Telling Tragedy

On Friday, Bluffton University’s baseball bus crashed in Atlanta. The charter bus mistook a lane for an exit ramp. The bus then flipped a wall and descended twenty feet. Six were killed. Twenty-nine are injured.

Facebook alerted me to this tragedy. Facebook has become essential. The site fuses causes and exponents, informs, and broadcasts our opinions. Facebook is truly societal. Whereas Myspace promotes individualism, Facebook has become America’s hometown.

America’s thoughts and prayers are with Bluffton University’s students and staff. Mine are also.

Culture of Hate

NASCAR is misread. Assumptions pigeonhole fans. Drivers are typecast. NASCAR is subject to vicious stereotyping. The sport is southern, uneducated, redneck, and no one residing outside the former Confederacy watches. Simply stated, the opposite is fact.

On February 20, Washington’s legislature debated a proposed track. Unfortunately, Representative Larry Seaquist chose defamation over discussion. "These people are not the kind of people you would want living next door to you," Seaquist said. "They'd be the ones with the junky cars in the front yard and would try to slip around the law."

Subsequently, Speaker of the House Frank Chopp also slandered. His aspersion target was Richard Petty. “You mean the guy who got picked up for DUI?” Chopp asked. “He's not a member of the House last time I checked.”

Chopp and Seaquist’s statements are asinine. They are pathetic and erroneous stereotypes. Women comprise forty percent of the fan base. Fifty-eight percent are ages 18-44. Seventeen percent are either African-American or Hispanic. Eight percent’s salaries exceed one hundred thousand dollars. Sixty-three percent reside in the northeast, midwest, or west.

Chopp and Seaquist’s subjects are convenient targets. If their comments stereotyped African-Americans, Asian-Americans, Hispanics, or Jews, a firestorm would have ensued. Apologies or resignations would have been requested. This is not a racial issue. With that stated, Chopp and Seaquist’s comments shriek prejudice. Both are reprehensible.

NASCAR began in the south. With that stated, baseball diverged from England. Hockey was exported from Canada. Their fans are not libeled, mangled, or maligned. Chopp, Seaquist, and their ilk are wretched. They are also dangerous. Their assertions cultivate and promote supremacist bigotry. Acceptable bigotry. This is frightening.

Looking For A Fight?

Switzerland accidentally invades Liechtenstein?

Liechtenstein has no army. The nation’s size equals Washington D.C. Why invade? Why not merely assume command?

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“For the first time in two hundred years, beavers are back in New York city. They didn’t just get here. In fact, one has been living for years on the head of Donald Trump.”

Late Show with David Letterman

Anna’s End?

On Friday, Anna Nicole Smith was eulogized and buried. During the funeral, Smith’s mother appealed her internment. The appeal was denied. Hopefully, this bizarre and pathetic saga has concluded.

Fire Them All

On Friday, Army Secretary Francis Harvey resigned. Harvey’s resignation chases Major General George Weightman’s firing. Walter Reed Army Hospital’s deplorable conditions were disgusting. The lone solution is a comprehensive command overhaul.

Half A Million Hurt

On Friday, the Los Angeles Lakers fined Vladimir Radmanovic $500,000. Radmanovic’s all-star break snowboarding violated his contract. Athletes are entitled to lives. With that stated, Radmanovic’s activity was explicitly forbidden. He ignored the aforementioned. He separated his shoulder. Stupid, Vladimir.

Another South Carolina Assault?

According to the Columbia State, Mitt Romney is being anonymously attacked. A six-page mailer assails Romney’s record on abortion, gun control, taxes, and “conservative values.” A subsequent e-mail reads, “Those dark suspicions you hide deep inside yourself about Mormonism are trying to tell you something. Trust your instincts! The light of truth will burn through the smoke and mirrors of Mitt Romney’s movie star looks and crafty words!”

The campaign has commenced.

Bitterest Person in the World

Keith Olbermann, you are pathetic.

Bill’s ratings have been superior. They are superior.

“Property of O’Reilly” should be stamped across your forehead.

Keith, shut up!

McGrady: Preemptively Paranoid

Tracy McGrady: “When they first mentioned to me that the All-Star game was going to be in New Orleans, the first thing I thought about is how much security they are going to have for the players and everybody there. I don't think it's the right city to have this type of event right now. I know the city is in need of trying to get back on their feet, in need of money. Safety comes first. I'm sure they have to do a lot of research and look into before they really make this decision. If I don't feel that I'm going to be safe, if I am on that team, I will look into probably not even going.”

Is McGrady unfamiliar with personal security? As I stated, New Orleans recovery is impossible sans the confidence of the NBA and comparable organizations. Tracy, shut up and earn a roster spot.

An Exemplary Man

On Thursday, former cornerback Everson Walls donated his kidney. The organ’s recipient, former teammate Ron Springs, is recovering in Dallas. Simply stated, Walls is an extraordinary human being.

Hail the Fullback

On Thursday, Lorenzo Neal signed a three-year, $5.1 million contract. Simultaineously, Mike Alstott received a one-year, $1.5 million deal. Both play football’s most unacknowledged position. These rewards are especially deserved.

The Monetarily Departed

On Thursday, NFL cuts occurred. Below are unemployed notables:

Drew Bledsoe (QB - Dallas Cowboys)

Joe Horn (WR – New Orleans Saints)

Joey Porter (LB – Pittsburgh Steelers)

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“Paris Hilton may go to jail. That would be a switch. A Hilton staying in an uncomfortable room with no view.”

Late Show with David Letterman

Reality at Eight

Survivor

Despite their sixth consecutive challenge victory, Moto was given an ultimatum. They could either swap camps with Ravu or eliminate a member. Moto chose the latter and dismissed the adorable Liliana Gomez. Moto’s Gary Stritesky also departed for health considerations.

American Idol

America eliminated Nicholas Pedro, AJ Tabaldo, Leslie Hunt, and Alaina Alexander. The male eliminations were expected. Pedro’s performance was horrific. Tabaldo’s induced insomnia. Hunt’s jazzy performance was archaic. Frankly, Alexander’s vote was stunning. Her performance was excellent. This decision reiterates that America is clueless.

Belated Love

On Wednesday, the Chicago Bears signed Coach Lovie Smith to a four-year, $22 million extension. Smith will now earn $3.45 million in 2007. In 2006, Smith received $1.35 million. This extension was vastly overdue.

During his career, Smith has logged a 31-21 ledger. The Bears have won consecutive division championships. This season, they recorded their first Super Bowl appearance since 1985. Smith deserved an extension. He is an excellent coach. However, he is a superior person. He endured abhorrent treatment with class, dignity, and restraint.

Following his initial division title, Smith warranted an extension. However, the Bears flippantly demanded successive crowns. Smith exceeded their mandate. Despite this triumph, he has suffered speculation and innuendo. Finally, this unnecessary overtone has been silenced.

The Bears treatment of Smith was reprehensible. Organizations should not reward fluke seasons. However, Smith’s achievement was phenomenal. He won sans offense with a defensive formula which had previously failed. Smith is remarkable. He merited more than Chicago’s insolent behavior. The Bears should be ashamed.

Paying the Appropriate Price

On Thursday, the Army fired Major General George Weightman. Weightman was Walter Reed Army Hospital chief. This was not political scapegoating. Given recent reports, severe action was necessary. Ultimate responsibility was Weightman’s.

Shanahan, Make A Decision

On Thursday, the Denver Broncos and Detroit Lions relocated three players. The Broncos acquired cornerback Dre’ Bly. The Lions received tackle George Foster and running back Tatum Bell.

Bly and Champ Bailey are an imposing cornerback tandem. With that stated, Denver’s decision was questionable. Since Terrell Davis’ departure, Broncos running backs have included Mike Anderson, Mike Bell, Tatum Bell, Ron Dayne, Reuben Droughns, Olandis Gary, Quentin Griffin, and Clinton Portis. Mike Shanahan should choose a running back and stick.

Late Night Leader

On the Late Show with David Letterman, Senator John McCain announced his presidential candidacy. Previously, candidates have utilized the comedic interview format. However, McCain’s announcement was a first for the venue.

Recently, McCain has endured criticism. His troop surge support has condemned. His evangelical outreach has been mocked. Despite the aforesaid, McCain remains an impressive candidate. I believe he is the favorite. Following his April announcement, this status will be confirmed.

Where’s The Rage?

This week, federal authorities raided two pharmacies in Orlando, Florida. Eight people in three states have been arrested. Twenty-four may face felony charges. Relevancy? Alleged steroid consumers include Gary Matthews Jr., Jose Canseco, and former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield.

Following the BALCO horrors, these events may not shock sport or spectators. Calm is an incorrect reaction. Sports must respond with outrage. Until they stridently repudiate offenders and their offenses, America will slumber.

Beckham Relocation Program

Moving as reality television? What is next? Retrieving one’s mail from the post office? Simon Fuller cannot produce an American idol. Why would our nation watch an irrelevant celebrity swap continents?

Historical Exodus

Time eradicates tradition. Honored rituals are supplanted with modern concepts. Sacred institutions are deserted for monetary greed. America has evolved and revolutionized. As our nation has advanced, we have forsaken the foundations and customs which made progress possible.

On Tuesday, the historic Cotton Bowl was abandoned. Beginning in 2010, the AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic will originate from Dallas Cowboys stadium in Arlington, Texas. This decision strands the Cotton Bowl hosting one contest. Oklahoma and Texas remain scheduled combatants in the Red River clash.

Eventually, the Oklahoma-Texas rivalry will depart. The series will migrate to Arlington or greed will facilitate a home and home agreement. Then the Cotton Bowl, which has hosted events since 1932, will stand vacant. Ultimately, evolution will necessitate the shrine’s obliteration.

Wind skirts this treasure. Sun visits the seats, scoreboard, and media facilities, which have bore witness to history. The Cotton Bowl has welcomed a hostile contention, national championship football, the World Cup, primetime television, U2, Van Halen, and Elvis Pressley. This American icon deserves greater than demolition.

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“Vincent Pastore resigned from Dancing with the Stars. He claims ballroom dancing is to physically demanding. They don’t call him ‘Big Pussy’ for nothing.”

Jimmy Kimmel Live

Behold the Power of Youtube

Utilizing Facebook, boyfriend promotes a mass assemblage. Separately, boyfriend requests girlfriend for Valentine’s Day. Girlfriend arrives for date amidst a serenading throng. Boyfriend arrives, accuses girlfriend of infidelity, and splits with her. Girlfriend curses. Subsequently, the separation is continuously rebroadcast on Youtube. The separation was a hoax.

The aforementioned illustrates Youtube’s power and perils. Youtube can unite our populace and promote causes. The site is a social, political, and entertainment instrument. However, some hijack the site for crime and fraud. Youtube is a marvelous innovation. People can utilize the advance for beneficial purposes. They can also utilize the advance for terrible purposes.

New Orleans: Confidence Required

Players Association Executive Director Billy Hunter is threatening the NBA. He also believes New Orleans cannot accommodate All-Star weekend. New Orleans faces massive reconstruction, rising crime, and a dwindling police force. With that stated, New Orleans recovery is impossible sans the confidence of the NBA and comparable organizations.

Current Commercials: Best & Bizarre

UPS White Board
Simply perfect.

Planet M&M

There is an M&M inside all of us?

American Idol Live Blog

Gina Glocksen (22 – Illinois)

Her dress is uncomplimentary. Initially, her performance was pedestrian. However, her conclusion was exemplary. Fine performance. Simon… forced vocals? I disagree. Acceptable commencement to this evening.

Alaina Alexander (24 – California)

Her appearance is flawless. Her passion is inspiring. “Not Ready” is an emotional song. She equaled the Dixie Chicks expressive standard. Exceptional performance. Are the judges drunk? They are condemning her endeavor. I vehemently disagree. Simon discussing Randy in a hundred meter dash. Now that is comedy.

LaKisha Jones (27 – Michigan)

Last week, her appearance was hideous. This week, her façade is morbid. Thankfully, she is not dancing. Her performance is wretched. I believe Aaron from Broadcast News sang “Midnight Train” better. She has the appeal of the animated Robin Hood’s fat chicken. America, eliminate the obese one.

Melinda Doolittle (29 – Tennessee)

Janice from Friends phoned. She said your version is as annoying as hers. Clothing coordinators succeeded in slimming her. With that stated, her performance was boring. Paula labels this “astounding?” Simon says “incredible?” Whatever liquid is residing in their Coke glasses, I request a double.

Antonella Barba (20 – New Jersey)

My junior prom song. “Because you loved me” remains annoying. What is with her ensemble? Is she imitating Serena Williams? Her endeavor is pedestrian. You have to personally enhance this breed of song. Her singing was mundane.

Jordin Sparks (17 – Arizona)

Why all the boring songs? Her performance is satisfactory. However, few artists can equal Christina’s range. She is amongst those who cannot. Simon is correct. She has massive potential. However, she has not showcased her promise.

Stephanie Edwards (19 - Georgia)

Her dress is exceptionally unflattering. Her performance is also tedious. This evening has been completely void of energy. Randy, she looks hot? Dog, are you blind? I disagree with the judges. This performance was sans substance.

Leslie Hunt (24 - Illinois)

Her commencement is terrible. This performance reverberates with a twenty’s vibe. I previously stated this evening was sans energy. She transitioned this episode from humdrum to horrible. This is 2007. Jazz albums will not sell.

Haley Scarnato (24 - Texas)

She has a fiancée? This is disappointing. Her appearance is gorgeous. Finally! Whereas the previous eight have been subdued and drab, she is vibrant and colorful. Her performance is dazzling. She should easily receive the most votes. Simon says she is vulnerable? He must be high.

Sabrina Sloan (27 – California)

One could ski jump off her nose. This evening concludes with another dull performance. Her vocals are respectable. However, herself and the competition should ditch the sedatives.

Aggravated Labor

Non-secret union voting?

Public ballots are an engraved invitation to retribution and harassment. President Bush’s promised veto is warranted.

Snyder’s Snafu

According to the New York Post, the Jets will either trade or release Patrick Ramsey. Daniel Snyder should never make another selection.

$632 Billion Lost

Are You Smarter Is Intelligent Choice

On Tuesday, FOX premiered “Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader?” Hosted by Jeff Foxworthy, the program challenges memory retention, not knowledge. Questions cover various elementary subjects. They encompass grades one through four.

Contestants are paired with classmates. They are also afforded lifelines. If incorrect, they can peak or copy their opposite’s paper. Honestly, I had reservations prior to viewing. I believed the program would be moronic. However, Foxworthy is superb. The show is exceptionally entertaining.

Duel Deception

Episode seven presented Audrina and Whitney as Lauren’s supportive voices. Predominately, the footage encompassed Lauren’s best friends Heidi and Jen betraying her. Maliciously, Heidi and Spencer manipulated Brody and Jen. Jen and Brody then canoodled after her twenty-first birthday party. Lauren was justifiably angry.

Heidi and Spencer are vile. Jen is also despicable. She should have refrained from kissing Brody. With that stated, Heidi is especially responsible. She should have respected Lauren. She should have abstained from facilitating the hook-up. She could have prevented their kissing. Spencer acts reprehensibly. Apparently, Heidi does now as well. If I were Lauren, I would slap Heidi until my hand hurt. I would then slap her for causing the pain.

Black Donnelly’s: Destined For Cancellation

The trend is Lost and Prison Break. Perfect motion picture storylines condensed into serial drams. Amidst this inclination, NBC premiered “The Black Donnelly’s.”

Beginning with thirty, commercial free minutes was an enormous mistake. The repetitious, uninterrupted airing induced boredom. Additionally, the ad plastered second half skewed their timing.

Mark Margolis deserves praise for portraying mobster Sal Minetta. Overall, the acting was respectable. With that stated, the violence was repetitive. The imprisoned narrator was bizarre. I would watch the “Black Donnelly’s” again. However, I am not forecasting protracted success.

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“Under a new law in Arkansas, people convicted of DUI three times will be given a bright pink license plate. A bright pink license plate! Why are we giving them anything? Give them a bright pink bus pass.”

The Tonight Show

Facades Are Life

Delta Zeta sorority has dismissed twenty-three members of their Depauw University chapter. The expelled included overweight and minority sisters. Discharging someone on a physical appearance basis is objectionable. With that stated, sororities are social organizations. Their functions are partying and networking. Therefore, cuteness is a consideration.

“Image is the new racism.” This released member’s assessment is excessive. Each day, decisions are made based upon appearance. Potential dates, friends, and conversations are accepted or rejected from personal preference. I sympathize with these students. However, one must judge books by covers. They cannot be read unseen.

American Idol Live Blog

Last week, missed due to prior commitment. I am anxious to critique these endeavors.

Phil Stacey (29 – Florida)

His performance mirrored an eighty’s parody. His concluding salvage attempt was grossly overdone. Miserable commencement to the top twenty.

Jared Cotter (25 – New York)

Great performance. This song can easily be oversung. However, his presentation was sexy, soulful, and emotional. What? Simon labels this “love boat” quality? I vehimately disagree.

AJ Tabaldo (22 - California)

Boring. He is not terrible. With that stated, his performance is sans monotonous and monochrome. The men are equaling their reported previous ineptitude.

Sanjaya Malakar (17 – Washington)

“Putting on the Ritz” phoned. He requested his cheesy song. This attempt was horrific. The song was atrocious. The teenage pimp costume was hideous. The judges agree. America, eliminate Michael Jackson miniature.

Chris Sligh (28 – South Carolina)

Dedicates performance to his wife? Whatever she was drinking when she accepted the proposal, I request a double. He croons this evening’s second uninspiring performance. However, I am judging solely on sound. I cannot glimpse this gorilla. Simon says he is a good singer? I do not care. He will not sell one album.

Nicholas Pedro (25 – Massachusetts)

Chester Cheetah has phoned. He requested both his tacky music and annoying voice. This performance is not revolting. However, his clean cut appearance does not translate. He appeared as a reject from “Night at the Roxbury.” Ryan voices obligatory “Napoleon Dynamite” joke. Pathetic!

Blake Lewis (25 – Washington)

Where is the bizarre treadmill? This performance is remarkable. His hip-hop transition is exceptionally unique. His facade is also flawless. Simply stated, this evening’s finest performance. Simon is criticizing? I am loathed to excoriate American Idol’s lone non-cheerleader. However, he is high.

Brandon Rogers (29 – California)

This performance may inspire vomit. His melody is exceedingly slow. His emotion and love for grandma does not translate. His endeavor mirrors a father rocking his baby daughter to sleep. Boring, rote, and wretched. Simon is correct. Feeling is irrelevant.

Chris Richardson (22 – Virginia)

His choice is unfortunate. This selection effectively concluded Jason Mraz’s career. The song will not enhance Richardson. Additionally, Richardson is not a geek. Sligh, the video game nerd should have sung this. The judges are complimentary? Seriously?

Sundance Head (28 – Texas)

During every backwoods party, this song is performed. I believe Head has attended the vast majority of them. His version is oversung. Given his dancing, I hope the stage was reinforced. The judges are incorrect. This obese cretin is sad.

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“Last night at the Oscars, I thought Britney Spears looked lovely. It turned out to be Jack Nicholson.”

Late Show with David Letterman

The Big Five

For reasons good and bad… they were the news.

The Hot Five

A quintet of sizzling conversation starters.

Oscar Appraisal

Best motion picture of the year
Prediction: "The Departed"
Winner: "The Departed"
(Superior directing, exceptional writing, and stars. An unqestionale decision.)

Achievement in directing
Prediction: “The Departed” Martin Scorsese
Winner: “The Departed” Martin Scorsese
(Finally. His sixth nomination yields the prize. Scorsese is a legend. He elevates everyone’s performance. His acceptance was elegant.)

Performance by an actor in a leading role
Prediction: Forest Whitaker in “The Last King of Scotland”
Winner: Forest Whitaker in “The Last King of Scotland”
(His Globe-SAG-Oscar sweep was deserved. Everyone must admire Whitaker. Amidst overwhelming emotion, his speech was inspiring.)

Performance by an actress in a leading role
Prediction: Helen Mirren in “The Queen”
Winner: Helen Mirren in “The Queen”
(Akin to Whitaker, Mirren recorded the triple. Her speech was enchanting. Her complimenting of subject matter exuded class.)

Performance by an actor in a supporting role
Prediction: Eddie Murphy in “Dreamgirls”
Winner: Alan Arkin in “Little Miss Sunshine”
(Reading speeches is forbidden? Riddiculous! The finest speeches are human. Arkin exemplified this. His acceptance was poignant.)

Performance by an actress in a supporting role
Prediction: Adriana Barraza in “Babel”
Winner: Jennifer Hudson in “Dreamgirls”
(The most improbale triple. Hudson completed her sweep in the evening’s best category. Her speech was inspirational. Her stardom personifies every dream cliché.)

Best animated feature film of the year
Prediction: “Cars”
Winner: “Happy Feet”
(Prior to premeiring, this film was disparaged. However, this review is relevant.)

Best documentary feature
Prediction: “An Inconvenient Truth”
Winner: “An Inconvenient Truth”
(This result is stunning. Al Gore’s speech was respectable. Following an Oscar and a Grammy appearance, what is his encore?)

Original screenplay
Prediction: “Little Miss Sunshine”
Winner: “Little Miss Sunshine”
(The film from nowhere. Based on lived experience, the feature defeated the odds.)

Adapted screenplay
Prediction: “Notes on a Scandal”
Winner: “The Departed”
(Despite a subdued speech, the screenplay was marvelous.)

A Reminding Conclusion

Cheating was the conversation. Matt Kenseth and Kasey Kahne silently blighted their profession. Jeff Gordon inadvertently iniquitous. Michael Waltrip embarrassed the sport. As the Daytona 500 beckoned, one question was vibrantly existent. Were there drivers not cheating?

Last Sunday, Kevin Harvick and Mark Martin showcased NASCAR’s greatness. As a mêlée ensued behind them, Harvick and Martin raced toward victory. Harvick, the overconfident spirit who succeeded a legend. Martin, the consummate professional, sentimental favorite, and finest driver sans a championship. Despite palpable support for Martin, Harvick scored victory via a half car length margin.

Harvick and Martin’s showdown was critical. Their conclusion did not merely generate pristine headlines. Their confrontation and climax saved the sport. Monday morning, the discussion was the final lap. The opinion was Martin should have won. The question was had your opposite in dialogue witnessed the end?

NASCAR is normal. Major League Baseball, the National Football League, and division one college athletics have endured cheating. Cheating is unremarkable. Games of field suffer deceit akin to NASCAR. The treachery should not dominate every moment. Unfortunately, Harvick and Martin had to restate the aforesaid.

Perfection is unrealistic. Thirty-four races remain. Cheating will occur. Suspensions, fines, and point deductions will be apportioned. However, the next instant when dirt begins dominating the conversation, everyone should pause and remember Harvick, Martin, and their concluding two hundred feet.

Line of the Morning

Senator Carl Levin (D-MI)

“But, of course, we’re trying to tie the hands of the president and his policy. We’re trying to change the policy.”

Vilsack’s Voice Was Vital

On Thursday, Governor Tom Vilsack abandoned his campaign. Citing monetary and recognition constraints, the Iowan conceded his improbable quest. His intact website states simply “I am leaving one campaign, but not saying good-bye.”

Vilsack’s decision is unfortunate. He would not have been nominated. However, his candidacy and ideas were legitimate. He was not Congressman Dennis Kucinich proposing the Department of Peace. Vilsack was a centrist touting alternative energy. The process is poorer for his silence.

The Big Five

For reasons good and bad… they were the news.

The Hot Five

A quintet of sizzling conversation starters.

Underneath to D.J. Who Lays It In

Dennis Johnson
(1954 – 2007)

Oscar Predictions

Best motion picture of the year

“Babel”

“The Departed”

“Letters from Iwo Jima”

“Little Miss Sunshine”

“The Queen”

PREDICTION: “The Departed”

Achievement in directing

“Babel” Alejandro González Iñárritu

“The Departed” Martin Scorsese

“Letters from Iwo Jima” Clint Eastwood

“The Queen” Stephen Frears

“United 93” Paul Greengrass

PREDICTION: “The Departed” Martin Scorsese

Performance by an actor in a leading role

Leonardo DiCaprio in “Blood Diamond”

Ryan Gosling in “Half Nelson”

Peter O’Toole in “Venus”

Will Smith in “The Pursuit of Happyness”

Forest Whitaker in “The Last King of Scotland”

PREDICTION: Forest Whitaker in “The Last King of Scotland”

Performance by an actress in a leading role

Penélope Cruz in “Volver”

Judi Dench in “Notes on a Scandal”

Helen Mirren in “The Queen”

Meryl Streep in “The Devil Wears Prada”

Kate Winslet in “Little Children”

PREDICTION: Helen Mirren in “The Queen”

Performance by an actor in a supporting role

Alan Arkin in “Little Miss Sunshine”

Jackie Earle Haley in “Little Children”

Djimon Hounsou in “Blood Diamond”

Eddie Murphy in “Dreamgirls”

Mark Wahlberg in “The Departed”

PREDICTION: Eddie Murphy in “Dreamgirls”

Performance by an actress in a supporting role

Adriana Barraza in “Babel”

Cate Blanchett in “Notes on a Scandal”

Abigail Breslin in “Little Miss Sunshine”

Jennifer Hudson in “Dreamgirls”

Rinko Kikuchi in “Babel”

PREDICTION: Adriana Barraza in “Babel”

Best animated feature film of the year

“Cars”

“Happy Feet”

“Monster House”

PREDICTION: “Cars”

Best documentary feature

“Deliver Us from Evil”

“An Inconvenient Truth”

“Iraq in Fragments”

“Jesus Camp”

“My Country, My Country”

PREDICTION: “An Inconvenient Truth”

Original screenplay

“Babel”

“Letters from Iwo Jima”

“Little Miss Sunshine”

“Pan’s Labyrinth”

“The Queen”

PREDICTION: “Little Miss Sunshine”

Adapted screenplay

“Borat Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan”

“Children of Men”

“The Departed”

“Little Children”

“Notes on a Scandal”

PREDICTION: “Notes on a Scandal”