Big decisions have been made in advance of our trip to Cuba. I will only drink Cuban rum on the rocks--no mojitos or pina coladas for me. And I have decided (after much intra-family discussions and voting) that I will smoke one big fat hand rolled Cuban cigar. Probably on the last day we are there. I continue to be very hesitant about the last sentence given that scare I had some years ago which put my cigar smoking on the permanent sidelines of my life. But I have to believe I can handle one Cuban cigar. No more input please. We are both really really excited about the trip and already believe 8 days may not be enough. But it is better than nada (that's me practicing Spanish)and Fidel is still alive--perhaps I will bump into him and we can discuss why we each gave up cigars. Fascinating and as important as all the socio-political stuff.
And so, the Mitter won Iowa and NH. Now the other boys (Michelle has gone bye bye) are really after him. Honest to god, when you see them lined up for their debates, you need sunglasses so that the glare from their red ties does not blind you.
What will Ron Paul end up with except perhaps some language in their platform which no one except policy wonks really care about? I would love it if he took the Mitter on and actually won but I think not. The decision is in on Mr. Santorum. He is a nasty person with nasty ideas and deserves his place on the cusp of drop-out-ville.
Meanwhile, it is worth remembering that Romney got no more or less votes in either state than 4 years ago. And, equally important to the Republicans, the 2nd and 3rd finishers in each state had the same total when combined as Romney. That does not bode well for him.
Speaking of Iowa, my circulation has increased yet again. John has joined us and represents the most western outpost of readership even if it is just Michigan. Welcome, John.
Unemployment continues to drop ever so slowly. But say the drop is just 1/4% a month, Mr. Barack could be looking at percentages in the mid 6's by election time which would be a big break. Have not heard from or seen Mr. Boehner (he of the perpetual tan) or Mr. Cantor (he who is a member of my tribe) in awhile. But I have seen a lot of Jon Stewart who has been terrific with this primary shit. I remain convinced his staff must be the best group of researchers and writers on the planet. The behind the scenes folks just come up with fact after fact after fact about all public figures. Two nights ago, he skewered Gingrich using Gingrich's own words. Oh my.
So the voters here in the Bay State, being THE MOST ENLIGHTENED IN THE COUNTRY AND THE MOST LIBERAL, decided a couple of years ago to ban greyhound racing. I actually could not care less since I hated betting on those fleet animals--a fly on their butt and they fell over. Anyhow, no greyhound racing. But there were a bunch of greyhounds requiring homes and they were adopted--apparently by every other household in JP. Lovely sight, these beasts freezing their asses off while they are walked around the pond. But ahhh--each has his own blanky. My questions is if racing is so bad, how about cold and why do all of them have hand sewn blankies. Maybe their owners go to that knitting store on Centre street and have a group sew which allows for dog blanky discussions.
FYI--Read the Patti Smith book about her relationship with Mapplethorpe. It was ok but not great. I found it most interesting how she ended up in the circles of so many important 60's cultural and musical figures--among them Hendrix, Dylan, Warhol, Ginsberg. It goes on and on. Amazing.
SPORTS TALK
Michigan finally won a bowl game thanks to the largess of Virginia Tech. Their BB team is not bad either. Dennard Robinson still is erratic but hey: GO BLUE.
I still think James Harrison should be in jail for his hit on Colt McCoy. How is it that local policia (there I go again with Spanish) frequently want to charge hockey players with assault but it never happens in pro football. His hit, in a losing effort at Denver, on their wide receiver was cheap but not the same as his head butting. And by the way, Pittsburgh really blew the coverage on the TD in overtime. Nobody was home back there.
The Celtics continue to look old and the media up here think Garnet looks the worse. I'm not sure how this will play out but is is not pretty.
Tebow sucks and Tebow mania makes me sick. He should just shut up and his maniac followers should get a life. He could also make me throw up should his team upset the Pats. Lets be honest here--the religious thing going on around him is kind of like the Tea Party/Santorum crowd on steroids.
That's it.
Hasta La Vista.
Friday, January 13, 2012
Sunday, January 1, 2012
BROOOOOOOCE
I had a feeling he read my blog and my thoughts about Clarence's absence. Now I am sure Bruce and the boys read it thoroughly because I have learned he has a new album coming out and he is going out on tour sometime in 2012. Gary: This is an early warning. I want tickets if I cannot get my own.
Also, as my forehead recedes more and more, I have begun (much to my chagrin) to look from the neck up like my father. This generated some memories of me being taken by him to have his few hairs cut by a barber who was white with a huge head of white styled hair and whose name was (I swear) Blackie. My father used some sort of red goop on his hair that came out of a clear bottle and of course, being quite the fastidious person, had his nails done at the same time. I cannot remember having my hair cut by this guy or not but I am damned sure my nails were not touched.
He also then took me out to dinner--that sums up my contact with him after the divorce--hair, nails, and dinner mostly of the liquid variety for him. Probably a case of TMI.
Two examples of why I (and now Anna) love our government especially Social Security. I got confused about the day I get my check. One early evening a week or so ago, I called the 800 number and within 5 minutes got my live person who answered my question and set me straight. Anna needed a new social security card and I took her to my favorite Social Security office--and much like my first visit,except for the staff, we were the only Caucasians. She was seen in less than a half hour and her new card arrived 72 hours later. I LOVE MY GOVERNMENT.
So the Republicans caved in on the payroll tax issue. Great---old Eric Cantor (he who is a member of my tribe) is all over the place taking credit for being bi-partisan. That phony baloney hypocrite needs to go to shul a few times on Yom Kippur and repent for all his sins. I spoke to an "insider" about the state of Ohio which just happens to have one of the most liberal U.S. Senators--Sherrod Brown. I wondered how he was doing and how in comparison Obama was doing out there in the buckeye state. He said the internal polls show Brown running 10 points or so better than Obama which is kind of scary. That while they are both liberal, Brown is much more sensitive to union and trade issues. Ugh.
My readership has increased this week. I want to welcome Jim, Graham, and Stef. They have pushed me nearly to the quarter century mark and I have the NY Times sniffing around now that they dumped a bunch of smaller publications.
Two terrific articles. In last weeks SI, a great article about the riots in Vancouver after the Bruins won the cup. While it is sports focused, it is quite a gripping story. Then, also last week in the NY Times, an article about Benton Harbor, Michigan and the socio-cultural upheaval going on there. As a start, it is in receivership and run by the state.
A couple of local notes. Some of the homeless pan handlers now have cell phones. My glass is half full side says that their programs provide them so that they have a way of being in touch in case of emergency. My glass is half empty side says that if they can afford that, why should I give them money? Your thoughts?
Bakery wars: I love the Blue Frog Bakery but it does not have slicing machine and I butcher bread when I cut it. But it is local and I like the guy who runs it. Now we have the Flying Pig which does slice the bread but is part of a chain. they swear they bake the bread daily and ship it down from Maine or NH. What to do?
SPORTS TALK
So I just finished watching the Pats win home field throughout. I am so confused about them I don't even know where to begin. Against the Broncos, the Dolphins, and now the Bills, they were so bad for a quarter or a half--then boom, lights out the rest of the way including defense. Today down 21-0 at the end of the first quarter and then they shut out the Bills the rest of the way. If they score 35 or more every game, I think they could win it all. But there is one good defensive team (perhaps 2) in the AFC and that's Baltimore and they could be trouble. In the NFC, the 49ers have the only good defense. Playing either Green Bay or New Orleans, the score collectively could be in the 80's.
It is way too early to worry about the Celtics but they have looked old and that's as much as I will say.
Except that James Harrison's hit on McCoy was horrific and I really think he should have sat out the rest of the season. It was so clearly head hunting that, given his history, he got off lightly.
Hope all of you have a healthy and peaceful New Year.
Sayonara.
Also, as my forehead recedes more and more, I have begun (much to my chagrin) to look from the neck up like my father. This generated some memories of me being taken by him to have his few hairs cut by a barber who was white with a huge head of white styled hair and whose name was (I swear) Blackie. My father used some sort of red goop on his hair that came out of a clear bottle and of course, being quite the fastidious person, had his nails done at the same time. I cannot remember having my hair cut by this guy or not but I am damned sure my nails were not touched.
He also then took me out to dinner--that sums up my contact with him after the divorce--hair, nails, and dinner mostly of the liquid variety for him. Probably a case of TMI.
Two examples of why I (and now Anna) love our government especially Social Security. I got confused about the day I get my check. One early evening a week or so ago, I called the 800 number and within 5 minutes got my live person who answered my question and set me straight. Anna needed a new social security card and I took her to my favorite Social Security office--and much like my first visit,except for the staff, we were the only Caucasians. She was seen in less than a half hour and her new card arrived 72 hours later. I LOVE MY GOVERNMENT.
So the Republicans caved in on the payroll tax issue. Great---old Eric Cantor (he who is a member of my tribe) is all over the place taking credit for being bi-partisan. That phony baloney hypocrite needs to go to shul a few times on Yom Kippur and repent for all his sins. I spoke to an "insider" about the state of Ohio which just happens to have one of the most liberal U.S. Senators--Sherrod Brown. I wondered how he was doing and how in comparison Obama was doing out there in the buckeye state. He said the internal polls show Brown running 10 points or so better than Obama which is kind of scary. That while they are both liberal, Brown is much more sensitive to union and trade issues. Ugh.
My readership has increased this week. I want to welcome Jim, Graham, and Stef. They have pushed me nearly to the quarter century mark and I have the NY Times sniffing around now that they dumped a bunch of smaller publications.
Two terrific articles. In last weeks SI, a great article about the riots in Vancouver after the Bruins won the cup. While it is sports focused, it is quite a gripping story. Then, also last week in the NY Times, an article about Benton Harbor, Michigan and the socio-cultural upheaval going on there. As a start, it is in receivership and run by the state.
A couple of local notes. Some of the homeless pan handlers now have cell phones. My glass is half full side says that their programs provide them so that they have a way of being in touch in case of emergency. My glass is half empty side says that if they can afford that, why should I give them money? Your thoughts?
Bakery wars: I love the Blue Frog Bakery but it does not have slicing machine and I butcher bread when I cut it. But it is local and I like the guy who runs it. Now we have the Flying Pig which does slice the bread but is part of a chain. they swear they bake the bread daily and ship it down from Maine or NH. What to do?
SPORTS TALK
So I just finished watching the Pats win home field throughout. I am so confused about them I don't even know where to begin. Against the Broncos, the Dolphins, and now the Bills, they were so bad for a quarter or a half--then boom, lights out the rest of the way including defense. Today down 21-0 at the end of the first quarter and then they shut out the Bills the rest of the way. If they score 35 or more every game, I think they could win it all. But there is one good defensive team (perhaps 2) in the AFC and that's Baltimore and they could be trouble. In the NFC, the 49ers have the only good defense. Playing either Green Bay or New Orleans, the score collectively could be in the 80's.
It is way too early to worry about the Celtics but they have looked old and that's as much as I will say.
Except that James Harrison's hit on McCoy was horrific and I really think he should have sat out the rest of the season. It was so clearly head hunting that, given his history, he got off lightly.
Hope all of you have a healthy and peaceful New Year.
Sayonara.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
PEDAGOGICAL THOUGHTS AND OTHER RANTS
Because I am a great humanitarian, I volunteer twice a week (two hours total) at a 766 residential school that I once oversaw. I am not nor have I ever been a teacher. I still don't "get" how our granddaughter Lilli learned how to read. I don't "get" how the neurology or the biology or whatever works in a way that allows learning to take place. I go to Barbara for all that stuff. But twice a week, I help out in a classroom of 8 little kids (12 and under). I help with math and with reading. I love the kids but am getting more and more frustrated with the adults who seem to forget that it is not a prison but a learning environment. Let's take today as an example--ok, Alan, let's. Head Teacher out. Assistant Teacher was in charge and totally unprepared. Two child care counsellors were in the class room and then there was me. So 4 adults for 8 kids. Nothing unmanageable occurred during my hour there. The teacher took 25 minutes to set up the morning activities--meanwhile the longer he went, the more "itchy" the kids got. Movement increased--these kids are there for a reason and its not because they can manage all their behavior on their own.They started touching each other, they started yapping, they started making noises.In all he took too long and somehow did not get it. The two child care workers sat and manged behavior with voices without getting off their butts. I usually wait for direction but finally I got so pissed I got up and plopped myself between two of the kids who were getting the most "hyper". Not brain surgery but come on. Child care workers did not move. Teacher went on and finally read a story and gave them a reasonable assignment (according to my criteria). Then as they proceeded to complete the work, he did all the scissoring and the stapling and I did not see him "teach" for one minute. And the counsellors continued to sit--except for a bathroom break and use of their cell phones. I helped one of the kids who wrote his small "m's" upside down so they were "w's" and had no clue what an "n" was. I am not deluding myself into believing I taught him anything though I wish I could have. I did occupy him and get him through the assignment. Bummed out when I left and as per usual, I leave wondering where this kid and the others will end up educationally.
Onto bicyclists--another favorite topic. I am driving to the school this morning on Centre Street, go by the fire station, and obeying the lane set aside for cyclists. I quickly realize the fire trucks are rolling, the traffic is thick, and I got the bikers on the right of me--none of whom stop but all of whom keep on pedalling. I pull over; theydont. The Trucks go by and bam, one of the bikers decides to draft the truck as if he were in a NASCAR race at Daytona and he does his drafting right down the middle of the road. Please someone tell me why I should not get up close to this guy and scream. The guy by the way had a helmet and had his yoga mat strapped to his back. Must need a lot of relaxing after his speedway ride.
So the Herminator is gone and Jon Stewart continues to anguish over his comedic loss. But he apparently is feeling fairly confident Newt will help him get back on his comedy track. The Newt/Romney clash is hilarious--they are both scary men of the highest order and half as smart as they think they are--especially Newt who fancies himself a scholar on top of everything else.
Unemployment is down again and I know it does not mean much in and of itself but it sure must make Barack and the folks feel a bit optimistic. Can someone please tell me why the Brits are so married to their fucking Pound and out of all the countries in the Union, they were the only hold out and submitting budgets to some sort of central management. Ahh--among other things, the Brits have their own version of Ron Paul and Tea Partiers who want less of anything with government not more.
Been reading novels set in Glasgow--the folks there by the way are called Glaswegians which is kind of cute. Denise Mina is the author and Ilove her not as much as Rankin but close. I really am into European based mysteries. Have another Norwegian novel coming up and am taking an Icelandic novel to Cuba. I am missing Finland--so if you know a Finnish mystery writer, let me know.
Jess, Steffen, and the kids were here for 4 days over the past weekend. they are all great and we got to spend a lot of time with the kids who are growing and thriving down in there in Philly land. Anna got herself a car and loves just having it. Complained that she had to scrape off frost the other morning--poor baby. The next day it was 70
Have had Dominican, Mexican, and Italian food in 3 different neighborhoods of the city over the last 3 weeks. Kind of neat and feel kind of glad I live where I live.
SPORTS TALK
Don't know anymore what to say about the Pats and their defense. Both the Colts and Skins with mediocre (at best ) QB's could have beaten them. Brady was way off against the Skins and they seem to back off when they get ahead. I hate that religious zealot tebow yet am worried about the game itself. It is possible Brady and company will really run it up but it is worrisome. Also this weekend might be the last possible chance for either or both the Steelers and Ravens to lose.
The bruins are in a slight rut thought they have won 3 in a row. i worry about the top line. Lucic and Horton just are not scoring enough. Their depth and their goal tending are keeping them ahead of the field.
Bobby Valentine is not the cure folks--you got holes in right, behind the plate, shortstops who dont hit,pap is gone (boo hoo--he was overrated anyhow) and you better hope crawford's last year was an aberration. otherwise consider him Theo's real parting shot.
That's about it. to Cuba in a month.
Adios
Onto bicyclists--another favorite topic. I am driving to the school this morning on Centre Street, go by the fire station, and obeying the lane set aside for cyclists. I quickly realize the fire trucks are rolling, the traffic is thick, and I got the bikers on the right of me--none of whom stop but all of whom keep on pedalling. I pull over; theydont. The Trucks go by and bam, one of the bikers decides to draft the truck as if he were in a NASCAR race at Daytona and he does his drafting right down the middle of the road. Please someone tell me why I should not get up close to this guy and scream. The guy by the way had a helmet and had his yoga mat strapped to his back. Must need a lot of relaxing after his speedway ride.
So the Herminator is gone and Jon Stewart continues to anguish over his comedic loss. But he apparently is feeling fairly confident Newt will help him get back on his comedy track. The Newt/Romney clash is hilarious--they are both scary men of the highest order and half as smart as they think they are--especially Newt who fancies himself a scholar on top of everything else.
Unemployment is down again and I know it does not mean much in and of itself but it sure must make Barack and the folks feel a bit optimistic. Can someone please tell me why the Brits are so married to their fucking Pound and out of all the countries in the Union, they were the only hold out and submitting budgets to some sort of central management. Ahh--among other things, the Brits have their own version of Ron Paul and Tea Partiers who want less of anything with government not more.
Been reading novels set in Glasgow--the folks there by the way are called Glaswegians which is kind of cute. Denise Mina is the author and Ilove her not as much as Rankin but close. I really am into European based mysteries. Have another Norwegian novel coming up and am taking an Icelandic novel to Cuba. I am missing Finland--so if you know a Finnish mystery writer, let me know.
Jess, Steffen, and the kids were here for 4 days over the past weekend. they are all great and we got to spend a lot of time with the kids who are growing and thriving down in there in Philly land. Anna got herself a car and loves just having it. Complained that she had to scrape off frost the other morning--poor baby. The next day it was 70
Have had Dominican, Mexican, and Italian food in 3 different neighborhoods of the city over the last 3 weeks. Kind of neat and feel kind of glad I live where I live.
SPORTS TALK
Don't know anymore what to say about the Pats and their defense. Both the Colts and Skins with mediocre (at best ) QB's could have beaten them. Brady was way off against the Skins and they seem to back off when they get ahead. I hate that religious zealot tebow yet am worried about the game itself. It is possible Brady and company will really run it up but it is worrisome. Also this weekend might be the last possible chance for either or both the Steelers and Ravens to lose.
The bruins are in a slight rut thought they have won 3 in a row. i worry about the top line. Lucic and Horton just are not scoring enough. Their depth and their goal tending are keeping them ahead of the field.
Bobby Valentine is not the cure folks--you got holes in right, behind the plate, shortstops who dont hit,pap is gone (boo hoo--he was overrated anyhow) and you better hope crawford's last year was an aberration. otherwise consider him Theo's real parting shot.
That's about it. to Cuba in a month.
Adios
Friday, December 2, 2011
I JUST FUCKING DELETED EVERYTHING
I cannot believe I hit some stupid key and everything went poof. Just sucks since I was really on a roll. but I'm thinking you have been spared a bit too much about Harvard.
Lets try again. Each major Harvard teaching hospital has its own training program. Mt. Auburn, Cambridge, MGH, Brigham and Women's,Children's, and Beth Israel/Deaconess--they each have interns, residents, and fellows. Additionally, they each have (for example) Departments of Psychiatry with a Chief Psychiatrist. This chief person by the way has a Harvard academic appointment which usually is at the full professor level. Know what all that shit costs and know where the costs end up? I don't know the exact numbers but I do know they are built into hospital rates. I also know the following--MGH and the Brigham are part of Partners. Yet both have now begun doing both face and hand transplants. Can someone please tell me why we need two hospitals (both in the same corporate structure)doing the same thing?
During my second year at BU, I lived at Myles Standish hall in Kenmore Square (former home of Willy Loman). I lived on the top (9th)floor in a room overlooking the river and Cambridge. Just gorgeous. Very often I would try to locate Harvard Square and get my righteous indignation worked up about the future masters of the universe living nearby. Prepared me very well for my thoughts on their hospitals.
No further thoughts from me about Penn State though I am surprised that another school had more of the same--Syracuse seemed to deal with it better in terms of its reaction. But really, none of us should be surprised.
Barney is retiring. He sounded kind of infantile complaining about his new district. On the other hand, he is 71 and who can deal with that DC shit for so long. I did love it when he basically told the press he could now talk even more freely and then went ahead and decimated Gingrich.
Speaking of which, Gingrich is flying high and tromping on the Mitter. I will say this--he is much more formidable that Mitt but he also has some ugly hstory that he will have to deal with. Still 11 months away though those primaries are just around the corner.
I drove back from NJ by myself this past Saturday and spent a lot of time listening to Bruce VERY LOUD. Loved it but found myself wondering what he will do without Clarence and his sax--never mind the lose of his friend. What does it do to the music?
In NJ, I experienced the following. My niece is a cheerleader and we went to her Turkey day game--her team got stomped by the way. But that was not what interested me. Tess' school is virtually 50/50 black/white. The team they played was all African American. Tess' team had no white players though 6 of 8 cheerleaders were white. On the other hand her education has been seriously and positively affected by the racial composition of her school. I really wonder what that does to her and her fellow students in the long run. For that matter, what does it do to the other school which has no white kids. Then I think: I went to segregated schools my whole life and still wonder how it affected me.
Breaking Bad and Homeland--my two new tv faves. You gotta see them even though I am worried that homeland is really a cover for right wing nuts who want us all to be quite paranoid about any Muslim we see.
SPORTS TALK
Michigan finally kicked Ohio State's ass though Dennard Robinson is still very erratic. If he were a bit stronger as a passer, they would have gone undefeated. But when he is on, he is very very good.
The NBA lock out is over and I don't care. Loving the Bruins though. I really love Lucic and Seguin--kind of like Mutt and Jeff. Watch how well they hold onto the puck and then hold on some more and some more--until you think they cannot possibly hold it any longer. But they do and then make the play.
Dan Shaughnessy and Mike Felger are the two angriest sports guys I have ever in my life experienced. They really need some professional help--no joke. Plus, they are often on TV together and it is impossible to turn down the volume enough.
Mr. Brady and the boys dismantled the Eagles but it is now clear the Eagles stink (sorry Steffen). The Patriots are no worse than a 12-4 team and more likely a 13-3 team. They don't give up much on the ground. However, they are giving up tons in the air and the question in the playoffs will be can they score 30 and win and yet give up 350 yards in the air? I am looking forward to the Bronco game if only to see what they do with Mr. Religion--that would be Tebow who makes me puke and not because of his skill.
Anna bought herself a car and now can tool around southern Texas in style. She was missed in NJ but it was great to see Lilli, Oliver, and their parents. Had a very nice time with all the Weiss' and everyone got everywhere safely.
Cuba in 6 weeks.
Sayonara
Lets try again. Each major Harvard teaching hospital has its own training program. Mt. Auburn, Cambridge, MGH, Brigham and Women's,Children's, and Beth Israel/Deaconess--they each have interns, residents, and fellows. Additionally, they each have (for example) Departments of Psychiatry with a Chief Psychiatrist. This chief person by the way has a Harvard academic appointment which usually is at the full professor level. Know what all that shit costs and know where the costs end up? I don't know the exact numbers but I do know they are built into hospital rates. I also know the following--MGH and the Brigham are part of Partners. Yet both have now begun doing both face and hand transplants. Can someone please tell me why we need two hospitals (both in the same corporate structure)doing the same thing?
During my second year at BU, I lived at Myles Standish hall in Kenmore Square (former home of Willy Loman). I lived on the top (9th)floor in a room overlooking the river and Cambridge. Just gorgeous. Very often I would try to locate Harvard Square and get my righteous indignation worked up about the future masters of the universe living nearby. Prepared me very well for my thoughts on their hospitals.
No further thoughts from me about Penn State though I am surprised that another school had more of the same--Syracuse seemed to deal with it better in terms of its reaction. But really, none of us should be surprised.
Barney is retiring. He sounded kind of infantile complaining about his new district. On the other hand, he is 71 and who can deal with that DC shit for so long. I did love it when he basically told the press he could now talk even more freely and then went ahead and decimated Gingrich.
Speaking of which, Gingrich is flying high and tromping on the Mitter. I will say this--he is much more formidable that Mitt but he also has some ugly hstory that he will have to deal with. Still 11 months away though those primaries are just around the corner.
I drove back from NJ by myself this past Saturday and spent a lot of time listening to Bruce VERY LOUD. Loved it but found myself wondering what he will do without Clarence and his sax--never mind the lose of his friend. What does it do to the music?
In NJ, I experienced the following. My niece is a cheerleader and we went to her Turkey day game--her team got stomped by the way. But that was not what interested me. Tess' school is virtually 50/50 black/white. The team they played was all African American. Tess' team had no white players though 6 of 8 cheerleaders were white. On the other hand her education has been seriously and positively affected by the racial composition of her school. I really wonder what that does to her and her fellow students in the long run. For that matter, what does it do to the other school which has no white kids. Then I think: I went to segregated schools my whole life and still wonder how it affected me.
Breaking Bad and Homeland--my two new tv faves. You gotta see them even though I am worried that homeland is really a cover for right wing nuts who want us all to be quite paranoid about any Muslim we see.
SPORTS TALK
Michigan finally kicked Ohio State's ass though Dennard Robinson is still very erratic. If he were a bit stronger as a passer, they would have gone undefeated. But when he is on, he is very very good.
The NBA lock out is over and I don't care. Loving the Bruins though. I really love Lucic and Seguin--kind of like Mutt and Jeff. Watch how well they hold onto the puck and then hold on some more and some more--until you think they cannot possibly hold it any longer. But they do and then make the play.
Dan Shaughnessy and Mike Felger are the two angriest sports guys I have ever in my life experienced. They really need some professional help--no joke. Plus, they are often on TV together and it is impossible to turn down the volume enough.
Mr. Brady and the boys dismantled the Eagles but it is now clear the Eagles stink (sorry Steffen). The Patriots are no worse than a 12-4 team and more likely a 13-3 team. They don't give up much on the ground. However, they are giving up tons in the air and the question in the playoffs will be can they score 30 and win and yet give up 350 yards in the air? I am looking forward to the Bronco game if only to see what they do with Mr. Religion--that would be Tebow who makes me puke and not because of his skill.
Anna bought herself a car and now can tool around southern Texas in style. She was missed in NJ but it was great to see Lilli, Oliver, and their parents. Had a very nice time with all the Weiss' and everyone got everywhere safely.
Cuba in 6 weeks.
Sayonara
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
ENRAGED BUT NOT SURPRISED
Rather coincidentally, i found myself watching a documentary (part of the Boston Jewish Film Festival)last week just as the Penn State repugnancy was spilling out. More of a coincidence was the fact that the documentary was about the Orthodox Jewish community of Baltimore and a number of its rabbis who have been sexually assaulting adolescents for years. Then, there was this--more or less slipping under the radar--in the last few months male coaches training young women in both gymnastics and swimming as part of the U.S. Olympic training process have been fired wholesale for sexually molesting the young folks in their charge. And lest I forget, there is the Catholic Church. All I could think of was the title of a recent TV show called "Men Behaving Badly". Which is an oversimplifications and does not do these events justice. But it is men (very few women) who are in positions of power and authority and both abuse their positions and then abuse the young people. And all of the events are treated as idiosyncratic when in fact they are part and parcel of the same thing. Men (remember Woody Allen, anyone?)who consistently use their power to satisfy their sexual "urges". I am not smart enough to figure this out though it is also connected to the work I have done in the past. Men in positions of authority in families who similarly abused the young people in those families. There is more than something wrong here--this is related to how we men are raised and what we are taught and how we may have been been victims ourselves. In the end, treating these events as if they were unique misses the whole point. Until something is done earlier in our lives, we will continue to say "oh my, isn't that awful" and then move on. We do not respect children and until we really do, we will see another story like this next month or next year.
So I was wondering how Jon Stewart would play this one. Wisely, I believe, he stayed away from it until last night and then got at it only indirectly. Turns out Sandusky (the perp at Penn state--no need for me to use the word alleged) decided to call into Bob Costas on an NBC TV show. Costas was sitting with the guy's lawyer for god's sake who presumably supported this conversation. Well Sandusky's lawyer, as it turns out, sexually assaulted and impregnated a young woman (below the age of consent) when he was 49 and then Sandusky sputtered when Costas (to his credit) directly asked him about the shower incident. Just "horseplay"--I thought Stewart would have a coronary.
Speaking of Elizabeth Warren (I was, wasn't I?), we saw her at an event in Roxbury this past weekend. She was quite the thing greeting each and everyone of us at the door and getting herself introduced by a recently elected African American City Councilwoman. She said all the right things to an audience of "right ons" and "whistles" and applause. I really liked her but of course have to add two concerns. I thought 3/4 of what she said, Scotty would have agreed with. Plus, her total embrace of unions left me a bit uneasy especially in Boston since I think the Boston Teachers Union is terrible. I just don't buy "all unions are good" position. Overall, I do hope she gets to be a bit more angry when Scotty is across from her. Then I remind myself that it is a year away.
On the same topic Doonesbury has got one of the character's grandmothers coming to Boston to work for Warren. The grandmother is living with her granddaughter who will be her driver. It is just terrific to see how these generations do or do not get along in the comic strip.
Congrats are in order to Allan and Lucy who have become grandparents. The baby is lucky to have those two around for help, support, and love. And belated congrats to Stef and Graham who are getting married. Very exciting and I am especially honored since they have asked me to lead the ceremony. All of us are very happy to all of them and their extended families. Kudos also to a certain Texan for settling in and managing such a large transition much more smoothly than I could have--cannot name the person since (s)he craves anonymity.
BTW, Whole Foods has opened here in beautiful JP but it is more like a mini version of their other stores. I was dying to cross a picket line the first time I went but no such luck.
SPORTS TALK
Since last we chatted, the Pats have lost to one NY team and beaten another. After the loss, for the first time in my memory, the Brady/Belichik love affair with the media started to show cracks. After the victory, all the critics went into hiding. There does seem to be some consensus that Brady has an injured throwing arm but a fool like me could not see it in the second half this past Sunday. Otherwise, I watched a news conference that Belichik is required by the NFL to hold--he absolutely intimidates the media. You have to see it because it is hard to describe except he has that look which says "I dare you. you assholes". And if you dare, you get a one word answer. I will say that if you look at the rest of their schedule, they should end up with 12 or 13 wins and a bye. The real question for me is if the defense over that time will coalesce.
Bye Bye Pap. Your nickname was the second worse on the team next to little ole "Pedey". I say, as a non Red Sox fan, that you can be replaced and Cherington was correct in not overpaying for a head case like you who basically has one pitch. As a balanced reporter, I will also say that Posada should not be brought back and may have done the Yanks a favor by saying so himself.
If Michigan had a QB who could throw, they might be undefeated. As it is, they will get to a good bowl game. BC--ha ha, going nowhere and I could not be happier.
That's about it. For those driving next week, good luck. And Happy Turkey Day to all.
Sayonara.
So I was wondering how Jon Stewart would play this one. Wisely, I believe, he stayed away from it until last night and then got at it only indirectly. Turns out Sandusky (the perp at Penn state--no need for me to use the word alleged) decided to call into Bob Costas on an NBC TV show. Costas was sitting with the guy's lawyer for god's sake who presumably supported this conversation. Well Sandusky's lawyer, as it turns out, sexually assaulted and impregnated a young woman (below the age of consent) when he was 49 and then Sandusky sputtered when Costas (to his credit) directly asked him about the shower incident. Just "horseplay"--I thought Stewart would have a coronary.
Speaking of Elizabeth Warren (I was, wasn't I?), we saw her at an event in Roxbury this past weekend. She was quite the thing greeting each and everyone of us at the door and getting herself introduced by a recently elected African American City Councilwoman. She said all the right things to an audience of "right ons" and "whistles" and applause. I really liked her but of course have to add two concerns. I thought 3/4 of what she said, Scotty would have agreed with. Plus, her total embrace of unions left me a bit uneasy especially in Boston since I think the Boston Teachers Union is terrible. I just don't buy "all unions are good" position. Overall, I do hope she gets to be a bit more angry when Scotty is across from her. Then I remind myself that it is a year away.
On the same topic Doonesbury has got one of the character's grandmothers coming to Boston to work for Warren. The grandmother is living with her granddaughter who will be her driver. It is just terrific to see how these generations do or do not get along in the comic strip.
Congrats are in order to Allan and Lucy who have become grandparents. The baby is lucky to have those two around for help, support, and love. And belated congrats to Stef and Graham who are getting married. Very exciting and I am especially honored since they have asked me to lead the ceremony. All of us are very happy to all of them and their extended families. Kudos also to a certain Texan for settling in and managing such a large transition much more smoothly than I could have--cannot name the person since (s)he craves anonymity.
BTW, Whole Foods has opened here in beautiful JP but it is more like a mini version of their other stores. I was dying to cross a picket line the first time I went but no such luck.
SPORTS TALK
Since last we chatted, the Pats have lost to one NY team and beaten another. After the loss, for the first time in my memory, the Brady/Belichik love affair with the media started to show cracks. After the victory, all the critics went into hiding. There does seem to be some consensus that Brady has an injured throwing arm but a fool like me could not see it in the second half this past Sunday. Otherwise, I watched a news conference that Belichik is required by the NFL to hold--he absolutely intimidates the media. You have to see it because it is hard to describe except he has that look which says "I dare you. you assholes". And if you dare, you get a one word answer. I will say that if you look at the rest of their schedule, they should end up with 12 or 13 wins and a bye. The real question for me is if the defense over that time will coalesce.
Bye Bye Pap. Your nickname was the second worse on the team next to little ole "Pedey". I say, as a non Red Sox fan, that you can be replaced and Cherington was correct in not overpaying for a head case like you who basically has one pitch. As a balanced reporter, I will also say that Posada should not be brought back and may have done the Yanks a favor by saying so himself.
If Michigan had a QB who could throw, they might be undefeated. As it is, they will get to a good bowl game. BC--ha ha, going nowhere and I could not be happier.
That's about it. For those driving next week, good luck. And Happy Turkey Day to all.
Sayonara.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
NOW I KNOW WHO ANN COULTER IS
I had only heard about her but now, thanks to my best bud Jon Stewart, I have actually seen and heard her. Stewart is going to be FANTASTIC between now and next November no matter who runs or who wins. He already is terrific just covering the crazy Republicans. So, in one of his recent eviscerations of the Herminator, he ran a video of Ann Coulter defending Herman by saying: "Our blacks are better than their blacks". Said on some sort of Fox show in defense of Herman's sexual harassment history. I cannot believe those words came out of any one's mouth in such a public way. Stewart was beside himself wondering if Eric Cantor was a better "Jew" than Joe Lieberman. If you cannot stay up too late, he has repeats on Comedy Central during the day--I know not when.
Alan Khazei must have heard me. He dropped out of the race for the Senate by taking a few mild swipes at Ms. Warren. But he now must be beating the bushes looking for the job I always thought he should have considering that he has done next to nothing since City Year. And we also have this guy Flaherty running for City Council--another person with no life and no job who only runs for office as if it were a full time occupation. I am totally confused still about what District I am in but I don't think I get chance to vote against old Charlie. But I do wish him good luck as he trudges along directly behind Khazei looking for those real jobs.
Then we have those Republicans who went after Barack because we are getting out of Iraq (as he promised for god's sake) and because we did not take the lead on Libya. There is nothing worse than spoilsports and these guys are real experts at it. Nothing will pass as a success. Even that great American soldier McCain had a few harsh words for these two issues. He needs to go back to Arizona and guard the border.
Anyone see the profits of Exxon/Mobil. I cannot count that high. The more we pay for gas the more they make. It is obscene but since no energy bill will pass, nothing will change. I am still not sure what to make of the "Occupy" folks but I kind of feel like they are bobbing in the middle of the ocean and being pulled this way and that by tides--not by a sense of direction. And yet I still find myself associating them quite closely with the Tea Partiers.
After being here 3 years, I may actually have warmed up to our neighbors down the path. I never made friends with neighbors on Walnut Street and overall do not have great social skills (anyone surprised?). But it has been nice to have Barbara and David right down the way who I can schmooze with, go out to dinner with, and have them know we might be out of town. They both come from similar professions as well. I am working hard to be a "good neighbor" in the best sense of the word. Nonetheless, for me, it is also about old friends. I have known Charles since kindergarten and Myra since the fabulous 60's. Having them here and spending time with them was like being in a cozy chair with armrests and an ottoman--easy and comforting.
Just returned from Philadelphia visiting Jess and the kids (Steffen was away)for Halloween. Everyone must know this is Barbara's favorite holiday but not mine. So she got to traipse around and I got to dispense candy. Lilli has turned into a terrific swimmer and Oliver is a warm independent kid. Great to see them all and great to see how good the parents have parented.
Meanwhile, Anna is on the ground in Austin and did a marvelous job dealing with the move, and getting there, and figuring things out, and not sweating the small stuff. She has a great apartment with a balcony, pool, and a/c--crucial down yonder. Very proud of her.
Speaking of which she turned me on to the series called "Breaking Bad". Barbara refuses to watch it but I am in love with it. I am not even sure what it is all about but it is very good.
Just finished the latest George Pelecanos novel. Another terrific artist who does to Washington DC what Robert Parker did to Boston. He also happened to write for Homicide, The Wire, and Treme. Such skill.
SPORTS
Did not watch one complete game of the World Series but saw just enough to know that a lot of it was bizarre and that both teams deserved to win.
don't you think it is quite providential that Lackey needs surgery? He may never come back.
Theo fired his manager right away which seems kind of cruel but at least it was quick and decisive. He had better take the long view over there in Wrigley because the Cubbies right now suck.
Michigan's last two games are against Nebraska and Ohio State. They could end up 10 and 2 which is way better than expected though I still think Dennard Robinson is too erratic to carry them much further.
Mr. Brady and the boys are really struggling and even though my theory is that Belichik knows more than me, what he has done to his secondary is totally mystifying.
That's about it--oh yeah, Whole Foods has opened and I am hoping I get to cross some sort of picket line so I can buy some of their pricey veggies one of these days.
Sayonara.
Alan Khazei must have heard me. He dropped out of the race for the Senate by taking a few mild swipes at Ms. Warren. But he now must be beating the bushes looking for the job I always thought he should have considering that he has done next to nothing since City Year. And we also have this guy Flaherty running for City Council--another person with no life and no job who only runs for office as if it were a full time occupation. I am totally confused still about what District I am in but I don't think I get chance to vote against old Charlie. But I do wish him good luck as he trudges along directly behind Khazei looking for those real jobs.
Then we have those Republicans who went after Barack because we are getting out of Iraq (as he promised for god's sake) and because we did not take the lead on Libya. There is nothing worse than spoilsports and these guys are real experts at it. Nothing will pass as a success. Even that great American soldier McCain had a few harsh words for these two issues. He needs to go back to Arizona and guard the border.
Anyone see the profits of Exxon/Mobil. I cannot count that high. The more we pay for gas the more they make. It is obscene but since no energy bill will pass, nothing will change. I am still not sure what to make of the "Occupy" folks but I kind of feel like they are bobbing in the middle of the ocean and being pulled this way and that by tides--not by a sense of direction. And yet I still find myself associating them quite closely with the Tea Partiers.
After being here 3 years, I may actually have warmed up to our neighbors down the path. I never made friends with neighbors on Walnut Street and overall do not have great social skills (anyone surprised?). But it has been nice to have Barbara and David right down the way who I can schmooze with, go out to dinner with, and have them know we might be out of town. They both come from similar professions as well. I am working hard to be a "good neighbor" in the best sense of the word. Nonetheless, for me, it is also about old friends. I have known Charles since kindergarten and Myra since the fabulous 60's. Having them here and spending time with them was like being in a cozy chair with armrests and an ottoman--easy and comforting.
Just returned from Philadelphia visiting Jess and the kids (Steffen was away)for Halloween. Everyone must know this is Barbara's favorite holiday but not mine. So she got to traipse around and I got to dispense candy. Lilli has turned into a terrific swimmer and Oliver is a warm independent kid. Great to see them all and great to see how good the parents have parented.
Meanwhile, Anna is on the ground in Austin and did a marvelous job dealing with the move, and getting there, and figuring things out, and not sweating the small stuff. She has a great apartment with a balcony, pool, and a/c--crucial down yonder. Very proud of her.
Speaking of which she turned me on to the series called "Breaking Bad". Barbara refuses to watch it but I am in love with it. I am not even sure what it is all about but it is very good.
Just finished the latest George Pelecanos novel. Another terrific artist who does to Washington DC what Robert Parker did to Boston. He also happened to write for Homicide, The Wire, and Treme. Such skill.
SPORTS
Did not watch one complete game of the World Series but saw just enough to know that a lot of it was bizarre and that both teams deserved to win.
don't you think it is quite providential that Lackey needs surgery? He may never come back.
Theo fired his manager right away which seems kind of cruel but at least it was quick and decisive. He had better take the long view over there in Wrigley because the Cubbies right now suck.
Michigan's last two games are against Nebraska and Ohio State. They could end up 10 and 2 which is way better than expected though I still think Dennard Robinson is too erratic to carry them much further.
Mr. Brady and the boys are really struggling and even though my theory is that Belichik knows more than me, what he has done to his secondary is totally mystifying.
That's about it--oh yeah, Whole Foods has opened and I am hoping I get to cross some sort of picket line so I can buy some of their pricey veggies one of these days.
Sayonara.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU SWALLOW A CHEWABLE ASPIRIN?
The answer to this and the other VERY IMPORTANT issues of the day will be yours, dear reader, if you tag along for the ride.
If you watch too much of Charlie Rose, then you know its all but over for Obama. The talking heads on that show (which is fairly middle of the road if not a tad liberal as opposed to Fox) regularly stomp all over the Prez and cannot see any way for him to win. I am beginning to make a conscious effort to avoid the show. Plus I keep hoping that the Prez and his boys (and they are mainly boys) know more than the talking heads. But I have an uneasy feeling about the whole deal.I did hear something interesting on the show however. This discussion was about the difference between the Tea Party folks and the Occupy folks since much of their language is very similar. This one guy (name naturally forgotten)more or less said that the Tea Party people are playing on people's fears while the occupy folks are playing on their hopes. I'm not sure about that.
Aw shucks, we won't have Governor Christie to kick around anymore --although some of you live in NJ and get to kick him around fairly regularly. I do get what people like about him--he is in your face with direct answers that I happen not to like but at least are not dances around the floor. His video singing Born to Run was enough, however, to make me puke. But we do have Mr. 9-9-9 Herman (the Munster) Cain and we can only hope we have a race between 2 African Americans. Cain is certifiable and in the same diagnostic category as Michelle. I wish that he is nominated. The two most dangerous ones are Perry and Romney. Both are suave and slick in a political kind of way. We can only hope that the right wing Republican fanatics will struggle to reconcile Perry's rigid fundamentalism with Romney's more moderate Mormonism. But don't be fooled, they both appeal to the worst instincts of mankind. OY--and Anna is moving to Perry's state.
I do love that fantabulous capitalist Warren Buffet--told Rupert what he pays in taxes and asked Rupert to do the same. No deal. Plus he thinks he should pay more taxes and has arranged for his inheritance to go to the Gates Foundation. If you have not heard him, try to. Next to Jon Stewart, he is the best commentator on what is going on--and he has none of the writers Stewart has. By the way, Stewart was on vacation last week and last night said he was gone because he was preparing his Sukkah--an inside Jewish joke on TV. But there was a relatively minor Jewish holiday last week and Stewart typically id'd it and in the process continues to id himself as a member of the tribe.
Beside creating City Year, which is important and good, does Alan Khazei have a job or has he done anything since then except come up with ideas kind of like Chris gabrielli? As you know, I love Elizabeth Warren and she actually has a job (albeit at HAHVAD)and actually did something in Washington. On the other hand, I have been trying to volunteer for her campaign and they simply do not return emails. Makes me wonder.
Is it ok to kill American citizens with drones (or with anything) in a foreign country when we know they are terrorists? I need to consult with an ethicist on that one but it should raise some questions for all of us. Plus these drones are all over the place in the Middle East (and Pakistan/Afghanistan) and are so coldly surgical, its almost like a video game that no one thinks twice about playing.
So the Republicans killed the jobs bill--what else is new? Nothing will get by them between now and the election. I only hope their intransigence will not play well but I worry that Herman's simple solutions and the desire for them will dominate even if Herman does not.
SPORTS
Well, at least as far as we know AJ Burnett was not drinking beer in the clubhouse. I think the Sox and Yanks should package Lackey and Burnett together and make some deal with someone agreeing to eat salaries. Maybe some foolish club will take both on if they are free. The Yanks shoulda and coulda but did not because they did not have starting pitching and because ARod and Texeira choked. I would put ARod in that package by the way. Let Nunez play and get rid of ARod. He was pathetic and anyone who chews gums and seeds at the same time deserves to be kicked to the curb.
I'm thinking Theo will be better off personally in Chicago--maybe even have a life. Bigger city, more things than baseball on people's minds,and the Mid West is different/people are nicer and less frenetic. If any of you have heard/seen either Felger, Shaughnessy, or both (Dan is frequently a guest on Felger's TV show) they are venomous/ugly know it alls. They want to be the MANAGER but not really because then they could not do what they do now. Which is second guess everything and everyone with malice aforethought.
Mr. Brady had "a mediocre" day against those dastardly Cowboys Sunday. Mediocre meaning they won the game in the last 20 seconds as he completed 8 of 9 passes and threw for 289. But all the yakkers wanted to know was why Rex's bro has stymied him. Come on, the game was won. Enough.
Of note: Tom Verducci is rapidly ascending my "who can replace Peter Gammons as the best on air baseball person" ladder. He is just terrific. Second, I just finished(or nearly finished) this 700 page book about ESPN (called These Guys Have All the Fun). Two comments about it: Gammons comes off as a major prima donna and this characterization takes the shine off his apple. Ditto for Olberman who is less a prima donna than a prince. A terrific book nonetheless.
And then there is this: Anna leaves this coming Monday. We will see her Sunday in NYC for a farewell family brunch. Cannot hardly discuss it but I remember when Jessica left for Germany--Barbara wisely said two things. It is an adventure for her and we will just have to visit often. While I agree, it does not make it easy.
I still have no answer to the chewable conundrum.
Sayonara
If you watch too much of Charlie Rose, then you know its all but over for Obama. The talking heads on that show (which is fairly middle of the road if not a tad liberal as opposed to Fox) regularly stomp all over the Prez and cannot see any way for him to win. I am beginning to make a conscious effort to avoid the show. Plus I keep hoping that the Prez and his boys (and they are mainly boys) know more than the talking heads. But I have an uneasy feeling about the whole deal.I did hear something interesting on the show however. This discussion was about the difference between the Tea Party folks and the Occupy folks since much of their language is very similar. This one guy (name naturally forgotten)more or less said that the Tea Party people are playing on people's fears while the occupy folks are playing on their hopes. I'm not sure about that.
Aw shucks, we won't have Governor Christie to kick around anymore --although some of you live in NJ and get to kick him around fairly regularly. I do get what people like about him--he is in your face with direct answers that I happen not to like but at least are not dances around the floor. His video singing Born to Run was enough, however, to make me puke. But we do have Mr. 9-9-9 Herman (the Munster) Cain and we can only hope we have a race between 2 African Americans. Cain is certifiable and in the same diagnostic category as Michelle. I wish that he is nominated. The two most dangerous ones are Perry and Romney. Both are suave and slick in a political kind of way. We can only hope that the right wing Republican fanatics will struggle to reconcile Perry's rigid fundamentalism with Romney's more moderate Mormonism. But don't be fooled, they both appeal to the worst instincts of mankind. OY--and Anna is moving to Perry's state.
I do love that fantabulous capitalist Warren Buffet--told Rupert what he pays in taxes and asked Rupert to do the same. No deal. Plus he thinks he should pay more taxes and has arranged for his inheritance to go to the Gates Foundation. If you have not heard him, try to. Next to Jon Stewart, he is the best commentator on what is going on--and he has none of the writers Stewart has. By the way, Stewart was on vacation last week and last night said he was gone because he was preparing his Sukkah--an inside Jewish joke on TV. But there was a relatively minor Jewish holiday last week and Stewart typically id'd it and in the process continues to id himself as a member of the tribe.
Beside creating City Year, which is important and good, does Alan Khazei have a job or has he done anything since then except come up with ideas kind of like Chris gabrielli? As you know, I love Elizabeth Warren and she actually has a job (albeit at HAHVAD)and actually did something in Washington. On the other hand, I have been trying to volunteer for her campaign and they simply do not return emails. Makes me wonder.
Is it ok to kill American citizens with drones (or with anything) in a foreign country when we know they are terrorists? I need to consult with an ethicist on that one but it should raise some questions for all of us. Plus these drones are all over the place in the Middle East (and Pakistan/Afghanistan) and are so coldly surgical, its almost like a video game that no one thinks twice about playing.
So the Republicans killed the jobs bill--what else is new? Nothing will get by them between now and the election. I only hope their intransigence will not play well but I worry that Herman's simple solutions and the desire for them will dominate even if Herman does not.
SPORTS
Well, at least as far as we know AJ Burnett was not drinking beer in the clubhouse. I think the Sox and Yanks should package Lackey and Burnett together and make some deal with someone agreeing to eat salaries. Maybe some foolish club will take both on if they are free. The Yanks shoulda and coulda but did not because they did not have starting pitching and because ARod and Texeira choked. I would put ARod in that package by the way. Let Nunez play and get rid of ARod. He was pathetic and anyone who chews gums and seeds at the same time deserves to be kicked to the curb.
I'm thinking Theo will be better off personally in Chicago--maybe even have a life. Bigger city, more things than baseball on people's minds,and the Mid West is different/people are nicer and less frenetic. If any of you have heard/seen either Felger, Shaughnessy, or both (Dan is frequently a guest on Felger's TV show) they are venomous/ugly know it alls. They want to be the MANAGER but not really because then they could not do what they do now. Which is second guess everything and everyone with malice aforethought.
Mr. Brady had "a mediocre" day against those dastardly Cowboys Sunday. Mediocre meaning they won the game in the last 20 seconds as he completed 8 of 9 passes and threw for 289. But all the yakkers wanted to know was why Rex's bro has stymied him. Come on, the game was won. Enough.
Of note: Tom Verducci is rapidly ascending my "who can replace Peter Gammons as the best on air baseball person" ladder. He is just terrific. Second, I just finished(or nearly finished) this 700 page book about ESPN (called These Guys Have All the Fun). Two comments about it: Gammons comes off as a major prima donna and this characterization takes the shine off his apple. Ditto for Olberman who is less a prima donna than a prince. A terrific book nonetheless.
And then there is this: Anna leaves this coming Monday. We will see her Sunday in NYC for a farewell family brunch. Cannot hardly discuss it but I remember when Jessica left for Germany--Barbara wisely said two things. It is an adventure for her and we will just have to visit often. While I agree, it does not make it easy.
I still have no answer to the chewable conundrum.
Sayonara
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