Saturday, June 30, 2007

Bears Take Stand

Ultimately, sports are gutless. Ethics are negotiable. Performers are forgiven. Winners are rehabilitated. Franchises do not draw lines. They compromise themselves. Continually, they sacrifice integrity for victory.

On Monday, the Chicago Bears showcased conscience. The Bears released thug defensive tackle Tank Johnson. According to General Manager Jerry Angelo, Chicago was justified. "We are upset and embarrassed by Tank's actions last week," Angelo said. "He compromised the credibility of our organization. We made it clear to him that he had no room for error. Our goal was to help someone through a difficult period in his life, but the effort needs to come from both sides. It didn't, and we have decided to move on."

Johnson’s reputation included assault, firearms, and death. On June 4, he was suspended for eight contests. Despite the aforesaid, Johnson acted oblivious. On Friday, he was arrested for speeding and DUI to the slightest degree.

Previously, I advocated Johnson’s excoriation. On Monday, the Bears concurred. I applaud them. They were not ambiguous. Their actions were admirable and courageous. I sincerely hope their example is mirrored.

Scotland Attacked

On Saturday, a flaming Jeep Cherokee careened into the Glasgow Airport. According to Scottish police, Friday’s car bombs and this attack are linked. As previously stated, Great Britain is not immune. Citizens and government must accept this. They must showcase resolve. They must expect more.

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“Police in Pennsylvania arrested strippers on a golf course. Strangely, it was at an LPGA event.”

The Tonight Show

London Attacked

On Friday, London avoided a terrorist plot. Police discovered two Mercedes containing nails, gasoline and propane canisters. However, the bombs did not detonate. Obviously, Tony Blair’s resignation was irrelevant. Great Britain is not immune. Those believing this should wince. They should also commence prayer.

NEW RULE

Terrorism does not discriminate.

On Friday, London avoided a terrorist plot. The bombs simply did not detonate. Obviously, Tony Blair’s resignation was irrelevant. Great Britain is not immune. Those believing this should wince. Terrorists are barbaric and depraved. They lack feelings. They simply attack. Hopefully, the British now accept this.

A Prime Influence

On Wednesday, British Prime Minister Tony Blair resigned. Simultaneously, he became Middle East envoy. Blair’s appointment is genius. He is both sterling and principled leader. Amidst a ravaged region, Blair should facilitate calm.

A Gray Decision

On Thursday, the United States Supreme Court rejected racial school admission. According to the 5-4 majority, race should not solely decide. This ruling is perplexing. Racial discrimination exists. However, diversity cannot be cultivated. Race should determine one’s value. With that stated, I hope this ruling does not void fifty-three years progress.

The Daily Smak

Previously on the District, the immigration bill died, survived, died, endured, died, ascended, declined, and ultimately… died.

A Texas District Attorney has refused “To Catch A Predator” suspect prosecution. He’s killing NBC’s highest rated show.

Finally, I tip the ol’ ball cap (in this case, a batting helmet) to Craig Biggio and Frank Thomas. Beef Roid Bonds, their numbers are real.

I-Came, I-Saw, I-Purchased

NEW RULE

Paris Hilton is unbelievable.

She has evicted people from her life. She cannot name them. She reads the Bible. She does not have a favorite verse. She is a businesswoman? Seriously? Hilton has not transformed. She has not improved. She is still vapid and shallow. She is still famously hollow.

Actual History

On Thursday, Craig Biggio recorded his 3,000 hit. Frank Thomas also registered his 500th home run. Biggio and Thomas are exemplary individuals. During their careers, they have excelled sans steroids. I congratulate them both.

The Daily Smak

George Voinovich is criticizing the President. When a lightweight Senator grouses, does C-Span care?

Today’s top five or stories beyond Greg Oden… (1) David Stern, (2) Spike Lee, (3) Kevin Durant, (4) (5) Screaming A Smith

Finally, I tip the ol’ ball cap (in this case, a derby) to Tony Blair. Despite the criticism, he was a sterling leader.

Worth A Read

Restrictor Plate This

Classy and perceptive NASCAR analysis. Blogging opinions, observations, diecast car collecting, and rock'n'roll.

A Beloved Critic

Joel Siegel
(1943-2007)

NEW RULE

Profiles equal power.

On Wednesday, Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN) critiqued the troop surge. According to certain media, this was a major event. A Republican pillar criticizing the President. A Republican pillar? Lugar is a non-consequential. He is lightweight. Powerful Senators are Presidential candidates. They are not C-SPAN darlings. Lugar is not a pillar. He is a Colts fan. The aforesaid is obvious. Simply stated, reputations are not bestowed. They are campaigned with.

Perversion of Justice

Following a “Dateline: To Catch A Predator” episode, twenty-four men were arrested. One suspect committed suicide. On Tuesday, the Texas District Attorney issued a blanket dismissal. I applaud this prosecutor. NBC’s objective is laudable. With that stated, their production is amateurish and stupid. Immediately, they should cancel the series.

The Daily Smak

Hey, didn’t you used to support this war?

Sadly on Entourage, Chris Benoit murdered his wife and son. According to Vince, Benoit’s death has nothing (and the Rock means nothing!) to do with steroids. Vinnie, Ari cannot spin this.

Today’s top five or reasons Keith Olberman did not mention Benoit… (1) his Bill O’Reilly obsession, (2) his arrogance, (3) his self-importance, (4) his Fox News obsession, (5) his self-obsession

Thursday, June 28, 2007

A Quintuple Tragedy

New York Cheerleaders

Yahoo’s Top Ten Date Destroyers

1. Don't look like your picture.

Post an old picture from when you were thinner or had more hair. Or you could post a photo of someone else: your daughter (folks always say you could be twins, right?), a model you plucked from an online site (hey, didn't you say you always wanted to be a model?), or your "sort of" twin brother (non-identical).

2. Don't make any special effort to present yourself well.

Dress for a first meeting the way you would for a Saturday night at home, rationalizing that you want to appear "real" and be liked for the way that you are. Maybe it is a kindness to show, right up front, what your date's Saturday nights would be like if they were to marry you!

3. Be late.

Nothing says you couldn't care less than to be late. While arriving early might give you the advantage of being able to see your date before he/she sees you, being late implies you are too important to be polite.

4. Forget your wallet.

Male or female, the "I forgot my wallet" schtick is the fastest route to being labeled cheap. If you are a guy and this is a coffee date, springing for both cups is a bargain-rate way to look good. And ladies, men notice if you offer to pay, even if they insist on opening their wallet for your latte.

5. Use your cell phone.

Go ahead, plunk your cell phone down on the table between the two of you, leave it on and answer every call, taking as long as you want while ignoring your date. Cell phones are the best excuse for blanket rudeness that has been invented. They have no place on a date, except as a safety mechanism.

6. Brag.

My grandma used to say "Don't brag," and when you are on a date, she was -- and is -- so right. However, if you can't resist, talk about the price you paid for your car, flash your Rolex, and prop your implants on the table. Tell how important you are at work and how many men or women are dropping at your feet. See how your date reacts... if they are still at the table.

7. Complain. Whine. Grouse.

Say how no one listens to you and you are looking for someone who will. Go on and on about your health problems or, better yet, your dietary quirks. Then notice that your date is in such a rotten mood, whine about that, and chalk this date up to yet another one of those horrid experiences.

8. Be rude.

To your date, and to everyone around you. Talk down to the waitperson and don't leave a tip. Complain to the management about the poor service. Ask your date what the last STD they had was or whether they are still fertile. If you must, really pull out the stops and get all your orifices going: burp, pass gas, scratch scabs, pick your nose or blow it on your hand.

9. Try to get sexy.

Tell your date that she is turning you on and you want to see her naked. Move in too close too fast, hugging, touching or kissing, despite what your date is signaling. Grab his butt when you meet. Wear clothes that are too short, too tight and in general too slutty. Talk sexy and do it loud.

10. Tell dirty, racist or just plain poor-taste stories.

You know that you are funny, especially after you have a couple of drinks. If it is a coffee date, then stop off for a couple of quick ones before you get there. You know that men (or women) like a good sexy joke, so fire away. And most people think that racist or bathroom stories are hilarious, so your date should too. After all, you want a partner who can take a joke, don't you?

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“Paris Hilton said she hated prison food. She said she had to eat mystery meat. Didn’t I see a video of her doing that?”

Late Show with David Letterman

First Lady of the Fortune 500

Liz Claiborne
(1929-2007)

The Price is Saved

Rosie O’Donnell will not replace Bob Barker. On behalf of America, thank God. Rosie is acerbic, vulgar, and rude. She would have debilitated “The Price is Right.

Worth A Read

Celebrity Baby Names

Covering the stories, the gossip, the trends, and the issues. Their focus? Celebrity babies.

Two Trades For Center Tkachuk

On Tuesday, the Atlanta Thrashers traded center Keith Tkachuk to the St. Louis Blues. As reciprocation, the Thrashers received a first round selection. On February 25, the Blues traded Tkachuk to the Thrashers. The Blues received Glen Metropolit and three draft choices. This exchange was intriguing. Unfortunately, Tkachuk now personifies rent-a-player.

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“British police arrested a man for having sex with his bicycle. Sex in a hotel with a bicycle. What happened to Lance Armstrong?”

The Tonight Show

Underlining the Point

Mike Ditka: “It's right versus wrong. It's do the ethical thing or do the wrong thing. So far, they've chosen to do the wrong thing.”

Ditka is correct. As previously stated, football is money. The question is why has the NFL not compensated those who made the wealth possible?

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“It was so hot, Hillary Clinton was seen at the beach in a one piece pants suit.”

Late Show with David Letterman

The Big Five (6/24)

For reasons good and bad… they were the news.

The Hot Five (6/24)

A quintet of sizzling conversation starters.

NEW RULE

Vince McMahon cannot think.

On Thursday, Vince McMahon faked his death. On Monday, Chris Benoit murdered his wife and son. He then committed suicide. Life imitating art? Tragedy mimicking squalor. McMahon is repugnant. He has ignored drug abuse, promoted filth, and capitalized tragedy (notably Owen Hart and September 11). Within his depraved mind, McMahon is clever. Within reality, he is vile. This storyline invited catastrophe. Subsequently, McMahon is barred from thought. He is repulsive. I hope this calamity excoriates him.

NBA Draft Projection

1. Portland Trailblazers
Greg Oden (C – Ohio State)

2. Seattle Supersonics
Kevin Durant (F – Texas)

3. Atlanta Hawks
Al Horford (F – Florida)

4. Memphis Grizzlies
Mike Conley Jr. (G – Ohio State)

5. Boston Celtics
Yi Jianlian (F - China)

6. Milwaukee Bucks
Jeff Green (F – Georgetown)

7. Minnesota Timberwolves
Joakim Noah (F – Florida)

8. Charlotte Bobcats
Brandan Wright (F – North Carolina)

9. Chicago Bulls (from New York)
Corey Brewer (F – Florida)

10. Sacramento Kings
Spencer Hawes (C – Washington)

11. Atlanta Hawks (from Indiana)
Acie Law (G – Texas A&M)

12. Philadelphia 76ers
Nick Young (F – USC)

13. New Orleans Hornets
Julian Wright (F – Kansas)

14. Los Angeles Clippers
Al Thornton (F – Florida State)

15. Detroit Pistons (from Orlando)
Rodney Stuckey (G – Eastern Washington)

16. Washington Wizards
Javaris Crittenton (G – Georgia Tech)

17. New Jersey Nets
Jason Smith (C – Colorado State)

18. Golden State Warriors
Thaddeus Young (F – Georgia Tech)

19. Los Angeles Lakers
Rudy Fernandez (G – Spain)

20. Miami Heat
Marco Belinelli (G – Spain)

21. Philadelphia 76ers (from Denver)
Sean Williams

22. Charlotte Bobcats (from Toronto)
Josh McRoberts (F – Duke)

23. New York Knicks (from Chicago)
Tiago Splitter (F – Brazil)

24. Phoenix Suns (from Cleveland)
Wilson Chandler (F – Depaul)

25. Utah Jazz
Morris Almond (G – Rice)

26. Houston Rockets
Daequan Cook (G – Ohio State)

27. Detroit Pistons
Derrick Byars (F – Vanderbilt)

28. San Antonio Spurs
Nick Fazekas (F – Nevada)

29. Phoenix Suns
Jared Dudley (F – Boston College)

30. Philadelphia 76ers (from Dallas)
Gabe Pruitt (G – USC)

Draft Projection Sources:
College Hoops
Draft Express
Hoops Hype
Inside Hoops
NBA Draft Net

Wednesday, June 27, 2007

The Daily Smak

On Monday, justice prevailed. A judge defeated the $54 million pants suing moron (emphasis on mor!). Those loud cheers? They were sanity.

Today’s top five or reasons we can’t forget Paris… (1) Fox News, (2) CNN, (3) MSNBC, (4) CNN Headline News, (5) E!

Finally, I tip the ol’ ball cap (sans logos) to Chris Benoit. Circumstances are irrelevant. He was an amazing performer.

Green Speak

On Monday, the United States Supreme Court permitted issue ads. According to the 5-4 majority, ad limitations were overly restrictive. This ruling is disheartening. Simply stated, money is not speech. Unlimited funding adversely affects voters. Unlimited funding poisons politics. Yesterday’s ruling was reprehensible. The result rewarded millionaires and wounded democracy.

NEW RULE

Policeman cannot be criminals.

Prior to serving, Bobby Cutts faced a restraining order. During his career, he furnished felons guns. What is the motto? Protect and serve? After they serve, protect us? America denies felons voting rights. We allow criminals as cops? Cutts was a thug. He was hoodlum. The aforesaid was obvious. Henceforth, cops should chase felons. Felon’s brethren should not.

Monologue Joke of the Evening

“A 99 cent store is offering marriage services for… 99 cents. Rudy Giuliani could have saved millions.”

The Tonight Show

Freeing His Fans

We Are Fighting Non-Humans

According to CNN Headline News, terrorists wired a six year old. The youngster’s instructions? Approach an Afghani policeman and detonate his vest. The boy proceeded. However, his confusion triggered concern. He was disarmed. Thankfully, no one was injured. Obviously, terrorists are barbaric and depraved. Anyone questioning the War on Terror should remember this.

Worth A Read

Hub Politics

Blogging the bay state. Founder Matt Margolis credits include Blogs for Bush and the Deval Patrick Watch.

The Daily Smak

On Friday, Tank Johnson was arrested for speeding and DUI to the slightest degree. I am not the smartest person (shaddup!). With that stated, shouldn’t troubled athletes avoid trouble?

This weekend, Senators (From Miss Lott to Mass Kennedy) championed immigration reform. Intriguing strategy. Previously, they compromised. Now, “We’ll huff, and we’ll puff, and we’ll blow the conservatives down.”

Finally, I tip the ol ball cap (bill is bent, frame is whittled) to Rod Beck. Shooter, you were a great pitcher. You were a greater person.

Cantar Senador

Tuesday, June 26, 2007

The Rabid Wolverine

Chris Benoit
(1967-2007)

Shooter

Rod Beck
(1968-2007)

Monday, June 25, 2007

Line of the Morning


Jeff Sessions (R-AL)

“We're going to use every effort to slow this process down... continue to hold up the bill... read it to the American people, and show them that even though they may favor the ideals of the legislation, that the legislation won't get us there.”