Well, I saw an interview of Barry Bonds by the all-time dickhead of sports reporters, Jim Gray. And I have a conflict of thoughts about Barry Bonds:
Either he is the worlds greatest sports actor or he's finally "gotten it"...
He was humble, friendly, human, he accepted responsibility for his bad image (or at least acknowledged his role), and gracious. He expressed uncertainty as to whether he'd break Hank Aaron's record - but "given good health I'd like to try." He was smiling, engaging, and thoughtful. Quite surprising, actually.
So, is he acting to gain faction with the fans? It's possible. Or does he finally get the fact that you need to embrace the fans and even the reporters to regain a tarnished image? Has he gotten over his "me against the world" attitude, maybe now that he's off the sauce he isn't raging anymore? Either way, the result might be the same: people might grow to actually like him again. I know that I am beginning to like him again...
And let's talk about that. One of the big issues here is the growth of the athelete, albeit Mac vs Bonds. The big difference between those two guys is that Mark McGwire was already a big guy when he went on Andro, he just got bigger. Barry Bonds wasn't a 98 pound weakling, but he wasn't a Mac either; he went from an average (maybe slightly larger) person to a mass of muscle - so the change was MUCH bigger with Bonds and more noticeable. That is something the general public is clinging to in this.
But they seem to forget one thing, I think...while getting bigger and stronger has helped his warning track shots go over the wall, the guy still is a phenomenal hitter, and has eyesight that would make an eagle jealous. He can see the ball, identify the pitch, and make his decision more quickly than the average hitter, and can take advantage of that fact. Steroids (or whatever it was LOL) don't make him a better hitter, they make him a more powerful hitter. You still have to put a bat on the ball.
One question that no one has asked is this: "now that we know that Ken Caminiti's MVP was won during a season where we was on steroids, will they take it away from him"? Good for the goose, good for the gander people...
5.31.2006
The Beautiful Game
The World Cup is upon us. And I, for one, am totally psyched.
This past weekend I got a taste of the action with two US friendlies: Venezuela and Latvia.
After watching those games, it struck me that we can put up two different teams: one that matches up better against the Czech's strength and one that matches up better against the Italian's speed and finesse. My hope is that this is part of Bruce's plan and that we don't field a "tweener" that plays weak against both. My guess is that Bruce will start the same 7-8 players in both games and tailor the remaining 2-3 based on the team.
Further, I was relieved about the depth of the bench and feel we can bring on reserves in the 60th minute that can really step up the level of play. And I sincerely hope Bruce does that.
I agree that Keller is "a" top goalie, not "the" top goalie. But Group E is loaded with goalie talent, so Keller is not the distinct advantage he would be in another group. But without him...
DeMarcus Beasley has got to step it up. At 24, he can't be washed up, but he did not look crisp against Latvia. On the other hand, Bobby Convey looked very good. My general assessment is that the US is very strong on the wings, but soft in the middle. If the games are played out in the middle, we will be hurting.
We have a good shot and USMNT fans have to feel better today then last week. The US will not be a deer in the headlights, but the rest of the world does not consider us an easy win either. CONCACAF does not prepare the US well for the WC, EXCEPT for Mexico. US v. Mexico is like Red Sox v. Yankees without all the goodwill and niceties.
And, by the way, if the US manages to get into the second round as the #2 team, they will likely face...Brazil.
This past weekend I got a taste of the action with two US friendlies: Venezuela and Latvia.
After watching those games, it struck me that we can put up two different teams: one that matches up better against the Czech's strength and one that matches up better against the Italian's speed and finesse. My hope is that this is part of Bruce's plan and that we don't field a "tweener" that plays weak against both. My guess is that Bruce will start the same 7-8 players in both games and tailor the remaining 2-3 based on the team.
Further, I was relieved about the depth of the bench and feel we can bring on reserves in the 60th minute that can really step up the level of play. And I sincerely hope Bruce does that.
I agree that Keller is "a" top goalie, not "the" top goalie. But Group E is loaded with goalie talent, so Keller is not the distinct advantage he would be in another group. But without him...
DeMarcus Beasley has got to step it up. At 24, he can't be washed up, but he did not look crisp against Latvia. On the other hand, Bobby Convey looked very good. My general assessment is that the US is very strong on the wings, but soft in the middle. If the games are played out in the middle, we will be hurting.
We have a good shot and USMNT fans have to feel better today then last week. The US will not be a deer in the headlights, but the rest of the world does not consider us an easy win either. CONCACAF does not prepare the US well for the WC, EXCEPT for Mexico. US v. Mexico is like Red Sox v. Yankees without all the goodwill and niceties.
And, by the way, if the US manages to get into the second round as the #2 team, they will likely face...Brazil.
5.30.2006
Musings after Memorial Day
Sam Hornish won the Indy500 - WHAT AN EXCITING FINISH! Of course, if you saw the other 195 laps you snoozed for most of them, frankly. You've got to be wondering what was going through Marco Andretti's mind...I would honestly guess that he thought he had this one in the bag, and so he didn't make any real aggressive move on the home straightaway; blocking Hornish into the wall would have been very dangerous, yes, but truthfully, the way Hornish just flew around him indicated to me that he figured it was in the bank and didn't drop the pedal to the floor. Drafting helped Hornish, too, but I can't help but wonder why Marco's car didn't lurch forward in some sort of response...
Danica finished 8th with a shitty car. She was the only driver in the field using the Panos (sp?) chassis, which is commonly known as being the slower chassis, so kudo's to her for finishing in the top 10. To me it only solidifies her standing as a quality driver, one that will win a race eventually. Time will tell what Marco Andretti becomes, but wow, his future certainly looks BRIGHT, considering the fact that he's an Andretti and he's only 19.
Barry Bonds hit #715. So, big fuggin deal...of the 4 Baseball Tonight analysts, NONE of them said he'd break Hank. And what the hell is up with "Bonds has broken Ruth's record" statements?! RUTH DOESN'T HOLD THE RECORD YOU IDIOT SPORTSWRITERS! Geez. Aaron holds the records, Bonds just eclipsed Ruth's total to move into second place, but he didn't break Ruth's record! Get it right you morons!
Carolina comes back, heading to game 6 tonight in BUffalo. Go Canes, make me the prognosticator that I am!
Danica finished 8th with a shitty car. She was the only driver in the field using the Panos (sp?) chassis, which is commonly known as being the slower chassis, so kudo's to her for finishing in the top 10. To me it only solidifies her standing as a quality driver, one that will win a race eventually. Time will tell what Marco Andretti becomes, but wow, his future certainly looks BRIGHT, considering the fact that he's an Andretti and he's only 19.
Barry Bonds hit #715. So, big fuggin deal...of the 4 Baseball Tonight analysts, NONE of them said he'd break Hank. And what the hell is up with "Bonds has broken Ruth's record" statements?! RUTH DOESN'T HOLD THE RECORD YOU IDIOT SPORTSWRITERS! Geez. Aaron holds the records, Bonds just eclipsed Ruth's total to move into second place, but he didn't break Ruth's record! Get it right you morons!
Carolina comes back, heading to game 6 tonight in BUffalo. Go Canes, make me the prognosticator that I am!
5.23.2006
More corporate Idiocy
The Carolina/Buffalo Eastern Conference Finals is shaping up to be a FANTASTIC series. Chippy, little snarly, north and south action, fast paced, all the best things you could hope for in a hockey game. Tied 1-1, but I'm hoping my 'Canes will put it out - I thought 6 games, Barry Melrose thinks 7. Time will tell, but this series will really capture the attention of hockey fans.
Fannie Mae got caught with their hand in the cookie jar. Now, I am only a mid-level manager, but this illustrates the inherent problem with MBO, which for you indians means "management by objective". This means that certains goals and objectives are set forth, and if they are met, then the chiefs get their bonuses. The PROBLEM is that people become politically manipulative, and will manage to nothing besides their bonuses in order to collect mucho dinero. From MSN.com "Senior executives at Fannie Mae manipulated accounting to collect millions in "maximum, undeserved bonuses" and deceive investors, a federal report charged Tuesday.". See, here's what I run into in IT - executives are incented to make project/code/release deliverable dates, and manage their lives and operations to meet those dates and threshholds in order to collect their massive bonuses. Consequently, they reduce scope to make a release (thereby stiffing the customer of requested functionality), or my favorite, put it in with issues anyway ("you can't put it in dirty, but you CAN'T MISS THE DATE!"). This is among my biggest corporate pet peeves, and is one of the top five factors in producing a distince lack of quality in business today. Aside from things like stupidity in management, stupidity in executive management, stupidity in leadership, and a complete lack of people skills and professional abilities.
Boston is kicking the ass off New York, again...in May. :)
Fannie Mae got caught with their hand in the cookie jar. Now, I am only a mid-level manager, but this illustrates the inherent problem with MBO, which for you indians means "management by objective". This means that certains goals and objectives are set forth, and if they are met, then the chiefs get their bonuses. The PROBLEM is that people become politically manipulative, and will manage to nothing besides their bonuses in order to collect mucho dinero. From MSN.com "Senior executives at Fannie Mae manipulated accounting to collect millions in "maximum, undeserved bonuses" and deceive investors, a federal report charged Tuesday.". See, here's what I run into in IT - executives are incented to make project/code/release deliverable dates, and manage their lives and operations to meet those dates and threshholds in order to collect their massive bonuses. Consequently, they reduce scope to make a release (thereby stiffing the customer of requested functionality), or my favorite, put it in with issues anyway ("you can't put it in dirty, but you CAN'T MISS THE DATE!"). This is among my biggest corporate pet peeves, and is one of the top five factors in producing a distince lack of quality in business today. Aside from things like stupidity in management, stupidity in executive management, stupidity in leadership, and a complete lack of people skills and professional abilities.
Boston is kicking the ass off New York, again...in May. :)
5.21.2006
Days of Thunder
Through the generosity of my wonderful wife, I had an opportunity to attend the Richard Petty Driving School this past weekend. Basically, it's the opportunity for a bunch of shluffs like myself to drive a NASCAR automobile. Ah, well, to be honest, I believe they are Busch Series cars, but a 600HP 350ci V8 isn't anything you'd see on the morning commute, that's for sure.
So here's my assessment:
If you have a chance, DO IT! This is the 3rd most fun thing I've done in a car, the 2nd most fun in a moving vehicle (no, I'm not going to tell you, so don't ask!). It is a rush and something you don't normally get to do, so I'd advise anyone who's ever wanted to drive fast while sitting in maddening rush hour traffic, make an appointment.
I hit a top speed of 139 mph. Frankly, I'm a little disappointed, I know I could have gone faster. But I am given a pace car, and frankly didn't know how to get him to speed up, short of bump drafting him. But 139 is still pretty decent for a rookie. Driving around the oval, feeling the horsepower, the centrifugal force on the turns, and the jump of the engine as you gun it down the straightaway, wow, it's genuinely FUN!
Here's what I learned:
I have a need for speed, which is why I tend to get frustrated and road rage during my morning commute, when it takes me roughly an hour to drive 21 miles to work.
Those ovals have a real bank on them - yeah, you see it on TV but until you've felt it in an automobile, feel the hugging of the tires, the tilt of the car, you don't realize how much 24 degrees feels as a racer.
At 140mph, the ride is over too fast - the first of 8 laps is a "feeling out" lap, then you really get going. But you're blowing and going and hooting and hollering and really trying to drive the car, then they wave the checkered flag and it's over. Damm...
If you consider this from a professional driver's perspective, you can add roughly 40mph or so to my speed on the straightaways; since they are only 2000 feet or so long, it really gives you a sense of passing skill, since the window of opportunity is much shorter than TV coverage might lead you to believe.
So here's my assessment:
If you have a chance, DO IT! This is the 3rd most fun thing I've done in a car, the 2nd most fun in a moving vehicle (no, I'm not going to tell you, so don't ask!). It is a rush and something you don't normally get to do, so I'd advise anyone who's ever wanted to drive fast while sitting in maddening rush hour traffic, make an appointment.
I hit a top speed of 139 mph. Frankly, I'm a little disappointed, I know I could have gone faster. But I am given a pace car, and frankly didn't know how to get him to speed up, short of bump drafting him. But 139 is still pretty decent for a rookie. Driving around the oval, feeling the horsepower, the centrifugal force on the turns, and the jump of the engine as you gun it down the straightaway, wow, it's genuinely FUN!
Here's what I learned:
I have a need for speed, which is why I tend to get frustrated and road rage during my morning commute, when it takes me roughly an hour to drive 21 miles to work.
Those ovals have a real bank on them - yeah, you see it on TV but until you've felt it in an automobile, feel the hugging of the tires, the tilt of the car, you don't realize how much 24 degrees feels as a racer.
At 140mph, the ride is over too fast - the first of 8 laps is a "feeling out" lap, then you really get going. But you're blowing and going and hooting and hollering and really trying to drive the car, then they wave the checkered flag and it's over. Damm...
If you consider this from a professional driver's perspective, you can add roughly 40mph or so to my speed on the straightaways; since they are only 2000 feet or so long, it really gives you a sense of passing skill, since the window of opportunity is much shorter than TV coverage might lead you to believe.
5.18.2006
UEFA Final
I assume Thew means the play where Lehmann was sent off when he refers to "tackle."
Lehmann made a huge mistake before he sent Eto'o to the ground - the striker was one more step from a shot and Lehmann could have made the play.
But that was not the most egregious call by the Ref. He blew the whistle nearly immediately - no doubt about the foul - so play HAD to stop. Now he made a mistake to not let the play run through and give Barca the advantage - that was the right thing to do - but once he blows the play dead, he has committed himself to that course of action. Advantage is always a judgment call, but once the whistle blows; the play stops.
Outstanding heart by the English (again funny to use the national term), but once they were a man down, chances were slim they could pull it off.
Lehmann made a huge mistake before he sent Eto'o to the ground - the striker was one more step from a shot and Lehmann could have made the play.
But that was not the most egregious call by the Ref. He blew the whistle nearly immediately - no doubt about the foul - so play HAD to stop. Now he made a mistake to not let the play run through and give Barca the advantage - that was the right thing to do - but once he blows the play dead, he has committed himself to that course of action. Advantage is always a judgment call, but once the whistle blows; the play stops.
Outstanding heart by the English (again funny to use the national term), but once they were a man down, chances were slim they could pull it off.
5.17.2006
Barca v. Gunners
Half-time at the UEFA championships in France finds Arsenal up 1-0 against Barcelona. Most amazing is that Arsenal has played one man down since their GOALIE was sent off with a Red Card in the 18th minute! This was the first Red Card issued in a Champions League final.
Campbell's header came off of a Henry cross and stunned the Spaniards. (Yes, I know most of Barcelona are not Spaniards, but until they move the city elsewhere...)
Tivo'ing the match at home, but "watching" via ESPN and MatchCentre.
UPDATE: Eto'o slides one in to even the match 1-1 in the 75th minute.
Campbell's header came off of a Henry cross and stunned the Spaniards. (Yes, I know most of Barcelona are not Spaniards, but until they move the city elsewhere...)
Tivo'ing the match at home, but "watching" via ESPN and MatchCentre.
UPDATE: Eto'o slides one in to even the match 1-1 in the 75th minute.
5.16.2006
How did they let Tilam past the Border Patrol?
Some interesting musings from around the sports world...
The Ottawa Senators are the Atlanta Braves of the NHL. Top of the standings, top of the division, dead and gone during the postseason. Time to move some underachieving players (well, achieving during the regular season, but it's all about the postseason and winning championships, isn't it?) out and bring in some (more) fresh blood.
I was always a fan of Paul Maurice as a coach. The interesting part of his return to the NHL, as coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs, is the fact that one of the players he "lost" who was instrumental in his dismissal as coach, currently plays in Toronto - Paul, you remember Jeff O'Neill don't you?
Barry Bonds is stuck on 713. Too bad so sad. I'll bet he has ulcers fuming about not passing Babe Ruth...you did steroids to get this far Barry, deal with it...
So Marcus Vick got a contract with the Dolphins. It looks like the fins have become the new look Raiders, a school/team for wayward players - see Ricky Williams. Rumor has it that the Fins have put in "behavioral clauses" in the contract. We'll see - here's to hoping they show the anti-shithead intolerance shown by the Eagles. And in my most optimistic gesture this week, here's to hoping Marcus Vick gets his head out of his ass and becomes a good person and good player - HAW HAW HAW, I'm kidding. Once an asshole, always an asshole...
More controversy...Morgan Pressel, my favorite teenage hottie on the LPGA tour (well, wait, is Paula Creamer over 19?) is now yapping about Michelle Wie and the fact that, while she's never won ANYTHING ANYWHERE, she's getting sponsor's exemptions to LPGA events. I have spoken my mind on this topic too often, it's nice to see some of the charging and competitive young future stars continue to hop on the "what has she earned?" bandwagon. As I have said before, she'll always be a freak side show until she actually WINS something and earns her hype. NOTE: she's past the first stage in qualifying for the men's US Open. Good for her. But I won't beat a dead horse (again) since she's also received an exemption to play in the Women's US Open, something she didn't EARN at all. But I have to love the reasoning of USGA women's tournament chairman Marcia '"Luigs We don't award special exemptions to help a site sell tickets. That's never a consideration,"' she said. "But we're thrilled with the outcome."' Oh yeah, you are SO full of s**t. I love you Morgan! "I don't see why she shouldn't have to qualify, or why should be afraid to qualify, or why she should expect an exemption,'' Pressel said. Okay, so I beat the dead horse just a little...
Should I comment on the Larry Brown fiasco in New York? Nah. Brown is a good coach, imho, but he's also an egotistical quitter. Granted, Stephon Marbury is a selfish self-centered asshole who would speak out against his mother if she were coaching him, but still, Larry is showing some unexpected colors as a coach.
Oh, and are people questioning Flip Saunders' coaching ability now that he's in the thick of the playoffs with Detroit? Bet the Kevin's in Minnesota want him back now. :)
Years ago college men starting getting inked all over the place. Then college women started it. Men's college teams have always had a "hush hush" ritual of hazing, most of the time it's harmless fun, sometimes it got out of hand. Now, the Northwestern Women's Soccer team have done it too". Such is college sports today. Of course, from a man's perspective, I wanted to see more tight soccer player butts in panties...
Lastly, a fond farewell to Doug Flutie. Magician. Little Guy. Champion of autism ($7 million and counting). In mu humble opinion, one of the most, if not THE most, underrated quarterback in the history of pro football. USFL, NFL, CFL, NFL. He walked the walk (literally, around 3 leagues), talked the talk, only wanted a chance to prove his value and skill. Too many Grey Cups and CFL MVP's too. I wish him the best of luck in his next life, and hope he stays around for a long time.
On the issue of Illegal Immigrants: just stop them from collecting benefits from the US taxpayers (yeah, welfare is one of them) and Tilam's right, you'll make a TON of people happy. If someone wants to employ someone for a day for $50, let 'em. But if they are illegally in this country, give 'em NOTHING from my hear earned tax dollars. I won't start the debate over how the US worker is pricing himself out of jobs (unions are a big cause of this) and forcing US companies to go externally for low cost quality labor. That is for another day...
The Ottawa Senators are the Atlanta Braves of the NHL. Top of the standings, top of the division, dead and gone during the postseason. Time to move some underachieving players (well, achieving during the regular season, but it's all about the postseason and winning championships, isn't it?) out and bring in some (more) fresh blood.
I was always a fan of Paul Maurice as a coach. The interesting part of his return to the NHL, as coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs, is the fact that one of the players he "lost" who was instrumental in his dismissal as coach, currently plays in Toronto - Paul, you remember Jeff O'Neill don't you?
Barry Bonds is stuck on 713. Too bad so sad. I'll bet he has ulcers fuming about not passing Babe Ruth...you did steroids to get this far Barry, deal with it...
So Marcus Vick got a contract with the Dolphins. It looks like the fins have become the new look Raiders, a school/team for wayward players - see Ricky Williams. Rumor has it that the Fins have put in "behavioral clauses" in the contract. We'll see - here's to hoping they show the anti-shithead intolerance shown by the Eagles. And in my most optimistic gesture this week, here's to hoping Marcus Vick gets his head out of his ass and becomes a good person and good player - HAW HAW HAW, I'm kidding. Once an asshole, always an asshole...
More controversy...Morgan Pressel, my favorite teenage hottie on the LPGA tour (well, wait, is Paula Creamer over 19?) is now yapping about Michelle Wie and the fact that, while she's never won ANYTHING ANYWHERE, she's getting sponsor's exemptions to LPGA events. I have spoken my mind on this topic too often, it's nice to see some of the charging and competitive young future stars continue to hop on the "what has she earned?" bandwagon. As I have said before, she'll always be a freak side show until she actually WINS something and earns her hype. NOTE: she's past the first stage in qualifying for the men's US Open. Good for her. But I won't beat a dead horse (again) since she's also received an exemption to play in the Women's US Open, something she didn't EARN at all. But I have to love the reasoning of USGA women's tournament chairman Marcia '"Luigs We don't award special exemptions to help a site sell tickets. That's never a consideration,"' she said. "But we're thrilled with the outcome."' Oh yeah, you are SO full of s**t. I love you Morgan! "I don't see why she shouldn't have to qualify, or why should be afraid to qualify, or why she should expect an exemption,'' Pressel said. Okay, so I beat the dead horse just a little...
Should I comment on the Larry Brown fiasco in New York? Nah. Brown is a good coach, imho, but he's also an egotistical quitter. Granted, Stephon Marbury is a selfish self-centered asshole who would speak out against his mother if she were coaching him, but still, Larry is showing some unexpected colors as a coach.
Oh, and are people questioning Flip Saunders' coaching ability now that he's in the thick of the playoffs with Detroit? Bet the Kevin's in Minnesota want him back now. :)
Years ago college men starting getting inked all over the place. Then college women started it. Men's college teams have always had a "hush hush" ritual of hazing, most of the time it's harmless fun, sometimes it got out of hand. Now, the Northwestern Women's Soccer team have done it too". Such is college sports today. Of course, from a man's perspective, I wanted to see more tight soccer player butts in panties...
Lastly, a fond farewell to Doug Flutie. Magician. Little Guy. Champion of autism ($7 million and counting). In mu humble opinion, one of the most, if not THE most, underrated quarterback in the history of pro football. USFL, NFL, CFL, NFL. He walked the walk (literally, around 3 leagues), talked the talk, only wanted a chance to prove his value and skill. Too many Grey Cups and CFL MVP's too. I wish him the best of luck in his next life, and hope he stays around for a long time.
On the issue of Illegal Immigrants: just stop them from collecting benefits from the US taxpayers (yeah, welfare is one of them) and Tilam's right, you'll make a TON of people happy. If someone wants to employ someone for a day for $50, let 'em. But if they are illegally in this country, give 'em NOTHING from my hear earned tax dollars. I won't start the debate over how the US worker is pricing himself out of jobs (unions are a big cause of this) and forcing US companies to go externally for low cost quality labor. That is for another day...
Immigration Bluster
Normally, I can not let a "hot topic" go by without some comment. The Immigration Debate is an exception. Border patrol, guest worker, fast track citizenship, catch & release are big yawners. Quite simply, President Bush is wrong, the Neocons are wrong and the liberals are wrong. And until they start focusing on the REAL issue(s), I will remain outside of this debate.
Nothing they have proposed will work. Nothing.
The underlying problem is that the US per capita GDP is 4 times Mexico's. Further, the US GDP is growing faster then Mexico's which will only increase the difference. With that sort of disparity, you can not stem the tide of illegals for very long. It is like trying to solve the drug problem by destroying crops - if the demand is there someone will supply it at the right price.
The solution is to work with Mexico to grow its economy so it is attractive for Mexicans to remain in Mexico. Unless you do that, the problem will remain.
One last thing: the public does not really give a damn. If you could guarantee that illegals could not collect welfare, you would satisfy 95% of the public.
Nothing they have proposed will work. Nothing.
The underlying problem is that the US per capita GDP is 4 times Mexico's. Further, the US GDP is growing faster then Mexico's which will only increase the difference. With that sort of disparity, you can not stem the tide of illegals for very long. It is like trying to solve the drug problem by destroying crops - if the demand is there someone will supply it at the right price.
The solution is to work with Mexico to grow its economy so it is attractive for Mexicans to remain in Mexico. Unless you do that, the problem will remain.
One last thing: the public does not really give a damn. If you could guarantee that illegals could not collect welfare, you would satisfy 95% of the public.
5.10.2006
Stupid is as Stupid does...
Delmont Young...
In case you don't know that name, it's the name of the minor league prospect who, after being called out on strikes, THREW HIS BAT AT THE UMPIRE! So the international league suspended him for 50 games. Okay, let's see if the suspension gets through to him. Bets? Probably not. But the interesting thing is some of the complete idiocy of the sports nation. Let's look at the poll results that ESPN has based on this incident:
1) What are your thoughts on the length of the suspension?
51.6% Too lenient
37.6% Just right
10.8% Too harsh
Well, at least we all agree. Sprewell gets a season for choking his coach. Artest gets a buttload of games for kicking the ass of a drunken fan who probably deserved to get his ass kicked for throwing beer, but still, the action is the key. He should have gotten a full season.
2) Is it fair to penalize someone more based on the result of their action?
77.7% Yes
22.3% No
This is an ASSININE result to me. Take 2 people. They both shoot another person. But one victim gets paralyzed, while the other one recovers. Do you think that the first person should be punished more than the second one? They BOTH attempted murder. It doesn't matter that one got paralyzed and one didn't, they BOTH SHOT SOMEONE! Same crime, different result produces a different sentence? "So well, I shot da man, but he didn't die, so it's okay". o I threw my bat and hit the umpire in his chest protector, so no one got hurt, so it's okay, I don't need to be punished. WHAT THE HELL!?! Just because you didn't succeed at your crime doesn't mean you didn't commit one. This shows the true stupidity of the fan in today's world...
3) Which should be taken into account the most when issuing a suspension?
50.5% They should be weighed equally
44.1% The action
5.4% The result
Again, if you break the rules, you break the rules. "No harm no foul" does NOT apply to the law. At least I don't think it does...
4) Are sports leagues less tolerant of misbehavior than they were five years ago?
60.3% Yes
39.7% No
No-frikkin-brainer...
*****
Another Sox/Yanks early season series, another ass whoopin by Boston. All my Boston friends are crowing as they do early in the season until the Yankees hit their stride and lay waste to the AL East yet again. They love to crow about all the little battles they win, yet year in and year out (with the exception of 2004, a quality Sox team who deservedly won the WS) they lose the war. Tawk to me in Septembah boys, not in May...
In the NHL playoffs, fear the Sabres. They are playing great hockey, they are playing confident hockey, and they are playing fearless hockey.
There is a debate out there on Michelle Wie and if she will ever become a full time PGA men's tour player. What the hell is Ron Sirak thinking? She'll NEVER be a full-time men's tour player. She needs to win AGAINST THE LADIES before she can claim any right to compete against the men as anything more than a freak side-show. Yes, I am down on Michelle (although at 6'1", I'm looking her straight in the eye), but it's only because she's getting so much hype and so much recognition without having WON ANYTHING! Wake up and smell the coffee. It's not good enough to "compete in LPGA majors". It's not good enough to make the cut as some 3rd world country second rate no competition asian tour event. She has to EARN her way into the men's tour, she cannot just be given it. Hey, she's young and talented, but then again, so was Ty (keep on) Tryon...
Roger Clemens is really getting on my nerves. Quit the damm game already. Stop being a side show. If you are "nowhere close" mentally to coming back and playing, then fuggin' LEAVE ALREADY. Stop being a cling-on to Houston. Leave the game with dignity and class, not with stupidity...
Okay, enough for today...
In case you don't know that name, it's the name of the minor league prospect who, after being called out on strikes, THREW HIS BAT AT THE UMPIRE! So the international league suspended him for 50 games.
1) What are your thoughts on the length of the suspension?
51.6% Too lenient
37.6% Just right
10.8% Too harsh
Well, at least we all agree. Sprewell gets a season for choking his coach. Artest gets a buttload of games for kicking the ass of a drunken fan who probably deserved to get his ass kicked for throwing beer, but still, the action is the key. He should have gotten a full season.
2) Is it fair to penalize someone more based on the result of their action?
77.7% Yes
22.3% No
This is an ASSININE result to me. Take 2 people. They both shoot another person. But one victim gets paralyzed, while the other one recovers. Do you think that the first person should be punished more than the second one? They BOTH attempted murder. It doesn't matter that one got paralyzed and one didn't, they BOTH SHOT SOMEONE! Same crime, different result produces a different sentence? "So well, I shot da man, but he didn't die, so it's okay". o I threw my bat and hit the umpire in his chest protector, so no one got hurt, so it's okay, I don't need to be punished. WHAT THE HELL!?! Just because you didn't succeed at your crime doesn't mean you didn't commit one. This shows the true stupidity of the fan in today's world...
3) Which should be taken into account the most when issuing a suspension?
50.5% They should be weighed equally
44.1% The action
5.4% The result
Again, if you break the rules, you break the rules. "No harm no foul" does NOT apply to the law. At least I don't think it does...
4) Are sports leagues less tolerant of misbehavior than they were five years ago?
60.3% Yes
39.7% No
No-frikkin-brainer...
*****
Another Sox/Yanks early season series, another ass whoopin by Boston. All my Boston friends are crowing as they do early in the season until the Yankees hit their stride and lay waste to the AL East yet again. They love to crow about all the little battles they win, yet year in and year out (with the exception of 2004, a quality Sox team who deservedly won the WS) they lose the war. Tawk to me in Septembah boys, not in May...
In the NHL playoffs, fear the Sabres. They are playing great hockey, they are playing confident hockey, and they are playing fearless hockey.
There is a debate out there on Michelle Wie and if she will ever become a full time PGA men's tour player. What the hell is Ron Sirak thinking? She'll NEVER be a full-time men's tour player. She needs to win AGAINST THE LADIES before she can claim any right to compete against the men as anything more than a freak side-show. Yes, I am down on Michelle (although at 6'1", I'm looking her straight in the eye), but it's only because she's getting so much hype and so much recognition without having WON ANYTHING! Wake up and smell the coffee. It's not good enough to "compete in LPGA majors". It's not good enough to make the cut as some 3rd world country second rate no competition asian tour event. She has to EARN her way into the men's tour, she cannot just be given it. Hey, she's young and talented, but then again, so was Ty (keep on) Tryon...
Roger Clemens is really getting on my nerves. Quit the damm game already. Stop being a side show. If you are "nowhere close" mentally to coming back and playing, then fuggin' LEAVE ALREADY. Stop being a cling-on to Houston. Leave the game with dignity and class, not with stupidity...
Okay, enough for today...
5.08.2006
Admit it, you've missed me!
Okay, Okay, I'm back after a short hiatus...and my first topic this time is, of course, Michelle Wie.
Okay, she gets an invite to a men's tournament. She heads over there and MAKES THE CUT! Quite an accomplishment? NO WAY! Someone call me to the carpet when this girl makes the cut on the PGA TOUR, not some single A ball level mini-tour out in BFE Korea. She should be commended for this accomplishment, but on the grand scale it's minor at best. As Tony Kornheiser said on PTI, "the girl has won NOTHING!". I'll be happy to eat crow if she qualifies on the men's PGA tour, but until then, the phone line is busy. And then, I'll applaud her legitimate accomplishment, after which I'll ask "has she won on the pro tour, men's or lady's?" Nope? Here's a quarter, call me when she does...I won't expect to hear back from you.
Yes, hockey is back, and my 'Canes whooped New Jersey 6-0 in game 1. Woo Woo! As for the Cup finals, I have to jump on Tilam's bandwagon...Eastern Conference in 6.
I tell you what Reggie Bush is going to think the first time he gets LEVELLED by a 300 lb defensive end..."why the hell did I sign with New Orleans?!". Nothing like getting your clock cleaned to make you ruminate over decisions.
Barry Bonds his #713...after the headlines, I'm finding that I don't really care...isn't that sad?
Crap, I need to run to a meeting...
Okay, she gets an invite to a men's tournament. She heads over there and MAKES THE CUT! Quite an accomplishment? NO WAY! Someone call me to the carpet when this girl makes the cut on the PGA TOUR, not some single A ball level mini-tour out in BFE Korea. She should be commended for this accomplishment, but on the grand scale it's minor at best. As Tony Kornheiser said on PTI, "the girl has won NOTHING!". I'll be happy to eat crow if she qualifies on the men's PGA tour, but until then, the phone line is busy. And then, I'll applaud her legitimate accomplishment, after which I'll ask "has she won on the pro tour, men's or lady's?" Nope? Here's a quarter, call me when she does...I won't expect to hear back from you.
Yes, hockey is back, and my 'Canes whooped New Jersey 6-0 in game 1. Woo Woo! As for the Cup finals, I have to jump on Tilam's bandwagon...Eastern Conference in 6.
I tell you what Reggie Bush is going to think the first time he gets LEVELLED by a 300 lb defensive end..."why the hell did I sign with New Orleans?!". Nothing like getting your clock cleaned to make you ruminate over decisions.
Barry Bonds his #713...after the headlines, I'm finding that I don't really care...isn't that sad?
Crap, I need to run to a meeting...
5.05.2006
Round the Horn II
Time for Tilam and Thew to eat 까마귀.
That is crow...in Korean. Michelle Wie made the cut in a men's tournament...in Korea. Maybe we will have to eat 烏鴉 when she makes the cut at the Beijing Open, but I don't expect us to eat الغراب at the Dubai Open (playing in a burqa is a bitch, peace be upon you). Stay tuned.
US MNT. The US Men's National Team has been picked for Germany 2006. The US is ranked 4th (COUGH!) in the world and the squad is predictable and the strongest we have fielded in a while. The MLS MVP for 2005, Taylor Twellman, missed the squad and that seemed to be a mild surprise, but Brian Ching has been on fire for Houston. (Keep up with the goings on at US Soccer; Road to the World Cup and the Soccer Blog.)
It is a Bruce Arena team. Arena is the "equivalent" of Herb Brooks and the USA Hockey team from 1980. He values team play over individual talent. Of course, he sets himself up for second guessing if things do not work out. Group E is tough, but USA has the talent and team to emerge. There defense is not a+, but they do have a outstanding counter-attack. Can we expect an Elite 8 performance again? No, we should demand it.
MLB. Yankees-Red Sox tied atop the AL East. Life is good.
NBA. Are they done yet?
NHL. Time to start paying attention. 'Canes come back as Thew predicted and face the Devils (if there was EVER a good news/bad news scenario, this is it). My feeling is that the playoffs have set themselves up for the team from the East. (Fine, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to notice that the Top 4 seeds are still around in the East, but the bottom 4 seeds populate the West.) But I will say the Stanley Cup will go to the East Team in 5.
NFL Draft. Ho Hum. It amazes me that they make such a big deal of this. Sure the money is big, but there is not a pro league where there is such a difference in the college/pro levels as in the NFL. I like Reggie Bush, but the first time he is staring straight up at a 300 lb. lineman who just cleaned his clock (but at least he managed to avoid the 340 pounder!), realizes that dirt tastes like shit and hears those words, "Welcome to the NFL;" the thought that will run through his head is "this ain't the Rose Bowl, is it Dorothy?"
Gotta jet.
That is crow...in Korean. Michelle Wie made the cut in a men's tournament...in Korea. Maybe we will have to eat 烏鴉 when she makes the cut at the Beijing Open, but I don't expect us to eat الغراب at the Dubai Open (playing in a burqa is a bitch, peace be upon you). Stay tuned.
US MNT. The US Men's National Team has been picked for Germany 2006. The US is ranked 4th (COUGH!) in the world and the squad is predictable and the strongest we have fielded in a while. The MLS MVP for 2005, Taylor Twellman, missed the squad and that seemed to be a mild surprise, but Brian Ching has been on fire for Houston. (Keep up with the goings on at US Soccer; Road to the World Cup and the Soccer Blog.)
It is a Bruce Arena team. Arena is the "equivalent" of Herb Brooks and the USA Hockey team from 1980. He values team play over individual talent. Of course, he sets himself up for second guessing if things do not work out. Group E is tough, but USA has the talent and team to emerge. There defense is not a+, but they do have a outstanding counter-attack. Can we expect an Elite 8 performance again? No, we should demand it.
MLB. Yankees-Red Sox tied atop the AL East. Life is good.
NBA. Are they done yet?
NHL. Time to start paying attention. 'Canes come back as Thew predicted and face the Devils (if there was EVER a good news/bad news scenario, this is it). My feeling is that the playoffs have set themselves up for the team from the East. (Fine, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to notice that the Top 4 seeds are still around in the East, but the bottom 4 seeds populate the West.) But I will say the Stanley Cup will go to the East Team in 5.
NFL Draft. Ho Hum. It amazes me that they make such a big deal of this. Sure the money is big, but there is not a pro league where there is such a difference in the college/pro levels as in the NFL. I like Reggie Bush, but the first time he is staring straight up at a 300 lb. lineman who just cleaned his clock (but at least he managed to avoid the 340 pounder!), realizes that dirt tastes like shit and hears those words, "Welcome to the NFL;" the thought that will run through his head is "this ain't the Rose Bowl, is it Dorothy?"
Gotta jet.
5.01.2006
HaH, ya feel me now?!
Round 1...No call
Round 2...No call
Round 3, 4, 5, 6, oh, and Round 7...NO CALL.
Think you're all that now, MARCUS VICK?
*****
In response to a verbal phone conversation, it must be duly noted that my Hurricanes are now up 3-2 on the Habs, playing like the 'Canes of the regular season. Here's to hoping they come back from a 0-2 deficit for the first time in team history. Go boys, keep it up!
*****
The Vikings picked Chad Greenway (who the hell is HE?) over A J Hawk's buddy from linebacker U, Bobby Carpenter? That doesn't pass the WTF test, lemme tell ya!
Mario Williams over Reggie Bush - been said before, but that's a HUGE reach...
Matt Leinart to #10? Hmm, well, umm, err, ahh, okay, not THAT surprising. But a surprise nevertheless.
Vince Young will be another Michael Vick...exciting, athletic, great with his feet, and will never win a Super Bowl, just like Mike. He needs to learn how to be a PRO PASSER, to hang in the pocket and not just abandon after his first read and run. Time will tell, but how many Super Bowls has Mr Vick won? As many as me...
*****
BOS - NYY tonight at Fenway. Tied for the AL East Lead. Any month, Any year, this is as it should be.
Round 2...No call
Round 3, 4, 5, 6, oh, and Round 7...NO CALL.
Think you're all that now, MARCUS VICK?
*****
In response to a verbal phone conversation, it must be duly noted that my Hurricanes are now up 3-2 on the Habs, playing like the 'Canes of the regular season. Here's to hoping they come back from a 0-2 deficit for the first time in team history. Go boys, keep it up!
*****
The Vikings picked Chad Greenway (who the hell is HE?) over A J Hawk's buddy from linebacker U, Bobby Carpenter? That doesn't pass the WTF test, lemme tell ya!
Mario Williams over Reggie Bush - been said before, but that's a HUGE reach...
Matt Leinart to #10? Hmm, well, umm, err, ahh, okay, not THAT surprising. But a surprise nevertheless.
Vince Young will be another Michael Vick...exciting, athletic, great with his feet, and will never win a Super Bowl, just like Mike. He needs to learn how to be a PRO PASSER, to hang in the pocket and not just abandon after his first read and run. Time will tell, but how many Super Bowls has Mr Vick won? As many as me...
*****
BOS - NYY tonight at Fenway. Tied for the AL East Lead. Any month, Any year, this is as it should be.
4.28.2006
Gas Bags
$3.13 for gas. Whoa. Get the posse rounded up.
Heads should roll, but not the oil company heads. Gas is a commodity and behaves according to the fundamental laws of economics. Shooting the oil companies will not changes this. There are two big reasons the price has increased: the demand is high and the supply is low. The US has made fundamentally stupid choices that have affected each.
1) Demand is High. Okay, China and India are starting to drive up demand, but we have not helped by rejecting alternatives that would ease the demand pressures in the US, primarily making sure not one watt of electricity requires oil to produce. We need to invest in alternatives (nuclear if you ask me) in driving down that part of the demand. But this is a temporary fix, our flawed policies have really focused on lack of supply.
2) Domestic Production of Oil. Open ANWR and the continental shelf for drilling. Start developing the 1 TRILLION barrels of oil field in Colorado (oil shale). Don't like to do that? Then shut the f*** up about high prices.
3) Refining Capacity. Has not increased since the 70s. If 100 billion barrels of oil were available for free, it would not do us any good. We need to add refinery capacity to get it to the pump.
BUT, if we tripled refinery capacity, that would not help. The government requires oxygenates in the gasoline, currently MTBE or ethanol. The tort bar is suing the MTBE manufacturer and the government (bought by the ethanol lobby) refused to help. So now MTBE is out of the picture. But there is not enough ethanol. Ooops. That is wrong, there is plenty of ethanol available from abroad, but there is a very expensive tariff on its import (guess who got that through).
Finally, normally we could take the excess supply from one region and use it in another. (You can see this coming.) BUT, there are 17 different state mandated formulations of gasoline, so you can't simply take the supply from Oklahoma and ship it to Georgia.
Still upset. Well, oil company profits from a gallon of gas run about $0.09-$0.10. Local, state and federal TAXES run $0.45 per gallon.
See the picture that is emerging? By all means, put a bullet in the heads of the CEOs of Exxon and Chevron, just don't be surprised when the price of gas remains the same.
UPDATE: I swear I did not read Charles Krauthammer prior to writing this post.
Heads should roll, but not the oil company heads. Gas is a commodity and behaves according to the fundamental laws of economics. Shooting the oil companies will not changes this. There are two big reasons the price has increased: the demand is high and the supply is low. The US has made fundamentally stupid choices that have affected each.
1) Demand is High. Okay, China and India are starting to drive up demand, but we have not helped by rejecting alternatives that would ease the demand pressures in the US, primarily making sure not one watt of electricity requires oil to produce. We need to invest in alternatives (nuclear if you ask me) in driving down that part of the demand. But this is a temporary fix, our flawed policies have really focused on lack of supply.
2) Domestic Production of Oil. Open ANWR and the continental shelf for drilling. Start developing the 1 TRILLION barrels of oil field in Colorado (oil shale). Don't like to do that? Then shut the f*** up about high prices.
3) Refining Capacity. Has not increased since the 70s. If 100 billion barrels of oil were available for free, it would not do us any good. We need to add refinery capacity to get it to the pump.
BUT, if we tripled refinery capacity, that would not help. The government requires oxygenates in the gasoline, currently MTBE or ethanol. The tort bar is suing the MTBE manufacturer and the government (bought by the ethanol lobby) refused to help. So now MTBE is out of the picture. But there is not enough ethanol. Ooops. That is wrong, there is plenty of ethanol available from abroad, but there is a very expensive tariff on its import (guess who got that through).
Finally, normally we could take the excess supply from one region and use it in another. (You can see this coming.) BUT, there are 17 different state mandated formulations of gasoline, so you can't simply take the supply from Oklahoma and ship it to Georgia.
Still upset. Well, oil company profits from a gallon of gas run about $0.09-$0.10. Local, state and federal TAXES run $0.45 per gallon.
See the picture that is emerging? By all means, put a bullet in the heads of the CEOs of Exxon and Chevron, just don't be surprised when the price of gas remains the same.
UPDATE: I swear I did not read Charles Krauthammer prior to writing this post.
The Dance of Court
I have some perspectives on this case:
Clearly, the Duke lacrosse players need to be punished for their idiotic behavior. And this is not just a single incident, if you read some of the articles written, they certainly have a history of "bad boy" behavior; several documented incidents have come to light, and several of the players (including one of the accused) are or were on probation for various naughty incidents. So is this a single case of the boys being boys - nah, it's a continuation of an ongoing pattern of rambunctious behavior by a team known for it. But why is THIS incident, in my humble opinion, bigger than it really needs to be...
Durham, NC, is a very racially charged and economically segregated area. On the one hand you have the rich, priviledged, student body of Duke. On the other hand you have the lower class, predominantly black, populace of Durham. Clearly a case of them vs us, rich vs poor, white vs black. So getting a conviction of some sort to "appease" the injured and insulted populace of the local area is critical for...
Mike Nifong's political aspirations. Yeah, Tilam, I know that he deferred all this talk until after the trial, but wow, what a heckuva martyr. "No, I won't use this as an opportunity to gain faction and further my own political ambitions, we'll wait". Wow. I can just see at the local barber shop..."Oh man, that Nifong guy, he's really focused on this case, he doesn't care about the election, I LIKE HIM, I"M GONNA VOTE FOR HIM." And if gets a conviction of the rich athletes on behalf of all the local black population, they are REALLY gonna vote for him. But in the end, you and I both know it comes down to...
The almighty dollar. Dollars for the stripper who is NOT the accuser, who has made no bones about "trying to parlay my fame into money for me and my kid". To the accuser, who is either lucky or good, the conviction of the criminal case is completely irrelevant, she's focusing on the civil case. THAT's where the money is...remember Michael Jackson? He beat the child molestation rap (against what I thought was pretty darn compelling evidence), but the REAL case was getting a civil settlement aside from putting him in jail. Kobe Bryant? Need I go on?
In other news around the world...
Somewhere in butt fuck Texas, 2 redneck teenagers beat and sodomized a mexican young man who they thought was trying to kiss a white girl. Looking at their mug shots, they look like the typical run down broke ass redneck skinhead punks. The young man is in the hospital and apparently has a 50/50 chance of living. They should send those 2 little boys to jail and let the big convicts show them what it means to be anal-retentive.
So how we're in the phase of analyzing why those air packs failed the 12 miners stuck in the shaft during the Sago mine blast in VA. If you read the accounts, there is a complete confluence of stupidity and lack of planning which caused 11 men to die. Mines need to be safe, but since they inherently are probably not, then we need to take measure to keep our miners alive. Give them working air packs. Teach them how to use them (there is some speculation that they were not properly trained). A reported methane leak was plugged up with glue - WHAT? But what does this indicate about our country? Welp, it simply states that we are lazy stupid morons with no thought to the future, and changes are only enacted after something horrific happens - we manage our safety by death these days. We assume it always safe until people die or get hurt. What is wrong with this picture? That mining company, Alaska Airlines, and as a frequent flyer, I'm not convinced that we haven't become lazy and un-diligent in our airline security AGAIN! It's never a problem, we don't think of safety, until people get hurt or die. I'll stop here...
In the WTF department...Chevron Corp.'s first-quarter profit soared 49 percent to $4 billion, joining the procession of U.S. oil companies to report colossal earnings as gas prices soar. Am I the only one who reads that sentence and says "are you f**kin kidding me?!" I paid $3.15 today per gallon. I want someone's head on a platter...
Clearly, the Duke lacrosse players need to be punished for their idiotic behavior. And this is not just a single incident, if you read some of the articles written, they certainly have a history of "bad boy" behavior; several documented incidents have come to light, and several of the players (including one of the accused) are or were on probation for various naughty incidents. So is this a single case of the boys being boys - nah, it's a continuation of an ongoing pattern of rambunctious behavior by a team known for it. But why is THIS incident, in my humble opinion, bigger than it really needs to be...
Durham, NC, is a very racially charged and economically segregated area. On the one hand you have the rich, priviledged, student body of Duke. On the other hand you have the lower class, predominantly black, populace of Durham. Clearly a case of them vs us, rich vs poor, white vs black. So getting a conviction of some sort to "appease" the injured and insulted populace of the local area is critical for...
Mike Nifong's political aspirations. Yeah, Tilam, I know that he deferred all this talk until after the trial, but wow, what a heckuva martyr. "No, I won't use this as an opportunity to gain faction and further my own political ambitions, we'll wait". Wow. I can just see at the local barber shop..."Oh man, that Nifong guy, he's really focused on this case, he doesn't care about the election, I LIKE HIM, I"M GONNA VOTE FOR HIM." And if gets a conviction of the rich athletes on behalf of all the local black population, they are REALLY gonna vote for him. But in the end, you and I both know it comes down to...
The almighty dollar. Dollars for the stripper who is NOT the accuser, who has made no bones about "trying to parlay my fame into money for me and my kid". To the accuser, who is either lucky or good, the conviction of the criminal case is completely irrelevant, she's focusing on the civil case. THAT's where the money is...remember Michael Jackson? He beat the child molestation rap (against what I thought was pretty darn compelling evidence), but the REAL case was getting a civil settlement aside from putting him in jail. Kobe Bryant? Need I go on?
In other news around the world...
Somewhere in butt fuck Texas, 2 redneck teenagers beat and sodomized a mexican young man who they thought was trying to kiss a white girl. Looking at their mug shots, they look like the typical run down broke ass redneck skinhead punks. The young man is in the hospital and apparently has a 50/50 chance of living. They should send those 2 little boys to jail and let the big convicts show them what it means to be anal-retentive.
So how we're in the phase of analyzing why those air packs failed the 12 miners stuck in the shaft during the Sago mine blast in VA. If you read the accounts, there is a complete confluence of stupidity and lack of planning which caused 11 men to die. Mines need to be safe, but since they inherently are probably not, then we need to take measure to keep our miners alive. Give them working air packs. Teach them how to use them (there is some speculation that they were not properly trained). A reported methane leak was plugged up with glue - WHAT? But what does this indicate about our country? Welp, it simply states that we are lazy stupid morons with no thought to the future, and changes are only enacted after something horrific happens - we manage our safety by death these days. We assume it always safe until people die or get hurt. What is wrong with this picture? That mining company, Alaska Airlines, and as a frequent flyer, I'm not convinced that we haven't become lazy and un-diligent in our airline security AGAIN! It's never a problem, we don't think of safety, until people get hurt or die. I'll stop here...
In the WTF department...Chevron Corp.'s first-quarter profit soared 49 percent to $4 billion, joining the procession of U.S. oil companies to report colossal earnings as gas prices soar. Am I the only one who reads that sentence and says "are you f**kin kidding me?!" I paid $3.15 today per gallon. I want someone's head on a platter...
4.27.2006
Out with A Whimper?
According to an article on ESPN, two Duke lacrosse players have admitted that there was a heated dispute and racial slurs were used. But they deny a rape occurred. But that's not the interesting part...
The father of the accused says she is considering dropping the case. If these kids are guilty, I hope she keeps going for the sake of all rape victims. But there are other ways for her to get "justice." It does seem to me that dropping the criminal case and pursuing a civil suit against DUKE is where the real money is. The facts, as we know them, certainly support a civil suit for her (and the 2nd stripper) and the last thing Duke needs is additional publicity, so they will cave like a card house.
Quite frankly, ASSUMING THERE WAS NO RAPE, a large monetary award from Duke acting in loco parentis is the best possible outcome. It seems to me that the lacrosse team's behavior merits some "punishment," but while punishing the players might give some short term benefits, punishing the university sends a broader message. Let's face it: Duke was forewarned about the teams behavior and while I am normally against "awards that send a message" this seems to be an appropriate case.
The father of the accused says she is considering dropping the case. If these kids are guilty, I hope she keeps going for the sake of all rape victims. But there are other ways for her to get "justice." It does seem to me that dropping the criminal case and pursuing a civil suit against DUKE is where the real money is. The facts, as we know them, certainly support a civil suit for her (and the 2nd stripper) and the last thing Duke needs is additional publicity, so they will cave like a card house.
Quite frankly, ASSUMING THERE WAS NO RAPE, a large monetary award from Duke acting in loco parentis is the best possible outcome. It seems to me that the lacrosse team's behavior merits some "punishment," but while punishing the players might give some short term benefits, punishing the university sends a broader message. Let's face it: Duke was forewarned about the teams behavior and while I am normally against "awards that send a message" this seems to be an appropriate case.
No, You Don't...
Dick Meyers at CBS has an insightful article on a key difference between conservatives and liberals, "We Know What's Best for You." The most insightful portion of it relates to "two types of liberty" - positive and negative. Quoting Meyers:
"Negative liberty is freedom "from" things; positive liberty is freedom "to do" certain things. ... Negative liberty means simply that one is free from interference by the state and others, that one has a zone of liberty and in that zone there can be no interference so long as another's liberty isn't constrained. What you do in the zone of negative liberty is your business. Positive liberty takes a dim view of simple negative liberty, arguing that it is meaningless unless a person has a real, positive freedom - the power "to do" vital things. Being left alone, in the world view, is meaningless if you don't have the power "to do" the important things, whatever they may be – get an education, earn a fair wage, live in an alienated society."
Meyers point is that America is the proto-typical negative liberty place which I agree with whole-heartedly. "Rugged individualism" is what sets us apart from, say, France and certainly from the tyrants in the Middle East and Third World. It always has and, I believe, always will. Further, Meyers says that, while both parties have aspects of negative and positive liberties in their platforms, Republicans tend more toward the negative and Democrats toward the positive. Meyers concludes that voters can dislike positive liberty (which he says smacks of "we know what's best for you") and can sense it a mile away. And that does not bode well for the Democrats.
Paul Mirengoff of Powerline is not so sure that voters will "consistently reject" this approach. Paul is absolutely right, but it important to understand when the voters won't. I posit that voters will accept the "we know what's best for you" approach under two condition. The first is a time on emergency, such as war (Iraq, GWOT) or national disaster (Katrina). The second is when the moral foundations become so obvious as to require remedial action (the civil rights movement). The problem the Democrats face is they are offering no leadership on either of these issues. The problem the Republicans face is that faced with time of emergencies, they have botched it. (Query, if Congressional Republican would have shown more domestic leadership on spending, Social Security and taxes, would President Bush's numbers be as low. I say no.) Paul may be right that voters may swing back to the Democrats and thus accept the Dems approach, but it would be because, given the chance, Republicans have screwed up.
"Negative liberty is freedom "from" things; positive liberty is freedom "to do" certain things. ... Negative liberty means simply that one is free from interference by the state and others, that one has a zone of liberty and in that zone there can be no interference so long as another's liberty isn't constrained. What you do in the zone of negative liberty is your business. Positive liberty takes a dim view of simple negative liberty, arguing that it is meaningless unless a person has a real, positive freedom - the power "to do" vital things. Being left alone, in the world view, is meaningless if you don't have the power "to do" the important things, whatever they may be – get an education, earn a fair wage, live in an alienated society."
Meyers point is that America is the proto-typical negative liberty place which I agree with whole-heartedly. "Rugged individualism" is what sets us apart from, say, France and certainly from the tyrants in the Middle East and Third World. It always has and, I believe, always will. Further, Meyers says that, while both parties have aspects of negative and positive liberties in their platforms, Republicans tend more toward the negative and Democrats toward the positive. Meyers concludes that voters can dislike positive liberty (which he says smacks of "we know what's best for you") and can sense it a mile away. And that does not bode well for the Democrats.
Paul Mirengoff of Powerline is not so sure that voters will "consistently reject" this approach. Paul is absolutely right, but it important to understand when the voters won't. I posit that voters will accept the "we know what's best for you" approach under two condition. The first is a time on emergency, such as war (Iraq, GWOT) or national disaster (Katrina). The second is when the moral foundations become so obvious as to require remedial action (the civil rights movement). The problem the Democrats face is they are offering no leadership on either of these issues. The problem the Republicans face is that faced with time of emergencies, they have botched it. (Query, if Congressional Republican would have shown more domestic leadership on spending, Social Security and taxes, would President Bush's numbers be as low. I say no.) Paul may be right that voters may swing back to the Democrats and thus accept the Dems approach, but it would be because, given the chance, Republicans have screwed up.
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