Snobs on Parade - NYT and Wendy's

Timothy Egan wrote a column in the New York Times decrying the very thought of Joe the Plumber getting a book deal. It is ripe with the worst kind of elitist claptrap. Tim Blair at the Daily Telegraph fisked it quite nicely.

When writers, painters or musicians whimper about the world being unfair because they, their friends or some other creative-types are not living the easy life or  - God forfend - are not suitably famous, I want to whisper "This is why capitalism is so wonderful." Really. Grow up. We are just not that in to you.

This latest exhibit reminds me of a TV ad running for Wendy's. It shows a security guard, an administrative assistant and one other representative of the working class (perhaps and auto mechanic) speaking in glowing terms about the latest samiches from the cartoon redhead. Not Ronald McDonald, the girl with pigtails. 

The "humor" in this ad is that these pedestrian slobs are using "foodie" language. You see, if you are a mere administrative assistant or night watchman you are unable to use the same language found in magazine or newspaper restaurant reviews. Perhaps you have seen some chefs on the idiot box, but you probably like Paula Dean most. Crinckle nose here.

The imagination runs wild. To make a TV ad that actually brightens my cathodes, a writer has to write it, an actor has to read it, a director has to tell 'em where to stand, a client has to review it, an editor then has to re-edit it to make the shot dwell on the logo for one more second.  Not to mention the focus group. Do you mean to tell me not ONE of the people in this herd didn't raise a hand and question if this might be in poor taste?

Update: Just saw the commercial again. It seems the occupations are welder and parking garage attendant. My premise is unchanged.

Turkeys Away - Still the Best 30 Years Later

It was 1978 when this episode of WKRP in Cincinnati first aired. I think I went into radio because of this show.

Cranberry Sauce Fan?

A New Elf Yourself Creation

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Anybody Remember This?

A friend on Facebook linked to this YouTube channel. This person (Dan -or- videoholic50sthru70s) has made it his mission to collect, and now share, video for 50's through the 70's. Remember Mona Scott and Doug Adair? You can go to the channel and find Blizzard of 77 footage and many other blasts from the past.

That's LIFE - Google Picture Archives

LIFE Magazine and Google recently released a fascinating collection of archival images. I was browsing the collection and looking at old baseball images for the Cleveland Indians, Great stuff.

However - check out this image. The caption says fans are arriving at a ball game in the old stadium. Are they doing a lap around the ballpark before they enter?



And this caption is even less accurate!

It may be snarky, but I think I agree with it.

I was browsing Google News headlines and I came across an emoticon in a headline. You don't see that every day. The LA Times political blog has a smiley face after the  headline that reports McCain won't run in 2012.  I kind of feel the same way. But I suspect I'm happy for different reasons than the LAT staff.

Snazzy new seal you got there

You know how the two teams in the Super Bowl or World Series always have t-shirts and hats and other gee-gaws made up in advance proclaiming them champions? One team always has to throw them away or donate them to some relief agency. Children in foreign lands scamper about in "Cleveland Indians 1997 World Champions" gear, I suppose.

This thought crosses my mind as I catch a glimpse of Barack Obama's first news conference in a LONG time. Remember how he had a cute seal on the campaign trail? Folks thought it was a bit presumptuous, so he put it in mothballs.

But today is different. Today he is President-Elect and he has an office and everything. To be fair, it does not seem to say "Obama" or "The One" on it. Maybe these are government issue and McCain has one in the dumpster outside his office.



Update: I know that many people remarked that the President-elect was an inspirational leader. I did not really see it until now. He has moved me.



Get your own at Says-it.com

For All The Saints About TO ROCK!

I'm not a super-duper arch-conservative Catholic. I'm not a guy to get in a huff over applause in church. or contemporary music. I even tapped my feet at the recent polka mass I attended.

I'd like to learn and pray a little more Latin. However, I was educated by guitar playing nuns with a penchant for felt banners, so I'm not pining for the good old days of my youth.

All I ask of the priest is to stick to teaching what the Church teaches and respect the authority of his bishop and B16. Sometimes even my low threshold is too high. Amy Welborn asked recently what All Saints Day and All Souls Day looked like in her readers' parishes. Here is my story.

The World Series

I'm surprised that Phillies have a 3-1 lead right now as last night's game is suspended due to rain. I think there have been more than a few blunders not just by the umpires. I think Bud Selig and his crew have tried to force the issue when it comes to the weather. There is no way the game should have been played Saturday night. I think starting a game at 10pm when the fan base is on the East Coast is ridiculous. Then to have the field get as bad as it did was just stupid. This evening they are calling for bad weather again and Bud vows "to wait as long as necessary even if its until Thanksgiving". I think the comment that gets me ticked off the most is Bud saying if the Phillies were winning when the game was stopped he would have made them continue play to protect the integrity of the game. How is changing the rules when you feel like it protecting the integrity of the game? The Rays are lucky they scored in the top of the 6th inning so the game is tied. That protected the integrity of the game. Selig you are an idiot. It's time for a new Commissioner.

This Just In: UN Staffers ♥ Obama

The Washington Post really digs deep on this one. My comments in bold brackets.

An informal survey of more than two dozen [more than 24 - that must have taken half the morning!] U.N. staff members and foreign delegates showed that the overwhelming majority would prefer that Sen. Barack Obama win the presidency, saying they think that the Democrat would usher in a new agenda of multilateralism after an era marked by Republican [entirely justifiable] disdain for the world body.

Obama supporters hail from Russia, Canada, France, Britain, Germany, the Netherlands, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Indonesia and elsewhere. [like Leavenworth - where Ayers should live in a perfect world] One American employee here seemed puzzled that he was being asked whether Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) was even a consideration. "Obama was and is unstoppable," the official said. "Please, God, let him win," he added. [so much for separation of church and the one world state]

"It would be hard to find anybody, I think, at the U.N. who would not believe that Obama would be a considerable improvement over any other alternative," said William H. Luers, executive director of the United Nations Association. "It's been a bad eight years, and there is a lot of bad feeling over it."[tell me; why do we host the U.N. on American soil?]

Palin on SNL

I didn't watch it, because I knew the good people at Hulu would let me check it out. A part of me thinks that undecideds might see this and think "She seems pretty cool. Why all the hate?" But then the realist in me says "The aren't laughing WITH you Sarah."

The moose part is good but the best part is "When I say Obama -you say Ayers"

Remember Joe the Plumber

The lefties are saying he is a McCain plant. Of course they would. They can't come to terms that there are people out here in fly-over country that actually hold these opinions, LIKE this country and don't apologize for it.

You knew what was going to happen to him because he caused Obama to share with us that he really does think and talk like a Marxist in unrehearsed moments, right? The city of Toledo, the leftist blogs, the media and the labor unions are causing a shitstorm to fall on him.

Update: Is this bit from the Associated Press supposed to be an labeled "analysis" or are they usually this snarky?

How does one study for a lipness test?

Google Trends is a fun website to monitor popular searches on Google on a day-to-day basis. Some blogging types use it as the proverbial finger in the wind to help them determine what subject might drive traffic to their site. Shameless or savvy? I report, you decide.

Sometimes the searches that percolate to the top just make you scratch your head. But today's takes the cake. During the debate, the candidates both invoked the "There will be no litmus test for Supreme Court nominees." promise.

Apparently more than a few people misheard that and bolted to Google to find out what a "lipness test" is. Check out #16 (update: now it is #18).

To quote Larry the Cable Guy (and Tow Mater), "I don't care who you are - that's funny!"

Blog Recommendation - The Art of Manliness

I was recently telling Limber Joe, who will one day post here, about a blog post I had read. It occurred to me that I rarely out-and-out recommend a blog.

Here is one - The Art of Manliness.

A recent post was about sea shanties. No, they are not slapdash submarine shelters. I did not wake up the morning I read it thinking about sea shanties, but went to bed a little more hip to the working man's entertainment before iPods were so ubiquitous in the workplace.

But not all posts are so esoteric. Practical advice is to be found as well. Such as how to shine your shoes like a soldier. (I already knew)

They also share how to avoid and treat a snake bite. Those with a long memory my recall I could use some help here.

Cable TV Internet Synergy - TBS Hot Corner

As loathe as I am to say anything nice about something connected to Ted Turner, this TBS Hot Corner thingy ROCKS. You may know that I spent a couple years in college studying the radio-TV-film stuff. One of the things I really enjoyed and attracted me to this was the ability to get "behind the scenes" and see the uncut or raw footage. To be the director, if you will.


TBS is allowing anyone with an Internet connection to be their own director. They are streaming four camera angles and allowing viewers to choose the one they like or stick with all four in mosaic mode.

There seems to be about a thirty second latency on the stream I am watching now. I do not know if that is by design to preserve the ratings on TBS or simply a technological artifact. In any respect, it is like having your own instant replay.

If my son John ever finds out about this, he will be very hard to put in bed as long as the playoffs are on TBS. So - Fox - what about it? You brought us the miked base and the glowing hockey puck. Bring on the multi camera directors cut of live sporting events!

The 1st Round of Playoffs

Well I'm a bit surprised that the Dodgers and Phillies have jumped out to a 2-o lead. Although I do not follow the National League except because of who was traded I am rooting that the former Indians do well. CC has carried his team on his back to get to the playoffs but again he is not stepping up when it counts and his team might go home tomorrow. I am quite impressed how Tampa Bay keeps getting the clutch hit or home run when needed and then in the late innings piles it on. It will be interesting to see if the home cooking in Chicago will help them win at least one game. I'm not counting on it nor am I rooting for it. I haven't been able to watch any of the Redsox/Angels series. I guess the Angels are a bit flat without having to fight too hard to get into the playoffs.

On a side note - I'm a bit miffed that our local ESPN radio affiliate only carries the games when it "fits into their schedule". Its a bummer when I want to listen right before I fall asleep.

Andy and Angela - What a couple

Fans of The Office know that Andy Bernard and Angela Martin are engaged. What they might not know is that they...OK mostly Andy it seems...have created a website (update 2/9/2017: now points to a boring blog) to help friends, family and VERY interested co-workers (Dwight) keep abreast of the plans for the joyous occasion.

Here is a sample:

Wedding Party Apparel: We haven't finalized colors or anything just yet, but we're thinking nothing too fancy for the gents, just the normal Bernard wedding apparel: top hats, coat tails, and canes if you've got 'em. The attire for Angela's bride's maid will be lovely too: something boxy with a hemline below the ankle. No bare arms. No open toed shoes. More restrictions to come.

Hair and Make up Ideas: Hair up, no make up for her. I may apply a little powder.

Give me a break, Greeley

Andrew Greeley is a Catholic priest and a writer of, um, popular literature. His way with words is so crafty, so nimble, so superior to most of us that he can write this:

I was wrong about the first McCain/Obama debate. A third of the way through the event, I said to one of my guests, "My guy is getting creamed!" Note that I did not say, "My candidate is being beaten into the ground." I don't have a candidate. Priests, like columnists, are not supposed to endorse a candidate. But one of the candidates is from my state and my city, and we shared a pulpit once. So of course I hope he wins. But that doesn't mean I endorse him. As I have said repeatedly in this column, I think he will lose because the country is not ready for a smart, attractive, charismatic man -- if he has skin slightly darker than a Sicilian's.

A breathtaking journey of name-dropping, sarcasm, political prognostication, disdain of his countrymen (countrypersons?) and bigotry in one short paragraph.

Keep keeping those endorsements to yourself Andy!

The Bus is rolling, and Wedge is tossing bodies!

Now we know what has been holding the Tribe back all these years....it was Louie Isaac! He has been the one common denominator the past 43 years, and Wedge isn't gonna take it anymore!

Even Tommy has figured it out...

The Browns suck

Browns Vader

The Browns need all the help they can get.

A little Indians, A little Browns

The suspensions were handed down for the Friday night brawl. Fausto got 6 games, Victor and Astrubal 3 games a piece. Gary Sheffield only got 4 games. That seems a bit unfair. Gary Sheffield was just as guilty as Fausto. The only thing Fausto did that Gary didn't was land a few punches. But I think Gary should get just as many games because of the threats he made to some of the Indians who might have landed a cheap shot when Fausto had him in a headlock. I do think it is a bit ridiculous that Fausto is appealing and that Eric Wedge said they need Fausto to pitch one more time in a meaningless season.

The Browns just stink and I don't know if Quinn is the answer. Its not DA's fault the receivers are dropping passes that are hitting them in the numbers. I'm tired of hearing Romeo's excuses. He may be a nice man but its tough on me as a fan to hear the excuses. I know we have injuries apparently we do not have the depth to cover while the guys are out.

Light The Night at Progressive Field

The Tribe decided to light the night with fireworks on the field and in the air. Fausto landed a couple punches, even, but this is a different topic.

I am raising money with my friends at work for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society as a participant in their Light The Night Walk September 27 at Progressive Field. We are inspired by our colleague Kurt who exhibited amazing fortitude, an incredibly positive attitude and a crazy work ethic this year. (He has a t-shirt that says "I made cancer my bitch" to prove it!)

Donation helps accelerate cures for leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma and brings hope to the patients and families who are on the front lines of the battle against these diseases.

If you feel inclined to help, please use the link below to donate online.

http://www.active.com/donate/ltnClevel/2486_MattKeough

If you'd like to learn more about the Light The Night Walk, please visit http://www.lightthenight.org

James Lileks does it again.

Lileks is a great writer. I sometimes literally (and I don't mean figuratively) laugh out loud when he is on a roll. On the reaction in some corners to Sarah Palin:

...one thing that’s amused me in the last two weeks, it’s the screechy distaste of Ms. Palin coming from men who embodied the Modern Alda Paradigm of masculinity, which is to say they are nervous around cars, think guns are icky, had their own Snugli, have wives in corporate jobs who make more money than they do, and still get dissed behind their backs because they can’t figure out how to make the bed. The Lost Boys, if you will. Now, some women can’t stand Sarah Palin for their own reasons, personal or ideological; same with men. Some men, however, are made deeply uneasy by her, because she’s the one who ignored the sensitive poet-guys in high school for the jocks, and didn’t seem to grasp the essential high-school truth that it’s cool to be a loser.

Now tell me he is not a Benchley for our times! Thank you James, and keep it coming!

LeBron James

I've decided after reading comments made by Braylon Edwards about LeBron James wearing a NY Yankee hat while hanging out on the Dallas Cowboys sidelines Sunday that LeBron is a front runner. He rooted for the teams that were probably really good while he was little - he even loved the Chicago Bulls. Well good for him. I think the best comment Braylon made was that LeBron probably doesn't even like playing for the Cavaliers. I guess we shall see when he becomes a free agent.

It's nice to know . . .

the Browns suck in opening the season - anytime and anywhere. I would like to think things are going to change next week when we face the Steelers but I don't think that will be the case. We will be just boosting somebody's fantasy football numbers once again.

Cliff Lee is the pitcher we thought he would be and hopefully he will be this way again next year. If we could get everyone back, healthy and stay healthy we might be on to something.

Cute Kid There, Governor!

I'm posting this mostly so the mother of my children will see it. A funny unscripted moment from the Republican convention.

Tribe on a Roll - Was it all Byrd's Fault?

The group consensus of the brain trust here at SMWIAL was that losing Byrd was simply a money saving maneuver for our beloved Indians. But look what has happened since his bolt to Boston. Ten in a row, baby.

Mr. Byrd always had that outward appearance of being a consummate professional, a great teammate and a good guy. I think he would be a great dude to sit down and shoot the bull with over a cool beverage.

But was there a dark side? Was he a mean old SOB in the clubhouse, striking fear into the rookies and never returning borrowed magazines to the veterans? Was he prone to fits of furious screaming "I said ICE WATER! This is COLD WATER!" Did he burp loudly and not pardon himself?

Did the media cover for his bad habits like back in JFK's day? Come clean Mr. Shapiro. Speak truth, Mr. Wedge!

I have absolutely no evidence or any cause to speculate this. But I am a blogger, so who is going to notice?

The Baseball Boys

John, James and Patrick make backyard baseball seem like a three ring circus.

Trade bait?

I about fell over when I heard tonight Byrd was on the trading block. Who in their right mind would want a 4-10 pitcher. Kelly Shoppach just hit a 2 run homer (after hitting 3 doubles in previous at bats) - does this sweeten the pot - you get Byrd and Shoppach (his personal catcher) for some young talent.

After much consideration...

I've discussed it with Joyce, and although I thought I might begin on the local level (dog catcher, parish council, etc.), I've decided to bring Hope, Change and an Extraordinary Head of Hair to the national scene. Together we (mostly using confiscatory tax rates) can change America. Possibly for the worse.

Now that's HOT!

Finally!!!!

Indians win 13-2!!!!!

Happy Birthday America

It's all over but the trading

I seem remember the local paper used to have a smiling Chief Wahoo on the masthead when the Indians won and a frowning Wahoo with a crumpled feather when they lost. We would be seeing that sad little chief plenty this year.

One morning last week when I woke up our five year old, the baseball nut, he asked "Did the Indians win last night, Dad?" "No son, they lost" A very matter-of-fact observation followed from the tyke, "They stink!"

And so the rich family tradition continues.

Pandora Reminds Me...

that Del Amitri's "The Last To Know" may be the most perfect song of the 1990's.

Our local gas station

This is crazy!

The lovely Joyce K and the Boys on WKYC

The lovely Joyce K and her handsome sons appear in this story on our local NBC affiliate WKYC- TV (yes John, in HD)

Women's Professional Fast-Pitch

Last week as John and I were surfing looking for any baseball in the afternoon (John thinks we can watch any MLB team at anytime of the day) we came across Women's fast pitch. I thought it was the Women's College World Series so I stopped. It was not - apparently they have a professional league now. It was entertaining as the centerfielder for Philadelphia was making some unbelievable catches. The thing that I was mostly disturbed about was the shape some of these women were in. I know I'm completely out of shape but I'm not a professional baseball player. Yikes! Marla Hootch looks like Marilyn Monroe compared to these girls!

US Open

Holy cow - what a tournament! It has been so awesome and we get a bonus 18 holes tomorrow! Forget Sesame Street - we are watching golf!

Sara Evans

I read on People.com yesterday that Sara wants to have another baby with her soon to be husband Jay. Keep in mind between the two of them they have 7 children. Yikes! I guess she figures between her and Jay's looks the kid couldn't look too bad.

Good job Cliff Lee!

Win #10 last night. I'm glad Wedge let him come back out after the rain delay. Who would have guessed it. It would be nice to get Fausto healthy and CC pitching consistently and our bat showing up everyday - we could put a run together - I'm hoping and praying. The way they keep doing the Buffalo shuffle it looks like they are pulling all the strings to get something going. We will just have to wait and see.

I've had enough!!

Wake up bats or GO HOME!!!

Fees

A lot of places have them to protect themselves but I think in the long run it loses business. For example MCI was my long distance carrier. I probably used them once in the last 6 years because of my cell phone is now more my long distance choice. Well they decided to institute a minimum usage fee in February. I haven't had a balance so I haven't opened up my bill. Then I received a phone call asking me to pay $25.84. I said come again I haven't used your service why do I owe you this amount? The "financial" person couldn't tell me so I had to call back on Monday to the Customer Service center. Then on Monday when I got my monthly bill from them I saw what they were talking about and oh yea - the 99 cents they were charging for a paper statement was now going up the $1.99. No thank you. I feel for the people who don't have access to a computer. Maybe the government should hand those out along with the food stamps.

I think I was most amused when I called AT&T to complain about the price of my internet service going up. When I asked the guy for a discount he sat there in silence not knowing what to say. I'm supposed to get $6 off my next bill but I would rather have that credit everytime. I figure if they can give it to you once they can give it to you again.

A nice story...but...

Turns out the display of sportswomanship was not really necessary. The Ump blew the call. BTW - I use the term "sportswomanship" intentionally. I doubt guys would have done this. We tend to look at events like this and say "Sucks to be you, dude."

WAKE UP Tribe bats!

Interesting move by the Indians yesterday - they designated Jason Michaels for assignment and brought up Ben Francisco. YEAAAAA!!!!! I must admit the Indians front office is very patient but a move needed to be made. I wonder how much more patient they will be with Travis Hafner. I understand it is hard to admit you gave money to the wrong guy. I too thought last year was a fluke but now that it has spilled over into this year I'm not so sure. I wonder if the shift teams use when he is up to bat has effected him. We need to get a move on it. This happened last year and the Indians got hot at the right time - hopefully the team will snap out of it before we get buried in the basement of the Central Division.

Hulu and The Office are the Best!

I signed up for the Hulu beta, but forgot my password. After the easy password reset I watched the episode of the office I missed two weeks ago (worth the wait) and found the clip below. Joyce will enjoy this.

Tribe Looking Better

I know it is a long season, so forgive me if I got a little depressed about how my Tribe was playing. I'm still not convinced that they are the AL Central favorites, but the last few days have been fun.

Today the weather was in the 80's - the blimp was overhead and my Cleveland Indians beat the Yankees, even with Paul Byrd on the mound. John asked me "Why does Uncle Drew think Paul Byrd is bad?" and Paul promptly served up his second homer of the night to Giambi. "That's why son, that's why!"

The June Swoon Came Too Soon

Cleveland Indians fans are used to the Tribe getting our hopes up early, only to dash them by the All Star Break. Can't say they are setting the bar too high this year. As a matter of fact, a petition was posted at my workplace Tuesday and amended today.

Great Moments in Journalistic Ignorance

I'm no expert on journalism or religion, but sometimes I pick up the morning paper and almost do a spit take with my iced tea. Yesterday was one of those mornings.

Take a gander at Georgie Ann Geyer writing about the Pope's visit next week. Before I got 5 column inches into it, I spotted errors that would have never made it past her first draft or an editor if either had an even passing familiarity with the subject.

Exhibit A:

Next to his predecessor, the image of Benedict was often that of a snarling defender at the gate of Vatican ultraconservativism, standing side by side with the Swiss Guards, moral bayonets at the ready, defending the past.

Colorful. But more of a reflection of a cartoon you may have seen He is constantly looking at current writers in theology and philosophy and accepting some thought - rejecting some.

Exhibit B:

A conservative who grew up in Germany during World War II, Benedict will never agree with Vatican II, the historic 1962-'65 liberal confab of the church.

Um...he was there and helped form some of the documents that where produced by the council. Vatican 2" wasn't just about giving us guitar masses. For the record, Pope Benedict ain't crazy about guitar masses.

Exhibit C:

Most important, he has overseen the church's efforts to define a series of "new sins" that could change the world, if applied. ...

(Quoting some guy that works in the curia -ed) He went on to speak of everything from illegal drug use, genetic manipulation, environmental pollution, bad ecological practices, and economic inequality in which the poor are getting poorer and the rich growing richer, fueling unsustainable social injustice. These, he said, are the "new sins."

Those all could fit under the tried and true seven. Besides attributing this claptrap to Benedict is like holding a head of state responsible for some bureaucrat's report about a proposed change on parking regulations on government leased property.

Exhibit D:

No one knows exactly why the pope chose to come to America at this particular time.

2008 is the bicentennial of the designation of Baltimore as an Archdiocese. Just sayin'

Exhibit E:

He is, amazingly, even an admirer of much of Protestantism.

Why are you amazed, Georgie? Are you assuming that Catholic leaders are by definition religious bigots? Wouldn't we be bigots to make such an assumption?

OH! The Pressures of Blogging

I'm tempted to make no apology for my lack of blogging here and elsewhere. I'll just try to pretend that the pressures of authoring a highly popular and influential site caused me to go into seclusion.

The NYT would be sympathetic to that argument while they make guesses as to how much cash I was pulling down for my torment.

Alas, I am just kind of lazy. But I'll be back into it now. The Supreme Pontiff's visit will provide lots of fodder for media criticism and the Tribe is off to a rocky start. I'm back!

The new look of Progressive Field

I was taking the kids to the zoo yesterday and we passed by the old Jacobs new Progressive Field. Boy have they been busy re-branding the stadium. "Progressive Field" is now over the "Indians" on the scoreboard, they have two brick pillars on the outside that have "Progressive Field" (I don't remember the name Jacobs Field being here) and of course the main big sign from behind that you can see from Route 90 has "Progressive Field". I bet they have it on the back of every seat and inside every toilet stall. All of this was just two much for my 4 year old son who said he does not like the name because he can't say "Progressive" very well. I do wonder once you buy the naming rights does that give you the right to plaster your name everywhere? I guess the Dolans do not care as they got the $ and I'm guessing the city owns the stadium.

Prepare for St. Paddy's Day the Muppet Way

When Science Meets Religion

Professor Micheal Heller has been awarded the Templeton Prize. He stated:

Amongst my numerous fascinations, two have most imposed themselves and proven more time resistant than others: science and religion. I am also too ambitious. I always wanted to do the most important things, and what can be more important than science and religion? Science gives us Knowledge, and religion gives us Meaning. Both are prerequisites of the decent existence. The paradox is that these two great values seem often to be in conflict. I am frequently asked how I could reconcile them with each other. When such a question is posed by a scientist or a philosopher, I invariably wonder how educated people could be so blind not to see that science does nothing else but explores God’s creation.

Tru dat, Professor!

Semper Fi - The Comedy

I'm not a frequent viewer of the Daily Show. Stewart can be funny, but his act wears thin on me. I spent the late eighties and early nineties thinking I had invented and perfected a detached, world-weary persona with a strong dash of fool blistering detatchement. Turns out I was just immature. Wish that had paid better.

Anyway, saw this clip and thought it was pretty damned funny. Berkeley wants the Marines out, out out! And not in a "Don't ask, don't tell" kind of way.

A note to those in Florida or Arizona

Hello friends -

If you are in Florida or Arizona please do the common courtesy thing and report daily on this blog your sights and seeings at any and all MLB Spring Training facilities. Those of us stuck in the daily wind, ice and snow storms would appreciate a little sunshine sent up north.

Thanks,

Someone who wishes they were in a warmer climate

Is it me or has American Idol jumped the shark?

I guess people have been saying it for a while now but maybe it has jumped the shark with me. I watched the Hollywood week but wasn't paying very close attention when it was on. Now they are starting to vote. I thought the guys were ok. Some were better than others. We'll see what the girls do tonight.

Thomas Andrew Arrives!

20.25 inches 7lbs 8oz at 5:44 am

The Steriod Era in Baseball

Has now turned into the game show "Who is telling the truth". I understand why Roger is defending his name - he has a lot at stake apparently the Hall of Fame is a big deal to him. So the question is - if it is such a big deal why would he jeopardize it and cheat? I do believe he is guilty. I think with how injury prone he has been late in his career he would use the HGH to get him back on the field. Then the next question is McName - why on God's earth do you still have the stuff you used to inject people just "lying around". One would suspect that you were hoping to "cash" in on this someday - especially with someone as big as Roger Clemens.

More questions - Why is this Congress' problem? Why can MLB police itself? Why did they extend Bud Selig's contract? What should the punishment be or why should we care if these people cheated as long as it doesn't happen in the future?

Ok my head is spinning and more questions keep popping up. Time to go rest and relax.

Are we about to get Boozered again?

Well it was in this morning's paper that CC Sabathia made a statement that he is tabling the negotiations for a new contract with the Indians until after the season. I do respect the fact that he would like to focus on baseball and not the contract and with Spring Training starting it is time he shift his focus on the season. However, doesn't he have an agent to deal with that. Hasn't he said to his agent here is what I am looking for - between $100-$150 million for 5 years - obviously the more money/years the better for "security" - and then leave it to the agent and team to hash out the rest? I guess not.

Why do I feel like CC is pulling Jim Thome or Carlos Boozer saying one thing and his intentions the whole time are to do another. I hate the business side of baseball sometimes - especially when it seems like we always get the short end of the stick. I guess we'll just have to watch and enjoy CC's farewell tour.

A Daring Political Prediction

Given Mitt's retirement from the electoral fray, I now feel confident in a prediction; the next President of the United States of America will be plucked from the US Senate. Republicans have Mac, the Dems have Hillary and BO.

I'm not crazy about the idea that our next chief executive might have never been a chief executive before. It is not a novel observation that the skills of a Senator do not really translate as well as the skills of a governor. If I pursue this line of argument it might lead you to think that I'm a Huckabee supporter. I'm not. And mostly because of his Tonight Show appearance.

He's a charming guy. But seeing a Governor from Arkansas jamming with a late show band gave me a flashback to the 90's.

I don't want to go back to the 90's. I really don't.

Hoops!

The Cavs are playing the Celtics tonight in Cleveland. Its a lot of back and forth - hopefully the good guys will get a W tonight.

I was surprised last night to read Bobby Knight was throwing in the towel. He said he was finished and tired of basketball. I guess that is when you know its your time. Hopefully there won't be a scandal coming out later that tells us the real reason he left.

Wow! A big upset

As soon as Bill Belicheck too to field I knew they were not going to win. Why you ask? Did I know he didn't cheat and try to steal signs from the last time they played the Giants? Nope. Was it the blank stares coming from Tom Brady and Randy Moss? Nope. It was the red hooded sweatshirt. I told my dear husband - where is the grey hoodie? Knowing sports and superstitions I saw this as a bad sign. It was amazing that the Patriots held the lead as long as they did. Manning had a nice game keeping his nerves in check and did well. I don't know what was more entertaining - the commercials or watching Peyton Manning's reaction to different plays during the game.

There is not Boston tea party today because of the red hoodie. How sad. What was he thinking??

Twas the night before the Super Bowl

and all through the country everyone debated who would win the big game. The players, grown men, will have trouble sleeping through the night in anticipation of the plays they will make. Fans all over the country have finalized plans on their feasts and I'm sure their fridge is stacked with beer. I wonder if the commercials will live up to par or will I fall asleep before the end of the game.

Writer's note - this was just my random thoughts and was not meant to rhyme or be creative in any sort of way. My throat is hurting so I think I better something cold to make it feel better.

Good night to all and to all a Good Super Bowl Sunday!

Kucinich Won't Be Our Next President

Why did Dennis drop out now? Are there no more windmills? Are our peace-loving alien friends on to another galaxy far, far away? Perhaps.

I have posted three comments critical of him in recent days. I can only say that the Representative who sometimes resides in the 10th Congressional District might have been feeling the heat coming off the Stop Me When I Am Lying blog universe!

The Indians announce the promotional schedule

Yesterday the Indians announced their promotional schedule. Looks like some very cool giveaways. I need something explained to me - where it has "Fan Vote" does that mean fans voted for this giveaway last year, online - when did this vote take place and was it limited to season ticket holders? Also in the article before they get to the list of giveaways - the Indians announce that group and season ticket sales are very brisk compared to last year. Nothing like creating a demand for when the individual tickets go on sale in about a month. If in fact the ticket sales are as good as they say (oh don't forget the naming rights money), I hope this means we will sign CC or that professional hitter we need in the line up before this year is over.

I know it's all about the $ but...

What is up with all of these entitities coming up with their own "network". I'm talking about the NHL, NFL and some college leagues. I don't think the NBA and MLB have exploited their fans yet although some teams do have this type of setup where you have to pay extra for the channel through cable or you need to have a satellite to view it. I am an occassional hockey fan - like the sport but since Cleveland doesn't have a professional team I'm not a die hard. So the NFL is off this weekend and I see the NHL is having their "All Star" Weekend. I usually enjoy watching the stars of the NHL show off their stuff - not to mention enjoy watching the "skills" competition. I went to NHL.com to see what the lowdown was on the schedule of events and who was televising the events. I found out that the skills competition does not appear that it will be televised and the actual game is on a channel called "Versus". Please note "Versus" is not included in my overpriced, bare minimum cable package. Are the leagues that are trying to make that extra buck alienating a few fans out there? I'm guessing as long as the advertising $ is coming in that they do not care. Bummer for me - looks like I'll need to have a Candyland tournament with the kids or maybe even play a few rounds of Go Fish for Sunday afternoon/evening entertainment.

What is your "Bucket" list

Apparently there is a new movie out called "The Bucket" and the two actors play out what they want to do before they kick the bucket. So what would you do?

I would probably try and see as much baseball as I could around the country with my husband. Sampling all kinds of beer and never having a hangover. We would stay at the team hotel and meet all kinds of interesting people.

I would want to experience one more Indian Summer where I can enjoy looking at the colorful leaves and the smells of the fall foilage.

Hug all of my handsome sons and laugh about all the fun and crazy times we had together.

A new name for "the Jake"

So it will soon be announced that Jacobs Field will soon be called Progressive Field. I am so not into having a stadium called one thing and then the next day something else. I know its business and there is a lot of money to be made but I still hate it. Why can't they call it Jacobs Field sponsored by Progressive?? So what will the new nickname be? We have "the Q" should we call the baseball field "the P"? I wonder what their logo is going to look like outside of the stadium. Progressive is a very long name compared to Jacobs Field. Update - I like the logo - name is still too long.

I'm just glad 1) I didn't work at Progressive and was recently laid off and 2) I don't have insurance with them because I would wonder why my rates have just gone up - to pay for the name!

I'm looking forward to hearing what the new nickname might be.

When is the Writer's Strike Going to End???

I am in "The Office" withdrawal - big time. To make matters worse I bought my boss a daily calendar that features quotes from "The Office" and every time I read the quote I laugh then I cry. Do you think there is an anonymous group for this kind of problem?

On a positive note there still is game shows (like the Power of 10 or Deal or No Deal) and reality TV. I enjoy Gene Simmons arrogance and charm so I will be watching him on The Apprentice. I will also be rooting for Country boy Trace Adkins. Omarosa is only a star in her own brain and she can be voted off any day now.

Today's photo caption

I could go so many places with this. So here are a few off the top of my head:

Vote for my husband - for president, congressman - I don't care just vote for him!

Please vote for me or my wife will leave me!

I really think I can make a difference even though I'm an idiot

I will be there for you Cleveland - when I'm not living in my fantasy world of trying to get elected to the White House.

I am an important person!

This outrageous story is hilarious

Have you heard about the two guys who wheeled their dead friend down the streets of Manhattan to cash his check?

I have ready a couple versions but the more I think about it the funnier I think it is. What a bizarre scene it must have been. I think its funny these guys thought they could actually get away with it. Only in America.

Is it just me?

or do you think that Hillary really doesn't want to hug this person?? Not that we can see the girls face but my guess is she is not even old enough to vote.

Is it really true?

I heard this morning that Dr. Phil is not really a doctor. I've never watched the show - just previews. So that makes me question if the judges on the other shows are really judges or just playing a judge?? hmmm

Ugh! Ziggy Zumba

Roll over, you BG Warriors...

Yikes! What happened here? I had a bad feeling when I realized the MAC had three teams playing in bowl games. I had no way of knowing my fellow Falcons would be humiliated. They are just not playing a good football game, and the score is now 42 - 7 in favor of Tulsa. and they are threatening again. I'm diving for the remote so I can go to bed before the score again...

Belgrade's Most Popular Irish Band

I'm not a world traveler. But I hear that no matter where you find yourself, you can have a pint at an Irish bar. With this in mind, I share with you a video I stumbled upon on YouTube. It is by the Orthodox Celts. The description says they are Belgrade's most popular Irish and Celtic band. I can't argue with that, but do wonder how crowded is the Irish music scene in that part of world.

Quinn is in!

I'm watching the Browns and it looks like Anderson hurt his hand on the last possession. So we will see Brady Quinn take some snaps in the last game of the season. Kind of a perfect scenario unfolding here.

Quinn gets in during a meaningless game. The Titans win later today, and we have an instant quarterback controversy for the Cleveland writers. That will keep them going until the trucks get packed for Spring Training.

100 Greatest Songs of the 90's - Really?

I didn't see the whole show on VH-1. They say "Smells Like Teen Spirit" is the #1 song of 90's. You could make that argument, of course. I mean, if it was good enough for Full Action Hose to cover, it must be pretty good. They pegged "One" by U2 as #2. If you ask me - for pure songwriting and emotional impact - they had them flip-flopped. I contend that a listener in 2008 who had never heard either song would tell you "One" is the better song.

I do not know where "How do you talk to an angel?" was slotted.

Can you believe it?

The Browns could be going down uncharted waters - something I would have never believed in a million years happen this year -- the playoffs. Yes, Sunday is a must win for the Brownies if they want to continue as some people call it "the season of dreams". Today I listened to a local radio station who each Friday has a panel of people pick who they think will win for the week in the NFL. The producer of the show who gets to make picks gave the most unique reason I think I will ever hear on to why the Browns will win. Please note the producer is male and not female. He said, that it is a battle of Lake Erie as both cities border the big lake. He continued on that the Lake like Cleveland much better than Buffalo and therefore the Browns will win. I have to agree - I believe there will be snow on Sunday but if the forecast becomes a reality could you imagine how much snow Buffalo could have during the game?? I love when the elements could ultimately have an effect on the game.

The Mitchell Report

When the Mitchell Report came out yesterday instead of reading the 500 page document I was scouring it for players names. I was surprised that most of the names on the list weren't the typical steroid looking player like Mark McGuire, Sammy Sosa or even Barry Bonds. It was guys like Tim Laker, Adam Piatt, and Chad Allen. I read some of the dialogue on these players and most of them used them to get to the next level or to get healthy and get back on the field. It is a shame that these guys risked their health to become that star player. I think was is even worse is the MLB was very slow to react to drug use in the league. I like the policy but I think players will continue to cheat if they don't find a way to test for everything. I think they should take not only a urine sample but blood as well - that way they have their bases covered.

To people who do no know how to drive in the snow

If there is snow on the ground (meaning the grass) and the road surface is wet - it is ok to drive the posted speed limit. If you do not feel comfortable doing this then stay in the far right lane!

If there is snow on the road I understand going a lot slower but c'mon folks its only white rain!

Get off your cell phones, properly clean off your car or better yet use the defroster before you enter the highway!

Christmas Specials on TV

Have you watched any of the Christmas specials on TV? Which is your favorite? Matthew K brought up a good point the other night. He said remember when you could only watch "The Grinch" or even "Charlie Brown" on just one night - a special night that you wouldn't want to miss? Now thanks to DVD's our children have already seen both shows at least a handful of times. As I watched "Christmas Eve on Sesame Street" with my boys (a favorite special when I was growing up) I realized that they could probably not share this classic with there children. The technology has changed so much. There is one scene where Cookie Monster is trying to type a letter to Santa about what he wants for Christmas but gets distracted because the different parts of the typewriter looks like different cookies or desserts. My 4 year old has never seen a typewriter before and didn't really understand how a typewriter works. I guess my boys will now have "Shrek the Halls" to pass down to my granddaughters (positive thinking on my part). It was an enjoyable show but there are some satire scenes in the show that they may not ever understand.

DWTS Finale

I know I'm a little late with my opinion but I've been busy with the holiday season. First of all I'm so happy Helio and Julianne won. I would have been happy for Maks and Mel but as you know I'm a huge Julianne fan. I guess what is more intriguing is the rumors that came the next day that Helio and Julianne might be a couple because Helio's engagement is off. I read somewhere online today that maybe it was her brother or Donny Osmond said that Julianne could have chemistry with a broomstick. She sells it well and I think that is one of the reasons why I love her. I also read that she is recording an album Not sure the genre - not sure that I'm interested in her as a singer. My friend has this theory that Julianne will now be stuck with someone with not much dancing talent because she has won 2 times in a row. Cheryl had a shot at 3 but Ian was just too stiff compared to Joey and Anton. I don't think they will have another competition until this fall. I am assuming the Bruno / Carrie Ann dance war will take over from Jan - May. If that is the case I will be bummed because I enjoy watching the stars learn how to dance!

A poll for Cavs fans

Browns Town Again?

Is this crazy? The Browns have won five straight at home this season? I cannot BELIEVE it! Wearing a throwback uni (just one digit off from a legend) Jamal Lewis ran past, over and through the Texans. Lewis has a stiff arm from circa 1949. Given the fact that my Indians far exceeded my expectations, I am starting to think the "P" word might be spoken. And I may be wrong, but this might be the first time in my lifetime the Indians and the Browns were in the playoffs in the same year. I KNOW the Indians, Browns and Cavs have never been to the post-season in the same year. Could we, should we dream?

Here is the really fun part. My four year old son is begging me to skip nap time so he can see the Browns. Now, maybe he just wants to skip his nap. However, it is still cool that I am watching the Brownies with my son, and it is not punishment.

The photo is borrowed from a slideshow at www.ClevelandBrowns.com

That Was Close! Browns Making It Interesting

Last week they SHOULD have beat the Stillers. Just a field goal away. As the lovely Joyce lamented, "How could that exact thing happen two weeks in a row? HOW?" Only because it is a Cleveland sports team. That is how it could happen. All is well that ends well. But now it REALLY hurts the the Brownies didn't get it done last week.

Do you think the ref looked at the tape before they had further discussions? Do you suppose Baltimore sports talkers are crying in their crab cakes about the reversed call. If they are, it gladdens my heart. I hate the Ravens.

Remembering our Troops

As Veteran's Day approaches us I thought I would pass along a few ideas if you would like to take time to thank our troops. The first idea I received in an email.

When doing your Christmas cards this year, take one card and send it to this address. If we pass this on and everyone sends one card, think of how many cards these wonderful special people who have sacrificed so much would get.

Send to: A Recovering American soldier
c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue, NW
Washington,D.C. 20307-5001

An update to my original post (11/20) -

I heard on the radio today that if you don't have a soldier's name on your Christmas card the Walter Reed Center is returning the card to the sender. That is a shame - why can't they just pass them out?

My second idea would be to donate to the Freedom Calls Organization. Here is the link
http://www.freedomcalls.org/ They get the troops hooked up to their families back home when they can't make it back for a birth or a death of a family member.

I think these are two ideas that I will be acting on in the near future!

Thank you to all the Veterans who read our blog!

CMA Recap

I enjoyed watching the CMA's very much. Glad to see the people who won. They deserved it. Now here is my red carpet recap - I guess that makes me a Joan Rivers wannabe without the annoying voice.

LeAnn Rimes - nice dress I guess but she is so pale that I don't think I like it that much.

Taylor swift - nice dress - she looks like an emmy award.

Jewell - can you say boob job?? That doesn't look natural - it looks like it hurts to be honest with you.

Sara Evans is really pretty but this dress reminds me of my sister's first homecoming dress back in 1988. I think it might have helped things if it went below the knees and what is up with the Wilma Flinstone jewelry??

Kellie Pickler looked nice. She did a nice job of not accentuating the boob job.

The elegant award winners go to Carrie Underwood and Martina McBride. Both looking awesome as always!

That's why they call it Fall

Dad didn't mind raking them up again & again & again...

The Office

Last night's episode of "The Office" was awesome as always. The exclusive club was great. As I was driving to work this morning I couldn't help thinking that the Toby/Pam relationship reminded me a lot of Friends Rachel/Gunther relationship. Is Toby only in the club to be closer to Pam? When Michael to Jim to take Karen to a hotel, get on top of her and think of Stanley I thought I was going to lose it. The only thing I was disappointed about is they didn't touch on the Andy/Dwight/Angela triangle. That is a great B story!

Baseball - the off season

Some random thoughts I have about what has happened in the "off season" of baseball. The baseball season ended just 4 days ago but so much has happened. Joe Giradi is now the skipper of the Yankees - good luck with that and Joe Torre is now going to lead the Dodgers. I'm happy for Joe. Maybe he will finally get the credit he deserves without the owner second guessing him in the media.

Today, I read about Barry Bonds playing "hardball" with the Hall of Fame. Here is a link to the article - http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3090631. He said if the hall displays his record breaking ball with an asterisk he will never be in the hall of fame. So if he is elected he won't show up for the ceremony. I think it's rather bold for him to think he is an automatic bid. Look at Mark McGuire. I believe last year he was his first year of eligibility and he did not get enough votes.

I guess the good news is the Curt Schilling has the Indians on his list of teams he would like to play for in the future. I'm impressed because the list included cities that were good enough to raise a family - schools/neighborhoods. I wonder what 'hood' he would live in if he became an Indian. My question is do we dish Byrd and go after Schilling? Then you can let Lee/Laffey/Miller battle it out.

A-rod will no longer be a Yankee. Ok - who is going to sign him to the big contract he will demand? I don't think the Indians will but it would be interesting to throw him in our lineup and put him at 3rd base. I don't think the Indians will do this because of the money and the choke artist that he is in the playoffs.

Stay tuned as who knows what week 2 in the off season will bring!

Happy Halloween

boo!

That Was Painful...Better With Time

The "Stop Me When I Am Lying" crew must have all gone into the same disbelieving funk that I did. How could the Tribe just fall apart like that? The sting is still there, but seeing Colorado get swept ended the season mercifully.

What are we going to post about now? The Browns won back-to-back games. That is something. The presidential elections are less just about a year away. "Dancing with the Stars" has been entertaining.

I look at the search queries to see how people find this blog. During the Indians run in the post season, there was traffic related to "rally pie" and "it's Tribe Time now".

Today there was a new query that brought us a visitor - "how to stop our annoying brother from annoying us". OK - given that my brothers post here, I better be careful. But if you want my advise on the subject, here it goes. I am making an assumption that the annoying brother is a younger brother. They usually are the annoying ones. Wait twenty years or so. He may be just as annoying, but there is a chance that he will have moved far enough away that you won't be subjected to his pure annoying-ness as often. If you can't wait that long, fink on him to your parents.

It's a sad day

The mourning begins - another baseball season is over for the Indians. So what do we have to look forward to in the Sports World? The Cavaliers will try to defend their Eastern League title and the Browns are 3-3 and will try and have a respectable season. It's going to be a long winter.

The fat lady is warming up!

Big win last night! I'm looking for the Tribe to close it out tomorrow. We definitely have the BIG MO on our side and I'm not talking about Mo Vaughn!

Some observations about the ALCS

I have been listening to a lot of local sports talk not only in the car but on the internet. I can't get over how hyper and panicked the Indians fans are. Last week they wanted CC to go on short rest instead of Paul Byrd. Wedge stays with Byrd and we clinch. Again this week people are just nervous nellies about our team and second guessing Eric Wedge. It is almost comical because you would think we were down 0-3 to the Red Sox and were facing elimination. Tribe fans - relax. We are going to the World Series. I can't see us losing to Tim Wakefield tonight especially because the Red Sox will have to decide if they let Varitek catch him (highly unlikely) then if you use Varitek as DH the ailing Ortiz surely couldn't play 1st base with an achey knee. If you did get crazy and start Ortiz why would you want to take Youkilis out of the lineup?? The way I see it is the Red Sox have problems and the Indians can pick another person's bat to victory with another solid performance from our bullpen to close out Game 4. I am hoping CC is the CC of old when he pitches on Thursday. Hopefully he will be back in synch.

Who got PIED on Friday?

Inquiring minds want to know. Normally the pie in the face takes place during a TV interview but I never saw who was the lucky candidate on Friday evening when the Indians squeaked out the victory against the Yankees in 11 innings. I really hope they continue this trend as many players are superstitious - just look at Casey and his beard, Fausto and the foul line jumping. and all of those pregame HIGH 5's that Martinez gives out to his teammates. Does anyone have the answer???

Update: here is a link to a Plain Dealer story - http://tinyurl.com/yop3l7

Buh Bye, Yankees!

Congratulations to the 2007 Cleveland Indians. The ALCS is set and the two teams with the best records are facing each other. The Red Sox are tough, but it is Tribe Time NOW!

Joyce's keys to an ALDS Victory!

1) Pitching has to be superb. We know CC and Fausto will bring their A game but the bullpen will need to carry on with what they started. Joe B will need to make sure to take care of business when A Rod, Jorge and Jeter come up to the dish.

2) The hitters need to be patient at the plate and make the pitchers work deep into the count. I think when the Tribe was on the skids before and after the All Star Break it was because they weren't being patient and making the pitcher work.

3) Keep mental and fielding errors to a minimum.

4) Be aggressive on the bases. We aren't a team that likes to steal alot of bases but sometimes I think we need to push it and put the pressure back on the other team.

5) Fans need to be loud as possible. They shouldn't listen to the press and how they are saying the Yankees are the greatest thing since sliced bread. Yes, they are good but they haven't won a sausage in 7 years.

6) Someone needs to come through and get me a "It's Tribe Time Now" t-shirt - preferrably XL (room for the future fan)

GO TRIBE!!!