With the L.A. Lakers and Boston Celtics beginning the NBA Finals this evening, I might actually tune in. But as far as I’m concerned, it didn’t get any better than the 1980s NBA when the Celtics and Lakers hooked up in the finals three different times.
And my all-time favorite moment from that rivalry took place in Game 4 in 1987. The following clip is about 9 ½ minutes long, but the “Magic moment” takes place at about 7:04.
------------------------------------------
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Obama's no Messiah.
But a prophet perhaps?
From a debate in Iowa a few weeks before the Iowa caucuses:
------------------------------------------
From a debate in Iowa a few weeks before the Iowa caucuses:
------------------------------------------
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Obama-Hillary?
Rumor has it that Hillary Clinton would consider the VP slot after all. I have my doubts that will take place. But let’s look at it hypothetically.
Suppose an Obama-Clinton ticket wins it all this November. What of 2012? Naturally, Obama would run for re-election, right? Chances are a Vice President wouldn’t challenge a sitting President (although with the Clintons, all bets are off) for the party’s nomination. That means Hillary would not even be a contender for President again until 2016 when she will be 69-years old!
Suppose that very subject were broached with Hillary. Can you imagine her response? “Oh, I could see myself as Commander in Chief before then”, she might say. “A lot can happen within the first few years of a Presidency. We all remember John F. Kennedy was assassinated less than three years in to his first term.”
Of course, I'm being facetious there. I have no idea what makes me think Hillary would ever invoke a Kennedy assassination as an analogy of how her Presidency could come to fruition.
------------------------------------------
Suppose an Obama-Clinton ticket wins it all this November. What of 2012? Naturally, Obama would run for re-election, right? Chances are a Vice President wouldn’t challenge a sitting President (although with the Clintons, all bets are off) for the party’s nomination. That means Hillary would not even be a contender for President again until 2016 when she will be 69-years old!
Suppose that very subject were broached with Hillary. Can you imagine her response? “Oh, I could see myself as Commander in Chief before then”, she might say. “A lot can happen within the first few years of a Presidency. We all remember John F. Kennedy was assassinated less than three years in to his first term.”
Of course, I'm being facetious there. I have no idea what makes me think Hillary would ever invoke a Kennedy assassination as an analogy of how her Presidency could come to fruition.
------------------------------------------
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Then go already!!
You knew it would be a matter of time before one those self-absorbed Hollywood types spoke up about the Presidential election and their plans to bolt American if an eeeevil Republican is elected.
In 2000, actor Alec Baldwin threatened to leave the US if George W. Bush was elected.
In ’04, Robert Redford made a similar pledge.
Now Susan Sarandon is speaking up about her 2008 relocation plans.
Hated Margaret Thatcher??? Wow!!! Imagine the frothing-at-the-mouth conversations her and “life partner” Tim Robbins have at the dinner table on a nightly basis? Robbins, who last year shamelessly claimed the U.S. had killed “over 400,000” Iraqi citizens, regularly calls for impeachment of President Bush.
I hope their kids wear rain gear during family meal time.
------------------------------------------
In 2000, actor Alec Baldwin threatened to leave the US if George W. Bush was elected.
In ’04, Robert Redford made a similar pledge.
Now Susan Sarandon is speaking up about her 2008 relocation plans.
She says if John McCain gets elected, she will move to Italy or Canada. She adds, "It's a critical time, but I have faith in the American people.”
OK, American people. You don't want Susan to move out of the country, so it's up to you to elect Barack Obama. What? You thought Susan of all people would be for Hillary Clinton? Well, no. She told John Hiscock: "I thought the whole point of feminism is that you're not supposed to be defined by gender. I don't understand the reasoning behind that, because I wouldn't vote for Condoleezza Rice, and I hated Margaret Thatcher."
Hated Margaret Thatcher??? Wow!!! Imagine the frothing-at-the-mouth conversations her and “life partner” Tim Robbins have at the dinner table on a nightly basis? Robbins, who last year shamelessly claimed the U.S. had killed “over 400,000” Iraqi citizens, regularly calls for impeachment of President Bush.
I hope their kids wear rain gear during family meal time.
------------------------------------------
Friday, May 30, 2008
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Juicer will fight Napoleon Dynamite's uncle.
No, I’m not talking about Uncle Rico.
Sikahema is actually uncle to actor Jon Heder, who played the quirky Napoleon Dynamite in the 2004 film of the same name.
But I digress.
Since Canseco threw down this challenge due to financial woes, I’m surprised former NBA star Latrell Sprewell didn’t jump at the chance to fight given his own monetary mishaps. Of course, the boxing gloves would hinder Spree’s ability to wrap his hands around his opponent’s neck.
-------------------------------------------------
Jose Canseco put out a challenge, and a former NFL Pro Bowler has answered the bell.
Canseco, the former Oakland A's slugger and reality TV veteran who recently revealed that the mortgage on his home had been foreclosed, offered $5,000 to anyone who would step into the ring with him and headline a boxing card in Atlantic City this summer.
Now he has an opponent.
According to multiple published reports Tuesday, former Eagles kick returner and two-time Pro Bowler Vai Sikahema will fight Canseco in a July 12 bout at the Atlantic City Bernie Robbins Stadium.
Sikahema is actually uncle to actor Jon Heder, who played the quirky Napoleon Dynamite in the 2004 film of the same name.
But I digress.
Since Canseco threw down this challenge due to financial woes, I’m surprised former NBA star Latrell Sprewell didn’t jump at the chance to fight given his own monetary mishaps. Of course, the boxing gloves would hinder Spree’s ability to wrap his hands around his opponent’s neck.
-------------------------------------------------
Monday, May 26, 2008
Devil Room.....Defeated!
My Mom and Dad’s home in River Falls, WI has a root cellar. When they bought the house in 1992 the basement was unfinished, driveway was gravel, and the house needed a new roof and siding. Since then Mom and Dad improved on all of those things and more, except the root cellar which I named “The Devil Room” because it gives me the creeps.
I have never liked spending time in basements. The darkness depresses me and I don’t like the cold. So you can imagine why I didn’t care for the root cellar. Needless to say, it was useless space unless used for storing canned food and such so it went unattended for years. We just closed the door and ignored it. Big mistake. Huge.
As the years went by my fear of the Devil Room increased. Dad asked me on many occasions to help him clean it out, but I was so freaked out by it I refused. It was damp, getting musty, and bugs were starting to reside. It was an irrational fear, I know. However, I just built up in my mind awful things growing and dripping in that stupid little room. Well, as Rev. Wright says “The chickens are coming home to roost”. With the death of my father in February, my family decided to move forward with plans to build a home so Mom can come live with us. Yep, you guessed it, we need to sell the River Falls house. The Devil Room and I have a date with destiny. I can hear my Dad laughing at me from heaven.
In this housing market, every little thing counts. The Devil Room has to be dealt with if we want to sell Mom’s house in a reasonable amount of time. Left alone it would be an issue for any buyer. So I decided to make it my project. I consulted several people on what to do and tackled the project with vigor and courage. Brad and I cleaned it out, my brother-in-law helped us scrape and smooth the cinder block, we washed it with bleach, soaked it, rinsed it, and used a shop vacuum to get the moisture out (thank you Dennis!). When it was reasonably dry I used hydraulic cement to fill any cracks and holes, and we painted it with masonry paint. It’s getting a new door and frame this week along with some flooring material. The Devil Room has been defeated!
I know my Dad would be proud and pleased. He never liked that stupid, creepy crawly room either. I also know what a complete ninny I have been. Had I just tackled the project when Mom and Dad moved in, I would not have had to deal with it now and would have rid myself of any worry and fear. Lesson learned.
------------------------------------------------
I have never liked spending time in basements. The darkness depresses me and I don’t like the cold. So you can imagine why I didn’t care for the root cellar. Needless to say, it was useless space unless used for storing canned food and such so it went unattended for years. We just closed the door and ignored it. Big mistake. Huge.
As the years went by my fear of the Devil Room increased. Dad asked me on many occasions to help him clean it out, but I was so freaked out by it I refused. It was damp, getting musty, and bugs were starting to reside. It was an irrational fear, I know. However, I just built up in my mind awful things growing and dripping in that stupid little room. Well, as Rev. Wright says “The chickens are coming home to roost”. With the death of my father in February, my family decided to move forward with plans to build a home so Mom can come live with us. Yep, you guessed it, we need to sell the River Falls house. The Devil Room and I have a date with destiny. I can hear my Dad laughing at me from heaven.
In this housing market, every little thing counts. The Devil Room has to be dealt with if we want to sell Mom’s house in a reasonable amount of time. Left alone it would be an issue for any buyer. So I decided to make it my project. I consulted several people on what to do and tackled the project with vigor and courage. Brad and I cleaned it out, my brother-in-law helped us scrape and smooth the cinder block, we washed it with bleach, soaked it, rinsed it, and used a shop vacuum to get the moisture out (thank you Dennis!). When it was reasonably dry I used hydraulic cement to fill any cracks and holes, and we painted it with masonry paint. It’s getting a new door and frame this week along with some flooring material. The Devil Room has been defeated!
I know my Dad would be proud and pleased. He never liked that stupid, creepy crawly room either. I also know what a complete ninny I have been. Had I just tackled the project when Mom and Dad moved in, I would not have had to deal with it now and would have rid myself of any worry and fear. Lesson learned.
------------------------------------------------
Saturday, May 24, 2008
My summer with a green thumb.
It was 29 summers ago when I attended Frost Lake elementary for summer school. It wasn’t because I was in danger of not moving on to fifth grade that September. No, my mother knew that if I didn’t have an outlet then I’d be in the apartment all day watching game shows or playing “Pong”.
I hadn’t thought much about that Summer until I read that my 4-H teacher passed away.
I recall Mr. Glasoe reminding me of Oliver Hardy of the famed duo Laurel & Hardy. Of course, I never had the guts to tell him that.
In the article announcing his passing, he was described as having a “squeaky, gravelly voice.” I recall one incident in particular when that voice barked at me in annoyance. Now the first ten years of my life I had lived in nothing but city dwellings where the only horticulture I knew of was patches of grass with dandelions. So when we were tromping around in the school garden in the summer of ’79, Mr. Glasoe was showing us how to spruce up the area. He then complained of all the weeds which were growing and then yanked out a fistful near some plants. At that point, I said “Mr. Glasoe, isn’t that a tomato plant you just pulled out?” Horrified, he looked at what he had in his hand and then looked at me and said “Nobody likes a smart a$$” and then moved on. I recall one of his 4-H helpers laughing to the point of his face turning purple.
To this day, I still know very little about horticulture…except for the fact I can tell the difference between a tomato plant and weeds.
------------------------------------------------
I hadn’t thought much about that Summer until I read that my 4-H teacher passed away.
Horticulturist Frederick (Freddie) Glasoe dispensed gardening advice with a direct manner and his distinctive squeaky, gravelly voice as co-host of KSTP-AM radio's "Home and Garden" show on Saturday mornings for three decades.
Glasoe, 80, a retired science teacher and former president of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society, died of heart disease on May 14 in Ojai, Calif.
I recall Mr. Glasoe reminding me of Oliver Hardy of the famed duo Laurel & Hardy. Of course, I never had the guts to tell him that.
In the article announcing his passing, he was described as having a “squeaky, gravelly voice.” I recall one incident in particular when that voice barked at me in annoyance. Now the first ten years of my life I had lived in nothing but city dwellings where the only horticulture I knew of was patches of grass with dandelions. So when we were tromping around in the school garden in the summer of ’79, Mr. Glasoe was showing us how to spruce up the area. He then complained of all the weeds which were growing and then yanked out a fistful near some plants. At that point, I said “Mr. Glasoe, isn’t that a tomato plant you just pulled out?” Horrified, he looked at what he had in his hand and then looked at me and said “Nobody likes a smart a$$” and then moved on. I recall one of his 4-H helpers laughing to the point of his face turning purple.
To this day, I still know very little about horticulture…except for the fact I can tell the difference between a tomato plant and weeds.
------------------------------------------------
39
Today I celebrate another birthday. And it marks the last birthday where I can say I’m a “thirty-something”.
Every time I allude to the fact that next year will be a milestone birthday, my gal responds with an almost mischievous laugh. I’m definitely in for something next year but I just don’t know what.
-----------------------------------------
Every time I allude to the fact that next year will be a milestone birthday, my gal responds with an almost mischievous laugh. I’m definitely in for something next year but I just don’t know what.
-----------------------------------------
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Separated at Birth: Senator Ted Kennedy & The Stay-Puft Marshmellow Man
Yeah, I know it seems rather callous to take a shot at Senator Kennedy in light of his being diagnosed with a brain tumor. I'm sorry, but the guy clearly needs to mix in a salad (not that I should criticize one's eating habits, given my own struggles in that area).
Politics aside, I wish Senator Kennedy nothing but the best as he battles his potentially fatal disease.
------------------------------------------
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Happy --th birthday!!
My gal is celebrating her birthday today. I’ve attempted to type in her age in this post but every time I do I receive an electric shock. Huh. Must be a technical glitch.
Happy birthday, Jen.
As always, the best is yet to come!!
-----------------------------------------
Happy birthday, Jen.
As always, the best is yet to come!!
-----------------------------------------
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
100.
Today marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of an American icon.
Actor Jimmy Stewart was born on May 20, 1908 in Indiana, Pennsylvania. He was considered one of the finest Hollywood actors of the 40s and 50s, with such memorable roles as down-on-his-luck banker George Bailey in the holiday classic It’s A Wonderful Life and naïve US Senate appointee Jefferson Smith in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. Alfred Hitchcock turned him into a dramatic leading man in films like Rear Window and Vertigo. In the latter stages of his career, Stewart appeared in many westerns.
Despite the enormous success he enjoyed, Stewart always maintained that sort of shy “aw shucks” demeanor. Yes, the boy from southwestern Pennsylvania never got too caught up in the show business hype. He even stayed married to his first wife Gloria for 44 years, until her death in 1994. Stewart passed away three years later at the age of 88.
But if there’s one memory I’ll always cling too, it was Stewart’s appearance on The Tonight Show back in the early 80s. He wrapped up his guest appearance with a poem about his beloved dog Beau. The poem was a personification of Jimmy Stewart himself: simple, kind and heartfelt.
Happy 100th, Jimmy!
------------------------------------------
Monday, May 19, 2008
Barack Obama = John Kerry + Charisma
When Senator John Kerry endorsed Barack Obama In January as the Democrat Presidential candidate, I smelled a hint of spite. Of the three viable candidates remaining then, Obama was the only one who neither threw Kerry under the bus for his “botched joke” nor torpedoed his 2004 Presidential run with shameless demagoguery.
But now I realize that maybe Kerry’s endorsement was genuine. More specifically, perhaps he saw a lot of himself in Obama. If you have heard some of Obama’s speeches and interactions over the past few weeks, he has employed much of the same rhetoric and techniques that failed Kerry in ’04.
On Sunday, Obama attempted to frighten senior citizens by distorting John McCain’s support for Social Security reform.
Kerry in 2004:
Elitists Obama and Kerry also put forth some of the more laughable attempts at showing their “regular guy” side.
In Indiana earlier this month, Obama stopped in to a small town tavern, saw what the majority of patrons were drinking and said “I’m gonna have a Bud.” Four years earlier in the all important swing state of Ohio, Kerry strolled into an Ohio store and in dumbed down grammar inquired “Can I get me a huntin’ license here?”
What failed miserably in 2004 is being tried again this election cycle. But there is one advantage Obama has over dryball Kerry: he can deliver demagoguery with charisma.
------------------------------------------------
But now I realize that maybe Kerry’s endorsement was genuine. More specifically, perhaps he saw a lot of himself in Obama. If you have heard some of Obama’s speeches and interactions over the past few weeks, he has employed much of the same rhetoric and techniques that failed Kerry in ’04.
On Sunday, Obama attempted to frighten senior citizens by distorting John McCain’s support for Social Security reform.
Obama said McCain would push to raise the retirement age for collecting Social Security benefits or trim annual cost-of-living increases. Obama has rejected both ideas as solutions to the funding crisis projected for Social Security in favor of making higher-income workers pay more into the system.
"We have to protect Social Security for future generations without pushing the burden onto seniors who have earned the right to retire in dignity," he said.
Kerry in 2004:
"I will never privatize Social Security," the Massachusetts senator said. "I'll never cut the benefits, and I won't raise the retirement age."
"The president's privatization plan for Social Security is another way of saying to our seniors that the promise of security will be broken."
Elitists Obama and Kerry also put forth some of the more laughable attempts at showing their “regular guy” side.
In Indiana earlier this month, Obama stopped in to a small town tavern, saw what the majority of patrons were drinking and said “I’m gonna have a Bud.” Four years earlier in the all important swing state of Ohio, Kerry strolled into an Ohio store and in dumbed down grammar inquired “Can I get me a huntin’ license here?”
What failed miserably in 2004 is being tried again this election cycle. But there is one advantage Obama has over dryball Kerry: he can deliver demagoguery with charisma.
------------------------------------------------
I want to be a part of it....
New York, New York!!
After booking our flights and hotel reservations for our July trip to NYC, my bro and I began working on getting Twins-Yankees tickets. Since the Yankees games are routinely sold out, just ordering them via the ticket office or walk-up isn't possible.
Ah, but this is the 21st century. That's right: E-bay!!!!
I found a Yankee season ticket holder who was looking to unload his two tickets for the July 23 afternoon game. Today I received the good word that my bid was highest!!!
And here is where we will be sitting:
After booking our flights and hotel reservations for our July trip to NYC, my bro and I began working on getting Twins-Yankees tickets. Since the Yankees games are routinely sold out, just ordering them via the ticket office or walk-up isn't possible.
Ah, but this is the 21st century. That's right: E-bay!!!!
I found a Yankee season ticket holder who was looking to unload his two tickets for the July 23 afternoon game. Today I received the good word that my bid was highest!!!
And here is where we will be sitting:
And the view is spectacular!!
The package also includes two passes to the Sony Stadium Club, which is a full service restaurant in Yankee stadium. The club opens opens two hours prior to the start of the game and closes at the end of the seventh inning. How nice is this place? They have a dress code!!
Next phase: Tickets to see Late Night with Conan O'Brien!!!
------------------------------------------
Friday, May 16, 2008
I'm not worthy!!!
"Did you ever feel life was a tuxedo and you were a pair of brown shoes?"
-Actor George Gobel (circa 1970s), when he was alongside Dean Martin and Bob Hope on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson
I can now echo that very sentiment when looking at the blogroll on Rep. Michele Bachmann’s new site on Townhall.com. My humble little site is one of thirteen listed amongst some of the more prestigious Minnesota “Right” blogs. Now more than ever do I feel like I have a lot to live up to.
But the greater point here is that we now have ready online access to the wonderful insights of Rep. Bachmann. In this era of Republican politicians being ousted for not acting like…well, Republicans, Michele Bachmann is living proof that running as a conservative is still a winning formula. And on a selfish note, she will be our representative once we move to Ramsey this Fall!
In the veritable bloodbath that the GOP endured in the 2006 midterm elections, Rep. Bachmann was one of the few bright spots. And now she brings that klieg-like spirit to the blogosphere.
Welcome, Rep. Bachmann!!
------------------------------------------
I can now echo that very sentiment when looking at the blogroll on Rep. Michele Bachmann’s new site on Townhall.com. My humble little site is one of thirteen listed amongst some of the more prestigious Minnesota “Right” blogs. Now more than ever do I feel like I have a lot to live up to.
But the greater point here is that we now have ready online access to the wonderful insights of Rep. Bachmann. In this era of Republican politicians being ousted for not acting like…well, Republicans, Michele Bachmann is living proof that running as a conservative is still a winning formula. And on a selfish note, she will be our representative once we move to Ramsey this Fall!
In the veritable bloodbath that the GOP endured in the 2006 midterm elections, Rep. Bachmann was one of the few bright spots. And now she brings that klieg-like spirit to the blogosphere.
Welcome, Rep. Bachmann!!
------------------------------------------
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Olbermann unhinged.
I have to be honest when I say I never much cared for Keith Olbermann. I recall when his insufferable arrogance was on display at ESPN in the early to mid 90s. He was also a miserable failure when he was part of NBC's sports coverage in the late 90s.
But that’s nothing compared to his sheer lunacy on the nightly MSNBC show Countdown with Keith Olbermann. Said lunacy earned him the 2006 Loon of the Year award on the Northern Alliance Radio Network.
Ah, but Keith still maintains that good ol' Olby arrogance. Check out the 12-minute screed he put forth Wednesday evening. He blathers on as if President Bush were listening in. The scary thing is Olby might actually believe the President would debase himself to watch such a wretched program.
Yup. That's what $3 million per year'll get ya at MSNBC.
-------------------------------------------
A message to the world.
I’ve been tagged by Dan-O to put together a Message to the World meme.
The meme rule is as follows: You have 150 characters to send a message to the world. Punctuation doesn't count.
Fair enough. I would merely cite the biblical verse of Galatians 6:9.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
-----------------------------------------------
The meme rule is as follows: You have 150 characters to send a message to the world. Punctuation doesn't count.
Fair enough. I would merely cite the biblical verse of Galatians 6:9.
-----------------------------------------------
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Home Sweet Home!
As I write this, my gal is working feverishly on a huge project for her Masters Degree. She will complete her degree by the end of the Summer. On top of that, we are working on the mounds of paperwork required in preparing to adopt a child within the next year.
I guess two life-altering events weren’t enough for us. That said, we are officially moving forward with building a new home!
As such, we have created a new blog dedicated solely to new home updates. We anticipate construction beginning before the end of this month, with a move-in date sometime around early Fall!!
------------------------------------------
I guess two life-altering events weren’t enough for us. That said, we are officially moving forward with building a new home!
As such, we have created a new blog dedicated solely to new home updates. We anticipate construction beginning before the end of this month, with a move-in date sometime around early Fall!!
------------------------------------------
More Dad shenanigans.
So my Aunt Diane (my Dad’s younger sister) called me last night to check in. I hadn’t talked to her in a couple of months so she was catching me up on the latest family news. She tells me that they’re not having a Memorial Day gig at their place this year because she and my Uncle Bruce are going to Germany for vacation. I was then shocked to learn that my cousin (Diane’s older daughter) is going through a divorce after 10 years of marriage.
But that wasn’t even the ultimate newsworthy item. Diane went on to mention how my Dad was going to be taking my Grandma up to my Uncle’s place in Northeast Wisconsin this weekend.
Dead silence for five seconds.
“You do know you’re Dad is flying in to town tonight, don’t you?” Diane asked. Had no idea, actually. I talked to Dad as recently as last month. He mentioned something about coming to town around May or June but hadn’t made definite plans at that point. My Aunt gave one of those chuckles where she was clearly disgusted but not surprised at Dad’s neglect.
Now one might think I was angered by this development. But the truth is I know why he’s in “not speaking” mode. While he hasn’t had the intestinal fortitude to say anything to me personally, he’s looking for an apology from me.
When Dad came to town last year he basically shouted down my wife when she didn’t agree with an opinion of his. Now if that were an isolated incident, I might have let it slide. But since this was becoming a pattern every time he visited, I’d had enough. So I wrote him a letter just before he left town last July. In the letter, I basically unleashed my hurts and frustrations built up over thirty years. Since I had been seeing a therapist last year, I had finally come to grips with my relationship (or lack thereof) with Dad. As such, he needed to know that I was no longer going to walk on eggshells around him when broaching subjects that anger him. I also pointed out that it still stuck in my craw how he blew off me and my brother Eric virtually our entire childhood.
We didn’t speak about the letter until last August. When he brought it up, he basically unloaded on me to the point where he claimed I had my head up my a**. I guess I held out a glimmer of hope that he might be introspective and realize that his general belligerence is not worth alienating his family. Unfortunately, that was too much to hope for. We ended the conversation having resolved nothing. Nevertheless, I figured the matter was closed. You know, we just basically “agreed to disagree.”
Not the case.
Dad came back to town last October to serve as best man in his younger brother’s wedding. When we saw each other for the first time since the over-the-phone blow out, things were cordial and polite. However, I would learn later that he was looking for me to apologize for the no-holds-barred letter I wrote. Then, and only then, would he consider the matter closed. Now in our August phone conversation I did express regret over and over for not conveying my frustrations a lot sooner (Not that it would have done any good had I done so 5-10 years earlier). Other than that, I felt I had nothing to apologize for. And I still feel that way today.
If Dad feels he’s been wronged, he will need to tell me specifically where he takes issue. I will then listen with an open mind and open heart. I will even answer his objections in a dignified matter.
Until that happens, he will merely do the equivalent of drinking poison while hoping I’m the one who gets sick.
-----------------------------------------------
But that wasn’t even the ultimate newsworthy item. Diane went on to mention how my Dad was going to be taking my Grandma up to my Uncle’s place in Northeast Wisconsin this weekend.
Dead silence for five seconds.
“You do know you’re Dad is flying in to town tonight, don’t you?” Diane asked. Had no idea, actually. I talked to Dad as recently as last month. He mentioned something about coming to town around May or June but hadn’t made definite plans at that point. My Aunt gave one of those chuckles where she was clearly disgusted but not surprised at Dad’s neglect.
Now one might think I was angered by this development. But the truth is I know why he’s in “not speaking” mode. While he hasn’t had the intestinal fortitude to say anything to me personally, he’s looking for an apology from me.
When Dad came to town last year he basically shouted down my wife when she didn’t agree with an opinion of his. Now if that were an isolated incident, I might have let it slide. But since this was becoming a pattern every time he visited, I’d had enough. So I wrote him a letter just before he left town last July. In the letter, I basically unleashed my hurts and frustrations built up over thirty years. Since I had been seeing a therapist last year, I had finally come to grips with my relationship (or lack thereof) with Dad. As such, he needed to know that I was no longer going to walk on eggshells around him when broaching subjects that anger him. I also pointed out that it still stuck in my craw how he blew off me and my brother Eric virtually our entire childhood.
We didn’t speak about the letter until last August. When he brought it up, he basically unloaded on me to the point where he claimed I had my head up my a**. I guess I held out a glimmer of hope that he might be introspective and realize that his general belligerence is not worth alienating his family. Unfortunately, that was too much to hope for. We ended the conversation having resolved nothing. Nevertheless, I figured the matter was closed. You know, we just basically “agreed to disagree.”
Not the case.
Dad came back to town last October to serve as best man in his younger brother’s wedding. When we saw each other for the first time since the over-the-phone blow out, things were cordial and polite. However, I would learn later that he was looking for me to apologize for the no-holds-barred letter I wrote. Then, and only then, would he consider the matter closed. Now in our August phone conversation I did express regret over and over for not conveying my frustrations a lot sooner (Not that it would have done any good had I done so 5-10 years earlier). Other than that, I felt I had nothing to apologize for. And I still feel that way today.
If Dad feels he’s been wronged, he will need to tell me specifically where he takes issue. I will then listen with an open mind and open heart. I will even answer his objections in a dignified matter.
Until that happens, he will merely do the equivalent of drinking poison while hoping I’m the one who gets sick.
-----------------------------------------------
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Come again?
Did anyone happen to see any locust outside this evening? How about Halley’s Comet?
I figured something bizarre was taking place when I saw the standings in Major League Baseball's AL East division.
----------------------------------------
I figured something bizarre was taking place when I saw the standings in Major League Baseball's AL East division.
----------------------------------------
Sunday, May 11, 2008
On the mend.
On Thursday morning, I woke up with a sore lower back. By the time I got to work I could barely stand without my legs feeling as though they were giving out.
On Friday, I was in even worse pain. Not only did my posture make me look like Quasimodo, I couldn’t even bend over to put my socks on. You can imagine the pathetic scene with my gal having to put my socks on for me. And to add insult to injury, I was also informed of my dire need for a pedicure.
Anyhow, with the pain so unbearable, I left work at Noon Friday to go to the doctor. Thankfully, the X-rays showed I had no bulging or slipped discs. However, it was determined I had severe spasms. As a result, I was prescribed a veritable buffet of meds. With a concoction of Vicodin, muscle relaxers and extra-strength Motrin, I’ve had two of the best nights sleep in….oh….my whole natural life!!!!
Thus far today, my pain is under control despite only taking one dose of Motrin this morning. It’s a good thing, too. I’ve heard horror stories of people becoming severely addicted to some of those high-powered medications.
-------------------------------------------
On Friday, I was in even worse pain. Not only did my posture make me look like Quasimodo, I couldn’t even bend over to put my socks on. You can imagine the pathetic scene with my gal having to put my socks on for me. And to add insult to injury, I was also informed of my dire need for a pedicure.
Anyhow, with the pain so unbearable, I left work at Noon Friday to go to the doctor. Thankfully, the X-rays showed I had no bulging or slipped discs. However, it was determined I had severe spasms. As a result, I was prescribed a veritable buffet of meds. With a concoction of Vicodin, muscle relaxers and extra-strength Motrin, I’ve had two of the best nights sleep in….oh….my whole natural life!!!!
Thus far today, my pain is under control despite only taking one dose of Motrin this morning. It’s a good thing, too. I’ve heard horror stories of people becoming severely addicted to some of those high-powered medications.
-------------------------------------------
Wedding perspectives.
Jenna Bush, the daughter of President George W. Bush, was married on Saturday at the Bush ranch in Crawford, TX. The President called the wedding “spectacular.”
However, the Democrat response conveyed the nuptials as being blasé and lacking pizzazz.
-----------------------------------------
However, the Democrat response conveyed the nuptials as being blasé and lacking pizzazz.
-----------------------------------------
Friday, May 09, 2008
It was a nice run!
I had a feeling this day would come. Nevertheless, I still wasn’t ready for it.
Katie McCollow, proprietor of the uproariously funny Yucky Salad With Bones, is signing off.
So folks, I'm pulling the plug on the Salad. This has been tons of fun, but life has gotten way too busy these days and something has to go. It was either this or Molly, and what can I say? I love the kid.
I started this thing what, about 4 years ago, for no other reason than I thought it would be fun. I never paid any attention to how many hits I got, not because I'm some counterculture goth girl or anything, more due to the fact that other issues were more pressing, like the kitchen was on fire or a kid was hanging off a precarious ledge or something. Oh let's see, the other day I got home from a run to find them all out in the front yard, trying to dislodge an arrow from a second story shutter by heaving various heavy objects at it. Hmm. Nothing like coming home to find the troops throwing rocks and footballs at the windows.
But I wanted to make a formal goodbye, so long and thanks for all the fish. Really, I can't tell you how much I appreciated y'all reading.
Over the past year or so, Katie’s posting had become somewhat sporadic. Usually when I start reading a blog, I rarely check back when there isn’t a post for more than three days. But the ‘Salad’ was on my daily check-in list regardless of the length of time between entries. Whether it was the humorous account of her daughter Molly snorting a Battleship game piece or her hilarious insights on the various Hollywood awards shows, Katie just had that gift.
It is my firm belief that everyone needs a light-hearted diversion from the daily grind that life can sometimes become. For me, “Yucky Salad” was the perfect antidote!
Thanks, Katie!
------------------------------------------
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Searching for Bobby Jindal.
When conservative titan Rush Limbaugh declares a politician “the next Ronald Reagan, if he doesn’t change”, I make it a priority to learn about such an individual.
Bobby Jindal became the youngest governor in the United States when the 36-year old garnered 54% of the vote in the 2007 Louisiana gubernatorial race (None of his other three opponents even topped 20%).
In this the era of the Republicans losing the mantle of fiscal responsibility, Jindal’s accomplishments clearly indicate he has the ability to cure the “drunken sailor” mentality of today’s GOP. During his tenure as secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Louisiana's Medicaid program went from bankruptcy with a $400 million deficit into three years of surpluses totaling $220 million. Such success led to his 1998 appointment as executive director of the National Bipartisan Commission on the Future of Medicare, a 17-member panel charged with devising plans to reform Medicare.
In September 2003, Jindal went on the record in the Times-Picayune by saying he is "..100 percent anti-abortion with no exceptions. I believe all life is precious." He never once backed down from that statement. Despite narrowly losing to Kathleen Blanco in ’03 gubernatorial race, Jindal decided to run for the US House in Louisiana’s 1st Congressional district, which is notorious for its social conservatism. Jindal won a seat in the House in 2004 with 78% of the vote and was re-elected in 2006 with a whopping 88%.
With 71-year old John McCain the presumptive GOP nominee, conventional wisdom says that he would select a rising young star as his running mate. While Jindal would appear to be a choice which would galvanize conservatives for the McCain campaign, my preference would be to have him serve out his term in Louisiana. If his track record is any indication, Jindal will strengthen his credentials by proving his leadership in an executive position of government.
Without a Jimmy Carter, there would have never been the longing for a Ronald Reagan in 1980. We may see history repeat if a 41-year old Jindal makes a White House run in 2012, especially if we’ve had to endure four years of an Obama presidency.
However, it is my hope is that the Republicans will make serious adjustments in time for the 2008 elections.
------------------------------------------
Bobby Jindal became the youngest governor in the United States when the 36-year old garnered 54% of the vote in the 2007 Louisiana gubernatorial race (None of his other three opponents even topped 20%).
In this the era of the Republicans losing the mantle of fiscal responsibility, Jindal’s accomplishments clearly indicate he has the ability to cure the “drunken sailor” mentality of today’s GOP. During his tenure as secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Louisiana's Medicaid program went from bankruptcy with a $400 million deficit into three years of surpluses totaling $220 million. Such success led to his 1998 appointment as executive director of the National Bipartisan Commission on the Future of Medicare, a 17-member panel charged with devising plans to reform Medicare.
In September 2003, Jindal went on the record in the Times-Picayune by saying he is "..100 percent anti-abortion with no exceptions. I believe all life is precious." He never once backed down from that statement. Despite narrowly losing to Kathleen Blanco in ’03 gubernatorial race, Jindal decided to run for the US House in Louisiana’s 1st Congressional district, which is notorious for its social conservatism. Jindal won a seat in the House in 2004 with 78% of the vote and was re-elected in 2006 with a whopping 88%.
With 71-year old John McCain the presumptive GOP nominee, conventional wisdom says that he would select a rising young star as his running mate. While Jindal would appear to be a choice which would galvanize conservatives for the McCain campaign, my preference would be to have him serve out his term in Louisiana. If his track record is any indication, Jindal will strengthen his credentials by proving his leadership in an executive position of government.
Without a Jimmy Carter, there would have never been the longing for a Ronald Reagan in 1980. We may see history repeat if a 41-year old Jindal makes a White House run in 2012, especially if we’ve had to endure four years of an Obama presidency.
However, it is my hope is that the Republicans will make serious adjustments in time for the 2008 elections.
------------------------------------------
Hope Wins!
Being a middle school science teacher can be rather harrowing at times. Having worked in this profession for the past fourteen years, I have collected my share of ‘war stories’. Gangs, drugs, pregnancies, criminal behavior of all sorts, apathy, parents who could care less about the amazing kids they have, kids who could care less about the amazing families they have…..I could go on and on.
Thankfully, for every sad story I have many happy ones. The great kids and families are what keep me going despite the challenges. I laugh every day at my student’s antics and they bring me great joy. I don’t post often on my hub’s blog, but this is a joyful story worth sharing.
One of the students in my school was diagnosed with leukemia. She was out of school for several months undergoing chemotherapy. Most people are familiar with the effects of chemotherapy, the most obvious being hair loss. If you remember what middle school was like when you were a kid, then you can understand how difficult it is to be a thirteen year old sickly bald girl.
The cool part is that six of her best friends, three boys and three girls, shaved their heads to keep her company. I love it.
Thankfully, for every sad story I have many happy ones. The great kids and families are what keep me going despite the challenges. I laugh every day at my student’s antics and they bring me great joy. I don’t post often on my hub’s blog, but this is a joyful story worth sharing.
One of the students in my school was diagnosed with leukemia. She was out of school for several months undergoing chemotherapy. Most people are familiar with the effects of chemotherapy, the most obvious being hair loss. If you remember what middle school was like when you were a kid, then you can understand how difficult it is to be a thirteen year old sickly bald girl.
The cool part is that six of her best friends, three boys and three girls, shaved their heads to keep her company. I love it.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Hey, Hey. Ho, H....Ah, Who Cares?
It’s amazing what moderate success in a war will do to an anti-war movement.
Oh, we are. We’re actually advocating victory. And wouldn’t you know it? There’s now reason for optimism, albeit cautious optimism. Who would have though such a thing leading up to the 2006 midterm elections? Back on September 11, 2006, there was a Washington Post story claiming a nearly untenable situation in what was then the al-Qaeda dominated Al-Anbar province. Today, that area is considered one those most stable regions and is even under control of the Anbar military forces. And there have been numerous other stories detailing how the Iraqi military is leading more of the combat operations.
As a result, the success has been an unmitigated disaster for Congressional Democrats so heavily invested in defeat, with Senate majority leader Harry Reid leading the way. Their sole issue in the ’06 midterms (other than their vapid cries of a GOP “culture of corruption”) was ending the conflict in Iraq, or at least putting restrictions on funding the war. Despite attaining majorities in both the House and Senate, the Democrats’ failures culminated last December when 70 Senators approved a no-strings-attached war funding bill.
So when I see that war protesters are frustrated by apathy, I believe they have it all wrong. People aren’t so much apathetic as they are resistant to join a losing cause.
------------------------------------------
Three protesters, a half-dozen signs and a missing petition.
"People walk past and say, 'I'm glad you're doing something,' " said Marty O'Malley, a Forest Hills, Pennsylvania council member who has attended more than 100 anti-Iraq war events, as he stood in front of Democratic U.S. Rep. Mike Doyle's Downtown office last week with the small gathering of activists.
"I want to shake them and say, 'Why aren't you doing something!?'"
Oh, we are. We’re actually advocating victory. And wouldn’t you know it? There’s now reason for optimism, albeit cautious optimism. Who would have though such a thing leading up to the 2006 midterm elections? Back on September 11, 2006, there was a Washington Post story claiming a nearly untenable situation in what was then the al-Qaeda dominated Al-Anbar province. Today, that area is considered one those most stable regions and is even under control of the Anbar military forces. And there have been numerous other stories detailing how the Iraqi military is leading more of the combat operations.
As a result, the success has been an unmitigated disaster for Congressional Democrats so heavily invested in defeat, with Senate majority leader Harry Reid leading the way. Their sole issue in the ’06 midterms (other than their vapid cries of a GOP “culture of corruption”) was ending the conflict in Iraq, or at least putting restrictions on funding the war. Despite attaining majorities in both the House and Senate, the Democrats’ failures culminated last December when 70 Senators approved a no-strings-attached war funding bill.
So when I see that war protesters are frustrated by apathy, I believe they have it all wrong. People aren’t so much apathetic as they are resistant to join a losing cause.
------------------------------------------
Have another donut!!!!
With apologies to Mitch Berg, it happened twenty years ago today.
On May 6, 1988, New Jersey Devils coach Jim Schoenfeld accosts an official after an NHL playoff game. It's one of the more humorous tongue lashings caught on tape!
-----------------------------------------
On May 6, 1988, New Jersey Devils coach Jim Schoenfeld accosts an official after an NHL playoff game. It's one of the more humorous tongue lashings caught on tape!
-----------------------------------------
Monday, May 05, 2008
Off to the glue factory.
We were trying to cheer up my sister, who was feeling a little down the other day. Her horse got a broken leg and I had to shoot it. So now it's got a broken leg and a gunshot wound. I don't know what you shoot it for. I guess it helps the healing process. If it ain't better tomorrow, I'm gonna shoot it again, I'll tell you that right now.
-Larry the Cable Guy
Yeah, I thought of that very bit from the famed redneck comedian when reading about PETA’s squawk over the handling of filly Eight Belles. The horse had to be euthanized after breaking both its front ankles in Saturday’s Kentucky Derby.
------------------------------------------------
Yeah, I thought of that very bit from the famed redneck comedian when reading about PETA’s squawk over the handling of filly Eight Belles. The horse had to be euthanized after breaking both its front ankles in Saturday’s Kentucky Derby.
------------------------------------------------
Sunday, May 04, 2008
Elitist phonies again running amok in the Heartland.
If it weren’t for the humorous moments of a grueling Presidential race, one could go crazy over what is now an almost two-year process.
Some of the more classic moments of the 2004 campaign were failed candidate John Kerry’s continued attempts at proving he was just a regular guy. With Ohio a big time swing state in the ’04 race, Kerry decided to garner some publicity by going duck hunting. So about two weeks before the election, Kerry walked into a Pike County, Ohio store and in dumbed-down grammar asked “Can I get me a huntin’ license here?” Of course, Ohioans saw right through that thinly veiled publicity stunt and thus the Buckeye state went to President Bush.
And now the candidate Kerry has endorsed in the 2008 race is following suit.
Pretty savvy, eh? Now I’m not one to suggest that I know whether or not Obama likes his brewskis. But when I heard the audio clip of his placing an order for the Bud, it sounded as awkward and unnatural as Kerry’s request for a “huntin’ license.” Add that to the fact that Obama questioned the intentions of Hillary Clinton for doing virtually the same thing.
Obama himself must have been overcome with some of that Pennsylvania bitterness. After all, it appeared Hillary stole his idea.
------------------------------------------
Some of the more classic moments of the 2004 campaign were failed candidate John Kerry’s continued attempts at proving he was just a regular guy. With Ohio a big time swing state in the ’04 race, Kerry decided to garner some publicity by going duck hunting. So about two weeks before the election, Kerry walked into a Pike County, Ohio store and in dumbed-down grammar asked “Can I get me a huntin’ license here?” Of course, Ohioans saw right through that thinly veiled publicity stunt and thus the Buckeye state went to President Bush.
And now the candidate Kerry has endorsed in the 2008 race is following suit.
Visiting VFW Post 1954 in North Liberty, Ind. (Thursday) evening for a "mix and mingle" photo op, (Senator Barack) Obama suddenly had nothing but booze on the brain. “I’m going to see if I might get a beer in there,” he announced, unprovoked, as he strode through the parking lot--with an armada of pool photographers in tow. Arriving inside, the senator immediately told the crowd why he'd come: “I’m not going to give a speech or anything, I just want to stop by … and maybe get a beer as well.” Still, he managed to shake a few hands--before abruptly noticing that the cameramen were “blocking the bartender.” "I’m going to have a Bud," he declared with a quick glance at what the assembled vets were drinking.
Pretty savvy, eh? Now I’m not one to suggest that I know whether or not Obama likes his brewskis. But when I heard the audio clip of his placing an order for the Bud, it sounded as awkward and unnatural as Kerry’s request for a “huntin’ license.” Add that to the fact that Obama questioned the intentions of Hillary Clinton for doing virtually the same thing.
Speaking to steelworkers in Pittsburgh last month, Obama mocked his rival for seeking to boost her blue-collar cred with a boozy photo-op at the Bronko Restaurant and Lounge in Crown Point, Ind. where she reportedly chased a shot of Crown Royal with some Old Style beer. "After all, you've heard this kind of rhetoric before," he said at the time. "Around election time, the candidates can’t do enough for you. They'll promise you anything, give you a long list of proposals and even come around, with TV crews in tow, to throw back a shot and a beer."
Obama himself must have been overcome with some of that Pennsylvania bitterness. After all, it appeared Hillary stole his idea.
------------------------------------------
Saturday, May 03, 2008
Spring cleaning.
In preparation of having my mother-in law move in with us (yes, the move appears to be back on) we first needed to perform a major clean up of her house. In addition to the gal and me, Jen’s brother-in law and two teenaged nephews also joined in the festivities.
We rented a rather large dumpster to dispose of all the excess junk that has been stored in my father-law’s shed and spacious garage. Yes, suffice to say Dad was quite the “pack rat”. Oh there were a couple of occasions when we attempted to do such a clean while he was alive. However, we could never prevent him from going into the dumpster after the thirty year old tent poles (which had no tent which to attach) or the fluorescent light bulbs which were burnt out.
Phase I: The shed. A few years ago, Dad built a shed specifically for the lawn equipment but said equipment was always kept in the garage. We never knew what he actually kept in that shed….until today. As we opened ‘er up we found such items as pots and pans, a broken sump pump, a rickety old fan and a lantern which looked as though it came over on the Mayflower. So our first accomplishment was throwing out all that useless stuff and actually making room for the lawn equipment.
Phase II: The garage. Since the garage was always one big cluttered mess, Dad would never be able to find the gas can or the quart of oil he would need. As a result, he would go out and buy new ones thinking he had lost or used up the others. So what do you suppose we discovered? About seven quarts of Valvoline motor oil and four gas cans. Also, we learned he had an affinity for saving empty Folgers coffee cans.
Phase III: The gargantuan refrigerator in the basement. My brother was kind enough to stop by and assist me and Jen’s brother-in law in getting the fridge upstairs. We merely needed to get it to the top of the stairs and then push it out to the garage where someone will come retrieve it next week. Before we could even think of doing that, we had to remove the railing to allow us more space. Then we removed the fridge doors and shelves to make it lighter. Finally after about an hour of maneuvering, we got it into the garage!
After a total of about six straight hours of taxing physical labor, we stepped out into the garage and admired our work. Everything we wanted to keep was neatly organized and everything that needed to go was in the big dumpster. We literally couldn’t have fit another article in that large receptacle. As we were basking in the fruits of our labor, my wife’s shoulders all of a sudden sagged and at the same time she said “Oh, no.” She pulled on the string attached to the ceiling which opened the door to the attic above the garage. As she climbed up the ladder, what do you suppose she uncovered? That’s right. There were boxes as far as the eye could see, containing who knows what.
I could almost hear Dad’s laugh as we talked of renting another dumpster next month.
------------------------------------------
We rented a rather large dumpster to dispose of all the excess junk that has been stored in my father-law’s shed and spacious garage. Yes, suffice to say Dad was quite the “pack rat”. Oh there were a couple of occasions when we attempted to do such a clean while he was alive. However, we could never prevent him from going into the dumpster after the thirty year old tent poles (which had no tent which to attach) or the fluorescent light bulbs which were burnt out.
Phase I: The shed. A few years ago, Dad built a shed specifically for the lawn equipment but said equipment was always kept in the garage. We never knew what he actually kept in that shed….until today. As we opened ‘er up we found such items as pots and pans, a broken sump pump, a rickety old fan and a lantern which looked as though it came over on the Mayflower. So our first accomplishment was throwing out all that useless stuff and actually making room for the lawn equipment.
Phase II: The garage. Since the garage was always one big cluttered mess, Dad would never be able to find the gas can or the quart of oil he would need. As a result, he would go out and buy new ones thinking he had lost or used up the others. So what do you suppose we discovered? About seven quarts of Valvoline motor oil and four gas cans. Also, we learned he had an affinity for saving empty Folgers coffee cans.
Phase III: The gargantuan refrigerator in the basement. My brother was kind enough to stop by and assist me and Jen’s brother-in law in getting the fridge upstairs. We merely needed to get it to the top of the stairs and then push it out to the garage where someone will come retrieve it next week. Before we could even think of doing that, we had to remove the railing to allow us more space. Then we removed the fridge doors and shelves to make it lighter. Finally after about an hour of maneuvering, we got it into the garage!
After a total of about six straight hours of taxing physical labor, we stepped out into the garage and admired our work. Everything we wanted to keep was neatly organized and everything that needed to go was in the big dumpster. We literally couldn’t have fit another article in that large receptacle. As we were basking in the fruits of our labor, my wife’s shoulders all of a sudden sagged and at the same time she said “Oh, no.” She pulled on the string attached to the ceiling which opened the door to the attic above the garage. As she climbed up the ladder, what do you suppose she uncovered? That’s right. There were boxes as far as the eye could see, containing who knows what.
I could almost hear Dad’s laugh as we talked of renting another dumpster next month.
------------------------------------------
Friday, May 02, 2008
Line of the week.
Allegations surfaced this week regarding pitcher Roger Clemens carrying on a decade-long affair with country singer Mindy McCready. The tryst was said to have began in 1991 when Clemens, then age 28, spotted the 15-year old McCready in a Fort Myers, FL night club.
Thus Joel McHale of The Soup provided us with this week's best zinger.
----------------------------------------------
Thus Joel McHale of The Soup provided us with this week's best zinger.
"Yankees catcher Jorge Posada now knows what it's like To Catch a Predator."
----------------------------------------------
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Plan B.
Regarding my latest weight-loss endeavor, I’m afraid I’ve hit yet another plateau. To be honest, I’d be perfectly fine staying in the 205-210 pound range the rest of my life. The problem is once I get back into that area I balloon up to near 225 in no time, thus sparking another grueling and regimented attempt at dropping weight.
Then the thought occurred to me. Why continue on this seemingly frustrating journey of trying to shed that last 10-15 lbs? Maybe I could just buy bigger clothes. Initially I might look like I’m wearing a parachute. But then the challenge could be to grow into the new duds as opposed to trying to fit into the old ones.
Closed circuit to Competition Committee chair Learned Foot: Would you consider having a John Daly look-alike contest at this year’s Millard Fillmore Memorial Open Championship Golf Outing Charity Classic?
I think I could be in “shape” by July 25th!!
------------------------------------------
Then the thought occurred to me. Why continue on this seemingly frustrating journey of trying to shed that last 10-15 lbs? Maybe I could just buy bigger clothes. Initially I might look like I’m wearing a parachute. But then the challenge could be to grow into the new duds as opposed to trying to fit into the old ones.
Closed circuit to Competition Committee chair Learned Foot: Would you consider having a John Daly look-alike contest at this year’s Millard Fillmore Memorial Open Championship Golf Outing Charity Classic?
I think I could be in “shape” by July 25th!!
------------------------------------------
Monday, April 28, 2008
Start spreadin' the news!!!
New York’s Yankee Stadium (a/k/a The House that Ruth built) originally opened in 1923, and has seen some of the most legendary players don the Yankee pinstripes. Even the most casual baseball observers know the names of Ruth, DiMaggio, Mantle and Berra. It has also been the home to 26 world championship Yankee teams. When one thinks of baseball lore, the New York Yankees are usually at the forefront.
With a $1.3 billion stadium slated to open in 2009, this season will be the last year in which the New York Yankees play in Yankee Stadium. With that in mind, my brother and I made a pact that we were going to get to a game in that famed baseball cathedral in the Bronx.
Today, we made it official!! We booked our flights and lodging for New York City and are planning on taking in the July 23rd afternoon game against our beloved Twins!
As it is, this will be my first trip ever into NYC. We even booked our room at the Wellington Hotel, which is right in Manhattan!
85 days and counting. Man, I can’t wait!!
------------------------------------------
It all makes sense now.
No wonder I never had a shot with Mindy.
I had a chuckle when I read that last sentence. When I met Mindy about ten years ago, I told her that I was in her hometown of Fort Meyers for Spring Break in 1991….when she was 15. I also mentioned that I often wondered if I ever saw her at the beach that week. Given her past, she seemed like the type who ditched school regularly.
However, if the aforementioned allegations are true, it seems she would have been otherwise disposed.
-----------------------------------------
Saying "all is fair game," lawyers for Roger Clemens' former personal trainer Brian McNamee say they intend to capitalize on allegations of an extra-marital affair involving Clemens and a country music singer in defending a defamation suit Clemens filed against McNamee.
The New York Daily News, citing "several" unnamed sources, reported on its Web site Sunday night that Clemens and country singer Mindy McCready had a decade-long affair. Clemens' lawyer, Rusty Hardin, said Clemens and McCready had a friendship and nothing more.
The allegations, according to the Daily News, claim Clemens was 28 when he first had contact with McCready. She was 15 when he noticed her at a Fort Myers, Fla., bar while out with his Red Sox teammates, according to the Daily News.
I had a chuckle when I read that last sentence. When I met Mindy about ten years ago, I told her that I was in her hometown of Fort Meyers for Spring Break in 1991….when she was 15. I also mentioned that I often wondered if I ever saw her at the beach that week. Given her past, she seemed like the type who ditched school regularly.
However, if the aforementioned allegations are true, it seems she would have been otherwise disposed.
-----------------------------------------
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Jared Allen signing questioned by some.
As a Vikings fan I was extremely thrilled with the trade the club made with the Kansas City Chiefs for DE Jared Allen. Granted, Allen has had some off-field issues. Since 2002, Allen has been arrested for drunk driving three times. He received a four-game suspension by the NFL for the beginning of the 2007 season, a penalty that was eventually reduced to two games.
With the huge contract doled out to the troubled Allen, ESPN.com columnist Jemele Hill sees some inconsistencies in the Vikings’ thought process.
Simple. The Vikings signed Robinson as a reclamation project after he was cut by the Seattle Seahawks at the conclusion of the 2004 season. They figured a change of scenery would be a significant factor in Robinson’s recovery. Does that mean the Vikings organization should cease with the high risk, high reward transactions just because they’ve been burned before? Besides, the Vikings acknowledged their mistake, especially after Robinson’s drunken 100 MPH jaunt through St. Peter, MN in August 2006. As such, they did their due diligence when exploring a trade for Allen.
Robinson claimed he had a new lease on life after signing with the Vikings. As it turned out, his struggles clearly weren’t behind him. Meanwhile, Allen has also pledged to leave his past behind. I think he deserves the same benefit of the doubt Robinson received upon his 2005 signing.
------------------------------------------
With the huge contract doled out to the troubled Allen, ESPN.com columnist Jemele Hill sees some inconsistencies in the Vikings’ thought process.
How can the Vikings justify inking Allen, who has been arrested multiple times for drunk driving, to a $74 million deal ($31 million guaranteed) when in 2006 they released wide receiver Koren Robinson because of the same problem?
Simple. The Vikings signed Robinson as a reclamation project after he was cut by the Seattle Seahawks at the conclusion of the 2004 season. They figured a change of scenery would be a significant factor in Robinson’s recovery. Does that mean the Vikings organization should cease with the high risk, high reward transactions just because they’ve been burned before? Besides, the Vikings acknowledged their mistake, especially after Robinson’s drunken 100 MPH jaunt through St. Peter, MN in August 2006. As such, they did their due diligence when exploring a trade for Allen.
The deal took nearly two months to complete. (Head Coach Brad) Childress said the Vikings did an exhaustive background search on Allen to make sure the significant investment was prudent.
"He's a guy that readily acknowledges his past," Childress said. "I think he is ready to have a positive influence on this team and on this organization, both on and off the field."
Robinson claimed he had a new lease on life after signing with the Vikings. As it turned out, his struggles clearly weren’t behind him. Meanwhile, Allen has also pledged to leave his past behind. I think he deserves the same benefit of the doubt Robinson received upon his 2005 signing.
------------------------------------------
Saturday, April 26, 2008
A Wacky Wednesday.
I made it back safely from my business trip to Nebraska!
My boss and I flew in to Lincoln on Wednesday morning and then drove 90 minutes southwest to Fairmont, NE where our plant is located. I have to say that more companies should have business in Nebraska. That way you can be assured the employees will work late every evening since there aren’t a lot of distractions to take them away from business. In fact, the hotel where we stayed made the Bates Motel look like a Hilton.
As we wrapped up the work day on Wednesday evening, we asked some of the office staff if they had any recommendations for fine dining. We were told to check out Bubba's Anytime Strang Café in Strang, NE (population:32 38!). And the timing of our trip couldn’t have been any more fortuitous as it was Wacky Wing Wednesday at Bubba’s that evening!! What they do is spread a plastic table cloth (colored Nebraska Cornhusker Red, of course) and proceed to dump buckets of chicken wings and fries on the table. And if you ask for utensils, they look at you like you’ve sprouted a third eye. Anyhow, once you’re done with that fine cuisine, they fold up the bones in the table cloth and throw it away. Man, where was a place like this in Minnesota when I was a kid?
As we left Bubba’s, we walked by a table of five 20-something gals who polished off two beer towers and were starting a third.
Just another April evening in the Cornhusker state!
------------------------------------------
My boss and I flew in to Lincoln on Wednesday morning and then drove 90 minutes southwest to Fairmont, NE where our plant is located. I have to say that more companies should have business in Nebraska. That way you can be assured the employees will work late every evening since there aren’t a lot of distractions to take them away from business. In fact, the hotel where we stayed made the Bates Motel look like a Hilton.
As we wrapped up the work day on Wednesday evening, we asked some of the office staff if they had any recommendations for fine dining. We were told to check out Bubba's Anytime Strang Café in Strang, NE (population:
As we left Bubba’s, we walked by a table of five 20-something gals who polished off two beer towers and were starting a third.
Just another April evening in the Cornhusker state!
------------------------------------------
Friday, April 25, 2008
Things to do.
Suppose I had approximately 10,000,000 things left to do in my time on Earth. If I had to accomplish the most desirable things first, the last few would look something like this:
#9,999,997: Defecate out a flaming hot porcupine.
#9,999,998: Sit through a Flavor of Love marathon.
#9,999,999: Vote for Al Franken for…well…anything, really.
#10,000,000: Seecaustic hag “comedienne” Kathy Griffin in concert.
------------------------------------------
#9,999,997: Defecate out a flaming hot porcupine.
#9,999,998: Sit through a Flavor of Love marathon.
#9,999,999: Vote for Al Franken for…well…anything, really.
#10,000,000: See
------------------------------------------
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Live from the Cornhusker state.
I'm coming to you live from Fairmont, NE (population: 691). I am working from one of my companies' subsidiary locations.
Upon my return, I have to share an amusing anecdote from the dinner we had last night in Strang, NE (population: 32).
Have a great day!!
----------------------------------------
Upon my return, I have to share an amusing anecdote from the dinner we had last night in Strang, NE (population: 32).
Have a great day!!
----------------------------------------
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Now what?
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.
Proverbs 3:5
Since my father-in law passed away a couple of months ago, my wife & I have been working to move her mother in with us. This was a promise Jen had made to Dad in the last days of his life. But it wasn’t like this was a spontaneous decision. About 3-4 years ago, when Dad’s health was in its initial decline, we privately talked with Mom about her living with us. And since we currently live only two miles from Jen’s sister and her family, Mom would be near both of her daughters, sons-in law and all of her grandchildren. It seemed like the ideal scenario.
Since we are in the process of adopting a child, our current residence would not be amenable for the four of us. Thus began the exhaustive process of searching for a home which would accommodate us all. But last month we seemingly received an answer to prayer as we came across a custom home builder on the Parade of Homes. We explained to him (like we had to a dozen other builders) what we were looking for. We sought to build a residence which would allow Mom to live with us but still maintain her solitude. That would entail Mom having her own dining area, appliances, etc. Thankfully, the aforementioned home builder had the perfect design.
And since it wasn’t something we would have to design from scratch, it wouldn’t be nearly as costly to build. Combine that with a slow real estate market, and we were getting a really great price on this home!! And the land where we were to build was only eight miles north of our current residence, which meant Mom would still be close to her entire family. Mom also insisted on continuing to attend a Missouri Synod Lutheran church. Upon doing some research, there was such a church two miles from the new place.
It was all right there. Everything just fell into place so easily and construction was scheduled to begin within the next couple of weeks. The only obstacle remaining was selling our homes. However, the realty company assured us that was a mere formality despite a difficult seller’s market. That’s because the realty group we were dealing with has a buyout program where they guarantee the sale of a home or they will buy it outright. Granted the buyout would not be full listing price but that was fine with us. Since we were going to obtain the new home at such an incredible bargain, it allowed us to be somewhat flexible on the sales of our respective homes.
Yesterday was the final meeting with the realtors. They were going to present the proposed list price for Mom’s house, with the guaranteed buyout coming in at about 90% of that. Jen and her mother listened intently to the offers. Since we all have been praying fervently over the past month for doors to be closed if this wasn’t right, I trusted my gal’s instincts wholeheartedly in making the right decision. Bottom line, she just didn’t feel right about the offers put forth despite all of the plans we’ve put into relocating. As a result, we’ve decided to “lean not unto our own understanding” and remain open to the plans the good Lord has for us.
As such, the initial disappointment quickly turned to joyful anticipation. As we’ve learned so often over the past several years of our walking in faith, “He will never leave us nor forsake us.” And as is always the case, the best is yet to come!
------------------------------------------
Since my father-in law passed away a couple of months ago, my wife & I have been working to move her mother in with us. This was a promise Jen had made to Dad in the last days of his life. But it wasn’t like this was a spontaneous decision. About 3-4 years ago, when Dad’s health was in its initial decline, we privately talked with Mom about her living with us. And since we currently live only two miles from Jen’s sister and her family, Mom would be near both of her daughters, sons-in law and all of her grandchildren. It seemed like the ideal scenario.
Since we are in the process of adopting a child, our current residence would not be amenable for the four of us. Thus began the exhaustive process of searching for a home which would accommodate us all. But last month we seemingly received an answer to prayer as we came across a custom home builder on the Parade of Homes. We explained to him (like we had to a dozen other builders) what we were looking for. We sought to build a residence which would allow Mom to live with us but still maintain her solitude. That would entail Mom having her own dining area, appliances, etc. Thankfully, the aforementioned home builder had the perfect design.
And since it wasn’t something we would have to design from scratch, it wouldn’t be nearly as costly to build. Combine that with a slow real estate market, and we were getting a really great price on this home!! And the land where we were to build was only eight miles north of our current residence, which meant Mom would still be close to her entire family. Mom also insisted on continuing to attend a Missouri Synod Lutheran church. Upon doing some research, there was such a church two miles from the new place.
It was all right there. Everything just fell into place so easily and construction was scheduled to begin within the next couple of weeks. The only obstacle remaining was selling our homes. However, the realty company assured us that was a mere formality despite a difficult seller’s market. That’s because the realty group we were dealing with has a buyout program where they guarantee the sale of a home or they will buy it outright. Granted the buyout would not be full listing price but that was fine with us. Since we were going to obtain the new home at such an incredible bargain, it allowed us to be somewhat flexible on the sales of our respective homes.
Yesterday was the final meeting with the realtors. They were going to present the proposed list price for Mom’s house, with the guaranteed buyout coming in at about 90% of that. Jen and her mother listened intently to the offers. Since we all have been praying fervently over the past month for doors to be closed if this wasn’t right, I trusted my gal’s instincts wholeheartedly in making the right decision. Bottom line, she just didn’t feel right about the offers put forth despite all of the plans we’ve put into relocating. As a result, we’ve decided to “lean not unto our own understanding” and remain open to the plans the good Lord has for us.
As such, the initial disappointment quickly turned to joyful anticipation. As we’ve learned so often over the past several years of our walking in faith, “He will never leave us nor forsake us.” And as is always the case, the best is yet to come!
------------------------------------------
Closed circuit to those who leave anonymous comments.
I appreciate the fact you take the time out of your busy schedule to stop by and respond to posts on this blog. However, I am going to start deleting comments which are left anonymously. If you have such strong opinions and passionately believe in what you say, then have the intestinal fortitude to attach your name to it.
That is all.
-----------------------------------------------
That is all.
-----------------------------------------------
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Ron Paul supporters left bitter in CD3.
Much like they did at the CD6 convention, the Ron Paul supporters tried to flood the delegation at CD3 convention Saturday afternoon.
However, their plans were thwarted by the rules of the CD3 nominating committee.
The potential nominees were immediately disqualified from consideration unless they met with the committee prior to the convention. That doesn’t seem too much to ask, especially when you consider the tremendous commitment of a National Delegate (For starters, it’s a $1,000 just to go to the convention in September). Nevertheless, there were attempts to amend this rule and allow the no-shows to remain nominees, an amendment that was promptly shot down. This sent the “Ronulans” into a tizzy, to the point where one Paul supporter hyperbolically equated the nominating process to a “Russian Democracy.”
As I left the convention I chatted with a guy in my BPOU named Scott, whom also attends the same church as I. He was ranting and raving about how the GOP just changes the rules in the middle of the game. ”Oh, you must be a Paul-bot”, I said. He indeed was. And because I became a McCain supporter after Fred Thompson left the race, Scott proceeded to get in my face and accuse me of "putting security over liberty.” I was quite puzzled by such a remark, given the fact it’s rather difficult to attain liberty if your country is under constant threats of terrorism.
But I digress.
To Scott and the rest of the “Ronulans”, this one’s for you:
------------------------------------------
However, their plans were thwarted by the rules of the CD3 nominating committee.
The potential nominees were immediately disqualified from consideration unless they met with the committee prior to the convention. That doesn’t seem too much to ask, especially when you consider the tremendous commitment of a National Delegate (For starters, it’s a $1,000 just to go to the convention in September). Nevertheless, there were attempts to amend this rule and allow the no-shows to remain nominees, an amendment that was promptly shot down. This sent the “Ronulans” into a tizzy, to the point where one Paul supporter hyperbolically equated the nominating process to a “Russian Democracy.”
As I left the convention I chatted with a guy in my BPOU named Scott, whom also attends the same church as I. He was ranting and raving about how the GOP just changes the rules in the middle of the game. ”Oh, you must be a Paul-bot”, I said. He indeed was. And because I became a McCain supporter after Fred Thompson left the race, Scott proceeded to get in my face and accuse me of "putting security over liberty.” I was quite puzzled by such a remark, given the fact it’s rather difficult to attain liberty if your country is under constant threats of terrorism.
But I digress.
To Scott and the rest of the “Ronulans”, this one’s for you:
------------------------------------------
Live from the CD3 convention.
Live from Bloomington, MN, it's the 3rd Congressional District Convention!!!
8:55: As I entered the site of the convention, there were some young skulls full of mush all dressed up holding signs at the entry way. The signs said something along the lines of "$pecial Interest$ for Norm: Thank You from Big Pharm and Big Oil." Not bad. But I will say that those big companies at least pay their Unemployment and Disability Insurance.
9:30: Have already seen Derek Brigham (SD45), who's a big dog in CD3. Also, Michael Brodkorb is here at the reporter's table. No Lori Sturdevant sighting as yet. She must still be in mourning that Jim Ramstad is retiring.
10:03: One of the "Ron-ualans" has already come forward to ask if they could speak on behalf of Ron Paul for President.
10:14: Governor Tim Pawlenty has entered the building!!!!!!!!!!!
10:17: The Governor implores everyone to get back to the Reagan playbook.
10:28: The Gov wraps up by telling us to throw our weight behind anyone who receives GOP endorsements. "Those who agree with us 90% of the time are not our enemies." A reference the "Override Six" perhaps? Gov Pawlenty, you're much too kind.
10:31: "The Rammer" approaches the podium.
10:37: Rep. Ramstad delivers a very heartfelt speech in thanking his staff and campaign volunteers for their service during his 18-year tenure in the US Congress. Ramstad mentions he has something in common with President Bush: They both married waaayyy out of their league.
10:41: Ramstad switches gears by passionately pointing out the continued support of the war in Iraq as well as the fight against illegal immigration.
10:47: Ramstad strenuously reminds us that the 3rd District is trending Democrat. But he also takes a shot at DFL endorsed Ashwin Madia by saying "unlike his opponent, Erik Paulsen doesn't need on-the-job training to be in Congress."
11:04: Bethany of the College Republicans has the mic.
11:07: Alex Friedman of the teen-aged Republicans now has the mic. WOW, this kid is incredibly bright and articulate!!! Maybe there is hope for our future!!
11:15: The nominating committee officially names Erik Paulsen as a nominee.
11:17: The Erik Paulsen committee is now making their nomination speech for Paulsen's CD3 endorsement.
11:26: Paulsen takes the stage to a thunderous ovation!
11:32: Paulsen: Fiscally responsible; Strong National Defense; Limited Government. WHAT'S NOT TO LIKE???!!!
11:39: IT'S OFFICIAL!!! Erik Paulsen is the newly endorsed GOP candidate in Congressional District Three!!
11:43: The process of electing Delegates and Alternates to the National Convention now begins.
11:59: There are a total of about twenty people vying for six spots (3 Delegates, 3 Alternates). They each have one minute to speak.
12:00: Someone made a motion to break for lunch but it was shot down. My stomach is NOT happy as a result. The one-minute speeches will commence.
12:05: Some guy with a Chester A. Arthur mustache is giving his talk now.
12:14: Rick Weible (St Bonaficious mayor) shills for Ron Paul and then erroneously states that the majority of Minnesotans voted for Paul in the February caucus. NOT TRUE!! Mitt Romney was the winner. The good mayor is being booed unmercifully for his insistence on Paul having won the February caucus. However, Mr. Weible ended on a good note by highlighting his record as a fiscally conservative mayor.
12:21: The gentleman speaking now has fourteen John McCain bumper stickers on his canoe. Sheesh, that's one way to scare off the fish.
12:27: Delgate speeches are done!! GOP chair Ron Carey now takes the stage and promptly takes a shot at Barack Obama's "bitter" comments.
12:44: Ballots for the Delegates and Alternates are now being handed out.
12:49: The voting for Delegates and Alternates to the National Convention is taking place. With that, I'm signing off and going to get something to eat.
It's been a pleasure to serve you!!
-----------------------------------------------
8:55: As I entered the site of the convention, there were some young skulls full of mush all dressed up holding signs at the entry way. The signs said something along the lines of "$pecial Interest$ for Norm: Thank You from Big Pharm and Big Oil." Not bad. But I will say that those big companies at least pay their Unemployment and Disability Insurance.
9:30: Have already seen Derek Brigham (SD45), who's a big dog in CD3. Also, Michael Brodkorb is here at the reporter's table. No Lori Sturdevant sighting as yet. She must still be in mourning that Jim Ramstad is retiring.
10:03: One of the "Ron-ualans" has already come forward to ask if they could speak on behalf of Ron Paul for President.
10:14: Governor Tim Pawlenty has entered the building!!!!!!!!!!!
10:17: The Governor implores everyone to get back to the Reagan playbook.
10:28: The Gov wraps up by telling us to throw our weight behind anyone who receives GOP endorsements. "Those who agree with us 90% of the time are not our enemies." A reference the "Override Six" perhaps? Gov Pawlenty, you're much too kind.
10:31: "The Rammer" approaches the podium.
10:37: Rep. Ramstad delivers a very heartfelt speech in thanking his staff and campaign volunteers for their service during his 18-year tenure in the US Congress. Ramstad mentions he has something in common with President Bush: They both married waaayyy out of their league.
10:41: Ramstad switches gears by passionately pointing out the continued support of the war in Iraq as well as the fight against illegal immigration.
10:47: Ramstad strenuously reminds us that the 3rd District is trending Democrat. But he also takes a shot at DFL endorsed Ashwin Madia by saying "unlike his opponent, Erik Paulsen doesn't need on-the-job training to be in Congress."
11:04: Bethany of the College Republicans has the mic.
11:07: Alex Friedman of the teen-aged Republicans now has the mic. WOW, this kid is incredibly bright and articulate!!! Maybe there is hope for our future!!
11:15: The nominating committee officially names Erik Paulsen as a nominee.
11:17: The Erik Paulsen committee is now making their nomination speech for Paulsen's CD3 endorsement.
11:26: Paulsen takes the stage to a thunderous ovation!
11:32: Paulsen: Fiscally responsible; Strong National Defense; Limited Government. WHAT'S NOT TO LIKE???!!!
11:39: IT'S OFFICIAL!!! Erik Paulsen is the newly endorsed GOP candidate in Congressional District Three!!
11:43: The process of electing Delegates and Alternates to the National Convention now begins.
11:59: There are a total of about twenty people vying for six spots (3 Delegates, 3 Alternates). They each have one minute to speak.
12:00: Someone made a motion to break for lunch but it was shot down. My stomach is NOT happy as a result. The one-minute speeches will commence.
12:05: Some guy with a Chester A. Arthur mustache is giving his talk now.
12:14: Rick Weible (St Bonaficious mayor) shills for Ron Paul and then erroneously states that the majority of Minnesotans voted for Paul in the February caucus. NOT TRUE!! Mitt Romney was the winner. The good mayor is being booed unmercifully for his insistence on Paul having won the February caucus. However, Mr. Weible ended on a good note by highlighting his record as a fiscally conservative mayor.
12:21: The gentleman speaking now has fourteen John McCain bumper stickers on his canoe. Sheesh, that's one way to scare off the fish.
12:27: Delgate speeches are done!! GOP chair Ron Carey now takes the stage and promptly takes a shot at Barack Obama's "bitter" comments.
12:44: Ballots for the Delegates and Alternates are now being handed out.
12:49: The voting for Delegates and Alternates to the National Convention is taking place. With that, I'm signing off and going to get something to eat.
It's been a pleasure to serve you!!
-----------------------------------------------
Friday, April 18, 2008
Parody song: Jeremiah was my pastor.
Sung to the tune of the Three Dog Night song Joy to the World.
---------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------
Three certainties in life: Part II
1) Death.
2) Taxes.
3) Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Ben Sheets getting hurt.
------------------------------------------
2) Taxes.
3) Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Ben Sheets getting hurt.
Ben Sheets dominated for five innings before a tight pitching arm forced him from the game Friday night.
Sheets felt tightness in his right triceps and left for a pinch-hitter in the sixth inning with the Brewers ahead 5-0. In the last two years, Sheets has been limited by a strained groin, a torn finger tendon, shoulder tendinitis and a sore chest muscle.
------------------------------------------
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Three certainties in life.
1) Death.
2) Taxes.
3) The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees taking four friggin’ hours to play a baseball game.
In eighteen regular season matchups in 2007, the average game time of a Yanks-Red Sox contest was 3 ½ hours.
In a 15-9 Yankees win Wednesday evening, the nine inning game took 4:08 to complete. These two teams have now played each other four times in the past six days. Average game time: 3:28. All other Major League games typically are a shade under three hours.
The worst part is that ESPN and Fox Sports continually make the Yanks-Red Sox the nationally televised game almost every time they play.
To wit:
Saturday, April 12: FOX game of the week.
Sunday, April 13: ESPN Sunday Night Baseball.
Wednesday, April 16: ESPN Wednesday Night Baseball.
You can certainly rest assured that’s not going to change any time soon. Given the market size and on-field success of the two franchises, expect to be force-fed at least two out of every three games these teams play each other.
------------------------------------------------
2) Taxes.
3) The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees taking four friggin’ hours to play a baseball game.
In eighteen regular season matchups in 2007, the average game time of a Yanks-Red Sox contest was 3 ½ hours.
In a 15-9 Yankees win Wednesday evening, the nine inning game took 4:08 to complete. These two teams have now played each other four times in the past six days. Average game time: 3:28. All other Major League games typically are a shade under three hours.
The worst part is that ESPN and Fox Sports continually make the Yanks-Red Sox the nationally televised game almost every time they play.
To wit:
Saturday, April 12: FOX game of the week.
Sunday, April 13: ESPN Sunday Night Baseball.
Wednesday, April 16: ESPN Wednesday Night Baseball.
You can certainly rest assured that’s not going to change any time soon. Given the market size and on-field success of the two franchises, expect to be force-fed at least two out of every three games these teams play each other.
------------------------------------------------
A tradition unlike any other.
T-minus 100 days!! That is the length of time until the 4th Annual KARNation Millard Fillmore Memorial Open Championship Golf Outing Charity Classic Presented by Kia Motors.
Today I received the initial tourney newsletter from Competition Committee Chair Learned Foot confirming the July 25th tournament date. My goal is to play at least two rounds of golf between now and then. In fact, I haven't teed it up since July 6, 2000, which was the day before I got married. And no, as I matter of fact I wasn’t playing golf just to get out of last-minute wedding planning and I deeply resent the insinuation!!
Anyhow, in the interest of preserving the life of any water fowl that may be wading in the golf course ponds on July 25th, I’m heading to the nearest driving range to hone my accuracy at the tee box.
Until next time………
------------------------------------------------
Today I received the initial tourney newsletter from Competition Committee Chair Learned Foot confirming the July 25th tournament date. My goal is to play at least two rounds of golf between now and then. In fact, I haven't teed it up since July 6, 2000, which was the day before I got married. And no, as I matter of fact I wasn’t playing golf just to get out of last-minute wedding planning and I deeply resent the insinuation!!
Anyhow, in the interest of preserving the life of any water fowl that may be wading in the golf course ponds on July 25th, I’m heading to the nearest driving range to hone my accuracy at the tee box.
Until next time………
------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Unintentionally hilarious!
While writing a recap of Saturday’s Tax Cut Rally, I mentioned a tongue-in-cheek remark made by MC (and KTLK morning host) Chris Baker. After Rep. Michele Bachmann’s impassioned speech at the rally, Baker quipped, “I might now reconsider my position on banning human cloning.” Of course the insinuation was that we need more people in Congress with Bachmann’s passion, hence let’s just make more than one of her.
Baker’s attempt at levity was pretty obvious, right?
So I can only assume that the chief Bachmannstalkers detractors were merely being satirical when they came up with the following analysis:
Michele Bachmann Fans Call for Human Cloning.
Of course, I’m probably being more than charitable to the anti-Bachmann crowd for being able to discern humor relating to the Congresswoman. So if indeed that headline was a serious premise for their post, then it really is true what they say. The best kind of comedy/satire is that which isn’t intended to be funny but is humorous nonetheless.
------------------------------------------------
Baker’s attempt at levity was pretty obvious, right?
So I can only assume that the chief Bachmann
Of course, I’m probably being more than charitable to the anti-Bachmann crowd for being able to discern humor relating to the Congresswoman. So if indeed that headline was a serious premise for their post, then it really is true what they say. The best kind of comedy/satire is that which isn’t intended to be funny but is humorous nonetheless.
------------------------------------------------
Obama the uniter.
OK, I’ll admit it. I’m incredibly angry with Barack Obama.
Oh sure, I was aghast at his condescending, bigoted and snide remarks at a San Francisco fundraiser a little over a week ago. But I'm even more upset because he actually has me siding with Hillary Clinton to be the Democrat nominee. Unbelievable!!
I guess you could say the junior senator from Illinois has unwittingly become a unifier.
----------------------------------------
Oh sure, I was aghast at his condescending, bigoted and snide remarks at a San Francisco fundraiser a little over a week ago. But I'm even more upset because he actually has me siding with Hillary Clinton to be the Democrat nominee. Unbelievable!!
I guess you could say the junior senator from Illinois has unwittingly become a unifier.
----------------------------------------
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Liriano not yet ready for prime time
On Sunday, Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano made his first start since September 2006. It has been a long, grueling rehabilitation process for Liriano since undergoing Tommy John surgery on his pitching elbow eighteen months ago.
After a lackluster Spring Training, he was kept in Florida to make a rehab start for the Twins Class A team and then made a start last week for the AAA Rochester club. Having failed to impress, I was convinced Liriano should not have been in the major leagues until about June. No need to rush him, I thought.
His outing against the Kansas City Royals Sunday only confirmed those sentiments. He allowed eleven baserunners (6 hits, 5 walks) in only 4 2/3 innings.
Brutal!!
------------------------------------------
After a lackluster Spring Training, he was kept in Florida to make a rehab start for the Twins Class A team and then made a start last week for the AAA Rochester club. Having failed to impress, I was convinced Liriano should not have been in the major leagues until about June. No need to rush him, I thought.
His outing against the Kansas City Royals Sunday only confirmed those sentiments. He allowed eleven baserunners (6 hits, 5 walks) in only 4 2/3 innings.
Brutal!!
------------------------------------------
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Let it snow!! Tax Cut Rally a huge success!!
Thousands converged upon the MN State Capitol Saturday for the annual Tax Cut Rally, hosted by KTLK’s Jason Lewis.
Despite the less than ideal weather conditions (32 degrees, flurries, blustery winds), today’s showing gives a clear indication that the people of Minnesota are completely fed up with our overreaching government. The $6.6 billion tax hike for theMass Transit Subsidy Transportation Bill was the final straw for many.
The rally also featured some impassioned speeches delivered by the likes of MN House Minority Leader Marty Seifert, CD5 GOP candidate Barb Davis White and Rep. Michele Bachmann (CD6). In fact, Bachmann’s speech prompted MC Chris Baker to say he would reconsider his position on banning human cloning if it meant we could have more representatives like her. And you think the left is irrational over one Rep. Bachmann?
But I digress.
The large crowd huddles together to stay warm as well as decry the out of control government spending.
Many expressed themselves so eloquently with their signage!
Jason Lewis is rarin' to go as he heads toward the podium to wrap up the afternoon.
A five minute excerpt of Jason's speech.
I seem to recall that at last year's rally the global warming crowd was nearby with a protest of their own. Given today's weather conditions, they were conspicuously absent.
------------------------------------------
Despite the less than ideal weather conditions (32 degrees, flurries, blustery winds), today’s showing gives a clear indication that the people of Minnesota are completely fed up with our overreaching government. The $6.6 billion tax hike for the
The rally also featured some impassioned speeches delivered by the likes of MN House Minority Leader Marty Seifert, CD5 GOP candidate Barb Davis White and Rep. Michele Bachmann (CD6). In fact, Bachmann’s speech prompted MC Chris Baker to say he would reconsider his position on banning human cloning if it meant we could have more representatives like her. And you think the left is irrational over one Rep. Bachmann?
But I digress.
I seem to recall that at last year's rally the global warming crowd was nearby with a protest of their own. Given today's weather conditions, they were conspicuously absent.
------------------------------------------
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Viking Hall of Famer arrested.
From the Strib:
I actually met the Hall of Famer in person a few years ago at the Minneapolis Auto Show. When I reached out to shake his hand, my hand literally disappeared. So my first question when reading that opening paragraph was ”Are the cops OK?”
Given the high-speed incident which took place a couple of years ago, this latest scrape will likely land Eller in more hot water.
------------------------------------------
Former Minnesota Vikings great Carl Eller was arrested by Minneapolis police early this morning after he allegedly assaulted two police officers who stopped him for suspicion of driving while intoxicated.
I actually met the Hall of Famer in person a few years ago at the Minneapolis Auto Show. When I reached out to shake his hand, my hand literally disappeared. So my first question when reading that opening paragraph was ”Are the cops OK?”
Police have not said how seriously the officers involved were hurt, but an incident report indicated that one officer sustained a bruise and a second an "apparent minor injury."
Given the high-speed incident which took place a couple of years ago, this latest scrape will likely land Eller in more hot water.
He pled guilty to fourth-degree drunken driving after the State Patrol arrested him for going 97 miles per hour on westbound Interstate Hwy. 394 near Hwy. 100 on Feb. 28, 2006.
He was sentenced to five days of community service and two years' probation for that offense.
------------------------------------------
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
49B's moment of truth.
Someone had to ask.
Tonight at the monthly meeting amongst SD49 Republicans, the proverbial elephant in the room was acknowledged.
Which candidate will outgoing representative Kathy Tingelstad (R-49B) support in the race for her vacated seat?
The DFL endorsed candidate in our district, Jerry Newton, never opposed Tingelstad in any of the previous six elections because he considered her a good friend.
Just a couple of weeks ago, GOP endorsed Jake Cimenski took some subtle jabs at the MN GOP and how we’re seemingly abandoning core conservative principles. There was no doubt that he was alluding to the likes of Tingelstad and the rest of the “override six.”
Given that background, many Republicans in our House District were genuinely concerned that our candidate would be thrown under the bus as a result.
So the question was asked: Are you going to support Jerry Newton?
Tingelstad: “No. I’m a Republican.”
With that, I will take Rep. Tingelstad at her word.
However, it would have been nice if that same answer came when asked “Are you going to override Governor Pawlenty’s veto of the transportation bill?”
------------------------------------------
Tonight at the monthly meeting amongst SD49 Republicans, the proverbial elephant in the room was acknowledged.
Which candidate will outgoing representative Kathy Tingelstad (R-49B) support in the race for her vacated seat?
The DFL endorsed candidate in our district, Jerry Newton, never opposed Tingelstad in any of the previous six elections because he considered her a good friend.
“She’s one of the finest people I ever knew,” Newton said. “She represented this area well. I find it atrocious that the people of her party would go after her for one vote after 12 good years of service.”
Just a couple of weeks ago, GOP endorsed Jake Cimenski took some subtle jabs at the MN GOP and how we’re seemingly abandoning core conservative principles. There was no doubt that he was alluding to the likes of Tingelstad and the rest of the “override six.”
Given that background, many Republicans in our House District were genuinely concerned that our candidate would be thrown under the bus as a result.
So the question was asked: Are you going to support Jerry Newton?
Tingelstad: “No. I’m a Republican.”
With that, I will take Rep. Tingelstad at her word.
However, it would have been nice if that same answer came when asked “Are you going to override Governor Pawlenty’s veto of the transportation bill?”
------------------------------------------
Beware of the "Block" heads.
Yet another illustration of how the years have flown by.
Forty???!!!! Are you freakin’ kidding me? I was two years out of high school when these guys hit it big.
They also caused teen girls to completely lose any semblance of rational thought.
In the Summer of 1990, the New Kids held a concert at Harriet Island in St Paul. After the show ended, a 16-year old girl and three of her teen friends saw a large coach bus that appeared to be the band’s tour bus. The 16-year old (who had her mother’s car for the evening) and her three young friends decided to follow the bus as it pulled out of St Paul. They figured the bus would make a pit stop somewhere in Minnesota where the four girls would then meet the band they lusted over. As it turned out, the bus didn’t stop until it got near Kansas City, MO!! And much to the chagrin of the teenaged twits, the band wasn’t even on that particular bus.
Can you imagine the phone call the girls had to make to their parents? By the time the bus made its first stop it was 6:00 am and the girls were eight hours from home.
And to think those little bubbly headed twits are now in their 30s and probably have kids of their own.
Scary.
------------------------------------------------
They may be pushing 40, but the New Kids are returning to the block.
Forty???!!!! Are you freakin’ kidding me? I was two years out of high school when these guys hit it big.
The boy band New Kids on the Block, which sold 70 million albums in the 1980s and early '90s, has reunited and plans to release a new album and go on tour. The reunion comes 20 years after the release of the group's multiplatinum album, "Hangin' Tough."
At the height of their popularity, New Kids sold out world tours, marketed millions of dollars in merchandise and spawned a Saturday morning cartoon.
They also caused teen girls to completely lose any semblance of rational thought.
In the Summer of 1990, the New Kids held a concert at Harriet Island in St Paul. After the show ended, a 16-year old girl and three of her teen friends saw a large coach bus that appeared to be the band’s tour bus. The 16-year old (who had her mother’s car for the evening) and her three young friends decided to follow the bus as it pulled out of St Paul. They figured the bus would make a pit stop somewhere in Minnesota where the four girls would then meet the band they lusted over. As it turned out, the bus didn’t stop until it got near Kansas City, MO!! And much to the chagrin of the teenaged twits, the band wasn’t even on that particular bus.
Can you imagine the phone call the girls had to make to their parents? By the time the bus made its first stop it was 6:00 am and the girls were eight hours from home.
And to think those little bubbly headed twits are now in their 30s and probably have kids of their own.
Scary.
------------------------------------------------
Sunday, April 06, 2008
Charlton Heston: 1924-2008
Check out the nice video retrospective of the life and work of Mr. Heston.
From the trailer for the classic film Ben Hur.
Charlton Heston (left) with Marlon Brando, James Baldwin, and Harry Belafonte at Civil Rights March 1963.
Heston with President Ronald Reagan during a meeting for the Presidential Task Force on the Arts and Humanities in the White House Cabinet Room, 1981.
Charlton Heston accepting a presentation rifle at 2000 NRA convention with the now well-known exclamation "From my cold, dead hands!"
--------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------
Saturday, April 05, 2008
Eat your hearts out, Abbott & Costello.
During the NCAA basketball Final Four Saturday evening, CBS’ Jim Nantz mentioned the name Sasha Kaun, who plays the center position for the University of Kansas. That prompted my gal to come rushing out of the kitchen.
Verbal chaos ensued.
The Gal: Are you watching figure skating?
Me: Ahhh, no. What makes you think that?
The Gal: Sorry, I thought I heard Sasha Cohen’s name.
Me: Wait, now I’m confused. What does the guy who played Borat have to do with ice skating?
The Gal: Huh? That’s Sacha Baron Cohen. The figure skater is just Sasha Cohen.
Me: Oh. Well, I’m watching basketball. The announcer guy mentioned the Kansas player Sasha Kaun.
The Gal: Oh, I see. But wasn’t that the name of the singer who sang that song I Feel for You?
Me: That would be Chaka Khan!! Or was that the name of the character on that campy 70s TV series Land of the Lost?
The Gal (sighs disgustedly): I think I’ll go see if I can find some figure skating on TV.
------------------------------------------------
Verbal chaos ensued.
The Gal: Are you watching figure skating?
Me: Ahhh, no. What makes you think that?
The Gal: Sorry, I thought I heard Sasha Cohen’s name.
Me: Wait, now I’m confused. What does the guy who played Borat have to do with ice skating?
The Gal: Huh? That’s Sacha Baron Cohen. The figure skater is just Sasha Cohen.
Me: Oh. Well, I’m watching basketball. The announcer guy mentioned the Kansas player Sasha Kaun.
The Gal: Oh, I see. But wasn’t that the name of the singer who sang that song I Feel for You?
Me: That would be Chaka Khan!! Or was that the name of the character on that campy 70s TV series Land of the Lost?
The Gal (sighs disgustedly): I think I’ll go see if I can find some figure skating on TV.
------------------------------------------------
Friday, April 04, 2008
Week in Review.
-This past week marked the first 40-hour (or more) work week I’ve put in since about mid-January. In fact, in the eight months I was doing consulting, I probably only worked three such full weeks during that time. Back to reality, I guess.
-The gal indulged me by accompanying me to the Thursday night pub quiz at Keegan’s. Having arrived halfway through the 6:30 quiz, we scrambled to find a team who would take us on. I joined teammates Ben, John and the B’day boy, while Jen collaborated with David Strom and his wife Margaret. As a result, they took first place in round one. For the second (and more difficult) round, I took back my gal to be on my team, much to the chagrin of Strommie. Turns out that Jen had the Midas touch as she and I, along with Night Writer and Tiger Lilly, captured the ultimate prize for the 8:00 quiz!
-Friday morning I started anew with my weight loss efforts, thus making an official weigh-in before starting the day. With Spring and Summer fast approaching, I definitely want to get back into the swing of my seemingly never-ending battle of the bulge. While I got off to a great start this year, I have seen a net gain of three pounds over the past two months. However, I know I was heavier at the beginning of March so the good news is I’m starting to drop again. With my birthday coming up in seven weeks, I’m looking to go from my current weight of 209.5 to under 200, where I haven’t been since 1999.
Have a great weekend!!
------------------------------------------
-The gal indulged me by accompanying me to the Thursday night pub quiz at Keegan’s. Having arrived halfway through the 6:30 quiz, we scrambled to find a team who would take us on. I joined teammates Ben, John and the B’day boy, while Jen collaborated with David Strom and his wife Margaret. As a result, they took first place in round one. For the second (and more difficult) round, I took back my gal to be on my team, much to the chagrin of Strommie. Turns out that Jen had the Midas touch as she and I, along with Night Writer and Tiger Lilly, captured the ultimate prize for the 8:00 quiz!
-Friday morning I started anew with my weight loss efforts, thus making an official weigh-in before starting the day. With Spring and Summer fast approaching, I definitely want to get back into the swing of my seemingly never-ending battle of the bulge. While I got off to a great start this year, I have seen a net gain of three pounds over the past two months. However, I know I was heavier at the beginning of March so the good news is I’m starting to drop again. With my birthday coming up in seven weeks, I’m looking to go from my current weight of 209.5 to under 200, where I haven’t been since 1999.
Have a great weekend!!
------------------------------------------
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Separated at Birth? Alec Baldwin & The Night Writer.
Yeah, I know they look nothing alike. However, both guys are celebrating a milestone birthday today by officially reaching the half-century mark!
But in this space the only one receiving b'day greetings is the guy more likely to be voted "Father of the Year" (hint: it ain't Alec).
Happy birthday, NW!!
------------------------------------------------
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Expecting a Wolves win made us April fools.
As referenced in my profile, my interest in the National Basketball Association these days is nearly non-existent. Other than the Timberwolves magical run to the Western Conference Finals in 2004, I haven’t been an avid NBA fan since the “Heart of a Champion” Houston Rockets of 1994-95.
However, free tickets to last night’s Pistons-Wolves game at Target Center happen to fall into my lap. A manager at my workplace had four tickets yesterday morning that he literally couldn’t give away. Since it was last minute, I called my brother yesterday about seven hours prior to game time to ask if he would like to go. Thankfully he agreed, but we still had the matter of two extra tickets. I mean, I know the Wolves stink this year. But when I asked other people if they would like to see the Wolves play, you would have thought I was attempting to give away the bubonic plague. Instead we unloaded the tickets to a young couple who walked up to the ticket windows, thus giving us our concession money for the evening!
As I was entering the Target Center, I consoled myself by saying we can at least witness the play of such NBA stars as Richard Hamilton, Rasheed Wallace and Chauncey Billups. Upon sitting in our seats (ten rows behind the visitors’ bench) we noticed all three were not even suited up for the game.
Oh well. With the Pistons three stars out of the lineup, we might have a chance to see a Wolves victory.
Skunked again! The Wolves blew a 21-point first half lead and then lost a two –point lead with less than three minutes to go in a 94-90 defeat.
After viewing such a wretched product that is called the Minnesota Timberwolves, I received a harsh reminder on why my interest level in the NBA has pretty much dissipated.
------------------------------------------
However, free tickets to last night’s Pistons-Wolves game at Target Center happen to fall into my lap. A manager at my workplace had four tickets yesterday morning that he literally couldn’t give away. Since it was last minute, I called my brother yesterday about seven hours prior to game time to ask if he would like to go. Thankfully he agreed, but we still had the matter of two extra tickets. I mean, I know the Wolves stink this year. But when I asked other people if they would like to see the Wolves play, you would have thought I was attempting to give away the bubonic plague. Instead we unloaded the tickets to a young couple who walked up to the ticket windows, thus giving us our concession money for the evening!
As I was entering the Target Center, I consoled myself by saying we can at least witness the play of such NBA stars as Richard Hamilton, Rasheed Wallace and Chauncey Billups. Upon sitting in our seats (ten rows behind the visitors’ bench) we noticed all three were not even suited up for the game.
Oh well. With the Pistons three stars out of the lineup, we might have a chance to see a Wolves victory.
Skunked again! The Wolves blew a 21-point first half lead and then lost a two –point lead with less than three minutes to go in a 94-90 defeat.
After viewing such a wretched product that is called the Minnesota Timberwolves, I received a harsh reminder on why my interest level in the NBA has pretty much dissipated.
------------------------------------------
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)