cleaning out my email folder I rediscovered this gem...enjoy!!!! It's an actual 911 call.
Monday, October 31
Vid Test
Thanks to kathi, I've found a new website tool http://www.youtube.com I'm testing this video I uploaded to the site.
Finally A Win
I was on the winning side of my Fantasy Football matchup this week. I'm back at .500 with a 4-4 record. The 3 consecutive losses really did me in. I dropped from 1st to 5th in my league. This win keeps me in 5th place for the time being. I can live with that for now. Next week, I'll be striving to make up grown.
Special thanks to my fantasy football Stud of the Week: QB Carson Palmer. His 3 TDs 1 INT and 237 yds passing snagged 20 (of my 55) points for the week.
Dud of the week: RB Michael Pittman. His lackluster 5 yds rushing and 3 yds receiving garnered 0 points. Sometimes 2nd string RBs (eg Larry Johnson, Ricky Williams) pay dividends. Other times they don't. Cie La Vie Mr. Pittman.
The Boo Boo Boo Award goes to RB Brian Westbrook. He sat on my bench this week after several weeks of underachieving. Yesterday he finally had a good game and I missed out on 10 points.
Special thanks to my fantasy football Stud of the Week: QB Carson Palmer. His 3 TDs 1 INT and 237 yds passing snagged 20 (of my 55) points for the week.
Dud of the week: RB Michael Pittman. His lackluster 5 yds rushing and 3 yds receiving garnered 0 points. Sometimes 2nd string RBs (eg Larry Johnson, Ricky Williams) pay dividends. Other times they don't. Cie La Vie Mr. Pittman.
The Boo Boo Boo Award goes to RB Brian Westbrook. He sat on my bench this week after several weeks of underachieving. Yesterday he finally had a good game and I missed out on 10 points.
You Liked That Movie?
"Saw II" Much for Competition
Saw II promised lots of blood; it delivered lots of bucks.
The grisly horror sequel, in which the determined Jigsaw picks up where he hacked off in Saw, delivered the box office's fourth-biggest October opening ever, per estimates from Exhibitor Relations Co.
Its $30.5 million take was more than enough to top the weekend competition...
What is going on? Am I the only one that hated Saw? It had to be one of the silliest movies I've ever seen. There were so many holes in that storyline. I've debated with more than a few people who tried to convince me that Saw was really good. Sorry guys I have too much taste to fall for the okie doke. I rented the movie and I'm still pissed they got my money.
I hate...I repeat I hate watching bad movies; especially, bad movies that sucker you in with a stylized, slick movie trailer. Or a movie trailer that catches your eye with a novel concept. Then you watch the movie and the execution is so poor that the novelty of the movie means nothing.
A few other films I found lacking in the substance department but grabbed my attention with great movie trailers: Scream; The Village; (I'll add to this list later)
While I'm on the subject of watching bad movies, I also hate when a film's buzz grows and grows and grows because word of mouth advertising is so strong. If you're like me, you finally give in and watch the movie because so many people have told you it's a winner only to discover the movie is as bad as you expected it to be.
A few films that I was duped into seeing: Sixth Sense; The Blair Witch Project; (I'll add more later)
Anyway, back to my original thought, I can not believe Saw II made that much loot in it's opening weekend. Sheesh!
Saw II promised lots of blood; it delivered lots of bucks.
The grisly horror sequel, in which the determined Jigsaw picks up where he hacked off in Saw, delivered the box office's fourth-biggest October opening ever, per estimates from Exhibitor Relations Co.
Its $30.5 million take was more than enough to top the weekend competition...
What is going on? Am I the only one that hated Saw? It had to be one of the silliest movies I've ever seen. There were so many holes in that storyline. I've debated with more than a few people who tried to convince me that Saw was really good. Sorry guys I have too much taste to fall for the okie doke. I rented the movie and I'm still pissed they got my money.
I hate...I repeat I hate watching bad movies; especially, bad movies that sucker you in with a stylized, slick movie trailer. Or a movie trailer that catches your eye with a novel concept. Then you watch the movie and the execution is so poor that the novelty of the movie means nothing.
A few other films I found lacking in the substance department but grabbed my attention with great movie trailers: Scream; The Village; (I'll add to this list later)
While I'm on the subject of watching bad movies, I also hate when a film's buzz grows and grows and grows because word of mouth advertising is so strong. If you're like me, you finally give in and watch the movie because so many people have told you it's a winner only to discover the movie is as bad as you expected it to be.
A few films that I was duped into seeing: Sixth Sense; The Blair Witch Project; (I'll add more later)
Anyway, back to my original thought, I can not believe Saw II made that much loot in it's opening weekend. Sheesh!
Friday, October 28
I Don't Know What To Think...
...of this fool. What a numb nut! Not that he sent the kids to his car to grab his stash... wth? are you kidding me? *sigh* and *shaking head* why am I still amazed that there are so many oddballs out there?
Teacher Pleads No Contest to Marijuana Charges
October 24, 2005 - Former substitute teacher Christopher Bochin is facing more than 10 years in prison after pleading no contest to five counts of providing marijuana to minors.
The stage was set for a jury to hear Christopher Bochin's case, but before jurors could even be seated, the 23-year-old shocked the courtroom and his attorney by pleading no contest.
"Christopher literally feels that getting caught up in this mess has saved his life," said Bochin's attorney, Jim Elia.
Back in February, Bochin was a substitute teacher at Fresno High when he told students he had a bag of pot and a pipe in his truck. Bochin drew a map, then wrote a pass for two kids to go and retrieve the marijuana.
"Like half of the kids in the class just started smoking and the teacher hit the thing first," said a student in Bochin's class.
Eventually, alerted by students, a teacher sniffed out the problem and notified campus security.
Bochin has since apologized to the community and the students for his actions.
"As a teacher, it was my responsibility to tell students that marijuana is a dangerous and illegal drug. Instead I selfishly shared my own problem with them," said Bochin.
Even with the no contest plea, Bochin still faces more than 10 years in prison or probation. ABC-30 legal analyst Tony Capozzi is certain Bochin will serve some time.
"School teachers are entrusted with a lot of responsibility, and to do something he did requires some sort of punishment and for the public to know the laws are being enforced," said Capozzi.
Bochin has undergone an in-patient drug and alcohol treatment program, attends three Alcoholics Anonymous meetings a week and volunteers at a local hospice. His attorney hopes that incentive will be enough to keep Bochin out of prison.
"You have to hit rock bottom sometimes before you can turn around," said Elia.
Bochin will learn his fate during his sentencing, which is set for December.
Teacher Pleads No Contest to Marijuana Charges
October 24, 2005 - Former substitute teacher Christopher Bochin is facing more than 10 years in prison after pleading no contest to five counts of providing marijuana to minors.
The stage was set for a jury to hear Christopher Bochin's case, but before jurors could even be seated, the 23-year-old shocked the courtroom and his attorney by pleading no contest.
"Christopher literally feels that getting caught up in this mess has saved his life," said Bochin's attorney, Jim Elia.
Back in February, Bochin was a substitute teacher at Fresno High when he told students he had a bag of pot and a pipe in his truck. Bochin drew a map, then wrote a pass for two kids to go and retrieve the marijuana.
"Like half of the kids in the class just started smoking and the teacher hit the thing first," said a student in Bochin's class.
Eventually, alerted by students, a teacher sniffed out the problem and notified campus security.
Bochin has since apologized to the community and the students for his actions.
"As a teacher, it was my responsibility to tell students that marijuana is a dangerous and illegal drug. Instead I selfishly shared my own problem with them," said Bochin.
Even with the no contest plea, Bochin still faces more than 10 years in prison or probation. ABC-30 legal analyst Tony Capozzi is certain Bochin will serve some time.
"School teachers are entrusted with a lot of responsibility, and to do something he did requires some sort of punishment and for the public to know the laws are being enforced," said Capozzi.
Bochin has undergone an in-patient drug and alcohol treatment program, attends three Alcoholics Anonymous meetings a week and volunteers at a local hospice. His attorney hopes that incentive will be enough to keep Bochin out of prison.
"You have to hit rock bottom sometimes before you can turn around," said Elia.
Bochin will learn his fate during his sentencing, which is set for December.
Tuesday, October 25
Introducing My New Hair
Hahahahaha!!!!!! Ok. I am lazy as hell. I literally go 3 weeks at a time without combing through my hair. If I have somewhere to go, I wash and gel to acheive the look in my profile pic but I never comb through. Last week I asked a friend to blow my hair out because it'd been 3 weeks since the last combing session and several strands of my hair had started to loc. After few days of sweating, my hair has ascended to new heights.
Tell me my hair ain't fly! I dare you!
WHAT!!!!!!
Monday, October 24
Predators Beware!
Good news for all parents out there that think the school system is responsible for raising their children
Principal curbs kids' Internet activity
For their own good? Or a violation of free speech?
Posted by the Asbury Park Press on 10/24/05
BY LAURA BRUNO
GANNETT NEW JERSEY
When students post their faces, personal diaries and gossip on Web sites like Myspace.com and Xanga.com, it is not simply harmless teen fun, according to one Sussex County Catholic school principal.
It's an open invitation to predators and an activity that Pope John XIII Regional High School in Sparta will no longer tolerate, the Rev. Kieran McHugh told a packed assembly of 900 high school students two weeks ago.
Effective immediately, and over student complaints, the teens were told to dismantle their Myspace.com accounts or similar sites with personal profiles and blogs. Defy the order and face suspension, students were told.
While public and private schools routinely block access to noneducational Web sites on school computers, Pope John's order reaches into students' homes.
The primary impetus behind the ban is to protect students, McHugh said. The Web sites, popular forums for students to blog about their lives and feelings about their teachers and schools, are fertile ground for sexual predators to gather information about children, he said.
Students, who asked to remain anonymous out of concern for disciplinary action, said the majority of the student body protested the new rule. They tried to argue that they have freedom of speech and the school should not control what they do at home.
"The idea of a private school regulating student activity outside of school is not unheard of and there is a long tradition in it," said Kevin Bankston, staff attorney for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a San-Francisco-based defender of online civil liberties.
While Pope John's school handbook does not specifically forbid students from creating personal profiles on Web sites, it does prohibit students from posting anything on the Internet pertaining to the school, without the school's permission.
"It's an incredible overreaction based on an unproven problem," Bankston said. "If they're concerned about safety, they could train students in what they should or shouldn't put online. Kids shouldn't be robbed of the primary communication tool of their generation."
Bankston said he believes the real motivation for school officials was to suppress negative comments about the school posted by students.
One student, who identified himself as a senior who was expelled, wrote that "pope john kicks you out once you think freely."
Principal curbs kids' Internet activity
For their own good? Or a violation of free speech?
Posted by the Asbury Park Press on 10/24/05
BY LAURA BRUNO
GANNETT NEW JERSEY
When students post their faces, personal diaries and gossip on Web sites like Myspace.com and Xanga.com, it is not simply harmless teen fun, according to one Sussex County Catholic school principal.
It's an open invitation to predators and an activity that Pope John XIII Regional High School in Sparta will no longer tolerate, the Rev. Kieran McHugh told a packed assembly of 900 high school students two weeks ago.
Effective immediately, and over student complaints, the teens were told to dismantle their Myspace.com accounts or similar sites with personal profiles and blogs. Defy the order and face suspension, students were told.
While public and private schools routinely block access to noneducational Web sites on school computers, Pope John's order reaches into students' homes.
The primary impetus behind the ban is to protect students, McHugh said. The Web sites, popular forums for students to blog about their lives and feelings about their teachers and schools, are fertile ground for sexual predators to gather information about children, he said.
Students, who asked to remain anonymous out of concern for disciplinary action, said the majority of the student body protested the new rule. They tried to argue that they have freedom of speech and the school should not control what they do at home.
"The idea of a private school regulating student activity outside of school is not unheard of and there is a long tradition in it," said Kevin Bankston, staff attorney for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a San-Francisco-based defender of online civil liberties.
While Pope John's school handbook does not specifically forbid students from creating personal profiles on Web sites, it does prohibit students from posting anything on the Internet pertaining to the school, without the school's permission.
"It's an incredible overreaction based on an unproven problem," Bankston said. "If they're concerned about safety, they could train students in what they should or shouldn't put online. Kids shouldn't be robbed of the primary communication tool of their generation."
Bankston said he believes the real motivation for school officials was to suppress negative comments about the school posted by students.
One student, who identified himself as a senior who was expelled, wrote that "pope john kicks you out once you think freely."
My Inner Child is What??????
Glad these tests are just for fun...
| Your Inner Child Is Scared |
 |
It's Not Funny But I Laughed Anyway!
This morning when I decided to clean out one my favorites folders I discovered a link to a blog that I must've visited once but never bothered visiting again. Below is one post that I found kinda funny. Mind you: the authors name is Shawn but in no way are he and I the same person
Be Real Behind Your PC Screen!
Filed under:General Worst Date— Shawn @ 6:30 am
Damn! And I just told myself that I would stop cussing six days, 4 hours, and 3 glasses of red kool-aid ago. With that being said…DAMN AGAIN! Why would one sit here and portray themselves in certain manner behind their computer screen that they know DAMN well they could never live up to face to face.
Yeah, I’m a dater…not really looking for anything. I’m at that stage right now that if I can get a nice woman to accompany me out for a great night, have dinner, catch a movie, stroll the park, or any such thing, then I have accomplished my main goal. “ENJOY LIFE!” If we become good friends, good…if we become great friends, GREAT! If I happen to find that perfect match that I can see my future with, then that is well accepted…but I AM NOT LOOKING FOR THAT!
Lately, I have been using an online dating site that has proven to be quite refreshing. I have been meeting a lot of great people, and even a few offline. The women that are crossing my path seem to be very well rounded and focused…but that’s just the good part.
The Rotten Apple that ruined the crop! Yes, she sends me a picture, and she looks nice. She has an extended education and seems to have her direction in life chosen. I should have known that something was wrong when she said she didn’t have a car. LOL, I know that sounds mean, but this is the first time in 2 years that I met someone who didn’t have their own wheels. Especially in Atlanta. The women here make me want to step my game up.
I guess the next warning sign that I should have paid attention to was the fact that she seemed almost desperate to meet up with me….TONIGHT! It was a Tuesday, and this was our first time talking on the phone, and the time is about 9:30 pm. I wouldn’t be free to go get her until after 10:30; so we couldn’t actually meet up until about 11.
To be honest, after I told her this, I was almost certain that she would have declined, only to try to meet on a different day…but she actually ummmm pleaded with me to make it work tonight.
LESSON #1, Never Think With Your PENIS! It Clogs your brain cells ability to be rational…..LOL
Yeah, I will admit, I thought she was just trying to get some, and who was I to deprive her from that OOOOH AHHH SOUND!
The Meeting- Here I am driving to pick this girl up. The Clark Atlanta Graduate just weeks away from receiving her Master’s literally struggled to give me accurate directions to her house. I mean, I was on M.L. King, I told her what gas station I was on, and asked if I needed to turn left or right…..She said left…I drove for a while, didn’t see any of the land marks she told me of, and asked her if I needed to turn around…"umm yes” “Umm No” “Umm Wait A minute” At this point, I was just gonna get back on 20 west and take my ass home.
She finally gets her act together, and I find her place of residence. She says she will be out in just a few, so I was like okay. Out of the darkness of the shadows, I see her making her way….BUT UMMMM, WHAT IS THAT?
ADVISORY WARNING: This is a very blunt point being made, it may sound mean, but it is very much true! If you think you may be offended, please leave now!
This Mutha Fucka is Crippled! Not that I’m shallow, or that I have any such prejudices towards those who have physical handicaps, but DAMN! That isn’t something that you forget to tell someone you meet online. You don’t just walk out like everything is okay. The Shit isn’t okay!
You are a deceiver! You intentionally neglected to share that you had a very noticeable handicap, in order to save your feelings. I will admit, She needs love too…but let me decide if I would like to persue you in that interest upfront.
She wanted to go out to a Cafe’ or something, and I was like hell nah! Was I too embarrassed? YES! I don’t know her, and I didn’t expect this. Too bad the inner nice guy in me prevented me from cussing her ass out. Trust, I am empathetic towards her situation, but in the manner that she is addressing the issue, she is bound to receive more pain than naught.
And Yes, She was trying to get her freak on, and Me, Mr. Shawn could not, and would not do it. It made me cringe just from the thought.
ADDITIONAL VISUAL: I can’t remember the name of this bone deformaty…but with it, your spinal cord isnt straight. With her, her right leg was very noticeably shorter than the left, and she had a acute twist in the hips from her crooked back.
When she walked, she tried not to let me be behind, so she would stop purposely to let me stay in front, AS IF SHE COULD HIDE IT THAT WAY.
My thing is this, Be real with those you encounter, it will only save you face in the end. Now, Im not saying I would have romantic interests in her if she was up front, but if she was, I may have chose to continue chatting with her and being friends.
Final Thought: It is each individuals choice in what they want in a mate. Me, I just don’t see myself entering into a relationship with someone in this deformed state. It would be a different story if I was with someone, and they then become deformed….THE LOVE IS ALREADY THERE.
My Only True Beef is this. Don’t deceive. True, she sent me a picture that look exactly how she actually looks…"STANDING NOT WALKING” She should have let me know of her situation, standing strong in herself, with her mind in such a state as such, ” Love it or Leave it!” She did not, because she chose not, and now I have no desire to interact with her in ANY way.
I wish I could have seen the look on his face when she first walked up. It must've been priceless.
Be Real Behind Your PC Screen!
Filed under:General Worst Date— Shawn @ 6:30 am
Damn! And I just told myself that I would stop cussing six days, 4 hours, and 3 glasses of red kool-aid ago. With that being said…DAMN AGAIN! Why would one sit here and portray themselves in certain manner behind their computer screen that they know DAMN well they could never live up to face to face.
Yeah, I’m a dater…not really looking for anything. I’m at that stage right now that if I can get a nice woman to accompany me out for a great night, have dinner, catch a movie, stroll the park, or any such thing, then I have accomplished my main goal. “ENJOY LIFE!” If we become good friends, good…if we become great friends, GREAT! If I happen to find that perfect match that I can see my future with, then that is well accepted…but I AM NOT LOOKING FOR THAT!
Lately, I have been using an online dating site that has proven to be quite refreshing. I have been meeting a lot of great people, and even a few offline. The women that are crossing my path seem to be very well rounded and focused…but that’s just the good part.
The Rotten Apple that ruined the crop! Yes, she sends me a picture, and she looks nice. She has an extended education and seems to have her direction in life chosen. I should have known that something was wrong when she said she didn’t have a car. LOL, I know that sounds mean, but this is the first time in 2 years that I met someone who didn’t have their own wheels. Especially in Atlanta. The women here make me want to step my game up.
I guess the next warning sign that I should have paid attention to was the fact that she seemed almost desperate to meet up with me….TONIGHT! It was a Tuesday, and this was our first time talking on the phone, and the time is about 9:30 pm. I wouldn’t be free to go get her until after 10:30; so we couldn’t actually meet up until about 11.
To be honest, after I told her this, I was almost certain that she would have declined, only to try to meet on a different day…but she actually ummmm pleaded with me to make it work tonight.
LESSON #1, Never Think With Your PENIS! It Clogs your brain cells ability to be rational…..LOL
Yeah, I will admit, I thought she was just trying to get some, and who was I to deprive her from that OOOOH AHHH SOUND!
The Meeting- Here I am driving to pick this girl up. The Clark Atlanta Graduate just weeks away from receiving her Master’s literally struggled to give me accurate directions to her house. I mean, I was on M.L. King, I told her what gas station I was on, and asked if I needed to turn left or right…..She said left…I drove for a while, didn’t see any of the land marks she told me of, and asked her if I needed to turn around…"umm yes” “Umm No” “Umm Wait A minute” At this point, I was just gonna get back on 20 west and take my ass home.
She finally gets her act together, and I find her place of residence. She says she will be out in just a few, so I was like okay. Out of the darkness of the shadows, I see her making her way….BUT UMMMM, WHAT IS THAT?
ADVISORY WARNING: This is a very blunt point being made, it may sound mean, but it is very much true! If you think you may be offended, please leave now!
This Mutha Fucka is Crippled! Not that I’m shallow, or that I have any such prejudices towards those who have physical handicaps, but DAMN! That isn’t something that you forget to tell someone you meet online. You don’t just walk out like everything is okay. The Shit isn’t okay!
You are a deceiver! You intentionally neglected to share that you had a very noticeable handicap, in order to save your feelings. I will admit, She needs love too…but let me decide if I would like to persue you in that interest upfront.
She wanted to go out to a Cafe’ or something, and I was like hell nah! Was I too embarrassed? YES! I don’t know her, and I didn’t expect this. Too bad the inner nice guy in me prevented me from cussing her ass out. Trust, I am empathetic towards her situation, but in the manner that she is addressing the issue, she is bound to receive more pain than naught.
And Yes, She was trying to get her freak on, and Me, Mr. Shawn could not, and would not do it. It made me cringe just from the thought.
ADDITIONAL VISUAL: I can’t remember the name of this bone deformaty…but with it, your spinal cord isnt straight. With her, her right leg was very noticeably shorter than the left, and she had a acute twist in the hips from her crooked back.
When she walked, she tried not to let me be behind, so she would stop purposely to let me stay in front, AS IF SHE COULD HIDE IT THAT WAY.
My thing is this, Be real with those you encounter, it will only save you face in the end. Now, Im not saying I would have romantic interests in her if she was up front, but if she was, I may have chose to continue chatting with her and being friends.
Final Thought: It is each individuals choice in what they want in a mate. Me, I just don’t see myself entering into a relationship with someone in this deformed state. It would be a different story if I was with someone, and they then become deformed….THE LOVE IS ALREADY THERE.
My Only True Beef is this. Don’t deceive. True, she sent me a picture that look exactly how she actually looks…"STANDING NOT WALKING” She should have let me know of her situation, standing strong in herself, with her mind in such a state as such, ” Love it or Leave it!” She did not, because she chose not, and now I have no desire to interact with her in ANY way.
I wish I could have seen the look on his face when she first walked up. It must've been priceless.
Fantasy Football Blues
I'm just plain embarassed. I have suffered another lost in Fantasy Football at the hands of yet another "computer" with an 0-5 record. To add salt to the wound I got blown out by 20 points. I have become the also ran of my league. I don't know how I can stop the bleeding but losing 3 in a row has me reeling.
Wednesday, October 19
I've Always Wanted...
...to play the guitar Sterling, my Godson, tells me over the phone after asking me to buy him a guitar for music lessons being offered at his school.
Why is this the first I am hearing about this?
I don't know. I've wanted to play since I was 5...no no 6. Yea...at first I wanted to play drums but now I want to play guitar.
Is that right?
Yea...so can you buy me one before Thursday?
Before Thursday? What? Why Sterling?
Music class is on Thursday and I already missed one class.
Why didn't you tell me you wanted a guitar sooner? Your birthday just passed. The guitar coulda been your birthday present.
Mmm...I don't know. Uncky Shawn, if you buy me a guitar I want a blue one or a green one.
Oh my god! Where's your mom?
Right here!
Ok. Put her on the phone.
His mom giggles as she answers the phone Hello!
Albra, music lessons? Oh lord. Why are y'all calling me at the least minute. You know I hate that.
They just sent the flyer home on Tuesday or Wednesday.
Sterling can be heard in the background screaming Tell Uncky Shawn I need to go with him to pick it up.
That boy is crazy Albra!
That's your Godson.
I agreed to buy Sterling his guitar. However, I wasn't the happiest about the situation. I hate feeling pressured to buy something hurriedly I am unfamiliar with without having the time to research the item. I don't like looking or sounding like I have "sucker" written on my forehand when I deal with salespersons. And I like to look for deals and discounts whenever possible.
On Wednesday I go to Sterling's house to pick him up for our guitar expedition. Before we leave, I make Sterling agree to sign a contract which stipulates that he'll practice his guitar X number of days for X minutes a day a week or the guitar will be repossessed. He was a little put off for a minute but he agreed.
The first store we went into he was bouncing off the wall pointing and touching dang near every guitar. He saw a blue guitar (I had already explained to him blue was out of the question because most acoustic guitars are pine colored and that's the one he needed to use to learn how to play) and really got happy. Oooo Oooo a blue one Uncky Shawn. The blue guitar was an acoustic guitar so I looked at the price tag. $379. Umm...Sterling. This one cost too much. Sorry! No blue one. He quickly decided on another guitar that the salesman was talking up. But I wanted to feel like I was bargain shopping and didn't want to buy the first thing I saw so I told the salesman thanks and let him know we'd be back if we didn't find anything else with a better price.
As we were walking around the corner and down the street opposite of where we had parked Sterling dejectedly quizzed Where are we going now Uncky Shawn? To this guitar store right here Sterling I replied. The pep in his step picked up then.
Sterling got really starry eyed when he saw all the guitars inside The Guitar Center. Quickly a sales associate latched on to us and went about his business of highlighting the pros of buying the guitar he recommended that best fit my price range. After a little hemming and hawing I told him we'd take it. Suspiciously, Sterling was very quiet throughout most of my exchange with this sales associate; so much so I had to ask him if he really wanted the guitar. A resounding yes was his reply.
Sterling decided that he had to carry his own guitar to the car. I really wish I had a picture. Using both hands he awkwardly carried the guitar on one side of his body while all his weight was leaning the opposite way. I could tell it was really heavy for him. I asked him if he wanted me to carry it but he refused my help. He then enthusiastically talked about his guitar. I have everything huh Uncky Shawn? I have a case. I have a DVD to watch to learn how to play. I have new strings. Yep, you sure do Sterling I replied.
No sooner than we'd walked in the door of his house Sterling had opened the box and taken everything out. He made a beeline to his room with his guitar and DVD in tow. He emerged a few minutes later to retrieve a sheet of paper and pencil so he could take notes. When the time came for him to sign his contract he came out of his room to show everyone what he had learned.
I guess a star is born. This kid is too much for the people.
By contract Sterling has agreed to practice 5 days a week for a minimun of 15 minutes per session. If not, the guitar will be repossessed by me.
We'll see how this goes.
Why is this the first I am hearing about this?
I don't know. I've wanted to play since I was 5...no no 6. Yea...at first I wanted to play drums but now I want to play guitar.
Is that right?
Yea...so can you buy me one before Thursday?
Before Thursday? What? Why Sterling?
Music class is on Thursday and I already missed one class.
Why didn't you tell me you wanted a guitar sooner? Your birthday just passed. The guitar coulda been your birthday present.
Mmm...I don't know. Uncky Shawn, if you buy me a guitar I want a blue one or a green one.
Oh my god! Where's your mom?
Right here!
Ok. Put her on the phone.
His mom giggles as she answers the phone Hello!
Albra, music lessons? Oh lord. Why are y'all calling me at the least minute. You know I hate that.
They just sent the flyer home on Tuesday or Wednesday.
Sterling can be heard in the background screaming Tell Uncky Shawn I need to go with him to pick it up.
That boy is crazy Albra!
That's your Godson.
I agreed to buy Sterling his guitar. However, I wasn't the happiest about the situation. I hate feeling pressured to buy something hurriedly I am unfamiliar with without having the time to research the item. I don't like looking or sounding like I have "sucker" written on my forehand when I deal with salespersons. And I like to look for deals and discounts whenever possible.
On Wednesday I go to Sterling's house to pick him up for our guitar expedition. Before we leave, I make Sterling agree to sign a contract which stipulates that he'll practice his guitar X number of days for X minutes a day a week or the guitar will be repossessed. He was a little put off for a minute but he agreed.
The first store we went into he was bouncing off the wall pointing and touching dang near every guitar. He saw a blue guitar (I had already explained to him blue was out of the question because most acoustic guitars are pine colored and that's the one he needed to use to learn how to play) and really got happy. Oooo Oooo a blue one Uncky Shawn. The blue guitar was an acoustic guitar so I looked at the price tag. $379. Umm...Sterling. This one cost too much. Sorry! No blue one. He quickly decided on another guitar that the salesman was talking up. But I wanted to feel like I was bargain shopping and didn't want to buy the first thing I saw so I told the salesman thanks and let him know we'd be back if we didn't find anything else with a better price.
As we were walking around the corner and down the street opposite of where we had parked Sterling dejectedly quizzed Where are we going now Uncky Shawn? To this guitar store right here Sterling I replied. The pep in his step picked up then.
Sterling got really starry eyed when he saw all the guitars inside The Guitar Center. Quickly a sales associate latched on to us and went about his business of highlighting the pros of buying the guitar he recommended that best fit my price range. After a little hemming and hawing I told him we'd take it. Suspiciously, Sterling was very quiet throughout most of my exchange with this sales associate; so much so I had to ask him if he really wanted the guitar. A resounding yes was his reply.
Sterling decided that he had to carry his own guitar to the car. I really wish I had a picture. Using both hands he awkwardly carried the guitar on one side of his body while all his weight was leaning the opposite way. I could tell it was really heavy for him. I asked him if he wanted me to carry it but he refused my help. He then enthusiastically talked about his guitar. I have everything huh Uncky Shawn? I have a case. I have a DVD to watch to learn how to play. I have new strings. Yep, you sure do Sterling I replied.
No sooner than we'd walked in the door of his house Sterling had opened the box and taken everything out. He made a beeline to his room with his guitar and DVD in tow. He emerged a few minutes later to retrieve a sheet of paper and pencil so he could take notes. When the time came for him to sign his contract he came out of his room to show everyone what he had learned.
I guess a star is born. This kid is too much for the people.
By contract Sterling has agreed to practice 5 days a week for a minimun of 15 minutes per session. If not, the guitar will be repossessed by me.
We'll see how this goes.
Tuesday, October 18
Help!!!!
Peyton Manning is killing my fantasy football team. Last season this man set the record for TDs thrown in a season. He was on fire. He threw 49 TDs in 16 games. That's a 3.06 TD avg per game. This season he's thrown 9 TDs through 7 games. That's a 1.2857 avg.
Thanks in part to Manning I have now slumped to a 3-3 record in my fantasy football league. Two consective weeks, I have been beaten by what I call computers, guys that signed up for fantasy football but haven't bothered to keep track of their teams.
Can somebody please help Manning find his mojo. Or better yet provide him with a map to the endzone. I need some freaking TDs.
Thanks in part to Manning I have now slumped to a 3-3 record in my fantasy football league. Two consective weeks, I have been beaten by what I call computers, guys that signed up for fantasy football but haven't bothered to keep track of their teams.
Can somebody please help Manning find his mojo. Or better yet provide him with a map to the endzone. I need some freaking TDs.
Friday, October 14
Thursday, October 13
The Hell Continues
19 minutes of hell didn't go so well today. I feel stiff as a board. After Monday's hell session and Tuesday's Tae bo session my body wasn't really agreeable. Practically everything I told my body to do it wouldn't follow my instructions. I think I made to minute 11 of 19 before my body really started giving me fits. At that point, in total frustration and embarassment, I began an on going conversation with Mari, the video instructor. I can't tell you how many times asked her if she was crazy for wanting me to do this movement or that movement. I mean, this woman told us to lie stretched out on our backs with arms by your side and legs stretched. Then she said flip your legs over head parellel to the floor with your weight supported on your shoulders. Then stretch your legs toward the ceiling in a pike posistion and hold it there. Slow and controlled...supported by your powerhouse (I assume she means my abdomen) ease your body back down to the ground with your legs still pointed towards the ceiling. Woman, are you crazy? I can't do that once let it alone 4 times in a row. I grunted and moaned while attempting to perform aforementioned movement. Without much success I finally gave up during attempt number 3 and said sorry Mari I can't do that today I won't even begin to describe the other 2 movements I bailed out on. All I know is Mari kept telling me to use my powerhouse and my buttocks to hold some crazy contortion when your arms and legs are pointed upward in a V position while your weight is supported by your butt or the tailbone region. Yea. Uh huhn. Not gonna happen. I copped an attitude and regressed to my youth as I whispered under my breath I don't see you doing these moves Mari. There you are just standing behind everybody. Telling everyone else what to do. Oo, I can't stand you. You make me sick.
Happily for me, it is only 19 minutes of hell. I don't think I could stand anything longer.
By the way, I'll be happy when this soreness goes away. Right now I have the walk of a cowboy with jock itch. It ain't pretty.
See ya Friday Mari!
Happily for me, it is only 19 minutes of hell. I don't think I could stand anything longer.
By the way, I'll be happy when this soreness goes away. Right now I have the walk of a cowboy with jock itch. It ain't pretty.
See ya Friday Mari!
Tuesday, October 11
19 minutes of hell
About 3 1/2 weeks ago I started experiencing excruciating back pain. Everyday it seemed like the pain increased ten fold and my back made my entire body feel tense. It was hard to breath and painful to turn my head to the left. Nonetheless, I reasoned the pain would eventually go away if I stopped sleeping so wildly. After 2 nights of peaceful slumber with ever increasing back pain that theory was shot to hell. I next reasoned that I needed to stretch my back muscles so I performed every stretch I could think of. I immediately felt worse but persevered through 2 more stretching sessions before I said screw this. I finally made a same-day emergency chiropractic appointment. My chiro doc made all kinds oos and ahs as he felt up and down my spine as if to say you should be in pain fool with these many verterbra out of line. Snap! Crackle! Pop! I felt like a new man. The trouble area that was tight finally had loosened. However, my chiro doc warned that he was going to have to perform a few atypical violent adjustments and I'd probably feel some pain. He wasn't kidding. One area in my neck is still tender and my chiro adjustment was last Tuesday. (Usually, if there's any lingering pain after leaving the chiro's office it last no more than a day. This new pain only occurs when I tilt my head backward but I don't mind it much. I am too thankful I'm able to turn my head to the left...again.)
On Saturday my back started tigtening up much to my chagrin. I could tell my vertebrae were out of alignment again because of certain tingling pain I felt every time I stood from a seated position. I finally knew what needed to be done. And I wasn't looking forward to the task. It was time to get serious about exercising with an emphasis on strenghtening my abdominal and back muscles. I hadn't been to the gym in 3 months and in that time my membership had expired so I blew up my body ball and went to town Sunday and Monday.
I knew that wasn't going to be enough. I knew I needed something more structured than lying on my body ball for a few sets of this or that exercise. That's when I got the bright idea to dive head first into pilates. Soooo...this morning I turned on my new Windsor PilatesAdvanced Slimming video and endured 19 minutes of hell. I was happy that I made it to minute 14 before she hit me with some crazy movement that my body wouldn't let me perform no matter how hard I tried. Truth be told, I didn't try too hard. That body position didn't look normal. The good news is that I finished the video unscathed. For a pilates newbie I was quite satisfied with my results. I hope my 3 a week dosage of 19 minutes of hell will be worth it all in the long run.
On Saturday my back started tigtening up much to my chagrin. I could tell my vertebrae were out of alignment again because of certain tingling pain I felt every time I stood from a seated position. I finally knew what needed to be done. And I wasn't looking forward to the task. It was time to get serious about exercising with an emphasis on strenghtening my abdominal and back muscles. I hadn't been to the gym in 3 months and in that time my membership had expired so I blew up my body ball and went to town Sunday and Monday.
I knew that wasn't going to be enough. I knew I needed something more structured than lying on my body ball for a few sets of this or that exercise. That's when I got the bright idea to dive head first into pilates. Soooo...this morning I turned on my new Windsor PilatesAdvanced Slimming video and endured 19 minutes of hell. I was happy that I made it to minute 14 before she hit me with some crazy movement that my body wouldn't let me perform no matter how hard I tried. Truth be told, I didn't try too hard. That body position didn't look normal. The good news is that I finished the video unscathed. For a pilates newbie I was quite satisfied with my results. I hope my 3 a week dosage of 19 minutes of hell will be worth it all in the long run.
Friday, October 7
Quoted as Saying
TRAVOLTA AND PRESTON SUGGEST A 'SILENT BIRTH' TO KATIE
Scientology couple JOHN TRAVOLTA and KELLY PRESTON are urging KATIE HOLMES to have a 'silent birth' when she delivers fiance TOM CRUISE's baby next year (06) and follow the church's strict doctrines.
Scientologists believe children should be brought into the world without any fuss and be allowed to quietly get used to their surroundings. That means no music, no chatting and no expressions of pain from the mother.
Preston explains, "It's just because everything in moments of pain is really recorded and you want to have that (the birth) peaceful and clear of sort of suggestions or different words that can then affect them (babies) in their future." --- ERRRR!!!!!(Scooby Doo style)
DANZA SLAMS CRUISE
Former TAXI star TONY DANZA is far from impressed with TOM CRUISE and KATIE HOLMES' baby news - because they're having a child out of wedlock.
The talk show host says, "I'm a little upset about this. Here's a guy out there lecturing people about drugs, but out of wedlock births don't seem to bother him.
"He's never (appearing on) my show, so it doesn't matter."
He adds, "I'm happy for them, but we're going to send them to MAURY (POVICH's show) for a DNA test. - Is Tony implying something?
Scientology couple JOHN TRAVOLTA and KELLY PRESTON are urging KATIE HOLMES to have a 'silent birth' when she delivers fiance TOM CRUISE's baby next year (06) and follow the church's strict doctrines.
Scientologists believe children should be brought into the world without any fuss and be allowed to quietly get used to their surroundings. That means no music, no chatting and no expressions of pain from the mother.
Preston explains, "It's just because everything in moments of pain is really recorded and you want to have that (the birth) peaceful and clear of sort of suggestions or different words that can then affect them (babies) in their future." --- ERRRR!!!!!(Scooby Doo style)
DANZA SLAMS CRUISE
Former TAXI star TONY DANZA is far from impressed with TOM CRUISE and KATIE HOLMES' baby news - because they're having a child out of wedlock.
The talk show host says, "I'm a little upset about this. Here's a guy out there lecturing people about drugs, but out of wedlock births don't seem to bother him.
"He's never (appearing on) my show, so it doesn't matter."
He adds, "I'm happy for them, but we're going to send them to MAURY (POVICH's show) for a DNA test. - Is Tony implying something?
Thursday, October 6
Yummy in my Tummy
If you're a fan of waffle cones then you have to do yourself a favor pick a box of Trader Joe's Belgian Butter Waffle Cookies. I can't eat just one. I normally kill the box of 30 cookies in one day...in a 2 hour span. If I'm patient enough and really feeling like a glutton I eat the cookies and Soy Delicious Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream.
Trader Joe's Swedish Pancake and Waffle Mix is a must try. You add water to the mix, stir then pour in the pan/on the griddle then you're set to make these tasty thin pancakes. I added cinnamon and vanilla to the mix to jazz it up a bit. The cashier at Trader Joe's suggested I wrap the pancakes around strawberries like she and her daughter often do. I opted for topping with the pancakes with natural applesauce and a few teaspoons of maple syrup and it was really good.
I am the laziest persons around. Thus, I like buying short cut meal items...a lot. On one recent excursion to Ralph's Grocery Store I found Oh Boy!'s Stuffed Potatoes (which are mashed potatoes in little plastic tubs) in the frozen section. I was curious to give 'em a try because I am a potato maic. To my delight after 3 or 4 minutes in the microwave my taste buds were treated to some good eating. MMM!!!!
Nature's Path Instant Hot Oatmeal is a lifesaver. (Quick, easy and microwaveable) Add milk or water and you're good to go. I add Almond Breeze Almond Milk Vanilla Flavored to my Maple Nut seasoned oatmeal and I am happy as can be.
Trader Joe's Swedish Pancake and Waffle Mix is a must try. You add water to the mix, stir then pour in the pan/on the griddle then you're set to make these tasty thin pancakes. I added cinnamon and vanilla to the mix to jazz it up a bit. The cashier at Trader Joe's suggested I wrap the pancakes around strawberries like she and her daughter often do. I opted for topping with the pancakes with natural applesauce and a few teaspoons of maple syrup and it was really good.
I am the laziest persons around. Thus, I like buying short cut meal items...a lot. On one recent excursion to Ralph's Grocery Store I found Oh Boy!'s Stuffed Potatoes (which are mashed potatoes in little plastic tubs) in the frozen section. I was curious to give 'em a try because I am a potato maic. To my delight after 3 or 4 minutes in the microwave my taste buds were treated to some good eating. MMM!!!!
Nature's Path Instant Hot Oatmeal is a lifesaver. (Quick, easy and microwaveable) Add milk or water and you're good to go. I add Almond Breeze Almond Milk Vanilla Flavored to my Maple Nut seasoned oatmeal and I am happy as can be.
Wednesday, October 5
In The News
Doctor sued for sex treatment for back pain
SEATTLE (Reuters) - An Oregon woman whose doctor convinced her that he could cure her lower back pain by having sex with her is suing him and his medical clinic for $4 million, according to legal documents obtained on Monday. - convinced? you mean to tell me his medical advice seemed logical enough to her that she actually consented?
The doctor, Randall Smith, who was 50 at the time, was stripped of his license and sent to jail for 60 days last year for charging the state's Oregon Health Plan $5,000 for his 45-minute "treatments" involving the woman. - I know he's wrong but the Pimp of the Year Award goes to...Randall Smith
"Dr. Smith's medical treatment included intercourse in which he told plaintiff was needed to help alleviate plaintiff's lower back and lower extremity pain," the former patient said in the lawsuit.
The lawsuit, which charges battery, negligence and intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress, was filed on Friday in Multnomah County court. Emotional distress? Yeah, uhn huh! Being a dumbass shouldn't be a good enough reason to file a suit
Though he pleaded guilty to submitting false health care claims, a felony, Smith maintained the sex with the 47-year-old woman was consensual. I'm feeling like it was consensual
Researchers Reconstruct 1918 Flu Virus
ATLANTA - It sounds like a sci-fi thriller. For the first time, scientists have made from scratch the Spanish flu virus that killed millions of people in 1918.
Why? To help them understand how to better fend off a future global epidemic from the bird flu spreading in Southeast Asia.
Researchers believe their work offers proof the 1918 flu originated in birds, and provides insights into how it attacked and multiplied in humans. On top of that, this marks the first time an infectious agent behind a historic pandemic has ever been reconstructed. - And they say AIDS wasn't made in a lab. Makes you wonder!
Official grilled over expensive pizza
OTTAWA (Reuters) - Perhaps one of the toppings was caviar.
Opposition legislators grilled Canadian Immigration Minister Joe Volpe in Parliament on Tuesday after learning that he had spent C$138 on a pizza dinner for two and charged it to his expense account. - That would be $162.74 American dollars using this table
The ruling Liberals are struggling to overcome the damage done by a government patronage scandal and are regularly accused of presiding over rampant corruption.
"I have heard of extra toppings, but this is ridiculous. When the most expensive item on the menu is C$34, how did he manage to spend C$138 for two people at a pizzeria?" asked Conservative Member of Parliament Rahim Jaffer.
Volpe replied that he had been carrying out consultations on how to improve the immigration system -- an answer which Jaffer found unpalatable.
"Either he ordered some very expensive wine or maybe he ordered a lot of take-out or maybe he is a very generous tipper," Jaffer fumed.
The head of the Royal Canadian Mint -- who earned C$277,000 a year in salary and allowances -- quit last week after it was revealed that he and his aides had racked up a vast amount in expenses and that he had put the cost of a C$1.29 pack of chewing gum to his official expense account.
Big pizza trouble again for minister
OTTAWA (Reuters) - Another day, another extremely expensive dinner at a Toronto pizza parlour.
A day after failing to explain how he had managed to spend C$138 (66.2 pounds) on pizza for two, Canadian Immigration Minister Joe Volpe was roasted in Parliament on Wednesday for spending C$207 on pizza for three people at the same establishment. That would be $244.12 American using that same table
"I'm sure Canadians are getting indigestion just thinking about all that pizza," Conservative legislator Rahim Jaffer told Parliament, prompting a chorus of mocking catcalls, jeers and groans.
Volpe -- who said last month that some meals had been used to discuss affairs in the province of Ontario -- replied that he had been talking about immigration issues. Jaffer found this explanation found hard to swallow.
"The minister of immigration has eaten himself into a corner... Obviously the minister cannot remember which phoney excuse to stick to. Which is it? Ontario issues, immigration issues or is the minister just out to lunch?" he asked.
Last month, government records showed that Volpe spent almost C$7,000 on 31 meals in one seven-week period earlier this year. The records showed that on one night, Volpe had two dinners, each one with a different group of people.
World Beard Championship in Berlin
Berlin, capital of all that is weird and wonderful, is set to host the world championship in beards and moustaches. Not since the days of the Kaiser has the city seen such magnificent facial hair.
This weekend, the World Championship in Beards and Moustaches will be taking place in the German capital for the first time ever. Admittedly the event may be more of a niche interest, but judging by the extravagance of some of the facial hair, these guys mean business.
http://www.worldbeardchampionships.com/
Python Bursts After Trying to Eat Gator
A 13-foot Burmese python recently burst after it apparently tried to swallow a live, six-foot alligator whole, authorities said.
The incident has heightened biologists' fears that the nonnative snakes could threaten a host of other animal species in the Everglades.
Over the years, many pythons have been abandoned in the Everglades by pet owners. Why can't people be happy with the numerous domesticated animals available for adoption?
The gory evidence of the latest gator-python encounter — the fourth documented in the past three years — was discovered and photographed last week by a helicopter pilot and wildlife researcher.
The snake was found with the gator's hindquarters protruding from its midsection. Mazzotti said the alligator may have clawed at the python's stomach as the snake tried to digest it.
In previous incidents, the alligator won or the battle was an apparent draw.
It is unknown how many pythons are competing with the thousands of alligators in the Everglades, but at least 150 have been captured in the past two years, said Joe Wasilewski, a wildlife biologist and crocodile tracker.
Pythons could threaten many smaller species that conservationists are trying to protect, including other reptiles, otters, squirrels, woodstorks and sparrows, Mazzotti said.
Wasilewski said a 10- or 20-foot python also could pose a risk to an unwary human, especially a child. He added, however, "I don't think this is an imminent threat. This is not a `Be afraid, be very afraid' situation.'"
SEATTLE (Reuters) - An Oregon woman whose doctor convinced her that he could cure her lower back pain by having sex with her is suing him and his medical clinic for $4 million, according to legal documents obtained on Monday. - convinced? you mean to tell me his medical advice seemed logical enough to her that she actually consented?
The doctor, Randall Smith, who was 50 at the time, was stripped of his license and sent to jail for 60 days last year for charging the state's Oregon Health Plan $5,000 for his 45-minute "treatments" involving the woman. - I know he's wrong but the Pimp of the Year Award goes to...Randall Smith
"Dr. Smith's medical treatment included intercourse in which he told plaintiff was needed to help alleviate plaintiff's lower back and lower extremity pain," the former patient said in the lawsuit.
The lawsuit, which charges battery, negligence and intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress, was filed on Friday in Multnomah County court. Emotional distress? Yeah, uhn huh! Being a dumbass shouldn't be a good enough reason to file a suit
Though he pleaded guilty to submitting false health care claims, a felony, Smith maintained the sex with the 47-year-old woman was consensual. I'm feeling like it was consensual
Researchers Reconstruct 1918 Flu Virus
ATLANTA - It sounds like a sci-fi thriller. For the first time, scientists have made from scratch the Spanish flu virus that killed millions of people in 1918.
Why? To help them understand how to better fend off a future global epidemic from the bird flu spreading in Southeast Asia.
Researchers believe their work offers proof the 1918 flu originated in birds, and provides insights into how it attacked and multiplied in humans. On top of that, this marks the first time an infectious agent behind a historic pandemic has ever been reconstructed. - And they say AIDS wasn't made in a lab. Makes you wonder!
Official grilled over expensive pizza
OTTAWA (Reuters) - Perhaps one of the toppings was caviar.
Opposition legislators grilled Canadian Immigration Minister Joe Volpe in Parliament on Tuesday after learning that he had spent C$138 on a pizza dinner for two and charged it to his expense account. - That would be $162.74 American dollars using this table
The ruling Liberals are struggling to overcome the damage done by a government patronage scandal and are regularly accused of presiding over rampant corruption.
"I have heard of extra toppings, but this is ridiculous. When the most expensive item on the menu is C$34, how did he manage to spend C$138 for two people at a pizzeria?" asked Conservative Member of Parliament Rahim Jaffer.
Volpe replied that he had been carrying out consultations on how to improve the immigration system -- an answer which Jaffer found unpalatable.
"Either he ordered some very expensive wine or maybe he ordered a lot of take-out or maybe he is a very generous tipper," Jaffer fumed.
The head of the Royal Canadian Mint -- who earned C$277,000 a year in salary and allowances -- quit last week after it was revealed that he and his aides had racked up a vast amount in expenses and that he had put the cost of a C$1.29 pack of chewing gum to his official expense account.
Big pizza trouble again for minister
OTTAWA (Reuters) - Another day, another extremely expensive dinner at a Toronto pizza parlour.
A day after failing to explain how he had managed to spend C$138 (66.2 pounds) on pizza for two, Canadian Immigration Minister Joe Volpe was roasted in Parliament on Wednesday for spending C$207 on pizza for three people at the same establishment. That would be $244.12 American using that same table
"I'm sure Canadians are getting indigestion just thinking about all that pizza," Conservative legislator Rahim Jaffer told Parliament, prompting a chorus of mocking catcalls, jeers and groans.
Volpe -- who said last month that some meals had been used to discuss affairs in the province of Ontario -- replied that he had been talking about immigration issues. Jaffer found this explanation found hard to swallow.
"The minister of immigration has eaten himself into a corner... Obviously the minister cannot remember which phoney excuse to stick to. Which is it? Ontario issues, immigration issues or is the minister just out to lunch?" he asked.
Last month, government records showed that Volpe spent almost C$7,000 on 31 meals in one seven-week period earlier this year. The records showed that on one night, Volpe had two dinners, each one with a different group of people.
World Beard Championship in Berlin
Berlin, capital of all that is weird and wonderful, is set to host the world championship in beards and moustaches. Not since the days of the Kaiser has the city seen such magnificent facial hair.
This weekend, the World Championship in Beards and Moustaches will be taking place in the German capital for the first time ever. Admittedly the event may be more of a niche interest, but judging by the extravagance of some of the facial hair, these guys mean business.
http://www.worldbeardchampionships.com/
Python Bursts After Trying to Eat Gator
A 13-foot Burmese python recently burst after it apparently tried to swallow a live, six-foot alligator whole, authorities said.
The incident has heightened biologists' fears that the nonnative snakes could threaten a host of other animal species in the Everglades.
Over the years, many pythons have been abandoned in the Everglades by pet owners. Why can't people be happy with the numerous domesticated animals available for adoption?
The gory evidence of the latest gator-python encounter — the fourth documented in the past three years — was discovered and photographed last week by a helicopter pilot and wildlife researcher.
The snake was found with the gator's hindquarters protruding from its midsection. Mazzotti said the alligator may have clawed at the python's stomach as the snake tried to digest it.
In previous incidents, the alligator won or the battle was an apparent draw.
It is unknown how many pythons are competing with the thousands of alligators in the Everglades, but at least 150 have been captured in the past two years, said Joe Wasilewski, a wildlife biologist and crocodile tracker.
Pythons could threaten many smaller species that conservationists are trying to protect, including other reptiles, otters, squirrels, woodstorks and sparrows, Mazzotti said.
Wasilewski said a 10- or 20-foot python also could pose a risk to an unwary human, especially a child. He added, however, "I don't think this is an imminent threat. This is not a `Be afraid, be very afraid' situation.'"
Monday, October 3
European Soccer
So, I was channel surfing this weekend looking for anything to hold my attention when I flipped to HBO's Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel. There was a Black guy with a french accent being interviewed so I stopped surfing momentarily to investigate. I thought hmmm interesting! Who is this guy? And what makes him interesting enough to be profiled on Real Sports... I discovered that the guy is Thierry Henry and that he's a soccer star in Europe. And what made him interesting enough to interviewd by Real Sports... is his stance against racism in soccer. It seems Black soccer players in Europe have to endure some very ugly and very overt racial behavior by white soccer fans in Europe. Here's the summary of the segment on Real Sports' web page:
* A Source of Shame
One of the biggest challenges for American sports fans is understanding the huge appeal of professional soccer (football) in Europe. To a large degree, the scope of the intense hometown support and spirited rivalries that exist between dueling teams is admirable athletic competition. But extreme fan behavior is also part of the mix in European football. Now, a three-year REAL SPORTS investigation uncovers a disturbing, unchecked aspect of fan activity -- blatant racism. Among examples of extreme fan reaction to individual players are the mimicking of monkey sounds and the throwing of bananas anytime a black player touches the ball, as well as the waving of swastikas and open Nazi salutes. Speaking with Bryant Gumbel, players such as Thierry Henry of England's Arsenal reveal that in parts of Europe "home field advantage" has less to do with the color of one's jersey and more to do with the color of one's skin. *
Real Sports... showed video clips of the aforementioned racial taunts and it was so out of control. If I remember correctly, fans in Spain were singled out for making "monkey sounds." Supposedly, the taunts are an insult to England for having to employ Black soccer players while the Spanish team is of pure European blood. Real Sports... showed pictures of a soccer player passionately doing the Nazi salute on the sidelines of the soccer field during a game to his fellow Nazi supports in the stands.
They interviewed a white English man who is vehemently opposed to Blacks playing soccer for England because they aren't pure blood English descendants. In fact, he wants all ethnics deported or removed from England. The guy went on to talk about he does a lot recruiting for the Nazi group (or Nazi-like group) he's a member of at the soccer games. He said there are lots of working class white men that attend the games that are disillusioned with the current state of affairs and it's pretty easy to recruit them to join his group.
Bryant Gumbel interviewed the President of UFEA - the governing body of European soccer. Gumbel questioned the President's sensitivity to the needs of the Black players in the league. Gumbel also questioned whether or not the board's racial make up (all of the board members were white) has played a part in UFEA's relatively lax response to overt racism in the league. The President conceded that counsel from a person of colour probably would have made a difference in his and the boards understading of racism in the league and the problems the players face.
Gumbel interviewed another Black soccer player whose name escapes my memory. This guy was completely at a loss for words describing his disbelief in the hatred he and other soccer players are forced to tolerate. He said there are times when he would love nothing more than to jump in the stands and fight the people taunting him. But he said that would only bring him down to their level and make him no better than them.
Gumbel also chatted with a guy from the organization Kick It Out whose slogan is Let's Kick Racism Out of Football. From their website: Kick It Out works throughout the football, educational and community sectors to challenge racism and work for positive change.
The segment ended with Gumbel asking Thierry whether or not racism would still be as prevalent in soccer 5 years from now. Thierry really couldn't answer that question but said he hoped his efforts to fight against racism would make it better for those coming after him.
Thierry launched Stand Up, Speak Up to combat racism. He is selling interlocking black & white bracelets to raise money for his campaign.
The caption in the pic reads:
"...Racism is the biggest problem facing football across Europe. People may think it has disappeared, but it hasn't. It's time for us all to take a stand - players, fans and authorities. It's time to stand up and speak up." - THIERRY HENRY
View the Commercial Ad
* A Source of Shame
One of the biggest challenges for American sports fans is understanding the huge appeal of professional soccer (football) in Europe. To a large degree, the scope of the intense hometown support and spirited rivalries that exist between dueling teams is admirable athletic competition. But extreme fan behavior is also part of the mix in European football. Now, a three-year REAL SPORTS investigation uncovers a disturbing, unchecked aspect of fan activity -- blatant racism. Among examples of extreme fan reaction to individual players are the mimicking of monkey sounds and the throwing of bananas anytime a black player touches the ball, as well as the waving of swastikas and open Nazi salutes. Speaking with Bryant Gumbel, players such as Thierry Henry of England's Arsenal reveal that in parts of Europe "home field advantage" has less to do with the color of one's jersey and more to do with the color of one's skin. *
Real Sports... showed video clips of the aforementioned racial taunts and it was so out of control. If I remember correctly, fans in Spain were singled out for making "monkey sounds." Supposedly, the taunts are an insult to England for having to employ Black soccer players while the Spanish team is of pure European blood. Real Sports... showed pictures of a soccer player passionately doing the Nazi salute on the sidelines of the soccer field during a game to his fellow Nazi supports in the stands.
They interviewed a white English man who is vehemently opposed to Blacks playing soccer for England because they aren't pure blood English descendants. In fact, he wants all ethnics deported or removed from England. The guy went on to talk about he does a lot recruiting for the Nazi group (or Nazi-like group) he's a member of at the soccer games. He said there are lots of working class white men that attend the games that are disillusioned with the current state of affairs and it's pretty easy to recruit them to join his group.
Bryant Gumbel interviewed the President of UFEA - the governing body of European soccer. Gumbel questioned the President's sensitivity to the needs of the Black players in the league. Gumbel also questioned whether or not the board's racial make up (all of the board members were white) has played a part in UFEA's relatively lax response to overt racism in the league. The President conceded that counsel from a person of colour probably would have made a difference in his and the boards understading of racism in the league and the problems the players face.
Gumbel interviewed another Black soccer player whose name escapes my memory. This guy was completely at a loss for words describing his disbelief in the hatred he and other soccer players are forced to tolerate. He said there are times when he would love nothing more than to jump in the stands and fight the people taunting him. But he said that would only bring him down to their level and make him no better than them.
Gumbel also chatted with a guy from the organization Kick It Out whose slogan is Let's Kick Racism Out of Football. From their website: Kick It Out works throughout the football, educational and community sectors to challenge racism and work for positive change.
The segment ended with Gumbel asking Thierry whether or not racism would still be as prevalent in soccer 5 years from now. Thierry really couldn't answer that question but said he hoped his efforts to fight against racism would make it better for those coming after him.
Thierry launched Stand Up, Speak Up to combat racism. He is selling interlocking black & white bracelets to raise money for his campaign.
The caption in the pic reads:
"...Racism is the biggest problem facing football across Europe. People may think it has disappeared, but it hasn't. It's time for us all to take a stand - players, fans and authorities. It's time to stand up and speak up." - THIERRY HENRY
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