3 Dimes Down

Had training for work Monday - Wednesday. Unlike most company sponsored training, where neither the trainer(s) or trainees want to be involved, it was a Franklin Covey class, which I really enjoyed. The trainer had a great depth of knowledge and many practical examples. Or I was a fan because he looked like a cross between Tony Bourdain and Mike Cooley with a sense of humor.

Went to the restroom today and passed a guy coming out with coffee? Getting the jump on the 2nd trip? I try not to breathe in the bathroom, let alone bring an open beverage I plan on drinking. Idiot.

What a Miserable Decade

VH1 lists the 100 biggest songs on the 1990s.

1. Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit
2. U2 - One
3. Backstreet Boys - I Want It That Way
4. Whitney Houston - I Will Always Love You
5. Madonna - Vogue
6. Sir Mix-A-Lot - Baby Got Back
7. Britney Spears - ...Baby One More Time
8. TLC - Waterfalls
9. R.E.M. - Losing My Religion
10. Sinéad O'Connor - Nothing Compares 2 U
11. Pearl Jam - Jeremy
12. Alanis Morissette - You Oughta Know
13. Dr. Dre (featuring Snoop Doggy Dogg) - Nuthin' but a "G" Thang
14. Mariah Carey - Vision of Love
15. Red Hot Chili Peppers - Under the Bridge
16. MC Hammer - U Can't Touch This
17. Destiny's Child - Say My Name
18. Metallica - Enter Sandman
19. Beastie Boys - Sabotage
20. Hanson - MMMBop
21. Celine Dion - My Heart Will Go On
22. Beck - Loser
23. Salt-N-Pepa with En Vogue - Whatta Man
24. House of Pain - Jump Around
25. Soundgarden - Black Hole Sun
26. Eminem - My Name Is
27. Counting Crows - Mr. Jones
28. Ricky Martin - Livin' la Vida Loca
29. Vanilla Ice - Ice Ice Baby
30. *NSYNC - Tearin' Up My Heart
31. Radiohead - Creep
32. BLACKstreet - No Diggity
33. Spice Girls - Wannabe
34. Third Eye Blind - Semi-Charmed Life
35. Oasis - Wonderwall
36. C+C Music Factory - Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)
37. Green Day - Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)
38. Christina Aguilera - Genie In A Bottle
39. Goo Goo Dolls - Iris
40 . Color Me Badd - I Wanna Sex You Up
41. Spin Doctors - Two Princes
42. Collective Soul - Shine
43. En Vogue - My Lovin' (You're Never Gonna Get It)
44. The Fugees - Killing Me Softly With His Song
45. Hootie & the Blowfish - Only Wanna Be With You
46. Shania Twain - You're Still the One
47. Marky Mark and The Funky Bunch - Good Vibrations
48. Matchbox Twenty - 3 AM
49. Jewel - Who Will Save Your Soul
50. Alice in Chains - Man in the Box
51. Tupac (featuring Dr. Dre and Roger Troutman) - California Love
52. Sugar Ray - Fly
53. Naughty by Nature - O.P.P.
54. Joan Osborne - One of Us
55. Fiona Apple - Criminal
56. L.L. Cool J - Mama Said Knock You Out
57. Jay-Z featuring Amil and Ja Rule - Can I Get A...
58. Sophie B. Hawkins - Damn, I Wish I Was Your Lover
59. Weezer - Buddy Holly
60. Bell Biv DeVoe - Poison
61. Sheryl Crow - All I Wanna Do
62. Live - I Alone
63. The Notorious B.I.G. featuring Mase & Puff Daddy - Mo Money Mo Problems
64. The Presidents of the United States of America - Peaches
65. Digital Underground - The Humpty Dance
66. Edwin McCain - I'll Be
67. Deee-Lite - Groove Is In The Heart
68. Will Smith - Gettin' Jiggy Wit It
69. Korn - Freak on a Leash
70. Jamiroquai - Virtual Insanity
71. Arrested Development - Tennessee
72. Barenaked Ladies - One Week
73. Marcy Playground - Sex and Candy
74. Cher - Believe
75. Kris Kross - Jump
76. Blues Traveler - Run-Around
77. Ice Cube - It Was a Good Day
78. Lenny Kravitz - Are You Gonna Go My Way
79. Meredith Brooks - Bitch
80. Right Said Fred - I'm Too Sexy
81. Paula Cole - I Don't Want to Wait
82. Geto Boys - Mind Playing Tricks on Me
83. The Breeders - Cannonball
84. Snow - Informer
85. Cypress Hill - Insane In The Brain
86 The Cranberries - Linger
87. Billy Ray Cyrus - Achy Breaky Heart
88. Duncan Sheik - Barely Breathing
89. Liz Phair - Never Said
90. New Radicals - You Get What You Give
91. Sarah McLachlan - Building a Mystery
92. Public Enemy - 911 Is A Joke
93. Lisa Loeb & Nine Stories - Stay
94. Fastball - The Way
95. Montell Jordan - This is How We Do It
96. Nelson - (Can't Live Without Your) Love and Affection
97. Prince & The New Power Generation - Gett Off
98. EMF - Unbelievable
99. Missy "Misdemeanor" Elliott - The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)
100. Gerardo - Rico Suave

College Basketball Notes

Congrats to Arizona for an OT win over Illinois (in Chicago). While other teams run their records to 13/14-0 over the likes of St. Mary's of the Deaf and Dumb, AZ has played:

Virginia (L)
@ Kansas (L)
Texas A&M (W)
@ Illinois (W)
with @ Memphis on 12/29

As impressive an OOC schedule as I can remember.

Forced myself to watch 1/2 of the first half of the Duke/Michigan game. As much as I abhor watching Duke basketball, I take (slight) pleasure in watching Greg Paulus's career following a Terrance Morris trajectory. Actually, the arc of his career will exceed TM, as he drew criticism for his awful play at the Army AA football game.

It kills me watching Patrick Patterson @ Kentucky. He was needed at Virginia. I expected us to piss away a 7 point halftime lead against Syracuse (Wed.) as we took 40(!) 3 point shots. We are at a disadvantage, as Soroye is still recovering from knee surgery, but I don't understand Leitao's reluctance to give major minutes to Mike Scott who, at 80%, is the most explosive frontcourt player we have.

PGA Tour Qualifying School

Just checked he scores from the PGA Tour Qualifying School, a few quick notes.

- Glad to see Tommy (Two Gloves) Gainey T3. Can you imagine a Boo Weekley/Gainey weekend twosome? If you haven't read the Weekley article in the December Golf Digest, it is a must.

- Unfortunately, Greg Kraft T152. He'll be throwing up in the toliet in his living room in no time. I smell a WD.

- Chris Riley T86 (chuckle).

- Other names of note in the tournament, Ryan Palmer, Skip Kendall (is he in it every year?), Kent Jones, Harrison Frazar, Bubba dickerson, Greg Owen, Steve Lowery, Bob May, Ted Purdy (didn't he just win a tournament?), and Notah Begay III.

Trade Off

I (obviously) have no interest in the ACC Championship Game between 'ACC Extenders' BC and VT. I am still chagrined the ACC diluted a basketball conference for the sake of football.

There need to be changes to improve the conference. I understand the changes won't always be in the best short-run interests of the ACC, but they would be mutually beneficial over time.

1.) Trade NC State (possibly Clemson) for Vanderbilt.
- Vandy is serviceable as a football team (5-7 in 2007) and would be comparable to UVA/GT on the gridiron. They are an emerging basketball power and would be an academic improvement over either NCSU or Clemson. I'd hate to lose Clemson, one of the founding schools of the ACC, but when I see Clemson/Auburn matched for the Peach Bowl, it appears to be a Saturday evening SEC game, aka a 30 point game. I wouldn't sweat the loss of NCSU from the ACC. Their fans have an SEC mentality.

Early Thanks

Thanksgiving is a great week. I figured I'd post a few sports-related bullets for which I am thankful.

1.) I'm back at the gym, considering I broke my big toe last Wednesday, and it still stares at me like a mini-Grimace in the shower, limited mobility is a good thing.

2.) College basketball is back! Hallelujah. I'm in the initial week - to - month giddiness where I can watch any game (Oklahoma State / LSU and UMD / Kansas yesterday). UVA beating Arizona on the road certainly exceeded expectations. Really like UVA's balance and depth (they start 2S, 1JR, 1FR, rotate the last spot, and have playable depth to 10 guys).

3.) Finally hooked up the HDMI on my new TV, wow.

4.) Sean Singletary in a UVA uniform.

5.) One more Chris Long home game in a UVA uniform, for a trip to Jacksonville.

6.) Kevin Ogletree, out for the year with an ACL, suiting up for the scout team to mimic Tyrod Taylor. Doing whatever it takes to help the team.

7.) The maturity of Jameel Sewell. I'm going to remember the 2007 UVA football team as one of my favorites, for a long time.

Under Pressure

I must be retarded, I never realized Queen had any part in 'Under Pressure', I thought it was all David Bowie.

Enjoy this CNNSI piece where I get criticized.

Layover in Charlotte

On a weekend trip to San Francisco, and Charlotte has great internet access (who knew?). Was thinking on the flight from DC that Velvet Revolver is a badass band, but if I were to create an uber-group who would I include:

Just missed:

Drums - Chad Smith - RHCP, Dave Grohl - Nirvana

Bass - Les Claypool - Primus

Guitar - Keith Richards - Stones, Slash - G N'R / VR, Mike Cooley - DBT

Vocals - Sebastian Bach - Skid Row, Jay Farrar - Son Volt / Uncle Tupelo

Best Band Ever:

John Fishman
Nikki Sixx
Warren Haynes
Brian Johnson

Get Over It

1.) Jerry Seinfeld
2.) Poker on TV
3.) Every DC sports radio personality bemoaning the fact the Redskins don't have a WR touchdown through Week 8. Czaban gets credit, the rest are bandwagon.

Still Enjoying

1.) Rolling Stones Rarities
2.) Spooner Oldham
3.) Gov't Mule (Friday in SF)

Agent Zero

With the NBA underway, it means Gilbert Arenas is up to his usual business. Great stuff. He is the biggest athlete/sports celebrity in DC, surpassing Joe Gibbs.

I can't get enough of his rhetoric. I find his repartee immensely enjoyable. Keep it up! (Sadly, it is the only drawing point to watching the NBA).

Back in Action

I just realized I hadn't written in a while and had a number of good thoughts to post (sadly, I forgot most of them).

UVA-wise, it was disappointing to drop our last contest to NC State, and give them a W they can hang their season on. Losing to an underachieving, injury-plagued team is unforgivable, even at home. In the interest of TV, UVA got screwed, with their bye week not arriving until November 17 (week 12), no other ACC team has a bye later than week 10, and injuries and weariness have started to creep up on the two-deep.

I was disappointed to learn a top basketball target, Elliott (E-mail) Williams, from Memphis, had chosen Duke over Memphis, Tennessee, and us. While 95% of recruiting efforts end up making the final school choice predictable, his recruitment was the only example I can remember where he could have chosen any of the finalists and I would not have been surprised. Would have preferred UT or Memphis, if not UVA. "E-mail" checked in at 6-4, 175 (rail thin). Seems as though basketball recruits have typically gotten thinner. I don't know ow many 6-5/180, 6-10/210 guys are out there. Does no high school run a strength program?

7-1

7-1. Great heart tonight by a team playing their 4th RB, 2nd & 3rd WR, and 2nd/3rd TE.

Go Hoos!

Indiana v. PSU

I've been watching the Indiana/PSU game. Indiana is going to lose, but James Hardy is a freak! He made Justin King look like a Shemp.

DD

Watched 10/15 minutes of the Fry's Open yesterday, which is a microcosm of how boring the 2007 PGA season was. The majors provided little drama and the FedEx playoff tournaments/WCGs make off-week tournaments virtually unwatchable. Effectually (I admit) any tournament without TW is unwatchable.

I miss a guy who has the ability and cockiness to stir emotions a la TW. In a revelation (based on his pairing with Mickelson), what I/golf am missing is David Duval, circa late 1990s.

When DD was winning 3/4 tournaments a year, and was on his game, he was great to watch. A bit paunch, with a swing he laid off at the top, which I still consider to be a compact/great swing to behold, he fired darts. Along comes 2000 and DD shows up at the Mercedes 30 lbs. lighter and with a Mossimo clothing deal, and nothing has been the same since. I am convinced his decline was vertigo-based (quit dipping, a la Pete Harnisch) and he was never able to recover.

DD was a great golfer, I miss his game. I hope he regains respectability and form. We need some of these newer/younger golfers to step up. Glover has been in neutral for the past two years, Baddeley is too prick-ish to support. Adam Scott needs to find his game.

Turnaround Jumpshot

I like Wilco. After 'not getting it' for years, I've listened to a few of their live shows and they've got some great stuff that flows together very well. They are apt to letting their songs dissolve into a musical Brillo pad, but it is a small price to pay for some good tunes, mixed with some experimentation. I guess I was missing the mark by only listening to their live albums.

Who cares? I do. Should you care? Probably not.

Took in a great Gov't Mule show on Friday night, they played at 930 for 3 1/2 hours.

10.12.07 9:30 Club - Washington, DC
Set 1:
Brighter Days
Thorazine Shuffle
Banks Of The Deep End
I Believe To My Soul
A Million Miles From Yesterday
I'm A Ram->
Love Me Do->
I'm A Ram
Feel LIke Breaking Up Somebody's Home
Devil Likes It SLow with Ron Holloway
Find The Cost Of Freedom with Grace Potter
Ohio with Grace Potter and Scott Tournet

Set 2:
Play With Fire
Sco-Mule with Ron Holloway
Jealous Kind with Ron Holloway
Like Flies
Drums
Catfish Blues
Mr. High & Mighty
32/20 Blues I'm A Loser Tease

Encore:
Indifference->
Fallen Down->
The Other One Jamwith Ron Holloway

Classic

Today's Washington Post calls out taxis for being miserable, extorting pieces of garbage.

The article couldn't be any more on point.

A Few Nuggets

Read where Miller and Coors are merging distribution to combat Bud/AB. Made me ponder what I would drink if Miller Lite were to go extinct? Amstel? Molson Ice?

To reference posts from a bygone era, Tom Friedman brings (slight) attention to Social Security reform . I am not the biggest TF fan (the Mike Golic of "travelism"), but agree politicians must address SS reform. By the way, have you seen the leak from his latest soon-to-be published book, called 'Technology left me at +2.'?

"I was golfing at the Qatar Country Club, early 2007. The 2nd hole is a picturesque four-par, with a peninsula green outlined by black crude. As my seven-iron sailed the green, and I prepared to drop four, the depleted lake of oil left my ball playable! As I descended into dried lake, took a stance, and prepared to attempt a flop, a 320 story uber-building was erected between my ball and the hole. I pitched out sideways and made 6."

Hope for Regulation

If Washington D.C. mayor Adrian Fenty regulated meters in DC cabs he would cement himself as my favorite politician. Ever.

Reading the article made me scoff. It it wonderful that DC cabdrivers are studying to be lawyers, doctors, teachersetc., but it doesn't address how they are trying to pay for their schooling on my fare from DC to Alexandria.

I've been repeatedly ripped off or attempted to be ripped off by DC cabs. yeah, I'm the guy on M Street at 12:30AM yelling at cabs trying to charge me $40 to go two miles, or who refuse to estimate my fare.

DC cabs are price-gouging vultures, their hand is tipped by saying, "I ask, what is the purpose of changing the system, which is working really very well?"...yeah, very well for the drivers, not the passengers getting their money stolen, or being taken through multiple zones by greedy cabdrivers.

Please regulate these f*ckers. There is a reason why every other major city has a metered system, to avoid gouging.

College Sparxxxxx

Attending the UMD v. GT game tomorrow, after a weekend in Cleveland, can it get any worse? Actually rooting for the Terps, as a GT loss creates greater separation for the Hoos.

Is there any band better than the Black Crowes? Some would argue Stones/Panic/obviously DBT. Right now I am digging the Crowes.

Cell phones are really starting to resemble pocketknives.

Going to a friend's 30th tonight, definitely feeling age setting in.

Weekend in Cleveland

Was in Cleveland over the weekend for a (surprise) wedding, a great wedding (Little Italy). Drove from DC on Thursday night, took @ 5:15 (not bad) and stayed at the Hilton in Beachwood. Massive hotel. More like a compound than a hotel.

Got in a round at Pine (...?? something) on Friday morning. 70' and sunny. Had our normal DC pairing, with the substitution of the bride's brother, who can play (a pro in Chicago). Was a good complement to the group, and gave him a few people to know over the weekend. Ate dinner at Hyde Park Steakhouse, which was good (not great) but better quality than I expected for being attached to a Clarion.

Reception was held at a facility next to an outdoor mall, which planted a good bar (Louie's) across the street to watch games pre/post/during the reception. We all got carted home in a limo bus, which provided some humor.

Drive home was long, it is amazing what is discussed when you're tired:
1.) Funny/painful pledging stories
2.) Who hates Tony Romo more, and how the 'boys aren't America's Team
3.) How, as a kid, all I wanted to do was eat dog food. Who doesn't remember the Snausages and Chuckwagon commercials? The meat pouring out of the Chuckwagon can looked delectable.
4.) Great snacks (in lieu of dog food) while growing up (peanut butter and celery, potato sticks, red stick cheese and crackers).

Really enjoying the new 50Cent & JT tune (AYO Technology).

Chad Johnson'ed

There is no better showmanship/sportsmanship move than Barry Greenstein autographing a copy of his book for each busted opponent.

NFL = NCAA

Eli Manning - Matthew Stafford - Georgia
JP Losman - Anthony Morelli - Penn State
Tom Brady - Matt Ryan - BC
Brett Favre - Andre' Woodson - Kentucky
Jason Campbell - Tyler Donovan - Wisonsin
Donovan McNabb - Kyle Wright - Miami
Duane Huard - Casey Dick - Arkansas
Matt Schaub - Colt McCoy - Texas
Phillip Rivers - Sam Bradford - Oklahoma
Derek Anderson - Colt McCoy - Hawaii
Peyton Manning - John David Booty - USC
Matt Leinart - Jimmy Clausen - Notre Dame
Ben Rothelisberger - Blake Wilson - USC-E
Tony Romo - John Parker Wilson - Alabama

Despise / Like

I've been meaning to write this post for a while. Below are companies that I absolutely despise, and a few that are great.

Despicable:
1A) Geico - Rates are exorbitantly high, they rely on outdated metrics, which result in charges which other insurance companies include gratis (additional drivers), and they screwed me in 2003 by doubling my insurance premium with no notice.
1B) USAirways - Miserable staff, many delays, lost luggage, keep employees (and in turn, passengers) in the dark. How can you have self-centered employees in a service industry? I have no idea how their stock continues to rise.
1C) Comcast - For $160/month, I get the NFL network taken away (now premium), and must pay $5 if I want to interact with an employee to pay a bill. Increasing profits by adding fees (not improving/adding services) is bad business. Leave customers in the dark when the system is out, and offer no discount. Attached at the hip of Comcast is Scientific American (who make the Comcast boxes), which is a terrible company, one which my client refuses to do business with.

Excellent:
1) Continental / Lufthansa - Timely, good food, knowledgeable service staffs.
2) Progressive - Cheaper rates than counterparts, friendly staff, prompt service
3) Pandora - Great time waster, has introduced me to a bunch of tunes in genres I like

Friday Night Lights

Bill Simmons professes his love for Friday Night Lights. I am a huge fan of FNL, and am in complete agreement with his assessment.

FNL is consistently excellent, which can be said for so few TV shows. Sadly, it may result in its demise. Weird they haven't spliced in more cheerleader shots in an attempt to improve the viewership.

The Sunshine State

Attended a wedding of a good friend from college this past weekend. The wedding took me two hours outside of Denver, to Devil's Thumb Ranch in Winter Park, Colorado.

The flight from BWI - DEN was miserable. You wouldn't think a kid (who was @ 4, and still sharing a seat with his Mother) would be able to kick the back of my seat for four hours. You'd be wrong.

While Denver is only 5000+ feet above sea level, Winter Park is 9000+, which turns out to be a huge difference. In addition to alcohol packing a greater potency, the altitude makes people (how to put this...) more flatulent. At the wedding, we sat behind two brothers @ 10-12 years old who were dueling fiddles. We were in tears. A few gems from the ceremony:

1.) When shaking hands, one friend asked if he should just pull the boys finger.
2.) After the ceremony, the Mother was asked what she fed her boys for lunch.

Fantastic reception, with great food. The only downside to the whole experience (aside from the travel) was our friend (the bride) ran around with a miserable crew in college, who were (unfortunately) still miserable. Conversation (smalltalk) was painful. Painful conversations aside, it was a great event, and great to catch up with the bride and her family.

On Sunday, had a late flight, and time to kill, so at the suggestion of the hotel concierge, we walked around Red Rocks, and the adjacent town of Morrison, CO. RR is awesome (pictures to follow). I made the mistake of checking the calendar, and The Black Crowes had played on the 9th. It later came to my attention the wedding was moved from the 8th to 15th to accommodate a particularly stainful bridesmaid, who had booked a cruise (over a year in advance?). Unbelievable. Definitely plan on getting back to RR for a show in the next year. Would have loved to have come out for the 2006 Labor Day shows, which were Allmans, Gov't Mule, and Willie Nelson over three consecutive nights.

Ha Ha

It's been a very disjointed week at the office. Monday - Wednesday our building received multiple bomb threats, which quickly lose their novelty. Information leaked that the caller was acting in revenge of being dumped. Repeatedly? I am shocked. Having been in the building for nearly five years, most of the women in the building should be guarding bridges.

The one offshoot of the incident(s) is coining of the term 'bomb threat hot', when a woman is so smoking you'd call in bomb threats if you were to be dumped.

In case you were wondering...

...my latest iPod Shuffle rota (September 10 2007).

(I know I need work on cropping, etc. It's best to enlarge.)

Eff...

...just got back from an extended and relaxing weekend, a few things swirling around my mind:

1.) Eff anyone who reclines their seat on a plane
2.) Eff resorts that have add-on fees in excess of 25% (goes for car rental companies, too)
3.) Eff anyone who inspects bags at TSA and returns clothes to a suitcase by crumpling them, rather than folding

Mostly:
4.) Eff Al Groh and his head-up-his-ass approach to coaching football. Eff your miserable excuse of an offensive coordinator son. Groh makes $1.7M annually, Groh^2 probably makes $500K, so Virginia is doling out over $2M to imbeciles. Sadly once they are finally fired, we'll lose Mike London, our great offensive coordinator. The team deserves better than the (lack of) preparation and execution resultant from the Groh regime. Not that I am fully player-favorable, as Groh has dropped student-athlete standards, with no gain in wins.

More Randoms

Worst cover song ever - We Will Rock You - Warrant

If I had to set my life to soundtrack, Casino Queen by Wilco would make the CD

Had my fantasy draft last night. Good Lord my team sucks.

Random Thursday Thoughts

1.) Another addendum to the 'Reasons Why I am Old' list - Appetite for Destruction came out this week, 20 years ago. Still an amazing album, possibly my personal favorite. Of course, I recently lost the CD, so I'll be buying it for the 7th time,

2.) Try as they will to be upscale, Cheese Nips don't hold a candle to Cheez-Its. I've gone to the reduced fat option, and Cheez-Its are easily better.

3.) Great night tonight! Fantasy Football Draft 2007. I am picking 7th out of 14. I'd like to draft (in order of preference)

Addai - No way he slips to 7th
Westbrook
Parker
R. Johnson

What do I do if Alexander or LJ slip to 7? I've got to pick, right?

Houston Recap

Was out of town for a wedding in Houston over the weekend, a few thoughts.

1.) Flew direct from Reagan to Houston on Continental, checked nothing. If I wasn't so price-sensitive when purchasing flights, I would always fly Continental. On time, friendly staff, recent movies (Spiderman and Shrek 3), and they still serve food!

2.) Houston is an interesting city, accentuated by the fact there are no zoning laws. Very weird to see schools adjacent to 40 story office buildings, adjacent to 'Treasures'. Caught up with a good friend and his family on Saturday, who lived in a great neighborhood, but you had to turn at the Whataburger to get to the place.

3.) Stayed in essentially corporate housing, very nice, but on Friday night the car parked next to me must have had its wheels stolen. On Saturday morning it was on blocks (on cracked, presumably from letting the jack down too quickly), lug nuts were strewn everywhere. Odd, to say the least.

4.) Fantastic wedding, at the Houstonian. Really enjoyable.

PGA Championship Recap

I enjoyed watching the final round of the PGA Championship, regardless of the apparent lack of drama. The PGA always gets the benefit of the doubt, as the Masters is a full eight months away.

While a lot of people are jumping on the Woody Austin bandwagon, I don't particularly enjoy his 'heart on his sleeve' antics. I see him being a semi-successful President's Cup competitor (3-2 or 2-2-1, they all play 5, right?). I don't think it bodes well for the US when Woody Austin edges out Lucas Glover (who finished 11th in 2006 Ryder Cup standings, as well) and the Internationals have Appleby, Ames, Weir fighting for the last spot.

How does Southern Hills continue to host Majors? What a boring course. I won't be able to remember any of the holes tomorrow. The PGA has been hosted by some miserable courses in the past; which they seemingly escaped (Whistling, Medina), but I don't see the allure of Southern Hills.

PGA Championship

Admittedly, my laziness led em to forget to post my thoughts on the PGA Championship, but I've had zero interest because:

1.) PGA is a miserable Major
2.) Southern Hills is a $hitty course
3.) It's almost time for the FedEx Cup!

High degree of sarcasm on #3. Considering the first round of the tournament is almost completed, my picks aren't 100% legit, but I like O'Hare and expect a good showing out of Mickelson. Also expect some relative no name to hang on the leaderboard until Sunday (Lickliter/Senden). Also expect a moron (not Sabbatini) to contend (Ames?).

Friday

Sitting in training and figured there would be no better time to name my favorite song by each of my favorite hairbands.

Motley Crue - Girls, Girls, Girls or Dr. Feelgood
Poison - SO dfficult, a tie between Talk Dirty to Me and Nothin' but a Good Time
Slaughter - Up all Night
Van Halen - Panama
Def Leppard - Photograph
Warrant - Cherry Pie
Tesla - What you give
Journey - Don't Stop Belevin'
White Lion - Tell Me
Aerosmith - Mama' Kin
G'NR - Paradise City
Skid Row - 18 and Life
Queen - Fat Bottomed Girls
Cinderella - Gypsy Road
AC/DC - Back In Black
Ratt - Round and Round

On a side note, I think Here I Go Again is the most overrated hairband song of all time.

British Open Recap

Amazing finish to the British Open, after three heavily sedated rounds (Saturday was miserable) yesterday had the drama expected in a major championship. Carnoustie is a fantastic venue for competitive golf; I'd nominate its final 9 holes for best 9 in the world. The final nine at Carnoustie has a rhythmic quality that perfectly framed the competition. 10-12 are difficult (10 essentially being a parkland hole), followed by 13/14, which provide opportunities to gain strokes to par, and the challenging 15-18, where every player was cognizant of the Van De Velde collapse, and some (Harrington/Romero) were apt to repeat it. The only reason it might not be the best is 17 is a bland home, but Sunday's pin position was excellent.

Yesterday's golf was a great mix of explicit and implicit events that built suspense until the final putt dropped. There were the 2x4 to the face moments of Romero pulling 2I on 17 from the rough, and knowing something terrible was bound to happen, to the more subtle lip-out for par on 18 that ultimately kept him out of the playoff. At no point during the round was I sure if Sergio was going to make/miss a putt.

I am convinced Paul McGinley was icing Sergio on 18, to the advantage of his countryman, Harrington. Sergio had to wait for almost 10 minutes in the middle of the fairway, while McGinley double read both his approach and final putt (from 18 inches). It was classic. After a raking of the bunker, Sergio promptly dumped his approach and coudn't get up and down.

Back to School

Yesterday I played my first golf round in ages, nearly three months after ACL reconstruction. I was giddy like a 12-year-old leading up to the round, I was barely able to sleep until my 5:00 alarm. It was so nice to be back on the course, on a gorgeous day. Unfortunately my swing is still extremely guarded (and very left side centric), but only having the option to putt over the last 3+ months improved my short game. Unbelieveably, I only had 22 putts (although I hit 3 greens, but biridied all 3). I can't see that occuring again anytime soon.

Watching Steve Stricker this AM, he could use my help!

The British Open - II

Sergio Garcia needs to win the British Open...like the Yankees need another World Series and like the Cowboys need another Super Bowl. The way the media fawned over his 65 and anointed him gracious, poised, and mature after his post-round session with the media makes me shake my head. If I shot 65 at the British, I would graciously talk to the media. SG is still the cup-spitting, arrogant Ryder-cupping, US Open tee time-bitching, weather delay-griping baby he's always been (saying he wants to win for Seve reinforces the notion). Might was well just dedicate the win to Curtis Strange.

Is it tacky to wear khaki pants, brown shoes, and navy socks? I say yes, but would estimate 80% of men in DC do it with regularity.

British Open Picks

Eagerly anticipating thhe British Open. Picks:

3. Henrik Stenson
2. Stuart Cink
1. Luke Donald

How is Justin Rose 20-1? Did they leave off a 0? What has he won of note?

Advice?

I went to Washington Golf in the attempt to find a new 3W. I haven't hit a 3W well since my old scool Callaway Big Bertha 3W, circa 1994.

I wasn't blown away by the 3W, finding the Titleist, Cobra, Callaway FT, and Nike to be miserable. A 3W I found to be 'eh' was the Taylor Made. Putters I kinda liked were the Callaway Fusion (1) and Ping G5 (2). Sadly, I wasn't overly impressed by any 3W, as they all seem to be low-profile. Any 3W with an indented face (Cobra, Cleveland) or a white stripe on the top of the club, outlining the face (FT) were horrible.

Any suggestions on a good 3W? Would I be stupid to buy and old school Callaway on ebay and put a new shaft in it?

Summer Albums

Over the summer I take great pride in reconnecting with older albums that make for great listening. So far I've 're-found':

Slaughter - Stick It To Ya
Aerosmith - Pump
Def Leppard - Pyromania

Including DL is a stretch, as the album is always great.

Sirens of the Ditch

Pretty excited the new Jason Isbell album was released today (Sirens of the Ditch). For those who are not familiar, he is the former Drive By Truckers guitarist. 'Not that kind of Actress', available for iTunes, is a good starting point to get a feel for his sounds. Very similar to DBT.

Just took a quick pass through the Wizzzz site to check out their summer league roster and saw they will have Kyle Visser participating. Impressed they tracked down the All-ACC selection, who can be more servicable than Brenda Haywood. Good pickup.

Random 2

Some random thoughts in my head. Thought I would oblige and put to print.

- Amazing golf article in today's WP about Steve Marino playing the TPC. What a Monday gem for anyone who has ever played golf in the DC area.

- Just recently realized Drew Weaver won the British Amateur. Nice story.

- Decent Entourage last night. If I had to rank the main characters, my list would read Ari, Turtle, Vince, E/Drama (tied for last). If I had to insert minor characters, Billy Walsh (Wally Balls) would be between Turtle and Vince (I am a fan), Ms. Ari with E/Drama/Lloyd, all the others.

Randoms

- I hope I am never telling the future generations how I waited in line overnight for an iPhone, etc. Although I'd like to have one.

- Food of the week - Diamond Almonds, Smokehouse Flavor. Imagine the company PR/marketing thinking 'we need to make these nuts taste like beef jerkey'. Should be good after a long night of drinking.

- Went home and putted/chipped for a few hours today. So nice, although my legs got tired, and my feet got sunburnt (Reefs). I as startled that I tried putting with the Boccieri Heavy Putter, and had great success, which means either my short game is in the $hitter, or it has greatly improved over the last two months of putting in my guest room, and I can be successful with any putter (I am opting for the former).

- Saw a threesome make the turn. Two guys and a girl who had played at UNC were playing from the men's tees for money. She had turned in 36 and the guys had swings that would score in the low 90s. I am shocked I didn't see them walking up I95 on my way home. Why would they play for money when it was so obvious there were going to get crushed? But it kind of makes me want to get a game once my knee improves.

Californication

Days like today in DC, when it is balls hot, for some reason remind me of the summer of 1999, prior to my last year in college, when I stayed in Charlottesville for the summer. The majority of my friends also decided it would be a good summer of a few classes and a good hangout, which resulted in a powder keg of fun & debauchery.

I took one class each session, it was a 1230, and often had to have a friend crawl through the sliding door on our deck to wake me up, on his lunch break. I wore my saddle FJs 80% of the time in class, to be picked up @ 145 and head straight for Birdwood. Dinner was wagered for The Italian Villa or Taco Bell, followed by a shower (first of the day) @ 9 and a night out at Coupes. If we deviated from the standard plan and threw in a little off-speed, it would consist of a few Mad Dogs, corn whiskey, or a few games of gin before heading out. the RHCP seemed to be ever-present, and the summer dissolved when a good buddy who had graduated left mysteriously to start work in DC. We were perplexed.

Man, it was good times.

NOLA

Had a fantastic time over the past weekend in NOLA for a wedding. Was able to catch up with a number of friends I had not seen in a while, and was able to do the touristy stuff I usually skip to play golf.

I spent a decent amount of time at Harrah's, which I would rate a C+. Dealers are friendlier than you find in AC (not a glowing endorsment), but are extremely sloppy/inexperienced. Cases in point:

1.) Dealers are easily rattled. Probably the friendliest dealer I had all weekend tried to pull my A-9 versus her Q-Q, and didn't pull my 6-7 versus 17 on the next hand. Additionally, I had to stop another dealer from pulling a blackjack from another person at the table.

2.) Very inconsistent dealer behavior. Many of the dealers rolled with the humor at the tables, but had one real clown insist on no cursing. WTF? I must have missed the church pews when I grabbed the Jack Daniels on the rocks and had someone blowing Kool smoke in my face.

3.) Overly friendly. The 'I'm really pulling for you' wince when I pull a face on 12, with an added, 'just one too high' doesn't make you my friend, especially after you pull the routine every time it happens.

But, as stated, great overall weekend. Second trip to NOLA in the last three months, both were fantastic.

20 June Stuff

- I was intrigued to see Bloomberg opted to become an Independent. Recently I was wishing he would run for President over the existing Republican candidates. I am very fond of his history and work as a politician.

- Leaving for a wedding in NOLA tomorrow. Should be great times.

- Musically, been listening all over the place lately. A lot of Reckless Kelly, a lot of Dig - circa 1993. Like the few tracks I've heard from Icky Thump by the White Stripes, may need to pick up for the plane ride to NOLA.

Ramblings and Questions

Ate dinner last night in Atlantic City. Arrived at the Tropicana 45 minutes before the reservation. At that point, is it worthwhile to run to the tables for 35 minutes (on a Friday night at 9:15pm) and jockey for a few quick games, or just say the heck with it? In a shock to myself I opted for relaxing before dinner. Blame it on the five hour drive that should have taken three (DC traffic).

Listening to the radio made me ponder bands I can't stand that other people love. Jumping to mind:

3. Beatles
1B. Police
1A. Eagles

Golf should prove to be interesting. Does Angel Cabrera have the mettle for the weekend? Read a good article in Golf on Cabrera before the year started, and his decision to primarily play the American tour (where has he been)? Is there another golfer as highly ranked in the world that we know so little about? He has the mystery of Jumbo Ozaki late 1980s. I know nothing about his game, but would guess he plays a slinging draw, and fights the hook.

Still riding the Toms wagon, but the US Open posse has been decimated.

US Open Picks

I feel strongly TW wins, but my next three picks:

3. David Toms
2. Sean O'Hair
1. Henrik Stenson

The French Open

Being a fan of sports, took the time to watch most of the French Open final, and Nadal smoke Federer. I am guessing Nadal no longer returns Sergio Garcia's phone calls. RN doesn't help his street cred by having Pau Gasol in his entourage. SG now officially has no Spanish following. I think Spain would accept a citzenship trade offer of Barry Bonds, with Carl Everett thrown in.

Had a great weekend being in the wedding of one of my best friends in DC. Going to be a long Sunday of recovery, but between tennis, golf, basketball, I should be able to keep myself placated.

Need to devote some attention to preparing for the US Open. Oakmont is my favorite course in the US, it is unfortunate I won't be able to attend. Will post my favorites either tonight or tomorrow. Is it time for another breakthrough (Adam Scott)? For some reason the name Sean O'Hair is sticking in my head. '94 at Oakmont was the first major where I picked the winner. I remember playing golf during the weekend mornings just outside of Pittsburgh, where my family is from, and watching the golf in the afternoon. US Open week in 1994 was scortching. Hard to believe it was 13 years ago.

Randoms

1.) Fcuk Crate and Barrel. An order I placed on 2 June is scheduled to arrive 13 June. Shipping was 20% of the item cost, and it will take 11 days. Where in their 10K will they post the profits they make from shipping?

2.) It really irks me when I am watching a network television show that ends in a manner such as, "Stay tuned for scenes from next week's Office/Studio 60" and comes back to the 11:00 news. What is the point? Is it worth having your viewership be PO'ed to watch the extra five commercials?

3.) I didn't realize Bob Barker was a vegetarian. John O'Hurley would be the best BB replacement (or Crispin Glover), although I think they should end TPIR.

Creepy

For some reason The Ultimate Game strikes me as creepy. It seems very Trading Places-esque.

Would like to see Sean O'Hair win the Memorial.

Quick Thoughts - 2 June 2007

1.) If Lowes ever wants to compete with Home Depot in the category of ease-of-use, they need to revamp their entire website. Try searching for outdoor chairs on each site.

2.) At 23-32, I am pretty proud of what the Washington Nationals are patching together this season. Beset by injuries and an Expos-esque lineup, the team comes to play every night. I'm far from sold on Manny Acta, but am impressed with the club, and excited for the new stadium next year (I won't comment of the corresponding traffic).

3.) Today is my one month anniversary of ACL surgery. Improvement has been steady, as I now get around with one crutch (or none, for short distances), can straighten fairly well and bend over 90'. What makes me grit my teeth is the girl at my PT sessions (no older than 16) who had surgery a week before me and is running circles around my progress. What gives?

4.) I am itching to play golf. Heck, I am itching to putt and hit half wedges. At this point I'd be pleased to watch groups tee off, propped up in a golf cart.

5.) Props to James Driscoll for finding his game. Impressive T2 at last week's Melwood Invitational, and in the hunt heading into the weekend on the Nationwide Tour.

6.) There isn't much you can say about a great article. The NY Times piece on Kerry Wood is great.

The Ultimate Warrior

Best Ultimate Warrior Clip Ever

ZJ or GO

Watching highlights of the 2006 US Open lead me to thinking as to who will win their 2nd major first, Geoff Ogilvy or Zach Johnson. Although their games are decidedly different, their successes and attitudes are strikingly similar.

Watching the 2006 Open, a few things stood out:
1.) Mickelson's swing off the tee changes dramatically between the US Open and 2007 Players. He barely gets the club to parallel, and used to be completely free swinging.
2.) GO gets deserved credit for the chip in on 17 and the par-save on 18, but the shot that most impressed me was the chip from the fairway on 18. He fully releases the club and exhibits no tension on the last hole of a major. Impressive.
3.) The deputy/police officer behind Mickelson after his 2nd shot on the 18th is reminiscent of the scene when Jack Ruby was shot (in so many ways).

Back to the debate of who wins another major first, I've got to go GO. He's got more talent than anyone who doesn't carry the initials TW. Couple his talent and his ability to make other players wilt negate the breaks he received in the 2006 Open, which led to the belief his win was a fluke. They both are good guys, and good for golf.

Is Netflix worth it?

With the dearth of quality summer tv, over the last week I've found myself watching the following movies:

Rock Star
Zoolander

I need other options. Is Netflix worth the cost? Any suggestions on how to maximize the benefits of Netflix? Normally I am not a "movie guy" (I don't watch more than 10 a year, and last saw Old School and Wedding Crashers in the theatre). I watch HBO for Entourage.

NBA, etc.

The first two picks for the NBA draft were awarded to Portland and Seattle. My waning interest in the NBA has officially waned, as I am not staying up until midnight to watch the two play. I really miss the days of youth, when the NBA playoffs essentially coincided with the end of the school year. Once conference finals rolled around, grades were essentially decided, so you were able to watch the great Pistons/Bulls series of the 1990s.

Tommy "Two Gloves" Gainey won The Big Break 7. Sadly, it is one of the few shows I follow with any conviction. The Golf Channel normally will replay in the 5-7pm slot, so it is easy to catch up. Recently he's played in the Wachovia and last week's Nationwide event (taking the lead to Sunday), so maybe he'll break through and give the show some credibility.

Friday Lay Ups

Great article by BSG describing the atrophy of the code of honor in the NBA (i.e. the increase in flopping), among other things. His writing has vastly improved over the last 5 years.

Guess who?
Jaco Van Zyl
Matt Hendrix
Chip Deason
Sonny Skinner

1.) 1980s cover band
2.) Professors at Germanna Community College
3.) Pit crew for Greg Biffle

Answer? None of the above! They are golfers in the AT&T Classic at Sugerloaf. On a side note, John Daly is scheduled to appear in Fredericksburg on May 21 at a clinic. After a WD for JD, I put the chances of his appearance at 20%.

Sour Grapes

Or 'Why Sergio Garcia won't win a Major'. I picked this up on cnnsi:

Sergio's drop questioned by playing partner

Sergio Garcia's 66 tied for the low round of the day, but it wasn't enough to catch Phil Mickelson. Garcia finished strong (he shot 67 Saturday) to finish second, one of his best finishes since last year's Ryder Cup and his win at the Booz Allen Classic in 2005.

"I felt comfortable all week with my swing," Garcia said. "I felt like I was in a good rhythm."

A bit of confusion arose when Garcia took relief from a drainage area on the 2nd hole. His playing partner, Cliff Kresge, and Kresge's caddie questioned the drop.

"I've never tried to do anything wrong on a golf course," Garcia said. "If I would have felt at any time that I wasn't taking full relief, I would have called for a ruling and do whatever was right. But I felt like I did and that's all there is to it."

Garcia said it affected his play on the 2nd and 3rd holes and may have even cost him a stroke.

"They were calling me a cheater on that. You never like that. I've never cheated in my whole life. I'd rather shoot 85 than shoot 65 cheating."

He said he finally relaxed toward the 4th or 5th hole. "It probably cost me at least one (stroke). It's fine, but you never know. Maybe I would have not finished the way I finished."

SG is apt to blame failure on anyone but himself, even after his (arguably) best finish since the 1999 PGA or 2000 Mercedes. He's too busy looking for excuses, rather than trying to win tournaments. He receives no sympathy from me. Also, his Maximus spectacle on 17th after making two was ridiculous.

Ugly, Bad, Good

Ugly - Is there a more pompous or moronic golfer than Rory Sabbatini? I still shake my head at his tantrum at the 2005 BAH Classic where he was annoyed with Ben Crane's slow play and played ahead of his pairing. After yesterday's one good round at the TPC, he shoots his mouth and called Tiger beatable. His bravado comes on the heels of being smoked by Tiger at last week's Wachovia. Here's to a 79 today.

Bad - The Players' on NBC means another Johnny Miller weekend. I consider JM to be an egocentric clown. I can't remember the tournament (it was recent) where Adam Scott was teeing on a par 3, and hesitated while switching clubs. JM said something to the effect of, "it is disappointing AS cannot commit to a club and a shot near the end of the tournament". Dottie Pepper was following the group, and chimed in, "the wind is currently gusting, which will be a factor in the shot, hence the indecision". Essentially, more information was a mild rebuke of Miller. JM couldn't let it pass, and after the shot came up 10 yards short, he tersely stated, "seems like his wait was club decision based, as he was still 1/2 club short." He couldn't give credit to DP, but had to stroke his own ego. I don't think I was ever happier that watching the Shell Wide World of Golf @ Olympic where he shot 82 and lost to Niclaus by 8 shots.

Good - My favorite golf comment ever was during the final rounnd of the 1986 Masters, when Jack Nicklaus was on the 16th tee and Tom Weiskopf was asked what was going through Jack's mind. TW responded to the effect, "if I knew, I would have won this tournament at some point." The comment was amazingly candid, humorous, and mildly self-depricating.

Snacks

While I am recovering, and my only strenuous activity is PT, I've been trying to limit my post-dinner snacks, which is the past ran the gamut from cookies to popcorn. Currently I am a fan of Sabra Roasted Red Pepper hummus, with Athenos pita chips. Also eating a fair amount of dried berry mixes (strawberry, blueberry, crasins, etc.). What snacks are your go-to?

On the Mend

I am happy to report that I am writing from bed, currently in day 4 of recovery from ACL reconstruction.

Arrived at the surgery center on Wednesday at 630, and was taken into pre-op @ 7. Was extremely anxious, which, when combined with the low temperature of the room, led to shivering. Thankfully, everyone I encountered was fantastic. Absolutely wonderful. I can't overstress that fact. Great pre-op nurses, Dr.s responsible for anesthesia, and my surgeon, Dr. Thal, who was the man. Taken to the OR, @ 845, and was under for the entire surgery soon thereafter. While I was expecting 2-3 hours of surgery, I had my ACL replaced and meniscus repaired in 55 minutes. Unbelieveable. After post op juice and graham crackers, I was in a wheelchair headed home by 12. Amazing.

Recovery has been good, albeit a mix of soreness and pain. First PT on Friday, where the greatest apprehension came from the stiff leg leading to cracking/snapping sounds during movement.

So far, I've remained very optimistic, and am trying to do more each day than the last. With the meniscus repair, I can't put full weight on the leg/knee for three weeks, but am pushing for as much flexibility as possible, without undue stress on the knee. As always, any advice is appreciated. Consider myself blessed to come into the quality of people who were associated with my surgery. Every one of the 8+ people were outstanding, and the fact they do it daily is amazing. The experience was an A+.

Seattle & Stuff

I just returned from a business trip to Seattle. Very cool city, with the most gorgeous views I have ever seen. Anywhere on 1st - 6th ST has a fantastic view of the bay/harbour. Had no idea of the hilliness of the city. Had work on the other side of the water, so both took the ferry and made the drive, both were good. Bainbridge, on the other side of the bay, is a gorgeous small town. Very entrepreneurial spirit to the city, and enjoyed walking around, Pike's Market (good fresh doughnuts) and taking the Underground tour. I would defintely return, A- city (also little rain). Score could go either way, depending on the weather and casino I didn't have the opportunity to visit.

Flights were so-so, what gripes me is how airlines are now gouging on food for extra money. On a flight from SEA - WAS, no food was gratis, and the offerings were a breakfast quiche or a snack fack (consisting of freebies from various vendors) for $5. I purchased the SP, and it was a hodgepodge of crackers, applesauce, toffee, pita chips, and tuna. WTF? Also, shame on Alaska Air for a 'woe is me' article at the front of the magazine bemoaning how they have had to strip out their food service due to rising costs and competition. Guess what, that is the market you are in, get over it. God forbid you use good food as a differentiator, rather than an extra expense.

Less than a week from ACL surgery. Very anxious, not looking forward to rehab, but want to get it over with.

Trial

Yesterday, I volunteered to be a witness in a mock trial at GWU Law School. The experience was extremely valuable for a number of reasons:

1.) Being a consultant, most of the training I receive has one similarity, it is taught from the perspective of a consultant. I learned valuable information watching the trial lawyers exhibit multiple angles and options in an effor to convince a jury, and the importance of pairing mannerisms/gestures with the audio. A lawyer must envoke a sense of humanism with the jury. Similarly, much of my work deals with client presentations/pitches, and 99% involve delivering a PowerPoint presentation, and pitching to the wall. A level of connection with the jury/client is paramount.

2.) My unwavering faith in the American legal system was unsettled. After the trial, the judge, a DOJ lawyer, walked all who cared to stay through additional ways of appealing to a jury and selling a case. The ways were of value, but extremely cliche', to the extent of pandering. I question the balance of a case between a.)presenting the facts b.)connecting the dots between the facts, and making the jury understand (leading the horse to water and making him drink) and c.)compelling the jury. Option A must always carry the most weight, but it seems to be more of a plurality.

For No Real Reason

Miserable day in DC, mid-40s and rainy. With the golf postponed, it is officially the slowest day ever.

To continue yesterday's post re:golf, you can support/hate a golfer for no legitimate reason, while 'just because' won't fly in team sports.

Golfers I like:
Vaughn Taylor (I enjoy the moniker Vaughn Wilder)
MA Jimenez' (great pronunciation options for last name) HIM EN ETH
Tim Clark
Darren Clarke (dropped out of WF the day after he was told to quit carousing)
Stuart Appleby
John Rollins (Richmond VA born and raised)

Golfers I dislike:
Rory Sabbatini
Justin Leonard
DL III
Sergio Garcia

The Ebb and Tide

Watching The Masters last week put me in the mood to follow golf in 2007. With the miserable play of the Nationals, I'm not left with much of a choice. In light of the situation, I've decided to accentuate the positive.

Athletes in other sports don't have the longevity of golfers. While it seems like stating 1+1=2, it gives golfers the opportunity to experience multiple game improvements over their careers. Jose' Maria Olazabal couldn't walk after his first Masters victory, but rebounded to win a 2nd, and returned to the top of his game. Golfers may peak late in their careers (Hogan, Watson, etc.). While other sports have 'Comeback Player of the Year', once an athlete peaks and starts to fall, it is rare he can return to such a level of excellence. The career of a golfer does not follow the parabola of improvement/downfall typified in other sports. Career variation put different golfers in the hunt each week, and make stories out of mini-renaissance weeks, currently being experienced by Jerry Kelly.

Golfers don't often succumb to freak injury. The Nats lost two starters on Opening Day. If a golfer commits to a tournament, chances of injury are statistically insignificant.

Zero Sum

Great WP article on human tendencies (blinders).

As Alexandria prepares for a tourism boost caused by the opening of the National Harbor, a mega-convention center, the DC Convention Center has seen a decrease in bookings since its opening, less than three years ago. If I were to guess, there was no coordination between the two projects, as they are competing for the same clientele, and are located less than 10 miles away. Each effort commodotizes the other, leading to diminished profit margins for the ventures. Impacts to the surrounding areas, in terms of tourism and increased traffic, is difficult to quantify, but the biggest hit will be taken by each of the convention centers.

Watched @ 10 minutes of 'Thank God You're Here' last night. What I missed in the commercials and promos leading up to the premiere was the fact the show was passing of C/D list comedians as funny. There is a reason they are C/D list. I don't think I've seen a worse show. The fact that it aired at 9 and 10 last night will leave Heather Graham's sitcom with the distinction of the only show being cancelled after one episode.

Good, Funny, Great

On a cold Monday in DC:

Check out Mr. Bento. A seemingly good product, but the first review is the icing on the cake.

Ms. Ari Gold = Ms. Frank the Tank

Jott

Please, Pretty Please?

The Masters is underway, and the leaderboard resembles the Buy.com Open. The Masters is a long tournament, and 54 holes is a long way to go.

It came to my attention that my company has Phil Mickelson as a sponsor, we recently changed our logo to red, and Mickelson is still wearing black. The reasoning: Mickelson does not like wearing red.

So let me get this straight...we pay Mickelson an exorbinant amount of money, and he refuses to wear our new logo? He should have to wear a clown nose if we ask nicely.

A Tradition Unlike Any Other

Master's Week certainly slipped in under the radar. The Florida repeat/Greg Oden hype has completely overshadowed the Masters, in what has been a quiet year regarding PGA Tour coverage (maybe I just haven't been paying attention).

Despite my late attention to the Masters, I couldn't be more ready and excited. A number of favorites are playing good golf. In the next day I'll post the 3-5 guys I expect to play well (who aren't TW).

Word of the Day

Proscribe

Not prescribe, proscribe.

NOLA 2007 Pt. I

Went down to NOLA last weekend for a great friend's bachelor party. A quick recap:

Landed @ 9pm Thursday night, after a quick drop-off of the luggage at a mini-mansion in the Garden District, took cabs to Fat Harry's to watch the end of the USC v. Tennessee game. My hunch on Tennessee blew up in my face, so I was left to hedge with THC for a few cups of vodka, which helped loosen the edge from the loss. A quick run to F&Ms led to a quick departure to Harras. Overall I was down, but give the place a B-, as friends were able to hang at the table and BS while not playing (not hovering, not minded at all) and gave us an opportunity to teach a buddy the basics (he is getting a hit/stay card for his birthday).

Friday - Golf went out the window when our AM tee time ran into our prior night. Found po' boys and Abitas down the street and hung out later at the pool. Chips were replaced with Pinto beans, which worked well enough to kill time until dinner, at Felix's downtown.

Great dinner, multiple doz. oysters and Crawfish Vonnie for dinner. I think we sped up the depletion of seafood by 3 years. Post dinner finally hit the Quarter for a quick hurricane at Pat O's before the party split. Proceeded to drink like prohibition was coming back on Monday at hole in the wall place until going home. Drank with my bud's boys from NOLA. Great crew, were more than willing to throw down and ignore my shenanigans. Got good reviews on my JR Reynolds slow/low five. Thanks for the pity.

Saturday - Grab card from prior night's bar, hit up a crawfish boil at the Racetrack, went back and got to dinner at Antoine's @ 8. Food was decent, especially the potato poppers. Was pretty done after dinner so called it an early night.

Great trip, hopefully I'll have the cobwebs out before returning for the wedding in a few months!

The Tuna Melt

Take a second and check out some of knewjack's tunes at TTM. I hadn't been to the site in a while but can't get over Luchini, that was such a first year staple. Hard to believe it was over ten years ago. Good to know I had (semi-decent) taste in music while in college.

Got some good exercise on my knee yesterday, 20 minutes on the elliptical. It is good to be able to do something. Also took a few practice swings in the yard, and was able to make a manageable swing. I am giving thought to buying a polo with a collar to my nipples, six buttons, dark pants and white golf shoes to fully embrace the Arnold Palmer imitation this weekend.

Columbus, Ohio

Aside from Virginia getting their heart ripped out on Sunday, my trip to Columbus for Rounds 1 & 2 of the NCAA tournament was very enjoyable. I've never met a city with nicer inhabitants, proved by the two hour bar conversation, post UVA's win over Albany, with two locals (OSU and Cincinnati grad) started on the almost completely random ?, 'so what is a Hoo'? Actually, it was prefaced by the two hours they spent trying to ask a decent looking Virginia fan, to no avail. As noted in that particular conversation, and with other OSU interactions, OSU fans were everywhere (outnumbered all fans at the games), were excited about their team, but pessimistic in their chances to reach Atlanta. They were also bemoaning the bad draw in Columbus, considering they had Kentucky, Cincinnati, and the UAB upset in 2005, I am partial to full agreement. As much as I want to side with OSU v. UT, I have great respect for a dangerous UT team. They played great both games in Columbus, and have the offensive firepower to beat OSU. I am certain they will win. As much as I don't care for Bruce Pearl's mannerisms during games, he was all class regarding Leitao, JR, and SS, but it's easy to be magnanimous after a W.

Had some great meals in Columbus (Betsy's, Katzingers, and an all-out bender at Jimmy V's that included numerous St. Patty's day jello shots). Everyone was just extremely pleasant, helpful, and willing to go the extra miles, from printing out my boarding pass at the front-desk of the hotel, to walking us through a map of the German village and where to grab drinks. High Street is a trendy/nice area.

Why not...

Our inputs are being captured on the >Sabre. See the BWI input.

Oh, and ask my next week how my torn ACL is going (golf: see you in 2008!).

Guys in Vegas, jeaous. Next year, phoenix from the ashes.

KL

While the majority of my attention has recently been paid to the NCAA tournament, I wanted to take a second and shake my head in disbelief at the ridiculous success of Kenny Loggins. KL is responsible for the music underlying the followinng greats:

Top Gun
Caddyshack
Footloose (also screenplay credit)

Additionally contributed to:
Summer Rental (vastly underrated)
Fast Times at Ridgemont High

Today I was astounded to learn he also wrote and performed The Masters theme! Insane!

NCAAs

I must be drunk with the optimism of a (barely deserving) 4 seed, but I see good things in Virginia's future for the weekend. Not to overlook Albany (I am looking in your direction EZ, for a counterpoint) but Tennessee is a streaky team, and the last time we had a good tournament run, our first weekend games were in Dayton (Columbus this year). There is a slight chance I could be going to the games.

Big fan of the Blue Ribbon yearbook, although I don't understand why someone would pay an extra $40 for overnight delivery versus pdf. That is a really expensive glossy coaster.

I haven't gotten into the details of the brackets, but teams I like are A&M, Wisconsin (I'm the only one), UCLA, and UNC. I don't like Ohio State, Kansas, Florida (UF losing would be good for America), Texas.

Outstanding Sean Singletary Article

Impressive

7,8,9,10

UVA will most likely be seeded 7-10 in the NCAAs, the proberbial lamb being led to slaughter in the 2nd round, against (my guesses) Georgetown (2), Memphis (2) or Ohio State (1). An 8/9 UVA/Kentucky game in Rd. 1 is not out of the question.

I don't know what was the worst feeling, while watching UVA piss away a 14pt 2nd half lead to NCSU (handily), watching Sidney (the valet) Lowe outcoaching Leitao, or UVA's offense consisting of Reynolds (1/13 at one point) and SS running off piss-poor screens, and watching our big men huddled around the free-throw line. Completely uninspired offense. I put the loss on the team, not Leitao. If UVA gets shipped out West in the NCAAs, it is going to be a tough win, regardless of the opponent.

1200

Why I may never eat out again.

I enjoy going out for dinner, and probably eat at restaurants to a greater extent than I probably should. I've often patted myself on the back for ordering the chicken dish and brocolli, and turned a blind-eye to the dousing of butter and fat it most likely received. Glad to come across the attached article, as I will now approach dinners out with a raised brow of skepticism (unless I'm hungery, or have had a few beers, or it is 3am and the neon lights of Taco Bell are beckoning, in which case all bets are off).

Worst Buy

Next time you purchase an item from Best Buy based on internet pricing, be sure to print out a hardcopy and take it to the store for validation .

What a load of garbage. The negative publicity will exponentially outweigh the potential gains.

GM "Quality"

At the beginning of January, I contacted Chevrolet about a replacement part I needed for my vehicle. My radio dials were chipping (@35K miles) looked terrible, and needed to be replaced. The part was ordered, and I was contacted to schedule a time to replace the part. I informed the dealership I wouldn't be able to schedule at the current time, and to follow up in a week, which they never did. I called today to schedule the appointment, and was disappointed to learn the part had been returned to the factory, as it had not been installed. In summation, to get the part installed, the following steps occured.

1.)Part ordered
2.)Part packaged in factory for shipping
3.)Part shipped
4.)Part returned
5.)Part restocked in factory
6.)Part reordered
7.)Part repackaged
8.)Part reshipped
9.)Part installed

A "process" that could have ended at four steps if a simple follow-up phone call was made! Combined with poor customer service and a part failing at 35K, whereas my last Chevy had no problems (to 80K) and you wonder why Toyota is kicking your ass?

Golf in DC

Per the Washington Post it appears a partnership has been forged between Tiger Woods, DC, and the PGA Tour.

The possibility of a top-notch PGA event, headlined by Tiger Woods, has yet to sink in. Staging the event at Congressional would be a pinnacle event. With the throng of people who come to DC for the 4th of July (subsequently to be enticed with the opportunity to watch TW)...wow. Let's not touch upon the fact it will be 105', muggy, with afternoon thundestorms.

The 2007 ACC Tournament - Reseeding

Figures the 2007 ACC Tournament (where Virginia is guaranteed to make it until Friday) is being played in non-partisan Tampa. How boring. I greatly enjoy the Greensboro tournaments, and the tournament feels out-of-sorts when it is not played on the familiar Greensboro court.

With ACC expansion proving nothing is sacred, the ACC Tournament should reseed after each round. Granted, there would be some scrambling, as higher seeds wouldn't be able to "scout" the Thursday games as dilligently, but wouldn't the uncertainty add to the excitement? It could be argued the locked seeding provides a greater opportunity for upsets (12 beating 4 is more likely than a reseeded 12 v. 1), but teams with higher seeds shouldn't be screwed by the outcome of an earlier upset and have to play a higher seed.

Accenture Match Play - Sunday morning

Morning match between Stenson and Ogilvy (perfect final match) is an excellent match, which does not means they are playing good golf. Excellent match means a number of swings of holes and momentum. I look forward to the afternoon outcome. I am guessing a 2and 1 win for Stenson (current 2up through 15).

The course they are playing is underwhelming. I will remember 0 of the holes. I could easily walk you through 7-9 holes at La Costa. What I don't like about the course:

- I can't stand the change of color between fairway, rough, and garbage. Too jarring.
- Having garbage puts a player at a great disadvantage, with small chance of recovery. La Costa could put a player behind a tree/grove, providing an opportunity for recovery. Chances while straddling a cactus with a scorpion crawing on your Foot-Joy? 0%
- It is tough to create memorable holes without trees/lakes...sequential layering of elements. Think of the most memorable holes in golf. You would describe them in an order (tee shot cutting across the Pacific, avoid trees on the right, potential reach in two, etc...). Not here
- The course is probably going to jack up its rates 200% on Monday (my guess is $265) and advertise it hosted the 2007 Match Play.

Accenture Match Play - Saturday morning

Geoff Ogilvy v. Paul Casey didn't live up to the hype, but it was an enjoyable match to watch. Those two possess the 1A and 1B best swings in golf, and are completely different. Ogilvy's long and loping, controlled power swing and Casey's semi-crouched, compact, effortless pass are both enjoyable to watch. I believe Ogilvy has more winning success (in the US, at least) as his swing is more reliable under pressure. Casey's swing looks prone to a quick follow through and wristy-hook, where a quick swing by Ogilvy would only result in a pulled shot. Ogilvy also has better touch on quick, undulating greens.

What is in common with the best looking swings in the game (Ogilvy, Casey, Adam Scott, Baddeley, Luke Donald)? No Americans. The current American with what I consider the best swing is CH III. Ryan Moore's swing is a trainwreck. Why don't any young American golfers have swings of merit?

Randoms

Congratulations to the Browns for winning the 3rd pick in the draft. Actually, the Buccaneers lost, and the Browns happened to win. Pretty standard.

Is there anyone more overworked than Pacman Jones's attorney? I hope he can accumulate comp time.

Moving the Accenture Match Play from La Costa to Arizona was a mistake. La Costa was gorgeous, the current course looks like the runner-up in the race to host 'Battle of the Bridges' in 2001.

Why I like NASCAR

In response to EZ's qustion, a quick summary of why I like NASCAR:

Trying to explain my fondness for NASCAR is like trying to explain why I tried to reach a green in two with a 240 yard carry over water, or why I opted for my 11th beer of the night at 3AM, it just fits. My prioritized team allegiances are:

1.) UVA basketball
2.) UVA football
3.) Nationals
4.) Orioles
5.) Redskins
6.) Wizards

You could essentially lop the Wizards off the list, if they were to make a Finals run, I'd be more bandwagon than supporter.My top five teams haven't provided much to support over the last 5-7 years, so I intersperse support with events such as NASCAR or PGA, for which I have similar viewing habits. In each case, there are guys I like and guys I don't, typically avoiding guys who are blessed with huge sponsorship deals and act entitled (TW, Dale Jr.). It makes for good viewing and the NASCAR standings (albeit alticlimatic after Daytona) spark some interest in the outcome of the season.

If you've never been to a race, I suggest going, they are enjoyable.

2007 Daytona 500

I miss not being there. I've got a feeling it is the day for Kevin Harvick, followed by Tony Stewart. Thank me later.

Tiny Houses

In today's New York Times, and I am definitely interested. I can't put my finger on why this is an attractive idea. Maybe it is my disdain for all the overpriced stainless steel and housing excess, but something with the tiny houses seems pretty cool.

I've got friends who have lived in smaller places (older houses) that were tiny, and it seemed to be pretty cool. Opting to read, as opposed to television, is a nice break from standard living. If I were to purchase a weeHouse I wouldn't have a clue where I would place it. Out west? Is there a market for weeHouse timeshares?

Thank Goodness

It wasn't too long ago the Wizards were the laughingstock of the NBA. The lynchpin of the debacle was Kwame Brown. Today'sWashington Post goes into great detail about the heart and motivation of Caron Butler, and it is apparent his contribution to the team is a departure from the laziness of Kwame and helped lead the team to success.

The Wizards are an enjoyable team to watch, for which winning plays a major part. The signing of Arenas and trade for Butler (offset with the loss of Larry Hughes) were great moves by Ernie Grunfeld, who has proven his worth as a fantastic GM. Basketball in DC used to be unwatchable; the success of the Wizz has breathed life into downtown DC as Chinatown has grown and thrived with their success.

Stupid

If one more of my friends puts this on his wedding registry I am going to seriously question who I used to get bombed with in college.

Wasting Time

Sites where I could waste days:

www.pandora.com - Duh.

www.beastiemixes.com - One of the few bands to open their library and embrace the evolving (and highly skilled) mix/mash culture

www.dcist.com - Good reading, many articles, updated frequently

UVA goes to Raleigh tonight hoping to escape with a road win. NC State is one of the few teams in the ACC which evokes no emotion. My only encounter with NCSU was indirect, when an old roommate's sister got us tickets in their section at the ACC Championship two years ago (Verizon Center). Their redneck following was a fun bunch, enjoying themselves in DC. Guess what? I mingled well.

UVA's 2007 fb schedule was released today. If they aren't bowling, I'll be steering the Groh-must-go bandwagon. Oct. 20 is circled. The last two contests in the Spark have been -10', and in the aftermath of a hurricane. I expect locusts.

2007 UVa Schedule
Sept. 1 at Wyoming
Sept. 8 DUKE
Sept. 15 at North Carolina
Sept. 22 GEORGIA TECH
Sept. 29 PITTSBURGH
Oct. 6 at Middle Tennessee State
Oct. 13 CONNECTICUT
Oct. 20 at Maryland
Oct. 27 at NC State
Nov. 3 WAKE FOREST
Nov. 10 at Miami
Nov. 17 BYE
Nov. 24 VIRGINIA TECH

Who really cares?

I find it extremely annoying that everything on pgatour.com is geared towards the FedEx Cup. You have to search to find the Money List ranking. Also, if you check the live scoring, the first choice is 'FC' that provides FedEx Cup standings, and projected FedEx Cup points for the week.

Did the PGA Tour shop the notion of the FedEx Cup to the fans, to see if they would really care? If I had to estimate, the % of fans geared for the format would hover @ 5%, but would spike precipitously if top-name players committed to tournaments late in the season (post-PGA) in an attempt to win the 'Cup'. Correct me if I am wrong, but I have yet to see one player commit to a more back-loaded schedule.

Couple the FedEx Cup with an altered schedule, and this season on tour is downright confusing. The new schedule stinks, an obvious pandering to sponsors and $$$ over quality golf. I am not a fan of the Players in May, essentially meaning the beginning of the "real season" is at the Masters in April, rather than the March Players. I can't even tell you when the Tour Championship is played (Spetember), resulting in an April-September period of real interest, rather than March-November. How is this a winning formula? I implore someone to educate me what the PGA is gaining through the new format/schedule, that doesn't line their coffers.

A 5% Band

My Morning Jacket is what I consider to be a 5% band. Their style is not the style of music I normally like, but for some reason I really dig them about two days out of the month, today being one of those days. If I were to buy the CD(s) I wouldn't know where to start, and would end up being distracted while driving by some awful-miserable song that I have yet to hear. I don't like the band enough to take a vested interest in their music, but 4-6 songs a month is adequate.

68' in DC on 15 January. I should be shooting 83 somewhere.

Iraqi Build-Up

The revised US Iraq strategy is risky, at best. It ties the success of the operation and eventual withdraw of US troops to added responsibilities assumed by the Iraqi government.

From a project management 101 perspective, once a project falls behind, bodies added to the project have a diminishing rate of return. When we already have 120K soldiers in Iraq, why is an extra 20K the "secret sauce" that will eventually lead to withdrawl? In addition, we are relying on a roommate who never pays the rent on time, and looks in the other direction when you come home for the last Miller Lite in the fridge, and it is inexplicably gone. Your attempts to rectify the situation with your roommate have only amounted to a few conversations during 'My Name is Earl' where you told him to handle his business and quit being such a joke. Is that a plan for withdrawl at the end of the year, or a situation where your roommate continues to do nothing but continue to eat your food, drink your beer, and be alarmed and flummoxed when you tell him you plan on moving out at the end of the year?

With no clear objectives, a risky partner, and having waged a war against a guerrila enemy, with whom the US has no idea of their true nature or motivation, things going "according to plan" and the troop buildup succeeding is slight. When have things gone "according to plan" in Iraq yet?