Interesting compilation of seven writing tips from Ernest Hemingway.
I have to wonder if Hemingway would still recommend using a pencil. With laptops and tablets today so convenient - Hemingway might be inclined to abandon the pencil since its main virtue was the ability to make changes.
Friday, March 01, 2013
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Farts
Interesting study on human flatulence. The main take-away is that women's farts are actually smellier than men's farts but because men are generally larger - they produce more volume of gas. Plus I think guys are programmed to "let er rip" more so than women.
The study was from 1998. Since then science has come out with activated charcoal underwear. I guess noise cancelling underwear will be next.
The study was from 1998. Since then science has come out with activated charcoal underwear. I guess noise cancelling underwear will be next.
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Friday, February 15, 2013
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting or amusing and thought I'd share.
- How does one learn to play these instruments? Seriously - I'd sign up for lessons right now.
- This is an amazing story. A story of love, art and the American Dream.
- Heh heh - the Women of LA. Sounds very plausible.
- It's this attention to details and quick one-lines that have always made The Simpsons so great.
- Reasons the Olympics are dropping wrestling.
- How does one learn to play these instruments? Seriously - I'd sign up for lessons right now.
- This is an amazing story. A story of love, art and the American Dream.
- Heh heh - the Women of LA. Sounds very plausible.
- It's this attention to details and quick one-lines that have always made The Simpsons so great.
- Reasons the Olympics are dropping wrestling.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
The Making of Pulp Fiction
Excellent history looking back on the making of Pulp Fiction.
It is strange to think of Quentin Tarintino as a functional illiterate who watched a ton of movies but that's almost how he's painted in this article. There's something engrossing to the story of a movie script so great that everyone who reads it is determined to be a part of it.
Worth the read for any movie fan worth his salt.
It is strange to think of Quentin Tarintino as a functional illiterate who watched a ton of movies but that's almost how he's painted in this article. There's something engrossing to the story of a movie script so great that everyone who reads it is determined to be a part of it.
Worth the read for any movie fan worth his salt.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
Yesterday was John Kruk's birthday - which only served as a reminder how one man turned exactly 100 MLB HR and being a slob into a full-time ESPN gig... The surprising origin of high heels... People making the point that AL West teams feasting off the ineptitude of the Astros will really give them a leg up in the Wild Card race. The AL East may have the best teams but that only means probably only the Division Champ will make the playoffs... Inappropriate ad placements... Brandon Webb just retired. Baseball-reference.com list Tim Lincecum and Cole Hamels as the two most similar pitchers. That should give Giants and Phillies fans something to worry about... Some rules are absolute - yoga pants are for women ONLY!...
Yesterday was John Kruk's birthday - which only served as a reminder how one man turned exactly 100 MLB HR and being a slob into a full-time ESPN gig... The surprising origin of high heels... People making the point that AL West teams feasting off the ineptitude of the Astros will really give them a leg up in the Wild Card race. The AL East may have the best teams but that only means probably only the Division Champ will make the playoffs... Inappropriate ad placements... Brandon Webb just retired. Baseball-reference.com list Tim Lincecum and Cole Hamels as the two most similar pitchers. That should give Giants and Phillies fans something to worry about... Some rules are absolute - yoga pants are for women ONLY!...
Thursday, February 07, 2013
Steroids in Baseball
I've long held the belief that testing for performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) is not enough. Those programs try to weed out the cheaters which is fine but other than losing the service of those cheaters - the teams that sign them don't suffer at all (they don't even have to pay those players during drug suspensions).
What I'd suggest is simple - while a player is suspended the team also loses his active 25-man roster slot. Make the team play shorthanded. Make them feel some pain. Give them another reason to think twice about signing a player they have suspicions about. Imagine having to go into the World Series down a roster slot to your competition?
Of course this would never happen because the teams don't want to feel that pain and the players association doesn't want to lose that roster spot either.
What I'd suggest is simple - while a player is suspended the team also loses his active 25-man roster slot. Make the team play shorthanded. Make them feel some pain. Give them another reason to think twice about signing a player they have suspicions about. Imagine having to go into the World Series down a roster slot to your competition?
Of course this would never happen because the teams don't want to feel that pain and the players association doesn't want to lose that roster spot either.
Tuesday, February 05, 2013
A Modest Proposal
The United States is $16 trillion in debt. That is unsustainable but even worse - that number continues to grow. With the news that is now OK for the President to target Americans abroad via drone attacks - why not use this new approval to help solve the debt problem?
The US government could sell television rights for all drone attacks. That could raise millions upon millions of dollars. The winning network could use the exclusive to bolster prime-time viewing. Breaking in with no notice for 15-minute Death from the Skies specials. Viewers would have to keep tuned in to the network as to not miss any live gruesome details.
If the money from the broadcast rights was not enough then the government could run quarterly "auctions" where people could bid on the target of their choice. The winning bid and target would be secret until the mission was complete. The government would have 90-days to complete the hit or have to return half the money. The name of the target would then be made public so they might have incentive to win the next auction (driving up the price and driving down the debt!).
This could also drive all sorts of accompanying business. For instance the folks from Code Pink could rent themselves out as human shields like they did for Saddam Hussein before the first Iraq War.
This idea has potential.
The US government could sell television rights for all drone attacks. That could raise millions upon millions of dollars. The winning network could use the exclusive to bolster prime-time viewing. Breaking in with no notice for 15-minute Death from the Skies specials. Viewers would have to keep tuned in to the network as to not miss any live gruesome details.
If the money from the broadcast rights was not enough then the government could run quarterly "auctions" where people could bid on the target of their choice. The winning bid and target would be secret until the mission was complete. The government would have 90-days to complete the hit or have to return half the money. The name of the target would then be made public so they might have incentive to win the next auction (driving up the price and driving down the debt!).
This could also drive all sorts of accompanying business. For instance the folks from Code Pink could rent themselves out as human shields like they did for Saddam Hussein before the first Iraq War.
This idea has potential.
Sunday, February 03, 2013
Budweiser Upside-down Clown
My favorite Super Bowl commercial of all-time. It only ran once because it was so disturbing (and funny).
My numbers today are Baltimore 2 and San Fran 5 - which is my way of saying I have no chance to win my pool.
Saturday, February 02, 2013
Dolph Lundgren - Awesome
Dolph Lundgren is awesome in this video. Such a talented guy.
Seriously. Dolph Lundgren - talented guy.
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
Is it bad that when I heard of the passing of Ed Koch my first thought was that Abe Vigoda had outlived another one... The Geico commercial with the pretty girl interested in going parking with the baby pig is perhaps the most disturbing thing on TV. But as a silver lining at least she wasn't parking with the Geico caveman... Wow - NYC Mayor Ed Koch put Daniel Pearl's last words on his gravestone... Loved the premiere episode of The Americans but I kept confusing Matthew Rhys with James McAvoy who played Charles Xavier in X-Men: First Class... This was one of the funniest moments from 30 Rock... The Red Sox picking Ryan Kalish over Josh Reddick isn't exactly like picking Tim Naehring over Jeff Bagwell but it isn't good either... Stop it evolution - you're embarrassing yourself...
Is it bad that when I heard of the passing of Ed Koch my first thought was that Abe Vigoda had outlived another one... The Geico commercial with the pretty girl interested in going parking with the baby pig is perhaps the most disturbing thing on TV. But as a silver lining at least she wasn't parking with the Geico caveman... Wow - NYC Mayor Ed Koch put Daniel Pearl's last words on his gravestone... Loved the premiere episode of The Americans but I kept confusing Matthew Rhys with James McAvoy who played Charles Xavier in X-Men: First Class... This was one of the funniest moments from 30 Rock... The Red Sox picking Ryan Kalish over Josh Reddick isn't exactly like picking Tim Naehring over Jeff Bagwell but it isn't good either... Stop it evolution - you're embarrassing yourself...
Baseball's Groundhog Month
Today may be Groundhog Day but February is Groundhog month as far as baseball is concerned.
Starting around this time of year you can count on 6 weeks of stories concerning Scott Boras talking about mystery teams interested in in remaining free agent clients. So start getting used to stories about Michael Bourn, Kyle Lohse and Rafael Soriano having interest from un-named teams. Also get used to stories about 10-year MLB veterans talking about coming to camp in the best shape of their lives.
Every single year.
Groundhog month all over again.
Starting around this time of year you can count on 6 weeks of stories concerning Scott Boras talking about mystery teams interested in in remaining free agent clients. So start getting used to stories about Michael Bourn, Kyle Lohse and Rafael Soriano having interest from un-named teams. Also get used to stories about 10-year MLB veterans talking about coming to camp in the best shape of their lives.
Every single year.
Groundhog month all over again.
Friday, February 01, 2013
Red Sox Managers as James Bond Actors
I was thinking the other day that if Terry Francona was a James Bond actor he'd be Sean Connery. He's the bar for which all subsequent Boston managers will be measured. Red Sox fans are waiting to see if John Farrell can handle the role as Boston manager as well as a Roger Moore or a Pierce Brosnan or a Daniel Craig handled the Bond role. Everyone hopes he's not going to be a Timothy Dalton (though to be fair to Dalton - I've liked him in everything he's done except Bond movies).
Of course there's no question that Bobby Valentine was the George Lazenby of Red Sox managers. A one year mistake that is best left forgotten.
Of course there's no question that Bobby Valentine was the George Lazenby of Red Sox managers. A one year mistake that is best left forgotten.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting or amusing.
- Wow - Boston at night under a cover of fog from space.
- Cool words - 7 common words and their much lesser known relatives
- Big Hemingway fan - very interesting that the six word story tale about Hemingway turns out to be made up
- Best science books of 2012
- Pee Wee Herman biking skin-suit - I would so wear this to the movie theater
- Never thought about this because I just assumed it would be too dangerous - how long could you safely swim in a spent nuclear fuel pool?
- The Periodic Table of Twitter
- Another reason not to outlaw guns
- Wow - Boston at night under a cover of fog from space.
- Cool words - 7 common words and their much lesser known relatives
- Big Hemingway fan - very interesting that the six word story tale about Hemingway turns out to be made up
- Best science books of 2012
- Pee Wee Herman biking skin-suit - I would so wear this to the movie theater
- Never thought about this because I just assumed it would be too dangerous - how long could you safely swim in a spent nuclear fuel pool?
- The Periodic Table of Twitter
- Another reason not to outlaw guns
Monday, January 28, 2013
Friday, January 25, 2013
Then and Now
The world really has changed and sometimes its not for the better. That is the thought that has been stuck with me for about a week now. To illustrate why - let's take a look at a player comparison:
Player A - .331 BA / .417 OBP / .559 SLG / .976 OPS / 159 OPS+
Player B - .312 BA / .411 OBP / .585 SLG / .996 OPS / 154 OPS+
Both players seem pretty similar - right? How about the other numbers?
Player A - 3026 G / 3630 H / 1949 R / 475 HR / 1951 RBI
Player B - 2302 G / 2574 H / 1544 R / 555 HR / 1831 RBI
Player B was able to amass more HR and almost the same RBI production despite player more than 700 fewer games than Player A. I think that fact tells you very much about the days each player spent their careers. Very telling.
Player A is Stan "the Man" Musial who recently passed away. Player B is Manny Ramirez. I almost feel dirty for making this player comparison because as players Musial was on a very different plain than Manny. And as persons - the two weren't even in the same universe.
The comparison just stuck in my mind. And it made me sad for how some changes are not for the better.
Player A - .331 BA / .417 OBP / .559 SLG / .976 OPS / 159 OPS+
Player B - .312 BA / .411 OBP / .585 SLG / .996 OPS / 154 OPS+
Both players seem pretty similar - right? How about the other numbers?
Player A - 3026 G / 3630 H / 1949 R / 475 HR / 1951 RBI
Player B - 2302 G / 2574 H / 1544 R / 555 HR / 1831 RBI
Player B was able to amass more HR and almost the same RBI production despite player more than 700 fewer games than Player A. I think that fact tells you very much about the days each player spent their careers. Very telling.
Player A is Stan "the Man" Musial who recently passed away. Player B is Manny Ramirez. I almost feel dirty for making this player comparison because as players Musial was on a very different plain than Manny. And as persons - the two weren't even in the same universe.
The comparison just stuck in my mind. And it made me sad for how some changes are not for the better.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Def Leppard - Rocket
You don't hear this song much anymore. I always wondered if they made this song with strippers in mind.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
When Tom Brady is all done - his number of playoffs wins will be untouchable like Joe DiMaggio's 56-game hit streak. Untouchable... This is funny because its true!... The Big Bang Theory should do "very special" episodes but instead of tackling social issues they should tackle science topics like the Higgs Boson... This man was a true bad ass... Stunt Custard would be a good name for a band... This store called - they are all out of Lance Armstrong... A factor that shouldn't be overlooked in today's Patriots game is the wind at Foxboro. The wind has been pretty strong these past few days and it could effect long passes and the kicking game. The wind should give the Patriots an additional advantage today... Holy crap - there are whales alive today that were born before Moby Dick was written. I also take the fact that there are no white bowhead whales alive as proof that the end of Moby Dick was a murder-suicide....
When Tom Brady is all done - his number of playoffs wins will be untouchable like Joe DiMaggio's 56-game hit streak. Untouchable... This is funny because its true!... The Big Bang Theory should do "very special" episodes but instead of tackling social issues they should tackle science topics like the Higgs Boson... This man was a true bad ass... Stunt Custard would be a good name for a band... This store called - they are all out of Lance Armstrong... A factor that shouldn't be overlooked in today's Patriots game is the wind at Foxboro. The wind has been pretty strong these past few days and it could effect long passes and the kicking game. The wind should give the Patriots an additional advantage today... Holy crap - there are whales alive today that were born before Moby Dick was written. I also take the fact that there are no white bowhead whales alive as proof that the end of Moby Dick was a murder-suicide....
Friday, January 18, 2013
Playing the Middle
One of my favorite sports bets is called playing the middle. And this Sunday's Patriots / Ravens game seems like a perfect time to do it. Here's how it works - playing the middle is actually 4 bets - in this case you would take:
Tease Patriots -8.5 with the over 51
Tease Patriots -8.5 with the under 51
Tease Ravens +8.5 with the over 51
Tease Ravens +8.5 with the under 51
A tease gives you six points so the Patriots would only have to win by 2.5 (less than a field goal), the over would become 45, the under would become 57 and the Ravens would be getting 14.5 points (more than 2 touchdowns). You are guaranteed to win at least one of the 4 bets so if you bet $100 on each bet the most you could lose is $200 but with the middle there's a very good chance you win all 4 bets and pocket $400.
So let it be written - so let it be done.
Tease Patriots -8.5 with the over 51
Tease Patriots -8.5 with the under 51
Tease Ravens +8.5 with the over 51
Tease Ravens +8.5 with the under 51
A tease gives you six points so the Patriots would only have to win by 2.5 (less than a field goal), the over would become 45, the under would become 57 and the Ravens would be getting 14.5 points (more than 2 touchdowns). You are guaranteed to win at least one of the 4 bets so if you bet $100 on each bet the most you could lose is $200 but with the middle there's a very good chance you win all 4 bets and pocket $400.
So let it be written - so let it be done.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Two Things I Do Not Care About
I really don't care about Lance Armstrong and his baring of his soul to Oprah looking for redemption. I also really don't care about Manti Te'o and his imaginary girlfriend.
What Armstrong did in the Tour de France - drugs or no drugs - was incredible. But really who cares about the Tour de France? Does anyone think that Armstrong was the only cheater in those races? From most accounts it seems like Armstrong is a real jerkface in real life so why would I want to get emotionally involved with his story? The only thing I'm slightly curious about is whether he was taking steroids prior to his cancer diagnosis and if his taking steroids may have caused his cancer in the first place.
As far as Manti Te'o - caring about the girlfriends of college kids isn't borderline creepy - its creepy. So we are starting off at creepy - and we are getting worse from there. Either the kid was trusting and was completely duped or he has emotional issues and was involved in the hoax. Either way it doesn't end well. And if this story really doesn't end well - how good are you going to feel about yourself for laughing at all those Manti Te'o jokes? I already feel guilty for participating.
Because I don't care about these stories I will be avoiding sport talk radio for the next few days. Sunday and the Patriots victory over the Ravens can't come soon enough for me.
What Armstrong did in the Tour de France - drugs or no drugs - was incredible. But really who cares about the Tour de France? Does anyone think that Armstrong was the only cheater in those races? From most accounts it seems like Armstrong is a real jerkface in real life so why would I want to get emotionally involved with his story? The only thing I'm slightly curious about is whether he was taking steroids prior to his cancer diagnosis and if his taking steroids may have caused his cancer in the first place.
As far as Manti Te'o - caring about the girlfriends of college kids isn't borderline creepy - its creepy. So we are starting off at creepy - and we are getting worse from there. Either the kid was trusting and was completely duped or he has emotional issues and was involved in the hoax. Either way it doesn't end well. And if this story really doesn't end well - how good are you going to feel about yourself for laughing at all those Manti Te'o jokes? I already feel guilty for participating.
Because I don't care about these stories I will be avoiding sport talk radio for the next few days. Sunday and the Patriots victory over the Ravens can't come soon enough for me.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Patriots Office
Fascinating look at how the New England Patriots offensive scheme evolved and works.
Article can get pretty technical at times. I wish more articles did that.
Article can get pretty technical at times. I wish more articles did that.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
Here's a question that has bothered me these past few days - if Superman grew a beard would there be a razor blade on Earth that would be strong enough to shave his beard? If no - why is it Superman always appears clean shaven?... Very cool photo of an arctic forest in Finland... Part of me wants to Yankees to sign former San Fran closer Brian Wilson just so Wilson would have to shave his freaking beard.... Also very cool - DC Justice League superhero currency... Tom Brady broke Joe Montana's record for playoff wins on Sunday but you don't hear anyone talking about it. Low key - successful. I have no doubt in my mind that if Brady was the QB of the Broncos on Saturday that Denver would have rolled over Baltimore. Does anyone disagree with that?... Dan Le Bartard's piece on Jason Taylor should be must reading for any NFL fan...
Here's a question that has bothered me these past few days - if Superman grew a beard would there be a razor blade on Earth that would be strong enough to shave his beard? If no - why is it Superman always appears clean shaven?... Very cool photo of an arctic forest in Finland... Part of me wants to Yankees to sign former San Fran closer Brian Wilson just so Wilson would have to shave his freaking beard.... Also very cool - DC Justice League superhero currency... Tom Brady broke Joe Montana's record for playoff wins on Sunday but you don't hear anyone talking about it. Low key - successful. I have no doubt in my mind that if Brady was the QB of the Broncos on Saturday that Denver would have rolled over Baltimore. Does anyone disagree with that?... Dan Le Bartard's piece on Jason Taylor should be must reading for any NFL fan...
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Mike Napoli
I hope the Red Sox finally sign Mike Napoli. My guess is that the two sides settle on a two-year deal with a vesting third year plus language that protects the Red Sox in case the hip injury puts Napoli on the 60-day DL during the first two-years.
Having said that - I do wonder about how well Napoli's physical condition is known in baseball. The conspiracy theorist in me wonders if Napoli's hip had as much to him getting traded by the Angels as his conflict with manager Mike Scioscia? Did Toronto do a quick turn-around on Napoli and trade him to the Rangers because they finally got their hands on his full physicals? Did the Rangers not give Napoli a qualifying offer because they didn't think his hip would last the season? The longer this drags out the stranger it becomes.
Having said that - I do wonder about how well Napoli's physical condition is known in baseball. The conspiracy theorist in me wonders if Napoli's hip had as much to him getting traded by the Angels as his conflict with manager Mike Scioscia? Did Toronto do a quick turn-around on Napoli and trade him to the Rangers because they finally got their hands on his full physicals? Did the Rangers not give Napoli a qualifying offer because they didn't think his hip would last the season? The longer this drags out the stranger it becomes.
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
Not sure about you but I'll never be able to eat Honey Nut Cheerios again without thinking dirty thoughts because of Kevin Garnett's comments to Carmelo Anthony... Staff Sergeant Clint Romesha - hero... The power of over the top video - more people have watched Mad Men on Netflix than on AMC. Think about that for a minute... I will buy Donald Rumsfeld's new book. Absolutely!... To be fair - most men can't do anything without thinking dirty thoughts. As Larry Miller said, "if women knew what men were really thinking - they would never stop slapping us"... Ha ha - this is great (though to be fair not original)... Brock Holt (I know - who the heck is Brock Holt) will wear number 26 for the Red Sox. Last year Scott Podsenik wore Wade Boggs old number for the Sox. Anyone who thinks Boston will retire that number hasn't been paying attention... Has anyone looked into how zombies affect Estate Planning? Would you be able to avoid Death Taxes if you just declared the passed loved one to be a zombie? ...
Not sure about you but I'll never be able to eat Honey Nut Cheerios again without thinking dirty thoughts because of Kevin Garnett's comments to Carmelo Anthony... Staff Sergeant Clint Romesha - hero... The power of over the top video - more people have watched Mad Men on Netflix than on AMC. Think about that for a minute... I will buy Donald Rumsfeld's new book. Absolutely!... To be fair - most men can't do anything without thinking dirty thoughts. As Larry Miller said, "if women knew what men were really thinking - they would never stop slapping us"... Ha ha - this is great (though to be fair not original)... Brock Holt (I know - who the heck is Brock Holt) will wear number 26 for the Red Sox. Last year Scott Podsenik wore Wade Boggs old number for the Sox. Anyone who thinks Boston will retire that number hasn't been paying attention... Has anyone looked into how zombies affect Estate Planning? Would you be able to avoid Death Taxes if you just declared the passed loved one to be a zombie? ...
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Interesting Viewpoint on The Hobbit
Very interesting look at The Hobbit. Must reading for any JRR Tolkien geeks.
The idea that Gandalf was interested in the quest of the dwarfs mainly to rid Middle Earth of Smaug before the coming war with Sauron is interesting. Wonder if Tolkien even thought of that aspect?
The idea that Gandalf was interested in the quest of the dwarfs mainly to rid Middle Earth of Smaug before the coming war with Sauron is interesting. Wonder if Tolkien even thought of that aspect?
Tuesday, January 08, 2013
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting and thought I'd share.
- Very cool - having to pound the bottom of a bottle of ketchup or stick a knife in it may be thing of the past. MIT - tackling the really important matters in life!
- Just how small is an atom? Fascinating stuff!
- What people fear vs what they really should be afraid of.
- This is absolutely awesome! The attention spotlight and the art of picking pockets. You could watch this in super slow-motion and still be tricked by this guy.
- I guess the name Guinness is verbotten on The Travel Channel. I watched this last night and thought how stupid it was.
- Very cool - having to pound the bottom of a bottle of ketchup or stick a knife in it may be thing of the past. MIT - tackling the really important matters in life!
- Just how small is an atom? Fascinating stuff!
- What people fear vs what they really should be afraid of.
- This is absolutely awesome! The attention spotlight and the art of picking pockets. You could watch this in super slow-motion and still be tricked by this guy.
- I guess the name Guinness is verbotten on The Travel Channel. I watched this last night and thought how stupid it was.
Monday, January 07, 2013
Jack Morris vs Dave Stieb Hall of Fame Debate
Very interesting argument that Dave Stieb and not Jack Morris was the "best pitcher of the 80's." The argument that Jack Morris was the best pitcher of his era is what most of his apologists fall back on when Morris' pedestrian numbers are exposed.
I also agree that neither pitcher deserves enshrinement.
I will also add that Luis Tiant belongs in the Hall way before Jack Morris. Tiant had a 3.30 ERA to Morris' 3.90 and a 114 ERA+ to Morris' 105.
I also agree that neither pitcher deserves enshrinement.
I will also add that Luis Tiant belongs in the Hall way before Jack Morris. Tiant had a 3.30 ERA to Morris' 3.90 and a 114 ERA+ to Morris' 105.
Josh McDaniels
There were 7 open NFL head coaching positions when Josh McDaniels announced that he would not be available to interview for any of them. Some people in Boston took that as evidence that McDaniels is somehow going to replace Bill Belichick as the next coach of the New England Patriots. After thinking about it - I think the answer is just a whole lot simpler than that.
Josh McDaniels is just happy where he is.
McDaniels gets to coach one of the top 3 QB's in NFL history. He gets to learn from one of the top 3 coaches in NFL history. And the guy who signs his paychecks just may be the best owner in all of professional sports - Robert Kraft. Throw in the fact that McDaniels is probably very well paid by the Patriots and that the team is perennial Super Bowl contenders - why would McDaniels want to change from that?
Also consider that if McDaniels did interview and get an NFL job - no matter what job it was at least 50% of the fan base would say they wanted someone different. Then you'd have the Tim Tebow speculation. There would be a deluge of "should or will McDaniels trade for Tebow" talk. Finally - McDaniels is not in a position to demand a long-term deal or demand years of runway space to get "his" program going. In New England he can stay as long as he wants.
Why would Josh McDaniels interview for any of those open NFL teams?
Josh McDaniels is just happy where he is.
McDaniels gets to coach one of the top 3 QB's in NFL history. He gets to learn from one of the top 3 coaches in NFL history. And the guy who signs his paychecks just may be the best owner in all of professional sports - Robert Kraft. Throw in the fact that McDaniels is probably very well paid by the Patriots and that the team is perennial Super Bowl contenders - why would McDaniels want to change from that?
Also consider that if McDaniels did interview and get an NFL job - no matter what job it was at least 50% of the fan base would say they wanted someone different. Then you'd have the Tim Tebow speculation. There would be a deluge of "should or will McDaniels trade for Tebow" talk. Finally - McDaniels is not in a position to demand a long-term deal or demand years of runway space to get "his" program going. In New England he can stay as long as he wants.
Why would Josh McDaniels interview for any of those open NFL teams?
Friday, January 04, 2013
Notre Dame vs Alabama
Pat Forde has a very interesting look at the historical rivalry between Notre Dame and Alabama. Good stuff.
I did not know that Bear Bryant was 0-4 against the Fighting Irish. That must really stick in the craw of many Tide fans. I also give Forde credit for mentioning "Catholics vs Cousins" but in addition he should have mentioned the even funnier "Golden Domers vs Mobile Homers" T-shirts.
I did not know that Bear Bryant was 0-4 against the Fighting Irish. That must really stick in the craw of many Tide fans. I also give Forde credit for mentioning "Catholics vs Cousins" but in addition he should have mentioned the even funnier "Golden Domers vs Mobile Homers" T-shirts.
Thursday, January 03, 2013
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting or amusing and thought I'd share.
- Very interesting look at the Spanish Influenza of 1918. I'm always amazed that something that was as devastating as the two world wars combined is so little remembered - and it is scary to know that science doesn't know why or how it happened.
- Fireworks are more interesting backwards.
- Heh heh - Merry Christmas to you too
- Dennis and Callahan have outlived their usefulness. Would not be surprised to see them replaced by Mike and Mike.
- A beautiful girl and a hula hoop - freaking awesome!
- Very interesting look at the Spanish Influenza of 1918. I'm always amazed that something that was as devastating as the two world wars combined is so little remembered - and it is scary to know that science doesn't know why or how it happened.
- Fireworks are more interesting backwards.
- Heh heh - Merry Christmas to you too
- Dennis and Callahan have outlived their usefulness. Would not be surprised to see them replaced by Mike and Mike.
- A beautiful girl and a hula hoop - freaking awesome!
Wednesday, January 02, 2013
New Year's Resolutions
I don't look at these as "resolutions" so much as addressing some of my "life leaks". People tend to keep their New Year's resolutions until they break them while fixing life leaks are items you know need improvement and you also know that every once and a while you will fall back to bad habits. (The term "leaks" is a poker terms and refers to flaws in your play or money management.)
1. No more Keno. I play Keno just as entertainment but I know it is a waste of money and I sick of losing that money to a state that squanders it.
2. No more drinking while by myself. And before you start thinking - wow I didn't know Chris was an alcoholic - what I'm referring to in specific is two situations I often find myself in. A: my gym (Worcester Fitness) has a very good bar and often after a workout I will stop in for a beer or two (and maybe 10 games of Keno). No reason for me not to switch to water or diet Coke in those situations. B: often I will go out for lunch or dinner by myself and order or a beer or two (or three or four). Also a situation where a switch to water or diet Coke would be easy. Do want to note that my love of beer is not diminished. I just want to drop a few pounds and this change should help.
3. Like Big Stupid Tommy - a book a week is also on my list. I will take it one step further and try to also do a review of that book here in this space as extra internal incentive to actually get it done.
1. No more Keno. I play Keno just as entertainment but I know it is a waste of money and I sick of losing that money to a state that squanders it.
2. No more drinking while by myself. And before you start thinking - wow I didn't know Chris was an alcoholic - what I'm referring to in specific is two situations I often find myself in. A: my gym (Worcester Fitness) has a very good bar and often after a workout I will stop in for a beer or two (and maybe 10 games of Keno). No reason for me not to switch to water or diet Coke in those situations. B: often I will go out for lunch or dinner by myself and order or a beer or two (or three or four). Also a situation where a switch to water or diet Coke would be easy. Do want to note that my love of beer is not diminished. I just want to drop a few pounds and this change should help.
3. Like Big Stupid Tommy - a book a week is also on my list. I will take it one step further and try to also do a review of that book here in this space as extra internal incentive to actually get it done.
Tuesday, January 01, 2013
New Year's Day Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations on New Year's Day.
I have to wonder who has the more reliable medical reports at this point - Hugo Chavez or Hillary Clinton?... Too Big to Fail would have been a great name for a biography of Andre the Giant.. I agree with Chad Finn that Josh McDaniels refusing to interview for any of the open NFL head-coaching jobs probably indicates that he thinks he may Bill Belichick's eventual successor in Foxboro. I'm completely comfortable with that idea (though I hope its years away)... Tim Tebow would have been so much better off if he had just taken 2012 off from the NFL and instead did missionary work in the Philippines... If the day after Christmas can be called Boxing Day - why can't the day after New Year's Eve be called Hangover Day?... Anchorman II should be called Tits McGee - The Reckoning...
I have to wonder who has the more reliable medical reports at this point - Hugo Chavez or Hillary Clinton?... Too Big to Fail would have been a great name for a biography of Andre the Giant.. I agree with Chad Finn that Josh McDaniels refusing to interview for any of the open NFL head-coaching jobs probably indicates that he thinks he may Bill Belichick's eventual successor in Foxboro. I'm completely comfortable with that idea (though I hope its years away)... Tim Tebow would have been so much better off if he had just taken 2012 off from the NFL and instead did missionary work in the Philippines... If the day after Christmas can be called Boxing Day - why can't the day after New Year's Eve be called Hangover Day?... Anchorman II should be called Tits McGee - The Reckoning...
Sunday, December 30, 2012
The Wilton North Report
The Wilton North Report was a show that I had never heard of by am now fascinated by due to this terrific first person history of the failed late-night show.
I also never knew that Conan O'Brien and Greg Daniels (King of the Hill, The Office, Parks and Recreation) started off as writing partners.
Very fun read - worth your time.
I also never knew that Conan O'Brien and Greg Daniels (King of the Hill, The Office, Parks and Recreation) started off as writing partners.
Very fun read - worth your time.
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Rain in the Summertime - The Alarm
This is a song you don't hear much anymore. Whatever happened to The Alarm?
Friday, December 28, 2012
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
Jacoby Ellsbury was taken in the same draft and round as the Nationals Ryan Zimmerman but while Zimmerman will be the face of the Nationals for years to come - Ellsbury will most likely leave Boston after this season as a free agent... 10 secrets of flight attendants... Not a fan of snuff films but I would pay money to see Giants coach Tom Coughlin beat the Geico caveman to death with a bat... Let us not forget that Saddam Hussein was a New York Yankees fan... Charles During really was something special... How come none of the Boston sportswriters can get me an update on the status of Tom Brady's playoff beard?... This is what I really wanted for Christmas but once again did not get... There is a fish that survives dangers by hiding in the anus of a sea cucumber. The fish is called the Pearl Fish but I like to think of it as the Jimmy Carter Fish... This is pretty amusing... If I had a business - I'd add a small charge to each invoice for "opaque retraction". Who would complain? Those small charges would add up... Best pole dance move ever!... Ball peen hammer sounds like it should be some sort of sex act. Is the word "peen" ever used in any other context?... With this cast - how could this movie not be great?... Nice math trick - if you divide 1 by 998,001 you get all three digit numbers from 000 to 999 in order... Funny or creepy? I saw a lawn care company truck that had a bumper sticker that said "Time to Trim Your Bush"...
Jacoby Ellsbury was taken in the same draft and round as the Nationals Ryan Zimmerman but while Zimmerman will be the face of the Nationals for years to come - Ellsbury will most likely leave Boston after this season as a free agent... 10 secrets of flight attendants... Not a fan of snuff films but I would pay money to see Giants coach Tom Coughlin beat the Geico caveman to death with a bat... Let us not forget that Saddam Hussein was a New York Yankees fan... Charles During really was something special... How come none of the Boston sportswriters can get me an update on the status of Tom Brady's playoff beard?... This is what I really wanted for Christmas but once again did not get... There is a fish that survives dangers by hiding in the anus of a sea cucumber. The fish is called the Pearl Fish but I like to think of it as the Jimmy Carter Fish... This is pretty amusing... If I had a business - I'd add a small charge to each invoice for "opaque retraction". Who would complain? Those small charges would add up... Best pole dance move ever!... Ball peen hammer sounds like it should be some sort of sex act. Is the word "peen" ever used in any other context?... With this cast - how could this movie not be great?... Nice math trick - if you divide 1 by 998,001 you get all three digit numbers from 000 to 999 in order... Funny or creepy? I saw a lawn care company truck that had a bumper sticker that said "Time to Trim Your Bush"...
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Movie Characters Doing Lionel Richie's Hello
Hello from Matthijs_Vlot on Vimeo.
Movie characters doing Lionel Richie's Hello was one of the best things of 2012.
Movie characters doing Lionel Richie's Hello was one of the best things of 2012.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Top 5 - Otters in US History
Here are what I consider to be the Top 5 Otters in US history. List in reverse order of significance:
5. Obadiah Otter - he was a curious otter who happened upon the Donner Party in 1846. These were the first humans Obadiah ever encountered and as it worked out also the last. He is historically significant because he kept the Donner Party from resorting to cannibalism (for an additional 36 hours).
4. Jeremiah Otter - his wife and adopted son were killed by a Crow Indian raiding party. He spent the rest of his life tracking down Crow Indians and ripping out their necks while they slept. He became a Rockie Mountain legend and some say a myth. Some even say he's up in those mountains still.
3. Sergeant York Otter - while it was widely reported that the Navy experimented with strapping bombs to dolphins it is lesser known that the Army had a similar project utilizing otters. Sergeant York Otter was named after the WWI hero and died during a training accident.
2. Sacagawea Otter - the only female otter on the list. She was the mascot of the Lewis and Clark expedition party until she was killed by Meriwether Lewis and her pelt was exchanged for some corn meal.
1. Bedford Otter - this otter is significant because as a youth he used to live in a pond in Bedford Falls and one winter when he was young he was poking around under the ice to the point where he caused a few cracks. These cracks broke when a young Harry Bailey was sledding onto the ice. In one timeline Harry's older brother George was able to save Harry but in another timeline George wasn't around to save Harry. In a third less publicized timeline - Bedford Otter didn't nose around under the ice and Harry never fell into the icy waters. In that timeline George Bailey was a whole lot less necessary to the happiness of Bedford Falls.
5. Obadiah Otter - he was a curious otter who happened upon the Donner Party in 1846. These were the first humans Obadiah ever encountered and as it worked out also the last. He is historically significant because he kept the Donner Party from resorting to cannibalism (for an additional 36 hours).
4. Jeremiah Otter - his wife and adopted son were killed by a Crow Indian raiding party. He spent the rest of his life tracking down Crow Indians and ripping out their necks while they slept. He became a Rockie Mountain legend and some say a myth. Some even say he's up in those mountains still.
3. Sergeant York Otter - while it was widely reported that the Navy experimented with strapping bombs to dolphins it is lesser known that the Army had a similar project utilizing otters. Sergeant York Otter was named after the WWI hero and died during a training accident.
2. Sacagawea Otter - the only female otter on the list. She was the mascot of the Lewis and Clark expedition party until she was killed by Meriwether Lewis and her pelt was exchanged for some corn meal.
1. Bedford Otter - this otter is significant because as a youth he used to live in a pond in Bedford Falls and one winter when he was young he was poking around under the ice to the point where he caused a few cracks. These cracks broke when a young Harry Bailey was sledding onto the ice. In one timeline Harry's older brother George was able to save Harry but in another timeline George wasn't around to save Harry. In a third less publicized timeline - Bedford Otter didn't nose around under the ice and Harry never fell into the icy waters. In that timeline George Bailey was a whole lot less necessary to the happiness of Bedford Falls.
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Merry Christmas
Detailed View of the Sistine Chapel
Very detailed virtual tour of the Sistine Chapel.
Pretty inspiring way to spend part of your Christmas Day.
Pretty inspiring way to spend part of your Christmas Day.
Monday, December 24, 2012
Causes of Death in America
Interesting chart detailing the causes of death in America since 1970.
My main takeaway from the chart is the fact that all causes of death seem to be trending downward except suicide. So does that mean that if you expanded the chart into the future that eventually all causes of death will reach zero and the only way to die will be to kill yourself?
Only in America!
My main takeaway from the chart is the fact that all causes of death seem to be trending downward except suicide. So does that mean that if you expanded the chart into the future that eventually all causes of death will reach zero and the only way to die will be to kill yourself?
Only in America!
The Christmas Truce
Very interesting bit of history. Be sure to watch till the end for the reminder that war is hell.
HT Mental Floss
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting and thought I'd share.
- In defense of Red Sox mediocre off-season moves.
- This could be a better combination than chocolate and peanut butter. Timothy Olyphant to guest star on Archer.
- Holy crap! Exploding killer lakes! A lake "exploded" in 1986 and killed 1,700 and I never heard about it till now.
- I wish this honest man Godspeed!
- 11 ways to save money in 2013
- In defense of Red Sox mediocre off-season moves.
- This could be a better combination than chocolate and peanut butter. Timothy Olyphant to guest star on Archer.
- Holy crap! Exploding killer lakes! A lake "exploded" in 1986 and killed 1,700 and I never heard about it till now.
- I wish this honest man Godspeed!
- 11 ways to save money in 2013
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Top 5 - Sunday Morning Baseball Questions
Here are my Top 5 baseball questions I'm asking myself this Sunday morning (in reverse order of importance).
5. How come the Red Sox didn't make a qualifying offer to Cody Ross? Boston strategy this off-season has been to over-pay but go for shorter terms. You can't get much shorter term than a one-year qualifying offer. They would have had to pay him $13 million for that season but if they are willing to pay that to Mike Napoli and Shane Victorino for longer contracts wouldn't a one-year deal offer make sense to Ross? Did the Red Sox cost themselves either a power bat at Fenway or a draft pick here?
4. Even more puzzling is why the Nationals didn't offer Edwin Jackson a qualifying offer?
3. The Indians signed Nick Swisher to a 4-year $56 million contract. The signing will cost Cleveland a draft pick which makes me wonder if the Tribe would have been better off using the money they spent on Swisher to have instead kept Shin-Soo Choo? I know that Choo's agent is Scott Boras which means he probably would have gone to free-agency instead but it doesn't stop me from wondering.
2. Why did the Red Sox sign Shane Victorino to such a big contract? I'll be scratching my head over that for some time to come.
1. Why did Ryan Freel kill himself? Let me echo Roco Baldelli - "Lets pay better attention to the ones we love."
5. How come the Red Sox didn't make a qualifying offer to Cody Ross? Boston strategy this off-season has been to over-pay but go for shorter terms. You can't get much shorter term than a one-year qualifying offer. They would have had to pay him $13 million for that season but if they are willing to pay that to Mike Napoli and Shane Victorino for longer contracts wouldn't a one-year deal offer make sense to Ross? Did the Red Sox cost themselves either a power bat at Fenway or a draft pick here?
4. Even more puzzling is why the Nationals didn't offer Edwin Jackson a qualifying offer?
3. The Indians signed Nick Swisher to a 4-year $56 million contract. The signing will cost Cleveland a draft pick which makes me wonder if the Tribe would have been better off using the money they spent on Swisher to have instead kept Shin-Soo Choo? I know that Choo's agent is Scott Boras which means he probably would have gone to free-agency instead but it doesn't stop me from wondering.
2. Why did the Red Sox sign Shane Victorino to such a big contract? I'll be scratching my head over that for some time to come.
1. Why did Ryan Freel kill himself? Let me echo Roco Baldelli - "Lets pay better attention to the ones we love."
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Friday, December 21, 2012
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
What if the Mayan Apocalypse was actually The Rapture and we are all still here because we are bad people? Have any really holy people gone missing in the last 24 hours?... Very cool - a knuckleball in slow motion... I saw a bus with "Do Not Pass on Right" written on the bumper. Is that a law? Or can I put that on my bumper too?... Speaking of very cool - on this day in 1970... There should be a Cracker Barrel prevention hotline that gives people options of much better restaurants in the area... Thanks Obama! The Feds shut down a $200,000 NFL survivor pool. I'd be pretty pissed if I was in that pool... Michael Buble singing Santa Baby is beyond creepy... Baseball-Reference.com lists Jacoby Ellsbury's nickname as "Tacoby Bellsbury". That has to be some sort of inside joke for the Baseball-Reference.com staff... Jimmie Kimmel's year in unnecessary censorship...
What if the Mayan Apocalypse was actually The Rapture and we are all still here because we are bad people? Have any really holy people gone missing in the last 24 hours?... Very cool - a knuckleball in slow motion... I saw a bus with "Do Not Pass on Right" written on the bumper. Is that a law? Or can I put that on my bumper too?... Speaking of very cool - on this day in 1970... There should be a Cracker Barrel prevention hotline that gives people options of much better restaurants in the area... Thanks Obama! The Feds shut down a $200,000 NFL survivor pool. I'd be pretty pissed if I was in that pool... Michael Buble singing Santa Baby is beyond creepy... Baseball-Reference.com lists Jacoby Ellsbury's nickname as "Tacoby Bellsbury". That has to be some sort of inside joke for the Baseball-Reference.com staff... Jimmie Kimmel's year in unnecessary censorship...
Thursday, December 20, 2012
State of the Red Sox
This blog will from time to time give to his readers information on the state of the Red Sox. Today is one of those times.
I've been trying to make sense out of the moves the Red Sox have been making in the off-season. When you look at the moves as a whole then only one thing makes sense - there's another shoe (or shoes) to drop. Let me explain.
Shane Victorino? This signing makes no sense except in the light that the signing allows the Red Sox to trade Jacoby Ellsbury. Torii Hunter would have been a much better fit for Fenway's right field but Victorino is a better fit in center. For the record - I would have preferred to milk Ellsbury for one last year and then let him walk as a free agent and pocket the draft pick compensation. Ellsbury has Scott Boras as an agent is is almost a certainty to sign elsewhere next winter so the Red Sox may think getting out from under a potential over-bidding war now would be the best move.
Keep in mind that Ellsbury was originally drafted with the pick the Red Sox got for losing Orlando Cabrera to the Angels and that his eventual replacement - Jackie Bradley Jr. was a compensation pick for the Red Sox losing Adrian Beltre. So they must know the value of these compensation picks but have decided to trade Ellsbury anyway. (All the recent articles saying Ellsbury isn't on the trading block probably means that Ellsbury is on the trading block.)
Stephen Drew makes Jose Iglesias expendable. The Red Sox top prospect is SS Xander Bogaerts who is probably a year or two away from the bigs. Iglesias has unbelievable fielding ability but very little in the bat department. Still he has trade value and signing Drew will allow them to move Iglesias.
Signing catcher David Ross makes Jarrod Saltalamacchia a trade chip. Pairing Ross with Ryan Lavarnway makes the most sense. Waiting to see where AJ Pierzynski signs to maximize Salty's trade value also makes sense.
I see the signing of Ryan Dempster as the replacement of Josh Beckett's innings and productivity at about half the cost. Good move (would have preferred Dan Haren but who am I?). The signing gives the Red Sox a rotation of Jon Lester, Clay Buchholz, Ryan Dempster, John Lackey and either Franklin Morales or Felix Doubront. Either Franklin or Felix easily could be turned into a trade chip.
To a lesser degree the signing of Koji Uehara also makes Daniel Bard expendable.
What could be holding up any moves is the signing of Mike Napoli. With Napoli in the fold the Red Sox would be able to take calls on Ellsbury with Iglesias, Saltalamacchia, Franklin Morales, and Daniel Bard as additional chips. It should be noted that the Red Sox have a pretty stocked bullpen and this is the time of year when teams start looking to fill holes in theirs.
Just throwing this out there but how about a trade that sends Andre Ethier and Chris Capuano from the Dodgers for Saltalamachia, Franklin Morales and a top prospect or two?
I've been trying to make sense out of the moves the Red Sox have been making in the off-season. When you look at the moves as a whole then only one thing makes sense - there's another shoe (or shoes) to drop. Let me explain.
Shane Victorino? This signing makes no sense except in the light that the signing allows the Red Sox to trade Jacoby Ellsbury. Torii Hunter would have been a much better fit for Fenway's right field but Victorino is a better fit in center. For the record - I would have preferred to milk Ellsbury for one last year and then let him walk as a free agent and pocket the draft pick compensation. Ellsbury has Scott Boras as an agent is is almost a certainty to sign elsewhere next winter so the Red Sox may think getting out from under a potential over-bidding war now would be the best move.
Keep in mind that Ellsbury was originally drafted with the pick the Red Sox got for losing Orlando Cabrera to the Angels and that his eventual replacement - Jackie Bradley Jr. was a compensation pick for the Red Sox losing Adrian Beltre. So they must know the value of these compensation picks but have decided to trade Ellsbury anyway. (All the recent articles saying Ellsbury isn't on the trading block probably means that Ellsbury is on the trading block.)
Stephen Drew makes Jose Iglesias expendable. The Red Sox top prospect is SS Xander Bogaerts who is probably a year or two away from the bigs. Iglesias has unbelievable fielding ability but very little in the bat department. Still he has trade value and signing Drew will allow them to move Iglesias.
Signing catcher David Ross makes Jarrod Saltalamacchia a trade chip. Pairing Ross with Ryan Lavarnway makes the most sense. Waiting to see where AJ Pierzynski signs to maximize Salty's trade value also makes sense.
I see the signing of Ryan Dempster as the replacement of Josh Beckett's innings and productivity at about half the cost. Good move (would have preferred Dan Haren but who am I?). The signing gives the Red Sox a rotation of Jon Lester, Clay Buchholz, Ryan Dempster, John Lackey and either Franklin Morales or Felix Doubront. Either Franklin or Felix easily could be turned into a trade chip.
To a lesser degree the signing of Koji Uehara also makes Daniel Bard expendable.
What could be holding up any moves is the signing of Mike Napoli. With Napoli in the fold the Red Sox would be able to take calls on Ellsbury with Iglesias, Saltalamacchia, Franklin Morales, and Daniel Bard as additional chips. It should be noted that the Red Sox have a pretty stocked bullpen and this is the time of year when teams start looking to fill holes in theirs.
Just throwing this out there but how about a trade that sends Andre Ethier and Chris Capuano from the Dodgers for Saltalamachia, Franklin Morales and a top prospect or two?
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Mandatory Voting
George Will has a column about Eric Holder supposedly supporting mandatory voter registration or possibly mandatory voting. George Will does a nice job explaining why this would be a bad idea. However, I would support the notion of mandatory registration or voting if it meant candidates worth voting for. I would support three caveats to the mandatory voting idea:
1. Each candidate for Federal office would first have to pass the same test that immigrants have to pass in order to become citizens. This would accomplish two things - it would insure that the people running for office have some basic idea of what this country is all about and frankly it would also help weed out the morons.
2. Institute a hypocrisy law where if an office holder is found guilty of a crime that publicly was against - then that office holder would get ten-times the normal penalty. For example if a Congressman was advocating stricter gun laws but was caught trying to get a handgun through airport security or say a Congressman helped pass stricter IRS penalties but then was found to be cheating on his taxes - ten-times the penalty.
3. Any claim against a Congressman, Senator, Cabinet Member or President automatically gets sent to the Supreme Court for resolution.
I don't think that mandatory voting passes the common sense smell test but my three suggestions do - which means they would never get passed by Congress.
1. Each candidate for Federal office would first have to pass the same test that immigrants have to pass in order to become citizens. This would accomplish two things - it would insure that the people running for office have some basic idea of what this country is all about and frankly it would also help weed out the morons.
2. Institute a hypocrisy law where if an office holder is found guilty of a crime that publicly was against - then that office holder would get ten-times the normal penalty. For example if a Congressman was advocating stricter gun laws but was caught trying to get a handgun through airport security or say a Congressman helped pass stricter IRS penalties but then was found to be cheating on his taxes - ten-times the penalty.
3. Any claim against a Congressman, Senator, Cabinet Member or President automatically gets sent to the Supreme Court for resolution.
I don't think that mandatory voting passes the common sense smell test but my three suggestions do - which means they would never get passed by Congress.
Science!
Here's three science related articles I've read in the past 24 hours that are worth a read.
- How what you smell can affect what you see. Learned about "binocular rivalry" and the fact that in addition to "right brain / left brain" there is also a corresponding "right nostril / left nostril".
- Cicadas' cycles control their predators. Very interesting but article raised more questions than it answered (but doesn't all good science do that?).
- Why taking antibiotics is like swallowing a hand-grenade. Interesting history of antibiotics as well.
- How what you smell can affect what you see. Learned about "binocular rivalry" and the fact that in addition to "right brain / left brain" there is also a corresponding "right nostril / left nostril".
- Cicadas' cycles control their predators. Very interesting but article raised more questions than it answered (but doesn't all good science do that?).
- Why taking antibiotics is like swallowing a hand-grenade. Interesting history of antibiotics as well.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
Love learning new words. Some of these I knew but others I will try to add to my vocabulary... Saw The Hobbit on opening night. Three things you should know: 1. the book is being broken into two movies which is OK because Tolkein packed a lot of action into that book, 2. the movie is close to 3 hours long (go to the bathroom before the movie!) and 3. some changes were made from the book - how you view these changes will affect how you feel about the movie... O Chemistree, O Chemistree... If you replace the word "ham" with the word "condoms" then Green Eggs and Ham becomes a very strange gay cruising book... Here's a geeky question that bothers me - if you poked out one of Wolverine's eyes would it grow back?... Here's a geeky joke to go with that geeky question: Two chemists walk into a bar - the first orders H2O, the second orders H2O too. The second chemists dies... As a reminder Rex Ryan needs to win the last game of the season to equal Herm Edwards 4-year record with the Jets. If anyone out there still thinks Ryan should keep his job - let that stat sink in...
Love learning new words. Some of these I knew but others I will try to add to my vocabulary... Saw The Hobbit on opening night. Three things you should know: 1. the book is being broken into two movies which is OK because Tolkein packed a lot of action into that book, 2. the movie is close to 3 hours long (go to the bathroom before the movie!) and 3. some changes were made from the book - how you view these changes will affect how you feel about the movie... O Chemistree, O Chemistree... If you replace the word "ham" with the word "condoms" then Green Eggs and Ham becomes a very strange gay cruising book... Here's a geeky question that bothers me - if you poked out one of Wolverine's eyes would it grow back?... Here's a geeky joke to go with that geeky question: Two chemists walk into a bar - the first orders H2O, the second orders H2O too. The second chemists dies... As a reminder Rex Ryan needs to win the last game of the season to equal Herm Edwards 4-year record with the Jets. If anyone out there still thinks Ryan should keep his job - let that stat sink in...
Sunday, December 16, 2012
The Peanut Friends TV Show
Here's an idea for a TV show - take the format of the show Friends (including opening song and everything) but instead of the cast of Friends you'd have a real-life grown up versions of Charles Shulz' Peanuts characters.
Instead of a coffee shop - most of the action would take place at a piano bar with Schroeder being the "piano man". Lucy van Pelt, despite having a Ph. D in psychology, is the hostess at the piano bar restaurant (just to be close to Schroeder). Each week Lucy could give an psychoanalysis of whatever issue one of the gang is dealing with. Sort of a running gag. Schroeder could insist everyone call him "maestro" as a Seinfeld shout-out.
Charlie Brown's sister Sally could be played by a blonde hottie and the character would be sort of a slut. His best friend, Linus van Pelt could be played by one of The Big Bang actors who could geek slap big sister Lucy any time one of her on the spot psychoanalytical diagnosis makes no logical sense.
Peppermint Pattie and Marcie would, of course, be lesbians. Maybe Sue Lynch for Pattie and KD Lang for Marcie? Pig Pen could be a recovering drug addict. How could this not work?
And for Charlie Brown - I picture a younger version of Paul Giamatti. I would seriously watch this show if it were ever made.
EDIT: Literally less than an hour after writing the above I saw this Charlie Brown as Louie video. Too funny!
Instead of a coffee shop - most of the action would take place at a piano bar with Schroeder being the "piano man". Lucy van Pelt, despite having a Ph. D in psychology, is the hostess at the piano bar restaurant (just to be close to Schroeder). Each week Lucy could give an psychoanalysis of whatever issue one of the gang is dealing with. Sort of a running gag. Schroeder could insist everyone call him "maestro" as a Seinfeld shout-out.
Charlie Brown's sister Sally could be played by a blonde hottie and the character would be sort of a slut. His best friend, Linus van Pelt could be played by one of The Big Bang actors who could geek slap big sister Lucy any time one of her on the spot psychoanalytical diagnosis makes no logical sense.
Peppermint Pattie and Marcie would, of course, be lesbians. Maybe Sue Lynch for Pattie and KD Lang for Marcie? Pig Pen could be a recovering drug addict. How could this not work?
And for Charlie Brown - I picture a younger version of Paul Giamatti. I would seriously watch this show if it were ever made.
EDIT: Literally less than an hour after writing the above I saw this Charlie Brown as Louie video. Too funny!
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting or amusing and thought I'd share.
- Ever wonder "How many people are in space right now"? There's a website for that.
- National Geographic gets serious about science blogging.
- Kevin Garnett and Kevin McHale share a very emotional moment last night. I watched that live and teared up.
- The story behind the Pogues' classic Fairytale of New York.
- Ever wonder "How many people are in space right now"? There's a website for that.
- National Geographic gets serious about science blogging.
- Kevin Garnett and Kevin McHale share a very emotional moment last night. I watched that live and teared up.
- The story behind the Pogues' classic Fairytale of New York.
Friday, December 14, 2012
Monday, December 10, 2012
Awesome Office Notes
These were pretty funny.
My productivity died an early death this Monday morning because of these. Be forewarned.
My productivity died an early death this Monday morning because of these. Be forewarned.
Royals / Rays Trade
Jeff Passan (a favorite) has a very good breakdown of the big trade that just sent James Shields to the Royals and uber prospect Wil Myers to the Rays.
This trade very much reminds me of the trade that send Josh Beckett to the Red Sox and uber prospect Hanley Ramirez to the Marlins. That trade ended up being a win for both teams. The Red Sox got a final piece that allowed them to meet their goal of winning the World Series while the Marlins got a young superstar under team control. The extra piece that ended up giving value way beyond what was expected in that trade was Mike Lowell who would go on to become the World Series MVP for Boston. Wade Davis is giving off that vibe for me in this trade for Kansas City. Please note that I'm not saying Shields is the final piece for a Royals World Series - their goal is simply to be competitive in the AL Central and I think this trade helps them with that goal.
It should also be noted that if sabermetric GM Theo Epstein was in place at the time for Boston then that trade may never have happened and the Red Sox could still be searching for their second Series win. Point is sometimes sabermetrics doesn't tell the whole story. I consider myself a stats guy but I also realize that games aren't won on the spreadsheet.
This trade very much reminds me of the trade that send Josh Beckett to the Red Sox and uber prospect Hanley Ramirez to the Marlins. That trade ended up being a win for both teams. The Red Sox got a final piece that allowed them to meet their goal of winning the World Series while the Marlins got a young superstar under team control. The extra piece that ended up giving value way beyond what was expected in that trade was Mike Lowell who would go on to become the World Series MVP for Boston. Wade Davis is giving off that vibe for me in this trade for Kansas City. Please note that I'm not saying Shields is the final piece for a Royals World Series - their goal is simply to be competitive in the AL Central and I think this trade helps them with that goal.
It should also be noted that if sabermetric GM Theo Epstein was in place at the time for Boston then that trade may never have happened and the Red Sox could still be searching for their second Series win. Point is sometimes sabermetrics doesn't tell the whole story. I consider myself a stats guy but I also realize that games aren't won on the spreadsheet.
Sunday, December 09, 2012
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
Watched the Pacquiao-Marquez fight while at a poker game. Everyone who had money on the fight (including me) thought Marquez was going to win this time... On this day in history in 1941 - Bob Feller becomes the first major league baseball player to enlist after Pearl Harbor. More than anything that he did on the field - it was this act that Ted Williams always associated most with Feller (and perhaps the thing he was most jealous of)... Interesting look back at The Sopranos by Alan Sepinwall. Put me in the camp who is more curious about what happened to the Russian that whether Tony lived or died at the end... When Marquez knocked out Pacquiao some at the poker table thought he might be dead. Seriously... Ken Levine decodes Hollywood-speak... Hipsters may think they invented snark but that was the name of author Jack London's sailboat over a hundred years ago...Oyster Pirates would be a good name for a band...
Watched the Pacquiao-Marquez fight while at a poker game. Everyone who had money on the fight (including me) thought Marquez was going to win this time... On this day in history in 1941 - Bob Feller becomes the first major league baseball player to enlist after Pearl Harbor. More than anything that he did on the field - it was this act that Ted Williams always associated most with Feller (and perhaps the thing he was most jealous of)... Interesting look back at The Sopranos by Alan Sepinwall. Put me in the camp who is more curious about what happened to the Russian that whether Tony lived or died at the end... When Marquez knocked out Pacquiao some at the poker table thought he might be dead. Seriously... Ken Levine decodes Hollywood-speak... Hipsters may think they invented snark but that was the name of author Jack London's sailboat over a hundred years ago...Oyster Pirates would be a good name for a band...
Saturday, December 08, 2012
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting or amusing and thought I'd share.
- Awesome - 10 of the most beautiful school libraries in the world. Have I mention how much I love libraries?
- Very cool - dog protects missing toddler.
- 12 wonderfully useless flyers
- Pat Forde is right - there are two good bowl games and the rest are pretty much crap.
- Catfish who lunge out of the water to catch and eat pigeons. Like killer whales beaching themselves to catch seals.
- 3 Key drivers of energy independence.
- Awesome - 10 of the most beautiful school libraries in the world. Have I mention how much I love libraries?
- Very cool - dog protects missing toddler.
- 12 wonderfully useless flyers
- Pat Forde is right - there are two good bowl games and the rest are pretty much crap.
- Catfish who lunge out of the water to catch and eat pigeons. Like killer whales beaching themselves to catch seals.
- 3 Key drivers of energy independence.
John Lennon RIP
On this day 32-years ago John Lennon was murdered.
When I think of the tragedy I think of Howard Cosell announcing the news to the world on Monday Night Football.
When I think of the tragedy I think of Howard Cosell announcing the news to the world on Monday Night Football.
Thursday, December 06, 2012
Thoughts on Red Sox Moves at Winter Meetings
Here are my thoughts regarding the roster moves the Boston Red Sox have made regarding the Winter meetings:
1. I'm a little ambivalent regarding signing Mike Napoli. Three-years $39 million seems a bit much but I've decided to look at the bright side of this signing - Napoli will give the Red Sox about the same OPS in 2013 that the Yankees will get out of Mark Teixeira but at half the price.
2. I hate the Shane Victorino signing. Hate it. 100% agree with Kirk Minihane that it was a mistake. Let me ask you two questions - how is Victorino better than Torii Hunter who got two-years $26 million from the Tigers? The Red Sox would have been so much better off giving Hunter two-years and $30 million than signing Victorino. Much better off. Secondly - how is Victorino even an upgrade over Ryan Kalish? Hate this move.
3. David Ortiz has to be wondering WTF? The Red Sox squeeze Ortiz trying to avoid giving him a multi-year deal and then turn around and sign Napoli and Victorino to more years and the same per year salaries? The optics are bad by management.
4. The Red Sox should have done more to sign Dan Haren. Maybe a two-year $26 million deal would have worked. The money they spent on Victorino would have been much better used on Haren in my opinion. Opportunity missed here.
If the Red Sox had signed Torii Hunter and Dan Haren - I'd be pretty excited about the Sox right now. Instead they signed Napoli and Victorino and I'm honestly left scratching my head.
1. I'm a little ambivalent regarding signing Mike Napoli. Three-years $39 million seems a bit much but I've decided to look at the bright side of this signing - Napoli will give the Red Sox about the same OPS in 2013 that the Yankees will get out of Mark Teixeira but at half the price.
2. I hate the Shane Victorino signing. Hate it. 100% agree with Kirk Minihane that it was a mistake. Let me ask you two questions - how is Victorino better than Torii Hunter who got two-years $26 million from the Tigers? The Red Sox would have been so much better off giving Hunter two-years and $30 million than signing Victorino. Much better off. Secondly - how is Victorino even an upgrade over Ryan Kalish? Hate this move.
3. David Ortiz has to be wondering WTF? The Red Sox squeeze Ortiz trying to avoid giving him a multi-year deal and then turn around and sign Napoli and Victorino to more years and the same per year salaries? The optics are bad by management.
4. The Red Sox should have done more to sign Dan Haren. Maybe a two-year $26 million deal would have worked. The money they spent on Victorino would have been much better used on Haren in my opinion. Opportunity missed here.
If the Red Sox had signed Torii Hunter and Dan Haren - I'd be pretty excited about the Sox right now. Instead they signed Napoli and Victorino and I'm honestly left scratching my head.
Wednesday, December 05, 2012
Killing Them Softly
I had read the book the movie was based on - Cogan's Trade by George V. Higgins - so I had no trouble following the plot but the person I was with had not read the book and was thoroughly confused. I liked the book and was looking forward to the movie but there were certain aspects and dialogue from the book that never should have made it to the screen but there it was.
Then you had the political commentary. Speeches by George W. Bush, Senator Barack Obama and others were cut into the film or playing in the background for what purpose I couldn't tell you. George V. Higgins' main message from the book was that criminals are stupid. The movie seemed to try and make some sort of metaphor between crime and the banking crisis.
My recommendation for this movie is simple - if you haven't read the book - save your money. And if you have read the book - save your money.
Tuesday, December 04, 2012
Renaming Omaha to Obama
This petition for the Obama Administration to authorize construction of a Death Star by 2016 got me thinking.
The petition is completely tongue-in-cheek. Nobody really expects the authorization of a Death Star to be taken seriously. What if you had a petition that was so tongue-in-cheek that some people would be completely taken in by it?
Some people really love Barack Obama. According to some Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan were pikers in comparison to "the One". What I'd suggest is a petition to rename Omaha, Nebraska to Obama, Nebraska. Stirring the pot I'd suggest that all it would take to properly honor this great President is losing an "H", adding a "B" and moving an "M". What's the big deal? Who could be against something so simple?
Some Democratic Congressmen and women would almost certainly be so enamored by the idea that they would introduce resolutions to Congress. The people of Nebraska - I'm guessing no so much enamored. And the more the people of Nebraska would dig in against the change the more the Obamafiles would push for its adoption.
Oh I wish I could make this happen.
The petition is completely tongue-in-cheek. Nobody really expects the authorization of a Death Star to be taken seriously. What if you had a petition that was so tongue-in-cheek that some people would be completely taken in by it?
Some people really love Barack Obama. According to some Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan were pikers in comparison to "the One". What I'd suggest is a petition to rename Omaha, Nebraska to Obama, Nebraska. Stirring the pot I'd suggest that all it would take to properly honor this great President is losing an "H", adding a "B" and moving an "M". What's the big deal? Who could be against something so simple?
Some Democratic Congressmen and women would almost certainly be so enamored by the idea that they would introduce resolutions to Congress. The people of Nebraska - I'm guessing no so much enamored. And the more the people of Nebraska would dig in against the change the more the Obamafiles would push for its adoption.
Oh I wish I could make this happen.
Saturday, December 01, 2012
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
Heh heh - I don't condone what happened to these PETA protesters but if you think throwing water balloons of fake blood and yelling things at a biker gang is a good idea - well let's just hope they learned their lesson (and yes I realize this happened in August but it is cold today and I needed a good laugh to keep me warm)... Well if you say so... Should be pointed out that Adderall is big among poker players because it both gives them energy but also gives them focus. Think of it this way - each hand of poker is like a snap in football... There really is NO EXCUSE for Marvin Miller not being in the Baseball Hall of Fame... The average age of members of the Rolling Stones is over 68-years old. The average age of the members of the Supreme Court is over 66-years old.... How funny would it be if we find out Chris Brown was all and act and that his real manager is Andy Kaufman who faked his death. That would be the greatest story of all time.
Heh heh - I don't condone what happened to these PETA protesters but if you think throwing water balloons of fake blood and yelling things at a biker gang is a good idea - well let's just hope they learned their lesson (and yes I realize this happened in August but it is cold today and I needed a good laugh to keep me warm)... Well if you say so... Should be pointed out that Adderall is big among poker players because it both gives them energy but also gives them focus. Think of it this way - each hand of poker is like a snap in football... There really is NO EXCUSE for Marvin Miller not being in the Baseball Hall of Fame... The average age of members of the Rolling Stones is over 68-years old. The average age of the members of the Supreme Court is over 66-years old.... How funny would it be if we find out Chris Brown was all and act and that his real manager is Andy Kaufman who faked his death. That would be the greatest story of all time.
Tommy Hanson and Jair Jurrjens
I thought Tommy Hanson and Jair Jerrjens would become the cornerstones of the Braves starting staff. Today neither player is even on Atlanta's roster. Hanson was traded to the Angels for reliever Jordan Walden. Meanwhile Jurrjens was simply released.
I know the Braves are pitching rich but it seems like they got very little in return for players who just two years ago would have garnered at least top prospects. I know that both players have struggled with injuries but it still seems strange.
It also makes me think that maybe the Red Sox look at Hanson and Jurrjens and think Clay Buchholz and Jon Lester.
EDIT: It looks like Red Sox GM is "open-minded" about trading Lester.
I know the Braves are pitching rich but it seems like they got very little in return for players who just two years ago would have garnered at least top prospects. I know that both players have struggled with injuries but it still seems strange.
It also makes me think that maybe the Red Sox look at Hanson and Jurrjens and think Clay Buchholz and Jon Lester.
EDIT: It looks like Red Sox GM is "open-minded" about trading Lester.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting or amusing and thought I'd share.
- Awesome time-lapse video of the sky and clouds over a volcanic island.
- Is Joseph Gordon-Levitt going to be the "new" Batman? Cool.
- Fireman Ed is a joke. The Jets should replace him with Lindsey Lohan.
- The Onion names Kim Jong Eun Sexiest Man Alive and China's propaganda organ believes them!
- If each state in the US waged war against each other state - who would win?
- Comparing the murder rates in Mexican states versus various countries.
- Combining two of my favorite things - science and beer: Niels Bohr was given a lifetime supply of beer after winning the Nobel Prize.
- Awesome time-lapse video of the sky and clouds over a volcanic island.
- Is Joseph Gordon-Levitt going to be the "new" Batman? Cool.
- Fireman Ed is a joke. The Jets should replace him with Lindsey Lohan.
- The Onion names Kim Jong Eun Sexiest Man Alive and China's propaganda organ believes them!
- If each state in the US waged war against each other state - who would win?
- Comparing the murder rates in Mexican states versus various countries.
- Combining two of my favorite things - science and beer: Niels Bohr was given a lifetime supply of beer after winning the Nobel Prize.
What Would It Take to Change Your Mind?
Interesting article from Harvard Business Review but I have to say that if you've gotten to the point where you have to ask, "What would it take to change your mind?" - then you really haven't done your job.
The way I learned and what has stuck with me is the following process when looking at advocating change (a new product or service). This process can be used for just about any new situation though:
1. Ask "What do you have now?" Force the person who you need to make a decision to look at what is currently in place.
2. What do you like about what is in place? Big mistake many make is to assume that just because some people are advocating change that everything about the current system is bad. In many cases there are features of the current system that people really like. They want change but they also want to keep the things that are familiar to them that works.
3. What would you like to change about what is currently in place? This question is the most important because it basically answers why do they want to make a change in the first place. It will also give you the clues to what the important decision factors will be.
4. How did the current system come to be? Why did you choose what is currently in place? This also reveals much about the decision process.
If you properly "qualify" the situation by asking the above questions and craft your proposed solution accordingly - then hopefully you won't need to ask "What would it take to change your mind?"
The way I learned and what has stuck with me is the following process when looking at advocating change (a new product or service). This process can be used for just about any new situation though:
1. Ask "What do you have now?" Force the person who you need to make a decision to look at what is currently in place.
2. What do you like about what is in place? Big mistake many make is to assume that just because some people are advocating change that everything about the current system is bad. In many cases there are features of the current system that people really like. They want change but they also want to keep the things that are familiar to them that works.
3. What would you like to change about what is currently in place? This question is the most important because it basically answers why do they want to make a change in the first place. It will also give you the clues to what the important decision factors will be.
4. How did the current system come to be? Why did you choose what is currently in place? This also reveals much about the decision process.
If you properly "qualify" the situation by asking the above questions and craft your proposed solution accordingly - then hopefully you won't need to ask "What would it take to change your mind?"
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting or amusing and thought I'd share.
- Jon Lester for Wil Myers? Alex Speier has an excellent look at the hypothetical (at this point) deal. For the record - if I'm the Red Sox I probably make that trade.
- A's donate one full playoff share to charity. Nice idea by Jonny Gomes and nice gesture by entire A's team.
- Holy crap! That's a bird straight out of a Stephen King horror story. Feathers the size of Samurai swords! Holy crap!
- Nice look at Notre Dame's head coach Brian Kelly's ability to adapt. Of course they forget to mention that everything Brian Kelly knows about football - he learned at Assumption College in Worcester.
- Jon Lester for Wil Myers? Alex Speier has an excellent look at the hypothetical (at this point) deal. For the record - if I'm the Red Sox I probably make that trade.
- A's donate one full playoff share to charity. Nice idea by Jonny Gomes and nice gesture by entire A's team.
- Holy crap! That's a bird straight out of a Stephen King horror story. Feathers the size of Samurai swords! Holy crap!
- Nice look at Notre Dame's head coach Brian Kelly's ability to adapt. Of course they forget to mention that everything Brian Kelly knows about football - he learned at Assumption College in Worcester.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
I wonder what the updated Vegas odds are of Roger Clemens getting voted into the Hall of Fame. I remember during the summer it was 4-1 that he'd get in on the first ballot and 7-4 that he'd get in on the second ballot.The guy would obviously be a 100% lock without the steroids allegations. It will be interesting to watch... Tom Brady is operating at a level this season that few quarterbacks in history have reached yet he gets very little MVP recognition because we've come to expect this from Brady. Brady is simply unbelievable. Enjoy him while you can... Probably shouldn't write this but I can't be the only person who quietly suspects that film maker Ken Burns may secretly be a woman - can I?... Bad management - not unions killed Hostess... Interesting stat from SI's Stewart Mandel; of Notre Dame's 12 wins - 9 came against bowl eligible teams. Alabama only had 5 such wins and Georgia just 4... Didn't realize this but Curt Schilling actually had a higher career WAR (76.9) than Jeff Bagwell (76.7). Not reading anything into that - just that it surprised me... The next fuck I give about the Jets "Fireman" Ed will be the first.
I wonder what the updated Vegas odds are of Roger Clemens getting voted into the Hall of Fame. I remember during the summer it was 4-1 that he'd get in on the first ballot and 7-4 that he'd get in on the second ballot.The guy would obviously be a 100% lock without the steroids allegations. It will be interesting to watch... Tom Brady is operating at a level this season that few quarterbacks in history have reached yet he gets very little MVP recognition because we've come to expect this from Brady. Brady is simply unbelievable. Enjoy him while you can... Probably shouldn't write this but I can't be the only person who quietly suspects that film maker Ken Burns may secretly be a woman - can I?... Bad management - not unions killed Hostess... Interesting stat from SI's Stewart Mandel; of Notre Dame's 12 wins - 9 came against bowl eligible teams. Alabama only had 5 such wins and Georgia just 4... Didn't realize this but Curt Schilling actually had a higher career WAR (76.9) than Jeff Bagwell (76.7). Not reading anything into that - just that it surprised me... The next fuck I give about the Jets "Fireman" Ed will be the first.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting or amusing and thought I'd share.
- Bad Lip Reading of Twilight. These are always amusing.
- This is why I'm a fan of Mike Leach. Too bad he won't be available to fill the BC job.
- This is so sad - Kevin McHale's daughter passes away at age 23
- Rob Gronkowski buys $1.6 million bachelor pad in Tampa. I had him figured for a South Beach guy.
- Big Stupid Tommy has his list of his 50 favorite books. I should do a list like this too. Of the books on Tommy's list -I've only read 16 but that number will increase as I take Tommy's recommendations to hear.
- Bad Lip Reading of Twilight. These are always amusing.
- This is why I'm a fan of Mike Leach. Too bad he won't be available to fill the BC job.
- This is so sad - Kevin McHale's daughter passes away at age 23
- Rob Gronkowski buys $1.6 million bachelor pad in Tampa. I had him figured for a South Beach guy.
- Big Stupid Tommy has his list of his 50 favorite books. I should do a list like this too. Of the books on Tommy's list -I've only read 16 but that number will increase as I take Tommy's recommendations to hear.
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
The things you learn on the Internet - according to Mental Floss "During the reign of Elizabeth I, swan was a popular feast dish, especially when stuffed with the carcasses of nine other birds." Nine other birds? Makes a Turducken look kind of whimpy in comparison... Joss Whedon offers 10 tips for good writing... Yesterday was the 28th anniversary of Doug Flutie's "Hail Mary" pass against Miami. For many guys of my generation that's one of the moments where you'll always remember where you were at the time... Interesting stat - in the last 3-years 21 players entered the NBA draft after just 1 year of college and were taken in the first round. Of those 9 (42%) were from Kentucky... In 1953 the US Army had just 20 divisions while the Soviet Union had more than 200. Because the US didn't have to match the manpower of the USSR those men were able to become the backbone of a boom economy for the US. One of the side benefits of our nuclear bomber program... If the Jets put Tim Tebow on waivers - I wonder how many teams would claim him?...
The things you learn on the Internet - according to Mental Floss "During the reign of Elizabeth I, swan was a popular feast dish, especially when stuffed with the carcasses of nine other birds." Nine other birds? Makes a Turducken look kind of whimpy in comparison... Joss Whedon offers 10 tips for good writing... Yesterday was the 28th anniversary of Doug Flutie's "Hail Mary" pass against Miami. For many guys of my generation that's one of the moments where you'll always remember where you were at the time... Interesting stat - in the last 3-years 21 players entered the NBA draft after just 1 year of college and were taken in the first round. Of those 9 (42%) were from Kentucky... In 1953 the US Army had just 20 divisions while the Soviet Union had more than 200. Because the US didn't have to match the manpower of the USSR those men were able to become the backbone of a boom economy for the US. One of the side benefits of our nuclear bomber program... If the Jets put Tim Tebow on waivers - I wonder how many teams would claim him?...
Friday, November 23, 2012
Mark Sanchez is the Assman
New York Jets meet Seinfeld. I really hope someone splices the video of Mark Sanchez getting almost knocked out by his own lineman's ass with the video of Kramer being told that "according to the State of New York - you are the Assman."
For good measure you could splice the video of Frank Costanza saying it was a "one-in-a-million shot doc" with the video of Rex Ryan explaining that Mark Sanchez getting knocked silly by an ass in the face was "a one-in-a zillion play."
Come to think of it - Fusilli Sanchez would be a good nickname for the Jets QB.
For good measure you could splice the video of Frank Costanza saying it was a "one-in-a-million shot doc" with the video of Rex Ryan explaining that Mark Sanchez getting knocked silly by an ass in the face was "a one-in-a zillion play."
Come to think of it - Fusilli Sanchez would be a good nickname for the Jets QB.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
The Biological Chernobyl
In 1979 about two shot glasses worth of anthrax was released into the air around the Soviet military facility in Sverdlovsk. The deadly biological agent was released due to a filter not being replaced. Around 105 people died because of the anthrax leak. If the wind was right that day the agent could have killed more than 100,000.
Scary history that is not discussed much if at all. Even scarier is the fact that the facility at Sverdlovsk is still open and active.
Scary history that is not discussed much if at all. Even scarier is the fact that the facility at Sverdlovsk is still open and active.
Good Economic News
Some encouraging reading this Thanksgiving - a blogger who has never been wrong on the economy (according to the Motley Fools) says the economy is now in the best shape since 1997. Wow!
Bill McBride seems like a very interesting guy. Going to add his blog Calculated Risk to the blogroll.
Bill McBride seems like a very interesting guy. Going to add his blog Calculated Risk to the blogroll.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Mark Teixeira
It is interesting to note the decline of Mark Teixeira at the plate over the years. Tex may be lucky that A-Rod takes the spotlight off him. Take a look at the numbers:
2008 Age 28 Angels - 1.081 OPS
2009 Age 29 Yankees - .948 OPS (12.3% YR/YR decline)
2010 Age 30 Yankees - .846 OPS (10.8% YR/YR decline)
2011 Age 31 Yankees - .835 OPS (1.3% YR/YR decline)
2012 Age 32 Yankees - .807 OPS (3.4% YR/YR decline)
Teixeira has been declining every year. He's approaching replacement level with his bat. At his rate of decline he'll probably reach replacement level in 2014 but here's the thing (actually three things) - Teixeira is a notoriously slow starter. If he gets off to a slow start in 2014 will his fans or even Yankee management still show him the encouragement he might need to get going? Kevin Youkilis got off to an awful start in 2012 and he really couldn't turn it around till he was shipped out of town. Teixeira is under contract by the Yankees until 2016. He will make $22.5 million per year for every year until his contract expires.
As a Red Sox fan - the cherry on top is the fact that the Angels used the compensation pick from the Yankees for signing Teixeira to draft Mike Trout.
2008 Age 28 Angels - 1.081 OPS
2009 Age 29 Yankees - .948 OPS (12.3% YR/YR decline)
2010 Age 30 Yankees - .846 OPS (10.8% YR/YR decline)
2011 Age 31 Yankees - .835 OPS (1.3% YR/YR decline)
2012 Age 32 Yankees - .807 OPS (3.4% YR/YR decline)
Teixeira has been declining every year. He's approaching replacement level with his bat. At his rate of decline he'll probably reach replacement level in 2014 but here's the thing (actually three things) - Teixeira is a notoriously slow starter. If he gets off to a slow start in 2014 will his fans or even Yankee management still show him the encouragement he might need to get going? Kevin Youkilis got off to an awful start in 2012 and he really couldn't turn it around till he was shipped out of town. Teixeira is under contract by the Yankees until 2016. He will make $22.5 million per year for every year until his contract expires.
As a Red Sox fan - the cherry on top is the fact that the Angels used the compensation pick from the Yankees for signing Teixeira to draft Mike Trout.
U2 - I Threw a Brick Through a Window
Another lost classic. This song was from 1982 but if it came out today it would be a big hit. Classic guitar from the Edge.
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
Weird stat - Tony Romo is 21-3 as a starting QB in the month of November. Too bad playoffs are not played before Thanksgiving... I see wild turkeys all the time. I had no idea that they were re-introduced to Massachusetts after I was born... Notre Dame haters will point out that Brian Kelley is lucky he inherited Charlie Weiss' decided schematic advantage on defense... Speaking of the big Notre Dame / USC game - has any other team started as a pre-season number 1 in the polls only to finished unranked? USC looks like they are about to accomplish this dubious feat... Would Reach-Around Elmo be a good fantasy football or band name?... Who knew? There are 293 different ways to make change for a dollar... Fact that really makes you think. Every human originally spent about half an hour as a single cell. If you murder that single cell - do you murder the human?...
Weird stat - Tony Romo is 21-3 as a starting QB in the month of November. Too bad playoffs are not played before Thanksgiving... I see wild turkeys all the time. I had no idea that they were re-introduced to Massachusetts after I was born... Notre Dame haters will point out that Brian Kelley is lucky he inherited Charlie Weiss' decided schematic advantage on defense... Speaking of the big Notre Dame / USC game - has any other team started as a pre-season number 1 in the polls only to finished unranked? USC looks like they are about to accomplish this dubious feat... Would Reach-Around Elmo be a good fantasy football or band name?... Who knew? There are 293 different ways to make change for a dollar... Fact that really makes you think. Every human originally spent about half an hour as a single cell. If you murder that single cell - do you murder the human?...
I Want This Tie!
I so want one of these ties for Christmas. Normally I hate wearing ties but I think I'd have a lot of fun wearing this one.
Stan the Man Turns 92
Stan Musial turns 92 today. Here's a very good piece on Stan the man and what he means to St. Louis.
Happy birthday Mr. Musial.
Happy birthday Mr. Musial.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Which Bond Villain Plan Would Have Worked?
Interesting look by an economist (and Bond fan) regarding which Bond villain plan would have actually worked in the real world.
One quibble - they didn't include the plot from Thunderball. I think hijacking a nuclear weapon and using to to extort a huge sum may be too realistically possible.
One quibble - they didn't include the plot from Thunderball. I think hijacking a nuclear weapon and using to to extort a huge sum may be too realistically possible.
Seinfeld - The Contest
A behind the scenes look at the Seinfeld episode The Contest.
One of the funniest half-hours in TV history.
For the record - I am master of my domain.
One of the funniest half-hours in TV history.
For the record - I am master of my domain.
Pete Etchells Hates Neurons
Good blog posts are interesting. Good blog posts can be poignant. Very good blog posts are interesting and poignant.
Pete Etchells post about why he hates neurons is both interesting and poignant.
Pete Etchells post about why he hates neurons is both interesting and poignant.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting and thought I'd share.
- Airship Ventures grounded by lack of funding. It is my dream to some day own a lighter than air airship. Some day.
- Tom Brady vs Andew Luck - through the eyes of their fathers. Jackie MacMullan is always a great read.
- If you've ever posted anything online then this was awesome.
- The wit here was so dry - possibly my favorite Wikipedia entry ever.
- Unintentionally Consequential. A new economics blog by Lee Bailiff. Good stuff!
- Airship Ventures grounded by lack of funding. It is my dream to some day own a lighter than air airship. Some day.
- Tom Brady vs Andew Luck - through the eyes of their fathers. Jackie MacMullan is always a great read.
- If you've ever posted anything online then this was awesome.
- The wit here was so dry - possibly my favorite Wikipedia entry ever.
- Unintentionally Consequential. A new economics blog by Lee Bailiff. Good stuff!
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Incredible - The Scale of Space
An incredible look at the scale of space from our sun to the our Galaxy.
Some paraphrased facts from the site - it would take a jet 17 years to get to the Sun from Earth and Voyager 1 has gone just 17 light HOURS from Earth.
Incredible.
Some paraphrased facts from the site - it would take a jet 17 years to get to the Sun from Earth and Voyager 1 has gone just 17 light HOURS from Earth.
Incredible.
ESPN NFL Kickoff Goes All Princess Bride
This is just fantastic! I'm guessing that Willaim Goldman - the writer of The Princess Bride probably got a kick out of it since he's a big sports fan.
EDIT: Trey Wingo and Mark Schlereth give the backstory to how this all came together
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Blue Jays / Marlins Megadeal
Here's my take on last night's Blue Jays / Marlins megadeal.
Deals like this don't happen in a vacuum. To understand why the deal happened and who would be the winner and loser from this deal you have to understand the surrounding circumstances. The Marlins finished last in the NL East in 2012 with the big contracts of Josh Johnson, Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle and John Buck. Chances are at worst they can finish last without those big contracts. The Blue Jays' record wasn't much better than the Marlins (73 wins vs 69) but you have to understand that GM Alex Anthopoulis just allowed their manager John Farrell to move over to division rival Red Sox. Anthopoulis had to make a big splash to make a run this year because if Farrell leads Boston to a better record than Toronto this year Anthoupilis would be sure to be asked why he allowed Farrell to move on. The Yankees are the Yankees but Blue Jay fans have to ask why division rival Baltimore became a playoff team in the same time frame that Anthopoulis was running the team with Toronto languishing at just 73 wins.
The circumstances were right for a big deal.
The Marlins get back a number of prospects plus potential headcase Yunel Escobar. Trent Rosecrans of CBS Sports has a good rundown of what the Marlins will be getting in the trade. It is entirely possible that someone will sit Escobar down and tell him this could be his last chance to be a name player in MLB. If his head is screwed on straight Escobar could equal Jose Reyes contribution for the Marlins at a much reduced price tag. If Escobar doesn't toe the line - then he's a one year headache. In Buehrle and Johnson the Marlins are losing a total of 62 starts at a little better than league adjusted average ERA - it doesn't sound so impressive when you put it like that does it?
The real gem for the Blue Jays in this deal is Josh Johnson who will be in both the second year after Tommy John surgery and his free agent walk year. That's a recipe for a Cy Young type season in the making. Mark Buehrle is a glorified 3rd started in the AL East and Jose Reyes is a player whose game is based upon speed but who will be playing his home games now on an artificial surface and whose contract will end when he's 34 or 35 years old.
If Johnson wins 20 games next year people will say Anthoupolis won this deal but long term I think this is better for the Marlins. If Vegas set the over / under for wins for Miami at 69 then I'd bet that a combination of misfit toys and young players will actually do better than the high salary 2012 team. Jeff Loria will get lots of heat for this deal but it was the right move for his team (and yes - his pocketbook - not arguing that factor in the deal).
Deals like this don't happen in a vacuum. To understand why the deal happened and who would be the winner and loser from this deal you have to understand the surrounding circumstances. The Marlins finished last in the NL East in 2012 with the big contracts of Josh Johnson, Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle and John Buck. Chances are at worst they can finish last without those big contracts. The Blue Jays' record wasn't much better than the Marlins (73 wins vs 69) but you have to understand that GM Alex Anthopoulis just allowed their manager John Farrell to move over to division rival Red Sox. Anthopoulis had to make a big splash to make a run this year because if Farrell leads Boston to a better record than Toronto this year Anthoupilis would be sure to be asked why he allowed Farrell to move on. The Yankees are the Yankees but Blue Jay fans have to ask why division rival Baltimore became a playoff team in the same time frame that Anthopoulis was running the team with Toronto languishing at just 73 wins.
The circumstances were right for a big deal.
The Marlins get back a number of prospects plus potential headcase Yunel Escobar. Trent Rosecrans of CBS Sports has a good rundown of what the Marlins will be getting in the trade. It is entirely possible that someone will sit Escobar down and tell him this could be his last chance to be a name player in MLB. If his head is screwed on straight Escobar could equal Jose Reyes contribution for the Marlins at a much reduced price tag. If Escobar doesn't toe the line - then he's a one year headache. In Buehrle and Johnson the Marlins are losing a total of 62 starts at a little better than league adjusted average ERA - it doesn't sound so impressive when you put it like that does it?
The real gem for the Blue Jays in this deal is Josh Johnson who will be in both the second year after Tommy John surgery and his free agent walk year. That's a recipe for a Cy Young type season in the making. Mark Buehrle is a glorified 3rd started in the AL East and Jose Reyes is a player whose game is based upon speed but who will be playing his home games now on an artificial surface and whose contract will end when he's 34 or 35 years old.
If Johnson wins 20 games next year people will say Anthoupolis won this deal but long term I think this is better for the Marlins. If Vegas set the over / under for wins for Miami at 69 then I'd bet that a combination of misfit toys and young players will actually do better than the high salary 2012 team. Jeff Loria will get lots of heat for this deal but it was the right move for his team (and yes - his pocketbook - not arguing that factor in the deal).
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Linky Links
Stuff I found interesting and thought I'd share.
- Congratulations to Robinson Cano - brand new US citizen
- Neil Gaiman's 8 rules for writing. You can't argue with the first rule.
- On November 13th Felix Unger was asked to remove himself from his place of residence
- Anthony Bourdain isn't pissed at Cadillac - he's pissed at the Travel Channel.
- 11 notable Doctor Who fans. Neil Gaiman gets two mentions today.
- Congratulations to Robinson Cano - brand new US citizen
- Neil Gaiman's 8 rules for writing. You can't argue with the first rule.
- On November 13th Felix Unger was asked to remove himself from his place of residence
- Anthony Bourdain isn't pissed at Cadillac - he's pissed at the Travel Channel.
- 11 notable Doctor Who fans. Neil Gaiman gets two mentions today.
Mark Sanchez and Matt Leinart
A normal thinking person would probably argue that Mark Sanchez is not the answer for the Jets at QB and that the team has nothing to lose by giving the ball to Tim Tebow. Yet Rex Ryan and those in charge of the NYJ don't seem to be normal thinking people. Too stubborn? Too stupid? Both?
I can't help but keep thinking that Mark Sanchez is no different than fellow USC alumni Matt Leinart except Sanchez was drafted by a team that was determined to sink or swim with their number 1 draft pick while Leinart was drafted by a team run by normal thinking people. Seriously - I bet Matt Leinart wakes up every day thinking "why couldn't I have been drafted by the Jets."
One thing that Tim Tebow doesn't do is turn the ball over. That alone could have meant the difference in a couple of close games for the Jets this season. But instead of going with what will give them the best chance to win - the Jets are sticking with their bonus baby QB. As a Patriots fan - that's just fine with me.
Oh as an aside - I think its funny that that the folks at Pro-Football-Reference.com list Tim Tebow as a tight end (for 2012 season).
I can't help but keep thinking that Mark Sanchez is no different than fellow USC alumni Matt Leinart except Sanchez was drafted by a team that was determined to sink or swim with their number 1 draft pick while Leinart was drafted by a team run by normal thinking people. Seriously - I bet Matt Leinart wakes up every day thinking "why couldn't I have been drafted by the Jets."
One thing that Tim Tebow doesn't do is turn the ball over. That alone could have meant the difference in a couple of close games for the Jets this season. But instead of going with what will give them the best chance to win - the Jets are sticking with their bonus baby QB. As a Patriots fan - that's just fine with me.
Oh as an aside - I think its funny that that the folks at Pro-Football-Reference.com list Tim Tebow as a tight end (for 2012 season).
Monday, November 12, 2012
History of Science
A little insight into my TV viewing habits - last night I had a choice between a fairly crappy Bears / Texans game and a Band of Brothers marathon on Spike but I ended up watching The History of Science on PBS.
I love Band of Brothers but by now I know the episodes backwards and forwards. The History of Science combines two of my favorite things - history and science. You can watch all six episodes here.
Worth the time. Very well done.
I love Band of Brothers but by now I know the episodes backwards and forwards. The History of Science combines two of my favorite things - history and science. You can watch all six episodes here.
Worth the time. Very well done.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
Just a reminder but Rex Ryan needs to go 7-9 this season just to equal the 4-year record the Jets had under Herm Edwards. With today's loss the NYJ are now 3-6. Rex Ryan - worse than Herm Edwards?... 55 things you might not know about the US armed services... With the Red Sox signing David Ross - it will be interesting to see whee Jarrod Saltalamacchia gets traded to. I think Salty could really rake in the NL. Most speculation has him going to the Mets... It would be interesting to compare the records of the schools kids transferred to vs Penn State's record. The grass is not always greened... One side effect of Obama being re-elected - 4 more years of incessant gold commercials on Fox News...
Just a reminder but Rex Ryan needs to go 7-9 this season just to equal the 4-year record the Jets had under Herm Edwards. With today's loss the NYJ are now 3-6. Rex Ryan - worse than Herm Edwards?... 55 things you might not know about the US armed services... With the Red Sox signing David Ross - it will be interesting to see whee Jarrod Saltalamacchia gets traded to. I think Salty could really rake in the NL. Most speculation has him going to the Mets... It would be interesting to compare the records of the schools kids transferred to vs Penn State's record. The grass is not always greened... One side effect of Obama being re-elected - 4 more years of incessant gold commercials on Fox News...
Veteran's Day - In Flanders Fields
Veteran's Day started out as Armistice Day which marked the end of World War I. In Flanders Fields is perhaps the most storied poem coming out of that war. Here's the story behind it:
In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, flyScarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days agoWe lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who dieWe shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.
Friday, November 09, 2012
This Picture - Naked Rain
Naked Rain by This Picture is a forgotten classic (can things from 1991 now be termed classic?).
A great song that you never hear anymore. Most people who hear it for the first time think it is some sort of U2 b-side.
Tuesday, November 06, 2012
Election Day
I couldn't think of a more fitting song for the day than Alice Cooper's Elected.
I voted this morning. It took 29 minutes. How long you had to wait to vote is the new finding a great parking spot. Everyone I've seen talking about voting - the first thing they mention is how long it took.
By the way - Alice Cooper supports Mitt Romney. Go Romney 2012!!
Sunday, November 04, 2012
Flotsam and Jetsam
Miscellaneous thoughts and observations.
Pitt lost to Notre Dame last night and the key play came in OT when all Pitt needed was a field goal to win. The play before the FG try - Pitt for some reason ran the ball right which put the ball on right hash mark. If they ran the ball to the middle then the kicker would have had a straight down the middle kick and we probably would be talking a bout a huge upset this morning... My prediction for what the election Tuesday will look like... After World War I - France banned the word "Verdun" from many new history textbooks. Today the MSM seem to be doing the same with the word "Benghazi"... 147 days till Opening Day... Remember Joe Biden always means what he says... Some day I will die in large part because I eat too much bacon. I am completely at peace with that scenario. Hmmmm bacon.... This is a tremendous story - a MUST READ...
Pitt lost to Notre Dame last night and the key play came in OT when all Pitt needed was a field goal to win. The play before the FG try - Pitt for some reason ran the ball right which put the ball on right hash mark. If they ran the ball to the middle then the kicker would have had a straight down the middle kick and we probably would be talking a bout a huge upset this morning... My prediction for what the election Tuesday will look like... After World War I - France banned the word "Verdun" from many new history textbooks. Today the MSM seem to be doing the same with the word "Benghazi"... 147 days till Opening Day... Remember Joe Biden always means what he says... Some day I will die in large part because I eat too much bacon. I am completely at peace with that scenario. Hmmmm bacon.... This is a tremendous story - a MUST READ...
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