Alternative Source Citations

Something that tickled my sense of humor: I saw posted printout today [source unknown], spoofing some of the Modern Language Association's elaborate citation rules. Oh, the days of college papers, endnotes and in-text citations...

Newest Rulings on Alternative Source Citing

Rest-Stop Restroom Graffiti

When citing rest-stop graffiti:

1. List the name of the rest area (if it has a name) in italics.
2. Name the state in which it was located.
3. Name the highway it abuts (with direction headed).
4. List the nearest mile marker.
5. List the date the graffiti was observed.

Example: "Head you wouldn't believe, call 555-3278." [The Ida C. Collins Memorial Rest Area, Wisconsin; Interstate 94 South (Mile Marker 218): May 14, 1997.]

Magic 8-Balls

When citing Magic 8-Balls:

1. List the question asked the Magic 8-Ball (in quotes).
2. Identify the location where you consulted the Magic 8-Ball.
3. List the manufacturer of the Magic 8-Ball (in italics).
4. List the date that you consulted the Magic 8-Ball.

Example: "Reply Hazy, Try Again Later." ["Will I get laid tonight?" Oasis Tavern, 6907 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL: Tyco Toys, Inc., January 12, 1998.]

Alien Mind Transmissions

When citing telepathic transmissions from alien planets/spacecraft:

1. Name the aliens who sent the message (if known).
2. Identify the location of planet or craft.
3. Identify the location where transmission was received.
4. List the date the transmission was received.

Example: "Internal combustion vehicles are wasteful and evil. You must stand in the street and curse their drivers and occupants immediately." [The Elders of Antares 7; A Ship Orbiting Saturn; Corner of Lawrence Avenue and Broadway, Chicago, IL: July 5, 1989.]

Epithets Hollered Out Car Windows

When citing epithets hollered out car windows:

1. Describe the vehicle from which epithet emanated (approximations are acceptable in cases of great speed).
2. Identify the location where the incident occurred (see #1).
   
3. List the date the incident occurred (see #1).

Example: "Hey Buddy, who the F*CK taught you how to drive?" [Large Delivery-Type Truck, Near Main and Chicago Streets; Evanston, IL: March 5, 1999.]