Happy Post Christmas to all! Nothing beats a Christmas tree adorned with gifts wrapped with the 'creepy Santa face' wrapping paper. It is my favorite, I've got to start employing it at all times of the year. Around Christmas I always swear to dress as Uncle Eddie from Christmas Vacation next Halloween (white loafers, polyester pants, white sweater, dickie) but forget in the interim. It may have to be my NY resolution to remember.
Have been enjoying the holidays in DC with friends who are in town, always good times.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Thursday, December 21, 2006
A Whoopin' is Comin'
UVA basketball put on a putrid performance at the Puerto Rico Invitational, finishing 7th in a tournament they were supposed to win, by beating a Div. II team (and were trailing in the 2nd half).
With Dave Leitao being an intense coach, I can only imagine the hell the team will catch once they return to Charlottesville. It has already been announced they have a practice scheduled for Christmas Day.
The punishment about to be imparted on UVA basketball made me fondly reminisce about the beat downs I took while playing sports. I remember a baseball game at Garfield when we were jacking off royally (the 3B ate a hotdog in the dugout during the 6th) and the coach was visibly steamed. The next day at practice we were instructed to wear our tennis shoes and meet in the gym. We were forced to take grounders off the gym floor without gloves. The pain from the pinch of a baseball and the gym floor is intense.
Later in the year, during fungo, the outfield was slacking off (I was RF) and the coach nutted a ball over the fence, instructing us to 'bring back the m*%&#$*^@)#$. Of couse it went into a creek behind the field, and led to us pushing in the LF as he attempted to retreive. Upon return of two dry outfielders and one who was soaked, coach cracked a smile...still human.
With Dave Leitao being an intense coach, I can only imagine the hell the team will catch once they return to Charlottesville. It has already been announced they have a practice scheduled for Christmas Day.
The punishment about to be imparted on UVA basketball made me fondly reminisce about the beat downs I took while playing sports. I remember a baseball game at Garfield when we were jacking off royally (the 3B ate a hotdog in the dugout during the 6th) and the coach was visibly steamed. The next day at practice we were instructed to wear our tennis shoes and meet in the gym. We were forced to take grounders off the gym floor without gloves. The pain from the pinch of a baseball and the gym floor is intense.
Later in the year, during fungo, the outfield was slacking off (I was RF) and the coach nutted a ball over the fence, instructing us to 'bring back the m*%&#$*^@)#$. Of couse it went into a creek behind the field, and led to us pushing in the LF as he attempted to retreive. Upon return of two dry outfielders and one who was soaked, coach cracked a smile...still human.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Things That Make Me Happy
As this is a blog, not a gripefest, I figured I'd list some things that currently make me happy (December 2006):
1.) Putting up my Christmas tree the first week in December
2.) Christmas music on the radio during the morning commute. Nothing beats White Christmas by Bing Crosby.
3.) Anchor Steam beer.
4.) A round of golf on December 10 (even if it ended up being an Art Monk).
5.) The MoMA online store.
1.) Putting up my Christmas tree the first week in December
2.) Christmas music on the radio during the morning commute. Nothing beats White Christmas by Bing Crosby.
3.) Anchor Steam beer.
4.) A round of golf on December 10 (even if it ended up being an Art Monk).
5.) The MoMA online store.
Well done, CNNSI...
I sit incredulous at another CNNSI piece that has me shaking my head...
"Once Boris Diaw works himself into shape, he and Shawn Marion, along with the steadily improving Amaré Stoudemire (averaging 17 and 8 in just 27 minutes) have a chance to rank among the great frontcourts of all time."
Memo to Bird, Parish, McHale, your reign atop the mountain is about to end...not really. I follow the NBA as religiously as I follow college hockey, and I can still name 2-3 better frontcourts currently in the NBA.
CNNSI writers really have the life. In an effort to crank out 100 articles a day, they've fired all the editors and hired only writers. The aforementioned article sounds eerily similar to me, as a 5-year-old, claiming I had the 'coolest treehouse ever'.
"Once Boris Diaw works himself into shape, he and Shawn Marion, along with the steadily improving Amaré Stoudemire (averaging 17 and 8 in just 27 minutes) have a chance to rank among the great frontcourts of all time."
Memo to Bird, Parish, McHale, your reign atop the mountain is about to end...not really. I follow the NBA as religiously as I follow college hockey, and I can still name 2-3 better frontcourts currently in the NBA.
CNNSI writers really have the life. In an effort to crank out 100 articles a day, they've fired all the editors and hired only writers. The aforementioned article sounds eerily similar to me, as a 5-year-old, claiming I had the 'coolest treehouse ever'.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Point/Counterpoint
Who wants to be an online columnist? Follow this simple recipe:
- Choose a one-sided issue that has drawn national attention
- Locate 3-5 unconnected facts that vaguely support the contrapositive
- Sprinkle the facts in an article against the overwhelming national view.
What a joke.
For the record, anything that is deemed a "state-of-the-art $13 million football training facility" means they went the extra mile to give each player their own personal hose to drink from during training camp, instead of poking holes spaced two feet apart in one hose. I remember going to see the Byrd Stadium renovation, and they were planning on raising $5M for weights.
- Choose a one-sided issue that has drawn national attention
- Locate 3-5 unconnected facts that vaguely support the contrapositive
- Sprinkle the facts in an article against the overwhelming national view.
What a joke.
For the record, anything that is deemed a "state-of-the-art $13 million football training facility" means they went the extra mile to give each player their own personal hose to drink from during training camp, instead of poking holes spaced two feet apart in one hose. I remember going to see the Byrd Stadium renovation, and they were planning on raising $5M for weights.
I am lost...
I am putting it out to the masses, as I've wavered all week, and have turned my mind into the equivalent of the ball of lights Rusty has to untangle in 'Christmas Vacation'.
FFB QB - Favre (@SF) or Kitna (MIN)
Cutler is also an option (only because he is on the roster), but I think he's going to know what Merriman ate for breakfast 10 minutes into the game.
FFB QB - Favre (@SF) or Kitna (MIN)
Cutler is also an option (only because he is on the roster), but I think he's going to know what Merriman ate for breakfast 10 minutes into the game.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
TSG 2006
I buy into tradition. Couple that with the Thanksgiving holiday and you realize why I enjoy The Skins game. I remember great matches in years past, that paired Nicklaus, Palmer, Trevino, and the like. Trevino's hole-in-one is one of my most prominent golf memories.
I flip to the 2006 version to find Tiger Woods replaced by...Stephen Ames? Was Greg Kraft not available? I am so sad to see TSG on life support. Granted, some would argue it has been the case for years, but the tackiness of TSG 2005 (Fred Funk) made for one of the best one-liners in golf when Tiger read Fred's put being 'two balls out'. A rare view into the personality of TW, or, rather TWinc (pronounced twink).
How can TSG be improved? Hmmm...I'd suggest grabbing a bunch of young guns, but the multimillionaire 20-somethings have huge bank accounts, haven't won squat, and have the personality of bookmarks. Don't get me started on how The Leadbetter Academy has ruined the personality of golf, cranking out rich robots at the expense of independent thought.
Honestly, I'd revive TSG by going back to what worked, Nicklaus, Palmer, Trevino, Player. How many current PGA Pros could be considered ambassadors of the game? I'd take those 4 over 98% of current golfers. Devishly, as much as I love the guys, and what they have brought to golf, I'd love to see holes won with double-bogey (circa the Nicklaus/Miller Wide World of Golf at Olympic where Miller shot 82) and holes where players are laying up to the ladies tees to clear ravines on holes with long carries. But no more skirts on men, please.
I flip to the 2006 version to find Tiger Woods replaced by...Stephen Ames? Was Greg Kraft not available? I am so sad to see TSG on life support. Granted, some would argue it has been the case for years, but the tackiness of TSG 2005 (Fred Funk) made for one of the best one-liners in golf when Tiger read Fred's put being 'two balls out'. A rare view into the personality of TW, or, rather TWinc (pronounced twink).
How can TSG be improved? Hmmm...I'd suggest grabbing a bunch of young guns, but the multimillionaire 20-somethings have huge bank accounts, haven't won squat, and have the personality of bookmarks. Don't get me started on how The Leadbetter Academy has ruined the personality of golf, cranking out rich robots at the expense of independent thought.
Honestly, I'd revive TSG by going back to what worked, Nicklaus, Palmer, Trevino, Player. How many current PGA Pros could be considered ambassadors of the game? I'd take those 4 over 98% of current golfers. Devishly, as much as I love the guys, and what they have brought to golf, I'd love to see holes won with double-bogey (circa the Nicklaus/Miller Wide World of Golf at Olympic where Miller shot 82) and holes where players are laying up to the ladies tees to clear ravines on holes with long carries. But no more skirts on men, please.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving!!!
I am the first person to buy into a new product/service/gadget, but inevitably there is a point where it becomes too popular, and I turn against the superior product. Case in point, this week at work I overheard a friend having a conversation concerning Pandora (www.pandora.com) as if it was just released. Each 'cool', 'excellent', or 'solid' (Ted Theodore Logan, anyone?) made me cringe, and ultimately soured my taste for the site. It has been around for almost a year (to my count) welcome to the recently moving bandwagon.
I love that the Broncos have a player named C. Mustard. Amazing football name, befitting of a fullback. Sounds fairly mercinary. Jay Cutler better beware of spending time in the Conservatory, lest C. Mustard takes a swing with the lead pipe.
Happy Thanksgiving!!! Mean of turkey breast with rosemary, mashed potatos, sausage stuffing (best kind), corn, oversized biscuits, carrots, iced tea. Double helping. A+. Easily my favorite meal of the year.
I love that the Broncos have a player named C. Mustard. Amazing football name, befitting of a fullback. Sounds fairly mercinary. Jay Cutler better beware of spending time in the Conservatory, lest C. Mustard takes a swing with the lead pipe.
Happy Thanksgiving!!! Mean of turkey breast with rosemary, mashed potatos, sausage stuffing (best kind), corn, oversized biscuits, carrots, iced tea. Double helping. A+. Easily my favorite meal of the year.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Flexeril and Skelactin
Last weekend was interesting. Saturday was a gorgeous 70' in DC (a rarity in November) and I was prepped for a round of golf. As I went to leave, I felt a slight twinge in my back, upon cognitive recognition, my back seized up as if a bayonette had plunged in my kidney. I fell into my bed and was unable to move; breathing was laborious. After nearly an hour I was able to roll over, while in extreme pain, and start to make sense of what was happening. In a forcible struggle I'd flutter an arm, then a leg, then the other arm, trying to regain my range of motion in iterations. After a few hours, I was able to make myself sit up, and some time later was staggering around the apartment.
Sunday was no better, I made it downstairs and lay prostrate on the floor, on a heating pad, in front of NFL games all afternoon. Monday was spent trying to make a Dr. appointment, finally able to be seen in the afternoon.
After lamenting to my Dr about the physical mugging I had been taking for the last two days, she attributed my pain to a severe muscle spasm, which are a 'regular occurence' as one ages. Damn. Now I've got to see if it reoccurs, which may require more serious meds than the F & S combo she prescribed. Weird how nothing of the sort had happened to be before, it was like a bolt of lightening, targeted right at my lower back.
Hopefully, the 4-iron to my back was a radom job, but damn if it didn't eff my weekend, and has left me struggling to work out the pain and teeter around my office/apartment.
Sunday was no better, I made it downstairs and lay prostrate on the floor, on a heating pad, in front of NFL games all afternoon. Monday was spent trying to make a Dr. appointment, finally able to be seen in the afternoon.
After lamenting to my Dr about the physical mugging I had been taking for the last two days, she attributed my pain to a severe muscle spasm, which are a 'regular occurence' as one ages. Damn. Now I've got to see if it reoccurs, which may require more serious meds than the F & S combo she prescribed. Weird how nothing of the sort had happened to be before, it was like a bolt of lightening, targeted right at my lower back.
Hopefully, the 4-iron to my back was a radom job, but damn if it didn't eff my weekend, and has left me struggling to work out the pain and teeter around my office/apartment.
Friday, November 10, 2006
Poison v. Motley Crue
My formative middle school years consisted of an intermal battle waged over who was the best band of the era, Poison or Motley Crue. I used to pour over Circus magazine, and was distraught when the pullout poster was Poison on one side, and the Crue on the other. I religiously flipped the poster every week, lest I give preference to one over the other.
Since then, I've probably been to more Poison shows by a ratio of 5:1, but if I had to choose one band over the other, all extracurricular aside (movies, debaucheration, etc.) the choice is obvious.
How can you side with a band who has a song named 'Cry Tough'?
I actually like the song, but what a miserable title. It could have been called 'The Streets', 'Cry Out', or 'Smoking Roadies after the Show'...anything but the chosen title. What a lame title. Makes me think they didn't write their own music (then who the hell came up with Unskinny Bob...another story for another time).
I can't take Poison seriously, and MC scared people. Advantage Crue.
Since then, I've probably been to more Poison shows by a ratio of 5:1, but if I had to choose one band over the other, all extracurricular aside (movies, debaucheration, etc.) the choice is obvious.
How can you side with a band who has a song named 'Cry Tough'?
I actually like the song, but what a miserable title. It could have been called 'The Streets', 'Cry Out', or 'Smoking Roadies after the Show'...anything but the chosen title. What a lame title. Makes me think they didn't write their own music (then who the hell came up with Unskinny Bob...another story for another time).
I can't take Poison seriously, and MC scared people. Advantage Crue.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Blogs and San Diego
Blogs I follow, mostly business related:
http://www.blog.guykawasaki.com
http://bobsutton.typepad.com/
http://thelongtail.com
http://dcist.com
http://jimcollins.com
Spent a couple of days in San Diego, barely missing the Zahns (damn). Stayed in the Mission Valley area, which afforded me nice long runs and a convienent Starbucks. As time was limited, I did a lot of driving around the city, and checked out both Old Towne and Downtown. Downtown was nice, but too clean, to the point of questioning how an area could get so clean. But it was definitely worth hanging out. While a lot of bars were franchised/chains, I suggest parking between 4th - 6th St. and walking to the Padres store at Petco, as everything is currently marked off. There is a door at the store that allows you to walk out to into the stadium. Afterwards, I suggest drinks at the pool bar of JSix, up the street, and dinner downstairs, or across the street at The Palm.
http://www.blog.guykawasaki.com
http://bobsutton.typepad.com/
http://thelongtail.com
http://dcist.com
http://jimcollins.com
Spent a couple of days in San Diego, barely missing the Zahns (damn). Stayed in the Mission Valley area, which afforded me nice long runs and a convienent Starbucks. As time was limited, I did a lot of driving around the city, and checked out both Old Towne and Downtown. Downtown was nice, but too clean, to the point of questioning how an area could get so clean. But it was definitely worth hanging out. While a lot of bars were franchised/chains, I suggest parking between 4th - 6th St. and walking to the Padres store at Petco, as everything is currently marked off. There is a door at the store that allows you to walk out to into the stadium. Afterwards, I suggest drinks at the pool bar of JSix, up the street, and dinner downstairs, or across the street at The Palm.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Monday TV
Outside of sports, I'm normally not a big TV guy, but have grown increasingly impressed with the hybrid Monday lineup. CBS has created two humorous sitcoms in 'How I Met Your Mother' and 'The Class', which may fare well, as there is no great competition from 8-9PM. I've also become a fan of 'Studio 60' (10-11PM NBC), which is starting to hit a stride, in light of the enormous cast, which would (assumedly) drag down the show. It may take a few weeks for the development of more concrete and far-reaching plot lines, but the first few episodes have me hooked. I suggest watching this week's show on nbc.com (full episode), which I found to be the best of the bunch.
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Good Read
Wanted to bring quick notice to today's WP atricle (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/10/20/AR2006102000446.html) on Garry Trudeau, and his recent dealings with the War in Iraq in Doonesbury. Fantastic read.
It bothers me, as we approach elections, with a War in Iraq and other events of great seriousness occuring, that our notice of these events is blocked by political jockeying and the ad nauseum display of election advertisements. Granted, the 15 and 30 second snippets are easier to inject into standard tv viewing habits than an in-depth piece on current events, but reminders of what is really happening would be both sobering, and a refreshing reminder of what is really going on. At what point did we abandon the Weekly Reader for the 'Where's the Beef' ad?
It bothers me, as we approach elections, with a War in Iraq and other events of great seriousness occuring, that our notice of these events is blocked by political jockeying and the ad nauseum display of election advertisements. Granted, the 15 and 30 second snippets are easier to inject into standard tv viewing habits than an in-depth piece on current events, but reminders of what is really happening would be both sobering, and a refreshing reminder of what is really going on. At what point did we abandon the Weekly Reader for the 'Where's the Beef' ad?
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Salty
Please tell me I am the only idiot stupid enough to participate in a FFB league run by Fanball(slogan: were run by acutal retards!).
Case in point, I lost this weeks game by 0.05 points.
Context - I am adamantly opposed to leagues that have partial points.
- Between Monday night and Tuesday morning my team inexplicably lost 0.10 points (great coding, idiots)
- More accurately, I actually lost on a Jake Plummer kneel down that cost me -1 yd rushing (-.10) on Sunday night.
Awesome. Eff Fanball, 20-0 halftime leads, and the Bears D.
Case in point, I lost this weeks game by 0.05 points.
Context - I am adamantly opposed to leagues that have partial points.
- Between Monday night and Tuesday morning my team inexplicably lost 0.10 points (great coding, idiots)
- More accurately, I actually lost on a Jake Plummer kneel down that cost me -1 yd rushing (-.10) on Sunday night.
Awesome. Eff Fanball, 20-0 halftime leads, and the Bears D.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Too Much, Too Soon
I am concerned by both the lack of effort underway to entrench the new Nationals team/stadium in SE DC, and the number of overzealous investors/prospectors looking to make a quick buck on the revitalization.
Coupled with the Lerner family reputation (chronicled in this week's WP) for hard-line negotiation tactics and letter-of-the-law execution creates a recipe for failure.
What the Lerner's don't grasp is the soft side of the issue. It isn't prudent to publicly state the Nationals purchase was viewed as a moneymaking venture, which rings caustic in the ears of DC residents and Board members who struggled mightily to make baseball in DC a reality. I hate to clue you in, but building an office complex in the area isn't an act of good faith, insofar as investment to add to your already overflowing coffers. What isn't mentioned is the Lerner building is in the direct sightline from the stadium to the Capitol, was fought by DC Councilman Jack Evans, and only allowed to be constructed when your ownership was revealed. Cutting corners from Day 1 may make sense, from a fiscal perspective, but doesn't create the 'friendly customer experience' that will result in repeat customers, or what we call fans.
Also, the entire dynamic of the SE revitalization is set to implode. A scan of the area today reveals one of three things, tenements barricaded for future demolition, construction, or completed office buildings, at most three years old. What is missing? Residences, commerce, parks, any discernible nightlife after 5pm. In essence, everything. Which isn't to say what I mentioned missing isn't coming, but it will arrive at the same time as the stadium. The Lerners are already fighting tooth and nail for above ground (cheaper and less sightly) parking, which would delete planned residences in walking distance of the stadium.
Stadiums and teams succeed in areas where they don't immediately appear, but are an extension of the already existent community. Pac Bell works because the area was already established, and the ballpark serves its intention, as an enhancement. The architectural snore-fests that are being built are homogenous, lacking grandeur, and fitting of housing government facilities. Fine for today, but dated in 10 years, and atrocious in 20.
As quickly as the investors arrived to cash in on the development, they'll be inclined to leave when the revenue stream slows to a trickle. Why? Because they are investors, and have no ties to the area, the team, or DC heritage.
The sound you hear is the teetering of SE, and we haven't even begun.
Coupled with the Lerner family reputation (chronicled in this week's WP) for hard-line negotiation tactics and letter-of-the-law execution creates a recipe for failure.
What the Lerner's don't grasp is the soft side of the issue. It isn't prudent to publicly state the Nationals purchase was viewed as a moneymaking venture, which rings caustic in the ears of DC residents and Board members who struggled mightily to make baseball in DC a reality. I hate to clue you in, but building an office complex in the area isn't an act of good faith, insofar as investment to add to your already overflowing coffers. What isn't mentioned is the Lerner building is in the direct sightline from the stadium to the Capitol, was fought by DC Councilman Jack Evans, and only allowed to be constructed when your ownership was revealed. Cutting corners from Day 1 may make sense, from a fiscal perspective, but doesn't create the 'friendly customer experience' that will result in repeat customers, or what we call fans.
Also, the entire dynamic of the SE revitalization is set to implode. A scan of the area today reveals one of three things, tenements barricaded for future demolition, construction, or completed office buildings, at most three years old. What is missing? Residences, commerce, parks, any discernible nightlife after 5pm. In essence, everything. Which isn't to say what I mentioned missing isn't coming, but it will arrive at the same time as the stadium. The Lerners are already fighting tooth and nail for above ground (cheaper and less sightly) parking, which would delete planned residences in walking distance of the stadium.
Stadiums and teams succeed in areas where they don't immediately appear, but are an extension of the already existent community. Pac Bell works because the area was already established, and the ballpark serves its intention, as an enhancement. The architectural snore-fests that are being built are homogenous, lacking grandeur, and fitting of housing government facilities. Fine for today, but dated in 10 years, and atrocious in 20.
As quickly as the investors arrived to cash in on the development, they'll be inclined to leave when the revenue stream slows to a trickle. Why? Because they are investors, and have no ties to the area, the team, or DC heritage.
The sound you hear is the teetering of SE, and we haven't even begun.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Monday, October 02, 2006
Parental Control
Had a very enjoyable weekend, puctuated with Redskins and UVA wins (did Haley's comet orbit, too?).
Friday night we 'entertained' friends who were visiting. I've come to realize 'entertain' is the adult-version of 'get shitfaced'. It brings a wry smile to my face when I watch a show on HDTV and a couple lauds a large living room for being perfect for 'entertaining', meaning beerpong is soon to follow.
Got wrapped up in MTV's Parental Control. Show is highly addictive. I was audibly rooting for a whore to be booted by her boyfriend, to the tune of "if she sticks around, I'll have wasted the last half-hour of my life, and that poor mother!". Also heard date behavior described as "ho-ish activity", and saw fathers getting to act creepy and check out the goods for their sons.
Friday night we 'entertained' friends who were visiting. I've come to realize 'entertain' is the adult-version of 'get shitfaced'. It brings a wry smile to my face when I watch a show on HDTV and a couple lauds a large living room for being perfect for 'entertaining', meaning beerpong is soon to follow.
Got wrapped up in MTV's Parental Control. Show is highly addictive. I was audibly rooting for a whore to be booted by her boyfriend, to the tune of "if she sticks around, I'll have wasted the last half-hour of my life, and that poor mother!". Also heard date behavior described as "ho-ish activity", and saw fathers getting to act creepy and check out the goods for their sons.
Friday, September 22, 2006
USA! USA! USA!
Tough day 1 for the Good Guys at the Ryder Cup, with Tiger/Furyk going 1-1 (why has no one mentioned they are #1 & #2 in the world?), and the Mickelson face making another appearance. As much as I want the US to win, I don't know where the US is going to come up with 11.5 points for the win. But...
I've put kryptonite in Sergio Garcia's golf bag, by taking him in the morning match. If an RRD wager can't bring the shanks out in anyone's bag, I don't know what can.
I've put kryptonite in Sergio Garcia's golf bag, by taking him in the morning match. If an RRD wager can't bring the shanks out in anyone's bag, I don't know what can.
Monday, September 18, 2006
I'm Back Bitches
Spent an extended weekend and the beach, for some much needed R&R. A few thoughts...
I get a kick out of how my phone automatically populates words based on my initial letters. At what point did 'can' become canoli, or 'but' become butthole?
If I ever complain about DC traffic again, may I be flashed back to being in a Myrtle Beach supermarket behind three people trying to use the self check-out aisle.
Myrtle Beach is the only area where the only sodas not sold out in the vending machine are diet.
Left my gas guzzling SUV at home, and borrowed my sister's car for the @ 1000 mile trip. Toyota Corolla = nice ride. Filling the tank twice, for @ $23 each time, brought a smile to my face. Easily saved me over $100. The disparity between mileage/ tank size was very eye-opening.
UVA, what can I say? Dark times. LOTS of room on the bandwagon. Truthfully, many true fans saw this coming. No serviceable QB, poor RBs = @10 points of offense per game, which isn't cutting it (especially at home). I've never been a total Groh supporter (I like it to GW, at times have approved of his decisions, but would characterize as 'inept' from 30,000 feet) as he has not developed a QB, ever (Shaub was all Bill Musgrave).
I don't know why VA fans expect more than 7 wins a year, we have no precedent for success. But unlike 95% of UVA fans, I have no problem stomaching a 4/5 win season. We've got talent signed for next year, and have a young team, sometimes you must take it on the chin. If we continue to spiral down, and our commitments (verbal) go elsewhere, I'll lose my $hit.
I get a kick out of how my phone automatically populates words based on my initial letters. At what point did 'can' become canoli, or 'but' become butthole?
If I ever complain about DC traffic again, may I be flashed back to being in a Myrtle Beach supermarket behind three people trying to use the self check-out aisle.
Myrtle Beach is the only area where the only sodas not sold out in the vending machine are diet.
Left my gas guzzling SUV at home, and borrowed my sister's car for the @ 1000 mile trip. Toyota Corolla = nice ride. Filling the tank twice, for @ $23 each time, brought a smile to my face. Easily saved me over $100. The disparity between mileage/ tank size was very eye-opening.
UVA, what can I say? Dark times. LOTS of room on the bandwagon. Truthfully, many true fans saw this coming. No serviceable QB, poor RBs = @10 points of offense per game, which isn't cutting it (especially at home). I've never been a total Groh supporter (I like it to GW, at times have approved of his decisions, but would characterize as 'inept' from 30,000 feet) as he has not developed a QB, ever (Shaub was all Bill Musgrave).
I don't know why VA fans expect more than 7 wins a year, we have no precedent for success. But unlike 95% of UVA fans, I have no problem stomaching a 4/5 win season. We've got talent signed for next year, and have a young team, sometimes you must take it on the chin. If we continue to spiral down, and our commitments (verbal) go elsewhere, I'll lose my $hit.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
The Forgottens
Music that has fallen between the cracks through the passage of time:
- Old school Aerosmith. Unbelieveable rock. It is crazy to hear how Steven Tyler's voice has evolved from milk to asphalt over the years (for the better).
- Poison's Flesh & Bood. Great album from start to finish, unlike OUASA or NBAGT, which contain a few homeruns, but more garbage.
- The Black Crowes. Southern Harmony and Musical Companion. What started it all. A number of us find it promising Chris Robinson and Kate Hudson broke up, and band members have been fleeing to save their sobriety. Should lead to great music.
- Old school Aerosmith. Unbelieveable rock. It is crazy to hear how Steven Tyler's voice has evolved from milk to asphalt over the years (for the better).
- Poison's Flesh & Bood. Great album from start to finish, unlike OUASA or NBAGT, which contain a few homeruns, but more garbage.
- The Black Crowes. Southern Harmony and Musical Companion. What started it all. A number of us find it promising Chris Robinson and Kate Hudson broke up, and band members have been fleeing to save their sobriety. Should lead to great music.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Weekend Wrap Up
I hate to launch into the week on a sore note, after a fantastic weekend that included multiple good dinners, the NFL, and Government Mule in Brooklyn, but the Week One NFL Wrap Up by Peter King is a joke.
In the past sports writers were writers, those who sought information, not human interest and angling their stories to attract readership. The current era of writers, primarily internet writers, hold connecting with the reader in a higher regard than reporting the event, to the detriment of the story and the profession. No one is worse than Peter King. His latest stream-of-consciousness works harder to portray him as a buddy to all NFL coaches/players than a provider of insight. Both Joey Porter/cigar and Sean Payton/Jerome Bettis are pandering bits of tripe I hear in my head uttered in the voice of Eddie Haskell. By focusing on his VIP status with NFL personnel, he strikes out on his players/goats of the week (Charlie Batch over Pennington or Vick?). His "reporting" has sunken to being a 3,000 word puff piece. I find it aggravating/offensive he rips on airline security, on the anniversary of 9/11. The fact any airline employee treats him with respect is hard to believe, if I was an airline attendant and his reservation appeared, I'd have no problem losing it in the shuffle, his suitcases would be stockpiling in Malaysia.
Again, fantastic weekend, made up for the congestion I have been experiencing for days. The summer is over!
In the past sports writers were writers, those who sought information, not human interest and angling their stories to attract readership. The current era of writers, primarily internet writers, hold connecting with the reader in a higher regard than reporting the event, to the detriment of the story and the profession. No one is worse than Peter King. His latest stream-of-consciousness works harder to portray him as a buddy to all NFL coaches/players than a provider of insight. Both Joey Porter/cigar and Sean Payton/Jerome Bettis are pandering bits of tripe I hear in my head uttered in the voice of Eddie Haskell. By focusing on his VIP status with NFL personnel, he strikes out on his players/goats of the week (Charlie Batch over Pennington or Vick?). His "reporting" has sunken to being a 3,000 word puff piece. I find it aggravating/offensive he rips on airline security, on the anniversary of 9/11. The fact any airline employee treats him with respect is hard to believe, if I was an airline attendant and his reservation appeared, I'd have no problem losing it in the shuffle, his suitcases would be stockpiling in Malaysia.
Again, fantastic weekend, made up for the congestion I have been experiencing for days. The summer is over!
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Houses/Bobby Flay
Quick thoughts...
...watching House Hunters and other HGTV shows and driving around the massive amounts of growth in DC, the houses/condos/apartments that have all sprung up in the same style are going to appear extremely dated in 5-10 years. The oversized bathrooms/bathtubs, earth tone colors in the living and bedrooms. the siding & brick facades are going to be America's new Epcot in 2015. I'd like to buy stock in the home remodeling business, there are SO MANY of these pre-designed, pre-fabricated houses in DC, no one is going to want an outdated style in 5 years. The worst component is going to be the oversided brushed-steel appliances, which are going to scream 2005.
...I know there are many Bobby Flay fans who peruse the site, but have you ever watched 'Throwdown'? He is the biggest primadonna prick! Always sniping at his assistants, acting like a real ass at the events of his competitors. Miserable personality, I can't stand the guy.
...watching House Hunters and other HGTV shows and driving around the massive amounts of growth in DC, the houses/condos/apartments that have all sprung up in the same style are going to appear extremely dated in 5-10 years. The oversized bathrooms/bathtubs, earth tone colors in the living and bedrooms. the siding & brick facades are going to be America's new Epcot in 2015. I'd like to buy stock in the home remodeling business, there are SO MANY of these pre-designed, pre-fabricated houses in DC, no one is going to want an outdated style in 5 years. The worst component is going to be the oversided brushed-steel appliances, which are going to scream 2005.
...I know there are many Bobby Flay fans who peruse the site, but have you ever watched 'Throwdown'? He is the biggest primadonna prick! Always sniping at his assistants, acting like a real ass at the events of his competitors. Miserable personality, I can't stand the guy.
Please Shoot Me
Yesterday played a round of golf (on a Wednesday) that took 6:10. The 2nd longest round of my life. The longest was 6:30, and the course had 19 holes. Add 1:30 of steady rain and couple the fact an unnamed playing partner drained a Shemp birdie from 30 feet on a par-3 (we pay out for 2s) we had to hang around for him to collect. I wanted to kick the ball out of the path of the hole when it was 8 foot away and apparent it was going in (I was putting for 4 from 15 feet).
Hit 13 greens, shot 78. Made nothing longer than three feet all day, and wasn't missing cross country putts for birdie. Missed 8 from inside 15 feet.
It was the most miserable golf round of my life.
It really is miserable how 18 holes in DC involves a whole day. Up at 6, on the road by 6:45, tee off at 8:30, finished at 2:30, reception 4:15, (tentatively) home 5:30. Full effing day.
On a different note, why does every bum in DC ask me for $0.85? Is that what bum studies/surveys have determined to be the acceptable amount for which to panhandle? Is that the amount that gives said bum the most amount of time to harass a person fishing for the change?
Am I the only one with faith in the US for the Ryder Cup? Nothing would make me happier than an 0-4 week for Sergio, he'd me more petulant than a Roddick post-match interview.
Hit 13 greens, shot 78. Made nothing longer than three feet all day, and wasn't missing cross country putts for birdie. Missed 8 from inside 15 feet.
It was the most miserable golf round of my life.
It really is miserable how 18 holes in DC involves a whole day. Up at 6, on the road by 6:45, tee off at 8:30, finished at 2:30, reception 4:15, (tentatively) home 5:30. Full effing day.
On a different note, why does every bum in DC ask me for $0.85? Is that what bum studies/surveys have determined to be the acceptable amount for which to panhandle? Is that the amount that gives said bum the most amount of time to harass a person fishing for the change?
Am I the only one with faith in the US for the Ryder Cup? Nothing would make me happier than an 0-4 week for Sergio, he'd me more petulant than a Roddick post-match interview.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Labor Day
Good LDW, very relaxing. DC weather was soggy, but a nice break from the norm.
Enjoyed watching FSU/Miami last night, always a good game, with two teams that seem to be a step faster than the rest of college football at the beginning of September. Never been a fan of the 'Canes, so no complaints with two straight FSU wins.
Seeing the aggressiveness and youth of the FSU defense, they look like title contenders for 2007/8, possibly this year (although currently 10:1 is somewhat overrated, should be @ 20:1). The majority of the guys they had flying around the field are newcomers. Geno Hayes - RS F, Michael Ray Garvin - RS F, Myron Rolle, TF. On the offensive side, Antone Smith (RB) - RS F. Weatherford has a year at the helm under his belt, and the highly talented Lorenzo Booker can deliver six on most plays, with a decent blocking package. The FSU defense is nasty, I don't see them being overly challenged, and can get away with a ball-control offense.
Enjoyed watching FSU/Miami last night, always a good game, with two teams that seem to be a step faster than the rest of college football at the beginning of September. Never been a fan of the 'Canes, so no complaints with two straight FSU wins.
Seeing the aggressiveness and youth of the FSU defense, they look like title contenders for 2007/8, possibly this year (although currently 10:1 is somewhat overrated, should be @ 20:1). The majority of the guys they had flying around the field are newcomers. Geno Hayes - RS F, Michael Ray Garvin - RS F, Myron Rolle, TF. On the offensive side, Antone Smith (RB) - RS F. Weatherford has a year at the helm under his belt, and the highly talented Lorenzo Booker can deliver six on most plays, with a decent blocking package. The FSU defense is nasty, I don't see them being overly challenged, and can get away with a ball-control offense.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
A few questions to ponder...
1.) Is this really cool or pretty shitty? I am leaning in the direction of shitty.
2.) If you had to be a chick, would you choose to be a chick a.) with a busted grill and sick body or b.) a great face and marginal body, that could never be improved through exercise, etc.? I am truly stumped.
On Saturday I was channel surfing after a 6:20 round of golf (@ 1:00) and came across amazing television, which I have seen 5-6 times, but am always drawn in...Biography of Andre the Giant. I recommend Tivo'ing. The talk of his appetitte for food/drink (over 100 beers in a night without catching a buzz) is amazing. Add family interviews and stories of hyperbole in thick French accents, amazing television. No need to thank me.
2.) If you had to be a chick, would you choose to be a chick a.) with a busted grill and sick body or b.) a great face and marginal body, that could never be improved through exercise, etc.? I am truly stumped.
On Saturday I was channel surfing after a 6:20 round of golf (@ 1:00) and came across amazing television, which I have seen 5-6 times, but am always drawn in...Biography of Andre the Giant. I recommend Tivo'ing. The talk of his appetitte for food/drink (over 100 beers in a night without catching a buzz) is amazing. Add family interviews and stories of hyperbole in thick French accents, amazing television. No need to thank me.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
FFB Draft #2
Office draft, had pick #2 (of 12).
For your pleasure, Leland's team:
| Starting Players | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | Usage | Player | Fantasy Points | |||||||||
| All | Pos | Own | Start | Pos | Player | Team | Opp | Inj | Bye | Avg | Total | Last |
- | - | 93% | 36% | QB | Jake Plummer | DEN | @STL | 4 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 99% | 74% | RB | LaDainian Tomlinson | SD | @OAK | 3 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 98% | 54% | RB | Warrick Dunn | ATL | @CAR | 5 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 44% | 13% | RB | Reggie Bush(r) | NO | @CLE | 7 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 99% | 76% | WR | Larry Fitzgerald | ARI | SF | 9 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 99% | 76% | WR | Torry Holt | STL | DEN |  | 7 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
- | - | 97% | 51% | WR | Donald Driver | GB | CHI | 6 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 85% | 51% | TE | Jason Witten | DAL | @JAC | 3 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 91% | 52% | PK | Mike Vanderjagt | DAL | @JAC | | 3 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
- | - | 50% | 17% | Def | Dolphins, Team Defense | MIA | @PIT | 8 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
| Bench Players | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | Usage | Player | Fantasy Points | |||||||||
| All | Pos | Own | Start | Pos | Player | Team | Opp | Inj | Bye | Avg | Total | Last |
- | - | 27% | 1% | QB | Jon Kitna | DET | SEA | 8 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 40% | 1% | RB | Laurence Maroney(r) | NE | BUF | 6 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 63% | 11% | WR | Matt Jones | JAC | DAL | 6 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 59% | 5% | WR | Michael Clayton | TB | BAL | 4 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 68% | 29% | TE | Dallas Clark | IND | @NYG | 6 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 40% | 13% | Def | Bills, Team Defense | BUF | @NE | 8 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
For your pleasure, Leland's team:
| Rank | Usage | Player | Fantasy Points | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All | Pos | Own | Start | Pos | Player | Team | Opp | Inj | Bye | Avg | Total | Last |
- | - | 81% | 31% | QB | Kurt Warner | ARI | SF | 9 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 43% | 6% | QB | Chris Simms | TB | BAL | 4 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 98% | 63% | RB | Carnell Williams | TB | BAL | 4 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 99% | 67% | RB | Clinton Portis | WAS | MIN |  | 8 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
- | - | 92% | 42% | RB | De'Shaun Foster | CAR | ATL | 9 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 90% | 25% | RB | Fred Taylor | JAC | DAL | 6 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 76% | 20% | WR | Terrell Owens | DAL | @JAC | | 3 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
- | - | 98% | 60% | WR | Reggie Wayne | IND | @NYG | 6 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 73% | 12% | WR | Nate Burleson | SEA | @DET | 5 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 89% | 28% | WR | Muhsin Muhammad | CHI | @GB | 7 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 58% | 11% | WR | Brandon Lloyd | WAS | MIN | 8 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 46% | 12% | TE | Ben Troupe | TEN | NYJ | 7 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 65% | 29% | PK | David Akers | PHI | @HOU | 9 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 10% | 2% | PK | Stephen Gostkowski(r) | NE | BUF | 6 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 56% | 25% | Def | Patriots, Team Defense | NE | BUF | 6 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
- | - | 21% | 5% | Def | Jets, Team Defense | NYJ | @TEN | 9 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
Friday, August 25, 2006
Open Kimono - 2006 Draft
Last night was my Fantasy Football draft. I'm in a great league, 13 outstanding guys (and one dickhead who goes by RRD), we've been doing it for three years, no one has left the league, which this year meant:
- 11 of the 14 in actual attendance
- two made the trip from NYC
- seven had today (Friday) off, after the draft
- two took of yesterday to prepare (serious much?)
The great thing about a 14 person league is every team has at least one obvious weakness, and the point of a fantasy draft is to talk shit and ridicule, which goes on non-stop from the 7th round until the end, as every pick thereafter essentially sucks. Last night's good rips included:
"Alge Crumpler is the 3rd option in Atlanta's offense, behind Roddy White and the ground."
"Jerramy Stevens has been downgraded from doubtful to dead"
...general laughing at the team named 'Baby's Arm' in the middle of the 11th round, which I blame on alcohol after the fact.
...ripping ever person who chose a kicker earlier than the 15th round, drafted two TEs, or two DEFs.
I am screwed, as I really like how my team shaped up. I think my weakness is obvious, but I can't complain about the outcome. I avoided a number of miserable potentyial platoon situations (Texas, Denver RB) and good decent quality in the late rounds (White/Givens)
I'm Balls Deep
Have at it.
- 11 of the 14 in actual attendance
- two made the trip from NYC
- seven had today (Friday) off, after the draft
- two took of yesterday to prepare (serious much?)
The great thing about a 14 person league is every team has at least one obvious weakness, and the point of a fantasy draft is to talk shit and ridicule, which goes on non-stop from the 7th round until the end, as every pick thereafter essentially sucks. Last night's good rips included:
"Alge Crumpler is the 3rd option in Atlanta's offense, behind Roddy White and the ground."
"Jerramy Stevens has been downgraded from doubtful to dead"
...general laughing at the team named 'Baby's Arm' in the middle of the 11th round, which I blame on alcohol after the fact.
...ripping ever person who chose a kicker earlier than the 15th round, drafted two TEs, or two DEFs.
I am screwed, as I really like how my team shaped up. I think my weakness is obvious, but I can't complain about the outcome. I avoided a number of miserable potentyial platoon situations (Texas, Denver RB) and good decent quality in the late rounds (White/Givens)
I'm Balls Deep
Have at it.
Monday, August 21, 2006
Ryder Cup 2006
US Captain Tom Lehman has chosen Stewart Cink and Scott Verplank as the 11th and 12th additions to the US Ryder Cup squad.
Truthfully, the choices are solid, not great, and will be met with mixed emotions, but allow for numerous subplots.
The picks don't really drive at greater team chemistry (Pavin, Funk), and don't try to capture the best players (Love III, easily open for debate).
What comes to mind when viewing the picks? Consistency, putting, boring (in the sense of watching the Champion's Tour, not golf-ball trajectory)
I don't necessarily see boring golfers as being a terrible thing. The Love IIIs of the world could easily have their cages rattled at the K Club by a raucous crowd and exuberant opponents, which won't be the case with SC/SV. Additionally, the picks are your "normal guy" kind of pros (much in the same fashion as Lehman) and will go a long way to bridge the gap in the team between the superstars and the rookies. If I were Brett Wetterich, I would be at greater ease in the Ryder Cup if paired with Scott Verplank over Love/Couples.
European captain Woosnam has sworn to negate the supposed US length factor, which is balanced by the picks. I give CAPT Lehman a B+ for the choices.
Truthfully, the choices are solid, not great, and will be met with mixed emotions, but allow for numerous subplots.
The picks don't really drive at greater team chemistry (Pavin, Funk), and don't try to capture the best players (Love III, easily open for debate).
What comes to mind when viewing the picks? Consistency, putting, boring (in the sense of watching the Champion's Tour, not golf-ball trajectory)
I don't necessarily see boring golfers as being a terrible thing. The Love IIIs of the world could easily have their cages rattled at the K Club by a raucous crowd and exuberant opponents, which won't be the case with SC/SV. Additionally, the picks are your "normal guy" kind of pros (much in the same fashion as Lehman) and will go a long way to bridge the gap in the team between the superstars and the rookies. If I were Brett Wetterich, I would be at greater ease in the Ryder Cup if paired with Scott Verplank over Love/Couples.
European captain Woosnam has sworn to negate the supposed US length factor, which is balanced by the picks. I give CAPT Lehman a B+ for the choices.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Thursday
Been messing around with my Pandora profiles and have come across some good bands, in the mold of DBT, Slobberbone, Black Crowes that I recommend:
Lucero - Raspy vocals, upbeat, very pseudo-hillbilly
Magnolia Electric Co. - Melodic, pensive, thought-provoking sound
Billy Mayfair is -6 thru 12 at the PGA, how cool is that?
Lucero - Raspy vocals, upbeat, very pseudo-hillbilly
Magnolia Electric Co. - Melodic, pensive, thought-provoking sound
Billy Mayfair is -6 thru 12 at the PGA, how cool is that?
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Impressive
This is the first I heard of Billy Mayfair having cancer. Seems pretty remarkable he would be back on the course so quickly. BM seems to be a great guy, always affable and good for a quote, so I am glad to see something as serious as testicular cancer doesn't sideline him for too long. I hope he has a good week at the PGA.
The story provides a bit too much information, however, in my opinion.
The story provides a bit too much information, however, in my opinion.
Monday, August 14, 2006
Not too Smart
Just keep this tucked in your back pocket for when George Allen stages another campaign, be it for Senator, or higher.
The guy is a loser, much like other the Virginia Republicans (Jerry Kilgore, I'm looking in your direction) and only makes me happy my latest votes have gone with Mark Warner and Tim Kaine.
The guy is a loser, much like other the Virginia Republicans (Jerry Kilgore, I'm looking in your direction) and only makes me happy my latest votes have gone with Mark Warner and Tim Kaine.
Friday, August 11, 2006
The Next Tee
Looking forward to the PGA at Medinah next weekend (do you get the impression I am a fan of the majors?).
Watching old PGA highlights on The Golf Channel, I must pay homage to Raymond Floyd in his prime:
- His swing was unconventional, and successful
- Fantastic putting stroke, the absolute of normal
- Made the concept of chipping from the fringe popular
- The cap tip has become a part of my normal mannerisms
What I never picked up on is the Floyd 'hole out and walk to the next tee, leaving the ball in the hole for the caddie to retreive'. He would do it from both inside two feet (when he could have reached over and picked the ball out of the hole) and when others still had to putt!
What a fantastic move.
Watching old PGA highlights on The Golf Channel, I must pay homage to Raymond Floyd in his prime:
- His swing was unconventional, and successful
- Fantastic putting stroke, the absolute of normal
- Made the concept of chipping from the fringe popular
- The cap tip has become a part of my normal mannerisms
What I never picked up on is the Floyd 'hole out and walk to the next tee, leaving the ball in the hole for the caddie to retreive'. He would do it from both inside two feet (when he could have reached over and picked the ball out of the hole) and when others still had to putt!
What a fantastic move.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
1,2,3,4
1.) I don't agree with RR's assessment that the Little League coach was self-absorbed. It was a split second decision, that really probably had no thought involved, that he now has to repeatedly justify in the face of criticism. How difficult would it be to have to explain why you picked the socks you wore to work in the morning, and the pat "I just did it because it is what I normally do." wouldn't cut it. If anything, he wasn't going through the mental adulation RR describes, although he may have been thinking about his kid, and the kids of his friends, on the team he selflessly volunteered to coach, when he could have been on the couch watching TV, with his kid whittling away at a Playstation. The extreme minority of egomaniac youth coaches has let us forget the overwhelming majority of outstanding youth coaches who volunteer out of the goodness of their hearts. Give this guy a break.
2.) As an FYI, in hot weather it is common practice for graphite shafts to strain and partially melt (I did not realize), so leaving your bag in the trunk isn't the best of ideas.
3.) I started listening to classical music on the morning drive to the office. It is extremely relaxing and I recommend. I am surprised by the number of pieces that I recognize (maybe 1 in 10). It proves how classical music floats on the borders of our everyday lives (in elevators, restaurants, etc.).
4.) There is a guy on our client site who is named Dusty Rhodes. I can't see his name on a Cc: list without snickering.
2.) As an FYI, in hot weather it is common practice for graphite shafts to strain and partially melt (I did not realize), so leaving your bag in the trunk isn't the best of ideas.
3.) I started listening to classical music on the morning drive to the office. It is extremely relaxing and I recommend. I am surprised by the number of pieces that I recognize (maybe 1 in 10). It proves how classical music floats on the borders of our everyday lives (in elevators, restaurants, etc.).
4.) There is a guy on our client site who is named Dusty Rhodes. I can't see his name on a Cc: list without snickering.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Time Flies
I remember I used to listen to '1999' and think how far off it is, and how things would be in the future. Crazy to think the song was written in the mid-1980s (85?), seemed so far away, but is now seven years past 1999.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Friday, July 21, 2006
Gutsy
Jason Whitlock calls 'em as he sees 'em, which I respect. A LOT of predictions that take fortitude to put into print. I agree with 9, 8, 7, 6, 2.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Tagging
From the ages of 22 - now, I've rented a number of different residences, which has led to a number of drycleaners (often more than one per residence). Why do all drycleaners find it necessary to stamp/write/stencil/woodburn my name to the bottom of the inside? I could understand if you were tagging with some sort of low-rent RFID, but the fact my name is written multiple times on the same shirt is ridiculous. It really got out of hand when I found my name written in pen on a pocket in a pair of slacks. Isn't it the point to keep ink as far away from clothes as possible?
When I outgrow/wear out my shirts, do I really want to pass it to goodwill with my name inside?
I am really stoked for the British Open. I say winner is -14.
When I outgrow/wear out my shirts, do I really want to pass it to goodwill with my name inside?
I am really stoked for the British Open. I say winner is -14.
Monday, July 17, 2006
British Open
Picking the champion of the year for 2006 was been an enjoyable/maddening experience, as contesting the British Open at Hoylake will lead to many surprises and a field where (unlike Augusta, where course changes have shrunk the contenders) a lot of golfers can win. All I know of the course is my review of the card and review of the shaping of the holes.
The unfamiliarity with the course will lead to a scene similar to the 2003 Olympia Fields US Open, where Furyk eventually won the tournament. My picks:
Guys who just missed the cut: Luke Donald, Adam Scott, Zach Johnson, Jim Furyk.
Currently playing the best golf in the world: Johan Edfors
4. - Geoff Ogilvy - Why not? T7 at St. Andrews in 2005, nothing to lose. Who is going to be more relaxed, no pressure and little expectations.
3. Stuart Appleby - Success at Mercedes bodes well on long courses (3 par-5s on back) when the wind is up. He is due for a major.
2. Tim Clark - Potentially the most underrated golfer in the world.
1. Padraig Harrington - US Open meltdown nonwithstanding, game is in good shape, and due for a breakthrough.
The unfamiliarity with the course will lead to a scene similar to the 2003 Olympia Fields US Open, where Furyk eventually won the tournament. My picks:
Guys who just missed the cut: Luke Donald, Adam Scott, Zach Johnson, Jim Furyk.
Currently playing the best golf in the world: Johan Edfors
4. - Geoff Ogilvy - Why not? T7 at St. Andrews in 2005, nothing to lose. Who is going to be more relaxed, no pressure and little expectations.
3. Stuart Appleby - Success at Mercedes bodes well on long courses (3 par-5s on back) when the wind is up. He is due for a major.
2. Tim Clark - Potentially the most underrated golfer in the world.
1. Padraig Harrington - US Open meltdown nonwithstanding, game is in good shape, and due for a breakthrough.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
British Open
I must have been napping when the ESPYs became a big deal, or as big of a deal an event with no drama, started solely so people have something to yap about occurred. Thanks, I'll pass.
Looking forward to the British Open, easily my favorite tournament to watch. BBC feed beats any ABC announcer, hands down. I always enjoy watching Euro Tournaments on weekend mornings, the Scottish Open being no exception. LL is a great course.
Being the Open is contested at Hoylake, a track few professionals are familiar with, means anything can happen, which makes for good tournament golf. My picks will be forthcoming.
Looking forward to the British Open, easily my favorite tournament to watch. BBC feed beats any ABC announcer, hands down. I always enjoy watching Euro Tournaments on weekend mornings, the Scottish Open being no exception. LL is a great course.
Being the Open is contested at Hoylake, a track few professionals are familiar with, means anything can happen, which makes for good tournament golf. My picks will be forthcoming.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Of Note...
A few things I have seen lately that I like:
- The interviews in Golf Digest. While the remainder of the magazine is a mixture of subscription cards and misshapen advertisements, the interviews are fantastic. Worth the price of the magazine. This months interview with Fuzzy Zoeller is fantastic.
- The Golf Channel replays of the rounds of a major the week following the event. Watching the event after knowing the outcome is a different beast, and give a perspective of the events that led to the finish. TGC also succeeds by editing down the coverage to a manageable level (2-3 hours) and inserting commentary from the winner, which was especially good with both Ogilvy and Sorenstam after their respective Open victorys.
- The compilation shows on CMT. I'll take 'The Top 20 Southern Rock Songs of All Time' over 'I Love the 70's 1974 Volume II' any night.
- 'Runaway' by Bon Jovi. Heard it in middle school, forgot about it. Now it's back. I didn't realize it was the first song off their first album, of the same title.
- The interviews in Golf Digest. While the remainder of the magazine is a mixture of subscription cards and misshapen advertisements, the interviews are fantastic. Worth the price of the magazine. This months interview with Fuzzy Zoeller is fantastic.
- The Golf Channel replays of the rounds of a major the week following the event. Watching the event after knowing the outcome is a different beast, and give a perspective of the events that led to the finish. TGC also succeeds by editing down the coverage to a manageable level (2-3 hours) and inserting commentary from the winner, which was especially good with both Ogilvy and Sorenstam after their respective Open victorys.
- The compilation shows on CMT. I'll take 'The Top 20 Southern Rock Songs of All Time' over 'I Love the 70's 1974 Volume II' any night.
- 'Runaway' by Bon Jovi. Heard it in middle school, forgot about it. Now it's back. I didn't realize it was the first song off their first album, of the same title.
Saturday, July 08, 2006
Canadian Mist
Our neighbors to the north are fired up over one gentleman's mistake.
As heinous as the crime may be, I gotta feel for the perpetrator. His bender became national news and he is the subject of interviews explaining how he got blacked out. Good luck finding a job on this continent. Somewhere the phone of the casting director for The Real World is ringing...
As heinous as the crime may be, I gotta feel for the perpetrator. His bender became national news and he is the subject of interviews explaining how he got blacked out. Good luck finding a job on this continent. Somewhere the phone of the casting director for The Real World is ringing...
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Fired Up
I confirmed and registered for my FY06 Fantasy Football league today (July 5)...and I was a week late, the 14th of 14 to sign up. It is a league I joined three years ago, invited by my neighbor in the apartment I lived at two moves ago. Besides talking bull and the live draft, my interaction with the rest of the guys is purely virtual. It is the best league ever, here's why:
- 14 of 14 guys return every year, given. Married/split/moved, doesn't matter.
- We are in the Rolls Royce Yahoo league, with all the bells and whistles.
- 14 teams in the league. No team has exceptional depth, and at least one position of weakness, which leads to late Sunday/early Monday scrambling to snag someone off the waiver wire or make a lopsided trade to shore up a glaring deficiency.
- 14 teams also mean stocking up on backup RBs, who become quality when someone goes down with injury....or in last years case, rotating 4 Cowboy running backs (Jones, Barber, Thomas, Herschel Walker).
- At least 5 teams with "Balls" in their team name (Balls Deep, Balls in Mouth...).
- Last year I missed the playoffs after being the 5th of 5 teams in a 5-5-1 tie (how does that happen)?
- No partial point BS. 98 yards on the ground = 9 points.
- Complete homerism draft strategy. I fully expect Jeff King to be picked, and I was complimented as a sage last year picking Alvin Pearman in the final round.
- I've been jotting random notes for the draft since May.
- 14 of 14 guys return every year, given. Married/split/moved, doesn't matter.
- We are in the Rolls Royce Yahoo league, with all the bells and whistles.
- 14 teams in the league. No team has exceptional depth, and at least one position of weakness, which leads to late Sunday/early Monday scrambling to snag someone off the waiver wire or make a lopsided trade to shore up a glaring deficiency.
- 14 teams also mean stocking up on backup RBs, who become quality when someone goes down with injury....or in last years case, rotating 4 Cowboy running backs (Jones, Barber, Thomas, Herschel Walker).
- At least 5 teams with "Balls" in their team name (Balls Deep, Balls in Mouth...).
- Last year I missed the playoffs after being the 5th of 5 teams in a 5-5-1 tie (how does that happen)?
- No partial point BS. 98 yards on the ground = 9 points.
- Complete homerism draft strategy. I fully expect Jeff King to be picked, and I was complimented as a sage last year picking Alvin Pearman in the final round.
- I've been jotting random notes for the draft since May.
Monday, July 03, 2006
The Return to Birdwood
On Saturday I was back in Charlottesville for a wedding and played Birdwood, where I spend approximately 2.5 of my 4 college years. I hadn't played the course in @ two years, so I was playing to both put up a good round and notice the course improvements, since it has been purchased by UVA, along with the Boar's Head complex.
Following the six days of rain at the beginning of the week, the course was in fantastic shape, as good as I've seen it. Granted, it fit the pattern of being really nice for the beginning of the summer, and drying out in mid-July, so I am sure it is coming. It is weird to play a course you've played hundreds of times, but not in a while, and the same anxiety/trepidation from years past comes bubbling to the surface. The 2nd hole, a 520 yd. 5, is potentially reachable, but is bordered entirely on the left side by a lake, so I'll do anything possible to stay right, foregoing a chance at birdie, to work for a par, just to take the high number out of the equation.
All in all, a great round of golf, 82, but played 15 good holes, and three blow-up doubles (one off a bad drive OB, another from a missed flop from heather, the final double being on a 5 par, after blowing 3W from 270 way right, into the neighboring development, getting a miraculous kick to be in play, dumping my 3rd from 30 yards in the bunker, taking two to escape, and two putts). Had no birdies, and can easily attribure 5-6 strokes to a rusty short game, but an enjoyable round. Taking into account technology, I can hit the ball from the back tees to where I would hit from the regular tees while an undergrad. My game certainly hasn't gotten any better.
Following the six days of rain at the beginning of the week, the course was in fantastic shape, as good as I've seen it. Granted, it fit the pattern of being really nice for the beginning of the summer, and drying out in mid-July, so I am sure it is coming. It is weird to play a course you've played hundreds of times, but not in a while, and the same anxiety/trepidation from years past comes bubbling to the surface. The 2nd hole, a 520 yd. 5, is potentially reachable, but is bordered entirely on the left side by a lake, so I'll do anything possible to stay right, foregoing a chance at birdie, to work for a par, just to take the high number out of the equation.
All in all, a great round of golf, 82, but played 15 good holes, and three blow-up doubles (one off a bad drive OB, another from a missed flop from heather, the final double being on a 5 par, after blowing 3W from 270 way right, into the neighboring development, getting a miraculous kick to be in play, dumping my 3rd from 30 yards in the bunker, taking two to escape, and two putts). Had no birdies, and can easily attribure 5-6 strokes to a rusty short game, but an enjoyable round. Taking into account technology, I can hit the ball from the back tees to where I would hit from the regular tees while an undergrad. My game certainly hasn't gotten any better.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
NBA Draft 2006
In case you missed it, as I almost did, the NBA draft is tomorrow. Boy I could care less about the NBA, and the draft pool gives me no reason for excitement.
- I could care less about the Europeans, they are all underdeveloped and soft.
- Potential lottery picks:
- Rudy Gay - proven loser
- Tyrus Thomas - Stromile Swift, anyone? If he was decent, wouldn't I have heard of him before the FF?
- Adam Morrison - Doesn't have NBA athleticism
- LAmarcus Aldridge - Not even the best player on an overrated team
This guy actually gets it right:http://nbadraft.net/prevenas068.asp
If I had choices, I'd go with Roy, a proven winner, who was amazing at the NCAA games in DC. Singlehandedly kept his team in the game against UConn and the refs.
I'd also (I loathe to say) pick Shelden Williams, who will be good for defense, 10pts, and 6 rebs from day 1.
Shannon Brown - Not a good fit for the Izzo system, will improve with increased offensive freedon, and once he finds a shot (Jason Richardson).
Guys I wouldn't draft in 1,000,000 years - Rondo, Boone, Farmar, Ager.
- I could care less about the Europeans, they are all underdeveloped and soft.
- Potential lottery picks:
- Rudy Gay - proven loser
- Tyrus Thomas - Stromile Swift, anyone? If he was decent, wouldn't I have heard of him before the FF?
- Adam Morrison - Doesn't have NBA athleticism
- LAmarcus Aldridge - Not even the best player on an overrated team
This guy actually gets it right:http://nbadraft.net/prevenas068.asp
If I had choices, I'd go with Roy, a proven winner, who was amazing at the NCAA games in DC. Singlehandedly kept his team in the game against UConn and the refs.
I'd also (I loathe to say) pick Shelden Williams, who will be good for defense, 10pts, and 6 rebs from day 1.
Shannon Brown - Not a good fit for the Izzo system, will improve with increased offensive freedon, and once he finds a shot (Jason Richardson).
Guys I wouldn't draft in 1,000,000 years - Rondo, Boone, Farmar, Ager.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Booz Allen Classic
I'll concede the victory to Ben Curtis, whose only impediment to winning the tournament is missing his tee time, while being caught in traffic from the NFL Apparel store to Avenel. Not having prepared for an extension of the tournament until Monday, he may be forced to wear the pink Redskins polo, having exhausted the burgundy, black, and white.
Great article, good morning read:
Putt Putt Championships
Great article, good morning read:
Putt Putt Championships
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Piece of Garbage
The swan song of the Kemper Open/FBR/BA Classic begins today at Avenel, before being discarded by the PGA in favor of higher purse events that will culminate in the FedEx (read: $$$$) Cup. It is a shame DC will be losing its tour event, after years of PGA support.
It would be nearsighted to wax poetic about the BA Classic. While it is unfortunate the PGA is leaving the DC area, no one plays the event anymore. It is embarassing, both for the tournament, and the defending champion, when Sergio Garcia opts out of the event. The same SG that is on the program, was in all the print ads, and is most likely sipping boat drinks this weekend, or filming a commercial for Michelob. I've always considered Sergio to be an uppity piece of trash; his skipping of the event the year after winning is no surprise.
While I could bash Sergio for days on his selfish act, I'd rather laud players who are playing, including Padraig Harrington (could have easily skipped after the Open) and Tom Kite, who is in the field at the ripe age of 56 and probably more well known for his cameo on the Simpsons than his US Open win in 1991.
It would be nearsighted to wax poetic about the BA Classic. While it is unfortunate the PGA is leaving the DC area, no one plays the event anymore. It is embarassing, both for the tournament, and the defending champion, when Sergio Garcia opts out of the event. The same SG that is on the program, was in all the print ads, and is most likely sipping boat drinks this weekend, or filming a commercial for Michelob. I've always considered Sergio to be an uppity piece of trash; his skipping of the event the year after winning is no surprise.
While I could bash Sergio for days on his selfish act, I'd rather laud players who are playing, including Padraig Harrington (could have easily skipped after the Open) and Tom Kite, who is in the field at the ripe age of 56 and probably more well known for his cameo on the Simpsons than his US Open win in 1991.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
US Open - Round 3
Just wanted to post a few comments while watching the Open.
- Mickelson is all over the course thru 3, he's got 75 written all over the round....or 68.
- I know Steve Stricker has fallen on hard times, but has he been wearing the same polo and khakis for the last five years? He's also kept the same swing.
- Between the overnight coverage of Mickelson, Stricker, Montgomerie, I can't believe how Furyk has flown under the radar, I like his chances. I am still not sleeping on Ogilvy.
- Great 68 yesterday turned in by DD. I read his interview in GD, and would really like to pull for the guy, but something just won't let me.
- Irony of all ironies, Tiger MC, Steve Jones is playing on the weekend.
US v. Italy is getting a bit chippy...bodes well for the US.
- Mickelson is all over the course thru 3, he's got 75 written all over the round....or 68.
- I know Steve Stricker has fallen on hard times, but has he been wearing the same polo and khakis for the last five years? He's also kept the same swing.
- Between the overnight coverage of Mickelson, Stricker, Montgomerie, I can't believe how Furyk has flown under the radar, I like his chances. I am still not sleeping on Ogilvy.
- Great 68 yesterday turned in by DD. I read his interview in GD, and would really like to pull for the guy, but something just won't let me.
- Irony of all ironies, Tiger MC, Steve Jones is playing on the weekend.
US v. Italy is getting a bit chippy...bodes well for the US.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
US Open 2006
I wait with baited breath to hear the curses, snarls, and yelps of the PGA professionals as they attempt to survive Winged Foot and the 2006 US Open. Personally, I love watching the US Open, 2nd only to the British in terms of favorite professional tournaments, not for the fact I like to see pros card rounds in the 80s, but winning the US Open should be the reward of four rounds of patience, consistent ball-striking, fortuitous advances, and good putting. No one can argue a US Open win isn't well deserved.
Picks: The 2006 US Open has many storylines, including Phil's recent major dominance (oxymoron?) and Tiger's return from his extended layoff. Personally, I can't argue with Tiger, my A1 pick. The courses on which he has won Opens (Pebble, Bethpage) set up much like Winged Foot, and the spring weather in the east has led to clumpy/dense rough that will be a beast to escape.
A2 - remember the storylines leading into Sunday of last year's Open at Pinehurst? The Goosen coronation? The Cinderella-dance of Gore? Who was exclueded? Michael Campbell, the eventual champion. The 2006 lead up seems eerily similar. Between his win and the 2006 Open, I don't think there has ever been a golfer I've more enjoyed learning about/understanding their mentality than M. Campbell. He combines patience/good-nature/early career foibles into a wonderfully balanced personality and a refreshing view on golf and success. He has the game (Top 10s at last year's British and PGA) to repeat.
B - Geoff Ogilvy. Best of the young players on tour. Hits it the length of Super Wal-Mart parking lots, great putting stroke, strenght to escape the rough. I worry if he has the patience for the Open, and could see him faltering after a stretch of high holes, and not recovering. If he doesn't run hot, he is a great pick, but a guy I see winning or shooting 77-78.
Picks: The 2006 US Open has many storylines, including Phil's recent major dominance (oxymoron?) and Tiger's return from his extended layoff. Personally, I can't argue with Tiger, my A1 pick. The courses on which he has won Opens (Pebble, Bethpage) set up much like Winged Foot, and the spring weather in the east has led to clumpy/dense rough that will be a beast to escape.
A2 - remember the storylines leading into Sunday of last year's Open at Pinehurst? The Goosen coronation? The Cinderella-dance of Gore? Who was exclueded? Michael Campbell, the eventual champion. The 2006 lead up seems eerily similar. Between his win and the 2006 Open, I don't think there has ever been a golfer I've more enjoyed learning about/understanding their mentality than M. Campbell. He combines patience/good-nature/early career foibles into a wonderfully balanced personality and a refreshing view on golf and success. He has the game (Top 10s at last year's British and PGA) to repeat.
B - Geoff Ogilvy. Best of the young players on tour. Hits it the length of Super Wal-Mart parking lots, great putting stroke, strenght to escape the rough. I worry if he has the patience for the Open, and could see him faltering after a stretch of high holes, and not recovering. If he doesn't run hot, he is a great pick, but a guy I see winning or shooting 77-78.
2006 US Open
I wait with baited breath to hear the curses, snarls, and yelps of the PGA professionals as they attempt to survive Winged Foot and the 2006 US Open. Personally, I love watching the US Open, 2nd only to the British in terms of favorite professional tournaments, not for the fact I like to see pros card rounds in the 80s, but winning the US Open should be the reward of four rounds of patience, consistent ball-striking, fortuitous advances, and good putting. No one can argue a US Open win isn't well deserved.
Picks: The 2006 US Open has many storylines, including Phil's recent major dominance (oxymoron?) and Tiger's return from his extended layoff. Personally, I can't argue with Tiger, my A1 pick. The courses on which he has won Opens (Pebble, Bethpage) set up much like Winged Foot, and the spring weather in the east has led to clumpy/dense rough that will be a beast to escape.
A2 - remember the storylines leading into Sunday of last year's Open at Pinehurst? The Goosen coronation? The Cinderella-dance of Gore? Who was exclueded? Michael Campbell, the eventual champion. The 2006 lead up seems eerily similar. Between his win and the 2006 Open, I don't think there has ever been a golfer I've more enjoyed learning about/understanding their mentality than M. Campbell. He combines patience/good-nature/early career foibles into a wonderfully balanced personality and a refreshing view on golf and success. He has the game (Top 10s at last year's British and PGA) to repeat.
B - Geoff Ogilvy. Best of the young players on tour. Hits it the length of Super Wal-Mart parking lots, great putting stroke, strenght to escape the rough. I worry if he has the patience for the Open, and could see him faltering after a stretch of high holes, and not recovering. If he doesn't run hot, he is a great pick, but a guy I see winning or shooting 77-78.
Picks: The 2006 US Open has many storylines, including Phil's recent major dominance (oxymoron?) and Tiger's return from his extended layoff. Personally, I can't argue with Tiger, my A1 pick. The courses on which he has won Opens (Pebble, Bethpage) set up much like Winged Foot, and the spring weather in the east has led to clumpy/dense rough that will be a beast to escape.
A2 - remember the storylines leading into Sunday of last year's Open at Pinehurst? The Goosen coronation? The Cinderella-dance of Gore? Who was exclueded? Michael Campbell, the eventual champion. The 2006 lead up seems eerily similar. Between his win and the 2006 Open, I don't think there has ever been a golfer I've more enjoyed learning about/understanding their mentality than M. Campbell. He combines patience/good-nature/early career foibles into a wonderfully balanced personality and a refreshing view on golf and success. He has the game (Top 10s at last year's British and PGA) to repeat.
B - Geoff Ogilvy. Best of the young players on tour. Hits it the length of Super Wal-Mart parking lots, great putting stroke, strenght to escape the rough. I worry if he has the patience for the Open, and could see him faltering after a stretch of high holes, and not recovering. If he doesn't run hot, he is a great pick, but a guy I see winning or shooting 77-78.
2006 US Open
I wait with baited breath to hear the curses, snarls, and yelps of the PGA professionals as they attempt to survive Winged Foot and the 2006 US Open. Personally, I love watching the US Open, 2nd only to the British in terms of favorite professional tournaments, not for the fact I like to see pros card rounds in the 80s, but winning the US Open should be the reward of four rounds of patience, consistent ball-striking, fortuitous advances, and good putting. No one can argue a US Open win isn't well deserved.
Picks: The 2006 US Open has many storylines, including Phil's recent major dominance (oxymoron?) and Tiger's return from his extended layoff. Personally, I can't argue with Tiger, my A1 pick. The courses on which he has won Opens (Pebble, Bethpage) set up much like Winged Foot, and the spring weather in the east has led to clumpy/dense rough that will be a beast to escape.
A2 - remember the storylines leading into Sunday of last year's Open at Pinehurst? The Goosen coronation? The Cinderella-dance of Gore? Who was exclueded? Michael Campbell, the eventual champion. The 2006 lead up seems eerily similar. Between his win and the 2006 Open, I don't think there has ever been a golfer I've more enjoyed learning about/understanding their mentality than M. Campbell. He combines patience/good-nature/early career foibles into a wonderfully balanced personality and a refreshing view on golf and success. He has the game (Top 10s at last year's British and PGA) to repeat.
B - Geoff Ogilvy. Best of the young players on tour. Hits it the length of Super Wal-Mart parking lots, great putting stroke, strenght to escape the rough. I worry if he has the patience for the Open, and could see him faltering after a stretch of high holes, and not recovering. If he doesn't run hot, he is a great pick, but a guy I see winning or shooting 77-78.
Picks: The 2006 US Open has many storylines, including Phil's recent major dominance (oxymoron?) and Tiger's return from his extended layoff. Personally, I can't argue with Tiger, my A1 pick. The courses on which he has won Opens (Pebble, Bethpage) set up much like Winged Foot, and the spring weather in the east has led to clumpy/dense rough that will be a beast to escape.
A2 - remember the storylines leading into Sunday of last year's Open at Pinehurst? The Goosen coronation? The Cinderella-dance of Gore? Who was exclueded? Michael Campbell, the eventual champion. The 2006 lead up seems eerily similar. Between his win and the 2006 Open, I don't think there has ever been a golfer I've more enjoyed learning about/understanding their mentality than M. Campbell. He combines patience/good-nature/early career foibles into a wonderfully balanced personality and a refreshing view on golf and success. He has the game (Top 10s at last year's British and PGA) to repeat.
B - Geoff Ogilvy. Best of the young players on tour. Hits it the length of Super Wal-Mart parking lots, great putting stroke, strenght to escape the rough. I worry if he has the patience for the Open, and could see him faltering after a stretch of high holes, and not recovering. If he doesn't run hot, he is a great pick, but a guy I see winning or shooting 77-78.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Thank God!
I mentioned in an earlier blog how I was looking forward to the new RHCP CDs. Having had the opportunity to listen for two weeks, they are still ear-melting good. An amazing combination of funk reminiscent of their early efforts, and the tight/powerful songs of late. I can't remember a double CD that is so amazing. There are no 'tweener songs. It is amazing A. Kiedis is 44 and the band still exhibits the enthusiasm of 20 years prior.
What makes the RHCP so good? If I had to venture a guess, it is that each member of the band is an excellent artist, and their combination does not detract from the musical influence of each. AK has a distinctive style/delivery, CS delivers an amazing beat, and Flea is well, Flea.
However, the reintroduction of John Frusciante takes 'em to a new level. He may be the best guitarist currently in the business. For anyone who objects, listen to 'Turn it Again'.
What makes the RHCP so good? If I had to venture a guess, it is that each member of the band is an excellent artist, and their combination does not detract from the musical influence of each. AK has a distinctive style/delivery, CS delivers an amazing beat, and Flea is well, Flea.
However, the reintroduction of John Frusciante takes 'em to a new level. He may be the best guitarist currently in the business. For anyone who objects, listen to 'Turn it Again'.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
'I'm Kind of a Big Deal'
Gilbert Arenas and his weekend story from Miami I find laughable, in the fact that Gilbert's eccentricities would put him in such a ridiculous situation. I have a number of friends who would qualify as 'Zero Heroes'.
Great win on Monday by UVA lacrosse, NCAA Title. I had the opportunity to go to the game, it was amazing. I don't know if I will ever see a team as powerful and fluid as the UVA squad. Their fast breaks were deadly. Great season, congrats. UVA baseball hosts the Regional at Davenport this weekend.
Great win on Monday by UVA lacrosse, NCAA Title. I had the opportunity to go to the game, it was amazing. I don't know if I will ever see a team as powerful and fluid as the UVA squad. Their fast breaks were deadly. Great season, congrats. UVA baseball hosts the Regional at Davenport this weekend.
Friday, May 26, 2006
Enron Verdict
Todays WP has a good article explaining the reasoning of the jurors in the Lay/Skilling trial, who delivered an overwhelmingly guilty verdict. I doubted either would be found guilty on a majority of counts, but it is interesting that the testimony of both damned their chances for acquittal.
The article is a good recap, but I am troubled by the juror's quote:
"The jury delivered not-guilty verdicts on all but one of Skilling's 10 insider trading charges. In deciding the answer to each charge, forewoman Smith said, "We went by the judge's instruction: 'Not guilty' means 'not proven.' ""
There is no mention of the contrapositive; guilty means 'proven beyond the shadow of a doubt'.
In any event, the jurors seem dedicated to their task and decision, although their 'closeness' may have led to groupthink, they believe in the verdict they rendered, which was their duty.
The article is a good recap, but I am troubled by the juror's quote:
"The jury delivered not-guilty verdicts on all but one of Skilling's 10 insider trading charges. In deciding the answer to each charge, forewoman Smith said, "We went by the judge's instruction: 'Not guilty' means 'not proven.' ""
There is no mention of the contrapositive; guilty means 'proven beyond the shadow of a doubt'.
In any event, the jurors seem dedicated to their task and decision, although their 'closeness' may have led to groupthink, they believe in the verdict they rendered, which was their duty.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
UVA Spring Athletics
The resurgence of UVA spring sports has been a great reminder of the commitment the athletic department has made to being competitive in all events. While some would argue "UVA should succeed in all preppy sports" it can't just instinctively happen, and while I was at school, the spring sports season was an afterthought, with the exception of lacrosse. The outstanding play of the lacrosse team has made for a great spring, I was able to take in the game against UMD in college park, on a great day the team looked outstanding. Honestly, I am anxious as they play (hopefully) over the next two weekends in the final 8. Additionally, the emergence of the baseball and tennis teams has been an unexpected bonus. Baseball is ranked in the Top 10 and readying for postseason play (where they have yet to experience great success). The tennis team has established a fairly dominant program, being ranked for @ the last 10 years, and being at the top of the rankings, of late. A tough season schedule made for more losses than expected, so it remains to be seen if the team has a competitive advantage in the NCAAs.
After years of mediocre spring sports, fully funding scholarships and improving the tennis and baseball facilities has aided UVA recruiting, as well as great coaching hirings. Having an athletics season that stretches 9 months is a privilege afforded to a handful of schools (Stanford, UCLA, Texas, UNC, Duke, Florida, Baylor) and I am glad UVA has made the jump to compete at the level of the country's top athletic programs.
After years of mediocre spring sports, fully funding scholarships and improving the tennis and baseball facilities has aided UVA recruiting, as well as great coaching hirings. Having an athletics season that stretches 9 months is a privilege afforded to a handful of schools (Stanford, UCLA, Texas, UNC, Duke, Florida, Baylor) and I am glad UVA has made the jump to compete at the level of the country's top athletic programs.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
US Immigration Reform
15 May Speech
The rumbling sound you hear are illegal immigrants storming the US border before heightened security measures (potentially) take effect in 2008.
While I understand President Bush's hands are tied in terms of expediting funding, etc., but I find his five-point plan to be short-sided. Creating a tighter border, over the next 18 months, is symptommatic of the root cause of immigration concern/ire, and doesn't address the number of illegals already in the US.
The idea of a biometrically tied card to prevent fraud is well intentioned, but who is to tell me the cards won't be somhow copied or turned into a commodity, debasing its validity and placing it in the same category as current fradulent documentation.
Ultimately, Bush's plan for integration of current illegal immigrants assumes those already in the US will be proactive in assimilating to US culture. I consider the opposite to be true, and the majority of illegals won't make amends unless caught. Bush needs to lay out a plan if illegals are caught and refuse to immediately pay the proposed fine. Additionally, I find it sad that the cure to current illegals is payment of a fine, when no plan is laid out as to where the money will go.
Somewhat rambling...
The rumbling sound you hear are illegal immigrants storming the US border before heightened security measures (potentially) take effect in 2008.
While I understand President Bush's hands are tied in terms of expediting funding, etc., but I find his five-point plan to be short-sided. Creating a tighter border, over the next 18 months, is symptommatic of the root cause of immigration concern/ire, and doesn't address the number of illegals already in the US.
The idea of a biometrically tied card to prevent fraud is well intentioned, but who is to tell me the cards won't be somhow copied or turned into a commodity, debasing its validity and placing it in the same category as current fradulent documentation.
Ultimately, Bush's plan for integration of current illegal immigrants assumes those already in the US will be proactive in assimilating to US culture. I consider the opposite to be true, and the majority of illegals won't make amends unless caught. Bush needs to lay out a plan if illegals are caught and refuse to immediately pay the proposed fine. Additionally, I find it sad that the cure to current illegals is payment of a fine, when no plan is laid out as to where the money will go.
Somewhat rambling...
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
I find nothing worse...
...than seeing a middle-aged man driving a Chevrolet Corvette convertible with the top down. It epitomizes a combination of creepy guy in his '40s, the downfall of the American sportscar, $70,000 wasted on an antiquated status symbol. I find nothing more pathetic.
Happy to see that Polo changed the logo on the Andrew short, the only casual short I prefer to wear. Iam assuming this means they will be keeping them around, although I hadn't seen many of the make at stores in the DC area lately. I hate the feel of anything that falls below the knee, and the 5" inseam is going the way of the dodo; pleats be damned, I'd rather be rocking the pleats than a flat-front FUPA.
Happy to see that Polo changed the logo on the Andrew short, the only casual short I prefer to wear. Iam assuming this means they will be keeping them around, although I hadn't seen many of the make at stores in the DC area lately. I hate the feel of anything that falls below the knee, and the 5" inseam is going the way of the dodo; pleats be damned, I'd rather be rocking the pleats than a flat-front FUPA.
Monday, May 08, 2006
Shooter Jennings Sucks It Hard
I went down on Friday night to Charlottesville to see Shooter Jennings at Starr Hill. Great venue (@250 person capacity), and Charlottesville in the spring isn't to be passed up.
Got to the show @ 9, opening band was miserable (standard garage band music) and ended at 9:45. I figured it would lead to a long set by SJ. By 10:30 he was not on stage.
11:00 - nothing
11:30 - nothing
Finally at 11:39 his band saunters on and he shortly follows, stumbling, dragging a bottle of JD (which looked not to be open). His voice was awful, he sounded holllow and tired, and he proceeded to play the first four songs from his new album. In order. No rest, just twenty minutes of off-key rambling and incoherent babble. Awful.
The next 30 minutes didn't improve, as his cocky personality/insobriety were lost on anyone in the crowd with a discerning ear to good music. Worst show I have ever seen. I left after fifty minutes, and it was already 12:45.
In summation, you can't keep a crowd waiting for almost two hours and dispense verbal vomit, especially if you are a no talent hack, succeeding on a combination of your lineage and an extremely savy producer capable of alchemy; able to take your piss voice and garbage musical ability and produce a decent album (Electric Rodeo). The only problem is when it comes to playing live, you are overshadowed by your album, making it obvious you had little input on the final product. Thankfully, your music career will probably be resigned to tantalizing the screetching 17-year-olds and local simpletons who seemed to be enjoying your drivel; guaranteeing you no critical acclaim for what you pass as country, but is really a contrived mixture of PR promotion delivered in four minute intervals.
Got to the show @ 9, opening band was miserable (standard garage band music) and ended at 9:45. I figured it would lead to a long set by SJ. By 10:30 he was not on stage.
11:00 - nothing
11:30 - nothing
Finally at 11:39 his band saunters on and he shortly follows, stumbling, dragging a bottle of JD (which looked not to be open). His voice was awful, he sounded holllow and tired, and he proceeded to play the first four songs from his new album. In order. No rest, just twenty minutes of off-key rambling and incoherent babble. Awful.
The next 30 minutes didn't improve, as his cocky personality/insobriety were lost on anyone in the crowd with a discerning ear to good music. Worst show I have ever seen. I left after fifty minutes, and it was already 12:45.
In summation, you can't keep a crowd waiting for almost two hours and dispense verbal vomit, especially if you are a no talent hack, succeeding on a combination of your lineage and an extremely savy producer capable of alchemy; able to take your piss voice and garbage musical ability and produce a decent album (Electric Rodeo). The only problem is when it comes to playing live, you are overshadowed by your album, making it obvious you had little input on the final product. Thankfully, your music career will probably be resigned to tantalizing the screetching 17-year-olds and local simpletons who seemed to be enjoying your drivel; guaranteeing you no critical acclaim for what you pass as country, but is really a contrived mixture of PR promotion delivered in four minute intervals.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Outside Opinion
A quick question to those outside of DC; are DC politics considered the laughingstock of the country, based on the antics of Marion Berry, and the fact he is still electable? His latest switch from chastising the Ted Lerner group, to snagging a photo-op in 48 hours in mind-boggling.
What DC Deals With
What DC Deals With
Social Security II
Information Regarding SS
I researched the SS trust fund being depleted in 2040, which means the surplus of funds paid out v. collected for SS, which is being distributed elsewhere, will have been exhaused and SS benefits will be paid at a rate of 74%.
Only yesterday did I realize the % of my salary that goes to SS (6.2%), which is matched by my employer. It is astounding that SS receives 12.4% of 106.2% of every individual's salary, and is going to deplete to being unable to pay benefits in 2040. If 74% is the projection for 2040, what is the projection for 2050...
I cannot believe the demographic that stands to be royally screwed by SS, the 25-40 sect, has no say in where their SS funds. It is literally throwing money down a black hole. I googled SS PAC, and brought back nothing.
Would it be possible to start an age specific PAC (25-40) aimed at partial privitization of SS ?
I researched the SS trust fund being depleted in 2040, which means the surplus of funds paid out v. collected for SS, which is being distributed elsewhere, will have been exhaused and SS benefits will be paid at a rate of 74%.
Only yesterday did I realize the % of my salary that goes to SS (6.2%), which is matched by my employer. It is astounding that SS receives 12.4% of 106.2% of every individual's salary, and is going to deplete to being unable to pay benefits in 2040. If 74% is the projection for 2040, what is the projection for 2050...
I cannot believe the demographic that stands to be royally screwed by SS, the 25-40 sect, has no say in where their SS funds. It is literally throwing money down a black hole. I googled SS PAC, and brought back nothing.
Would it be possible to start an age specific PAC (25-40) aimed at partial privitization of SS ?
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Social Security
I've got a simple question for those more in the know regarding Social Security than I. On last night's news, they projected Social Security will run out of funding in 2040, ironically, the year I turn 62.
Does this mean that I will have contributed to the Social Security pot for 35+ years, and reap nothing?
Does this mean that I will have contributed to the Social Security pot for 35+ years, and reap nothing?
Monday, May 01, 2006
Foxfield
Foxfield 2006 was amazing, my 11th Foxfield in the last 12 years, which really makes me sound old. The weather in Charlottesville was gorgeous, I applied ample amounts of sunblock, and don't look like a Christas stocking. Granted, I am still tired and dehydrated, but a late lunch outside made my afternoon bearable. After the races I went to a barbeque while the sun set, and perpetuated my "state" until @ 1:00 AM Sunday. All in all, an amazing weekend. Being that I will be eclipsing 30 in 2008, will next year be my swan song at the races? Based on the good returns for 2006, I may have more mileage in the tank than previously thought.
Friday, April 28, 2006
Lucas Glover
Golfer of the Week at Zurich. I sung his praises earlier in the year; time to cash in your chips. Fired -6 in the AM wind yesterday, hopefully he can produce a decent round this afternoon.
Crappy TV reached its zenith last night in the last five minutes of 'Date My Mom'. Some guy passed on two models, and got stuck with a heifer. Best five minutes of TV ever.
Off to Foxfield tonight, which will be the 10th installment (of the last 11 years). Many good stories to abound next week, hoping for good weather tomorrow!
Crappy TV reached its zenith last night in the last five minutes of 'Date My Mom'. Some guy passed on two models, and got stuck with a heifer. Best five minutes of TV ever.
Off to Foxfield tonight, which will be the 10th installment (of the last 11 years). Many good stories to abound next week, hoping for good weather tomorrow!
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Gilbertology
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/sports/basketball/nba/golden_state_warriors/14363020.htm
Does he lose $1500 at halftime, become enraged, put $2500 on the Wizzzz to cover, and play like a man possessed in the 2nd half, taking 28 shots?
Does he lose $1500 at halftime, become enraged, put $2500 on the Wizzzz to cover, and play like a man possessed in the 2nd half, taking 28 shots?
Brandt Jobe
My chosen golfer for the Shell Houston Open is Brandt Jobe, and I've spent the past 24 hours trying to discern my thought pattern in January when I picked Mr. Jobe. I cannot remember if I was impressed with his T69 in 2005, or the fact that he always plays the Shell because he is extremely fond of the five-cheese burrito at the Mexican restaurant down the road from Redstone. It is a bad sign that in a pool with 60+ participants, I am the only person who picked Brandt Jobe. So when your watching today/tomorrow, please root for Mr. Jobe, he/I need all the help we can get.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Verizon Heritage
Congrats to Aaron Baddeley for winning the Verizon Heritage Open at Harbour Towne. From what I understand, from my Australian friends, he is regarded as a bastard in his homeland, for choosing to play abroad instead of building his game on the Australasian Tour, and is chided for not returning to play in native events (Adam Scott, by contrast, is adored). Sucks for him, but he grew up in a family dedicated to travel (father was a Formula One crew chief) and I can't fault him for doing what he considers to be in his best interest.
As happy I am with his win, I am just as contented that Furyk lost. Baddeley chose to sack up on 16 and his a 223 yard 6-iron that skirted trouble and set up a two-putt birdie for a one stroke lead. Furyk, chose to play to the relative inexperience of Baddeley, and lay up (9 iron) for an approach attempt at birdie. Essentially, Furyk decided to play a passive role and wait for Baddeley to screw up, rather than try to win the tournament on his own merit. Glad he failed. Of course, if he had made one putt in the final four holes (none longer than 15 feet), I'd be whistling a slightly less-harsh tune.
Is there anyone slower on the greens than Furyk? His method of standing over a putt, before backing away repeatedly, is insanely annoying. He may still be backing off his birdie putt on 18. He backed off at least five times. In 2000-2002 when Sergio was practicing the repeated waggle he was criticized harshly, but Furyk gets a free pass because he is a "former HS QB and an intense competitor". He's also a Srixon sellout with a terrible pre-putt routine, which I believe to be worse than Sergio's since-corrected malfeasance.
As happy I am with his win, I am just as contented that Furyk lost. Baddeley chose to sack up on 16 and his a 223 yard 6-iron that skirted trouble and set up a two-putt birdie for a one stroke lead. Furyk, chose to play to the relative inexperience of Baddeley, and lay up (9 iron) for an approach attempt at birdie. Essentially, Furyk decided to play a passive role and wait for Baddeley to screw up, rather than try to win the tournament on his own merit. Glad he failed. Of course, if he had made one putt in the final four holes (none longer than 15 feet), I'd be whistling a slightly less-harsh tune.
Is there anyone slower on the greens than Furyk? His method of standing over a putt, before backing away repeatedly, is insanely annoying. He may still be backing off his birdie putt on 18. He backed off at least five times. In 2000-2002 when Sergio was practicing the repeated waggle he was criticized harshly, but Furyk gets a free pass because he is a "former HS QB and an intense competitor". He's also a Srixon sellout with a terrible pre-putt routine, which I believe to be worse than Sergio's since-corrected malfeasance.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Masters Draft Results
Unfortunately, I was unable to repeat for the 3rd straight year. I was forced to put the Green 'Cousin Eddie' Dickie on G Nelson. We've passed the title back and forth, Tiger/Phil style, for a number of years. His winning team consisted of:
Tiger Woods
Luke Donald
Davis Love III
Chris Dimarco
Steven Ames
John Daly
Tim Clark
Brandt Jobe
Which was greatly aided by the Tim Clark value pick in Round 6. We had a tight grouping who finished 1-4 (within 6-10 spots of eachother, scoring determined by low cumulative order of finish for your top 3) and I'm too lazy to figure the final finish. Vijay dropping for T3 to 8 with the short yank on 16 killed my chnaces.
While our pool had a strong 1-4, Leland was not in the hunt, as his picks were extremely poor:
David Toms
Geoff Ogilvy
Darrren Clarke
Stuart Appleby
Lucas Glover
KJ Choi
Bernard Langer
Vaughn Taylor
I am looking forward to the new RHCP album. Have they released anything since Californication, which was the album of the summer of '99, i.e. before my fourth year in college?
Tiger Woods
Luke Donald
Davis Love III
Chris Dimarco
Steven Ames
John Daly
Tim Clark
Brandt Jobe
Which was greatly aided by the Tim Clark value pick in Round 6. We had a tight grouping who finished 1-4 (within 6-10 spots of eachother, scoring determined by low cumulative order of finish for your top 3) and I'm too lazy to figure the final finish. Vijay dropping for T3 to 8 with the short yank on 16 killed my chnaces.
While our pool had a strong 1-4, Leland was not in the hunt, as his picks were extremely poor:
David Toms
Geoff Ogilvy
Darrren Clarke
Stuart Appleby
Lucas Glover
KJ Choi
Bernard Langer
Vaughn Taylor
I am looking forward to the new RHCP album. Have they released anything since Californication, which was the album of the summer of '99, i.e. before my fourth year in college?
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
2006 Masters Draft
On Monday night we held our 2006 Masters Draft. Being the two time defending champion afforded me no breaks, as I was left to pick 7th out of 8. My team is as follows:
Vijay Singh
Sergio Garcia
Mike Weir
Robert Allenby
Stewart Cink
Justin Leonard
Tim Herron
Mark O'Meara
Sadly, there is no one on my team I can root for, and I don't see any of my team members having the "out of the blue" potential that resulted in my wins the prior two years (DiMarco - pick 17 in 2005, KJ Choi - pick 39 in 2004, plumb-bobbing for eagle from 210 out on the 11th on Suday).
In picking my team, a lot of the guys who I was interested in, even as a reach, were taken ahead of my reach picks (David Howell - 17, Lucas Glover - 21), resulting in picks being more reactionary than finely crafted. My team doesn't even have a decent player-coach to rally the troops on Sunday for a spirited charge. Raymond Floyd would have been the perfect player-coach to motivate the guys.
Vijay Singh
Sergio Garcia
Mike Weir
Robert Allenby
Stewart Cink
Justin Leonard
Tim Herron
Mark O'Meara
Sadly, there is no one on my team I can root for, and I don't see any of my team members having the "out of the blue" potential that resulted in my wins the prior two years (DiMarco - pick 17 in 2005, KJ Choi - pick 39 in 2004, plumb-bobbing for eagle from 210 out on the 11th on Suday).
In picking my team, a lot of the guys who I was interested in, even as a reach, were taken ahead of my reach picks (David Howell - 17, Lucas Glover - 21), resulting in picks being more reactionary than finely crafted. My team doesn't even have a decent player-coach to rally the troops on Sunday for a spirited charge. Raymond Floyd would have been the perfect player-coach to motivate the guys.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
The Water Hazard
The greatest shot. Ever.
Normally consisting of a double Wild Turkey, or 151. Too large or nasty a shot to be consumed at once, resulting in...
1 - In
2 - Out
3 - Back In
Normally consisting of a double Wild Turkey, or 151. Too large or nasty a shot to be consumed at once, resulting in...
1 - In
2 - Out
3 - Back In
Monday, March 27, 2006
He's Lost It
Further evidence to bolster my claim
This is bad in so many areas, I apologize for making you waste three minutes of your life to read.
This is bad in so many areas, I apologize for making you waste three minutes of your life to read.
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Wow
I don't think I will ever see a game as amazing as the George Mason upset of UConn. Having attended all the DC games, I feel fortunate and blessed. After UConn was given the game on Friday night against UW (Worst. Officiating. Ever.), which gave Calhoun a stump to complain about the fact higher seeds should be protected, and his team was at a disadvantage against GMU (outrageous), they thought they could walk to the Final Four, and were undone by bad coaching, and a coach that has no control over his players. My hatred of UConn will now fester for eterinty.
The crowd at the Verizon Center was amazing, fully partisan towards GMU. Tony Skin played at a frenetic pace, and GMU switched their defense with a regularity where UConn never got comfortable, and once they lost their shooting touch, were at a disadvantage to the inside presence of GWU. Amazing basketball.
Amazing.
The crowd at the Verizon Center was amazing, fully partisan towards GMU. Tony Skin played at a frenetic pace, and GMU switched their defense with a regularity where UConn never got comfortable, and once they lost their shooting touch, were at a disadvantage to the inside presence of GWU. Amazing basketball.
Amazing.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
You Make the Rockin' World Go Round
Based on my recent Avis rentals, I've got 18 free iTunes to augment my '80s collection. I've already purchased Fat Bottomed Girls - Queen & Hit Me with your Best Shot - Pat Benetar. I am soliciting suggestions for the other 18.
Eric, your talk of a golf penalty makes me want to take a more introspective review of our local summer golf matches, the RCI (Ruth's Chris Invitational), where the winners (best ball) pick a restaurant of their choosing for a nice dinner to celebrate the event. We've modified the format over the years (2006 = RCI III), and have implemented numerous stipulations, the latest being that all errant tee shots are OB, and require a re-tee, with the exception of areas clearly marked. We got burned last year when our opponents fired darts on a 460 yd. par-4 after "generous" drops by a lake off the fairway, and had makeable putts for par. The ball cleaning may be a bit extreme, but I've purchased the most recent rule book, and play to make use of it.
Eric, your talk of a golf penalty makes me want to take a more introspective review of our local summer golf matches, the RCI (Ruth's Chris Invitational), where the winners (best ball) pick a restaurant of their choosing for a nice dinner to celebrate the event. We've modified the format over the years (2006 = RCI III), and have implemented numerous stipulations, the latest being that all errant tee shots are OB, and require a re-tee, with the exception of areas clearly marked. We got burned last year when our opponents fired darts on a 460 yd. par-4 after "generous" drops by a lake off the fairway, and had makeable putts for par. The ball cleaning may be a bit extreme, but I've purchased the most recent rule book, and play to make use of it.
Friday, March 17, 2006
NCAA Day One
- If your team is in the NCAAs, you don't want them on TV. If they are on TV, they are playing a game that is much closer than anticipated, and the possibility of losing exists. The only shot you want of your team is the 'Cut Away' as time expires, the PG is dribbling in the corner past halfcourt, and people are beginning to shake hands.
- CBS is doing a lousy job of switching between games, or at least providing highlights of other games during timeouts. While UT/Winthrop was compelling, I would like highlights of Alabama sleepwalking to start the 2nd half and let Marquette back in the game.
- The first halves of NCAA games are meaningless. After watching Alabama dismantle Marquette on the boards, with a 2 guard who was on fire, and Marquette's guards being totally inept, I thought they would breeze. Same for the GW/UNCW, Gonzaga games.
My NCAA informal bracket rules, by which I semi-abided in 2006.
- Live or die by Duke. You don't want to be the guy missing the bandwagon when they go all the way.
- Go long on teams UVA beat during the season (UNC, BC).
- Go long on good coaches (Izzo, Roy Williams)
- Undue favoritism given to pod teams.
Is there anyone more inept/miserable to watch than Bruce Pearl?
- CBS is doing a lousy job of switching between games, or at least providing highlights of other games during timeouts. While UT/Winthrop was compelling, I would like highlights of Alabama sleepwalking to start the 2nd half and let Marquette back in the game.
- The first halves of NCAA games are meaningless. After watching Alabama dismantle Marquette on the boards, with a 2 guard who was on fire, and Marquette's guards being totally inept, I thought they would breeze. Same for the GW/UNCW, Gonzaga games.
My NCAA informal bracket rules, by which I semi-abided in 2006.
- Live or die by Duke. You don't want to be the guy missing the bandwagon when they go all the way.
- Go long on teams UVA beat during the season (UNC, BC).
- Go long on good coaches (Izzo, Roy Williams)
- Undue favoritism given to pod teams.
Is there anyone more inept/miserable to watch than Bruce Pearl?
NCAA Day One
- If your team is in the NCAAs, you don't want them on TV. If they are on TV, they are playing a game that is much closer than anticipated, and the possibility of losing exists. The only shot you want of your team is the 'Cut Away' as time expires, the PG is dribbling in the corner past halfcourt, and people are beginning to shake hands.
- CBS is doing a lousy job of switching between games, or at least providing highlights of other games during timeouts. While UT/Winthrop was compelling, I would like highlights of Alabama sleepwalking to start the 2nd half and let Marquette back in the game.
- The first halves of NCAA games are meaningless. After watching Alabama dismantle Marquette on the boards, with a 2 guard who was on fire, and Marquette's guards being totally inept, I thought they would breeze. Same for the GW/UNCW, Gonzaga games.
My NCAA informal bracket rules, by which I semi-abided in 2006.
- Live or die by Duke. You don't want to be the guy missing the bandwagon when they go all the way.
- Go long on teams UVA beat during the season (UNC, BC).
- Go long on good coaches (Izzo, Roy Williams)
- Undue favoritism given to pod teams.
Is there anyone more inept/miserable to watch than Bruce Pearl?
- CBS is doing a lousy job of switching between games, or at least providing highlights of other games during timeouts. While UT/Winthrop was compelling, I would like highlights of Alabama sleepwalking to start the 2nd half and let Marquette back in the game.
- The first halves of NCAA games are meaningless. After watching Alabama dismantle Marquette on the boards, with a 2 guard who was on fire, and Marquette's guards being totally inept, I thought they would breeze. Same for the GW/UNCW, Gonzaga games.
My NCAA informal bracket rules, by which I semi-abided in 2006.
- Live or die by Duke. You don't want to be the guy missing the bandwagon when they go all the way.
- Go long on teams UVA beat during the season (UNC, BC).
- Go long on good coaches (Izzo, Roy Williams)
- Undue favoritism given to pod teams.
Is there anyone more inept/miserable to watch than Bruce Pearl?
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Virginia Transportation Woes
It is a wonder any legislation gets passed at the state level. Virginia is having trouble earmarking funding for transportation issues, as the issues stem primarily from congestion and poor grids in two areas, NoVA and Hampton. Representatives from outside the areas are loathe to fund projects which have no impact on their region and their constituency.
I am sure NoVA funds the majority of the state tax coffers, and provides benefits to the rural VA areas (farm subsidies, whatever), but it is frustrating legislators refuse to fund state areas of need, as they are not directly impacted. I am not sure if seats are determined proportinally, if the House is bicameral, etc. It is frtutrating the rural areas are turning their backs on their northern brethern, even in cases where NoVA is the VA tax cash cow, but it is hard to fault the representatives, as they must fufill the requirements of their constituents.
I am sure NoVA funds the majority of the state tax coffers, and provides benefits to the rural VA areas (farm subsidies, whatever), but it is frustrating legislators refuse to fund state areas of need, as they are not directly impacted. I am not sure if seats are determined proportinally, if the House is bicameral, etc. It is frtutrating the rural areas are turning their backs on their northern brethern, even in cases where NoVA is the VA tax cash cow, but it is hard to fault the representatives, as they must fufill the requirements of their constituents.
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Back in Action
Just returned from an extended weekend in Hilton Head. The weather was gorgeous, I found out I enjoy renting bikes to tour an area, and I found out what good key lime pie actually tastes like (smooth start, flavor is released and you begin to chew, and easy finish). But I just wanted to drop a quote from Friday's UVA win over VT in the ACC tournament.
It was a slightly different story Thursday night, when freshman forward Lauris Mikalauskas had his first career double-double, finishing with 11 points and 12 rebounds. Sophomore forward Adrian Joseph, who made 3-pointers on his first two shots of the night, finished with 10.
"Mikalauskas either fouls out in the first five minutes or he gets seven offensive rebounds," Greenberg said. "Unfortunately for us, tonight he had seven offensive rebounds."
Read: "I am a perpetual whiner, and instead of giving credit to a UVA team that beat me three times this year, I'd rather call out their players. Why actually point the finger at my bad coaching."
As miserable as Greenberg is, I'd rather deal with his clown antics, as he is more concerned with the efforts of his opponents than improving his own team. I hear ECU will have an assistant coaching vacancy in 2008, keep you fingers crossed!
How is it the first nice weekend of the year in DC always coincides with the ACC Tournament. It brings back memories of playing hooky in high school to watch the Friday games.
It was a slightly different story Thursday night, when freshman forward Lauris Mikalauskas had his first career double-double, finishing with 11 points and 12 rebounds. Sophomore forward Adrian Joseph, who made 3-pointers on his first two shots of the night, finished with 10.
"Mikalauskas either fouls out in the first five minutes or he gets seven offensive rebounds," Greenberg said. "Unfortunately for us, tonight he had seven offensive rebounds."
Read: "I am a perpetual whiner, and instead of giving credit to a UVA team that beat me three times this year, I'd rather call out their players. Why actually point the finger at my bad coaching."
As miserable as Greenberg is, I'd rather deal with his clown antics, as he is more concerned with the efforts of his opponents than improving his own team. I hear ECU will have an assistant coaching vacancy in 2008, keep you fingers crossed!
How is it the first nice weekend of the year in DC always coincides with the ACC Tournament. It brings back memories of playing hooky in high school to watch the Friday games.
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Awful Article
From Gene Wojciechowski:
"Earlier Tuesday afternoon, about an hour or so before Team USA's game, Alex Rodriguez was asked about the death of Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett, who died a day earlier from complications stemming from a major stroke.
"One of the saddest days in baseball for me," said A-Rod.
I felt the same way Tuesday. This time it was the death of a reputation.
Barry Bonds, rest in peace."
I find it terrible that GW would juxtapose two events that are so diametrically opposed. Terribly rude, and done without thought.
Is there anything worse in the workplace than a yellow button-down? Paired with a tie, or on its own, I find them to be miserable. It is even worse than french-blue, which went out in 1999.
"Earlier Tuesday afternoon, about an hour or so before Team USA's game, Alex Rodriguez was asked about the death of Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett, who died a day earlier from complications stemming from a major stroke.
"One of the saddest days in baseball for me," said A-Rod.
I felt the same way Tuesday. This time it was the death of a reputation.
Barry Bonds, rest in peace."
I find it terrible that GW would juxtapose two events that are so diametrically opposed. Terribly rude, and done without thought.
Is there anything worse in the workplace than a yellow button-down? Paired with a tie, or on its own, I find them to be miserable. It is even worse than french-blue, which went out in 1999.
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