from every encounter and in every way imaginable.

_ I seem to understand the war and the soldiers, both North and South, but, of course, I’m older and have studied it from my angles and visits to sites. I had far rather visit a battlefield than any museum. I will almost always meet someone there who knows someone who was there before us and a story will unfold.

On my Senior Trip (Vienna — 1958) our group visited Vicksburg for a few hours. I was just a pup, but would have been war age had it been 1863. I was likely more interested in the pretty classmates than the battlefield. However, I do recall the Illinois Monument and finding the name Levi B. Casey on the interior wall of the monument. It was near the name of Albert Cashier, a private who was from Chicago. There is a very unusual story about Private Cashier. Jenny, who was from Ireland, was about to be engaged to Albert when the war in America broke out. Albert was heading home, but got sick and died before he could board a ship to America. Jenny took his name and came ‘home’ and joined the army as Albert. There’s more and you might run across it in your studies. I know more and will tell it to you if you want.

I’ve been to Vicksburg three times since 1958. My last trip was to look for Levi Burnside Casey. That is, to find where he may have been. I did. I believe he fought his way to Vicksburg with the 31* Illinois under the command of General John Logan. I believe Levi fought at Champions Hill and again at the Big Black River just east of Vicksburg. He was camped at the north edge (the Union right wing) of Vicksburg in June of 1863. In the camp were real miners from Southern Illinois and a plan was developed to dig a tunnel under the uneven Confederate line a mere 75/150 yards away. The tunnel was easy to dig in the strange dirt (called Loesse or Loess and found only there and in Egypt — so the story goes) and finally the troops placed explosives in the tunnel. On the 26" of June the decision was made to set off the charge in the tunnel and troops were readied to spring into action and break the confused Confederate line and cause it to collapse. Then, in the chaos, the entire Union line would advance and defeat the Confederate Army.

The blast blew away many of the Confederate troops, but to their credit, they reeled but did not fold. Into the smoking crater poured the Union troops expecting to run up the other side and crush the bewildered foe. Levi Casey, a Captain, was (I believe) in the second band of troops that jumped into the melee. He had just been promoted to Major (Breveted promotion) and led him men into the caldron. There they stayed because the Confederate troops had repositioned themselves on the far wall of the crater and began shooting the Union men. They also threw hand grenades into the pit and one of them exploded near Major Casey and he was mortally wounded. He died a few days later and was later buried in the officers section of the Union cemetery there. Or so it seems. There is also a grave for Captain Casey in the Mt. Olive Cemetery near Vienna in Johnson County Illinois. No exhumation is planned to know the right grave.

Levi Burnside was mortally wounded in the Crater at Vicksburg, MS. A grey granite monument marks the site. His name is on it. The day I was there, almost 125 years after he died there, it was raining lightly. A few of my tears mixed with the rain. He was a hero.

batch 13 · p.96↑ Contents
56

'Dear Mrs. Hunter' / Pete Hunter – 'For goodness sakes' (v1)

Pete Hunter 1567 Lewis Road Edwardsville, IL 62025

Dear Mrs. Hunter:

For goodness sakes! We have talked to each other several times. With both of us being Realtors we may one-day meet Jay Leno, or whomever, who wants to buy the property we have listed. For sure Realtors run into all sorts of people and personalities, many who we will never meet. Sometimes though, we do. Like

at a library.

It was the same way in the Civil War. Uniquely, there was no language or physical barrier to the North and South and people almost freely traveled to one land and the other without knowing they had left one or the other. So, kin fought (and sheltered) kin. I like civil stories and they abound from every encounter and in every way imaginable.

_ I seem to understand the war and the soldiers, both North and South, but, of course, I’m older and have studied it from my angles and visits to sites. I had far rather visit a battlefield than any museum. I will almost always meet someone there who knows someone who was there before us and a story will unfold.

On my Senior Trip (Vienna — 1958) our group visited Vicksburg for a few hours. I was just a pup, but would have been war age had it been 1863. I was likely more interested in the pretty classmates than the battlefield. However, I do recall the Illinois Monument and finding the name Levi B. Casey on the interior wall of the monument. It was near the name of Albert Cashier, a private who was from Chicago. There is a very unusual story about Private Cashier. Jenny, who was from Ireland, was about to be engaged to Albert when the war in America broke out. Albert was heading home, but got sick and died before he could board a ship to America. Jenny took his name and came ‘home’ and joined the army as Albert. There’s more and you might run across it in your studies. I know more and will tell it to you if you want.

I’ve been to Vicksburg three times since 1958. My last trip was to look for Levi Burnside Casey. That is, to find where he may have been. I did. I believe he fought his way to Vicksburg with the 31* Illinois under the command of General John Logan. I believe Levi fought at Champions Hill and again at the Big Black River just east of Vicksburg. He was camped at the north edge (the Union right wing) of Vicksburg in June of 1863. In the camp were real miners from Southern Illinois and a plan was developed to dig a tunnel under the uneven Confederate line a mere 75/150 yards away. The tunnel was easy to dig in the strange dirt (called Loesse or Loess and found only there and in Egypt — so the story goes) and finally the troops placed explosives in the tunnel. On the 26" of June the decision was made to set off the charge in the tunnel and troops were readied to spring into action and break the confused Confederate line and cause it to collapse. Then, in the chaos, the entire Union line would advance and defeat the Confederate Army.

The blast blew away many of the Confederate troops, but to their credit, they reeled but did not fold. Into the smoking crater poured the Union troops expecting to run up the other side and crush the bewildered foe. Levi Casey, a Captain, was (I believe) in the second band of troops that jumped into the melee. He had just been promoted to Major (Breveted promotion) and led him men into the caldron. There they stayed because the Confederate troops had repositioned themselves on the far wall of the crater and began shooting the Union men. They also threw hand grenades into the pit and one of them exploded near Major Casey and he was mortally wounded. He died a few days later and was later buried in the officers section of the Union cemetery there. Or so it seems. There is also a grave for Captain Casey in the Mt. Olive Cemetery near Vienna in Johnson County Illinois. No exhumation is planned to know the right grave.

Levi Burnside was mortally wounded in the Crater at Vicksburg, MS. A grey granite monument marks the site. His name is on it. The day I was there, almost 125 years after he died there, it was raining lightly. A few of my tears mixed with the rain. He was a hero.

batch 13 · p.95↑ Contents
57

'Dear Ms. Johnson' – a prayer after his operation

Dear Ms. Johnson

When I was operated on not two years ago I had time to make a prayer. It was a prayer of thanks for my life. The heart operation weakened me and it also strengthened me in spirit. It changed me too. I continue to undergo counseling and medication and will regain my strength.

When you attacked me, I hardly had time for a prayer, but I did afterwards and it was the same prayer of thanks for my life. In some ways I have been weakened and scared, but in other ways stronger too. It will forever change me.

Seek first to understand, then to be understood. It is a philosophy that has worked for me, but I can not find answers to the incident of March 25", 2004 when you may have tried to kill me, took my car, and wrecked it soon thereafter. I do not seek an answer, but I do seek to recover my loss.

My loss was my car and personal things damaged in the wreck. The car is a 94 Toyota Camry and valued at approximately $3,300 and personal items, including towing and storage is about $500. I will carefully itemize them for you.

I wrote the entire story of the evening starting several hours before my first encounter with you. I shared the story with the police, my attorney, family, friends and co-workers (as needed to explain absenteeism and behavior). I will share this letter requesting that you repay me for the loss of my car.

Jobn Casey 435 % Bluff Street Alton, IL 62002

batch 14 · p.61↑ Contents
58

'Did John charge you for the space?' (cont.)

Did John charge you for using the space? How long did your crew use the apartment? Did you use his bathroom? Did you rearrange furniture or objects in John’s apartment? Did you pay John any money for the use of his apartment? Did you give him a copy of the video. (he did not have a player) Have you ever done your laundry in John’s washing machine? When? How many times? How often did you use his washer? Did you pay John for using his washer (use of water) Has John ever used your washer? Have you ever been stung by a wasp? How did it happen? Did you blame John for getting stung? Why? Have you TOLD John to never water your plant on the porch? One plant. Has John ever watered your plant again? Have you ever asked John to pay you for using YOUR WATER? Explain. When you were using his water for laundry and using his washer and his water did you pay John for the cost, accurately reviewed and researched for cost of use of water? Did John present you with copies of his research and information collected? What was the result of your attempt to collect money for using your water? Was the difference in favor of you or John? Did you pay the difference? Did you use a laundry to do your laundry when you no longer used John’s washer?

batch 20 · p.100↑ Contents
59

'Did John tell you it was OK to use his washer?' (cont.)

Did John tell you it was OK to use his washer because of the harsh weather? If yes, did you pay John $4.00 for the water that equalled the cost for you to use the laundry mat’s washers prior to using your own washer? If yes, do you think that was right? How long did this arrangement last? Did you believe $4.00 was right? Did you use the laundry mat only one time? After John, who had researched and obtaining information on expected cost to install a guard rail on the steps did John ask if you were willing to split the material costs of the rail and that he, John, would pay for 50% of the cost of materials and 100% of the labor. Was you reply NO! Well, Tim did install a good and attractive guard railing that has improved the property by making it safer. He paid 100 of the cost.

batch 20 · p.101↑ Contents
60

🔒 Dispute notes — alleged break-in / took a computer

🔒 LOCKED

batch 26 · p.20↑ Contents
61

🔒 Dispute notes — appliances / kitchenware / coins

🔒 LOCKED

batch 26 · p.22↑ Contents
62

🔒 Dispute notes — BMW; GEM Saloon; repeated stories

🔒 LOCKED

batch 26 · p.24↑ Contents
63

🔒 Dispute notes — drove car; kept debit card / tools / guns

🔒 LOCKED

batch 26 · p.23↑ Contents
64

🔒 Dispute notes — note to Jacob re: a shotgun

🔒 LOCKED

batch 26 · p.19↑ Contents
65

🔒 Dispute notes — SS card / debit card / guns

🔒 LOCKED

batch 26 · p.21↑ Contents
66

'Doc Held' – a warm letter to an old acquaintance

Doc Held, Hello. I recall you had a shock of dark black hair and an imposing stature. You laughed easily and had a story every time I saw you. Bonnie, how fortunate you were to capture his heart and support his whims, and likes. He was fortunate to join you for mutual interest and enjoyment. I’m betting you considered breaking his plate over his thick skull when he was a natural daredevil. Doc, I heard you had a vigilante group in Calhoun County that hunted coyotes to save chickens and small dogs. All I know is that dogs run, chickens scamper, cats stalk and coyotes trot. Using a snow mobile or 4-wheeler you and the posse chased the 25-40 pound meanies and plinked them with a 2-22 rifle bullet. I’d a skinned and processed the hides and sent them to a tannery for leather goods. No? Yes? I have a vision of you astride of your snow mobile all geared up, bounding near and into thickets, jumping fences and signing in on a wily coyote. Pop. You likely shared a strong and relaxing brew and saluted your friends and said, “It doesn’t get better than this. It doesn’t! Thanks Dock for the good times and memories.

batch 19 · p.88↑ Contents
67

Documented searches by email & notes (pt 2)

I documented my searches by email, personal notes, with referenced dates/information requests and responses on phone calls, emails and personal visits to offices. My search included the following:

American Title Company — 80 year search of Madison County Recorder of Deeds

for any reports or information specifically regarding USTs. No reports were

found.

City of Edwardsville, IL

City Clerk (no records are retained in this office regarding UST City Public Works (No records available) City Fire Department-Fire Marshall – (No records available

Illinois Department of Public Health office on Kettle River Drive, Glen

Carbon, IL — no records found

Illinois State Fire Marshall— Springfield office. I used a Freedom of

Information Act request. Reply, no records were found

EPA – Illinois — Springfield, IL — no records found

EPA-Illinois field office: Collinsville, IL — no records found

The searchers were very cooperative and provided as much information and advice as they could in regards to issues regarding USTs at the site.

Notes: Not until 1974 did EPA (US) have regulations regarding USTs. Not until 1986 did EPA (Illinois) have regulations regarding USTs. State Fire Marshall’s office rep said that after 25 years UST did not Pose an environmental hazard, even if the tanks leaked.

American Petroleum Company deeded the property to their buyer in April, 1971 And the deed had a restrictive covenant that the site could not be used for fuel sales, etc. This covenant expired in 1996. It automatically expired after 25 years. Schedule B on the title commitment ( #14) disclosed the covenant. It has since been removed.

The present buyers purchased the property in 1999. The previous owners purchased the property in 1971 (44 years ago — 3/2014

The Buyer’ agent s did not respond to my requests for the following: Inspection report regarding the roof problems and cost of repairs Inspection report regarding the potential structural damage to the building Appraisal Report (which may have referred to the roof and structure) Government Report(s) regarding the UTSs.

The Buyer’s agent requested a meeting to be held at the Buyer’s office with her, her Broker, Buyers, Sellers, and me, the Seller’s agent. The Seller and I declined to attend due to not receiving any of the requested reports.

I believe that if reports were made by licensed inspectors they would have been acknowledged to have been done and or provided. They could have been the basis of the reason for termination. The verbal reference to the potential problems was made by the

batch 17 · p.5↑ Contents
68

Doing Your Job (work-advice verse)

The original page will appear here.

batch 34 · p.p.21↑ Contents
69

'Don't Be Materialistic'

Don’t be materialistic. All of the things in the world are less than what you are as a person. How much is your character worth? What makes you happy? A thing? Or is it kindness and caring?

e * Play golf. You can play with someone or by yourself. How much fun is it to play By alone? I believe, a lot. It can do wonders for you to hit a ball, but the joy of playing in the wind and light rain, bright sun, or early or late is marvelous. If you are your best friend.

e Call me, I’m ready to play. Friday morning early at Rolling Hills in a senior league where scores don’t count much and the entry fee is a dollar. Shoot two hundred, no one cares. You don’t have to sign up or be obligated either.

Jerry, you are not alone.

I have had times when I didn’t believe I could go on. I was mired, as in heavy syrup and sinking. A wolf was waiting on the other side. I hoped for freezing weather to make the syrup solid or more sun to thin it. I needed a hand to hold on to. A storm might blow down a tree and give me a brace. Rain might discourage the wolf.

The ability to reinvent myself -— and fast, is the most important skill I will need in the future. It’s my responsibility to learn how to change. I can be a voracious learner. What I know doesn’t limit what I can imagine.

batch 6 · p.83↑ Contents
70

'Donate your heart… fulfilling wishes is heroic' (ad copy)

Trained help coming soon near you Donate your heart

Fulfilling wishes is heroic

Use the good dishes *

Create change I dig, I plant, I harvest, and I eat

All of my stories are true story except for the things I made up. If you don't believe me, ask Jerry Dale. His number is 1-610-402 1731.

“Up with that I will not put” WC Churchill “Don’t tell me my odds” HS Hans Solo *

I didn’t do anything wrong And I won’t do it again JC *

SILENCE is my friend.

Relax — carry on

Do try to be courteous and respectful Don’t Blow up

Do pay attention

Carry yourself with dignity id Don’t back down when you are right

Don’t boast

Let the world know you can be trusted Be brief *

Be direct *

Be patient *

Don’t try to say the last word * Stop when you should

batch 17 · p.106↑ Contents
71

Eagle-Watching Invitation

Page 1 of 2

On January 16 there will be lots of eagles for you to see with me. We might have a winter picnic.

Good luck on your merging.

I've written a small poem for grins.

Something might be gaining on me

As I look back on my career Tt never did exist.

I tried most everything,

I truly did persist.

There must be a reason

Why I never came in first

And now I've gotten older I've tried to shuck the curse

But somehow things are the same, in fact they've gotten worse

I never win, there's always something wrong

the damn thing was faulty and it was taking much too long. It's not my fault. It never is, the sun got in my eyes.

My cap flew off, the gun was jammed, it wasn't synchronized.

Well, friends, it's sad to say I learned it yesterday.

T was always in the running but was pressing all the way.

John

scone Original Message —-

From: "ashiksa57@talkmatch.com" <ashiksa57@talkmatch.com> To: "jreasey103040@yahoo.com" <jrcasey 103040@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, December 5, 2006 8:02:34 PM

Subject: Re: RE: Can I write you?

The last paragraph was the absolute best.

I think your Green Card couple can get the loan anyway. You don't have to be a citizen to borrow money in the US. You just have to meet the usual

criteria. | watched a lengthy program on CNN one evening about immigration and found this out. I was blown away by it so I certainly remember what I heard. They would probably need to use a mortgage broker. I'm sure you have brokers in your area, but my daughter's best friend just moved to Mt. Vernon Illinois, is in the business, and is very aggressive. She's been doing it in Chicago for quite a while. If they are denied let me know and I'll send you her info. It's worth a try. My Mother, Brother, and Grandmother were immigrants. I think I already explained the family thing to you.

I'm so tired I have to retire now. I jumped out of bed about 4 this morning because my wheels were turning and I couldn't sleep. Too much to do, too

about:blank 1/7/1998

batch 6 · p.17↑ Contents
72

Environmental Questionnaire (realty form, pt 1)

Property location:

ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE

Property size: (Lot dimensions or acreage)

Description of structures on the Property (if any).

Please complete the following questions: If additional space is needed, attach separate sheets. If an answer can not be determined, so indicate.

List current owners and occupants (if any) and their addresses. Also, how long they have owned or occupied the Property and the nature of their activities on the Property.

List each owner and each occupant who owned and/or occupied the Property before those listed in response in question # 1 and describe the nature and duration of their activities. Go back years if possible.

Are any asbestos-containing materials present on the Property? ___Yes ___NO

What chemicals, (if any) have been used or stored on the Property during the last five (5) years, if known. Add comments or detail.

Are there now, or have there ever been, any underground storage tanks on or under the Property? Yes NO If yes, provide information regarding the use, age, and/or disposition, if known

Have there ever been any spills, or releases of oil, gas, or other hazardous or toxic substances or, in, under or about the Property? Yes NO If yes, give details.

Are there any electrical transformers or capacitors on the Property? Yes NO Comments:

batch 11 · p.22↑ Contents
73

Environmental Questionnaire — adjacent parcels (pt 2)

8. List the owner/occupant of each adjacent parcel of Property, and describe the current and all known past uses of each such parcel.

9. Has the Property on any other property owned or operated by you, or any property adjacent to the Property, ever been listed on any governmental list of actual or potential hazardous waist sites for possible environmental problems relating to environmental laws. If yes, explain:

0. Has there ever been an environmental audit or risk assessment or other

environmental study of this Property? If yes, explain:

1. Are there any drums or containers situated or buried on, in, or around the Property or any adjacent property? ___Yes ___NO. If yes, explain.

2. Is there surface water on the Property (ponds, streams, etc.)? ___Yes NO If yes, describe:

3. Has the Property or any adjoining property ever been used for solid waste/trash disposal? ___Yes ___NO. If yes, explain:

4. Are there any signs of containment at the Property? Yes NO If yes, explain:

5. Are you aware of issues, notices issued by any governmental agency, concerning environmental contamination or the threat thereof at the Property? __Yes ___NO If yes, explain:

CERTIFICATION

(OWNER (s)) certify to: (PURCHASER(s) That the foregoing responses are

accurate and complete to the best of knowledge and that Purchasers may

rely on the accuracy thereof.

Owner Date Owner Date Purchaser(s) acknowledge receipt of this Form: Date:

batch 11 · p.23↑ Contents
74

Establishing price – the NET PROCEEDS (realty)

When establishing a price, please keep in mind the NET PROCEEDS.

A commission,* if any, along with normal adjustments, including taxes, title fees and insurance, and/or closing fees will be subtracted from the total sale, as will any debt that must be repaid.

Taxes are owed by the owner until the land changes ownership — the day of closing. In Illinois, the taxes for the previous year taxes are paid during the current year. Taxes for the current year are pro-rated to the date of closing.

A title company typically is engaged to make a search of the title, prepare closing documents, and conduct the closing, files required documents, and disburses the funds to respective parties.

A title company will provide a commitment for title insurance prior to closing and make it available to the buyer and seller. The title company will also provide a title insurance policy for the new owner (previous owner pays for this insurance) and if the new owner requires an owner’s policy for a lender the title company will provide it at buyer’s cost.

A ministerial act can be a simple completing an Offer to Purchase along with assisting in providing disclosures necessary to a buyer. It is primarily a clerical activity and a nominal fee is charged. Expect $300-$500.

Completing a Net Proceeds form is a good place to start if you are selling a property. It can be completed in a matter of minutes by yourself or with the help of someone familiar with the form.

You and the buyer are primarily on your own to complete the sale; arranging financing, inspections, title work, closing, etc.

batch 14 · p.83↑ Contents
75

'Etiquette in Real Estate'

Original page 1 — 'Etiquette in Real Estate'

His original page — tap to enlarge

Not answering the phone gets boos from sellers and buyers. No one wants to talk to a message voice with the common, “Your call is important to me,” or some other excuse for not answering the phone. There are times when answering the phone may be impossible or difficult — like during a closing or before or after reasonable hours, but try to answer your phone personally, it makes a difference.

Call yourself a REAL — TOR, like DOC-TOR. It’s bad enough that the general public mispronounces the noun as REAL-A-TOR, but a Realtor should never do it. ’'m impressed when anyone except an agent calls me a Real-tor.

If a door is locked when you show a home, relock it when you leave. This also is a must with inside doors, and garage doors. But, if a door is not locked when you enter the house, don’t lock it when you leave, unless you have a reason or permission.

Understand and respect phone calls at night or on traditional national holidays. Sure, you may make exceptions, but agents need to spend some time with their families or have a day of rest.

Spell-check your remarks in the remarks section of the MLS! How unprofessional is it to make errors when there is ample time to write clearly. Don’t blame or leave it up to “the secretary” when it is your listing. Your client expects accuracy. Don’t use all caps when writing, it is considered SHOUTING! AND IS HARDER TO READ THAN STANDARD Writing.

When someone asks you about the market and market conditions, take the time to give good, credible, positive information. There is no room for flippant answers to a sincere inquiry or question.

Always thank an agent for their offer. Enough said.

Always call the Seller if you made an appointment and can not keep it. When you don’t do it you lose your image — and perhaps a client.

Never stand up a seller for a showing. The seller has prepared for the showing and with few exceptions the buyer owes the seller the courtesy of viewing the property and the Realtor should make every effort to show it. Immediate feed back to the seller is necessary if the showing does not take place.

Turn off the lights and lock the doors after viewing listings. This is not Motel 6 or Tom Bodett and you don’t have to leave the lights on for the next visitor. It is simply irresponsible not lock up.

Don’t indulge in gossipy conversations about anyone, period.

Return phone calls even when you can not help them. If you don’t return calls you are just blowing people off.

Ask questions of your buyer. It is very disappointing to learn during a showing that everyone’s time is wasted when it’s obvious that the buyer’s needs don’t match the property. This is not always easy to ascertain and may be difficult, but try to find out if there is a match with the property with the buyer’s needs/wants.

Mind your manners. Address people you do not know as Mr., Mrs., or Dr.

Don’t talk on your cell phone in a common area where your conversations can be heard by all. Don’t have your cell phone set to play your favorite song. Your taste may be entirely different from that of your client and they may be turned off by your song.

batch 11 · p.25↑ Contents
76

'Feeling demoralized about my low energy…' — health/declutter plan

I've been feeling demoralized about my low levels of energy, as though it's somehow my fault. I'm trying to discover what to do for my body to get what it needs and take away what it doesn't.

I started with declutter. Everything in my apartment. Keep or toss (sell). I'm close with getting this in control.

Emphasize good schedules and concentrate on health. Establish good habits. Clean my nest.

Better air. More sunshine. Scuttle projects. Do what I can do. Don't expect others to be on my side.

batch 8 · p.32↑ Contents
77

Fiduciary/statutory responsibilities (realty)

Fiduciary/Statutory Responsibilities Care, Obedience, Loyalty, Disclosure, Accounting, and Confidentiality -COLD AC Care:

Exaggeration of a property’s benefits is called puffing . A negligent misrepresentation occurs when the broker should have known that a statement about a material fact was false.

A latent defect is a hidden structural defect that would not be discovered by ordinary inspection.

Termination of Agency:

Death or incapacity of either the client or the broker

Destruction or condemnation of the property

Expiration

Mutual Agreement

By operation of law, as in bankruptcy of the principal

Completion, performance, or fulfillment of the purpose for which the agency was created

Universal Agent:

General Agent — broad range of matters

Special Agent — one specific act o business transaction

Designated Agent — (Standard in Illinois) the exclusive agent of a client

Dual Agency: Represents two principals in the same transaction — requires loyalty to both — disclosure required.

Procuring cause: The broker must have started a chain of events that resulted in a sale. Uninterrupted chain of events, without abandonment or estrangement, which leads to the sale of the property

Only a licensed broker may collect a commission in Illinois. It is Illegal for a sponsoring broker to pay a commission to anyone other than: A salesperson or associate broker licensed under that same sponsoring broker, or Another firm’s sponsoring broker who then pays his or her own salesperson Sometimes a commission does not involve a seller. It might come from a buyer who has agreed to a buyer agent fee. Incoming funds always go to the sponsoring broker first.

The Real Estate License Act of 2000 clearly indicates that licensed personal assistants must have employment agreement with the sponsoring broker, even though they are in practice working for a salesperson or broker associate in the firm. Wages earned by these personal assistants must be paid to them by the sponsoring broker.

batch 15 · p.42↑ Contents
78

'For Sale – Personal Rocks' (a note)

FOR SALE Personal Rocks

batch 20 · p.138↑ Contents
79

'For Sale By Owners' — educating buyers (realty)

For Sale By Owners needs buyers who are educated, or experienced and have knowledge of current laws governing the sale of Residential Real Estate.

First Time home buyers make up a huge percentage of home purchasers, especially older, smaller homes with modest prices as compared to the typical 2500 SF newer homes. These buyers need knowledge. For Sale By Owners usually are not prepared or up-to- date enough to teach or explain what a first time buyer needs to know. Realtors, on the other hand, do. Below is a brief description of helping a first time home buyer. It is just a few things a Realtor does for their clients.

First time home buyer? Getting started? First set your objectives. Before you start looking at houses in your price range decide precisely what you want. Next, envision how it will serve your needs. Don’t be afraid to dream. Plan ahead. Set aside a realistic block of time so that you can really get down to business without being interrupted or overwhelmed.

Quick tip: Consider a Realtor who is familiar and experienced helping first time homebuyers. They will guide you through the process of buying your first home. Interview the agents. Establish trust. Choose a professional and expect the best. Most of all don’t rush or feel pressure.

See two or three homes in a single day. Seeing more than that is hard to keep track or recall specifics and when you see homes ask yourself these questions: Does it look good? Does it fit? Is it in good condition? Is it pleasurable to look at? Does it have meaning for you? If your answer is no, keep looking. You really want yes answers. Don’t expect a 100% perfect fit. It probably doesn’t exist.

When you are ready to make a decision, take time for inspiration, as well as considering the practical side of buying a home. Before you make an offer redefine and identify your goals.

2015 The trend is that 30 % of single family homes are purchased by first time home buyers.

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Formatting business info for decisions (cont.)

business and putting them in a format to quickly assess information for decisions and running the business with improved efficiency.

I believe such a person can relieve you of hands-on daily management of your business and give you more time for your personal activities. You have your hands full now and need to cut back on being involved with things. I don’t think it will interfere with Mike’s daily activities as a personal hands-on general manager. He’s involved in physical matters and managing chores and coordinating work on properties.

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'Fundamentals, Fundamentals…' (motivational creed)

FUNDAMENTALS, FUNDAMENTALS, FUNDAMENTALS, FUNDAMENTALS

Learn the value of hard work

Develop the ability to deal with adversity

Learn teamwork, perseverance, tenacity, and sportsmanship

Be in charge of morale

Dignity and self-esteem is not quite the same as vanity

Self-esteem is something you have to build

Dignity is earned by treating people with respect, including youself

You can always change your plan, but only if you have one. It’s not about how to achieve your dreams. It’s about how you lead your life. To be an imaginer you have to open up your mind.

You don’t have to polish the underside of the banister.

The only way we can improve is if we develop a real ability to assess ourselves. Don’t obsess over what people think.

The secret to negotiation is to never make a decision until you have to. Inspiration is the ultimate tool for doing good.

Buy new clothes when your old clothes wear out.

If we vanished tomorrow, what would be our lega Behave as though you are going to be around awhile. Live like you’re still living.

All you have is what you bring with you.

Pack fun in whatever time you do have.

“Tt feels great to be alive, and be here today, alive with you. So today, right now, well this is a wonderful day. And I want you to know how much I’m enjoying it.”

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Goals / Plans 2019

Transfer my license to CBBR Godfrey, IL

Concentrate in commercial properties 60% of my time. The remaining time for Residential

Commercial Area – Alton, Godfrey, Bethalto, Jerseyville

Residential: State Street from Broadway to Johnson’s Corner – Henry Street, Langdon, Liberty – historic area.

Rt. 100, Pierce Lane, Deadrian Gardens, McKinley, and Fairmont.

Properties in good condition, not junk.

Five commercial properties – with average of $200K Residential Properties – Average $150K

Unique properties, land, development, farms,

Share listings with an agent in the Godfrey area – nota team. 50/50 share. No designated duties. Capable of doing both listings and selings/open houses, etc.

Commercial Listings – Godfrey office signs, Handled by myself without a co-agent. Properties West of Illinois 255 and 140 (OK for Bethalto.

– – Lie L/ ; Need Lic transfer! “a Dvd vo7 Business ee

LEARN TO JUDGE FAST or YOU’LL GET TRANPLED Happiness is slippery

Strive to excel at something

Anyone who tells you the sky’s the limit is blowing smoke You can be anything you want to be is total bullshit The ability to side step is a skill

Outwit the jerks

Don’t be too quick to judge others – Are you kidding? Trying to find goodness in everyone is a waste of time Happiness is overrated

Find your own talent and uncork it

If you live each day as if it’s your last is terrible advice. You will run out of money.

The forces of indifference exists

There is no such thing as a carefree life Artic ice caps puddle

Never stop worrying – use it to motivate you Read the news, pay attention

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Golf-and-character advice notes

…no one on the golf course dresses like me. As long as I'm confident I'm OK with myself. You don't need to defend yourself.

I play better when I play for myself or my team.

Getting to develop a relationship with people of character has been awesome.

Play to the very end. You don't know if your score is going to count, so you need to fight for every stroke.

It's exhausting to be angry all the time. Selective outrage may be OK. People who change things for the better are often angry and upset. They took the initiative to try to change things for the better. Change may be much greater than giving up and walking away. Character won't [permit?] that way.

No one on the golf course dresses like me. As long as I'm confident I'm OK with myself. You don't need to defend yourself. I play better when I play for myself or my team. Getting to develop a relationship with people of character has been awesome. Play to the very end. You don't know if your score is going to count, so you need to fight for every stroke. It's exhausting to be angry all the time. Selective outrage may be OK. People who change things for the better are often angry and upset. They took the initiative to try to change things for the better. Change may be much greater than giving up and walking away. Character won't permit that way.

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'Greetings Girls' (Nov 12, 2022)

Greetings Girls, I hope today finds you in good spirits. On November 12, 2022. We will celebrate our best friend’s, 90th birthday; Peggy Schelle. We are immensely proud to have Peggy whose dedication, work ethic, passion, and joy makes her special. Every member of our group appreciate what you do for us.

Over the past years we have, with her guidance, we built relationships that provide meaningful experiences, creating great memories from small moments.

The exceptional level of service and good will from the staff at Rolling Hills Golf Course along with Peggy’s leadership and close friends at Johnson’s Corner as our sponsor is appreciated. We know you have been inspired by her golf game. She knows that when you reach the top, there is only one way to go. We say that way is onwards. She has style and glamor. Her smiles are genuine and she has a bounce to her step. Peggy is always cheerful, but when a ball is struck by Peggy and it skips and skitters away in a bad direction, Peggy will hasten it’s romp with golf language learned half a century ago. What Peggy is not. She does not try to be all things to all people. She has deep insight into the character of a person when they are in the shades of autumn. She is no nickel or dimer. No umbrella drinks, well maybe, if she pours. Raise a glass of vintage to celebrate the marvelous life of Peggy Schelle. Peggy will be here tomorrow and the day after that and forever in our hearts. Each day brings new surprises. HAPPY BIRTHDAY PEGGY SCHELLE

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Handwritten letter to 'Judi' – grief over Hagar & Asta

Losing people I care about affects me greatly. I can't describe it. There are no rules to follow. A little piece of paper that an ink pen helps one, but doesn't keep pain at bay. Last November my best friend, Hagar – a dog – died. He was personally my best friend ever. Asta died in February. I had written several stories about both of them and couldn't write another one. I put them away along with 2-3 mementos. I'm digging out of the abyss. I'll make it out too. Friends see me struggling. Decisions I've made centered on people I love, looking out for all the people I love and the things I love. Judi, value every day. Value the people with you and those who spent time with you. I'm looking for words.

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Handwritten letter to 'Judi' – his mother's funeral, the strawberry, Shan

Judi, Ask for strength. Ask for courage. Put your smile on. Your character will shine through. Do something for someone that won't ask. At mom's funeral I sat solemn and reflective. She saved the first ripe strawberry for me, picking it a few days before it was full ripe. She made all her 8 children feel special. After the church service I went to the barbed-wire fence at the rear of the church, looking out where I could see the strawberry patch on the homestead. Tears ran down my cheeks. Stan touched my right shoulder and I turned to him. 'It's OK Dad, it's ok,' I whispered. 'Thank you.' 'Stan,' he said, 'you've got to read these stories. Just face your problems now. I'll prepare you for more stories.' A short time later I divorced his mom. I kept him.

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Handwritten thank-you to a Vermont family (Roy & Karen, the McGinns)

Hello, Roy & Karen and all. Thank you for a delightful visit to your home. I'll not forget the kindness shown me. You made visitors feel special. We got respect for Vermont and the people who call it home – it, and they, deliver. Not one but everyone displayed ruggedness, individualism and pride, plus a lot of humor. Don't stop doing what you do – each one. I applaud you. – John

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'Hanging Out With the Right Crowd'

Who are WE going to listen to? We need to be mindful Of whom we’re hanging out with, Less we forget about Karma.

If we’re hanging out with the wrong crowd Our mind wanders and, We don’t think twice and follow the crowd And fail to exert ourselves.

Start a day with the right friends Who tells us like it is. And even though we squirm and want to walk away We decide to stick around.

The right friends are like blue skies, high up. They help us extend To be our better selves, And we realize that a friendship take two.

It’s better to have one virtuous friend Than a thousand bad ones. The more we choose to trust The more we are nourished by it.

Helping others is compassion. Knowing how we can do it is wisdom. Doing something about it is courage.

Then, all possibilities exist.

Jre — 12-19-05

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'Hannah' – a package of notes & scribbles

Hannah, The package contains a mix of notes and scribbles. It’s my way to say I had a good time in Florida with comfortable and enjoyable to be around people. Thank you very much. Hannah, you are a magnet you are gifted you are tough you fit many roles you sparkle wear polkadots and stripes. They will give you super powers. When you go to Boston – visit Copley Square, The gold Dome Capital, The Gardner Museum, Iron sides…. If you can, go to Cape Cod – Provincetown, (winter pop. 3,376, summer pop. 50,000)- Cape Cod is the pearl of the East. The most wonderful (sweetest) word in the world to anyone is their name. Saying a person’s name in a conversation is appreciated.. They will listen to you and instantly be attentive when you do. Seth does this. I like that about him. Hannah, I can’t imagine who you will be in the future. I’d guess it would be a reach to heights unimagined. John

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'Hannah' – a package of notes and scribbles

Hanwah, The package contains a mix of wotes and scribbles. It’s mY way to say | had a good time in Florida with comfortable and enjoyable to be around people. Thawk you very much.

Hannah, you are a magnet you are gifted you are tough you fit many roles you sparkle

wear polkadots and stripes. They will give you super powers.

When You go to Boston – visit Copley Square, The gold Dome Capital, The qGarduer Museum, trow sides…

If you can, go to Cape Cod – Provincetown, (winter pop. 3,376, summer pop. 50,000)- Cape Cod is the pearl of the East.

The most wonderful (sweetest) word iw the world to anyone is their name. Saying a person's wame in a comversation is appreciated.. They will listen to you and instantly be attentive when you do. Seth does this. | like that about him.

Hanwah, | caw’t imagine who you will be iw the future. A guess it would be a reach to heights unimagined.

Johw

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'Happy Birthday' greeting card (store-bought)

Avpyyig Addpoy

I'm so happy it's your birthday!

And not mine!

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'He needs to make a plan' (cont.)

else. He needs to make a plan, as you have, to follow. His risk is big, but so is yours. You can’t con&nue to go-along and let things happen (they will) and expect a rosy outcome. Can you? Key personnel at Rural Development can be very helpful to you and a future buyer of your apartments. You have a great rela&onship with many of them and they have helped you for years. A visit with them is recommended. Sharing your goals and plans is a good thing to do. They have a tremendous interest in your apartments and you. They are a business too, and want it to be successful. Their assistance to a future buyer/owner may be the difference in reaching your goals. I recommend a personal visit by appointment (2 hours +-) to go over anything you and they want to know. I think you have several partners to help you. 1. YOUR WIFE 2. Your staff 3. Your legal counsel 4. Your accountant 5. Your insurance agent 6. Your lender You deserve to reap rewards of your labor. John Casey Abe Lincoln said, “When I plan to cut down a big tree, I spend most of my &me sharpening my axe.”

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Health symptoms + golf tips

Symptoms — — Fatigue — Shortness of breath — — energy drain — — Red — Tired eyes —

Who's happiest? Let that person be you. Unwind. Love your life.

Golf — To hit a good shot under pressure. You want as little movement as possible.

When accuracy is way more important, grip down on the handle of the club.

You are not trying to rip one. Make an unhurried shot that has great balance and tempo.

Sometimes life isn't fair. Tomorrow is a new day.

Symptoms – Fatigue – Shortness of breath – energy drain – Red – Tired eyes – Who's happiest? Let that person be you. Unwind. Love your life. Golf – To hit a good shot under pressure you want as little movement as possible. When accuracy is more important, grip down on the handle of the club. You are not trying to rip one. Make an unhurried shot that has great balance and tempo. Sometimes life isn't fair. Tomorrow is a new day.

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'Hello Mary' – a note about her balloon post

Hello Mary, I enjoyed seeing your post on balloons. they are magnificent at any distance, but up close they can take your breath away. Take a ride in the people basket if you can.

I was fortunate that I flew once. 1987. Mt. Vernon, IL. It was a HOUND AND HARE RACE.

I took fishing gear and tried to catch a fish ina Lake we flew over.

Our pilot Cthere were three of us in the tiny basket) managed to drop his flag nearest the target and

won the race. He was ecstatic.

I had taken a $1@ bottle of bubbly to celebrate and he opened the bottle and poured it on my head.

I wrote a little story of the balloon trip for the Local news paper.

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'Hello Mary' – her balloon post

Hello Mary, I enjoyed seeing your post on balloons. they are magnificent at any distance, but up close they can take your breath away. Take a ride in the people basket if you can. I was fortunate that I flew once. 1987. Mt. Vernon, IL. It was a HOUND AND HARE RACE. I took fishing gear and tried to catch a fish in a lake we flew over. Our pilot (there were three of us in the tiny basket) managed to drop his flag nearest the target and won the race. He was ecstatic. I had taken a $10 bottle of bubbly to celebrate and he opened the bottle and poured it on my head. I wrote a little story of the balloon trip for the local news paper. j

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'Hi Liz' (note)

HI LIZ, TODAY BUCKETS OF Rain came last night and early morning, 4-5 inches in our area and double or triple that in some areas (St. Louis, St. Charles, etc.). One lady died in St. Louis in her car. Craig posted a mocking reference to Joe Biden about gas. Mocking someone is like making fun of a blind person, or a invalid. I replied. He responded with “absolutely.” I asked him twice to give you uncle Bill’s pistol. I gave him three guns, several fishing outfits, lures, line, etc when he came up about a year ago. I paid for everything except his gas. I’m sorry to have missed on his character. and giving him the guns. I wrote a longhand note that I intended to send him, That wouldn’t prove anything or do any good. I have included and ask that you throw it away. If I don’t get better I won't make Christmas. The Rail road clock I have had 30 plus years is at a shop to be repaired. I’ll send it to Shan.I haven’t seen Shan since Christmas, hopefully he will visit over Christmas. I have decluttered my apartment, starting in November and nearing an end soon. chairs, tables, lamps.tools, mirrors, dressers, chests, trunks, closets, papers, stories, photos, gear, clothes, shoes,odds and ends. I see posts from Beth that I like and have another friend who is a photographer with talent – a photo a day for 50 days is her goal. I will stop at 20 or so. I don’t worship her enough to read 50 and send comments. Deer liked my hostas so much that they ate all of them. I have almost quit feeding the birds and squirrels. My health is really not up to it as a regular chore.

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'Hi Liz' – buckets of rain (a note)

HI LIZ, TODAY BUCKETS OF Rain came last night and early morning, 4-5 inches in our area and double or triple that in some areas (St. Louis, St. Charles, etc.). One lady died in St. Louis in her car. Craig posted a mocking reference to Joe Biden about gas. Mocking someone is like making fun of a blind person, or a invalid. I replied. He responded with “absolutely.” I asked him twice to give you uncle Bill’s pistol. I gave him three guns, several fishing outfits, lures, line, etc when he came up about a year ago. I paid for everything except his gas. I’m sorry to have missed on his character. and giving him the guns. I wrote a longhand note that I intended to send him, That wouldn’t prove anything or do any good. I have included and ask that you throw it away. If I don’t get better I won't make Christmas. The Rail road clock I have had 30 plus years is at a shop to be repaired. I’ll send it to Shan.I haven’t seen Shan since Christmas, hopefully he will visit over Christmas. I have decluttered my apartment, starting in November and nearing an end soon. chairs, tables, lamps.tools, mirrors, dressers, chests, trunks, closets, papers, stories, photos, gear, clothes, shoes,odds and ends. I see posts from Beth that I like and have another friend who is a photographer with talent – a photo a day for 50 days is her goal. I will stop at 20 or so. I don’t worship her enough to read 50 and send comments. Deer liked my hostas so much that they ate all of them. I have almost quit feeding the birds and squirrels. My health is really not up to it as a regular chore.

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'Hi Liz' – buckets of rain last night (a note)

HI LIZ, TODAY BUCKETS OF Rain came last night and early morning, 4-5 inches in our area and double or triple that in some areas (St. Louis, St. Charles, etc.). One lady died in St. Louis in her car.

Craig posted a mocking reference to Joe Biden about gas. Mocking someone is like making fun of a blind person, or a invalid. I replied. He responded with “absolutely.” I asked him twice to give you uncle Bill’s pistol. I gave him three guns, several fishing outfits, Lures, Line, etc when he came up about a year ago. I paid for everything except his gas.

I’m sorry to have missed on his character. and giving him the guns.

I wrote a longhand note that I intended to send him, That wouldn’t prove anything or do any good. I have included and ask that you throw it away.

If I don’t get better I won't make Christmas.

The Rail road clock I have had 30 plus years is at a shop to be repaired. I’1l send it to Shan.I haven’t seen Shan since Christmas, hopefully he will visit over Christmas.

I have decluttered my apartment, starting in November and nearing an end soon. chairs, tables, lamps.tools, mirrors, dressers, chests, trunks, closets, papers, stories, photos, gear, clothes, shoes,odds and ends.

I see posts from Beth that I like and have another friend who is a photographer with talent – a photo a day for 50 days is her goal. I will stop at 20 or so. I don’t worship her enough to read 50 and send comments.

Deer Liked my hostas so much that they ate all of them. I have almost quit feeding the birds and squirrels. My health is really not up to it as a regular chore.

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'Hi Mary, thanks for the birthday card'

Hi Mary, Thanks for the birthday card. Halloween is celebrated on Bluff Street big time and upwards of 150 trick or treaters come by homes lit up, signaling treats are available. It’ s a good tradition. Mary, I did not arrange a birthday party for myself at the Masonic Lodge in T unnel Hill. The Lodge was not holy* grounds. Masons were not a religious organization. It is a fraternal organization that trace their origin to the local guilds of stone masons at the end of the 13th century. The first Grand Lodge was formed in London in 1717. Every member professes belief in a Supreme being, that no women be admitted, and that the discussion of religion be banned. Dad was a member of the T unnel Hill Lodge. Wil was also a member of the lodge. I recall that the lodge held a new years gathering for members and their families. Dad loved barbecued pork sandwiches from a small restaurant located on Rt. 13, a few miles east of Marion. He bought sandwiches for everyone. Love, John *Y our note; “How did you manage to arrange a birthday party for yourself as it was a holy place?” It made me think you believe I am not worthy of going to a holy place.

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Holiday Bill of Rights

1. You have the right to say, TIME OUT], anytime you need to. Time to let up, blow a little

‘N\steam, step away from the holidays, have a “huddle,” and start over. ~

2. You fave a right to TELL IT LIKE ITIS. You have the right to tell them how you really feel, not just what they want to hear. (P.S. You also have the right to smile and tell them you're fine, becausé>.telling them how you really feel isn’t worth your time—some people will never understand anywayj~. |

7m A~w# 3. You have the right to some “BAH HUMBUG” ADAYS. You don’t have to be “Jolly Old St. Nicholas all the time. You are not a bad persg#h just because you don’t feel like singing Christmas carols afd day,

4. You have the right to DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY. There is no law that says you must always “do” the holidays#the same way. You can send 10 cards instead of 100…or none at all. You can open preserits at someone else’s house. You can eliminate a tree. You can have pizza instead of turkey! — the list is endless.

5. You hp fe the right to BE WHERE YOU WANT TO BE. Be at home or at the relatives. Be in any xtty, any state you choose! NO ONE SAID YOU HAVE TO HAVE SNOW TO HAVE CHRESTMAS. There’s no law that says you must stay home!

6. You have a right to SOME FUN! When you have a day that isn’t so bad and you feel like doing something just for fun, then do it! Laughter is every bit as important as tears!

7. You have a right to CHANGE DIRECTION IN MIDSTREAM. Holiday moods are unpredictable. You may be all ready to go somewhere or do something and suddenly be overwhelmed. When that happens, it’s okay to change your mind. There’s time to be predictable. Exercise your right to change when you need to.

8. You have a right to DO THINGS AT DIFFERENT TIMES. Go to church or synagogue at a different time. Open presents at a different time. Serve your meal at a different time. Give up and go to bed at a different time. Don’t be a slave to the holiday clock.

9. You have a right to REST, PEACE, AND SOLITUDE. You don’t need to be busy all the time. Take a nap whenever you need one. Take time to pray and to meditate, to recharge your spirit. It may do you much more good than eating another meal!

10. You have the right TO DO IT ALL DIFFERENTLY AGAIN NEXT YEAR . just because you change things one year, try on something different, does not mean you have written it in stone. Next year you can always change it back or do it in yet another new way.

MH. You have He rigut to 12. Take cane – Our visit with Unde Gverpa house will be He called tis reek and told me abo your lest visit,

vec ent mn Febrae % or)

Cdrg,

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'Home Review' – a quick look before appointments (realty)

Home Review: take a Quick look at homes on the market — before you make appointments to see them. PAPERWORK can help you.

Attach MLS to this cover sheet. This will help you make quick comparisons of the homes that may appeal to you. It is suggested that you segregate styles first then size. Further, you should segregate location. This should give you an indication of the market. You are not making an appraisal, just a review.

Date: Property Address:

Age/ Construction/ Style/ Square Foot up/down/total

Room count: Total/bedrooms/baths/garage

Days on Market ( Price: $ divided by Total SF (finished) = $. Per SF SF up SF below grade compared to Price: $. Divided by total SF (Finished) =$ SF up SF below grade

These figures help compare price per SF & value determination. Features/comments: What stands out to you? What do you like, don’t like?

Appeal:

Resale:

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Hosta inventory – more varieties (cont.)

nate 1st gna grd Date Date Date

Komono Dragon

Twilight

Revolution

Summer Breeze

Artic Blast

Designer Jeans

Candy Hearts

Dancing Queen

Old Glory

Stained Glass

High Society

Gold Standard

Crown Imperial

Gold Regal

Francee’

Brother Stephen 1st gna gra Date Date Date

Abba dabba do

Grand Tiara

4th Date

4th Date

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Hosta inventory – quarterly (garden list)

HOSTA Inventory – Quarterly 1st gna grd Date Date Date

Little Miss Sunshine

Niagra Falls

Blue Berry Muffin

Split Mi-Ik

August Moon

Honey Bells

Fragrant Blue

Wild Flower

Ripple Effect Silver Bay Key West Vulcan Aphrodite So Sweet Patriot Earth Angel

Gold Drop

4th Date

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'I noticed Jean was in the garage' (the laundry concern)

When I went down stars to check on laundry I noticed Jean was in the garage. She had parked in the middle of the garage. I asked where am I going to park. She said she had given permission to me to park inside the garage only when it snowed. Jean said she has your word that she is the only person to use the garage. I didn’t understand that as I have used the garage (south side) for more than 10 years. I’ve had five vehicles that I have parked in the garage. A Camry A ford Explorer, a Mercury Cougar A Olds and my 2009 BMW I have never, ever blocked her space. I am careful to leave room for her car. I like the garage and think it is not a difficult parking issue. Our cars fit the space.

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'I really want to be a guest writer for your paper' (letter)

I really want to be a guest writer for your paper. I have been in the past and was encouraged by my friends to write more. The experience was terrific. It was also a learning experience. I’m still a novice but now I write with less words and fillers. Short vignettes fit my style. 750 (or less) words is my aim for all stories.

Thanks for reviewing a few.

John Casey

Why I Write

It is one’s right, and even duty, to

write one’s self into existence. The need

to say ‘this happened and I lived through

this, and this is how it felt like; this is

how I remembered, and this is how I survived.’ If we take time to write about ourselves

others can have a deeper understanding of us.

with no books, no journals, no memoirs, our lives,

and knowledge will be lost and our lives become faint sketches. If you want someone to know how and why you

lived; what drove you and what hurt you; what

you saw and what you feared, you need to write it down. So I will write as proof that I have lived. Sometimes my memory of a particular past

required revisions as to the exactly, and

provided freedom to let my stories just come

tumbling out.

John Casey

435 '% Bluff St.

Alton, IL 62002 618-6790-5646 Jrcasey134@gmail.com

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'I recall the few times I took off my shoes…' (a note)

I recall the few times (3?)that when I entered your house I took off my shoes and .lined them up. I was mindful that was one of your rules. At home I often take off my shoes in all sorts of ways and places, because I’m focusing on how good my feet will feel. By doing so, I”m able to enjoy a calm and relaxing feeling. “Leave your worries on the door step Come right in, sit right down Take off your hat and shoes Welcome to my world” I seldom have lost a shoe for very long

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'I told my son you wouldn't be coming again' (note)

I told my son about you informing me that you wouldn’t be coming to my place again. I told him about liking you because you seemed balanced and was comfortable to be around. He replied: “STOP!” “ you don’t need drama. ‘End your relationship with her.’

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'I Want to Change' (self-talk)

“| want to change. “No you don’t.” Don’t kid yourself.

You need to use every waking hour of your life to further your cause. No excuses. You are not any different or any worse off than anyone else. You’re not a fucking special case who needs different rules than anyone else.

You need to make a choice right now. You’re never going to change your life until you get rid of what’s holding you back. Start taking actions to propel you forward. You've got to put in the work and build positive habits that will pull you in the right direction. Don’t say you will, and then don’t. Don’t push it off until tomorrow – until later. You are what you do, not what you say you will do.

Ask yourself what do you want to accomplish? What do | need to do to get there? Hold yourself accountable; moment, by moment, by moment.

People succeed because they didn’t let uncertainty stop them. They did it anyway. They were relentless when the only thing they had to fuel themselves was relentlessness.

ALL | KNOW, IS THAT | KNOW NOTHING”. Socrates.

In reality, even many of the things we think are hard facts aren’t. They’re assumptions, half-truths, misrepresentations. They’re guesses. If you want to win, you have to be willing to be judged by others.

You could change your life overnight if you simply abandoned the notion that other peoples opinion matter. That doesn’t mean you have to be willing to be judged by others, You'll have to accept that some people are going to think you’re an idiot, or worse. You are afraid of uncertainty. Meet it head on. Enjoy it. The only thing you will regret is not trying, not striving, not pushing through when the going gets tough.

’'m going to die. If | take death into my life, acknowledge it, and face it squarely, | WILL FREE MYSELF from the anxiety of death and the pettiness of life – and only then will | be myself.” MARTIN HEIDEGGER.

One day you’re going to die. You’re going to stop breathing, become still, and cease to exist. You will exit this physical plain. We’re all mortal. It’s the one truth you can not argue with.

You started hundreds of life changing escapades but never applied them. Dammit, wake the fuck up! Here’s the thing; future you is not going to regret a lack of achievement or the absence of any one thing in your life.

Self talk. There’s a time for thinking and developing your mind. Ultimately you’ve got to step up to the plate and put what you know into action. Nothing that you read or try will make a single difference in your life, unless you act on it. You have to make the difference. Confidence wort’s save you, the future is not suddenly going to improve, your worries aren’t going to suddenly disappear.

Don’t just read this and go on about your life doing the same shit over and over. Apply it. “I will do it later’. “NO. Do it now.” “I’m not smart enough.” “Cut it out.” “Stop that shit and act.” You are a champion. Happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts. Therefore guard them accordingly.

Focus on the things you can control and release yourself from worrying about what you can’t. The only thing that’s guaranteed in life is that its uncertain.

You are what you do. Change your thoughts, change your life. You change your life by doing. Fuck how you feel. ACT! Simply act. Put aside your thoughts and move. Stop doing all that shit you know you shouldn’t be doing and start doing all the shit you know you should be doing. When the only thing you have left is relentlessness, use it as fuel that drives your thoughts.

Not all mountaineers make the summit. Sometimes they then turn back. Some quit and some retool and keep coming at the mountain. They love to climb. You won’t regret anything unless you take action that’s needed to change the life you want, the life you can be proud of. Successful people don’t wait. They don’t wait for inspiration to strike.

Why is it that you show more passion for your past than you do your future? People can become trapped We can create our future. Build something big. Something bigger than you have ever done. If you are truly ready to change your life, take hold of that freedom you’ve been missing.

“| want to change. “No you don’t.” Don’t kid yourself.

You need to use every waking hour of your life to further your cause. No excuses. You are not any different or any worse off than anyone else. You’re not a fucking special case who needs different rules than anyone else.

You need to make a choice right now. You’re never going to change your life until you get rid of what’s holding you back. Start taking actions to propel you forward. You’ve got to put in the work and build positive habits that will pull you in the right direction. Don’t say you will, and then don’t. Don’t push it off until tomorrow – until later. You are what you do, not what you say you will do.

Ask yourself what do you want to accomplish? What do | need to do to get there? Hold yourself accountable; moment, by moment, by moment.

People succeed because they didn’t let uncertainty stop them. They did it anyway. They were relentless when the only thing they had to fuel themselves was relentlessness.

ALL | KNOW, IS THAT | KNOW NOTHING”. Socrates.

In reality, even many of the things we think are hard facts aren’t. They’re assumptions, half-truths, misrepresentations. They’re guesses. If you want to win, you have to be willing to be judged by others.

You could change your life overnight if you simply abandoned the notion that other peoples opinion matter. That doesn’t mean you have to be willing to be judged by others, You'll have to accept that some people are going to think you’re an idiot, or worse. You are afraid of uncertainty. Meet it head on. Enjoy it. The only thing you will regret is not trying, not striving, not pushing through when the going gets tough.

I’m going to die. If | take death into my life, acknowledge it, and face it squarely, | WILL FREE MYSELF from the anxiety of death and the pettiness of life – and only then will | be myself.”. MARTIN HEIDEGGER.

One day you’re going to die. You’re going to stop breathing, become still, and cease to exist. You will exit this physical plain. We’re all mortal. It’s the one truth you can not argue with.

You started hundreds of life changing escapades but never applied them. Dammit, wake the fuck up! Here’s the thing; future you is not going to regret a lack of achievement or the absence of any one thing in your life.

Self talk. There’s a time for thinking and developing your mind. Ultimately you've got to step up to the plate and put what you know into action. Nothing that you read or try will make a single difference in your life, unless you act on it. You have to make the difference. Confidence won’t save you, the future is not suddenly going to improve, your worries aren’t going to suddenly disappear.

Don’t just read this and go on about your life doing the same shit over and over. Apply it. “I will do it later’. “NO. Do it now.” “I’m not smart enough.” “Cut it out.” “Stop that shit and act.” You are a champion. Happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts. Therefore guard them accordingly.

Focus on the things you can control and release yourself from worrying about what you can’t. The only thing that’s guaranteed in life is that its uncertain.

You are what you do. Change your thoughts, change your life. You change your life by doing. Fuck how you feel. ACT! Simply act. Put aside your thoughts and move. Stop doing all that shit you know you shouldn’t be doing and start doing all the shit you know you should be doing. When the only thing you have left is relentlessness, use it as fuel that drives your thoughts.

Not all mountaineers make the summit. Sometimes they then turn back. Some quit and some retool and keep coming at the mountain. They love to climb. You won’t regret anything unless you take action that’s needed to change the life you want, the life you can be proud of. Successful people don’t wait. They don’t wait for inspiration to strike.

Why is it that you show more passion for your past than you do your future? People can become trapped We can create our future. Build something big. Something bigger than you have ever done. If you are truly ready to change your life, take hold of that freedom you’ve been missing.

batch 4, 5 · p.102–103, 125–126↑ Contents
109

'I want to change.' 'No you don't.' (self-talk)

“| want to change. “No you don’t.” Don’t kid yourself.

You need to use every waking hour of your life to further your cause. No excuses. You are not any different or any worse off than anyone else. You're not a fucking special case who needs different rules than anyone else.

You need to make a choice right now. You're never going to change your life until you get rid of what’s holding you back. Start taking actions to propel you forward. You’ve got to put in the work and build positive habits that will pull you in the right direction. Don’t say you will, and then don’t. Don’t push it off until tomorrow – until later. You are what you do, not what you say you will do.

Ask yourself what do you want to accomplish? What do | need to do to get there? Hold yourself accountable; moment, by moment, by moment.

People succeed because they didn’t let uncertainty stop them. They did it anyway. They were relentless when the only thing they had to fuel themselves was relentlessness.

ALL | KNOW, IS THAT | KNOW NOTHING”. Socrates.

In reality, even many of the things we think are hard facts aren’t. They’re assumptions, half-truths, misrepresentations. They’re guesses. If you want to win, you have to be willing to be judged by others.

You could change your life overnight if you simply abandoned the notion that other peoples opinion matter. That doesn’t mean you have to be willing to be judged by others, You’ll have to accept that some people are going to think you’re an idiot, or worse. You are afraid of uncertainty. Meet it head on. Enjoy it. The only thing you will regret is not trying, not striving, not pushing through when the going gets tough.

I'm going to die. If | take death into my life, acknowledge it, and face it squarely, | WILL FREE MYSELF from the anxiety of death and the pettiness of life – and only then will | be myself.”. MARTIN HEIDEGGER.

One day you're going to die. You're going to stop breathing, become still, and cease to exist. You will exit this physical plain. We're all mortal. It’s the one truth you can not argue with.

batch 13 · p.31↑ Contents
110

'I'm quietly aggressive' – realtor bio card

9V9S-0L9°8T9

Aaseg uyof

Wop 9M MOY S,}] ‘Op aM JEYM LEY] asour SMW Aes am Moy 31 Aes am JEYM UY} a40U S,j] * uOneZUeSIO Pappe anjea ejo ped wey ‘ujed 2 Jou ‘agajjaud # Ss} ssautojsna Sujnlas analjag | “ys yey} 3994010 0} YAOM I/IM | pul Aull SMU} OF uosead Liana NOA als |fIM | SN pue Aypsazuy s] – djysuopeyas 2 0] 4jny I1Seq ay, “angen jeuossiad pue sdjysuonesas poos * ‘sijpys uvonesjunuuos ‘uorssed ‘apud ‘usejsnyjua ‘Gusajuy ‘aspajmouy ‘opnyye ayy] sFujyy ‘jeusazuy ae Jou09 UeD | SFU} AYL ‘pola ‘siausojsna pue szuayja Au 104 gof4ay9q 2 op 0} SI uolssju Arewd Ay

618-692-7290 618-692-1484 (fax)

Coldwell Banker Commercial Brown Realtors 2205 S. State Route 157 Edwardsville, IL 62025,

j@eaIssoisse AQeinb wi]

batch 15 · p.2↑ Contents
111

'I'm trying to be a better me' – an apology

I’m trying to be a better me and apologize being a jerk yesterday. I was flustered before coming in and it escalated. My insistence on exactness was absurd. My heart rate jumped. I had not removed stress caused by someone I detest. I simply must avoid negative people. She was a nun and a teacher and was let go. She is an atheist and still smarts. She is a negative person. If I change servers it will be politely done and an economic decision. AT&T offered me a better rate. Will you consider a lower cost to me? I ask in absolute sincerity. John Casey

batch 20 · p.130↑ Contents
112

Illinois listings & expiration; broker protection

In Illinois all listings must specify a definite period of expiration.

Broker Protection — protects the broker from losing a commission on a sale involving buyers who saw the property while it was listed — it is set by agreement. It cannot be enforced if the property is relisted with another brokerage firm… It can be enforced on commercial properties even if the property is relisted with another brokerage firm.

Disclosures:

Material facts

Interest of licensee, if applicable

Special compensation: No finder fees, discounts, kickbacks … Property condition — property disclosure report — etc.

A buyer agency — Exclusive buyer agency — broker is compensated regardless of whether the broker locates the property.

Exclusive agency buyer agency The broker is compensated only if the broker locates the property the buyer purchases

Open buyer agency — The buyer is obligated to compensate only the broker who locates the property the buyer purchases.

Police Power:

Remember the four government powers as PETE: POLICE POWER

EMINENT DOMAIN

TAXATION

ESCHEAT.

Police power: (enabling acts): generally used to protect environmental, zoning, building codes, regulations regarding use, occupancy, size, location and construction of real estate. Eminent domain: the right of the government to acquire privately owned real estate for public use.

Condemnation is the way the right is exercised.

Taxation: ia a charge on real estate to raise funds to meet the public needs of a government

Escheat is an avenue by which the state may acquire privately owned real or personal property. Escheat is intended to prevent property from being ownerless or abandoned.

In Illinois, real property will escheat to the county it is located rather that to the state.

Estates in Land Freehold: Last for an indeterminable length of time, such as a lifetime or forever. They include fee simple, defeasible fee, and life estates.

Leasehold estate last for a fixed period of time (property rentals — period to period, .

batch 15 · p.44↑ Contents
113

Incoming letter from "Melodie" (2 of 2): enclosed a Zentangle artist's trading card; Instagram handle

The original page will appear here.

batch 29 · p.p.33↑ Contents
114

Incoming letter to John from "Melodie" (1 of 2): praises his "Sundowns in the woods" & quotes it back

The original page will appear here.

batch 29 · p.p.32↑ Contents
115

Incoming note from cleaners Christina & Alex (praise; painted rocks)

Hello, I'm Christina and I have a teammate named Alex. We are from Home Cleaning Centers of America and we clean John's home once a month. Every time we come, it's so inspiring. John makes rock[s] for All children with amazing quotes on them, and he made rocks for my children and they loved them. Me and Alex enjoy coming here — he always makes us laugh and [is] so nice to us. We love coming here. We laughed today because we thought John was younger than we thought. We enjoy John. He's a great [man]. — Christina & Alex

batch 26 · p.26↑ Contents
116

Interpersonal dispute / "character" letter — Mullin[s], "Sheriff of Tremont Street"

🔒 LOCKED — see note [CONTENT REDACTED — PASSWORD-PROTECTED per Shan (interpersonal dispute note). Summary for the index only: a grievance / "character" letter about a person named Mullin[s] ("the Sheriff of Tremont Street") and the writer's decision to leave the residence, signed by hand. FLAGGED for Shan's confirmation — this is a NEW dispute cluster not previously identified, and the signature/ authorship is ambiguous (possibly drafted re: a Boston address). Full text held out of the searchable file pending your call.]

batch 28 · p.21↑ Contents
117

"It's hard to quit cold turkey" — replace bad habits with good; act when the time comes

It's hard to quit something "cold turkey," Especially when it's the addictive habit, that affects the very chemistry of our brains, like food or sex or drugs or whatever.

Stopping bad habits doesn't help unless you replace it with something else, something that actually works in your favor! It's replacing the old with the new, forging a new Life for yourself — the kind you've always wanted.

You have to clean out the bad to make room for the good. Otherwise, you're not going to have enough evidence for that new Life. You'll always be held back and slowed down on your journey to change, carrying that dead weight.

[O]ut the Self-help books that you read and do nothing with. Eat for fuel. [Need support?] Get yourself a coach, a good one. Spend more than I/[would]?

Get out of your head. Deliberate. When the time comes for action, stop thinking and go in! No big deal.

batch 28 · p.2↑ Contents
118

Itinerary: Wil & C's Alton visit, Jan 30–Feb 1, 2014

Original page 1 — Itinerary: Wil & C's Alton visit, Jan 30–Feb 1, 2014Original page 2 — Itinerary: Wil & C's Alton visit, Jan 30–Feb 1, 2014Original page 3 — Itinerary: Wil & C's Alton visit, Jan 30–Feb 1, 2014
1 / 3

His original — flip through the pages, tap to enlarge

Wil and C visit to Alton, IL Jan. 30 – Feb. 1, 2014 Subject to change with or without notice * Friday – lunch – out – State Street, Alton There is a nice little lunch only restaurant near home that has delightful fresh fare and delicious deserts.

Friday evening: Home Teriyaki Salmon Oven: 400.

In a large oven proof skillet with a tsp of olive oil on med/high burner, sear salmon on both sides (about 2 min. each side, then brush with teriyaki sauce. Move pan to oven & continue cooking 8-10 minutes more. Add a pinch of salt and pepper if desired. Left over salmon is excellent alone, in a dip, or salad.

Cesar (modified salad) – Romaine lettuce-red onion, apple slices, olives, mushrooms, sliced radishes, strips of bell pepper, etc.

Vegetable: Roasted (oven at 375, in a sided pan coated with olive oil) Brussels sprouts or green beans, coated with olive oil and sprinkled with herbs spices. Add, if you like, red/green/yellow peppers can be sautéed in olive oil in a skillet at med high)*

Desert: fresh raspberries, blackberries, blue berries (ice cream / chocolate chips optional)

SATURDAY MORNING – HOME Irish pancakes or French toast with blue berries/raspberries & maple syrup/honey Bacon crisps on the side Coffee /juice Saturday lunch – on the road to see eagles Fish and chips at a roadside restaurant

SATURDAY EVENING – OUT –

Sunday morning – home Breakfast – mixed fare — (Potato Cakes/eggs/cheese/???

Sunday – lunch and evening – home It’s Super Bowl Sunday and junk food day BBQ wings (baked) and blue cheese dip (used left over chicken from dinner) BBQ black-eyed peas Quesadillas — Left over salmon, Turkey tacos Fried green beans Fruit / veg / dips / Monday – morning – home What ever works – plus travel foods / treats

batch 9 · p.60↑ Contents
119

Jack Daniel's Squire letter (handwritten original)

The original page will appear here.

batch 36 · p.p.9↑ Contents
120

Jack Daniel's Squire letter (typed)

The original page will appear here.

batch 36 · p.p.8↑ Contents
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'Judi, my own health for almost a decade…'

Judi, my own health for almost a decade challenged me to keep going. I’m not out of the woods yet, but my attitude has improved. | had “Wah – Wahed” enough and was on the edge of giving up on getting better. My retreat was noticed. | started to declutter my clothes that no longer fit. | didn’t try to get them modified. It spread to my cluttered apartment.

No date has been set to send this essay to you. It is my sincere desire for you to feel better and more like the who | think you are – a beautiful person inside and out. Someone | Liked to see again and again.

We live in the present, the past has left us and the future is about to be born. Our past became the foundation for our present state. What matters is how we live in the here and now. Whenever your heart feels heavy, Place your hands together as you unburden your thoughts. Then, replace them with appreciation of being blessed with living with and knowing someone who wanted you to be happy every day of your life. That’s real gratitude and honors the person. Be happy for who and what he meant to you. Sad is OK, but don’t grieve too long.

A cause of my own anxiety is strikingly obvious. It was due to an inability to part with things without regret. | was a attached to too many things. On a very sick day | realized i had stuff that no longer made me happy. Two friends helped me declutter. | invited them to lunch, explained my plan, time frame and likes and dislikes. They had a ball and really, really helped. Getting rid of things that | ought got rid of things and gave me more space. it had a positive effect on me, both physical and and mental.

I’m not a hoarder any longer. There are some things worth keeping no matter how old or tattered they are, even if they are cracked or broken. It took three months to pare down enough to really make a difference. | feel embolden.

Accumulation of clutter is a condition of privilege of possessions. And, a budget to accumulate those possessions. Minimalism is about having the perfect amount. Just enough without the excess.

Judi, my own health for almost a decade challenged me to keep going. I’m not out of the woods yet, but my attitude has improved. I had “Wah – Wahed” enough and was on the edge of giving up on getting better. My retreat was noticed. I started to declutter my clothes that no longer fit. I didn’t try to get them modified. It spread to my cluttered apartment. No date has been set to send this essay to you. It is my sincere desire for you to feel better and more like the who I think you are – a beautiful person inside and out. Someone I Liked to see again and again. We live in the present, the past has left us and the future is about to be born. Our past became the foundation for our present state. What matters is how we live in the here and now. Whenever your heart feels heavy, Place your hands together as you unburden your thoughts. Then, replace them with appreciation of being blessed with living with and knowing someone who wanted you to be happy every day of your life. That’s real gratitude and honors the person. Be happy for who and what he meant to you. Sad is OK, but don’t grieve too long. A cause of my own anxiety is strikingly obvious. It was due to an inability to part with things without regret. I was a attached to too many things. On a very sick day I realized i had stuff that no longer made me happy. Two friends helped me declutter. I invited them to lunch, explained my plan, time frame and likes and dislikes. They had a ball and really, really helped. Getting rid of things that I ought got rid of things and gave me more space. it had a positive effect on me, both physical and and mental. I’m not a hoarder any longer. There are some things worth keeping no matter how old or tattered they are, even if they are cracked or broken. It took three months to pare down enough to really make a difference. I feel embolden. Accumulation of clutter is a condition of privilege of possessions. And, a budget to accumulate those possessions. Minimalism is about having the perfect amount. Just enough without the excess.

batch 18, 20 · p.96, 9↑ Contents
122

'July 31, 2022 – Squire Randall Fanning' (Jack Daniel's)

July 31, 2022 Squire Randall Fanning, Thank you for informing me of that blasted snake causing the lights to go out in Tennessee. Having dealt with the slithering low life I understand the dilemma they can cause. Reminds me of an encounter with a blue racer early one morning that ruined my outing. I had sneaked onto a hay field that had a decent sized pond that few fished. I figured four two pound bass would be perfect for meal for me and a couple of friends. I zig-zagged through the field and quickly found a place to set up to fish. In just a few casts I had landed two chunky bass. I paused to enjoy the cool morning and rising sun. It was going to be a beautiful day. Better keep fishing before some one sees me. I soon put the fourth bass on a willow stick stringer and started back to the truck. A rattling sound alerted me and I looked west and saw a large snake basking in the top of tall field grass. I sped up. The snake sped up. I ran faster and the snake kept up. During my hard dash the fish had slipped off of the stringer. I reached the fence and scrambled under it. I knew the fish would be a feast for the snake and perhaps a hawk. I was thankful that the snake spared me. Wishing you the best, John Casey Plot No. ho8724

batch 20 · p.128↑ Contents
123

Know Thyself

Know thyself is to understand yourself. Without knowing who you are and why you do what you do, you can’t hope to control your present and choose your future.

| want to change and become the best person | can be. The words: PASSION, PURPOSE, AND PERSISTENCE describes mental pillars netsf2=2 to establish a bedrock of self-belief.

| need control and be able to edit out discomfort when it appears. | need to take pride in my identity.

batch 6 · p.110↑ Contents
124

'Kren' – notes for the writing he took to the hospital

KREN, I meant to include notes and #s to the writing I took to the hospital today. Hopefully, they will provide insight to how I think and live. My interests are varied and curiosity compelled me to explore. A lot of my stories came from listening and asking questions. I think I talk too much now and likely it came from some one who liked me, at least for a little while. A large family has it’s rewards. All of my siblings had strong personalities and were equally curious. Dad and mom came from large families and they too supplied me with stories. Everyone was my teacher. I would appreciate your comments and suggestions. I will send them to my son, Shan and he will use some to help me finish my book. john Pages – a partial list of writings. Some of the writings may be used in my book. I encourage comments and notes Use a scale – 1-5 (5 being tops) Or stars – ***** Emails, texts, twitter, safari, don’t cut it with me. There’s seldom any warmth in digital greetings or posts of one or a few words. A review of emails… led to blocking some people I know. It cut down my time on internet considerably. Currently I’m there approximately one hour a day.

batch 20 · p.15↑ Contents
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'Kren, you said you liked my writings'

Kren, you said that you liked my writings and suggested | bring you some. OK.

The package has quite a few of them. There is no pattern and no dates (a mistake). | have more.

When | started writing | had no idea that it would continue for as long as | did. | started with a pencil or pen and paper. | moved to a typewriter then to an electric typewriter, a word processor, and a computer. | added a computer for myself and continued to write on the one at work when | had time.

I’ve since put away the old computer and use only the Mac Mini. Some stories did not transfer to the Mac. My son, Shan, said that when he visits he will try to get them transferred.

My first published poem was written in the 1960’s. My grade school teacher, (the only one | had throughout grade school) received a card and letter | wrote her in 1965. She wrote me and asked if she could submit it to the Vienna Times. Of course. She cleaned it up correcting errors and it was published. It was named, MY EDUCATION MAKES ME SWEAT.

| have been published in several newspapers and a few magazines. My subjects and topics were varied. Health issues ended trying to write often. | continue to write, but not often.

| studied and wrote about the Civil War and my great, great uncle, Levi Casey. | followed in his foot steps from his enlistment in the Union Army in 1861 until he was killed at Vicksburg in 1863. I’ve been in both the Eastern and Western

theaters and battle fields. By calling myself a Buff Historian | am free to write my version, at times, about the war. My stories were laced with passion and characterization. | felt, at times, as though | was there when a battle was being fought.

| plan to send this package to Shan after you have looked the writings over. and I’d like your written comments on any of the stories, etc.

’ll devote some time to search for more of the stories and hopefully arrange them in some pattern for easier understanding.

2/24/22 John Casey

Kren, you said that you liked my writings and suggested I bring you some. OK. The package has quite a few of them. There is no pattern and no dates (a mistake). I have more. When I started writing I had no idea that it would continue for as long as I did. I started with a pencil or pen and paper . I moved to a typewriter then to an electric typewriter, a word processor, and a computer . I added a computer for myself and continued to write on the one at work when I had time. I’ve since put away the old computer and use only the Mac Mini. Some stories did not transfer to the Mac. My son, Shan, said that when he visits he will try to get them transferred. My first published poem was written in the 1960’s. My grade school teacher, (the only one I had throughout grade school) received a card and letter I wrote her in 1965. She wrote me and asked if she could submit it to the Vienna Times. Of course. She cleaned it up correcting errors and it was published. It was named, MY EDUCATION MAKES ME SWEAT . I have been published in several newspapers and a few magazines. My subjects and topics were varied. Health issues ended trying to write often. I continue to write, but not often. I studied and wrote about the Civil War and my great, great uncle, Levi Casey. I followed in his foot steps from his enlistment in the Union Army in 1861 until he was killed at Vicksburg in 1863. I’ve been in both the Eastern and Western theaters and battle fields. By calling myself a Buff Historian I am free to write my version, at times, about the war . My stories were laced with passion and characterization. I felt, at times, as though I was there when a battle was being fought. I plan to send this package to Shan after you have looked the writings over . and I’d like your written comments on any of the stories, etc. I’ll devote some time to search for more of the stories and hopefully arrange them in some pattern for easier understanding. 2/24/22 John Casey

batch 18, 20 · p.99, 14↑ Contents
126

Last Will & Testament of John R. Casey (2011) – pt 1

Will of John R. Casey 1. John Richard Casey, a resident of Alton, Madison County, State of Illinois, declare that this is my last will and testament 2. Martial Status: I am single. 3. Children: I have the following child: Name Date of Birth Shan Casey Feb. 1, 1973 4. Specific Gifts. I make the following specific gifts of property: I leave my vehicle; personal belongs, including guns, knives, furniture, household goods, collectibles, tools, fishing gear, hunting gear, golf gear, and all miscellaneous items to my son, Shan Casey 5. I leave all of my money, bank accounts, valuables, with great appreciation, to my son, Shan Casey. 6. Executor. I name, Shan Casey (My Son) as executor, to serve without bond. I direct to my executor take all actions legally permissible to probate this will, including filing a petition in the appropriate court for the independent administration of my estate. I grant to my executor the following powers, to be exercised as the executor deems to be in the best interests of my estate. (1) To retain property as he so chooses. (2) To sell or exchange property and to receive or administer the proceeds as a part of my estate. (3) To deal with and settle claims in favor of or against my estate. (4) To do all other acts which in the executor’s judgment may be necessary or appropriate for the proper distribution of my estate? 7. I direct to my executor to handle matters of my funeral, memorial, or other ceremony as he deems proper: I request a cremation of my remains. I request a simple obituary to be placed in the publications (newspaper) in Alton, Mt. Vernon, and Vienna, IL. I subscribe my name to this will this _____ day of ___________, 2018, at _________________________________, State of Illinois, and declare it is my last will, that I sign it willingly, that I execute it as my free and voluntary act for the purposes expressed and that I am of the age of majority or otherwise legal empowered to make a will and under no constraint or undue influence.

batch 20 · p.232↑ Contents
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Letter cont. — rocks for hospital staff; Trump/Biden; booster; garden

Rather than paint a few hundred appreciation Rocks for the Staff at St. Anthony's* I'll turn my attention towards the evil Trumps. [*I got a Call from the Hospital — they needed a full 20–30 rocks — they like them — their Rocks will be available to their Staff member.]

The few times I've been in conversation with Trump supporters I got fired up. They, like Mary, and Sandie, go off on how bad Biden is and how great God and Trump are. It amuses me a bit to see them stutter and refuse to comment because I'll have a Come back. [Sandie is my next religion?]

A [Lincoln?] Story on The History [Channel?], Sunday. — Racism topic —

I will ask for a 2nd Booster Shot — Moderna — & Will Continue to wear a mask.

Looks like Baseball [MLB] will be delayed.

I'm tired of the Olympics, but watch them often.

My time on the internet is about 2 hrs — it was lower a few times.

Valentine's Day Came & went. I'll see if the price of Chocolate is within my budget.

I may only have indoor plants this year. A garden is enjoyable [— eat too] — maybe a few herbs and a rock garden with a bird bath.

Still considering getting my BMW detailed.

Snow Coming — Weather Advisory — Thursday

batch 26 · p.4↑ Contents
128

Letter from Carol Lovelace (a reader's reply)

aw John, again, thanks for sharing!

I think your family would enjoy reading your raw work. Why wait for it to be fine tuned and “perfect”? There is a measure of rightness just as it is.

My dad’s side of the family published a family history, and frankly, I’ve barely read it. It was too much of the tree and not enough of the leaves. Who begat who and all that, it lacked human interest. I wanted to read about how my dad’s uncle stumbled home late from the bar, what it was like to go to war, what it was like to come home again, what it was like for survivors of those who didn’t. Stuff like that. Families are real blood, not just a bloodline.

As a society, too, we are so removed from our agrarian roots. I loved my times on my grandparents’ farm in Brussels. How connected we were to the real thrum of days, picking potato beetles off the pale underside of the leaves, my grandpa counting pennies into my hand, a penny for every two bugs. Reaping the harvest, hoeing the spuds out of the earth, getting a scold for chopping into the potato, hauling the bounty to the well, pumping the flinty water over them, laying them out on the grass to dry, storing them in the root cellar. Earth, at its best. By spring, the bin would be nearly empty, the potatoes shriveled but useful. The uglies were cut into eye- bearing chunks, returned to the soil, and not long after, we’d be picking potato bugs again, a penny for two. We never got a raise!

And you page of vignettes — each waiting to grow into a story.

I agree that writing is a wonderful learning experience. It invites us to climb through the wormhole of research. It sharpens us to the throb of observation. I recommend Bird by Bird, by Anne Lamott. She is a wonderful writer and this book is about the art and craft, the toil and sweat of writing.

You mentioned ill health….I hope it’s not nosy of me to say “what’s going on?”

So, keep on, and as always, I look forward to all of your Telegraph columns.

Ctl (Vee

Carel. Stem bss

batch 7 · p.28↑ Contents
129

Letter to Candice – return the Casey House painting

Candice, the painting of the Casey House is not yours and you should return it to its rightful owner. Jim did not own it and could not give it to you. If Wil asked Jim to give it to him before he died it would be in Wil’s home and a source of pride and appreciation of the life of a family that lived in it.

Your reaction to Wil’s request of you to send it to him was arrogant and hostile and directed to all of the Casey's who are alive that lived there. Why do you harbor hatred of a family that did you no harm? Why do you lash out at us and say things that are not true? Why do you poison us towards you?

What gifts did Jim give you that you are most proud of? What did he leave you that you can use the rest of your life? It’s not the knives, guns, lures, boats, motors, vehicles, or machines. Is it? What besides money, a house, a business, a truck, tools, guns, a mail box even or something material will you have when they are gone? Where will you go fishing or hunting? You don’t own the land Jim hunted and fished on. He gave his knives to land owners for the opportunity to hunt and fish their properties. He didn’t give you a pass that only you can use.

What will become of Jim’s legacy? Will you continue to make it shine? Will you belong to another family? Will you continue to hate and teach hatred of the Casey family to your kids? Will they know cousins, uncles, aunts and relatives? Will Christmas and Easter and The Fourth of July, and December 5‘ be the same? Will it be a time of joy and sharing? Who will give you Christmas presents? Who will make you a Birthday cake? Who will be your neighbor who looks after you and your place?

batch 13 · p.91↑ Contents
130

Letter to Candice — 'return the Casey House painting'

Candice, the painting of the Casey House is not yours and you should return it to its rightful owner. Jim did not own it and could not give it to you. If Wil asked Jim to give it to him before he died it would be in Wil’s home and a source of pride and appreciation of the life of a family that lived in it.

Your reaction to Wil’s request of you to send it to him was arrogant and hostile and directed to all of the Casey's who are alive that lived there. Why do you harbor hatred of a family that did you no harm? Why do you lash out at us and say things that are not true? Why do you poison us towards you?

What gifts did Jim give you that you are most proud of? What did he leave you that you can use the rest of your life? It’s not the knives, guns, lures, boats, motors, vehicles, or machines. Is it? What besides money, a house, a business, a truck, tools, guns, a mail box even or something material will you have when they are gone? Where will you go fishing or hunting? You don’t own the land Jim hunted and fished on. He gave his knives to land owners for the opportunity to hunt and fish their properties. He didn’t give you a pass that only you can use.

What will become of Jim’s legacy? Will you continue to make it shine? Will you belong to another family? Will you continue to hate and teach hatred of the Casey family to your kids? Will they know cousins, uncles, aunts and relatives? Will Christmas and Easter and The Fourth of July, and December 5‘ be the same? Will it be a time of joy and sharing? Who will give you Christmas presents? Who will make you a Birthday cake? Who will be your neighbor who looks after you and your place?

batch 10 · p.49↑ Contents
131

Letter to David Ortiz (Red Sox, 2016)

January 7, 2016

David Ortis Boston Red Socks 4 Yawkey Way Boston, MA 02215

Dear Mr. Ortiz,

I am asking a favor of you that would be appreciated, remembered and considered an act of kindness. Send a message, in any form, to my son Shan Casey who lives in the Fenway area. The message is this: “I’m sorry to hear that your dog Abby has been diagnosed with cancer.” That’s it, nothing more.

Shan was impressed, surprised and very pleased when you stopped your cycle on the street where he and his beautiful black Great Dane were walking along the sidewalk recently. You spoke a kind words to him and asked him the dog’s name. He replied, “Abigail, but she goes by Abby”. You said you had two great dogs.

Abigail has been a perfect dog for Shan and his partner, Jay, for about seven years and getting the news of her diagnosed cancer was a blow for them. Thanks for making Shan happy already that day you stopped. A message from you will lift him and Jay up. Stopping at Shan’s Salon on Tremont Street and saying “hey” would also be great.

I live in Alton Illinois and close to St. Louis. A Cardinal fan, but I have watched you over a stunning career and wish you the best in 2016.

Thanks kindly, (Shan’s address and contact information is included)

John Casey – 435 % Bluff Street, Alton, IL 62002

batch 6 · p.73↑ Contents
132

LETTER TO JOHN from his sister Mary Ellen (part 1): thanks him for 'my story'; the VW with no gas gauge; driving his car to meet friends in Vienna; worry for his health

The original page will appear here.

batch 32 · p.p.29↑ Contents
133

LETTER TO JOHN from Mary Ellen (part 2), signed 'the princess – Mary Ellen': nourish body/mind/soul; pride in his published articles

The original page will appear here.

batch 32 · p.p.30↑ Contents
134

Letter to Judi — grief; Hagar (dog) & Astra deaths

Losing People I Care About affects me greatly. I can't describe it. There are no rules to follow. A Little Piece of paper and an ink Pen helps me, but doesn't keep it at bay.

Last November my best friend, Hagar — a dog — died. His person, my best friend ever, Astra, died in February.

I had written several stories about both of them and couldn't write another one. I put them away along with 2–3 mementos.

I'm clipping out of the abyss. I'll make it out too. Friends see me struggling.

Decisions I've made Centered on Looking out about all people I love and things I Love.

Judi, Value every day. Value the People with you now, and those who spent time with you.

I'm Looking for words.

batch 26 · p.6↑ Contents
135

Letter to Judi — mom's funeral, strawberry patch, the Shan moment

Judi,

Ask For Strength. Ask for Energy. Put your smile on. Your Character will shine through. Do Something for someone — that isn't the Object.

At mom's funeral I sat solemn and reflective on the times I spent with her. She saved the first ripe Strawberry for me by covering it with straw a few days before it was full ripe. She made all of her 8 children feel special.

After the church service I went to the barbed-wire fence at the rear of the church. Looking north, I could see the strawberry Patch in the Crick of the homestead. Tears ran down my Cheeks. Shan touched my right shoulder and I turned to him. "It's OK, Dad, it's OK." I whispered "Thank you."

Then, he said, "You've got to turn and face your problems now." And I'll spare you of more stories.

A short Time Later I divorced his mom. I kept him.

batch 26 · p.5↑ Contents
136

Letter to Mayor David Goins (Sept 2021)

September 2021

Mayor David Goins Alton, Illinois 62002

Dear Mayor,

entrepreneurship is alive and well in Alton II. A climate of change is felt throughout the city. Amid a pandemic there is hope, cooperation and believe that people can made a difference; from children to centenarians.

You are in a leadership role for all Altonians. With your vision and determination to make our city better you are making changes for now and in the future. One positive step forward by a leader will go a long way strengthen and improve our lot a city, a nation, and us.

The Farmer’s market in Alton is an example of merchants, venders, peddlers of their wares; soaps honey, melons, decorative items and Mississippi sticks (By Stick Man John), plus farmers and growers of vegetables, fruit, and poultry.

There a few venders who are Black, but there needs to be more. Their culture, ingenuity, skills, talents are bringing about change, recognition, understanding, acceptance and harmony. | have wind chimes, pickles and notice creativity, art of now friends | chat with when | visit the market.

A visit by you (bring along the police chief) will brighten all vendors faces and bring smiles, and perhaps a sample of their goods or how they grow what they grow, if you ask. Encouragement, kindness, recognition is always welcomed. Remember how much every person you know means to you. You mean a lot to them too.

Bring along a small personal note from you to give to each vender you meet. | would be happy to supply note paper and an envelop for you. When you visit, sign the note with their name on it. They will keep it forever and.

create an award for a Vender, or venders who displays the better nature of their souls. Give the award(s) to the organizer and CHIEF OF THE ALTON FARMER’S MARKET.

John Casey –

September 2021 Mayor David Goins Alton, Illinois 62002 Dear Mayor, entrepreneurship is alive and well in Alton Il. A climate of change is felt throughout the city. Amid a pandemic there is hope, cooperation and believe that people can made a difference; from children to centenarians. You are in a leadership role for all Altonians. With your vision and determination to make our city better you are making changes for now and in the future. One positive step forward by a leader will go a long way strengthen and improve our lot a city, a nation, and us. The Farmer’s market in Alton is an example of merchants, venders, peddlers of their wares; soaps honey, melons, decorative items and Mississippi sticks (By Stick Man John), plus farmers and growers of vegetables, fruit, and poultry. There a few venders who are Black, but there needs to be more. Their culture, ingenuity, skills, talents are bringing about change, recognition, understanding, acceptance and harmony. I have wind chimes, pickles and notice creativity, art of now friends I chat with when I visit the market. A visit by you (bring along the police chief) will brighten all vendors faces and bring smiles, and perhaps a sample of their goods or how they grow what they grow, if you ask. Encouragement, kindness, recognition is always welcomed. Remember how much every person you know means to you. You mean a lot to them too. Bring along a small personal note from you to give to each vender you meet. I would be happy to supply note paper and an envelop for you. When you visit, sign the note with their name on it. They will keep it forever and. create an award for a Vender, or venders who displays the better nature of their souls. Give the award(s) to the organizer and CHIEF OF THE ALTON FARMER’S MARKET. John Casey –

batch 18, 19 · p.15, 17↑ Contents
137

Letter to Mr. Chris Lovely – golf & like interests

Mr. Chris Lovely, It was enjoyable to meet you and exchange like interests in golf and life. You have impressive accomplishments and great stories. I have met only one man who claimed more holes-in-one than you. he said 14. He was a club pro in Alton. Fredy Valdez. Ironically, a friend of mine of more than 50 years died the day i reached home after the Christmas holidays died. I attended his wake and talked to his grandson. Gene Lewis, legendary player, had nine hole in ones. He was 95. Two days ago another long time friend, Cecil Page also died. He had four. I am saddened, and buoyed by their courage and kindness. I encourage you to write about your friend Dana Quigley and his compassion for life, his and others. He was born in Massachusetts. Your energy is boundless, it seems. This note is not about golf as it is about interesting people I’ve met in south Florida. You are one of them. Your enthusiasm for being a salesman in the North East part of the U. S. was evident with your recollection of the people who ran a business you catered to. Cape town attracted you; you excelled there because you were also a entrepreneur. I believe that carries over to your other endeavors. Am I right? Your have a bright and terrific son, Seth, a kind and considerate sister, Laurie who you are close to. they are proud you, you are proud them. Hannah joined your family when she married Seth. A great addition and her family and yours are now linked. I will tell my friends I met a man in Florida who is a remarkable golfer and an even better friend. He is in my memory bank. He is Chris Lovely. I send you good wishes.

batch 19 · p.51↑ Contents
138

Letter to Randy 'Goose' Baxter

Randy “Goose” Baxter P.O. Box 8026 Lynchburg, Tennessee 37352 Dear Squire Baxter: it was good to hear from you and that you are doing well. To update you a bit about an event that has passed with excellent results. The other day when I was rock climbing on the tallest mountain on my property, I heard a cow mooing. Looking down, I saw a small herd of healthy looking cattle grazing on what seemed to be my property. I didn’t mind, but thought my fence may have developed a hole in it allowing the cattle to enter. When I get down, I’d call you and report it in case you didn’t locate your fine herd. But first things first. I continued climbing. I had a Tennessee Fern with me I wanted to plant at the top of the mountain along with a Jack Daniels flag. I finished the climb, dug a place to plant the fern and raise the flag. Both looked great. I get quite a lot of rain and knew the fern would flourish in the rich dirt. On my way back, I didn’t notice the cattle at first. Then I saw them peacefully grazing on bright green grass at your place. I also noticed a new post at the fence. Thanks, Neighbor. I hope you take in a view of the Fern and flag at day break and sundown. I have to wipe tears from my eyes in my joy for having such property and a fine friend as you. With absolute sincerity, I salute you. Squire John Richard Casey 618-670-5646 jrcasey134@gmail.com Plot # ho824 (near the hollow) Unrecorded plot – 1955 Squire since April 23, 2007 JD originated in 1866

batch 20 · p.143↑ Contents
139

Letter to Randy 'Goose' Baxter, Lynchburg TN (Jack Daniel's)

Randy “Goose” Baxter P.O. Box 8026 Lynchburg, Tennessee 37352 Dear Squire Baxter: it was good to hear from you and that you are doing well. To update you a bit about an event that has passed with excellent results. The other day when I was rock climbing on the tallest mountain on my property, I heard a cow mooing. Looking down, I saw a small herd of healthy looking cattle grazing on what seemed to be my property. I didn’t mind, but thought my fence may have developed a hole in it allowing the cattle to enter. When I get down, I’d call you and report it in case you didn’t locate your fine herd. But first things first. I continued climbing. I had a Tennessee Fern with me I wanted to plant at the top of the mountain along with a Jack Daniels flag. I finished the climb, dug a place to plant the fern and raise the flag. Both looked great. I get quite a lot of rain and knew the fern would flourish in the rich dirt. On my way back, I didn’t notice the cattle at first. Then I saw them peacefully grazing on bright green grass at your place. I also noticed a new post at the fence. Thanks, Neighbor. I hope you take in a view of the Fern and flag at day break and sundown. I have to wipe tears from my eyes in my joy for having such property and a fine friend as you. With absolute sincerity, I salute you. Squire John Richard Casey 618-670-5646 jrcasey134@gmail.com Plot # ho824 (near the hollow) Unrecorded plot – 1955 Squire since April 23, 2007 JD originated in 1866

batch 20 · p.142↑ Contents
140

Letter to Rex (the 'package of stories')

“Ay, a. fen TF Thue BOY TRG. A ALORA beg PAO Cha FeMMEE Vy Own my Sorter = hee “press . zule rc tesdoe a 7 Sirah Ee ena Y eb. 2 Aecapie — far ley Glow . “ SG Breces © Som ke Over ctw – rodanrol when mores L ALOE Pr Joeate away, Capt aw jo a 77rd ee eo wr ected w caf Q sergprot Wter « MA Coinienp? Ae Tecroclool – Atepyely, See 2 oofeeral .

heen neg TO AMIE SS 0 Dout Rut al mix betct Wetted NwhES « yy Her L yuco Oo eotok Lope ane za Kt)

He AEE he ol way

[Get wp te Pate cries, tengo, FP ftutts mr. Sraff —

Cite Mer Ror) of Fee package Bak opt

Ginn

batch 2 · p.2↑ Contents
141

Letter to Shan & Jay — gratitude / dedication

Shan & Jay, I am deeply appreciative of all the Care and help you provide to me. I'm humbled. You give me hope. I want my needs to lessen. Shan, I use your words to me, spoken a Long time ago: "It's time you turn and face your problems." I've tried to do that. Sometimes I've failed. Sometimes I've succeeded. Jay, There is no one I trust and respect more than you. I Love you "a bushel and a half — & a peck."

batch 26 · p.27↑ Contents
142

Letter to Shan — bad landlord; $15 AC; daily pain; bought shorts; "I will try to break 85" — Love, Dad

My Landlord is negative after Seeing my $15 window air Conditioner. He may Not approve it. I'll use it as a foot rest.

I said I use air Carefully not much. The Guest room. I'm running it moderate. I've had it 8–10 years. The bedroom one to sleep better — Temp at 76°. The Lumbering 25 year old window air hasn't been turned on in Three years. It's Loud, Shakes, and Expensive. I'd Like to replace it with The $15 one.

Apartment Living in Alton Sucks. — But, I believe I've got a good deal. Bad Landlord.

a different name than decluttering has got to be found.

I've had pain every day for [the Last] 5 days.

Today I bought two pair of Shorts — 10" inseam and one 29" and one 30 inch waist. also a 29/30 pair of grey Pants.

— Enough. Tomorrow, after golf, I'll eat and drink a stout meal. And, remove some scatter Rugs. I will try to break 85.

Love, Dad.

batch 28 · p.12↑ Contents
143

Letter to Shan — decluttering changed him; grief over lost friends; eating better

Shan, I correctly forecast that decluttering my space would change me. That, and writing the Story Worth book.

I didn't realize how stuck I was. Firstly, clothing and Soft goods. Then reams of paper, Stories, items, etc. Pitch out!

I slowed down between Christmas and New Years. I went backwards for a while. Health issues worried me and I shuffled around. I believe I felt sorry for myself. That's no way to Live.

I LOST two friends — unexpectedly and didn't try to save them. I'm over that. Deaths of 5–6 friends sank me again.

Dawg. I've got Clothes that fit, 3–4 pair of shoes, and trunks Full of everything. You slowed me down on getting rid of stuff. Thanks.

Wearing Shorts, tees, and tennis shoes Work. they are Clean. I change often.

I try to eat better and mix and match with prepared meals and cooking. I don't Cook as much new. Leftovers result. Orange Chicken with rice & Pineapple (550 Calories) was supper.

batch 28 · p.3↑ Contents
144

Letter to Shan — Florida visit; 2000 VW; dentures; Christmas; Sue Underwood's call — Love, dad

Original page 1 — Letter to Shan — Florida visit; 2000 VW; dentures; Christmas; Sue Underwood's call — Love, dad

His original page — tap to enlarge

[Header, red ink:] "E[lton?] head Covers of Pets — (Snake & chicken I think) (Some say he is my better half twin)" [Dated 11-11-20[16]:]

Shan — I Look forward to Seeing you and All in fla [Florida].

I don't think I'll try to Play golf — It would be a bit Sluggish and Somewhat hectic to drag along Clubs & golf stuff. Relaxing & being Social will be great for me. [margin: "place to Keep it, extra expense"]

Justifying the 2000 VW can't be done [margin: "I was Lost"] and I'll not Know my dentures order it. [margin: "trying to"] take a risk and try to break out of a No-team Pattern. I vow to Change.

I will try to put up Some Christmas decorations Soon — a tree or two — wreath — Thanksgiving — Just a good meal & football may get me through. It is LATE in day —

I found a golf range finder for $50 — and think I have clutter enough for next season.

Sue (Underwood) surprised me with a call. She was Looking for a book. I'll Send it Along.

Love, dad

batch 28 · p.14↑ Contents
145

Letter to Shan — glasses soon; Texas visit (Wil's 80th, Catherine); baking; Siri; "go & See OZ"

Shan,

my eye is getting good Enough to get glasses and I'll do that in a few days.

Listening more than Talking about Politics and watching body Language, Voice Pitches, are insightful. Negatives are Stronger. It is an interesting time.

I'm Leaning towards a Visit to Texas. Agenda — family. Wil will turn 80 — & Catherine too, I think. — a visit with Liz or mary doesn't appeal with one. Just Can't get into deeper subjects than Yesteryears and relatives.

— I absolutely need refresher courses on the digital World. Discipline is needed.

I've got 3–4 Flour recipes — Bread, biscuits, muffins, Pastry — Confidence is building.

SIRI Helps me. Planting Season is near. I have a Plan.

I Keep thinking I need to go & See OZ. will Put it on my Priority.

Love, Dad

batch 28 · p.22↑ Contents
146

Letter to Shan — neighborhood yard sale (June 11); BMW detail (June 2); fridge declutter / meal prep

Shan, my decluttering is about over now, I must keep it Clean and not [add] anything.

The Neighborhood Yard Sale is June 11, (SAT). I plan to sell Large items earlier.

I can/will move all of the Yard Sale items to the [garage]. They are in boxes, baskets, and Containers Now. I'll put all of price on the boxes, etc. I'll put all of the items on a handout Sheet — Like — Canning stuff, Pots & pans — Lids.

The garage is Clean (I'll wash it down again) and use my Car Space to display goods.

My outdoor plants are Thriving. my indoor ones are Not as healthy as I would Like.

My BmW is Scheduled to be detailed on June 2nd. I'm Confident it Will Look Sharp.

I'm going to declutter my fridge. I also plan to have a all-day meal prep day and freeze Quick meals.

batch 28 · p.16↑ Contents
147

Letter to Shan — scatter rugs vs carpet runners; golf; "weak Shadow of myself"

Shan, The Carpet runners — Called Scatter rugs — Look good and feel Good. They Cover the 20+ year old Carpet.

I checked and priced Carpet runners that Would roll out. The runners Costs would exceed the Scatter rugs by $75. The Colorful rugs were Very similar to a Stair Case I saw in a decorator magazine. They were installed Like I followed. The Cost was about $3,[6]00.

I'll remove them and may change only the Landings. Two of them. I'm Confident the scatter rugs will reappear Somewhere.

[She/He] written a plan for me to get back to playing golf at Least Once a week. I'm a weak Shadow of myself and horrendous at times.

My Standard answer to the numerous "You Should do this, You Should do that" I receive is one word. "OK." "Thanks."

I've got to be a Dad Closer after hitting the ball sideways right (Shank). I don't Cuss — Out Loud — but I Say things to my self.

batch 28 · p.10↑ Contents
148

Letter to Shan — “my life was about nothing… then you came along”

Shan, my Life was about nothing for me for almost thirty years. But then your mother Came along — and then You Came along, and for the next Two decades I'd Check if you're both breathing before I went back to sleep. Can you grasp that? I'm not afraid of Saying I Love you. Even when you didn't Play baseball or want to hunt or fish. It's okay. You weren't. You wanted to make models, & the Titanic, & model Cars, Lego communities, play and music, or wear Crazy tee-Shirts. Maybe I did understand that putting pressure on you to do my things would push you away. They say that sooner or later the majority of men turn into their fathers. But that isn't True. I wanted much better for you. Your grandfathers were different than you, and also me. It's Likely that these men made a mistake or two during their own parenting. I know I have.

batch 27 · p.18↑ Contents
149

Letter to Sue

Sue,

My thoughts are with you. All day Sunday my thoughts were focused and

a] S' y y ymy S'

not random. Sundays are not always like that as most of my thoughts are inward and

reflective. Sundays are my serious days. My sister-in-law, Sue, shared a story with me after | shared one with her of

you and the notes/journal you found. She said that she came across letters from her

father to her mother that was written when they were young. She decided not to read

] young:

them as they were personal, private and not intended for anyone else. This struck me

asa good thing and ] thanked her for the story. We did continue and she said that “if

you write something, someone could read it, so make sure your writings are OK» |

promised | would.

Looking over a loose-leaf notebook | saw and read many of my writings. They were privately written, but they seemed to be a kind of a search — for myself. | was changing always. Rather than finding them shallow and trite they seemed to be, well, a search. They may be akin to your own findings about yourself. Sue, they were written to no particular person. How could that be | thought as | read them? The words and phrases guided me when | needed guidance. They instilled courage when | needed courage. Everyone was busy and just wrote. Sometimes they were fun and playful, sometimes reflective and serious and sometimes just a pen/pencil or keyboard inspired- musings. A title | have though of For my essays. | want to share them with you someday.

This morning, there seemed to be a purpose to write to you. | didn’t know what. ] sensed your struggle. Attached are hand-written paragraphs inspired by Sunday.

Talo

batch 6 · p.78↑ Contents
150

Letter to Sue — “my Ego photos / Who Loves a Jerk?”

Sue, my Ego photos — Meant to make You Smile and Laugh, and [flush?] my Bragging. — Who Loves a Jerk?

The [skills?] I have are the same as before. Results are the Same. You deserve better. I deserve better.

This Letter revives others. However, it is simpler with familiar [routes/roots].

Question previous attempts. What was I asked to do? Answer this without words, to Yourself. Take your Time.

batch 27 · p.9↑ Contents
151

Letter to Terry Miller + note to Shan re: Terry's wife's fall

Terry Miller, my thoughts are about You, [Jan?], and your family. — Your positive Out Look on Life is your greatest trait. Sharing it is Equal. Thanks. You are a one-Step-at-a-Time person. It challenges you. You respond. I didn't get to where I am or accomplish what I did by meek and weak efforts. I'm not afraid. I'm a realist. I've backed off at times, but never gave up. I fight. Freedom is a result.

Shan, Terry Miller's wife had a bad fall when She was getting out of a Summer Pool — (Ha) — Busted face, broke Dentures, Caused in/broken eye — etc. [Emergency helicopter to Miami Saved her Life.] We Never Knew about — Something might happen. I believe She is at home — Now — I need a vacation — a time-Out Session. [Mort Family?]

batch 27 · p.25↑ Contents
152

Letter to the Chicago Public Library (2007)

October 14, 2007

Chicago Public Library

Harold Washington Center

400 S. State Street

Chicago, IL 60605 ’

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen:

I would appreciate your help and advice in locating a small article that was rinted in the Chicago Tribune in the spring (April or May) of 1958. It was a tiny sports item and was, I believe, on the front page of the Sports Section

It was about three high school baseball pitchers who had pitched three consecutive no-hit games. Names were not mentioned in the article only that they were pitchers for the Vienna High School baseball team. Vienna is in extreme deep Southern Illinois (Johnson County).

The coach for the team, Brian Kerley, submitted an article about the rare, and perhaps unequaled, event to several newspapers, including the St. Louis Post Dispatch, The Globe Democrat, and The Chicago Tribune. Only the Tribune ran the article. Thanks for that.

I contacted the Tribune and was informed that their electronic archives only date ack to January 1, 1985 and that print editions are not held beyond 90 days. It was suggested that I contact our local library (I did and did not find the article), or the Chicago Public Library. That’s why I’m contacting you.

The Tribune team also suggested that information might be available on microfilm or microfiche at the Chicago Historical Society, 1601 N. Clark St. Chicago, IL 60614. Ph: 312-642-5035. I seriously doubt that the Historical Society will have a record. Note: I’ve added this paragraph so that I can contact my Vienna High School buddies and let them know of possible locations of the Tribune article.

Thank you again, and have a great day. Sincerely, John Casey (one of the pitchers. Don Brady and Danny Gage were the other two)

435 2 Bluff Street Alton, IL 62002 Phone: 618-670-5646 – Day phone: 618-692-7290

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153

Letter to the Editor, Vienna Times (1996)

The Vienna Times – Page 4 – Thursday, October 3, 1996 naipeemasiniatiiar- -ensauneeeeetninaleacrentiailiieeimetiiles menteagiaieret

Letter To

The Editor

Dear Don: mt

Enclosed is a poem about a paeh that yourreadership mightenjoy shar- ing. The author is John Casey, my brother-in-law, who grew up in Tun- nel Hill, works in Eldorado, and lives in Mount Vernon. The house in Tun- nel Hill that was for years home to John, his sister, Edith, and a wealth of brothers and sister, had a similar cov- ered porch runing along two sides and covering it entrances. The Tun-

nel Hill house is gone now, but its memory is not. A few unusual aspects of this poem

and porch are: John is nota writer. He

is a banker where emphasis is more on numbers than words. I am not a carpenter. Construction of the porch began following retirement from a careerasa bureaucrat with the federal government.

af Dennis Wilkerson

HY RROWN PORCH HY PORCH iS WIDE AND LONG. iT ENCIRCLES HALF OF Hi HOME.

T'S STRONG, BROWN, AND SOLID. , IT LOOKS AND FEELS GOOD TO ME.

a OPOSSUMS RUN UNDER iT. wa ad RABBITS UIDE THERE. As – wd of HICE MAKE NESTS AND on ph Ri2DS FIND BUGS THERE. AF yest YOU CAN Sit AZOUND ON MY PORCH, yg OM 199 _- OR YOU CAN SiT ACZOSS. I'S BiG.

Y HERE, YOU CAN TALK POLITICS, BOOKS, SPORTS, OR TALK ABOUT THE WEATHER OR NEIGHBORS. RAIN CAN PELT THE ROOF AND THAT SOUNDS GOOD.

WATER BEADS UP ON THE PLANKS AND HAS NEAT DRIBLETS AND PATTERNS. 'M REMINDED TO CUT THE GRASS AND WEED THE FLOWER BEDS WHEN I'M UP ON MY PORCH. TOMORROW WiLL BE GOON ENOUGH. | OBSERVE THE WORLD FROM MY PORCH. SOMETIMES iN THOUGUT OR SENSES.

IT i5. LARGE ENOUGH AND SMALL ENOUGH FOR ME AND THOSE WHO SHARE ir.

T'S NOT A VERANDAH OR A STOOP.

IT WON'T INSPIRE YOU BY iTSELF.

YOU MUST BRING SOMETHING THERE FOR THE CONTENTMENT YOU SEEK. COME AND Sit WiTH ME AND MY FAMILY. RRING A FRIEND OR COME ALONG. TELL ME A STORY ABOUT YOURSELF, RUT BE WILLING TO LIGTEN TO ONE OF MINE. HY PORCH iS NOT BEAUTIFUL, BUT iv i6 MARVELOUS. IT'S JUST A PORCH, '™ JUST ME.

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154

Letter to the Editor: Harriet Tubman Poem (2011)

April 15, 2011

John Casey

435 ¥% Bluff St

Alton, IL 62002

618-670-5646 jrcasey 134@gmail.com

Subject: Poem of Harriet Tubman

Dear Editor:

Going home is more lore than history. I have tried to capture the mysterious nature of an important woman by giving her some magic. I wrote it for enjoyment and to remember this marvelous woman.

The poem of Harriet Tubman was inspired by stories of her Underground Railroad activities before and during the Civil War. It has been said that she was instrumental in helping more than 200 slaves find freedom. She was an important inspirational figure, giving hope to fugitive slaves.

She was said to be able to see landscapes, find trails and fiords without seeing them physically, thereby mapping routes for slaves seeking freedom. Whether or not she had the visions, she did have persuasive powers that provided followers to believe in her, and believing is a strong motivator.

Thanks for reviewing the poem. I hope you find it suitable for your publication.

John Casey

YO ey 20 § B//.

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155

Letter to the Hunters ('For goodness sakes!')

Original page 1 — Letter to the Hunters ('For goodness sakes!')

His original page — tap to enlarge

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156

Letter to the Mayor of Alton

Oh dt Ho

Mayor, City Of Alton

This morning just after 7:30 AM | was listening to conversations just below my second story open window. | live at the corner of Bluff and Mamie. One conversation concerned trash day in the neighborhood. For a few weeks now trash containers have been grouped at places convenient for pick up. Residents have adapted to this procedure. The conversation went something like this: “Soon we'll go back to having trash picked up at our usual place.” | heard the rattle of trash and the friendly comments between the residents (who were on the street) and the refuse truck driver. It was just a few minutes, but it was a good thing. Taking out trash and picking up trash has not been a time for conversation. A face behind the wheel of the truck and a face behind the containers was a human touch. No grumbling whatsoever. | imagine the friendly talk made the day a bit kinder.

Perhaps grouping trash containers at a convenient (for most) is a good thing and makes the job easier for picking up trash than stopping at every house in the neighborhood. It could save time, | think. Perhaps too, the street would receive less wear and tear. This is a comment and not a suggestion.

As | was leaving for work there were two gentlemen discussing the cross walk. One was pointing out that the sidewalks were not aligned. The other man agreed and | heard remarks like, “They should have, and they made a mistake, and they should correct it, and my taxes paid for it, and I’m disappointed.” | left off adjectives. | had earlier heard the same comments and remarked how nice the new intersection looked and how greatly improved it was. | added, “Perfect is hard.” The grumbling continued several minutes.

| am proud of the new street and how much better it will make the neighborhood. | am also proud of the way the men cheerfully worked with each other on the project. Their skill and professionalism was displayed time and time again. They took time to engage residents and explained what they were doing. They are rightfully proud of their team of professionals. The conversations | had with them were personal and we exchanged names and stories. | gained from each encounter, plus appreciation. | liked those guys!

| believe you are a messenger too. Pass along the positive comments only. There are a lot more of them. When people want “perfect” they should look inward first.

Thanks, and best regards. \ , { – x

John Casey — 435 % Bluff St. Alton, IL 62002 – 670-5646 the Me yar Cane Ce me heres paok Mf afters hs ee Ber.

TO PU POP fe peer? nf hak fe YY ALE oh

_=70d fur > shad fret SgA

Thisr pax hay Cafe hin : io tlt 1 Zacaak –

batch 5 · p.98↑ Contents
157

Letter to the SIU-Edwardsville Chancellor

Chancellor Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville

Dear Chancellor:

The future of your university is bright and growing. It has significant local, regional and national respect as an outstanding college. Leadership and forward thinking has expanded to meet the growth needed to sustain it.

The success of off-campus facilities has been an expansion avenue for your college. I believe that trend will continue. A facility that offers exceptional space, access and location at low and moderate costs will compliment a growing university.

The attractive and well built building at Wood River, IL may fit the needs of SIUe. The costs of modifications needed for an educational facility, would be, in my opinion, be miniscule in relationship to construction of a modern facility.

A 20,000 SF high quality finished space is available, complete with furniture, and fixtures. It would be an excellent off-campus facility. A 82,330 SF open space is very adaptable. Perhaps it is a great location for class rooms, a trades vocation or a recreation site/gym/fitness/or for sports activities.

Wood River's community leaders would have open arms for a university facility like yours. It would enhance the image of the community and brighten the outlook for all of West Madison County.

[have included information (facts) on the building and can provide additional information to you. Thanks for taking the time to review the information.

Best Regards

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158

'Letter Writing' – start with an authoritative statement

Original page 1 — 'Letter Writing' - start with an authoritative statement

His original page — tap to enlarge

Letter writing -.-___

Start with a single authoritative statement.

Your first words are the most important. You only have a few words — to catch people’s attention.

Use bold type at times. Italicized words also are also helpful to make emphasis.

Make it as human and emotional as possible. We don’t have the patience to read anything long.

We don’t read from top to bottom. We glance around and see words that attract our attention. We lose interest if the letter is long.

Short paragraphs are most likely to be read. Don’t wander.

Use good words; small simple words are better than long words. To be successful with words you will have to become comfortable with them. They have to be you.

Don’t use jargon, pet names, or cute remarks. Don’t brag.

Find a way to inspire. Show passion, enthusiasm, sympathy, and always kindness and respect. Use imagination.

It’s not what you write, it’s what they read.

It’s not what you say, it’s what they hear.

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159

Letter — pledge to avoid toxic people; the “10” helpers list; lost a sister

I made a pledge to myself that I would avoid toxic people. Also, unkind people of any age.

Therapists * Activity Leaders Cleaners, Administrators Cooks Servers — Laundry Workers, Pill Preparation Trainers Bed makers — Drivers TV experts Gamers, Stretchers, Optimists

I recall the Service and Care you gave me — and the appreciation I gave you.

I Lost a Sister a few days ago. She was Kind, smart & Enjoyed Life Like you. She spoke well of People and inspired me.

Be humble. Be truthful. To Everyone. Reach out to People. [heart] John Casey, Story Teller

Share this. I did not make a Copy. I think Well of you.

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160

Letter — “strange neighbors,” declutter, telescope, The Atlantic

[Salutation, name uncertain — Karin?],

I've got strange neighbors — I fit right in.

The Skeleton next door is once again adorned by lights 24/7. If there is a message there, I haven't found it. I put a Note on the 3rd Car that has been sitting next to the Curb near my place for almost two months. — I suggested they park it at either end of the strip — It blocked Salon Plaza, & me. [they did — …?]

My neighbor downstairs took a few bottles & Cans to our trash Can, but didn't put it near the Curb for pickup. I'll do it. [She is a selfish witch?]

My declutter program has been executed — 96% finished.

My wheels have been worked on several times in three weeks. It's there now. Hopefully it will be finished today. [Didn't receive a part.]

I have a Telescope. It looks great. [I'll admit — at the Skeleton… next. Well —]

I sent — hopefully they were received by you — [Stayceworth?] Stories. I hope to stay abreast. My writing is not the best and I'm sloppy. Sorry.

Mary posts her [child & dog?] Photos and everyone comments — She does this about three times a month. [She seeks recognition.] Liz remains quiet.

I've not tried to make contact with them.

The Fiction — "Gossip" — was quickly written and unedited. It took about 10 minutes to write.

The Atlantic — Jan & Feb — has interesting stories. I'll read every page and finish it tonight. Thanks

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161

Letter: 'Dear Shan and Family' (1997)

10719 Orchard Si. Fatrfar, Ud L030

March 20, 1997

Dear Shan and family,

We are having a typical March Day. We have flowers blooming but have to put up with a snow storm. Thankfully, the snow melted soon after making everything white. We have had an early spring. It feels and looks like April.

I have good news to share with everyone. The doctor told me today that the CT Scan showed only small traces or scar tissue. He could not tell if there is any cancer left but believes that with careful monitoring, I can get off chemotherapy and start living a normal life. The chemical reports (blood tests) also show normal readings. I will see the doctor again in six weeks and then have another CT Scan in three months. I still need to keep the medical port in my shoulder just in case he has to start the chemo again. It would mean extra trips to the hospital to take it out now and need it later if the worst would happen. Since it does not bother me, it is fine left alone.

Iam so happy to know that I will have real hair again in a few weeks. Also, the numbness in my feet and legs will eventually go away. The hearing problem may always be present. I certainly needed the hearing aids and wear them all day long. The chemo was really terrible but apparently worked. One can't ask for more. The doctor was surprised to see such good results in only six months. Now, I have to stay healthy for a long time. I'm going to be grateful for each day, that is for sure. I have had wonderful support from family and friends. Thank you so much for caring.

Wishing each of you a Happy Spring! Come to see us sometime. Our son and wife, Bruce and Karmen, are close by in the Richmond area. They have a lovely house near a national battlefield. We plan on going to Arizona more often —-like next month or in May. Dennis’ mother will be 92 in May. Our daughter, Cheryl, seems sad that her divorce is final. We still love her very much and support her during this difficult time.

Write or call. Love,

Edit)

batch 5 · p.65↑ Contents
162

Letter: 'Dear Squire'

Mh r\ ern Yea

gee nay “Flor seul abs : ext Sbut me 4 poh K | ck lek XH Rear wk eT

Dear Squire, Qh FPR Cited he Here it was good to hear from you and that you are doing well. To update you a bit about an event that has passed with excellent results.

The other day when I was rock climbing on the tallest mountain on my property, | heard a cow mooing. Looking down, | saw a small herd of healthy looking cattle grazing on what seemed to be my property. | didn’t mind, but thought my fence may have developed a hole in it allowing the cattle to enter. When | get down, I'd call you and report it in case you didn’t locate your fine herd. But first things first. | continued climbing.

| had a Tennessee Fern with me | wanted to plant at the top of the mountain along with a Jack Daniels flag. | finished the climb, dug a place to plant the fern and raise the flag. Both looked great. | get quite a lot of rain and knew the fern would flourish in the rich dirt.

On my way back, | didn’t notice the cattle at first. Then | saw them peacefully grazing on bright green grass at your place. | also noticed a new post at the fence. Thanks, Neighbor.

| hope you take in a view of the Fern and flag at day break and sundown. | have to wipe tears from my eyes in my joy for having such property and a fine friend as you.

With absolute sincerity, | salute you. : ele Cau = Squire John Richard Casey 618-670-5646 jrcasey134@gmail.com Plot # ho824 (near the hollow) Unrecorded plot – 1955 Squire since April 23, 2007 JD originated in 1866 — Leekhezery edt ty 2 Qree CL 7

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163

Letter: 'Hi George, Jim and I think you sound better'

Hi George, Jim and I think you sound better. Strong, clear, pleasant.

I’m not likely to follow even your rules with the camera. How is your golf game? I can crop, point and shoot, take two shots, put subjects all over the place, not just in the middle. Shoot when the weather is fitting my mood and zoom. Used to like to take shots with high speed film and low light.

With Shan’s help I have lots of photos on the Mac, but haven’t chosen to send them or catalog them past Shan’s folders, etc. I do plan to sort, Family, Work, Activities, Friends, trips,

The Corners of Alton is still a plan. The corners I choose are not necessarily the Chamber of Commerce corners. Maybe they will be different angles and views and time of day or night. I may not use addresses either or very brief ones. It is not planned to be a story book that I write. People will have their own story about corners. I have about 20 corners so far and have perused them for quality, interest and color along with appeal.

The Farmer’s market has been a hit this year with some 75 + vendors. Maybe I’ll set up a few times, but not be a regular. I play golf on Saturdays too. I will have a simple set-up, and not loads of photos. I am not going to go full-out. It’s a social sort of thing. The market people, vendors and visitors are a theme themselves. I tend to like the vendors, artists, skills, ideas, and personalities — plus fresh vegetables, fruits, and recipes. For sure, I will have to consider a small freezer for all of the things I bring home.

A friend taught me a lesson about complaining about anything. I wailed as much as anyone, talked about pain, pills, ills, and appointments, machines, and heard more stories than I told. She said, “Don’t complain.” I tell fewer, but better stories and it saves time too, because I don’t listen to them either. Steve Elbert in Alberta may have the same malady as I have, but he won’t know how I feel. There is too much in front of me to dwell on the past and bore someone with my bad knee or bunions. I want to connect to the photographer, artists, writer, chef, golfer, hunter, etc and hear their stories of what they love to do. I made up Steve Elbert.

Ihave an iphone 6 and use a fragment of its capacity. It has a stronger signal, the battery lasts longer, and I can stick it on my dome light and use it without hands. I can talk to it (Siri) and it knows a lot of stuff about stuff, but I will use it only now and then. It has an amazing camera, a bright flashlight, and I can set it to play lots of music, sounds, etc when someone calls. My good friend has a big black dog and I set the phone to bark when she, (not the dog) calls me. It can read my finger print to open. The only reason I have it is because my old (4 year old) phone has a cracked screen and it was designed to get bad signals and run the battery down in a phased obsolete design by Apple.

Last lines, I promise. I’m planning to have a real Christmas Tree this year. Last year I bought a fabric tree, pinned and taped it to my living room wall and set fake presents under it. Shudder the thought, but I wasn’t in the Christmas Spirit.

T hope you all are good,

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Letter: 'Sue Gave Me Your Address'

Hello.

Your best friend and mine, Sue, spoke of you and gave me your address. That was an act of kindness as it brought back memories of you. "How are you, well | hope.’ That became my greeting to hundreds of people I’ve met.

Dick Gunn, you stand tall on my list of people who | admire. | recall one day in 1973 you and | played tennis on EIU’s court. We had walked from our boarding house, you in front of me with a lively step and | trailed carrying two rackets and a tube of balls.

After warming up | served first and my overhand was weak and hit the net. | served the next ball underhanded and you swatted it over my head and over the back screen. The second serve was a repeat and again you smashed the ball over the fence. | called out the score.

You replied, “I’m not going to play patty-pat tennis.” You added, “If you don’t do your best this game is finished.” In anger, | served overhand. You slaughtered me.

| was quiet walking home, you were still stepping lively, heel to toe. You gave me a shoulder hug and said, “John, you’re going to get better, you’ve got fire in you.”

If you don’t do your best became my go-to self talk. It still is. Two weeks ago | was getting ready to play golf with the fellows. It was the first time in more than three years as my health had stripped me of the skills | had. A gentlemen with a funny hat called out to me; “Hey John, I’ve still got the rock you gave me. You painted “My name and “Always do your best.” He added, “how are you, fine | hope.”

| played horribly, but signed my name to the card in a bold stroke.

| am fortunate and thankful for my life and my friends. | write. Some say I’m pretty good. I’ve done stand-up comedy. Some say | am pretty bad. | am a buff historian. | was a banker, a real estate agent. | have friends in sports: MLB, NFL, PGA, NBA, WTA, NSL, NHL. | never collected an autograph. | have a 2000 Rookie of the Year, MVP bobble head of Albert Pujols.

Dick, thanks for turning me around to positive thinking and not giving up.

\ John Casey, 618-670-5646 435 1/2 Bluff St. Alton, IL 62002 Jrcasey134@gmail.com

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Letter: Dear Ms. Johnson (heart surgery, gratitude)

Dear Ms. Johnson

When I was operated on not two years ago I had time to make a prayer. It was a prayer of thanks for my life. The heart operation weakened me and it also strengthened me in spirit. It changed me too. I continue to undergo counseling and medication and will regain my strength.

When you attacked me, I hardly had time for a prayer, but I did afterwards and it was the same prayer of thanks for my life. In some ways I have been weakened and scared, but in other ways stronger too. It will forever change me.

Seek first to understand, then to be understood. It is a philosophy that has worked for me, but I can not find answers to the incident of March 25", 2004 when you may have tried to kill me, took my car, and wrecked it soon thereafter. I do not seek an answer, but I do seek to recover my loss.

My loss was my car and personal things damaged in the wreck. The car is a 94 Toyota Camry and valued at approximately $3,300 and personal items, including towing and storage is about $500. I will carefully itemize them for you.

I wrote the entire story of the evening starting several hours before my first encounter with you. I shared the story with the police, my attorney, family, friends and co-workers (as needed to explain absenteeism and behavior). I will share this letter requesting that you repay me for the loss of my car.

John Casey 435 2 Bluff Street Alton, IL 62002

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166

Letter: Peggy Schelle's 90th (2022)

Greetings Girls, I hope today finds you in good spirits.

On November 12, 2022. We will celebrate our best friend's, 90th birthday; Peggy Schelle. We are immensely proud to have Peggy whose dedication, work ethic, passion, and joy makes her special. Every member of our group appreciate what you do for us.

Over the past years we have, with her guidance, we built relationships that provide meaningful experiences, creating great memories from small moments.

The exceptional level of service and good will from the staff at Rolling Hills Golf Course along with Peggy's leadership and close friends at Johnson's Corner as our sponsor is appreciated.

We know you have been inspired by her golf game. She knows that when you reach the top, there is only one way to go. We say that way is onwards.

She has style and glamor. Her smiles are genuine and she has a bounce to her step. Peggy is always cheerful, but when a ball is struck by Peggy and it skips and skitters away in a bad direction, Peggy will hasten it's romp with golf language learned half a century ago.

What Peggy is not. She does not try to be all things to all people. She has deep insight into the character of a person when they are in the shades of autumn. She is no nickel or dimer. No umbrella drinks, well maybe, if she pours. Raise a glass of vintage to celebrate the marvelous life of Peggy Schelle.

Peggy will be here tomorrow and the day after that and forever in our hearts. Each day brings new surprises.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PEGGY SCHELLE

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Letters to Shan & Liz (family transcripts)

Shan, a copy of this Letter to Liz will keep this note short.

Someone in our family was in high school from 1945 to 1967. we were pretty good students.

Last Friday | was iw a store and Looked at myself in a full Length mirror ana was shocked at how bad | Looked. Homeless almost. When | got home, | took a shower, shaved, ana aressed much better. | felt better too.

lam pitching wide leg pants, very old shirts, and cutting down on coats, jackets, etc. Since | don't hunt or fish, garden or dig in the dirt much | don't need to Look Like a bum. | have groomed myself whew | go to the doctor or play golf and will do it much more.

(wish | had a dog or even @ cat. Not allowed by landlord. I'd choose a border collie or a Dalmatian.

Rex invited his (Llinois based family to visit Florida for a mini reunion. I’m skipping it. My next trip may be out Your way. What's the chance of going on a Wicked Tuna boat? Even if it is docked? I’m not against going to Washington to see Mary for a day or two and going to Boston.

I've been tight lipped with my family and think that is the way LL be. My interests, ways, beliefs, etc, are not in synch with them and never will be. Wow! We were a sensitive bunch, quick to defend ourselves, and unable to Laugh at our stubborn selves and Laugh at our bumbles. We could never poke fun or make jokes about each other.

Liz, the transeripts of You, Jim George, Terry, Edith, and me are for you only. They are wot going to Mary or WiL.

| hope You enjoy them. (will send mine to Shan also.

My Last doctor check up was Last week and it seemed to 90 OK. Heart echo, – ‘about circulation, beats, strength, blockage, etc.”

Um expecting a call for a follow up with the doctor for results explained. My next eye check up is December 5.

(played golf Saturday without out glasses and did wot complain at all or mention my eyes. A fellow | played with talked about his poor sight very often, oblivious of my four year battle. That's why | dow’t complain. It’s boring to discuss ailments while playing. | read with glasses and a magnifying glass. A book takes me about 2 weeks to read, maybe.

My Christmas decorations will be minimal. No tree, a center piece and a outside Lamp; Being single and alone leads to simple things.

Lam not planning to go to Florida for a reunion with Rex and others. I’m not up to flying to Florida again. | do love Florida thought.

(have gained a few pounds and people notice. | really do plan to play golf as much as possible in 2019. | hardly played at all this year and my game went sour. | don’t care what | shoot as long as it is the best | caw do. This ts a page full. Love, John

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Life advice (1 of 2) — "Read, Read, Read"; think for yourself; people are mostly good

The original page will appear here.

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Life advice (2 of 2) — historical empathy; read your country's history; "cure the verbal virus"

The original page will appear here.

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170

Linda Schafer – broker/realtor introduction

INTRODUCTION

Linda Schafer Broker/ Realtor

Linda Schafer is an accomplished and experienced Realtor with more than 16 years at Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors in Edwardsville.

Her success over time is a result of her intelligence, skills, work ethic and untiring commitment to the industry. She is adept at technology and has access to multiple listing sevice providers. Linda has exceptional people skills. She treats people with respect and dignity, and importantly, she is direct. She answers promptly and responsibly. Linda is an excellent communicator and loves her role in putting successful transactions together.

I am oriented as a commercial agent; Linda is a professional residential agent. When I can, | partner with her on residential properties. I’m good at collecting information, marketing, and have knowledge of the areas and have residential experience.

When she can, she partners with me on commercial properties. She handles a good share of commercial opportunities, but will refer commercial clients/customers to me when she determines a need for specialization.

Our arrangement is simple, if I can help her, I will. She does he same for me. Our jobs are independent of each other.

I live in Alton and from time to time I see homes for sale by owner in my neighbor- hood that I believe owners need a strong and accomplished professional Realtor to help them sell their properties. Linda is a good choice to be their Realtor.

If you have a want/need for a professional residential agent, you can call me and I'll refer you to her.

This is a general solication for real estate listings in a selected area and is only being distributed to home owners.in this area. If your home is listed with a real estate agency, please disregard this solication.

John Casey Coldwell Banker Commercial

435 1/2 Bluff St.” 2205 S. State Rte. 157

Alton, IL 62002 Edwardsville, IL 62025 618-670-5646 618-692-7290 fax: 618-692-1484

jcasey134@gmails.com johncasey@coldwellbanker.com

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171

Listening (learning to listen)

telephones, or something about the person we're “listening” to – the way they dress, or the way they talk, for example. Internal distractions make it even more difficult. Thinking about other things, thinking about what we're going to say next, jumping to conclusions, mind reading, and making assumpti about the speaker’s meaning, all get in the way of true communication.

To give the gift of listening we must train ourselves to let go of distractions and be present. We need to slow down and get ourselves out of the way. We need to care enough to listen. The more I practice this, the better I get. I have also found that it has a powerful effect on other people. They begin to open up and to share more of themselves. New levels of trust and rapport develop. It makes them feel more important. I will get better at listening. I can and I will.

The next step is to acknowledge. When you acknowledge what the other person has said, it shows concern and respect for the speaker. It will prove that you are a responsive and caring person. It doesn’t mean we agree with them. It does not mean we understand them. Acknowledging reduces friction and resistance and helps create a climate of trust and rapport.

To give the speaker an intelligent and an effective response, we must clarify what he or she means. To clarify means to make transparent, unclouded, distinct, and sharp – to illuminate. We clarify to get on the same wavelength and to gain a sense of shared meaning. Seeking clarity allows you to see the world from the other person’s point of view, to sense how it feels to them. Ifyou can see the world through Joe Jone’s eyes, you can sell Joe Jones what Joe Jones buys.

Now it’s time to respond. Responding too quickly is a tough habit to break. Attend, acknowledge, clarify, and then respond. Before we respond to the speaker’s concern, we need to understand the concern. Realize that you don’t always need to have an answer. We can never have all the answers, but we can always give a response. Responding is the easy part when we've really listened.

Listening is my goal. Shhhhhhh….

Listen

I’m learning to listen. To do this means change for me, but it must happen. Let me share a formula that promises to let me become a more effective listener.

You must build your business one person at a time. To do that, you must make a personal connection with people, a connection so powerful that it overcomes their natural resistance to change, to try something new, to leave their comfort zone. And the strongest link in the chain that connects people is the skill of listening.

First, I want to give you the short model for effective listening. It goes like this…

Ask! Listen! – Ask! Listen! – Ask! Listen!

That’s it. Notice that talk is not in this formula. It’s a change from another formula that I have used.

Talk! Talk More! – Talk! Talk More! – Talk! Talk More! I recommend the first model. Ask with enthusiasm and sincere interest, then listen with great attention. Here’s another way to look at my formula for listening…

Shut up and stop answering!

Rarely, when people share a concern or problem with us, do they want us to try to solve it for them. We yearn for someone to listen, to understand, and to care. We need to stop answering and giving advice! Forget being Mr. Fix-it or Miss Fix-it. Just listen.

“You gotta wanna.” Some people don’t want to listen. So, to teach listening skills to them is fruitless. Some people haven’t heard anything that anyone says for years. The moral is, first, you gotta wanna.

The first key to effective listening is to attend. Attend means to pay attention, and this is perhaps the most difficult step to effective listening. It takes practice. It’s difficult because our minds are so easily distracted. External and internal distractions prevent us from paying attention to the speaker. External distractions include noises, other people,

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Management note – 'you are the most unpopular person'

supervisors and good staff, but right now you are the most unpopular person with the majority of the people who work for Germania; how does that make you feel?” “I don’t know,” I answered truthfully, “but I know I did not bring roses to the girls on the third floor to make people mad at me.”

Mr. Osborn; in a softer tone, continued to make statements regarding roses. He said he liked the idea a lot if everyone had a rose and that my wanting to make the females happy was probably good in the long run and would make supervisors think, and perhaps thank their staff more often. He said, “We need to show appreciation of people more often around here and this may make some of the supervisor grinders here understand that feeling good is important to productive people”. He added, “If you think individually again, think harder. If it is good for one, it may be good for everyone”.

When I emerged from Mr. Osborn’s office, the girls in the office looked at me with anticipation, hoping I would tell them what went on in the meeting. I headed briskly back to my office, neither smiling nor frowning. Several ladies followed me and one of them asked me, “What was the visit about?” I answered, “Roses”.

John Casey 2000 435 % Bluff St. Alton, IL 62002 618-670-5646

Jrcasey134@gmail.com 789

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🔒 Medical appointment record (OSF) + handwritten med notes

🔒 LOCKED

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'Medical Rocks' – painting rocks for OSF staff (~300)

Medical rocks Notes: There are approximately 300 employees/staff at OSF. I have been treated very well by numerous doctors, aids, nurses, services, etc. I believe they have given me exceptional service and with courtesy and understanding. AMH has approximately 425 employees/staff. I have been treated and cared for a few times but not as many as OSF. I’m am equally pleased with the help they have provided. The initial concept of giving a rock to every caregiver of both hospitals will be a big task. I am considering only OSF. I also believe that children, parents, grandmothers, relatives…friends of caregivers would be excellent at preparing rocks. They are close to the caregiver and understand them. THEY LOVE THEM. When the program is approved contacting this group, to me, would have enough volunteers to complete the project in a short time. A good idea will get stale over time, it’s the nature of people. Therefore, I believe as soon as the project is approved work commences as soon as possible. First we find a place. Then we find the rocks, then we find the people, then we go to work. No one gets a pat on the back until the project is accelerated. Solving problems as we go should not be a deterrent. This is not science or a test.

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🔒 Medication list — as-needed pills

🔒 LOCKED

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🔒 Medication list — combined (March 2023)

🔒 LOCKED

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🔒 Medication list — morning pills

🔒 LOCKED

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Motivational essay: 'start before you're ready' / running with 'the wrong crowd' (cont.)

open up to you. Things come to you when you make your move and you are ready for it to happen. When you have a passion for something, you can start before you are ready. Keep your mind open and focused, and the way will come to you.

When I was young, my mother was upset when she caught me running with "the wrong crowd." I was only hanging out with then.I wasn't doing the things they were doing, but she said if I stayed with those guys, eventually I would be doing those things too. She made sure that I wasn't tempted – she gave me more work, duties, more things to do. She said, "If you run with losers, you'll end up a loser." People rub off on you.

Studies show that an individual's best friends generally have nearly the same income. You know the story that you can't soar with the eagles if you flutter around with the pigeons.

Nothing can be as devastating as toxic people. They will weigh you down. You can't change people. It is a waste of time and energy to try. You can try to motivate and inspire them, but you have to be wary. If you can't bring the people in your life up, don't let them drag you down. Toxic people contribute to stress and heart attacks and strokes. Walk away from them if you can. If you are stuck working with them, take it as a signal that it is time to look somewhere else. My advise is simple: Get as far away from these people as you possibly can. RUN. Get away.

When some Bives you a gift, don't say, you shouldn't have" but instead saWGood things are supposed to happen to me! Welcome good things. Life is on your side and good things are supposed to happen to you and that you are blessed and great things are coming your way because you deserve them. Be open and receptive to new ideas and listen to your first mind.

We work harder on our jobs than on our dreams. Faith, prayer, and positive expectation without work will not produce any results in life. You have got to go into action and go all out, don't hold back on yourself. When you go all out you will pass an invisible boundary and you will begin to see good things coming your way from all directions, but that only happens when you do all you can do. Some may deny that there is a power greater than all of us, but Iam not one. A. L. Williams once said, “All you can do is all you can do and all you can do is enough but make sure you do all you can do."

You can't fry at life, you have to go at it with all of your spirit. You have to have juice in your life. You have to live with passion, drive, and energy. You want to make a difference because you can make a difference. You want to be unreasonable. If you want to be successful, you want to manifest yourself, you have to be unreasonable. The Wright brothers were unreasonable enough to think they could fly. The people who make it in life are the people who decide to be unstoppable.

If it is childlike to dream and to think that you can take on the world, then I advise you to become a child again. You have to be willing to do things you have never done. Because when you push yourself, you expand your talents and the opportunities for your life. Don't

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Motivational essay: live your dream now — 'path of least resistance'

follow the path of least resistance, it is not too hard and it won't take too long. If you are forty now and plan on living to be forty eight (and more) wouldn't it be better to be that age and doing what you dream of doing rather than being that age and wishing you were doing something else?

Who is going to do it for you if you don't try? What are your limits? Have you tested them lately? We are all born unique but the majority of people die as copies. Unlike gold or diamonds, you cannot bury your talents in order to preserve them. If you don't use them, you will lose them. Michael Jordan was out of basketball for a year and when he came back, he was a out of synch and rusty for the first few games. His timing was off, he was sluggish, but soon it was Michael again. He's back, because he is living his dream again. But I liked him a lot for reaching out for the year in baseball. He was stretching and that was good.

I know that I've been pushing all my life, and believe me I'm not through with life yet. Asa child, I was always talking, jabbering, always making people laugh, always saying something to make other people feel good. I was especially good at it with my seven brothers and sisters and family. I have been warned about being irreverent toward the reverend at times and was told that I was going straight to hell. But I wasn't going yet.

Thad fun working at everything I did. Really. Jobs like picking apples, peaches, and hauling hay don't sound like fun, but it was. I learned to throw and getting up and down ladders and climbing into trees helped me get stronger and bolder. Hauling hay was team work and working with adults – it was my subadult years that helped me form lasting friends with grown-ups. I made some good money, $20 and $30 a week, doing those jobs.

I survived several challenging years – of training for what I am doing now. I have sold drivers license, license plates, and monuments, dug graves, worked in factories, stacked and sacked groceries, and caddied for a professional golfer. I have even managed to be a lender (first I was a collector) for over 25 years. Ihave been fired, sacked, reengineered, shuttled up and down, in and out, promoted, demoted, and did things I only dreamed about. But I am here to tell you folks: I survived! and John Casey is not done yet!

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Motivational: 'Act, Learn and Build' — life purpose

Original page 1 — Motivational: 'Act, Learn and Build' — life purpose

His original page — tap to enlarge

To just about everyone, especially myself. (Act, Learn and Build)

The choices you make about the life you are living are tied to your life purpose. You create not what you want, but what you believe, and what you can accept. Wake up to wherever you are right now. Get clear about your passion. Keep going.

You can live making conscious effort about how you spend your time and energy or you can believe that life just happens to us. What is true attracts me. When | am writing, stories flow from a combination of memory and imagination. | push expansiveness, for my character.

Find out what you want to do. Ask yourself: Is it feasible? Can | do it by myself? Is it worth it? Do | want to do it? Do | have the means to do it? No elaborate planning — action trumps everything.

Take a small step forward Pause and see what you have learned Take another step Pause Take another step This is a method of act, learn, and build. You can have more than one passion.

Let go of things. Be grateful for what they brought to your life. Do you need them? Do you treasure them? Let go of what does not serve you. Create an endings ritual. Give away something every day with no attachment to the outcome. It does not need to be material; a work, a smile, time, energy. It will shift your energy.

Recall a time when you had a “waking up” experience or new awareness and insight. Record serendipities: (Good luck in discoveries and finding something valuable or delightful), and synchronicities (meaningful coincidences). Be aware — of what? For starters; silence, noise, being alive, shifting relationships, comfortable bonds, and adjusting.

Find what or who is seeking you. Who are the people you are drawn to? How do you tinker? Who makes you laugh? Be alert, open, and receptive. Be gentle with yourself. You have a right to be here. Persistent is an excellent trait, but perseverance (being steadfast in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success) sets you apart.

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'Mr. Walker, you understand straight talk'

Mr. Walker, you understand straight talk. A trait wanted and needed by everyday people and most companies. You would be an excellent person for any company that needed someone with your credentials. I believe You would excel as a commercial Real Estate professional. I believe Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors would be a fit for you, should you wish, to make a positive difference in the River Bend area. I believe you will do this at what ever you do. You would use your experience, knowledge, skills and work ethic to contribute to a professional and leading real estate company with strong community involvement where every they operate their business: Metro East. You have been a public servant and have gained a tremendous amount of information and understanding of what is needed in business development and THE ROPES associated with a what is needed to succeed. Mr. Walker, your character, strength, experience, and humility connects you to those who know you and what you have contributed to the betterment of our community. Sticking out,speaking up, and communicating is what I did when I was a independent commercial Real estate agent. I am confidential. I understand straight talk. Good luck in what ever you do. Best regards, John Casey 670-5646

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'Myth and Reality' – real estate

Myth and reality

Real Estate is shrouded in myth and reality. Ask anyone. Will real estate agents ever become recognized as professionals such as doctors, nurses, and clergy? Will they become as respected as educators?

Are you an honest, ethical person? I don’t know many people who would answer that question in the negative. Yet, we tend to doubt the ethics of others. Although “real estate agent” is not among the top professions in America, there’s good news that a growing number of U.S. adults rate Realtors very high in ethical standards.

The importance of home ownership is rated as a 10 on a scale of 0 to 10 among adult Americans. Home ownership is part of the American Dream. Realtors are involved with more than 80% of sales of residential real estate. Less than 20% of residential sales are completed by Owners (often assisted by Realtors).

If you have a headache, take an aspirin and if it doesn’t go away, call a doctor has not replaced doctors, nurses and care givers. If you’re really sick, call a doctor right away. Use that adage with real estate; when you really want to sell, call a Realtor. They are trained, experienced and have handled many cases before. Some specialize in types of real estate such as commercial buildings, apartments, condominiums, land (recreational, crop land, cattle/livestock), restaurants, storage and industrial buildings, medical, retail, wholesale, warehouses and investments.

Realtors have (or need) a niche. They are not all things to all people. Too often, I believe, Realtors take assignments that they are not equipped or trained to handle. A savvy owner/seller or buyer/investor wants to work with professionally trained people to help them with their real estate needs and wants. I’ll admit that money is the lure for a Realtor to hang on to a potential client, whether buyer or seller, and attempt to complete a successful transaction. This is not always in the client’s best interest. Too often the service and marketing is lacking and results not satisfying. There’s a way, of course, to help a client when a Realtor does not have special skills to handle some situations. Refer the client to a commercial agent, a professional, and agree to a referral fee. Ona successful transaction the referring agent will earn part of the commission.

Learning the nuts and bolts of Real Estate is a matter of committing time and effort along with using intelligence and common sense. Becoming a tactician is a skill based process and a lot of people can do it. A highly skilled person is likely to be successful. Building relationships, making friends, establishing trust, and SELLING is the talent part. Not everyone can sell. I believe timing is important and luck plays a part too.

Information is power. The information about our company can help you make an informed decision in choosing to start a career in Real Estate. We are not the only good real estate agency around or have exclusive services unavailable anywhere and we compete for agents wanting to be successful. But, we are pretty darn good and have a great reputation, training programs, and our commitment to be excellent is strong.

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Negotiate

The original page will appear here.

batch 1 · p.44↑ Contents
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'Negotiating' – the art of give and take (realty)

Negotiating;

It is the art of getting as much as possible while giving up as little as possible.

The key steps in a successful real estate negotiation usually occur before the first offer is made, and they depend heavily on thinking rather than talking. “THINK BEFORE THY SPEAKEST” -Miguel De Cervantes (1547-1616)

Knowledge is power, but it must be combined with careful timing. The strength- building exercises for good negotiating are the same: investigate, evaluate and prioritize. Investigate: Find out more than they want you to know. Some of the data is in full view on a listing sheet. More power-giving information is usually available from your Realtor’s working knowledge of the local marketplace. Municipal records might provide you with some negotiating chips. Your familiarity and knowledge of properties in your immediate neighborhood are extremely important.

Time on the Market: the longer, the more likely price can be negotiated lower.

Has the property been listed with other brokers?

Have there been any price reductions during the listing?

Have there been any other changes to the listing information?

Have there been any offers? Sometimes “the offer does slip out.”

Why is the seller selling?

What is happening in the neighborhood? .

What is the probable fair market value of the property?

What is the pace of the market place?

What’s my top dollar? Never, never reveal this information.

PRIORITIZE: DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT MOST AND LEAST

In every good deal, you get something and you give up something. The goal is to get what’s really important to you. Make lists of your key objectives. Keep your head in control over pride. So what do you prioritize? Everything. No one knows your personal goals and financial situation as well as you do, and no one will be as concerned with watching out for your best interests as you are. Weigh the gained knowledge with your investment and goals. HOW MUCH SHOULD THE FIRST OFFER BE?

The buyer is the initiator in almost every real estate negotiation. That means you will be asked to set the lowest limit on the selling price. The seller has already set the highest limit. Your first offer is to get the seller’s attention and prompt him, her or them to start thinking about what they have to sell, how much they will get for it, and when the transfer of title will take place. The offer should be less than you are willing to pay. Don’t assume that a first offer should be a certain percentage below the asking price. Asking price is not an accurate gage of market value. It is set by the seller with no restrictions.

YOUR FIRST OFFER SHOLD BE IN WRITING. AVOID TELEPHONE NEGOTIATING. Any attempt to test the price with a verbal offer is likely to weaken a buyer’s position. To consider making a written offer that includes an attorney-review clause above your signature. If you use this safeguard you will sleep better that night knowing that you will still have several days to change your mind without penalty. This

agreement is subject to review an approval as to form and content by an attorney of the buyer’s choice. The attorney may rescind the contract for any reason before midnight, (date ).*

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Note from “A.” (Astra): “Hagar died Monday” (11-13-18)

11-13-18 Dear John, To avoid moaning, I am telling you on this paper. Hagar died Monday. He had an enlarged heart, on meds, but didn't make it. — A.

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Note to Bruce: safety-rail plans for the front stairway + window-fan / porch-paint / plant-stand to-dos

The original page will appear here.

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Note to his cardiologist (age 81)

Cardiologist. Thanks for reviewing

lam 81 (DOB 10/30/40

I’ve lived alone since 1998

| am retired (banking and real estate)

| receive SS – A&B plan

| rent a unfurnished apartment and pay my utilities, etc.

My furniture and stuff is eclectic and not expensive

The landlord pays taxes and insurance

| cook 95% of my meals and wash dishes – about twice a day

| clean my apartment often and deep clean when it needs it\

| do laundry often

| plant flowers and feed birds & squirrels

| have decluttered my apt – its on going

| own a 2009 automobile

| write stories and have been published a few times

| am writing a book about myself – with my son’s help

| have one son, he lives in Boston. | don’t see him often

| was born in Southern Illinois – Tunnel Hill –

| am the fifth born of eight (4 boys and 3 sisters) and the third son Still living – a older brother, two younger sisters and myself My health has declined. 2002 a 5-way by pass – 2013 heart/ general health.

| have lived an interesting life, both growing up and becoming a adult. | believe | am very fortunate

Cardiologist. Thanks for reviewing I am 81 (DOB 10/30/40 I’ve lived alone since 1998 I am retired (banking and real estate) I receive SS – A&B plan I rent a unfurnished apartment and pay my utilities, etc. My furniture and stuff is eclectic and not expensive The landlord pays taxes and insurance I cook 95% of my meals and wash dishes – about twice a day I clean my apartment often and deep clean when it needs it\ I do laundry often I plant flowers and feed birds & squirrels I have decluttered my apt – its on going I own a 2009 automobile I write stories and have been published a few times I am writing a book about myself – with my son’s help I have one son, he lives in Boston. I don’t see him often I was born in Southern Illinois – Tunnel Hill – I am the fifth born of eight (4 boys and 3 sisters) and the third son Still living – a older brother, two younger sisters and myself My health has declined. 2002 a 5-way by pass – 2013 heart/ general health. I have lived an interesting life, both growing up and becoming a adult. I believe I am very fortunate

batch 18, 20 · p.95, 8↑ Contents
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Note to Mary — please write Shan a personal note

Mary, I'd Like a favor. Write a NOTE to Shan. Make it Personal. He would Enjoy it. John [address withheld]

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Offer to supply snow-removal items (civic)

I would like to supply some of the items needed to remove snow and or ice. A large Aluminum shovel A smaller push shovel for light snows A ice scraper with a strong blade A leaf blower & long electric cord – when one is needed Gloves, hats, head gear, masks, position poles, timer. My health keeps me from removing snow and exerting energy. I’d be the last dweller on Bluff Street to be scheduled. Being able to do errands, schedule visits to my doctors, shop for needs, etc. I have ideas on pricing, a simple contract, and promoting your grandson.

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On Advice

The original page will appear here.

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On Advice (radio programs)

Everyone, I’m sure, has listened to radio programs that offer advice on a myriad of subjects from dog grooming, bunion control, how to make a garden, cook, raise kids, and being a better, stronger, healthier, wealthier, and happy person. Advice is cheap

I have decided to join the ranks of advice givers. For sure, I’ve heard enough of it over the years to be at least an apprentice advice guy. My subject matter is humans and maladies that they deal with on an every day basis. The questions I receive aren’t exactly classic in that they deal with the trivia of life, the little-things, you-know, what we deal with on an every day basis.

Dear John:

What's the difference between extra-virgin olive oil and the regular kind?

Cindy

East Alton

Dear Cindy:

I think the biggest difference is that extra-virgin

olive oil has an extra word, or maybe, when they

made regular olive oil they had some left over olive oil.

Dear John:

I’m awesome. Sometimes I can’t even deal with how awesome I am. The bigger problem is that I'm so awesome that other people don't want to be around me because they are jealous of my awesomeness What's the most awesome way to approach my awesome problem? Dick — you know who I am

Dear Dick:

Who are you?

Do old men with white hair really say “awesome”? There is nothing awesome about getting old and white. Thanks a lot, you made me feel sad.

John

Dear John:

1 do all of my reading on the toilet. I spend more time

on the pot than some might consider normal. As a result

of my excessive bathroom visits I've developed anal fissures. Do you think this is normal?

Mickey Bethalto

Dear Mickey: You are not normal, and I didn’t know you could read. Further, | don’t appreciate your planting horrid images in my mind. John

batch 5 · p.110↑ Contents
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On Entrepreneurs

While not ignoring experience, aptitude, and education, successful entrepreneurs have determination, presence of mind, and situational awareness. Add that to mutual caring, emotional commitment and sacrifice for others. How else can you explain their tireless efforts to get thing right. Boldness is their first rule; flexibility is their second. They were not born that way. A person’s will is a product of cultivation. Their hardness evolved as a virtue and developed by their focus for the purpose of accomplishing a mission. They use their own resources and emphasize action. Bill is as tough as the leather he works with; Asta is hardier than the strong trees she grows; and Brenda’s culinary talent nourishes her friends.

115 Ey JQ

Brrlor

While not ignoring experience, aptitude, and education, successful entrepreneurs have determination, presence of mind, and situational awareness. Add that to mutual caring, emotional commitment and sacrifice for others. How else can you explain their tireless efforts to get thing right. Boldness is their first rule; flexibility is their second. They were not born that way. A person’s will is a product of cultivation. Their hardness evolved as a virtue and developed by their focus for the purpose of accomplishing a mission. They use their own resources and emphasize action. Bill is as tough as the leather he works with; Asta is hardier than the strong trees she grows; and Brenda’s culinary talent nourishes her friends.

115

batch 6, 7 · p.67, 27↑ Contents
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On Letter-Writing

Original page 1 — On Letter-Writing

His original page — tap to enlarge

Letter writing–

Start with a single authoritative statement.

Your first words are the most important. You only have a few words -— to catch people’s attention.

Use bold type at times. Italicized words also are also helpful to make emphasis.

Make it as human and emotional as possible. We don’t have the patience to read anything long.

We don’t read from top to bottom. We glance around and see words that attract our attention. We lose interest if the letter is long.

Short paragraphs are most likely to be read. Don’t wander.

Use good words; small simple words are better than long words. To be successful with words you will have to become comfortable with them. They have to be you.

Don’t use jargon, pet names, or cute remarks. Don’t brag.

Find a way to inspire. Show passion, enthusiasm, sympathy, and always kindness and respect. Use imagination.

It’s not what you write, it’s what they read.

It’s not what you say, it’s what they hear.

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On My Own in 1999 (business plan)

ON MY OWN IN 1999

As I prepare a business plan for 1999 (you say I should have prepared one prior to now?) the theme is to keep it simple and clean.

First a statement of purpose: The Best Little Mortgage Company in Mt. Vernon.

Next is to define the area of operation: southern Illinois, specifically, Mt. Vernon, Marion, Carbondale, Centralia and the area contiguous to these towns.

Next comes the product: Mortgage loans for single family owner-occupied dwellings. The emphasis will be on quality borrowers and homes.

The strategy: Operate my business in such a way as to provide efficient service to customers and clients.

Discussion:

I intend to price (set rates) in the lower .25% of competition. I will not typically be the lowest, but I will not price high. This pricing strategy will attract extremely qualified borrowers that require a minimum of work intensive efforts to close.

Credit standards will be established and pricing will be based on risk-reward.

All applicants will be pre-qualified prior to acceptance for origination and processing. I will be decisive. A wrong decision is generally less disastrous than indecision. Applicants and clients deserve a quick response.

I will accept applicants only to the extent that I can provide them with timely and professional service. I will not accept too many customers so those customers I do accept will receive excellent service.

Marketing will be relationship directed.

I will use my own best judgement to direct my business.

John Casey

1-5-99

batch 3 · p.78↑ Contents
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'On My Own in 1999' – a business plan

ON MY OWN IN 1999

As I prepare a business plan for 1999 (you say I should have prepared one prior to now?) the theme is to keep it simple and clean.

First a statement of purpose: The Best Little Mortgage Company in Mt. Vernon.

Next is to define the area of operation: southern Illinois, specifically, Mt. Vernon, Marion, Carbondale, Centralia and the area contiguous to these towns.

Next comes the product: Mortgage loans for single family owner-occupied dwellings. The emphasis will be on quality borrowers and homes.

The strategy: Operate my business in such a way as to provide efficient service to customers and clients.

Discussion:

I intend to price (set rates) in the lower .25% of competition. I will not typically be the lowest, but I will not price high. This pricing strategy will attract extremely qualified borrowers that require a minimum of work intensive efforts to close.

Credit standards will be established and pricing will be based on risk-reward.

All applicants will be pre-qualified prior to acceptance for origination and processing. I will be decisive. A wrong decision is generally less disastrous than indecision. Applicants and clients deserve a quick response.

i will accept applicants only to the extent that I can provide them with timely and professional service. I will not accept too many customers so those customers I do accept will receive excellent service.

Marketing will be relationship directed.

I will use my own best judgement to direct my business.

John Casey 1-5-99

batch 14 · p.93↑ Contents
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On Negotiation

There are people in this world who are driven by a need to dominate. There are others whose tendency is to capitulate. And then there are those who know how to negotiate, both in business and in life.

The problem many people face when making a decision in the midst of pressures is that they rush into a bad choice. They feel confusion, tension and stress. The psyche can tolerate only so much indecision and wavering between the poles of a difficult choice. At a certain point, the strained psyche forces the conflicted person to make a decision simply to relieve the tension and anxiety. Unfortunately, this relief is often short-lived, and the person then finds himself often facing the larger challenge and greater confusion of living with or working his way out of a bad move — a choice of the wrong career.

In reflection, I spent considerable time in evaluation of the company and management of Capital First. I wanted to know the short-term and long-term goals of the company. The money I might make mattered less than wanting to be a part of a company’s larger vision of what it could become. Part of what I had to offer was a new vision of how to market and package its product and how I could contribute to these directions. | like the degree of autonomy the job offered. I treasured working without feeling hovered over, using creativity and entrepreneurship. I wanted to work for a company that I think is ethical and that produces a product that is beneficial to society and a product I believed in. Open, honest, discussions became a part of this evaluation and the time spent in clarifying and prioritizing values and goals led me to make a choice to join Capital First. I did not regret that choice and believed management would continue to be open and honest with me.

In most negotiations, each party arrives with its own vision of the circumstances, its own interpretation of the facts, its own sense of what is relevant. Each party honestly and sincerely believes that its position accurately reflects the reality of the situation. Each side has its own sense of the way things are and the way they should be. Whose reality is going to prevail?

Knowing when to negotiate is as important as knowing how. | encouraged Martin to negotiate with me at the start of 1998 and to make regular and planned discussions regarding the mortgage loan operation, its direction, accomplishments, or lack of accomplishments, and to evaluate the goals of both the company and myself. He agreed. We never met once to discuss it. But, I adapted. I gathered myself, trained my mind entirely on the issues at hand and continued to make the effort to bring in and take care of business without quitting. When business looked good in mid year, I should have forced him to negotiate with me and he should have welcomed the opportunity to discuss the future direction of the company. If we had a heart to heart discussion and he had explained that he believed I should develop alternative plans or plan to seek a position with a company that identified with my goals, I would have done so.

Look ahead. Always look ahead. Develop relationships, not conquests. What goes around comes around I have always believed this. As surely as your foot is on someone’s neck today, with the capacity to crush it, someone else will have his foot on your neck at some point in the future. To believe otherwise is sheer arrogance. In any business or personal relationship, your reputation is a critical factor. To take unfair advantage is to put your reputation at risk. Life goes on. The time will come when another deal must be made, another problem must be ironed out, and another difference must be discussed. And if you have betrayed someone’s trust, if you have defied his good faith, that trust and good faith will not be there when you need it again. Not only will the person you betrayed not trust you, but your reputation will have reached others, and they will not trust you either.

Look ahead, not behind. And be prepared to begin all over again when the time for the next negotiation arrives.

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197

On reading — 'if you're too busy to read, re-prioritize'

If you're too busy to read, you need to re-priortize your schedule. Reading is a must in every business. Reading can increase your determination to succeed. Some of the selections below can make a difference in your career. Even without the name of the author, you should be able to find most or all of the books. Your business associate or friend may already have some selections.

In Search of Excellence

The Magic of Believing

Move Ahead Through Positive Thinking – Robert Schuler

Tough Times Never Last – Tough People Do

The Secret Of The Ages – Robert Collier

The Three Magic Words

As A Man Thinketh

Contact, The First Four Minutes

It Takes Very Little To Be Above Average

The Richest Man In Babylon

Be My Guest – Conrad Hilton

The Greatest Salesman In The World

What is it you want in Life? Can you say it in one breath; one sentence? Write down three things you want? Write down When you can Accomplish these?

HOW TO SET REALISTIC GOALS

Decide specifically what you want

Set time frame to accomplish goals

Visualize these goals – If you can see it, you can achieve it Record progress and revise goals according to realistic expectations

Set new goals based on the reality of your goals

batch 10 · p.15↑ Contents
198

On Teaching ('Awaken Curiosity')

Do not try to satisfy your vanity by teaching a great many things. Awaken people’s curiosity is enough to open minds; do not overload them.

Once you have learned to ask good questions, you have learned how to learn and no one can keep you from learning what you want of need to know.

People have a right to their own opinion, but not their own facts. Evidence must be located, not created. Opinions, not backed by evidence, is singular. We must learn how to deal with sources first; when and why did something happen? Consider the speaker, author, writer, time, and places. Ask whose viewpoint is presented. Whose viewpoints are different than yours? Or alike? Express how they influence yours.

At age 6 we went to school at a one room building. Each year there were about 30 kids. One teacher taught all 8 grades, in a odd and even plan. | took the first grade, and then the third; second and fourth; my final year | took the sixth and eighth grade. Our report card was either pass or fail the subjects.

Before class begin, the teacher gave a 15-20 minute program. She read books, played the piano and invited us to sing with her. Songs | recall were ’ They were racist songs. | didn’t see a Black person

until | started high school in 1954. There were four Blacks in Vienna’s student body of approximately 390 students.

; High School was a shock to rural students who were bussed to school. Townies, in Vienna liked school more and took harder and more classes because many wanted to go to college. Townies belonged to clubs, organizations, participated in music, plays, sports, class elections, balls and dances. Rural kids were unlikely to participate as they had to catch a bus home. Drop outs we're common for boys and a few girls when they reached 16. | was called Johnny and | loved high school.

| took an aptitude test and took harder classes than my Tunnel Hill class mates. Being sports minded | made varsity my first year in baseball and basketball, Vienna’s only sports. | earned five letters and pitched

Do not try to satisfy your vanity by teaching a great many things. Awaken people’s curiosity is enough to open minds; do not overload them.

Once you have learned to ask good questions, you have learned how to learn and no one can keep you from learning what you want ofpeed to know.

People have a right to their own opinion, but not their own facts. Evidence must be located, not created. Opinions, not backed by evidence, is singular. We must learn how to deal with sources first; when and why did something happen? Consider the speaker, author, writer, time, and places. Ask whose viewpoint is presented. Whose viewpoints are different than yours/? Alike? Express how they influence yours.

batch 6 · p.44, 65↑ Contents
199

On trust (character/business note)

Trust will cause people to believe in you. Build on a daily basis by investing into dependability, integrity and reliability. By permitting wrong you become a part of it. Choose to do what is right and not let wrong dominate your life.

batch 12 · p.27↑ Contents
200

One Day I'm Going to Die (self-talk)

One day i’m going to die. I’m going to stop breathing, become still, and cease to exist. | will exit this physical plain. We’re all mortal. It’s the one truth you can not argue with.

You start to look back on your life. You never made the change you wanted. You read books, but you never applied them. You started hundreds of life changing escapades. Regrets? Sorrow? Dammit, wake up! Here’s the thing; future you is not going tho regret a lack of achievement or the absence of any one thing in your life.

We all use self talk. In fact, we use it every day as many as 50,000 times a day. “I want to change.” No you don’t. don’t kid yourself. “Ask yourself what do you want to accomplish? What do | need to do to get there? Hold yourself accountable, moment by moment, by moment.

You need every waking hour of your life to further your cause. No excuses. You're not any different or any worse off than anyone else. You're not a fucking special case who needs different rules than anyone else.

You need to make a choice right now. You're never going to change your life until you get rid of the chains you have used, Start taking actions to propel you forward. You’ve got to put in the work and build positive habits that will pull you in the right direction. Don’t say you will, and then don’t. Don’t push it off until tomorrow. You are what you do, not what you say you will do. Be bold.

Focus on the things you can control and release yourself from worrying what you can’t. The only thing that’s guaranteed in life is that it is uncertain. You are what you do. change your thoughts. Change your life. You change your life by doing. ACT! Simply act. Put aside your thoughts and move. Your assertion: !AM NOT MY THOUGHTS; | AM WHAT | DO.”

When the only thing you have left is relentlessness. It’s the fuel that drives you through. Stop doing all that shit you know shouldn’t be doing and start doing all the shit you know you should be doing.

Don't just read this, think about it, then go on abut your life doing the same stuff over and over. Apply it. “I'll do it later.” NO, do it now. “I’m not smart enough.” Cut it out. Stop that shit and act.

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201

'OSF, 2-17-22' – thanking Sister Anesthesia (rock painting)

OSF 2-17-22 Sister Anesthesia, thank you for letting me paint a few rocks for the staff at OSF . It didn’t take long and I enjoyed doing it. My messages are intended to brighten someone’s day and show appreciation for what they do and who they are. I’ve been a patient since 2013. I went to Lowes and found the black rocks. I had paint pens and quickly wrote on them, applied Poly to protect and make them shine. 30 Rocks were planned and I recalled a TV show called 30 Rock. Perf. For several years I have painted rocks for groups, people, cats and dogs, golfers, friends, birthday’s etc. I have tried to stop several times but seem to run into someone or see something or hear of an event that beckons me to paint a few more. I’m not seeking to expand. But, what if the 30 rocks go quickly and someone is left out? Contact me. John Casey 435 1/2 Bluff St. Alton, IL 62002 618-670-5646 jrcasey134@gmail.com

batch 20 · p.77↑ Contents
202

'Outloud and on Purpose' (advice)

Outloud and on Purpose

Say it outloud and on purpose or don't say it at all.

If it is important – tell me or let it be.

Outloud and on purpose clearly states a position that we know that you know it's the thing to do.

Saying what you mean

outloud and on purpose

Let's us know where you stand on issues, things and people.

Let me hear you say

I love you – outloud and on purpose. The words will keep me going

loud and clear and on purpose.

You will not hear me say

things so quiet that you can not hear. It make's me who I am when

I'm outloud and on purpose with you.

Jrce 9-1-98

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203

'Pay Attention' – deliberate practice

PAY ATTENTION Devote time to high-intensity, deliberate practice activities. Ata certain point, a person has to develop a personal commitment.

Think specifically rather than generally

Find assignments and push to do the things that must be done “Put the fish on the table” and confront reality

Doing what’s necessary often isn’t easy

Don’t give up too soon

Try to see the outcome without being overwhelmed

2/15/10

The snow keeps coming and I keep hunkered down and dress in layers when I venture forth. I’ve read all the books in the library and have eaten 27 different kinds of chili. My humor has worn thin. My hair is long, and my skin is pale.

My shoes are all polished and shirts are folded and resting. A plan for my garden looks promising. I can’t wait to open my windows.

I looked at the rising sun this morning and it was barely past 7 a.m. How gorgeous. T’ll stare at the new moon in the western sky before going indoors for the night.

Now is the time to trust men’s soul. Ah, tomorrow is only a day away. 2/07 827

The snow keeps coming And I keep hunkered down I dress in layers

When I venture forth

T’ve read most of the books in the library And eaten 27 kinds of chili

My humor has worn thin; my hair is long And my skin is pale

My shoes are all polished;

Spring and summer shirts are put away And plans for my garden is coming together I can hardly wait to open my windows

I looked at the rising sun this morning; How gorgeous; It was just past seven Tonight there will be a full moon

Tl look for it before going in for the night

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204

Personal creed — accountability, don't ask a person's age

Accept responsibility and be accountable for what I do Do not ask a person’s age for the sake of it Don’t ask someone how much they paid for material things Don’t tell someone how much you paid for material things Be courageous- Have compassion, Ask for what I want Find/seek solutions Give help when I can Seek help when I need it Do not pry, or gossip (loudly) Accept “As is” as an answer. Because without explanation can be a good answer Respect how others do things: 6+3=9, but so does5+4=9 e No condescending remarks, please When teaching, be patient and understanding When learning, listen carefully * Do things I like. Try not to be disappointed when someone lets me down When angry, count to 10, when very angry count to 100 Make commitments I can keep Trust others who earn my trust Laugh out loud Take the back roads often Treat animals and living things well If I say I will, I will Follow my hunches Remember that silence is my friend Improve communication Know where Iam going and why Tip better Be adventuresome Stop, look, and listen Train myself to be objective Make a decision and act on it Try to avoid feeling pressure to arrive at an answer Don’t let pride, or fear enable me Maintaining the status quo is a decision Add to the list John Casey From time to time I review the list and delete or add to it. I also grade myself (1-10) to evaluate my progress or regress. I seek better relationships and good life skills.

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205

Personal letter to "Judi" — grief ("thinking of someone I loved"; "written when I was sinking"); sending his essays

The original page will appear here.

batch 30 · p.p.52↑ Contents
206

'Personal Property' – a contract clause (realty)

Personal Property

The Seller agrees that the following personal property shall be sold along with the real estate:

The Seller warrants that Seller owns these items of personal property and will convey ownership at the time of sale.

Seller Date

Seller Date

batch 15 · p.5↑ Contents
207

Property listing form (address/acres/style)

Address AcresStyle Size up/dn Rooms/Bdrs/Bath/Garage Year built features Taxes/yr

This form will let an agent quickly make notes on For Sale By Owner properties. Ask questions of the owner.

Usually, people will answer up to three questions before stopping and changing the topic or to regain control. Know which three questions you want to ask and learn to ask them quickly not waiting for the answer of one at a time.

What’s the Square Footage of your home? How many bedrooms/baths do you have? What is the age of your home? …… pause

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208

'Property Review' (realty)

Property Review

You can complete a review of a potential property quickly without all of the details that you will need to make a qualified/quantified decision on whether you want to know more. Trust your intuition.

Address:

Location: Distance Directions: Size: acres SF

Price: per acre per SF

Site characteristics:

Current use: Potential use:

Access: Immediate area Access: Highways, roads, lanes:

Adjoining properties Neighbors:

What are positive features of the property? What are the negative features?

Notes/comparisons: How does this property compare with other potential properties you will consider? Suggestion: Rate the property as soon as you have seen/visited it on a scale 0 to 5 scale. After you have seen other properties go back and rate the properties again.

vs.

VS.

You may wish to revisit the properties that you have ranked highest. If you are visiting the property with several people wait until you have seen all of the properties and made your 0 to 5 ranking before consulting them.

First, select the highest ranked properties that you want to consider. Review them with your other decision makers. You may wish to collect additional information from sources available to you. Ask direct questions, seek critical information, and ask for opinions.

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209

'Questions for Jean' – opening his mail

Date:______________ Questions for Jean 1. Have you ever opened John’s mail? ______ yes ______ No 2. Have you ever went inside John’s Apartment when he was not there? _______yes _______No 3. Did you and a crew use John’s apartment to make a video? _______yes _______No 4. Has John ever entered your apartment when you were not there? _______yes _______No Signature:_______________________ Date_____________________________

batch 20 · p.98↑ Contents
210

'Questions' – 'Have you ever opened John's mail?'

Have you ever opened John’s mail? Answer: ________ If yes, How often? ________ Did you return his mail immediately to his mail box? Answer: _______ Did you open his apartment door and place an envelope, or anything, inside his apartment when he was not there? Answer: ________ Has John ever opened your mail? Answer: _________ Has John ever entered your apartment when you were not there? Answer: __________ Did you use John’s apartment to film part of your story of living on Prospect Street? Answer: _________ Have you ever washed your laundry in John’s washing machine? Answer: __________ Has John ever washed his laundry in your washing machine? Answer: _________

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211

'Questions' – opening his mail (cont.)

Questions Have you ever opened John’s mail? If yes, how often? Why did you open his mail? Did you return his mail immediately? How did you return it? In person? Did you return the opened envelop to the mail box? Did you open John’s door and place the opened envelope on the floor or stairs? Were some of the mail, envelopes bills, collection notices, IRS issues, utilities, purchases, Late notices, Insurance, bank statements. etc. Did you read any of the information in the envelopes you opened? How soon did you place the envelope in John’s apartment steps after it was opened? Have you often opened the door to John’s apartment when he is not at home? If yes, what was your purpose? Why did you do this? How often do you think you have opened John’s apartment for any reason? Has John ever opened your mail? Has John ever entered your apartment without you being present? Did you use John’s apartment for a setting to film for a story of your living on Prospect Street? Was it a video for your story of living on Prospect Street in Alton? If yes, how many rooms did you use to film the video? Bedroom? Hall? Dinning room?

batch 20 · p.99↑ Contents
212

Real-estate concepts: immobility, indestructibility

Physical Characteristics: Immobility, indestructibility, and uniqueness

Laws affecting Real Estate

1 U.S. Constitution

2. Laws passed by Congress

3. Rules of the regulatory agencies 4 State Constitutions

5.State statutes

6 Local ordinances

7 Common law

Types of Housing Apartment Complexes Condominium

A cooperative

Planned Unit Developments Retirement Communities High-rise developments/mixed-use developments Converted use properties Manufactured housing Modular homes

Time shares

Basic Costs of owning a home: /Principal, Investment/Taxes/Insurance – PITI Current market value — property debt = equity Capital Gains exclusion: $250,000 = single, $500,000 = Married

1031 Exchange: Transfer of consideration to “like kind” — tax is deferred…

Agency: “Do my actions and words represent my client’s best interests?” The answer should always be “Yes.”

Illinois is a designated agency state (Real Estate License Act(

Agency: A relationship in which a broker or licensee, represents a consumer by the consumer’s consent, whether express or implied, in a real property transaction. Brokerage Agreement: a written or oral agreement for brokerage services is provided to a consumer in return for compensation or the right to receive compensation from another. Client — a person who is being represented by a license.

Consumer — a person or entity seeking or receiving licensed activities, but for whom the licensee is performing ministerial acts

Customer — a person who is not being represented by a licensee, but for whom the licensee is performing ministerial acts.

Ministerial Acts — acts that a licensee my perform for a consumer that are informative or clerical in nature and do not rise to the level of active representation on behalf of a consumer.

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213

Realtor Letter ('For Goodness Sakes!')

Shun Coens – Ql herp actin (lean

For goodness sakes! We have talked to each other several times. With both of us being Realtors we may one-day meet Jay Leno, or whomever, who wants to buy the property we have listed. For sure Realtors run into all sorts of people and personalities, many who we will never meet. Sometimes though, we do. Like at a library.

It was the same way in the Civil War. Uniquely, there was no language or physical barrier to the North and South and people almost freely traveled to one land and the other without knowing they had left one or the other. So, kin fought (and sheltered) kin. I like civil stories and they abound from every encounter and in every way imaginable.

I seem to understand the war and the soldiers, both North and South, but, of course, I’m older and have studied it from my angles and visits to sites. I had far rather visit a battlefield than any museum. I will almost always meet someone there who knows someone who was there before us and a story will unfold.

On my Senior Trip (Vienna — 1958) our group visited Vicksburg for a few hours. I was just a pup, but would have been war age had it been 1863. I was likely more interested in the pretty classmates than the battlefield. However, I do recall the Illinois Monument and finding the name Levi B. Casey on the interior wall of the monument. It was near the name of Albert Cashier, a private who was from Chicago. There is a very unusual story about Private Cashier. Jenny, who was from Ireland, was about to be engaged to Albert when the war in America broke out. Albert was heading home, but got sick and died before he could board a ship to America. Jenny took his name and came ‘home’ and joined the army as Albert. There’s more and you might run across it in your studies. I know more and will tell it to you if you want.

I’ve been to Vicksburg three times since 1958, My last trip was to look for Levi Burnside Casey. That is, to find where he may have been. I believe he fought his way to Vicksburg with the 31" Illinois under the command of General John Logan. I believe Levi fought at Champions Hill and again at the Big Black River just east of Vicksburg. He was camped at the north edge (the Union right wing) of Vicksburg in June of 1863, In the camp were real miners from Southern Illinois and a plan was developed to dig a tunnel under the uneven Confederate line a mere 75/150 yards away. The tunnel was easy to dig in the strange dirt (called Loesse or Loess and found only there and in Egypt — so the story goes) and finally the troops placed explosives in the tunnel. On the 26" of June the decision was made to set off the charge in the tunnel and troops were readied to spring into action and break the confused Confederate line and cause it to collapse. Then, in the chaos, the entire Union line would advance and defeat the Confederate Army.

The blast blew away many of the Confederate troops, but to their credit, they reeled but did not fold. Into the smoking crater poured the Union troops expecting to run up the other side and crush the bewildered foe. Levi Casey, a Captain, was (I believe) in the second band of troops that jumped into the melee. He had just been promoted to Major (Breveted promotion) and led his men into the caldron. There they stayed because the Confederate troops had repositioned themselves on the far wall of the crater and began shooting the Union men. They also threw hand grenades into the pit and one of them exploded near Major Casey and he was mortally wounded. He died a few days later and was later buried in the officers section of the Union cemetery there. Or so it seems. There is also a ceremonial grave for Captain Casey in the Mt. Olive Cemetery near Vienna in Johnson County Illinois.

Levi Burnside was mortally wounded in the Crater at Vicksburg, MS. A grey granite monument marks the site. His name is on it. The day I was there, almost 125 years after he died there, it was raining lightly. A few of my tears mixed with the rain. He was a hero.

batch 6 · p.25↑ Contents
214

Realtor letter — 'For goodness sakes!'

For goodness sakes! We have talked to each other several times. With both of us being Realtors we may one-day meet Jay Leno, or whomever, who wants to buy the property we have listed. For sure Realtors run into all sorts of people and personalities, many who we will never meet. Sometimes though, we do. Like at a library.

It was the same way in the Civil War. Uniquely, there was no language or physical barrier to the North and South and people almost freely traveled to one land and the other without knowing they had left one or the other. So, kin fought (and sheltered) kin. I like civil stories and they abound from every encounter and in every way imaginable.

I seem to understand the war and the soldiers, both North and South, but, of course, I’m older and have studied it from my angles and visits to sites. I had far rather visit a battlefield than any museum. I will almost always meet someone there who knows someone who was there before us and a story will unfold.

On my Senior Trip (Vienna — 1958) our group visited Vicksburg for a few hours. I was just a pup, but would have been war age had it been 1863. I was likely more interested in the pretty classmates than the battlefield. However, I do recall the Illinois Monument and finding the name Levi B. Casey on the interior wall of the monument. It was near the name of Albert Cashier, a private who was from Chicago. There is a very unusual story about Private Cashier. Jenny, who was from Ireland, was about to be engaged to Albert when the war in America broke out. Albert was heading home, but got sick and died before he could board a ship to America. Jenny took his name and came ‘home’ and joined the army as Albert. There’s more and you might run across it in your studies. I know more and will tell it to you if you want.

I’ve been to Vicksburg three times since 1958. My last trip was to look for Levi Burnside Casey. That is, to find where he may have been. I believe he fought his way to Vicksburg with the 31* Ilinois under the command of General John Logan. I believe Levi fought at Champions Hill and again at the Big Black River just east of Vicksburg. He was camped at the north edge (the Union right wing) of Vicksburg in June of 1863. In the camp were real miners from Southern Illinois and a plan was developed to dig a tunnel under the uneven Confederate line a mere 75/150 yards away. The tunnel was easy to dig in the strange dirt (called Loesse or Loess and found only there and in Egypt — so the story goes) and finally the troops placed explosives in the tunnel. On the 26" of June the decision was made to set off the charge in the tunnel and troops were readied to spring into action and break the confused Confederate line and cause it to collapse. Then, in the chaos, the entire Union line would advance and defeat the Confederate Army.

The blast blew away many of the Confederate troops, but to their credit, they reeled but did not fold. Into the smoking crater poured the Union troops expecting to run up the other side and crush the bewildered foe. Levi Casey, a Captain, was (I believe) in the second band of troops that jumped into the melee. He had just been promoted to Major (Breveted promotion) and led his men into the caldron. There they stayed because the Confederate troops had repositioned themselves on the far wall of the crater and began shooting the Union men, They also threw hand grenades into the pit and one of them exploded near Major Casey and he was mortally wounded. He died a few days later and was later buried in the officers section of the Union cemetery there. Or so it seems. There

is also a ceremonial grave for Captain Casey in the Mt. Olive Cemetery near Vienna in Johnson County Illinois.

Levi Burnside was mortally wounded in the Crater at Vicksburg, MS. A grey granite monument marks the site. His name is on it. The day I was there, almost 125 years after he died there, it was raining lightly. A few of my tears mixed with the rain. He was a hero,

batch 11 · p.44↑ Contents
215

Realty contacts: Lausche & Associates / Ted Prehn Properties

Lausche & Associates Realty 117 W. 34

Alton, IL 62002

465-2966

Email

Ted Prehn Propeties 4130 Alby

Alton, IL 62002 467-1600

Email

Wooff Realtors 108 W. Bethalto Bethalto, IL 62012 377-8206

Email

Wooff Realtors 3200 James Terrace Alton, IL 62002 463-9797

email

batch 9 · p.51↑ Contents
216

Realty leadership pitch (Coldwell Banker; quotes himself)

REAL LEADERSHIP. It’s earned, not assumed.

It’s achieved and never accidental.

“There isn’t a company or organization that comes close to what we do for our agents, clients, general public and our industry.” John Casey

Reasons to choose Coldwell Banker Commercial Brown Realtors for your commercial real estate needs.

Strength Quality Commitment Scope

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217

Realty memo: building-integrity / listing concern (July 2016)

JULY 29, 2016 2227 Vandalia, Collinsville, IL 62036

Problem and / or concern: Building integrity. Only a few showings have been made since the listing was taken in April. The feed-back (although limited in scope) from both agents and clients was not favorable. The price was questioned also, believing it was too high. One agent believed her client was considering an offer, but it was in the range of $175K to under $200K. | asked the other agent and was only told that he thought the price was too high and did not make additional comments.

| had two showings to a church group (it fit their location wants). There was considerable interest, but the group was mixed about the condition of the building and concern about costs to fix it up. The size was also larger than the church group said they needed. | discount the size concern, but not the condition. Two other calls, one a medical facility, and a commercial insurance company thought the size was much too large for their operation and they did not want to be a landlord for another tenant.

| suggest drawing up a Contract to Purchase and present it to the church group. It’s been 4 days since they visited the property and | was told that “we’ll get back to you.” The group said they have been actively looking for a property to relocate their small congregation (55-60). It is not likely to grow according to the pastor.

My suggestion is to incorporate some of the costs potential sellers anticipates will be needed to prepare the building for the intended use of the property. Adding this to the sales agreement could make a strong case for them to consider the building. The pastor of the church said he thought it might take $50,000 to improve the building and property. | think that is too high. I’m thinking range of $10,000 – $15,000. The defects don’t appear severe or costly to correct. However, | am not a contractor, an engineer or am qualified to give a close approximate to fix several areas noted.

For discussion:

1. Determine a NET PROCEEDS OF A SALE that is acceptable to the Sellers. e Sale price, less Commission, less costs of preparation of closing documents, …

If costs are expected to be $15,000 add that to the Net Proceeds to submit an offer to sell the property. If the acceptable Net is $225 without the costs, the new Net would be $210,000. The contract would need to be written to recognize the requirement of a qualified bid to be submitted and approved for the costs. Jumping ahead, at closing the costs would (could) be escrowed by the title company or lender and disbursed when the project to update/improve was completed. An appraisal could be made on “as improved status”.

Building the costs into the sale should be transparent to all parties. The effect of this is to reduce the costs of the Buyer. The Buyer will still have (if it is financed) a down payment requirement. The Seller or potential Buyer (if it is the church) appears to have cash available to cover the costs.

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Realty: 'As Is Rarely Is' — sellers vs. buyers

AS IS RARELY IS.

Sellers want to sell their property just as it is with no changes (the buyer can take it or leave it), but there needs to be flexibility and reasonable considerations.

A broom clean building is an important consideration. Not all THINGS can or should be removed in some buildings, and that is when the building will be used for the same purpose as the present or most recent owner. A professional office that has desks, chairs, decorations, file cabinets, etc or equipment that can be used by the buyer may make a difference in a transaction.

Some items (I won’t try to describe them) need to be removed completely for a multiple use building when feasible. Selling goods, having an auction, or making contributions to organizations are some of the methods to move the items at little or no expense of the seller/owner and it may provide some income. Do it right away and, if possible before the listing is made and the property is FOR SALE. Then it is OK to use AS IS.

Owners/Sellers need to be aware of the inspections that may be required by the potential buyer which may have influence on the transaction, notably, financing. A commercial building inspection is a primary action. The cost is, but not always, paid by the buyer and comes after the negotiation and sale agreement WITH CONDITIONS OR COVENANTS. Inspection costs have a wide range ($2500 +- is not uncommon). Pest, Radon, Roof, Plumbing, Electrical, inspections may also be required.

If the buyer has made regular or recent updates on the building obtaining a copy or a statement of the work/replacement, etc is helpful to provide to the potential buyer (through agent).

batch 9 · p.81↑ Contents
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Realty: accepting a listing — commitment to terms

Original page 1 — Realty: accepting a listing — commitment to terms

His original page — tap to enlarge

Accepting a listing is a commitment to honor and obey all terms of the agreement and to market the property with the resources and knowledge of the agent and collective knowledge of the agency to obtain the listing price.

I want the seller and me to agree on a listing price and term to allow the property to be exposed to the market to as many potential buyers as our agency can find.

Pricing is not a science but it typically has a logical process to determine a listing price. It is typical to allow room for negotiation and movement in the market.

A price developed by the combination of the sellers and the agent is desired. A price should not be determined or altered by a commission.

Each seller has a different agenda. The first job of an agent is to determine what the seller is trying to accomplish and help them.

Questions and comments:

Who makes the decisions?

How will the decision be made?

What is the motivation to sell?

How realistic is the pricing?

What is the basis for pricing?

Are there examples/comparables available?

Compare / rate the property according to available data. Can the property be marketed to the seller’s expectations? How large is the prospective buyer market?

What is the “Best Case – probable case — worst case” What is the time frame for completing a transaction? What are the problems with the property?

Is there any exclusion to the listing?

What is the commission schedule?

Find us at: * Coldwellbankercommercial.com 618-692-7290

Realtor.com

Brownrealtors.com

LoopNet.com (Worlds largest commercial listing service)

Listserve.com (A commercial listing service)

Find me at jcasey134@gmail.com Or call 670-5646

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Realty: Authorization to Lease agreement (addendum)

Addendum to the Listing Agreement AUTHORIZATION TO LEASE AGREEMENT

This Agreement To Lease is made this day of , 2016 by and between (Owner — Lessor) and Coldwell Banker Commercial, Brown Realtors, for the following property:

25 A, Professional Park Drive, Maryville, IL 62026

Suite A, approximately 1500 SF

Lease Terms:

Rate: $1,500 Gross per month

The Owner will be responsible for taxes building insurance and common area maintenance

Lessee will be responsible for utilities (heat, air, water) and insurance on personal items (furniture, equipment)

Term: Three (3) year minimum.

If within the term of this Agreement, Broker or Owner or anyone else introduces to Owner, or Owner otherwise meets, a lessee ready, willing and able to lease the Property for rental or terms acceptable to Owner, or if within an additional period of six (6) months following termination of this Agreement, the property is leased to anyone introduced to Owner by Broker, Owner will pay Broker a leasing commission computed as a percentage of the aggregate leasing amount to be charged for the initial lease term, as follows: six percent (6%) for leases having an initial term of five (5) years or less; four (4%) for years six (6) through 10.

This Agreement shall be effective:

Non-Discrimination: The parties understand and agree this it is illegal for either party to refuse to display or sell the property to any person on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, martial status, familial status, physical or mental handicap, military status or unfavorable discharge from military or any other class protected by article 3 of the Illinois Human Rights Act.

This Agreement shall be binding upon the successors, heirs and assigns of the parties hereto. All commissions and charges due hereunder are a lien on the property until paid in full.

COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL OWNER: BROWN REALTORS

Date: Date.

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221

Recommendation letter for Shan the hairstylist ('To whom it may concern')

To whom it may concern:

This is a little bit about Shan Casey. Please read it.

Before he was born, I wrote a poem to him welcoming him to a world of mystery and adventure fraught with challenge, change, and growth. Before he was eighteen I wrote another poem to him describing how wonderful it was for me that he was in my life and what he meant to me. My, how he had grown in this short span of time. I'm writing another poem, but it isn't finished yet.

Shanon is a marvelous human being. He is quite good at what he does. He is very good at being someone people like to be around. He does things easily, or seems to. He has courage and confidence. He wants to make a difference in the world and I know he will. He is my mentor.

His skills and knowledge of hair design and care is excellent. His style is better than that. His clients like Shan to create, style, and entertain them. He is innovative, creative and spontaneous. His clientele is his resume. He cuts and styles my hair and I get compliments on it. I am sixty!

He always gets along with the staff he is around. They respect him because he treats everyone with respect and dignity.

Please give him an opportunity to tell you about himself and if you believe he is qualified; hire him to be on your staff. If you want me to tell you more about him, I will, but it will probably embarrass him and myself too, with the stuff I can say about him. Call me.

Thank you,

John Casey Shan's dad.

batch 8 · p.4↑ Contents
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'Reference to Tim' – the porch rail (a note)

Reference to Tim The porch: A gap in the rail was Patched by Tim. No further action. The rear window in the anti room (near back stairs} About a month ago I mentioned that it was not working to Tim. He said he would look at it. Today is 7/27) No further action. hedge trimmer: Tim asked me if it was mine and I said yes. I offered it to him to borrow. I called Tim on Thursday evening (aprox time 5:00 P.M. to request a meeting. (July 15, 2022) No reply- today is July 27, 2022. Rent check for $545 was delivered to Tim’s home yesterday, July 26, 2022. No acknowledgement. 7/27/2022

batch 20 · p.179↑ Contents
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Relationship & Communication Questionnaire

The original page will appear here.

batch 36 · p.p.10↑ Contents
224

Remarks by Broker/Agent – John Casey (realty)

Remarks by Broker/Agent — John Casey – 670-5646

Call me or your Realtor for information or to see this 2906 SF. brick commercial building in Maryville, IL. It is located along I] Rte. 162 at the entrance of Maryville Professional Park one block east of the intersection of Rte. 162 and Rte. 159, Anderson Hospital is % mile east. Built in 2003; it is a solid building, attractive, well located, has good visibility and common area parking, It has several offices and open spaces, two restrooms, two HVAC systems, two main entrances and two side doors. There is a kitchen area and a storage room. It is wired for internet. It is clean and like-new with freshly pained walls and ceilings. Several photos are available on MLS, realtor.com, coldwellbankercommercial realtors.com, YouTube, Zillo, Trulia, and other intemet programs. It is vacant and can close quickly. It is versatile and adaptable for many uses: Medical /health care, law, insurance, etc. The MOTIVATED SELLER set A MOTIVATED PRICE You be the judge of that. Don’t wait if you are interested, call soon. It is not available to show on Sundays. I will try to accommodate your reguest for seeing the property any time. Thanks.

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Sale listing + sketch — oval oak full-length mirror

ON Line INformation 5/[14 or 19]/21 If new — Price range — $325–$400.00 Used — Excellent Condition — $200–$250.00 Oval-Shaped full-Length mirror framed in Solid OAK. Original Blond Color — never Stained. Excellent Condition. $80.00

batch 26 · p.10↑ Contents
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Sale listing + sketch — rectangular oak mirror

Wall-mount on Stand against a wall. Very heavy mirror — Solid OAK frame — Blond. If new, Price range: $200–$300. Rectangular mirror framed in Solid OAK. Excellent Condition. Shows no age. Used price range — $100.00–$150.00. $80.00

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Sale listing — solid-wood library/writing table

Solid Wood — Stained — Rectangle Table, With strong Legs. I've had it for years and used it as a writing table — Reading table — dining table — [keeping?] & Computer. Looks good with Books and a Lamp on it. Library Table. It's likely been Stained several times. I Liked its Looks. It [needs?] a trained, Skilled Wood Worker to make it Sturdier.

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'Saturday Customer' (real-estate vignette)

It’s Saturday morning and I’m a bit put out with a prospective customer. Should I be? I don’t usually work on Saturday but I agreed to meet with this prospect. He went Bankrupt last year and has a one month job, no money in the bank, and wants to buy a home. Oh well, I'll try to help him along. It’s about 10 and I have been on the domestic job for hours picking up and cleaning up — you know, house work. Took dishes out of the dishwasher and put some dirty ones in. Hung up about 10 pieces of clothing and several odds and ends were out of place. Took out the garbage, mostly papers, and put oil on my old desk and chairs. Made a bit of coffee, had some cereal and worked on my stand-up comedy stuff. Called my computer guy and a buddy to play golf with at 11:00. I will have to go to the bank and cash a check for today and tomorrow. | played a few CDs, Beethoven, and a rock group. How’s that for taste?

The little pet car is back in it’s stable and was always fine. It was no problem picking it up the next morning. I should trade, sell or store it.

The sadness over Edie will be with me a long time, but I will not dwell on it. The inspiration she gave me during the last few years matched the full lifetime she was behind me and supported me. I will use her encouragement to move forward, just as she would have done had I preceded her.

A friend, his large 7 year-old son, and I found 100 golf balls on Sunday. Never have I found that many golf balls in one outing. They were nestled in leaves along a fencerow on the golf course. Many were “game balls” so now I’m ready for a fall game of golf.

A great visit with Bill changed a lot of things about my perceptions. We are all complex and that’s OK. Bill is truly an achiever. The best writer among us, he should be encouraged to write more. We could give him material and he would convert it into something good to read

The customer showed and we spent time. Good guy too.

It’s now a week plus later and I’m back to the computer. | killed a 7 point buck on Friday from about 14 yards. I hunted in Randolph (how interesting) County located west of Mt. Vernon. Jim and Kent both killed a nice buck. I expect I will spend Thanksgiving Day at Jim’s.

I don’t feel well today. A sore throat and a general feeling of not feeling well envelops me. Blahs The drive to Eldorado was being dreaded too.

My little Christmas tree is up and has been since the day after my birthday. I will turn on the lights on Friday after Thanksgiving. I bought the tree already decorated with marvelous ornaments and good lights at an auction. I just put it on a barstool and in front of the window. I may buy a present or two to put under it.

A comedy show at the Elks gave me a chance at stand up comedy. I had promised to introduce the comedians and wanted a few minutes to try my humor. Bombed big time — or little time, depending on how you see it. It was not funny except to most of my buddies who did not go. Rumor has it that John has found another “untalent.” I tried though and worked on “my humor” in front of a crowd. <a

A general feeling of being ill at ease has marked my day to day lately. I don’t feel well when I am alone or with someone. I look over the shoulder of the talker and hear nothing. The focus of the deer hunt was an exception. I’m sorry it lasted only a few hours. I am at a loss to explain how I feel

The change in my demeanor since Edie died is only noticeable to my best friends. I am quieter and reflective — more mortal. I think of her often and hear her laugh and voice in my mind. I have slept in my bed only a few times lately, preferring the couch and the din of the TV to put me to sleep. I have read about 7-10 books lately, but none on self-help. I want a change, bright lights, loud music, laughter, dancing, and water. Could be I want company too.

I will print this out and send it along with some other stuff. I certainly like to hear from mene and want you to continue to keep in touch. Thanks for reading this stuff. John

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Scott, You Can Handle It (self-talk)

Scott.

You can handle it. Your life isn’t over. You’ve got plenty in the tank. “l got this.” This doesn’t mean you have the perfect solution. | mean, come on, you live for this. It’s not always pretty. It’s not always fun but you’ve got this. You had it. Say it. “I got this!”

You’re out of control. You are always sizing people up even before you know them, predicting their character in seconds.

Uncertainty is where things happen. It’s your personal pathway. How can you go to new places, meet new friends by doing what you’ve always done? Half the time you can’t even predict. your own thoughts and feelings. Success is never certain.

The best thing you can do is the right thing and the next best thing is the wrong thing. And, the worst thing you can do is nothing,” Ted Roosevelt

Now that you’ve traveled to the end of the track in one direction it’s time to turn around and head the other way. It’s your future. It awaits you. New relationships with people you've yet to meet and places you haven't been. There are reams of tapped potential awaiting you. Disappointments, defeats, fears, don’t stop looking. Go all the way to the end. The ultimate end.

You’ll sometimes have to do things you don't like, with people you don’t like, and places you don’t care for. You'll lose money. Things will break, but you'll get through it all. Just like you have done in the past. Everything on your plate at this point is time to just another something.

You have to step up and steer your life back in the direction you want it to go. Face your problems as they come. Don’t wait until there is a bundle.

How willing are you to consider that your life is the way it is, not because of your circumstances or situation, but rather that the weight of self-talk pulls you down? Sometimes your circumstances just don’t change. What then? What happens to you? It’s not that you have to find an answer, you are the answer. Your thoughts can actually change the structure of your brain. You can steer your

thoughts. It starts with a conscious change to talk in a way that is helpful rather than harmful. We talk to ourselves a lot. Perhaps 40-50 thousands times a day our thoughts keep coming.

You're easily offended, stop now. Stop blaming luck. Stop blaming other people. Is there something wrong with your health? Don’t use the word but… every time you add the “but” you become the victim.

Stop what you’re currently doing. Don’t listen to reasons you can’t act. If you can’t stop long enough to get your life together, you obviously don’t want to change. That’s basic. Every time you think you can’t stop that’s just another excuse. You can, you can, and you will —- stop buying yourself off. Stop letting your internal condition dominate the quality of your life. Take back the wheel.

If you continue to be led by your emotions, you'll only be left with regrets. Be straight with yourself. Identify the behaviors that are holding you back.

Are you willing? Life won’t stop for your pauses. It won't stop for your confusions or fears. It will continue right along without you. Over come the whys in your life.

Don’t let your mind control you any longer. Stop letting it hold you back with it’s excuses and distractions and worries. You are not your thoughts. You are your actions. And, your actions are the only things separating you from where you are and where you want to be.

This isn’t about seizing the day. This is about seizing the moment, the hour, the day. This is about seizing your life and

staking a claim for yourself as though your life depended on it.

Because, the reality is, it does.

You started hundreds of life changing escapades but never applied them. Dammit, wake up! Here’s the thing; future you is not going to regret a lack of achievement or the absence of any one thing in your life.

Self talk. There’s a time for thinking and developing your mind. Ultimately you’ve got to step up to the plate and put what you know into action. Nothing that you read or try will make a single difference in your life, unless you act on it. You have to make the difference. Confidence won’t save you, the future is not suddenly going to improve, your worries aren’t going to suddenly disappear.

Don’t just read this and go on about your life doing the same shit over and over. Apply it. “I will do it later”. “NO. Do it now.” “I’m not smart enough.” “Cut it out.” “Stop that shit and act.” You are a champion. Happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts. Therefore guard them accordingly.

Focus on the things you can control and release yourself from worrying about what you can’t. The only thing that’s guaranteed in life is that its uncertain.

You are what you do. Change your thoughts, change your life. You change your life by doing. ACT! Simply act. Put aside your thoughts and move. Stop doing all that shit you know you shouldn’t be doing and start doing all the shit you know you should be doing. When the only thing you have left is relentlessness, use it as fuel that drives your thoughts.

Not all mountaineers make the summit. Sometimes they then turn back. Some quit and some retool and keep coming at the mountain. They love to climb. You won’t regret anything unless you take action that’s needed to change the life you want, the life you can be proud of. Successful people don’t wait. They don’t wait for inspiration to strike.

Why is it that you show more passion for your past than you do your future? People can become trapped We can create our future. Build something big. Something bigger than you have ever done. If you are truly ready to change your life, take hold of that freedom you’ve been missing.

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'Scott, you can handle it' – a pep talk to someone

Scott. You can handle it. Your life isn’t over. You’ve got plenty in the tank. “I got this.” This doesn’t mean you have the perfect solution. I mean, come on, you live for this. It’s not always pretty. It’s not always fun but you’ve got this. You had it. Say it. “I got this!” You’re out of control. You are always sizing people up even before you know them, predicting their character in seconds. Uncertainty is where things happen. It’s your personal pathway. How can you go to new places, meet new friends by doing what you’ve always done? Half the time you can’t even predict your own thoughts and feelings. Success is never certain. The best thing you can do is the right thing and the next best thing is the wrong thing. And, the worst thing you can do is nothing,” Ted Roosevelt Now that you’ve traveled to the end of the track in one direction it’s time to turn around and head the other way. It’s your future. It awaits you. New relationships with people you've yet to meet and places you haven't been. There are reams of tapped potential awaiting you. Disappointments, defeats, fears, don’t stop looking. Go all the way to the end. The ultimate end. You’ll sometimes have to do things you don't like, with people you don’t like, and places you don’t care for. You’ll lose money. Things will break, but you'll get through it all. Just like you have done in the past. Everything on your plate at this point is time to just another something. You have to step up and steer your life back in the direction you want it to go. Face your problems as they come. Don’t wait until there is a bundle. How willing are you to consider that your life is the way it is, not because of your circumstances or situation, but rather that the weight of self-talk pulls you down? Sometimes your circumstances just don’t change. What then? What happens to you? It’s not that you have to find an answer, you are the answer. Your thoughts can actually change the structure of your brain. You can steer your

batch 20 · p.22↑ Contents
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'Scott. You can handle it. Your life isn't over.'

Scott.

You can handle it. Your life isn’t over. You’ve got plenty in the tank. “I got this.” This doesn’t mean you have the perfect solution. | mean, come on, you live for this. It’s not always pretty. It’s not always fun but you’ve got this. You had it. Say it. “I got this!”

You’re out of control. You are always sizing people up even before you know them, predicting their character in seconds.

Uncertainty is where things happen. It’s your personal pathway. How can you go to new places, meet new friends by doing what you’ve always done? Half the time you can’t even predict your own thoughts and feelings. Success is never certain.

The best thing you can do is the right thing and the next best thing is the wrong thing. And, the worst thing you can do is nothing,” Ted Roosevelt

Now that you’ve traveled to the end of the track in one direction it’s time to turn around and head the other way. It’s your future. It awaits you. New relationships with people you've yet to meet and places you haven't been. There are reams of tapped potential awaiting you. Disappointments, defeats, fears, don’t stop looking. Go all the way to the end. The ultimate end.

You’ll sometimes have to do things you don't like, with people you don’t like, and places you don’t care for. You'll lose money. Things will break, but you'll get through it all. Just like you have done in the past. Everything on your plate at this point is time to just another something.

You have to step up and steer your life back in the direction you want it to go. Face your problems as they come. Don’t wait until there is a bundle.

How willing are you to consider that your life is the way it is, not because of your circumstances or situation, but rather that the weight of self-talk pulls you down? Sometimes your circumstances just don’t change. What then? What happens to you? It’s not that you have to find an answer, you are the answer. Your thoughts can actually change the structure of your brain. You can steer your

batch 13 · p.97↑ Contents
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'Self-Improvement Hints' – 'happiness comes from within'

Original page 1 — 'Self-Improvement Hints' - 'happiness comes from within'

His original page — tap to enlarge

Self improvement hints

10.

11. 12.

Happiness comes from within. To be confident you have to be happy with who you are. Be proud of what you do no matter what anyone says.

Don’t pass judgment. You don’t have to take other people down a notch in order to feel good. Don’t worry about sizing someone up.

Don’t say yes unless you really want to. Saying no is healthy.

Listen more than you speak. Actively listen instead of looking for an opportunity to speak promotes learning from others.

Speak with certainty. It is difficult to get people to listen to you if you can’t deliver your convictions with certainty.

Seek out small victories. When you have a series of small victories it can last for months and boost confidence. It rewards motivation.

Exercise. It improves your image and self esteem and gives you immediate endorphin fuel to your body.

Don’t seek attention. Don’t try to prove you’re important — focus on others. Your self worth is within you.

Do not be afraid of being wrong. Putting your opinions out there to see if it holds up helps you learn when you are right as well as when you are wrong too.

Stick your neck out. Fear doesn’t hold you back. If you don’t try they you will never succeed.

Celebrate other people. Focus outward

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. It won’t make you feel weak.

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Self-talk / focus notes — 'action over good intentions'

I will look at things differently

If I only speak about the past I will go backwards I have a hunger for more than usual

I must set my focus and protect my time

Put thoughts in writing. Question them: why shouldn’t it work? What do I need to do? Engage in focused thinking

Action is more valuable than good intentions

Do what is right as soon as I can

Be bold and courageous

Have fun, make it a priority

Take time to plan

Start with the end in mind, be a finisher

Be willing to make changes

Aim high and take risks Don’t quit after a victory, keep the forward momentum going

People are my path to success

I will qualify people before I let them in

I will distance myself from those who are negative

People will flourish according to my level of praise of them

Do not fear criticism. Whoever criticizes others to me, will criticize me to others Talk about what people want

Respect people’s freedom

Learn something from someone who knows more than I do

Give people the benefit of the doubt

Listen before I answer. Give gentle answers

Take time to rest and guard my energy

If I want something I have never had, I am gong to have to do something I’ve never done

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Seller's Property Information Sheet (realty form)

SELLER’S PROPERTY INFORMATION SHEET

Property Address: Parcel ID#:

Seller’s Name:

Seller’s Name:

Seller’s Mailing Address:

Property inclusions:

Property Exclusions:

Utility Companies: Phone: Water: Sewer: Electric Trash: Natural Gas: Internet Provider: Satellite Dish: Cable Provider: Fire Protection: Police Protection: Security System:

Sellers Signature: Date:

Sellers Signature: Date:

Listing Broker: Coldwell Banker Commercial Brown Realtors Listing Agent:

batch 15 · p.80↑ Contents
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'Send a bar of Tammy's soap to someone'

Send a bar of Tammy’s soap or cream " someone EXPECT THANK YOUS GIFT YOURSELF WITH A BAR OF TAMMY’S FABULOUS SOAP. Tammy’s honey is so good you may not want " share it. Ah, go ahead. Of course Tammy has (ee range chickens. #eir e,s are harves)d and sold at !e Farmer’s Market.

batch 20 · p.141↑ Contents
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Senior Services self-recommendation / application (PT, Meals on Wheels, wellness gym)

[Header notes, top:] "I suggested that — Letter — From sister mary Elizabeth Voss — may improve my chances to become a member"

I Recommend Mr. [Jhn?] Casey to become a member of Senior Services for physical therapy and meals on wheels. His [crossed out: "no puff up"] determination to improve his health against steep odds [crossed out] is impressive.

Along with Nutrition, and a balanced Life Style he needs to improve his body core, and gain strength development. He needs weight. The indoor wellness — gym-like center, equipment, tread mill along with a personal trainer would visit to gym — twice weekly / with personal trainer.

I would Like to be a member of Senior Services and the wellness gym.

batch 28 · p.1↑ Contents
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'Seth, I enjoyed meeting you' (a note)

Seth, I enjoyed meeting you and listening to you share stories and information. You are as impressive as a Tesla, Model 3- and more. You have a good heart battery. Your ease in talking to anyone is a solid trait that is admired. You say their name and they listen to you. People trust you and are guided by your knowledge. You don’t let them down. You have a toughness about you that ekes confidence and strength. You are not conventional. You seem to like dares, being out front, looking for opportunities. Timing is not everything, it’s everything. You will use it to catapult yourself to lofty goals and achievements. And, you will credit others for helping you. Seth, the loyalty you build will help you when you need it. A few stories and ditties are include to partially say something about the writer – myself. I like to write about real people and real events. They, I hope, reveal some of the lessons Ive learned and mentors who have helped me. Nature also taught and continues to teach me. If I pay attention. John 2/22 Thanks again for being my newest Florida friend.

batch 20 · p.115↑ Contents
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Shan letter conclusion — “Best friends for Life… Love, Dad”

You'll need best friends. Frodo Knew that. Han Solo Knew that. You Know That. I Knew that too. So here we are, you and I. Best friends for Life. You['re] pretty damn Creative. When it comes down to it, I'll tell you Know [now]. It wasn't the toys, the Clothes or the Shoes. You used Play-Dough, dinosaurs, Lego Cars and houses, and acting. You didn't Play with Cardboard boxes [or] a Sling Shot either. So, Play. Learn. Keep growing. Follow your Passions. Be Kind when you Can, tough when you need to be. Hold on to your friends. You'll be Just fine. Love, Dad

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Shan letter cont. — the embarrassments list; “all grown up”

I've wondered and worried about all the times I've embarrassed you: * wearing Shorts with Knobby Knees Showing * Insisting You go fishing with me * getting mad at your grades * wearing silly hats * wanting you to fight when you were bullied * Butting in when I didn't know S— [stuff] * Not Listening to your feelings I think you got it.

I wanted for you to find someone to Love You — who doesn't Love you for the person you are, but despite the person you are. I believe you have.

One day, I looked away for two seconds and when I turned around again, you were all grown up. Let me tell you right now: Some of the very, very, very best days of my Life have been being with You.

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Short note to 'DON' — 'you make everyone better'

DON, the outpouring of well wishing to you from everyone and everywhere has been earned by your kindness and cheer. You make everyone better. Thanks.

Kindly join us soon.

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Showing instructions (realty form)

SHOWING INSTRUCTIONS: Property:

Contact: Owner Tenant (Circle)

Confirmed Appointment Only Owners Names:. ___ Advance Notice Home Phone:_ Work Phone__ ___ Call, leave message, show Tenant Names: ___ No Appointment Necessary Home Phone:. Work Phone_ __ Vacant Pet Information:. __ Board Lock Box ___ Combo Lock Box Lock Box Location/Instructions:.

Call Listing Agent

Special Instructions:

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Six ideas if you're selling in 2017 (realty)

If you are thinking about selling your property in 2017 the following six ideas may help you.

1. Less is more in presenting your property. A buyer wants to see thier stuff in your space. Make it look spacious by removing unnecessary furniture, lamps, even pic- tures, and paintings (things). Store them in an unused or seldom used area. This lets the buyer see the proper- ty so that they can vision their own stuff in the space.

2. Determine what you think is the property’s price. Find for sale homes/properties in your neighborhood or area similar to yours and take time to review and compare them. Assess the local market trend and activity.

3. Small renovations may improve the price. Repair small things, fix leaks, remove stains, shampoo carpets, and keep your house uncluttered and clean.

4. Incentives can help close the deal. Legitimate deal sweeteners done early can improve the potential sale of a property. Consider a bonus for the selling agent /agency.

5. Serious buyers never stop the hunt. They never stop looking at properties they want or need. Follow up, keep in touch, it isn’t pushy.

6. Real estate is a local business. Knowledge of the market area is important. Know your community and it’s ameni- ties: Schools, shopping, restaurants, transportation, churches, hospitals, government, and events that make your community special.

I live at 435 1/2 Bluff Street, Alton, Il and have been

a Realtor for over 16 years and can provide residential or commercial real estate services. I’m direct and will re- spond to your questions and real estate needs.

John Casey, Broker

Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors

2205 S. State Rte. 157

Edwardsville, IL 62025

618-792-7290 johnca- sey@coldwellbanker.com cell ph: 670-5646

batch 15 · p.46↑ Contents
243

Sketch + Dr.'s report (Roxanne; “good report”; vision)

Dr's: Roxanne [Rebold?] — Primary Dr. — Good Report. Weight gain 12 — 5 Phone. Dr. — urologist — He said I was progressing — 6-mo review — Vision = Still gave me Strong [glasses]; blue. 3 Rolls of Burns Studio Tape.

batch 27 · p.12↑ Contents
244

'Snow Removal – Residential Properties' (civic)

SNOW REMOVAL – RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES Driveways. sidewalks and steps (not porches) Paved drive ways only Areas: Bluff Street at State Street to Riverview Drive Mamie Street at Bluff Street to Folds Folds at Mamie to end of Folds. Angle Street – Residential property Belleview at State Street to foot of stairs to Riverview Park. State Street at Bluff – one block north or south Snow removal will depend on accumulated snow Minimum depth two inches A leaf blower can be used for less than 2 inches

Pricing: It is determined by the time it takes to remove the snow. Example: Driveway to Street. Time to complete: 20 minutes $20* Time will be measured carefully from the start to finish Ice, or crusted snow may need to be scraped before snow can be moved $ Driveway to Street – includes steps $ Sidewalk – property lines

Early morning will be the starting time goal.

BLUFF STREET SNOW REMOVER – 2022 – 2023 Name: _______Address:______ Cell Phone________ Other phone_______ I pledge that I will be on time; prepared and ready to work for you.

Long range winter forecast for the Mid West – Cold and lots of snow. Be prepared, plan ahed.

batch 19 · p.41↑ Contents
245

Southern Illinois Rural Real Estate (business card)

Woo TeUsOPrErseseoal

$Z0Z9 TI ‘oltasprempg” LST "FA “3S *S GOTT

si10} voy UMOIg [elo1sulWIOD JeyUEg [[oMploD

a}¥ISy [voy [eany SIOUL]]] UsIYINOG

Brown Realtors

Coldwell Banker Commercial 2205 S. State Rte. 157 Edwardsville, IL 62025

batch 15 · p.88↑ Contents
246

'Special Assistant' – primary duties (job/business)

Special Assistant Primary duties: Improve information and increase speed of the it regarding the operation of Rural Development properties.

How many hours a week can you work? 20+-

What days of the week?

Assignments:

Develop computer files for each of the properties – The file should contain age, size of parcel, size of building, year built – (information about the building; exterior finish, roof style and covering, appliances, (room layout and any other details/information that is considered helpful). # units, type: 1 or 2 bedroom. (paper work kept to a minimum)

Details and information on tenants: Unit #, name of tenants, start of residence, current rent for the unit, current rate of subsidy, portion of rent paid by Rural Development.

Complete a three year, plus current year to date financial statement on each property. Computer files with lock out protection).

Complete a three year, plus current year-to-date financial statement on the combined properties. These reports will be useful for management to recognize trends, unusual figures, and managing properties.

Complete monthly P&Ls on properties and combined P&Ls

Organize and file older P&Ls (2012 and older) by year for the last 8 years (or number of years information is required to be retained). These files will be set aside for storage (discard older files)

Complete a history of furnishings, repairs, updates, etc on properties – units.

batch 13 · p.62↑ Contents
247

Story pitch to Dana Dean, KSDK TV ('Show Me St. Louis')

Dana Dean KSDK TV

St. Louis, MO Re: Story line for SHOW ME IN ST. LOUIS

Hello Dana,

My name is John Casey. I live in Alton. A few years back you did a neat story and short film for the show about a gentleman named “lefty” Grove of Godfrey, IL Lefty was a volunteer mole catcher at the Rolling Hills Golf Course. He is retired and in poor health now, but he and his family were excited and enjoyed the story you did.

Ihave more candidates that I believe lead very interesting lives and make contributions to the planet and its inhabitants.

batch 10 · p.90↑ Contents
248

Success Must Be Attracted

Success must be attracted, not pursued. Life gets better only when we get better. To attract success you have to be ready for it. If you are a positive, dynamic-living person, you will attract people who will bring opportunities to you. Or you will make the opportunities yourself.

Have you ever been stuck in the mud or snow? If you can't get out by spinning your tires what do you do? You get out and push. And if pushing doesn't work, you get someone to pull you out. You change your approach until something works to free you from whatever rut you are in. Why then, when you get stuck in life, would you just keep doing the same old thing? Some people have more ways to make money than a Chicago politician. The way to get unstuck in life is to change your approach.

Time is sneaky. Once you pass thirty-five, you no longer get twelve months out of the year. It cuts to 9 or 10 I swear! And if you don't pursue your dream with a sense of urgency, time just disappears. It does not slow down and wait for you to catch up. How can anyone waste thirty-five years? You can waste a second, then a minute, then an hour, then a day, and the days grow into weeks and here you are. It happens gradually and one day all those years will have passed by.

There will be a time in your life when you will have more yesterdays than tomorrows. What things are you going to do Today? Tomorrow? Next Week? Next Month? Next Year? The next five years? Time will go fast whether you pay attention or not. That one day I'm gonna day may never come. You have to go after your dream now! You have to live your life as if the clock is ticking because, guess what? It is ticking! And the older you get, the faster it ticks. You have to go after your dreams with an urgency.

Some people invest in wardrobes, boats, cars, whatever, but they neglect investing in their personal growth and development in the form of education, books, tapes, classes, seminars, or workshops. You must seize the moment, you must make time count by getting all you can out of each day rather than simply "getting through" the day. Are you on schedule?

Everyone wants to be a winner right now, but in truth, winning is a process in which failure plays a large role. You are expected to encounter failures that open the way to success. A high percentage of people fear failure more than their desire to succeed. I like to play people (golf mainly – but it is with all things actually) who I know can beat me because they make me reach, they make me become more creative and imaginative. Anything worth doing is worth doing badly. If you know how to do it , do it right, but if you have yet to climb the learning curve, know that is worth it to struggle and falter as you learn to get it right. Failure, can be considered low stumps that you can stand on to reach new heights. Your talents and abilities are gifts handed to you but your character is formed under fire and tested in turmoil.

If you wait for the perfect time to do something, you may have a very long wait. If you go after something with zest and conviction, you will create momentum and the world will

open up to you. Things come to you when you make your move and you are ready for it to happen. When you have a passion for something, you can start before you are ready. Keep your mind open and focused, and the way will come to you.

When I was young, my mother was upset when she caught me running with "the wrong crowd." I was only hanging out with thex.I wasn't doing the things they were doing, but she said if I stayed with those guys, eventually I would be doing those things too. She made sure that I wasn't tempted – she gave me more work, duties, more things to do. She said, "If you run with losers, you'll end up a loser." People rub off on you.

Studies show that an individual's best friends generally have nearly the same income. You know the story that you can't soar with the eagles if you flutter around with the pigeons.

Nothing can be as devastating as toxic people. They will weigh you down. You can't change people. It is a waste of time and energy to try. You can try to motivate and inspire them, but you have to be wary. If you can't bring the people in your life up, don't let them drag you down. Toxic people contribute to stress and heart attacks and strokes. Walk away from them if you can. If you are stuck working with them, take it as a signal that it is time to look somewhere else. My advise is simple: Get as far away from these people as

you possibly can. RUN. Get away. oe hcriglel fl Ff fu“

Welcome good things. When someone pays you a compliment, don't downgyade it, accept it. When some Yives you a gift, don't say, you shouldn't have" but instead sa\Good things are supposed to happen to me! Welcome good things. Life is on your side and good things are supposed to happen to you and that you are blessed and great things are coming your way because you deserve them. Be open and receptive to new ideas and listen to your first mind.

We work harder on our jobs than on our dreams. Faith, prayer, and positive expectation without work will not produce any results in life. You have got to go into action and go all out, don't hold back on yourself. When you go all out you will pass an invisible boundary and you will begin to see good things coming your way from all directions, but that only happens when you do all you can do. Some may deny that there is a power greater than all of us, but Iam not one. A. L. Williams once said, "All you can do is all you can do and all you can do is enough but make sure you do all you can do."

You can't try at life, you have to go at it with all of your spirit. You have to have juice in your life. You have to live with passion, drive, and energy. You want to make a difference because you can make a difference. You want to be unreasonable. If you want to be successful, you want to manifest yourself, you have to be unreasonable. The Wright brothers were unreasonable enough to think they could fly. The people who make it in life are the people who decide to be unstoppable.

If it is childlike to dream and to think that you can take on the world, then I advise you to become a child again. You have to be willing to do things you have never done. Because when you push yourself, you expand your talents and the opportunities for your life. Don't

follow the path of least resistance, it is not too hard and it won't take too long. If you are forty now and plan on living to be forty eight (and more) wouldn't it be better to be that age and doing what you dream of doing rather than being that age and wishing you were doing something else?

Who is going to do it for you if you don't try? What are your limits? Have you tested them lately? We are all born unique but the majority of people die as copies. Unlike gold or diamonds, you cannot bury your talents in order to preserve them. If you don't use them, you will lose them. Michael Jordan was out of basketball for a year and when he came back, he was a out of synch and rusty for the first few games. His timing was off, he was sluggish, but soon it was Michael again. He's back, because he is living his dream again. But I liked him a lot for reaching out for the year in baseball. He was stretching and that was good.

I know that I've been pushing all my life, and believe me I'm not through with life yet. Asa child, I was always talking, jabbering, always making people laugh, always saying something to make other people feel good. I was especially good at it with my seven brothers and sisters and family. I have been warned about being irreverent toward the reverend at times and was told that I was going straight to hell. But I wasn't going yet.

I had fun working at everything I did. Really. Jobs like picking apples, peaches, and hauling hay don't sound like fun, but it was. I learned to throw and getting up and down ladders and climbing into trees helped me get stronger and bolder. Hauling hay was team work and working with adults – it was my subadult years that helped me form lasting friends with grown-ups. I made some good money, $20 and $30 a week, doing those jobs.

I survived several challenging years – of training for what I am doing now. I have sold drivers license, license plates, and monuments, dug graves, worked in factories, stacked and sacked groceries, and caddied for a professional golfer. I have even managed to be a lender (first I was a collector) for over 25 years. I have been fired, sacked, reengineered, shuttled up and down, in and out, promoted, demoted, and did things I only dreamed about. But I am here to tell you folks: I survived! and John Casey is not done yet!

batch 6 · p.9–11↑ Contents
249

Success Must Be Attracted (self-improvement)

The original page will appear here.

batch 1 · p.80–82↑ Contents
250

'Success must be attracted, not pursued' (motivational, pt 1)

Original page 1 — 'Success must be attracted, not pursued' (motivational, pt 1)Original page 2 — 'Success must be attracted, not pursued' (motivational, pt 1)Original page 3 — 'Success must be attracted, not pursued' (motivational, pt 1)
1 / 3

His original — flip through the pages, tap to enlarge

Success must be attracted, not pursued. Life gets better only when we get better. To attract success you have to be ready for it. If you are a positive, dynamic-living person, you will attract people who will bring opportunities to you. Or you will make the opportunities yourself.

Have you ever been stuck in the mud or snow? If you can't get out by spinning your tires what do you do? You get out and push. And if pushing doesn't work, you get someone to pull you out. You change your approach until something works to free you from whatever rut you are in. Why then, when you get stuck in life, would you just keep doing the same old thing? Some people have more ways to make money than a Chicago politician. The way to get unstuck in life is to change your approach.

Time is sneaky. Once you pass thirty-five, you no longer get twelve months out of the year. It cuts to 9 or 10. [swear! And if you don't pursue your dream with a sense of urgency, time just disappears. It does not slow down and wait for you to catch up. How can anyone waste thirty-five years? You can waste a second, then a minute, then an hour, then a day, and the days grow into weeks and here you are. It happens gradually and one day all those years will have passed by.

There will be a time in your life when you will have more yesterdays than tomorrows. What things are you going to do Today? Tomorrow? Next Week? Next Month? Next Year? The next five years? Time will go fast whether you pay attention or not. That one day I'm gonna day may never come. You have to go after your dream now! You have to live your life as if the clock is ticking because, guess what? It is ticking! And the older you get, the faster it ticks. You have to go after your dreams with an urgency.

Some people invest in wardrobes, boats, cars, whatever, but they neglect investing in their personal growth and development in the form of education, books, tapes, classes, seminars, or workshops. You must seize the moment, you must make time count by getting all you can out of each day rather than simply "getting through" the day. Are you on schedule?

Everyone wants to be a winner right now, but in truth, winning is a process in which failure plays a large role. You are expected to encounter failures that open the way to success. A high percentage of people fear failure more than their desire to succeed. I like to play ple (golf mainly – but it is with all things actually) who I know can beat me because they make me reach, they make me become more creative and imaginative. Anything worth doing is worth doing badly. If you know how to do it , do it right, but if you have yet to climb the learning curve, know that is worth it to struggle and falter as you learn to get it right. Failure, can be considered low stumps that you can stand on to reach new heights. Your talents and abilities are gifts handed to you but your character is formed under fire and tested in turmoil.

If you wait for the perfect time to do something, you may have a very long wait. If you go after something with zest and conviction, you will create momentum and the world will

batch 16 · p.19↑ Contents
251

'Suggestion: managing a business' (v2)

Sugges&on: Managing a business requires vigilant a4en&on to all components of the business. It is customary to delegate responsibili&es to individual areas and to receive reports and accoun&ng of those ac&vi&es. When the financial informa&on on the apartments is finished I recommend a mee&ng with your staff, either individually or all of the staff. Purpose: Inform them of the status of the business and importance of accurate and &mely informa&on flowing to you. Recap recent events / ma4ers of the business and their importance. Keep it short and without details. “We improved ________ recently” “We have been in business since ______ and have been providing excellent housing for elderly and disabled people of our community, of which I am deeply proud. The community leaders and residents of Jerseyville, Brighton, Royal Lakes and Hardin are thankful for our presence, and you can be proud of your contribu&on to that endeavor.” This mee&ng can be informal and held at lunch &me (take an extra hour for lunch) or dinner at a banquet hall, mee&ng room, or any where you choose. If you wish, inform them of your future plans and goals, both personal and professional. “I want to slow down,” may be enough. A business mee&ng is recommended with the key personnel. Go over the financial statements YTD with a4en&on to unusual figures or changes from the previous quarter or the previous year. This is a business mee&ng and you want facts and figures, ideas, problems discussed, direc&ons to take, changes needed. Big picture views and not minute details. Schedule a mee&ng every quarter with key people. You are not a micro manager (I like that about you) but a mee&ng requires some thinking and that can be good. The “I ma4er” is important for any staff member. At the end of the third quarter again review financial statements and ask that budget planning be a focus of key personnel. Set a &me for the budget to be prepared. Have an office party at the end of the year. “Hooray, we made another remarkable year!” A suggested mee&ng with your Legal partner and Accoun&ng partner is recommended. Explain your goals, both personal (to the degree you choose) and your business. Review ma4ers of their exper&se. They are your confiden&al and expert partners. They have an interest in what you do and how you run your business and how they can help you reach your goals. They will have insights and knowledge that will help you. A[er mee&ng with legal and accoun&ng I suggest you meet with your key man (your nephew) to talk about your goals, and his. Sharing all of the financial informa&on with him would be a start and reviewing ma4ers that stand out, like jumps/downs in figures. The purpose of this mee&ng is to learn what he wants and to help him buy your business and what steps to take and how long of a process it will take. Just what is he thinking and can he do it? A posi&ve approach to him, I believe is a good thing. If a person is planning on a big event he/she will prepare for it. He is informed, experienced, knowledgeable and mo&vated. He has the most to gain or to lose if the business is sold to someone else. He needs to make a plan, as you have, to follow. His risk is big, but so is yours. You can’t con&nue to go-along and let things happen (they will) and expect a rosy outcome. Can you? Key personnel at Rural Development can be very helpful to you and a future buyer of your apartments. You have a great rela&onship with many of them and they have helped you for years. A visit with them is recommended. Sharing your goals and plans is a good thing to do. They have a tremendous interest in your apartments and you.

batch 20 · p.55↑ Contents
252

'Suggestion: managing a business…' (advice, v1)

Sugges&on: Managing a business requires vigilant a4en&on to all components of the business. It is customary to delegate responsibili&es to individual areas and to receive reports and accoun&ng of those ac&vi&es. When the financial informa&on on the apartments is finished I recommend a mee&ng with your staff, either individually or all of the staff. Purpose: Inform them of the status of the business and importance of accurate and &mely informa&on flowing to you. Recap recent events / ma4ers of the business and their importance. Keep it short and without details. “We improved ________ recently” “We have been in business since ______ and have been providing excellent housing for elderly and disabled people of our community, of which I am deeply proud. The community leaders and residents of Jerseyville, Brighton, Royal Lakes and Hardin are thankful for our presence, and you can be proud of your contribu&on to that endeavor.” This mee&ng can be informal and held at lunch &me (take an extra hour for lunch) or dinner at a banquet hall, mee&ng room, or any where you choose. If you wish, inform them of your future plans and goals, both personal and professional. “I want to slow down,” may be enough. A business mee&ng is recommended with the key personnel. Go over the financial statements YTD with a4en&on to unusual figures or changes from the previous quarter or the previous year. This is a business mee&ng and you want facts and figures, ideas, problems discussed, direc&ons to take, changes needed. Big picture views and not minute details. Schedule a mee&ng every quarter with key people. You are not a micro manager (I like that about you) but a mee&ng requires some thinking and that can be good. The “I ma4er” is important for any staff member. At the end of the third quarter again review financial statements and ask that budget planning be a focus of key personnel. Set a &me for the budget to be prepared. Have an office party at the end of the year. “Hooray, we made another remarkable year!” A suggested mee&ng with your Legal partner and Accoun&ng partner is recommended. Explain your goals, both personal (to the degree you choose) and your business. Review ma4ers of their exper&se. They are your confiden&al and expert partners. They have an interest in what you do and how you run your business and how they can help you reach your goals. They will have insights and knowledge that will help you. A[er mee&ng with legal and accoun&ng I suggest you meet with your key man (your nephew) to talk about your goals, and his. Sharing all of the financial informa&on with him would be a start and reviewing ma4ers that stand out, like jumps/downs in figures. The purpose of this mee&ng is to learn what he wants and to help him buy your business and what steps to take and how long of a process it will take. Just what is he thinking and can he do it? A posi&ve approach to him, I believe is a good thing. If a person is planning on a big event he/she will prepare for it. He is informed, experienced, knowledgeable and mo&vated. He has the most to gain or to lose if the business is sold to someone

batch 20 · p.53↑ Contents
253

Summit Springs Subdivision (v2)

Summit Springs Subdivision, Fairview Heights, IL

Only 28 building lots remain in this subdivision located in the west area of FH. It’s convenient to I-64 and shopping Purchase price for all 28 lots – $476,000 ($17,000) each. Individual lots are priced At $23,000 each. Multiple lots available Buyer’s can choose their own builder.

Agents: register your clients with

COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL BROWN REALTORS -— 618-692-7290

Summit Springs Subdivision, Fairview Heights, IL

Only 28 building lots remain in this subdivision located in the west area of FH. It’s convenient to I-64 and shopping Purchase price for all 28 lots – $476,000 ($17,000) each. Individual lots are priced At $23,000 each. Multiple lots available Buyer’s can choose their own builder.

Agents: register your clients with COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL BROWN REALTORS — 618-692-7290

Summit Springs Subdivision, Fairview Heights, IL

Only 28 building lots remain in this subdivision located in the west area of FH. It’s convenient to I-64 and shopping Purchase price for all 28 lots – $476,000 ($17,000) each. Individual lots are priced At $23,000 each. Multiple lots available Buyer's can choose their own builder.

Agents: register your clients with COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL BROWN REALTORS -— 618-692-7290

batch 16 · p.25↑ Contents
254

Summit Springs Subdivision, Fairview Heights (realty, v1)

Summit Springs Subdivision, Fairview Heights, IL

Only 28 building lots remain in this subdivision located in the west area of FH. It’s convenient to I-64 and shopping Purchase price for all 28 lots – $476,000 ($17,000) each. Individual lots are priced At $23,000 each. Multiple lots available Buyer's can choose their own builder.

Agents; register your clients with

COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL BROWN REALTORS -— 618-692-7290

Summit Springs Subdivision, Fairview Heights, IL

Only 28 building lots remain in this subdivision located in the west area of FH. It’s convenient to I-64 and shopping Purchase price for all 28 lots – $476,000 ($17,000) each. Individual lots are priced At $23,000 each. Multiple lots available Buyer’s can choose their own builder.

Agents: register your clients with COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL BROWN REALTORS – 618-692-7290

Summit Springs Subdivision, Fairview Heights, IL

Only 28 building lots remain in this subdivision located in the west area of FH. It’s convenient to I-64 and shopping Purchase price for all 28 lots – $476,000 ($17,000) each. Individual lots are priced At $23,000 each. Multiple lots available Buyer's can choose their own builder.

Agents: register your clients with COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL BROWN REALTORS – 618-692-7290

batch 16 · p.24↑ Contents
255

Thank-you to a Farmer's Market vendor

Thank you for your participation as a vendor at Alton’s Farmer’s Market. I sincerely appreciate your participation. It’s important to our community. My wish is for you to be successful as that will go a long way to make Alton successful. Thanks again for what you do and what you bring here. David Goins, Mayor City of Alton, IL Thank you for your participation as a vendor at Alton’s Farmer’s Market. I sincerely appreciate your participation. It’s important to our community. My wish is for you to be successful as that will go a long way to make Alton successful. Thanks again for what you do and what you bring here. David Goins, Mayor City of Alton, IL

batch 19 · p.99↑ Contents
256

'Thanks – over the next few days we will…' (realty)

Thanks

e Over the next few days, we will:

¢ Verify information regarding the property

¢ Take exterior and interior photos

¢ Place information on brownrealtors.com

¢ Place information on Realtor.com, List serve, LoopNet ¢ Submit information to Multiple Listing Service (MLS) e Prepare Property information flyers

¢ Provide information to Realtors, clients, customers, and staff regarding your property and listing

« Schedule showings and accompany clients/agents ¢ pre-qualify and recognize prospective buyers ¢ Be available to answer questions and provide information

Continue to sharpen awareness of opportunities and act upon them. Keep in touch with you and welcome your calls and comments.

batch 16 · p.36↑ Contents
257

The 'Best friends for life' letter — 'Shan, my life was about nothing…'

Shan, my life was about nothing for almost thirty years. But then your mother came along and then… You came along and for the next two decades — and I'd check if you're both breathing before I went back to sleep. Can you grasp that?

I'm not afraid of saying I love you.

Even when you didn't play baseball or went to hunt or fish, it's okay. You meant to make models, the Titanic, build model cars, Lego communities, play wild music or wear crazy tee shirts. Maybe I did understand that putting pressure on you to do my things would push you away.

They say that sooner or later the majority of men turn into their fathers. But that isn't true. I went much better for you.

Your grandfathers were different than you and also me. It's likely that those men made a mistake or two during their own parenting. I know I have.

I've wondered and worried about all the times I've embarrassed you: * Wearing shorts with knobby knees showing * Insisting you go fishing with me * Going mad if your grades [slipped] * Wearing silly hats * Wanting you to fight when you were bullied * Butting in when I didn't know s— * Not listening to your feelings I think you got it.

I wanted for you to find someone to love you who doesn't love you for the person you are, but despite the person you are. I believe you have.

One day I looked away for two seconds and when I turned around you were all grown up. Let me tell you right now. Some of the very, very best days of my life have been being with you.

You'll need best friends. Frodo knew that. Han Solo knew that. You know that. I know that too. So here we are, you and I. Best friends for life.

You're pretty damn creative when it comes down to it, I'll have you know. It wasn't the toys, the clothes or the shoes. You used Play Dough, dinosaurs, Lego cars and houses and acting. You didn't play with cardboard boxes a single time either.

So play. Learn. Keep growing. Follow your passions. Be kind when you can, tough when you need to be. Hold on to your friends. You'll be just fine.

Love, Dad

batch 8 · p.33–35↑ Contents
258

The 'Joy' Correspondence (2004)

Yahoo! Mail – jreasey103040@yahoo.com

Yahoo! My Yahoo! Mail

YAHOO! Mail®

Page 1 of 10

Welcome,

jrcasey103040 vou. – ;

BB G33 ARATE BEY?

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Calendar ~ | Notepad ~ jrcasey103040@yahoo.com

Check Mail Compose Search Mail |

Free Camera Phone AT&T Wireless

Folders [Add – Edit] Inbox (4) Draft Sent Bulk [Empty] Trash

My Folders [Hide]

Favorties Po It's Free. Check your Credit.

@ Alert! $200K loan for $331/month!

Get 2.9%* at U—! RateMyMortgage

a 2.9% Home Loan 4 FREE OFFERS

http://us.f609.mail.yahoo.com/ym/ShowLetter?MsgId=3530_1932720_99909_1250_804…

Mail Upgrades – Mail Options

Previous | Next | Back to Messages Printable View – Full Hee

Delete Reply ~ Forward ~| Spam

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Move…

From: Lonely_Julietiam@talkmatch.com Paadd to Address Book To: "jrcasey103040@yahoo.com" <jrcasey103040@yahoo.com> Date: Thu, 02 Sep 2004 07:50:29 -0500

Subject: John … Joy here …..

Lue, Qre, oun Guat Nan0.7 Dear John Casey,

| received your 'stories' in the mail last evening. | was rushing home to get ready to be at a speaking engagement in Springfield by 7:00. | grabbed the mail, tossed it in the car, and headed north.

On the drive there, | pulled a couple of your poems fron the envelope, propped them on the wheel, and read as drove up I-55. Suddenly … and | must say … it did come as a sudden surprise … | stopped reading, becau: | realized what | was doing….

| was reading good stuff … stuff that deserved far more than a perusal.

| need to apologize to you, John. | really wasn't expecti

what you ‘put out’. I'm not just exactly sure what | was expecting, but … what | was not expecting was for your

09/02/2004

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writing to be quite that good. Forgive me, my friend.

| made my 'speech' on time (I do verbally what you do o paper), and then … | sat in the parking lot reading by m visor light probably half of your work. | went back immediately and reread certain ones … simply because knew | was reading … something that touched somethil within me.

| drove home (all 70 miles of it), took a quick shower, art4 went to bed with your work. Finished the rest there (ev 24 though the hour was very late).

Tonight, | anticipate coming home from work and giving. the pieces the slow and perceptive reading they deserv ~ | look forward to that, John.

Again, John… | just wasn't expecting really good stuff. is always exciting when one is surprised. It is always exciting to read … good stuff.

| love your style. Unstilized. Flowing. No restraints. You” very own. John Casey's stamp and … my seal of approval.

Thanks, John … thanks a bunch. It was, and will be aga-~ a joy to read your 'stories'. Your friend was right … favorites WOULD be hard to choose. Several, however could have been right from my soul. You have a gift, John … | think you know that from things you have said

Share the gift, John … | was blessed by just ‘looking in’ your "Looking in” ….

Have a grand and glorious day, John, and be gentle on yourself.

Love, JOY

caseyJR134@talkmatch.com wrote: Joy, you must give yourself a new on-line name. Lonely isn't

right for you. We are our first names.

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| wrote three poems this morning. All are about characters. I'll try to give

them out tonight. They will bring a smile and a deeper reflection of themselves

because | "Looked in."

Sure, you can come to my porch party and will get the invitation as soon as

it is scheduled. | am thinking of leaving Match.com and here is another email.

Focusoneone@yahoo.com.

You have to write me when you get the package. Write in the margins if you wish, like my teacher would have done. John

Lonely_Julietiam@talkmatch.com wrote: Dear John,

| would LOVE to hear some stories. If you are sending hardcopy, send them to

JOY McCLURE, RR1 BOX 24, BINGHAM, IL, 62011-9711

| shall look forward to receiving them. Obviously, you thrive on the stories born of ‘local color’. Tim and Buck surely provided you volumes of ideas and sentiments for just such. Do you go out looking for ‘characters' to fill your stories or do they just come to YOU or … | would imagine you are one of those rare people who sees a story within, behind, and about each person you meet. A true gift.

| was just conversing with a gentleman online who said, "To know me would take a 1000 stories!" | liked that. He's right, you know. The web of human complexity is what you see in people you meet… most others simply see … people.

| love to sit in airports making up stories about the people there … who they are, why they are flying, where they are flying, whom they will meet on the other end, etc., etc. Often | take pictures very unobtrusively; then, | use those pictures in my classes to encourage creativity. | am usually disappointed in my students. As | said, we are

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quickly strangling creativity with all the reality/ virtual reality toys and shows in which we are drowning our kids. | get really excited about a truly creative young person. | have not been excited in a while …..

Now | am excited about a creative ‘old’ person ©, and | shall look forward to hearing from him.

JOYfully … JOY

PS. How do | get invited to one of your porch parties? Maybe | could come with Tim and Buck.

Hello. | saw Tim and Buck on Sunday and they became my friends. | may invite them to my next porch party. They play blues and country. Buck is blind, tim isn't. Tim has 13 french harps on his belt (I can't spell harmonica) and Buck is a guitar picker and ballad singer. They drink beer and smoke during their sessions. Tim said after one of his lungs was removed, he cut his smoking in half. Tim & Buck – two good guys.

Sunday was filled. | didn't see your message until

today. | played a bit of golf (7:45 game) and not Set goodly until | woke up and focused. And, after a par al quick lunch, | took a drive up the Great River L dA a of Road. | was looking for a budda at a popular B pes (every 4th Sunday) flea market. Saw some but a Sra .

didn't buy.

I'm up for a visit and conversation. I'm not hiding, but | do seem to have patterns – like a game of golf on Sunday morning, a visit to the market for veggies and the afternoon for whatever. | try not to be deep on Sunday's.

Hey, | can drive too. I'm working on manifesting. It's like a secret mission for me. I'm learning, I'm learning.

Oh yes, | will send you a few stories if you will tell me where to send it. A friend said she could not pick a favorite because all of them were. | love compliments.

John

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Lonely_Julietiam@talkmatch.com wrote:

OK, John, I'm calling it at the risk of being presumptuous … | have got to meet the person who writes like this … | have got to see the mind behind the words.

Is your Sunday full? (tomorrow) Would there be a possibility of meeting you on your turf for brunch, lunch, afternoon drink, dinner ? … you name it and call the place IF you are receptive to the thought and would like to do so.

Non-committal, of course, … just good conversation and an insight into the man behind all the stories … | would love to get to know him.

Let me know.

Love, JOY

caseyJR134@talkmatch.com wrote:

Hello and thanks for the conversation.

As we head into the weekend and a Monday full moon I'm finding confidence

in revealing stories. | have a nice gentleman friend, age 83, but that is not significant,

and he wants to see more of my writing. It has been months since | gave him some.

| remarked that my writing was many things.To me it is recording of thoughts and once written they

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become remembered. To ne they are what they are to them. Some like the soul, the spirit, and some like the humor and the reflection. | know | have inspired (or inspirited) them to write to me the way | write to them. | have encouraged some and counselled and "reached" them. "George," | said, "What | write is private

but | also share it. | don't hide, but there is some mystery to me that | will always preserve." | continued, "Who reads my writing are friends that want to know more about themselves and in my writing they see themselves more clearly." "It is not about me that | write, it is about them." He nodded in semi agreement believing | wanted affirmation.

My secret is preserved. He does not pry. I'll write to him soon and will include some

of my more recent things. | write about love and spirit and peace. Do you know how busy | am?

Thi i ays room for a friend.

"Sit here and tell me your “ john

Lonely_Julietiam@talkmatch.com wrote:

Hello and thanks for the nice messages within a message. .. and | hope you don't mind this style. | find it conversational, and | like that.

| went where | should not have gone. | went where guilt was. It was a tough weekend.

A sizeable transaction was not perking along, it was limping. Absolutes are hard for

me and | avoid "words that

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are not mine." Like, "are you saying?" "No," | answer, "I said "…blah, blah, blah." "Did | understand you to say." …blah, blah, blah?" "No," and | go back to saying what | said. Interpretation requires intelligence. | believe real estate is

a difficult profession because it is chock full of "60 hour professionals." Black is black and that works and that is why "in writing" is required. Too much of my time was spent in reviewing the questioning and apparent insecurity of others in the transaction – they did not show trust and wanted definite and absolute quotes from me to hang their hat on. But, | am a connector, a_ communicator in a transaction and the absolute is from the parties of the transaction. | don't say, "I'll swear on a stack of Bibles." | may say, "Stick a needle in my eye, | will not lie." | left out some of that last saying. Ah, the ‘ole communication ‘song and dance’. I've heard

the music and watched, if not participated in, the dance many times. It is frustrating to

have articulation and verbal integrity and finesse on one side and … vagueness and, often, sheer stupidity on the other.

Now, a poem is different, so is a pun, and so is fun, and the more intelligent, the more fun it becomes. The poem | wrote was about a

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friend who finds golf balls and either sells or gives them to friends. | see him as a giver and | love him. | just expressed my love – and that of others – in the "Lost and Found" poem. The bit of prose was deeper. He got it. John, | really and truly hope that someday | get to meet you. | can not really relate the 'you' | know from your letters with the ‘you’ that others meet in your profession. You seem a delightfully clever, witty, and creative person. Are you aware that those three attributes can be very intimidating to some people? | would imagine (just a guess!) that women reading your profile are either going to find you divinely intriguing or… think you are crazy! Gin case you are wondering, | am one who is intrigued.

| was with a bunch of friends all day and evening Saturday using all the skills of banter to stay up with them.

And | am quite sure that you did, John … without much effort.

It was enjoyable. Good … you needed that! See you soon again.

| hope so.

| would swear there is a

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full moon … things in my day today went crazy. | am tonight searching for some quiet and gentle to forget the brutality of the day.

Came home, and it was raining, so | grabbed an umbrella and went for a wonderful walk through my woods. It was quite refreshing … especially when | folded the umbrella and simply walked in the rain. | LOVED it. Came home quite soaked but… Spirit-revived.

Here's to 'Spirit – solace’ for both of us …. all night tonight and enough to get us through tomorrow.

Will look forward to hearing from you, John.

JOYfully … JOY

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batch 7 · p.29–37↑ Contents
259

'The end of a relationship' (realty wording)

THE END of a relationship that doesn’t include real estate, property, animals and repetitional risks may be good for each person. THE END of a relationship that doesn’t include real estate, property, animals and repetitional risks may be good for each person. THE END of a relationship that doesn’t include real estate, property, animals and repetitional risks may be good for each person. I’m OK with how trash bins have been handled for as long as I have lived here. I do my share. I’m OK with how trash bins have been handled for as long as I have lived here. I do my share. I’m OK with how trash bins have been handled for as long as I have lived here. I do my share. Avoid conflicts and openly negative remarks or actions Avoid conflicts and openly negative remarks or actions

batch 20 · p.106↑ Contents
260

The Mrs. Weakly/Hunter contract termination (realty, pt 1)

Mrs. Weakly in, an act of kindness, consented to terminate the contract for the sale of her property at 201 E. Vandalia, Edwardsville, IL 62025 to the Buyer’s; Jeanie & Ronald Carter, without receiving a government report as indicated on the Termination Notice dated 3/20/2014.

I received the Termination Notice (there was no report of any kind included in the envelope with the notice) when I arrived at our office on 3/21/14 at 8:45 AM. I went to the Owner’s office for a prearranged appointment at 9:30 AM to discuss the notice. Barely had we began the review and discussion when Mr. Bradford, an attorney and the Seller’s tenant, entered the office and after an introduction to me, said that he had just received a surprise phone call from the selling agent, Diane Branz, telling him the contract was terminated and disclosed the reason for termination was a government report. Mr. Bradford further stated that he was surprised the agent asked him if he was interested in making an offer to purchase the property. Mrs. Weakley and I were completely surprised by his remarks and said our discussion was regarding a request to terminate the contract.

I remarked that the Seller’s agents call to the tenant was inappropriate, if due only to the fact that the Termination Notice had not been signed. I believed it was inappropriate to ask him if he wanted to make an offer to purchase the property and discussing reasons to request termination. He asked if a report was included along with the Termination Notice and upon receiving a no answer he recommended that Mrs. Weakley not sign the notice without one. I advised her that she could seek legal counsel at any time.

The discussion continued and I told Mrs. Weakley the Seller’s agent had made a reference to me by phone earlier that a report on the roof inspection revealed a problem with the roof that would cost $30,000 to $35,000 to correct. I asked the buyer’s agent if there was a report and would she provide it so stating the condition and estimate to correct the roof. The agent also told me an inspection of the building indicated there was potential structural damage to the building. I asked for a report of this also.

At the meeting on 3/21/14 I told Mrs. Weakley that the Seller’s agent had told me by phone of the above reported problems. I asked Mrs. Weakley if she had any knowledge of prior or existing problems with the roof or prior or existing problems regarding any potential structural damage to the building. Her reply was no regarding the roof. In regards to the potential structural damage she said an interior wall was torn down between the two sections of the building and it was found to be a load bearing wall. This occurred in 2007. It was attended to and a contractor had done work to restore the integrity of the building. The roof damage and potential structural damage was made verbally to me by the Seller’s agent without written reports.

I told Mrs. Weakley that I would conduct a search for records relating to the underground tank issue and would start my search with a call to the title company to search for records at the Madison County Recorder’s Office specifically relating to underground tanks. I agreed to meet with Mrs. Weakly later to further discuss the matter.

batch 17 · p.4↑ Contents
261

The path of least resistance (pt 3)

follow the path of least resistance, it is not too hard and it won't take too long. If you are forty now and plan on living to be forty eight (and more) wouldn't it be better to be that age and doing what you dream of doing rather than being that age and wishing you were doing something else?

Who is going to do it for you if you don't try? What are your limits? Have you tested them lately? We are all born unique but the majority of people die as copies. Unlike gold or diamonds, you cannot bury your talents in order to preserve them. If you don't use them, you will lose them. Michael Jordan was out of basketball for a year and when he came back, he was a out of synch and rusty for the first few games. His timing was off, he was sluggish, but soon it was Michael again. He's back, because he is living his dream again. But I liked him a lot for reaching out for the year in baseball. He was stretching and that was good.

I know that I've been pushing all my life, and believe me I'm not through with life yet. Asa child, I was always talking, jabbering, always making people laugh, always saying something to make other people feel good. I was especially good at it with my seven brothers and sisters and family. I have been warned about being irreverent toward the reverend at times and was told that I was going straight to hell. But I wasn't going yet.

Thad fun working at everything I did. Really. Jobs like picking apples, peaches, and hauling hay don't sound like fun, but it was. I learned to throw and getting up and down ladders and climbing into trees helped me get stronger and bolder. Hauling hay was team work and working with adults – it was my subadult years that helped me form lasting friends with grown-ups. I made some good money, $20 and $30 a week, doing those jobs.

I survived several challenging years – of training for what I am doing now. I have sold drivers license, license plates, and monuments, dug graves, worked in factories, stacked and sacked groceries, and caddied for a professional golfer. I have even managed to be a lender (first I was a collector) for over 25 years. Ihave been fired, sacked, reengineered, shuttled up and down, in and out, promoted, demoted, and did things I only dreamed about. But I am here to tell you folks: I survived! and John Casey is not done yet!

batch 16 · p.21↑ Contents
262

The Smiling Exercise (compliments)

1. Recall the last time someone paid you a compliment Write down the compliment, what you did to inspire it, and the frequency you hear this particular compliment.

2. Look back over the past year and select the compliment you most enjoyed receiving. This is consistent with your best sense of yourself.

3. Think about your biggest fan. Write down his or her name in your journal. If he or she were to list your two most likeable features, what would they be? Write them down.

4. What would be your response if you were asked to name your best qu:

ity? Write it down. 5. What feature about you would a family member rate as your most appealing? Write it down. 6. What top two features your best friend would say about you. Write them down.

7. Who would you choose as a role model? Write down his or her name and top two appealing features.

8. Pick one day-to-day influence in your life. Write down this person’s name and the two features you like the most.

FRIENDLINESS

1. Observe no unfriendliness

2. Develop a friendly mind-set 3. Communicate friendliness

ing with Anger

Delay your anger gratification

Reframe the situation

Commit to acknowledging no anger and no unfriendliness aloud Cordially remove yourself from the situation

If you do need to vent your anger, do private, or with a trusted friend Even if you can’t control your anger, it’s not over

Every time you catch yourself being unfriendly, write an account of it on a page in your journal. Who made you feel mad? What happened? When did it happen? What provoked you? How were you feeling?

Develop a Friendly Mind-set

1. Like yourself

2. See yourself in others

3. Review your role model’s best features

4. Recast everyone you meet as the solution to today’s problem 5. Apply your fundamental beliefs

6. Play greeter for a day

7. Top your best service every week

8. Study the helpful

9. Every morning repeat your friendliness mantras as you prepare for or drive to work 10. Protect your friendly mind-set

Communicate Friendliness @ Make eye contact ¢@ Don’t overdo the eye contact

Use your eyebrows

Use your eyes to show emotion Keep your si real

Study great smi Recall your smiling compliments “Been caught smiling” Combine your expressive eyes with your winning smile Smile at anyone, anytime you feel it.

Invest in a confident smile

When you greet others, lead with your smile

Hold your head up when you talk

Maintain good posture

Display openness

Don’t tap your feet while someone talks to you.

toes eeeoereoereoeoe

Make Friendly Sounds

Silence can be unfriendly. Start a conversation

Record yourself and then listen to the tape

Study people with friendly voices

Avoid raising your voice whenever possible

Don’t match tones with other people when they are unfriendly, upset or angry Listen to yourself in conversation for tone violations

Add variety to your speaking voice

Speak in a confident tone

Use Friendly words

oer eeoeooe

Connect with contacts

1. Start a conversation with your contacts about their interests 2. Participate

3. Add value to the activity you’ve just adopted

4. Be proactive

Be Real

@ Let your values be your compass as you navigate life Spot-check your behavior for consistency with your values Practice seeing yourself from an outsider’s point of view Borrow only with permission — be yourself, not someone else Protect your realness with self-confidence

Discount the reasons you have for disliking yourself Periodically revisit the real you

ooo eee

Be True to others

1. Don’t forget your past. Remind yourself of your history, your friends, and your roots 2. Share your glory

3. Practice humility

4. Watch out for exaggeration

5. Learn to day, “I don’t know.”

6. Be honest when you make a promise

7. Recruit a reality coach

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263

'They are a business too' (cont.)

They are a business too, and want it to be successful. Their assistance to a future buyer/owner may be the difference in reaching your goals. I recommend a personal visit by appointment (2 hours +-) to go over anything you and they want to know. I think you have several partners to help you. 1. YOUR WIFE 2. Your staff 3. Your legal counsel 4. Your accountant 5. Your insurance agent 6. Your lender You deserve to reap rewards of your labor. John Casey Abe Lincoln said, “When I plan to cut down a big tree, I spend most of my &me sharpening my axe.”

batch 20 · p.56↑ Contents
264

'Things – 3/25/15' – self-check questions

Things — 3/25/15

Am I taking care of my body?

Am | actively engaged in learning?

Am I working toward balance?

Am I connected to something outside myself?

High powered breakfast: Eggs (190 C ea) – 1 or 2 Blue berries Coffee Water — drink it all day

Midday

Take a 15 min break — outside if possible Lunch — small/healthy Eat only till 1am 80% full Mid Afternoon — another session of meditation Evening — turn off all electronics See friends, be social Cook fresh food — eat well Other things: Emotional IQ: – learn / adopt / change Being sensitive to others and able to sustain a relationship See other points of view Be aware of your own emotions & handle them carefully Know what makes you happy How to successfully handle stress and negative emotions Learn how to handle change & be resilient I can change my personality Find better ways to deal with people Appreciate other people’s feelings and points of view Mentoring is good for me. I can be a mentor too. Understand how different income levels live. Expose myself to different cultures The more I get outside my world; I will increase my emotional intelligence.

Abstract IQ

IQ is the sum of the stuff I know, and the information I can share with others, combined with my ability to manipulate my fund of knowledge Note: Driving video games improve attention. You must stay focused and the faster the speed the more focus is required. Good training for drivers of all ages, especially older ones. When you are going too fast at anything mistakes or wrecks can happen quickly. News papers are a good way to start a day. Weekly newspapers provide more and usually more accurate information than daily papers because there is time to research material. Read at least 5 hours a week for 8 weeks to develop a good habit. Non-fiction..

batch 16 · p.69↑ Contents
265

Things open up to you when you're ready (pt 2)

open up to you. Things come to you when you make your move and you are ready for it to happen. When you have a passion for something, you can start before you are ready. Keep your mind open and focused, and the way will come to you.

When I was young, my mother was upset when she caught me running with "the wrong crowd." I was only hanging out with then.I wasn't doing the things they were doing, but she said if I stayed with those guys, eventually I would be doing those things too. She made sure that I wasn't tempted – she gave me more work, duties, more things to do. She said, "If you run with losers, you'll end up a loser." People rub off on you.

Studies show that an individual's best friends generally have nearly the same income. You know the story that you can't soar with the eagles if you flutter around with the pigeons.

Nothing can be as devastating as toxic people. They will weigh you down. You can't change people. It is a waste of time and energy to try. You can try to motivate and inspire them, but you have to be wary. If you can't bring the people in your life up, don't let them drag you down. Toxic people contribute to stress and heart attacks and strokes. Walk away from them if you can. If you are stuck working with them, take it as a signal that it is time to look somewhere else. My advise is simple: Get as far away from these people as you possibly can. RUN. Get away.

When some Bives you a gift, don't say, you shouldn't have" but instead saWGood things are supposed to happen to me! Welcome good things. Life is on your side and good things are supposed to happen to you and that you are blessed and great things are coming your way because you deserve them. Be open and receptive to new ideas and listen to your first mind.

We work harder on our jobs than on our dreams. Faith, prayer, and positive expectation without work will not produce any results in life. You have got to go into action and go all out, don't hold back on yourself. When you go all out you will pass an invisible boundary and you will begin to see good things coming your way from all directions, but that only happens when you do all you can do. Some may deny that there is a power greater than all of us, but Iam not one. A. L. Williams once said, “All you can do is all you can do and all you can do is enough but make sure you do all you can do."

You can't fry at life, you have to go at it with all of your spirit. You have to have juice in your life. You have to live with passion, drive, and energy. You want to make a difference because you can make a difference. You want to be unreasonable. If you want to be successful, you want to manifest yourself, you have to be unreasonable. The Wright brothers were unreasonable enough to think they could fly. The people who make it in life are the people who decide to be unstoppable.

If it is childlike to dream and to think that you can take on the world, then I advise you to become a child again. You have to be willing to do things you have never done. Because when you push yourself, you expand your talents and the opportunities for your life. Don't

batch 16 · p.20↑ Contents
266

Thoughts for Judi after visiting her mom's condo

After my up and down visit to your Mom’s condo | have thoughts for Judi, but | dare not reach out to her as a matter of courtesy and “it’s not my job!” The up and down includes my quirky health and steps to climb.

It is her health and energy level that prompts me. | heard you talk about it too. You care and want the best for her.

A two bedroom, two bath, condo – one level

An efficient kitchen, island, appliances, storage, …

Lighting considerations – Windows (self cleaning or easy to clean)

No steps at entry – a gentle slope – mail drop built in

A breakfast nook (a small bench or two small counter chairs) –

Adinning area

Built in laundry area –

Sky light, tall ceiling. (to see the sky)

Acomfortable and safe living area – Moderate sized furniture.

Senior needs – easy to use handles / rails – no throw rugs to stumble Easy to care for floors –

Comfortable and functional chairs that provide easy access and assistance to rise – a button.

Built in vacum?

| like a fireplace for a charming touch

Asmall (safe) deck, a combination of a fire pit and grill.

A builder and designer for condos for elderly people in Alton constructed upscale one-story units that appealed in beauty and comfort. Every door, cabinet, counter, ….were designed with ease of use. 2-car Garage without steps to enter the living area. A refrigerator.

His plans were available for clients. – 1600 SF. The first one sold in a wink. He took time to carefully build the small group. of Condos. The lots were located on a winding lane for low speeds only.

| spent 20 years in the real estate business. | was primarily a commercial agent, but also sold historical and high-end homes. One year | sold 32 properties.

After my up and down visit to your Mom’s condo I have thoughts for Judi, but I dare not reach out to her as a matter of courtesy and “it’s not my job!” The up and down includes my quirky health and steps to climb. It is her health and energy level that prompts me. I heard you talk about it too. You care and want the best for her. A two bedroom, two bath, condo – one level An efficient kitchen, island, appliances, storage, … Lighting considerations – Windows (self cleaning or easy to clean) No steps at entry – a gentle slope – mail drop built in A breakfast nook (a small bench or two small counter chairs) – A dinning area Built in laundry area – Sky light, tall ceiling. (to see the sky) A comfortable and safe living area – Moderate sized furniture. Senior needs – easy to use handles / rails – no throw rugs to stumble Easy to care for floors – Comfortable and functional chairs that provide easy access and assistance to rise – a button. Built in vacum? I like a fireplace for a charming touch A small (safe) deck, a combination of a fire pit and grill. A builder and designer for condos for elderly people in Alton constructed upscale one-story units that appealed in beauty and comfort. Every door, cabinet, counter, ….were designed with ease of use. 2-car Garage without steps to enter the living area. A refrigerator. His plans were available for clients. – 1600 SF. The first one sold in a wink. He took time to carefully build the small group. of Condos. The lots were located on a winding lane for low speeds only. I spent 20 years in the real estate business. I was primarily a commercial agent, but also sold historical and high-end homes. One year I sold 32 properties.

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267

'Tied to Your Life Purpose'

To just about everyone

The choices you make about the life you are living are tied to your life purpose. You create not what you want, but what you believe, and what you can accept. Wake up to wherever you are right now. Get clear about your passion. Keep going. Success is shorter now than it has ever been.

You can live making conscious effort about how you spend your time and energy or you can believe that life just happens to us. What is true attracts me. When | am writing, stories flow from a combination of memory and imagination. | push expansiveness, for my character.

Find out what you want to do. Ask yourself: Is it feasible? Can | do it by myself? Is it worth it? Do | want to do it? Do | have the means to do it? No elaborate planning — action trumps everything. You don’t have to start right away.

Take a small step forward Pause and see what you have learned Take another step Pause Take another step This is a method of act, learn, and build. You can have more than one passion.

Let go of things. Be grateful for what they brought to your life. Do you need them? Do you treasure them? Let go of what does not serve you. Create an endings ritual. Give away something every day with no attachment to the outcome. It does not need to be material; a work, a smile, time, energy. Keep track for 29 days. It will shift your energy.

Recall a time when you had a “waking up” experience or new awareness and insight. Record serendipities;( good luck in discoveries and finding something valuable or delightful), and synchronicities; meaningful coincidences. Be aware — of what? For starters; silence, noise, being alive, shifting relationships, comfortable bonds, adjusting.

Find what or who is seeking you. Who are the people you are drawn to? How do you tinker? Who makes you laugh? Be alert, open, and receptive. Be gentle with yourself. You have a right to be here.

Me lie Vet

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'Tim and Laurie – will you consider a favor?'

Tim and Laurie – Will you consider a favor for me? Turning the lights off along Mamie at 10:00 P.M or 12:00 PM. When the sky is clear I enjoy seeing the sun or moon and stars when I wake up. Thanks for considering the favor. John

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269

Time (a company's resource)

TIME

The most important resource of a company is time. People can be replaced. Time can not be replaced. It’s not renewable. You can’t recycle it. It is precious and fleeting. That’s it.

No other resource is as important as time. What resources do people waste the most often? You guessed it! Time! How is it wasted? It’s Meeting with no clear purpose. Long rambling phone calls when decisions are not made. Business trips with unclear objectives: Unprofitable customers/clients: Ignoring deadlines. Corporate bureaucracy is the greatest time toilet of all. Hours are flushed away.

Act with urgency. Business is a race, and you have to run hard and fast. Short meetings with a purpose save time. Well-informed quick decisions save time. Visiting key clients and understanding what they want saves time. Enforcing deadlines saves time. Cutting red tape saves time. There is no substitute for speed. There is no more precious resource than time. Use it wisely and quickly.

Move outside your comfort zone

Moving outside your comfort zone involves risk; learning, changing, and sometimes pain and misery. Who wants that? Anyone who wants to get better, go further, and grow both personally and professionally should crave circumstances and assignments that are outside their comfort zone. And, accept the possibility of failure. When you stretch to the limits of your skill, talent, and pain threshold you grow. You also get great satisfaction once you have endured the pain. You become stronger and better. And remember, the team is more important than the individual.

I am reminded of time and comfort zone when I am unable to respond in a manner that I want. (Physical limitations, knowledge of the information I need to respond to) I tend to act quickly and making a decision is not difficult. Sometimes the decision has to be altered, but that is a new decision and hopefully a better one.

When a customer/client comes to your business it is an opportunity to greet someone and cultivate a relationship with your company and services that can be lasting and beneficial to your company, the client/customer and to you. The first thing a customer/client wants is recognition.

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270

'Time' – a company's most important resource

TIME

The most important resource of a company is time. People can be replaced. Time can not be replaced. It’s not renewable. You can’t recycle it. It is precious and fleeting. That’s it.

No other resource is as important as time. What resources do people waste the most often? You guessed it! Time! How is it wasted? It’s Meeting with no clear purpose. Long rambling phone calls when decisions are not made. Business trips with unclear objectives: Unprofitable customers/clients: Ignoring deadlines. Corporate bureaucracy is the greatest time toilet of all. Hours are flushed away.

Act with urgency. Business is a race, and you have to run hard and fast. Short meetings with a purpose save time. Well-informed quick decisions save time. Visiting key clients and understanding what they want saves time. Enforcing deadlines saves time. Cutting red tape saves time. There is no substitute for speed. There is no more precious resource than time. Use it wisely and quickly.

Move outside your comfort zone

Moving outside your comfort zone involves risk; learning, changing, and sometimes pain and misery. Who wants that? Anyone who wants to get better, go further, and grow both personally and professionally should crave circumstances and assignments that are outside their comfort zone. And, accept the possibility of failure. When you stretch to the limits of your skill, talent, and pain threshold you grow. You also get great satisfaction once you have endured the pain. You become stronger and better. And remember, the team is more important than the individual.

I am reminded of time and comfort zone when | am unable to respond in a manner that I want. (Physical limitations, knowledge of the information I need to respond to) I tend to act quickly and making a decision is not difficult. Sometimes the decision has to be altered, but that is a new decision and hopefully a better one.

When a customer/client comes to your business it is an opportunity to greet someone and cultivate a relationship with your company and services that can be lasting and beneficial to your company, the client/customer and to you. The first thing a customer/client wants is recognition.

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271

Tire dealers / Drake Tire Co. (business directory)

Tire Dealers — repair transmission – trucking

Drake Tire Company Incorporated 1214 E. Broadway Alton, IL 62002 618-465-8897

Jerry’s Tire & Auto Service 104 W. Vandalia Edwardsville, IL 62025 618-656-1190

Bowers Towing 6204 Godfrey Road Godfrey, IL 62052

Bowers Towing & Repair 231 S. Old St. Louis Road Wood River, IL 620 254-2111

Bradnick Towing 1126 E. Broadway Alton, IL 62002 462-2111

Cross Auto Body & Towing 8810 Maple Road Edwardsville, IL 62025 656-3328

Fred’s Towing 2320 Washington Ave Alton, IL 62002 465-2972

S&K REPAIR SERVICE 4444 EDWARDSVILLE RD. EDWARDSVILLE, IL 62025 656-4220

TRICKEY’S SERVICE INC. 380 E. EDWARDSVILLE ROAD Wood RIVER, IL 620 254-0404

J& R TOWING 2026 GRAND GRANITE City, IL 62040 877-7190

HAHNE TOWING 1801 STATE GRANITE CITY, IL 62040 877-0827

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272

To Mayor David Goins – the Market & entrepreneurship (v2)

To: David Golins, Mayor of Alton, IL The Farmer’s Market in Alton is an example of Entrepreneurial spirit going on with vendors peddling their wares and goods, from pretzels, jams, eggs, soaps, melons, flowers, fruit. vegetables, and the list goes on. I encourage you to make a visit to the market. Spending a small amount of money to encourage heart and soul gardeners, orchard owners, dress makers, wood carvers (Mississippi River painted rocks), spoons, art, and an array of other items. (make some items gifts, but keep some for yourself.) The climate of change is being felt throughout the community and it is noticed even amid a pandemic. There is hope, cooperation, and belief that people can make a difference from children to centurions. Mr. Mayor, you are in a position of leadership role for all Altonians. You have visions of what can make a better community, A note or letter from you to vendors and sponsors of the market showing appreciation, encouragement and recognition goes a long way to improve and strengthen the city, especially Blacks, who with their culture, skills, ingenuity, talents + are bringing about understanding and harmony. An award, MAYOR’S AWARD, for an outstanding vendor who has supported the market snippet’s inception with outstanding____________, (products—-) It would be a treasured keepsake and promote their business.

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273

'To whom it may concern' – about Shan Casey (recommendation)

To whom it may concern: This is a little bit about Shan Casey. Please read it.

Before he was born, I wrote a poem to him welcoming him to a world of mystery and adventure fraught with challenge, change, and growth. Before he was eighteen I wrote another poem to him describing how wonderful it was for me that he was in my life and what he meant tome, My, how he had grown in this short span of time.

Shanon is a marvelous human being. He is quite good at what he does. He is very good at being someone people like to be around. He does things easily, or seems to. He has courage and confidence. He wants to make a difference in the world and | know he will. He is my mentor.

His skills and knowledge of hair design and care is excellent. His style is better than that. People like Shan to create, style, and entertain them. His clientele is his resume. He cuts and styles my hair and I get compliments on it. Jam sixty!

Please give him an opportunity to tell you about himself and if you believe he is qualified; hire him to be on your staff. If you want me to tell you more about him, I'll embarrass him and myself too, with the stuff I can say about him.

Thank you,

John Casey Shan’s dad.

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274

Tribute note to “Lee” (Mary’s beau, Virginia): “you are both a leader and a follower”

The original page will appear here.

batch 31 · p.p.7↑ Contents
275

U-Haul / Walco Tools (business directory)

U-HAUL Co. 3709 EDWARDSVILLE ROAD Woop RIVER, IL 62025 659-1829

WALTCO TOOLS 1005 E. EDWARDSVILLE, RD. Woop RIVER, IL, 62025 259-5133

BALD BROTHERS TRANSMISSION 501 CANAL ROAD HARTFORD, IL 254-2253

BI-STATE TRANSMISSION & AUTOMOTIVE 2415 E. BROADWAY ALTON, IL 62002 462-9471

AARON AUTO & TRUCK RENTAL 217E. St. Louis Av EAsT ALTON, IL 62034 258-1998

BUDGET TRUCK RENTAL 701 HILLSBORO AVE EDWARDSVILLE, IL 62025 655-0822

RYDER TRUCK RENTAL 249 N. OLD St. Louis ROAD Woop RIVER, IL 620 = 254-2914

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(untitled)

The original page will appear here.

batch 21, 22, 23, 24 · p.2227 Vandali1 showing report, 2227 vandalia contract for sale, Accepting a listing is a commitment, Act, learn and build, Agri Solutions presentation, ALTON AREA REALTORS 2, Always aim high, AS IS RARELY IS, AUTHORIZATION TO LEASE AGREEMENT, Business plan, Casey profile CBCBRZAP, Civil War records request, Collinsville Vandalia building, Communication, Consider more than the features of the property, Dana Dean KMOX, Dana DeanSubmitted by, Dancing in the Streets, query, Email address regarding deer hunting land and, ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE, Estimated Proceeds of Sale, Etiquette in Real Estate, FDIC, First time home buye 2015r, For Sale by Owner 2014, FOR SALE BY OWNER IN A DOWN MARKET, Freeman letter on WR property, Fundamentals, HANGING OUT WITH THE RIGHT CROWD, Home Review, House beautiful, Illinois Ave. Fairview Heights – 5020 n. ill, Illinois Land Lease, Income and Expense Analysis, Jane Hadley and Wood River lots, Jerseyville – miller, Lease Closing Statement, Looking for properties to sell, Marketing 101, Martin, Jimmy – pool doctor, Maryville Commercial Building 15, Maryville remarks 25, Maryville, 25 reinstatement proposal, Memo1, Miller mgmt comments May, MLS Reciprocal Listing Agreement Addendu1, MLS RECIPROCAL LISTING AGREEMENT ADDENDUM, Negotiating, Net proceeds, Personal Property, PROPERTY CHECKLIST, Property Revie1, Property review, Real Estate Interview introduction lette, Real Estate Practice and law, Real Estate study guidelines, REFERRAL AGREEMENT, remarks are without hyperbole or subject, Remarks by Broker john casey, Residential quick comparison, Rural property buyers and sellers, Rural Property letter 2006, Rural real estate letter, SELLER's Information Sheet, SHOWING INSTRUCTIONS, SIRRE marketin muscle, Springhouse Magazine, Summit Springs marketing, The first thing a For Sale By Owner does is usually go down to the sFor Sale By Owner 06, TIME & comfort zone, Tire Dealers, repair,truck, campers, trailers, Vandalia st. Edwardsville, Will of John R, Will of John R copy, Wood River – Edwardsville Rd. Hadley, Wood River bib box sites for Menards, wood river building 2016, Wood River listings and discussion, Wood River lot Farrell, Wood River Lots on Edwardsville Road in Wood River, Wood River map with names, Wood River properties at 900, 938, and 998 E, Xcelligent↑ Contents
277

Urgency (on change)

Urgency

I believe the single biggest error in making a change is in not creating a high enough sense of urgency to set the stage for making a challenging leap into a new direction. However, a false or misguided sense of urgency is not focused and has a frantic aspect to it because it is driven by anxiety, anger, and frustration and not a determination to win, and win it as soon as it is reasonably possible

Urgency means “of pressing importance.” I think of the action I need to do now, not eventually, not when it fits into a schedule. It means making real progress every day. Critically important challenges that is central to success and survival. I have been truly alert to what’s really happening and I’m not trying to pursue minor significances or with the trivial projects. I am interested in making change stick by putting it into my structure of my life. I am going to get it right.

A review of my life is that I have always embraced change and have grown with challenges. I have changed in the past. I do not think my difficulties, either past or current, are a result of the fault of others. I see it. The human capacity to hide feelings of fear and anger from others, and themselves, can be astonishing at times. Feelings can be invisible, behavior is not

A sense of urgency should not be that a make-over is required immediately. But, I can not delay anymore. Because I can see red flags I have decided to learn and apply knowledge and reasoning that what I have been doing is no longer what I will need to do in the future. The proof is the situation of 3/14/09. I fully recognized the hazards with clarity and that I must deal with them with a determination to move forward and try to achieve progress each and every day

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'Urgency' – the biggest error in making a change

Urgency:

I believe the single biggest error in making a change is in not creating a high enough sense of urgency to set the stage for making a challenging leap into a new direction, However, a false or misguided sense of urgency is not focused and has a frantic aspect to it because it is driven by anxiety, anger, and frustration and not a determination to win, and win it as soon as it is reasonably possible.

Urgency means “of pressing importance.” I think of the action I need to do now, not eventually, not when it fits into a schedule. It means making real progress every day Critically important challenges that is central to success and survival. I have been truly alert to what’s really happening and I’m not trying to pursue minor significances or with the trivial projects. | am interested in making change stick by putting it into my structure of my life. I am going to get it right.

A review of my life is that I have always embraced change and have grown with challenges. I have changed in the past. I do not think my difficulties, either past or current, are a result of the fault of others. I see it. The human capacity to hide feelings of ‘ear and anger from others, and themselves, can be astonishing at times. Feelings can be invisible, behavior is not.

A sense of urgency should not be that a make-over is required immediately. But, can not delay anymore. Because I can see red flags T have decided to learn and apply knowledge and reasoning that what I have been doing is no longer what T will need to do in the future. The proof is the situation of 3/14/09. I fully recognized the hazards with clarity and that I must deal with them with a determination to move forward and try to

achieve progress each and every day

batch 17 · p.1↑ Contents
279

Vacation thank-you – 'to those who helped'

Vacr Ten ~

to those who helped. For the past few weeks I was on vacation-thanks for carring on with out me. Someone said you carried on…about the State Director…about the Newsletter, eeabout the budget…about the beer. Jaycees can always carry on.

Vacations are self-imposed exiles from the amenities of civilized life.

My traveling campanion was my wife. She attempted to perfect the art of whining and noting the sparcity of restrooms along the highways we traveled.

On the highways with all the traffic, I spooned in tranquilizers from a ceral bowl to keep my nerveyandlenlarged my wifes voculablary far beyond her years.

I had heard rumors that some parts of Florida and the South was unpaved, so we headed that way. Of course, if you want to see this ground you have to ask the crowd of people standing on it to jump into the air in unison.

I really felt sorry for the people like myself who came a thousand miles under the impression that we would have the opportunity to toss out litter in a uncluttered area. A vast miltitude of casual wrapper droppers had preceeded us . A heroic effort is made to keep litter cleared from the highways, but the rotary plows don't work well on paper and bottles.

Since there are people,like my wife, who get the bends and have to be put into decompression chambers if they get more than 30 minutes from a shopping center there are the usual cluster of shops-markets-drug stores provided along every path we took. In many of the shops you can buy plastic & stuffed animals at a price that suggest that they were driven on hoof all the way from Hong Kong.

At one of the roadside parks I overheard that park employees were being sent to places like New York and Chicago for rest and recovery in order to get away from the crowds and noise and to get a breath of fresh air. By the end of the peak season they have facial twitches so bad they have to use neck braces to guard against whiplash.

Camping is an invigoration experience. However, the sit@I usually pitch my tent is in the middle of writhing humanity. This makes it easy to meet interesting people. Several times in one campground I chatted with the fellow next door about his hobby of pumping exhaust from his car into our tent. ‘The fellows on the other side were members of a rock band. Their rendition of "A truck full of Bmpty Milk Cans Crashing into a Buglar Alarm Factory" was kind of catchy but their other stuff was too Loud.

Some parks have encellent fishing in them. On the easily accessable streams there are of course the tame fish planted by the park service. These fish can be caught with a bent pin on the end of a clothesline with bubble gum for bait. The sight of a live insect or a dry fly makes them nauseous. Catching one is as exciting as changing the water in a gold fish bowl.

Our days at the State and National Parks are filled with the delights of viewing the marvelous sights. Reflection Lake in one park was truly beautiful with the scraggly spruce trees around its edges so sharply defined in the glass on the lake bottom that you could make out the hatchet marks on them. We also enjoy ancient heiroglyphics found every where. "Fred & Edith Jones, Peanut Grove, California 1968"

Next Summer I think I'll skip the National Parks and the tourist meccas and take a vacation in a remote place. I get turned on by invisible air. If there is a sudden urge to buy a plastic animal, I'll grit my teeth and bear ite

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Vermont Thank-You Note (9/7/2020) + family/friends roster

The original page will appear here.

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281

'Wanted: an opportunity to sell rural properties' (realty ad)

WANTED: AN OPPORTUNITY Bank TO SELL RURAL PROPERTIES. Coldwell al Recreational land Commercial Hunting/fishing land Brown Realtors Crops/pasture Retreats and one-of-kind 692-7290 properties. Edwardsville, IL I'm really not like most Realtors that only sell houses. anc L use multiple marketing John Casey Programs and ideas ery

WANTED: AN OPPORTUNITY

TO SELL RURAL PROPERTIES. Coldwell Banker Recreational land Commercial Hunting/fishing land Brown Realtors Crops/pasture Retreats and one-of-kind 692-7290 properties. Edwardsville, IL I'm really not like most Realtors that only sell houses. anc L use multiple marketing John Casey Programs and ideas wreseas

WANTED: AN OPPORTUNITY

TO SELL RURAL PROPERTIES. Coldwell Banker Recreational land Commercial Hunting/fishing land Brown Realtors Crops/pasture Retreats and one-of-kind 692-7290 properties. Edwardsville, IL I'm really not like > most Realtors that only sell houses. — L use multiple marketing Jolin: Casey Programs and ideas Prerr

WANTED: AN OPPORTUNITY TO SELL RURAL PROPERTIES. Coldwell Banker Recreational land Commercial Hunting/fishing land Brown Realtors Crops/pasture Retreats and one-of-kind 692-7290 properties. Edwardsville, IL I'm really not like > most Realtors that only sell houses. anc. L use multiple marketing John Casey Programs and ideas s70sseas

WANTED: AN OPPORTUNITY Ban! TO SELL RURAL PROPERTIES. Coldwell nker Recreational land Co ercial Hunting/fishing land Brown Realtors Crops/pasture Retreats and one-of-kind 692-7290 Properties. Edwardsville, IL I'm really not like , most Realtors that only sell houses. John Casey

L use multiple marketing Programs and ideas 670.5646

WANTED: AN OPPORTUNITY . TO SELL RURAL PROPERTIES. Coldwell B al Recreational land Commercial Hunting/fishing land Brown Realtors Crops/pasture Retreats and one-of-kind 692-7290 Peonenesy Edwardsville, IL I'm really not like most Realtors that only sell houses. hn C Tuse multiple marketing John Casey Programs and ideas arsed

WANTED: AN OPPORTUNITY

TO SELL RURAL PROPERTIES. Coldwell Banker Recreational land Commercial Hunting/fishing land Brown Realtors Crops/pasture Retreats and one-of-kind 692-7290 PSP Edwardsville, IL I'm really not like most Realtors that only sell houses. hn c Tuse multiple marketing John Casey Programs and ideas a705id

WANTED: AN OPPORTUNITY

TO SELL RURAL PROPERTIES. Coldwell Banker Recreational land Commercial Hunting/fishing land Brown Realtors Crops/pasture Retreats and one-of-kind 692-7290 PUPILS Edwardsville, IL I'm really not like ° most Realtors that only sell houses. _ Tuse multiple marketing John Casey Programs and ideas re

WANTED: AN OPPORTUNITY TO SELL RURAL PROPERTIES. Coldwell Banker Recreational land Commercial Hunting/fishing land Brown Realtors Crops/pasture Retreats and one-of-kind 692-7290 Pooper aes Edwardsville, IL I'm really not like ’ most Realtors that only sell houses. hn C luse multiple marketing John Casey Programs and ideas arosade

WANTED: AN OPPORTUNITY TO SELL RURAL PROPERTIES. Coldwell Banker Recreational land Commercial Hunting/fishing land Brown Realtors Crops/pasture Retreats and one-of-kind 692-7290 SPIED Edwardsville, IL I'm really not like > most Realtors that only sell houses. hn c luse multiple marketing John Casey Programs and ideas nose

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What unlicensed assistants may do (realty)

Unlicensed Assistants may:

Answer phones, take messages, and forward calls

Submit listing and changes to a MLS

Follow up on a transaction

Assemble documents

Secure public information documents

Have keys made

Draft advertising and promotional material

Place advertising in media

Record and deposit earnest money…

Complete contract forms… at the direction/approval of licensee Monitor license and personnel files

Compute commission checks

Place signs on property

Order items of routine repair as directed/approved by licensee Act as a courier

Schedule appointments for licensee for the licensee

Respond to questions by quoting from published information Gather feedback on showings

Fee for Services:

And

Helping the seller prepare the property for sale (unbundling of services) Performing a CMA and pricing

Assisting with marketing

Locating and screening a buyer

Drafting a Purchase Sales Agreement and helping with negotiations Assisting with the closing transaction

Helping a buyer with a loan preapproval

Consulting on a buyer’s desired location

Visiting properties with a buyer and checking on property information Completing a real estate sale contract and helping with negotiations Assisting with closing the transaction

Using an hourly or flat fee for particular services. I.e.: Rate times hours to complete a task = flat fee

Listing Agreements with Sellers

Exclusive – Right to Sell: One broker as the Seller’s sole agent. If the property is sold while the listing is in effect, the seller must pay the broker a commission regardless of who sell the property.

Exclusive- Agency listing: One broker is authorized to act as the exclusive agent of the principal; however, the seller retains the right to sell the property without obligation to the broker if the broker is the procuring cause of a sale.

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'Why Coldwell Banker Commercial' — the pledge

Why Coldwell Banker Commercial THIS 18 OUR PLEDGE TO you.

– ' We will focus on relationships. We will give you Brown Realtors is a smart choice ; ; ; multiple reasons to trust us and we will preserve this trust.

Jor your property listing. at all times. COLDWELL BANKER Commercial BROWN “THERE ISN’T A COMPANY THAT @ Strong National Name Recognition REALTORS will, with you, create a plan of marketing your COMES CLOSE TO WHAT WE DO property that will include: FOR OUR AGENTS, CLIENTS, GEN-

@ Deep local roots in the community ERAL PUBLIC AND OK INDUs-

# ~ Miltiple Listing Service (MLS) that provides detailed

@ Professional Marketing – tion about F , ‘s ERY «

information about your property to member agen John Casey # Commitment to be the best (1200 +- members) in the Metro East area @ Results oriented @ Commercial properties are listed with other powerful

listing services: Reasons to choose Coldwell Banker Brown # Team based, but customer driven

¢ We will also be on several real estate search sites fa- Realtors for your real estate needs: miliar to agents, clients, and customers 7 « Strength

Our company is a progressive, resourceful firm, 7 . 7 ~~ Flyers, brochures & summary sheets with detailed in- known for its professional competence and its ry Quality

7 . . . formation will be created and proactively distributed expanding leadership role in real estate in South-

western Illinois . ¢ Mailing programs to prospects, agents, & agencies. ¢ Commitment We distinguish ourselves through excellence in ¢ E-mail, fax and correspondence . Scope. reputation and service that is national in reach and unsurpassed in local capability. @ Placing a highly recognized sign at the property We want to work for you. @ Conducting and coordinating showings When can we begin? ¢@ Be accessible, responsive to clients and customers John Casey—Cell # 618-670-5646 # Report activity regularly. You call us jrcasey134@gmail.com COLDWELL BANKER

COMMERCIAL

BROWN REALTORS

2205S. State Route 157 Edwardsville, IL 62025 618-692-7290 (Commercial)

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Will – signature & witnesses (pt 2)

________________________________ Signature WITNESSES On this ________day of ______________, 2018, the testator John Richard Casey, declared to us, the undersigned, that this instrument was his will and requested us to act as witnesses to it. The testator signed this will in our presence, all of us being present at the same time. We now, at the testator’s request, in the testator’s presence and in the presence of each other, subscribe our names as witnesses and each declare that we are of sound mind and of proper age to witness a will. We further declare that we understand this to be the testator’s will, and that to the best of our knowledge the testator is of the age of majority, or is otherwise legally empowered to make a will, and appears to be of sound mind and under no constraint or undue influence. We declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct this _____day of _______________, 2018, at ________________, state of Illinois. Witness’s signature Printed name Residing at___________________________________________________________ Witness’s signature Printed name Residing at___________________________________________________________

batch 20 · p.233↑ Contents
285

Will – the affidavit (pt 3)

AFFIDA VIT State of Illinois County of __________________ I, the undersigned, an officer authorized to administer oaths, certify that ______________, the testator, and ________________ and ________________, the witnesses, whose names are signed to the attached or foregoing instrument and whose signatures appear below, having appeared together before me and having been first duly sworn, each then declared to me that: 1) the attached or foregoing instrument is the last will of the testator; 2) the testator willingly and voluntarily declared, signed and executed the will in the presence of the witnesses; 3) the witnesses signed the will upon request by the testator in the presence and hearing of the testator, and in the presence of each other; 4) to the best knowledge of each witness the testator was, at the time of the signing, of the age of majority, of sound mind and under no constraint or undue influence and 5) Each witness was and is competent, and of the proper age to witness a will. Testator:_______________________________________________

Witness________________________________________________

Address:_______________________________________________

Witness:________________________________________________

Address_________________________________________________ Subscribed, sworn and acknowledged before me, _________________________, a notary public, by _________________________, the testator, and by _________________________, and by _________________________, the witnesses,

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Will – the notary block, 2011 (pt 4)

This _________day of ______________, 2011 SIGNED:________________________ (NOTARY SEAL) _________________________ Official capacity of officer

My commission expires __________________________ When I am ready to sign my will I will do the following: “The witnesses must be together. Explain to them that I want them to witness my will. It is not necessary for them to read the will or to receive any information it contains. “The document before you is my will and I want you to witness it.” I will sign and date the will. Then I will ask my witnesses to date and sign it in ink with their normal signatures and fill in their addresses.

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'Words/quotes' – his guest-columnist guide notes

Words — quotes-

As your guide I will be wearing the hat withaG * Thinking is essential

Revise your hypotheses

LOOM LARGE

Deal with the unexpected

LOUD PROFANITY prohibited = * You can’t master discipline

Humans diffeer

Skip ponderance

one – step – ahead is enough to win * Cognition is what we crave

Expand your vision

Consquenciously change

Pi are good

Battle scars teach us

The Beyond, questions us

Nowdays are best +

Anticipate positively

Exactly — settle for it

Avoid un- understandable confusion

You don’t need wings to fly

If you get a chance, take it. If it changes your life, let it Absolutely not ordinary

Sign language spoken here

Love people who treat you right * Hang the Moon tonight

Our shadows are sometimes clearer than our real selves Lately comes too soon

Windows of opportunity are rarely open Cliché members are lazy

Jargon interpreted

Don’t fry bacon when you’re naked Always try short uts

Check your seems = *

There are no 110%-ters

Lets Dance Let’s Sing _—_Lets do anything! Always be kind;

No jumping up and down

Banter confuses

Don’t jump all puddles

Semi-informed information

Serve those who serve our country *

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Work Memo ('thanks for carrying on')

Vaer Tied ~

to those who helped. For the past few weeks I was on vacation-thanks for carring on with out me. Someone said you carried on…about the State Director…about the Newsletter. «-about the budget…about the beer. Jaycees can always carry on.

Vacations are self-imposed exiles from the amenities of civilized life.

My traveling campanion was my wife. She attempted to perfect the art of whining and noting the sparcity of restrooms along the highways we traveled.

On the highways with all the traffic, I spooned in tranquilizers from a ceral bowl to keep my nerve,yandlenlarged my wifes voculablary far beyond her years.

I had heard rumors that some parts of Florida and the South was unpaved, so we headed that way. Of course, if you want to see this ground you have to ask the crowd of people standing on it to jump into the air in unison.

I really felt sorry for the people like myself who came a thousand miles under the impression that we would have the opportunity to toss out litter in a uncluttered area. A vast mltitude of casual wrapper droppers had preceeded us . A heroic effort is made to keep litter cleared from the highways, but the rotary plows don't work well on paper and bottles.

Since there are people ,like my wife, who get the bends and have to be put into decompression chambers if they get more than 30 minutes from a shopping center there are the usual cluster of shops-markets-drug stores provided along every path we took. In many of the shops you can buy plastic & stuffed animals at a price that suggest that they were driven on hoof all the way from Hong Kong.

At one of the roadside parks I overheard that park employees were being sent to places like New York and Chicago for rest and recovery in order to get away from the crowds and noise and to get a breath of fresh air. By the end of the peak season they have facial twitches so bad they have to use neck braces to guard against whiplash.

Camping is an invigoration experience. However, the sit@I usually pitch my tent is in the middle of writhing humanity. This makes it easy to meet interesting people. Several times in one campground I chatted with the fellow next door about his hobby of pumping exhaust from his car into our tent. The fellows on the other side were members of a rock band. Their rendition of "A truck full of Bnpty Milk Cans Crashing into a Buglar Alarm Factory" was kind of catchy but their other stuff was too loud.

Some parks have epcellent fishing in them. On the easily accessable streams there are of course the tame fish planted by the park service. These fish can be caught with a bent pin on the end of a clothesline with bubble gum for bait. The sight of a live insect or a dry fly makes them nauseous. Catching one is as exciting as changing the water in a gold fish bowl.

Our days at the State and National Parks are filled with the delights of viewing the marvelous sights. Reflection Lake in one park was truly beautiful with the scraggly spruce trees around its edges so sharply defined in the glass on the lake bo¢tom that you could make out the hatchet marks on them. We also enjoy ancient heiroglyphics found every where. "Fred & Hdith Jones, Peanut Grove, California 1968"

Next Summer I think I'll skip the National Parks and the tourist meccas and take a vacation | in a remote place. I get turned on by invisible air. If there is a sudden urge to buy a plastic animal, I'll grit my teeth and bear it.

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Work thoughts – 'Freedom to work hard and have fun'

Work thoughts.

Here, right here. “I’m here”

“Freedom to work hard and have fun”

“Freedom to create and innovate”

“Freedom to learn and grow”

How you talk about your company speaks volumes about how you think about your business. And ultimately, how you think about your business determines how well it performs.

A rising tide lifts all boats. A changing tide tests the strength of the anchor.

Do you play to play or play to win?

A job title that makes perfect sense is important.

What do you think? Really, what do you think?

The best people in any field are motivated by passion. Define a problem crisply, and you’re halfway to a solution. “No good deal goes unchallenged”

To make your company special, make your performance memorable. Exceed expectations.

Don't treat different customers differently Give “high-fives” when somebody does something right

Keep smiles on the faces of the people who work here and they will put smiles on those who come here.

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Writing mantras for agents (business)

Help agents by writing a mantra for them. It’s an excellent way to express your appreciation of their achievements and their value to the company. Words are powerful. Use small words when you can. Citing numbers, rank, dollars, years, appears to try to elevate oneself above others. Awards like Top agent, Realtor of the Year are OK to use. Examples: *He/she believes it is critically important to listen to her/his clients wishes, goals, and needs, then tailor their home buying/selling process around this. *His/her sincerity, negotiation skills and passion for real estate makes him/her one of the top agents in his/her field. *The right Realtor does make a difference. His/Her success is proof of that. *She/He is a tireless champion for her/his clients. You want someone like her/him on your side. *He/she is a dedicated and accomplished Real Estate Agent who provides clients solid reliable insight coupled with customer service. He/she/ would be thrilled to assist you in buying or selling your home. *She/He has a keen eye for knowing how to stage and market a home for the maximum sales price. She/He is dedicated and diligent. That’s what you need when selecting an agent to help you. *Clients benefit from His/Her positive demeanor. She/he knows that the highest level of care and attention is imperative with each transaction. Listening to clients, having market knowledge and hustle are also traits that he/she exemplifies. *His/Her analytical and detailed oriented mindset coupled with his/her personal experience, empower him/her to address the needs of his/her clients with exceptional service. It is typical that each agent is responsible for writing their own ads or mantra. Some do an outstanding job, others struggle. The above examples are about the personal character, talents, and knowledge of the agent. Must see – Great starter home – lovingly cared for, you have to see it to believe it – hardwood floors – view from the porch – These are fragmented/often used. You have agents who appreciate hearing positive words about themselves. It builds loyalty and understanding.

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'Xcelligent (formerly CIE)' – a commercial listing service

Xcelligent (formerly CIE) is a listing service company that serves the commercial segment of real estate. Listings (properties) are entered into the system and directed by broadcast email to its members (Commercial Agents) in the greater St. Louis area that include Missouri and Illinois. The number of agents are estimated at 300 +.

Xcelligent is a commercial real estate information platform providing fully researched and accurate and accessible property information on market analytics, properties, tenants, availabilities comparables, and demographics. Information is available to commercial agents on the property and also by contacting the agent or agency. Agents who have clients seeking properties for their particular needs can be alert for those properties. I am confident that Buyer Agents seek information and provide their clients with properties that closely fit their needs. Agents retain information on

roperties and will continue to monitor information available to them.

Your property will be on an approximate email cycle of once every four weeks. t’s listed as a Madison County Office building.

An overwhelming number of commercial clients (buyers and tenants) seek information on properties from the internet. Few use print advertising. Flyers may be distributed, but are considered by most agents as junk mail. They are available for agents, clients/customers and are helpful for showings.

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'Yes, I Can' (three words for success)

Three important words for success!

“Yes, Ican.”

By adding three simple phrases to our every-day vocabulary, we can shift our approach to life so that we will create success and realize our own greatness. The first is: Yes Ican.

When you’re confronted with the question, “Can you do it?” answer loudly and with confidence: “Yes, Ican.”

The second phrase is: You Bet I will. Why is it important to start using this phrase? Just because you can does not necessarily mean you will. You may have the same raw ability as an Einstein ora Shakespeare but if you don’t put your ability into practice, who will ever know?

The third phrase is: Pll do it now. Alot of people die with their songs unsung and their books unwritten. Now's the time to do “it,” whatever that is for you. Nowiis the time to sell your products, nowis the time to prospect new people for your business.

We show deep admiration for great men and women of achievement, but we have the same ability too. They only difference between them and us is that we have not responded to the opportunity before us with the phrases Yes, Ican, You Bet Iwill and ll doit now!

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'Your best friend Sue spoke of you' (a letter)

Hello. Your best friend and mine, Sue, spoke of you and gave me your address. That was an act of kindness as it brought back memories of you. ”How are you, well I hope.’ That became my greeting to hundreds of people I’ve met. Dick Gunn, you stand tall on my list of people who I admire. I recall one day in 1973 you and I played tennis on EIU’s court. We had walked from our boarding house, you in front of me with a lively step and I trailed carrying two rackets and a tube of balls. After warming up I served first and my overhand was weak and hit the net. I served the next ball underhanded and you swatted it over my head and over the back screen. The second serve was a repeat and again you smashed the ball over the fence. I called out the score. You replied, “I’m not going to play patty-pat tennis.” You added, “If you don’t do your best this game is finished.” In anger, I served overhand. You slaughtered me. I was quiet walking home, you were still stepping lively, heel to toe. You gave me a shoulder hug and said, “John, you’re going to get better, you’ve got fire in you.” If you don’t do your best became my go-to self talk. It still is. Two weeks ago I was getting ready to play golf with the fellows. It was the first time in more than three years as my health had stripped me of the skills I had. A gentlemen with a funny hat called out to me; “Hey John, I’ve still got the rock you gave me. You painted “My name and “Always do your best.” He added, “how are you, fine I hope.” I played horribly, but signed my name to the card in a bold stroke. I am fortunate and thankful for my life and my friends. I write. Some say I’m pretty good. I’ve done stand-up comedy. Some say I am pretty bad. I am a bu! historian. I was a banker, a real estate agent. I have friends in sports: MLB, NFL, PGA, NBA, WTA, NSL, NHL. I never collected an autograph. I have a 2000 Rookie of the Year, MVP bobble head of Albert Pujols. Dick, thanks for turning me around to positive thinking and not giving up. \ John Casey, 618-670-5646 435 1/2 Blu! St. Alton, IL 62002 Jrcasey134@gmail.com

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Stories My Father Wrote · the Letters & Advice volume · kept by Shan Casey