I play real sports (my favorite things of 2009)

As the year comes to an end, I figured I'd take a moment to list some of my favorite things that came along this past year.

HBO started the year off with a bang by introducing us to Kenny Powers in their new comedy series, Eastbound and Down. If you haven't seen or heard of this yet, then you probably aren't the type of person that would enjoy it. For those of us who do, its given us enough one liners to last till at least 2015.



While one series began, another one came to an end. Battlestar Galactica gave us four amazing seasons and a new standard by which all other sci-fi shows will be measured. While the finale left some questions still unanswered, it wasn't enough diminish the series in anyway. In fact, it gave me with a sense of peace about the series, as well as lingering and intriguing thoughts.



As the crew of the Battlestar Galactica finally reached earth, the crew of the USS Enterprise set out once again, for the first time, to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life; new civilizations, to boldly go where no one has gone before!

Let's be honest, it's hard to find fault with JJ Abrams reboot of the Star Trek franchise. While it was great in the theater, it should be noted that the Blu-Ray is pretty incredible.



The next item on the list is also a blast from the past. Ghostbuster's The Video Game finally gave us something that all children of the 80's wanted, a proton pack. It also gave us another story line that served as a sequel to the disappointing Ghostbuster's II. I can't lie, busting makes me feel good.



TV, movies, video games - do I have time for anything else? Well, for the past several months any spare moment has been spent listening to the sounds of the lovely Jill Andrews and her debut EP. Formally of the group the everybodyfields, Jill has proven that her former band was just the first step in her musical journey. Jill's heart and soul is the main instrument on this record, and unless you're a asshole I promise you'll love it.



Speaking of assholes, that brings me to my favorite new anti-hero, Dexter Morgan. Okay, hero is a definite overstatement, but he's definitely my favorite serial killer. 2009 brought the fourth, and perhaps most amazing season of Showtime's original series. This year Dexter matched wits with the great and creepy John Lithgow. I smell an Emmy…



Last, but certainly not least, Activision's spin-off of Guitar Hero, DJ Hero has pretty much changed my life. As I sprung into my teenage years, I became obsessed with what's now considered 'old school' hip- hop. I so badly wanted to work the 'wheels of steel', that I went through a couple of needles on mom's record player.

When the lights go down and the record starts to spin - well, there's no greater high.



Coming soon, my favorite things of the decade!

You Never Forget Your First - A Tribute to G-Spot, my first intern.

This is dedicated to Gabe Simon (G-Spot), my first intern. Gabe was a hard worker, at being a slacker. Like most 20 year olds, he thought he knew everything. However, he knew just enough to be dangerous, and I'm thankful he did not sink our small, growing business.

This a collection of photos, stories, and quotes from our time together.













Hi, I'm Gabe - I wear girls jeans. They make room for my extra large vagina.













Quotes from Brad to Gabe:

• You are the reason I don't want to have kids, I look at you and think, damn, they're cute at first, but they grow into this (pointing at him).
• I drink b/c of you
• When you get here, knock 3 and 1/2 times, then say - 'I got yo doughnuts'.
• I get so mad when I see you that it makes me spit up blood.
• (when asked if I was coming to see his band) If I wanted to see a 7 piece band, I'd watch Muppet Show re-runs.

(Gabe checking in when I had swine flu)
Gabe: Are you feeling better?
Brad: Yes, kind sir. I know you wish me dead
Gabe: I sent that like three days ago
Brad: What the f**k does that have to do with anything? I may have lost control of my bowels, but I can still read dates and times.

(regarding an assignment that Gabe waited to the last minute to do.)
Brad: Do you still need me to answer those questions?
Gabe: No, the assignment was due already.
Brad: Well, why didn't you ask me all the questions the other night?
Gabe: Dude, you sounded like you didn't want to talk to me, like you weren't interested and wanted to get off the phone with me.
Brad: I did, I was trying to watch Dexter man. You did wait to the last minute, you know.

There are many more stories that I'd like to tell, but they're better told in person. I will leave you with a few more pics.

























This is a post I ran on Facebook -

Beware of this guy. He claims to be my intern, but the truth is I found him in my yard one day trying to mow the grass with a broom. He introduces himself as Gabe, however he only responds to 'Spudnuts' or'Ricky Roo'. He also wears girls jeans and goes to yard sales looking for 'My Little Pony's' in an attempt to finish his collection. If you see him, it's best to pretend that you're on the phone. If not, he will follow you and ask lots of questions.

Coffee 'Houses Of The Holy'

Hmm… where to start? I saw Robert Plant last week.

Location: Bongo Java East - East Nashville, TN.













Over the past 10 years in Nashville, I've gotten fairly use to seeing celebrities. Mostly musicians, except for the Reese Witherspoon/Ryan Phillipe sighting many moons ago at the Green Hills Blockbuster. However, when the iconic Robert Plant made his way into my local neighborhood coffee shop, I crapped my pants.

Like most folks, I discovered Led Zeppelin during my teenage years. However, for me, this was the early 90's, and the Internet age had not yet come about. Isn't it strange to think about a time without Internet? Looking back, it's hard for me to imagine. This brings up a longer discussion about the music industry and how it's changed over the years, but maybe just ask me about that in person sometime, or not.

Basically, in those days, artists were not accessible - not to mention artists that were already considered classic at the time. All we had were their often unique album art, a few photos, and maybe a retro t-shirt. If you were lucky, you could track down some sort of concert video. In the case of Led Zeppelin, you did have 'The Song Remains The Same', which is basically a movie/concert video.












Artists were mysterious, larger than life - almost mythic. Their music became the soundtracks of our lives, and open to our own interpretations.

To see this icon of rock music, just walk in and grab some coffee. Well, it was just a little too much for me to process.

You look like John Berry. Who? Dee's nuts.

If you live in East Nashville and hadn't heard the news, Dee's Q will be closing at the end of December.










For seven years, the yellow shack with flames on the side has sit quietly on Riverside Dr. across from the Piggly Wiggly, serving some kick-ass food. I'll admit, it took me years to work up courage to go there, mainly because a building with flames on it is not a good sign for those who suffer with acid reflux.

As far as pork BBQ sandwiches, I thought it was the best kept secret in Nashville. Especially when you add the extra sauce. I've often heard the ribs would melt in your mouth, and now I'll never know.










Sadness...

Can you hear the thunder?

I just finished watching HBO's critically-acclaimed, however, short-lived series Deadwood, and wanted to f**king write a little f**king blurb about it.

You see, that's a joke. Reason being, Deadwood's excessive use of profanity is somewhat legendary. Don't believe me? Let's just say, if you were playing a drinking game based on the work f**k, well, you'd be dead from alcohol poisoning before the end of one episode. For more info, click here.

So, if you haven't seen the show and are debating it, here's a few things to know about Deadwood.

• It's fictionalized, non-fiction.
• Ian Mcshane is absolutely incredible.
• Al Swearengen rivals early Jack Bauer as my favorite television character of all time.
• You will need subtitles.
• If you are offended by the words f**k, c**ksucker, and c**t - then stay away.
• If you like the show Major Dad, then this may ruin it for you.
• Timothy Olymphant is great in this, as oppose to everything thing else I've seen him in.
• John Hawkes is great, as always.
• There is a cast member of 'Facts of Life' featured on the show.
• This show features the greatest, most brutal and intense fight scene I've ever seen in film and tv.
• The show ended prematurely, however, I was not disappointed.
• This is not a western.
• The show often feels like a stage play, which is pretty cool.
• The ensemble cast is brilliant.
• Hope you like you some Powers Boothe.
  

and finally,

• Deadwood, isn't something 'she said.'

'Whatever the cost may be...'

Okay - I know serious posts are rare here, but here's another.

I have a fascination with war. It's not a romanticized sense of glory, nor is it a morbid curiosity. More so, it's a longing for understanding, not for war itself, but for what these experiences were like for all those unfortunate men, woman, and children that were victims of its horrors.

I can't imagine how I would react as a young guy drafted during the Vietnam war, or a factory worker in the 40's taken across the world to fight the Axis. Would I have been one of the many that stared at the sun, choosing blindness over combat, or drink as many soft drinks as possible to appear diabetic. Maybe I would have decided that being Canadian isn't so bad, or that time in jail gave me my best chance. Hopefully, I would have found the strength that other great men have found, and given my life to be a soldier for our country. Perhaps I would have already excepted my fate, knowing that there are no winners in war, only those who survive. However, having a Vietnam veteran as a step-father, I can tell you - survival comes with a price.

This brings me to the point of this blog, and yes, there is one.

I force myself to watch war movies and documentaries, although, I still can't stomach to watch anything that focuses on the Holocaust as I simply cannot process it. I watch because I feel that I owe it to the people who fought and died in battle to experience some part of what they experienced.

In saying that, I have to admit how deeply moved I was by the History Channel's week long event, 'WWII in HD'. If you have access to this, I strongly encourage you to take the time to watch this series. It follows the war through the eyes and writings of several soldiers, and features restored and never before seen footage. There are no way words can describe the look on the faces of men, minutes away from almost certain death as they invade the shores of a tiny Pacific Island. There is also no way to imagine what it was like for a 20 year jazz drummer, in his first few seconds of combat, to see the guy running ahead of him torn in half by a land mine.

It's amazing to think that I had two uncles land on Utah Beach, one even spent time in a German prison camp. Both returned alive. The difference between them and me? Only the year we were born.

There is no doubt this documentary will haunt you, disturb you - it will horrify you, and it should.

Playoffs?!, Playoffs?!, P.. P.. Playoffs?! What I learned in the NFL week 11.

Well, I've not posted my weekly segment over the past couple of weeks. Other than realizing that Peyton Manning indeed looks like a broke-ass Dermot Mulroney. I mean, I already knew Belicheck had the nut sack of an elephant.













What I didn't know, was that the Titans, with Vince Young, would have just won 4 straight games after starting off 0-6. I also would have never predicted that Vince Young would survive 4 games. I figured that we'd probably have seen Kerry Collins pop on the koopa trooper helmet and head back on the field, while Vince's agent conducted the first round of negotiations with the CFL.

Besides Bud Adams, nobody was probably more excited with the drafting of Young then me. I mean, who couldn't have watched that Rose Bowl and not imagined that happening in the Super Bowl. The rookie year delivered and all of a sudden, the Titans were fun to watch again. That is, until the much discussed and documented meltdown that started at the beginning of the '08 season.

Meltdown is putting it mildly. How about a 50 million dollar implosion? The ultimate riches to rags story, the complete unraveling of a past champion and future star. For those of us who supported and believed in Vince, we were left wishing like hell for a redo, and that Jay Cutler had only travelled across town from his dorm to the Titans facility.

Am I completely sold after 4 games? No, but damn, if this kid hasn't taken about ten steps in the right direction. Making his reads, running when needed, more accurate, saying the right things, acting the right way. He's scrappy on the field too, which is something this team needs more of. Has the real Vince Young stood up? Let's hope so.

Now, after 4 straight wins, which is something no other team has done after starting 0-6, the Titans are not excluded from playoff discussions. Now, they've got to win probably at least 5 of the next 6 games, and hope that other teams start folding like lawn chairs, but - there are some very winnable games on the remaining schedule.

This season holds the potential for two great Disney movies. Brett Favre winning the Super Bowl, and the Titans making it to the Super Bowl. I understand both Dennis Quaid and Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson have their schedules on hold.

Where are you from?

Okay, so I've been sick and have some catching up to do here.

I am a huge fan of Coach meltdowns, and this one is an instant classic. It doesn't have the anger and loss of control that I generally go for, but the combination of disgust, sarcasm, and pure theater of it all is worth noting.

University of Miami - Ohio Coach Charlie Coles responds to a close loss to the University of Kentucky this past week.

Bird is the word...

Ah, to be old, rich, and just not give a f**k.



Titan's owner Bud Adams is living the dream.

Your mom is Jack Bauer...

Whether we want it or not, Jack is back. That's right, the poor bastard is about to get into his 8th crunk-ass day; another event that will last exactly 24 hours.

Besides that, what else do we know at this point?

• Jack doesn't work for the government anymore. (sigh)
• Kim is still alive and kicking. (sigh)
• Jack is the most bad-ass grampa ever.
• That lady is still the Prez.
• Bubba Gump works at CTU... so does Starbuck. We also get Acevada from The Shield.
• Location change - NYC. You thought the Cloverfield monster was destructive?

What we don't know...

• Will there be any cougars in NYC? Sexy ones not included.
• Who will rise from the dead this year?
• Will Aaron Pierce be the only person other than Jack to be in all 8 seasons?
• Will Soul patch Jesus return in any capacity.
• Will this finally be the last season?
• Will it finally be revealed that Terri never really died, and that she's been the mastermind behind every single plot line?
• Will anyone care?
• Will anyone watch?

Things I Learned in the NFL Week 7

Well, due to the fact I didn't get to watch as much football as I'd like, there was no week 6 blog. So, I'll combine week 6 and 7. Although, it maybe short, as I didn't learn much more than I already knew.

Here we go.

• The Titans didn't play this week, not much different than the week before. (ba dum dum) hey-o! I'm here all night.
• Not sure if Brady is back in true form, or it was just the Titans.
• Somebody at Rolling Stone compared Eric Mangini to a Willy Wonky character. I can't remember which.
• The Jets have landed.
• The Ravens are still my Super Bowl pick.
• Brett Favre makes me want to buy Wranglers.
• A-Rod plays for the Cowboys under the name of Austin.
• The Saints are pretty scary. But, it just seems too good to be true.
• The Chargers and Norv Turner are getting what they deserve. I hate them.
• Watching Dexter was more entertaining to me than watch the Cardinals/Giants. Gotta love that John Lithgow.
• Holy crap! Alex Smith still plays for the 49'er's.
• The Dolphin's can run some damn wildcat.
• The Colt's may go through the regular season undefeated.
• Finally, in a bizarre move, the Redskin's have asked Sherman Helmsley to handle their play calling.

The Return of DJ Bizzy Bee

Although I have never played the popular game 'Guitar Hero', I will sure as hell be playing it's spin off (pun intended), DJ Hero.

Because I've spent half my life playing a stringed instrument, the thought of doing it on a video game never seemed appealing. I have no doubt it's fun as hell, however, I'd rather do stuff that I can't do in real life; like play football, wield a lightsaber, catch ghosts, or be Batman. Wait, I am Batman.













When I first saw the commercial for DJ Hero I jumped off of the couch. I was flooded by memories of trying to scratch records on my mom's stereo with some broken down Radio Shack mixer that my creepy uncle gave me. It was 1988, and sounds of old school rap excited me and still do to this day. That were so many great DJ's back then, including my favorite, DJ Jazzy Jeff. Now, some people associate the Fresh Prince and Jazzy Jeff with cheeseballs, and while their approach was fun and lighthearted, Jeff's is arguebly the best and most innovative DJ to date.

Don't believe me? Check out this video. Especially at 2:50 and 5:00.



Sadly, most folks just remember Jeff has the guy who always got thrown out the Bank's mansion in Bel-Air.

Growing up in small town North Carolina, mastering the wheels of steel wasn't as easy as getting piano lessons. I had to jimmy rig the home stereo and ruin a few needles before I realized that my talent would never grow if I didn't have a mentor.

So, with regret, I walked away.

Tomorrow is a new day, it's the return on DJ Bizzy Bee. That's right, it's on.

So Long, Captain Lou...

Yesterday brought with it the unfortunate passing of Captain Lou Albano at age 76. For those who are unfamiliar with the Captain, you can read the CNN article here.

Coincidentally, I was listening to Cyndi Lauper when I read the news. Weird...

I've always wanted a good reason to post the following video, and this is as good as any. So long, Captain Lou. As a child of the 80's, I thank you for the memories.

Now, perhaps my favorite one...

Winners and Losers - NFL week 5

Well, we're through the first 5 weeks of the season, and I thought I'd mix it up a little. Instead of the past week, I'm going to look more at what I've learned so far this season.

First off, the biggest surprises:

• Gotta go with the Broncos on this one. I really thought Josh McDaniels might be looking for a new job next year. Not just for losing games, but more so running off Jay Cutler and potentially Brandon Marshall then losing games.
• For the first few weeks I was in denial, but then they beat Dallas and New England I had to eat the proverbial crow. Looking back, the lucky tip in game one may have not been luck after all, but instead the arrival of Johnny 'Good' Karma.
• Second, the Bengals. Yep, 4-1. Hard Knocks that shit.
• Miami is still winning games with the wildcat. Pretty amazing.
• The 49'er's are showing up to play, and playing hard. Welcome back San Francisco.
• Oh yeah, that Brett Farve game against Green Bay. Really didn't think he had it in him.

Disappointments:

• Well, you don't have to look any further than my hometown of Nashville, TN. 13-3 to 0-5, and it's not going to get any easier when they head to Foxboro on Sunday. The window of opportunity in Tennessee has shut and the question is, where do they go from here. First stop - probably a quarterback in the first round of the 2010 draft.
• The Oakland Raiders have actually digressed. How is that even possible?
• The Carolina Panthers. Very similar to the Titans in a way. Too much talent to be losing.
• The Colts are still good. Damn it man.

Brett Favre, Brett Favre, Brett Favre, Brett Farve. NFL Week 4

• The Titans window has shut.
• Jack Del Rio doesn't fuck around. Canceled David Garrard's radio show. That's just awesome.
  
• I respect the Denver Broncos.
• Tony Romo obviously doesn't know who Champ Bailey is.
• Wade Phillips always looks like he's standing in parking lot and can't find his car.
• Jay Cutler is feeling at home in Chicago.
• The Lions winning streak is over.
• Payton Manning just likes fucking with people at this point. He brain has gone plaid. (Spaceballs reference)
• The Seahawks are like the team that plays the Harlem Globetrotters.
• Rush Limbough put in a bid to buy the St. Louis Rams. I put in my bid to pee on the St. Louis Rams.
• Ole gunslinger blew me away. I mean damn.
• Sucked being Aaron Rodgers, they came after him like a Sherman tank.
• The Saints welcomed little Marky Sanchez to the NFL.
• The Panther didn't play this week. How's that different from any other week. (ba dum dump) Take my wife... please.
• Tom Brady is a man - it's not hard.
• Buc rhymes with suc - coincidence? I think not.
• The Texans proved they can play with the big boys by beating the Raiders.
• Eric Mangini can smile - but still lost.
• Bengal fever baby!
• Mike Tomlin sure can motivate a mother fucker. I need a Mike Tomlin of my very own.
• Phillip River's looks so good with a crooked helmet that has grass and mud clumps in it.

'Manning to Garcon' : What I learned from the NFL week 3

• The sky is falling in Tennessee. How is it Coach Fisher always finds shelter? I like 'Fish' a lot. Class act, great football mind. Maybe we couldn't do better... I don't know. I do know that even the most outspoken reporters in this town dare not blaspheme the 'Stache', for fear of going to hell. When I shit my pants, I change my underwear. Change isn't always bad.
• Brady Quinn learned that looks can indeed only get so far. Time to do what you were made to do BQ, join the cast of the new Melrose Place on the CW.
• The way Jemarcus Russell reads defenses makes my fairly damn certain I'd kick his ass in Madden.
• Ole' Gunslinger Brett Farve just shot everyone the bird. I get it, Brett. You still got enough in the tank to make 1 amazing play out of 200. It really was damn impressive.
• Marc Sanchez - I'm not gay, but I might would fuck you. Just sayin...
• Tom Brady - you're fucking out, Marc Sanchez is fucking in. Just kidding, Tom. I love to see you fired up. I also love when I can lip read your F-bombs.
• The Bengals gave the Steelers a shit sandwich with extra mayo.
  
• My Super Bowl pick is Baltimore.
• I'm gonna miss the shit out of Chad Pennington.
• Just when I thought 'Manning to Harrison' was the most annoying thing ever, along came 'Manning to Pierre Garcon'.
• Larry Fitzgerald's brother thought tweets were invisible.
• Congrats to the St. Louis Rams for entering the UFL by default.
• Washington Redskins, meet the team at HBO, we'll be setting up our cameras next July. Also, you really could have just created a bionic man with the money you paid Haynesworth, and you wouldn't have carry it off the field on a cart.
• I love the color green. Seattle made sweet monkey love to the color green.
• Jay Cutler solved the he problem from Good Will Hunting and left on the visiting team's locker room chalkboard, just because he could. He also lit them up like a cheap cigar.
• The Kansas City Chiefs just ranked in the BCS poll.
• Terrell Owens just goes with the plays that are called.
• Tony Romo has watched too many Brett Farve tapes.
• In the words of Chris Berman 'Daylight comes and you've got to Delhomme'. Translation: stop getting your haircut while wearing your helmet, and get the fuck outta Charlotte. Preferably during the early AM hours. Not much traffic at 3am.
• Schwartz fever has hit Detroit. Catch it. Best thing to hit Detroit since Robocop.
• Saints rock.
• Tampa Bay, the CFL called and they want Byron Leftwich back.
• The Texans need medication.
• The Bronco's are 3-0. (head spins around on neck)
  
• Phillip Rivers is a penis.

Never underestimate the power of the Schwartz! What I Learned from the NFL Week 2.

• Playoffs?! Playoffs?!. The Titans are the best 0-2 team in football and they're officially in trouble. The loss of Jim Schwartz is more devastating then the loss of Albert Haynesworth. (I really just wanted to make a Spaceballs reference). This Sunday versus the Jets might as well be the Super Bowl. Also, Chris Johnson looks like the Predalien.
• Speaking of the Jets, it doesn't suck to be Mark Sanchez. Rex Ryan reminds me of a cross between Fog-Horn Leg Horn and North Carolina prank phone call legend, Charlie Whisnut.
• Andre Johnson is a stud.
• Jay Cutler is who we thought he was! Cutler quote of the week, 'look guys, it's not rocket science, but if so, I'd be killing that shit'.
• After completing 24-26 passes, Kurt Warner would make an atheist want to believe. You see, Kurt Warner plays for Team Jesus.
  
• Frank Gore ran all over the Seahawks. Who cares? Oh, fantasy owners.
  
• I learned that a team could keep the ball for 46 minutes and still lose.
• Tampa Bay just realized what the rest of the country already knew, Byron Leftwich is their quarterback.
• Eli is poised. I know, weird right?
• The Cowboys are definitely America's team. Spends a lot of money, has a lot of debt, and yet can't get united.
• The Bronco's are the worst 2-0 team in football.
• The Brown's have the perfect name. They leave shit stains all over the field.
• The curtain may very well be closing on the Patriot's dynasty. Still doesn't suck to be Tom Brady.
• Nobody slept better than Marvin Lewis on Sunday night.
• If you try to catch a touchdown pass with your face mask, you will not have a job the next day.
• The Ravens are pretty bad-ass.
• The AFC West maybe the worst conference, if not, then the NFC West. Regardless, NFL in the West sucks.
• Phillip Rivers is a penis.

Jack N' Nut's

On my last flight, I decided to mix things up a bit. For you little whippersnappers who may not know, there was a time when folks used to fill there RC and Coca-Cola with peanuts before drinking. I actually think this is more of a regional thing, maybe even unique to the Carolina's, I'm really not sure. Regardless, if peanuts work work well with Coke, then surely they would work even better with Jack Daniel's and Coke.













That's why I'm proud to announce my new favorite drink, the 'Jack n' nuts'. Jack Daniel's, Coca-Cola, and peanuts.










I apologize if I'm stealing somebody's idea, but honestly I'm afraid to Google 'Jack'n Nuts'

Also, there is a variation. Use Crown Royal instead of Jack Daniel's for a 'Crown my nuts'.

Enjoy...

Come Fly With Me. Better Yet, Fuck Your Own Face.

It's been a busy week for sports, I mean, hell - the NFL is back! So much to write about, so little time. That said, I do want to rewind a bit and take a moment to weigh in on the Michael Jordan Hall Of Fame acceptance speech from last Friday.

I remember standing in the hallway of Leaksville Intermediate with the rest of my 5th grade class, and not being able to keep from looking down at my feet. How could I not? I had the first pair of 'Air' Jordan's, along with some bad ass checker boarded laces to top them off. At the time, most of my friends had to settle for 'Sky' Jordan's', but fortunately I was tall enough to fit into the 'Air's' which started at size 7.











Over the next few years I would own several versions of the classic shoe. At the same time, I would eat, sleep, and breathe basketball. My room would be filled with posters of Jordan, and my closet was full of Bulls and Flight gear.



I'd watch every game that the Bulls played, and if they were not playing, I was for watching my VHS copy of 'Come Fly With Me'. It was the ultimate hype video before heading to YMCA for an afternoon of basketball.



Let's put it this way. It was a great time to be a kid, but a hard time to be a parent. It was magical to grow up idolizing the world's greatest basketball player, but definitely less exciting for my mom and her pocketbook.

That was over 20 years ago...

Two decades, six championships, and three retirements later... Michael Jordan had been inducted into the Basketball Hall Of Fame. And, if you haven't heard, it was a memorable speech. You can get up to speed on youtube, or read this article on Yahoo Sports here.



I've watched the video several times and really gone back and forth on how I feel about Jordan and his speech. At the age of 34, I've learned to separate the personality of my idols and their talent. Everybody's human and everybody has their shit, but it's still a hard lesson to learn. That being said, Jordan's performance at the Hall Of Fame induction was not this sort of separation, but instead was the ultimate integration of personality and talent. It was an amazing glimpse into the mind of a man who is one of the greatest athletes and competitors in history.

Trust me, Michael would much rather take his shots at Isiah Thomas and Magic on the court, but that's not an option any more. His competitive nature still rages, and since he can no longer take it on the court, well, he decided to take advantage of this forum.

Was it harsh? Yeah. Tasteless? yeah, a little. But, to Michael Jordan, this was not an accomplishment worthy of celebrating. Instead, it was the ultimate defeat. The sport of basketball was attempting to put a period at the end of the sentence, and the champ was determined to go down swinging. He even suggested that he may come back at 50, and honestly it would not surprise me.

After much deliberation, I can't fault Jordan for his speech. In fact, I wouldn't expect anything less. This man changed the game, and all the great players of today are only following in the footsteps that he pioneered. With players like Kobe and LeBron, fans are now benefiting from the gift Jordan gave us. It's the whole new generation of player that grew up in the Jordan era. For Jordan, I'm sure he'd give anything to be on the court with those guys right now, if only to show them that there will never be another Michael Jordan.

Although, can you imagine if Michael Jordan had the physical attributes of LeBron James? There would be more than just bruised egos on the court.

So, I'll be looking out for Jordan in the coming years. Bring it back baby. Pretend aging is Patrick Ewing, and go baseline and dunk over that shit.

If anyone can, it's you...

Nobody Puts Baby In A Corner...

On a more serious note, I'm saddened by the loss of Patrick Swayze.

Sure, I didn't know him, but this year has been a year of loss. I've had so many friends lose loved ones this year. I've also had some unexpected passing of old acquaintances, and the sports/entertainment world has suffered it's loses this year too.

While not all who passed this year suffered from cancer, many of them did, including Swayze who lost his battle to pancreatic cancer at only 57 years old.

These days, there's really not anyone that hasn't been closely affected by this disease. While advancements have been made in the detection and treatment, it's hasn't been nearly enough.

With all the technology at our fingertips, I can only hope that I see a cure for this in my lifetime.

Okay, whew -back to Swayze.

Everybody has their favorite Swayze movies. For me, I'm going to have to go with Dirty Dancing and Point Break. Two very different, yet great performances.

However, this is one you may have overlooked. Hilarious. Also, it features the late Natasha Richardson.

What I Learned From NFL Week One - Observations From An Average Fan

• The Titans still look good. Some weak spots, but nothing that can't get better as the season goes along.
• The Colts still scare and annoy me. I still feel total elation when Payton throws a pick. Oh yeah, I learned what '219 z fake crack post' is. Thanks Coach Dungy!
  
• The Texans still suck. Matt Schaub has no peripheral vision.
• Jacksonville needs a pass play or two.
• Mark Sanchez may very well be the 6th 2nd coming of Joe Namath.
• Big Ben will rip your heart out if you don't get pressure on him. Well, even then.
• Larry Fitzgerald - Palomalu is out... you're next. Don't fight it.
• The Seahawks destroyed the St. Louis Rams. Who cares?
• Samurai Mike may lead the 49's to the top of the NFC West.
• As much as I love Jay Cutler, and I do... he couldn't dodge the karmic boomerang. Also, Jay Cutler has elephant balls and will throw into quadruple coverage.
  
• Josh McDaniels got the better side of the karmic boomerang.
• The Bears are who we thought they were. Actually, not really. Urlacher will miss the year.
• I'm sad that the season finale of Hard Knocks aired last week, cause I'd pay some damn good money see the camera rolling in the locker room post-game yesterday.
• The Panthers need to get Jeff Garcia's phone number ASAP.
• The old gunslinger plays better when he doesn't have to fire as many bullets.
• Adrian Peterson probably has real horns. Like antlers.
  
• I heard the words, 'Baltimore' and 'offensive powerhouse' in the same sentence. Wait, what?
• The Giants are still awesome, but will fall for a fake field goal.
• I don't play fantasy football, but if I did I'd definitely have Drew Brees on my team.
  
• Tony Romo seems less stressed.
  
• The Lions will be much better... in 2010.
  

While there are still two more games to play tonight, I'll go ahead and lay it out.

• Tom Brady is still devilishly handsome.
  
• Phillip Rivers is a penis.
  

That's Why We Took The Damn Field

Best YouTube video ever made.

I Wanna Kiss You!

Thanks Joe!

So, I've been a fan of this legendary clip for awhile now.



What I did not know, was that somebody wrote a song about it. Awesome!

NFL Kickoff and the Return Of Thindale White

Thursday's night 2009 NFL kick off cannot get here fast enough. It's been seven long months since 55 year old Kurt Warner almost gave Arizona their first championship in over 750 years. Instead, the Pittsburgh Steelers walked away with trophy, a trophy that should have gone to my Tennessee Titans. However, the Titans choked away their number one seed and a meaningless 13-3 to the evil Baltimore Ravens and their uni-browed rookie quarterback sensation, Joe Flacco.

(Sigh) Enough of that, let's not rehash last year's letdowns. It's not easy being a Titans fan.

Let's look ahead to this year, shall we?













Tom Brady is back. Love him or hate him, he's a bad ass and the NFL is better with him there.













T.O. is in Buffalo. Looking forward to that implosion.













Jay Cutler is in Chicago. 'I went to Vanderbilt bitches, I'm smart as hell' - God, I love Cutler











Old gunslinger #4 Brett Favre has joined the Packer's rival, the Vikings. Not going to end well.














Tony Romo has broken up with Jessica Simpson.











Vince Young has called his shot into the Football Hall of Fame. Although he's a back up quarterback. I'm pulling for you, Vince.










Josh McDaniel's job in Denver is already on the line.











The Raiders are still the Raiders.











Michael Vick is back.














and, finally - LenDale White is 30lbs lighter and ready to stomp some more terrible towels.

So, hone up your Madden skills, buckle your chin straps, get your fantasy stat book ready, and let's play ball.

You complete me...

Over the past few years, several great shows have made their mark on television. I'm not just talking premium cable, either. Even better, the DVD/Netflix combination has made it possible to bring these shows home. So, now you don't always have to watch in real time or syndication. Instead, you can watch a season a week and even an entire series in a month.

As Fall approaches and the days get shorter, here are some shows to keep you comfy and reality free in the evening. Even better, these are completed series, so resolution awaits you.

Alias -












Okay, so I was a long time hold out of this show. What little screen time I'd seen of Jennifer Garner, in particular '13 Going On 30', had left me wondering what all the hub bub was about.

It wasn't until I saw the JJ Abram's Mission Impossible 3, along with a recommendation from a friend, that I decided to give it a shot.

Take whatever reservations you may have and toss them aside. If you like the storytelling of Lost, then you'll definitely appreciate it's predecessor. Honestly, even though Lost has yet to run it's course, I believe that Alias is the better show. Suspenseful, action packed, dramatic, and at times humorous, you'll find it hard not to watch 3-4 episodes per night.

I implore you, give Jennifer a chance kick her way into your heart. The show will grab you in the opening scene, promise.

The Shield -












FX's breakthrough drama ended it's run last Fall, but I'm still haunted he series finale. It's like, someone ran my emotions through a juicer.

I've already blogged about this show in the past, so I'll keep it short. The last five minutes of the pilot episode sets the stage for the rest of the series. It sets the timer, and then winds down to the series finale where it all finally explodes.

Pulling for a bad guy has never been so much fun.



Battlestar Galactica -












The name alone isolates an audience. Then, for those who are old enough, there's the image Dirk Benedict and Lorne Greene fighting those clunky ass Cylons. Cheese whiz in space.

Well, fuck all that. Start with the mini-series and settle in to the one of the best shows ever written.

For more info, see the 'Trying to get regular' post.




The Wire -










Brilliant. I mean, I'd heard so many great things about this show, that I was determined to find fault. Sure, there are some things I didn't like about the story, but that was the story. You are an observer, and these characters aren't there for your entertainment.

It did take me awhile to get fully involved in the show. It was a slow burn, but once you're hooked, you'll be glad that you stuck around.


24 -












Well, technically this show has not ended, but most 24 fans will tell you that it's long been over. Personally, I think the end of season 4 should be the stopping point for newbies.

Let's face it though. How many times can you make the real time scenario work? How much shock and awe can you deliver before it becomes predictable or just ridiculous? The show is a victim of it's own success, and in turn has become a parody of itself.

However, the first 4 seasons maybe some of the best 96 hours in television history. After that, just walk away.

Der-be, or not der-be

This past week I had my demolition derby virginity taken from me, compliments of the Cheatham County Fair. Let me first say, I rarely travel outside the Nashville city limits, so Cheatham county itself was it's own experience. Yet, it was very reminiscent of my rural North Carolina home of Rockingham County.

Before I could even get the stands to watch the derby, I witness a girl get puked on during one of the rides. At this point my appetite is a goner, and I push quickly towards the bleachers. As we sit down and wait we are entertained by the drive by mullets, as well as the master of ceremonies who appears to be intoxicated.









(photo by Agnes Barton-Sabo)

Now, although I've never seen a demolition derby in person, I'm very aware of the concept. Not much to read between the lines on that one. What I didn't realize is that the cars already looked as if they had lost the derby. When the cars, or what's left of them rolled out, it looked as if somebody had raided the set of 'The Road Warrior'. Some drivers had no shirts but wore a helmet, others had a shirt but no helmet. Some smoked cigarettes, which was completely bad ass, albeit stupid. The lack of safety precautions in general was alarming, yet pretty fucking amazing.

I guess every 'sport' has it's stars, and the Demolition Derby is no exception. This night, the crowd favorite was easily, 'Joker II'. As soon as the pink and neon green station wagon rolled out, he owned the crowd. Not sure what happened to 'Joker I', but this guy got his name honestly. He was chaos and anarchy on wheels. His first move of the night was literally a show stopper, as he backed up and into some poor guy, ripping his opponent's roof off much like a opening a sardine can. What's even more amazing is that no one was injured. Decapitated, to be more specific.









(photo by Agnes Barton-Sabo)

Once the carnage was cleared, Joker's next move was equally as stunning. Running full speed in reverse across the length of the field, he plowed into some poor bastard then jumped over the log gate that was supposed to keep the cars inside. This move, like the other, almost claimed somebody's life. Thus, the Joker was ejected.

A disappointed crowd begin to chant, 'let him play', 'let him play'...

While everyone had thought they had seen the last of the Joker, you can only imagine the cheers of excitement when he later rolled out to compete in the final match. What happened next was one of the most amazing 15 minutes of my life. The 'Joker' unleashed an ass whipping of biblical proportion. While all the other drivers worked to demolish him, he could not be stopped. How that car still kept going is a mystery, and can only be explained as the will of one man. One man that was determined to fuck you up. With one wheel almost completely off, the Joker still maneuvered almost effortlessly. At one point, he struck the broken and axle of another car, almost flipping over; but, it was not to be.

Finally, two cars were left, the 'Joker', and some other poor motherfucker. As the crowd came to their feet, the 'Joker' and his opponent backed up and positioned themselves to go head to head. I have to admit, even after all that I had seen, I really didn't think they were that stupid. I was wrong, and within seconds the two cars collided head on. For several minutes following, billowing smoke was the only thing left to see, then a man arises from one of the cars. Raising his arms in victory, it was indeed the 'Joker'.









(photo by Agnes Barton-Sabo)

I'm not sure who this guy is, nor do I care to. Chances are if you meet him, it's not likely that you'll live to tell the story. I will say, to all those who plan to compete in other regional derby's - if you see a pink and green station wagon with the name 'Joker III'... think about your family. Go home and hug them.

Vick-tory?

It's been over two years since Michael Vick took his last NFL snap. That is, until last night.



As a football fan, Madden player, and dog lover, I was devastated when the news broke that Michael Vick was involved in a dog fighting ring. Even more disgusted to find out the he himself participated in the (deep breath), killing of dogs. Okay let's stop there.

There was no player in the NFL as electrifying as Michael Vick. Often criticized for his inaccuracy and poor decisions, he was not considered a 'conventional' NFL quarterback. Regardless, I thought he threw some of the prettiest passes in the league, even if they did go to the wrong spot. No, Vick's strength were his legs. Something that kept the opposing defensive coordinators up at night. Oh yeah, and I definitely kicked some serious ass on Madden (as Vick), lighting up chumps and scoring into the hundreds.

(Sigh) So, I have to admit - it was good to see him on the field last night.

Not that my feeling comes without conflict. I am lover of dogs. I love spending time with them, training them. I also have a special affection for working with abused dogs, and have a love for pit bulls. Two of my neighbors have adopted pit bulls, both of which were abandoned in a nearby park probably because they wouldn't fight. Both had evidence of abuse. I also have a hound/pit bull mix that was abused and still has a BB in his chest from when he was a puppy. It breaks my heart. You can see the long term affects of the abuse in his mannerisms, although he's come a long way. Needless to say, the details of the Vick case sicken and anger me.

That brings us to the here and now. There are those that think Vick should never play football again, while others feel that he deserves a second chance. Where do I come out? Well, when the story first broke in '06 I would have said, 'hell no, hell fucking no'. That being said, although I'm still unable to reconcile his actions, I do believe he belongs back in football and in the NFL. Two years in jail and bankrupt, he's payed his price and he's starting over.

The NFL is Michael Vick's best chance for redemption and the most effective way to give back to society. It helps that Vick has folks like Coach Crocodile Dun-gee in his corner, and from all we can see thus far he seems remorseful. I don't want to make excuses for Vick, but you have to take into consideration how his past has affected him. Honestly, I don't know much about his childhood. However, both he and his brother Marcus have had run ins with the law, which leads me to believe that bad influences were in play. Again, I speak in ignorance and can only speculate.

All I can say now, is welcome back Michael. The NFL is a better place with you there. Now, honor this second chance, and honor the fans and supporters by not fucking up. Oh yeah, Madden is better with you too.

Nothing Rhymes With Alex

So, it's been a bit of a stressful weekend. Not enough food in the house for starters, which leads to overspending and overeating. Then, I accidentally erased my itunes folder. That's right, accidentally, and let's not even go there. I do back up, but it's been a awhile.

Moving on, if any of you know me, then you know that one of my favorite shows is the NBC sitcom Wings. (By the way, you can read my other thoughts about how they mistreated the DVD release in previous blogs.) In an effort to cure the cranks, I was happy to discover that you can find most of the episodes on YouTube, thanks to user: teddyfalconer.

If you're not familiar with Wings, you should definitely keep this in mind if you find yourself alone on a Friday night. Oh shit, that's probably just me. Well, not that I endorse this, but it's probably good for slow days at the office as well.

While it's hard to choose a favorite episode, here's a few favorites to get you started.

Attack Of The Clone

Hells to the yeah. Today was a great day.

As a huge fan of the Jim Rome show, it was an incredible honor for me to have my text included in the Huge Text Contest today. I'm also especially proud, as this is the first text I've ever submitted. The winning text was composed in the Burger King parking lot on 8th Ave (Nashville, TN). I made sure to pull over so that I did not text and drive. That's the law.

Now, for the award winning text.

'Packer fan feels betrayed? How do you think we feel? This was supposed to be our year. Sincerely - the good ole boys who wear wranglers and play in the mud. War the guys laugh that sounds like you're cranking a lawn mower. '

Trying to get regular, with my blogging of course

So, just a few months after the end of Ronald Moore's re-imagined Battlestar Galactica, those money grubbing bastards at Universal Pictures are fast-tracking yet another, BSG movie for the theaters.

It looks as if they've signed on Bryan Singer to direct the new, um, newer, excuse me, newest version of this space opera. I can almost see a Les Grossman-esque (Tom Cruise in Tropic Thunder), movie mogul, slapping that ass while talking about the G-5. Yes, the airplane.

As a kid, the original series was a favorite of mine. As I look back though, it was more like 'Star Wars' for your television, at a time with home video had yet to hit. I had BSG toys, hell, I had BSG birthday parties. Needless to say, when Sci-Fi Network announced that they were releasing an updated Battlestar Galactica mini-series in the December of 2003, I couldn't wait. I mean holy shit, Starbuck's a girl and Adama is Lt. Castillo from Miami Vice? It's fucking brilliant.

While I expected an update to the classic, what I got instead was an amazing drama with depth and layers that you rarely find in television. Ronald Moore's version of Battlestar Galactica was more social commentary then swash-buckling space adventure. Politics, religion, terrorism, and segregation, as well as some pretty cool space shit. Not gonna lie.

I won't go on about the greatness of Moore's BSG, only suggest that you Netflix that moe foe if you haven't yet seen it.

So that brings me back the point, if there is one. I'm really disappointed by the news of yet another remake. At only 34, I've lived long enough to see 3rd generation remakes. Sad. Remake Star Wars motherfucker, and let the goodness be. Better yet, go see District 9 and get inspired to make something different.

Or, you can always develop a Thundercats movie.