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.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
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.
1. WVU v. Arizona
2. Watching Purdue play
3. Drew Lavender
4. Not being surprised when Georgetown loses to Davidson.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
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.
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.
Monday, March 10, 2008
#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.
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.
Friday, March 07, 2008
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?
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?
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
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 .
On a related note, a rarely seen Chris Farley video .
Friday, February 29, 2008
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
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.
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.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
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!
Monday, February 25, 2008
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.
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.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, February 15, 2008
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
5. Remedy
4. Sister Luck
3. Cursed Diamond
2. Hotel Illness
1. Twice as Hard
Thursday, February 14, 2008
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
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
Monday, February 11, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, January 25, 2008
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.
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.
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, January 18, 2008
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.
- 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.
Sunday, January 06, 2008
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.
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.
Saturday, January 05, 2008
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