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I've been blogging for a few years, so I decided to post a classic rant from three years ago. It's still relevant.
Sunday, 20 March 2005
Why I hate the FDA and FTC-a few more reasons
Now Playing: That 70's Show
Topic: Political Rant
News Note:
The Congressman who was chairman of the committee that regulates prescription drugs has retired.
Billy Tauzin, former Congressman from La., the co-sponsor of the Medicare Bill that is causing so many problems for poor people (especially seniors and the disabled) has left Congress to enter private industry.
He has accepted a $2,000,000 per year position as president of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America.
Is anybody else surprised that the person responsible for record drug company profits gets rewarded with a nice little job like that?
Monday, March 24, 2008
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Laughter
Laughter is the best medicine according to a popular belief. A study by a team of University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers, led by Dr. Michael Miller, has recently shown for the first time that laughter is linked to healthy function of blood vessels. Miller said that the most significant study finding was that "people with heart disease responded less humorously to everyday life situations." They generally laughed less, even in positive situations, and they displayed more anger and hostility.
http://www.umm.edu/features/laughter.htm
Recently I was speaking on the telephone with a friend of mine concerning laughter.
We both would rather have a good laugh than fight. Yet, it seems many others prefer fighting. I don’t mean the occasional spirited debate, but instead, battling and sniping at one another just for the rush. My buddy shared a very interesting anecdote. His parents had been in one of Hitler’s Concentration Camps and obviously suffered abuse beyond comprehension. Sometimes the depths of man’s inhumanity to man just boggles one’s mind. But what my friend’s Mom remembers is that the survivors were the ones who laughed. She said she could almost tell who was going to die because they were the morose ones. Quiet, almost accepting death as an inevitable outcome of their situation.
But the ones who laughed, yes even laughed at the fact they were little more than skin and bones, they lived and they were the ones who made it out alive.
I’ve seen various techniques where people just laugh for the heck of it as part of their fitness regiment, and who knows if that works. As for me, just photoshop a geek in a compromising situation, and I’m laughing until I cry.
So, for today, find something to make you chuckle. Hell, chortle if you want. If I were a real doctor, and not just playing one on the internet, I’d suggest you take two hearty guffaws, rest, and get plenty of fluids.
http://www.umm.edu/features/laughter.htm
Recently I was speaking on the telephone with a friend of mine concerning laughter.
We both would rather have a good laugh than fight. Yet, it seems many others prefer fighting. I don’t mean the occasional spirited debate, but instead, battling and sniping at one another just for the rush. My buddy shared a very interesting anecdote. His parents had been in one of Hitler’s Concentration Camps and obviously suffered abuse beyond comprehension. Sometimes the depths of man’s inhumanity to man just boggles one’s mind. But what my friend’s Mom remembers is that the survivors were the ones who laughed. She said she could almost tell who was going to die because they were the morose ones. Quiet, almost accepting death as an inevitable outcome of their situation.
But the ones who laughed, yes even laughed at the fact they were little more than skin and bones, they lived and they were the ones who made it out alive.
I’ve seen various techniques where people just laugh for the heck of it as part of their fitness regiment, and who knows if that works. As for me, just photoshop a geek in a compromising situation, and I’m laughing until I cry.
So, for today, find something to make you chuckle. Hell, chortle if you want. If I were a real doctor, and not just playing one on the internet, I’d suggest you take two hearty guffaws, rest, and get plenty of fluids.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Some odds and ends
I got this whole Larry King vibe going on today.
Why do so many insist in saying the Lord’s Prayer using Elizabethan English? Once, someone told me it’s because of the continuity; that is, they were able to pray the same way their ancestors did. I guess it depends on who your ancestors were. Some of mine barely spoke English, and I doubt they were conversant in Olde English. It’s just stupid.
I just saw some chocolate shop in Soho is selling chocolate covered bacon.
http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/
bacon_exotic_candy_bar/exotic_candy_bars
Just when you thought you saw it all. I guess they go with chocolate Easter eggs.
Barry Bonds still doesn’t have a job in the majors. I wonder if he were a different type of person, would there be a team willing to take him on? A bad attitude along with declining skills may just be the formula for his retirement. But before anyone feels sorry for him, he has had a long career and made many millions of dollars.
Vicodin is my favorite prescription drug. It has replaced Percosets in getting rid of my pain. I fully understand how someone could get addicted to them.
Game shows have changed so much over the years. Jeopardy required skill, even Wheel of Fortune required a little bit of puzzle solving ability (though not much.) Today’s popular game shows? Deal or no Deal. I like it, but it’s a guessing game. And when one gets to the point they have limited safety, they take the deal. Ok. I get it. DOND is pretty much just gambling, hosted by a comedian and pretty models.
Are You Smater Than a 5th Grader is Jeopardy for morons. The Price is Right is starting to look more like a challenge each day. Plinko rocks.
Why do so many insist in saying the Lord’s Prayer using Elizabethan English? Once, someone told me it’s because of the continuity; that is, they were able to pray the same way their ancestors did. I guess it depends on who your ancestors were. Some of mine barely spoke English, and I doubt they were conversant in Olde English. It’s just stupid.
I just saw some chocolate shop in Soho is selling chocolate covered bacon.
http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/
bacon_exotic_candy_bar/exotic_candy_bars
Just when you thought you saw it all. I guess they go with chocolate Easter eggs.
Barry Bonds still doesn’t have a job in the majors. I wonder if he were a different type of person, would there be a team willing to take him on? A bad attitude along with declining skills may just be the formula for his retirement. But before anyone feels sorry for him, he has had a long career and made many millions of dollars.
Vicodin is my favorite prescription drug. It has replaced Percosets in getting rid of my pain. I fully understand how someone could get addicted to them.
Game shows have changed so much over the years. Jeopardy required skill, even Wheel of Fortune required a little bit of puzzle solving ability (though not much.) Today’s popular game shows? Deal or no Deal. I like it, but it’s a guessing game. And when one gets to the point they have limited safety, they take the deal. Ok. I get it. DOND is pretty much just gambling, hosted by a comedian and pretty models.
Are You Smater Than a 5th Grader is Jeopardy for morons. The Price is Right is starting to look more like a challenge each day. Plinko rocks.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
My Redneck Wedding
The writer’s strike is finally over, and something good did come out of it. Due to incredible boredom, I searched the other 180+ channels on my TV for something different. Reruns aren’t anathema to me. As a matter of course, I can watch the same Simpsons episodes over and over, and even can find comfort in them. Same thing with Futurama and Family Guy. But many of today’s shows I can barely tolerate more than once. Go figure.
But I digress.
I have started watching CMT, and have found a few shows that are incredibly entertaining.
My Redneck Wedding has to be one of the most bizarre shows on TV. As you can probably guess from the title, rednecks get married and have the most "unusual" weddings. Whether they feature a trellis made out of beer cans or mud wrestling, these weddings are not for the feint of heart. The bride is more likely to arrive via ATV or horseback than limo.
And because the bride and groom want their guests to have a good time, they arrange special events. I thought long and hard to try to remember anything at a traditional wedding besides dancing. A redneck wedding apparently includes everything from a demolition derby to mattress surfing to dining on squirrel, wild boar, and whatever else runs through the nearby woods. And mass quantities of beer are consumed, naturally.
In keeping with our Redneck expectations, the gifts exchanged between the bride and groom are equally, for lack of a better term, non-traditional.
Could be a pink rifle, or something obtained by dumpster diving.
You can’t make this stuff up.
I usually rate these shows based upon my 1-10 scale. This show was hard to rate. But using my scientifically designed scale, it comes in at a solid 6.2
A quick review of my ratings system:
10--a prime show. The Sopranos or 24 would rate a 10.
9-- definately worth watching. Think South Park or Seinfeld re-runs. Not as funny as the first time, but still great TV fare.
8-- Pretty darn good stuff. If you can't be home, you'd consider setting up the DVR. Some solid 8's would be Earl, or Everybody Hates Chris.
7-- Not quite good enough to tape. But you can look forward to watching. The Office is the first show that comes to mind as a 7.
6-- Now we get into the shows that are ok, but only a first choice if other shows are re-runs. You won't mind watching a 6 at a different time. Britcoms are 6's.
5-- Think of a movie you liked, but have seen a dozen times or more. You'd choose the movie over the program, then the program is a 5. Mash and almost everything on TVLAND has become a 5.
4-- Crappy show, but with some redeeming quality, like it features hot chicks. Any show with Pam Anderson would be a 4.
3-- Only worth watching if the only alternative is infommercials. Fishing shows are 3.
2-- About the same as a good infommercial. QVC is a 2.
1-- Infommercials, unless they are The Knife Collector Show. They sell swords!
But I digress.
I have started watching CMT, and have found a few shows that are incredibly entertaining.
My Redneck Wedding has to be one of the most bizarre shows on TV. As you can probably guess from the title, rednecks get married and have the most "unusual" weddings. Whether they feature a trellis made out of beer cans or mud wrestling, these weddings are not for the feint of heart. The bride is more likely to arrive via ATV or horseback than limo.
And because the bride and groom want their guests to have a good time, they arrange special events. I thought long and hard to try to remember anything at a traditional wedding besides dancing. A redneck wedding apparently includes everything from a demolition derby to mattress surfing to dining on squirrel, wild boar, and whatever else runs through the nearby woods. And mass quantities of beer are consumed, naturally.
In keeping with our Redneck expectations, the gifts exchanged between the bride and groom are equally, for lack of a better term, non-traditional.
Could be a pink rifle, or something obtained by dumpster diving.
You can’t make this stuff up.
I usually rate these shows based upon my 1-10 scale. This show was hard to rate. But using my scientifically designed scale, it comes in at a solid 6.2
A quick review of my ratings system:
10--a prime show. The Sopranos or 24 would rate a 10.
9-- definately worth watching. Think South Park or Seinfeld re-runs. Not as funny as the first time, but still great TV fare.
8-- Pretty darn good stuff. If you can't be home, you'd consider setting up the DVR. Some solid 8's would be Earl, or Everybody Hates Chris.
7-- Not quite good enough to tape. But you can look forward to watching. The Office is the first show that comes to mind as a 7.
6-- Now we get into the shows that are ok, but only a first choice if other shows are re-runs. You won't mind watching a 6 at a different time. Britcoms are 6's.
5-- Think of a movie you liked, but have seen a dozen times or more. You'd choose the movie over the program, then the program is a 5. Mash and almost everything on TVLAND has become a 5.
4-- Crappy show, but with some redeeming quality, like it features hot chicks. Any show with Pam Anderson would be a 4.
3-- Only worth watching if the only alternative is infommercials. Fishing shows are 3.
2-- About the same as a good infommercial. QVC is a 2.
1-- Infommercials, unless they are The Knife Collector Show. They sell swords!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Imprisoned
The Crotchety Old Lady has been out of work for the last few weeks due to surgery. So I begrudgingly have turned over the remote to her during the day. My day is now filled with such testosterone sapping TV fare as soap operas and Oprah.
I can’t get into the soaps because it seems every single one has the following script:
Chase has an affair with Veronica, but hopes that Michael, his half-brother doesn't find out. Great mental anguish ensues. But, of course, Michael has been having an affair with Celeste, while Conchetta, the poor but honest maid (who naturally does not know she is the illegitimate love child of Chase's Dad, Devon) falls in love with Michael's business rival. Then, Bram, a devilishly charming, filthy rich businessman from some country where they speak English, either Oz or Fiji, constructs a plan to win the heart of Veronica.
Sure, some of the names are changed around, but they always use proper names or some uncommon name like Logan or Ridge. Every once in a while a Rick or Johnny sneaks in, but one will never find a Dave on a soap opera. Soaps are also great for characters named Lucky, Sonny, or some other name that hasn’t been heard since the late 70’s. Personally, I’ve never known anyone with such a moniker, but apparently, these are pretty common in soaps.
My daily soap marathon ends just in time for Oprah. I don’t get Oprah. She has some decent guests, but she may have the most annoying delivery on television. Much of the time, she sounds like a game show host on steroids as she yells out the guest’s name or some gift for the audience. I’m sure she is a nice lady, but do I really need to hear her yell out DOCTOR OZ!!! She must be doing something right, as she makes a bazillion dollars and has launched a few very successful shows, produced movies, and publishes a magazine. I should only be so successful.
I can’t get into the soaps because it seems every single one has the following script:
Chase has an affair with Veronica, but hopes that Michael, his half-brother doesn't find out. Great mental anguish ensues. But, of course, Michael has been having an affair with Celeste, while Conchetta, the poor but honest maid (who naturally does not know she is the illegitimate love child of Chase's Dad, Devon) falls in love with Michael's business rival. Then, Bram, a devilishly charming, filthy rich businessman from some country where they speak English, either Oz or Fiji, constructs a plan to win the heart of Veronica.
Sure, some of the names are changed around, but they always use proper names or some uncommon name like Logan or Ridge. Every once in a while a Rick or Johnny sneaks in, but one will never find a Dave on a soap opera. Soaps are also great for characters named Lucky, Sonny, or some other name that hasn’t been heard since the late 70’s. Personally, I’ve never known anyone with such a moniker, but apparently, these are pretty common in soaps.
My daily soap marathon ends just in time for Oprah. I don’t get Oprah. She has some decent guests, but she may have the most annoying delivery on television. Much of the time, she sounds like a game show host on steroids as she yells out the guest’s name or some gift for the audience. I’m sure she is a nice lady, but do I really need to hear her yell out DOCTOR OZ!!! She must be doing something right, as she makes a bazillion dollars and has launched a few very successful shows, produced movies, and publishes a magazine. I should only be so successful.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Spring training time
I've been watching the Yankees on YES, and they are looking ready for a great season. The young pitchers seem to be maturing at just the right time, and the older guys like Moose and Pettitte are pitching like they did a few years ago. Wang has the most wins over the last 2 years in the AL, and I have no reason to think he won't crack the 20-win mark this year. Joba was supposed to be a starter, but I'm not sure he is ready for that role.
As far as the regular lineup, it's hard to find any weak spot. In no particular order:
Cano is coming off a terrific sophomore season, and should be even better this year.
Jeter is once again ready to do what he does best--win. I'm looking for a big year from the Captain. A-Rod even made him the earlky season favorite for the MVP award.
And speaking of MVP, can A-Rod repeat his MVP season of 2007? Can I get a hell, yeah? He is just reaching his prime, and may be even better this year.
Melky just gets better every year. While he may not be a power hitter in the Yankees centerfield tradition of Mantle and DiMaggio, he plays a great defense, and his arm has earned respect around the league.
Damon looks to be over his nagging injuries from last year, and gives the Yankees a lead off batter with pop and speed. Rickey Henderson without the attitude.
Godzilla should be back with his usual dependable play and decent power, along with the clutch hitting that has become synonymous with the name Matsui.
Abreau at 34 should give us the OBP and keen eye that drives opposing pitchers crazy.
Even the bench looks strong with Duncan and Betemit.
My only concerns are Giambi and Posada. They are both coming off decent seasons, but 36 year-old catchers can be injury prone. And Giambi, although he looks pretty good, is coming off a year in which he only played 83 games.
I'd love to say I'm looking at a team like the '98 squad, but sadly, not. I expect the team to challenge for the division, probably even win it. But this year, the playoffs will be different. I expect to sweep through them like a hot knife through butter. This team is built for the playoffs. Just as long as those freakin' bugs don't show up in Cleveland.
As far as the regular lineup, it's hard to find any weak spot. In no particular order:
Cano is coming off a terrific sophomore season, and should be even better this year.
Jeter is once again ready to do what he does best--win. I'm looking for a big year from the Captain. A-Rod even made him the earlky season favorite for the MVP award.
And speaking of MVP, can A-Rod repeat his MVP season of 2007? Can I get a hell, yeah? He is just reaching his prime, and may be even better this year.
Melky just gets better every year. While he may not be a power hitter in the Yankees centerfield tradition of Mantle and DiMaggio, he plays a great defense, and his arm has earned respect around the league.
Damon looks to be over his nagging injuries from last year, and gives the Yankees a lead off batter with pop and speed. Rickey Henderson without the attitude.
Godzilla should be back with his usual dependable play and decent power, along with the clutch hitting that has become synonymous with the name Matsui.
Abreau at 34 should give us the OBP and keen eye that drives opposing pitchers crazy.
Even the bench looks strong with Duncan and Betemit.
My only concerns are Giambi and Posada. They are both coming off decent seasons, but 36 year-old catchers can be injury prone. And Giambi, although he looks pretty good, is coming off a year in which he only played 83 games.
I'd love to say I'm looking at a team like the '98 squad, but sadly, not. I expect the team to challenge for the division, probably even win it. But this year, the playoffs will be different. I expect to sweep through them like a hot knife through butter. This team is built for the playoffs. Just as long as those freakin' bugs don't show up in Cleveland.
Monday, February 04, 2008
Congratulations to the G-Men
Yesterday’s Super Bowl may have been the best game ever. Whenever Big Blue is in the Big Game, it will be exciting and memorable. Whether it was Phil Simms leading the Giants to a big win based on 22 of 25 passing, or Scott Norwood missing a field goal to end the game, it’s never boring. And yesterday may have been the best of the best. Eli’s drive for the game winning touchdown with about a minute to go was unbelievable. Everyone in America knew it was going to be a pass to Burress, but the Pats couldn't stop it.
I couldn’t sleep last night. I was just so worked up after all the excitement of the huge upset.
And, spring training starts in about 2 weeks.
Sweet.
I couldn’t sleep last night. I was just so worked up after all the excitement of the huge upset.
And, spring training starts in about 2 weeks.
Sweet.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Goodbye 2007
I don’t believe in time measurement as very significant on a day to day basis. Is the day one turns 50 any different than the day before? Just as January 1st truly is no different than December 31st . That said, I’m still happy to see 2007 come to an end. It was, without a doubt, from beginning to end, the worst year of my life.
January 3rd I was in the hospital and awaited amputation. It only turned out to be one toe, but it still was a lousy way to start the year. And it didn’t get much better. Because my foot is now turned as ligaments have been severed, my rehab assignment turned into a disaster. I developed a wound on my foot that still has not healed.
In April, my Mom passed away after her battle with cancer.
In June, I found my ass back in the hospital as I had been vomiting for over a week. During that time, I had a colonoscopy, and got 4 transfusions. They checked out everything they could, and found nothing. Of course, they missed one big thing, and that led to my hospitalization in Ct. I was on vacation in August, and thought I was having a heart attack. I got a quick tour of the Ct. countryside in an ambulance, which would have been much more pleasant if I had been able to breathe. This hospital trip turned out to be a good thing. I had congestive heart failure, and the local doctors had missed that I was retaining water like a friggin’ sponge. I peed out gallons over the next few days, and lost 40 pounds in 4 days.
September-- how much trouble can I get into sitting on my couch? Apparently, quite a bit. I went out one day to see my friend, and tripped on the way in. Ripped up my toes, and they are still not healed. I also had my foot rub against something, and a wound opened up. When did I become so damned delicate?
In October, I had skin cancer removed from my face. A series of 12 needles “stung a little.” Not really, they hurt a lot. More than anything I had ever had done before.
I was measured for a brace in November so I could walk. It was going to take a few weeks. It’s been 6 already, and I have not yet heard anything about it. I had the flu the last week of 2007, and it was the perfect ending to a disastrous year. Ralphing into a bucket just seemed like an appropriate ending to my year. Sometimes I think I just keep going just to see what can happen to me next.
But hope springs eternal.
My motto is “Things will be great in 2008.”
I'm sure my parents dropped my on my head numerous times when I was a baby.
January 3rd I was in the hospital and awaited amputation. It only turned out to be one toe, but it still was a lousy way to start the year. And it didn’t get much better. Because my foot is now turned as ligaments have been severed, my rehab assignment turned into a disaster. I developed a wound on my foot that still has not healed.
In April, my Mom passed away after her battle with cancer.
In June, I found my ass back in the hospital as I had been vomiting for over a week. During that time, I had a colonoscopy, and got 4 transfusions. They checked out everything they could, and found nothing. Of course, they missed one big thing, and that led to my hospitalization in Ct. I was on vacation in August, and thought I was having a heart attack. I got a quick tour of the Ct. countryside in an ambulance, which would have been much more pleasant if I had been able to breathe. This hospital trip turned out to be a good thing. I had congestive heart failure, and the local doctors had missed that I was retaining water like a friggin’ sponge. I peed out gallons over the next few days, and lost 40 pounds in 4 days.
September-- how much trouble can I get into sitting on my couch? Apparently, quite a bit. I went out one day to see my friend, and tripped on the way in. Ripped up my toes, and they are still not healed. I also had my foot rub against something, and a wound opened up. When did I become so damned delicate?
In October, I had skin cancer removed from my face. A series of 12 needles “stung a little.” Not really, they hurt a lot. More than anything I had ever had done before.
I was measured for a brace in November so I could walk. It was going to take a few weeks. It’s been 6 already, and I have not yet heard anything about it. I had the flu the last week of 2007, and it was the perfect ending to a disastrous year. Ralphing into a bucket just seemed like an appropriate ending to my year. Sometimes I think I just keep going just to see what can happen to me next.
But hope springs eternal.
My motto is “Things will be great in 2008.”
I'm sure my parents dropped my on my head numerous times when I was a baby.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
At least someone gets it
This politically correct, heaven forbid we offend someone BS is beyond my understanding. I have yet to meet anyone who was offended by a Holiday Greeting such as Merry Christmas or Happy Hannukah no matter what religion they were.
And I found this most interesting. All the TV stations and most programs have their little "Holiday Wishes" promos. Each is the most non denominational, plain vanilla greeting ever. "Season's Greetings, Happy Holidays, Feliz Navidad, 'Tis the Season." WTH is up with these greetings?
Season's Greetings and 'Tis the Season? WTF!!! I want to wish you a happy winter? That is possibly the most idiotic greeting ever. Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall--those are seasons. Christmas is no more a season that 4th of July or President's Day. Who would offer anyone a Happy Patriotic Season in July?
Happy Holidays falls right in with the generic and ubiquitous "Have a nice day." A pleasant enough greeting, but lacking in real commitment. It's better than "Merry Christmas if you celebrate it, " which I have heard. Oy vey!
And now, the prevalence of Feliz Navidad. So, apparently, if I were Spanish, I get an appropriate religious-based greeting. But for run of the mill Christians who speak English, no way, Jose.
Now, this is what I found most interesting in these greetings. They are on TV stations with predominantly Christian audiences. Overwhelmingly Christian would be a more accurate description. And here's the twist. I watch Asian-American TV on the weekends. I do love my Bollywood. : )
And on these channels, whose audience is, at best, only a tiny portion Christian, guess what their greeting was?
Merry Christmas.
A few weeks ago, they wished everyone a Happy Dawali, because that was what many (probably most) of the audience celebrates. They didn't qualify it or water it down so as to not offend Christians or Muslims, or whoever happens to watch their programming.
And this week, it was Merry Christmas. Because they realize anything else is just plain stupid. They didn't qualify it, they didn't dilute it, and they didn't mix in various other greetings.
We have a lot to learn from them about tolerance and acceptance. Inclusion and diversity does not mean suppression of what we love about our lives and heritage, but rather it is a way to celebrate alongside and revel in what each brings to our American tapestry.
Merry Christmas, Everyone.
And I found this most interesting. All the TV stations and most programs have their little "Holiday Wishes" promos. Each is the most non denominational, plain vanilla greeting ever. "Season's Greetings, Happy Holidays, Feliz Navidad, 'Tis the Season." WTH is up with these greetings?
Season's Greetings and 'Tis the Season? WTF!!! I want to wish you a happy winter? That is possibly the most idiotic greeting ever. Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall--those are seasons. Christmas is no more a season that 4th of July or President's Day. Who would offer anyone a Happy Patriotic Season in July?
Happy Holidays falls right in with the generic and ubiquitous "Have a nice day." A pleasant enough greeting, but lacking in real commitment. It's better than "Merry Christmas if you celebrate it, " which I have heard. Oy vey!
And now, the prevalence of Feliz Navidad. So, apparently, if I were Spanish, I get an appropriate religious-based greeting. But for run of the mill Christians who speak English, no way, Jose.
Now, this is what I found most interesting in these greetings. They are on TV stations with predominantly Christian audiences. Overwhelmingly Christian would be a more accurate description. And here's the twist. I watch Asian-American TV on the weekends. I do love my Bollywood. : )
And on these channels, whose audience is, at best, only a tiny portion Christian, guess what their greeting was?
Merry Christmas.
A few weeks ago, they wished everyone a Happy Dawali, because that was what many (probably most) of the audience celebrates. They didn't qualify it or water it down so as to not offend Christians or Muslims, or whoever happens to watch their programming.
And this week, it was Merry Christmas. Because they realize anything else is just plain stupid. They didn't qualify it, they didn't dilute it, and they didn't mix in various other greetings.
We have a lot to learn from them about tolerance and acceptance. Inclusion and diversity does not mean suppression of what we love about our lives and heritage, but rather it is a way to celebrate alongside and revel in what each brings to our American tapestry.
Merry Christmas, Everyone.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Dear Santa Claus
It's been a while since I've written to you.
It's been a pretty f'd up year, so I figure you owe me big time. Normally, I ask about the wife and the elves, but this is all about me. I want stuff, and lots of it.
I want a race car set. Yeah, I know you got me one over 40 years ago. But that was given away many years ago. And I miss all the good times I had with it. There was something relaxing about sending the cars streaking around that circle. At that time, it seems hard to believe that an 8 year old needed to relax, but after a hard day of reading, writing, and all that crap, I had to get my mind off the pressures of school and watch the cars go around and around. I was pretty easy to entertain back then.
And you know what Big Guy? It hasn't changed much.
And if you could pack an electric football game in that bag, I'd be pretty happy. I know the guys never went where the should have, and I don't remember ever playing anything resembling the game of football because the thing was noisy and pretty much sucked. But I want one anyhow.
I used to like building model cars. For some reason, I always painted them baby blue with an overspray of gold. I'm sure they looked like crap, but to me they were beautiful. And I don't have any because me and Eddie from up the street used to blow them up in the field across the street. I promise not to blow them up. Besides, I don't know where Eddie lives any more.
I'd also like a couple model rockets. I used to have a fleet of them. I have no idea why, but I always painted them orange and black. I guess I thought that was a good combination. I'm not sure what color I'd paint them now. Maybe baby blue with gold overspray.
And I definately need soldiers. Don't try sticking me with those little stupid green army men, either. I want the 6" ones from Marx. And I want a few of each. Nothing sucked more than playing army and only having American soldiers and one German guy. And I'll need some Japanese soldiers, too. Make sure I get the guys throwing grenades. The Japanese one looked a little like Dice K and I want him to be the first to get shot by sniper fire when I play. I also would like some Roman soldiers. You can give the cowboys and Indians to some other guy seeking a second childhood.
This was usually the part of my letter where I asked you to bring me less presents because some poor kids needed them more. And I probably asked for peace.
Santa, we go way back. I don't really want to be greedy. Just get me the race car set. And have a nice Christmas.
It's been a pretty f'd up year, so I figure you owe me big time. Normally, I ask about the wife and the elves, but this is all about me. I want stuff, and lots of it.
I want a race car set. Yeah, I know you got me one over 40 years ago. But that was given away many years ago. And I miss all the good times I had with it. There was something relaxing about sending the cars streaking around that circle. At that time, it seems hard to believe that an 8 year old needed to relax, but after a hard day of reading, writing, and all that crap, I had to get my mind off the pressures of school and watch the cars go around and around. I was pretty easy to entertain back then.
And you know what Big Guy? It hasn't changed much.
And if you could pack an electric football game in that bag, I'd be pretty happy. I know the guys never went where the should have, and I don't remember ever playing anything resembling the game of football because the thing was noisy and pretty much sucked. But I want one anyhow.
I used to like building model cars. For some reason, I always painted them baby blue with an overspray of gold. I'm sure they looked like crap, but to me they were beautiful. And I don't have any because me and Eddie from up the street used to blow them up in the field across the street. I promise not to blow them up. Besides, I don't know where Eddie lives any more.
I'd also like a couple model rockets. I used to have a fleet of them. I have no idea why, but I always painted them orange and black. I guess I thought that was a good combination. I'm not sure what color I'd paint them now. Maybe baby blue with gold overspray.
And I definately need soldiers. Don't try sticking me with those little stupid green army men, either. I want the 6" ones from Marx. And I want a few of each. Nothing sucked more than playing army and only having American soldiers and one German guy. And I'll need some Japanese soldiers, too. Make sure I get the guys throwing grenades. The Japanese one looked a little like Dice K and I want him to be the first to get shot by sniper fire when I play. I also would like some Roman soldiers. You can give the cowboys and Indians to some other guy seeking a second childhood.
This was usually the part of my letter where I asked you to bring me less presents because some poor kids needed them more. And I probably asked for peace.
Santa, we go way back. I don't really want to be greedy. Just get me the race car set. And have a nice Christmas.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
I have created a monster
When I first got together with the Crotchety Old Lady we shared many passions. Sadly, Yankees baseball was not one of them. But over the last 15 very happy years, she has gradually been converted to fandom. I always imagined growing older with the woman I love and the team I have been a fan of for more years than I care to count. Sitting on the couch while enjoying each other and the best in sports entertainment--what a way to spend my days.
Gradually, the Old Lady has evolved and become a more knowledgeable fan. Again, this could only be considered a good thing. She has a favorite player (Andy Pettitte) and has Yankees gear. I should be the happiest man on the planet.
But much like Dr. Frankenstein, my plan has gone awry. I have created a fan in the purest sense of the word. Fan, as everyone should know, is short for fanatic. And that would be the way to describe my lady.
When A-Rod filed for free agency, her first reaction was that he betrayed her and the team.
And now that he has announced that he wants to come back (crawling back is how she described it) she has become really angry. She wants to take my A-Rod Jersey and cut it up and use it for dustrags after she washes the floor with it. Even though he is perhaps the best player of the last 10 years, and one of the greatest ever, he is terrible, according to her. A total bum because he did so badly in the playoffs. And she has pointed out at least a half dozen times that the Yankees lost the playoffs, and never made it to the Series totally because of him.
The Yankees are looking to re-sign Mo. And again, she is angry that he had what could only be considered an average year by every standard. She expects perfection each and every time out. She is ready to dump the greatest reliever in history because he had an average year.
I have created a monster, and she has turned on me.
Gradually, the Old Lady has evolved and become a more knowledgeable fan. Again, this could only be considered a good thing. She has a favorite player (Andy Pettitte) and has Yankees gear. I should be the happiest man on the planet.
But much like Dr. Frankenstein, my plan has gone awry. I have created a fan in the purest sense of the word. Fan, as everyone should know, is short for fanatic. And that would be the way to describe my lady.
When A-Rod filed for free agency, her first reaction was that he betrayed her and the team.
And now that he has announced that he wants to come back (crawling back is how she described it) she has become really angry. She wants to take my A-Rod Jersey and cut it up and use it for dustrags after she washes the floor with it. Even though he is perhaps the best player of the last 10 years, and one of the greatest ever, he is terrible, according to her. A total bum because he did so badly in the playoffs. And she has pointed out at least a half dozen times that the Yankees lost the playoffs, and never made it to the Series totally because of him.
The Yankees are looking to re-sign Mo. And again, she is angry that he had what could only be considered an average year by every standard. She expects perfection each and every time out. She is ready to dump the greatest reliever in history because he had an average year.
I have created a monster, and she has turned on me.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Rockies in 4!!!
The World Series starts tonight, and I would be so pleased to see the Rockies win in 4. My reasoning is quite different than one might expect. Of course, I'm a dyed in the wool Yankees fan, and any time the Sox lose, I'm a happy guy. And few things would cheer up a Yankees fan more than a sweep by the other team. Any other team.
This year is unusual. The Rockies are riding a 10 game winning steak, and a 21 out of 22 run that has moved them from a wild card contender right into the World Series. Early in September, they were 5 games out, and had almost no chance. They were 2 games out with 2 to go. Yet today, they are in the Series. No baseball team in history has ever had a run like this.
If the Rockies lose the Series, they had a good season. If they win the Series, they had a great season. But if they sweep the Series, it may go down as one of the greatest seasons ever. Other sports have had great teams that have had great seasons. The Dolphins perfect 17-0 season in 1973 immediately comes to mind. And while no team has ever duplicated a perfect season, I contend that 25 out of 26 (with the season on the line every day) would be a greater accomplishment. Football is a team sport. It is rare that one person can step up and make a big difference. A great run is preceded by a terrific block. A circus catch required a throw good enough to be on target enough to be reachable. Anyone remember seeing Ypremian's attempt at a pass in the Super Bowl? Even a great kick requires a front line that can protect the kicker long enough to get the ball through the uprights.
Baseball, on the other hand, is loaded with unlikely heroes. It is part of the fabric of the game.
The most famous may have been Don Larson, with a career winning record of under .500. However, in 1956, this 11 game winner pitched the only perfect game in World Series history. Or Bucky Dent, a light hitting SS (40 home runs in 12 seasons) belted one of the most famed blasts in Yankees history. Or even Brian Doyle (Who?) hitting .438 in the '78 Series. No other sport can boast such outstanding performances by such otherwise obscure players.
At any time, one player can turn around a game. A pitcher can be unhittable. In no team sport can one man have such an impact. So anytime in this run, just one player could have stopped it. Yet, no one did. The longer the streak continues, the more improbable it has become. Just as many have approached DiMaggio's mark of 56 straight games with a hit, no one has ever equaled it. If the Rockies manage, against all odds, to sweep the Sox it would surely go down as the greatest run in sports history. And I'd like that.
But I am sad to admit that if I had to put money on a team, it would be on the Sox. In 6.
But hope springs eternal. Go Rockies!!!
This year is unusual. The Rockies are riding a 10 game winning steak, and a 21 out of 22 run that has moved them from a wild card contender right into the World Series. Early in September, they were 5 games out, and had almost no chance. They were 2 games out with 2 to go. Yet today, they are in the Series. No baseball team in history has ever had a run like this.
If the Rockies lose the Series, they had a good season. If they win the Series, they had a great season. But if they sweep the Series, it may go down as one of the greatest seasons ever. Other sports have had great teams that have had great seasons. The Dolphins perfect 17-0 season in 1973 immediately comes to mind. And while no team has ever duplicated a perfect season, I contend that 25 out of 26 (with the season on the line every day) would be a greater accomplishment. Football is a team sport. It is rare that one person can step up and make a big difference. A great run is preceded by a terrific block. A circus catch required a throw good enough to be on target enough to be reachable. Anyone remember seeing Ypremian's attempt at a pass in the Super Bowl? Even a great kick requires a front line that can protect the kicker long enough to get the ball through the uprights.
Baseball, on the other hand, is loaded with unlikely heroes. It is part of the fabric of the game.
The most famous may have been Don Larson, with a career winning record of under .500. However, in 1956, this 11 game winner pitched the only perfect game in World Series history. Or Bucky Dent, a light hitting SS (40 home runs in 12 seasons) belted one of the most famed blasts in Yankees history. Or even Brian Doyle (Who?) hitting .438 in the '78 Series. No other sport can boast such outstanding performances by such otherwise obscure players.
At any time, one player can turn around a game. A pitcher can be unhittable. In no team sport can one man have such an impact. So anytime in this run, just one player could have stopped it. Yet, no one did. The longer the streak continues, the more improbable it has become. Just as many have approached DiMaggio's mark of 56 straight games with a hit, no one has ever equaled it. If the Rockies manage, against all odds, to sweep the Sox it would surely go down as the greatest run in sports history. And I'd like that.
But I am sad to admit that if I had to put money on a team, it would be on the Sox. In 6.
But hope springs eternal. Go Rockies!!!
Monday, October 22, 2007
One Man's Quest
I am the ultimate creature of habit. I used to wear the same color shirt every day. I found one light blue one that I liked and bought all the store had. As they wore out, I replenished them with the same style and color. The wife did what she could to mix in some other color shirts, but I hated them, and did my best to thwart her attempts to mess with my style, lame as it was.
My lunches are the model of consistency. I usually eat the same thing every day. It may change month to month, but when I find something I like, I'll eat it for a few months or more. I once had peanut butter and jelly for about a year straight.
I eat the same thing for breakfast Monday through Friday. I have a Stony Brook Farms yogurt. Usually I have Vanilla Truffle, but sometimes the store doesn't stock enough, so I have to eat a Chocolate Underground instead followed by cereal with vanilla soymilk. Sunday is Bob's Red Mill Whole Grain Pancakes, with pure maple syrup. Saturday is an omelet, usually with goat cheese and onion, with 2 slices of whole grain toast. All was going well until this Saturday. My toaster broke!!!!
I then spent the rest of the weekend studying toaster sites. I have gone through about a half dozen toasters in the last 15 years, and I was determined not to buy another junk toaster. I was prepared to make an environmentally sound decision, I wanted to buy a toaster that would last me, if not for the rest of my life, at least long enough that I wouldn't feel like my amortized cost for toast was nearly 45 cents each slice. I also decided that I wanted to buy an American made toaster, cost be damned. It was my little effort to support my countrymen, while helping to protect the balance of trade and keep the dollar strong.
But it was not to be. No toasters are made in America. After exhaustive research, it appears only one country, besides China, makes toasters. England is the only other country that I could find that produces toasters. The Dualit line is a hand made toaster made in Crawley, UK. This town in the south of England is the manfacturer of the finest hand-made toasters in the world. Unfortunately, they cost between $280 and $350 each. When making such an investment, I needed to do more research to decide which was the toaster for me. The toaster of my dreams, so to speak. I must have a hand made in Crawley, England Dualit toaster. But then all the important decisions had to be made. I needed to decide on a model. While most ordinary toasters simply come in 2 and 4 slice models, and are usually stainless steel in color. But not Dualit. They offer a 3 slice model, and a variety of colors.
My first decision, of course was the number of slices. 3 would be ideal, since between the wife and I, we eat exactly 3 slices of toast at a time. Perfection. Life would now be in absolute balance.
But I had a new concern. Would a 3 slice toaster affect the feng shui of my kitchen? Everything else is in perfect harmony. Two sinks, four stove burners, two kitchen chairs. Balance. I just couldn't wrap my mind around the concept of a 3 slice toaster. So I shopped at ebay for a 2 slice model. I spent the entire day, hunting for the toaster. I battled for a few, but got sniped on a sweet red 3 slicer. I was willing to live dangerously for a good price. But it was not to be. I got sniped with seconds to go. I then focused my energies on a nice, lightly used, chrome and charcoal model. Again, it was not to be as I gave up at $79.00 for a used toaster.
I pressed onward. I was totally locked in on a nice used, but in like-new condition blue 2 slicer. I even began to call it my new toaster. I put in a solid bid, and then watched in horror as some clown kept nibbling away, driving up the price 3 bucks at a time. 14 nibbling bids later, they appeared to give up. But I worried, so I sat and watched the end of the auction. I kept a window open with a higher bid, just in case, and refreshed the pages every few seconds. Finally, I had shopped victoriously.
I won a manly toaster. Big and brawny. A beast among toasters. According to the website, I can now make 78 slices of toast per hour. I may have to make all the toast in the house from now on. I don't know if the wife can handle that much machine.
Here it is, the Toaster of My Dreams:
My lunches are the model of consistency. I usually eat the same thing every day. It may change month to month, but when I find something I like, I'll eat it for a few months or more. I once had peanut butter and jelly for about a year straight.
I eat the same thing for breakfast Monday through Friday. I have a Stony Brook Farms yogurt. Usually I have Vanilla Truffle, but sometimes the store doesn't stock enough, so I have to eat a Chocolate Underground instead followed by cereal with vanilla soymilk. Sunday is Bob's Red Mill Whole Grain Pancakes, with pure maple syrup. Saturday is an omelet, usually with goat cheese and onion, with 2 slices of whole grain toast. All was going well until this Saturday. My toaster broke!!!!
I then spent the rest of the weekend studying toaster sites. I have gone through about a half dozen toasters in the last 15 years, and I was determined not to buy another junk toaster. I was prepared to make an environmentally sound decision, I wanted to buy a toaster that would last me, if not for the rest of my life, at least long enough that I wouldn't feel like my amortized cost for toast was nearly 45 cents each slice. I also decided that I wanted to buy an American made toaster, cost be damned. It was my little effort to support my countrymen, while helping to protect the balance of trade and keep the dollar strong.
But it was not to be. No toasters are made in America. After exhaustive research, it appears only one country, besides China, makes toasters. England is the only other country that I could find that produces toasters. The Dualit line is a hand made toaster made in Crawley, UK. This town in the south of England is the manfacturer of the finest hand-made toasters in the world. Unfortunately, they cost between $280 and $350 each. When making such an investment, I needed to do more research to decide which was the toaster for me. The toaster of my dreams, so to speak. I must have a hand made in Crawley, England Dualit toaster. But then all the important decisions had to be made. I needed to decide on a model. While most ordinary toasters simply come in 2 and 4 slice models, and are usually stainless steel in color. But not Dualit. They offer a 3 slice model, and a variety of colors.
My first decision, of course was the number of slices. 3 would be ideal, since between the wife and I, we eat exactly 3 slices of toast at a time. Perfection. Life would now be in absolute balance.
But I had a new concern. Would a 3 slice toaster affect the feng shui of my kitchen? Everything else is in perfect harmony. Two sinks, four stove burners, two kitchen chairs. Balance. I just couldn't wrap my mind around the concept of a 3 slice toaster. So I shopped at ebay for a 2 slice model. I spent the entire day, hunting for the toaster. I battled for a few, but got sniped on a sweet red 3 slicer. I was willing to live dangerously for a good price. But it was not to be. I got sniped with seconds to go. I then focused my energies on a nice, lightly used, chrome and charcoal model. Again, it was not to be as I gave up at $79.00 for a used toaster.
I pressed onward. I was totally locked in on a nice used, but in like-new condition blue 2 slicer. I even began to call it my new toaster. I put in a solid bid, and then watched in horror as some clown kept nibbling away, driving up the price 3 bucks at a time. 14 nibbling bids later, they appeared to give up. But I worried, so I sat and watched the end of the auction. I kept a window open with a higher bid, just in case, and refreshed the pages every few seconds. Finally, I had shopped victoriously.
I won a manly toaster. Big and brawny. A beast among toasters. According to the website, I can now make 78 slices of toast per hour. I may have to make all the toast in the house from now on. I don't know if the wife can handle that much machine.
Here it is, the Toaster of My Dreams:
Friday, October 19, 2007
What a stupid move by the Yankees!
They let Joe Torre go. The guy has made the playoffs 12 straight years. This year, the Yankees lost in the playoffs. Was it mismanagement? Was Joe at fault for the Yankees failure to hit in the playoffs? Of course not. Could Torre have exected mayflies in October? And why was he not prepared for them? Oy vey! The kid, Joba Chamberlain had thrown one wild pitch all season. He threw 2 in an inning. Maybe Torre shouldn't have put a rookie in that situation, but who else should he have used? Farnsworth? You never know with him. He could be dominant, or he could be like a batting tee. It was too early for Mo. Torre made the right choices, and got the wrong results.
It reminds me of when Zimmer was manager of the Cubs a few years back. He managed contrarily to recognized strategies. It worked, and he made it to the playoffs--what a genius! The next year, it didn't, and he got fired.
Hall of Fame Manager Earl Weaver was asked how many games a good manager could win for a team. His response? ""Zero." A bad manager may lose a game or two a year, but the best managers win none.
Baseball strategy is limited at best. Certainly, every manager has percentages and "books" available at all times. But belt high fastballs get missed, and "perfect" sliders on the outside of the plate get hit into the upper deck every day.
What does it all mean? Just that if a manager "has the horses" he will lead his team to victory. But saddle him with some broken down 46 year old savior coupled with a bunch of rookies, and throw in some injuries and John McGraw, Miller Huggins and Tommy LaSorda combined can't guarantee a win, let alone a World Series title.
Bottom line:
The Yankees, who have made their share of mistakes during the Steinbrenner years, just made one of their biggest. They allowed a loyal member of the Yankees family to walk. Torre is a gentleman, a baseball man, and most of all, a winner.
It reminds me of when Zimmer was manager of the Cubs a few years back. He managed contrarily to recognized strategies. It worked, and he made it to the playoffs--what a genius! The next year, it didn't, and he got fired.
Hall of Fame Manager Earl Weaver was asked how many games a good manager could win for a team. His response? ""Zero." A bad manager may lose a game or two a year, but the best managers win none.
Baseball strategy is limited at best. Certainly, every manager has percentages and "books" available at all times. But belt high fastballs get missed, and "perfect" sliders on the outside of the plate get hit into the upper deck every day.
What does it all mean? Just that if a manager "has the horses" he will lead his team to victory. But saddle him with some broken down 46 year old savior coupled with a bunch of rookies, and throw in some injuries and John McGraw, Miller Huggins and Tommy LaSorda combined can't guarantee a win, let alone a World Series title.
Bottom line:
The Yankees, who have made their share of mistakes during the Steinbrenner years, just made one of their biggest. They allowed a loyal member of the Yankees family to walk. Torre is a gentleman, a baseball man, and most of all, a winner.
Monday, October 01, 2007
The season continues
The Padres and the Rockies are in a one game playoff to deteremine the NL wild card playoff team tonight.
The Rockies got in by winning 13 of their last 14 games. What a great finish!!!
I predict this red hot team will win today, but will lose the first game of the playoffs against the Phils.
It may be tough for any team to beat the Phils in the playoffs.
So, look for the Yankees and Phils to meet in the World Series, and, of course, championship 27 will go to the team from the Bronx.
The Rockies got in by winning 13 of their last 14 games. What a great finish!!!
I predict this red hot team will win today, but will lose the first game of the playoffs against the Phils.
It may be tough for any team to beat the Phils in the playoffs.
So, look for the Yankees and Phils to meet in the World Series, and, of course, championship 27 will go to the team from the Bronx.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Who is in the Playoffs?
This has been one of the greatest seasons ever. Here it is, with one game to go, and the NL still hasn't determined which teams are in the playoffs. Only one division is decided (the Central--go Cubbies!) while the East is a flat-footed tie between the Phillies and Mets. I think everybody is still alive in the West. That was a slight exaggeration. The D-Backs are in, but it may be as division winner or wild card. The wild card has not been determined, because the Mets, Phils and Padres may all wind up with the same record.
The most amazing part of this year is that the Yankees were written off a few months ago, as were the Phillies. Baseball is a long season. And I can't remember any season when the words of Yogi Berra were ever more appropriate, "It ain't over, til it's over."
A-Rod has all but won the MVP award, and that brings up an interesting question. How can a guy sign a 10 year deal with the option to walk at 7? Which genius executive signed off on that? And it makes one wonder just how high is up? A-Rod is getting 25 mil per year, and he is seeking a raise? WTH!!! I realize he is probably the best player in the game today, but more than 25 mil per? Didn't he catch enough crap when he signed last time? And, yes, I completely understand that baseball contracts are not about the money per year, but the total dollars. And A-Rod is at the age where this may be his last shot at another mega contract. What would have been wrong with another 7 years at 25 mil per? That would make his total for the last 2 contracts for 14 years at 25 mil per year. Total contract 350 mil. That should make for a fairly comfortable retirement.
I was watching the Phillies game today, and saw something so stupid. Sitting in the stands, at a Philadelphia Stadium, watching a game against the Washington franchise, was some moron in a Mets cap. Maybe I'm a traditionalist, but this is just wrong. It's great to support one's team, and if the Mets were within 50 miles of the Stadium I could understand it. But when you wear shirt, caps, etc. representing a team that is no where in sight, that is just plain rude and ignorant. The only exception to this would be if one had a classic bit of memorabilia, like a Negro League cap or a Carl Hubbel jersey. Otherwise, just wear a cap saying, "Booger Eating Moron."
Playoffs begin Tuesday with the Yankees against the Indians.
GO YANKEES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The most amazing part of this year is that the Yankees were written off a few months ago, as were the Phillies. Baseball is a long season. And I can't remember any season when the words of Yogi Berra were ever more appropriate, "It ain't over, til it's over."
A-Rod has all but won the MVP award, and that brings up an interesting question. How can a guy sign a 10 year deal with the option to walk at 7? Which genius executive signed off on that? And it makes one wonder just how high is up? A-Rod is getting 25 mil per year, and he is seeking a raise? WTH!!! I realize he is probably the best player in the game today, but more than 25 mil per? Didn't he catch enough crap when he signed last time? And, yes, I completely understand that baseball contracts are not about the money per year, but the total dollars. And A-Rod is at the age where this may be his last shot at another mega contract. What would have been wrong with another 7 years at 25 mil per? That would make his total for the last 2 contracts for 14 years at 25 mil per year. Total contract 350 mil. That should make for a fairly comfortable retirement.
I was watching the Phillies game today, and saw something so stupid. Sitting in the stands, at a Philadelphia Stadium, watching a game against the Washington franchise, was some moron in a Mets cap. Maybe I'm a traditionalist, but this is just wrong. It's great to support one's team, and if the Mets were within 50 miles of the Stadium I could understand it. But when you wear shirt, caps, etc. representing a team that is no where in sight, that is just plain rude and ignorant. The only exception to this would be if one had a classic bit of memorabilia, like a Negro League cap or a Carl Hubbel jersey. Otherwise, just wear a cap saying, "Booger Eating Moron."
Playoffs begin Tuesday with the Yankees against the Indians.
GO YANKEES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, September 10, 2007
September 11th, 2001
September, 11, 2001 changed America forever. It affected thousands of lives in ways many of us didn‘t initially anticipate. Allow me to explain. I had two students who lost their Dad in the Twin Towers that fateful day. I never met the man, but met his children about four months after the loss of their father. More than five years later I still can’t get the image out of my mind of my two students. Here’s a little bit of the background story: dad went to work nice and early that Tuesday morning, got on the train in Central New Jersey, and headed to the World Trade Center for a special early morning business event.
I like to think he kissed his wife and kids goodbye, picked up his valise, and headed out the door. Maybe he asked her to make something special for dinner, or he may have told her he would try to get home early that night. I’m sure he left with hope and a little bounce in his step on that bright Tuesday morning.
He was headed to a business card exchange at Windows on the World. This was one of the premiere restaurants in NYC, and the place where men and women networked to try to help themselves by helping each other. They weren’t captains of industry, but instead were the “regular guys.” They were men and women working hard to provide food and shelter for their families. I’m sure some were highly paid, among the best and brightest in their field, but most were average Joes. Folks who got on the train in suburbia, and headed into “The City” to earn their daily bread.
Everyone knows what happened next. The planes hit the Tower at 9:11 a.m. and tens of thousands of lives changed forever in that instant.
America itself changed drastically that day. No longer did we feel safe from attack. Everyone should have known that we were vulnerable. Bombs had been set off around the world for years. In 1993, the Trade Center had been attacked, and survived. My friend Jim, a Transit cop who died on 9-11, had been honored previously for his actions back then. The Tower was considered indestructible. America was tough, strong, and safe. 9-11, however, showed that we were indeed vulnerable. Our innocence was lost.
In January 2002 I worked tutoring children. As stated previously, two of my students were children of one of the many victims. The more time I spent with them, the more I realized that they were also the victims, in addition to their dad. The boy was in 8th grade, while his sister was in 5th. But they didn’t look like typical middle school age kids. It was something about their eyes. Their brown eyes looked perpetually sad. I never recall seeing the normal joy and playfulness in the demeanor of the boy. This young man was the most morose teenager I ever met. In my over 5 years of tutoring, he was the only child I never could make laugh. He had the eyes of an old man. And, unfortunately, the soul of a beaten down old man.
His sister had the same sad eyes. But after a while, she changed around me. She started to smile more, and even laughed at my incredibly witty jokes. They were witty to a 5th grader, anyway. By the time my birthday came around, she gave me a very beautiful hand made card. It took everything I had not to cry when she gave it to me. The best part is she made the card a funny one. Was my sense of humor helping her a little bit to heal? I’ll never know, but I certainly hope it did.
I think about my two special students often. The memories of September 11th surround us here in the NY metro area. We have monuments everywhere-- at train stations, parks, and shopping centers. I wonder if they are able to look past these various memorials as so many of us do, or if they serve as reminders to them on a daily basis of the worst day of their lives.
Time heals all wounds, even those that have cut so deeply.
Peace.
I like to think he kissed his wife and kids goodbye, picked up his valise, and headed out the door. Maybe he asked her to make something special for dinner, or he may have told her he would try to get home early that night. I’m sure he left with hope and a little bounce in his step on that bright Tuesday morning.
He was headed to a business card exchange at Windows on the World. This was one of the premiere restaurants in NYC, and the place where men and women networked to try to help themselves by helping each other. They weren’t captains of industry, but instead were the “regular guys.” They were men and women working hard to provide food and shelter for their families. I’m sure some were highly paid, among the best and brightest in their field, but most were average Joes. Folks who got on the train in suburbia, and headed into “The City” to earn their daily bread.
Everyone knows what happened next. The planes hit the Tower at 9:11 a.m. and tens of thousands of lives changed forever in that instant.
America itself changed drastically that day. No longer did we feel safe from attack. Everyone should have known that we were vulnerable. Bombs had been set off around the world for years. In 1993, the Trade Center had been attacked, and survived. My friend Jim, a Transit cop who died on 9-11, had been honored previously for his actions back then. The Tower was considered indestructible. America was tough, strong, and safe. 9-11, however, showed that we were indeed vulnerable. Our innocence was lost.
In January 2002 I worked tutoring children. As stated previously, two of my students were children of one of the many victims. The more time I spent with them, the more I realized that they were also the victims, in addition to their dad. The boy was in 8th grade, while his sister was in 5th. But they didn’t look like typical middle school age kids. It was something about their eyes. Their brown eyes looked perpetually sad. I never recall seeing the normal joy and playfulness in the demeanor of the boy. This young man was the most morose teenager I ever met. In my over 5 years of tutoring, he was the only child I never could make laugh. He had the eyes of an old man. And, unfortunately, the soul of a beaten down old man.
His sister had the same sad eyes. But after a while, she changed around me. She started to smile more, and even laughed at my incredibly witty jokes. They were witty to a 5th grader, anyway. By the time my birthday came around, she gave me a very beautiful hand made card. It took everything I had not to cry when she gave it to me. The best part is she made the card a funny one. Was my sense of humor helping her a little bit to heal? I’ll never know, but I certainly hope it did.
I think about my two special students often. The memories of September 11th surround us here in the NY metro area. We have monuments everywhere-- at train stations, parks, and shopping centers. I wonder if they are able to look past these various memorials as so many of us do, or if they serve as reminders to them on a daily basis of the worst day of their lives.
Time heals all wounds, even those that have cut so deeply.
Peace.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Finally!!!!
The Yankees have taken over the wild card, and don't look like they are going to relinquish the lead any time soon. The pitching is coming around at last. Other than Mussina, they have a credible starting staff, especially in a short series. A few years ago the Diamondbacks showed that with just 2 strong starters the World Series can be won. Wang, Pettitte and Clemens should be able to do the job. And the bullpen is balanced with Joba (my new favorite player, and the one voted "Best Son-in-Law Candidate Among New York Sports Stars, So How Do I Introduce Him To My Daughter") Chamberlain along with Mo who seems to be hitting postseason stride. Vizcaino is doing well, and Ramirez seems to be getting better with every game. I'm not worried about the pitching for the first time in many years. Considering how young many of the pitchers are, they should be dominant in the near future, also.
The offense is not quite as productive as expected, but some of the guys who were struggling early have picked up the pace. Abreu and Matsui have come back from slow starts and are both well on the way to 100 RBI years again. A-Rod is having an MVP year, while Jorge is having one of his best years at bat and in the field. I thought catchers slowed down at his age? Couldn't happen to a better guy.
Damon is starting to hit a little, and he has decided to shut up. Both of these are good moves on his part, and good for the team. And, against all odds, Jason Giambi is back, and has been playing first like a Gold Glover. Yeah, Giambi has been making good plays around the bag. He even made a couple run saving plays. I'm a huge fan of the G man, but never thought he would ever remind me of Mattingly at first.
I remember an announcer a few years ago remarked that bad teams seem to play well early before they realize how bad they are. Seemed silly at the time, but it sure does seem to follow throughout the years. It almost is as if the Yankees suddenly realized how good they were, and have been playing great since the All-Star break. Since the break, thay have been playing at a blistering .667 pace. If they had done this from April, they would have 90 wins already, and the howling in Beantown about the payroll would have been so long and loud. I'm glad it happened this way. I haven't been subjected to the usual mid-season whining from all the teams with ownership that doesn't care about their teams enough to try to give them what they need to put a winning squad on the field.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Yankees Updates
As of this minute, the Bombers are tied for the wild card, and stand just 4.5 games behind the Sox, who are currently on the losing end of a battle with the Angels. By the end of today, with a little luck, my team could be 4 games out of the division lead, and in front of the pack in the wild card race. A fan had a sign today, with a picture of a car’s side mirror that said, “Red Sox, objects in mirror may be closer than they appear.”
The team brought up Joba Chamberlain, and he is becoming a fan favorite. What’s not to like? He has a fastball in the 100 MPH range, a slider that is almost unhittable, and can throw a curve that falls off the table. Top it off with near pinpoint control, and they have one of the best, if not the best, young pitcher on the game. And, while talking about the best young pitchers in the game, how can Phil Hughes be left out of the discussion? He was the pride of the minor league system. Maybe he is the best young pitcher in the majors today. What a choice! They have the potential to be the best one -two punch in history. One day, they may rank up at the top of the list with Koufax and Drysdale, Carlton and Gibson, Seaver and Koosman. The “old” staff of the Yankees has gotten younger in a hurry. Wang, who is only 27 years old, gives the Yankees a big three that will dominate the AL East for years. And, more may be on the way.
Things are looking great in Yankeeland. The team seems to be running on all cylinders, as their explosive power can quickly turn a close 4-3 game into a 9-3 rout in almost no time.
About the only bump in the road was Johnny Damon’s whining a few weeks ago.
He complained that he wasn’t getting much playing time. Hey, Johnny, how about getting the old average above .250 before you start crying like a Little Leaguer? Not for nothing, but Melky is hitting 40 points higher, and can catch the ball, and then throw it. I ain’t saying we don’t love you, but how about sucking it up and getting healthy enough to earn those mega-bucks you are getting paid to WIN the World Series? Not for nothing, but, it’s not like the team is keeping you out of the HOF by benching you, nor are they keeping you from getting that next big payday.
GO YANKEES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Worst Vacation Ever
Last Wednesday, I set out for the wilds of Connecticut for a vacation. You may be thinking, Connecticut? But why would anyone ever go there? Ok, it was for a convention. I'm a model train geek, and I was willing to travel 3 hours for this once a year event.
Wednesday night, I was feeling kind of tired, but since I didn't sleep the night before (I was too excited--remember the part about being a geek?) I thought it was ok. Had trouble sleeping, but again, thought all was well.
Thursday seemed a little better. I slept sitting on a chair, but at least I got some rest. I went to one event, and felt pretty good.
Friday was laid back, and I really thought it was going to be fine.
Then about 7 at night, all hell broke loose. I couldn't breathe. My chest hurt. I was sweating like at a police checkpoint with a dead hooker in the trunk of my car.
Emergency services showed up, meanwhile the hotel manager was busy chasing me and the old Lady with some sort of waiver protecting the hotel from damages. If room 131 was going to henceforth be known as "The Death Room," at least Sam the night manager would have his paperwork in order.
The staff at the hospital was great. Nurse Heather, who could have been a model, teamed up with Dr. Cutie Rodriguez, to help me breathe, and bring down the blood pressure.
Without boring anyone with details, it turns out that my previous doctors had not only given me the wrong meds, but had forgotten one key element. A diuretic. I spent the next 4 days peeing. 4 liters a day!!!! I lost 36 lbs as I peed at a Guiness record setting rate. Richard Simmons, kiss my butt.
I was released after 5 days, and feel better than I have in years.
It looks like this vacation, while a disaster, did have some good come out of it. I'll be writing boring blog posts for a while yet. In the words of Mark Twain: "The report of my death was an exaggeration."
Wednesday night, I was feeling kind of tired, but since I didn't sleep the night before (I was too excited--remember the part about being a geek?) I thought it was ok. Had trouble sleeping, but again, thought all was well.
Thursday seemed a little better. I slept sitting on a chair, but at least I got some rest. I went to one event, and felt pretty good.
Friday was laid back, and I really thought it was going to be fine.
Then about 7 at night, all hell broke loose. I couldn't breathe. My chest hurt. I was sweating like at a police checkpoint with a dead hooker in the trunk of my car.
Emergency services showed up, meanwhile the hotel manager was busy chasing me and the old Lady with some sort of waiver protecting the hotel from damages. If room 131 was going to henceforth be known as "The Death Room," at least Sam the night manager would have his paperwork in order.
The staff at the hospital was great. Nurse Heather, who could have been a model, teamed up with Dr. Cutie Rodriguez, to help me breathe, and bring down the blood pressure.
Without boring anyone with details, it turns out that my previous doctors had not only given me the wrong meds, but had forgotten one key element. A diuretic. I spent the next 4 days peeing. 4 liters a day!!!! I lost 36 lbs as I peed at a Guiness record setting rate. Richard Simmons, kiss my butt.
I was released after 5 days, and feel better than I have in years.
It looks like this vacation, while a disaster, did have some good come out of it. I'll be writing boring blog posts for a while yet. In the words of Mark Twain: "The report of my death was an exaggeration."
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