Pakistan Backs Down: Lie Service?

In one month, Pakistan’s emergency rule will end. Ironically, a Benazir Bhutto-Supreme Court Chief Justice meeting was blocked. President Pervez Musharraf has promised. However, no one should believe. Musharraf’s actions will speak.

Buckeyes Dream Decapitated

Illinois 28 (1) Ohio State 21
Last season, the Buckeyes dominated. They averaged thirty-six points. They surrendered twelve points. This season, the Buckeyes were pretenders. True, their statistics were comparable. However, they were not real. Ohio State could not overcome mistakes. They were not elite. They played no one. On Saturday, Todd Boeckman tossed three interceptions. Chris Wells accrued only seventy-six yards. Inevitably, Ohio State succumbed.

Latin American Harangue

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez: “Fascists are not human. A snake is more human.”

Spanish King Juan Carlos: “Why don't you shut up?”

Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero: “Former President Aznar was democratically elected by the Spanish people and was a legitimate representative of the Spanish people.”

The Great American Novelist

Norman Mailer
(1923-2007)

Bernard Kerik: Appropriate Albatross

On Friday, former New York City Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik plead not guilty. Officially, Kerik was charged with federal corruption and tax fraud. Kerik’s impact upon Mayor Rudy Giuliani. Apparent and substantial. Kerik should impact Giuliani. Kerik is a blight. He stains New York City. He stains law enforcement. He stains Republicans. Kerik is a disgrace. He warrants castigation. Giuliani merits shame. Kerik should not disable Giuliani. He should damage him.

Bhutto Freed, Pakistan Remains Paralyzed

On Friday, Pakistan freed Benazir Bhutto. President Pervez Musharraf’s action was insufficient. Incarcerating Bhutto was deplorable. Imposing Emergency Rule was unacceptable. Pakistan must restore democracy. They must hold elections. Musharraf must resign. Bhutto is a beacon. She is a hopeful emblem. She does not warrant jail. She deserves Pakistan’s Presidency.

Yahoo: Violence in Venezuela

The worst political violence in months stoked fears on Thursday that clashes will dominate a referendum campaign on Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez's plan to scrap term limits in a raft of constitutional changes.

Angry accusations from pro- and anti-Chavez camps dominated the media's airwaves and a session in Congress, with both sides blaming each other for fighting that has marred the campaign for a December 2 vote that Chavez is likely to win.

Hooded Chavez supporters shot at least two anti-Chavez students at a university in a clash on Wednesday that erupted after thousands marched through the capital calling for the vote to be postponed, witnesses and hospital officials said.

In fighting that included gunfire, teargas and stone-throwing, some pro-Chavez men were trapped in a faculty building surrounded by opponents until others burst into the campus on motorcycles, shooting in the air to rescue them.

The images, including front-page photographs of a man apparently trying to shoot a student at close range, touched nerves in the OPEC nation still scarred by clashes that sparked a brief coup against the anti-U.S. president in 2002.

E-mails circulated calling for another march on Friday and "civil disobedience" in the polarized nation.

"If we do not take action now, we will be condemned to live without democracy under a communist dictator," read an anonymous circulated message, which have been used effectively to bring students out on the street.

But Chavez supporters were defiant too.

"If you light the fuse, be prepared to put it out, because if you don't, we will give you a beating," an unidentified Chavez backer said on state television.

In power since 1999, Chavez, who calls Cuban leader Fidel Castro his mentor, has vowed to rule for decades.

He wants the constitutional changes to give him more time to create a socialist state and says proposed measures to funnel funds to community councils will bolster democracy.

The opposition, the Roman Catholic Church and rights groups say the reforms are authoritarian.

But sweeteners in the package such as reducing the workday and the former paratrooper's popularity among the majority poor should secure him a referendum win, pollsters say.

Wednesday's shootings came days after Chavez vowed to crack down on students who last week fought running battles with security forces across Caracas in what he said was an attempt to destabilize the country and spark another coup.

Washington said it was "another indication of the kind of atmosphere that we're -- that you're seeing in Venezuela."

Venezuelans are sensitive to the potential for bloodshed at political marches. In 2002, Chavez survived a two-day coup after about 20 people were shot dead in violence that prompted some in the military to move against the president.

Chavez, who is popular for spending an oil bonanza on clinics and schools for the poor, easily won re-election after a campaign a year ago that was generally free of violence.

But when he shut down the last nationwide opposition TV station in May, a student movement sprang up against his decision and weeks-long protests were sometimes violent.

With opposition political parties showing little sign of attracting much support among the poor, the students have mounted the most high-profile challenge to Chavez.

Off limits to security forces by law, universities are among the last institutions to have avoided Chavez's control.

The head of the university involved in Thursday's violence said he would not give Chavez grounds to send in troops.

"We will not fall into the trap," Eleazar Narvaez said. "The weapons we use are ideas, not guns."

Simeon Rice’s Virtual Retirement

On Friday, the Denver Broncos released Simeon Rice. In four contests, Rice registered only seven tackles. Rice was a dynamic presence. He was an explosive athlete. Personally, I desire his return. Unfortunately, his career has concluded.

They Are the Money

On Monday, the San Diego Padres retained Greg Maddux. On Tuesday, the Boston Red Sox retained Curt Schilling. Their decisions were correct. Obviously, Maddux and Schilling have aged. Yet, their intelligence remains. They are analytical. They are tenacious. Clearly, they are not finished. Both warrant another season.

Betting the Pass Line (Last Week: 2-3 Season: 24-21)

Michigan (-3) at Wisconsin
Preseason, this contest was hyped. On Saturday, Michigan will dominate.

Arkansas (Even) at Tennessee
Following their 1-2 start, Arkansas has recovered. Tennessee is unpredictable. However, Darren McFadden should shred them.

Illinois (+15) at Ohio State
Last season, Ohio State defeated Illinois 17-10. Expect a similar score.

Auburn at Georgia (-1 ½)
Since Tennessee, Georgia has won three contests. This contest will be competitive. However, the Bulldogs will prevail.

Kansas (-5 ½) at Oklahoma State
The Jayhawks are 9-0. On Saturday, they will struggle. Yet, they will survive.

The Big Five (11/4)

The Hot Five (11/4)

Lindros Career: Hype, Hurt, & Departure

Eric Lindros’ career was bizarre. He was a prodigy. He was selected first. He rebuked Quebec. He was traded. His Philadelphia tenure sizzled and soured. He was traded again. His New York act fizzled. His final seasons were obscure.

On Thursday, Lindros retired. A press conference was not held. Photographs were not snapped. Instead, Lindros’ career concluded via a press release. “My decision to retire from professional hockey is something that I have been considering for some time and did not come easily,” Lindros said. “I will miss the day-to-day activity of being a member of a team and the camaraderie that I developed with my teammates will never be forgotten. I played with the best, I played against the best -- it was a blast. It really truly was. I enjoyed myself immensely.”

During his career, Lindros recorded 372 goals and 493 assists. In Philadelphia (8 seasons), he amassed 290 goals and 369 assists. In New York (3 seasons), he accrued 66 goals and 92 assists. In Toronto and Dallas (1 season each), he totaled 16 goals and 32 assists.

Lindros is a calamity. His potential unexplored. His personality abrasive and disastrous. Lindros is an exploded misfortune. He commenced with potential. His career concludes with one question… Greatest NHL bust ever?

Survivor: Finally… Arrogance Axed

Arrogance is an acquired taste. Arrogance can be attractive. However, the variety is critical. With a sociable person, arrogance is charismatic. With a surly person, arrogance is abrasive and infuriating.

For immunity, the survivors water balanced. Courtney won. For the second consecutive week, James was exposed. His hidden immunity idols were discovered. This facilitated a choice. James the invincible or Jean-Robert the arrogant. Via a 5-3-1 vote, Jean-Robert was eliminated.

Musharraf Pledges, Reneges

On Thursday, Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf promised parliamentary elections. Allegedly, the vote will occur February 15. Musharraf’s decision is excellent. However, caution trumps excitement. The vote may never occur.

On Friday, Benazir Bhutto was placed under house arrest. The aforesaid is disturbing. Clearly, Musharraf has not relented. He still opposes democracy. Obvious question… how will the international community respond?

Activist Addresses the Junta

Aung San Suu Kyi: “In the interest of the nation I stand ready to cooperate with the government in order to make this process of dialogue a success. In this time of vital need for democratic solidarity and national unity, it is my duty to give constant and serious consideration to the interests and opinions of as broad a range of political organizations and forces as possible, in particular those of our ethnic nationality races. To that end I am committed to pursue the path of dialogue constructively and invite the government and all relevant parties to join me in this spirit.”

Michael Mukasey: 81st Attorney General

On Thursday, the Senate confirmed Michael Mukasey. I applaud his fifty-three supporters. Judge Mukasey does not support torture. Last week’s water boarding semantics were trivial. Mukasey is an exemplary individual. I am elated he won confirmation.

Bernanke Forecasts Christmas Deceleration

On Thursday, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke predicted an economic slowdown. He did not predict a recession. With Christmas impending, Bernanke’s assessment is awful. With that stated, recovery is possible. Optimism is present. Thus, the media should not spin. The United States economy is down. The United States economy is not dead.

Fourth Farewell: Hornish Departs IRL

On Thursday, Sam Hornish Jr. joined Penske Racing. Since last season, Hornish, Dario Franchitti, Juan Pablo Montoya, and Jacques Villeneuve have relocated. Obviously, their presence improves NASCAR. Their departure devastates open wheel. If this continues, both the Champ Car World Series and the Indy Racing League will become extinct.

Bobby Eberle: Rebuking Ron Paul’s Rabble-rousers

The candidacy of Rep. Ron Paul has garnered some national media attention lately. On Monday, the Associated Press reported on Paul's record-setting fundraising effort. The next day, the Associated Press ran a follow-up story. Congratulations! The congressman from Texas deserves credit for the online network that has been put together.

Unfortunately, there is a segment of the Ron Paul network that has been receiving attention of another nature for quite some time -- his avid online "supporters." I'm not talking about people who simply support Ron Paul. I'm talking about the aggressive network of online fans who bombard discussion boards, spam web sites, flood online polls, and behave in a manner that puts their candidate in an extremely bad light. These so-called supporters not only hurt the Republican Party overall, but they also hurt their candidate.

Before I continue, I know there are those who are already getting their typing fingers ready to fire off some nasty e-mail, so please allow me to explain. If you are a general Ron Paul supporter, then that's great. Good for you, and good for your candidate. I'm not talking about you. I'm talking about those who are part of Paul's Internet network who have no sense of civility, decorum, and common manners. These are the people who do a disservice to Dr. Ron Paul.

I have been running GOPUSA for over seven years. I receive A LOT of e-mail feedback to news stories, commentary, and the discussions which occur on the GOPUSA Forum (our discussion board). In all those years, there have been times when I've received angry e-mail from left wing zealots. I have also received pointed e-mails from time to time when readers disagree with one of my columns. But, those e-mails pale in comparison to the tone and text of e-mails received by so-called Ron Paul "supporters."

There are readers who support Huckabee. There are those who support Romney, and so on. They often write to GOPUSA and let us know of their support. In most cases, they do so with professionalism and politeness. They describe why they are FOR their candidate. On the flip side, the typical e-mail from a Ron Paul supporter often contains profanity and is filled with name-calling and attacks on the other candidates.

Let's review.... Dr. Ron Paul is a sitting REPUBLICAN official. He is running for the presidential nomination of the REPUBLICAN Party. Yet, his supporters that flood our site and others seem to have a disdain for the Republican Party and all other candidates involved. They throw out slurs such as "neo-con" or "fake Republican" or "sheeple" or "jerks" or worse. They say people are "stupid," "idiots," "traitors," and worse for not supporting Ron Paul. Come on! There are millions of people out there who are solid conservatives who are supporting someone other than Ron Paul. These Ron Paul supporters are going out of their way to alienate all of them. In addition, they show absolutely no support for the party in general. This whole process is designed to determine the Republican nominee. We need everyone on board after that process is complete in order to defeat the Democrat.

The antics and unprofessional behavior of some of Ron Paul's supporters have been noted for quite some time. The web site RedState.com has banned Ron Paul supporters completely from their discussion board. Is it because they have something against Ron Paul? NO! It's because these people show up and bombard the board. They don't participate in discussions as the board is intending... they simply push their candidate and blast all the others to such an extent that it turns people off and brings discussions to a halt.

We have seen the same thing on GOPUSA. I take great pride in the fact that our discussion board (the GOPUSA Forum) has existed for years and provides an arena where people can discuss issues in a FRIENDLY and PROFESSIONAL manner. Some folks just come by to chit-chat, while others have been coming by for years to discuss politics. The atmosphere clearly changes when a Ron Paul zealot drops in and in typical fashion starts name calling and blasting other candidates and their supporters (our Forum members). Some have gotten banned. This has lead to complaints against GOPUSA. On our board, all views are welcomed, but people who show up simply to bombard the board for a particular candidate are not. There are plenty of other boards for that.

GOPUSA has also been accused by these "supporters" of blatantly ignoring the candidacy of Ron Paul. Of course, I don't receive e-mail simply asking, "Why aren't there more Ron Paul stories?" I get e-mails cursing at me, accusing me of bias, and saying much more nasty things. Here are the facts: 1) GOPUSA DOES NOT have a staff of news writers. I once had a volunteer team of new reporters and I would love to do so again, but we don't right now. 2) GOPUSA gets its news from the Associated Press.

Each morning, my news editor and I go through the news stories to determine what we will run. We are in agreement that our first choice will be stories about the presidential campaigns and the candidates. If the AP does not have a story about Ron Paul, there is absolutely nothing we can do about it. Yet, without knowing the facts, we get blasted for "not covering him" or for "ignoring him." On Monday, the AP had a story, and guess what? We ran it. The same on Tuesday.

Online polls are another item that has web sites like RedState.com, GOPUSA, and others quite frustrated. It is simply meaningless to do an online presidential poll because of spamming by groups. The results are completely skewed and don't reflect any other poll out there. For example, here are the latest poll numbers for Ron Paul:

NBC/ Wall Street Journal -- 4%
USA Today / Gallup -- 1%
CNN -- 5%
Washington Post / ABC -- 3%
FOX News -- 1%

Even the results of GOPUSA's latest survey indicate support at 6%. This is taken from our national focus group of several thousand members. Compare this result to GOPUSA's basic online poll from September, and you can see the difference.

This happened on LittleGreenFootballs.com, where they noted, "I'm going to be removing Ron Paul's name from any further LGF straw polls, because his supporters are deliberately spamming our polls to make it appear as if Paul has more support than he does."

A message to Rep. Ron Paul: It's clear that your online network of supporters is highly motivated and organized. Your fundraising efforts prove that. But it is also clear that some of your supporters are doing you more harm than good. It does not further your cause when supporters send profanity-laced e-mails to GOPUSA or other organizations. It does not further your Republican cause when your supporters blast other Republicans. We are all in this together.

At GOPUSA, we want input and discussions. All we ask is for civility and professionalism and something more than just pimping for your candidate.

Unprofessional and profane behavior does not advance your candidate's cause. In fact, it hurts your candidate.

Get the message out, drum up support, and see what happens... that's what it's all about. And when the dust settles, we need to move on to the next battle, and we need the full team on board in order to fight it.

2007 NFL Award Semi-Finalists

George Halas Award
(NFL’s Best Head Coach)

Bill Belichick (New England Patriots)
Tom Coughlin (New York Giants)
Romeo Crenel (Cleveland Browns)
Dick Jauron (Buffalo Bills)
Rod Marinelli (Detroit Lions)
Mike McCarthy (Green Bay Packers)
Wade Phillips (Dallas Cowboys)
Mike Tomlin (Pittsburgh Steelers)

Roger Staubauch Award
(NFL MVP)

Derek Anderson (Cleveland Browns)
Tom Brady (New England Patriots)
Brett Favre (Green Bay Packers)
Peyton Manning (Indianapolis Colts)
Adrian Peterson (Minnesota Vikings)
Clinton Portis (Washington Redskins)
Ben Roethlisberger (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Tony Romo (Dallas Cowboys)

Joe Montana Award
(NFL’s Best Quarterback)

Derek Anderson (Cleveland Browns)
Tom Brady (New England Patriots)
Brett Favre (Green Bay Packers)
Matt Hasselbeck (Seattle Seahawks)
Peyton Manning (Indianapolis Colts)
Carson Palmer (Cincinnati Bengals)
Ben Roethlisberger (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Tony Romo (Dallas Cowboys)

Walter Payton Award
(NFL’s Best Running back)

Joseph Addai (Indianapolis Colts)
Marshawn Lynch (Buffalo Bills)
Willis McGahee (Baltimore Ravens)
Willie Parker (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Adrian Peterson (Minnesota Vikings)
Clinton Portis (Washington Redskins)
LaDainian Tomlinson (San Diego Chargers)
LenDale White (Tennessee Titans)

Steve Largent Award
(NFL’s Best Wide Receiver)

Braylon Edwards (Cleveland Browns)
Larry Fitzgerald (Arizona Cardinals)
TJ Houshmandzadeh (Cincinnati Bengals)
Randy Moss (New England Patriots)
Terrell Owens (Dallas Cowboys)
Steve Smith (Carolina Panthers)
Reggie Wayne (Indianapolis Colts)
Wes Welker (New England Patriots)

Anthony Munoz Award
(NFL’s Best Offensive Lineman)

Flozell Adams (Dallas Cowboys)
Jeff Backus (Detroit Lions)
Alan Faneca (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Matt Light (New England Patriots)
Chris Samuels (Washington Redskins)
Jeff Saturday (Indianapolis Colts)
Mark Tauscher (Green Bay Packers)
Joe Thomas (Cleveland Browns)

Richard Dent Award
(NFL’s Best Defensive Lineman)

Andre Carter (Washington Redskins)
Trent Cole (Philadelphia Eagles)
Albert Haynesworth (Tennessee Titans)
Aaron Kampman (Green Bay Packers)
Shaun Phillips (San Diego Chargers)
Shaun Rogers (Detroit Lions)
Darryl Tapp (Seattle Seahawks)
Osi Umenyiora (New York Giants)

Ray Nitschke Award
(NFL’s Best Linebacker)

Nick Barnett (Green Bay Packers)
Ray Lewis (Baltimore Ravens)
Barrett Ruud (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
DeMeco Ryans (Houston Texans)
Brian Urlacher (Chicago Bears)
Mike Vrabel (New England Patriots)
DeMarcus Ware (Dallas Cowboys)
Patrick Willis (San Francisco 49ers)

Michael Haynes Award
(NFL’s Best Defensive Back)

Antonio Cromartie (San Diego Chargers)
Anthony Henry (Dallas Cowboys)
Sammy Knight (Jacksonville Jaguars)
Ed Reed (Baltimore Ravens)
Aaron Ross (New York Giants)
Asante Samuel (New England Patriots)
Sean Taylor (Washington Redskins)
Charles Woodson (Green Bay Packers)

Morten Anderson Award
(NFL’s Best Place Kicker)

Rob Bironas (Tennessee Titans)
Josh Brown (Seattle Seahawks)
Kris Brown (Houston Texans)
Phil Dawson (Cleveland Browns)
Stephen Gostkowski (New England Patriots)
Jason Hanson (Detroit Lions)
Jeff Reed (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Adam Vinatieri (Indianapolis Colts)

Ray Guy Award
(NFL’s Best Punter)

Mat McBriar (Dallas Cowboys)
Nick Harris (Detroit Lions)
Shane Lechler (Oakland Raiders)
Andy Lee (San Francisco 49ers)
Brad Maynard (Chicago Bears)
Todd Sauerbrun (Denver Broncos)
Mike Scifres (San Diego Chargers)
Dan Sepulveda (Pittsburgh Steelers)

GAME BALLS (NFL Edition)

Drew Brees (QB – Saints): 35/49, 445 yards, 3 td
(Win: 41-24 at Jaguars)

Marshawn Lynch (RB – Bills): 29 carries, 153 yards, 1 td
(Win: 33-21 vs. Bengals)

Randy Moss (WR – Patriots): 9 receptions, 145 yards, 1 td
(Win: 24-20 at Colts)

Terrell Owens (WR – Cowboys): 10 receptions, 174 yards, 1 td
(Win: 38-17 at Eagles)

Adrian Peterson (RB – Vikings): 30 carries, 296 yards, 3 td
(Win: 35-17 vs. Chargers)

Clinton Portis (RB – Redskins): 36 carries, 196 yards, 1 td
(Win: 23-20 at Jets)

Tony Romo (QB – Cowboys): 20/25, 324 yards, 3 td
(Win: 38-17 at Eagles)

Kellen Winslow (TE – Browns): 11 receptions, 125 yards
(Win: 33-30 vs. Seahawks)

GAME BALLS (College Football Edition)

Donald Brown (RB – Connecticut): 24 carries, 154 yards, 1 td
(Win: 38-19 vs. Rutgers)

Demetrius Byrd (WR – LSU): 6 receptions, 144 yards, 1 td
(Win: 41-34 at Alabama)

Jamaal Charles (RB – Texas): 16 carries, 180 yards, 3 td
(Win: 38-35 at Oklahoma State)

Chase Daniel (QB – Missouri): 26/44, 421 yards, 5 td
(Win: 55-10 at Colorado)

Chad Hall (RB – Air Force): 34 carries, 275 yards, 1 td
(Win: 30-10 vs. Army)

Chris Johnson (RB – East Carolina): 20 carries, 301 yards, 4 td
(Win: 56-40 at Memphis)

Mario Manningham (WR – Michigan): 8 receptions, 129 yards, 2 td
(Win: 28-24 at Michigan State)

Darren McFadden (RB – Arkansas): 34 carries, 321 yards, 1 td
(Win: 48-36 vs. South Carolina)

Louis Rankin (RB – Washington): 36 carries, 255 carries, 1 td
(Win: 27-9 at Stanford)

Todd Reesing (QB – Kansas): 30/41, 354 yards, 6 td
(Win: 76-39 vs. Nebraska)

Evan Royster (RB – Penn State): 21 carries, 126 yards, 1 td
(Win: 26-19 vs. Purdue)

Willie Tuitama (QB – Arizona): 21/36, 341 yards, 3 td
(Win: 34-27 vs. UCLA)

Drew Weatherford (QB – Florida State): 29/45, 354 yards, 2 td
(Win: 27-17 at Boston College)

Chris Wells (RB – Ohio State): 21 carries, 169 yards, 3 td
(Win: 38-17 vs. Wisconsin)

Hills Happiness

Happiness is unpredictable. Happiness derives from multiple sources. Employment, family, friendships, gifts, and relationships… each can provide happiness. Each can induce the perfect smile.

On Monday, Lauren and Whitney executed Teen Vogue’s Young Hollywood Party. Amidst chaos, Whitney sparkled. She seated everyone. She communicated efficiently. She effectively led. Deservedly, she earned praise from both Teen Vogue colleagues and executives.

Heidi and Spencer celebrated her birthday. Her twenty-first birthday. They enjoyed dinner and desert. Spencer gifted her a purse. Occasionally, Heidi and Spencer are adorable. They are a functional couple. Sadly, the truth always resurfaces.

Finally! A Conservative is Right

On Wednesday, Pat Robertson endorsed Mayor Rudy Giuliani. Ordinarily, I abhor Robertson. Today, I applaud him. In 2008, conservatives have a choice. Common sense must prevail. With a moderate, conservatives have life. With a liberal, they are dead. Robertson realizes this. He also realizes next year’s significance. Thank you, Pat.

President Directs Pakistan

President Bush: “You can't be the president and the head of the military at the same time. I had a very frank discussion with him. My message was that we believe strongly in elections, and that you ought to have elections soon, and you need to take off your uniform.”

“Mistake” Costs Myers

On Wednesday, ICE Assistant Secretary Julie Myers’ nomination was held. Why? She judged ICE’s Halloween party. My opinion? This was a costume party. This is a non-story. With that stated, I know better. Myers should have also. She is guilty of stupidity. I cannot support her.

Yankees Settle For Joe Girardi

George, Hal, and Hank Steinbrenner are petulant children. If they are not jubilant, they scream. If they are not feted, they bluster. If they feel impotent, they shriek. If they feel unsatisfied, they harangue. Within their world, the Steinbrenners are knowledgeable and professional. Truthfully, they are New York’s menace.

On October 18, the New York Yankees insulted Joe Torre. On Monday, they hired Joe Girardi. Girardi signed a 3-year, $7.5 million contract. “I don't think you can ever replace a figure because that figure is unique in his own way. What I'm going to do is I'm going to be myself,” Girardi said. “And yes, are there expectations on me and, you know, the coaching staff and the players? Absolutely. The same expectations that were on Joe Torre when he came in in 1996. I can't be Joe Torre because I'm made up different. You know, I'm a different character, so I don't really necessarily worry about replacing someone or how I'm going to replace someone. I'm more worried about just being myself and getting the most out of the guys.”

“I expect to be playing in the fall classic next October. I think that's everyone's expectation,” Girardi continued. “I've been there some years, and I haven't been there some years, and I've broadcast there some years, and let me tell you, it's much better when you're in uniform and you're there.”

During his New York tenure, Torre racked a 1,173-767 record. He amassed four World Series championships, six American League championships, and ten division championships. He also accrued twelve consecutive playoff appearances.

Simply stated, Torre deserved better. He should have been retained. He should have retired a Yankee. Torre did not fail. Steinbrenner failed. He misspent and overspent. He interfered. He exchanged consistency for relics. Unsurprisingly, Steinbrenner’s roster did not win.

This offseason, Andy Pettitte, Jorge Posada, and Mariano Rivera are free agents. Concerning Torre, each pledged loyalty. This is their test. Torre is departed. Is their motivation monetary? Is their motivation fidelity? Personally, I hope they exit. I hope they showcase humanity. Pettitte, Posada, and Rivera may be Yankees. However, New York’s identity has disintegrated.

For thirty-four years, George Steinbrenner has ruled the Yankees. He has been an incorrigible monarch. His tenure has been uncomplicated. His solutions immaturely simple. Some disappointments cast into emergency. Some cast into jail.

Tinseltown Exchange: A Champion For Little

Life is not choreographed. Occasionally, situations are predictable. However, one’s existence is unscripted. Scenarios are not orchestrated. Plans deviate. Circumstances dissolve. One may desire perfection. Unfortunately, they cannot coordinate their future.

Last week, Los Angeles Dodgers Manager Grady Little resigned. On Monday, Joe Torre supplanted him. Torre signed a 3-year, $13 million contract. “I asked him, 'Do you really want to get back into something like this?' He looked at me and he said, 'There's no doubt in my mind what I want to do and where I want to do it,'” said General Manager Ned Colletti. “He likes the idea that the Dodgers are the franchise that is looked upon in many ways as one of the great icons in American sports. He likes the challenge of that, the market size, the chance to take a club that hasn't had a chance to go to the World Series since 1988 and do something about that. I don't have any doubts that his appetite is there and he's up for the challenge.”

According to Torre, his circumstance is unchanged. “As a kid growing up, you didn't like them,” he said. “As a player, to me the Dodgers were the Yankees of the National League because ... you either loved them or you hated them.”

During his career, Little logged a 358-290 ledger. In Boston, he posted a 188-136 mark. In Los Angeles, he tallied a 170-154 scratch. Unfortunately, his exoduses were bizarre. Following a pitching fiasco, the Red Sox fired him. Amidst rumors, he escaped Los Angeles.

Conversely, Torre has accrued a 2,067-1,770 record. With the New York Yankees, he went 1,173-767, amassed four World Series championships, six American League championships, and ten division championships. Akin to New York, Torre’s coaches will include Larry Bowa and Don Mattingly.

According to former Manager Tommy Lasorda, Torre was mistreated. “I'm so happy for him. I think his record speaks for itself,” said Lasorda. “I think what he accomplished with the Yankees, he should have been able to control his destiny. We're happy that he's here -- very happy.”

Torre is correct. The Dodgers and Yankees are parallel. Both are historic. Both are estimable cornerstones. Once, Torre resurrected the Yankees. Hopefully, he can restore the Dodgers. Torre did not deserve the past month. Now, he can prove this.

Brad Lidge Receives Second Life

On Wednesday, the Houston Astros traded pitcher Brad Lidge and infielder Eric Bruntlett to the Philadelphia Phillies. As reciprocation, the Astros received outfielder Michael Bourn, pitcher Geoff Geary, and minor league third baseman Mike Costanzo. This maneuver is intriguing. Once, Lidge was untouchable. Since 2005, he has declined. His saves have descended. His blown saves and earned run average have ascended. The obvious question… will he recover?

Second Salvo: Democrats Relent

On Wednesday, anti-discrimination legislation passed. Reconstituted, the measure includes gays, lesbians, and bisexuals. Transgenders are not included. As previously stated, Democrats are ridiculous. Bisexual and Transgender “lifestyles” are repugnant. Mainstream America abhors them. Democrats wonder why they lose?

Latest Sign of Pirate Apathy

On Monday, the Pittsburgh Pirates hired John Russell. Russell’s hiring is irrelevant. As previously stated, the Pirates are abysmal. Their abyss is self-inflicted. Their management is apathetic and stupid. Consistently, they embarrass their city and franchise. The Pirates could improve. Sadly, they do not care.

Reid’s Sons: Sins & Sacrifice

NFL employment is engulfing. Game planning, media availability, player evaluation and management require hours, days, and weeks. They consume months and years. Coaches and executives earn immense salaries. They receive notoriety and recognition. Unfortunately, their sacrifices are intrinsic and unrecoverable.

On Thursday, Britt and Garrett Reid, Philadelphia Eagles Coach Andy Reid’s sons, were sentenced. Britt received twenty-three months incarceration and five years probation. Garrett received twenty-three months incarceration and one year probation. “There isn't any structure there that this court can depend upon,” said Montgomery County Judge Steven O'Neill. “I'm saying this is a family in crisis. It sounds more or less like a drug emporium there, with the drugs all over the house…”

Despite this castigation, Andy Reid remained stoic. “I know this is a big story for everybody and I respect that,” Reid said. “On the other hand, I can't go into questioning on it at this time. However, as parents we have huge concerns for our two boys. This has been a battle we have dealt with here for a few years and I'm sure we'll continue to address the situation. ... Our prayers are obviously with the boys, for their future, and to make sure things work out, where they can live a normal life down the road.”

In February, twenty-three year old Garrett was involved in an automobile accident. Subsequently, the police discovered two handguns, ammunition, white powder, and additional items in his car. Twenty-one year old Britt threatened someone with a gun. Police also seized his vehicle, eight clear baggies with white residue" and a pharmacy bottle with a "green leafy" substance inside.

Cornerback Sheldon Brown supported his coach. “He has done everything he could. He went out, worked his butt off to make sure he made a good life for his family. Through that he showed his kids ... It is up to the kids to learn from it. At the end of the day, each individual makes his own decision and has to be held accountable for his own actions.”

Britt and Garrett were privileged children. They had cash. They had cars. They had indirect celebrity. Andy Reid’s occupation is demanding. One cannot pretend otherwise. However, he should not resign. Andy, Britt, and Garrett Reid are all guilty. With that stated, Andy’s sin was omission. Britt and Garrett’s were destructive.

Bush, Gates Prod Pakistan

President Bush: “President Musharraf has been a strong fighter against extremists and radicals. Our hope now is that he hurry back to elections. All we can do is continue to work with the president as well as others in the Pak government to make it abundantly clear the position of the United States.”

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates: “I think we're looking at all forms of assistance in terms of what requirements there may be in terms of action. We also want to be mindful of the fact that Pakistan continues to be an extremely important ally in the war on terror, so we have an interest in an ongoing security relationship.”

Pakistan in Peril

On Saturday, Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf imposed “emergency measures.” Troops were deployed. Opponents were arrested. The Chief Justice was fired. Phone lines were sliced. The constitution and independent media were suspended. Musharraf’s actions are disturbing. Simply stated, he must relent. He must ease restrictions. He cannot both support and oppose democracy.

Hingis: Champion Incomplete

Truth is subjective. Truth is both biased and prejudiced. Why? Truth is not universal. One may believe truth. One may abhor truth. One may label truth fiction. The difficulty? Only one knows the validity or fabrication of any statement. The person espousing “the truth.”

On June 29, Martina Hingis tested positive for cocaine. On Thursday, she retired. Despite a vehement denial, Hingis surrendered her career. “I am frustrated and angry,” she said. “I believe that I am absolutely, 100 percent innocent. I find this accusation so horrendous, so monstrous, that I have decided to confront it head-on by talking to the press.”

From 1995-2003, Hingis accrued 36 singles and 40 doubles titles. She garnered three Australian Open, one United States Open, and one Wimbledon singles championship. She also scored four Australian Open, two French Open, two Wimbledon, and one United States Open doubles championships. Following a two-year retirement, Hingis’ brilliance vanished. From 2005-2007, she recorded only three titles.

Is Hingis innocent? Is Hingis guilty? One may never know. The aforesaid fits Hingis. This scenario mirrors her career…. Enigmatic and interrupted.

2007 is 2006: OSU & A Conundrum

1. Ohio State (10-0)
2. LSU (8-1)
3. Oregon (8-1)
4. Kansas (9-0)
5. Oklahoma (8-1)
6. Missouri (8-1)
7. West Virginia (7-1)
8. Boston College (8-1)
9. Arizona State (8-1)
10. Georgia (7-2)

Peterson: A Record Pick

On Sunday, Adrian Peterson amassed 30 carries, 296 yards, and 3 touchdowns. Emphatically, Peterson has rebuked his critics. He is not fragile. He is not frail. His injuries were simply freakish. Peterson is an exemplary athlete. For selecting him, the Vikings merit praise. I congratulate them and him.

Line of the Morning

Senator John Edwards (D-NC)

“When I’m the nominee, I’ll have beaten two celebrity candidates, spending nearly $250 million and I’ll be facing a Republican nominee carrying George Bush’s baggage.”

“What Made Him Such A Great Runner Was Probably What Killed Him”

Ryan Shay
(1979-2007)

Gold Medal Pugilists

Demetrius Andrade (Welterweight)

Rau'shee Warren (Flyweight)

Life’s Lines Reject Spencer

Life is subjective. Life involves contemplation, explanation, and interpretation. Within one’s existence, numerous moments occur. Said moments are analyzed. They are reviewed. Ultimately, observers are neither correct nor incorrect. Life occurs within a prism. Life is untouchable from the outside.

On Monday, New York summoned Lauren and Whitney. Lauren aided and met Marc Jacobs. Whitney pitched the Young Hollywood Party. Personally, I thought Whitney bombed. Evidently, Teen Vogue disagreed. Concerning Lauren, she disrespected Jacobs. Obviously, she should not scream. However, she should have stood.

Spencer attempted reconciliation. Unfortunately, Brody did not call. Brody is correct. Spencer cannot apologize. He has acted reprehensibly. Within life, lines exist. Once said lines are crossed, recovery is impossible.

Survivor: Jamie Learns… Always Cheat

Life is momentary. Continuously, one must adjust, alter, modify, revise and tweak. One must embrace the unexpected. One must accept the unanticipated. One must showcase flexibility.

On Thursday, Fei Long and Zhan Hu merged. Subsequently, Jamie investigated James. She discovered the hidden immunity idols. Unfortunately, she did not steal them. Via a 7-3 vote, Jamie was eliminated.