I'm not feeling too well today, so here's just a few random thoughts.
Is O.J. Simpson evil, deranged, sick, stupid, or all of the above?
I like how Jeff Foxworthy describes the side effects of medicines. He lists everything from diarrhea to low credit ratings. It's funny, but it's true. I looked up the side effects of a medicine that my doctor prescribed for cluster headaches. Thanks, but I think I'll just suffer. Sheesh.
It used to be that women looked at the inner man when choosing a partner while the man looked at the outer woman. Studies have shown that to be true. But does anyone else think that young women are becoming just as shallow as men? What does that say about society?
Being sick stinks on ice.
That's all. Just wanted to post before my brain completely seizes up like an engine without motor oil.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Monday, September 17, 2007
Monday...Bleah! (Title Supposedly Borrowed)
***NOTE: A friend who has another blog has accused me of borrowing the title. Even though I can't find proof, I will give her credit. http://asiavou.blogspot.com/ (You crack me up, girl.)
Yes, that just about sums up my mood today.
First of all, my apologies for not posting yesterday. I'm giving myself a pass for two reasons. Reason number one: I had a really busy day along with some health issues. Reason number two: If I don't give myself a pass, then I'm being really hard on myself, might discourage myself, and become even more bitter towards myself. Thus, a full pardon has been granted. Hurrah!
I was helping my son with his drafting homework last night. Let me rephrase that, because what I know about drafting could fit in a thimble with room left over for Lake Tahoe. I was loaning him my eyes because he was so tired. Why was he tired, you might ask? He was tired because, at age 19, he put in a day at work on Saturday that was not to be believed. He started work at 7 am, worked until 4, then had to go back to work at 7 pm to do inventory and didn't leave till about 1 am. He had to work so many hours due to a bunch of irresponsible co-workers who put partying ahead of agreed upon duties.
I'm so tired of these teens and twenty-somethings who think that they have every right to do what they wish, be as loud and obnoxious as they wish, be as vulgar and rude as they wish, and to do it so that it infringes on others' rights. For example, there are neighbors in my building who will play their music loud at 2 am, and then stand in the parking lot or sit on their balcony and scream, cuss, and just generally make a nuisance of themselves. If you try to call them on it, they turn it on you! (I won't even begin to go into the sight and sound of young women using language that is so vulgar that it wouldn't even qualify for an "R" rating!)
Parents, you need to teach your children from an early age that other people have rights, too. You need to teach them to put others before themselves, how to display manners, and how to have some self-respect.
What are the chances of that happening? Not good, as I see a bunch of parents out there who don't even understand the concept themselves.
Why am I ranting on this? I don't know. I guess I'm just sick of what I see and wish that people would consider what they look and sound like, and how they treat others.
And to those young women who think that cussing makes you mature and sexy? You're wrong. You seem cheap, trashy, and ignorant. Guys, the same goes for you. Try a few sentences without a cuss word in the middle of it. You might be surprised that you can sound intelligent.
Done for now. I'm tired, it's Monday, and I'm rambling. But at least I posted!
Yes, that just about sums up my mood today.
First of all, my apologies for not posting yesterday. I'm giving myself a pass for two reasons. Reason number one: I had a really busy day along with some health issues. Reason number two: If I don't give myself a pass, then I'm being really hard on myself, might discourage myself, and become even more bitter towards myself. Thus, a full pardon has been granted. Hurrah!
I was helping my son with his drafting homework last night. Let me rephrase that, because what I know about drafting could fit in a thimble with room left over for Lake Tahoe. I was loaning him my eyes because he was so tired. Why was he tired, you might ask? He was tired because, at age 19, he put in a day at work on Saturday that was not to be believed. He started work at 7 am, worked until 4, then had to go back to work at 7 pm to do inventory and didn't leave till about 1 am. He had to work so many hours due to a bunch of irresponsible co-workers who put partying ahead of agreed upon duties.
I'm so tired of these teens and twenty-somethings who think that they have every right to do what they wish, be as loud and obnoxious as they wish, be as vulgar and rude as they wish, and to do it so that it infringes on others' rights. For example, there are neighbors in my building who will play their music loud at 2 am, and then stand in the parking lot or sit on their balcony and scream, cuss, and just generally make a nuisance of themselves. If you try to call them on it, they turn it on you! (I won't even begin to go into the sight and sound of young women using language that is so vulgar that it wouldn't even qualify for an "R" rating!)
Parents, you need to teach your children from an early age that other people have rights, too. You need to teach them to put others before themselves, how to display manners, and how to have some self-respect.
What are the chances of that happening? Not good, as I see a bunch of parents out there who don't even understand the concept themselves.
Why am I ranting on this? I don't know. I guess I'm just sick of what I see and wish that people would consider what they look and sound like, and how they treat others.
And to those young women who think that cussing makes you mature and sexy? You're wrong. You seem cheap, trashy, and ignorant. Guys, the same goes for you. Try a few sentences without a cuss word in the middle of it. You might be surprised that you can sound intelligent.
Done for now. I'm tired, it's Monday, and I'm rambling. But at least I posted!
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Grocery Stores
I just got back from doing my weekly grocery shopping. Yes, I'm a guy and I do the family shopping. There is something depressing about shopping. I'm not talking about the prices, although those can get a person and his budget down in a hurry. I'm talking about selection.
Hear me out. I realize that American grocery markets carry a wide variety of foods. I also understand that they can't make everyone happy. But let's compare, say, Safeway to a much smaller store such as Trader Joe's. Safeway has a huge variety of items compared to TJ's. But as I wander through Joe's place, I find things that I want, not just things I need. I find good prices on things such as French cornichon pickles, cage free eggs, wine, pasta, and other items. But on top of that, I find items from all over the world. In comparison, Safeway feels sterile and, well, safe. Safe is fine, but safe is not always best. When I walk into a market in France, I can smell the flavor in the air. The stores are clean, but they don't try to hide the aromas. Here, the smell of...nothing...is in the air.
Where in the world am I going with this? I don't know. I guess I'm just down because I'm tired of seeing the same old boring products every week. Hey Safeway. Why not get juuuust a little daring? How about a nice cassoulet? Perhaps some true Italian mortadella? Something? Oh well, just give me half a pound of the overly processed sliced chicken breast, please.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Writing Prompts
Today I had to do two prompts for my creative writing course. The first prompt was to describe a "black sheep" of the family and write about why they were considered to be odd and why you might have liked or admired them. The second was to describe someone's room using descriptions for all five senses, and then reveal a secret at the end.
The reason I am putting this in my blog is to reveal something I have learned about writing; you don't always like what you have to write.
I hated these assignments. They weren't me! But I also realize that if a person wants to earn money as a writer, they may have to take freelance assignments where he has to write about a subject that doesn't interest him. These qualified, that's for sure. But in writing these stories, I began to understand that I have to take even more care when writing in cases like this. One student who reviewed my paper said that he could tell that this subject was less appealing to me than previous papers. He could tell! Even though I thought the work was pretty good, this student - who doesn't know me at all - could tell that I wasn't thrilled with the assignment!
Thus, the lesson for myself today is to make myself interested in what I have to write. If I can't get interested in my mind, it won't be interesting on paper.
The reason I am putting this in my blog is to reveal something I have learned about writing; you don't always like what you have to write.
I hated these assignments. They weren't me! But I also realize that if a person wants to earn money as a writer, they may have to take freelance assignments where he has to write about a subject that doesn't interest him. These qualified, that's for sure. But in writing these stories, I began to understand that I have to take even more care when writing in cases like this. One student who reviewed my paper said that he could tell that this subject was less appealing to me than previous papers. He could tell! Even though I thought the work was pretty good, this student - who doesn't know me at all - could tell that I wasn't thrilled with the assignment!
Thus, the lesson for myself today is to make myself interested in what I have to write. If I can't get interested in my mind, it won't be interesting on paper.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Second Guessing
The title of this post should in no way be construed as meaning my decision to post every day. This is actually good for me, if not for anyone else.
I have signed up for extension courses in a local university which, upon completion, will point me towards a different line of work. Sounds cool, doesn't it? Yeah, well I'm having those old second-guessing, self-doubting heebie-jeebies. The new career is beginning to sound too much like the old one, and the whole point is to get out of the old one!
As I analyze the situation, a very solid truth keeps rising up before me: I don't want to do any of these jobs. Except one. You guessed it. I want to write. But reality sticks its little nose into my business and reminds me that there are a lot of writers out there, and it's tough to make it in the field. Even if you do, it's tough to make ends meet. What to do...what to do?
I guess what I have to do is gut this out. I need to finish the training for the new career, use my old career as a fall-back option if I don't like the new one, and get serious about writing. Until I get serious, I'll never know if I could make it. So, bring on the paralegal courses (yawn)...
...and get out the laptop, pad of paper and pen, and start doing what you've always wanted to do. Yes sir, right away sir.
Here's to seeing things clearly, and a wife that helps me to do so.
I have signed up for extension courses in a local university which, upon completion, will point me towards a different line of work. Sounds cool, doesn't it? Yeah, well I'm having those old second-guessing, self-doubting heebie-jeebies. The new career is beginning to sound too much like the old one, and the whole point is to get out of the old one!
As I analyze the situation, a very solid truth keeps rising up before me: I don't want to do any of these jobs. Except one. You guessed it. I want to write. But reality sticks its little nose into my business and reminds me that there are a lot of writers out there, and it's tough to make it in the field. Even if you do, it's tough to make ends meet. What to do...what to do?
I guess what I have to do is gut this out. I need to finish the training for the new career, use my old career as a fall-back option if I don't like the new one, and get serious about writing. Until I get serious, I'll never know if I could make it. So, bring on the paralegal courses (yawn)...
...and get out the laptop, pad of paper and pen, and start doing what you've always wanted to do. Yes sir, right away sir.
Here's to seeing things clearly, and a wife that helps me to do so.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Dig Deeper
I promised I would post every day. I don't have much time today, so here it is.
There was an article in the newspaper saying that more and more children are being diagnosed with bipolar syndrome.
Why do I mention this? Because I want people to look deeper at news. I want people to ask questions. The question is this:
Are more children being diagnosed as bipolar because there is more mental disease in the world today, because more children are being diagnosed correctly when in the past such symptoms might have been missed, or because more parents want an excuse for their children's behavior so they take them to psychiatrists and claim that the children are bipolar.
Too often, people read the news and just assume that the easy answer is correct. Don't do that, folks. See the story in context. Think about it. Play out the possibilities. Think for yourself and use insight.
Otherwise, you'll simply take everything - and everyone - at face value.
There was an article in the newspaper saying that more and more children are being diagnosed with bipolar syndrome.
Why do I mention this? Because I want people to look deeper at news. I want people to ask questions. The question is this:
Are more children being diagnosed as bipolar because there is more mental disease in the world today, because more children are being diagnosed correctly when in the past such symptoms might have been missed, or because more parents want an excuse for their children's behavior so they take them to psychiatrists and claim that the children are bipolar.
Too often, people read the news and just assume that the easy answer is correct. Don't do that, folks. See the story in context. Think about it. Play out the possibilities. Think for yourself and use insight.
Otherwise, you'll simply take everything - and everyone - at face value.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Football Thoughts -- (Soccer to some)
I just noticed on ESPN.com that the U.S. Women's Football (Soccer) team tied North Korea 2-2. I didn't watch the game because it was on at 2 am PST. I wouldn't watch a game at that hour if it was the U.S. or French men's team going in the World Cup Final! Watching sports can be fun, but sleep is sleep. A couple of weeks ago I read that there is going to be another attempt at a women's professional league in the U.S. That's fine. Just don't expect it to be wildly successful. Football (soccer) is not as popular as the other major U.S. sports, and women's sports are also far less successful than the men's sports. Women's basketball is more popular and more profitable overseas. Maybe that's where a women's league should start.
I'm on a football (soccer) rant now. Let's keep it rolling. I love good football. I hate to tell the MLS, but their brand isn't particularly good. When an aging David Beckham can join the MLS in an injured state and still outplay the others on the field, that tells you the quality of play. That doesn't mean that the MLS should disband. On the contrary. It should go out and get the best players possible. But perhaps a couple of changes would help.
First change: flopping is penalized. Americans constantly complain about players falling down and holding their legs when they aren't even touched. They don't understand that one reason for this is to get a sort of "time out" for their team. It's tough running for 45 minutes straight, so if a player notices his team getting tired, he'll take a fall to give them some water and a breather. This should either be explained to U.S. fans, or there should be a break at 22:30 and turn the game into four quarters like basketball or American football.
Second change: get rid of the ties. Americans hate ties. There are winners and losers. That's all. Thus, every game should have the golden goal period followed by a shootout. It isn't classic football, but it would help the U.S. game.
Third change: increase the exhibition matches. We've had Mexican and British teams come to the U.S. to play MLS teams. Let's get some French, Italian, and other clubs here so that Americans can see the best of the best.
I want the women's league to succeed. I want MLS to succeed. I want Americans to quit whining about how slow football is and instead compare it to a baseball game. You want slow? Watch just a couple of at-bats in baseball. Who needs prescription sleep aids? "OK Mr. Jones. I want you to take two innings of Kansas City Royals vs. Tampa Bay Rays before bedtime and you'll go right to sleep."
I also want San Jose and Raleigh to have teams. Go Quakes!
I'm on a football (soccer) rant now. Let's keep it rolling. I love good football. I hate to tell the MLS, but their brand isn't particularly good. When an aging David Beckham can join the MLS in an injured state and still outplay the others on the field, that tells you the quality of play. That doesn't mean that the MLS should disband. On the contrary. It should go out and get the best players possible. But perhaps a couple of changes would help.
First change: flopping is penalized. Americans constantly complain about players falling down and holding their legs when they aren't even touched. They don't understand that one reason for this is to get a sort of "time out" for their team. It's tough running for 45 minutes straight, so if a player notices his team getting tired, he'll take a fall to give them some water and a breather. This should either be explained to U.S. fans, or there should be a break at 22:30 and turn the game into four quarters like basketball or American football.
Second change: get rid of the ties. Americans hate ties. There are winners and losers. That's all. Thus, every game should have the golden goal period followed by a shootout. It isn't classic football, but it would help the U.S. game.
Third change: increase the exhibition matches. We've had Mexican and British teams come to the U.S. to play MLS teams. Let's get some French, Italian, and other clubs here so that Americans can see the best of the best.
I want the women's league to succeed. I want MLS to succeed. I want Americans to quit whining about how slow football is and instead compare it to a baseball game. You want slow? Watch just a couple of at-bats in baseball. Who needs prescription sleep aids? "OK Mr. Jones. I want you to take two innings of Kansas City Royals vs. Tampa Bay Rays before bedtime and you'll go right to sleep."
I also want San Jose and Raleigh to have teams. Go Quakes!
Monday, September 10, 2007
New Resolve
Have you ever resolved to do something and failed over and over again? I have. The few people who read this blog know for a fact that I have.
I have promised time and again to post regularly on this blog, and have not lived up to that resolution. No more. Today I make the vow: I WILL post regularly.
So...why will it work this time?
I want to write. Period. I want to be a writer. Thus, I have decided to use this blog as a tool to get in the habit of writing daily (or at least every other day...I do have to be a bit flexible, you know.) Even if I don't have a subject prepared, I have to find one. Even if it isn't particularly good, I have to do it.
Thus, I am asking a favor of anyone who reads this: let me know you are there! Post a comment, send a message, do something to let me know that there are living, breathing people out there who read this.
Even if there is no one, I need to do this for myself. So, come with me, if you dare. Take a trip into my brain from time to time and see what is churning between my ears. (For those of you who say, "not much"...bleah to you!!) Let's have some fun and see what happens.
I thank you.
I have promised time and again to post regularly on this blog, and have not lived up to that resolution. No more. Today I make the vow: I WILL post regularly.
So...why will it work this time?
I want to write. Period. I want to be a writer. Thus, I have decided to use this blog as a tool to get in the habit of writing daily (or at least every other day...I do have to be a bit flexible, you know.) Even if I don't have a subject prepared, I have to find one. Even if it isn't particularly good, I have to do it.
Thus, I am asking a favor of anyone who reads this: let me know you are there! Post a comment, send a message, do something to let me know that there are living, breathing people out there who read this.
Even if there is no one, I need to do this for myself. So, come with me, if you dare. Take a trip into my brain from time to time and see what is churning between my ears. (For those of you who say, "not much"...bleah to you!!) Let's have some fun and see what happens.
I thank you.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
"Psych" You Out In The End
Sometimes it's hard for me to find time or brain cells or motivation to blog. But my "idiot box" watching activities last night prompted me to give a quick plug to a fantastic show.
I'm not going to try to give you the entire plot of the USA Network show called Psych. I'm just going to highly recommend that you either watch it, tape it, or Tivo it on Friday night at 10 p.m. Not only is it hilarious, but it is smart, and the chemistry between Dule Hill and James Roday is as perfect as can be.
Imagine a man who was raised by his police sergeant father, who is a major control freak. One thing he taught his son Shawn is the power of observation. For example, Shawn and his dad were eating in a diner, and Shawn asked for dessert. His dad told him to cover his eyes, which Shawn did grudgingly. He was then asked how many hats were in the room, where they were, and what kind. Yes, Shawn got it right.
Fast forward to the current day. Shawn keeps calling in tips to the cops, and collecting rewards. But the cops begin to think he's in on the crimes. In reality, Shawn just watches the news and notices little things that the cops miss. To get out of being arrested, he gives a display of his abilities, but goes through a whole routine to convince the cops that he is psychic. He and his best friend Gus (Dule Hill) then form a psychic detective agency to help the Santa Barbara cops solve crimes.
James Roday and Dule Hill are hilarious. You can tell they have a blast on the set and that they positively love doing this show. My family laughs out loud at each and every episode.
Want to get the best start on this series? Season 1 is now available on dvd.
Amazon link
I'm not going to try to give you the entire plot of the USA Network show called Psych. I'm just going to highly recommend that you either watch it, tape it, or Tivo it on Friday night at 10 p.m. Not only is it hilarious, but it is smart, and the chemistry between Dule Hill and James Roday is as perfect as can be.
Imagine a man who was raised by his police sergeant father, who is a major control freak. One thing he taught his son Shawn is the power of observation. For example, Shawn and his dad were eating in a diner, and Shawn asked for dessert. His dad told him to cover his eyes, which Shawn did grudgingly. He was then asked how many hats were in the room, where they were, and what kind. Yes, Shawn got it right.
Fast forward to the current day. Shawn keeps calling in tips to the cops, and collecting rewards. But the cops begin to think he's in on the crimes. In reality, Shawn just watches the news and notices little things that the cops miss. To get out of being arrested, he gives a display of his abilities, but goes through a whole routine to convince the cops that he is psychic. He and his best friend Gus (Dule Hill) then form a psychic detective agency to help the Santa Barbara cops solve crimes.
James Roday and Dule Hill are hilarious. You can tell they have a blast on the set and that they positively love doing this show. My family laughs out loud at each and every episode.
Want to get the best start on this series? Season 1 is now available on dvd.
Amazon link
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Thoughts on the NBA
It had to happen. There have been so many complaints about NBA officiating that an incident like this was bound to appear. Any time that I watched a game with even slightly knowledgeable fans last year, the common complaint was, "Man! These refs stink! What are they doing, trying to fix the game?" Sure, that's common in any sport, especially when your team is losing. In this case, though, the fix was in.
The main thing that Tim Donaghy apparently did was to affect the over/under line of the game. I'm sure that more will come out as this case progresses. But the big question that is hanging over the NBA right now like the Sword of Damocles is: Were any other refs involved?
How big is this? It's huge. It's "damage the sport for a decade or longer" huge. It's "how will refs be able to do their job without worrying about game fixing allegations" huge. Referees are human and will make mistakes. They are doing a tough job that involves constant running, judgment calls, and players who think that they are bigger than the game. So if they make a mistake, will the calls of "cheater" from the stands rain down on them? That isn't fair either. But it is going to happen.
Why did this happen? I'm sure there are a lot of reasons, but I want to point a finger at one in particular. Stu Jackson, who is in charge of Vice President of NBA Operations, is also in charge of the referees. He has sat on his throne like a modern day emperor, slapping down all implications of referee misbehavior or incompetence as though he is always right about everything. Guess what, Stu? You blew it! And it isn't just Donaghy that should pay the price. This was your domain and your watch, and you dropped the ball. Time to go, and if you go, it will be without a tear in the eye of any true NBA fan. It's time that the NBA got humble and realized it needs to make some changes. Change the way the refs are trained, paid, and policed. Change the playoff structure and even the conference structure to allow for more exciting playoffs. And change the atmosphere from one of "hip hop, male diva, gangsta" attitudes and get professional.
Boy, Mr. Stern. Mark Cuban is probably laughing his hiney off right now. Would you like a towel to wipe that egg off of your face?
The main thing that Tim Donaghy apparently did was to affect the over/under line of the game. I'm sure that more will come out as this case progresses. But the big question that is hanging over the NBA right now like the Sword of Damocles is: Were any other refs involved?
How big is this? It's huge. It's "damage the sport for a decade or longer" huge. It's "how will refs be able to do their job without worrying about game fixing allegations" huge. Referees are human and will make mistakes. They are doing a tough job that involves constant running, judgment calls, and players who think that they are bigger than the game. So if they make a mistake, will the calls of "cheater" from the stands rain down on them? That isn't fair either. But it is going to happen.
Why did this happen? I'm sure there are a lot of reasons, but I want to point a finger at one in particular. Stu Jackson, who is in charge of Vice President of NBA Operations, is also in charge of the referees. He has sat on his throne like a modern day emperor, slapping down all implications of referee misbehavior or incompetence as though he is always right about everything. Guess what, Stu? You blew it! And it isn't just Donaghy that should pay the price. This was your domain and your watch, and you dropped the ball. Time to go, and if you go, it will be without a tear in the eye of any true NBA fan. It's time that the NBA got humble and realized it needs to make some changes. Change the way the refs are trained, paid, and policed. Change the playoff structure and even the conference structure to allow for more exciting playoffs. And change the atmosphere from one of "hip hop, male diva, gangsta" attitudes and get professional.
Boy, Mr. Stern. Mark Cuban is probably laughing his hiney off right now. Would you like a towel to wipe that egg off of your face?
Monday, July 09, 2007
Filling Space
It's been a couple of weeks, so let me fill some space with some more random thoughts.
SPORTS:
Wimbledon - What a great match between Federer and Nadal. I have to admit it, I am a Federer fan. Nadal is great, but I love the way Federer can dig down and find the "killer instinct". If he sees any weakness in an opponent, he has the skill to decimate anyone. That's what happened in the finals. Nadal showed some weakness in his knee (even though he seemed to be better as he went along after it was taped), and Roger got the mojo working. Five in a row. Amazing.
Kobe Bryant - Shut up, Diva. In the name of sanity and the hatred of whining everywhere, just shut up.
Summer League NBA - Who cares?
World League of American Football (NFL Europe) - I still remember going to a Sacramento Surge game when the league was new. Now it is defunct. Hey Commish, why not a developmental league here? It works for the NBA.
CULTURE AND NEWS:
Al Gore III - Daddy must be so proud. Possession of drugs. Speeding. (100 in a Prius???) But hey, at least the carbon signature was lower than if you did it in a Hummer, right?
Commutation for Scooter - I can't resist this. It had to be humanitarian, right W.? I mean, you probably imagined what fellow prisoners would do to a guy named Scooter, didn't you?
Polite Paris - An article on MSNBC.com talked about how the mayor of Paris wants locals to be more polite. (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19680045/ ) One of the quotes was:
Tourists, too, were given tips like “try out French products” instead of heading to the first Starbucks in search of friendly service.
Let me be very blunt here, American tourists. If you go to Starbucks in Paris for coffee instead of any...and I mean ANY... local cafe or restaurant that serves coffee, you don't deserve to go to Paris and should be forced to take your next vacation at your local McDonalds. Yes. That's right. You should also be forced to wear a sign that says "Taste Challenged". Are we getting the picture here? I don't care how rude Parisians may seem, you simply deal with the perceived attitude and get the real coffee, not Starbucks! Now go away or I shall taunt you a second time. (Common Monty Python reference, for you French Taunter fans.)
COUNT YOUR SHEEP - Man, I love this web comic. Adrian, you're a genius. I urge everyone to keep an eye on this comic. Here's a great example:
http://www.countyoursheep.com/d/20070707.html
Be sure to check out his tshirts and such available at Zazzle.com.
I've been sick these last few days. You know what? I'd rather have a cup of Starbucks coffee in Paris than feel this way anytime soon.
SPORTS:
Wimbledon - What a great match between Federer and Nadal. I have to admit it, I am a Federer fan. Nadal is great, but I love the way Federer can dig down and find the "killer instinct". If he sees any weakness in an opponent, he has the skill to decimate anyone. That's what happened in the finals. Nadal showed some weakness in his knee (even though he seemed to be better as he went along after it was taped), and Roger got the mojo working. Five in a row. Amazing.
Kobe Bryant - Shut up, Diva. In the name of sanity and the hatred of whining everywhere, just shut up.
Summer League NBA - Who cares?
World League of American Football (NFL Europe) - I still remember going to a Sacramento Surge game when the league was new. Now it is defunct. Hey Commish, why not a developmental league here? It works for the NBA.
CULTURE AND NEWS:
Al Gore III - Daddy must be so proud. Possession of drugs. Speeding. (100 in a Prius???) But hey, at least the carbon signature was lower than if you did it in a Hummer, right?
Commutation for Scooter - I can't resist this. It had to be humanitarian, right W.? I mean, you probably imagined what fellow prisoners would do to a guy named Scooter, didn't you?
Polite Paris - An article on MSNBC.com talked about how the mayor of Paris wants locals to be more polite. (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19680045/ ) One of the quotes was:
Tourists, too, were given tips like “try out French products” instead of heading to the first Starbucks in search of friendly service.
Let me be very blunt here, American tourists. If you go to Starbucks in Paris for coffee instead of any...and I mean ANY... local cafe or restaurant that serves coffee, you don't deserve to go to Paris and should be forced to take your next vacation at your local McDonalds. Yes. That's right. You should also be forced to wear a sign that says "Taste Challenged". Are we getting the picture here? I don't care how rude Parisians may seem, you simply deal with the perceived attitude and get the real coffee, not Starbucks! Now go away or I shall taunt you a second time. (Common Monty Python reference, for you French Taunter fans.)
COUNT YOUR SHEEP - Man, I love this web comic. Adrian, you're a genius. I urge everyone to keep an eye on this comic. Here's a great example:
http://www.countyoursheep.com/d/20070707.html
Be sure to check out his tshirts and such available at Zazzle.com.
I've been sick these last few days. You know what? I'd rather have a cup of Starbucks coffee in Paris than feel this way anytime soon.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Will France Change? Will the U.S.?
The elections are over. While the Socialists made some gains in the Asemblee Nationale, the UMP still holds the cards. Thus, Sarkozy may be looking ahead to some big changes in the way that France runs its economy. But hold on there, Monsieur le President! There are some roadblocks in your way. And I mean that literally!
While trying to change the length of the workweek and make things more palatable for business in France, Sarkozy will have to find a way to circumvent the unions and their habit of shutting down Paris. Sure, it sounds great for Sarkozy to say, "We are going back to the 40 hour workweek." But what happens next? Strikes, as always. And the worst strikes are always those that surround the transportation sector. So...what can Sarko do? There is a radical solution, and it may be his only hope: make strikes in the transportation and public safety sectors illegal. Thus, any strike by the RATP, SNCF, firefighters, police, or the like would be illegal. Then, he would have to have the guts to fire them if they strike and bring in the Army. Will it happen? It's doubtful. France has not been willing to do what it takes to fix what is wrong, and I'm not sure that Sarkozy has enough public support to do something like this. Still, one would think that Parisians would remember the recent strikes, with huge traffic jams and people walking into Paris because there was no Metro or RER service. I guess we'll have to see if Sarko will do what it takes.
Do you have the feeling, though, that when you look at U.S. politics that it's business as usual here as well? The Dems took over Congress, made promises, and promptly went back to the way things have always been. Before the U.S. interferes with other countries' political systems, shouldn't things be corrected at home? Just curious. Not that I'm involved or that I espouse one party over another. It just cracks me up, that's all.
While trying to change the length of the workweek and make things more palatable for business in France, Sarkozy will have to find a way to circumvent the unions and their habit of shutting down Paris. Sure, it sounds great for Sarkozy to say, "We are going back to the 40 hour workweek." But what happens next? Strikes, as always. And the worst strikes are always those that surround the transportation sector. So...what can Sarko do? There is a radical solution, and it may be his only hope: make strikes in the transportation and public safety sectors illegal. Thus, any strike by the RATP, SNCF, firefighters, police, or the like would be illegal. Then, he would have to have the guts to fire them if they strike and bring in the Army. Will it happen? It's doubtful. France has not been willing to do what it takes to fix what is wrong, and I'm not sure that Sarkozy has enough public support to do something like this. Still, one would think that Parisians would remember the recent strikes, with huge traffic jams and people walking into Paris because there was no Metro or RER service. I guess we'll have to see if Sarko will do what it takes.
Do you have the feeling, though, that when you look at U.S. politics that it's business as usual here as well? The Dems took over Congress, made promises, and promptly went back to the way things have always been. Before the U.S. interferes with other countries' political systems, shouldn't things be corrected at home? Just curious. Not that I'm involved or that I espouse one party over another. It just cracks me up, that's all.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Quick Shout to a Fellow Blogger
Just in case you want to read a blog by a very sharp young person, click over to "Asia's Personal Chronological Log of Thoughts". It's a nice blog by a shy but extremely bright friend of mine.
http://asiavou.blogspot.com/
http://asiavou.blogspot.com/
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Random Thoughts of the Week
Sometimes I like to rant. OK...I frequently like to rant. Here --- catch!
Paris Hilton: Let me get this straight. She serves a few days in jail and then, due to unexplained "medical reasons", she has to serve her full sentence (with no time off for good behavior -- I can't believe I wrote that without falling off my chair) at home. A Hilton home. And that's tough...how? And why do I have the feeling that her condition has to do with some form of the D.T.s? Now, now ... There's no proof of that, sir.
Stan Van Gundy: Well, Sacramento's Kings were scorned by Stan Van Gundy, who has decided to sign as the coach of the Orlando Magic. To that I say, "Whew!!!". I was never hot on the idea. I'm still an Elston Turner fan, but I think he burned his bridges with the Maloofs. I'm just hoping that Kurt "Laker" Rambis won't get the nod. Not because he's forever linked with the Lakers, but because I think he might try to bring the triangle offense to Sactown. Not a good match for the crew we've got. Calling Terry Porter! Terry Porter, white courtesy phone, please.
Ford is #1 in quality: Mmmphh.....pffftt.....BWAH HA HA HA HAAAAAAA!!! Ahem...sorry. That just got away from me. Latest news release - J.D. Power survey ranks Ford as #1 in quality. In the same release, J.D. Power announces that the Yugo and Pinto are #1 and #2 as best small cars in history.
OK. Done for now. Gonna try to up the frequency of this blog, even if no one is reading it.
Paris Hilton: Let me get this straight. She serves a few days in jail and then, due to unexplained "medical reasons", she has to serve her full sentence (with no time off for good behavior -- I can't believe I wrote that without falling off my chair) at home. A Hilton home. And that's tough...how? And why do I have the feeling that her condition has to do with some form of the D.T.s? Now, now ... There's no proof of that, sir.
Stan Van Gundy: Well, Sacramento's Kings were scorned by Stan Van Gundy, who has decided to sign as the coach of the Orlando Magic. To that I say, "Whew!!!". I was never hot on the idea. I'm still an Elston Turner fan, but I think he burned his bridges with the Maloofs. I'm just hoping that Kurt "Laker" Rambis won't get the nod. Not because he's forever linked with the Lakers, but because I think he might try to bring the triangle offense to Sactown. Not a good match for the crew we've got. Calling Terry Porter! Terry Porter, white courtesy phone, please.
Ford is #1 in quality: Mmmphh.....pffftt.....BWAH HA HA HA HAAAAAAA!!! Ahem...sorry. That just got away from me. Latest news release - J.D. Power survey ranks Ford as #1 in quality. In the same release, J.D. Power announces that the Yugo and Pinto are #1 and #2 as best small cars in history.
OK. Done for now. Gonna try to up the frequency of this blog, even if no one is reading it.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Sports Day!
Well, with so many things going on in the sports world right now, I wanted to throw in some random thoughts (especially since I haven't written about sports in a while!)
- The Sacramento Kings ended up with the tenth pick in the lottery. I keep reading all of the mock drafts and I have come to an important conclusion: Geoff Petrie never does what people expect him to do. Therefore, I say to all of those who are making up these mock drafts - just leave the Kings guess blank. You're almost guaranteed to be wrong when you try to figure out what they are going to do!
- The coaching interviews go on in Sacramento, and the only thing we know for sure is that everyone is glad that the Maloofs are staying out of it. The recent forays of the owners into the day-to-day aspects of running the team have given us the release of Rick Adelman, the acquisition of Ron Artest, the hiring of Eric Musselman, and the firing of Eric Musselman. Joe...Gavin...you have been great at running the business side of the team (except for your recent PR disasters with the arena). Let Petrie do his job. He's one of the best.
- The Raiders have drafted JaMarcus Russell as their quarterback of the future. Does anyone else see the poor guy suffering hit after hit because the Raiders have no blocking?
- The 49ers have done a great job this offseason. I still have too many doubts about Alex Smith, though.
- Real football (aka soccer) continues in the U.S. in the form of the MLS. Here in Northern California, though, we really don't care. Oh, it isn't because people don't like the sport (although it seems that most don't.) Rather, it's because our San Jose Earthquakes, now known as the Traitors in Houston, don't exist. With the difficulties that seem to be appearing in the quest for a new stadium in San Jose, we may end up burying the idea of a new team forever. Yet there is that nagging rumor that Placer County may be up for building them an arena. Can you just see it? The Roseville Earthquakes? The Lincoln Quakes? The Placer Quakes? The California Earthquakes? (That last one sounds bad, doesn't it?) In any case, I'd still like to have a team to root for.
- Finally...it's official. Clinton Portis needs to have elective surgery to either sew his mouth shut or remove his foot from it. I know this is old news, but it's been driving me nuts. How could anyone, regardless of his education, think that you can do whatever you want on your own property? "Yeah...well, this is my house and I can store nuclear waste here if I want to!" No, Clinton, you can't. You can't commit a felony by staging dog fights. You can't kidnap neighbors. You can't kill someone. What you can do, however, is go on an interview show and prove that you're a complete moron. Oh wait...you already did.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Whales In Sacramento Redux
It's deja-vu all over again! Twenty-two years ago, a wayward whale nicknamed Humphrey the Humpback wandered into the Sacramento River. He eventually made his way out and an affectionate legend was born. This week, however, the legend is reborn in the form of a mother and calf that have made it all the way up to West Sacramento. They haven't been given names yet, but here they are a long way from home.
People tend to romanticize this situation and think that it's pretty neat to have these whales swimming around. But let's look at the circumstances logically instead. These are two whales a long way from where they should be. It appears that someone got too close to them while they were in the river and both are now injured. (People can be really stupid sometimes in their pursuit of selfish pleasures, can't they?) If these whales don't turn around soon, chances are that they will die. -- Hey folks! Isn't it cute? Two dead whales in the Sacramento River! Awwwwww, how adorable! -- That isn't going to be as much fun, is it? Instead of turning it into a sightseeing tour, people need to get away from the levies (which are having enough trouble) and get away from the whales (who are confused, hurt, and not doing well), and let the specialists try to lure them out. Whales are beautiful in their own way, but not when they are in this much trouble.
Still, I can't help thinking that some private filmmaker is going to be writing a story called "Star Trek 10 - The Voyage to the Delta (Quadrant)" with the tagline, "There be whales here!"
People tend to romanticize this situation and think that it's pretty neat to have these whales swimming around. But let's look at the circumstances logically instead. These are two whales a long way from where they should be. It appears that someone got too close to them while they were in the river and both are now injured. (People can be really stupid sometimes in their pursuit of selfish pleasures, can't they?) If these whales don't turn around soon, chances are that they will die. -- Hey folks! Isn't it cute? Two dead whales in the Sacramento River! Awwwwww, how adorable! -- That isn't going to be as much fun, is it? Instead of turning it into a sightseeing tour, people need to get away from the levies (which are having enough trouble) and get away from the whales (who are confused, hurt, and not doing well), and let the specialists try to lure them out. Whales are beautiful in their own way, but not when they are in this much trouble.
Still, I can't help thinking that some private filmmaker is going to be writing a story called "Star Trek 10 - The Voyage to the Delta (Quadrant)" with the tagline, "There be whales here!"
Monday, May 14, 2007
Studio 60, We Hardly Knew Ye
Well, NBC has completed their journey to the dark side. They have gone completely over to the side of inanity and gimmickry and announced the cancellation of Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. What have they decided to keep? Well, you can be thrilled with more episodes of shows like Deal or No Deal. Even Heroes, which is higher quality than Deal, is still more geared towards shock value than quality, but at least there are a few redeeming features.
Why the big deal about Studio 60? Let me take you back in time. Way back in the "old days", there was a little show with a little following. In many cases, this show would have been canceled, but NBC decided to give it time to find an audience, because the president of the network thought that quality should count for something. The title of that series was Hill Street Blues, and it did find an audience and became one of the most appreciated police dramas in television. Want another example? How about a show that focused on the happenings in the White House? It was given time to find its legs, and became another hit. It was a quality show that assumed that the public was smart enough to "get it". That show was, of course, The West Wing, an Aaron Sorkin masterpiece.
Sorkin came back this season with another intelligent series, with witty, quick-moving banter and story lines. Instead of giving it a chance to find its audience, NBC kept pre-empting it with other programs (a special Deal or No Deal??) and making people go weeks between episodes. Is it any wonder that it couldn't find an audience? Now, after no opportunity whatsoever, NBC is pulling the plug.
What does this tell us about network television? It tells us that corporations are running the networks with nothing more than dollar signs in their eyes and no concern about quality. Is it really a surprise that cable networks are killing the free networks? It isn't because they have more money or sponsors. It's because they take a chance on quality. Shows like Monk, Psych, or even Mythbusters wouldn't have a chance on NBC, but are huge hits for USA and Discovery. Frankly, I'm insulted that NBC thinks that my intelligence is lower than theirs. I long for the days when a network president would give quality a chance. I miss West Wing. NBC...you've lost a viewer.
Let's be careful out there.
Why the big deal about Studio 60? Let me take you back in time. Way back in the "old days", there was a little show with a little following. In many cases, this show would have been canceled, but NBC decided to give it time to find an audience, because the president of the network thought that quality should count for something. The title of that series was Hill Street Blues, and it did find an audience and became one of the most appreciated police dramas in television. Want another example? How about a show that focused on the happenings in the White House? It was given time to find its legs, and became another hit. It was a quality show that assumed that the public was smart enough to "get it". That show was, of course, The West Wing, an Aaron Sorkin masterpiece.
Sorkin came back this season with another intelligent series, with witty, quick-moving banter and story lines. Instead of giving it a chance to find its audience, NBC kept pre-empting it with other programs (a special Deal or No Deal??) and making people go weeks between episodes. Is it any wonder that it couldn't find an audience? Now, after no opportunity whatsoever, NBC is pulling the plug.
What does this tell us about network television? It tells us that corporations are running the networks with nothing more than dollar signs in their eyes and no concern about quality. Is it really a surprise that cable networks are killing the free networks? It isn't because they have more money or sponsors. It's because they take a chance on quality. Shows like Monk, Psych, or even Mythbusters wouldn't have a chance on NBC, but are huge hits for USA and Discovery. Frankly, I'm insulted that NBC thinks that my intelligence is lower than theirs. I long for the days when a network president would give quality a chance. I miss West Wing. NBC...you've lost a viewer.
Let's be careful out there.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
How Stupid Can French Protesters Be?
OK...just a quickie here.
Sarkozy elected president. Claims he will be a president for all of France. Vacations on a billionaire's yacht. Not too bright, but hey, he's the President-elect and won't be recalled for it. Just not a big public relations coup.
My main thing is the protesters. Once again, they start burning cars and clashing with police, calling Sarkozy a facist. (Have they already forgotten what a facist really is? I don't think Sarkozy is looking to put any Jews, Roma, or Jehovah's Witnesses in a death camp.) But on top of it...this:
OK, guys. You're calling someone a fascist and then torching a nursery school??? There are some people in this world that truly qualify as idiots. Congratulations, protesting youths...you are overqualified for the word.
Sarkozy elected president. Claims he will be a president for all of France. Vacations on a billionaire's yacht. Not too bright, but hey, he's the President-elect and won't be recalled for it. Just not a big public relations coup.
My main thing is the protesters. Once again, they start burning cars and clashing with police, calling Sarkozy a facist. (Have they already forgotten what a facist really is? I don't think Sarkozy is looking to put any Jews, Roma, or Jehovah's Witnesses in a death camp.) But on top of it...this:
In Paris, about 150 protesters shouting "Sarko, fascist!" clashed with police in the Bastille district. In the suburbs, youths set fire to a nursery school and torched cars in a garage.
In Lyon, some 200 demonstrators clashed with police, while UMP party offices were set ablaze in the nearby town of Villeurbanne.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/6638301.stm
OK, guys. You're calling someone a fascist and then torching a nursery school??? There are some people in this world that truly qualify as idiots. Congratulations, protesting youths...you are overqualified for the word.
Monday, May 07, 2007
France Has Chosen
I just finished listening to the BBC World Report. They had a special edition on the French elections. After hearing the different reactions from the French politicos and people, I have a few thoughts to relate:
1) Nicolas Sarkozy is a driven man. He has wanted the presidency for a long time, and now he has it. There have been some negative comparisons to Napoleon - a short man driven to rule - and feel that while negative, they do have some merit. Not the "short" part, mind you, but the driven part. Even though Napoleon is viewed by many today as a crazy, power-hungry loon, the fact is that Napoleon was largely responsible for the look of Paris today, as well as the Codes that are still used to govern France. Sarkozy is driven, that's for sure. But no one can really say what direction he will ultimately take the country. One of the main problems that he sees in France is the business climate, and he sees that as causing many other problems that are offshoots from that one. He isn't wrong. When a country has high unemployment and bored youth, as well as poor immigrants who can't find work, there are bound to be social and criminal problems. Put people to work, and problems diminish. The only way that will happen is to remove some of the burdens that the Socialist governments have put on business. That's one of Sarkozy's main goals. Will he be able to implement it? That leads to item #2.
2) The Leglislative elections that are coming up are vital for any chance of success for Sarkozy's programs. If the French really wanted Sarkozy to do something, then the people are going to have to follow up the presidential elections with a legislative group that is in favor of change. The problem with France's multi-party system is that it is very difficult for the Assembly to speak with a single voice, or even two voices. The multitude of platforms makes it tough for a leader to get what he needs to implement policy. Sarkozy needs a majority to make it happen.
3) The Socialists still don't get it. Listening to the comments of one of the Socialist leaders, I realize that they don't really see what's happening. They see France as a left-leaning country and Sarkozy as a dangerous villain. But when asked if they need to change, the interviewee stated that they need to examine the reasons for the loss, but just need to find a new candidate with experience. Hello? Are you hearing what the people are telling you? They are tired of eight percent unemployment! They are tired of strikes interfering with their daily lives! The Socialist agenda didn't work. That isn't to say that Sarkozy's agenda will. No human government can ultimately succeed, because humans aren't capable of guiding their own steps, as the Bible tells us. Still, this is three losses in a row for the Socialists. If a dog gets swatted on the nose with a newspaper often enough, he learns not to use the carpeting as his personal toilet. The Socialists have been swatted several times now. They need to stop wetting themselves and take an honest look at their failures.
OK...enough politics. I'm sick of it. This old system keeps proving the Bible's point and that we need the Kingdom to rule. Want more proof? The Dems and Republicans have been debating in the U.S. Watch...learn...gag...
1) Nicolas Sarkozy is a driven man. He has wanted the presidency for a long time, and now he has it. There have been some negative comparisons to Napoleon - a short man driven to rule - and feel that while negative, they do have some merit. Not the "short" part, mind you, but the driven part. Even though Napoleon is viewed by many today as a crazy, power-hungry loon, the fact is that Napoleon was largely responsible for the look of Paris today, as well as the Codes that are still used to govern France. Sarkozy is driven, that's for sure. But no one can really say what direction he will ultimately take the country. One of the main problems that he sees in France is the business climate, and he sees that as causing many other problems that are offshoots from that one. He isn't wrong. When a country has high unemployment and bored youth, as well as poor immigrants who can't find work, there are bound to be social and criminal problems. Put people to work, and problems diminish. The only way that will happen is to remove some of the burdens that the Socialist governments have put on business. That's one of Sarkozy's main goals. Will he be able to implement it? That leads to item #2.
2) The Leglislative elections that are coming up are vital for any chance of success for Sarkozy's programs. If the French really wanted Sarkozy to do something, then the people are going to have to follow up the presidential elections with a legislative group that is in favor of change. The problem with France's multi-party system is that it is very difficult for the Assembly to speak with a single voice, or even two voices. The multitude of platforms makes it tough for a leader to get what he needs to implement policy. Sarkozy needs a majority to make it happen.
3) The Socialists still don't get it. Listening to the comments of one of the Socialist leaders, I realize that they don't really see what's happening. They see France as a left-leaning country and Sarkozy as a dangerous villain. But when asked if they need to change, the interviewee stated that they need to examine the reasons for the loss, but just need to find a new candidate with experience. Hello? Are you hearing what the people are telling you? They are tired of eight percent unemployment! They are tired of strikes interfering with their daily lives! The Socialist agenda didn't work. That isn't to say that Sarkozy's agenda will. No human government can ultimately succeed, because humans aren't capable of guiding their own steps, as the Bible tells us. Still, this is three losses in a row for the Socialists. If a dog gets swatted on the nose with a newspaper often enough, he learns not to use the carpeting as his personal toilet. The Socialists have been swatted several times now. They need to stop wetting themselves and take an honest look at their failures.
OK...enough politics. I'm sick of it. This old system keeps proving the Bible's point and that we need the Kingdom to rule. Want more proof? The Dems and Republicans have been debating in the U.S. Watch...learn...gag...
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