Nifong’s Reprimand: Expected, Deserved, & Inadequate

On Saturday, Mike Nifong was disbarred. According to the North Carolina State Bar, Nifong committed “a clear case of intentional prosecutorial misconduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit and misrepresentation.”

Nifong’s disbarment is the insufficient end of a national tragedy. I hope criminal, civil, and additional punishments are pursued.

Spurs: A Deceptive Dynasty

They are a dynasty. Their veneer is irrelevant. Yes, their superstar is bland. Their backcourt is foreign. Their small forward is vile. Their power forwards unrecognizable. Their bench is a castoff collection. The San Antonio Spurs have accrued four championships over nine seasons. They are a dynasty.

San Antonio has never stridden through fire. In 1999, they pummeled the eight-seeded New York Knicks 4-1. In 2003, they battered the weaker New Jersey Nets 4-2. In 2005, they defeated the arrogant Detroit Pistons 4-3. This season, they swept the unprepared Cleveland Cavaliers 4-0.

The Spurs are boring. They are programmed. They are monotonous. Simultaneously, they are haughty, obnoxious, and unlikable. With that stated, the Spurs are champions. They may not dominate. They may not shimmer. They may not have vanquished titans. They have garnered four rings. The aforesaid deserves respect, reverence, and the dynasty distinction.

Six Years of Weakness, Six Seconds of Toughness

On Saturday, President Bush promised spending bill vetoes. During his presidency, Mr. Bush has only vetoed twice. He has never vetoed a domestic appropriation. Mr. President, your act is asinine.

HBO’s CYA

HBO Spokesman Quentin Schaffer: “While he [David Chase] won't say to me 100 percent what it all means, he says some people who've guessed have come closer than others. There are definitely things there that he intended for people to pick up on.”

Schaffer’s assertion is ridiculous. Chase’s conclusion was not meticulous. His conclusion was nonexistent. There were no clues. Chase promised finality. He provided onion rings. HBO is merely attempting criticism deflection.

Lewis: Not The Coach

On Friday, the Boston Bruins relieved Coach Dave Lewis. Lewis was not fired. The Bruins are reassigning him. According to General Manager Peter Chiarelli, a 1-10-1 collapse aided his decision. "You see a level of play that you expect and want and it teases you, and obviously something wasn't getting through," Chiarelli said.

During his brief career, Lewis has logged a 130-73-21-11 record. In Detroit (2 seasons), he accrued a 96-41-21-6 record, two division titles, and a Presidents’ Trophy. In Boston (1 season), he posted a 34-32-0-5 record.

Lewis is a player’s coach. This has facilitated underachieving. Lewis’ Red Wings should have excelled. Instead, they were upset twice. Lewis is a brilliant tactician. He is an exemplary assistant. He simply lacks leadership qualities.

You Again?

On Friday, the Goldman family won… again. Bankruptcy Judge Jay Cristol awarded them the “If I Did It” publishing rights. Allegedly, the Goldmans will retitle O.J. Simpson’s book “Confessions of A Double Murderer.” Judge Cristol’s decision is intriguing. With that stated, the killing, criminal and civil trials occurred in 1995. This is 2007. O.J., Fred, please exit the news.

Disgrace Departs

Following tearful testimony, Durham County District Attorney Mike Nifong resigned. I will not applaud Nifong’s actions. He should have already reigned. Nifong betrayed his office and the public’s trust. He flaunted ambition. He pandered to win an election. He exploited repugnant fears. He rejected exculpatory evidence. He ruined three lives. He ignored reality for bellicose and deceitful statements. For Nifong, I have no sympathy. As previously stated, the available punishments are inadequate. Nifong deserves figurative castration.

Speak the Language

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger: “You've got to turn off the Spanish television set. You're just forced to speak English, and that just makes you learn the language faster.”

Governor Schwarzenegger is correct. Congresswoman Linda Sanchez labeled his comment “a sound bite solution.” Thankfully, his sound bite was English. Occasionally, bluntness is required. Schwarzenegger was undiplomatic. With that stated, his assertion was accurate. Previous generations did not have options. Alternative language ballots, menus, and television did not exist. The problem is choices.

Text Witness

On Friday, Boston Police announced the “Text a Tip Program.” Via their cellular phones, anonymous witnesses can disclose information. People will type “tip” and send. Police will then respond.

This initiative is brilliant. “Snitching” is vilified. Witnesses face intimidation, injury, and death. Police must alter this climate. They must acquire information. They must also protect informants. Utilizing technology is essential. America must embrace this program.

Shining in Silence

On Thursday, Sidney Crosby won the Hart Trophy. Crosby is the NHL’s second teenage most valuable player. In 1980, Wayne Gretzky garnered the Hart. He was 19 years, and 7 months. Crosby is 19 years, 10 months. This season, Crosby tallied 36 goals, 84 assists, and 120 points.

Twenty-seven seasons ago, Gretzky racked 51 goals, 86 assists, and 137 points. According to New Jersey Devils Goalie Martin Brodeur, the aforesaid inspires comparison. “The fans love him,” Brodeur said. “Everybody seems to be on his wagon, and that's well deserved. He's going to be like Gretzky in making the NHL a better sport.”

Crosby is a phenomenal talent. Unfortunately, his profession is decaying. The NHL is inadequately marketed, poorly contrived, and scarcely discussed. They realize this. The NHL has attempted reinvention. They have failed. Crosby is a shimmering talent. Sadly, he will never captivate America. His brilliance is futile.

Bonds’ Attorney Asinine

Michael Rains: “The only thing I am going to tell you is the information I supplied him was not something under any circumstances that he could ignore. I'm hoping based on his review of and consideration of that information that we can have an announcement before long that will be a good announcement for Barry, anyway. And that will be that they do not intend to proceed with an indictment. It is one of those things where I am not going to be out there grandstanding if I can get him to do the right thing. I am respectful of the process. But we've been going through all this stuff with the [San Francisco] Chronicle people saying when grand jury testimony gets leaked that the public has a right to know. Well, I'll echo what they've said, 'The public has the right to know.' And the public has the right to know of the information I have given to Mr. Schools. And it has a right to know how the government has conducted itself here and I hope the government will engage in some dialogue with the media and the public to discuss this. I would like him to come out and talk about why they have chosen not to indict Barry. I would like that much. Knowing the way they have operated, even this guy is terse. My guess would be even if we see that happening he'll probably come out through his press relations guy with some two line letter saying, 'Scott Schools announced today that he won't be seeking more indictments in the BALCO case. Goodbye.' And that may be all we hear from him. At which time, I think the public will hear from me.”

Rains is ludicrous. If he possessed exculpatory evidence, he would rent billboards. He has nothing. Michael, your client is dirty. He used steroids. America has accepted this. You should accept this. Your supposition and whining are irrelevant. They are also pathetic.

Amidst Cancer Battle, Hoeppner Supplanted

On Friday, Indiana Assistant Bill Lynch replaced Coach Terry Hoeppner. Currently, Hoeppner is undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. Over eighteen months, he has endured two brain surgeries. Hoeppner is an exemplary individual. He is one of college football’s finest. The Hoeppner family has our thoughts and prayers.

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“The Spurs swept the Cavs in four games. That series ended more abruptly than the Sopranos.”

The Tonight Show

NEW RULE

Watergate sayings are banned.

Our long national nightmare is over. What did the individual know, when did he know it. Recently, both were invoked. Both are Watergate remnants. Henceforth, each are prohibited. America, invent new phrases. Write new phrases. Voice new phrases. These Watergate gems are famous. With that stated, how will we invent the next generation of sayings if we continue spouting a previous generation’s?

Iron Mistake

On Thursday, the Calgary Flames hired Coach Mike Keenan. Keenan signed a 3-year contract. According to Flames General Manager Darryl Sutter, Keenan’s focus was attractive. “We've coached with each other, against each other and for each other, all those things,” Sutter said. “I can't say that I've been associated with a coach or worked with a coach that has a more focused vision than him.”

During his career, Keenan has accrued a 569-447-140-20 record. In Philadelphia (320 games), Keenan posted 190-102-27 record. In Chicago (320 games), Keenan logged a 153-126-41 ledger. In New York (1 season), he tallied a 52-24-8 mark. In St. Louis (163 games), he chalked a 75-66-22 record. In Vancouver (63 games), he posted a 21-30-12 ledger. In Boston (74 games), he tallied a 33-26-7-8 mark. In Florida (153 games), he logged a 45-73-23-12 record.

Keenan has won a Stanley Cup. He has also registered eleven playoff appearances. With that stated, his eight city employment is correlated. Keenan is both political and dictatorial. Players loathe him. Keenan posses a constituency of one. He is self-loyal. He is only self-loyal. Calgary may improve. However, said improvement will be fleeting. Ultimately, they will regret Keenan’s hiring.

Worth A Read

Political Critic

Independent voice espouses frustration. Equally assails Democrats and Republicans.

A World Stage?

According to China’s state media, 1,000 enslaved children may have been beaten, maimed, and starved. Obviously, China should host the Olympics.

The Daily Smak

Anyone else elated, thrilled, insert adjective the NBA Finals are over?

Last week, immigration reform was buried. Last night, Senator Harry (speak now, consequences irrelevant) Reid declared the bill resurrected. Given Reid’s FQ (failure quotient) and the House’s disposition, I would cancel the bill signing.

According to a study, women‘s sexual thought has increased. Or is it their sexual discussion has increased. Frivolous projects and endless debate… Now I know what Congressman and Scientists have in common.

100 Most Powerful Celebrities

1. Oprah Winfrey
2. Tiger Woods
3. Madonna
4. Rolling Stones
5. Brad Pitt
6. Johnny Depp
7. Elton John
8. Tom Cruise
9. Jay-Z
10. Steven Spielberg
11. Tom Hanks
12. Grey’s Anatomy Cast
13. Howard Stern
14. Angelina Jolie
15. David Beckham
16. Phil Mickelson
17. David Letterman
18. Bon Jovi
19. Donald Trump
20. Celine Dion
21. Simon Cowell
22. U2
23. Kobe Bryant
24. Michael Schumacher
25. Shaquille O'Neal
26. Jay Leno
27. Nicole Kidman
28. Ben Stiller
29. Alex Rodriguez
30. Dr. Phil McGraw
31. Ronaldinho
32. 50 Cent
33. Brian Grazer/Ron Howard
34. Justin Timberlake
35. Michael Jordan
36. Rush Limbaugh
37. Tim McGraw
38. Roger Federer
39. Jerry Bruckheimer
40. George Clooney
41. Kimi Raikkonen
42. Jerry Seinfeld
43. Sean (Diddy) Combs
44. Jennifer Aniston
45. Adam Sandler
46. Oscar De La Hoya
47. Desperate Housewives Cast
48. LeBron James
49. J.K. Rowling
50. Derek Jeter
51. Maria Sharapova
52. Matt Damon
53. Gisele Bundchen
54. Vince Vaughn
55. President Bill Clinton
56. Gore Verbinski
57. Will Smith
58. Valentino Rossi
59. Judge Judy Sheindlin
60. Jessica Simpson
61. Tyra Banks
62. Anthony Robbins
63. Cate Blanchett
64. Regis Philbin
65. Sandra Bullock
66. Rachael Ray
67. Alan Greenspan
68. Julia Roberts
69. Serena Williams
70. Michelle Wie
71. Keira Knightley
72. Hilary Duff
73. George Lopez
74. Kate Moss
75. Barbara Walters
76. Ryan Seacrest
77. Scarlett Johansson
78. Jessica Alba
79. Daniel Radcliffe
80. Reese Witherspoon
81. Larry the Cable Guy
82. Deepak Chopra
83. Annika Sorenstam
84. Heidi Klum
85. J.J. Abrams
86. Dan Brown
87. Emeril Lagasse
88. Wolfgang Puck
89. Dane Cook
90. Jack Welch
91. John Grisham
92. Jeff Foxworthy
93. Rhonda Byrne
94. Dakota Fanning
95. Danica Patrick
96. Mitch Albom
97. Emma Watson
98. Hayden Panettiere
99. Paula Deen
100. Bobby Flay

College World Series Predictions

GAME 1
Rice defeats Louisville 3-2

GAME 2
North Carolina defeats Mississippi State 5-0

GAME 3
Arizona State defeats UC-Irvine 9-0

GAME 4
Oregon State defeats Cal State-Fullerton 6-5

GAME 5
Louisville defeats Mississippi State 4-1
(Mississippi State eliminated)

GAME 6
Rice defeats North Carolina 4-3

GAME 7
Cal State-Fullerton defeats UC-Irvine 7-0
(UC-Irvine eliminated)

GAME 8
Arizona State defeats Oregon State 6-2

GAME 9
North Carolina defeats Louisville 3-2
(Louisville eliminated)

GAME 10
Oregon State defeats Cal-State Fullerton 7-6
(Cal-State Fullerton eliminated)

GAME 11
North Carolina defeats Rice 2-1

GAME 12
Arizona State defeats Oregon State 4-0
(Oregon State eliminated)

GAME 13
Rice defeats North Carolina 3-1
(North Carolina eliminated)

CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
Rice defeats Arizona State 3-2
Arizona State defeats Rice 4-2
Arizona State defeats Rice 2-0

Secret Shredder

On Thursday, Troy Ellerman’s plea was rejected. His sentence would have been 15-24 months. In February, Ellerman admitted leaking BALCO grand jury testimony. Plea bargains are never rejected. However, Judge Jeffrey White said Ellerman "should be held to a higher standard of conduct."

White is correct. Ellerman is a lawyer. Yes, his objective was laudable. Unfortunately, his actions were unlawful. His actions disrespected the legal process.

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“Today is Donald Trump’s birthday… Sixty-one years old today. I thought I should get Donald a birthday present. I got him a woodchuck, so his hair would have a playmate.”

Late Show with David Letterman

Little Bush: Pathetically Repugnant

Political satire is timeless. Great satire humbles our leaders. Great satire provokes laughter and a common voice. Our President, Vice President, Cabinet Secretaries, and Congressman are human. They are not immortal. Spoofing them reinforces the aforesaid.

Last night, I viewed Comedy Central’s “Little Bush.” The program is not satirical. The cartoon is disrespectful and repulsive. The program featured a Hillary Clinton-Condoleezza Rice lesbian kiss, President Bush-Rice sexual overtones, and a Barbara Bush-Vice President Cheney sexual tryst. The endeavor also mocked Jeb Bush as defective and Laura Bush as chubby.

I respect free speech. This endeavor was not. Little Bush was crude, offensive, and vulgar. The creators, writers, and actors are despicable. Yes, I am a Republican. Had they mocked Democrats, my outrage would not dwindle. Shame upon Comedy Central. America deserves better than your filth.

Delusional, Delinquent Burying Homeowners

According to the Mortgage Bankers Association, adjustable-rate home mortgage foreclosures and late payments have surged. I have two observations. Warren Buffet said sub-prime lending was inconsequential. Obviously, Buffet is delusional. Interest rates need sliced. They have needed sliced. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke should act promptly.

NEW RULE

Parenting should require a license.

Driving requires authorization. Yet, any moron can conceive, carry, and bear a child. Typically, they produce multiple. Henceforth, no more mistakes. No more pleasurable afternoons. Pre-sex, parents must be screened. Their aptitude, ambition, and attitudes must be tested. Assuming they pass, they will be licensed. Draconian? Drivers operate a car. Parents nurture our nation’s future. Equal standards must apply.

Suspect Shoots Cop Inside Cruiser

Yesterday, a Kentucky Police Chief was murdered. The suspect shot Officer Randy Lacy from the back seat. Police “do not know where the gun came from.” They do not know? Why? The suspect was handcuffed. He was in a police cruiser. Was he not searched? I deeply respect the police. However, this screams incompetence. Immediately, they must account for this weapon.

The Stalking of A Candidate

Quarterbacks Insight

David Garrard: “I was told we have to bring him in to look at. [Culpepper] has a good relationship with Mike Tice from their days together in Minnesota. If I'm the owner and I can get somebody cheap like that, I'd be dumb not to [consider it]. If my [practice] snaps are diminished [with Culepper around], then I have to make some business moves myself. It's not like ... if they released me, I would just wither away.”

Byron Leftwich: “Yeah, they talked to me. [Offensive coordinator] Dirk [Koetter] did. He said it doesn't have anything to do with my status. He just wanted to make sure we knew it was true. They don't have to tell you what they're thinking. It was cool. It's smart to look into it, especially with me having only one year on my contract. I understand it. I'm in the last year of my contract and nobody knows which way this is going to go.”

Garrard and Leftwich’s attitudes are refreshing. They realize Culpepper‘s acquisition improves Jacksonville. They also know quarterbacks are coveted. Thus, they are relaxed. Culpepper should imitate their example.

Government Intentions

The Daily Smak

Hey, didn’t you use to be driving number five?

Yesterday, Steven Spielberg endorsed Senator Hillary Clinton. Politicians covet endorsements. From former Presidents, former nominees, current Congressional colleagues… Steven Spielberg?

In Louisiana, a town passed an ordinance opposing low pants. Upon hearing this, Britney (I think I did it again) Spears announced she was moving. In her statement, Spears said the sounds perfect. Her pants are never low. It’s her self-esteem.

Dennis Miller: Flamethrower

Bill O’Reilly’s Miller Time

Evangelical First Lady

Ruth Graham
(1920-2007)

Earnhardt’s Decision Fashions Hendrick Empire

Championships are eternal. Adoration is craved. Admiration is desired. Unfortunately, both fade with death. Twenty years after expiration, popularity is not discussed. Titles are recalled. Thus, championships are coveted. Championships are the objective. Drivers seek them via any means.

On Wednesday, Dale Earnhardt Jr. joined Hendrick Motorsports. He signed a five-year contract. Simultaneously, Hendrick released Kyle Busch. During their press conference, Hendrick stated the obvious. “He made the decision to come with us based on our ability to give him what he needs to reach those goals,” Hendrick said. “So that's the competitive side of me that adds pressure, because I want to deliver what he's expecting. And because of the magnitude of his space and position in the sport, with his fan base and so forth, the feeling is that everyone is going to anticipate it.”

Earnhardt said he realized a dream. “I've always daydreamed about driving for Rick since I started to drive racecars,” said Earnhardt. “I guess if I had my choice in a perfect world, he was kind of always in the lead. They really wanted to talk to me and I wanted to give them that opportunity to get across the table what they wanted to. I felt like my mind could be changed, or I wouldn't have sat down with them.”

In 2008, Hendrick’s roster will include Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, and Casey Mears. Gordon has garnered four titles. Johnson is the defending champion. In total, the quartet has recorded 124 wins, 375 top five finishes, and 561 top ten finishes. Simply stated, they are spectacular. They are also a potential dynasty.

In January, Dale Jr. and Teresa Earnhardt exchanged words. Teresa quested his commitment. Dale Jr. disclosed their relationship’s volatility. In February, Dale Jr. demanded fifty-one percent of Dale Earnhardt Incorporated. On May 9, Dale Jr. announced his DEI departure.

Certainly, Busch will be courted. In 86 races, he has scored four wins, 22 top five finishes, and 38 top ten finishes. Busch possesses immense talent. He also showcases excessive attitude. Verbally, he has flouted both Hendrick and NASCAR. Suitors will not ignore the aforesaid.

Once, Dale Earnhardt asked Gordon, “are you gay?” Earnhardt and Earnhardt Jr. fans have loathed Gordon. Alleged homosexuality, competing popularity, and Gordon’s uniqueness spurred this hate. Given his decision, Earnhardt will suffer. As previously stated, popularity is fleeting. Championships are forever.

Handicapping the U.S. Open

Tigers Woods: 1.25-1

Ernie Els: 6-1

Vijay Singh: 8-1

Phil Mickelson: 10-1

Retief Goosen: 12-1

Charles Howell III: 15-1

Padraig Harrington: 20-1

Stuart Appelby: 30-1

Chris Dimarco: 40-1

David Toms: 50-1

Davis Love III: 75-1

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“Paris Hilton called Barbara Walters from prison. Paris said she is surrounded by thugs, goons, and deviants. Barbara said…try hosting the view.”

Late Show with David Letterman

Artistic Insensitivity

David Chase: "I have no interest in explaining, defending, reinterpreting or adding to what is there. I hear some people were very angry and others were not, which is what I expected. No one was trying to be audacious, honest to God. We did what we thought we had to do… People get the impression that you're trying to [mess] with them, and it's not true. You're trying to entertain them."

David, you are nauseating. You have no interest in explaining, defending, reinterpreting, or adding to the final scene? Why not? We deserve an explanation. We were not entertained. We anticipated Christmas morning. You left us an abacus. You promised finality. You provided onion rings. David, start talking.

Convo Non Grata

Iran desires dialogue. However, their nuclear program is not discussable. Iran is delusional. Israeli and Iraqi security is important. Defeating Al Qaeda and radical Islam is vital. With that stated, nuclear proliferation trumps all. Iran, sans nukes, there is no discussion.

NEW RULE

Closing admission denies opportunity.

On July 1, Ohio State University President Karen Holbrook is retiring. During her tenure, Holbrook ended open admission. Said policy admitted Ohio residents, ignoring their high school performance. Holbrook and her ivory tower colleagues are repugnant. High school does not predict potential greatness. High school is irrelevant. Today, skills and education are essential. College admission should not be frivolously restrictive. Holbrook and her ilk are punishing the weak. They are suffocating those who desire more than a technical college degree. Ohio State diplomas are respected. They equal careers. We should not base their assignment on high school.

Daunte’s Insipidness

Daunte Culpepper: “After attempting to handle the situation in Miami professionally and privately, I found that I could not get the Dolphins to do the right thing. It is encouraging to know that the NFLPA is willing to step in and help both sides get past this impasse. After this is resolved, I look forward to the process of finding a team that would be interested in me as a man and a player. I can't wait to get back on the field so that I can show the entire NFL my progress.”

Culpepper is ridiculous. Daunte, the Miami Dolphins are not enslaving you. They will trade you. They are simply seeking fair value. As they would with any player. Shut up and wait.

Worth A Read

Greg Oden

Ohio State superstar enters the blogosphere. His blog mirrors his college career… abbreviated.

Parental Contrast

On Monday, twelve-year-old Alexis Thompson qualified for the United States Women’s Open. By five months, she bested Morgan Pressel for youngest qualifier. Pressel is now on the LPGA Tour. Contrasting Michelle Wie, Pressel is never a disruption. Pressel’s parents deserve immense praise. Hopefully, Thompson’s parents mirror their example.

The Daily Smak

Yesterday, I viewed a mesothelioma commercial. The ad contained a wikipedia link. Who’s leading the race to own the internet? Google or Wikipedia?

In an interview, Sopranos creator (and executioner) David Chase said, "I have no interest in explaining, defending, reinterpreting or adding to what is there." David, fans hated your conclusion. Silence is not an option. Witness protection is.

The Orlando Magic have offered 200 season ticket refunds. The tickets were purchased when Billy Donovan was hired. Could Stan Van Gundy feel more unwelcome?

Mr. Wizard

Don Herbert
(1917-2007)

An Amazing Nine

Justin Verlander
9 innings pitched, 0 hits, 12 strikeouts

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“You know its costing $1,100 a day to keep Paris Hilton locked up. $1,100 a day… Ten times the average inmate… And worth every penny.”

The Tonight Show

John From Cincinnati Shreds

Genius is an overused word. Frequently, the acclaim is awarded sans cause. Genius is not a brilliant moment. Genius is not one success. Genius is sustained excellence. Genius is years of quality and volumes of talent. Given this definition, David Milch is true genius.

On Sunday, I viewed “John From Cincinnati.” The program is slightly bizarre. With that stated, Milch brilliantly layers relatable resolve and family dysfunction . Austin Nichols (John Monad) possesses a Rain Man quality. His character is not contrived. His quirky repetition is hilarious.

The endeavor is replete with exemplary acting. Bruce Greenwood (Mitch Yost) and Rebecca De Mornay (Cissy Yost) shine as a conflicted couple. Brian Van Holt (Butchie Yost) excels as a struggling addict. Ed O’Neill (Bill) shimmers as a retired police detective. John From Cincinnati is complex. Two viewings may be required. However, the series is genius.

NEW RULE

Apologies are insufficient.

Don Imus and Isaiah Washington apologized. They were fired. America is excessively sensitive. With that stated, epithets, stereotyping, and racial generalities are awful. They are ugly. Firing should not have ingrain this. Instead of smearing and apologizing, do not smear. Simply think before speaking.

Justice…. Appealed

On Monday, Georgia Judge Thomas Wilson voided Genarlow Wilson’s sentence. Immediately, the Georgia Attorney General appealed. In 2003, Wilson was convicted and received ten years. His felony? The seventeen-year-old and his fifteen year old girlfriend enjoyed consensual oral sex. Wilson deserves freedom. I hope the Georgia Court of Appeals rules appropriately.

Selling Our Border

Border Agents Campion and Ramos shot a drug runner. National Guardsmen Clarence Hodge Jr. (Sgt.), Julio Cesar Pacheco (Sgt.), Jose Rodrigo Torres (Pfc) were smuggling illegal immigrants. Campion and Ramos were convicted and incarcerated. Hodge, Pacheco, and Torres warrant evisceration.

A Dream Deferred… Again

Champions require nemeses. Dale Earnhardt had the Daytona 500. Phil Mickelson had major championships. Roy Williams had the NCAA Championship. Nemeses boldly prevent eradicating dominance. Roger Federer has Rafael Nadal.

On Sunday, Nadal defeated Federer 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. With his victory, Nadal scored his third consecutive French Open title, his twenty-first consecutive French Open match victory, and his second consecutive vanquishing of Federer.

Federer’s dominance has been spectacular. During his reign, Federer has garnered ten grand slam titles. He has accrued eight consecutive Grand Slam finals appearances. He is the lone triple champion of the Australian Open, the United States Open, and the Wimbledon Championships. He has won three Tennis Masters Cups and thirteen ATP Masters Series titles. Since February 2, 2004, Federer has been ranked number one.

Nadal’s constraint of Federer is implausible. Earnhardt, Mickelson, and Williams’ glitches were also. Eventually, each succeeded. Ultimately, Federer will succeed. With that stated, Federer needs Nadal. Conquering a nemesis is undeniably sweeter.

What If You Were Incorrectly Convicted?

According to a study, executions deter eighteen murders per year. These academic pronouncements are dangerous. Jury verdicts are inconclusive. Sans a confession or DNA evidence, certainty is nonexistent. Additionally, criminals ignore the death penalty. Circumstances aside, an asshole is an asshole.

The Daily Smak

Tonight, NBA Finals game three. Alternate programming: Anything please! (This series is a disaster)

On Monday, Paris Hilton announced she “would no longer act dumb.” Paris has been transformed. She was suicidal. Now, she is delusional.

Senator Charles Schumer’s no confidence vote against Alberto (If the President’s happy, I’m employed) Gonzalez failed… Energy legislation, immigration reform, and you’re debating… a non binding resolution. How is Congress’ approval rating four percent?

Flipping The Switch

Joe Dumars: “Just because we haven't gotten to the [NBA] Finals, it doesn't mean Flip has done a bad job. We don't have a fire sale going on. If you come back with the same corps, the only difference is this would be the first time that they're coming back with this mandate. Complacency is the worst thing you can have in sports, and that's not going to be the calling card of our team going forward. I know that's been the tag labeled on us, and deservedly so a lot of times, but it won't be going forward.”

Dumars is precise. The Detroit Pistons quit. They acted apathetically. However, Saunders is not responsible. Dumars’ assessment mirrors mine. Detroit must resign Chauncey Billups and become younger. They possess three draft picks. Detroit should not implode. They should not facilitate their decline.

NEW RULE

Genius is revocable.

On Sunday, David Chase annihilated the Sopranos. He obliterated their legacy. True genius must be celebrated. Brilliance must be acclaimed, glorified, and worshipped. With that stated, legacies must remain tenuous. Wunderkinds are not immune. When they disappoint, they should suffer. Chase disappointed. We should punish. Chase and colleagues, remember genius is momentarily destroyable.

North American Cartel

A United States-Mexico anti-drug alliance? Mexico is requesting training courses, resource transfer, and intelligence exchange. Mexico is not requesting Plan Colombia. Plan Colombia has been a disaster. American taxes have been wasted. Colombia’s drug exportation has not dwindled. Drugs are an omnipresent threat. Thus, force must remain an option. Mexico has also requested America reduce drug consumption, fight money laundering, and cease the southward flow of drug chemicals and weapons. Speaking of immigration reform…

Deliberating Paris Legally Sane

Paris Hilton: “Today, I told my attorneys not to appeal the judge's decision. While I greatly appreciate the sheriff's concern for my health and welfare, I intend to serve my time at L.A. County Jail. Being in jail is by far the hardest thing I have ever done. During the past several days, I have had a lot of time to think and I believe that I am learning and growing from this experience."

Hilton’s decision is correct. An appeal is unwarranted. An appeal should have never been considered. With that stated, Hilton’s statement indicates reflection. Hopefully, this experience has matured her.

Worth A Read

Drama For President

Blogging the Boys from Queens. Includes episode summaries, an Entourage wiki, forums, and galleries.

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“Anyone watch the Sopranos finale? There were more guys getting whacked at the Tony Awards.”

The Tonight Show

Psychic Umpiring?

Umpire Jim Wolf: “He threw at him.”

Manager Lou Piniella: “How do you know?”

Umpire Jim Wolf: “I knew he was going to do it. I was waiting for it.”

How did you know? Are you clairvoyant? Were his actions announced? Umpires rule on actions. Not hypothesis. Wolf deserves a season length suspension.

The Daily Smak

Can anyone else beat a horse?

Today’s top five or this weekend’s unwatched… (1) the NBA Finals, (2) the Belmont Stakes, (3) Danica vs. Dan, (4) the Puerto Rican Day parade, (5) the 61st annual Tony Awards

The Sopranos (mad) concluded (madder) last night (gull darn mad). Anyone else furious with David Chase? Seven years, eight-five episodes, a stellar finale, and a monumental tank. Chase deserves throttled. Television‘s writing? If not for thirty seconds...

Company Correct

Pamela Melson is contemplating kidney donation. Unfortunately, she cannot attain leave. Why? Her excessive absenteeism. According to Tennessee Apparel, Melson would retain employment. However, she would resume as a new employee. The company‘s attitude is appropriate. Melson’s surgery is elective. Her kidney will serve a cousin’s husband. Not an immediate family member. Melson’s intent is admirable. The probable costs are also reasonable.

Sopranos: Are You Kidding?

The Sopranos conclusion was horrendous. Via a bizarre ending, David Chase ruined six tremendous years, eight-five marvelous episodes, and an excellent series finale. He tarnished the program’s reputation. Meadow’s entrance now defines the series. Basically, the following occurred… America anticipated Christmas morning. Unfortunately, Chase left school supplies under our tree.

The Big Five

For reasons good and bad… they were the news.

The Hot Five

A quintet of sizzling conversation starters.