Style Blogs

As the list of blogs I follow evolves, I've gained interest in style blogs, which also seem to be proliferating. A few good (great) ones that won't steer your wrong:

A Time To Get - The best, a great place to start, and possibly end. Amazing content (LA based), and Nick is a great guy. I've read from start to finish. Also runs The Get Up and Get Down
A Continuous Lean - One of the bigger style spots, with excellent content
Manifold Destiny - DC based, although you'd be hard pressed to guess.
You Have Broken the Internet - Coming hard out of Chicago.

Pet Sounds

Is Brian Wilson's beard an homage to Brian Wilson's beard?

Ryder Cup - Friday

The US rain suits have already been fired. Ms. Pavin is not available for comments. Honestly, if you ditch the original raingear, why wouldn't you let the team wear their own?

You're getting old when you remember Squeegeegate from 1995 @ Oak Hill, when they weren't squeegeeing through the hole.

2010 Ryder Cup - Fourball

7:45 AM -- Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson (USA) vs. Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer (EUR)
8:00 AM -- Stewart Cink and Matt Kuchar (USA) vs. Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell (EUR)
8:15 AM -- Steve Stricker and Tiger Woods (USA) vs. Ian Poulter and Ross Fisher (EUR)
8:30 AM -- Bubba Watson and Jeff Overton (USA) vs. Luke Donald and Padraig Harrington (EUR)

I give Captain Corey Pavin (CCP) a C+. Furyk would hvae paired well with Cink, Watson, or Overton, as would Zach Johnson, who excels at 8-15 foot putts. I'm not surprised Mahan has a late wake up call, but I think Fowler could have have energized the US team with an early win. Additionally, I'm sure Watson/Fowler have orchestrated some crazy handshakes for post birdie/eagle celebration.

Thankfully, European Captain Montgomerie fared almost as poorly (B-). Kaymer is a must play, as are Westwood, McIlroy, and McDowell, but his final two pairings are short hitting duos, and Harrington's flight should have been scheduled to arrive Saturday evening. Ross Fisher is a wildcard, and Luke Donald is playing well.
Europe's final pairings are too similar in their games.

Expect a short course setup in the morning.

Ryder Cup 2010

Celtic Manor is upon the us. The Ryder Cup is two days away. Corey Pavin, heed my advice, and fist pumping up the fairways carrying the Ryder Cup trophy will be almost as sweet as your Cleveland 4W baton at Shinnecock Hills in 1995.

Friday AM - Fourball

Tiger Woods & Steve Stricker - The dynamic duo from Harding Park, the pairings works, and they should be inseparable during the week.

Phil Mickelson & Dustin Johnson - Practcie round buddies, requested to play together. Grant their request (only in fourball).

Jeff Overton & Jim Furyk - Team USA has a propensity for playing all team members on Day 1, and you don't want JO spraying it in the afternoon foursomes. Pair him with the hot hand and Ryder Cup vet.

Bubba Watson & Rickie Fowler - Again, a pairing of brochachos. Rookie jitters are superseded by ability to bag fowl.


Friday PM - Foursomes

TW & SS - The Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson (or Danny Devito and Rhea Perlman) of the Ryder Cup

PM & Stewart Cink - Both good putters. SC provides length and accuracy.

Zach Johnson & Matt Kuchar - Put them on the range together in the AM, comaring the likenesses between Des Moines and Atlanta. Plus, a hotter hand (ZJ) and the slightly-cooling-off MK.

JF & Hunter Mahan - Both have Ryder Cup experience, and their games (similar length & putting ability) mesh well.

KC Chiefs - 3-0

The title is a bit of a misnomer, as I'm more impressed with Thomas Jones than the Chiefs staying undefeated through Week 3. The guy just wins ballgames. A three time castaway (Cardinals, Bears, Jets), his teams are winners, and he produces, often in the backup RB role. He's a great platoon player, and knows his role.

Jeff George

I was at the beach LDW and wanted to throw around the pigskin. The only option was a relic. Not the contemporary Nerf-y garbage, the football was older than 80% of the people on the beach. If it were to get wet, it would have weighed 93lbs. It was autographed by Knute Rockne.

Man did my arm hurt all week.

Ryder Cup Captain's Picks

I'm guessing Pavin selects (in order of confidence):

Tiger Woods
Zach Johnson
Stewart Cink
Anthony Kim (despite the bad wrist)

I'm shaky on my Kim pick, if not Kim, I'd expect Nick Watney. I'd love to see Rickie Fowler, but I think we'll have to wait until 2012.

Sorry Charlie Hoffman, if one tournament win made you a selection, Greg Kraft (Puerto Rico 2009) should be really upset.

Chambers Bay Postmortem

The 2010 Amateur was the unveiling of Chambers Bay. While the course was a stern test for the field (it can be stretched to 7700 yards) I don't know how it will fare when the US Open is contested at CB in 2015.

I don't see how CB can be groomed to US Open standards. The rough is wispy and doesn't receive irrigation, and bunkers line many of the fairways, in lieu of rough. The bunkers won't be as penal as the deep rough which has become a US Open hallmark.

The greens are severely undulated, requiring novel approaches which take advantages of the bounces to find the right level of the putting surfaces. If the surrounding turf was to be grown to US Open height, it would negate the banking required for shots to approach the hole, and detract from the original intention of the course. Conditions (wind, rain) didn't appear to play much of a factor.

What will make CB difficult? Length? The amateurs were hitting mid-iron approaches on 500+ yard par fours. I guess the course could be stretched (8000+?), but it needs to be configured in reverse. Figure out what club/shots should be hit for approaches, and place tees accordingly.

2010 US Amateur

In the same vein of Whistling Straits, the 2010 US Amateur is at Chambers Bay. Scotland in Washington (state). I'm all for introducing new courses into the 'elite US rota', but is an imported feel a prerequisite for membership in the club?

Great five by David Chung at the 26th hole. Really utilized the slope of the green for the hole-out par. Great individual, as is Peter Uihlein. Two highly ranked amateurs (#4 and #1, respectively) in the midst of great summers. (Chung winning the Western Amateur).

Sleeper Cell

In an effort to get healthy, I've tried to eat/drink better (I no longer drink soda) and exercise daily. To improve my mental health, I may need to give up sports radio.

The "analysis" of the circadian rhythms of Jim Furyk is ridiculous. The situation can be stated in two words.

He overslept.

Hosts/callers have opened Pandora's box regarding the laziness/spoiled nature of athletes ("he's entitled and doesn't have to attend mandatory functions"), which flies past the border of absurd into downright stupidity.

How it is still a story on Friday, I have no idea. There is tournament golf being played (FedEx tournament golf, for what that is worth).

PGA 2010

Great to see Darren Clarke play a good first round, a win would be well deserved.

I don't know what to make of Whistling Straits. Is it links golf, or a cookie cutter Pete Dye. Having played the Pete Dye club in West Virginia, I see many similarities, to include fairways with excessive contours, and severe changes (elevation, angle, lie) from fairway to rough. Large greens which rely on undulations rather than shape, and surrounding mounding and bunkering. Over bunkering in the fairways.

I'm not overly impressed. I guess I'm a sucker for golf history, and a Vijay Singh win doesn't qualify.

Thinking back to the Vijay win, where is Chris DiMarco these days?

Seriously?

In the vein of micromanaging, microreporting from the PGA.

"The first and ninth tees remained shrouded in fog. No player was actively hitting balls on the range. Australians Jason Day and Stuart Appleby were having a conversation, while Day simultaneously bounced a golf ball with his wedge. Appleby finally removed his visor, hooked it on his bag and walked to the locker room."

The Hawk

I've always been a huge fan of Andre Dawson. He'd wield the bat like a flyswatter with a vendetta.

Greenbrier Classic Post Mortem

A wonderful week for The Greenbrier Classic. It started with Erik Compton in the lead, and ended with Stuart Appleby's 59 to clinch the tournament win by a shot. Can anyone really complain when scores are in the mid/low 60s, with one 59? Let the pros shoot -68, I prefer the birdie-fest to the monotonous finishes at other tournaments (US Open).

Wonderful win for Appleby, he's one of the true nice guys on Tour, and easily one of the most resilient (possibly #2, behind Compton).

It was embarrassing to watch Jeff Overton repeatedly tamp down spike marks on Sunday, in addition to repeated club drops on his follow-through, cursing, and his visor toss, which brought back George Welsh memories. He needs a major demeanor adjustment.

Charles Howell III played a bogey free tournament, his reward? T9. Crazy.

The Greenbrier Open

The hero and the...

Co-leaders after Round One are Erik Compton and Matt Every. The two time heart transplant recipient and the laughingstock of the PGA for his possession charge.

Future Major Winners - Who, Where, and When

Watching Louis Oosthuizen pulverize St. Andrews out of nowhere (he'd made one cut in a Major) got me to wondering who will be the next first time winners in Majors, and when. In order of overall likelihood of winning a Major:

5. Ian Poulter (2011, Royal St. George's). IPs game is suited for links golf, I was surprised he didn't play better @ St. Andrews. IP isn't the youngest (34), if he doesn't get it in the next 3-4 years, his window may have closed. I wouldn't be surprised if he played well at Whistling Straits in the PGA.

4. Rickie Fowler (US Open, Merion, 2013). Oozes game, and played well (back door T14 A St. Andrews) in windy conditions @ his first professional experience in the British Open. I thought his swing would break down in the wind, but it only got stronger. I look forward to seeing it taxed on the leaderboard of a Major.

3. Rory McIlroy (US Open, Congressional C.C., 2011). Young, with many opportunities to win. Game is well suited for all Majors.

2. Anthony Kim (Masters, Augusta National, 2011). Remember him? He's been missing from the headlines since surgery to repair his wrist, but his game (length, putting) is suited for Augusta (no rough).

1. Martin Kaymer (PGA, Atlanta A.C. 2011). Great swing? Check. Young? Check (24). Major experience? Check (T7 @ Open). Other wins? Check (Five Euro Tour wins). MK will win multiple Majors. His stoicism reminds me of fellow countryman Bernhard Langer.

The Open - 2010

Lee Westwood is my pick for the week. Scores are going to be ridiculously low. McIlroy will only gain confidence with a great first round.

Meanwhile, a great story developing with John Daly.

Circling the Drain

Wow, the list of unsigned NBA free agents is awful.

The only players with any redeeming value:

1. Shaun Livingston - Unfortunately, his time in DC is over, with the drafting of John Wall.

2. Quentin Richardson - He is still good for 10 & 4.

3. Linas Kleiza - Good size, can play a number of positions. Good hustle.

The Wizards should try to sign McGrady (a consistent forward, with Grant Hill renaissance potential?) or any of the aforementioned (even Livingston, as a Wall backup).

59!?!?!

How is Paul Goydos' 59 at the John Deere Classic not on the front page of espn.com?

Has golf become that irrelevant?

Ordering the 59s (best/worst)

1. David Duval @ Bob Hope Chrysler Classic - 4th Round - 'The Fatty Fist Pump'
2. Al Geiberger
3. Paul Goydos
4. Chip Beck

Disappointing

It was disappointing to see Kevin Durant resigned with Oklahoma City. I was hoping he'd return to his DC roots after his contract expired.

I'll continue (or start, maybe) the Carmelo Anthony vigil.He'd pair great with John Wall (or anyone running the point).

Brinson Paolini - VSGA Amateur Champion

Brinson Paolini is a name to follow in golf. Having just completed his ACC Freshman of the Year season at Duke, he won his unprecedented 3rd straight VSGA Amateur title. At 19 years old. The kid can play. I expect him to follow in the footsteps of previous VSGA Amateur champions (John Rollins), and parlay his win into professional success. Belle Haven is a difficult golf course, and he owned it.

Caption Contest

The confluence of Eric's two loves?

2010 Majors

Excellent first day at the US Open, with coverage stretching until 10pm EST. A West Coast US Open @ Pebble (late) and the British @ St. Andrews (early) I don't think we'll ever see better adjacent Majors (on the heels of a memorable Masters).

Unfortunately, the PGA is at Whistling Straits, which pales in comparison to the other venues. The only PGA location comparable to the first three Majors would be Baltusrol.

At Pebble, I completely missed the Hudson Swafford 8-9 finish (after coverage stopped). He got Santana Moss'ed.

The 2010 US Open @ Pebble Beach

The opening round of the 2010 US Open is upon us. The US Open should be played at Pebble Beach more frequently. Maybe once every eight years? I'd like to see a Pebble, Oakmont, Shinnecock 'mini-rota' every eight years, with the other five years in the rota being populated by lesser courses (Bethpage, anything but Olympic).

As for the tournament, history dictates the winner will be a iconic golfer at the top of his game (Nicklaus, Watson, errrr Kite, Woods).

Long Shot - David Duval. Plays US Opens well.
Dark Horse - Francesco Molinari. Like his plodding/accurate game.
Favorite - Ernie Els. Pebble Beach is a fitting venue for Major #4 for The Big Easy.

Happy 40th Birthday

Phil Mickelson. A triumph at Pebble Beach would be a great present.

Erik Compton

The kid is a true fighter, and a story everyone should know. A true hero of golf. He epitomizes what it means to be an athlete, and to compete.

I'm excited for the US Open at Pebble Beach. Johnny Miller stated (paraphrased), 'The US Open should be contested on three courses, Pebble Beach, Oakmont, and Shinnecock Hills.' Which I decipher as, 'The US Open should be contested on three courses, Oakmont, Oakmont, and Oakmont.'

John Wooden

The world lost the best, with the passing of John Wooden. He transcended his occupation, a truly great man.

My favorite story about John Wooden was how he steadfastly wrote love letters to his wife, Nell, , even after her passing (twenty four years ago).

On Friday, he asked his son to give him a fresh shave. When his son asked why, John responded.

"I'm going to see Nell."

Miserable Company - LG

We've recently replaced our air conditioning units. The old units were Chrysler units, which lasted easily 20+ years. We upgraded to LG. Unfortunately, the LG in our bedroom is a complete lemon. We fired it up, it doesn't cool, and sounds terrible.

Dealing with LG customer service has been horrible. Their 'process' (which they refuse to divulge) requires a 'unit review' by a repairman to determine if the unit can be repaired, or needs to be replaced. If either is required, based on factors LG won't explain, they decide if they will cover the replacement. They have already raised concerns, since the unit we purchased was made in 2008. They seem to believe they may not cover brand new units made two years ago (!). They also won't let us know the duration of the decision process, which, as temperatures in DC reach 90' is miserable.

Thankfully, we'd been considering LG appliances for our kitchen, which we will now run away from. For a $500 AC unit, they've negated any chance I'll be spending $3000+ on their kitchen appliances. LG's loss, Kenmore or GE's gain.

Update: After another call, even if the unit is determined to be a piece of garbage, and a replacement is sent, LG won't cover the cost of removal of the old unit and installation of the new unit. I'm guessing they sub out the work and won't pay for the associated labor.

STP

The new (self-titled) Stone Temple Pilots album drops today. I've always been a huge fan of the band and consider them to be vastly underrated. Scott Weiland is back, hopefully to deliver the camp from Tiny Music...Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop and driving, soulfulness form Purple. Hard to believe he is still making music, and not a casualty of addiction.

STP occupy a huge chunk of my early 1990s/high school memories. Learning to drive my Grandmother's hand-me-down Chevrolet Cavalier, 'The Brown Hornet', windows rolled down, trying not to stick to the plastic seat.

UVA Men's Golf

Unreal ending to the East Regional @ Yale, as UVA advances to the NCAA Championships.

AB and ER

Attended a wonderful interview session with Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert on Friday night. The event had no set agenda, it was just the two on stage (with a moderator) to discuss their experiences, anecdotes, beliefs, and leanings. Q&A followed, and, finally, a meet and greet and book signing. Both were very humorous, with ER being more understated/subtle than AB.

I enjoyed listening to AB's take on foie gras, which was on point. Food critics should be attacking Monsanto/Cargill ("big food") and the King, Colonel, and Clown as opposed to foie gras. Both AB and ER buy only from purveyors of the highest quality, and when you visit their farms/facilities, "the ducks happily approach humans, which is something you don't experience in a mass produced facility".

Briefly met both at the book signing, and, while being near the end of the line, both were humorous and engaging. To keep on theme, they compared the wait to the wait of a production line, which was apt.

Reflecting on the night, it is apparent the two are good friends (ER introduced AB to his wife) as they engage with ease. I think they'd be a great duo for a movie, possibly a food themed remake of The Apple Dumpling Gang? AB would be a great Tim Conway.

Annoy and Enjoy

Normally I like to keep my writing upbeat, but I need to vent. I watch little TV, but of the few shows I follow, these people annoy me the most.

3. Rachael Ray - Food Network - Seems overly fake, and has bastardized the skill required for great cooking.

2. Michael Breed - The Golf Fix, TGC - An annoying mile-a-minute personality.

1. James Oseland - Top Chef Masters - I love how the chefs/judges rebuke every comment he makes. By the way, food cannot 'be subterfuged', subterfuge is a noun, not a verb.

On a better note, three types of candy reminding me of childhood.

3. Baby Ruth
2. Krakel (or Special Dark) - I don't think I ever had a full (non-mini) bar
1. Rolos

Umbrian Wine Tasting

I attended a wine tasting of Umbrian wines, produced fully organically. Organic production easily leads to a philosophical discussion, as the wine essentially 'makes itself' from the grapes, and the well-timed squeeze of the vinter. Unfortunately, I was not overly impressed with the resulting product. While in some cases it developed for an extended period before bottling (2+ years) there was not a direct relationship to an improvement in quality of the wines. They did not measure up to their Italian brethren.

Regarding the whites, I'm predisposed to assess an Umbrian white (or any Italian white) two immediate strikes. Italian whites are Chris Gaines, why not stick to reds? Poor coloring, a less than floral nose, and a lackluster finish left me unimpressed, and having no inclination to purchase.

Unfortunately the reds really suffered on account of the fully organic production, resulting in very one-note wines. Coloring tended to be on the lighter side, and complexity was non-existent. The wines were very dry, and, in large quantity, would lead to puckering. I don't see how they would pair well with food. Normally, I prefer a bolder red (Brunello or Barolo), but, of the Umbrians, liked the lighter reds, which were more drinkable. Food/cheese parings (especially a brie) would most likely enhance the reds.

I've watched...

...a lot of golf. Rory McIlroy's 62 @ Quail Hollow was one of the best rounds I've ever seen. It was a pleasure to watch. I'm speechless. Wow.

Shots of Thoughts

Fruits of the day (in order of preference): Banana, apple (Granny Smith), raspberries, blueberries. I wish peaches were in season.

Cities I've never visited: LA, Chicago

Cities I want to visit: Nashville, Austin

My guess at the Washington Nationals 2010 record - 76-86

Unappreciated artist: Bob Seeger

A great way to kill five minutes.

NFL Draft Thoughts

- Redskins started to shore their line drafting Williams from Oklahoma. His athleticism pairs well with the running game I'd expect Shanahan to espouse.

- Congratulations to the Denver Broncos for drafting the 2nd best WR in the draft (as opposed to Dex Bryant) and a fullback in the first round (Tim Tebow). Congratulations to the Tim Tebow team, for making him appear to be a serviceable QB. Did Denver lose his tape from the Senior Bowl? Performing well, with an abbreviated throwing motion, in a workout is the equivalent of hitting it well on the driving range. It rarely transitions to the course. Once he is facing a rush, and is forced to move in the pocket, he'll revert to his natural (long) motion, which does not afford enough time to deliver before succumbing to the oncoming rush. Denver needs to develop an excellent running game to give him any chance to succeed.

- The Detroit Lions are building an entertaining team. Bradford, Suh, Best are great faces for the franchise.

- Jimmy Clausen (still in free-fall) has a huge chip on his shoulder. A Drew Brees'esque chip. Time will tell if he uses it to positively motivate his development. I expect him to go to the Vikings @ 34 or the Chefs @ 36.

- The draft on Thursday night was novel, but I'll miss the late Friday scuttlebutt leading up to a Friday draft. I remember the breathless Ed Werder coverage when the Texans chose to draft Mario Williams over Reggie Bush.

- Loved the Make A Wish kid announcing the Steelers pick.

Apple Dumpling Gang

I'm extremely impressed how, in a time of cynicism and explicit ignorance towards advertising gimmicks, Apple's "discovered" 4G iPhone could cause such a stir. As social media expands, like a spilled liquid, Apple exploited the oldest advertising trick in the book, suspension of disbelief.

For the story to be accurate, and the phone loss to be accidental, Apple would have to allow a twenty eight year old engineer to leave the premises with the hone. Apple is the company who made iPad developers work in supervised locations before the release of the device.

The discovered phone was sold (scalped) for $5,000. It could have been sold to a techno-geek for $100K.

Oh, and yesterday Apple released their earnings report. Fortuitous timing.

Well played, Mr. Jobs, well played.

Grounded, Understanding

Yesterday a coworker brought his seven year old daughter to the office, which was a departure from the routine to which I've grown accustomed, to the point of ignoring the obvious. Through the eyes of a child an office must appear overly sanitized, quiet, and structured, which I equate to uninteresting. While we labored, she was engrossed in Shrek, and I'd be lying if my interests didn't begin to lean towards her direction.

The sight of a child in the office enabled me to see many things I've 'unseen' for years, as they've blended into my familiar surroundings. The clacking of keys on the keyboard, the imposing shape of an industrial printer, how to operate a coffee pot. Watching my coworker and his daughter walk the hall, I was shaken from looking without seeing to go beyond the direct image and place the same walk elsewhere, together on the Mall, or into church on a spring morning, rather than executed in an office. One barely knowing the efforts of her Father at work, but knowing her Father.

UVA v. Clemson

I attended the Saturday contest between UVA and Clemson baseball, in Charlottesville. Oh the heels of a UVA lacrosse dressing-down of JHU, the loss didn't have as great a sting as I would have anticipated. Winning the series didn't hurt.

Davenport is a great field to watch a game. LF seating provides a great perspective of the mountains behind the backstop/reserved seating. Being clustered with the outfield pines provides shade and cover from the fading afternoon sun. There are no bad seats at a college baseball game. The play was spottier than the conditions, I was thankful UVA could win the series with their night victory.

NCAA Odds and Ends

Great slate of games yesterday, best opening day for the the NCAAs since 1998 (Bryce Drew of Valparaiso beating Ole Miss @ the buzzer). I've evolved my opinion on what it takes to win games deep into the tournament, from experience/upperclassmen, to an excellent low-post player, to a versatile wing, to...? My point? I've abandoned thoughts on championship formulas as I've come to the realization upsets result from a.) a guard who can penetrate b.) a lights out two guard. Have both, and you've got an entertaining game.

(Aside - UNC v. W&M @ Carmichael on Tuesday was the best NCAA game I've watched in two years.)

- Not surprised by the Texas collapse. Going to be a long summer in Austin. Ish Smith has 68% of the heart of the WF team.

- Carrying your NCAA bracket in public is worse than an adult bringing a mitt to a Major League baseball game.

- Yesterday was so great there was no mention of Kentucky/Kansas (#1) wins.

- An edict of my personal NCAA bracketality states it is advantageous to enter bracket pools of friends who live outside driving distance, to avoid falling prey to location bias (unless Georgetown is a no-show).

- The Big East bandwagon got (slightly) lighter after yesterday's games.

Austin Freeman, Diabetes, and Georgetown

An uneven season for Georgetown men's basketball got more difficult, as Austin Freeman was diagnosed with diabetes. I feel terrible for AF and the team, and hope they can rally around their best player.

Admittedly, I know little about diabetes, and considered it to be a disease brought on by age. I know it comes in various forms, and Type 2 is brought on by obesity. It can afflict anyone (AF, jay Cutler).

Regardless of the outcome of the Georgetown season, I'd like to see AF and John Thompson III bring awareness to the disease. Georgetown needs to create an awareness platform, and seek to educate area residents on the symptoms, in the hopes of early detection.

Things That Would Never Happen

I'd heard the 2010 NFL Draft was deep, but I had no idea. Reviewing the Pre-Combine Draft Board, I can't remember a year with similar talent. Jhavid Best at 40? Wow.

I wish the Redskins would trade down, and dump any/all players of value for draft picks. This is the draft to have multiple picks in the first two rounds.

I can't stand New England (for numerous reasons, but, in this instance, for their multitude of picks).

I Stand Corrected

Sport has risen at the Olympics. Great win by USA Mens' Hockey, Bode Miller, and Even Lysacek.

Tina Fey Back on SNL

Tina Fey is hosting SNL in April, which will be the flagship show of a mediocre season. The Top five SNL skits I'd love to see Tina Fey parody (parody of a parody).

5.Hub's Gyro Guys (the most underrated skit of all time) (Schneider, Sandler)
4. Church Lady (Dana Carvey)
3. Gumby (Eddie Murphy)
2. Sprokets (Mike Meyers)
1. Matt Foley (Chris Farley)

I hope they combine her played Sarah Palin with Celebrity Jeopardy, or my new favorite, What's Up with That?.

Vancouver Olympics

My up-to-the-moment memories of the Vancouver Olympics:

- The tragic luge death, and resulting inconclusive findings
- Warm temperatures, causing events to be postponed (skiing) or tracks to be resurfaced (short track speed skating)
- Barricade collapse
- NBC taking a bath ($200M+) on Olympic coverage
- Protests

- Thankfully, Canada's gold in men's moguls, and the touching story of Bilodeau brothers, is a bright spot

I don't want to imagine the ramifications if Canada loses the hockey gold.

WGC - Accenture Match Play

Some musings heading into the first round:

- I wouldn't want to pick the winner of the Player bracket, wow (Westwood, Els, Stenson, Ogilvy).

- I expect Lee Westwood to lose to Chris Wood in R1.

- Great matches:
- Ishikawa (8) v. Sim (9)
- Villegas (6) v. Dustin Johnson (11)

Nostalgia

As the snow continues to fall, watching UVA v. Wake I'm reminded of many a Saturday morning rec. basketball game, coming home to watch Pee Wee's Playhouse, and afternoon ACC games.

Who Knew?

I was pleasantly surprised to see Miss America 2010 was from Virginia, and also from Fredericksburg. It spurred some digging. For years I have known of famous Fredericksburg-ians Al Bumbry, Mark Lenzi, Greg Rouse, and Judge Reinhold, but was surprised to learn Danny McBride was raised in Fredericksburg. Impressively D McB still keeps a place in Fredericksburg.

2010 Abu Dhabi

The Euro Tour event is shaping up for a good final round. Kaymer leads, with Poulter & McIlroy one stroke behind. Chris Wood is also in the hunt. Great watching for Sunday morning. McIlroy is the truth, his swing is a work of art, and approaching the fluidity of Ernie Els. It makes the swing of Poulter appear as if he is trying to suffocate his swing with a pillow.

Ears and Eyes

Recently, my musical tendencies have been geared towards more upbeat artists. The latest mix from DJ KnewJack, Cloak and Dagger, is ridiculous. I've been juggling C&D with Girl talk (both NIght Ripper and Feed the Animals), The Blueprint 3, and both Wolfmother albums.

When flipping pages, I'm entranced by Charcuterie, enjoy Drive (although not to the extent I enjoyed AWNM and Johnny Bunko), and am catching up on Chuck Klosterman (IV, although reading in reverse-chronological order dissolves his tightly-wound mind shots into frayed, albeit poignant, rants).

Final 2009 Thoughts

I wish all an enjoyable night and Happy New Year. 2009 was a fantastic year, with marriage being the pinnacle event (and our two weeks in Italy). In addition, I was able to accomplish my 2009 resolution (visit the gym a certain # of times).

A few golf-related predictions for 2010.

- TW golfs his ball at a level we've never seen before. While his past month has been atrocious, it takes @ 18 months to recover from ACL reconstruction. His focus will be heightened. I expect two Majors and eight wins.

- A Major will go to a deserving golfer, either Steve Stricker or Lee Westwood (possibly both).

- Rory McIlroy wins a WGC event.

- Chris Wood is Top 5 in the European Tour Order of Merit.

- 2010 Major Winners. Masters - TW, US Open - TW, The Open - LW, PGA - SS.

(Update #1) UVA related - It is hard to believe UVA hired new basketball and football coaches in 2009. I think the Tony Bennett hire is outstanding, and look forward to how he can improve the current roster, and develop his own players once they arrive. Mike London is a hire which makes me cautiously optimistic; he knows the focus must be on recruiting the state of Virginia,a contrast to the early Groh years which expanded our recruiting base to NJ, PA, NC.

Looking to expand beyond HIAH in 2010, picked up a few new domains, mulling some ideas. Again, all the best.

(Update #2) - You can now access the site through rrd96.com.

Top Christmas Songs

I whole-heartedly enjoy a good Christmas son. My favorites:

5. Christmas In Hollis - Run DMC. Does it count?

4. Let IT Snow - Aaron Neville. How does such a hulking individual have a vulnerable voice?

3. 2000 Miles - Chrissy Hynde.

2. Blue Christmas - Elvis Presley.

1. SCICTT - Bruce Springsteen. Classic. Never gets old.

I Won't Get Fooled Again

I was in the unenviable position of spectator at the Redskins v. Giants game. It is barely worth wasting words at the atrocity of the home team. I've never seen a team more listless and resigned to losing. The new GM, Allen, needs to start from scratch in the non-cap year. I see few salvageable parts. While other tams have worse records, at least they have building blocks.

Detroit - Stafford & Johnson (if only for trade value)
Cleveland - Cribbs & Harrison (I thought his line from Sunday was typographically incorrect)
KC - Charles & Cassel

Washingotn has Orakpo and an aging (and overpaid) Haynesworth. Everyone else needs to go. Trade down in Round One of the draft to accumulate picks, and lunge for Ryan Mallet mid/late in Round Two. Spend the rest of the draft on OL. Avoid drafting skill position players (Sleepy Davis and Kelly/Thomas can me productive).

Quick Redskins Note

With the good comes the (potentially) bad. After an all-around good performance and win in Oakland, in a (marginally) related development Jake Locker decided to stay at the University of Washington for his senior year. I'd be willing to lend him the $0.35 to call Sam Bradford and see if his attitude towards a 'full college career' changed after his limited and injury-prone season.

Unfortunately, the QB pool for the draft (a position the Redskins are presumably targeting) got a bit thinner, as Locker won't be available, and potential QBs may be drafted before the Redskins pick. I think Locker would have been successful in DC, he'd be my #1 option, but I wouldn't be disappointed with Bradford or Clausen. Truth be told, with JL opting for another 280 days of Seattle rain, I hope the 'Skins wait until R2 to draft Ryan Mallett / Tony Pike, who both have the opportunity to be successful.

Whole Foods - Profits

While dining at Whole Foods last night I noticed a posted sign explaining how certain days are designated '5% Days', where 5% of the daily profits are donated to a designate charity. The tally from the most recent 5% Day donated @ $5200 to charity. Some quick back of the napkin math led me to realize the daily profit of the Alexandria Whole Foods is @ $100,000 (with a minor subtraction for any profit bump on the day of the charity donation).

Can a Whole Foods really have a $36.5M profit for the year? What am I missing?

Update: WF sells beer/win, which makes a daily profit of $100K more feasible. What are other high-margin WF items? Fruit? Organic items?

Al Groh is Out

It will be difficult to lure a successful coach to UVA, based on academic restrictions, and poor YOY performance. Realizing the decision will not be solely based on football, my thoughts:

Untouchable I'd want, if $ weren't an object: Jeff Tedford

My current wishlist (and % chance):

1. Chris Petersen (BSU) (2%)
2. Pat Fitzgerald (NU) (1%)
2. Calhoun (AF) (4%)
3. London (UoR) (55%)
4. Butch Jones (CMU) (3%)
5. Grobe (WFU) (25%)
6. Strong (UF)(10%)
7. Woody Hayes, Mike Price, and Gene Stallings
196. Flavor Flav
278. Golden and Mike Groh

Major Applewhite as a darkhorse?

LRJ WR

Lebron's talk of playing WR for the Cleveland Browns makes for good discussion.

"Quarterback Brady Quinn also heard about James' football fetish. He would love to have a target to throw to like James in the red zone."

Shouldn't you reach the red zone before discussing your red zone options?

If LJ waits too long, the orange helmet referred to by Mangini will be that of a construction worker, if he's lucky enough to land a foreman job after getting freed by Cleveland.

LJ would have more success as a WR for the Giants.

NCAA BB 2009

I enjoyed ESPN’s NCAA BB Marathon; it jogged memories of the NCAA Tournament, and watching a sequence of games, a whetting of the whistle.

Down:
Kansas - #1 on the basis of returning starters/scorers (top 9), but I see marginal improvement from last years S16 team. Aldrich will take touches from more athletic players, and it will be hard to settle on a rotation.

Duke – Lost their most athletic player when Elliott Williams transferred to Memphis.

Top Ten Teams (in general) – Most T10 teams have a few superstars and little depth, or depth with no go to scorer. More cracks/flaws in the T10 than in the past.

Up:
Teams not currently in the Top 25 – Maryland (GV, EH, LM) has depth and experience, and will rise as the season progresses. Memphis gained a potential All American in Williams (kudos to the NCAA for allowing him to immediately transfer, on account of personal hardship) but the team has a lot of growing up to do (under an untested coach) and improve their shooting to be dangerous. Not used to being the underdog, I see them improving as the year progresses. Gonzaga has a young team, who will undertake a difficult schedule, but Mark Few will prepare them well for March.

Magazine Rankings 2009

I've never curtailed my interest in reading, which leads me to receive a multitude of magazines, covering many different subjects. My 2009 magazine ranking:

1. Dwell - The writing is intentionally sparse, but the pictures are the true content, and convey beautiful homes, offices, tree houses, etc. Very imaginative and inspiring.

2. GQ - Quality articles, great style advice. I enjoy it as much as I did at 18.

3. Sports Illustrated - My parents bought me my own subscription for a 30th birthday gift, and I couldn't be happier. Not the same magazine I used to snip for my wall murals at age 10, but still a cover to cover gem. SI may be the foundation for men aged 28-42.

4. Fast Company - Excellent reading, understated humor, diverse topic coverage.

5. Inc. - Good stories of small business success.

6. Golf - Excellent interviews, which are stymied by the excessive advertising.

7. Vanity Fair - Three excellent stories per issue, the rest is advertising.

8. Wired - I don't understand Wired.

Forrest Gump, Lillehammer, and Ace of Base

While OJ was in the back of Al Cowlings' Bronco, and Arkansas won the NCAA basketball tournament on the sharp-shooting of Scotty Thurmond, our anonymous coed was watching the debut of Friends before grinding to 'The Sign' at the Tacky Party.

At least that is what her gym t-shirt from yesterday supposed (Tacky Party 1994). I was both impressed and reviled by a fifteen year old shirt.

Musings...

- A friend at work mentioned taking her kids to the school book fair, and immediately conjured up great memories. The gargantuan metal lockers, color coded by age, are am image I (surprisingly) remember quite easily,and fondly.

- I should revisit my elementary school to see if my mental map still matches the actual layout, and how the scale has shrunken as I have grown.

- The Golf Channel has done such a good job covering the HSBC and JBWere Masters I'd forgotten there was a concurrent PGA Tournament (Disney) with a good field (Fowler, Lovemark, Johnson, Toms, Gay). Nightly live coverage is fantastic.

- Hard to believe it has been 11 years since TW competed in Australia. Raking a $3M appearance fee doesn't hurt.

NCAAA Bowl Projections

Stewart Mandel's Bowl Projections elicits low expectations at the paucity of (projected) marquee games. Nerveless, the speculative gates are open.

Bad:

- Going from a BCS Title matchup to the Sugar Bowl (against Cincinnati) would be a precipitous drop for Florida, and deservedly so, based on their play over the last month.

- Does anyone care about GT/Iowa in the Orange Bowl? Did anyone care before Iowa lost this weekend?

- Wow, is the PAC 10 down (more so than most years). A 2L Oregon in the Orange Bowl? I'd rather watch Stanford.

- A mediocre Big East and TCU wreck the BCS bowls. They have arguable cases for being the best teams in 2009, but BCS games should pit big conference foes.

Good:

- Alabama/UT would be a great title bout.

- While Central Michigan (MAC) vs. Louisiana-Monroe (Big Ten No. 7*) looks terrible on paper, how can anyone argue with the Little Caesars Bowl?

- Auburn/Clemson would match inconsistent teams in the Chick-fil-A Bowl.

- Miami would annihilate ND in the Gator Bowl.

- Houston/Georgia would feature an upstart v. a stalwart.

Number of bowl games I'll match +/- 1.5, the Rose and possibly one more game.

Free Advertising

Thanks to two days of rain at the Viking Classic, Dean Wilson has gotten more face time on pgatour.com than he received prior to Thursday.

Shouldn't Brett Favre be the official sponsor of the Viking Classic? (rimshot)

Top Ten Professional Golfers Under 25

The focus of the Frys.com Open was the emergence of youth on the PGA Tour, a needed spotlight for the post Tour Championship events, where kids in their early 20s with nothing to lose can play anxiety free golf. As homage to a final round which included a hole-in-one and a ball jump out of a water hazard, my Top 10 Professional Golfers under the age of 25. Just missing the list are Dustin Johnson and Michael Sim (both 25).

10. Tony Finau (21) – Currently on The Big Break, averages @ 330 yards off the tee.
Prediction: Two wins on PGA Tour
Comparison: JB Holmes

9. Pablo Martin (23) – Won the Estoril Open de Portugal in 2007, becoming the first amateur to win on the European Tour.
Prediction: Three wins on European Tour, one WGC win, one Ryder Cup
Comparison: Luke Donald

8. Shane Lowry (23) – Won 2009 Irish Open in a playoff over Robert Rock (great name). Currently 190 in the WGR.
Prediction: Five wins Worldwide, two Ryder Cups
Comparison: Darren Clarke

7. Rickie Fowler (20) – All-everything from Oklahoma State, NCAA Player of the Year as a freshman. Lost in playoff @ Frys.com Open to Troy Matteson. While others see a perfect pedigree, I see him being somewhat undersized, and possessing a swing with too many moving parts.
Prediction: 10 PGA Tour wins, one Major, Four Ryder Cups
Comparison: Hal Sutton, Fred Couples

6. Jason Day (21) – Won the 2007 Legend Financial Classic on the Nationwide Tour, becoming the youngest winner of a Tour-sponsored event. Has played the last two years on the PGA Tour.
Prediction: 12 PGA Tour wins, one Major, Three President's Cups
Comparison: Jim Furyk, Tom Kite

5. Ryo Ishikawa (19) – Four wins on the 2009 Japan Golf Tour, youngest player to reach the Top 50 on the WGR (36).
Prediction: 20 wins worldwide, two Majors, Eight President's Cups
Comparison: Sandy Lyle

4. Matteo Manassero (16) – Youngest winner of the British Amateur, played with Tom Watson and Sergio Garcia in the 2009 Open, finishing T13 (Sunday 69).
Prediction: 15 wins worldwide, two Majors, five Ryder Cups
Comparison: Bernhard Langer

3. Jamie Lovemark (21) – Won NCAAs as a freshman @ USC, lost in playoff @ Frys.com Open to Troy Matteson. Fundamentally sound (simple) swing and height (6’4”) accentuates length off the teem
Prediction: 10 PGA Tour wins, 3 Majors, multiple Ryder/President’s Cups
Comparison: Nick Price, Ernie Els

2. Anthony Kim (24) – Hard to believe AK isn’t 25. Already a 2 time Tour winner and Ryder/Presiden’t Cup stalwart.
Prediction: 12 PGA Tour wins, 4 Majors, multiple Ryder/President’s Cups
Comparison: Raymond Floyd

1. Rory McIlroy (20) – Won the 2009 Dubai Dessert Classic on the European Tour, solid showings in Majors, WGC events. Swing is both powerful and accurate.
Prediction: 30 wins Worldwide, 15 PGA Tour wins, 5 Majors, 10 Ryder Cups
Comparison: Nick Flado, Phil Mickelson

Up and Down

An interesting E (70) for Kevin Streelman @ the Frys.com Open. http://bit.ly/1nEe6w.

I'm surprised he didn't withdraw, or break any clubs.

Question of the Day

Would it be weird to purchase a chair for my office and neglect the standard issue offering?

Laughingstock

UVA football is atrocious. Without delving into details, I hold the coaching staff fully accountable, as we have talented athletes who are trapped in the first year implementation of a spread offence, which is being sabotaged/watered-down by Groh. Also (one last rant), how do you come out in the spread against W&M, instead of running it down their throat to a 14+ point lead, before implementing the spread? We compleletely negated out athletic superiority.

If/when/once Groh is fired, the popular replacement is Mike London (Richmond). Personally, I want no part of any coach from the Al Groh lineage. My choices to replace Al Groh:

1. Chris Peterson -Boise State - Would he leave a perennial top 15 team for a rebuilding assignment?
2. Troy Calhoun - Air Force - Former service academy coaches are favorably viewed at UVA
3. Paul Johnson/Tom O'Brien - GT/NCSU - We should ahve hired PJ two years ago, I knew he'd be successful @ GT, who are scary good this year. 0% chance either leaves for UVA.
4. Chris Beatty - WVU - It is only a matter of time before he gets a HC gig.

I don't want:
1. Phil Fulmer - Does not fit the UVA xcoaching persona, lauded by the same contingent who wanted Bobby Knight to replace Dave Leitao
2. Any assistant coach from USC
3. Terry Bowden

Strasburg and the Nats

That may be the only time I combine those words. With just over a day left, I'm disappointed the Nats haven't signed Strasburg, although they've offered them a 'record deal'. I'd split my blame 70/30% between the Nats and Boras.

Should the Nats not sign Strasburg, it will be the second consecutive year they do not sign their first round draft pick. By drafting SS #1, they knew he'd command a record deal which would surpass an incremental increase from the current record of $10.5m/yr. The corresponding positives (ticket & jersey sales, conversation) would outweigh the looming negatives if he gets off the hook.

Boras could care less if he blows up baseball to fatten his pockets. He's malicious.

Back in Action

After a very important layoff.

Not overly enthusiastic about the PGA Championship. Essentially out of the running for my golf pools, and I'm not inspired by Hazelbeem. The course is long, I get it.

I was miffed when I attempted to download the PGA iPhone application, and it was $1.99? No other major charges for their application (even the Masters, which provides coverage not on TV), but the PGA is trying to cash in? If you have 10,000 people purchase the application, you've made @$6,000. Additionally, their online tracker is miserable.

Pick(s)? - Don't really care, but we picked Dustin Johnson in our pool.

The Open - 2009

7:00 AM the Thursday of the Open competes with Christmas morning. There is no better way to start a day. Too bad the coverage on TBS is like a toaster dropped on one's foot, initial pain, ultimately numbing to resigned acceptance. Ernie Johnson is terrible.

Our (belated) picks.

2. Camilo Villegas
1. Graeme McDowell

Halfway There

"THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 02, 2006

Rub My Face In It Later

Lucas Glover is going to be one hell of a professional golfer. I think he wins at least two Majors by the end of the decade."

Congratulations to LG, a first-time Major Championship winner at Bethpage. Please drop the arrogant/sulking act when you are playing poorly (dragging the driver behind your body as you walk off the tee), one Curtis Strange a lifetime is enough.

U.S Open - 2009

You'd expect Bethpage Black, stretched to 7400 yards, to require length off the tee to be competitive. However, 2002 results deliver a different portrayal, as shorter hitters (with the exception of TW) fared extremely well (Maggert, Hoch, Mayfair had top ten finishes). Length will play a factor in 2009, but on account of the rainy weeks leading up to the event. If Bethpage receives rain, expect much of the same.

I remember leaving work in 2002 to watch the Friday round, which consisted of Sergio Garcia regripping for 65% of the telecast I was working a job I hated and had lunch by myself at Chili's. Easily the most miserable lunch of my life.

Aside from the presumptive favorite, TW, other potential winners.

2. Graeme McDowell - A European always makes a run (Nick Dougherty). People are focused on McIlroy, Stenson, etc., but McDowell is playing well and poised for a competitive Major.

1. Dustin Johnson - I'll be wagering on Johnson. He's the five tool golfer (drives with length, drives with accuracy, excellent irons, good short game, good putter) and has the confidence to match.

Also, golfers who won't win.

2. Angel Cabrera - Playing with Tiger Thursday/Friday is a tough draw. TW ain't Kenny Perry.

1. Paul Casey - He's overcome ill-spoken comments from his past, but New York residents have a long memory.



Also, congratulations to Cameron Yancey for qualifying. He's a product of the VSGA and played at UVA, and was a frequent competitor during my junior golf 'career'. I wasn't aware he was still playing.

Common Sense Addendum

To continue my crotchety rant, on the $20 CakeLove gift certificate, the expiration date was 'Jun 10', which required a follow-up call to ensure they meant June 2010, and I didn't have a gift certificate that expired five days after purchase. Why would you even include an expiration date?

I called Macy's to order a curio (yep) and they essentially don't sell the model we chose. While on their website, the wait for delivery is at least 90 days. They have a display model at our local mall, but they won't sell it to you. Great idea to have a display of something you can't buy.

I look for Jim Furyk to win at The Memorial, and I'm exstatic Virginia baseball is still alive in the Super Regionals (@ Old Miss).

Common Sense

Where has it gone? Two examples...

Last night we ordered a birthday cake from CakeLove, and when we went to pick it up, they hadn't made it. Awesome. In lieu, they scrambled to slap a birthday message on a different cake, which had most likely been in the display for days (it tasted like it) and give us a $20 gift certificate on a $50 cake. Thanks for the $10 cake (we didn''t order) and 'enticement' to come back to your miserable store. When did refunds become verboten.

Today at the golf course (after being annoyed when the cart vermin approached the car to take my clubs, don't ever a.)approach b.)touch my clubs) I was short on balls and picked out a sleeve of Titleist Pro V1s.

Guy working register: "If you like the Titleist, you should really buy a sleeve of Nike (whatever). They even come with two additional balls free."

So...

1.) Did I ask for a golf ball suggestion?
2.) Are you insinuating I'm a bad golfer, and a sleeve won't cut it for 18?
3.) I've played Titleist for 20+ years, you see me rifling through the sleeves, avoiding the Snack Shoppe 7s, for a sleeve of 3s, so I appear to be open to the hard sell on the Nikes?

Anyone know how to avoid the 'cart vermin' who spitshine your clubs after a round? I'm going to start wrapping 3-5 of my clubs with toilet paper coming up 18.

Producing v. Consuming

I've been overly marred in internet consuming, time to produce.

Was able to get in two rounds of golf over the weekend. I'm really enjoying the game with new fitted irons. I highly recommend anyone who takes an interest in the game do the same. I can't believe it took me 20 years to get fitted. New I need to get fitted for woods. I'm tiring of my 907, and actually swung the Cleveland Launcher well. We'll see.

With a nod to myofficialthoughts.blogspot.com, some Memorial Day fantasticism.

These Napkins are Really Thin

I really enjoy shoestring fries.

The Masters - Friday

My team, which hanging in the peloton, fell victim to a peloton crash, and will be nursing their wounds over the weekend, not in Augusta.

The Masters - Draft

Through early in the afternoon, my team is still riding in the peloton, with five under par, grouped between -4 and -1 (O' Hair, MA Jimenez, Ogilvy, Karlsson, Cink) and three hanging tough (O. Wilson, J. Rose, Pat Perez).

The Masters - Thursday

- I cannot wait to see the highlights of Larry Mize's round.

- Course appears to be perfect, which means the weather is cooperating, low/no winds, course is soft/receptive.

- TW does not look comfortable. He's backing away from many shots, and appears to have an upright stance, which conflicts with a one-plane swing.

- I enjoy watching the game of Jeev Milkha Singh. He maximizes his potential from tee to green, but is an amazing putter.

- Good for Chad Campbell running it by on 18. Never up...

- Thursday means little in respect to The Masters outcome. In addition to being a beautiful course, Augusta National is the most malleable course, over the course of four days. I expect conditions to firm as the week continues, which is not coincidental. The only impediment to molding the course is percipitation.

- I ordered personalized stationery yesterday, with the purpose of starting my letter writing campaign for Practice Round tickets.

The Masters 2009 - Picks

I hate to admit, but I ain't riding the Paul Casey train. Its too full.

Dark Horse - Pat Perez (4)
Middling - Nick Watney (2), Sean O'Hair (3)
Favorites - Stewart Cink (1)

The Masters

Tomorrow, what an amazing day. Opening day at The Masters. I really enjoyed watching today's Par 3 Contest. The cynical RRD would mutter how they have overdone the 'bring your kid to a Major' Day, but you see how genuinely happy the pros are with their families and can't help but smile. Nothing related to The Masters puts me in a bad mood, not Greg and Chrissy, nothing. Great components of Wednesday's masterpiece:

- Watching the Big Three (Nicklaus, Player, Palmer)
- Jack grinding over putts
- Faldo holing a 30 footer, which went 15 feet in each direction
- The Masters Draft
- Watching with glee as the person who drafted the Par 3 winner laments
- Needling the guy who picks a golfer not playing (David Toms earnings at the Shreveport four ball don't count)

Tomorrow cannot arrive soon enough.

There is a place in the world for 60 Minutes

Andy Rooney, and what else? I was moved by the heartfelt story of The Soloist. Beyond the story of Mr. Ayres and Mr. Lopez, 60 Minutes took a quarter hour to tell a story, beyond standard reports (all breadth, no depth). From exposition to conclusion, the relationship of the two men drew me in, an example of quality reporting. I eased into my couch and simply watched, laptop, magazines, books (2), and phones at bay. A small mention of the affiliated book and movie, the story centered on the journey of Mr. Ayers, and didn't sensationalize or predict an outcome. It painted in plain and clear detail, and was refreshing and though-provking, simply excellent.

Refusal and Redemption

Refusal: To follow the Wizzzzzards until they completely revamp the team. I watched in disgust Sunday as they eked out a win over Sacramento, an inch away from blowing an eight point lead with 1:20 to play. Lifeless, listless, hopeless. If you are going to play so poorly, bring in Sean Singletary, Roy Hibbert, and Jeff Green (maybe Mutumbo?) to please the locals. Or lure Rod Strikland out of retirement (hot dogs 1/2 off).

Redemption: Leitao out at UVA. I've never paid so scant attention to a UVA basketball season, which has tempered my excitement for the NCAAs. I blame him for the lost season. His recruiting is marginal, he cannot develop players, deploys an inconsistent rotation, and has no gameplan. Strike four. The names being floated as replacements I rank as follows:

1. Tubby
2. Miller (Xavier again?)
3. Capel (Blake Griffin makes anyone look good)
4. Mike Montgomery, Rick Barnes, Mark Few (all mentioned in prior UVA searches)
5. Terry Holland
56. Jeff Jones
9532. Pete Gillen

Since when?

Looking at the alternates for the Puerto Rican Open presented by Banco Popular, I'd be hard pressed to tell you if the tournament was occurring in 2009 or 1993.

Alternates
Freeman, Robin
Hulbert, Mike
Clearwater, Keith
Schulz, Ted
Peoples, David
Ogrin, David
Clark II, Michael
Henke, Nolan
Dodds, Trevor
Tryba, Ted

Please...

...tell me someone else is watching the Johnnie Walker. Danny Lee is the truth.

Daytona 2009

Pick for the day? Tony Stewart gets his.

Dark horse: Elliott Sadler

If I could choose the winner? Jeff Burton, from South Boston VA.

The Night Before Daytona

T’was the night before Daytona, and all in the condo;

Gents were passing out, save B, enjoying a hand-O.

The jean shorts were folded in duffels with care;

With the hopes a mulleted throng soon would appear.

K was nestled, all snug on a couch,

Dreaming of Natty Light, flowing down his mouth.

And G in a beater, and I with a snooze,

Barely awake, too much Tucher, o’ perfect booze.

Then at daybreak, the audible sputter,

A babbling brook? No, G’s busted muffler.

Up 95 N the Accord it did creep,

While I clutched a pillow, in an attempt to sleep.

The pace of our sojourn was nothing but slow;

Fingers crossed, at such speeds, the engine wouldn’t blow.

When, what to my bloodshot eyes should appear,

A glorious oval and buckets of beer!

Many ounces later, in efforts so slick,

We begged and bartered, to procure a tick’.

Once in the speedway of world-renown fame,

Jorts, moustaches, and tattoos of fierce flame.

Now Stewart, now Harvick, now Burton and Gordon,

On Johnson, on Sadler, you Chevy and Ford ones.

To the starting line, and avoid the wall,

After ‘Start your engines’ and the green flag does fall.

Down corners at speeds at which one must fly,

But not the clutch of my Schlitz can you pry.

Around the track, the engines they flew,

As the overweight broad, on the bleachers did spew.

The boozing, the cheering, never a bore,

Gordon in 5th gear, foot to the floor.

Many drinks on the brain, the thinking not sound,

Machines in motion, track-whipping around.

The throng to their feet, to lean and bend,

Signaling the race was drawing to end.

The finish line, checkers unfurled from a sack,

But no, a wreck totaled the pack!

Extended race, the crowd was merry!

More laps to spin, bank, and parry.

As before, Gordon left the flow,

Winner, gold medal, best in show.

Apt taker of spoils, a winner crown wreath,

Brought few smiles among grins missing teeth.

An amazing event, we returned to the ride.

To speed, a reverse trip’ed 95.

On splinter’d bleachers, where porking was stealth,

We’d learned a lesson of enormous wealth.

Four winks of the eye, and bumps of the fist,

Realizing the grandeur we’d many times missed.

A sport for hicks, we’d often smirked,

Was pure enjoyment, their holy work.

Back at the condo, a reddened nose,

From howling winds, a body part froze.

In the hot tub we sank, among quieted rubes,

Eyes reddened, grins bared, from pulling tubes.

We heard them exclaim, eyes gaping with wonder;

“WHOOOEEEE!, You look just like Dale Jr.!”

UVA Recruiting Nickels

- Overall, I am impressed by the UVA class. Morgan Moses, Oday Aboushi (and Kyle Long) on the OL is a tantalizing prospect.
- I like what Tim Smith brings to the table.
- I expect Dominique Wallace to end up being All-ACC...as a linebacker.
- Shocked we had no attrition beyond Tyree Watkins (and who cares about Duke...err, wait)
- Why do we sign our best classes after 5-7 seasons?
- Jameel Sewell will be on the UVA staff within 5 years.
- We need a QB in 2010, I'm not optimistic on Phil Sims, but I like selling the spread.
- Al Groh can develop talent, Dave Leitao should be his apprentice.
- Ole Miss signed 37 recruits?!?

SE DC

In the past I've written about the uninspiring architecture in SE DC. It is unfortunate when buildings are nicknamed 'The Tetris Building', 'The Block Building', 'The 'I can't believe people are still paying 380 for a one-bedroom' Building'.

What the area needs is an iconic building, which takes advantage of light, shape, color, and texture, as a neighborhood landmark. Instead, every building further commoditizes its neighbors in its uniformity and blatant attempt to squeeze every penny out of the space. Each new building gorges on real estate, supersized and maxed out, where neighbors in adjacent buildings could pass a cup of sugar across the space (not a good thing).

I keep my fingers crossed for a building which exercises humility and constraint, and shrinks from the sidewalks to grow irregularly, abnormally, and strikingly, in a show of architectural ingenuity.

Quick Dice for Friday

- Underrated song of the moment - Easily, RHCP (Califonication). One Hot Minute is also a vastly underrated album. Also, Porch Song by WP.

- Need new adverbs to go with 'underrated', vastly/highly are probably used 98% of the time.

- Talking garbage about VJ after a poor performance at the Mercedes is an acceptable (and highly probable) consolation prize. I'd don't think a lobotomy could make me like his game.

- When a golfer is said to 'manufacture good swings' it means he hides his swing flaws well, or has a terrible swing. Might as well say he makes a bad cut.

- Soon to finish reading Buried Lies by Peter Jacobson, I hope the book was poorly edited, or else he's a thinly veiled Curtis Strange.

Holidays and the Beach

During the holiday I had the opportunity to play a few rounds of golf in Myrtle Beach. I hold Myrtle, and its courses, in high regard, as I have been playing golf in the area for the better part of 20 years. With Golf Digest's Top 50 Myrtle Beach Courses in tow, I happily got in three rounds, in 80' weather, at the end of December.

Saturday - Ocean Ridge Plantation (Tiger's Eye) (3) - Tiger's Eye is part of the Ocean Ridge affiliation, now encompassing five courses. Tiger's Eye is a stern test of golf, with multiple risk/reward offerings on holes, and the ever impending threat of Carolina pines to snare a wayward parry. Ends on a difficult 5-par with water/waste right, and encroaching from behind the green. Greens were slow(ish) on account of thick/mature grass, allowed to grow to protect against the winter temperature shifts. Staff was courteous, laid-back, and friendly.

Sunday - Barefoot Resort (Love) (1) - Underwhelming, for a number of reasons. Much like an Atlantic City casino, I felt their entire intention was to take my money (ATM in clubhouse noted). The Barefoot ecosystem is quite interesting, and wholly caters to property owners, who gain memberships to all the courses. We played with Barefoot homeowners, who had their own (tricked-out) EZ Go, which was all too common, but, in my opinion, still unacceptable. Course situation catered to personal use of a golf cart, as the massive range, which serves all courses, is located .5 miles from the clubhouse, serving 3. At the clubhouse, there is no range or immediate putting green, simply a bottleneck from which tee times for all the courses are launched. Staff seemed more suited to be loading airplane luggage than performing golf-related tasks. Once our name was called, we were directed to the starter, and a small putting green with no actual holes, and given five minutes before the round.

The Love course was a combination of uninspiring holes, with a sprinkling of complete throwaway holes, especially the 3 pars (one of which was 145 from the tips). I equally blame DL III and whoever orchestrated the four course complex. When you build four courses, designed by four name designers, your end result is equal mediocrity, rather than catering to any of the competing interests. Space constrictions made many of the holes feel pinched, in some cases requiring a sparse ribbon of trees separating different courses. Additionally, the land on which the courses were built was flat/barren/sparse, so the only hazards entirely consist of water, which was the only option to be easily incorporated into the course design. The Love course lacks elevation change, and rarely required pre-shot contemplation, based on the potential for disaster. Many of the holes were straightforward, with simple green complexes and unimaginative bunkering. I couldn't imagine paying $90 to play the Love course, let alone the near $200 in-season rate.

Oh, and I didn't even mention the ubiquitous housing.

Monday - Myrtle Beach National (King's North) (20) - While the lowest ranked course on the list, easily my favorite, and the truest test of golf. Approaching the complex, the dated clubhouse (featuring a cafeteria line refreshment stand) was a minor deterrent to a championship course. We played the first five holes in a squalor, and loved every minute of it. Exacting shots required on risk/reward holes, interesting and imaginative green complexes require a variety of approach trajectories, and, lest I forget, 'The Gambler', the most welcomingly cheesy hole in golf. Course conditions were amazing (far better than Barefoot), and the greens rolled true, albeit a bit slow, in season, they could be the best in the Strand. It was a blast to play.

It was a highly enjoyable trip to Myrtle Beach, I can't wait to return.

Snow

In December? Too early. At the bank today, they closed at 3pm, instead of 5pm, on account of the weather. I wish I could work abbreviated bank hours.

How about them UVA Cavaliers? Great hire of Greg Brandon as OC (former HC at Bowling Green).

7-7

The Bengals are amazing! I can't believe they've lost a game this year. They are going to be tough in the playoffs.

Five people I don't want coaching the Redskins in 2009.

5. Vladimir Putin - Wouldn't grasp cap considerations.
4. Mike Groh - We should have seen the warning signs when he designed plays on Electric Football with the board upside down.
3. Tony Stewart - He's already bailed on Joe Gibbs once.
2. Hal Sutton - 'Be the right cover two, to-DAY!'
1. The Swedish Chef - Too existential, and no one would understand him, except maybe Portis.

Moron!

"Developer Wilbur Ray Todd Jr. bought the house for $450,000 shortly after Vick was indicted on federal dogfighting conspiracy charges. At an auction last December, Todd rejected a bid of $747,000, which is the assessed value of the property for tax purposes but less than the $1 million Todd wanted. The house was put on the market but remained unsold."

$297,000 wasn't enough of a profit? What a greedy knucklehead. I hope it never sells.

Likes I Used to Hate

Growing up, there were so many things (mostly brought on by my parents) I couldn't stand, but I've come around to enjoy.

1.) The Christmas Music Station - 97.1 in DC. Listening to Christmas music in the car drove me crazy, and queued eye-rolling and slumping in my seat. Today I can't get enough of the station. I even have my favorites, anything off the Beach Boys Christmas Album is auditory delight.

2.) Diet Soda - Or cola, as it was at the time. Used to be unable to stomach it, now it is all I drink. I'll even pick up a 2-Liter of Diet Rite on occasion.

3.) Yogurt- I used to not be able to stand the texture, now it is an enjoyable breakfast or snack. Granted, yogurt has come leaps and bounds since the 80s (better flavor, more variety)but the Elmer's Glue viscosity still remains.

Wil Collins and Q School

The PGA Qualifying school is a study in expectations and agony, and makes for understated (and under appreciated) television drama.

Wil Collins was attempting to make the tour for the seventh time, and was 0 for 6 reaching the Final Stage of Q School. He is getting married in the spring and, presumably, would pursue another occupation if he were to miss qualifying. After four marginal rounds he was even placed in the course rotation for guys just looking to earn tour status in 2009. However, after the subsequent 35 holes of he had improved his position to -19, on the number, to qualify for the PGA.

His 90th hole was the 2nd toughest on the Nicklaus Course, 460 yard par 4 with a water hazard hugging the right side of the fairway, through the green, and rough/mounding on the left. Needing a par to reach the PGA, Collins tentatively pulled his drive left, where it parried left off the mounds, to a blind shot to the green. He elected to lay up to @ 150 yards for his 3rd, and, into the sun, put his approach 20 feet under the hole. Needing a one-putt to secure his Card, is putt broke 14 inches to the right, and on its last rotation settled into the cup. Par. PGA. While his caddie was overcome with emotion, Wil smiled, handed him his putter, and walked off the green to sign his card. Why revel in the biggest golf shot of your life?

Few stories are written about PGA Qualifying School, and fewer still on guys who earn their tour card on the number. In 2009 Wil Collins will be walking the fairways of the PGA Tour, with my support.

Your 2009 Masters Champion

Won in a playoff over Robert Karlsson, Henrik Stenson. Is there a golfer on the planet playing better?

Why is it I think Stenson is about 6'5"? Probably for the same reason(s) I think Michael Turner is 6'4".

What did you have for breakfast?

You know, the usual.

Virginia v. Minnesota

Good effort, albeit in a loss, for UVA tonight. Despite the inability to quickly rotate on defense, I am cautiously optimistic. Granted, not this year, but for the next two. If I am Leitao, I start Landesberg (3), Zeglinski (1), Sene (5)(freshman), Farrakhan (2), and Scott (4) (sophomore). The lineup is going to be fluid throughout the season, with Baker and Jones getting major minutes, but I'd like to see Diane buried on the bench.

I love USC relinquishing a timeout to wear their red jerseys, and UCLA offering up one of their own for fairness. I'd like to see UCLA develop for a Neuheisel/Carrol rivalry, but good stuff.