Happy 60th, Dad

I just got off the phone with my Father, who, in the midst of a golf trip, was finishing his 36th hole of the day.

The perfect way to celebrate your 60th birthday.

Funny, I clearly remember the party for his 40th.

The 2008 Open

The most enjoyable tournament of the year. The non-Tiger low-key lead up to the tournament has been refreshing.

Picks:

Honorable Mention - Paul Casey (he's got a mid-60s round in him)
3 - Geoff Ogilvy
2 - Justin Leonard
1 - Lee Westwood

Don't Bother

Recently sampled the 'Southern Style' chicken sandwich at McDonalds. I would have guessed, in an effort to compete against Chik-Fil-A, they would create something which differed significantly from what CFA has nailed down. Sadly, they went for a replica, which falls woefully short. The chicken is neither plump or juicy, rather, it is a thin patty with as much crust as chicken. Missing is the CFA chicken 'shape irregularities', which hint the food came from a real animal. The McD version is uniform and bland, in addition to being over-fried. The biscuit is an attempted carbon copy of CFA, which does nothing to enhance the chicken.

I'm sticking to the old standby of bacon, egg, and cheese.

4th and more

Had a great weekend for the 4th, split between DC, Charlottesville, and the golf course. Finally saw the Black Crowes (in Charlottesville) and it exceeded expectations, 'Seeing Things' live is amazing.

One of my few thoughts regarding the NBA was Chicago was stupid to pass on Beasley, and after the first summer game I am 1-for-(exhibition)1.

AK at Congressional a good tune-up for Birkdale? May not be a bad thought.

SATURDAY, JULY 5, 2008
CHARLOTTESVILLE PAVILION

MOVE IT ON DOWN THE LINE
GOODBYE DAUGHTERS OF THE REVOLUTION
HOTEL ILLNESS
THICK N THIN
WALK BELIEVER WALK
YOUNG MAN OLD MAN
THERE’S GOLD IN THEM HILLS
BOOMER’S STORY
SEEING THINGS
WELCOME TO THE GOODTIMES
QUINN THE ESKIMO
WISER TIME
JAM -> THORN ON MY PRIDE
WOUNDED BIRD
- encore -
SHE
THE NIGHT THEY DROVE OLE DIXIE DOWN

Randoms

- The Shaq freestyle (Kobe call out) makes me smile.

- Barry Melrose as the Tampa Bay Lightening coach? I would have guessed he'd be more likely to cameo in a Will Ferrell movie. I may pay (minimal) attention to hockey.

- Yes, I watch Nashville Star.

The 2008 US Open - Torrey Pines

- Love the opening 9 (back) from Justin Hicks, zero pars! Turns in 33.

- Good to see Owen Wilson has recovered from his suicide attempt, -2 thru 11.

- BIG fan of US Open in prime time. Something with meaning, rather than the 'Shootout at Sherwood'.

Little late for picks, but sources can verify I predicted Steve Stricker.

RIP Jim McKay and George Garrett

While Jim McKay hasn't broadcast sporting events recently, his passing is very sad, as his voice (along with a few others, notable Keith Jackson and Ken Venturi) was a voice I distinctly remember while watching sports growing up. Wide World of Sports was always an enjoyable break from morning sports and a late afternoon spent at the pool.

On a more personal note, the passing of George Garrett was especially sad. I had the pleasure of taking multiple Garrett classes at UVA, which were one day a week, and consisted of Mr. Garrett delivering an extended monologue about time spent with the likes of Martin Landau and other contemporaries. Class normally fell on a Wednesday afternoon, and we'd pick up large Cokes and split a fifth three ways to enjoy the class, which he absolutely loved. I made a few trips to his faculty office, and the case of Scotch next to his desk always brought a wry smile to my face. Easily my favorite (and one of the few remembered) professors at UVA, he will be missed.

Also - http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/30/books/30garrett.html

Did the final 3 count?

The SV 3 at the buzzer in the Lakers game pushes the final score to 8 in a game with a 7.5 point spread.

Wow.

English Language Additions

Two additional words for the English language:

Divershit - n. - To excuse oneself from work to discreetly partake in an enjoyable activity (reading a newspaper article, playing a game on the phone, etc.).

Villainteer - n. - 1. The act of participating in an event/activity due to peer pressure. 2. Being forced to participate in an event/activity because for which you signed up in advance, forgot about, and had to be reminded.

$hit Cup 2008

Last weekend seven friends from college and I converged on Williamsburg for the playing of the 2008 $hit Cup. What is it? A match-play style format (five rounds) awarding a ca$h prize for the best overall match record (rotation of partners/opponents), and the $hit Cup for last. I strongly suggest Williamsburg for a golf trip, as we were able to play two courses at Kingsmill, two at the Golden Horseshoe, and Stonehouse on Sunday. Stayed a few miles from the courses and had easy access to Colonial Williamsburg for post-round festivities.

Scores? Friday 78 (w/front 9 35)-82
Saturday 83-87
Sunday 87, easily the worst putting round of my life

Overall match record 1-2-2, missing being a $hit Cup recipient by 1/2 point. Was able to gut our a Sunday half and propel my partner to the title (while avoiding the $C). Hard to believe of 10 matches, 4 were halved. Very close competition. Shoot me an email if anyone wants the complete spreadsheet, which is impressive.

Redskins

So, the Redskins just took 2WR and a TE (who can't wake up to an alarm)in the 2nd round of the NFL draft. Assuming all three make the team (later Reche Caldwell and Keen McCardell), three of the top six targets on offense are going to be rookies, who will be on the receiving end of passes from a QB coming off injury, behind a suspect OL. Meanwhile, a team thinning and aging at LB and OL does little to bolster the respective corps.

I have my fingers crossed for a 'Fun Bunch' type resurrection, but put the chances in 2008 at 10%. Isn't inserting three R on offense a signal of a franchise in the stages of rebuilding?

So...

...either I am an idiot, or the Caps / Flyers Game 7 is blacked out in DC.

Playoff hockey, catch the fever!

The 2008 Masters

I’ve been dying to write this post for years.

I (finally) had the opportunity attend The Masters. My father was able to procure teickets from a family friend and I was in attendance for the Thursday and Friday rounds. My thoughts and impressions of the event can be easily grouped.

The Course/Experience:

Having been following the Masters for @ 20 years to actually attend the event is a great experience. The course is amazing, but not for its jaw dropping beauty, but its jaw dropping elevation changes and subtle nuances. TV does not do justice to the elevation of the course; multiply what you see on TV by 2.5.

In regards to the course, a few of the subtle challenges:

2 – What a fantastic strategic 5 par. Requires a draw off the tee and a fade to hold the green and puts a greater premium on shot making than brute strength.

Amen Corner – We chose to walk to Amen Corner early on Friday, breakfast in hand, to survey the holes when there were few patrons around. Quite the sight. Went back both days to watch a few shots (many on 11/12) but found the solitary viewing to be more enjoyable.

13 – The landing area on 13 is amazingly miniscule. To get in a position to reach the green you must essentially launch a draw that lands blind.

15 – From 80 yards off the tee, the fairway appears wide and appealing, but once walking back to the tee, the subtle upslope impairs any view of the fairway, making the tee shot blind (and more difficult).

Players:

After walking the front nine early on Thursday, we walked to our seats on 16 to watch a few groups, have lunch, and return to walking. Upon reaching the green, the pin was not in its normal position, rather in the lower left collection area by the front of the trap. I told my Dad, “we may want to watch all the groups come through, as we could possibly see a hole-in-one”, Poulter was in the 3rd group, and it was an amazing experience.

Just as amazing, his playing partner, Mark O’Meara, went 2-2 on Thursday/Friday and wasn’t low score in his group (Poulter went 1-2). Kuehene played the hole in 8 (with a Friday shank, almost hitting the 15 grandstand, leading to a 5).

Heard ‘Fore please, Ben Crenshaw now teeing off.’ Gentle Ben proceeded to hit a 230 yard hook into the trees.

Paul Casey hits a long ball. Was in a pairing with Goosen and Scott and was easily out driving both. I was shocked he collapsed on Sunday.

Boo Weekley, after parring the 7th on Friday, threw in the biggest lipper imaginable.

Potpourri:

On Thursday, after power-walking to set up our chairs at 16, we settled on 3 to watch the tee shots and approach into the shallow green, pin tucked on the left. One of the earlier groups was Mark O’Meara, Ian Poulter, and Trip Kuehene. A couple approached us on the rope and started to ask about who had come through, the hole, etc. (normal to start conversations with bystanders @ the Masters). The guy was wearing a tee shirt and Capri black jeans, with a large goatee and bug-eye shades, not golf attire. After a few minutes of conversation it dawns on me he’s Hank Kuehene, following Trip, and joined by his girlfriend, Venus Williams. We talked a bit about his game and the need for improvement, and I wished her a quick recovery and luck in upcoming tournaments. Very gracious/nice couple.

To reference prior Poulter hole-in-one story, while celebrating, I look towards the green, and five seats over, high fiving with his buddies, the Ole’ Ball Coach, Steve Spurrier.

Watching shots into 11 on Thursday, found myself next to/conversing with a ‘true Southern gentleman’ in his early 70s. After a good approach I commented, ‘wow, he made that look easy.” His quip? (in Southern drawl) ‘Just as easy as counting your money.’

On Friday, found a great perch behind the 7 green patron seats with an unobstructed view of 7 and the tees @ 3 & 8. Asked the patron in the seat I was behind how the hole had been playing and got a quick recap from Bo Ryan, said patron.

Recap:

Attending the Masters was an A+. I really enjoyed viewing the holes before they received their daily play, and being able to watch the event in the future, and knowing how the holes align on the course (i.e. how from the 7 green you can watch groups tee off on 3 and 8).

Flashback / Dig

Listening to Pandora while doing work and heard 'Saint Stephen', which I probably haven't heard in 9 years. Really took me back to my college days.

Other songs transporting me back to Grounds:

Anything off Three Snakes and One Charm - Black Crowes (first week of first year)
Little Black backpack
Anything by the Pharcyde
Yellow Ledbetter

On a related note, I've often assailed 1990's music, which I would rate 'mediocre' but to this day one of my favorite albums is the self-titled Dig album. It is worth $5 if you've never heard.

HTS! HTS! HTS!

Tired

...and need to be put to rest:

People toting NCAA brackets in public. It is the equivalent of an adult bringing his mitt to a professional baseball game.

Amy Nelson as a reporter. Her Washington Nats piece is horrible.

Few Rattlers

A few things bouncing around in my head.

I had a great time at the NCAA games at the Verizon Center (Purdue, X, Duke, WVU). Got our tickets (great seats) through a WVU connection (someone from Stafford having a WVU connection, who knew?). great to see WVU fans wearing overalls to the game. It was disappointing we saw no upsets, but wouldn't be surprised if WVU beats Xavier. I need another 48 hours of Huggy Bear jokes. Really impressed by Purdue basketball, with an extremely young team. With a taste of the tournament in 2008 I expect big things next year. Before I heard Drew Lavender was on a bad wheel, I was perplexed how a 5'8" guard couldn't shoot. Funny/sad episode between sessions, watching adults binge drink at Clyde's. Many were perturbed the Verizon Center wasn't serving, but can you imagine being able to drink for 12 straight hours? The place would have resembled Thriller.

Recent musical rota - old Whiskeytown, The Rentals, the new Crowes.

I have no idea why (Glenn) Doc Walker is nicknamed Doc. I must get to the bottom of this.

Like Uncle Eddie said...

Bingo.

You're telling me the Belmont band doesn't know 'Thank God I'm a Country Boy'? It would have turned Verizon upside down.

Firstdibz.com

The site is self-explanatory. It is endorsed and supported by the NCAA (who takes a 17% commission on sales).

Just another avenue to make money...for the NCAA.

NCAA Brackets

Considering I've been completing NCAA brackets for twenty years, I figured I'd bestow some knowledge on the many variations of ways to complete. There is a huge difference between intent and commitment.

1.) Favorites bracket - Hearing 'chalk' annoys me to no end. The Favorites bracket avoids any true upsets, and predicts a boring Final 4.

2.) 'Satisfaction' bracket - The most widely known story in rock 'n roll is how Keith Richards found the opening chords to Satisfaction from a recorded session months earlier, when he was in a stupor and too slammed to initially remember. The Satisfaction bracket turns chaos into a symphony, with the favorites emerging from a first weekend with many upsets and triumphant lower seeds.

3.) Poison pill/Godzilla bracket - A bracket crafted of the finest porcelain, gorgeous, but once something unexpected happens (early loss of a team expected to dominate, misjudging the strength of a conference in the tournament) the firing sequence is immediately launched. Bridges collapse, buildings implode, Godzilla chases the population down city streets.

4.) Moonwalk bracket - When you know who you want in the Final Four, and work your way backwards through the bracket.

5.) Homer Simpson Meteor bracket - Loosely based on 'The Simpsons' episode, where Homer was the only resident of Springfield who correctly predicted an incoming satellite would burn up in the atmosphere and be harmless to the town, having a hunch that plays out to fruition, against the common sentiment. My last almost-HSMB was when a Salim Stoudamire led Arizona team lost to Deron William's Illinois team in the Great Eight, squandering ten points in 3 1/2 minutes. Like Homer, I was poked in the eye by the pebble/meteor.

6.) Beat UVA bracket - Going long on teams who have beaten UVA in the calendar year (Tennessee anyone?).

I strongly suggest completing brackets by following multiple disciplines.

NCAAs

Very excited for the NCAA games in Washington DC. Not overly enthused Duke is the 2, but Belmont, having made the tournament for three straight years, may make it interesting. I am looking forward to:

1. WVU v. Arizona
2. Watching Purdue play
3. Drew Lavender

4. Not being surprised when Georgetown loses to Davidson.

Great Move

I am appalled by the Clemson (Tommy Bowden) decision to give Ray Ray McElrathbey his walking papers. Further proving college football is a business, and not interested in advancing the academic prospects of student athletes.

I truly miss the days of George Welsh at Virginia. Admittedly, Groh has his shortcomings, namely ensuring proper academic support to his players, but his approach to coaching/player development far surpasses the Bowden antics.

#44

I could write for days on the respect I have for Sean Singletary; I am grateful for his contributions to the UVA basketball program and his general character.

Feb. 19th 2005, I remember sitting in a hotel room in West Palm Beach, screen door open to catch the breeze from the ocean and enjoy an escape from DC for President's Day weekend. UVA v. UMD, not expecting much, but was blown away by the competitiveness, aggressiveness, and overall demeanor of #44. He abused John Gilchrist with an array of moves and misdirections. Unfortunately, his efforts extended the game for 10 minutes, but couldn't produce the win.

A win on Senior Night over Maryland and surpassing 2000 points was deserving closure on a season which didn't meet UVA expectations. The team was plagued with countless frontcourt injuries. Lacking support, #44 drove recklessly to the hoop (innately) and found the floor more than he found the foul line. He's got a short memory, as it didn't stop him, or temper his game instincts.

Funny how my most vivid memories of #44 come in losses (2005 UMD, 2007 NCAA v. UT, and his subsequent collapse on the court). #44 is a competitor who will be missed at UVA, and a departing cause for celebration throughout the ACC.

Thank you #44.

Twice As Hard

Did a quick review of the top 100 songs of the 1990s. The Black Crowes are the ONLY good band to emerge from the decade. The only other band I consider 'good' is Alice in Chains, who crumbled with the unfortunate passing on Layne Staley. AIC may be the most underrated band of all time.

Still chewing on 'Warpaint', the new Crowes album. Some songs are great, but the band/album is hurt by their virtuoso live performances. Songs with potential to be amazing live are too tight or too flat on the album.

Found Twice as Hard on Youtube. So funny to watch their early stuff. What was Chris Robinson on?

Honestly,

In all Honesty, it was a real shame to hear of Patrick Swayze's battle with pancreatic cancer. Patrick played a part in two of my favorite twenty-so movies, Dalton in Road House and Bodhi in Point Break, additionally, he participated in my favorite SNL skit of all time.

On a related note, a rarely seen Chris Farley video .

Top 10 Songs of the 1980s

The list has been a long time coming. My Top 10 Songs of the 1980s. The order is fluid, hence no numbering:

Alone - Heart
Let's Go Crazy - Prince
Who Can It Be Now - Men at Work
Photograph - Def Leppard
Paradise City - Guns N' Roses
Panama - Van Halen
Nothin' But a Good Time - Poison
Hungry Like the Wolf - Duran Duran
Livin' On a Prayer - Bon Jovi
The Power of Love - Huey Lewis

Honorable Mention:

Electric Avenue - Eddy Grant
Cruel Summer - Bananarama
The Warrior - Scandal
Hit Me with Your Best Shot - Pat Benetar

Under / Over

Underrated : Sebastian Bach, 'Comin' Under Fire' by Def Leppard, the Super Spinach burrito from Burrito Brothers.

Todays NY Times outlines the attacks the Republicans plan to wage against Obama during the election campaign. Obviously neither party will avoid stooping to scare tactics, but the fear and rhetoric of the Republicans is very disappointing. It is very easy to assail the change Obama constitutes, but if you review what he supports and what the Republicans are attacking, common sense renders many of his opinions/actions moot. He'd meet with Raul Castro? So what, what can come of a meeting. People are going to interpret any action/meeting from their own viewpoint, so as long as he can justify his actions, so be it. Licenses to illegals? Like they aren't driving anyway.

Would it be too difficult to move away from a platform of scare tactics, propaganda, and manipulation?

Happy Leap Day! Happy Leap Day Birthday to Cary Conklin, Antonio Sabato Jr., and Chucky Brown.

RIP - Myron Cope

Rest in peace Myron Cope. The passing of the iconic broadcaster brings back many fond memories of trips to Pittsburgh to see relatives over Christmas break, listening to Cope and the Steelers on the radio. Cope was pure and true Pittsburgh. His voice was a treat, and always good for a laugh and smile. Yoi and double yoi!

Odds and Ends

Stumbled across the Oklahoma State promotional video for their football stadium and facility upgrades. Yawn. As stadium upgrades have devolved into an arms race, I am surprised no school escapes from the well-beaten incremental path of bigger, louder, more expensive and creates a truly memorable experience. Instead of watching an MTV Cribs episode for the latest and greatest, it would be memorable to to anything considered different. Instead of solely focusing on sport and school, it would be interesting to incorporate non-linear aspects like nutrition, art/science, and non-traditional athletics. I'd love to see a facility with a wave pool/lazy river and a video conference room with regularly scheduled meetings with business leaders.

Walter Reed has hired Disney to improve its service interactions. I applaud their efforts, but they stop extremely short. How many employees are going to fall back on conference lessons-learned a day/week/year from now? They need to train, track, and provide feedback to create true value. The fly-in conference method is worthless.

Much Ado About Nothing

I was glad to read how the US Navy had no problem shooting down the dangerous satellite fuel tank orbiting earth. I could harp on the money wasted on the satellite, the firing exercise, and the PR efforts required to address shooting down the satellite, which are all legitimate, but a well-worn path. With the number of satellites and paraphernalia circling the earth thank goodness we don't come into contact with other life forms. I'd be embarrassed. Earth must look like a Mississippi front yard, cluttered with satellites and junk, much like a trailer encircled with rusted cars on cinder blocks and tattered weight benches.

Watched a recap of the Accenture Match Play. JB Holmes was shell shocked after his loss to TW, which was a fantastic match. Aside from his heroics, I don't see Tiger winning the event. I predict a Stenson repeat.

Top 5 - Black Crowes

I'm stoked for the new Black Crowes album, and summer tour. In honor, my top five studio tracks. I do not take into account any song performed live (which would produce an entirely different list).

5. Remedy
4. Sister Luck
3. Cursed Diamond
2. Hotel Illness
1. Twice as Hard

Two days...

Until Grace Potter at 930.

Multiple shows (check)
On both coasts (DC and SF) (check)
30+ (check)

I've reached 'creep' status.

Looking forward to weekend sports:

3. Don't call it the Nissan Northern Trust Open (I need a bounceback from the diminutive Canadian)

2. NBA All Star Game

1. Daytona 500 - Two words, Kurt Busch

The Casual Fan

Considering how UVA basketball (and athletics, in general) has been a complete letdown in 2008, I found myself deeply engaged in the Clemson/UNC game last night. Being a 'casual fan' of other ACC teams (essentially, close and competitive games) my small piece of knowledge, and the ability to root candidly and honestly, makes me extremely dangerous.

1.) I wanted UNC to win (60/40) because:
c. Clemson losing after having a 15 pt. 2nd half lead would be soul-crushing
b. 0-53 sounds has a greater stigma than 1-52
a. I didn't want UVA to encounter a poked hornets nest UNC squad on Tuesday, after a monumental loss to the Tigers

2.) I expressed minor (40/60) sentiment for Clemson because;
b. A win in Chapel Hill would have unleashed celebration hysterics worth watching (a moot point, as the game was quickly cut-away to get to Wizzz)
a. The referees were handing the game to UNC (+20 FT discrepancy)

99% of fans would claim it is weak to weigh allegiances during a game, but it is certainly a phenomena we've all experienced. Who hasn't. Fandom, in neutral games, shouldn't be a binary endeavor. No shame should come from weighing the options. If I'm stuck in traffic, I'll opt for an alternative route, sacrificing a scenic drive to expedite my commute.

Elsewhere:

1. Great golf at the AT&T. The escape from the bunker by Steve Lowery on 9 was (presumably) the best shot I'll see all year. It was eclipsed by Vijay Singh in the next pairing. Really enjoyed watching SL win the tournament, always good for a journeyman pro, but SL in contention = excitement.

2. PGA Tour wonks are quick to quip the Tour's elite (save Tiger) are failing to win tournaments in 2008, which is extremely near sighted. Credit should be given to the actual winners, which include a 31 by Tiger over the final 9 holes (Dubai), a -10 thru 15 hole stretch and birdie in the playoff by SL, and 350 yard drives and birdie-birdie finish by JB Holmes at the FBR. Great start to the 2008 season.

3. Missed a chance to see Obama speak at TC Williams HS down the street. Very disappointed.

TLs

Maybe it is because I am turning 30, but the whole aging thing culminated in a phone call/visit to the optometrist yesterday (Thursday). I had my initial visit last Friday (after a three year hiatus) when the prognosis was, essentially "how are you driving with your current prescription". Lo and behold, I ordered a new pair of glasses, and was to have my old pair refitted with new lenses. Ironed out the details, new glasses to arrive in February, new lenses for old glasses ASAP, and a quick switch-out.

The details I glossed over were that I chose transition lenses. Upside, great for outdoor activities (golf). Downside...uhhh every other idea imaginable. Not 10 seconds after having the new lenses, and having them UV'ed to dark, I looked like a complete Communist dictator. I literally shuddered on the way to the car, and it hasn't gotten better since.

TLs are crazy, as they were put into my old/normal glasses. They don't put TLs in sunglasses, so you don't walk around like your looking for a racquetball game 24/7. But honestly, if I fell for clear TLs in sunglasses, I'd be an aviator cap away from being the weirdo in 'A Christmas Story'.

You know what sucks about TLs? Unlike the original commercial (pulled off the air), the 'transition' isn't immediate, aka, I walk to the client site, go to a meeting, and, since I can't shake them clean (like an Etch a Sketch) I look like Elton 'effing John. It is tough to garner respect when my clients are wondering if Saturday Night's Alright for Fightin'. So, my abhorration for TLs has led to me negotiating SE DC without glasses. I'm guessing this happens to everyone under 60 with TLs, a class action suit in the making.

On the bright side, I can go as Joe Gibbs for Halloween 2008.

Holy Smokes.

DBT and the Perfect (Non) Strike

Last night during one of our bowling league matches I saw the perfect ball rolled, and it didn't result in a strike. Bowling is such an interesting sport. My scores for three games had a range of 103.

New DBT 'Brighter Than Creation's Dark' came out Tuesday and is amazing. I considered it an early birthday gift.

Does MTV test for steroids on the 'Real World/Road Rules Challenge'? I can say with a high level of confidence they don't, or it would deplete the available pool of contestants. Seriously, the show has massive participants, who rage at the slightest sip of alcohol. It is a Clemens'esque broken bat throw away from a Congressional hearing.

Big 3-0 hits on Sunday. I've never been one to self-promote/draw attention, but I am looking very forward to celebrating and my thirties.

Friday Shots

- What ever happened to the screwdriver? It is rapidly becoming extinct. I can't remember the last piece of furniture/cabinet I purchased that wasn't assembled with an allen wrench.

- How many times has George W. Bush made his bed in his life? Less than 5?

- That sound you heard was UVA athletics imploding. It wasn't too audible.

- Got a Cutter and Buck catalog in the mail yesterday. Holy $hit, they are still making the exact same line from 1994. I suggest ordering a copy, it is hilarious.

- Glad the brothers Zahn joined our PGA pool. I can't wait to see the response when he realizes Buckmir doesn't charge himself $100 for his admin duties, although he probably makes $500 a year riding the carry.

Obama Edwards Coalition

Although I rarely turn my attention to politics, I was both amused and annoyed by the WP recap of the Democratic New Hampshire debate . The campaign being run by Hillary is wholly robotic, and an analogy can be easily drawn to sports, where a favorite alters their game plan (increased attacks, more informal during stumping) based on the performance of an upstart. Her robotic nature led to baited repartee over universal health care and a required mandate for children's health care. Her continued rallying cry to review experience I render out of scope, because the Presidency requires skills surpassing any other elected position. Personally, I favor the Obama/Edwards emotive credibility, to augment their base of experience. Every candidate has experience, but not Presidential experience, so addressing experience is a non-factor.

Do I know today who I am voting for in November? No. I also realize no candidate (Democrat or Republican) will be the perfect ideological match, and will vote for a candidate who, while not supporting all of my personal beliefs, I consider to be the best choice for the office of Chief Executive. Campaigns and debates have the ability to highlight individual issues, individual records, when electing a President is a macro endeavor.

SHH

If I were to ask if you know the definition 'Southern Hemisphere Hangover', would you?

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+.