There Are No Sacred Mid-Majors

On Friday, NCAA President Myles Brand discussed tournament expansion. "What if we had four play-in games?" Brand said. "Would that strengthen the tournament? Do we have more parity now where it makes sense (to expand) where it might not have made sense a few years ago or longer? Do we have a bunch of bubble teams that deserve that chance? I think those are fair questions to ask."

This idea is transparent. Brand detests mid-majors. He is merely seeking power conference appeasement via minor conference relegation. Brand’s intention is obvious. His proposal should never be enacted.

Who Is Lebron James?

Lebron James endorsed shoe costs $175. Stephon Marbury’s endorsed shoe costs $14.98. On Wednesday, each discussed the aforementioned. Could James endorse an affordable sneaker? "No, I don't think so," James said. "Me being with Nike, we hold our standards high."

Marbury retorted, "I'd rather own than be owned."

James will define a generation. Marbury has never equaled his hype. With that stated, James is absurd. Price does not infer quality. Additionally, teenagers, adolescents, and children worship James. His shoes are coveted. Pricing them above seventy-five percent of the NBA’s fan base is irresponsible.

James is a pathetic contradiction. He touts his foundation and sends Tsunami aid. Simultaneously, he builds a 35,440 square foot home and flaunts his overpriced sneakers. James is a phenomenon. His skills deserve wealth. No one is suggesting he live in poverty. However, James publicizes his humanity, while relishing his aristocracy. This is hypocritical.

Military Leadership

Despite a promised veto, both the Senate and House have passed timetable bills. The legislation binds Iraq and Afghanistan war funding with troop withdrawal. Troop extraction would begin March 31, 2008.

The President is commander in chief. Congress determines America’s spending. They bankroll defense. They cannot assign or revoke soldiers. Speaker Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Reid, Senate and Congressional Democrats… fund the wars and shut up!

Flexing Liberally

Nancy Pelosi visiting Syria.

Obviously, the White House opposes. Pelosi should avoid Syria. She should avoid the terrorist sanctuary. However, she is attempting a tough façade. Safe travels, Speaker.

Visibly Detrimental

President Bush issued Walter Reed’s injured an apology. He also met with recovering soldiers and awarded eleven purple hearts.

Mr. President, a word of advice. Your visit should have been sans cameras.

Law is Dangerous

Seattle-Tacoma-Everett Girl Love is legal?

A pedophile created this website. The website advocates men-teenager contact. The website lists prime encounter locations. The website describes police avoidance. How is this domain not illegal?

A Devil Ray… Maybe

On Friday, the New York Yankees designated Carl Pavano opening day starter. Pavano has not pitched in twenty-one months. His career record is 61-64.

He is a Yankee?

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“Paris Hilton could go to jail for 90 days. There’s an episode of the Simple Life I’d watch.”

The Tonight Show

When the Levees Broke: A Film Worth Watching

Last night, I viewed “When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts.” Director Spike Lee is vehemently anti-President Bush. His revulsion has been stated. With that noted, his film is objective and fair. The production does not rely on archival footage. The documentary is diversified with interviews. Interviewees include Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco; New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin; city residents Phyllis Montana LeBlanc, Kimberly Polk, Shelton "Shakespeare" Alexander and Reverand Williams; former Presidential Candidate and activist Al Sharpton; actor and Bush despiser Harry Belafonte; CNN anchor Soledad O'Brien; musicians Wynton Marsalis, Terence Blanchard and Kanye West.

“When the Levees Broke” televises a complicated portrait. Alternating between pre and post Katrina, viewers observe chaos. Chaos as federal, state, and local officials debate preparation and evacuation. Chaos as the levees breech and frightened residents attempt to endure and exit the ravaged city. “When the Levees Broke” codifies and presents every emotion and storyline. The vilifying is mostly the viewer’s responsibility.

Mostly. President Bush stereotypes and criticism are conspicuous. They do not permeate the film. However, “Brownie you’re doing a heck of a job” is repeated. Questions and statements concerning Bush’s mental acumen are broached. Sharpton and Belafonte’s criticism is vocal. As stated, the film is not blatantly critical. Yet, one must acknowledge the occasional viewpoint.

Brilliantly, the documentary is sans narration. Subjects words and emotions shape the recitation. Additionally, the footage is real. People are shown within the aftermath. They are not news piece props. There is not voiced commentary. Viewers’ feelings are not manipulated, directed, or forced. The aforesaid is the production’s finest trait.

Hurricane Katrina was America’s worst natural disaster. Katrina was also both historical and defining. Thousands survived, hundreds died, several either were heroic or disgraced themselves. Lee’s presentation of the words and events is magnificent. No one should forget Katrina’s impact. Everyone should view “When the Levees Broke.”

Questions Alberto?

On Thursday, Attorney General Alberto Gonzales was contradicted. According to former chief of staff Kyle Sampson, Gonzales discussed firing attorneys. However, Sampson also asserted Gonzales did not observe memos. He questions are succeeding: What did Gonzales know? What did he direct? When will he resign?

Vick Will Run

On Thursday, Atlanta Falcons Coach Bobby Petrino foreshadowed 2007. According to Petrino, Michael Vick’s completion percentage should register sixty-five. For our offense, we feel like that's where you've got to be," Petrino said. "That's the goal. That's what we've got in mind. It's the place we want to be. His first instinct is to get outside the pocket. I'd like for that to be his third instinct instead. We want him to go through his [passing game] progressions first."

Vick has scrambled six years. His athleticism is unparalleled. Vick is both an electrifying and unalterable presence. Simply stated, Petrino’s expectations are unrealistic.

Survivor Jury Begins

Ravu garnered their first challenge. Their reward? An afternoon of hot dogs, beer, bowling, and arcade games. However, their fortune was fleeting. Moto won their seventh consecutive immunity challenge. Facing tribal council, Ravu debated Rocky or Lisi. For his acerbic attitude, Rocky was eliminated.

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“This woman was enjoying a snack. She started choking and the dog rescued her. He gave her the Heimlich maneuver. This is a talented dog. Next, he’ll try to breath life into the Knicks.”

Late Show with David Letterman

Dementia Incarnate

James Dobson: "Everyone knows he's conservative and has come out strongly for the things that the pro-family movement stands for. I don't think he's a Christian; at least that's my impression."

Dobson is a moron. He criticizes Thompson as non-Christian. However, he embraces Newt Gingrich, an admitted adulterer. Dobson is poisonous. His ilk are dangerous. Republicans should condemn his stupidity and dismiss his presence permanently.

Flight Fighters

Today, surviving Tuskegee airmen will receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. This decoration is warranted. These men were trailblazing and brave. They were soldiers who led. They were examples for America.

Cadavers in the Coal Mines

On Wednesday, a Chinese coalmine explosion killed nineteen. On March 18, a similar explosion killed twenty-one. China’s minds are unsafe. Government officials have promised reform. Where is the reform?

American Idol: Chubby Sacked

Chris Sligh has been eliminated. Despite considering Phil Stacey and Haley Scarnato, America made the correct decision. Sligh’s performance was horrific. He obliterated “Every Little Thing.” His protestations were also pathetic. The downbeat was unusual? This song was unknown? No, Chris. Your performance was terrible. Your ouster was deserved.

Simply stated, your act subsided. Chris, your act was never appealing. Ridiculous pictorial poses. Revolting answers. Playing bongos in your boxer shorts? Enough with the searing mental images. You are a morbidly obese gorilla. Your dancing, your singing, your person should never air again. You did not bring chubby back. You showcased why chubby is unappealing. Disappear. Enjoy your wife, who was either stupid or drugged when you proposed.

Drama Present & Future

This evening was the finale’s assist. Spencer and Heidi’s moving argument continued. Heidi invoked Spencer’s previous misbehavior. She also noted her life’s additional obligations. Upon hearing the ladder, Spencer responded Lauren. Ultimately, Heidi refused moving. Rudely, Spencer requested she vacate his car. He then exited speeding.

During Good Morning America, Whitney modeled for Teen Vogue. Wearing Hillary Swank’s dress, she descended the stairs. She fell. Rapidly, she recovered, presenting herself with grace and style. Her action earned a prestigious interview in New York. If promoted, Whitney will oversee magazine interns. Lauren’s response? “You better get it. If Emily gets it, I will quit.”

Next week, Lauren and Whitney’s future? Will Heidi move?

Broadcast Your Stunt

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“I enjoy the trapeze act. But, if I really want to see a blonde hanging by her jaw, I’ll watch a Paris Hilton video.”

Late Show with David Letterman

Blowing Up Rumors

On Monday, a rumor started. According to a message board, Kentucky and Billy Donovan secretly agreed on a 7-year, $28 million contract. Instantly, bloggers exploded. Sans fact or verification, they heralded Kentucky’s new coach. The rumor\story proved false.

This is the fame era. Everyone believes they are a qualified journalist. Everyone is craving the exclusive. Everyone is not a journalist. Monday exemplified bloggers Pajamahadeen mentality. Everyone stop. Stop typing, stop blogging, stop circulating innuendo, and stop seeking the exclusive. Stop.

When Kentucky officially announces a coach, resume.

Thompson is A Draftable Candidate

On Tuesday, USA Today\Gallup released a poll concerning the Republican presidential nomination. Rudy Giuliani received 31%. John McCain garnered 22%. Fred Dalton Thompson tallied 12%. Despite his third place standing, Thompson is the hottest candidate.

From the Loft:

The 2006 elections rightfully showed that conservatives are in a funk. There were no issues to rally around, and voters rejected Republicans who didn’t stand on principle. That same funk has continued into the 2008 presidential race. No Republican currently in the race has managed to excite the conservative base, and with the Democrats energized to regain the White House, the Republican Party definitely needs a spark. That spark is former U.S. senator and actor Fred Thompson. For the sake of the party and the conservative movement, we should all urge him to run.

Websites

Draft Thompson ‘08

Draft Fred Thompson

Fred ‘08

You Tube

Speaking From Anger

Mary Tillman: “It became very obvious early on that they were lying to us. They were only telling one side of the story. They weren't telling the other side. That was not a misstep, that was not an error. This was an attempt to dupe the public and to promote this war and to get recruitments up, and that is immoral. Pat was used. Once he was killed, I think they saw this as an opportunity.”

Courtside Analysis

Power conference dominance has dulled CBS’s NCAA Tournament coverage. In total, Bowl Championship Series (BCS) conferences have accrued a 24-7 record (versus non-BCS squads). Thus, there have been no memorable phrases such as “The impossible has happened” (Richmond defeats Syracuse) or “By George, the dream is alive (George Mason defeats Connecticut).

Dick Enberg and Jay Bilas’ were CBS’s premiere duo. Coupling the occasionally arrogant Bilas and the veteran virtuoso Enberg was a brilliant maneuver. Kevin Harlan is CBS’s greatest talent. Why he never receives a sweet sixteen assignment is perplexing. Ian Eagle and Jim Spanarkle were also exemplary.

James Brown and Len Elmore were horrific. Despite his studio brilliance, Brown was boring. His passion and rhythm were non-existent. His delivery was monotonous. His permanent banishment is warranted.

CBS studio trio of Greg Gumbel, Clark Kellogg, and Seth Davis have been brilliant. Occasionally, Davis overextends. However, Kellogg’s knowledge perfectly balances the aforesaid. Jim Nantz and Billy Packer remain superb. Simply stated, they are sport’s televisions best announcing tandem.

Sixty Minutes Subjects, Serious Questions

During Sixty Minutes, Katie Couric conducted an exclusive interview with John and Elizabeth Edwards. Couric’s pointed questions included “Tell me what went through your mind when you looked at that bone scan” and “Some have suggested that you're capitalizing on this?” I was stunned Couric did not inquire concerning politics and Democratic donor’s confidence.

Couric’s interview has garnered muddled assessments. Tucker Carlson felt she was mean. Eugene Robinson believed her questions were legitimate. I believe Couric was herself. A beautiful icon with jugular tastes. Her interview was proficient. John Edwards was both caring and presidential. For the moment, he has answered the concerns.

Press Secretary in Peril

On Tuesday, White House Press Secretary Tony Snow announced his cancer has recurred. Doctors removed a malignant growth from Snow’s abdomin. However, they determined the cancer has invaded his liver.

Snow has our thoughts and prayers.

America’s Cause

Last night, the LSU Lady Tigers advanced into their fourth consecutive final four. Amidst Pokie Chatman induced adversity, the Lady Tigers have performed admirably. They deserve America’s support.

Despite Fine Finishes, Heath Finished

On Monday, Arkansas fired Coach Stan Heath. During his tenure, Heath recorded an 82-71 record. He tallied a 31-49 South Eastern Conference record. He led the Razorbacks into a pair of NCAA Tournaments.

Arkansas’ decision was correct. Heath coached five seasons. He recorded one regular season conference winning record. He never won a non-conference postseason contest. Two desperate spurts should not preserve employment. They did not rescue Heath.

Is Buffalo Trying to Suck?

On March 8, the Buffalo Bills traded Willis McGahee. Yesterday, they traded Takeo Spikes and Kelly Holcomb. If mediocrity is not their intention, their strategy is incomprehensible.

Exceptional Political Ad-Pop Culture Parody

American Idol Live Blog

LaKisha Jones (27 – Michigan)

What is with the Kimono-smoking jacket-Victoria Secret ensemble? Her appearance is horrid. “Last Dance” is a fun song. Her performance is respectable. Definitely merits advancement. Randy, the performance rocked? Possibly, the stage rocked. The performance? The dancing? Quoting Homer Simpson, “Look at that blubber fly.”

Chris Sligh (28 – South Carolina)

Bongos in his boxer shorts? Excuse me, I must regurgitate. Previously, I enjoyed this song. However, he has ruined the aforesaid. His performance is horrible. There is no energy or tempo. His singing is flat. Additionally, he is swine sweating. America, eliminate him. Randy and I agree. His singing was terrible. Simon and I concur. He was a mess.

Gina Glocksen (22 – Illinois)

Her appearance is horrendous. Skin tight lingerie as a dress? Her performance is proficient. Her passion and emotion translate. Both are believable. She merits advancement. Simon and I agree. This was a tremendous performance.

Sanjaya Malakar (17 – Washington)

His appearance is wretched. Someone remove the dying cat from his head. His performance is equally poor. His energy does not translate. The song is oversung. His gender-bending persona is frightening. America, his elimination is overdue. He is mocking Simon? Girlfriend, please.

Haley Scarnato (24 - Texas)

Her commencement is outstanding. Her passion translates. Her beauty transcends. The little black dress advances her. Her singing elevates her. Great performance. Simon, sweet and forgettable? Again, please note the little black dress.

Phil Stacey (29 – Florida)

Impact on the country? You have none. You are a non-talent in a “singing competition.” Rent’s Jesse Martin phoned. He requested his ensemble. His performance is excellent. He is brilliantly channeling Sting. The guitar, rhythmic melody is memorable. His energy is incredible. Simply stated, the evening’s best performance.

Melinda Doolittle (29 – Tennessee)

Her top resembles Dairy Queen’s packaging. Her performance is exceptional. She does not oversing. She is confident and controlled. This evening’s second best performance. I concur with Simon. Fine performance, offensive outfit.

Blake Lewis (25 – Washington)

This song is intoxicating. His beginning is fantastic. His performance is an unexpected and pleasant departure. The endeavor is outstanding. He has continued the evening’s ascendance. Simon, Chris Daughtry zone? America, let’s try to do it right this time around.

Jordin Sparks (17 – Arizona)

Her entrance is terrible. The singing is irreparably scattered. Her appearance is hideous. Her skirt is miserable. Her blouse resembles a picnic table cover. Her face is also a disaster. The performance is terrible. She ruins both the melody and tempo. She merits lower three status.

Chris Richardson (22 – Virginia)

His performance is satisfactory. Initially, I did not vibe the slower tempo. However, he is owning the selection. America, he deserves advancement. Simon and I slightly agree. The vocals were not perfect. However, they were not putrid.

Tillman’s Death: Not Criminal, Callous

On Monday, the Defense Department conceded critical errors in the reporting of Pat Tillman’s friendly fire death. However, soldier’s actions were not labeled criminal.

Tillman’s death was unfortunate. The shooting’s aftermath was disastrous. Blunders and inaccuracies color this hero’s death. This tarnish is the greatest tragedy.

Monday Night Football Declines… Again

ESPN has swapped arrogant for dull. Ron Jaworski has displaced Joe Theismann as Monday Night Football’s primary analyst. Jaworski joins Mike Tirico and provocateur Tony Kornheiser. Kornheiser and Theismann’s relationship was contemptible.

This alteration is irrelevant. ESPN’s production is not watchable. Their coverage is horrible. Their propaganda is implausible. Kornheiser is a joke. Monday’s football is not the NFL’s historic institution. Instead, the program is ESPN’s Sunday Night Football on Monday Night.

Accidental Overdose Ends Outlandish Existence

Anna Nicole Smith died from an accidental drug overdose.

This pronouncement was unsurprising. Smith’s personality was haphazard. Her lifestyle was horrendous. She consumed more drugs than a tenth avenue street walker.

America, this story has concluded.

The Tar Heel

Jason Ray
(21 years old)

Line of the Morning

Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE)

“We govern with one currency… trust.”

Lauren Confusion

This episode commenced with Jen meeting Heidi. Their conversation was both awkward and forced. Despite facilitating Jen and Brody’s connection, Heidi rebuked her former friend. She also ignored her role in the calamity. Her exasperating behavior concluded when she disparaged Jen to Lauren.

Lauren is also frustrating. Correctly, she refused Jen’s apology. Jen’s conduct was inappropriate. Words cannot erase actions. With that stated, Lauren forgave Brody, Heidi, and Spencer. Each were involved in the aforementioned connection. Brody was the cheater. Heidi betrayed her best friend. Consistently, Spencer has mistreated Lauren.

Their actions were blatant and iniquitous. Why has Lauren forgiven them?